Fashion

Patou Resort 2021

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“At Patou, we deliver winter in winter, spring in spring, like vegetables or fruit in the market.” Guillaume Henry has a delectable way of combining the French vernacular of down to earth traditional work with flights of fashion fancy. His resort collection is beginning to drop now. Part of it was inspired by looking at vintage photographs of Les Forts des Halles, the porters at the old Les Halles market in the center of Paris, who used to wear felt hats to carry crates of farm produce. That’s where the oversized, turned-back brimmed hats in his collection originated; one of his charming side strategies for keeping French regional working class culture alive and relevant for a new generation.

It’s cold right now in the northern hemisphere. Just time, perhaps, for one of his oversized, cocooning duffle coats. Perfect for lockdown walks and hikes, they have huge hoods against the weather, and come fastened with a set of big wooden toggles, which are actually bird-whistles of the sort used in the French countryside. Purpose and playfulness, all nicely wrapped up in one cozy coat.

Henry’s talent for the current art of exaggeration in fashion—the kind of puffed-up, smocky, flippy silhouettes made to jump out on an Instagram page—is all over this collection. That, and his knack for taking a detail and making it a signature, such as the unmissable white lace Provencal-influenced collar which has grown even bigger since last season (an accessory pragmatically designed to be laundered, just begging to be gifted to someone).

Kudos, anyway, to the Patou people for pulling off this collection, which was managed during the most severe days of lockdown in Paris. “Everyone was at home, exchanging ideas on Zoom,” Henry says. “My magic team!” The lookbook models are the Belgian singer Tessa Dixon, and some of the Patou team. What they’ve come up with—despite it all—is a continuation of the optimism and joie de vivre of the house, grounded in that French-girl taste for useful classic tailoring. The gold brocade dress, the feather-trimmed trousers, and the multicolored stylized ’70s prints must have felt like a shot in the dark when they were designing them— for who among us could project forward into a party-time to come a few months ago? But love them, they raised their spirits, and voted for hope anyway.

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Fashion

Raekwon Unveils “The Emperor’s New Clothes” With All-Star Lineup

Raekwon, a legendary rapper known for his role in the Wu-Tang Clan, has just announced his long-awaited eighth studio album, titled “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” set to be released through Mass Appeal. Although no singles have been shared yet, the album is already creating a buzz and is highly anticipated this summer. It’s been seven years since Raekwon last released a solo album, and this new project feels more like a grand return than just another release.

He’s teamed up with a mix of familiar faces from the Wu-Tang Clan and some fresh talent in hip-hop. Listeners can look forward to clever lyrics and captivating stories filled with raw emotion. Raekwon has invited his Wu-Tang brothers Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Inspectah Deck to feature on the album, ensuring a classic blend that fans love. He’s also brought in well-respected artists outside of the Wu-Tang family, like Nas and members of the Griselda collective, Westside Gunn, Benny The Butcher, and Conway The Machine, who are known for their gritty style.

Adding to the variety, singers Stacy Barthe and Marsha Ambrosius will provide soulful vocals to complement Raekwon’s hard-hitting verses. The album’s production features talented names like Swizz Beatz, Nottz, J.U.S.T.I.C.E League, Frank G, and Roadsart, promising a rich, cinematic sound that matches Raekwon’s lyrical skills. Even with such an impressive lineup, there’s still a sense of mystery around the album. There have been no early songs or previews released, just the announcement itself, which builds even more expectation.

But for Raekwon, this is part of his journey. He has always delivered powerful lyrics and relatable street stories without much introduction. The title, The Emperor’s New Clothes, suggests a fresh start and a daring vision that might challenge the current state of rap. With his experienced flow and storytelling still sharp, Raekwon seems prepared to reestablish his place among the top artists in hip-hop.

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Fashion

Wendy Williams Makes Stylish Splash At Columbia Supporting Her Designer

In a delightful surprise for fans and fashion enthusiasts, Wendy Williams made a rare appearance at Columbia University on Tuesday, and everyone couldn’t help but notice her. The former talk show host was in high spirits as she showed up to support her longtime friend and fashion designer, Mel Maxi. Wendy looked fantastic in a stylish black-and-white outfit that included a Yankee hat and her trademark flair.

Designed by Maxi himself, her outfit was not just chic but also had a personal touch that highlighted her vibrant personality. In a heartwarming moment recorded on video, Wendy told Maxi, “This is amazing! This was specifically designed for me… this is really hand done.” Wendy came to cheer on Maxi, who was set to give a lecture about fashion design at the prestigious university. Her appearance was a meaningful moment between two creative friends who have supported each other for years. Wendy’s presence emphasized the importance of friendship and collaboration in the creative world.

As she walked by, a nearby fan shouted their love for Wendy, and she instinctively responded with her signature warmth and enthusiasm: “Thank you!” she exclaimed with a big smile. After being away from the spotlight for months, Wendy’s visit was a refreshing change for fans who have missed her lively spirit. There were no fancy events or flashing cameras, just Wendy enjoying the moment, supporting a friend, and reminding us all of the significance of showing up for the people we care about.

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