Ripe For The Pickin'

Moving.

2008-12-05T15:15:00.002-05:00

The Ripe for the Pickin' blog has been moved. Check the Link.

Amazing.

2008-12-01T04:26:00.002-05:00

Relevance: 808's & Heartbreak

2008-11-28T22:09:00.007-05:00

I wanted to talk about this album briefly. I think its fair to say that Kanye represents a new direction in todays hip-hip, pop, and r&b music genres. More to the point, is that he blurs the lines of these 3 genres seamlessly.

Take the intro, if you will. The first song on the album. Say You Will. It sets the tone for the entire album, being very slow and moody. A really beautiful song. The beat just makes me want to smoke a fat joint, with the lights real low. And the way he lets the track rock for more than a 2 minutes is a bit cocky, and you can't deny how dope the beat is. He has a genius quality when it comes to music. I think Kanye's influence on the music industry is amazing, and I just can't wait to see what he continues to produce.

Words From...

2008-11-24T04:02:00.007-05:00

"Listening to Biggie's "What's Beef?" It makes me feel quiet. The slow beat. Biggie's voice.

Knowing this song doesn't touch my life in any real way, but like a grain of salt you can find something amazing in it."

Here's my story.

Words From. is based on the premise of the power of words. It invites you to read our stories.

Words From.

The Bread And Butter

2008-11-19T02:17:00.003-05:00

"Ripe is simplistic while remaining complex in design, is visually avant-garde yet harmonious to the eye.

Thanks for spreading the word ladies!

The Bread and Butter.

Seeing Pink Elephants

2008-11-11T12:48:00.005-05:00

Femme Fatale Fly.

'Occasionally I happen upon some really supa shit that I want you guys to know about, and this is one of those times. Ripe Jewelry, brought to by Folasade Ologundudu out of NYC, is straight up sick.'

Peep the rest here.

Ana, over at Seeing Pink Elephants, gave me some love on the blog roll. Thanks lady!

A Recap, If I May.

2008-11-10T14:55:00.008-05:00

I have not yet spoken deeply on this, so here I go...

I was dwntwn, tho a part of me wished I had been in Harlem that night. Over Stella's and Blue Moons we talked about things, friends, family, and how amazing what could happen would be. As the numbers began to come in I was sceptical. CNN had one set of numbers while Fox had another. the CNN projection passes to the 270 to win. I can see it from outside where I enjoy a Camel Light. Things happen in between, but at some point I am back on my bar stool, listening to McCain give Obama props and bowing out gracefully. Which he did rather well. We clap and boo. And as Obama, comes up the room fills with silence, the times seems to drag slowly, a movie moment, where the character realizes something profound is about to happen.

He speaks of his wife and children first, which as a women, and a slight romantic I find endearing. But more, it spoke of the things in life that are universal. Love, family, home, the ties that bind. And as he spoke of that old women in the south, and the buses, and the injustices that were faced so that he could stand on the podium, my eyes watered, my throat got tight, the air in my lungs seemed short, and the tears rolled down. Everyone was so quiet, not a sound. I looked around at the strangers, and we all felt our own sense of pride. In what we were seeing, in what Obama was saying, and in the realization that this moment had changed our history as Americans forever.

I felt so foolish for crying, so silly you know. Telling myself it was ridiculous, but in the quiet and the solemn surrounding me, I could not stop. I had to let it out. I thought of my family, my mother, my brother. The people that I love.

In the days that followed I had to process, and take it all in. I had to be quiet and think about what had just happened. It was not so much that he is black, tho it is important, yes. But he is universal. He makes you remember, and dream, and hope. And for a politician to have that power, that voice, that ambition, to make millions believe again, is astonishing. I could say more. I could say everything that I'm feeling when I think of this, but I still have to process, in the quiet solemn.

I recently saw Frederico Fellini's I Vitelloni. His classic film about a young group of men, that do not want to grow up, tho there is much more to the story. There is a scene where one of the main characters, asks a young boy if he is happy. The film is in Italian, with subtitles. When the man asks this, he word he uses in Italian is contento. The English translation is happy. I find it interesting that content and happy are used as translations for each other in the film, since there are not nearly the same thing. I'd rather be content any day. So as I bring this to a close. It was a wonderful moment, that night. A piece of history, that children will read about in books, a moment that will stay with all of us forever. Tho really, did you have any doubts?

Fin.

The M.I.S.S. Crew X Ripe Jewelry

2008-11-10T13:14:00.007-05:00

"The newest line of jewelry to add some sex appeal to your fit is Ripe Jewelry. Inspired by pin-girls and Vargas girls, the line of necklace charms and earrings will add a little retro sexiness to your look, with unique pieces that will make you stand apart from the rest."

The women on the west from the M.I.S.S. Crew showed me some love, and you can peep the rest of it here. Thanks ladies!

Ripe Jewelry X Patricia Fields

2008-11-06T03:24:00.004-05:00

We are pleased to announce that the Le Femme Fatale collection is available at Patricia Fields. The wait is over ladies! You asked and we humbly answered.

Get familiar with the Bowery.

The Space Blockade: A Dark Summer

2008-11-03T21:09:00.006-05:00

This is the title of my new collection. Sometimes you go away for a while to come back stronger and better then ever. Don't get a hiatus confused with stepping out of the game completely. You should already know I'm not one for that.

So on that note, a brief description:

Over the summer I came up with 3 ideas. Exploring the beauty and innovation of architecture, the use of positive and negative space, and, sharp hard lines. It took about 3 full months to get all the molds ready for casting, and to then brainstorm on the technical aspects of the collection, which is small and well executed at 12 pieces. 4 Rings, 4 Pendants, 2 Earrings, and 2 Bracelets.

The Dark Summer aspect was in part inspired by a lot of others designers, and in part due to the timing. I'd love to drop this for fall, and even now it all depends on the timing. But it is what it is, and I'm bringing the heat, so don't worry. The collection is made entirely of fine sterling silver, oxidized silver, and black onyx, hence the dark title.

I found a great photographer out of Frisco, that I'm very excited to work with. Photographing metals is very tricky and with jewelry especially, so finding that right type of photographer is essential.

Basically you are about to see a new side of the brand. Better materials, better branding, just better. A new website is in the works. And as you noticed I changed the logo, a few months back.

Fin.

-Sade

The Grand Social's "Black Summer"

2008-10-24T03:21:00.006-04:00

The Grand Social is basically what you would consider a multi-faceted PR company for up-and-coming designers from Australia & New Zealand. The 'Black Summer' collection, is comprised of a few different brands, limiting the pieces to only eight of each style.

These 'Serpent Sneakers' by myPetsQuare, are sick. Remind me of my snake skin Huf Vans, but way more classy.

At $638.00, the price tag may be hefty, but exclusivity has its price.

The Grand Social.

By way of The Fashionisto.

For Tony.

2008-10-24T03:04:00.008-04:00

A Stroke of Shaggy Genius? Perhaps.

SS09.

Personally, I like the idea of a black summer. This is from SS08.

Boris Bidjan Saberi

My Girl Does It Again!

2008-10-22T21:09:00.001-04:00

-Jules Kim of Bijules NYC knows Jewelry Can Be Frisky-

Congrats mama!

Peep This!

It's Been A While.

2008-10-21T01:16:00.005-04:00

As far as updates go, I've just been on the hustle working and chillin, talking shit and kicking back. Since its been a mere moment, these will explain what I've been doing for the last month or two.

The Architecture section was fucking sick.

I while back I went to the MoMA. if you can believe it, it was my first time there.

Me and Nic, just fucking arnd in the whip, on the way to IKEA, which actually turned out to be hilarious, cuz we were all just in funny moods.

This was an interesting night. In the beginning I was on my way to the east side, on Houston, and I could see the moon, it was so beautiful, full and with the clouds around it like so. When I took these photos I was on my way to the west side highway, and I couldn't see the moon b/c it was behind me, but the people walking east, kept saying wow!, and oh my god, isn't it beautiful, and so I turned around, and took these. New York is really amazing if you just look.

Well I must admit I didn't know it was actually here, as in, in New York. The only other free-standing stores were in Brazil, and Miami. And I'm not sure when it opened but, I have been obsessed with Rosa Cha for many years now. Can't wait to stop in here. This is was also on the same night of the full moon.

The Baby Phat Show. Thanks Jerome!

Tony's Roof. Harlem!

IN CASE YOU DIDNT KNOW.

2008-10-05T07:10:00.011-04:00

Put your credit card on hold for a second. Don’t forget to vote on November 4th. If you have not registered yet, now is the time to act as deadlines are approaching:

Alabama	Fri, Oct. 24
Alaska	Sun, Oct. 5 (postmark by Sat, Oct. 4)
Arizona	Mon, Oct. 6
Arkansas	Mon, Oct. 6
California	Mon, Oct. 20
Colorado	Mon, Oct. 6
Connecticut	Tues, Oct. 21
Delaware	Sat, Oct. 11
District of Columbia	Mon, Oct. 6
Florida	Mon, Oct. 6
Georgia	Mon, Oct. 6
Hawaii	Mon, Oct. 6
Idaho	Register at Polls
Illinois	Tues, Oct. 7
Indiana	Mon, Oct. 6
Iowa	Fri, Oct. 24 (or on Election Day at polling place)
Kansas	Mon, Oct. 20
Kentucky	Mon, Oct. 6
Louisiana	Mon, Oct. 6
Maine	Tue, Oct. 21 (or on Election Day at polling place)
Maryland	Tue, Oct. 14
Massachusetts	Wed, Oct. 15
Michigan	Mon, Oct. 6
Minnesota	Same Day Registration at polling place
Mississippi	Mon, Oct. 6
Missouri	Wed, Oct. 8
Montana	Mon, Oct. 6 (or same day at elections office)
Nebraska	Fri, Oct. 24 (mail by Fri, Oct. 17)
Nevada	Tue, Oct. 4 (or in person until Oct. 14)
New Hampshire	Same Day
New Jersey	Tues, Oct. 14
New Mexico	Tues, Oct. 7
New York	Fri, Oct. 10
North Carolina	Fri, Oct. 10
North Dakota	N/A
Ohio	Mon, Oct. 6
Oklahoma	Fri, Oct. 10
Oregon	Tue, Oct. 14
Pennsylvania	Mon, Oct. 6
Rhode Island	Sat, Oct. 4
South Carolina	Sat, Oct. 4
South Dakota	Mon, Oct. 20
Tennessee	Mon, Oct. 6
Texas	Mon, Oct. 6
Utah	Mon, Oct. 6 or in person Tue, Oct. 28
Vermont	Wed, Oct. 29
Virginia	Mon, Oct. 6
Washington	Sat, Oct. 4 (or until Mon, Oct. 20 in person)
West Virginia	Wed, Oct. 15
Wisconsin	Wed, Oct. 15 (or on Election Day at polling place)
Wyoming	Can register at polls

Comme Des Garcons X H & M

2008-09-21T17:52:00.007-04:00

So this just came to my attention, and I had to share it with you.

Comme Des Garcons will team up with H&M this fall season to bring you men's and women's apparel, as well as children's clothing, and accessories.

Not one to normally stand on lines but, this is something not to be missed. The collection is set to drop November 13th, only 20 stores worldwide will have the complete collection, so be sure to check out H&M's website for locations.

The designer, Rei Kawakubo, stated, "I have always been interested in the balance between creation and business. it is a dilemma, although for me creation has always been the first priority. It is a fascinating challenge to work with H&M since it is a chance to take the dilemma to its extreme, and try to solve it."

Kahlil Gibran

2008-09-16T14:18:00.003-04:00

I had not heard of this book, until very recently and I'm sure you may not have either. This is a beautiful book. Gibran, the Lebanese poet and philosopher 1883-1931, writes a story of a man speaking to a town on the verge of his departure. They ask of home and work, and love, and good and evil, and he talks with them and guides them. Check it out.

Opening Ceremony Does Japan!

2008-09-14T02:57:00.004-04:00

Each year, Opening Ceremony will pick a country and highlight designers from said country in their New York and L.A. boutiques. (Last year's country was Sweden.) Just got word that come fall, Opening Ceremony's taking on Japan for a Japan vs. USA extravaganza -- meaning that OC will feature duds by Japanese designers including Green, G.V.G.V, Hiromi Tsuyoshi, Lad Musician, Porter, Vlas Bloome, End Pin, United Arrows (Beauty and Youth), Sabatino, Cosmic Wonder, John Lawrence Sullivan, N. Hollywood, Nude: Mashaiko Maruyama, Toga and Whereabouts. Additionally, in both the New York and L.A. outposts, OC will host the “Opening Ceremony presents Middle Space / Comme des Garcons shop" -- the entire CdG fragrance and wallet lines and selections from the Play collection will be on sale. Lastly but certainly not leastly, OC's teaming up with Sanrio (the brand behind Hello Kitty and Keroppi) for “Opening Ceremony Loves Sanrio." To spread the love, there will be pop-up Sanrio shopping stations throughout NY and LA.

adventures from fashion wk. part. 2 & 3

2008-09-12T03:34:00.015-04:00

so the other night, Wednesday, I didn't really plan to go hard. My sis and me went to Castillo's to grub, which some how always manages to be a bad idea because we always end up with the itis. I'm sure you know what this means. Spanish food does this to the body. I mean how can you not eat vegetables, it bewilders me. I swear. Anyhow, after dinner we run into CW and head to the Rivington for some roof top party. We didn't stay but ended up getting some gift bag. It came with a shirt, a bottle of water, and a magazine. The roof top was pretty chill...

you think you can fuck with my city? you can't.

The M.O.B. x Missbehave party at the red bull, which ended up turning into another party cuz I dipped and went to the Tribeca grand, but I saw some homies there whom I haven't seen in a minute like T the Don, D the God & J Hendi , but before the tri grand I some how managed to stroll into the Soho Grand and Lindsey was spinning the hotness...

hood girl hair, haha.

my girl D was chatting it up with lindsey at the DJ booth, and I hadn't taken any pics all night. so that was the point of these

im a real big fan of big collars,

luckily at places like the Soho grand, I can rely on a well stocked bar. Therefore Hendricks is the drink of choice. And the fact that Time Magazine is on the bar, i thought was a good look.

antonio, myself and curtis. the lower half. (i need those boots curtis!, and those MMM's antonio! He SHITS. thanks)

adventures from fashion wk.

2008-09-10T02:58:00.012-04:00

i call my boy. he tells me our other boy got juice on the y-3 store opening party. shorty is the asst. manager, (in there! i need a few things frm there, this jacket, those shoes, you know something light!) so we roll early as fuck cuz thats how it is. the prada party is also in full effect as well as the Marc by Marc. but who gives a ..... i had the joint with this, so we proceed. unfortunately i didn't bring the camera but the blackberry shows me just a small amount of justice on the pic situation.

buck buck again!!

haha still listening

the champagne was flowing quite nicely, and like i said there's a few things we might need to work with. these sneakers perhaps.

i stumbled upon this building. it was being renovated and there was no one inside.

(o and im not bowlegged, wish)

homeward bound. it was madd early but i was hella tired. see this is whats happens when you start drinking champagne at 9pm. shit is crazy man.

bloggers best beginner winner wha wha whha wha

2008-09-10T02:42:00.002-04:00

i'll be changing the name of the blog soon, i just decided this now when i've come home at 3:00am. just so you know, and on another note Wayne's verse on Ransom (Drake & Lil Wayne) is fucking craze haha, you should hear it!! and just so you know, when i laugh at a track thats a good thing, hood thing niccccca! ha

Buck, Buck Again!

sleepy. yeah im sleepy!

oh and somehow i missed the hood by air show, how the fuck did that happen. i wonder, but i know my boys killed it. i guess you manage to miss events when your fucking grinding . thank you very much.

Could It Be?

2008-09-09T03:54:00.003-04:00

I think I have to ask this question you know? I mean I can see it happening. I can imagine it all too well. And my god when he speaks, you actually think things can change, that the world really is amazing, and the one person has the power to show that, because the world is amazing. I just wonder man. Could this really happen?

In My Lifetime?

Oh Yeah!

2008-09-09T03:50:00.005-04:00

Adobe CS4 set to launch Sept. 23rd!

THE ALCHEMIST

2008-09-06T15:13:00.001-04:00

I've read this about 3 or 4 times already, and every time I find out something new. Its a great one. If you can read between the lines and scope out the subtly of it.

FOR THE FIRST TIME

2008-09-06T14:58:00.001-04:00

PERHAPS YOU SHOULD SEE IT AGAIN.

Teaser.

2008-09-04T01:57:00.006-04:00

Dice & Double Dutch

An Ode to the Game... Coming Soon!

Approved

2008-09-04T01:05:00.001-04:00

Coastin'

2008-09-04T00:54:00.001-04:00

Yup!

Raphael Saadiq

2008-08-28T13:09:00.005-04:00

So last night I went to the Highline Ballroom to see Raphael Saadiq perform. He did lots of oldies that we all know, and a few songs off his new album, "The Way I See It" which drops Sept 16th. The crowd was going really crazy for him. Before I went to the show, I didn't really remember who he was! Crazy, I know. He is such an amazing performer. And while trying to leave the stage the crowd, kept clapping and yelling for him to come back. Man, he is a soo beautiful. I rarely say that about men, actually almost never. But he is. Me and my girls ended up talking to him after the show and he's a real chill dude.

Go listen to the album!!

Worthy Opponent

2008-08-23T13:17:00.009-04:00

My girl Susana Cardona just finished the write up, on a feature that we did, on her new blog. Worthy Opponent. Susana is such a cool lady! Sweet and down to earth, we vibed the first time we met.

We talked for hours about Ripe, being a woman in this crazy scene and just life in general!

SO SO RIPE
I remember the evening I met Mizz Folsade Ologundudu--that's "Sade" for us non-Yoruba speakers. I was walking down Chrystie street, in the Lower East Side, and heading to a cooler-than-thou party of some sort, when one of my girls stopped to chat. I was introduced to Sade and was instantly captivated by what seemed to be two female figures dangling seductively from her ears! "ARE THOSE EARRINGS!?" I shrieked. "Yeah. I'm a jewelry designer. These are part of my collection." From that point on, we were destined to connect.

After lunching with Sade, I realized that she is like the little sister I'd love to have. Although only 21 years young, Sade is one of those people who knows she has lots to learn but can still teach an old dog a thing or two. This Brooklyn native of Nigerian/Portuguese/Black American descent has carved out a space for her art and has begun to explore her limitless options.

Check out the rest here!

The Samples

2008-08-19T05:59:00.007-04:00

Tré Cinco Ring & Wax Model.

Tré Cinco Breastplate Wax Model.

Destroy & Rebuild Ring.

The samples are pieces that I'm making just for fun, they may or may not become an official collection.

Martin Margiela

2008-08-17T21:28:00.004-04:00

Sterling Silver ball chain and lobster claw clasp fish hook bracelet. This is a really great and simple piece for men.

Key Ring. Brilliant! Brass covered in white rubber.

The Ripe & Rotten Summer Sale

2008-08-14T23:39:00.007-04:00

Ripe Jewelry presents: The Ripe & Rotten Summer Sale! In conjunction with Harriet's Alter Ego & Backyard Couture.

++++++++++++++++++

The Ripe & Rotten Summer Sale!

The 'Le Femme Fatale' Collection @ 30% OFF! In 14k plated, Rhodium plated, & CZ adorned!

(Rotten)

The 'Samples' Collection at retail, in Sterling, & Vermeil Privee! Unveiled for the first time! Featuring the 'Destroy & Rebuild' ring & the 'Tré Cinco' ring.

(Ripe)

++++++++++++++++++

Harriet's Alter Ego presents...

Backyard Couture: Fresh Air & Even Fresher Fashion

Saturday August 16th 5-11 P.M.

293 Flatbush Avenue btwn St. Marks & Prospect Place

Performances By: Mickey Factz & Raye 6

Live Art: Concrete & Sheetrock Canvases

Public Art & Live Installation Pieces

Shopping, Open Nuvo Bar, DJ Performances

Brought to you by: Good Peoples & Around the way Girls

Thin Living.

2008-08-13T23:48:00.009-04:00

No one, I mean no one is playing around with limited space and great architecture, the way the Japanese are. Architecture is a very beautiful style of design, it can change the entire look and feel of a single room or an entire city. And what's most interesting about what Japanese architects are doing, is using slivers of space to create homes that somehow manage to give the illusion of space, I'm sure this is very challenging, b/c you have to think about what make a space appear bigger than it is. This is most obviously answered with light. It is the one aspect that will always make a space feel bigger.

Here are a few...

The Billboard Building by Kleim Dytham Architecture

Lucky Drops by Atelier Tekuto

^The really amazing thing about this building is that it was made to allow each 'box' apartment to be moved and put into a different place. Think Jenga meets architecture. Genius!

Famous Architect Kisho Kurokawa 1934-2007

Nicolas Ghesquiere, Balenciaga

2008-08-13T01:24:00.011-04:00

I decided to challenge myself with this next post, and show 1 to 2 favorite looks that Nicolas has created for Balenciaga from 2001 until now, per season. Although he came on as creative director in 1997, when Gucci Group acquired Balenciaga.

Here are the picks.

Fall 2001

Spring 2002

This was a hard one there were many good looks in this show.

Fall 2002

Spring 2003

Fall 2003

Another tough one, there were many pieces that I loved, especially the jackets. A great essential piece like outer-wear, is essential after all. Also I think this a turning point for Ghesquiere, more structure, and tailoring, in his innovative style.

Spring 2004

Fall 2004

The boots in this collection were fucking sick. By now Pierre Hardy is already been on board, with the shoe game.

Spring 2005

Really nice color palette in this collection, mainly this navy blue, with lots of white and dashes of cream here and there. I think the muted tones helps you focus on the details more.

Fall 2005

The almost pastel green is a really beautiful color for the fall.

Spring 2006

This was a sexy one. There's way to make lace look sick, Nicolas does it effortlessly.

Fall 2006

Not my favorite, for reasons of knowing that I wouldn't really wear a lot of the pieces, but I really like this nautical theme.

Spring 2007

The famous collection of the C3PO leggings. Suffice it to say, I couldn't just pick two looks for this one.

The man.

Fall 2007

Another amazing one, and as you can see this is a bit of a challenge! How can you just pick one?

Spring 2008

Again I asked myself, wear am I going? Really? But all-in-all you cannot take anything away from the way Ghesquiere designs.

Fall 2008 (To Date)

Thats all folks. What more can I say, except that Cristobal would be proud.

iko iko -Reggae

2008-08-12T23:02:00.000-04:00

Jockin.

2008-08-12T13:20:00.003-04:00

I knew he'd come back with that heat.

(cuz i like money bitch. i like fly shit.)

but I stand beside my opinion, he played himself with oasis. haha.

Jockin' -Jay-Z

Emmanuelle T. in Harlem

2008-08-12T01:39:00.008-04:00

These are a couple of photos I posted about last month. Emma just sent them over. She's got a really great style, and I'm not saying this just b/c of these are shots of me.

Emmaunelle Tricoire Photography

POR QUE?

2008-08-09T21:47:00.009-04:00

NOW I'LL ADMIT THERE BEAUTIFUL TO LOOK AT, WELL DESIGNED, CONCEPTUALLY APPEALING, SEXY AT NIGHT, ALL THOSE NICE THINGS, BUT FOR REALLY THO...

$15.5 MILLION???

R.I.P. BERNIE MAC

2008-08-09T21:34:00.006-04:00

HE WAS SUCH A FUNNY GUY, MY GOD, JUST WATCHING HIM MOST TIMES MADE MY STOMACH HURT. I'M SURE HE WILL BE DEARLY MISSED. I THINK MAKING PEOPLE LAUGH IS A GREAT GIFT, TO JUST BE FUNNY, AND MAKE JOKES, SOMETIMES LIFE IS ABOUT THOSE MOMENTS MORE THAN ALL THE SERIOUSNESS.

FIN.

Yanikk Lewis.

2008-08-08T08:25:00.002-04:00

Yanikk is a good friend of mine, most importantly he's a dope photographer. His website recently launched on Live Books.

Yanikk Lewis.

This is all around dope.

2008-08-07T06:01:00.002-04:00

just came across this site.

smashingmagazine.com

Package Design

2008-08-07T05:25:00.003-04:00

Package Design is a really interesting and essential part of branding. I'm pretty into it right now. Here are a few examples of really cool designs from artists in different industries...

Banana Juice, obviously, so simple yet really creative, Designed by Naoto Fukasawa.

This is cool b/c it has such an old-school feel to it. It reminds me of milk men. Whilst on the subject peep this design done by Roberto Cavailli for Coca-Cola.

I like this as well, clean lines and a great shape. The red color is perfect for making the bottle pop at you, I'd def drink this instead of Fiji water, but that bottle is dope to.

HAHA.

2008-08-03T18:43:00.003-04:00

Jay played himself with this, trying to preform rock and play the guitar. You know you wrong for that one! Ha!

and this is even funnier!

Utowa.

2008-07-27T01:12:00.004-04:00

I was about 18 or 19 when I went into this store for the first time, and it was the first time I had ever been in a store that was so conceptually designed. I knew the minute I walked in that the aesthetic was genius. Located at 17 West 18th street btwn 6th and 5th Avenues Utowa, is a 3-in-1 shopping experience. clothing and accessories (for men and women), make-up and skincare products, and flowers. The layout of well lit and spacious, the clothing is superb, i lusted over this sleeveless white jacket with a high collar and royal blue trim, for a minute. If you care about the skin and like smelling good, you wont leave disappointed. As for the flowers I've always been the type to want them around the house, and if I was in the mood to spend money on some I definitely would, after all I love beautiful things. I'll go back soon and find out what brands they carry, and share them. Besides I know an end of the summer sale is coming up, so I should be stopping by anyway.

The website doesn't really do it justice, but check it out anyway.

Utowa.

Philly.

2008-07-27T01:08:00.004-04:00

Ay, I'm in Philly for a few days just chillin, enjoying the quiet and fresh air. You realize how much of it is lacking in the city, when you leave. Sometimes its just nice to kick back with the fam, be in a different place, and just chill you know?

BAD ASS.

2008-07-26T01:28:00.006-04:00

just click on this picture. honestly that shit is sooooo piff. i can hardly speak. and whilst were on the subject, my whole steez this summer, has been a white to black color palette. by way of The Sartorialist.

The Good Life!

2008-07-21T03:26:00.003-04:00

you dig?

July 17th 2008.

2008-07-21T02:59:00.009-04:00

It's sometime in the afternoon in Harlem. I walk to 145th Street to meet with Emma, a.k.a. Emmanuelle Tricoire Photography, to do a photo shoot for Germany's Style Magazine. They want her to take a few portraits of me. Its pretty fucking hot out. Emma happens to be from Paris, and is working on a photography book rightfully titled 'New York Fucking City.' We talk about how she had just finished shooting Oscar & Vashtie in Soho. I tell her that I have a friend staying with me who's a skater from Barcelona. She doesn't mention it at the time, but she knows my homie Louisa, who skates for Rockstar. We get to the crib and they reintroduce themselves, and all I can think is damn the world is small. We begin to shoot outside my house. Louisa comes down stairs, and my neighbor peeps us and decides to catch glimpses of the action. After we finish shooting these maintenance dudes come out a building with a fucking toilet. This guy sits with it looking tight, and starts to put gloves on. They then drag it and put it in a trash can. Luckily Emma gets it all on video. Classic. Only in Harlem!

Peep.

I'M A REAL BIKER NOW.

2008-07-15T18:54:00.005-04:00

So I've just recently been hit by a cab. This happened less than an hour ago. Now, during the entire summer of riding, I've begun to develop a true distaste for New York cabbies. They veer, in and out of lanes without signaling, open doors out of nowhere, and fucking HIT YOU, and then have the nerve to try and curse you out, at which time, I reply by telling them to suck it, and go fuck themselves. If you've noticed any spray painted bikes in all white, then you should know this is because someone died while riding. Its a dangerous world out there. Act accordingly. and FUCK CABBIES.

Thank you.

In Heavy Rotation

2008-07-10T14:47:00.002-04:00

Yup.

Renee Lalique.

2008-07-01T01:14:00.008-04:00

No introduction is needed when mentioning this master of Glass and Jewels. But I will grace you with one anyway.

Born in France (1860-1945) Lalique's work is stunning, with many pieces that are tied to nature and the female form. His glass designs are by far the most recognizable in the world, and have been copied by many, since the 1920's and 1930's. During the 19th century 'Art Nouveau' was largely inspired by the Japanese influences that poured into Europe and helped shaped there sense of creativity and design. At the time all the jewelry houses of today came of age; Tiffany's, Bulgari, Cartier. During his early years Lalique worked for Cartier, using gold and silver, as well as ivory, glass and semi-precious stones.

Below are some of Lalique's famous works, including glass and jewelry.

Art. Du Jour.

2008-06-16T00:29:00.008-04:00

My recent travels have led me toward NYC art shows. Open Bars, Cool Peeps, Dope Art, Roof Tops, Fly Shit. Enjoy.

Courtesy of the Chelsea Art Museum.

Wouldn't You Like To Be A Nigger Too...

2008-06-14T03:06:00.005-04:00

"What chu looking for?

You are the QUESTION & the ANSWER."

Done. Deal.

VOUGE ITALIA, IN THE BLACK.

2008-06-08T22:05:00.005-04:00

I POSTED THIS UP A MERE MOMENT AGO, BUT I'D LIKE TO REFRESH YOUR MINDS FOR WHATS IN STORE THIS JULY. NOT A MYTH, THIS ISSUE IS LIVE AND DIRECT, AND WILL BE HITTING THE NEWSSTANDS ANY DAY NOW. COP IT, PEEP IT, OR TAKE IT FROM A FRIEND, AND GET ACQUAINTED WITH A BLACKER SIDE OF FASHION.

MORE.

FIN.

ONE TIME FOR YOUR TIME

2008-06-06T23:51:00.007-04:00

SO AS USUAL, I HEAD OVER TO THE WORSHIP WORTHY SITE TO FIND OUT WHATS REALLY GOOD, AND LOW AND BEHOLD I FIND MYSELF ON THEIR HAIL MARY LIST!! I'M TRUELY HONORED TO BE FEATURED ON THIS LIST THAT INCLUDES SO MANY OTHER TALENTED FEMALES, IN THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES. A BIG SHOUT GOES TO SAINT AGNES, AND ALL THE LOVELY LADIES OF WORSHIP WORTHY.

COME SUPPORT THE LADIES!

2008-05-21T00:33:00.002-04:00

COME JOIN LADIES DOING WHAT THERE SUPPOSED TO! HANDLING BUSINESS!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT.

2008-05-18T21:56:00.006-04:00

So last night a few friends and myself went to Bondi Road. People have been talking to me about this place lately. The Australian themed seafood bar has been called "the shit, and madd good." We all roll in and the ambiance is "cute," says Dee, which is the prefect word for it, cuz the place is adorable. We cop some drinks from the bar, while the rest of the group stroll in. A Tangqueray and tonic for me, something sweet for Dee, and Tony sticks with water. Tommy insists that we order the calamari which was hella good! It came with this amazing sauce that Will mentioned had to be miso, soy sauce and ginger, turns out dude was right. The waitress concurred. I was madd iffy on what to order cuz the menu is really odd, the layout is just weird. Finally I order the baby scallops and polenta with a basil pesto sauce. Tony orders crap wraps and fries. Tommy orders a steak, medium well, with the crab and corn ragout. Will (Tommy's boy frm Boston) orders a chicken sandwich. Hanna, who later joins us gets a few different appetizers, which i regrettably didn't try! and Manny who shows up even later gets the barramundi with fries.

1. The scallops are served on a bed of cooked red cabbage and crispy bacon. I had no idea what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised, Tony kept asking for bites! The polenta which is corn meal, was delicious with the basil pesto.

2. Tony's crab wraps were amazing! soft, fresh, yummy! I would def order those again!

3. Manny's barramundi, which is a type of Australian fish was light and juicy, and so good.

4. To top this off, the waitress brings Tony a free beer from the Bar, and later brings us two rounds of shots on the house! Passion fruit, tequila, and something else lolz.

5. Good food, with friends is always fun!

Vogue goes Black

2008-05-12T02:27:00.009-04:00

The talk of the upcoming all black Italian Vogue issue is picking up speed. We've been hearing about everyone from Ashanti to Jourdan Dunn to Takara (that larger than life contestant fromAmerica's Next Top Model) shooting with Steven Meisel for the issue, which aims to bring awareness to color discrimination in fashion.

The JC Report.

Houston and The Bowery.

2008-05-12T02:20:00.015-04:00

On display until Dec. 21st 2008.

Chopin.

2008-05-12T02:16:00.006-04:00

classical composer of the piano. brillant.

Clutch Magazine Interview

2008-05-05T00:52:00.007-04:00

"After having unveiled her debut collection last year, jewelry designer Folasade Ologundudu’s shockingly seductive pendants and earrings have attracted almost cult like appeal. Finding Inspiration in the female figure, Folasade designs to empower women to nurture their femininity and sexuality. While her first collection offered a full assortment of 14K gold and sterling silver sexy silhouette pieces, Folasade is set to debut her latest collection, An Ode to the Game."

Check out the rest of the interview here.

A special thanks to the folks over at Clutch Magazine for the feature they did in the May issue.

Princess of the Posse Spring/Summer 2008 Collection!

2008-05-04T21:24:00.005-04:00

My girl Kelly and the people over at Princess of the Posse, have just recently launched there Spring Summer collection. Be sure to go peep that.

I know you see Vanity shining!

STREETWEAR, WHERE IS IT GOING?

2008-04-29T03:57:00.006-04:00

FROM ME TO YOU, BY WAY OF WE ARE THE MARKET (DOT) COM

A good article from BKRW on the future of street wear. Whether from the perspective of a designer, brand, consumer, or observer, we can see that the industry is changing so quickly. Within the last few years, so many brands have come out, they may have started in a great place, but then dropped the ball. Slow down. Let's all just look around for a minute, and understand what it is we are doing and what we want. We owe it ourselves and the lifestyles that we create, to put the best product forward.

"The basis of the Street Culture is a rejection of the mass market and conformism. Street Wear is born from a gap. An entire part of the urban culture did not have clothes which matched with their own cultural references. So today, why are we doing the same things, the same co-brandings, the same graphics, using the same colors. And why does everybody want to go so fast ?"

JESUS FUCK.

2008-04-27T20:42:00.005-04:00

SHARPTON VOWS TO 'CLOSE' NYC AFTER OFFICER ACQUITTALS.

TEARFUL, ANGRY CROWD AFTER SEAN BELL VERDICT.

COUNT DOWN TO SEAN BELL VERDICT.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
PLEASE VIEW THE LINKS ABOVE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

JEROME LAMARR (MOBILE) 4/27/2008 8:27:43 PM

PLEASE WEAR ALL BLACK ON MONDAY FOR THE INJUSTICE VERDICT IN THE SEAN BELL CASE. PLEASE PASS THIS ON 2 ANYONE WHO CAN RECEIVE A TEXT.

FOLASADE OLOGUNDUDU (MOBILE) 4/27/2008 8:28:36 PM

PLEASE DON'T TELL ME THEY GOT OFF?!?!?!

JEROME LAMARR (MOBILE) 4/27/2008 8:30:51 PM

YUP... ALL CHARGES

FOLASADE OLOGUNDUDU (MOBILE) 4/27/2008 8:31:16 PM

JESUS FUCK.

JEROME LAMARR (MOBILE) 4/27/2008 8:33:05 PM

I KNOW.

FOLASADE OLOGUNDUDU (MOBILE) 4/27/2008 8:44:53 PM

I'M POSTING THIS ON THE BLOG.

JEROME LAMARR (MOBILE) 4/27/2008 8:45:27 PM

COOL.

I'M NOT SURE WHERE TO START OR WHAT TO SAY. I'M DISGUSTED, AS USUAL WITH THE WORLD WE LIVE IN AND THE THINGS THAT ARE ALLOWED TO HAPPEN TO OTHER HUMAN BEINGS. I'M ALMOST TIRED OF TALKING ABOUT RACE. BUT GOD DAMN, HOW CAN I NOT? HOW CAN I NOT BE AFFECTED BY WHAT I SEE, HEAR, FEEL, AND KNOW IN MY HEART IS WRONG?

SO OFTEN LATELY, I TALK WITH FRIENDS ABOUT HOW LIFE IS GOOD, ITS AN EXCITING TIME TO BE YOUNG AND IN CONTROL OF YOUR FUTURE, (SPECIFICALLY THOSE WHO ARE ABOUT THINGS AND ARE ACTUALLY MAKING MOVES!), BUT SHIT LIKE THIS WEIGHS ON YOU. IT MAKES YOU STOP AND WONDER.

BUT HONESTLY, THIS IS THE WORLD WE LIVE IN. YOU DO WHAT YOU CAN TO MAKE YOURSELF HAPPY, HELP OUT OTHERS, TOUCH ANOTHER LIFE IN SOME WAY, STAND UP FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN, AND LOVE, ALWAYS LOVE.

WHAT ELSE CAN YOU REALLY DO???

FIN.

-SADE

RIPE ON HOLIDAY.

2008-04-25T14:54:00.013-04:00

RIPE WAS ON ITS VERY OWN EUROPEAN HOLIDAY IN LONDON AND PARIS. THANKS D!!

SIMONE AND THE SPHINX CHILLIN AT THE LOURVE IN PARIS.

THE ORIGINAL LADY OF THE NIGHT, THE GRAND ODALISQUE BY INGRES

GENEVIEVE GETS SOME KNOWLEDGE AT LONDON'S VERY OWN COLLEGE OF FASHION

SLUMMING IT WITH THE LOCALS!

CHILLIN WITH OG'S IN THE JEWELRY GAME IS SUCH FUN! RICK THE RULER AND REV. RUN SHOW YOU HOW ITS DONE!

SIMONE CHILLS OUT WITH BIG BEN IN LONDON!

NATALIE AT THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF LONDON!

RIPE IS MOST DEFINITELY WORLDWIDE!

CHERRY BLOSSOM PHOTOS

2008-04-23T12:57:00.004-04:00

BY WAY OF > www.symplx.com/cherryblossomx

MORE OVER AT VILLAGESLUM.

BROOKLYN BOUND.

2008-04-23T12:39:00.007-04:00

MURAKAMI AT THE BROOKLYN MUSEUM TIL JULY 13TH.

THE BROOKLYN MUSEUM

GO SEE!

BY FAR THE MOST STRANGE AND INTERESTING MOVIE I'VE EVER SEEN.

2008-04-23T12:27:00.004-04:00

YOU MIGHT WANNA PEEP THIS.

love this.

2008-04-20T13:41:00.001-04:00

LUPE FIASCO'S PARIS, TOKYO

WELCOME BACK!

2008-04-12T13:33:00.008-04:00

I KNOW IT'S BEEN A MINUTE. SORRY. LOTS HAPPENING, AND IT'S VERY EXCITING. THE LAUNCH OF THE RIPE WEBSITE WAS A HUGE STEP INTO THE FUTURE. I'LL BE SURE TO KEEP YOU UPDATED IN THE UPCOMING MONTHS WITH EVERYTHING THAT'S HAPPENING! I PROMISE.

AS FOR ME, I'VE BEEN GRINDING, AND IN BETWEEN MANAGED TO SCOOP A FEW PIX FOR YOU.

The Alley at the Galapagos

Ice Sculpture

The 200th Anniversary of the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem 1808-2008

Mary & Dee's Birthday Party

CHERRY BLOSSOMS: A FASHION AND MUSIC EXTRAVAGANZA!

2008-04-03T13:52:00.007-04:00

On April 16th come join us at the Delancey, as we bring spring in with a bang! Fun, Fashion, Live Sounds, and Giveaways!

Ripe Jewelry will be a part of this event showcasing the 'La Femme Fatale' collection!

Come check us out!

Be sure to RSVP HERE!

NOUVEAU RICHE TUESDAYS

2008-03-31T15:03:00.003-04:00

COME AND CELEBRATE WITH US. LIFE, LOVE ,AND FUN. THIS WEEKLY EVENT WILL FEATURE SPECIAL GUEST DJ'S EVERY WEEK! WHETHER HIP-HOP, R&B, BAILE FUNK, OR HOUSE, I'M SURE YOU'LL LEAVE WANTING MORE!

-RIPE & READY-

2008-03-31T14:28:00.007-04:00

THE WEBSITE IS UP AND RUNNING!! YOUR GIRLS BEEN A BUSY LADY LATELY.

SO NOW YOU CAN PEEP, COP, CONTACT, AND STAY INFORMED ON WHATS IN STORE FOR RIPE!!

WWW.RIPEJEWELRYNYC.COM

EARTH HOUR!

2008-03-29T16:01:00.004-04:00

IN THE SPIRIT OF CONSERVING ENERGY AND BEING ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE, ITS TIME TO TURN YOUR LIGHTS OUT. IF YOU'VE BEEN TO GOOGLE IN THE LAST FEW HOURS THEN YOU KNOW WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT! TURN THOSE LIGHTS OUT PEOPLE, AND LET THE SUNSHINE IN. AFTER ALL ITS A BEAUTIFUL DAY OUTSIDE.

THIS IS WHAT I MEAN!

IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING. IT'S ALL ABOUT BLACK ON BLACK.

2008-03-24T13:10:00.004-04:00

COME JOIN US, AS WE CELEBRATE THE BIRTHDAY OF JAHREAM. LIVE PERFORMANCES, DOPE DJ'S AND OPEN BAR. IT'S ABOUT THOSE GOOD TIMES!

HAPPY EASTER.

2008-03-23T15:15:00.006-04:00

Have fun, be merry, visit family, and paint eggs.

DON'T FRONT, YOU KNOW THEY GOT YOU OPEN!

2008-03-21T00:57:00.004-04:00

Hey I just might see you there!

5 YEARS AND COUNTING.

2008-03-20T03:21:00.003-04:00

Has it really been that long?

ART AND ARTISTS

2008-03-16T04:57:00.006-04:00

There are times when it seems its better to work in a "crowd." We all strive to profess our individuality but some believe gathering people in certain "crowds" brings out unexpected results.

“Click! A Crowd-Curated Exhibit,” is a three-stage interactive exhibit at The Brooklyn Museum inspired by James Surowiecki’s book “The Wisdom of Crowds.” New Yorker columnist Surowiecki posits that diverse groups are often better than specialized individuals when it comes to making decisions, and with that in mind “Click” will let us pretend to know what we are talking about by submitting, judging, and viewing art to see if Surowiecki’s theory applies to a creative field.

Currently, the museum is asking artists to submit a photograph and artist statement that address “the changing faces of Brooklyn.” Submissions are entered on the website until March 31st and will be kept anonymous until the artworks are presented in the museum. On April 1st the online judging begins, hopefully with a diverse group of participants (that means you!) who each must answer questions to determine how much they THINK they know and how much they actually DO know about art before they vote.

Starting on June 27, the photos will be arranged at the Brooklyn Museum according to their relative rankings from the judging process. After the exhibit is over, results from this experiment will be analyzed by the very experts the exhibit challenges…but it’s a wikiworld so we’re all experts anyway.

For more information, or to submit a photograph, visit the Brooklyn Museum website.

Click! A Crowd-Curated Exhibit
Through August 10th at The Brooklyn Museum
200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn

By Way of Worship Worthy.

AND FURTHER MORE...

2008-03-16T04:37:00.005-04:00

ERYKAH BADU'S NEW LP IS RIDICULOUS. I CAN'T EVEN. AND CONSIDERING THAT SHE HAS TITLED IT "PART 1" I WONDER WHAT ELSE TO EXPECT.

THIS IS ALSO PRETTY DOPE.

WE ARE HEALERS AFTER ALL.

AWED.AMAZED.AND INSPIRED.

2008-03-16T04:30:00.004-04:00

Now the album hasn't officially dropped yet, but the leak has proven to be fucking sick! A video is in the works for the first single "Run."

TRAINSPOTTING

2008-03-14T09:39:00.004-04:00

Children's hand painting. 125th Street.
Perhaps thats all we need. West 4th Street.

This Is Something You Need To Hear.

2008-03-11T15:12:00.007-04:00

Thanks Rose, for finding this and sharing, cuz the whole album is dope! If you know Fela Kuti, and are familiar with his music, then you know he's that ill dude! The tracks have been laid down with all the beats to Fela Kuti's hit songs, and some songs that you may not know. Download it here!

And luckily for those music lovers out there Z Share lets you download it directly into iTunes!

PIFF!

From Me To You.

2008-03-10T14:17:00.007-04:00

On that same trip that I mentioned last week to Barnes and Noble I picked this up. So amazing, it breaks down various key areas of marketing your business. From writing the actual marketing plan, to networking, dealing with employees, and insight into trade shows.

If your serious about starting a business and not just talking about it, then this is a must read. The layout is very clear and understandable. Using icons every section, it is laid out in terms of what you must do to complete certain steps. A hammer symbolizes how much work you have to put in to get shit done (there are a lot of those!), a telephone means call that spot and see what's good, a money sign implies how much money it will take to get the job done. Besides this, it also features great resources, from the web to printed materials, i.e. magazines and business publications.

go cop that, and grind your shit out.

That's All Folks...

2008-03-10T13:59:00.005-04:00

Well, thats right it's over, done, gone, but not forgotten. The last season's last episode of The Wire aired last night. First at 9pm and again right after for a re-run. When a show creates as much buzz and speaks so truly about what is going in America's urban environment as the Wire did, then you know it will be missed.

Lately I've met a lot of people who are either from Baltimore, used to live there, or have been there. They all agree that the show does a great job in it's depiction of the cities struggles and issues. They watch the show and say, I know that street, I've been to that store, on that corner, down that block, and it's really like that.

Man, I'm really gonna miss this show.

TOMORROW

2008-03-07T17:06:00.000-05:00

Support good times and good vibes.

Santo Gold's "L.E.S. Artistes" Video

2008-03-07T17:02:00.004-05:00

Love this. The horse, the girls dancing slightly odd, the symbolism of the paint, the words are actually pretty sick if you listen to them.

LIVID.

2008-03-04T21:32:00.005-05:00

I leave Barnes and Noble, on a great high...books about business and marketing...im feeling inspired, ready to get shit done...walk across 23rd st to the magazine spot...pick up a few pieces to do some research...the list includes blackbook, oyster, w, trace, fadar, and a few others. proceed to sit down and write some things down. apparently this isnt allowed, so says this weird looking dude eating halal meat. 'you cannot write from the magazine, this isnt a library', which interestingly enough he doesnt even know how to pronounce, 'you cant read it', repeat that please you fucking cock, i cant read it, then what the fuck is it here for....he begins to start a scene...we yell at each other. cuz i was fucking pissed...like your really gonna try to tell me some shit about not being able to read the fucking magazine. the white people stare.his skin is dark. darker than my own. but he has a look in his eye that reeks of entitlement. perhaps, its yemen, or afghanistan, maybe pakistan or iraq. i don't really give a shit where because you come here, to the place i was born in, can hardly speak the language and proceed to try to tell me some shit about a fucking magazine. perhaps i shouldnt have attempted to write from it. and this much i am ok with accepting. but the question during this 5 minute scream fest that lingered so close to the surface of my thoughts, was, what if i was white, you wouldnt even have the nerve. you wouldnt even think twice about speaking to me that way. and yet, you sit there smelling of bad food, bad clothes, reeking of a higher self worth than myself, as though to say "NIGGER" like i cannot see if written on your face, like i cannot feel that vibe. i write some shit down just to pick at the situation, he huffs and puffs literally, cracking his knuckles. i stack the magazines up real nice and neat. 'now you can put them away, you fuck.' i dont use the word fuck but it was close i had to pull back. 'no you put them away, you took them out.'i dont even hear him anymore as i walk away every so lightly.

and as i write sit and listen to amy winehouse, i know i have to get this out. i have to tell the story, cuz if i dont i will walk around with this hateful feeling in my gut. ready to hurt someone or be bad, that dark side is there.

anger has its place. frustration and angst, fuel that fire. cant do this, be this live this life...not today not no more...and so i push..break..beat...and crush the barrier.it cannot hold the fire. it cannot contain the force.

-Sade.So.Ripe

THAT PURPLE DRANK.

2008-03-03T02:36:00.010-05:00

IT HAS BEEN CALLED PURPLE OIL, BO, TRIP, LEAK, BARRE, SIZZURP (MOST FAMOUS), DRANK, PURPLE TONIC, SOUTHERN LEAN, STAGGA ( CUZ THATS WHAT THE FUCK YOU'LL BE DOING), TEXAS TEA (LMAO.), TSIKUNI, MEMPHIS MUD, LEAN, SYRUP, P-FLAV, PURPLE SPRITE, SURP, PURPLE SURPRISE, PURPLE HULK AND PURP.

-Now this here isn't the real thing. It's Cam'ron and Jim Jones' way of cashing in on the famous 'drank' by creating one that Jim has said tastes like Grape Kool-Aid.-

THE ACTUAL DRINK SIZZURP, IS MADE MAINLY WITH A PRESCRIPTION COUGH SYRUP, THAT CONTAINS CODEINE, AND PROMETHAZINE.

THE FORMULAS ON HOW TO MAKE IT ARE SLIGHTLY BLURRY. HERE IS WHAT I'VE HEARD.

"just go hit a up a friend house for some prescription cough syrup. It has codeine in it. If you want get prescription cough syrup and crush up some more pain killers in it. I prefer 6 10's in mine drink half the bottle and you will be straight folded. Have fun. Holla back"

"mix up some sprite and liquid morphine, codine, tuss, or any cough syrup that has a kick. then sit around and listen to chopped and screwed music from houston. sip sip sippin on the sizurp BIATCH"

" you all are wrong it is cough syrup with codiene, milk of magnesia, rum or vodka, and a jolly rancher. it is served in a bottle. straight from da 3 6."

"4 oz. cough syrup w/codeine 4 oz. rum, vodka, any hard alcohol

1 jolly rancher crush up some vicodin if desired."

IT REALLY MAKES NO DIFFERENCE HOW YOU MAKE IT EITHER WAY. THERE ARE CERTAIN THINGS THAT NEVER NEED TO BE TRIED. SIZZURP IS ALREADY RESPONSIBLE FOR SEVERAL DEATHS WITHIN THE SOUTHERN RAP MUSIC INDUSTRY.

DJ SCREW-DIED OF A SUSPECTED CODEINE-ALCOHOL OVERDOSE IN 2000, AFTER THE VIDEO FOR THREE 6 MAFIA'S 'SIPPIN' ON SOME SIZZURP' VIDEO DEBUTED.

BIG MOE- DIED IN 2007, AFTER A HEART ATTACK AND HAVING BEEN IN A COMA. THERE WAS SPECULATION THAT SIZZURP MAY HAVE LEAD TO HIS DEATH. HE WAS 33.

PIMP C- DIED IN 2007, FROM HEART FAILURE. IT WAS DETERMINED BY THE CORONER'S OFFICE THAT THE RESULT WAS AN OVERDOSE ON SIZZURP. HE WAS ALSO 33.

OH NO HE DIDN'T!

2008-03-02T15:52:00.008-05:00

TOM FORD'S NEW FRAGRANCE FOR MEN. HAHA! I BET IT SMELLS BANJEE.

-RIPE JEWLERY NYC UPDATES-

2008-03-01T23:30:00.004-05:00

THE WEBSITE WILL BE LAUNCHING IN THE NEXT FEW WEEKS!

VERY EXCITING THINGS GOING ON.

BE SURE TO STAY TUNED!

-RIPE JEWELRY NYC!

MAN OH MAN.

2008-02-29T23:44:00.005-05:00

FUCKING SICK.

SAW THIS THE OTHER DAY ON MY HOME GIRLS PHONE. I MUST SAY THAT TECHNOLOGY IS CRAZY.

"We love fashion, but it's going so fast. We wanted to say 'No' this
season." says the dynamic duo.

VIKTOR AND ROLF.

PERHAPS IM BUGGING BUT SOMETHING FEELS VERY 18th CENTURY FRENCH RELIGIOUS ABOUT THIS LOOK. IT'S SLIGHTLY SCARING ME.

MADE ME LOOK.

2008-02-29T23:39:00.006-05:00

RECENTLY SAW THIS ON A.T.W.G. BLOG, BUT STUMBLED UPON THE MADE ME SITE IN THE LAST FEWS DAYS. BROWSING AROUND ON TRADE SHOWS AND VARIOUS FASHION WEBSITES I CAME ACROSS THIS BRAND. LOVE THE WEBSITE MADEME, ITS SO BRIGHT AND FUN!

CANT HELP BUT TO ADORE THE SPRING SUMMER COLLECTION

FROM NOTHIN' TO SOMETHIN'

2008-02-27T14:25:00.006-05:00

THATS ALL I GOT TO SAY.

NICOLE BELL IN ROCAWEAR'S "I WILL NOT LOSE" CAMPAIGN

2008-02-24T18:54:00.011-05:00

I stumbled upon this ad campaign for Rocawear, in this months issue of Essence Magazine. I was completely elated at the site of Nicole Bell and her children.

More than anything, this ad spoke very clearly without words, of the injustice of the murder of Sean Bell and its repercussions. Just because the news isn't actively covering the trial and investigation doesn't mean that you and I, should forget about what happened to this family.

It is easy to forget. We all have lives, and things that take up our time, whether they be the physical acts of reaching goals, i.e. 'the grind,' or the mental acts of progression, i.e. 'the dreams and ambitions.' From me to you, this is a reminder to not forget Sean Bell, or his family.

It was a great move on the part of Rocawear, as a company to do this campaign. Not only from the money that Nicole Bell will definitely be receiving for it, but more because of the awareness that it blatantly suggests; to not lose and to not forget, and to not let and injustice go unseen, unheard, and unpunished.

R.I.P. Sean Bell

A(LIFE) OF PLEASURE.

2008-02-23T03:38:00.007-05:00

So once again Alife has done it for a new season. The Alife Everybody Mid Premium's are pretty sick. In only 12 spots in the U.S. these will definitely be hard to grab. So if your located in the greater New York City area, you might want to spot by, and peep these. ALIFE NYC has made a few available by phone order.

ALIFE NYC - New York (212.375.8116)
ALIFE LA - Los Angeles
BODEGA - Boston
PACKERS - Teaneck & Jersey City
WITHIN - Philadelphia
COMMONWEALTH - Virgina Beach & Washington, D.C.
WISH - Atlanta
PREMIUM GOODS - Houston
MOTIVE 87 - Austin
HUF - San Francisco

I LUST FOR THOSE GOOD OLE' DAYS...

2008-02-22T16:27:00.009-05:00

I must tell you I really miss those days of snow in New York, so when it snowed recently I was actually pretty excited about it. When is the last time there was enough snow to have a snow ball fight? It's been years, which just goes to show that global warming is a bitch.

Remember having snow days in grade school, when it was totally cool to stay home because there was too much snow outside. Making snow angels, and just playing around is virtually nonexistent.

The Puma Clyde's withstood the snow falling.

Tracks.

L.E.S.

Harlem.

Jackie Robinson Park (145th)

Home Sweet Home.

This is actually what 145th Street looks like today. No more Willie's and almost no more burnt out buildings.

CITY SITES.

2008-02-20T21:20:00.008-05:00

I've wanted to post this for about a week now. I knew I would eventually see it again. As a tribute to Black History Month, Macy's has decorated there women's wear window with Josephine Baker. All of the windows are adorned with artwork about her life. The dances, and costumes, and the clothes reflect the window displays.

Take a look, and I commend Macy's on this. It's really well done, and has a very artistic feel to it, which is dope.

MONDAY NIGHT MAYHEM, MADNESS AND MONSTROSITIES

2008-02-20T04:10:00.008-05:00

SO AGAIN AS ALWAYS...

WINGS!!!

NO NO NO, NOT THIS WEEK, COULDN'T GET 'EM CUZ OF PRESIDENTS DAY AND LIKE REALLY WHO GIVES A SHIT ABOUT THAT. ANYHOW OPTED FOR THE 2 FOR 1 SPECIALS. HAHA. BURGERS OK, I'LL SETTLE WITH THAT.

ROUND THAT WIDE CORNER AND HEAD TO IG IG IGGY'S. CAR BOMBS!!! WHOOP WHOOP. FREE BEER, OK OK, THATS HOW WE START OFF THE NIGHT.

ROUND ANOTHER WIDE CORNER AND HEAD OVER THE RIVINGTON HOTEL (IN MY HEAD I SAID THIS WITH A FRENCH ACCENT)

BDAY PARTY FOR THE GIRL PROMISE. SHEER DRESSES, DOPE HAIR, LEZ FEST, FLY NIGGAS, CHAMPAGNE. LOVE THIS SPOT, THE RIVINGTON BE ON THE PIMP SHIT.

WALK WALK WALK. 205. DRE DAY. COLT 45'S. TOP FLOOR. BOMBARD THE DOOR WITH A LARGE CROWD, THE WAY WE USE TO DO IT. (OLD NEW YORK SHIT) DOWN THE DARK STAIRWAY. HOUSE!!! GOING CRAZY. BOOM BAM POW. GET BUSY. SWEAT OUT THE PERM, WHO CARES. DANCE DANCE DANCE. WORK BITCH (OH WAIT, DID I REALLY) YEA YEA. BLESSED BY THE MUSIC. THE HOLY GHOST, AND BAPTISMS WERE IN ORDER. I WAS SPEAKING TOUNGES.

RANDOMNESS FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE...

P.S. I'M SLEEPY.