I first stumbled upon this strange yet beautiful creature in the early 90′s starring in Calvin Klein ads. His striking looks either confused you or intrigued you. As time went on, I started to see him more often. If he wasn’t starring in a dark Indie Film like “Buffalo ’66″ or “Brown Bunny” or modeling in major fashion campaigns, he could be found galavanting in the streets of New York acting out as the controversial man that he is known to be.

Vincent Gallo is an American film director, writer, model, actor and musician.

“Gallo was born in Buffalo, New York, the son of Janet, a hair-dresser, and Vincenzo Vito Gallo, also a hairdresser and professional gambler. Both of his parents emigrated from Sicily, Italy. Gallo lived in New York City 1978–2002 and traveled around most of Europe living in Paris and Rome. Gallo’s first creative project was as a member of the New York City-based post-punkindustrial band GRAY whose members included famed artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.” – via Wikipedia

WORK

Gallo has had minor roles in mainstream films such as Goodfellas, Arizona Dream, The Funeral and Palookaville.  He is most known for his work with independent movies, including Buffalo ’66, which he wrote, directed, scored and starred in and The Brown Bunny, which he also wrote, directed, produced, starred in and photographed (the film is famous for Gallo receiving actual on camera oral sex via Chloe Sevigny).

HISTORY

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Gallo was a painter in the New York City art scene showing with famed art dealer Annina Nosei, performed in a rap duo and was part of the first hip hop television broadcast Graffiti Rock, and played in an industrial band called Bohack which released an album title It Took Several Wives.

WILD BOY

Part of Gallo’s appeal is that he is stark raving mad – in my opinion. He is a supporter of the Republican Party, and has been seen at a New York fashion show with George W. Bush’s daughters Barbara and Jenna. Gallos has stated that his fantasy is “becoming more like the stereotype of the Republican Party.” He also wishes to look “more like American conservative journalist George Will.” In his own words, Gallo “considered himself a radical, always, but an extremely conservative radical.”

This man is so crazy, I love it! Take for example the “Merchandise” section of his personal website (which I discovered years ago), under “Personal Services” you can find options like “VINCENT GALLO evenings, weekends escort” where for a mere $50,000 you can have a date with this Italian Stallion (“Ladies Only” as stated on his website). See an excerpt below.

Wait – it gets better! For $1,000,000.00 you can get Vincent Gallo’s Sperm! Yes, you read that right. Sounds like a bargain, right?! Read another incredible excerpt below…

I forgot how hilarious this man is. I had a good morning laugh just now…ahhh.

For now, you can go to their BLOG and listen to my playlist. Let me know what you think. There’s a good range; from The Cure to Brandy to DMX to The Black Keys.

“Now you flipped the script, playa’ please.”

Last night I finally got the long-overdue chance to have dinner with my label mate, Joey Bada$$. While I waited for him at the bar, I ran into Angelo Baque and Rafael Rios who were also having dinner and waiting for a table. By the time Joey showed up, there was a table for 4 available and we decided to merge our dinners into one. It was a good time and I got to play with my new favorite toy, the Fuji Mini Instax.

“Might have to head-butt your Evelyn”. Hahaha. Incroyable!

Hahaha.

Practice makes perfect.

This is genius! Seriously. Every time I go to a fancy-shmancy event I throw on one of my vintage Chanel bags and my Canon G12 on my shoulder. I always think, it would be so cool to have a camera trap that looks like my  Chanel trap…voila! My prayers (and I’m sure many of yours) have been answered by LSD FASHION LAB! Check it out! Also, they have some snazzy phone cases.

By Gabriel Bell, Photographed by Michael Flores, Illustration by Ammiel Mendoza

Hair and Makeup by Bethany Brill.
Supreme sweatshirt; Supreme tank, Ebay skirt, Surface to Air boots,Vintage Chanel bag, Bing Bang necklaces, Vintage Givenchy ring.

Coco & Breezy, Lyz Olko and Me!

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Check the Interview

HERE

Photo via GLOBAL GRIND

After the Frank 151 Panel Discussion ended, I decided to run around the corner to check out Miss Wendy Williams Book Launch at the new Pink Elephant. As you might imagine, it was star-studded and overflowing with decadent desserts and drinks! I didn’t get to meet Miss Wendy, but our day will come! I was glad to have been invited!

Me & DJ Kiss

Don’t let her beauty fool you, she is a monster on the 1′s and 2′s. Seriously.

I didn’t stay too long. I had a date with some work, sweatpants and my couch…so I headed home early.

I hate public speaking engagements because I’m not very good at it, or at least I don’t think so. I’m better one on one answering questions. Regardless, I was honored to be apart of the panel and answered various questions to the best of my abilities!

Brittney Escovedo, Mrs. Malbon, Mr. Malbon, Me and Sydney Reising

Dweeb.

I met some amazing supporters at the event! I was super stoked. These two lovely Filipina girls from San Diego brought me my favorite raw/vegan cookies from One Lucky Duck. It was so sweet of them!

Arthur Soleimanpour & Eli Reed

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DJ Huggy Bear & DJ Curry Fingers

I absolutely hate my hair in a single ponytail, but having no time on your hand will make you do things you normally wouldn’t. I guess it doesn’t look so bad. I’ve also gained some weight back, but I’m still looking a little crypt keeper-ish.

The Crew!

Huggles playing the jams.

Awesome. Let’s all look at the people who spent 700$ on a bottle of Grey Goose that actually costs like 65$ in real life. Woo hoo.

I was obsessed with popping these bottles…they were actual glass bottles of Jana! Super fancy. Guess what will be on my rider next time I’m booked! Mhmmm.

In celebration of Chapter 51, FRANK is holding a special “Leaders” panel discussion at Barnes & Noble Union Square on Thursday, May 9, 2013 in NYC. The featured panelists will be Diamond Supply Co. founder Nick Tershay, “Downtown’s Sweetheart” Va$htie, former NHL winger Sean Avery, and FRANK151 publisher Stephen Malbon. Moderated by FRANK’s Editor in Chief Adam Pasulka, the panelists will speak on leadership, their careers, and what success means to them.

The event starts at 7pm and will require an in-store purchase of Chapter 51 ($10) for entry.

Come by and say HELLO!

Bad News Bears.

Special thanks to the ladies of MISS for this fun and exciting gift of nail wraps! Now, 80′s Nail Art is a cinch! Brilliant!

BUY at Minx for $19.95

Vladdy is waiting on claw wraps for his lady friends…he got boo’s that he keeps laced.

ASTR has quickly become my favorite new musical duo. With R&B inspired melodies mixed with electronic grooves, it’s hard to believe that they won’t be an overnight and instant hit. Check out their debut song “Operate”. Let me know what you think!

Elle’s feets in Baron Von Fancy socks and Nike Flyknits.

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I was so hungry for a good meal that I Googled for a Vegan/Raw restaurant and found Khepra’s Raw Food Juice Bar (a reader named Brittany also suggested this place). It was the bomb…like…really. It was all homegrown, I loved the vibe. I walked in to find a goods being sold in the front and in the back was the little set-up where you buy your food and sit and eat if you like.

Stoked!

A Hempburger with Broccoli and Kale…fitting for 4/20 and Broccoli Fest.

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It’s important to be resourceful…always!

Before we saw this band, we heard them…and we totally believed they were black. When we saw that they were long-haired white boys we were surprised. They jammed and the crowd loved them! I wish I knew their name…anyone?

Spinser Tracy, Me & Uncle Scooty

Me and DC Rapper LightShow, who I quoted on my Instagram earlier that day…

We played a baseball pitching game…it was fun!

Young Scoozle did the best out of all of us…

Elle was riding dirrrrrrty.

Elle said “Roll Tide” to one of the guys working the festival and he was so stoked and said “Roll Tide” back. Later, he saw us again and suggested they take a photo together and I was with that!

It was so incredible to be at this festival. I thought it would be a nightmare to be there from 12-8 and by the time 8 came around I was bummed to leave. I met so many great people…took photos with them and conversed a bit . Not only that, they were all really attractive and had great style. #JustSaying

I was a happy camper.

Broccoli Bouquet

Amaris and her Pepsi…”Now Made With Real Sugar?” she asked. “What was it made with before?!” Hahaha I laughed and questioned the same thing. #stopeandfrisk

Me and Amaris in DKNY, oh my – we’re Jiggy!

Jamel and Amber Mims

Getting ready to announce Krit! Before that, the crowd was going nuts to some Go-Go music. It was fascinating to see, I know nothing about Go-Go.

Krit killed it. He is a great performer.

Stephen aka DJ Huggy Bear in the cut…literally

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After the Broccoli Fest there was an afterparty at Opera. The club was super chic and Spinser Tracy killed his set! Me and Krit got to catch up and we found out that even Elle had been refering to him as her Country Cousin for a long time, they really are actually related!

Elle thought this would be a funny photo and it so is.

Real Country Cousins and not Play Country Cousins

Ryan Kibler and Friend

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Then…I saw this and just about lost my mind!!!

It’s my Vladdy baby, on a cute tee. I was so stoked I couldn’t get over it. It took me a minute, I was geeked.

Spinser Tracy who is also the cousin of my friend Janell Snowden. Its a small world!

Sipping Ro-zay With My Bro-zay.

Bros Before Hoes

We turnt it up like Dee & Ricky and killed the couch!

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Then, right at 2 the lights came on and the club was closing. Perfect time for us to bounce, get to the hotel and check out, pick up food at The Diner and head home to NYC! On our way out we saw a gang of Deer, like 6 or 7 of them just in someones front yard. It was incredible! Look!

And before I let this DC trip go like Blackstreet, here’s another ode to…

BLACK ICE.

Elle said, “post this photo on your blog and see if your readers can guess which bottle belongs to who. Starting from Right; The BBQ is Stephens, the water is yours since you’re so healthy, the ginger ale is Scott’s and the wine is mine since everyone probably thinks I’m an alcoholic”.

Day 2 of our DC trip was chill. We scooped up Amaris and she took us to the farmer’s market. Then we went to get groceries so we could have a little cookout at Jamel’s Mom’s house. Although I was exhausted beyond words, we set up shop and got to cooking. Before we knew it, the greatest team of all won the game (eh em, The Knicks) and we headed back to the hotel so my toddler self could get sleep.

The purchase of this air freshener by Huggy single-handedly ruined our trip experience and at the same time completed it. It had slipped out of its bag and was giving us all headaches, yet none of us threw it out. Every time someone got a strong whiff of it they had to say out loud “Black Ice”…and that happened a lot.

This homeless woman was just sleeping by the pool.

I was too hungry to take pictures before and during. So, as soon as I was done stuffing my mouth I took some flicks.

Young Scoozle and Jason

Amaris, DJ Huggy Bear (constantly playing chess) and Elle Clay

I rode my bike home after it was all done

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We didn’t do much this day, just kicked it lazy style and before we knew it – the day was over. I was so beat, I was in bed by 8. From what I can tell DC is beautiful. We didn’t get to ightsee, then again I’m not the sightseeing kind of gal (I hate admitting that because it sounds so terrible). I was looking forward to Day 3, for the Broccoli Fest which I was hosting and DJ’ing at. Stay tuned tomorrow for that post!

I made a meal for the road…you know, a little kale/tomato/cucumber/chick pea salad!

Basically, that all means I had a weekend to get to know DC. I decided to take my friends DJ Huggy Bear, Elle Clay and Young Scoozle on a road trip and we would meet our other friends Amaris and Jamel when we got to “Chocolate City” (thanks to Elle for informing me of the city’s nickname). It would be a sort of pre-birthday celebration for me…

Roy Rogers and Hot Fries

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After driving in heavy traffic and a monsoon, for what seemed like 6 hours, we got to the hotel room and chilled for a little bit. We then got ready and headed out to the gala in pouring rain.

I met Chaka Khan and just look at her!!! She’s incredible and gorgeous and 60!!! She was also very sweet.

It was a very grown event and although we felt underdressed, we had a good time.

Raheem DeVaughn and Jaguar Wright

D.L. Hughley was also in the house…

There was an exquisite dessert bar…but, nothing was vegan

Then we headed out with our very sweet coordinator, Tiffanie Wagner, to the local club…Current (I think). It was fun, but soon we had to leave since clubs close at 2am there.

Tiffanie Wagner and Elle Clay

Haha, Elle looking at her Instagram. She posted a pretty hilarious photo of me and her…

The fellas! Young Scoozle and Huggy Bear

There was a hookah in the club. I still don’t quite understand the point of smoking from one despite having it explained to me by the  locals. I don’t know…

Afterwards we headed to The Diner for some late night food. Everyone said it’s “the spot” so we had to go. Of course I got a Greek Salad (no Feta) and steamed Brussel Sprouts and it was delicious and I was happy.

Stephen aka DJ Huggy Bear and his pancakes.

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Since we got in at night and went to the hotel and to the venue, there was nothing I could report on my interpretation of the city. Everyone seemed nice and of course the architecture was incredible.

All in all, it was a fun night that had some glitches here and there. Traveling with anyone is hard, but traveling with friends while working can also cause some strain. It’s a difficult place…trying to find a balance between business and pleasure. Either way, we had some good laughs. More to come on Day 2 and Day 3 of our DC trip tomorrow and Wednesday.

I’m doing so much great stuff this weekend in DC. Check out the flyers below and maybe I’ll see you and maybe we’ll take pictures for Instagram. Let’s do that, shall we?

And please…SUGGEST SOME THINGS! What should I see? What should I eat (vegan/raw for me and non-vegan for my friends)? Oh yeah, did I mention that I’m bringing Elle, DJ Huggy Bear and Young Scoozle. AND…my friend Big K.R.I.T. will be there! Oh yeah.

My birthday is around the corner and just like I have done for the past few years, I have once again compiled my Birthday Wish List! Consumerism at its best! Okay, here goes and in no order of importance…

(I just realized that some of the same things that are on this list were on previous lists, so pardon the repeats).

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1. VINTAGE GOLD MEN’S ROLEX (CHAMPAGNE FACE): $11,000 – 17,000

My ladyboy style has evolved here and there into grown man steez. I drink whiskey neat from time to time and now I want a Vintage Gold Men’s Rolex. The chances that I might ever buy myself an expensive timepiece is slim to none, but hey – a tomboy can dream, can’t she?

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2. GHOST CHAIR BY STARCK: $410.00

Oh, the woes of being an adult and taking your home’s landscape seriously! I believe in buying affordable items (lord knows I own enough Ikea), but here and there adding in some fancy pieces. Enter, Starck’s Ghost Chairs. Sure, it’s just clear acrylic in the form of a simple chair – but I just love the way they look!

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3. Black + Blum’s Thermo Pot: $42.00

I’m all about containers for food and beverages that are finely designed and healthy (BPA Free, etc). This little thermos is excellently put together and sleek, making bringing your lunch a fashion forward move!

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4. OPENING CEREMONY COSMETIC BAG: $75

Opening Ceremony can do no wrong. Everything they make is amazing and this little makeup bag is the perfect addition to my life.

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5. MASSAGE AT GREAT JONES SPA: $140

This little gem has made my list every year. Great Jones is an exceptional spa for a local New York City breather. They have a water lounge that you can hang in with a sauna, hot tub, cold pool and steam room. From the moment I walk in, I forget that I am in the city and my stress melts away.

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6. KLEAN KANTEEN WATER BOTTLE (27 OZ.): $19.95

Hydration is super important, but it’s even more important not to drink from plastic water bottles…especially the ones we all mostly drink out of that has dangerous chemicals in them, just seeping out into our water. Klean Kanteen offers cute bottles made from BPA free stainless steel.

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7. VITAMIX BLENDER - 5200 SUPER HEALTHY LIFESTYLE: $549.00

I’ve always wanted one of these bad boys, they are the best in the business. A good blender is crucial for a healthy lifestyle and the more I delve into vegan recipes, raw recipes and smoothies…I find that I definitely could use a Vitamix!

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8. FUJI INSTAX CAMERA: $95.00

I can’t believe I still haven’t gotten this bad boy, especially being someone obsessed with cameras and Polaroids. I need to get it together!

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9. DSPTCH CAMERA SLING STRAP: $44.00

And for the many cameras I own, having a good strap is necessary once you realize the stock ones that come with most cameras these days are dreadful.

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10. GIFTCARD TO THE CONTAINER STORE: $$$

Let’s face it people, it’s hard to stay organized with life throwing fast ones at you left and right. Between work and home, I need a good organizational system and Container Store has some really good products.

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You could get me ANYTHING from this place and I would love you forever. One Lucky Duck has all the most delicious food, juices and treats that are RAW! All of my teeth are sweet teeth and eating raw desserts makes me feel less guilty about my inner fat kid.

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12. DIPTYQUE CANDLE – VIOLETTE or FIGUIER: $60.00

Candles are just the bomb. They are the perfect gift and can please almost anyone. Diptyqe has long been creating classic candles that spruce up any space with a chic feel.

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13. SOMETHING INSPIRATIONAL:

A good mix CD of music I don’t know, an inspiring second-hand book, a record with a nice design…something…anything fun and inspiring.

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14. KING KRULE MERCH T-SHIRT: £14

My longtime readers know my love for King Krule and his music. Formerly known as Zoo Kid, this young ginger boy stole my heart and then crushed it with his somber music – oh, how I love misery! Anyways, his site finally has fully replenished stock and I need some tees.

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15. HANDMADE CARD: Free

I told my readers a while back that I loved handmade cards and on my birthday found an inbox full of the sweetest notes I could ever have asked for…seriously! You can check out all of them HERE. Since we were just on the topic of King Krule, peep one of my favorite cards made by B. Denise.

If you feel like sending me some birthday love, email it to INFO@VASHTIE.COM!

Oh and I have to mention that I share a birthday with William Shakespeare, Shirley Temple, Michael Moore, Taio, Roy Orbinson, Dev Patel, Kal Penn, Jessica Stam, Jaime King! Yay for bull-headed Tauruses!

The world of fashion can get overwhelming and many of the brands you know and love have investors backing them. Third has (unfortunately) had to part ways with their investor and is now asking friends, family and peers to help support. In exchange, there are worthy rewards that Third will award for various amounts donated via KickStarter. Sounds like a good deal to me! Please check them out and spread the word!

SUPPORT THIRD via KICKSTARTER

I love being surrounded by so many creative friends. I’ve been knowing Shaniqwa, affectionately nicknamed Shaq, since 2002! Since then she has always been a beaming ray of light, full of fun and immeasurable laughs. She also happens to be an incredible photographer that has traveled the world to shoot everything from Supreme to Stussy to her own collection of personal bathroom portraiture. Check out her site…

SHANIQWA JARVIS . COM

Watch her excitement for her new site captured in a video interpretation…which I love!!!

Jarvis Jam from shaniqwa on Vimeo.

I’m a little feisty. Oh and no my pants are not leather, they are a coated denim. I got them for free and since my other clothes don’t fit because I lost so much weight, I wear these all the time. My friends laugh at me and call me Kanye.

Check out Jonny and I trying to take a picture, which was impossible…

This one was okay, but Elle said let’s take another.

Then Jonny wouldn’t stop talking mid picture and Elle had to yell at him and retake it a few times. Right before this one, she said “You look like a white Santa who doesn’t want to take a picture with a little black kid on your lap”. Hence me laughing…

Then we took this one and Elle yelled at Jonny because his eyes were closed but he retorted that his eyes are always closed! We settled on this even though she also said he looked like “A snowman holding a black twig”. Oh my friends and their love for me.

Pop A Wheelie. Some amped up Kuwaiti Guy (we know he was Kuwaiti because he told Elle) would not stop talk her ear off and he read her hat and said something along the lines of having a handlebar mustache and continued to tell her to ride his mustache. Yikes.

Brock

Hahaha. I amuse myself.

As some of you might have noticed, I haven’t been properly blogging in my usual fashion lately. The reason you ask? Actually, I’m embarrassed to say that there is nothing in particular to take the blame…just life. As most of you know – I was in Paris for the Kenzo Show in March, then I had the flu for 3 weeks and lost about 15lbs from it (it was basically the Black Plague), took a few weeks after that to play catchup and now I’m here. I’m a Taurus and love routine, but after my routine was wiped out due to illness – I’ve been scrambling to get it back.

Me at the height of my flu with just enough energy for a selfie, tugging on my hair that hadn’t been washed in about 2 weeks because I had the chills. Also note: I sweated through about 4-5 shirts a day at a minimum. The moment I took this photo was also the moment that I realized I had lost a TON of weight. I always thought being super skinny would work for me, but when I tried my clothes on I looked like a pre-pubescent boy playing dress-up with his moms clothes. I’ve always stayed in a range of 118-130 since I was in Junior High (I was the same height in 5th grade that I am now, 5’4″) and prior to getting sick I was about 119lbs, but I’m positive I got down to about 105lbs at my sickest. Which means, I haven’t been at that weight since I was in about 3rd or 4th grade. That is so shocking. A few of you have left some concerned comments about my weight loss and I appreciate it. Hahaha, what if I was like “stay out my business” and @’ed the people who left the comments. I’m totally kidding and I really do appreciate the supporters I have that care. I’m gaining the weight back, slowly…but surely.

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I will say that I am MUCH busier with a lot of behind the scenes work while juggling many different gigs, but I’d hate to be all “I’m too busy working to blog” blah blah.

I am very busy, as I’m sure you all are – so I won’t make any excuses. I will say that I promise to make time for you guys, because I do love you and appreciate the support. If you guys want to continue reading and seeing my posts, then I will carry on! In the mean-time, I offer you a Mariah Carey Video and some photos of things I haven’t had time to blog…

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212 Tuesdays // The Darby (The night before I got the Black Plague)

Angelo Baque & Me

Angelo Baque & Hunter Muraira

Dee Twin, Ricky Powell & Ricky Twin

Bobby Waltzer (Two One Two), Young Scoozle & Sebo

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I went to Miami for Winter Music Conference and I was so ready to take many pictures when my camera died after I took this photo…

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I also went to Albany to attend a memorial for Jessica, my dear friend Dave’s fiancee. She was an absolute sweetheart who was loved immensely by everyone who knew her. I’m sad I didn’t have the chance to get to know her as well as other people did. Her life was taken too soon, but she won’t be forgotten. #breatheeasysmiley

While I was in Albany, I also found out that my father’s good friend who we affectionately called “Uncle Mike” also passed away. I remember him fondly, he was very loving and kind. I have wonderful memories of him from my childhood. He will be missed.

All in all, my Albany trip was nice but sad. I re-connected with some old chums and realized just how fast time flies and as resilient as life is, it’s also fragile. We must truly spend time with the ones we love…and the ones that you love, but are too busy to spend time with. I’ve spent too much time away from my hometown of Albany. I have my reasons, but…when events like these happen, those reasons don’t add up to much.

Thanks to Kiran Prasher and the Jordan Brand Classic Family for inviting me out for an interesting evening. I didn’t know what to expect. I was told that the high school basketball stars playing in Saturday’s big JBC13 Game at Barclays would be in attendance and that Spike Lee would be also. Needless to say, I was stoked…stoked on Spike and not so much the underage boys, come on people!

Although I knew who would be in attendance, I had no idea what to really expect – or better yet, what to wear!!! I figured, I could always wear something that none of the fellas have – my very own Violette Jordan 2′s.

I greased up my legs real good because ya’ll know I stay ashy. Some people #BEENTRILL and I #BEENASHY.

I took a cab to Brooklyn…

As I walked in, I was approached by a very tall young man who immediately and politely introduced himself. “Hi, my name is Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and I’m from Philly. I’ll be studying Criminology at Arizona”. He was very sweet and very funny, I should have taken his picture – but, I found one online instead.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson

Elle met up with me since I was in her hood. There was a photo booth setup and we took some awkward “Glamour Shots”.

There was also lots of food, candy and ice cream which basically meant – nothing that I could eat (*cries vegan, raw tears).

Datwon Thomas, 13th Witness and Hawaii Mike

I met Spike Lee! It was the second time I’ve met him actually. The first time I met him was at a party during my very first weekend living in New York City (another reason why I love this city). Anyways, of course he didn’t remember me and I didn’t bore him by bringing up the details. He was cool even though I hate meeting idols. It’s just never ever how you picture it. You always concoct some grand fantasy of how awesome it will be and you don’t factor in that (famous or not) people are people, and they have good moments and bad.

Afterwards, Spike and Sway had a live Q&A where Sway asked Spike questions and they screened clips from his greatest works! It was a great night!

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“The creative female duo known as the 2DopeBitches held their second installment of their Trap Paradise party. If you didn’t get to go, just take a look at the recap video to see at what you missed out on. Hosted by Vashtie and 40 Oz Van, along with Mannie Fresh, who celebrated his birthday that night as well.” -via THE305.COM (http://the305.com/2013/04/08/recap-of-trap-paradise-video/#.UWXWe6tg8yE)

On April 3rd, 2013 Canadian Fast-fashion retailer, Joe Fresh, celebrated their 1 year anniversary in New York style. Select New York City residents were asked to model color-blocked ensembles up and down the Joe Fresh flagship store elevators. Models included; yours truly Me, Dee & Ricky, Michael Musto, Mr. Mickey, Steven Rojas, and more! Peep it!!!

Joe Mimran aka Joe Fresh and Me  (Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

Me  (Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

Dee, Brendan Fallis and Ricky (Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

Michael Musto & Mr. Mickey Me  (Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

Lynn Yaeger (Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

Ricky (Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

DJ Kitty Cash, Janjay Sherman, Me and Brandee Brown (Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

(Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

(Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

Photobombed by Dee (Photo Credit: BFA/ Neil Rasmus)

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Following Photos by Elle Clay

DJ Kitty Cash and Kilo Kish

Rickster pouring up some Champagne

Brandee Brown

Dee photobombing me and Elle’s selfie

Me, Dev Hynes and Tracy Antonopoulos

Me and Peter Davis!

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The End!!!

The Runway Show took place at La Samaritaine, which was an incredibly beautiful vacant space originally used as a large department store and built in 1869. The place was decorative and filled with these massive and intricate stairways. The space was phenomenal but bone-chilling cold.

On the benches arranged for the show were these complimentary quilted Kenzo blankets, with buttons so that it could be worn as a poncho. They were printed with a giant Kenzo logo and the name of the space and the date of the show. There were different colors; from yellow to navy to mustard…

I sat on mine and then post show ran to take some footage of the models who had gathered across the staircase to be photographed.

I came back to find that my blanket was gone and I was terribly sad. I told the fine folks at Kenzo and they said they were fresh out…BUT THEN, out of nowhere…they found one and sent it my way!!! I am so happy and I am thanking my little stars for being bestowed this incredible piece!

Special thanks to the lovely folks at Kenzo and Letizia for taking care of me!

I first got an eyeful of Method Man back in the early 90′s in the Wu-Tang “C.R.E.A.M.” video. As he intro’ed the video shaking crazily over a flaming barrel like a homeless man, it was even there that all my homegirls took notice. He was actually the massive crush of my best friend growing up, La’Kea.

Shirley, Me and La’Kea (circa 1990-something)

Recently, Elle and I were discussing 90′s boy babes and she reminded me about him…how could I forget!

Method Man was so cool and so hood. He was the kind of guy that scared and excited me, like he would snuff a stranger for looking at his girl the wrong way, but could hold an intellectual conversation about the universe with a foreign exchange student. The type of thug dude who wasn’t as weird as me, but was open to my strange interests and eclectic mix of friends.

His Wu roots added even more to his appeal, but it was also his style. He was different. He was down to go outside the box and at that time, no one in Hip Hop was trying to be “different” or “weird”. Take for instance the cataract contacts he first wore in the “Bring The Pain” video and then again in “I’ll Be There for You/You’re All I Need” with the half-braided hair. His top and bottom gold fronts with fangs and that time he wore black contacts, piercings and metal fangs for a video…I mean, no one did anything like that and he’s even inspired rappers today to be a bit bolder (maybe he even inspired Tyler The Creator to wear the black contacts he wears).

Of course, it didn’t hurt that he also made music about love which exposed that he was a thug with a heart…ladies, who could say no to that? Take for example, the song (and video) that changed my life ”I’ll Be There for You/You’re All I Need”…what a street love ballad! Years later, he had the incredible track (and video) with D’Angelo “Breakups 2 Makeups” (which stars the incredible Vita).

FACTS ABOUT METHOD MAN:

-He was born on March 2nd 1971, which makes him 42 years old.

-His real name is Clifford Smith.

-He’s a Pisces.

-Is a member of Wu-Tang (I mean, you all must know that…)

-He was born in Hempstead Long Island, and split his time between his dad’s Long Island home and his mom’s place in Park Hill Staten Island (also nicknamed “Killa Hill”. He has 2 sisters named; Terri and Missy.

-In 1996 he won a Grammy for his song “I’ll Be There for You/You’re All I Need” with Mary J. Blige which was based on ”You’re All I Need to Get By” recorded by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell  in 1967.

-In 1999 he became engaged to his wife and they married in 2001. He has four children: two sons (born in 1996 and 2001), and two daughters (born in 1997 and 2003 ).

-He can act! He has been featured on shows like; HBO’s “Oz”, The Wire, The Twilight Zone, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. He has also acted in films like; Garden State, One Eight Seven, How High, Soul Plane, The Wackness, Meet The Spartans, The Sitter.

-Method Man is the first of the Wu-Tang Clan to produce a series of eponymous graphic novels for Hachette Book Group USA’s imprint Grand Central Publishing (to be followed by GZA and Ghostface Killah). (via Wikipedia)

Eddie, Dave and Me. Denny’s Parking Lot, Guilderland New York circa late 90′s.

I’ve known the boy since I was 12! He (and my other dear friend Dave) was one of the only white people in my neighborhood. I’d see him and Dave skating around and I can’t remember how exactly we met, but once we realized we were neighbors – we hung out all the time! Edward, known affectionately as “Eddie” back then, put me on the the world of Straight-Edge and Veganism. I had already been Vegetarian for a minute before meeting him, but after getting to know him – he taught me so much about animal cruelty and the food industry. Hey, who says kids are always up to no good? He took me to buy all my Vegan groceries at age 14 and although I had relapses here and there, I pretty much haven’t looked back. Come to think of it, he really shaped my outlook on food and diet.

Anyways, I got word that he is entered in PETA’s Sexiest Vegan Next Door Contest and I absolutely had to share the word! I haven’t seen this guy in a long time, but according to this photo and his Instagram (and his site EDBAUERFIT.COM) - he looks great and deserves the title. Please, please vote for him – it takes 2 seconds, literally!

GO HERE TO VOTE!

Vashtie March 2013 at Milk Studios, NYC #Made4Impulse (via My Instagram)

Post-Flu and I’ve lost so much weight! I even got confused for the headlining performer, Angel Haze, who if you don’t know is a slim little thing! Ugh, I’m going to binge on tofu steak dinners and cashew milkshakes tonight.

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Vashtie & Yara Flinn (Nomia NYC)

On Monday I ventured out into the cold. I was suffering from the flu for about 5 days and was feeling much better in my delirious mind. I had to attend since the lovely folks at Made had invited me to their event in such a classy way…they sent me clothes and paid my hair and makeup team to jazz me up for the evening. They even gave me a car service to and fro…I felt like I was on the best date of my life.

Elle’s footwear for the evening. I customized her Timbs for her. I went for a Pollack motif. What’cou think?

Galaxy Girls

An old drag queen and Ty

ELLE CLAY was my partner in crime for the night. The event was lots of fun, but after an hour I started to feel sick and woozy all over again. I realized that I may had jumped the flu-gun and decided to hustle home and throw on my jammies while seeking refuge on the couch.

Anyways, you should definitely check out the collection. Basically, MADE is sort of like the CFDA and how they sponsor up and coming designers and help to facilitate their fashion show needs for fashion week. Instead of working with bigger designer and helping them get to Lincoln Center, they help smaller and more avant-garde designers fulfill their fashion dreams…which is super cool if I do say so myself. Some of their designers teamed up with Macy’s for their Impulse Collection to create greatness…affordable greatness, I might add! Find the full collection, HERE…

This Digital Age of Social Media and Mass Communication is a strange one for many reasons. It’s mostly a strange place to be in because so much information is being thrown at us for process that it’s hard to make sense of it in the moment…like “Is having a Facebook account a good idea?” or “Do people need to know my personal opinion on everything that goes on in the world via Twitter?”. We’re in a difficult space to form a routine around constantly changing digital trends…

Also, because this place is so new and ever-changing…we have no previous existing model to compare it to. It’s not like we can call our Mom’s and ask “Hey Mom, how did you find your voice and form a routine within Social Media when you were my age?”. We all have to figure it out as we go.

But – if you’ve noticed, not all Social Media channels are created equal. Of course they all specialize in different areas, but even the criteria for being popular varies significantly. For example…I’ve been on Twitter since 2008 (5 years) and I have 38,000 Followers and I’ve been on Instagram since 2011 (2 years) and I have 83,000 Followers. I don’t even know how to explain that…

I’m constantly battling which Social Media channels to keep on and which to turn off. Right now, I reluctantly have all of these:

Blog// Vashtie.Com

Instagram// @Vashtie

Twitter// @Vashtie

Facebook// Facebook.Com/Vashtie.Kola

Tumblr//Vashtie.Tumblr.Com

I mean, I love Instagram but do I seriously need Facebook AND Twitter? Does having a Tumblr make any sense? Is Blogging what is used to be? Its hard to answer these questions. Others offer advice, but we all do different things – what works for one person doesn’t work for another.

Anyways. This long rant is coming from Social Media overload. I love blogging and have been doing it since 2007 (6 years), but it feels like Instagram is a quick fix for satisfying the visual share in the actual moment. I love engaging with people who follow me and my work on Twitter, but does that leave Facebook obsolete? I just don’t know ya’ll…BUT I guess I couldn’t really have a conversation like this anywhere else, huh?

Let me know your thoughts and thanks for your well wishes! I hope you all are doing well!!!

Selecting at Le Pompon, Paris 3/2013

It has been so long that I have blogged. I got busy like we all have, but then I got called away to work in Paris (which you are about to read about) and then I got sick when I got returned. I was blindsided with the flu! Today is the first day I’ve felt somewhat normal and so…Vashtie has returned to her .Com. Are you with me?

A couple weeks ago my old friend Nadege Winter from Paris reached out asking if I was available to play music for the Kenzo afterparty during Paris Fashion Week. I was more than down! As some of you may already know, Paris is probably the only other city I could ever live in outside of New York…and I base that solely on the handful of short trips I’ve spent there and my love for French New Wave Cinema (don’t judge me).

via My Instagram

I met Nadege in 2004 and was reunited with her when Oscar and I did 1992 in Paris at the end of 2007. She was one of the guest DJ’s that our friends Pain O Chokolat had booked for our Paris/Amsterdam dates…POC has now gone on to do bigger and better things; Pigalle, Le Pompon. Nadege has also continued making strides and now has her own agency, Nadege Winter Agency, which is adorably nicknamed NWA.

It’s amazing how much has changed in just 6 years. I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to revisit Paris…

DAY 1

The Louvre

Shame I’ve never been there. Double shame that it was the first Sunday of the month and admission was free. I had so much to do and only had time to get equipment from the Apple Store. Took a couple picks though…

Wolford Tights.

Ladies, if another lady friend hasn’t told you about these gems then it’s time you know. My friend Cristina Vallecilla put me on years ago and I haven’t looked back since. Basically this lingerie/hosiery company has super soft products that will live for years…run-free. They are pricey, but when you consider how long they will last – it’s worth it. I also wear these Merino tights under jeans during the winter for an extra layer of warmth. These were cheaper to buy in Paris…score!

On our way to the our friends club, Le Pompon. I forget this beauteous things name. Feel free to add below.

We ran into our darling London babe friend Irene!

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DAY 2

Some of the clothes that Kenzo let us borrow for the show and the afterparty. I had some decisions to make…

Later that evening I played selector alongside DJ Lucas Tutus at Le Pompon

Lucas Tutus and Deirdre Maloney (Capsule)

Me, Deirdre & Ty

Jay Strut, Natalie Levy and Me.

Best virgin drink I ever did have…look, I can’t drink on the job.

Ben Detrick & Natalie Levy.

Basically everyone I knew in New York was in Paris for Fashion Week.

My dear Charaf Tajer

Stephane Ashpool! He’s a super sweetheart!

…and Stephane and I in 2007 (Patta Store, Amsterdam).

I met a nice young lady who follows my work. When taking a cell phone selfie didn’t work, I offered a blog picture post! Nice meeting you darling!

via My Instagram

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DAY 3

My Kenzo head to toe look for the runway show…

via TMAGAZINE BLOG x NYTIMES

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After the 10 am morning show, we headed back to our hotel rooms and tried to nap. My jetlag mixed with the guilt of trying to nap while in Paris would not let me rest. My friend Tom Brunet planned on scooping me via scooter. It was a good thing I was so dazed from lack of sleep, otherwise I might not have agreed to the ride. He assured me that it’s the way most Parisians travel and although I was scared for dear life – it turned out to be the best and only way I could have seen Paris the way I did.

There was so much I had never seen of the city before, I fell in love over and over again. Tom took me to meet with our mutual friends Valentina and Alex Sossah in the Marais. It was a really nice time…

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THE KENZO AFTERPARTY…

via VMAGAZINE: Oscar & Vashtie at the Kenzo Afterparty, Paris 3.3.13

Nadege Winter & Vashtie

Yara Flinn swarmed by Parisian Men, Tom Brunet & Friend

Capsule Crew!

Valerie Von Prisk, Tyann Jackson & O.

Robyn & Me.

I love Robyn and her music so much. She’s the tiniest and sweetest thing in person.

Carol Lim & Me.

Carol and Humberto do so many incredible things! They totally inspire me!

Oscar and Humberto Leon.

I loved my shoes for the evening…although I didn’t dance much in them.

Champagne!

Technically those 2 bottles were mine and I only got one glass. It’s ok, because I don’t think I could have finished all 3 bottles myself. Well, I could have…it just wouldn’t have ended pretty.

Solange Knowles came through after her show, which I heard was amazing.

Mixed-ed Girls…

Lady Miss Kier!!! I could have thrown up upon seeing her. She’s so exciting and incredible! I love her.

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Phewwww! That was a lot of blogging after a lot of non-blogging. My head hurts now, are you happy? Just kidding, but it does hurt – it’s just not your fault, pumpkin.

DON C. x JORDAN AUCTION

My good friend Elle Clay always laughs when an interview or article refers to me along the lines of a “Hip Hop Princess” or anything to that effect. “They don’t know that you’re a dirty white boy underneath it all?!” she always exclaims.

My love for Metal and Rock has deep roots. Although I grew up in the hood (and love Hip Hop), I befriended a lot of young white boys who skated and bmx’ed in my downtown area of Albany. They put me on to a lot of great things; like Hardcore & Metal Music. I was already into Rock Music from my own interest (Metallica & Guns N’ Roses), but I’m sure MTV and my sister helped to influence that.

Anyways, some of the cool local hangouts where I grew up included a venue called the QE2 where most good shows occurred - mostly hardcore and metal shows. Any kid with brains who wanted to be out of the clutches of their parents at home knew to be where all the cool happenings were happening and I was one of them. I got to see a lot of great performances and shows, and I learned a lot about the culture…mainly to stay far away from the pit, but to always have your arms up to shield yourself just in case.

This shoot was fun and exciting. After compiling and editing the shirts we would shoot, the idea of painted faces came quite naturally. Kiss and The Misfits were big on stage dramatics and makeup, so it only seemed right to do the same. Although Pearl Jam, Lollapalooza and Sublime don’t fit the category of Metal whatsoever – I just really liked the shirts and wanted to add them in also.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: AMANDA LOPEZ

MAKEUP BY: CAMILLE THOMPSON

FULL LOOKBOOK HERE.