HIDDEN GEMS

FASHION FORWARD MEN CELEBRATES A TRUE WHO'S WHO IN MENS STYLE  

Certain terms or words that were once rarely used (unless with good merit) to describe particular individuals has now become either misused, or overly saturated in today's everyday society.  The words STYLE and ICON unfortunately have become two of them.  Both words if used correctly can carry a great deal of strength and impact, but I wonder, are those days far gone?  It seems that as of lately, we label every other person as risk taker, fashionista, errr Style Icon.  Has something changed? Did I miss a memo? Exactly what makes a style icon these days?  Is it those in the public eye- we put on a pedestal (often times for no reason)automatically be rewarded with the title?  And if so, why?  Why when we really know that there is a master that lurks behind the scenes...in the shadows... A master that is the true manufacturer of  note worthy looks placed in front of us? Their talents are often ignored, and seemingly on purpose.  All because the puppet may have more "stage presence."

  Maybe its those who go out of there way to purchase the most expensive, or most current hot sellers they can find.  You know these types... The ones that shop only because of insecurities.  The ones who only have ambitions latest  purchases being  recognized by their common counterparts, because it serves as a morale booster, and the only way they know of staying relevant.   

But what about those who dance to their own beat. That true select few that causes so much of a stir, we don't know how to put them in a box so that the "robots" of the world will understand.  The ones can put the most random, non cohesive article of clothing together and make it work effortlessly????

In this piece, Fashion Forward Men pays homage to some of these amazing men...  

NICK WOOSTER

Tailored yet rugged, street yet suave, always innovative and funky, I have admired Nick Wooster's personal style for years, and would be crazy if I include him in this write up.  Nick's refreshing take on style is admired by so many that fans from all over have created sites paying tribute to him and his day to day looks.  

Residing in New York, Nick has worked as a fashion consultant for years. Having been an  employee for well known companies such as Neiman Marcus, Thom Browne, and Park & Bond, Gilt Groupe, Nick is the pulse of men's fashion.

PATRICK McDONALD

 If the Mad Hatter were real and tad more poised, he would probably be a lot like Patrick McDonald.  Like Nick Wooster, Patrick's style has pushed him into celebrity status.  In the book Four Famous Dandies,   illustrator Jim Howard creates a paper doll book.  Typically with women, this book differs man because its all men, Patrick being one them.  Known for his tailored suits, exaggerated brow, and painted beauty mark, the socialite moved to New York because of his slight obsession of Andy Warhol, and The Factory.  

 But there is more to McDonald than meets the eye.  When he isn't going to fabulous parties and fashion shows, he does manage to writer column for various publications.   

TOMIK DASH

A friend of mine once asked me how I would describe Tomik Dash's style.  Talk about puzzling...
So many thoughts ran through my mind.  Then suddenly it hit me... An ice skater off the ice!!!  My friend burst out into hysteric laughter and when she finished, she told me how dead on I was.  For those of you who know Mr. Dash would know this is a fair assessment. An assessment made without malice, and with the highest form of flattery.  Having a magazine named VAGRANT, one can expect that its creator wouldn't have the tastes of your typical boy next door no how.  Although always evolving, Tomik's style of dress has always contained particular components.  Always having a sprinkle of flash, a taste of the over-the-top, the under current of street, and sometimes a hint of goth,  Dash look is down right unpredictable. 

Currently residing in Atlanta, Tomik also has his own fashion blog Vintage Clothes-Designer Drugs(VCDD), and works as a hair colorist.  With his biggest client most likely being himself, Dash has managed to brand himself as one of the It-Boys to always keep an eye on.

FRANKIE HAN

Currently an editor of Marie Claire China,, many people who know of Frankie Han calls his style outrageous.  Could it be that whenever he is spotted he is normally in the most fitted most structured clothing you can't tell what sex it was "intended" for?  Or could it be that he is a man who carries a purse, and no, I don't mean "man bag."  Perhaps...
 But when it comes to a breed such as Mr. Han, he doesn't care which department the garment came from.  If it suits the look he is going for at that moment, he is wearing it.  No searching for approval. NOT AT ALL!!!

JoJo AMERICO 

 Entertainer, Painter, Visual Artist, Stylist, and Jewelry Designer are just a few words that Jojo Americo can use to describe himself.    The now Bronx based rocker has been a staple in New York City's nightlife for as long as I can remember.  His bold, eclectic, androgynous flare oozes sexuality and confidence in a Pop Porn Star kinda way.  

When not traveling the world performing with his group The Ones, Jojo is relieving his creative juices making jewelry for his accessory line 1919.  Although the jewelry has somewhat of an underground buzz, it can be seen in short films made by Alexander Hankoff, and the music videos Michelle Williams and Ultra Nate. 

MALCOLM "Mister GoLightly" HARRIS

 &

 K. TYSON PEREZ HARRIS(MisterEditor)

  Newlywed couple Malcolm Harris(above left) and his husband MisterEditor are conquering the fashion world together, but in their own ways.  Malcolm(the designer of the duo), is the founder of Mal Sirrah, a line that is known for its chic yet forward designs. MisterEditor, a native New Yorker, works as a stylist as well as an editor for his magazines UNVOGUE and UNSound.  

There is no denying all of the amazing contributions both of these gentleman have given the fashion industry, but like the rest in this feature, it was there own garb we really wanted to focus on.  While some may consider Malcolm to be the more extravagant of the two, Mr. Editor holds is own when it comes to style.  Depending on the day, both have the ability of toning down and heightening their styles, all the while keeping a feel of masculinity.  

NELLY MARSHALL

 Rounding up this incredible group of men is Nelly Marshall.  Although Nelly is the youngest of all those named in this piece,  Nelly's eye for fashion exceeds all of his years of existence.  Taking pride in shopping in vintage stores, searching for those special and rare finds Marshall not only knows how stretch a dollar, he also knows how to make sure his ensemble look like a million bucks.