For those trying to figure out what’s up with the slowly losing counter-culture force that is A Bathing Ape, they just opened up a store in Los Angeles. The question is why is the store so popular with everyone who hates the technical term “trend”? What happens if all of a sudden, the exclusivity of BAPE becomes, not-so-exclusive?

Here’s what happens, nothing. It’ll never happen according to a friend who states that BAPE’s appeal is that the masses can never accept it because the masses can’t afford it. There’s a coup. Price something out of the range of common folk and voila, you have a hit. On further inspection, the prices are truly out there all things considered and looking at the range. A good example is this top, it sells for $58. In the world of fashion it may not necessarily be a deal breaker especially where bras may end up in the range of $500 to $1000. The key here is that the bra, does not have the aura of being an Aubade, Agent Provacateur, or (insert expensive designer here).

So what’s your BAPE story, why do you shop there?

Wal-mart is at it again. Someone needs to stop them.

To be completely fair, Wal-Mart’s first effort at carrying skinny jeans and other items dubbed as “stylish” was a half hearted attempt, a lark if you will. This time they need to wade in the pool more carefully. Even the most discerning fashion lover finds something at Wal-Mart and though they may not fully commit to purchasing anything besides normal sundry, a glance past the clothing rack at something relevant might happen. The key (if anyone is listening), is to not try to be Target. Do your thing, sparingly. The mom jeans are what sells, don’t abandon that for “fashionable” items. Just go slow. That’s our pep-talk for the day.

Vogue Uk has a special feature with all the covers that Mario Testino has provided his skilled lens on. The retrospective is interesting if only to highlight the multiple personalities, colors and people he has worked with. Take a look at all the covers here.

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Bag Bliss discovers a handful of eco-friendly handbags.

Bag Snob exclusive interview with Derek Lam of Tod’s!

Beauty Snob gets bedroom gorgeous hair with Ginalli Ceramic Iron!

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Fashion Indie’s Kristen May talks about her Gossip Girl worth headbands.

Fashiontribes piles on the charming, non-cheesy craftsy jewelry.

KRiSTOPHER is wanting, wearing, and hating snakeskin bags and shoes

Second City Style tries GOing junior at Target

Shrimpton Couture shares her Vintage Diary entry.

StyleBakery.com - Celebrate the return of Sex and the City with Cosabella lingerie inspired by your four favorite ladies.

Stylehive’s Next Big Thing: Mexico’s Fashion Phenom Paola Hernandez.

WE LOVE BEAUTY.com met up with celebrity manicurist, Melissa Bozant to discuss the latest mani & pedi trends.

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You need to find a way to make it to this sample sale. Olga Kapustina is having a sample sale where customers will get 50 to 70% off silk and Spring/Summer dresses. Silk “party dresses” and cotton office
looks. Also limited addition Olga Kapustina dresses available ONLY at this sale!!!

Here are the details:

OLGA KAPUSTINA ANNUAL SAMPLE SALE

APRIL 30TH & MAY 1ST 9AM- 8PM
MAY 2ND 9AM- 7PM

LOCATION:
161 W 22nd Street
3rd Floor
212 563 4930 ph