Vincent Schoepfer – Fall/Winter 2010
With a nod and a wink Paris-based designer Vincent Schoepfer’s Winter 2010 collection arrives as one of the most wearable, and original, of the season. Tailored slim–though not “skinny”–Schoepfer offers new interpretations of classics, with an alternating pattern tuxedo shirt, belting on suit jackets, and a quasi-lapeled leather jacket. But as odd as those may sound, they amazingly work–particularly the leather jacket. But it’s not just humor that makes it such a good collection–the henley, sweatshirt, and navy trouser are all best-in-category, perfect to be basics for years to come.
More images of the collection after the jump.
Custom Built Cameras by Leica – Leica à la Carte
The ever-popular Leica camera returns, this time in fully customizable form–so customizable it’s practically made-to-measure. Leica à la carte is available through an online Configurator, a user can choose between the Leica MP or Leica M7, and then delve deeper into over four thousand technical and styling choices. In additional to a myriad of technical selections, options get as in-depth as the lens cap color, leather trim, viewfinder frame-lines, controls, and personalized engraving. So though every shot might not be perfection, the camera will be available at Leica.
Piaggio Ape Calessino
Evocative of Italy in the 50’s, and featured in Fellini’s Dolce Vita, the Piaggio Ape is a legendary four-seater leisure vehicle originally designed by aeronautical engineer Corradino d’Ascanio. In 2007 999 reissues were reproduced, and Piaggio now has released 100 copies with electric motors. Originally produced (in 1948) to transport goods with a single cylinder 422 cc engine, the new version features an electric motor powered by a Lithium-ion battery rechargeable in 4 hours, with speeds peaking at 50 KM / H (about 30mph). The new version also features wood paneling and a folding top, making it perfect for your own Talented Mr. Ripley moment.
More images after the jump.
Samsung Fridge Concept
For a fridge that looks as cool as the items that will go in it, look no further than this Samsung Concept Fridge by GRO Design. Unique in design and construction, the futuristic looking refrigerator features door hinged functions to be installed both for vertical and horizontal alignments. Vertically, it’s practically a post-modern sculpture. Horizontally, it looks more like a piece of furniture and could be ideal as a television stand or tablescape.
More images after the jump.
Falling Whistles
When Sean Carasso visited the Congo on service trips for Invisible Children and TOMS (the charitable shoe company) he witnessed the horror of imprisoned children. The children, escaped from fighting for rebel forces, were now being held captive, and tortured, by government soldiers. That night Sean wrote an impassioned entry into his journal, which he later sent to friends, that included descriptions of the children being forced to the frontlines of war, armed with nothing but a whistle. Wrote Sean, “With Falling Whistles, their only choice is to feign death or face it.”
When friends began to ask what they could do to help, Sean and a partner formed Falling Whistles, an organization whose profits in the sale of symbolic whistles goes to “restoring the lives of war-effected children in the Democratic Republic of Congo.” To join their efforts, one can order a whistle from fallingwhistle.com.
Arcadia Contract Contemporary Benches
For ultra-clean modernism created through natural materials and warm colors, look no further than the “Archella” line from Arcadia Contract. Designed by Christopher Panichella, the set is compiled of complimentary square, circular and scalloped shapes. Occasional tables and lounge chairs also available.
Continue reading to see more images.
Mad Men Yourself
In anticipation of this Sunday’s Season 3 premiere of Mad Men, AMC introduces MadMenYourself, a great little time-wasting device that allows you to create yourself as an early 1960’s character. The illustrations, created by Dyna Moe, and inspired by her popular Flickr posts. Customize yourself down to the turn of your nose as well as the material of your suit (or cardigan, tennis sweater, or any of the other 5 wardrobe choices). Then drop the illustrated you into a scene from the show, and you’ve become Mad Men’d. The site goes one step further and allows your avatar to be exported in formats perfect for Twitter, Facebook, and desktop wallpaper. Check it out at MadMenYourself. And as a reminder, Mad Men season 3 premiers this Sunday Aug. 16th 10pm/9c on AMC.
Smart Moves Bicycle Book
Bicycle enthusiast, bicycle novice, or just want a cool coffee table book? Look no further than photographer Bernard Angerer’s Smart Move: Bicycles from the Embacher Collection, a substantial tome highlighting the incredibly collection of Austrian industrial designer Michael Embacher. Included are rare and exotic bikes, from the Gazelle racer from the 1970’s to the Duemila commuter from the 60’s. Each bike is given an overall portrait, but also has great supporting detail shots, like that of the Diamont’s narrow saddle. While the photographs should be enough, the book also includes some pretty good articles, touching on not just the technical aspects of bicycling, but also the emotions. Available at Vintage Bicycle Press.
TwentyTwo Armchair by Jaime Hayon
A truly beautiful work of craftmanship, The TwentyTwo chair, named so because the frame is constructed out of 22 pieces of maple wood, is both sleek and modern, while retaining a hint of Art Noveau. By Spanish designer Jaime Haydon for Ceccotti Collezioni, the chair also features a hidden leather tray beneath the seat. It was recently presented out of Milan’s Salone el Mobile.
More images after the jump.
Big Chill Retro Kitchen Appliances
They may look like they were stripped out of Betty Draper’s kitchen, but Retro Kitchen’s line of fridges, stoves, and dishwashers offer modern-day technology inside their vintage casings. With EnergyStar ratings, optional Ice Maker packages, and a wide assortment of colors, the line brings us one step closer to the time of Elvis and the Brooklyn Dodgers.
More images after the jump.
