06.12.09 ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS Julie Anne Quay celebrates the fabulous nobodies of New York
Tuesday night I hit Pop Burger over on the Westside, for Julie Anne Quay's announcement and celebration of Colac Pictures and it's first project. The 80's classic, "Fabulous Nobodies." It was an absolute blast! Complete with break-dancers, good tunes and, I'm sorry, anyone who passes mini-burgers as hors d'oeuvres is alright in my book.
Author Lee Tulloch (left) was on-hand to celebrate with Julie Anne, along with Candy Pratts-Price, Stephen Gan, Brana Wolf, Cecilia Dean, James Kaliardos (and mum) Dirk Standen, IMG's Ivan Bart, Pascal Dangin, Nicole Phelps, Italo Zuccheli, Greg Krelenstein, Ben Widdicombe, hair-god Christiaan, a room full of downtown kids along with a handful of cute Aussies, and many more!
For more on Fabulous Nobodies check out their fan page! And congrats JAQ!
06.11.09 JD THROWS DOWN The entire modeling world converges at JD Ferguson’s party at the Gates
Guess what? I had a party! A big phat one over on the Westside at this dope place called The Gates. Eco-friendly vodka VeeV sponsored the night and DJ's Alex Hawgood and Honey Dijon turned it out! SOOOO much fun!
And FYI, people raged! Like HARD! Riccardo Tisci, Alessandra Ambrosio, Stephen Gan, Philip Lim, Behati, Jamie Strachan, Vincent Lacrocq and Boyd Holbrook, Richard Chai, Edward Enniful, Alexander Wang, SUVI!!, Hamish Bowles, Jay Massacret, Brian Molloy, Sloan Laurits and KT Auleta, Anne V...
...Ali Michael, AJ, Jaymie and Jake Boyle, Travis Hanson, Christian Brylle and Shiela Marquez, Alana Zimmer, Julia Dunstall, Jasmine and Paul, Hanne Gaby Odiele, Kasia Struss and Dylan, Kerry Degman, Erich Conrad, Lenz, Erin Bubley, Ryan V, VNY, DNA, Women, Major, Supreme...the list goes on! Thank god Patrick McMullan came through for some late-night play!
06.03.09 SOLAR POWER Calvin Klein celebrates the release of Visionaire 56 SOLAR with a throwdown at the new Standard hotel
Monday night Calvin Klein and Visionaire threw a party at the Standard Hotel to celebrate the release of Visionaire 56 SOLAR and what a f-ing party! Holy shit! Not like "kiss kiss" fashion party, like old school, balls-to-the-wall throwdown! Visionaire style!
So, models, models, models...Francisco and Italo...Stephen, James, and Cecilia...Gerard "No Pictures Please" Butler and Tyra-fucking-Banks, who was so nice and cool in person and completely normal and down-to-earth, I had to keep stopping myself from turning to her and saying, "Two girls stand before me..."
Everyone was there! The place was non-stop energy! Liquor was flowing, we all got free shades courtesy of Calvin, TONS of gorgeous faces—Doutzen, Garrett, Brad, Leandro (HOT HOT), Edita, Tyson, Valentina, Danny Schwarz, the list goes on! Now I'm going back to bed.
04.08.09 THE YOUNG ONES At the New Museum, JD Ferguson experiences seven floors of art and lives to blog about it
OMG I've never seen so much frickin' art in my life! Wall-to-wall, seven floors of it. Fun though, I
loved it all, but I never do stuff like that, "art crowds" just aren't
my thing. This was chill though and the place was packed with cute
bearded guys from Brooklyn (my favorite type). I tagged along with the V crew over to New Museum
for "Younger Than Jesus," the first edition of their triennial "The Generational," which features the work of 50 artists from
25 countries.
I had a blast (even though Jacob told me I dress like a retired figure skater who was afraid of losing his title). Terence Koh
was there and was ever-so-patient with me while I tinkered around with
the flash on my camera. (Yes it was fixed, but shit still ain't right.)
It's definitely worth seeing so if you're in NYC between now and July
5th be sure to pop by and check it out!
04.01.09 CALVIN NATION JD Ferguson drops in on the Fall/Winter 2009 CK presentation to check out the latest looks and fresh faces
Every season I shoot the CK presentation and every season it's on a cold-ass icky morning. The good news is I always leave with a big smile on my face. And of course how can you go wrong with Jamie Jewitt and Danny Schwarz? Who are just as funny as they are hot. Throw new-face (and CK creative director Kevin Carrigan's latest muse-in-a-suit) Rob Thurston in the mix and you’ve got a good time. And once again, every season, there's always a girl I love. This time around it was Next's Cody Horn, who is not only beautiful but SO sweet. Also on hand: Greg Kessler, Josh Reed, the one and only Vlad, Brittain Ward, Sean Harju, Request's new face Hakan, Mark Cox, and many more!
02.18.09 ARMANI MANIA Mr. Armani and friends take Manhattan for the opening of the Armani boutique on Fifth Avenue
So I popped by the Armani boutique opening uptown last night and oh my God what a night! I arrived early to get my bearings and was told I would be given a spot on the red carpet as I was one of a handful of photographers, who would be walked through the event and given private access for a whopping ten minutes. So, I thought I'd give it a whirl.
And thank God I did! The store is absolutely astounding and totally beautiful. Plus I scored ALL the shots (with the exception of Alicia Keys, who looked amazing) and never dreamed I'd get Victoria Beckham to stop for my lens! Liam Neeson, Milla Jovovich, Mira Sorvino, Josh Hartnett, Chace Crawford, Marcus Schenkenberg, Mario Testino, Ricky Martin, Hamish Bowles, James Penfold, and many, many more!
02.16.09 LINE OF VISION Photographer Paul Rowland unveils his latest show of supreme beauties during New York fashion week
Alright bitches! It's on! New York fashion week has arrived. And kicking it all off is Paul Rowland with a gallery
exhibition that turned out to be just the pick-me-up I needed. And not
soon enough! I have to admit I had no idea how I was gonna get through
this week. First the weather, then the economy, and, of course, this being
my sixth season of New York fashion certainly doesn't help. But thank
GOD it turns out all I needed was a room full of beautiful people to
get me goin' and now I'm all fired up.
What a night. OMG! Everybody came out to blow kisses at Paul and if,
like me, you were unable to catch his show down in Miami for Art Basel,
it was great to see his work hanging on the wall. All the Women and
Supreme hotties, my boy Greg Kessler, my favorite French hottie Vincent
Lacrocq, Cecilia Dean, THE Louise Pedersen, Mohammed, Louie, Craig
McDean, Behati and Jamie, a redheaded Vlada, a stunning Natasha Poly,
Adam Senn, Georgina, Hanne, Kasia, Isabeli...the list goes on. It was a
clusterfuck of beautiful people and just the pick-me-up I think
everyone needed to get this week going! Thanks for a great night Paul
and congrats!
02.09.09 MEOW MIX John Demsey and friends celebrate the launch of the M.A.C Hello Kitty collection
M.A.C's John Demsey and Stephen Gan co-hosted a party over on the west side last Thursday night. Froze my tits off gettin' over there but it turned out to be a blast. Ciara, Lindsay Price, Cecilia Dean, Derek and Fabiola, Leigh Lezark, Ari's wife from Entourage, and a handful of favorite people I hadn't seen in awhile. Or met. Like The City's Adam Senn. I'm loving that show by the way. It's fun seeing NYC, and the show is certainly a testament to what a great job MTV does with editing. Apparently Adam skipped shows last summer so this was the first time I'd actually ever laid eyes on him. And I'm sorry but his girlfriend is a breath of fresh air from those bitches out in L.A. The highlight for me, however, was catching up with Behati and Jamie Strachan. And then, of course, all my favorite boys who've just rolled into town and are lookin' to get wild. Or just lookin' for free liquor. Julien Sabaud, Baptiste, Rogier, Terron, the Davenports, Lenz, Theo, this boy from Gucci whose name I forget, Steve Gold...the list goes on.
12.19.08 FRIENDS AND FAMILY Visionaire and Linda Evangelista host a raucous holiday show at The Box
So Stephen, James, Cecilia, and Linda Evagelista put together a wild holiday bash Wednesday night over at The Box. Family style. What better way to spread the holiday cheer than performances by Lady Bunny, Flotilla, Sweetie, Lypsinka, and Visionaire's very own Javier (aka La Perla), with an impromptu appearance on stage by Cecilia Dean herself (well actually more like her lying on the side of the stage and playing drunk with a bottle of bubbly). Also there were Francisco Costa, Hamish Bowles, Italo Zucchelli, Lady Amanda Harlech, James Penfold, Julia Restoin Roitfeld, Diane von Furstenberg, Tallulah Ormsby-Gore dancing in a booth, and the fabulous ALT (André Leon Talley) giving his nod of approval on the queens' choice of footwear. And Derek Blasberg shot amazing black and whites! Total blast! Ho ho ho everybody!
11.17.08 CALVIN AND COMPANY JD Ferguson returns to New York backstage for the CK Spring 2009 show
Nothing better than a bunch of CK models to get you through a wet miserable New York morning. I'm so glad I braved the cold though because you know how much I love me an off-season fashion show. Even if it is just a presentation. And so many of my favorite boys—Mikus, Markus, Stephan, Guntars, Britton, as well as Wilhelmina's hot new rising star Vlad (who everyone's talking about).
But the big surprise for me came not from the beautiful coat I got to leave with or even the sporty eyewear but the most striking Russian girl. Her name is Katty and she was giving MAJOR fashion. Major early cold morning fashion (and that's not easy to do).
09.17.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY SEVEN JD wraps things up with Ralph and Donna. And it's all thanks to our dear friend Madonna
Oh my goddess! I can't believe it's over. Seems like every time I turn around I'm either writing "fashion week has arrived" or "fashion week has come and gone." For those of you who don't take part in the week, during, you feel like you're locked in with no relief in site and then before you know it, it's over. The only saving grace is knowing that everyone involved, from editors, dressers, PRs, models, caterers, agents and security are going through the exact same stress and drama you are. Thankfully, mine stops with New York, as opposed to all the others who have three more weeks to look forward to, which still blows me away.
The last day is always bittersweet. I love shooting Ralph but A) it's early (with three shows) and B) it's the last day of shows. I arrived early early so I spent most of the morning playing with all my photog buddies outside the backstage. Thank GOD the good people at Ralph Lauren had the sense to set up large florescent panels, which not being a photographer, I really had no idea how to utilize them to their full potential, but nonetheless they were better than the usual warm lighting they have backstage. I don't know if you've noticed but anytime the lighting is warm (another reason I hate shooting the tents) my pics look like shit. I love Ralph's shows. First, because the girls always look so classic and beautiful and second, because, due to her (what seems like) lifetime exclusive with the brand, it's the one show in which I get to shoot Valentina, who is just so beautiful. Arlenis looked amazing as did Ali Stephens, though having a 6 a.m. call time (with three shows in a row) the night after Zac, the girls all looked like zombies. Poor things.
Next up, rain, and Donna Karan. We were told immediately upon arrival there would be no first looks for anyone so, not being one who shoots beauty, I just shot the chaos in hair and makeup. Sat outside and smoked with the girls, shot Heidi Mount through the glass and after 15 minutes of talking to Abbey Lee realized how beautiful she looked so I shot her reflection in the mirror. One drawback to being friends with the people you're supposed to be photographing is you often forget to take their picture (i.e. Italo Zucchelli at Calvin's 40th party) which I'm going to have to stop doing. Charlotte and Eugene were in back-to-back interviews, the place was packed, and it was the first good meal I'd had all week. Quick, easy, painless day, and it's done. Crazy.
There are a couple people I'd like to thank for the week. First and foremost, Madonna. Yes, Madonna. Her Hard Candy CD (which I downloaded months ago and never listened to) was the perfect pick-me-up for early morning walks to the subway, though I think I spent more time with drivers than on the L. A big shout out to Ryan and Katie over at V for all of their hard work getting the coverage up. I know, at times, everyone wishes we were quicker but hey, quality is something that can't be rushed. And a special shout out to all the girls, who, at times are so tired it pains me to have to take yet another photo of them but they are all so professional and they always accommodate.
And that's it, folks! It was a great week and I hope you enjoyed all the photos. I'll be spending the next week in bed chasing some Zzzzs. See you next season!
09.17.08 CRUSH DU JOUR JD comes clean about his mild obsession with Brazilian model Luiz Afonso
I cannot get enough of new face Luiz Afonso. He's from Brazil, he's with New York Models, and whenever I'm around him I have to remind myself I'm not a 16-year-old girl.
Backstage at Marc by Marc Jacobs, Spring/Summer 2009 Photography JD Ferguson
09.16.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY SIX Architecture at Calvin, prime photo-ops at Tommy, and fashion zoo at Zac
Calvin Klein is one of my favorite shows to shoot. The clothes are beautiful, I love seeing Francisco, they've got the best spread of food in town and it's my first show on Thursday and starts at 4 p.m.. Even though Wednesdays always leave me feeling like I've been hit by a truck, backstage Calvin is more like a party than work.
I spent the first part of the day catching up on uploading and blogging but still wanted to be at Calvin early. Tyra Banks was there and I just barely grabbed a shot of her as she was escorted past. The clothes were very architectural and how Francisco was able to pull it off with fabric is beyond me. Spent the first part of the show in an impromptu photo shoot with Pat, Guido, and Raquel (the other highlights of Calvin), then ten minutes of the girls in the clothes and I was off to Tommy (with a full belly).
Tommy was a lot of fun. Played with Freja and Catherine McNeil for awhile, caught up with an old friend and grabbed the ONLY shot of Diane Kruger, Hilary Swank, Tommy, and John Legend. The pit was five deep and I had just about given up trying to get singles of each of them until Tommy noticed my V T-shirt (I should've been wearing that all week) and assembled the group for my lens. As usual, always a gentleman. First looks was crazy, I shot what I could and headed to Zac, but not before realizing the exit was in the same spot as where the models exited the stage. So I quicky grabbed what I could there and hit the road.
Zac was a zoo! EVERYONE wants to be backstage at his show and this season we had Venus and Serena (who I kept calling Venus), Leighton Meester, and one of my all-time faves Juliette Lewis, who was very cool. The girls were fierce and the gowns were some of the best I'd seen all week. Especially Raquel and Catherine's. Unfortunately (me and all my camera drama) the batteries on my flash died the second first looks started so I grabbed what I could and then posed with Lara in my V55 T-shirt with her face plastered on it. Thankfully Greg Kessler grabbed a shot of us, surprisingly, it never occurred to me to get a photo with her. The show was a huge success and the energy backstage at a Zac show is like no other.
Even though the day started late, by the time I got off the L in Brooklyn I was somewhat disoriented from the week which was only exaggerated by stepping onto the street and realizing it was 9/11. After several attempts at grabbing a shot of the "towers" being projected in to the sky from downtown I set my camera down, lit a cigarette, and headed home. Only to realize I'd left my camera sitting on the street three blocks back!! In Bushwick!! Obviously the last place you'd wanna make a mistake like this. I've never sprinted so fast.
Just one more day bitches! Ralph and then Donna and I'm outta here!
09.16.08 RED EYE Phillip Lim throws a fashion week curveball with some slick new heels
I thought Rodarte and Ohne Titel were the last word in fierce kicks for New York fashion week, but then Phillip Lim came out with these red leather stilettos and proved me wrong. Pretty amazing, no?
09.15.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY FIVE Perfection at Michael Kors, total luxury at ODLR, young and fun at 3.1 Phillip Lim
Well, I'm happy to report today went MUCH smoother than yesterday. Though I don't know how. I barely made it out of bed after a late late night on the MINI rooftop and this morning's early call time (if you consider 10 a.m. early). Everything went fairly smoothly and I even made peace with the tents. Oh, and that thing I said about 25 shows and 5 parties back to back? It ain't gonna happen.
Michael Kors was a blast. Finally got to see some familiar faces and I thought the collection was really fun. The guys looked very sporty (especially Garrett) so I had to grab a shot of Paul Zumbo, who handles Michael's mens line, with some of the guys. But not before hangin' out with my girl Lara Stone outside along with Catherine, Mikaela, and Diana Moldovan for a smoke as well as quick photo shoot with legendary M.A.C photographer Luca Cannonieri. The show went very smooth, no celebrity overload, and everyone looked so sharp. But the best part was Brana Wolf and Michael presenting Coco with a birthday cake and the entire backstage singing. She was soooo embarassed. Happy birthday Cokes!
Next up, my man Oscar de la Renta, who always manages to give luxurious design for ladies who lunch as well as the savvy 20-somethings. Played with Behati and Jamie Strachan, as well as Pat (who went from interview to interview), congratulated Arlenis on opening and closing the show and ate my first meal in two days (soy yogurt with fruit) with, of course, a coffee black. The backstage was tight and fast but I managed to do a quick runthrough before all the photographers were kicked out.
Back over to the tents for Phillip Lim which was so much fun. The clothes were unique and I love seeing Phillip! The casting was fresh as always and Irina and Juliette Lewis sat front row. Though I had to get backstage before Juliette showed up. Total media circus around Leighton Meester (who is so pretty) as well as the Vogue team. The energy front of house was contagious and you could feel the excitement in the air. LOVED the shoes Phillip did, which you'll see, played with Rogier, Lasse, Iekeliene, Ali Stephens, Ali Michael, grabbed the LAST water in the cooler and headed back out to Brooklyn for my first evening off with lots of editing and writing to do.
Whew, major day! It's almost over. Stay tuned for Calvin, Tommy, and Zac Posen.
09.15.08 SMOKIN' HOT Nothing gets between supermodel Lara Stone and her Marlboros
There's nothing I appreciate more than a smoker. Not like puff puff
pass, but a die-hard such as myself. God forbid you be the one to
ask Lara Stone to put out her smoke.
Lara Stone backstage at Michael Kors, Spring/Summer 2009 Photography JD Ferguson
09.15.08 GOLD FUTURES Rodarte killed it with the most out-there shoes of New York fashion week
Rodarte turned it out again this season with their shoes, which were the product of a collaboration with the young British shoe designer Nicholas Kirkwood. Made of wire and chains and gold metal, the shoes are a cross between fierce footwear and some sort of deadly weapon.
09.15.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY FOUR Forget the flash. Rodarte hits a home run, and Michelle Lee casts the next generation at Marc by Marc
What an awful day. Ugh. Started with sitting on the Brooklyn Bridge bumper to bumper for an hour and ended with getting home to see the storm had knocked out my Internet. Oh and let's not forget finally getting to Rodarte (drenched) to realize I'd left my flash back in Williamsburg. Retarded, I know. And I don't mean to get all Debbie Downer on your asses (though I did manage to pull it together), but you know how sometimes you just can't shake shit? Well it was one of those days.
Rodarte knocked it out of the park. The shoes, the gowns, the colors. All of it. Backstage was tight and cramped but the Mulleavys are so chill that it somehow just trickled through the backstage. Spent most of the morning front row with an occassional pop backstage to see when the girls would be ready and each time I was more and more blown away. They all looked amazing and you can tell they like wearing the clothes which makes for good pics. Talked politics with Heidi Mount, caught up Alex de Betak (love), smoked, teased Kim Noorda about the model that has a crush on her (who's name I'm withholding until the end of the week), smoked, and thanked sweet Jesus there was enough available light for me backstage to even cover the show. Before being led by the hand by portrait photographer Anna Bauer over to Adorama to buy a new flash. (Ugh, see there it is again.) Bruce Weber, Natalie Portman, Joe McKenna, Elijah Wood, Anna, André, Cecilia Dean. Clearly a must-see.
So I got the flash, grabbed a bite, and got to Marc by Marc plenty early to just CHILL! and did I ever. Phat spread of food, loads of fun people, Marc looked great in a skirt, and I loved that he wore it. And there's no better place for new face girls than the Armory during fashion week. Michelle over at KCD really turned it out. (Though I was still reeling from the night before where she gave us Christina Kruse, Jamie Bochert, and Emma Balfour.) The clothes were, as usual, cool and fun. And because it can often be so many of the models' first time backstage, everyone's fresh and playful and happy.
Next up: Michael Kors, Oscar de la Renta, and Phillip Lim. That's it! I'm going home for a disco nap!
09.12.08 STEP INTO IT At Ohne Titel, a new collaboration yields a trove of insane new kicks
Loved loved loved the shoes at Ohne Titel. They were a real clash between hard and soft, the result of a new collaboration with Italian shoemaker Cesare Paciotti. They out-fierce even the fiercest.
Backstage at Ohne Titel, Spring/Summer 2009 Photography JD Ferguson
09.11.08 THROUGH THE ROOF Fashion week madhouse at the launch of V55 on the MINI Rooftop
So I'm backstage and I've just received a text from V saying they need text for party pics in 10 minutes. BlackBerrying my night from the tents doesn't come close to doing it justice, so I'm just gonna bottom line it! Insane party, insane night!
Highlights:
-Having Inez and Vinoodh teach me more about my camera (in one sentence) than I've learned all year. My pics will never be the same.
-Meeting Steven Klein.
-Catherine McNeil, Abbey Lee, Raquel, and Lara Stone.
Sorry! Goin' in to first looks! Hopefully the pics will give you an idea of how great of a night it was!
09.11.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY THREE Rockin' shoes at Ohne Titel, boy patrol at Zegna, and all the stars at Marc Jacobs
So, I finally got some sleep. Thank God. I can't believe what a difference five hours makes and my first show wasn't until 2 p.m. so I was able to catch up on some blogging. Started over at Ohne Titel, which I was excited about. I thought the clothes were beautiful and the shoes were very cool. Finally got to see Catherine McNeil and I always love seeing Caroline Ribeiro. Jimmy Paul was there as well as Colette, Olga Sherer, and two of my favorite people: Mary Alice Stephenson and my girl Cecilia Dean. The show was running late and as it was on the 8th floor over at Bumble and bumble in the West Village, and as i was tired of taking the elevator down to the street to smoke, I decided to grab shots of the girls who were dressed and head over to Industria for the cute boys of Z Zegna.
Andrew Weir's casting was insane. Solid and consistent with some of the best boys in town. SO many good guys. Kevin Flamme, Bastiaan Ninaber, this new kid Stephan from VNY who I love, Luke Worrall, Julian Sebaud, Adrian Bosch, Adrian W, and my new favorite kid Alan Carey from Red (MAY-JAH). The palette was soft and cool and I love Alessandro Sartori's design. Played with Tom Pecheux for a bit, caught up with Betty from models.com, and then hopped in a cab with Cole Mohr for an impromptu shoot over at V, which you'll have to wait to see.
Grabbed a bit to eat and then decided to head over to the Armory for Marc Jacobs. I completely missed the backstage and as there were no first looks I decided to get a good spot out front for the celebs, which is always the funnest part of the night for me anyways, though I was bummed to not be able to shoot Christina Kruse and Emma Balfour. Front of house was a complete feeding frenzy and at the top of the menu? Celebs. With no ropes or anything to protect them from the masses, they basically were thrown right in to like fifty people with mics and cameras in their faces and I actually felt A) a little disgusted with myself for trying to take their photo and B) sorry for some (like Winona Ryder) who were pounced on the second they came around the corner. Then it was porn stars, drag queens, Hollywood starlets, editors, and hipsters all in a mad-dash to their seats. After 45 minutes or so I finally tired of feeling like paparazzi so once the show started I went out onto the street for a smoke. As sad as I was to miss the effect the mirrors on the catwalk created as the girls walked by, I was thrilled to run in to, first, Patty Wilson, and then, my buddy Greg Kessler whizzing by on a Vespa. James Kaliardos showed up so you know I had to pull the camera back out.
All in all a great day. I'm totally stoked I got some sleep and hopefully tonight will be the same before Marc by Marc and Rodarte tomorrow!
09.10.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY TWO JD picks up the pace with DKNY, Patrik Ervell, DVF, Y-3, and Tim Hamilton
Holy cow, today totally kicked my ass. Two party nights in a row and then a full day of shows. DKNY, DVF, Patrik Ervell, Tim Hamilton, Y-3, and Calvin Klein's 40th anniversary (which was the best party I've shot to date). I don't even know where to begin, as I sit here on the L headed to my first show. Surprisingly the subway has turned out to be the perfect time to blog, except my thumbs are rubbed raw and, being an extremely fast typer, everyone's staring at me like I'm a freak. Whatevs, I gotsta write.
Started the day up at the tents (which I'm enjoying less and less), as there is just so much press (and in this case) children everywhere. Donna, as usual, looked amazing and played kid wrangler to the many little ones that were beside themselves about walking in their first fashion show. The six-year-old little diva I shot a couple of seasons back at Heatherette was there and said she had come up with some new poses since I "shot" her last, which I thought was hysterical. I shot what I could but was actually relieved to find out I didn't have first looks and decided to go outside for some fresh air before heading downtown. Played with danielle levitt who's backstage this week on assignment, as well as Charlotte Tibury, Luke Worrall, then made a bee line for French hottie Kevin Flamme. The highlight though was sharin' a smoke with Cole Mohr out back who just happened to be early to his next show. The low point was putting an orange filter on my flash before the show which, well, you can see for yourself.
Finally caught a taxi over to Patrik Ervell, who, I'm a little hesitant to report on because I'm sure you're tired of hearing how flawlessly executed his designs are and how precise his tailoring is. But I'm sorry, it's true. It's funny, when he was at V we had the exact opposite tastes in models, but luckily John Tan had a little bit of something for both of us. With time to kill I basically lounged around with Tom W and Lasse. Philipp Bierbaum (who has the most amazing face) was there, as well as this new kid called Massimo from Request who's precious.
Back up to the tents for DVF which was equally insane but, like Donna, Diane is so beautiful and nice that it makes it all worth it. TONS of press and, of all people, Jennifer Lopez. I completely missed her coming in but the second she did there was massive screaming and fighting amongst the paps (which I think in the end is my real problem with the tents). A couple of shoving matches ensued and POOF she was gone. Diane was amazing holding up a large sign instructing the models how to walk and I was thrilled to finally see my bud Catherine McNeil.
Got a text from Andrew Weir that he and Pat McGrath were backstage partyin' it up with Veronica Webb over at Y-3. You know I was all over that. (Please, an Andrew Weir casting AND Veronica Webb?) It was a total blast and just the pick me up I needed. Got to see Colette, played with Owen, Jamie Strachan (LOVE), Gordon, Lasse, Freja, Bastiaan, Philip H ,and amazing new face Alan Carey. AND if playing with the kids wasn't enough I found THE most kick-ass shoe. You'll see.
Lastly, Tim Hamilton, which was on the rooftop over at Milk and felt more like a party than a presentation and JUST what the doctor ordered. Douglas Perrett (of COACD fame) did an excellent job with the casting and the guys all looked so cool with their hair slicked back standing and out on display. Finally got to see my boy Simon Nessman and in addition to my current faves Lenz and Jakob Weichmann, a whole slew of boys I love: Adrian W, Boris, Taylor Fuchs, Tyler Riggs, Tom Nicon...you get the idea. Oh, and my buddy Christopher Bollen, who's like a model.
Y'all get all that? (Can you believe I've only gone eight stops?) Then, if the day wasn't long enough there was the Calvin party. Look for those pics this week with everyone from Halle Berry and Claire Danes to Brooke Shields and Martha Stewart. And stayed tuned for Rodarte, Marc Jacobs, and V's party with Inez and Vinoodh to celebrate their fourteen covers and the launch of V55!
09.10.08 HIGH SEASON Calvin Klein takes over the High Line to celebrate its fortieth anniversary
Calvin Klein's 40th anniversary blowout at the High Line Building was the best party I've ever shot! Everyone was there—Hollywood startlets, fashion elite, and models out the wazoo. The venue was over-the-top with a garden that stretched as far as the eye could see and someone had the genius idea of supplying the local gym with apparel so you got to see men working the trapeze decked out in Calvin. Everywhere you looked there was someone to shoot, from Brooke Shields and Raquel Zimmerman to Franca Sozzani and Martha Stewart. Total blast!
09.09.08 NU SHOOZ Come Spring, run don't walk to Lacoste for some of the coolest men's sneaks around
I don't know what's happened to me since starting backstage but I've
turned into a complete shoe whore! There's just so many good ones out
there nowadays like these great men's trainers that I
saw up at Lacoste.
Backstage at Lacoste, Spring/Summer 2009 Photography JD Ferguson
09.09.08 FACING THE DAY JD Ferguson shares a few of his favorite boys and girls from day one of New York fashion week
Day 1 was filled with some stellar faces. Here are a few that made my day.
From left to right: Philipp Bierbaum (NY Models), Eddie Klint (DNA), Lasse Pederson (Public Image), Tom Nicon (Request), Jacob Weichmann (Ford), Heidi Mount (IMG), Elena Melnik (Trump), Chris Pulliam (Red), Ali Stephens (Elite), Bastiaan Ninaber (Request), Michael Vinant (Click), Heloise Guerin (Woman), Stephan Harholm (VNY), Irina (DNA), Gordon Bothe (NY Models), Luiz Afonso (NY Models), Rogier Bosschaart (VNY), Lucas Masscarini (DNA), Behati Prinsloo (Supreme), Theo Hall (VNY)
09.08.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY ONE It's easy breezy with sporty perfection at Lacoste and dream casting at Obedient Sons
OMG New York fashion week Spring/Summer 2009 has hit and I have been completely
knocked on my ass (partially because partying came a little early for me
this season). I don't know if it's because I spent the summer backstage
or because things are just über-hyped now up at the tents, but my
week has started with a hangover bang and it's completely out of
control! As i sit here in BK with my morning coffee and smoke(s) on DAY
THREE I have no idea how I'm going to be able to recap all that's
happened thus far and with 25 shows (the most I've done yet) and five
parties five nights in a row, I don't see any relief in site.
It all started reasonably easy. Lacoste was my first show, which is
always a pleasure because it's on a Saturday and everyone is way chill
so there's plenty of time to hang out and catch up on how everyone
spent the summer. This season was my favorite I've shot for Lacoste and I
loved, and would wear, everything they did. They had a whole golf theme
happening with smart jumpers and pullovers all with fun colors and all
worn by some of the freshest young faces around. SO many beautiful kids
at this show, both new and old, and it was my first introduction to all
the new faces I'll be shooting throughout the week and there are a lot
of good ones.
Next I hit Obedient Sons down at Industria which was a treat not only
because i adore Swaim and Christina (and baby Lolo) but because Angus
Munro and Noah Shelley's casting was genius. You
had heavy-hitters like Heidi Mount (who's so rad) standing along side
many of my favorite newcomers like Luiz Afonso, the fabulous Eniko, Tom Nicon, Jakob Weichmann and, of course, Lenz. I loved everyone in the show and it
didn't hurt that my buddy Jay Massacret was there. With their recent CFDA nod, the house was packed with the industry's biggest wigs, but the backstage was so cute that I couldn't be bothered to head out
front.
Lastly (and this is where I blew it), VMAN's party with Ford Models over
at Indochine. Jesus. What was I thinking being out until 3 a.m. on the first
night of fashion week? And that's not including my drive back out to Brooklyn
where I spent the latter part of the morning editing and uploading
film. The party was a blast and I especially enjoyed shooting Stella Schnabel dancing on a booth given me MAJOR "back." All in all, an
amazing day but a little much for my early subway ride up to the tents
for a DKNY blowout that left me reaching for my Xanax. You'll get all
that next as well as Patrik Ervell, DVF, Y-3, Tim Hamilton and THE best
party (seriously) I have ever shot—Calvin Klein's 40th anniversary at
the Highline Building over on 10th Avenue. Major!
09.08.08 MODEL MANIA Toasting the launch of VMAN11 and the winners of the VMAN Ford Model Search at Indochine
The VMAN party at Indochine Saturday night was off the hook yo! Boys boys boys, an ice sculpture with search winner Petey Wright's issue 11 cover carved into it, killer music, and an open bar. What more could you want?
Adam Trodd, AJ Abualrub, and Petey Wright at the VMAN Ford Models party, Indochine, NYC, September 6, 2008 Photography JD Ferguson
08.15.08 COPENHAGEN FASHION WEEK, DAY THREE JD wraps things up with the very-anticipated Henrik Vibskov
So. I ended the week with hometown hero Henrik Vibskov and his show/exhibition/party at Christiania. If Galliano was the
funnest show I've ever shot, Vibskov was certainly the most unique. I
was so excited about shooting it that anytime anyone asked me, all
week, what I was doing I'd say "shooting Henrik Vibskov!" Even though
the show wasn't until Saturday night. The anticipation had taken over.
Not only was there plenty of beer and interesting people to gawk at,
but you didn't have to step out back to roll. The clothes were edgy
and, dare I say, avant garde. More in line with what I expected to see
in Copenhagen throughout the week. My new favorite boy Jacob was there
and I got to catch up with my buddy Christian Brylle, who's become
quite the little photographer himself.
The venue for the show was insane and both Henrik and his sidekick
brother played the drums while the models did their thing. The party
ensued immediately after the show and went late in to the night.
Perfect way to end the week.
So that's it for Copenhagen fashion week! Can you believe I only shot
four shows? I figured "when in Rome" and spent most of my time in
Christiania. I figured only the best would do. See you in the fall! And
stay tuned for Christian Brylle's outtakes from his week back home!
08.14.08 COPENHAGEN FASHION WEEK, DAY TWO Boys boys boys and a cute designer. It's just another work day for JD
OMG Im so ragged out. Not from the stress of getting to shows or late
nights writing, but because unlike other fashion weeks, I've done
nothing but party! And lemme tell ya, these people can party! I've
decided I'm far too old to be pullin all-nighters with
twenty-somethings but thank god for Bruuns Bazaar and Mikkelsen's "day"
because there's nothing better to cure a hangover than cute boys and a
party backstage.
I loved loved loved shooting Bruun's Bazaar. Not only was the
designer cute (so seldom you can say that) and the venue cool
(Copenhagen's National Museum of Art), but all the boys were local so
everyone knew each other which felt like one big happy family. The
collection bordered on chic with fun colors, cool fabrics and just the
right amount of skin. But then coats and trousers with nice sweaters
which was nice. Very smart collection.
In Milan and Paris you usually get one or two cute Danes to gawk at
backstage. But not this week, not on their home turf. They're all here.
Mathias (with camera crew in tow), Eddie, Lasse, Sebastian and Jesper
Lund, Adrian Bosch, Oliver, this new kid Jacob who's going to be a
star. And Mael was there! Mael-Mael? Anyone who's read these blogs from
the beginning surely remembers Mael, my first official backstage crush.
He's still as cute as ever.
Next up a quick cocktail party with the 2pm crew over at Hotel
D'Angleterre, complete with tapas and my girl Agnete. And then just a
skip across the street to a line called Day Birger et Mikkelsen or
simply "Day." What a wild show that was. Huge outdoor venue complete
with stage and large movie screen at the top of the catwalk and halfway
through the show (before the fire works) our very own thunder storm.
The crowd went crazy (after the initial shock) and then the party took
off. Grabbed a smoke with my buddy Romulo who was brought in from
Brazil and the hottest of the hot Jeremy DuFour. Backstage after the
show was a huge party complete with champagne, plenty of smoke and
Louise Pederson (the Louise Pederson) and the always wild May Andersen.
Total Blast.
So that's it for Day 2. I wish all the fashion weeks were as fun as this. Stay tuned for Hynrik Vibskov at Christiania.
08.08.08 COPENHAGEN FASHION WEEK, DAY ONE JD Ferguson pops over to Copenhagen for a week of Danish fashion and cute boys
Whats up bitches? I'm in Copenhagen! Thought I'd pop over and check-out some Danish fashion and thanks to the Danish Design Center I've got the major hook-up. Cute driver, swank hotel, 9pm call times, tanned blonds everywhere! This is my kinda town!
After a late first-night I was happy to start the day (at 4pm) with Noir, which was jammed packed with so many of my favorite girls. Iekeliene (who is now knitting) Kim Noorda, Eniko, Karmen Pedaru and (the ultimate) Hanne Gaby Odiele. Met the designer, Peter Ingwerson, who was very nice. The clothes were fun and they had a beautiful movie that played on a large silk-screen as the girls walked accompanied by full-blown orchestra. Very cool and my baptism in to a week of chill backstages. Oh! And Angus Munro was there, who we love.
Next up, lunch, smoke, Christiania and then Stine Goya (7pm). Model-turned-designer label and the girls were all very unique so I slapped a few up against a black backdrop and just snapped shots there. Lots of draping and slinky fabrics. The outside venue was beautiful but unfortunately the rain had me watching the show underneath a tree with Jacob Brown who would not share his umbrella.
And that my friends is day one from Copenhagen! Don't expect a lot of stress and craziness this week. Copenhagen is very chill and the people are amazing!
Click here for a slideshow from Copenhagen Fashion Week Day One
07.22.08 BERLIN BOSS JD Ferguson hops a train to catch a Hugo Boss blowout complete with BBQ and celebs
So I popped over to Berlin last week for Hugo Boss. Total blast! You know I love these "non-fashion week" shows. And leave it to the Germans to be the most professional and well organized yet. I loved it. Bruno Pieters turned out an über architectural collection of black, blue, white, and beige. Complete with BBQ and celebs. So many of my favorite girls were there, and even a couple boys I had not yet seen. Olga, Kasia, Iekeliene, Tanya D (putting the dressers through their paces), and Irina poppin' around making me laugh through it all!
07.14.08 THE MALE CONDITION: PARIS MENSWEAR, DAY FOUR JD wraps it up with Lanvin, Dior Homme, and Paul Smith
I can't believe it's over. It's been one big blur of subway maps and
boys and I've still got Visionaire's party with Lacoste to shoot which I
just know is going to send me over the edge! (in a good way, I mean). Between Dior Homme and Lanvin, I guess they really do save the best for
last. And Paul Smith certainly didn't disappoint.
Started at Lanvin which was très chic. Adrian W was there who I love,
along with Julius Beckers and Felix Schopgens who are amazing to
photograph. The clothes were very French and it was interesting
watching Alber backstage. Comfortable fabrics, sandals of string all in
a calm color palette. Loved it! My favorite producer was there and it was hysterical to watch him put the guys
through their paces. Shared a fag with some of the guys, loaded up on
fruit and yogurt and I was outtie and rushing to Dior Homme.
I was not about to miss seeing the very cute Kris van Assche again. Most of the models were repeated from his KVA line, which was fine with
me being a big fan of Brazilians and THE brazilian, Thomaz. Taylor Fuchs and Lawrence Stiers were there, who are very sweet and,
both being from the Midwest, and two of the most un-affected models
there are. Kris had arranged a birthday cake for one of the
models for a little pre-show celebration, which made for a very chill and
fun backstage. Nan Goldin was there. Nan Goldin the ARTIST not
"backstage photographer." The show went off without a hitch and I loved
how the guys looked.
Last show last day: Paul Smith. Who was everything I thought he'd
be—a true gentleman. I even got a shot of him drawing his signature
rabbit on the wall pre-show. Very nice man. Played with photographer
Schohaja, whose work I am a huge fan of, grabbed a smoke with Owen and Scott Barnhill and I was done. Done and ready to get started
on my day-early pre-Lacoste party disco nap. I can't wait!
So that's it! And not soon enough. I never thought I'd say this but I'm tired of looking at beautiful boys. Seriously, eight hours a day for
two weeks? It's too much! Don't get me wrong I love them all but I have
to function amongst normal people now and after looking at those
beautiful faces, well, everyone pales horribly in comparison. The
film for these past two weeks will be distributed between vmagazine.com and vman.com so check either location for shows. And go to jdvision for a complete rundown of all my favorites! Au
revoir!
07.11.08 THE MALE CONDITION: PARIS MENSWEAR, DAY THREE Surprise! at Margiela, short but sweet at Hermès, and tough crowds at Raf Simons
What a day. Started at Margiela (or so I thought) for a presentation
which turned out to not even be a presentation or even Margiela for
that matter. Can you imagine? Later I was talking to a friend who was
describing the collection and I realized that's not what I'd seen at
all. Cool nonetheless, but not Margiela. The models were hanging on
chains, lifeless. Everyone once in a while one would raise their hand
and slowly a chain would lower them to the ground for a bathroom break
or whathaveyou. I thought it was very cool and far more conceptual
than what I am normally used to backstage. Though, it wasn't a backstage
at all...
I arrived at Hermès to see cute boys everywhere. We didn't get much time
there as they literally gave us eight minutes to shoot the guys so I
did a quick run-through and still managed to find time to play with a
few of my faves. Not having first looks, several of us decided to walk
around the front and watch the show, which is still so weird to me.
Seeing the guys acting like, well, models. I guess u forget backstage
what it is they actually do. With their personalities stifled on the
runway they were completely different than the happy-go-lucky guys I
play with backstage. The show was a big hit and the outdoor venue was
very cool.
Raf Simons was late in to the evening and was my biggest surprise of
all. Not because the precision of his collection blew me away but
because I decided to watch the show front row with a few editor
friends, which was sorta surreal. Not my cup of tea at all and please
do keep me in the back. The hardest part was trying to not make the
guys laugh, who are SO serious, with their rigid gaits and eyes focused down on the
catwalk. After throwing off the first one that
recognized me I decided to just view the show through my lens and
alleviate any impulse to stop and give them a high five. It worked,
though my pics aren't worth a shit. Well, you can be the judge of that.
So that's day 3, which, I have to say has come out of nowhere. I'm on
autopilot at this point and I have no clue how the other guys do
four weeks of this. Of course I'm sure none of them are subwaying to
shows or using one outlet in their room to charge all of their equipment. However as heinous as that sounds, I wouldn't wanna be anywhere else! Stay tuned for THE LAST DAY motherf*ckers!!! Dior Homme and Paul Smith!
07.09.08 THE MALE CONDITION: PARIS MENSWEAR, DAY TWO Culture clash at Kris Van Assche, pure fashion at Givenchy, and mayhem at John Galliano
Today is the day my fashion spirits were lifted. It started on a good
note at Kris Van Assche, Givenchy kicked it up a notch, and then John Galliano blew my mind. I would even go as far to say it's the funnest
day I've had in fashion—ever!
Kris Van Assche was great! He was great, the clothes were great, the
show was great, great location, beautiful brazilian boys, played with
KCD's Adam Shapiro, met a cute French boy—just great! Before the
show, the South Americans treated us to a good ole fashion dance
off, Capoeira style. It was Brazilians against Argentines and it
really charged up the backstage. Kris Van Assche was very cute and easygoing so there was no snotty French drama to deal with, just a relaxing
way to start the morning.
Givenchy will go down as the best show of the season, mark my words. I've read that Riccardo Tisci's collections are filled with depth and
emotion but it wasn't until being part of the show that I finally got it. I
don't know how "depth" or "emotion" even pertain to fashion but trust,
if you were there, you'd know what I mean. Leathers, straps, soft
fabrics, pink sheer all worn by some of the best guys in the biz. France's most beautiful man Clément Chabernaud was
there along with Thibault, Alex Gilbert, and THE most beautiful German
kid, Givenchy exclusive Jakob Weichmann doing his very first show ever. Which he opened. Everyone looked so sharp and my excitement
was validated first, by the applause at the end of the show and second,
by the many text messages I received from queens sitting in the front row. Oh and I somehow ended up being the only photographer
backstage so there was plenty of space to play with Riccardo himself who
is lovely. Amazing. You'll see.
Next up was John Galliano, who is so f*cking mad I love it! In typical Galliano fashion the show was way out of Paris, which for me (sans
driver) would be a subway or a 50 Euro cab ride. Luckily I ran into Italian photographer Antonello Trio who sweet talked our way into a
van of Japanese cameramen, which made for a very quiet ride.
Upon arrival I was instantly blown away. Shared a smoke out back with
all the guys, who were basically in drag, complete with Pat McGrath
couture makeup, big bushy wigs, spider-net stalkings, and swords worn as
head-pieces. Insane and it was hysterical seeing the discomfort of
half and then, surprisingly, the pleasure the other half took in being
made up. It was one big party à la Galliano and once the show started
the excitement grew. I can honestly say it's the most fun I've had
shooting backstage (girls or boys) ever! The colors, the SHOES (wait
til you see those)—it was all brilliant. And just the pick me up I
needed. Oh and Owen Steuart was there! Actually maybe it was Owen Steuart who made my day. Either way I was happy to finish my last
show with a smile on my face.
07.08.08 MASH UP Riccardo Tisci blends five shoe styles into one for his knockout Givenchy menswear show
The award for most creative footwear goes to Givenchy and Riccardo Tisci, who showed ridiculous and amazing pairs of corseted high-top maryjane wingtips. It's like five shoes in one and it's beyond.
07.07.08 THE MALE CONDITION: PARIS MENSWEAR, DAY ONE JD hits the city of love and light for Dries, Vuitton, and Gaultier
Okay I made it! Turns out I was on the flight back to Paris with all the models so unfortunately I was robbed of the "day of no-fashion" I was hoping for, but please, there's nothing wrong with sitting up front editing film with Sean Opry. Pulling out of Milan, I couldn't fathom another week of shows but arriving to my hotel and seeing "Monsieur JD Ferguson" plastered on a bag full of chic invites, I was charged, and it was suddenly as if Milan had never happened.
With no driver in Paris and the Metro being the quickest and most efficient in the world (minus the pungent smell of B.O.), I spent the first part of my day figuring out how to get from show to show with a map of the subway in one hand and bottle of Evian in the other (old school). I arrived at Louis Vuitton and the guys looked extraordinary. Unfortunately i missed first looks but since I was at Vuitton to shoot a special project I just ran through the backstage afterwards and shot the guys I'd used as well as the model boards (boring I know, but you can get an idea for who was in the show). I was not only impressed with the collection but with designer Paul Helbers, who was very sweet.
Next up was Jean-Paul Gaultier, where I got to meet Patrick Petitjean (my favorite model who I've seen in a million magazines but never met in person) and came across what would be my favorite backstage surprise of the week: Emina, who I L-O-V-E! It was amazing to meet Gaultier. He's incredibly real and very down-to-earth and I sorta halfway kept expecting Madonna to jump out in a bustier circa 1993. Played with photographer Carlotta Manaigo, model Scott Barnhill, and makeup man Tom Pecheux, who I had not yet seen. Entertainment was provided by Omahyra and eye-candy by Simon Nessman. It was quintessential French fashion for me and I felt like I was in the presence of fashion royalty.
Lastly, a long subway trip to the south of Paris for Dries Van Noten, who blew my mind. Hands down my favorite venue thus far. It was an old horse stable in a beautiful park that he had filled with little boxy white european cars (once the Gary Numan kicked in it all made sense) and the runway was cobblestone and sort of on a hill. Editors and guests all sat on wooden planks and everyone seemed to be just as jazzed with the collection and presentation as I was. "I loved it! Favorite show yet!" Well ya, it's Dries, what'd you expect? As usual, the last to know.
The casting was genius too. Julius Beckers, Jeremy, Clément, the boy that attends film school out in LA who's so cool and I cant remember his name, new face Luis Alfonso, Mattias Lauridsen, Felix Shopgens, Cole Mohr—all the fashion boys. And with plenty of time before the show it was nice to eat and smoke and chill before the crowd started pouring in.
So I'm off to a bang. Not so keen on the subway thing but with Paris traffic being what it is, it really is the best way to get around the city. Stay tuned for KVA, Riccardo Tisci at Givenchy and the one and only Galliano!
07.03.08 SAIL AWAY Visionaire celebrates 75 years of Lacoste with a riverboat party on the Seine
On Tuesday night, the Paris fashion pack took a break from sitting front row and instead boarded a boat to celebrate 75 years of Lacoste—as well as the release of Visionaire 54 SPORT. Riccardo Tisci (who presented a knock-'em-dead menswear collection just days prior) rolled in with his post-show crew, Karl Lagerfeld airkissed with actress and girl-of-the-minute Eva Mendes, and revelers partied in kiddie pools with various inflatable toys. Just another evening in the city of love and light.
07.02.08 THE MALE CONDITION: MILAN MENSWEAR, DAY FOUR Milan wraps up with Armani, D&G, Fendi, Calvin, and Dsquared. JD will never be the same
Oh my God I made it. I can't f*cking believe it. With the exception of the heat it went pretty smooth I'd say. Of course I've got images out the ass with no time to edit or write, which is why I'm once again coming to you live from the back of this scooter while Luigi zips through traffic. I'll tell ya, if I was shooting girls and not cute boys this week, I never woulda made it. Though you're in luck—I downed my third espresso of the day before hoppin' on the scooter so my fingers are flying.
Started the morning watching Tyson Beckford do push-ups backstage at Dsquared. I can't think of a better way to start the day except for maybe meeting Dean and Dan for the first time, who were just as hystair as I thought they'd be. One of them kept calling me "hon" and "luv" and "dear" which I thought was cute and they had a great line-up of guys. Couple cute Brazilians I hadn't seen and a couple of my favorite guys to play with backstage. AND they had still water to quench my smoking-way-too-much-and-dehydrated thirst.
Being very familiar with the house of Fendi, I was happy to catch up with Maria Elena and Sylvia and I even shot a nice portrait of the two of them. Backstage was the complete opposite of what you had at Dsquared. It's funny after a week of seeing the same faces over and over you realize there really are just two types of guys on the runway. In Milan anyways. you've got your sexy muscle guys and young skinny fashion boys and then a handful that cross over and can do a little of both. Your Simons and Sean Oprys. Bastiaan, Tom Wade, Jeremy, Matthias Lauridsden, Clément (who I'm convinced is the most beautiful French man ever), Lawrence Stiers, Guido. They were all there.
Next up was Calvin and what a treat that was. Hot boys in jockstraps and one of my favorites Italo Zucchelli. They had bleached up a lot of the guys hair so the blonds were all brought up to white, which looked so great with the clothes. The big hit of the day though would be the suits modeled by Blaine Cook and VMAN model search runner-up AJ. Both in Day-Glo green and orange, which the crowd went crazy for immediately, much to the delight of Italo and all the little Italian ladies backstage. SO many hotties at this show, Florian in particular, who I could not stop shooting and ended up making me really late to D&G.
By the time I arrived things were pretty much in full swing. The guys all looked great and, unfortunately, I don't know if you've noticed but I never do Stefano and Domenico's shows justice. They've got fluorescent, neon, and every other sort of lighting possible to confuse an amateur like me but the boys all looked amazing. And they've got one of the best spreads in town so it's always the perfect place to kill the stomach cramps.
Last up was Giorgio Armani. Or so I thought. And thank God for Matt Loewen, Noah Mills, and this hot new Brazilian boy (whose name I haven't gotten yet) because if I didn't have them to chat up I would never have made it through the day. The clothes, I liked, and I was happy to see Adrian Brody. Giorgio looks amazing and it's always a treat to watch him do his thing.
So I thought that was it for the day and then just as Luigi and I were headin out of the city I spotted a group of models on the sidewalk. Holy shit it's Belstaff! I was in such a good mood with Armani being my last show of the week, but with Miro being one of the guys out on the street, I decided what the hell. I'm glad I did because it was a great casting. Julius, Sean O, Phillip H (who i love), Sebastian, Mat Gordon, Matthias L. The clothes were super fun and it was the perfect way to end the day!
So that's it for Milan. Told you it was gonna be all about the boys! Good thing Belstaff was so far away because I never woulda gotten all this out! Time for me to pack and head to Malpensa. See ya in Paris!
06.30.08 THE MALE CONDITION: MILAN MENSWEAR, DAY THREE It's a mad, mad world, but the relaxed and easy chic of Gucci gives JD a second wind
OMG I feel like I've been hit by a truck and it's only day three. Thankfully I had one show today and then an afternoon filled with presentations,
which are so easy-breezy for me. Yes we are aware our coverage has been
like molasses but I'm afraid being a one man show and dealing with a
slow Internet connection, well, it's a bit of a bad combo. So thank God for Gucci because there ain't nothen as relaxing as a chilled backstage
and boys in robes.
The guys looked great in crisp colorful suits with bags and shoes of
floral print. So many of my faves were there: Luigi Murenu, Pat McGrath, Michel Gaubert,
newcomers Matthias B and Julius Beckers, Tom Wade, Adrian W, Jay Massacret, Nicola Formichetti, and even James Franco (who I caught out of
the corner of my eye and managed to snap a shot of backstage). After
the show I snuck out front with my camera blindly pointed at the runway
and managed to grab a couple shots.
06.27.08 COVER BOY VMAN Ford model search winner Petey debuts on the runway in Milan
Rolled into McQueen and there he was, Petey from Tennessee, winner of the VMAN Ford model search and the next cover shot by Hedi Slimane. Wait 'til you see it.
Petey Wright backstage at Alexander McQueen, Spring/Summer 2009 Photography JD Ferguson
06.25.08 THE MALE CONDITION: MILAN MENSWEAR, DAY TWO JD chugs along with Cavalli, McQueen, and Prada. It's a lot of looks and a lot of boys
I have no clue where to begin today and with so much downloading,
editing, and uploading ahead of me I've decided to pull out the old bb
right here on the back of this moped (which I know no one likes) and
just give you the highlights of the day while Luigi runs red lights to get
me back to my hotel. Oh yeah, he's back. My intrepid little driver from a
couple seasons ago? He's MA-jor and somehow manages to always have a
bottle of water waiting for me after each show. He buys my cigarettes
and even turns up with Mickey D's every once in awhile. I've got about a
25-minute ride ahead of me so lemme just bottom line it.
Bottega Veneta is where I started the day and all I can remember about
that show is Simon Nessman. Oh, and the clothes. Elegant and chic with
rich colors and big manly bags. Loved it. John Pfeiffer did an amazing
job with the casting and if I wasn't running so late to my next show I
woulda stuck around for more looks.
Eric Wright was at Cavalli, which made my day, as well as Charlotte Tilbury, who I love, and French hottie Michael Vinant. All I wanted to
do when I got there was down a big bottle of Evian but of course in Milan all you get is sparkling water which is fine but not so
productive when your tongue is stuck to the roof of your mouth and
everyone seems to want to talk to you. The music was great, I shot the
rehearsal, grabbed a smoke with a couple of the guys, and I was off to Ferré for a presentation. Which, as far as presentations go, was top
notch. Karl Templer styled it and the guys looked impeccable. Illuminated on a large white stage with no editors just photographers
happy to be able to shoot what and how they wanted and be done with it.
Ran over to Ferragamo for an uber-luxurious collection. Once again
amazing bags, great casting, shot the designer, met a famous ballet
dancer, more Sean O'Pry, Simon, Noah Mills, Nate Nesbitt, that boy Francisco from Red that I shot at The Cast a couple seasons ago... It was a very
relaxed show and the PRs were all very friendly. Oh and speaking of
PRs the ones that come over from New York are THE best to deal with
and all the Italians at the shows are so chill and professional. None
of this "always have something to say" bs you get in New York.
Emporio, like everything Armani does, was a huge event. The usual 100
models, big space, very elegant, and always the best accommodations and
food complete with espresso and catering. They had painted the guys
hair and eyebrows gold which felt like Halloween when your see your
friends in their costumes for the first time and you can't recognize
anybody. All the guys kept wanting to see their pics after I shot them
and they all ran around making fun of each other.
Thank God Alexander McQueen (which I was so excited to shoot) was right
around the corner so I was finally able to make up some time and end
my late streak. The clothes were incredible! I was completely blown
away only to look at the photos after and realize most of my photos
were out of focus. Note to self: do not pass off your camera to a model
to run around backstage and shoot their friends. They WILL change your
settings and mess up your camera. Big mistake.
Last but not least was Prada, which could not have been a better way to
end the day. There's something about shooting the best that just puts a
smile on your face. Like Marc Jacobs, Muiccia always has the freshest
faced models and usually produces the upcoming season's biggest stars. My money is on newcomer Mathias B from Stockholm and Julius Beckers
from Düsseldorf who you'll be seeing a LOT of between here and Paris. LOVE!
So we're here! I'm pulling into the (are you ready for this) Leonardo Da Vinci Hotel and I'm exhausted. I'd say the highlights of my day were Guido hooking me up with a haircut backstage at Prada and seeing my
buddy Sean Cunningham from Harper's Bazaar backstage at McQueen.
Next up Gucci! Complete with an afterparty, James Franco, and the unveilling of their new fragrance.
06.24.08 THE MALE CONDITION: MILAN MENSWEAR, DAY ONE JD Ferguson goes boy crazy at Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Burberry
Welcome to my very own personal slice of heaven—men's backstage Milan Spring/Summer 2008. (Where I shoulda been all along.) C'mon you didn't think I was gonna shoot handbags and spiked heels forever? I have to admit I thought it was going to be a cake-walk but with the same amount of shows as the girls with half the amount of days, I'm back-to-back with ten shows a day. And between Delta losing my luggage and then having to basically hitchhike to my first show (my scooter broke down) my morning was one part "What have I gotten myself into?" and two parts "WTF?"
Started the morning at Costume National, expecting black turtlenecks, but was quickly surprised with the light and airy futuristic designs of Ennio Capasa. I was blown away with Daniel Peddle's casting and quickly spotted a few fresh young faces. A beautiful Swedish red-head named Gordon and a quirky little German boy called Felix Schopgens. Tried to stick around for first looks but with the show running late and David Gandy waiting at Dolce, I was outta there.
And speaking of, yes, he's just as hot in person as he is in the mags. Total man. In boxers nonetheless. Backstage was wall to wall with gorgeous men wearing everything from pajamas to pin-striped suits, all with glasses and big fancy bags. The highlight of the show for me though was playing with my girl Pat McGrath and hairstylist Eugene Souleiman. And, of course, the backstage photographers: Greg Kessler, Jason Lloyd Evans, and James Cochrane. I even got Greg to show the models how to work a bag, which was a riot.
Next up, Missoni. Meeting the woman behind the name was a total treat. Not only is Angela Missoni beautiful, she's also totally down-to-earth and has a great sense of humor (which we love). The clothes were exactly what you'd expect from this Italian classic: loose-knit sweaters, finely woven cardigans, scarfs, and floral prints. All with beautiful color and incredible-looking boys. Got to play with my buddy Sean Opry, one of my other faves Mat Gordon, and I discovered THE most adorable boy from Berlin named Julian. Downed some (non-fizzy) water and I was off!
By Burberry my mind was reeling from all the eye-candy and this show was no exception. Christopher Bailey's collection made me want to curl up in one of his sweaters and lay in bed, between the color palette and textures of the clothes to the melancholy sounds of the Pet Shop Boys. Bastiaan Ninaber, Tom W, Marcus from VNY, DNA's Eddie Klint...all the boys were there.
Lastly, the incomparable Donatella Versace. Who, I have to admit, left me a little awestruck. She's FABulous and Allegra was there and looked great. Of course the formal wear was right on point but the collection had a whole other side to it that I didn't expect—sportswear. Which I'd never seen so relaxed and sophisticated with cool colors, comfortable fabrics, and just the right amount of skin. I finally got to play with Guido and, of course, he and Pat had me in stitches. Seeing Gabriel Aubry was the perfect way to end the day.
So that's it for day one...whew. Clearly this week is going to be about the boys, but HELLLOOOO, this is VMAN. Still ahead: Bottega Veneta, Gianfranco Ferré, Roberto Cavalli, Ferragamo, Prada, Mr. Armani himself, and my very first Alexander McQueen show. With VMAN going quarterly we've got lots of pages to fill so look for all the best shots in the upcoming issues!
05.15.08 CRUISED OUT John Galliano hits NYC for Dior's all-out opulent Cruise 2008 show. JD Ferguson shoots the new look
So I'm loving these off-season fashion shows. Low stress (actually, no stress) except for the ever-present element of having to fight your way backstage, (this is New York, after all). And everyone seems so rested and happy to see each other. The highlight for me, as usual, was Pat McGrath, whose makeup was, as usual, flawless. And she's the first person to almost have me convinced to join Facebook.
Backstage was so chill and relaxed. The clothes, though resort wear, had that opulent fab factor that is purely John Galliano and it was exciting to have him here in the city. The show was held uptown at Guastivino's on the Upper East Side and felt more like a night out at the theater than a fashion show.
I was happy to see so many of my favorite girls backstage. Flavia and Magdalena looked amazing, played with my girl Tanya D, caught up with Jessica Stam about her DJ gig Tuesday night and met Marilyn's new rising star Arlenis. All in all, it was an easy breezy night. No chain smoking or doubling up on espressos and rushing around frantically. Just resort wear done right! Thanks John!
The scene at Dior Cruise 2008, Tuesday, May 13, 2008 Photography JD Ferguson
Click here
for a slideshow from Christian Dior Cruise 2008
05.09.08 GOOD JEANS Friends, fashion, and sexy cameramen at the launch of Rogan Gregory's new line for Target at Barneys
Holy shit! Rogan's launch party for Target at Barneys Thursday night was off the hook! And not just because Rogan and partner Scott Hahn are so nice or because of the hot Swiss cameraman that I chased around all night but because I think I'm in love with Amanda Peet! Is that even possible? I don't know if it was Benjamin Cho spinning or the flowing bubbly but the clothes were flying off the racks! Everybody was there and it was a total blast! Thanks for a fun night guys!
The scene at the launch party of Rogan for Target at Barneys New York, May 8, 2008 Photography JD Ferguson
Click here
for a slideshow from the launch of Rogan for Target
02.13.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY EIGHT It's a wrap with Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, and Marc Jacobs
WOW! Fashion week Fall 2008 has come and gone. I can't believe it. It seems like just yesterday I was sitting at the Genius Bar up at that tourist trap of an Apple store on Fifth and now I'm uploading film from my last day of shooting. Which was surprisingly my funnest day, for some reason, though I dont know if it's because I finally got the kinks worked out of my Ralph pics or because I saw Kevin Federline at Marc Jacobs. (Victoria who?)
Shooting Ralph is one of the more pleasant experiences of my week for the simple fact that I love the clothes and the girls always look amazing. However my pics are always unflattering and all over the place due to the warm lighting they use backstage. Well not this season. Thanks to photographer Antonello Trio who tooled around with the settings on my camera for about ten minutes leaving me with the best photos I've had from this show yet. I know it seems like a simple thing but I've never been able to do his clothes justice and this time the girls don't look red. The clothes were, as always, beautiful and the girls never look as elegant as they do at his show. And where else are we offered four types of creamers for our coffee? We always do last looks from the first show and first looks for the last so there is plenty of time to socialize with everyone, which for me means Guido, Tom Pecheux, and the backstage photographers. Needless to say, it's alot of fun.
Next up bella Donna! Who, if your looking for elegance and comfort for fall, is your best bet. It seems cliché to say Donna is conscious of the female form or liberates her customer with flattering loose design but, more than ever, with this collection the Donna Karan woman is not only confident in her skin but sensual as well. I couldn't believe how beautiful her collection was with unique draping of chiffons, silks, and satins all with a languid quality, though still structured with her signature touch. Philip Treacy's hats blew me away as did witnessing the media circus around Susan Sarandon. Being the last day, I was far too tired to fight for first looks so I shot what I could on the way out and decided to join a few other stragglers off runway during the show. Played with Charlotte Tilbury, caught up with Catherine McNeil, shot Isabeli's tattoo of her son Zion and I was off to nap before Marc.
Because we all know Marc is going to start hours late right? WRONG. Like everyone else, I took my time getting to the Armory only to learn hair and makeup was over and the girls were already in first looks. No worries, I'll just run out front and shoot the crowd, that's usually my favorite part of a Marc show anyways. The last thing i expected to see front of house was Marc himself onstage telling everyone to sit down and that he was ready to start the show at 7:31! Huh? Was I in the right place? Hollywood starletts, rappers, editors, and local celebs were all frantically rushing in and I thought the night would be a bust for me until the hottest guy in a suit and mohawk was briskly escorted by with a six-person entourage. Was he some European footballer or a porn star I was not aware of? "No dummy, that's Kevin Federline," said the drag queen standing beside me. Hot!
The show was like a five-minute concert, with Sonic Youth center stage, and seemed to be over before it began. Everyone was echoing my feeling of "Was that it?" which was no reflection on the collection, it just seemed strange to be leaving the armory thinking "I was late to a Marc Jacobs show." Genius move on Marc's part considering last season's debacle. Always thinking, that Marc. Gotta love him!
So thats it, ya'll. It was a mess of a week but I guess we made it. I'll be off to Miami tomorrow and perhaps will be motivated enough to do a season recap...or not. Either way hope you enjoy all the pics!
Top: the maddening crowd at Marc Jacobs Bottom, from left: backstage at Donna Karan Photography JD Ferguson
02.12.08 ZAC ATTACK Some of New York's best soles walked down Zac Posen's runway this season. JD was swooning
There were a lot of great shoes at New York fashion week (Marc by Marc and Jonathan Saunders included), but Zac Posen's satin platform heels stole the show.
02.11.08 THE BIG STEP Karen Elson makes her New York comeback and goes for a trip at Zac Posen
Karen Elson came back with a bang for New York fashion week. Remember the scene in Sex and the City when Carrie bites it on the runway. Well unlike Carrie, who laid there while Heidi klum stepped over and walked around her, the redheaded supermodel got a much-appreciated helping hand from Brazilian model Caroline Trentini. Of course, Karen, being the superstar that she is, laughed her way off the catwalk.
Backstage at Zac Posen, Fall/Winter 2008 Photography JD Ferguson
02.11.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY SEVEN Francisco's big hit, Karen's big fall, and more fashion week
WOW! Today totally rocked. Not only was my first show at 4 p.m. which gave me all day to catch up on blogs and uploading images but I got to chill at Calvin, score at Tommy, and be completely blown away by Zac Posen. AND I was photographed by portrait artist Anna Bauer, who was backstage with a large-format Polaroid camera doing beautiful black-and-whites for the National Portrait Gallery in London. I was so honored even though I looked like shit.
With two shows back to back Calvin is the show of the week where you get to eat good food and catch up with friends, which for me means Guido and Pat McGrath, who we all know I love. The lighting at Calvin is always the trickiest for me so my pics are usually a mess but this season it was all about the backstage photographers for me. Once again we were able to shoot the girls against a white wall which, if you remember my first season, gave some pretty incredible results, however this time no dice. So i just decided to shoot all the action and watch the big guns do their thing. The clothes were incredibly chic and Francisco is so shy and sweet I just had to get a picture of him taking his bow.
Jammed up to Lincoln Center for Tommy only to learn there would be no guys in the show (how disappointed was I), however my old friend George Cortina was there so I got to catch up with him and meet Isabeli's adorable son Zion and boyfriend Ricardo Mansur who was just as nice as he was handsome. Got MAJOR camera lessons from WWD/W Magazine's veteran photographer Kyle Erickson who has been a huge help to me this week. AND Helena Christensen was there, who I met my first night in New York years ago and looked just as gorgeous as ever. All of us were guaranteed first looks but with the show running so late and in such a cramped space I'm happy to report I just happened to be in the right place at the right time and managed to grab some of the only Tommy images you'll see this season. It was a total zoo.
Tonight was my first Zac Posen show and I can't believe how much fun I had. Not only were the clothes gorgeous but the backstage was a full-on party with champagne being passed around to a select group of guests. I quickly learned, unlike other shows, you truly do have to be someone to be backstage at Zac. Caught up with Vogue girl Kathryn Neale and tried to snag a shot of one of my all-time faves Veronica Webb, who is so savvy about having her photo taken that she actually looks at your badge before deciding whether or not you're getting a shot. Unfortunately as mine was buried in a sea of backstage passes I'm afraid I didnt make the cut. I didn't care though, she's still fierce and I kinda love that about her. I never would have imagined Karen Elson fell on the runway by the way she came off the stage, which was all smiles and laughter. I guess when you're a superstar you learn how to handle these types of things, but me personally, I would die. And unlike Carrie Bradshaw, who Heidi Klum stepped over and left for roadkill, Karen had Caroline Trentini who stopped and helped her up.
After Zac I was so high I thought I'd head down to Don Hill's for Aggy's birthday party with a performance by the Paddingtons. Only to learn that Teen Vogue had an exclusive for the night, and I'm sorry I would've died with that many fabulous people in one place and not be able to shoot. So I hung out with the lovely julia stegner, caught up with a Misshape, wished Aggy a happy b-day, and put my tired ass to bed.
Top: Coco Rocha and Behati Prinsloo backstage at Zac Posen. Bottom left: Diana F. and Toni Garrn backstage at Calvin Klein. Bottom right: Tanya Dziahileva backstage at Zac Posen. Photography JD Ferguson
02.08.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY SIX The pace picks up with Michael Kors, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and Derek Lam
Today's the day. Michael Kors, Phillip Lim, and Derek Lam not only got my juices flowing but restored my faith in New York fashion. In fact I was so charged I managed to drag my tired ass to Phillip's after-party, after waking up so late for my first show, I ended up brushing my teeth up at the tents. (Don't tell anyone.) The glamour of Michael Kors, the simplicity of 3.1 Phillip Lim, and the chicness of Derek Lam. Today was the funnest, fashion-wise, I've had yet.
Michael Kors was, as usual, spot on. I loved it all and I love that with Michael you always get a complete "look". I love the drama of his collections and come Fall one can only assume with everything from camel suits with narrow skirts to full-length gowns, the Kors woman will either be lunching uptown or heading out for a night at the Met. Floral skirts, leopard prints, sable coats, fun cocktail dresses, lots of tweed, brimmed hats...the whole package, honey. I love shit done right. And the guys, oh my God, don't even get me started. I thought they looked so great, like right off the set of Mad Men or something. So sharp and handsome. Noah Mills was completely pimped out in head-to-toe cashmere and suede with matching bag, scarf, and hat all in camel. Most of the guys wore big rimmed glasses but no one looked better in them than Henry Barnacle, who I think has such a great look. I can't think of a better way to start my day. Oh here's a better way: Garrett's abs. Well done Michael!
With a big fat break between shows, Daiane Conterato and I cabbed downtown for a bite to eat. And yes there is food at the tents but after awhile it stops tasting like food and I was dying for just a slice of pizza and high octane java out of a machine as opposed to a thermos. Woofed down two slices of pepperoni, knocked backed a double espresso, and I was back up at the tents for the ever-so-understated Phillip Lim, who i love, and Erin Roberts who handles his PR who I love even more. His collection was so versatile with a sophisticated edge but young and playful at the same time. I couldn't figure out whether to call my mom or my kid sis. The jewelry was the best I've seen all week and the casting was amazing. Daniel Peddle did a great job of lining up all the freshest-faced newcomers around. The highlight for me however was when Irina got all high fashion on me (much to the irritation of the other photographers, who she wound-up by playfully refusing to repeat any of the same poses). I loved Phillips collection and I loved even more shooting his after-party which went late into the night.
Next up was Derek Lam who completely blew me away. I don't know enough about fashion to have a clear grasp of Derek Lam's design, simply because I've only seen one other collection, which was last fall and was completely different from what I saw today. First of all the gowns bordered on couture. The gown Natasha Poly had on left one thinking of Paris and she loved it just as much as i did. Finally got to see Behati and Coco together, did a run-through out front, shot the mob scene backstage, downed a red bull, and I was off to a night of total mayhem with the 3.1 gang!
Whew. It's almost over! Stay tuned for Tommy, Calvin, and and my first time shooting Zac!
02.08.08 BREAKOUT BOY British model Tom W. scored big in New York and scooped a shoot for VMAN
How cute is this boy? His name is Tom W., he's with Public Image and I think he's the shit! When VMAN asked me to choose a boy to shoot this week for the Spring issue, he was the first one who came to mind.
Backstage at John Varvatos, Fall/Winter 2008 Photography JD Ferguson
02.07.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY FIVE It's all a blur but JD presses on with Rodarte, Diesel, and Marc by Marc
Jesus, what a week! It's all starting to seem like a blur. I've been
getting e-mails and texts telling me to stop blogging from the back of
cabs and port-a-potties up at the tents. Dont know if it's because I'm
hittin' the big 4-0 saturday or because I'm having so much fun this
season, but I just haven't found time to write. And rest assured I am
having fun.
Started the day with Rodarte. What a scene, holy shit! Everyone was
there. I'm still loving their spiked heels which appear to be a
trademark at this point and the gowns were flowing works of art.
Besides having the luxury of a large backstage, Karen Elson was there.
She looked amazing and filled me in on how much fun it's been being
back on-set since having her second baby. Aggy looked amazing and was
hounded by the press going from interview to interview for a solid
hour. I couldn't bear to ask her for a shot so I played with Irina and
James Kaliardos who had me in stitches as did my buddy Tim Blanks, who
I always love seeing. Jammed down to the front row for my obligatory
shot of Anna and I was off to the tents for Diesel.
Diesel was CRAAAAZY. Full-on media circus but so many of my faves were
there so I just grabbed a bite and kicked back with Freja and Lara
Stone. Played with Sean Opry, who is still one of my faves and looked
amazing with the eyes James had painted on. As much as I love a new
face there's something special about the ones I started backstage with
and he and Diana Moldovan are SO cute together. (I f@cking love her!)
The casting was totally different for Diesel this year with guys
looking more like they'd just walked off St. Marks as opposed to the
pages of models.com. Natasa V was there which was a total treat. Played
with her and JK and I was off.
Next up, Marc by Marc which made my entire day. One thing you can
always count on at a Marc show is seeing the hottest new faces and
especially at Marc by Marc. Cole Mohr, Luke, Tom W, Trent Kendrick,
Parker Boes, Bastiaan Ninaber were on the boys side and all with hats
with their names across the top in big, bold font. Thank God for my
baby Tanya D because besides her, Irina Kulikova, Siri Tollerød, Laragh
McCann (who is so cute) and Carolina Pantoliano, I didn't know anyone.
The clothes were so fresh and fun with bright-colored party dresses,
big bags, and the most amazing shoes in neon-orange and blue. Played
with Ali Michael's mother Marianne who's so lovely and being from texas
always leaves me missing my mom. Did a thing with Marc for Bryanboy (the self-proclaimed
"third world fag" who is so gay he "sweats glitter") who we both love.
Came home and put my ass to bed (I think I'm getting sick). Oh and Marc
looked great by the way, not strung out, or hanging from a sling, or
any of this other crap you read these days. He seemed rested,
confident, and ready to get down to business. Well done, Marc!
Whew! What a day. Stay tuned for the Michael Kors, Philip Lim, and Derek Lam!
02.06.08 STEP UP In a sea of soles, Jonathan Saunders cobbles the hit of New York fashion week
I've seen a few thousand shoes over the past few days but Jonathan Saunders's range of multi-colored patchwork leather boots and heels are arguably some of the most gorgeous for Fall 2008.
02.06.08 NEW FASHION WEEK, DAY FOUR It's just another manic Monday with Oscar de la Renta and John Varvatos
Oh my God today rocked! I was completely blown away at Oscar de la Renta AND for the first time we actually got to photograph Oscar himself, who is so eloquent and nice. The clothes were gorgeous though the backstage during the show was a madhouse with limited space for just the models and us. With entrances on opposite ends of the venue, the girls had to run down a tight corridor and then a wooden plank all in high heels and full gowns. We photographers all did our best to stay out of their way but it's moments like these, with everyone working as a team, that I truly love fashion.
Finally got to see my girl Raquel and with so many Brazilians in the house I was sure to do snap shots for Juliano from Made in Brazil, who supplies us with all our wonderful Brazilian fashion week coverage! Raquel, Trentini, Bruna, Isabeli, Flavia, and one of my all-time faves Caroline Ribeiro. The clothes were amazing and I finally got to meet Australian Abbey Lee, who is with Next and seems to be the new face of the week. Aggy, who has been looking just as good off the runway as on, was once again hounded by the press.
Monday is always catch-up day for me with so much time between shows and the last being my favorite, John Varvatos. I was able to knock out some blogs and even scored a quick nap before Chloë's blowout at Webster Hall.
I've said it before, I'll say it again, John Varvatos is THE designer for girls who can't get their boyfriends to dress right. He does bags, suede, and leather like no other and the clothes are always in comfortable fabrics and flattering colors. Played with Tim Blanks caught up with GQ's Jim Nelson and shot the shit with Garrett about his new camera (nicer than mine) while Nick Snider snapped shots. John's show is always a rock-legend blowout. Last season we had Alice Cooper and this year we got Joan Jett and Cheap Trick which rocked! McDreamy or McSteamy or whatever the guy's name is from that television show was there, which had all the female dressers gaga but for me it's all about the models at Varvatos. He always has the hottest, youngest, fresh-faced guys and does a good variety with the casting. AND if all that isn't enough he's a really nice guy.
Popped by the East Village with some of the guys for a slice of pizza and a smoke before heading over to Webster Hall which was a total blast. Stay tuned for breakfast at TSE, madness at Rodarte, celebrity circus at the tents, and the always fabulous Marc Jacobs.
02.05.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY THREE Super Sunday madness with DKNY, Diane von Furstenberg, Jonathan Saunders, and Miss Sixty
Holy fashion week crisis, Batman! So I'm coming to you live from the back of a cab and just realized in addition to shooting, chain smoking and picking up the models I'm actually suppose to be blogging. F@ck! Sorry 'bout that ya'll it's been crazy.
Sunday was insane! DKNY was packed with all the newest kids and as usual Donna was a total blast. I got THE money shot at DVF. After writing so long about wanting to meet the gorgeous icon who woulda thought I'd actually get her and my other favorite icon Susan Sarandon. Totally made my day.
Jonathan Saunders was a total treat. I love shooting shows at the tunnel and his shoes were my favorite of the week. So fun, so bold and colorful and I got to finally see my girlfriend Lara Stone who looked amazing! Blew kisses at Guido, caught up with Mary Alice Stephenson and I was off to the chaos that is Miss Sixty.
Oh my God. Celebrity celebrity celebrity...it was out of control. Seeing Milla Jovovich was a huge plus and I can't think of a better way to end a crazy day than having Emina translate nasty words for me in each of the five languages she speaks.
So. We are here, we are covering fashion week and there will be loads to come. Wait until you see the pics from Chloë Sevigny's party with Opening Ceremony at Webster Hall. Insane!
02.05.08 COCO POPS! The little girl from a V casting forever ago is now a full-grown superstar
Years ago I met a young girl and her mother on a casting at V. Then I walked into backstage during my first season and there she was. A star. I love Coco Rocha.
Coco Rocha backstage at Diane Von Furstenberg, Fall 2008 Photography JD Ferguson
02.05.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY TWO JD hits his stride with Lacoste, Patrik Ervell, and Z Zegna
What a way to start fashion week. The good news is I got my computer back the bad news is im way backed up on blogs but after a wet Friday and a night of panic Lacoste, Patrik Ervell, and Z Zegna made it all better.
Lacoste was SO fun. I love Christophe Lemaire. He has done such a great job keeping Lacoste young and fresh and I not only got to see some of my favorite girls but all my backstage photographer buddies. Vogue's Robert Fairer (and his handsome assistant), Greg Kessler of style.com, and British Elle's Matt Lever. Love those guys. But not even the fun colors or hiking boots with heels could top getting to catch up with Coco, Tanya, and Irina.
Jammed over to Pier 59 for the sophistication and refinement that is Patrik Ervell and I won't bore you with how meticulously crafted, well-executed, or flawless his collection was, but those are the words that come to mind. Who knew that that shy little Swedish kid I used to sit across from in the office would turn out to be such a hand with design. Again, Patrik, great job!
Down to the West Village for Zegna and I was happy to arrive early, at exactly 4:20 actually. The guys all looked amazing in peacoats and hats and some even in fur. But seeing Matt Gordon in his "Lestat" trench, as we joked, made the show for me. And who doesn't love a hands-on designer? It was a treat watching Alessandro Sartori work on the guys up to the last second and a reminder of why no one does menswear like the Italians. Very impressive.
Now it's gettin good! The "f*ck i have to work" part gets replaced with
the "I actually get to play with a lot of people i like" part. It's on!
Still to come: DKNY, a legendary encounter at DVF, British import Jonathan Saunders, Miss Sixty, Chloë Sevigny's party at Webster Hall, and an Olsen twin in a pear tree.
02.04.08 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY ONE Mercury's in retrograde but that doesn't stop JD from shooting
Welcome to our backstage 2008 conflamera drama! And for all you Mercury retrograders out there lemme tell ya...there has been drama. Rolled into town and right over to the tents for early Friday morning eye candy furnished by Nautica and Perry Ellis and it could not have been a better way to start my week. I'm afraid one day into it with a crashed hard drive (spent all Friday night at the Genius Bar at the Apple uptown) and a server down, we were on the verge of a meltdown, but nonetheless here we are! And oh my God where do I start.
Nautica was off the hook. Got to play with creative director Mirian Lamberth who explained to me the ice-sailing theme which led to bright colored long-johns and hot men in spandex tights. What a fun collection. Lots of color, nice coats, scarves, ski boots, the whole shebang. And the casting was amazing.
And if watching half a dozen shirtless guys run around wasn't enough right next door was Perry Ellis which mixed alot of the same guys and added a whole cast we've come to know and love. Simon Nessman, Owen Steuart, Arthur Kulkov, Helge, Mat Gordon, Travis Davenport—it was too much. Nice bags, sweaters, hats, and the guys all looked great.
Boys, boys, boys! Not such a bad way to start, right? Oh, and Mr. Big was there!
Backstage at Perry Ellis, Fall 2008 Photography JD Ferguson
10.19.07 NEW YORK BOSS BOSS Black comes to NYC for a blowout Spring 2008 show
Hugo Boss's show Wednesday night was out of control. I'd actually go as far as to say it was the most fun I've had backstage yet ('90s excluded). I don't know if it was because everyone was rested and happy to be working without all the fashion week hooplah, or the spread of food and endlessly flowing bubbly that had smiles on everyone's faces. The entire night turned out to be like a big party with friends but all dressed up in expensive, gorgeous outfits. What a night!
The casting was all I could see. Andrew Weir literally had something for everyone all within the Hugo Boss aesthetic. Where else have we seen Sasha Pivovarova lined up with Joshua Walter or Catherine McNeil standing alongside Ryan Taylor? It was like an all-stars mixer. Fionn, Jamie, Mathias, Owen, Michael Gandolfi, and Ford's new
French import Julien Q, all suited up in Boss's signature sleek
tailored silhouette. Nothin' wrong with that!
Played with Lara Stone, who the boys could not get enough of, and don't
I know it, she's so much fun. Then I ran into the other highlight of my
evening, my girl Tanya D. I wrote so much about Tanya my first time
around but she has since become a seasoned work horse with a record of
73 shows for Spring 2008—AND she was sick during New York. I barely saw
her. We had a good laugh, shared an apple, and talked about our MySpace
pages.
And with the usual pack of photographers back in their
respective countries I got to enjoy shooting alongside Patrick
McMullan, whom I love. My buddy Kiko helped us work out the kinks (that
is, when I was able to peel him away from the champagne and models) as
my flash was all over the place and Patrick was in need of batteries.
And
let's not forget the clothes. It was uber-chic at it's finest. Classic
Hugo Boss...like the BMW of high fashion. The entire night was so fun
and relaxed it didn't even feel like work.
09.17.07 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY NINE JD wraps things up with Donna Karan, Anne Klein, and Tommy
Last day, oh my goddess! Donna Karan, Anne Klein and Tommy Hilfiger and then I'm FREE!!! Well not so much, still lots of writing and uploading to do and V apologize for the interruption in our coverage this week. Routine site maintenance shut us down for a day, but nonetheless here we are!
Donna Karan comes in two parts: first the younger, more playful DKNY and then the more
mature sophisticated Donna Karan woman. Same location, same great food,
same crew—it always feels like home. The bad part about the last day
is that all three shows are back to back and spread out all over the city
which makes for a rushed morning. But I managed to get some shots in
hair and makeup before having to rush uptown to the tents. Sat in on Guido's interview with MTV's always enthusiastic SuChin Pak, whose early
morning perkiness was better than the black coffee I was pumping into
my veins. Got an update from Aggy's parents on their first fashion
week, had fun eavesdropping on all of Charlotte Tilbury's interviews (and
there were many), spoke to Gaby Karan about all that's happening
for Spring, then put my ass in a taxi and I was off!
I was excited to get to the tents for Anne Klein after her
successful debut last spring. I love Isabel and Ruben and of course
there is always the added benefit of JK on makeup! Camilla Nickerson
was styling and looked better than ever and I got to see Ali Michael's
mom from Dallas who I'd met last spring at a second hand shop out in Williamsburg. The clothes were amazing and very graphic. Seeing the
movement of the pieces was like art in motion, which is what Isabel
said was her inspiration. I guess that's the benefit of having an
artist husband. The show went off without a hitch and I was off to
Tommy!
Held at the Hammerstein Ballroom, Tommy's show always
accommodates loads of international press. Only the large American mags
were given first looks, solidifying V's european appeal, which was fine
by me. I unfortunately witnessed Raquel having three inches accidentally
cut off the back of her hair which came to my attention via a large gasp
from her once she realized what had happened. What a class act she is. She was more concerned with putting the culprit at ease than she was
the fact that she'd just received an unexpected trim. Snejana and I
seemed more upset about it than she did. Backstage was total chaos with Rosario Dawson and Tommy being mobbed by the press, George Cortina
running through giving a once-over, and Didier Malige putting all the
finishing touches on the girls. They all looked amazing.
Tah-dah! That's it! New York fashion week
Spring/Summer 2008 has come and gone. What a week. I said my goodbyes to the European contingents who were headed home and shocked that I wouldn't be
doing Milan or Paris (I can only take so much of this). Came home
and slept for two days! Hope you've enjoyed all the coverage and look
for my end-of-season wrap-up and several other specials in days to
come!
09.14.07 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY EIGHT Stewardesses at Marc, nice and easy at Calvin, and craziness at Heatherette
Ugh...my head. Played with Mario, Demi, and Courtney late into the night, so was happy to stroll back into The Armory at 1 p.m. for Marc by Marc Jacobs, which is the new Marc Jacobs for me. So fun!
Got to do an impromptu photo shoot with Marc himself who seemed exhausted. I love what he's done for spring. It was like geometric '50s airline stewardess meets grandma's closet with lots of bold color. The girls all had smart little hats and some even donned accessories made out of legos which just accentuated the contrasting panels of color. Unfortunately my flash was on the brink so my Marc by Marc pics are all over the place, but hopefully you can get a feel for the collection. Lily and Freja grilled me on whats it's like to grow a beard, played with new fave Cole from Request, and got to hang with my kid sis Behati. The show was a total success and Marc seemed relieved it was all over with.
Next up Calvin Klein which would be my second and last of the day. Arriving early I thought I'd sit in on the pre-show run through with Pat McGrath, Guido, and Francisco cheering and trying to get the girls to crack a smile while putting them through their paces. Just then I saw her. Who is this gorgeous blonde opening the show? Turns out her name is Toni Garrn from Women and Francisco seemed as excited about her as the collection. As he later told me, he snatched her up for a year exclusive the second he laid eyes on her. She is breathtaking in person and all anyone backstage could talk about, which says a lot with Julianne Moore standing right beside her. The clothes were classic Calvin and I was excited to indulge myself with a little disco nap between the two shows.
Finishing the day early I thought I'd head home for a relaxing afternoon of blogging until I received a text from hottie Ryan Schira who was right around the corner at Heatherette! And as I missed his Italian debut in nothing but a thong, I thought it best to head over.
I love Richie Rich. I've been runnin' with that girl since Limelight and was thrilled to not only show him some long overdue support but to hang with THE Jenna Jameson (who had me in such awe I forgot to snap a shot...retarded, I know). His show was better than Saturday night at the club. Having just come from the soothing tones of Calvin Klein, Heatherette was like a blast of color. Chad White and Garrett Neff were there so I was able to substitute my afternoon espresso with a little dessert. The highlight of my day would be photographing the little girls Richie had included and they were hysterical posing for my lens à la Heatherette. The leader of the 6-year-old pack (who insisted on approving each of her images) kept saying "No, no...I don't like that shot I think you can do better." Total riot!"
All in all a good day. As crazy as I've been I'm actually a little sad tomorrow's the end. It's gone by so fast with the running and writing and trying to get the film uploaded to V, I can hardly believe its been seven days! See you tomorrow for Donna Karan, Anne Klein, and Mr. Hilfiger himself—where I will bid my adieu to all my backstage fun. I miss it already!
09.14.07 NEVER ENOUGH With a blockbuster fragrance campaign this season, it's Garrett Neff's moment once again
I first worked with Click's Garrett Neff down in Miami back in 2005. As the new face of Calvin Klein's men's fragrance, he's looking better than ever. I love seeing him backstage.
09.13.07 VIVA PERU! V celebrates Mario Testino's new book with a fashion week party at the Bowery Hotel
Mario Testino's party at the Bowery Hotel was a total blast complete with hot boys in speedos, Peruvian
dancers, and the always hysterical Lady Bunny. Held on the terrace at the Bowery Hotel, everybody was there (Courtney, Rachel, Carine, Fabien, Julia, Plum, Grace, Hamish, Mischa, among many others) and I even got to do an impromptu
photo shoot with Demi Moore, who I'm happy to report is the nicest person I've shot all week. Unfortunately you'll have to wait until the next V
to see the film. However, I guarantee that it'll be worth the wait.
09.13.07 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY SEVEN It's Monday madness with Marc and Mario. Plus John Varvatos and a few freakouts
Thank God after Suicide Sunday (with SIX shows back to back that's what I'm now calling it), I wouldn't have to be at my first Monday show until
7 p.m. Alice Cooper and LL (and I ain't
talkin 'bout Lohan) at Varvatos, Lady Bunny and a furious Hilary Alexander at Marc Jacobs, and my own private photo shoot with Demi Moore
at Mario's swanky bash at the Bowery Hotel helped make things a lot easier.
Got down to 7 World Trade and was once again completely impressed with John Varvatos. Not
just because I got to catch up with my ole pal Jimmy Paul or because
LL Cool J turned out to be way cooler than I ever imagined—or even
because i got to speak with Alice Cooper about my T-top Camaro from the
10th grade (Yes, I drove a Camaro), but because I love what John does—masculine clothes for stylish men. I love his colors, his fabrics, his
bags, his choice in models, his eyewear, hats, and scarves. I love it
all. His shows are always a pleasant experience for me and John himself
is a super nice guy. Oh! and Toure was there! And Tim Robbins! And my
all-time favorite crush Ryan Schira, who was not in the show but hangin'
out backstage. I was like a pig in shit, I'm tellin' ya.
Next up, Marc Jacobs. Oy! I always love arriving at Marc's
shows, because A) it's the chillest backstage and B) because they put
out the best spread of food. Like full on! Got to see my girlfriend
Paul Rowland who had a whopping nineteen girls in the show. They all
looked great and after hair and makeup, I had a little photo shoot
with some of my faves. And of course Guido, never can get enough of
him. I split at the sides listening to some of Bonnie Morrison's
walkie talkie conversations. All I can say is, I would've hated to be
the person on the other end. Yowza! Girlfriend went off!
Hearing at 9:30 p.m. that the clothes had not yet arrived I
thought I'd head out front to the celebrity pit which is always a total
scene. Ran smack dab in to a hysterical Lady Bunny interview who told
reporters she was "Marc's dealer" and had "just been paged." Classic
Bunny! And there's Hilary Alexander! I love listening to Hilary
alexander interviews, but boy was I in for a treat. She
stepped up to the camera and mic with a warm open smile on her face and
started going on a tangent about fashion and manners. Just then the
niceties turned to venom and she blasted Marc for being so late, saying
it was "rude, arrogant," and that "if [she] didn't work for The Daily Telegraph [she] wouldn't be here now!" and then stormed off. Holy cow Hilary, it's
not all that bad. I guess if I had been doing this for a hundred years I'd be over it too, but c'mon, it's Marc Jacobs. He's given us
cutting-edge innovative design for years and besides just arrive later
like the rest of us for f*ck's sake!
It didn't help matters much that after being two
hours late, Marc started the show in reverse order, appearing first for
finale bow and applause. Yikes! Couldnt have been a worst night for
that. But what're you gonna do? It's Marc Jacobs. The man's a genius and I'm always smokin' out in the back anyways, so what do I care.
By now I'm pushing through the Victoria Beckham mob scene out
front to get down to the Mario Testino blowout which is already in full
swing. Unfortunately for our web viewers all photos from the night will
appear in the next issue of V, but take my word for it, they'll be
worth the wait!
09.13.07 TONI TONI TONI Straight from Hamburg and causing a fashion week stir
Alright listen up ladies, gents, and fashion whores around the globe!
Hear me now and believe me later, you're looking at the next big thing.
Francisco found her and immediately took out a year exclusive on her
for Calvin. She's all anyone could talk about backstage. Her name is
Toni, she's from Hamburg, and she's going to be a huge star!
Toni Garrn (Women) backstage at Calvin Klein Spring/Summer 2008 Photography JD Ferguson
I love doing Donna's shows. Good food, lots of room to play, beautiful clothes, and most importantly, Irina, who I had not yet seen. I love my little Irina, she does what she wants when she wants and she gives as good as she gets. Donna's show also gives me the benefit of my pal Guido, who keeps me on my toes. They really know how to do it over there. The clothes were like a walk down memory lane à la Halston. And I love the way she presents her collections. Doors open right onto the street, with the models on a loop for easy viewing with a casual atmosphere. For me it's at the heart of what Donna does best—New York City.
With plenty of time for Michael Kors I got to enjoy breakfast with RJ and Raquel, and then later the fabulous Julia Stegner, who looked stunning in a black sequined evening gown with jacket. Backstage was a zoo. So much press and the place lit up when Broadway diva turned 30 Rock star Jane Krakowski stepped in. Like a total feeding frenzy she was surrounded with over fifty photographers all encircling her for a solid ten minutes. I got to play with her last season and she is very down to earth and loved the shots I got of her being mobbed. We exchanged emails so she could have a few for herself, posed for a shot, and she was off to another clusterf@ck of photographers. Michael seemed very relaxed with mom on hand who was busy giving the press a tour through the collection. As usual he delivered his signature resort wear Americana with large brimmed hats, big sunglasses, floral one-piece swimsuits (check out Raquel given it to my lens), cool sporty bags, and the always-present evening gown. Michael always gets it right.
After the glitz and glam of the uptown crowd I was thrilled to head over to the piers for the sophistication and refinement that is Patrik Ervell, who has matured more in one season than any young designer I have shot to date. I was completely blown away. He blends old with new, introducing modern fabrics and classic elements all with a European sensibility that is quickly becoming his trademark. His collection was air tight and some of his finest work yet. With streamlined design and thorough execution, this was Ervell at his best.
Next up was Derek Lam. He showed an amazing collection and I got to play with Sally Singer (who I love), see Nina Garcia and Anne Slowey, have my picture taken by THE Gilles Bensimon and catch up with my ole pal Mary-Alice Stephenson. I had not seen Derek since milan and his enthusiasm and love for what he does is as contagious as ever. With kate young styling, Orlando working his magic on hair and my girlfriend Tom Pecheux painting face, I was impressed with what he put together for spring. And if the front row is any indication of where his career is headed, I'd say he's got it locked down. Well done Derek!
Next was the classic-turned-modern Zegna. Andrew Weir's casting was flawless and it was hands down the most organized show I've ever worked (thanks to Zegna's gorgeous Yasmin Dovas). The clothes were all pale blues with deep navys, gorgeous sweaters of cool greys, short suits with windbreakers, derby hats, sandals, and oversized canvas shoulder bags—all with a modern take that was as diverse as it was innovative. This collection was all over the place and i loved it all!
Still left to come: Varvatos, Marc Jacobs, my man Francisco at Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, Anne Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and the fabulous Mario Testino! Whew...you get all that? Okay I'm going to bed!
09.10.07 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY FIVE The heat is on at Rodarte, Diesel, and Ralph Lauren
What a hot-ass, crazy day. The heat had everyone cranky and miserable
and I actually found myself with a surprisingly short fuse, haggling
with everyone from obnoxious security guards to annoying dressers. It's
true what the old pros say about New York shows—everyone's always got
something to say. Totally ridic. However, having said that, today
completely rocked!
Anyone
who's anyone was at Rodarte and that couldn't have been more evident
than the ten minute run-through I did front of house, which was like a
who's-who of the fashion world. James Kaliardos (who I j'adore) was on
makeup, so needless to say backstage was a complete riot. And, of
course, any time I get to hang with my buddy Raquel, I'm happy. The
clothes were delicate works of art, absolutely gorgeous. Soft colors,
pleated skirts, full length chiffony gowns with a beautiful soft color
palette with delicately woven tops and even lean pants with jackets.
All contrasted with heels of metal studs and silver zippers. The girls
totally broadened their horizons with this collection and I loved it.
After
half an hour sweatin' for a taxi, I finally made it to the tents for
Diesel. Just in time to shove a sandwich down my throat and play with
Chad White. Or was it Ryan Taylor? Either way it helped to rid me of my
stomach cramps. Ran into Diesel's Kim Dillard and Chris Constable of
LaForce and Stevens (who both know what a fan I am of their shows) and
they assured me I was in for a treat. Not five minutes later I ran
smack dab in to Evandro—they were right. The clothes are always so fun.
Big hats, large wooden bracelets, lots of radiant neon, high heels,
sunglasses, visors, jumpsuits, the whole kit and kaboodle. Was going to
hang out for a shot of Ashton and Demi but
realized it was getting close to Ralph Lauren, who was all the way
uptown at 105th. What was ralph doing way up there and why was he
showing on a Saturday night as opposed to his traditional early Friday
morning show?
Well holy cow, did I ever get my answer! This
wasn't just any Ralph Lauren show, this was a celebration of the 40th
anniversary of this American classic. Held at the Conservatory complete
with large white tent, chandeliers, and full on black-tie dinner (and
there I was in cut-off trousers), it was a breathtaking scene and the
girls were stunning. They were all decked out in gorgeous gowns, some
in suits, Kentucky Derby–style hats, satin prints, bags, gloves, and
equestrian jackets complete with riding boots and lots of color. It was
enchanting and I felt honored to have been apart of it. Really
something to see.
If not for all my favorite backstage
photographers, I would never have made it through the day. I started
with war stories from veteran beauty photographer Franz Walderdorf on
his seventeen-plus years backstage and ended with free lessons on
Blackberry-ing from Harper Bazaar's Sean Cunningham. When you're
freaking out they calm you down and when their freaking out you're glad
it's them and not you. Because more times than not, they get better
results. Thanks guys!
09.09.07 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY FOUR JD kicks it into fifth gear with Proenza, Obedient Sons, and Baby Phat
Whew! What a day! The week is definitely in full swing now. It's so great to see all my favorite faces again, everyone looks so fresh and ready to get this done. Like most on the fashion circuit, after a morning of espresso and cigs, my first "meal" was at 4pm and consisted of a bowl of cold pasta backstage at my second show. So between the heat, an empty stomach (with the breath to prove it), and two wrong locations, I was frazzled all day. However with the boys at Obedient Sons, Jeanne Beker at Baby Phat, and three of my faves at Proenza Schouler, I was able to end the day with a big PHAT smile on my face.
First up, Obedient Sons. With every major name in men's fashion firmly placed in the front row, designer Swaim Hutson, with wife Christina and baby Lolo, turned it out to a packed house. The clothes were so fun. Reminiscent of old school rugby clubs, this line shapes up more like a day in the Hamptons for young men with style than a downtown menswear line. Which is what it is. As sophisticated as it is diverse, with everything from drop-shoulder jackets, athletic sportswear, long cardigan vests, sweat pants (both cut-off and full length) to hoodies, crew-neck jumpers, tanks and tees. And if all that isn't enough they even do short suits complete with cumber bun and bow-tie. What a range!
After tearing myself away from Sean Opry, Nick Snider, and the always precious Ryan Taylor, I rushed over to the Roseland Ballroom for my honey Kimora Lee. Unfortunately as much as I frothed at the bit for her to appear, things were running late (as they do) and I'm afraid I had to head out sans my much anticipated shot of the luxury line goddess herself. But I got to play with Emina and my hero Jeanne Beker so all was not a total loss. The clothes, from what I could tell, were sexy and exciting as usual with lots of soft colors, flowing full-length gowns, and of course lots of bling.
Backstage, Proenza was tight, tight, tight and not very accommodating, as there was just no space. Not having first looks I decided to just play with all the girls and three of my favorite things about backstage: style.com's cutie patootie Greg Kessler, the legendary Sean Cunningham from Harper's Bazaar and the FLAW-less Raquel Zimmermann. So much fun. Hung out with Aggy and her parents who were in from Manchester, grabbed some chips and salsa, shared a smoke with a few of the girls and put my ass in a cab!
With all the heavy hitters at the end of the week I'm afraid my days of young designers and late-night parties are over. Now it's time to actually work! Stay tuned for Rodarte, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs, Ralph, Donna, Tommy, and Monday night's much anticipated party for Mario Testino!
09.09.07 THE CATHERINE MCNEIL STORY First V had to have her—now everyone else does
I had not yet encountered Catherine McNeil until backstage at Diesel.
What a sexy tall drink of water she is. It wasn't until taxiing up to
Ralph that i realized who this amazon beauty was. It was the
first thing out of my mouth when I greeted the other photographers, and
they were actually confused at my enthusiasm and interest. Catherine
McNeil is how I remember supermodels to be. Like real women.
Catherine backstage at Diesel Photography JD Ferguson
09.07.07 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY THREE Who doesn't love Victor Glemaud! The gang comes out to support the young designer
Victor Glemaud does it again! Last year he gave us bold color in formal knitwear with longjohns (which I loved) with a casting that left my tongue wagging. For spring the tongue's still waggin', however he's taken a much more relaxed approach this time around. I loved his collection and am not only looking forward to shooting it but actually wearing some of it. Crisp, clean, fun, and relaxed. And who else but Victor could bring back the espadrille?
And people love Victor Glemaud. I'm still convinced he's the sweetest man in fashion. With GQ's Brian Coates by his side as Creative Consultant, Vogue's Meredith Melling Burke (so cute), Kate Lanphear, Camilla Staerk, Lauren Davis, Derek Blasberg, Keegan Singh, Kate Young, Robert Burke...the support is palpable. I love the relaxed, familial way in which he presents his designs and after meeting his mother it's easy to see where he gets his chill manner.
This line offers something for everyone and I guarantee whether at the beach, up in first class, or walking down Champs-Élysées you will always look like you know what your doing. I love Victor Glemaud and I am expecting great things for him in the future!
09.06.07 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY TWO It's a man's world at Nautica and Perry Ellis
Okay don't get your panties in a wad. You're going to see the girls at some point this week. Fortunately for me, after missing my early morning show (NYC taxi drivers are on strike this week!), I decided to cure my late-night headache with some eye-candy. So...I snuck into Nautica and Perry Ellis (for what turned out to be a stellar line-up of guys) and relieved myself of having to run and find some Advil. What a way to start the morning. Terron, Chad White, Garrett Neff, Michael Camiloto, THE Joel McMillan (he's back!), Stan, Chad Dunn, Blaine, and two new superstars I had not seen, IMG's Blake Kuchta, and Major's Travis Davenport. And the clothes! So fun. All that relaxed, casual, resort wear I love. Short suits, nice bags for men and all fun colors.
I started at Nautica and I couldn't figure out why all the guys were so
shiny and tan. That is until I witnessed bare-butted models being
sprayed, it all made sense. And apparently I wasnt the only one
interested. Cut to Lance Bass standing beside me enjoying the view all
the same. Josh Wald, Clint Mauro, RJ, Lane Carlson (sans twin), Michael
Gandolfi, and many more. What a morning. Here's to hoping all the shows I miss this week end with as good as results and I promise there are girls on the way!
09.06.07 TWENTY-FIVE ALIVE Hilary, Djimon, Raquel, Doutzen, Antonio, and friends celebrate twenty-five years of Calvin Klein underwear
The Calvin Klein party was off the f*ckin' hook yo! And not just because I got to talk to, the still hot, Antonio Sabato Jr., or the legendary Michael Bergin. The space was so large and comfortable, with a limited amount of selected guests, there was plenty of room to move about the venue comfortably, complete with posing underwear models in an elevated glass cube. Everybody was there! All my faves from Hilary Swank to Behati Prinsloo, Terry Richardson to Anja Rubik, and so many more!
09.06.07 THAT FACE It's no accident that megamodel Natasha Poly is at the top of her game
Until last night at CK, I hadn't seen Natasha Poly since speaking with her agent last week
about a future project we'd be working on. She was my introduction into the band
of Russian backstage beauties. I always have fun shooting her.
Natasha Poly at Calvin Klein Underwear's 25th anniversary party Photography JD Ferguson
09.05.07 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY ONE Things start off nice and easy with a presentation by THECAST
THECAST threw down last night in the East Village. And hard! What a
blast. I knew when I was sittin' at my pad burnin' one and noticed my
first show was not only in the East Village but that cool ole church on
my block, that I was in for a fun night. John Tan did a great job with
the casting. I discovered Francisco from Red and got to chill with a
few of my old-school faves like Patrick Riley and new fave Cole Mohr
from Request.
It's all about new, young designers for me right now. I know I've only shot three seasons of shows but I'm sorta hungry for some
fresh, new, young excitement. The clothes were that young playful guy look I
like, with everything from dapper seersucker suits to skinny, black
jeans and leather pants. I loved it. Designers Ryan Turner and Chuck
Guarino were very cool and I'd say the only snafu of the evening is
when I grabbed a shot of Entourage's Adrian Grenier who made a point
(while filming a documentary for HBO) of turning and saying to me
"Thanks for asking to take my photograph." Whatev.
And if the show wasn't a big enough success, the after-hours
party was even better. Christopher Bollen, Kate Lanphear, Louise du
Toit, KT Auleta, Kate Sennert, sixty or so beautiful, young girls and boys
and a handful of drunk models. Total blast! I love THECAST!
09.04.07 BACK AND AVAILABLE Fashion week looms and photographer JD Ferguson is armed and ready
It's that time again! It seems like just yesterday I was cruising the streets of Milan on the back of little Luigi's scooter and now here it is already September, the first day of New York fashion week. You can feel the excitement in the air. As much as I whine about having to work, I'm thrilled to be bloggin' it backstage for V once again. The streets of New York have been flooded with models, sweatin' it out from uptown to the Bowery, casting after casting. So many exciting new faces to talk about as well as catching up with some of our past faves. However, unlike last season (where my priority was covering shows that had boys in them), this season I am focused on all the new young designers and I'm happy to report that there are tons. Making waves this season are 3.1 Phillip Lim, Obedient Sons, Rodarte, The Cast, Elise Overland, and Derek Lam, just to name a few. I'm all about supporting the newcomers! So stay tuned for my backstage blow by blow and let's get this party started!
For me, it doesn't get any bigger than Karl Lagerfeld. Meeting and eventually having the privilege to work with Karl has been a highlight of my career in fashion and it was backstage at Fendi that I remembered just why I have such love for this guy. Okay, so obviously he's a design genius and multi-tasking wizard but it goes deeper than that. Karl treats everyone the same. Whether its the CEO of a major brand, a famous actress, or a crazed fan on the street. People are people with Karl and I love that about him.
And don't even get me started on the clothes. OH MY GOD! He addressed all the current trends of the season but in a way only he can. Beautiful belted leather-and-fur coats of chinchilla, fox, and goat, alongside geometric prints and bold, edgy color. Broad fur lined shoulders, pronounced collars with short, full skirts. Genius! I'd never seen anything like it. And the bags! You'll have to wait for my Fall/Winter 2007 accessories blowout in V to see them, but lemme tell ya...sublime!
Karl laughed as I naively asked: "Are all your collections this good?"
And if Karl and the clothes weren't enough, throw Lady Amanda Harlech and hottie Sebastien Jondeau in the mix, making backstage Fendi a triple threat for me! It was like Paris is burning all over again! Amanda, with a wit and sass like no other, is my second favorite thing about fashion. She is the top of all that fashion has to offer.
This brings me to what I know you have all been waiting for. Professional boxer turned Lagerfeld bodyguard, Sebastien Jondeau. What a hunk. And so cool. I always have so much fun with Sebastien and even followed him around an entire day on set once filming his butt. And I finally found someone that's as in to Freja as I am—except that they are actually friends and go hiking together quite often. He is, how do the French say? Oh forget it, I don't speak French—he's hot!
MILAN FASHION WEEK, PART THREE Carmen Kass freaks out; Sasha shares a moment; and Brioni, Etro, and MaxMara are classic Italian
Okay let me just back up here for a sec. I know everyone's got their panties in a wad because my blogs are all over the place and everybody's jonesing for an inside "do tell" and what not. But I'm sorry, I'm exhausted. It's all such a blur now but there are some hysterical moments that stand out.
First and foremost, Carmen Kass. So funny. I chased her all over backstage at Etro going from interview to interview showing the newbies how it's done. Girls were hanging on her every word! But nothing beats Carmen rushing to the Dolce runway, past insistent photographers, yelling her name as she turns with big drama and much humor with her best Marlene Dietrich and says (in a deep husky voice) "I CANNNN'T!!!" F-en hystair. The only ones there who seemed to get it were Carmen and myself and we howled about it later that afternoon backstage at Fendi. And if reading about it doesn't do it justice it sounded like this: "I CONNNN'T!"
Tanya D made the rounds this season with mama Natalia D, who I swear could be her sister. She's still my baby!
Met beautiful red-haired Brioni designer Cristina Ortiz, who was so graceful and elegant, like the Italian version of Carolina Hererra. The clothes were like works of art.
Both Etro and MaxMara were held in this huge auditorium (for lack of a better word). Think Javits. They were both so much fun, both unique and very Italian. For some reason the girls seemed to be funner, or perhaps just stir crazy. I think because it was such a large venue and there was so much press that they were relieved to finally be in first looks with us standard 5. It was like a homecoming.
By MaxMara I decided to take a load off and enjoy the sandwich little Luigi had surprised me with, so l plopped down unnoticed smack dab in the middle of the entire scene. My girl Sasha (having just seen her "5 Questions" we did) decided to join me and we both enjoyed a break from the chaos and shared with me her recent pre-season sojourn she took to a remote island in Thailand. That is until the media caught wind and turned their cameras on us!
"No, no," she said in her thick Russian accent, as I went to move out of the shot. "I want you here too." So when she decided it was time and gave them the okay, one turned into five which went to twenty and ended up being a full on feeding frenzy. Chanel Iman grabbed my camera and started shooting us from behind. And just when the weather started to calm, Vlada decided to have some fun and stirred it all up again. It was like being in the eye of a storm.
So there! How's that for inner inside trek? I'll keep trying to slam these out between flights and taxi rides and as I am able to upload film from hotel rooms expect more photos. Which, has anyone noticed, are better this season?
You can thank all my backstage photographer buddies (and photographer Iekeliene Stange) for that!
MILAN FASHION WEEK, PART TWO Armed with plenty of espresso, JD's determined not to let a second pass him by
So I have just finished Blumarine and I am obviously WAY late on blogs! I have no idea how to even recap the last few days and as I sit backstage amped up on espresso, on day five of no sleep I can think of no better way to wait out the next two hours before Versace—my last and final show of the week, before crossing the Atlantic for a week's worth of TiVo. And obviously my no caffeine fest 2007 has come to a screeching hault, but after a late night at Boombox shakin' my tail off with Coco, Aggy, Behati, and Julia....it's all I have right now.
Caffeine schmaffeine.
And speaking of the girls, I think I may have found just what the industry needs to bump all those actresses off the cover of fashion magazines—a personality. And a bold one at that! Agyness Deyn who, upon meeting (with her quintessential, punky, street style, quirky blonde hair, and precious accent) my first thought was, Of course there's an Agnyess! What has the fashion world done all this time without an Agnyess? Reminiscent of the '70s icons, she's a star in the making!
And I am, as of now, officially obsessed with Behati, by the way.
Yes, from Gisele and Dolce to my very own photoshoot with international playboy Lapo Elkann, I've done it all this week! And I can't even begin to tell you about backstage Fendi with uber-chic pals Karl and Amanda. And all-time hottie crush Sebastien Jondeau. Look for him in my backstage Fendi blowout! La Lagerfeld style!
MILAN FASHION WEEK, PART ONE JD lands in Milan and it's not 24 hours before he breaks the golden rule of fashion
Oh my god. So much to tell, so little time. Hit the ground running and rushed right from Malpensa to backstage for D&G. And who better to break me in than Domenico and Stefano themselves, at the same time.
I swore years ago as a model I would never set foot back in Milan but turns out being Vespa'd around the city from one backstage to the next by a cute Italian boy (Luigi) is a totally different experience than subwaying around to ten or eleven castings a day in the summer heat. Milan is insane! And I'm loving it.
The models are sick as dogs. Three weeks into it with shoots in between and I can't believe they are still going from when i saw them in NYC weeks ago. AND they've still got Paris. Coco did four shows in London, flew to paris to do an overnight shoot with Karl only to fly back to London the next day for more shows. Freja has a fever and looks like she can't take another step. Vlada can't even keep her head up. And one of my faves (who shall remain nameless) had a full-on breakdown in hair and makeup at Pringle last night. HOW do they do it? Well I'll tell you how, some of them make up to $30k per show, seven shows a day for four weeks straight. You do the math. They are still troopers though and it's hard work nonetheless.
With D&G, Giorgio Armani, Pringle, Jil Sander, Etro, Brioni, Prada, presentations for Tods and Bulgari, and a Hugo Boss party under my belt I have no idea how I'm going to even begin to convey to you how much is happening over here so I'll give you a teaser of what's in store.
Last night, I was backstage at Prada with twenty or so others huddled around the flat-screen TV. It was like the Superbowl of fashion watching the 1st runthrough when I noticed—are you ready for this?—Anna Wintour herself. I couldn't believe it, it was like seeing a unicorn. There she was, all the way across the room, standing quietly, unnoticed. I was not about to let this opportunity pass. (Remember she's a personal fascination of mine.) I'm sorry, some people collect stamps, I snap shots of Anna Wintour. I decided to go for it, discreetly raised my lens and grabbed a shot. Now I've always wondered what Anna thinks of my incessant photo taking. She's had to notice. I'm the only photographer that ever walks right up to her and snaps thirty shots in a row and she never really seems to mind. Well tonight I got my answer. After firing off my first frame I thought it best to check my focus and make sure I was in the ballpark. The closer I zoomed in the more....is it...was it...a smile? Huh? Oh my god...she noticed me. I nearly died.
Having a mutual friend in common I decided to take the opportunity to introduce myself and I'm glad I did. She was very kind and after several minutes of polite conversation, thinking how tired she must've been, I wished her a good night and bid my adieu.
Just then they came out of the woodwork. "Were you talking to Anna?" "What did you say to Anna?" "Do you know Anna?" It was as though I had broken the first rule of fashion—never speak to Anna Wintour. The gravity of what I had done was starting to weigh in on me and then I realized not even fashion drama could rob me of my moment!
Stay tuned for Emporio Armani, Gucci, Anna Molinari, and presentations from Sergio Rossi, Cesare Paciotti, and Hogan. And don't think I'm missing Thursday's Italian debut of London's hit party, Boombox.
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, THE BEST OF JD The highs, lows, faces, and fashion that made it big in NYC
So here I am forty-five minutes left until I'm off to Milan and no end-of-fashion-week round up! Does it ever stop?
My two favorite shows of the week were hands down Kim Jones and Marc Jacobs, in that order. Kim Jones and his gang for being such a blast (of course the boys didn't hurt) and Marc for taking it to the next level.
And the models this season? Forget about it. So many faves this time around. It seems each season there's always a big girl that drops out and is replaced by a new heavyweight. Last season it was Gemma, Daria the season before that. But I wouldn't say there is any one girl in particular that stands out right now. Of course Freja and Raquel are at the top of my list, Lily's a legend, Hilary's amazing, Vlada is like poetry in motion, Tanya's a hoot, Coco's très cool, Agyness has kicked up her game, Lara Stone's cool as ice, and thank God Iselin's back. Lots of action on the boys side as well. Ryan S, Tyson, Stan, and Evandro are firmly placed in my all-time fave hall of famers but we saw a few noteworthy newcomers this time around: Nick Snider, Sean O'Pry, and Ryan Taylor—who I guarantee we'll be seeing a lot more of. Michael Vinant, Garrett, Owen, and Arthur K get shout outs just for being hot.
Speaking of models, I'd like to give a personal shout out to an all-time hottie fave for his longevity and ability after all these years to remain at the top of a business where one day you're in and the next you're out. That would be longstanding Wilhelmina model Kelly Rippy, who, fashion insiders from New York, Paris, and Milan will tell you, has been at the top of his game for over ten years. I met Kelly in Paris a hundred years ago. Shy, humble, and never one to chase the spotlight, he is the working model's model to this day. So big ups to Kelly Rippy y'all.
Let's not forget the backstage photographers either. They are always a treat and I am still in awe of their professionalism and hard work. I was honored to pay tribute to them last season with portraits and made the huge mistake of leaving two of the nicest ones, and one of the hottest, out. So they get their own tribute this time around: Matt Lever, David Webber, and Fabio the Italian hottie from Verona!
Before I go, I'd like to leave all of you out there with the three things I learned this season. First, people in fashion, across the board, no matter who they are—from caterers to designers and everything in between—ALWAYS claim to have met you before or know who you are. "Oh, do you know JD?"..."Ya, ya...sure" (head nod, head nod). This was a constant source of amusement for me all week.
Secondly, (this could fall in to the gripe category) people who work backstage ALWAYS have something to say. I guarantee you if there is a fresh-faced twenty-year-old right out of FIT dressing backstage for her first show, she will be the first to try to explain to the veteran photographer how it all works.
Lastly, as a backstage photographer, you must accept right off the bat that as someone whose job it is to get backstage, you are going to have to fight with everyone around you non-stop. Fight your way backstage, fight your way to stay there, fight to get the shot, fight to keep the shot...the list goes on four shows a day, nine days in a row. It's absolutely exhausting.
But you know what? I wouldn't trade any of it for all the tea in China! See you in Milan!
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY EIGHT Ralph, Isabel, Donna, and Tommy bring it all to a close
Okay so no Calvin Klein on Thursday which completely shattered me. Rushed all the way over there in the freezing wind, fought my way to backstage only to realize I'd left my camera at home. There, I said it, go ahead and laugh, I know. Totally ridic. However I wasn't laughing. That's okay though because what day comes after Calvin Thursday? Ralph Friday. Which coincidentally is the last day of New York Fashion Week.
What can you say about Ralph Lauren that hasn't already been said? Except that it is always such a treat to end the week with the perfection that we've come to expect from this American institution. Last season it was impeccable, this season timeless. From the back of house to the front Ralph always delivers a polished level of professionalism and design that can be matched by no other. And in addition to the classics we have all grown accustomed to he still has the ability to surprise. Who else but Ralph could pull off mixing brown suede and gold lamé. The girls always look so elegant in his clothes, like graceful swans. It is always a highlight of my fashion week. And not just because it's the show that affords me the most time to hangout with the other backstage photographers, but because there's something about being in the presence of greatness.
And speaking of greatness, I got to attend Isabel toledo's debut collection for Anne Klein, which, judging from the standing ovation, was a success. This show was a treat for me not only because Isabel and Ruben are part of the Visionaire family but also because I finally got to work backstage alongside my buddy James Kaliardos who I j'adore! The new Anne Klein woman is still sophisticated, however, she now has an eclectic array of options to choose from. This was the first truly innovative collection I've seen all week and hopefully just a glimpse of what's to come. OH! And Debi Mazar was there!
Next was another fave and not just because they know how to lay out a spread of food but because Donna Karan is always such a riot to be around. Whether at the sewing machine chatting with the little ladies finishing up Agyness's gown or playing with her granddaughter in hair and makeup, she just exudes this carefree confidence that only comes from having done this a million times (and always at the top, I might add). I spoke with her daughter Gaby who looks exactly like her and not only has this great big laugh but is evidently a fan of V. And what an honor it was to witness the work of legendary milliner Philip Treacy, whose hats added the finishing touch to this uber-chic collection.
By now I'm as giddy as a schoolgirl and I don't know if it's because I'm in a taxi headed to my nineteenth and final show or if it's because it's my first Tommy show. Turns out it was all Tommy (along with Garrett, Owen, and Ryan Taylor). Who would've thought Tommy Hilfiger would be so hands on? Going over each model with a fine tooth comb and a seriousness that seems lost elsewhere. Backstage was wall to wall with Japanese reporters and half a dozen young rap stars I didn't know. The clothes were prep-school fun and I did a little impromptu fashion shoot with Magdalena, who Angus was correct to call a rising star. This girl works it! She's so young and already moves like a pro.
Whew what a day! What a week! Not too bad for my second season of shows. I had a blast and look forward to sitting down to do my fashion week roundup. Also, starting on the 19th, I'll be coming at you straight from Milan! Hope to see you there!
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY SEVEN Michael Kors, TSE, Proenza Schouler, and Diesel
Boy did I pick the wrong New Year's to swear off caffeine...ugh! I'm dying for a cafe con leche. With record breaking lows and winds in the below zero chill factor all week—and two days of shows left to go—all I wanna do is hook myself up to an I.V. over at Starbucks. But Michael Kors, TSE, Proenza, Diesel and the boys of Wilhelmina make it all worth it!
Started the morning with uptown glamour boy Michael Kors whose woman is sophisticated and luxurious like never before. And she's warm to boot! Adding to his traditional cashmere, tweed, and camel, he kicks it up a notch with cool shades of gray and fur—and lots of it! However, tt's not just the sweaters and turtlenecks keeping her warm this season, but the Michael Kors man as well: suave and chic in suits and ties over v-neck sweaters, paired with puffy ski vests or a full-length matching trench. It was luxury sportswear at its finest.
Jammed down to the westside for TSE where I encountered the calmest and most chill designer I've ever met. Tess Giberson was precious and very cool. She chatted with me about her collection, which was minimal and sleek with a touch of comfort. Chatted up stylist Beat Bolliger for five and played with Nick and Sean from VNY who I am predicting will be the next big thing.
Next was Proenza Schouler, which has once again taken its design to the next level. How fun is it to watch this young duo grow from season to season? They didn't miss a beat with this collection—it was airtight. And boy, do people have love for these two? The enthusiasm and support in the audience is palpable and I know that because I snuck out front and shot the entire show—which was no more surreal than Anna giving us a solid fifteen minutes backstage with her and the boys. (Who are SO cute by the way!)
For me Diesel is one of the funnest, most rockin-est shows of fashion week. Falling at the end of my busiest show day it always leaves me energized, and this show was no exception. It was Blade Runner 2007...with ultra-modern eyewear, short metallic leather jackets, and thigh-high boots, all topped off with sassy little visors and hats. Freja and Vlada always look like their built for the clothes.
And if that wasn't enough excitement for one day I was not only invited to attend the screening of Wilhelmina and VH1's new reality show The Agency, but stuck around, camera in hand, for the party later that night. But you'll have to catch Mark Vanderloo, Andres, Romulo, Noah, Owen Steuart, and all the other Willy dudes coming soon to our PARTIES section.
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY SIX KIM JONES, KIM JONES, KIM JONES!
You can't really talk about Kim Jones without talking about the Kim Jones boy. He suits the clothes and is actually an extension of Kim's vision. It's as if Kim designs for them and then Alasdair McLellan takes their photograph. But boys aside this was the funnest most light-hearted show I've been to all week and not just because I got to play with my hero Tim Blanks (who's voice I've vacuumed to in the nude a million times). This collection had humor, with cream fur jumpsuits and Dennis the Menace hats. And I love his choice in fabric. Loose, chic comfort. How often do you get that combo?
Hanging out with Kim and his crew before the show gives real insight to where all the playfulness in his design comes from. What a fun bunch they are, always cutting up and carrying on. I knew that I was in for a ride when I walked in and saw the models' polaroids.
All the hipsters came out for this one. I don't know why, but whenever I'm in the same room as Ryan McGinley or Christopher Bollen I instantly feel cooler. Add Devon Turnbull, KT Auleta, and DJ Honey Dijon to the mix and I feel like the hippest 39-year-old in the tri-state area. It was urban London camp the entire night and meeting Kim was a total treat. That and catching up with my all-time fave model crush Ryan Schira from Request. Who, like all the models was freaking out that Fergie was coming backstage after the show. How cute is that?
I met Fran Cutler of 2Active who I was informed is one of the women Patsy and Edina were modeled after. It was no surprise she was AbFab inspiration. She was like the female version of Erich Conrad. Fierce! (As RuPaul and I used to say).
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY FIVE Behind the Marc Jacobs show, and it's a man's world at John Varvatos
OH MY GOD! Marc Jacobs was EPIC! Even though his show happened at the end of Day Five I'm going to talk about it first because it was incredible. Had a quick backstage jaunt and decided to spend the majority of my time out in front with the audience. Hair and makeup was fun thanks to my pal Freja, who is far more special than I ever realized. Yeah she's gorgeous and cool and hip and all that but one thing you don't get from the pages of the mags is that she's got a really good head on her shoulders and I like that about her. Snapped a million pics of Marc but he said he didn't mind. Five minutes with Shalom Harlow and I was good to go.
So you had your Lenny Kravitzs, Lil' Kims, Lauren Ezerskys, and Jeanne Beker (wearing the infamous spiked heel)...all the usual suspects. But then, the mothership set down. I scored amazing shots of Anna Wintour, Deborah Harry, and Rod Stewart (who looked right in to my lens) and actually shared air with the legendary Lee Radziwill. For those of you who are too young to know who she is, she's not only Jackie O's kid sis but an icon and legend in her own right. I couldn't believe it, she was the last person I expected to see there. She made my night. It was like Camelot all over again.
You could hear the gasps throughout the audience when the large deep red curtains slowly opened and there on the stage stood forty or so girls posed against a large white staircase, absolutely breathtaking. Such a YSL moment. Early '30s gla-mour. I actually got chills (and yes, I realize how gay that sounds). Honestly, I was expecting some frumpy, trendy outfits, blaring rock music, girls with pissy attitudes (sorry I haven't seen one of his shows since grunge was in) but once I realized we had ourselves a real live fashion show, I jumped off the risers, grabbed a sturdy box, and positioned myself for what was to come. Large rimmed hats, pant suits with slim slacks, gloves all splashed with amazing gorgeous color...some in sequins. It was really something to see. Like I said, EPIC!
And if the clothes and seeing Lee Radziwill weren't enough, Tyson Ballou was there! However, I don't know if even Tyson can compete with my new find. NEW HOT MODEL ALERT! Are you ready? I discovered him at John Varvatos. His name is Michael Vinant. He's French and he's with Click. I'm predicting HUGE things for this kid. Just remember, I saw him first. Between him and Arthur K, it's no wonder I didn't wanna leave.
And speaking of John Varvatos I'm loving the direction his line has taken. Last season it was all about scarves and suedes and sturdy bags for men. And yes the bags and scarves were back but this time with fedoras and turtlenecks, lots of leather and wool. He offered a sharp silhouette with a rugged sensibility. It's like the chic alternative for the contemporary man's man. Ladies, if you can't get your boyfriend to wear Dior Homme, run don't walk. Capische? Well done John!
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY FOUR JD encounters the mythic DVF and goes backstage at Patrik Ervell, Luella, and DKNY
I had such a blast today. I don't even know where to start. Who knew Sundays could be so fashionable? I guess DKNY, Patrik Ervell, Diane von Furstenberg, and Luella Bartley did. And speaking of Patrik Ervell, holy shit, if designers were like race-horses this is where'd I'd place my bets. He totally blew me away.
And I got to see all my faves today—backstage photographers included. It's crazy to see how so many of them have changed in just a short six months. Tanya's a little wiser, Coco's funnier, last year Gemma seemed over it, this year it's Raquel. Sasha's more beautiful (if that's possible), Request's Joshua and Arthur K. (who I love) aren't as shy this time around, Freja's a bigger badass than before and Vlada seems even nicer. Iekeliene, however, still insists on making little faces when you snap her pic, but oh well, I guess some things never change.
Backstage at DKNY was total chaos. Everyone was telling us something different and no one was letting us shoot the clothes. But Donna, as usual, was in super high spirits. Running around with her granddaughter instructing the male models: "Hey fellas, see those girls over there? They're cute, right? You WANNA flirt with them, you WANNA smile at them. Smile! Go ahead! Smile!"
After Donna, I decided to book it over to the Piers for the highly-anticipated Patrik Ervell. Who did not disappoint, I might add. Don't you just love it when everything seems to come together for talented people with passion for what they do? It's like a karmic reward or something. His clothes were amazing. I love his knowledgeable mixing of fabrics which he does in such a technical, well-fit way. I wouldn't have expected anything less from him actually. I can't say enough about his design and of course his choice of models is quintessential Patrik. I thought it was genius and couldn't believe the hoards of people that were coming backstage to speak with him after the show. For such a young designer he has already found his voice and his collection was strong with a unique direction and point of view.
Next up, Diane von Furstenburg. I've been dying to meet her all week and was thrilled (as she is a fan of V) to snap a shot of her with the magazine, that unfortunately some clepto snagged out of my bag backstage at DKNY. So I figured I'd have to land the pic with my charm. And as it turns out I was much later than I realized and they weren't letting anyone in to the (what I considered) VIP area. Models, Diane herself, offspring Alex and Tatiana, Lapo Elkann of Fiat...I'd say that constitutes a VIP area, no? I was determined to get a pic of her and after witnessing several photographers being turned away by security I decided I was going to have to get resourceful. Just then THE Barry Diller steps up and there was that little moment, that little window period when someone's stepping through a velvet rope and you can just sort of associate yourself with them long enough to ride their tail wind right through. Well thank you Barry Diller.
This collection was so much more than wrap dresses and bold prints. Though they were present (in black, ruffled taffeta) DVF went ultra luxurious this time. Sophisticated and elegant. Is this due to head designer Nathan Jenden or Laura from last season's Project Runway who was backstage and apparently under employment? Either way, I liked it. And Diane was every bit the icon I'd hoped she would be. She was extremely gracious and I could listen to that accent all day.
By now I'm so high off meeting my idol and I'm rushing to get down to the west side for my introduction to Luella Bartley, who I've heard so much about. And I have to be honest with you, it doesn't matter how late and stressed out I am, any time I walk backstage and see Guido I'm instantly relaxed. Especially Guido with a child in his arms—young Kip Sims. Chewing the head off of a plastic Star Wars figure.
Her backstage was the most relaxed and calm I've ever experienced. The clothes were very Sargeant Pepper meets partying debutante going fox hunting. However, Luella's young Brit girl has a much more relaxed take on things with her mink jocky cap and clunky riding boots (some covered in graffiti). The whole thing was very cheeky and I have to say it was a treat to stand with Luella backstage and watch it all play out on the monitor. Very cool. If I had to give one word that summed up this collection it would have to be Angela Lindvall. Okay, that's two words, but she looked great in Luella's clothes. As did Lily Donaldson and the punky bangs that Freja and Iselin were sporting. Okay, five words.
Tomorrow: Thom Browne, John Varvatos with his manly men, and who's who at Marc Jacobs!
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY THREE Pretty in Pink meets the Alps at Lacoste
I stumbled across Pretty in Pink while channelsurfing the other day, which left me feeling a little nostalgic for the eighties. So I thought I'd go see what designer Christophe Lemaire was serving up at the tents for Lacoste.
Okay, so it wasn't the Lacoste I grew up with. No feathered hair, popped collars, or pastel colors. This was more like studious French girl goes to the Alps. Nonetheless, classic Lacoste with its trademark fresh, clean, young, chic sensibility. And the boys, OH MY GOD! I must sound like a broken record by now, but I'm sorry, there's nothing better than a cute boy in Lacoste. (That and I've been out in L.A. for the last few months. The only cute boys you see out there are whoever Meisel has flown in for his latest campaign, and has them holed up at the Chateau).
Coco Rocha was there sans mother, who apparently was working with the movers to get her into her new NYC digs. This was the first time I'd seen her this season and she looks better than ever. And I know I'm really late on this, but for those of you who haven't had the privilege of seeing Solange in person—lemme tell ya, she's breathtaking and very sweet. She's been in V a million times, I know, I just had never officially met her until today. Ran into Garrett Neff, who's even more gorgeous now than when I worked with him in '05 down in Miami for his first V Man shoot.
I was so busy whoopin' it up with Irina (who was once again being pulled in a million different directions) that I missed snapping a shot of Julianne Moore, who raced through completely incognito. Julianne Moore? Lacoste? Who woulda thought. Probably best anyways. Who wants to take a picture of someone who obviously doesn't want their picture taken, except for maybe Ron Galella?
And I knew I was going to leave someone out of my backstage photographer tribute from last Fall, I'm so bummed! It wasn't that I left him out, so much as I couldn't find his name and thought it would be more offensive to run just a picture of him...so he gets his own spot this time around.
Working on the weekends goes against everything I stand for, but Lacoste was definitely a treat this early Saturday morning—and who wouldn't give up Sunday to hang out with the fabulous DVF. See ya tomorrow!
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK, DAY TWO JD spots bold color at Victor Glemaud and is nearly crushed by a 300-pound bouncer during his quest for Kimora
Okay, so I'm convinced that the sweetest person in fashion is Victor Glemaud, and it doesn't hurt that he knows how to turn out a collection AND evidently knows his way around a casting table (of course that could be because, in my eyes, anyone who books Wilhelmina hottie Owen Steuart is doing something right). I'm always impressed when a menswear designer has the balls and talent to pull off color. And not just a splash of it here and there, but bold red, green, blue, and yellow, tailored in such a smart way. His clothes were elegant, crisp and clean—so refreshing. I knew the show was a hit once the MisShapes turned up (as well as the industry's sassiest fashion queens). I loved the way Victor presented the clothes—very casual, like a party overlooking the river with boys lined up against a wall. It was just what I needed before rushing uptown to rub shoulders with Kimora Lee.
Who, by the way, looked amazing. I love that she chose the Roseland Ballroom—it was like a wild night at the club. Hair and makeup was a zoo with everyone back-to-back, pushed up into this tight little strip they called an "area," pungent with the smell of burning hair and nail polish. I just knew any second the place was going to go up in flames and I was destined to have "Killed Backstage at a Baby Phat Show" etched across my tombstone.
You had Omahyra bouncing around, entertaining all the camera crews that seem always to be sticking a microphone in her face; Alek Wek rushing in late; half a dozen models dancing around to the pre-show bass that was vibrating the entire club. And hot boys...not like model boys but ripped thug boys.
I ran smack dab in to Mary Alice Stephenson, who I used to dance my ass off with a hundred years ago at Palladium and Club USA. It was crazy, I had not seen her since then and she was just as sweet as I remembered her, and looked exactly the same! That was a total treat. She smacked some bling around my neck and we posed for a shot.
And then there she was, my luxury-line goddess: Kimora Lee herself, draped in silk leopard print. Russell was back to back nearby. It was like a feeding frenzy watching the press (myself included) try to get to her—and no, it was not Jeanne Beker stepping on my toe this time but what had to be a 300-pound bodyguard.
With camera crews in front of her, us photographers to the rear, she sat perched above us all, giving little tidbits as she saw fit. It was poetry in motion. I didn't stand a chance getting in there so I just held my camera in the air and snapped away, fifteen frames in a row. She looked beautiful in every shot. It's too bad her head was cropped off in all fifteen.
Just then all press was being told to leave which of course threw me in to a panic, as I still had not nailed the money shot. "But wait, I don't have my picture of Kimora Lee!" "I came here for a picture of Kimora Lee!" And once again, as if little Kimora angels were looking down on me from above, she spun around right at me and I snapped away!
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK BEGINS Backstage at Miss Sixty, JD makes a few new friends and offends Pink in the process
So I can see why Karl is so in to Irina Lazareanu, who is for now my new favorite model. We hung out at V late one night when she popped in, parents in tow, for an impromptu shoot with Magnus Unnar. But hanging out with her at Miss Sixty last night sealed my love for her. She's always up for a good time, and was very kind to the hoards of people clamoring for a moment with her.
Miss Sixty was a blast. It was on the 52nd floor of the (what I consider) high-tech 7 World Trade Center Building. The view alone made my $22 cab ride in Canal Street rush hour worth it. Shot the shit with Flavia, who's always fun, and Canadian Julia Dunstall, who is the most down-to-earth model of all. Jessica Stam is evidently a hit since I saw her last, going from interview to interview with no less than five Japanese reporters in her face at all times: "Where did you buy your hat?" "What is the first thing you do in the morning?" "How many pairs of Miss Sixty jeans do you own?"
Pink was there, and boy did she not appreciate me sticking V45 with Janet on the cover in her face, asking her to let me take her picture with it. I guess I should have shown her a little more respect, but hey...it's Janet Jackson. It wasn't like I was asking Whitney to take a picture with a Mariah cover.
Unfortunately the celebrities at this show drew the more "paparazzi"-style photographers—none of my faves from last season were there. Looking forward to seeing some of those guys next week (especially the hottie that shoots for Vogue).
Played with the hysterical Victoria Bartlett and actress Phoebe James who introduced me to gal pal Sophie Dahl who was gorgeous in person and totally chill. People kept asking her to pose for pictures with their products: "Can you take a picture with this can of Tab?" Needless to say, after hearing her thoughts on this, I didn't dare tell her about my blunder with Pink...Oy.
All in all an exciting first night back. One down, seventeen more to go.
I'MMMMMM BAAAAAACK!!!! V's backstage photographer at large is back in the building and all up in the tents
After a long drawn out winter in L.A. (L-lame), I'm thrilled to be back in a city where things actually happen.
And what better place to be than backstage once again for fashion week Fall/Winter 2007/08 with my blow-by-blow fashion shenanigans. Look for the usual suspects (give or take a few), and don't think I didn't add more men's shows to the roster this time around (please: if I'm expected to run around in the freezing cold for a week and a half I'm gonna need somethin' to keep me warm between shows).
V's given me free reign to pick and choose what I wanna shoot so I don't anticipate waiting around to be told I don't have first looks (you know who you are). But thanks anyways to you designers who e-mailed with explanations of the "mix-up" in the fall. (Uh yeah, about that, I'm gonna pass). And not just because I'm jaded. There's just too many new frontiers I'm looking forward to conquering—Luella Bartley, Thom Browne, and Patrik Ervell to name a few.
And I wanna see what all this skinny model hype is about (that must've been a slow news day). When I was shooting them, they pretty much looked how models are supposed to look.
Oh! And I'll be doing all this sans caffeine by the way. (Can you imagine?) And Jeanne Beker better keep her heel away from my toes. That's what I'm saying.
JD back in NYC, February 2007 Photography EXU
Check the V Blog every day for up-to-date backstage coverage from New York Fashion Week.
LIVE FROM L.A. JD Ferguson gets close to rockers the Adored
They should call the House of Blues the "House of Rules." Oh my god—bodyguards with headsets, "permitted areas," "non-permitted areas"—exhausting. I'm sure that back in the day, this famous L.A. venue must've been the shit. But I can only assume once money was to be made and the place was "Disney-fied" like all things cool eventually are ... well let's just say I'm not one for a lot of pomp and circumstance. It didn't matter though—they didn't keep me down. And they sure as hell didn't keep L.A .punk band The Adored down either. These guys totally rocked!
I recently learned of the Adored on a flight from Copenhagen to the UK. They were one of the featured song selections in Apple's new Nano campaign. When I saw they were in town (it didn't hurt that they're cute) I put in a call to their manager Janice Holmes and was good to go!
And I know what you're thinking: "What is this queen doing out in a bar on Sunset Strip on a Saturday night?" I will admit I'm probably the last person you'd expect to find standing around waiting to see a punk band, but it was the funnest thing I've done in awhile. Drew, Ryan, Nat, and Max (think MisShapes with guitars) have a lot to offer.
However I'm not sure they are so so punk. On sound and intensity they are definitely a punk band. They performed live with Pete Shelly of the Buzzcocks in 2005 for the release of their self titled EP. And they act like a punk band! (Which is what you want, right? Nothing
worst than an uncoordinated singer trying to move like a rock star.) But with elements of Squeeze, XTC, at times the Pet Shop Boys (don't let that scare you—it's just the way they harmonize), Adam and the Ants, Blondie, and other early '80s new wave influences, they are, in my opinion, more like a punky pop band. Or a poppy punk band. A "now" take on an old theme.
In a packed house, complete with lipstick-dancing-fashion boys and cool chicks with mohawks, I couldn't help but remember my early '80s ecstacy club-kid days. This show had it all! Check their website for tour dates but, FYI, just remember that I saw them first!
Photography JD Ferguson
Click here for a slideshow of JD Ferguson's photos from the show
TAKE THAT ART BASEL! JD Ferguson reports from the art happenings that shook the left coast while everyone partied in Miami
Obviously the entire international art community was on the beach over the weekend. Luckily the west coast contingency wasn't too busy to throw down, "keg style", before headin' out. I popped over to Culver City Saturday night, camera in hand, to catch some of the action.
Franz Ferdinand's Nick McCarthy (above) curated a show at Lightbox with artists Manuela Gernedel, Celia Hempton, Shana Moulton, Jo Robertson, Niklas Schechinger, Hanke Schmidt in der Beek, Lucy Stein and Anna Witt. Complete with impromptu performances with several of the artists and Nick himself, which was a total treat. And Nick was an absolute doll. Met Kim Bright of Lightbox fame, what a blast she is! And a red-headed Tony Ward, looking very cool.
Hedi Slimane was on hand with his latest accessory, Australian film director Daniel Askill. And as foreign as it seemed to see the Parisian style icon out in L.A., it was great to run into him and hear all he's got going on. Its hard to tell where the talent begins and ends with this guy.
MC had Peter Pfeiffer who did these large architectural wooden "hangers" that encased video, through peep holes, of large crowds...very interesting and a cool young New York crowd. I was introduced to Mary Kelly who was fascinating. Peter Zellner, Lauri Firstenberg, Alex Israel, Jason Krauss, and half a dozen other scenesters all out for the common goal of Art.
Blum & Poe was showing Dave Muller. His large scale disco balls were instantly recognizeable to me from the album cover he did for LCD Soundsystem, which I loved. Evidently the show was a hit. And I managed to snag the ever elusive photo of Jeff Poe.
Another happening art weekend in LA. Soon winter will be over, I'll be back in NYC, and all this will be a blur! But the gang out here in Culver city will always be kickin' it up. You guys gotta get out here!
Above: Nick McCarthy and Manuela Gernedel at Lightbox Photography JD Ferguson
For Ralph Lauren, we photographers (I love saying that) were getting first looks for what would be the 3rd show of the morning...yet we were expected to be there at 7:30, which meant we'd be waiting around in a holding area until 11:30. "Yeah, that's gonna happen", I thought the night before as I set my alarm for 9:30 a.m. Of course it was the wettest, coldest morning ever which made trekking over to the West Side still unbearable, even at a later time. But since this was my last day, I thought I'd make the most of it. And I’m glad I did because the clothes at Ralph Lauren were really something to see!
Rich fabrics, gorgeous gowns, sharp silhouettes, chic hats and crisp white pantsuits with bold pinstripes—impeccable. The girls looked the most beautiful they had all week. Especially Hillary Rhoda. Who looked like she was born to wear his clothes.
This late in the week I noticed the celebrities, for the bigger shows, stopped coming in through backstage, which I was happy about because quite frankly I was tired of seeing them. High fashion is for supermodels, not actresses from Hollywood trying to boost their image.
Shared a smoke outside with Flavia and a girl I had not yet seen who Paolo from Ford introduced to me as Caroline Francischini. She was breathtaking. I actually asked a photographer later who I was sharing a pose with if she was as pretty as I thought she was. It was the first time this week that I was reminded of days long gone when you used to be backstage with beauties such as Christy, Nadja and Linda—they were like well-bred race horses; genetic freaks. It was hard to focus on their beauty at first. Not that the girls today aren't beautiful. But for me personally, they are all apart of a "look". Back in the day each girl was so unique, and stood on her own as a beauty as opposed to a demographic.
Brazilian cutie Camilla Finn was there with her parents. I shot her for V right after she won that Ford Supermodel of the World, or Universe or whatever they call that damn contest. So it was really great to see and hear all she's been up to.
And guess who's back? My crush from backstage at Narciso's show. Turns out her name is Katia Kokoreva. I told her I had posted a pic of her on Friday’s blog stating that I had a crush on her. She thought it was funny and we had a good laugh.
I had a blast with the backstage photographers today. Turns out they were just as curious about me as I was them. And after seeing the same faces at every major show, I realized who the REAL backstage photographers were and decided to do portraits of each of them.
They were a core group of five, give or take a few, and it turns out they are all well-known and respected within the industry. I felt honored to have worked alongside them for the past week. They were totally intrigued about the piece I'd been doing and were anxious to hear about what my experience had been thus far. Of course I told them about my Baby Phat debacle, and that I'd written about what jerks they all were and the many camera issues I'd been having. Just then, with a flick of one switch, one of them took away a week’s worth of problems.
"Why didn’t you ask one of us for help sooner?" "I did. Read my first blog."
Donna Karan was insane!! It was totally pouring by the time I got over there. Hair and makeup was a zoo, and this is where I learned most of the girls were getting on planes for Europe the next morning for two more weeks of the same thing. I couldn’t imagine three weeks of what I'd just been through and I wasn't even sick. Obviously she's pulled inspiration from her recent travels; as she put it: "This is desert meets sensual woman–you’re confident, not cocky, and most of all you’re comfortable." Comfortable being the operative word here. The clothes were beautiful sand, khaki and beige colors, and all flowy, soft fabrics. It was like high fashion meets Mother Earth. Or Mother New York rather. Was Deepak hiding somewhere in the audience and I just hadn’t seen him yet? Was he the one that lit all the incense that was clogging up my sinuses?
And speaking of audience, I sat directly across from THE Anna Wintour (sans Prada) who was grabbing a few moments to herself. I snapped literally 30 shots of her (I’m sorry, she's a personal fascination of mine). And she was totally okay with it and even threw me an...acknowledgement. Was it a smile? No, let's stick with acknowledgment. I didn’t care; I was thrilled to see her, and thankful she allowed me to share a moment with her (i.e., didn’t have me hauled off by security).
Donna Karan was all over the place, having an absolute ball. She even did a little impromptu photo shoot with me and, to my surprise, liked what I shot of her. "WOW! You made me look good! AND you’re so handsome! You should be in my men’s show!” (I was. Milan. ’96).
It felt apropos for me to end my week at her show. Still fresh is her DKNY branding that got us all excited about NY fashion in the late ’80’s. You can still see tourists down at Houston and Broadway snapping pictures in front of her now-famous mural. It was sort of surreal, actually.
I was shocked when saying my goodbyes to everyone I'd met, worked alongside of and photographed all week, at the sincerity and acknowledgment of my time with them. And even more shocked to hear unsolicited mentions of my writing.
"Can't wait to read your next blog. And remember, I've just switched to Elite."
So, this concludes my weeklong adventure from backstage. I hope you've all enjoyed coming along for the ride and thanks to everyone from all over the world for your kind emails. Hope you all like the pics!
So much fun at Calvin Klein today. I guess I've realized everyone is MUCH more relaxed now, later in the week. Photographers, models…only the designers seem stressed. As they should, they haven’t yet had their big moment. Everyone else has done this a million times this week.
And I have to say I fully understand why the girls get to the point where they don’t want their picture taken; they literally are being photographed ALL day. Whether trying to grab a bite to eat, having their hair tugged at or blowing their nose, they've ALWAYS got a camera in their face. You figure if your doing 6 or 7 shows a day for 7 days in a row, rushing in between, being photographed the entire time, not to mention interviews...who wouldn’t want a quiet moment to themselves, my god! I knew something was up when even the relentlessly spunky ones started rolling in with that look in their eye—exhaustion. I started to feel sorry for them today.
But they all STILL turn it on, every time! And they look GREAT! They really are pros, man. I gotta give it to them. And so many of them are so sweet.
Grabbed a smoke with this cool chick outside of backstage. "Aren't you exhausted?" "No." "Well how could you not be?" "I am exclusive with Calvin Klein. This is the only show I do," she said with a cool Dutch accent. Touch you, Nancy Drew.
Not only were the clothes at Calvin GORGEOUS—but the lighting backstage was beautiful. Crisp and clean, so I was able to take really nice pictures. I couldn’t believe it when I realized the "holding area" for us during the show turned out to be this small space between the runway and backstage, and the only ones there were us photographers and the models. It was like a makeshift set against a large white wall that served as a seamless, with this beautiful, soft light that bounced off the runway. It felt like a shoot. Total fashion moment for me. And even rushing off the stage to their next outfit, as hectic as it was for them, the girls still managed to make time for us. Of course, you had half a dozen or so that would laugh and giggle and be silly...while the other half was too sick do anything other than get themselves from the runway to their next outfit... The two rock stars in this show were Raquel and Freja (the two coolest girls in fashion today), who were obviously feeling their outfits and actually seemed to be having as much fun as we were. The best part was I had positioned myself in a good line for when the girls came off the runway, so as their focal point it was like they were doing it all just for me. Well that's how I felt anyway.
And the music at this show was incredible. It was, like, Moby-esque, but better. Several of the girls told me it was their favorite show for that reason alone.
And to my surprise there were two shows, so they put out this huge spread of food that practically everyone surrounded: models, security, press, dressers, hair and makeup, the little ladies that did all the ironing—everyone. It sorta felt like when you wrap for lunch on a shoot. I guess that's because the whole thing took place in-house.
Played with Guido and Pat McGrath, and if you thought Guido was funny, you should see the two of them together—oh my god. Hystair!
Sat down and chatted with two of the sweetest girls ever! Both Michaela's, both from Slovakia. Both precious.
Apparently I missed all the front-of-house drama with the French photographer that wouldn’t get out of Maggie Gyllenhaal's face. Evidently he was simply lifted and carried out by two large security guards, heels dragging. I had my own photo drama backstage with this 4' 9" Japanese man wearing a hat that insisted on getting in everyone’s way and harassing the girls running the show. Unfortunately the security guys backstage were a little more patient. However, the veteran photographers weren't, and I took pleasure in watching them chew him a new one. I had been elevated to "low man on the totem pole", which was still better than "prey".
And let's not forget the party later that night. Fifty-five stories up at 7 World Trade. Amazing views of Manhattan, stark white couches, the obligatory hot waiters passing drinks, and a gaggle of dancing models; Irina, Lily Donaldson, those MisShapes, and Casey Spooner hanging out, dancing in the DJ booth.
Zac Posen was next, 8pm at the tents. I’ve heard his name so much I was excited to finally see what all the hype was about. I hadn’t been up at the tents since Oscar on Tuesday morning. Marc, Calvin and Narciso had all opted for cooler downtown venues. The uptown tent drama is certainly a little more of a force to be reckoned with, but I was happy to be back. The bad news is, I didn’t get to see any of what Zac does or shoot one single frame, as this is the only show where I was specifically not only told I wouldn’t be getting first looks, but was actually sought out and asked to leave.
"I'm sorry, we don’t have room for V backstage." "Are you kidding me? AVON is back here shooting this frickin’ thing." "Yaaa....it's a production thing" Whatev.
I did manage to snap one shot of Karen getting her make-up done, so if you’re wondering why there are only a few pics of Zac Posen's show in the entire issue...well, now you know. It's a shame, he looks cute and seemed really nice.
But I’ve decided to dedicated today’s post to Francisco for doing such an amazing collection, and providing me a place to have the most fun I’ve had all week!
I’m looking forward to tomorrow which will be Ralph Lauren and Donna Karan—Mr. American Classic, and Ms. New York.
Is this all really coming to an end? I just got started.
OK, so thank God for Michael Kors, or whoever did the casting for his show. And I would personally like to thank them for what appears to be the return of the male supermodel. I have one word: Tyson, Tyson, Tyson. Okay a couple words: Tyson, RJ, Ryan, Lars, Evandro, and all the other MEN (not waify boys, but actual MEN) that helped in waking me up this cold hungover Wednesday morning. (I still haven’t recovered from Marc Jacobs Monday night.) And the clothes! Every time I see one of his shows I immediately wanna go tan and book a flight to St. Tropez. It was grays and tans and sweaters, oh my!
I was so excited to get up there, mostly because I wanted to tell Michael how much I love listening to him on Project Runway (yes, I watch that show), but he was knee-deep in back-to-back interviews and celebs. And oh my God, people love Michael Kors. They were throwing themselves at him. I don’t know who the flashes fired faster for, Michael with Usher or Michael with Hilary Duff. It was insane!
And Lilith from Cheers was there (Bebe Neuwirth, and yes I know she's a huge Broadway diva first and foremost)—I couldn’t believe it! "Who's watching the bar Lilith?" "You tell me," she answered with a wink as I snapped her pic walking by.
This was now my favorite show all week, which is saying a lot because I’m still wishing Proenza Schouler had never ended. The excitement backstage was contagious, and Michael remained at the same high level of energy the entire morning, unlike everyone else backstage who was haggling with security for entrance or the many hair stylists and makeup artists mixed with press, all vying to get the girls ready.
The beginning of backstage is always sort of a frenzy, but you sure wouldn’t believe it to see the final result. Everyone’s cramped into a small space, practically climbing over each other to get their job done.
But of course once JT kicked in: "I’m bringin’ sexy back...Go ‘head be gone with it" "I’m bringin’ sexy back...Go ‘head be gone with it” ...forget about it–all the models were dancing and the whole place just took off! That's definitely the song I would have chosen if I was putting on a show.
And would someone please explain to the girls that don’t ever let you take their picture that that's how they get their face in the mags? I've noticed from show to show it's always the same girls that end up making my edit. It's kind of fundamental really. Of course you've got your Sasha's and your Natasha's and your Flavia’s, Olya’s, and Anna's that are always down, but then there's like a handful of girls that just really don’t seem to like having their picture taken. Which seems sort of weird to me. I mean, isn’t that what models do? Even when I was a low-fashion high-paid German catalog model, I at least understood that it was sort of part of the gig.
Oh, and don’t let me forget the other group of girls you have to deal with. They’re the ones that think it's cute to pretend they are picking their nose and make faces while your trying to shoot them. It's like their maturity level hasn’t caught up with their inseam. FYI, girls, those pics don’t make the mags either. And speaking of Flavia, is it just me or is she like the new Carmen Kass?
Next up was Diesel, and this actually was a very exciting show that gave my fashion week a bit of a twist. After shooting and getting to know these girls backstage for the past week, it didn’t occur to me until I thought I'd hang out after shooting and watch the show (first one I've actually sat through all week) that I'd never even seen any of them work. Or walk, rather. It was great to watch their runway personas come to life. And the girls and clothes at the Diesel show were off the hook. I loved it. It re-energized my love for fashion. You know how sometimes when fun things become work you forget why you were interested in it to begin with? Well I guess I sorta forgot this week between all the pushing and shoving and rushing around from show to show that I used to LOVE watching the girls strut down the runway and all the excitement that is the front of house. Only problem was I was surrounded by four obnoxious Italian queens that made the backstage photographers seem like nursemaids. So ten minutes of watching them freak out about the arrival of Heather Graham and I was out of there. So unfortunately I didn’t get to see the whole show, but what I saw I liked.
Today was my funnest day yet. I can’t figure out if it was the male supermodels at Michael Kors or the fact that I’ve sort of adjusted to all this and I’m finally taking some good pics. Either way, it was a good day to be in fashion. I've never had a more exhausting, exciting week, and I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.
Up next: Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Donna Karan—I can’t wait!
I honestly don’t know how these young models do it. I've done a fraction of the shows these girls have and my stomach is cramping from all the espresso and Red Bull and I’ve been to the acupuncturist twice to help with the constant pain in my lower back. Today three lovelies I’ve been shooting all week are starting to look like fashion roadkill. One has bronchitis and the other two I couldn’t figure out what their problem was because I don’t speak Russian. What troopers they are though. You see them show after show being pulled at and plucked and coiffed, and seconds before the show starts BAM!! They turn it on.
Marc by Marc was amazing. The clothes were beautiful and I couldn’t help but feel like I'd been lifted to another era with the styling, hair, and makeup. Oh and I finally got my photographic groove on. And I have to be honest, I think I may have rushed to judgment as far as the other backstage photographers are concerned. Turns out I just happened to encounter the two rotten apples in the whole bunch and I haven’t seen them since anyways. As of late I'm having a blast with all of them, and not only do I enjoy watching them work but I actually have come to respect what they do.
And thank you Marc for all the cute boys. WOW! So many: Mathias, Joshua, Stas, and this new kid from Ford I’m obsessed with named Mael. Oh yeah, and of course, the girls. Three days of shows and a thousand frames later I finally realized they’re all from Russia...HELLO!! Hearing a chic accent here and there is expected where high fashion models are concerned, but it wasn’t until I heard a male model speaking that I thought: "Is everyone here Russian?" So that's it huh? I guess the trend this season is Russian girls? Leave it to me to be the last one to figure it out.
Tanya Dziahileva from IMG has been a high point for me this week. She's everything you want from a 15-year-old supermodel in NY for her first season of shows. Fresh, enthusiastic, energetic, and always up for having her picture taken. Of course being the only photographer that carries a fresh pack of Dentyne Ice doesn’t seem to hurt when the girls are searching for lenses to peer into.
The best part of this show for me, however, was that it was the first show I got to remain backstage for the duration of the show. Which made for some pretty spontaneous carefree pics. Handbags, eyewear, denim, polka dots–this show had it all, and I had a field day. Well done, Marc!
Next up was Narciso Rodriguez and I thought surely, having hung with Narciso in Rio, I'd be assured first looks. Unfortunately he was locked in interviews right up until the time they cleared the photographers out. But I got to see my ole pals Demi and Ashton, who are always dying to have their picture taken...ya right. The clothes, from what I could tell, were classic Narciso–sexy, smooth silhouettes with the usual minimalistic Narciso touch. Guido did the hair, thank God. Gave me someone to play with.
Those of you who know me are not going to believe this, as I’m sure the guy I’m seeing won’t, but I actually found myself flirting with one of the models. Girl models, that is. She was SO cute having her hair done with her Mickey Mouse shirt on, and it wasn’t until I realized she was flirting with me that it hit me I was actually flirting back. The things you have to do to get a good pic in this town.
And oh my God! Jeanne Beker was there…holy crap. I used to live for that FTV or Fashion TV whatever that show was she had in the early ’90s? She looks exactly the same! It was like seeing someone’s mom from high school you hadn’t seen in years. I've got to have a total fan moment and say hello. And since I was standing beside her I thought..."I'll just dangle a little Dentyne Ice in her direction and she wont have a chance." Before I could even get my hand in my pocket she shifted her weight in my direction and placed the spiked heel of her pump directly on top of my little toe. It was all I could do to contain myself, but nonetheless it was a great way to get the chance to say hello. Though I must say, she was more concerned with my foot than hearing about how 15 years ago I used to watch her on the telly.
Being my last show of the night, I thought I'd just hang out front and take in the cool West side air. The venue added to the coolness of the show somehow. And standing there on the street, watching the models being put through their paces...I couldn’t help but think I'd found a new career. Thanks <i>V</i>! And happy fashion week all!
For those of you that read about me getting my cherry popped backstage Friday night at Baby Phat, you'll be happy to hear my mojo finally kicked in. AND NOT SOON ENOUGH!! Whew–what a day. Unlike Friday night’s show, I find myself sitting down to write this with a big smile plastered across my face. I had such a blast today, except for the every-two-show trek I had to make downtown to unload my pics at the office (and yes I am now aware there is such a thing as a portable drive...duh).
Monday morning was Carolina Herrera. And what an amazing lady she is. It's no surprise to me that her clothes are as elegant and graceful as they are—just look at her. She was mobbed with interviews, but at one point I snapped a couple shots of her. Standing waiting for my shot, I thought, I could listen to her voice all day. It was like a soft purr.
I finally got the "first looks" situation worked out, so I was happy to be able to do some actual shooting when the girls were finally perky and ready to have their mugs snapped. I had decided to not take any flack from the other photographers and immediately dove right in. And not soon enough–the flashes were clicking and I was right in there. I couldn’t believe it when I actually heard myself yelling "Caroline! Raquel! OVER HERE"..."That's great, Jaquetta"..."Beautiful, Gemma"... What was happening to me?
"Hey buddy, you’re in my shot!" "Then scoot over, dude." Finally the old me was back.
The highlight of the morning was seeing Coco Rocha, who had apparently turned into a big model since I last looked. I didn’t even put it together until her mother (who I'd also met) told me, SHE's the Balenciaga girl in those amazing ads. Love when that happens. She was so sweet and gave me first shots all day. Thanks by the way, Coco.
Let’s not forget Doutzen, who was an absolute doll. (P.S If you ever wanna get on a model’s good side just point out that they have food on their chin before you snap a shot. They’re indebted to you for life. No shit.)
Next up, Mr. de la Renta himself, looking every bit as dapper as I’d imagined. "No shooting Mr. de la Renta. No shooting Mr. de la Renta," someone said in a low, muffled voice through her hand. Why didn’t she just say Oscar?
This is where the first trek downtown comes in, which left me finding myself late for what would be my favorite show of the day—Proenza Schouler. Well first of all, the clothes! I had never even seen any of their collections (yes, I’m sort of inept at some things fashion) but I was blown away. By this time, since I was feeling more at home with the other photographers (I was actually having fun with half a dozen of them at this point) and since I had bonded with most of the girls, I was able to really relax and focus on shooting. Did I mention Victoria Beckham was there?
One model screamed at me when I mispronounced Freja's name. I still don’t know what that was about, and I don’t care because I managed to be the only photographer that noticed Demi and Ashton whizzing by and YES once again I got the only shot...thank you very much.
John Varvatos was next and thank God. I mean, shooting long-legged supermodels is fine and all, but give me some cute boys backstage changing any day of the week. In fact, aren't there other men’s shows I should be shooting this week? Most of the guys I knew and, of course, what would a backstage men’s show be without the pungent smell of ganja in the air? So you had Patrick Riley, my new crush Lars, and a handful of cute-faced, shaggy-haired boys. The clothes were great—suedes, cool hats, nice textured scarves, and some nice handbags, actually. And not those murses you see all those fashion queens wearing now, but actually like masculine bags...for MEN. That was fun, but unfortunately as the tents were running late, I decided to get them shot in the clothes and not hang around so I could get downtown in time for Marc Jacobs. Not that that would be starting anytime soon.
Oh! and Paris was there, which cured my burning itch to get home and watch some reality TV.
Marc Jacobs was a mob scene, as you'd expect. And what a vision Karen Elson was. She just happened to be sitting in this beautiful, glowy light right when I walked in, with that flaming red hair and white skin, mixed with the cream-colored gown she was wearing. I think actually in one frame I shot my best pic all day. It was sort of surreal. Where were the other photographers?
I literally had not spoken to her since her first Marc Jacobs show which was coincidentally my first night in New York, where I had the audacious pleasure of being her dresser. As the story goes, she and Kristen McMenamy had showed up that night wearing the same skirt, and Kristen (half off her tits) was livid so she decided to revolt against the skirt and just be naked. So all night backstage until they forced her to get in her first look you had photographers running around taking pics of her ass. I hadn’t actually thought about that until seeing her tonight.
All in all it was a great day. The girls couldn’t have been sweeter! (well, most) And I got great pics. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s update, and happy fashion week!
As the resident “employee at large” over at V, I am often presented with what would seem to be many fabulous opportunities; this time, shooting backstage during Olympus Fashion Week 2007. I have to admit heading up to Bryant Park I was a little nervous as I’m technically a photographer in learning. Would the girls be friendly? Would I get the shot? What if I don’t cover any clothes?
First up, Baby Phat. I arrived earlier than most to get my bearings, test the light and get familiar with the enviroment. Sure I’ve been backstage at many shows, even walked in a few, but never as a photographer on assignment for a magazine.
Hmm, what to shoot? At this point it was all hair and makeup so I thought I’d just do whatever every other photographer was doing and shoot that. But after an hour and a half of trying to get models to look at me while getting their make up done (which only the newbie models seemed to be into—and didn’t have the experience to know NOT to allow anyone to shoot them until after they had their make up done, which made for some pretty unusable pics), I was eagerly awaiting when the girls would be in their "first looks" so I could really have some fun.
"Hey! Don’t I recognize you from Visionaire?" asked one veteran-looking photographer (and not soon enough, as I was having no luck with my camera). "Yes, I believe I’ve booked you for some of our parties." "How's it going?" "Not good—I’m having camera problems. Any advice?" I could sense the tension on her face when I asked. "Yeah—learn your equipment!" And she was gone. Learn your equipment? Thanks.
I couldn’t believe what was supposed to be the most exciting moment of my photography career thus far was turning out to be a free-for-all with the other photographers. At times I felt like one of those shows on Animal Planet—the ones where the hyenas are all ganging up on the wounded member of the pack.
"Hey buddy, you wanna get outta the way so I can get this shot?" Nothing I did seemed right. I decided to forget those guys and all the technical issues and just have fun and shoot fun pics of the models"
Just then I spotted Caroline Ribeiro sitting in the makeup chair. I have to say she's always been one of my favorite girls. The light was good; not too many people around her. Now’s my chance: Focus...focus...SNAP! I got it!!
"HEY ASSHOLE! I’m not shooting with a flash. You just ruined my picture. What the fuck’s your problem?" Geez, I can't win in this place...
I played with Alek Wek for a moment—another all-time fave. She was such a trooper going from interview to interview. "I haven’t stopped talking since I got here," she joked.
One highlight of the night was playing with Omahyra, who I have to say has not changed one bit since she was discovered as the quintessential New York street girl. She's always the one they use for street cred in the shows. I met her years ago, back when we were with the same agency, before anyone knew who she was; it was nice to see she’s remained so sweet and friendly.
At this point the celebs started rolling in through the back entrance. Having covered hair and makeup, I thought it might a good time to get over there and see who might show up. And there he was, 50 himself, hot off the heels of his Friday afternoon arrest uptown, being escorted by what seemed an endless entourage.
"NO SHOTS of 50!!" they screamed, but I was determined. I had to somehow get in there and get a shot, but he was rushing through so quickly. Just then a hole opened up between two bodyguards. I extended my lens, focused, and just prayed I got something. To my own surprise I did—thank you fashion gods.
Being a HUGE Sopranos fan I was thrilled to see Lorraine Bracco. "Over here Lorraine!!" "Sure doll," she cooed.
Got a few minutes with the impresario himself, Russell Simmons, who was very cool but kept talking to me about his skincare fragrance line that he just happened to have on hand.
Tommy Hilfiger was very sweet. "Tommy, I’m shooting for V! You mind if I snap some shots?" "V Magazine? Of course not" A perfect gentleman.
Ten minutes before the show started there was Kimora Lee herself, looking radiant and full of life. She was everything I'd hoped she'd be, with all her Kimora Lee bling, which I must say was some of the most impressive I’ve seen yet. She was absolutely lovely to me. After several failed attempts to get her to look into my camera, when she could see I was being roughed up and pushed to the side by the others, finishing what seemed like her tenth interview in five minutes, she—surprisingly—turned directly to me and said, "You want a picture, sweetie?" I thought I was gonna cry.
Now it was time for first looks—thank God! Finally, I’d be able to do some real shooting. They all seemed to be sort of gathering over there. The only problem was, over there was an area that I apparently was not cleared to be in. How could V not have first looks? Two more attempts and then after witnessing a cameraman who had snuck in being attacked by security, I thought, well, that's it—my night is done.
Exhausted and deflated, I decided to grab my bruised ego and head out. As I was doing that I noticed some heavy flash action happening in the direction I was walking. Hmmm...wonder who this could be…
And there she was, with no other photographers in sight, walking my direction. "Is this happening?" I thought. As if in slow motion, Li’l Kim walked directly towards me. Not having a paparazzi instinct I have to admit I sorta stood there dumb-founded for a moment before I realized I had a camera in my hand. Having just been attacked by flashes not 20 feet back she seemed a little disoriented, as did I. And then the fan in me kicked in as I raised my camera and said: "Hey girl! how you doin'?" Just then she spun around: “Good, baby! How are you? You wanna picture?" I couldn't believe it, it was just me and Lil' Kim. But before I could even get my camera raised the hyenas descended on me like open prey, out of nowhere. I couldn’t believe it. I DID however manage to get the shot, I’m happy to report. And POOF, just as fast as she appeared she was gone.
So that was my first backstage experience. Let's hope they get better as the week progresses. And even though I didn’t have first looks of the models, I did snoop around the clothing racks—Kimora Lee seems to have turned it out again. I spent some time at the camera shop the next day so hopefully my pics will progress throughout the week. Monday is my big baptism by fire, so stay tuned for Oscar de la Renta, Proenza Schouler, John Varvatos, and Marc Jacobs. And wish me luck!
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