The Muppet Show, produced by puppeteer Jim Henson, was a vaudeville-esque variety show that brought a host of lovable characters for child and adult, alike.
Flashback: The Muppet Show (1976-1980)
June 29, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Snap a Pic … Retro-like!
June 27, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Here is a cool, useful case for your iPhone…one part sturdy with two parts retro!
The Gizmon iPhone case adds that little bit (O.K….A LOT) of nostalgic, vintage feel of those Leica-style cameras to your technological gadget. It adds extra photographic capabilities to the regular iPhone camera (and can even be mounted onto a tripod).
Sturdy Duds for Fashionistas on the Go
June 22, 2012 by 2 Comments
Levi’s has been on the forefront of workwear and functional American fashion since it’s humble 1853 beginnings. The San Francisco company, ever noticing the trends in urban cool, released the Commuter line that is city chic and earth friendly (umm…no cars means reduced pollutants, right?!).
Urban form and function!
Get to Work … in Style!
June 22, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Do you find yourself working around the house, in the garage, or behind a bar…in need of a rugged, stylish piece of utilitarian art?
Moore & Giles, a purveyor of leather and fine goods, has created another fashionable find for the urban or rural worker bee.
Leather Work Apron in Baldwin Oak
This vintage-inspired leather apron works not only as a fitting homage to the craftsmen of yore, but also serves as a truly functional piece of urban “uniform.” Think bartender (ahem….”mixologist”), woodworker, or clothing salesman!
Flashback: Old School Sci-Fi (1975-1980)
June 22, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Remember the days when a rockin’ tune accompanied a TV intro or movie preview?
Those old school sci-fi flicks rocked!
Battlestar Galactica (1978-1979)
A Face Only a Soldier Could Love!
June 21, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Have you ever wanted to see what your favorite actor (or ANY other average Joe) would look like as a Russian general?? Well, here you go!
UK artist Steve Payne uses Photoshop to swap the faces of friends, family members, celebrities, and even regular folks like you and me with, those of over three hundred 19th-century Russian generals, who were originally painted by English artist George Dawe in the wake of the Napoleonic War.
Narciso Rodriguez for Kohl’s
June 21, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Joining into the cheap chic designer-mass retailer fray, Kohl’s is launching their new Design Nation November 2012, where they will be collaborating with a designer to bring high fashion to the masses. The first of which is Narciso Rodriguez.
Design Nation allows the designers to travel to whichever city they please to draw inspiration for their capsule collection. The collection will reflect both the designer and the city. Narciso Rodriguez chose Instanbul for his muse and he explored the city for four days.
Louis Vuitton and The Art of Packing
June 21, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Louis Vuitton has updated their website with a section that gives tips and tricks on how to efficiently pack your luggage so your items stay crisp and pristine during your travels while maximizing space. These tips are universal and terribly useful as they can be used in any sort of luggage situation. Whether you’re just doing a quick trip with an overnight bag, only have a carry-on bag, or even a suitcase, your collared shirts, dresses, jackets, and pants will stay wrinkle-free. No muss no fuss.
Flashback: Jump (1992)
June 15, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Now, tell me. You would NOT jump if this song came out in the club tonight?!
Although your “Jump! Jump!” would be shared by all on the dance floor, I’m not so sure how your backwards (or “Kriss-Kross’d”) outfit would fare!
Kriss Kross
Kriss Kross was another product of ‘Hotlanta’ music mastermind, Jermaine Dupri, in 1990.
Interview with Luke Chueh
June 13, 2012 by 2 Comments
Here at Retrenders I had the pleasure of interviewing Luke about his just released book, The Art of Luke Chueh – Bearing the Unbearable published by Titan Books, and got to know a little more of the painter and graphic designer.
RTNDR: I see this book is a great collection of your paintings, acrylic statues, and even showing your skateboard art, but we know you have an amazing collection of vinyl work. Will we see a book highlighting your vinyl art?
LUKE: I think creating a book of my 3-D work would be a great idea. Maybe in couple years after I’ve built up a large enough portfolio.
RTNDR: How would you categorize or characterize your art or should we even categorize art?
LUKE: Years ago, I used to spend time thinking of new names for the genre of my art. I always felt “Lowbrow” had demeaning connotations and “Pop Surreal” only told a part of the story. Word combinations like “Post Brow”, “Idealized Art”, or “Contemptorary” became labels I threw around. But lately I’ve sort of “come to terms” with Lowbrow & Pop Surrealism. To dismiss these would be to dismiss the artists whose work inspired label, and if fans and critics consider my art to be of the genre, then whom am I to tell them they’re wrong? But to be completely honest, I would prefer having my work simply recognized as “contemporary art” (ie. Art that is characteristic of the present).
The Art of Luke Cheuh: Bearing the Unbearable
June 12, 2012 by Leave a Comment
The Art of Luke Chueh – Bearing the Unbearable, published by Titan Books, depicts Luke’s signature artworks and details his career and the steps he took to reach where he is today. Both symbolic and literal subjects are scattered throughout this published work of art.
A Little Shoulder Candy Never Hurts!
June 12, 2012 by Leave a Comment
I’ve lived in the City long enough to realize that a bag…a handbag, shoulder bag, messenger bag, man purse, satchel, or “European Carry All“…is a necessary accessory for the laptop/book/iPad/file-carrying urbanite.
So, unless you valet your vehicle or ride anything that has less than four tires, then parking in San Francisco is nothing short of frustrating, few, and FAR! Why not carry your valuable necessities in a stylish and durable bag?
Shoulder Bag in Navy
The 411 on Mirrorless DSLR (MILC)
June 10, 2012 by Leave a Comment
If you had recently stopped by your local electronics store, you may have seen more advertising pushed on a new type of digital camera class – the mirrorless DSLR. These cameras look like digital point and shoots (POS) but they have the ability to change lenses.
Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera (MILC)
Mirrorless Interchangeable-lens cameras (MILC) are just that – they are cameras without the mirrors. MILC cameras use electronic viewfinders, which is just the rear LCD screen, to look at your subject. Moreover, some have no viewfinders at all. Because of this, MILCs can be smaller and lighter, similar to POS digital cameras.
Mirrorless DSLRs use interchangeable lens just like the DSLR’s do. Now you have the option to use regular pancake lenses, wide-angle lenses, and telephoto lenses, unlike digital POS cameras where the lenses are fixed with limited zooming and focusing capabilities.
Flashback: “Whip It” (1980)
June 8, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Sometimes it’s good to revert to the basics…simple and funky. And, this Friday, it’s about keeping both. Simple costuming, simplistic concepts, and basic, funky beats characterized the band, Devo!
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” By Stephen Chbosky
June 8, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Stephen Chbosky’s inspiration in writing this story came from one his own favorite books, The Catcher in the Rye. Most of us that have attended a public school in the U.S. must have read, or at least, has heard about J.D. Salinger’s most famous work of literature. The Perks of Being a Wallflower follows loyally to the coming-of-age storyline from the point of view of Charlie, an awkward but intelligent freshman in high school, trying hard to grow up and fit in. He meets two friends, Sam and Patrick, who help him find his place in high school. Charlie decides to write to an anonymous friend to detail the important events in his life. His writing is hilarious, sad, hopeful, and he impels us to think about why we choose the choices we make everyday. The book also deals with drugs, sex, homosexuality, dysfunctional families, and all the other challenges life throws at us along the way. Charlie teaches us that life is a struggle but it’s also worth living every minute.
Smooth, Supple and … FAST!!
June 6, 2012 by 1 Comment
O.K….so the sleeper hit Drive has recently influenced my being. I got it. But, really…who doesn’t want to look cool in a T-shirt, jeans and grease?…and drive fast?
Ryan Gosling’s character, the Driver, exudes the ultimate cool: stoic, manly and kick-ass. All while wearing a particularly fashionable pair of Gaspar driving gloves, created by Dorothy Gaspar of Hollywood glove-designing fame.
The Modern Mix-Tape … Totally 80s-inspired!
June 5, 2012 by 3 Comments
If you’re looking for a little retro activity in your modern life, try the ol’ school (albeit, with new school equipment!) mix-tape/CD!
I have never been a stranger to music…especially that which is inspired by that beloved era! So, I recently started grouping different tracks on good ol’ iTunes and cranking out some serious mixes (Soul Sounds, Passion Plays, Calming Classical)…and, now, Electronic Drive!
After viewing the sleek, sexy, soon-to-be-cult-classic, Drive, directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, I felt compelled to revert to my music-compiling days….totally 80s-inspired-like!
Photo by FilmDistrict- © 2011- All Rights Reserved
Now, gone (I think) are the days of dual cassette players and cassette tapes. But, with summer around the corner, what better “I love you, man” gift is better than a CD chock full of choice hits?
“Nightcall” – Kavinsky (feat. Lovefoxxx)
“Under Your Spell” – Desire
Spotlight #3: SF Carnaval 2012
June 5, 2012 by 2 Comments
The sights and sounds of Carnaval came alive in the City’s Mission District!
Host, Al Morales, headed to the 34th annual SF Carnaval 2012 parade to take in the cultural and musical milieu that is one of the City’s biggest celebrations.
Retrenders highlights the infectious rhythms and colorful tapestries that characterize this worldwide celebration and that symbolize the cultural diversity of the Bay Area.
Gaultier’s Passion for Fashion
June 2, 2012 by Leave a Comment
The De Young Museum plays host to “The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk” until August 19. This fabulous exhibit highlights Gaultier’s haute couture and prêt-à-porter designs created between the mid-1970s and 2010.
A Shift to the Chunky!
June 2, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Walking around San Francisco, I have noticed a shift from the classic staple of sleek aviator-type shades to a thicker, bolder, and (some may say) “geekier” eyewear.
SF-based eyewear company, Mayfourteenth, has melded a classic 60s look with modern details and materials. The look is a fresh, summery (and springy) take on urban eyewear….locally made, and nationally sported.
Flashback: Rock Lobster (1978)
June 1, 2012 by Leave a Comment
O.K….so who didn’t love this song back in the day?! The B-52’s had a particular musical style that was just plain fun and fabulous.
DSLR Gear to Get You That Pro Look While on a Budget
June 1, 2012 by Leave a Comment
I came from a broadcasting background and grew up with camcorders, so I was weary when the first DSLR cameras hit the market with video capabilities. Can DSLR’s do a better job with video? As the years passed, I have to say DSLR cameras recording video is not a fad, it’s here to stay.
Point & Shoot (POS) cameras and camcorders are on a downward slide, while DSLRs are on the upswing, and in these next two years it will be an awesome time for fans of DSLRs. The two big companies – Canon and Nikon, are waging a DSLR battle. Just this year – Canon released the 5D Mark 3 ($3,500USD), and Nikon released two cameras- the D3200($700USD) and the D800 ($3000USD). Starting later this year or early 2013, Nikon will be releasing the D5200, D400, and D800 and Canon will be releasing the T4i, 7D Mark 2 and 70D and you can expect incredible audio and video recording capabilities.
With all these cameras and lenses to spend money on, you might be thinking I don’t have too much leftover cash to spend on professional or prosumer gear like tripods, LED flashes, etc. Wrong again. Here’s some equipment on a budget that will make you look like a professional:
Flashback: Looney Tunes
May 25, 2012 by 1 Comment
I remember waking up early Saturday morning, grabbing a box of cereal, a big spoon, and a carton of milk….ready for the two-hour Looney Tunes ride? And, what a ride it was!
Find The Perfect (or, at least, “cool”) Gift For Dad!!
May 24, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Father’s Day is around the corner!
Looking for a special gift that makes Dad’s eye’s light up with that Dude, that’s sooo cool look?
Well, here are a few of such gifts that might just do the trick….and, if not, maybe the ol’ man will pass them down to you….PRONTO!
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This is an old school way to get Pops to embrace his new school iPod!
Dad’s updated headphone from 1965!
Marshal headphones: $99.95
Edward Ballar
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kellyannbrooke
Ramon Angel
Al Woo
Stephen Jang
SW biko
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