Rose Cottage by KH: Muscian Shout-Out

The Rakehells are best summed up by the following quote: "It may have been fate, or maybe even the Rock Gods themselves, who dispatched these rockers from their respective homelands to join together to create a new brand of punk ruckus. Whatever the case may be, their sneer and swagger will almost certainly catch the ears of those willing to party."

And party we will this Saturday at the Rose Cottage by Kanibal Home event. Influenced by the Sex Pistols, the Clash, the Ramones, the Stooges and the Rolling Stones, these guys kick off the music section of the evening with a fierce performance. You can listen to some sample tracks here: http://therakehellsnyc.com/musique

Rose Cottage by KH: Vendor Shout-Out

Since opening the shop two years ago, I'm still startled and humbled by the amazing mix of talented folks I've met and befriended. Jade Kuei, the artist behind Mumbot, is probably the best example of one of these chance meetings.

Reserved and soft spoken, I first noticed Jade because of the tattoo on her tricep: a simple line drawing of a dinosaur. We started talking more and more every time she popped into the shop. But nothing too deep or personal. One day I finally asked her what she did, but before she could answer her son piped in: "Oo, Oo! My mom's an artist!" Jade blushed and quieted him down, but not before my interest was piqued. Really? What medium do you work in?

And now it feels like ages since that conversation. Not only have I commissioned Jade to work on personal projects (see below, my pup Ernie), but we've collaborated on products for the shop and I've happily referred her to several friends.

But Jade's really worked her magic on the Rose Cottage by Kanibal Home line. Not only did she help design the logo, but she was instrumental in all of the brand's development. Between Jade and her husband JP, I knew I was in some serious talented hands.

In addition to assisting as a creative influence throughout the process of developing Rose Cottage, Jade was also one of the biggest supporters of the collection. Never one to turn down an idea, she was always games to give something a try, come out for a craft night or plot and plan over the phone.

She's even one of the featured vendor's at this Saturday's pop-up shop -- Bringing new items from Mumbot, personal paintings and some super secret surprises.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rose Cottage by KH: Muscian Shout-Out

These guys don't need much of an introduction if you're into high-energy, sweaty, get-you-on-your-feet live music. Forming out of Purchase College, Jersey City's Wyldlife are a rock and roll band with grit that combine bits of punk with power pop that is both infectious and in your face.

And I'm extremely happy to have them as one of our bands at this Saturday's Rose Cottage by Kanibal Home event.

 So come on out and enjoy a free night of fashion + food + music with some of Jersey City's finest. And if you want to prep yourself for Wyldlife's show, you can check them out here:

Myspace --  http://www.myspace.com/wyldlife7
Facebook -- http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wyldlife/81539129319

 ** And you can also download their EP for free at http://wyldlife.bandcamp.com/ or at http://www.merrifieldrecords.com/wyldlife/

Rose Cottage by KH: Muscian Shout-Out

It was my first year at the shop and one afternoon this tiny brunette popped in, full of energy and spunk. "I need outfits," she said. OK. Not a problem. "But," she added, in a husky voice with a half smile. "For a whole week. I'm traveling. Actually I'm a musician and I need something I can wear on stage. Something sexy, but badass."

And that was how I met Heather Greene. One of Jersey City's finest musicians and the global ambassador for Glenfiddich. She has been instrumental in securing the sponsorship for the Rose Cottage by Kanibal Home event as well as providing the music for the fashion part of the evening along with the very talented Adam Williams.

Together, Adam Williams and Heather Greene make up the mellow, cyber-sounding Argon 40. With a distinguishable pop sound that encompasses electronic keys, digital drums, and a plethora of synth instrumentation, the project started as a quirky experiment and developed into something significant.

A little about these two: 
Prior to Argon 40’s inception, Adam was one of the founding members of the platinum-selling rock band Powerman 5000, touring with the likes of Metallica and Kiss. The group’s commercial smash album “Tonight the Stars Revolt!” catapulted the band to mainstream success, due mainly to the huge popularity of their hit single “When Worlds Collide,” and the record went on to sell over one million copies. Following an extensive career on stage, Williams decided to focus his musical talent on writing and recording, scoring a publishing gig with Chrysalis Music. Recently, Adam has been incorporating post-production mixing and sound design to his repertoire, and he continues to write for television, film, and other publishing ventures.

Heather Greene, both accomplished musician and Scotch whiskey expert, already boasts two critically acclaimed albums – 2005’s “Five Dollar Dress,” recorded alongside guitar luminary Bill Frisell, and 2009’s “Sweet Otherwise,” a lauded success with audiences in Europe and the UK.  Dubbed “American Ambassador of the Year” by Whisky Magazine, Heather also splits her time with Glenfiddich, taking on the role of Scotch specialist with the Banffshire-based company.

With only a few days left until the event, I'm excited to have these two involved and can't wait for everyone to experience everything we have planned. To learn more about Argon 40, check out their Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Argon-40/185314311512588

Rose Cottage by KH: Vendor Shout-Out

When I think of these ladies I imagine Zombie Boy in the recent Mugler campaign: A dichotomy of distinct characteristics. A sophistication and touch of femininity cut with a dark undertone. Pretty silhouettes paired with the morbid.

I guess the very bones of the collection is this: You can wear Rubella jewelry in a myriad of ways, however there's always going to be something a little sinister hiding just under the surface. And that's what I love the best.

Come visit these ladies at the Kanibal Home pop-up shop on 4/9. Word around the campfire is that they'll be unveiling a bunch of new designs (I have my eye on a pretty little butcher knife necklace).

And to keep you interested, here's a bit more info on Rubella:

Rubella is a virus discovered by German doctors in the eighteenth century. It is also the alias of two artists who create (among many things) romantic and mysterious one of a kind pieces of jewelry featuring antique tintype photographs, chandelier crystals, old keys, bones, tiny knives, objects of faith and devotion, and other lovely relics which conjure up and cherish the past. Based in Jersey City, their creations can be found on Etsy, at select shops, and occasionally on the road at various craft fairs and shows. Visit Rubella at www.rubellajewelry.com. 

Rose Cottage by KH: Photographer Shout-Out

If you see a pretty lady behind a camera lens at the event this Saturday, be sure to take note. It's the lovely -- and extremely talented -- Bianca Thomas.

Bianca's been the lady behind the lens of many shoots around New York City and beyond, including a photography internship with The Knot Inc, where she worked alongside several leading wedding photographers. She's also been a production assistant with NBC’s Mercy, assisted on a fashion editorial with photographer Danny Miller and worked with musicians such as Talia Coles and Pras (Fugees), among many others.

I'm honored to have her involved in the Rose Cottage by Kanibal Home event and be sure to tune in to the blog afterward to view her photos from the night. For more information on Bianca Thomas, visit her blog or Facebook page.   

Listen: Chromeo - Tenderoni

Umm, hello -- is there seriously a better weekend jam? And don't even try to suggest that lame Friday viral song.

 fo sho if i tell you how do my dancin'
baby never let me get in those pants

Next Saturday = Rose Cottage by Kanibal Home Event

If you've been ignoring my Paul Revere-like bellowing for the last month, this is what we're counting down until (one week!):

Kanibal Home is launching an upcycled clothing capsule for Spring 2011 and to kick off the Rose Cottage by Kanibal Home collection we’re hosting a presentation party at Parlay Studios in downtown Jersey City on Saturday, April 9^th at 7:00pm.

The full Spring 2011 collection will be modeled throughout the evening. Sponsored in part by William Grant & Sons, there will be an open bar featuring spirits by Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whiskey, Hendrick’s Gin and Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum.  Satis Bistro will also be catering the event with a series of tasting tables and there will be a Kanibal Home pop-up shop selling wares from the collection as well as local merchants. Adam Williams (formerly the guitarist from Powerman 5000 and currently one part of Argon 40) will be spinning the first half of the event. Bands The Rakehells, Wyldlife and Shayfer James will close out the evening. Lighting will be provided by Profoto.

Here’s the quick rundown:

Venue – Parlay Studios (161 2^nd St, Jersey City, NJ)

Event date and time – Saturday, April 9^th from 7:00 to 11:00pm

Event price: FREE (That’s right, it's true)

Website: www.kanibalhome.com and www.rosecottagebykanibalhome.com

RSVP: http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=170898822960940

As background, Rose Cottage by Kanibal Home is a forward-thinking collection rooted in tradition. The line was imagined as a way to honor process, elevate handmade and bring back the true craft of creating clothing. An amalgamation of upcycled clothing and innovative design, each piece is conceptualized individually and assembled by hand. 

The bones that make up Rose Cottage are the stripped and revamped vintage garments, but it’s the modern cuts, innovative finishings and inspired compositions that flesh out and bring the collection to life.  Designed by Caitlin Makary in connection with Kanibal Home, the Spring 2011 collection combines a distinct tribal feel with slight menswear influences. Currently a designer with Nautica, Makary  worked under Proenza Schouler in 2005 and then designed for Nicole Miller. Bringing a highly technical but creative approach to these select garments, she’s been instrumental in launching the line.

As we approach the two year anniversary of our brick-and-mortar storefront, the Rose Cottage collection marks a return to Kanibal Home’s roots. The shop started out as an online business specializing in refurbished vintage items – giving new life to something old – and we’re happy to continue our focus on one-of-a-kind merchandise through this new endeavor.