December 2021 haul

New year, new attempts to connect with people. New attempts to show parts of myself that aren’t solely posts and happenings on social media [ironically, you’re probably here because of instagram…] it can’t be helped, and im not mad about it either way… im just happy you’re here. Welcome back.

As some of you know, I love shopping. Whether its camera and music equipment, or clothes, I love to do it. I love buying, trying new things. I love researching companies and finding out more about the why. I love thrifting and 2nd chance stuff. I dislike fast fashion because of environmental negligence, but I am guilty of a recent Zara purchase. I bought a version of those thick sole Prada loafers knock-offs because the Prada joints cost over a stack… NGL I enjoy my Zrada knock offs, and they will hold me over until I get the real deal.

Part of my namesake, The Futuristic Vintage, is an homage to how the fashion industry works. I believe were at a point in existence where there are not too many original ideas. We’re always recycling the old and making it new. And I dig that. I love seeing the progression of how we can rework some old ideas and somehow enhance it to todays standards (although, I am not excited for the resurgence of the Von Dutch, Ed Hardy moment. That can stay in the past like… frfr. The sad part is I already see it coming. Just wait a few months.)

Today I’d like to share 3 pieces I’ve added to my collection recently.

Feels Studio crew neck sweater

Logo printed on black Champion crew neck. Lolo photobomb because she is cute af.

I love this sweater. Not only because of the way it fits and feels, but because of the person that created it. Jean is one of my sista-frands. Someone that I admire deeply. If you ever meet Jean you’ll understand. She launched her studio Feels in 2020 and I’m one of the lucky peeps that got gifted this sweater. My last black crewneck was from my dear friends Run River North. Perfect addition during this GA winter season. and sorry, this sweater is not for sale (yet)…

Nanamica Shopping Tote

My good friend and brother David Choe is like… the GAWD of totes. He’s been rocking totes for as long as I’ve known him. I was reluctant at first but then started introducing them slowly into my outfits. My biggest gripe with totes was its function. They’re usually big, they flop around everywhere and are often awkward around the shoulder. But like everything in life, once you get past what was holding you back, you embrace and find new things to enjoy.

Nanamica is a Japan based brand that boasts environmentally conscious, minimalistic design. I dig it. Nanamica means “house of the seven seas”, and their slogan “one ocean, all lands” speaks on how the ocean is really just 1 large body of water and we’re all connected to it. I dig that.

The material used on this tote is very high quality. All the stitching is exact and very refined. The quality is there, and is something I plan to keep in my collection for a long time. One design choice I love is the pocket on the inside of the tote. Only on one side, but its perfect for your phone-keys-wallet.

The Nanamica Tote Phone-Keys-Wallet pocket.

I particularly like this tote because you can shrink and expand the silhouette depending on your use. The drawstrings add to the function and work well, despite having no drawstring stoppers.

A.P.C. x Carhartt WIP Fanny

I dig the clever use of logos for the collab. Bravo.

I absolutely HATE carrying things in my pockets. Anyone else like that? The most i’ll use pockets for is a temporary placeholder for my phone if i’m out shopping, but I dislike relying on my pants or other garments to hold all my belongings for the day.

A.P.C. and Carhartt WIP are 2 brands that I like. A.P.C. more for their design choices and minimalism, and Carhartt WIP for their mix of function and fashion. I’ve been eyeing this fanny for a while, and finally snagged it when it was on a massive sale. Shout out to END clothing.

This bag does not skimp on quality at all. EVERYTHING about this bag feels rugged af, and I already know it’ll last me the rest of my life after years and years of abuse. The materials, the zippers, the strap, stitching, everything is top notch.

Here are some shots wearing these items while out food shopping with my love, Jennifer. She was also my photographer for the day. Thanks baby.

ootd

Hat: Bodega
Mask: Disney
Bandana: Buc-ee’s (iykyk)
Sweater: Feels Studio
Undershirt: Uniqlo
Jeans: Hudson
Kicks: Nike AF1 Gore-Tex
Fanny: A.P.C. x Carhartt WIP
Tote: Nanamica