Joshua Kissi :  It is evident that Brazil is a top bucket list destination for many and as expected we were ecstatic to experience the country’s culture and people. After 10 strenuous hours from JFK Airport we landed in Sao Paulo, removed our American mindsets and what people told us to expect,  we were now ready to soak in the Brazilian culture. We often try to write the majority of our ‘Travel Etiquette’ entries as we’re on our flight back home – while the experience is most fresh on the mind. We would like to thank many of you who followed us via our inspiration page while we were on the ground in Brazil, and now we present the complete article in full.

Sampa aka Sao Paulo was very similar to our home New York City  in terms of landscape, transportation and how crowded the streets can become. In this case we were the usual curious tourist on Broadway taking up space to take a gander up at the towering buildings surrounding us. Sao Paulo’s people were as colorful and vibrant as the amazing street art found around the city. It’s great to see a form of art that was humbly birthed in the Bronx during the 1970s become globally interpreted in various ways.

The beneficial element about the Internet is the ability to connect with people all around the world by way of your computer. We had the great opportunity of meeting up with Jun Alcantara, a Brazilian musician/journalist and one of our readers who we contacted prior to our arrival in Sao Paulo. It was a pleasure to receive a more everyday life view of someone living in Sao Paulo, eating at a boteco, pick up football games, in the day relaxing at the park and at night partying like it’s your last day alive.  You can read/view Jun’s entry on his blog Ubora of our stay there. It’s great to know you can travel all over the world and still connect with people who the similar views as yourself.

In comparison to the city of Itajai the two locations were polar opposites with Itajai full of many beaches  accompanied by a much more relaxed pace of living. Itajai was one of the main reasons we had the great opportunity to fly down to Brazil with PUMA, and 4 other photographers/bloggers which included Justin Chung, James Nord, John Jannuzzi, and Ashley Simko.

To conclude everything it was an amazing trip, I learned a great deal of Portuguese, my first experience on a boat, fell in love with a drink called Guarana which has me experiencing withdrawal symptoms back in NYC, but also fell in love with the Brazilian people and culture.

Obrigado por ter nos recebido no Brasil. Nos divertimos muito e estamos ansiosos para voltar!

Viva Brasil!

Travis Gumbs: It has always been our aspiration to travel to different places and become one with the culture. Our week stay in Brazil was truly one of the best experiences of my life. From the food, to the people to the art, it is a place that really requires a second lengthy visit. We got the opportunity to go to both places as apart of PUMA’s State of Play Campaign. The idea was to have us experience the cuture, nightlife, music and people of both places (Sao Paulo and Itajai) as well as be apart of the Volvo Ocean race that PUMA is competing in.There is so much that transpired during our 7 day, 6 night stay that it would be impossible for me to recall it all. Here are some of the highlights of the trip

- The traffic in Sao Paulo is like non other, picture New York but with twice the amount of cars. A lot of the guys are bike messengers and they run errands all day on motorcycles. These guys are crazy! Apparently they call themselves “vida loca”  which translates to “crazy life” in English. Locals kept telling us that at least one of them die in an accident each day, a sad yet interesting fact.

– On our first day in Sao Paulo we took a trip to Beco de Batman which is pretty much a long ally with some of the most amazing street art I have ever seen. The art in the pictures above came from this place.

– We got a chance to check out the Afro-Brazil Museum. It showcased art that highlighted the culture of black Brazilians and  indigenous Indians  from the past and present. The exhibits were mind blowing – Brazil is a culture that is rich with history.

–The food in Sao Paulo was amazing! I long to relieve those days of rice and beans, steaks, cassava and all the other foods (that ignorantly I failed to take the name of) and of course wash it all down with a glass of guarana.

- Itajai is like what Los Angeles is to New York. It felt a lot more laid back and nonchalant. Every three years the Volvo Ocean Race takes place. It is a very interesting boat race that circles around the world. Just so happens that PUMA has a boat in the race and Itajai, Brazil was one of the race’s checkpoints. We had a chance to check out the state of the art sail boat and had our own mini race. It’s pretty miraculous that these guys are literally sailing around the entire world on such a small, streamlined boat. We were on it for about an hour and the thought of being on such a boat, doing the work that they do for 9 months straight seemed impossible.

– The people of Itajai sure love to party. I”m talking all night, nonstop dancing and enjoyment. I’ll say our most interesting night out was when we went to Warung Beach Club. Picture 3,000 people, pouring rain, and nonstop music until the sun came out.

- There is so much more I can talk about, like my embarrassing attempt at paddle boarding ( I eventually mastered the art) or the night Josh’s camera went missing accompanied by our experience being held at gun point at 3am, we literally went through every possible hurdle to get back to the beach where we hoped the camera would be. To our surprise it was sitting right on the beach, untouched. What a night!

All in all our trip to Brazil was an awesome one, I fully intend to make a return.

Joshua Kissi : As the season changes into spring we decided to document one of our many thrifting trips through photographs, while we explored one of our favorite areas in New York City for thrifiting – the East village. I think it’s important to understand the various levels of thrifting concerning the differences in consignment shops, vintage stores and charity shops all varying in desired results. Simply saying it can be difficult and time consuming to find certain items in the depths of a Salvation Army in comparison to a shop curated more around your liking. We plan to expand further on the ‘Thrift Etiquette’ series where we would be able to travel simply to ravage through old dingy clothing and hopefully come across great pieces in the process.

Recently we collaborated with our good friends over at Put This On a web series curated around the development of personal style, or as they have personally labeled it “dressing like a grown up”.We took part in a vintage shopping spree where host Jesse Thorn & co. went over tips/tricks/basics of increasing your thrifting sensibility while out on the vicious field of racks.

One of the best parts of going thrifting is the surprise factor that you may walk out with three to four solid items, or the disappointing reality that you may walk out with merely nothing at all. The uncertain factor tends to diffuse the spark of interest for most people when it comes to discovering worthwhile pieces – patience is definitely needed when rummaging through the racks. Alongside us were Black Ivy alumini Kadeem (aka K.Johnlasoul) and Jerry , it’s out of this world to think the editorial took place almost two years ago. As you can imagine it can definitely become an arms race on who gets what first, but we spread it pretty even amongst ourselves.

Good luck out there.

Location - 186 2nd Ave
(between 11th St & 12th St) 
New York, NY 10003
Neighborhood: East Village

Listening to Hidden Jazz Quartett – Walzer

This number is from Hidden Jazz Quartett  I love the calypso infused style that the song projects while still containing a strong jazz element. There’s not much on the actual band out there as far as information goes, none the less their music is enjoyable.

Joshua Kissi :  Live at the Loft has been the best kept secret amongst city dwellers for some time and now is the perfect time to let it out. When TONE asked us if we were willing to guest host one of our favorite live shows to attend ‘Live at the Loft’ there was a very little chance we would reject his offer. We made the vigorous trek from the Bronx to Hoboken – commuting to Hoboken,NJ wasn’t a logistical nightmare as we thought it would be, besides we conducted our very first video interview in this exact location three years ago – minus the bright lights, people and amazing music.

ERIMAJ – The musically talented crop of gentleman who may call many places around the nation home met and formed in New York City. Lead by drummer Jamire Williams, with additional vocals from Chris Turner , musical composing by Corey King and Williams. To describe the band’s performance just as a performance wouldn’t give them their just due and respect. It was truly an experience to watch the band perform live as I would compare their performance to viewing a live cinematic film take place right before you. In the video above they perform their melodic tune which also is their next single titled “Social Life”, we hope you guys enjoy it as much as we did.

We all live in a digital space where so much occurs it was truly a pleasure to witness this live and document it courtesy of the genius folks at LATL. We have always tried to intertwine music into our website whether if it was a song that accompanied a post, or a full out editorial such as Sartorial Sounds. We find ourselves hanging on the notion that style/lifestyle should dictate more than how does one dress, but how does one actually live in his/her clothing. Live at the Loft is one of those great experiences we wanted to share with you guys.

Thank you.

Until next time.

Joshua Kissi :  In February, New York City, our stomping ground, is one of the busier months for a lot of our peers, with market week for trade shows following the much anticipated fashion week. Capping off one of the warmer winters in recent memory, it was great to get back to Lincoln Center and neighboring locations such as MILK Studios to see what we can expect next fall and winter.

This past NYFW was one of our busiest – we went to the usual shows, and were invited to designer shows such as General Idea which we were really impressed by (and a bit embarrassed that we haven’t heard of it). They displayed a great sense of color, particularly orange for fall and winter.  That said, I’m pretty sure everyone is still  awaiting the burst of the spring season.

Although considered ripe on the digital front we’re still new to the ‘industry’, but finally the ‘fashion week extravaganza’ is becoming a bit routine for me and Travis. The digitization (if you will) of the industry has made it possible for guys like us to be invited, attend and have sovereignty in the grand scheme of things. While street style photographers shutters are  going off, public relation companies continue to ensure their clients (designers) receive the best press possible, mixed with a couple of sleepless nights fashion week was well and alive.

As native New Yorkers it is truly a pleasure, and we are always excited to see what each fashion week has in store. Maybe Milan fashion week next?  We will keep our fingers crossed…

Travis Gumbs: Last February we were in Las Vegas for the Project Trade show and missed NY Fashion Week. During the last fashion week here in New York, we decided to lay low and bring out all the stops for London Fashion Week.  This time around we knew we had to go all out and show some of the quality that our home town holds.

Low and behold a couple days before the big week, we were contacted by Teron Stevenson of The Forecast and agreed to have them film us for three days during fashion week. Images have always done a good job of illustrating our stories, but this time around we were eager to add video capturing the moment and essence of NYFW. The video definitely adds a touch of flavor and complements the stills well. People constantly request for us to post more videos in order to put a voice to the faces, so here you go.

Much thanks to The Forecast!

Listening to [ Souljazz Orchestra - Lotus Flower ]

An undoubtedly funky number from the Souljazz Orchestra coming out of Ottawa, Canada – with a treacherous bass line throughout the song almost too perfect for the city trek. Definitely a top favorite from the Afro beat band.

Joshua Kissi :  From the early stages our website has always reflected on a historical context, and I think in the digital age due to everything happening in such realtime we sometimes forget which moments would be classified as something worth noting.  I think this is a topic most guys stray away from, or wouldn’t want to lose their pretense masculinity pondering too much about. Besides receiving quite a few emails daily questioning our grooming techniques we decided to organize a shoot, with a few familiar faces and some new ones. How important is ones hair to their personal expression and style? I feel there’s no need to reiterate the answer to that question after viewing CROWNED.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW FULL EDITORIAL

Experience : Growing up there was the choice of selection between a caesar, corn rows or an afro if you had the courage to endure not only the ridicule but the maintenance of it. If you were doing anything else it would be categorized as ‘experimental’ , or  simply an oddball until you appeased and reverted back to a caesar – almost viewed as a safe haven. Please keep in mind this editorial/my words aren’t accentuating the fact that one hair style is better, or preferred than the other but simply promoting the image of diversity visually as these gentleman wear their crowns proudly.

Inspiration : There is no question that the inspiration runs parallel to many of the hair styles that came from individuals like  Jean-Michel Basquiat, Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, ASWAD, BDK. the Native Tongues collective ( A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, and Jungle Brothers)  and a little bit of everything in between.

The editorial/concept was also inspired by our good friend and artist Joanne Pief’, who has an excellent affinity for providing visual art element to hair like no has seen before. She also heads things behind her own brand Tresse Agoche .

CLICK HERE TO VIEW FULL EDITORIAL

CROWNED is a portrait series depicting the styles of 12 individuals through the lens of their personal hair style, or in other words their CROWNS.

In Ending : Andre Wagner of Abstract Elements lent his excellent eye to the project by shooting all of the portraits. Thanks to everyone who had anything to do with this project, the other 11 guys, and you all for tuning in.

Enjoy.

Joshua Kissi : It has been quite some time since Street Etiquette has released any product in collaboration with another great company, but we’re excited to announce the release of these new great shoes. Just in time for New York Fashion Week, limited to only 35 pairs released, think of these as a late holiday gift to our readers who have supported us from the beginning.

We retrieved this amazing tapestry fabric here in New York City, but the shoes were produced in Italy. Travis and I thought it would be kind of cool to take the slipper away from its usual velvet material, and apply some funky tapestry that you can practically wear with anything. Also keep in mind due to the fabric no pair of shoes are exactly the same which is pretty cool.

The launch of our online store is still currently in construction, look for this to launch in the next month or two with product. For the time being for these  particular shoes you can BUY them here at Del Toro’s web shop at retail for $325.00 – These shoes run pretty true to size for most guys, after some good breaking in the comfort level on the shoes are bar none. In general all of the slippers we have are from Del Toro, a Miami based shoe brand who produces/manufactures all of their product in Italy.

We want to thank Matt, everyone at Del Toro, and you guys as always.

All photos taken at A Noble Savage Studio

More soon..

Travis Gumbs: Many of us New Yorkers tend to take much for granted. Growing up, the museum was often reseversed for class trips and that once in a bluemoon family outing. It was actually always a fascinating experience but somehow felt only right for a special occasion. Recently, I’ve been taking great advantage of The MET and needless to say, it definetly deserves a post of its own.

On a peaceful afternoon Myself, Josh, Joekenneth and Andre headed for a stroll through the MET. If you’ve been there before you know that it is almost impossible to attentively walk every exhibit in one day. This place is huge, with every type of art you can imagine. Its like you step into a real life, materialized Tumblr.

The Egyptian art Exhibit is one of favorites. It also happens to be the first exhibit so we decided to take some quick photos and then quietly enjoyed a number of other exhibits. What I love most about Ancient Egyptian art is the precision, mystery and colors that make up the art. It certainly hard to believe that some pieces date back to 300,000 BC.

Listening to [Melo-X- Dirty Dishes]

Heres a nice instrumental number from Melo-X. A  friend of ours and overall talented being. His new instrumental mixtape, FEWTURE went available for download last-night. I love the soothing yet captivating feeling this song gives. Its funny, I had another song in mind for this post but as I was writingI kept replaying this track over and over until this song and this post became synonymous in my head. Love it!

Photos by Andre Wagner

Joshua Kissi : During the holiday season we trekked out to Staten Island.  We were paying a visit to the home of our good friend Kevin Stewart of ROGER CHARLES, aka “Professor Badass” (a nickname that started out as a internet meme due to his supposedly ‘bold, intimidating exterior’). Travis and I, like the majority of native New Yorkers, must shamefully admit it was one of our first times traveling to Staten Island.  Getting there is a logistical nightmare much like going to the Bronx -  but more exciting, considering it involves traveling from downtown Manhattan to Staten Island on the S.I Ferry.  Because a handshake and a drink never get old, we value those in-person experiences.

Joshua Kissi : The fall and winter have been strangely kind to us in New York City with mild temperatures thanks to a  global warming and other things unbeknownst to us.  With good weather comes opportunities to layer comfortably and with versatility.  After what I thought was a budding, illustrious collection of three suits accumulated in the last year, they were gone in a second. After my luggage mishap on our trip to London I needed a new suit, ideally a wool one perfect for the slightly colder weather.

Truthfully who wouldn’t want to sport a suit everyday outside of the conventional work requirements? I found myself looking for the best alternative to a great wool suit, preferably for the colder months. I traveled a rather unorthodox route, searching for an alternative to the usual gray, navy or black. I found the perfect flannel pattern in the fairly new men’s boutique SUIT SUPPLY.  By no means do I want to sound like an annoying advert, but the store provided in-store tailoring, great fabrics, different cuts, and last but not least a reasonable price. I happily walked out  of the boutique with a great 3 piece wool-flannel suit without breaking the bank for the product/tailoring (success!).

Featuring – A familiar face around these parts Black Ivy compadre James E.Jean of Modrockers, a great friend of ours from the start of this website and is also a budding stylist. We headed over to Cheeky’s Sandwiches for a bite to eat, good ol’ New Orleans style creole eatery between L.E.S/Chinatown, and some of the best biscuit sandwiches around town. A beautiful day in the city, conversation and some great eats at the end of the all ends up to be a perfect day in the Lower East Side.

Listening to [ Miles Davis - Blue in Green ]

The song itself is a auditory journey led by the great Miles Davis, accompanied by legends John Coltrane and Bill Evans. To say that we solely find the music inspiring would be an understatement,  it’s pretty obvious that Jazz musicians were  one of the first prototypes and examples of personifying the terms cool and hip.I ask myself what song could be more perfectly crafted without a word.  Speaking of hip it’s kind of interesting that the original diction of the term hipster was someone who took a great liking to Jazz music, and  aspired to live similar lifestyles of Jazz musicians in the 1940s.

Addresses :

Suit Supply NYC

• 453 Broome St
• (between Mercer St & Greene St)
• New York, NY 10013

Cheeky’s Sandwiches

• 35 Orchard St
• (between Canal St & Hester St)
• New York, NY 10002

Travis Gumbs: Months ago when I walked into a fabric store and bought a bottle of wine colored Writ dye, I had no idea what I was going to do with it. I simply bought it based solely on the fact that I liked the color and knew that someday the opportunity to use it will  present itself. The dye quickly found itself hidden beneath all the other non-necessities that took home in my room.

While cleaning my room a couple weeks ago, I came across the bottle of unused, forgotten dye and felt an urge to use it. I took my white Tretorn Nylites that were beaten to a pulp and ran for the bathroom before I could change my mind. I Filled a plastic tub with warm water, added a generous amount of salt and poured in the dye. Then submerged the sneakers and laces in the concoction and let it sit for about 20-30mins. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much promising results. Had I known what I know now I would have documented the whole thing, the transformation was nothing short of amazing. As you can see from the photos, the canvas turned a deep wine and the soles and accents morphed into a pinkish hue. It’s actually a great color-way. There’s no wonder why Tretorn fans I encounter think they missed the boat on these.

I wasn’t planning on doing a post on this. However, I’ve been getting countless questions about where I purchased the shoes. The most fascinating part is seeing people’s reactions when I reveal that I dyed them with a simple $4 bottle of liquid dye. So there you go. I know most of you have beat up canvas sneakers laying around. Get some dye and spice those badboys up. I’ll be doing this with a couple other things. I cant get enough. I’ll be sure to keep you guys posted.

Listening to [Jackie Mittoo- Ghetto Organ]

Here’s a nice little instrumental dub track by Jackie Mittoo. He was a popular pianist and songwriter out of Jamaica who started his career during the 60s. This track has the perfect ambience of reggae in an urban city.