make believe

The Magic Doesn't Stop!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 02:16:00 +0000

So we just had a big sample sale and all the pieces flew out of our studio at the speed of light and we can officially say the Petal to the Metal collection is no longer in production. But please do not fret!!! There are a lot of mystical things happening behind the gates at Make Believe.

Thanks for being patient as we brew up some new incredible treats to feast your eyes on!!!

In the mean time, if you are board and need a dose of adventure away from your world, check out Amber Joy's adventures in Tokyo here...

http://iamamberjoy.wordpress.com

XOXO

Ambony!

It's Never Sayonara! It's Always See You Soon!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 10:45:00 +0000

Hey friends and lovers! ひさしぶり！ Translation: Long time no see!

Sorry our blog has been on a bit of a hiatus! It has been an insane year in so many freaky ways, I just don't know where to begin. Big changes happened under our feet whether we wanted them to or not...from Ebony shattering her big toe and being told they had to amputate (didn't end up happening), to our wild journeys in China last summer, to moving studios, to trying to stay sane....a long distance best-friendship is not the easiest way to be best friends! Just wish we were better swimmers so Ebony and I could be together way more often than we have been in the past 365 days.

They say distance makes the heart grow fonder, but I say distance makes my heart miss you more!

Today I am in Tokyo, thinking about Ebony who is making her way from London to Paris with our infamous Gay Dad. I guess it is what we do, it is what makes us the princesses of the Land of Make Believe. We gallivant, make friends and hunt for beauty and surprise all over the globe.

Until next time we meet again, here's a lil walk down memory lane....

I'm on a boat man!

Tokyo family reunion!

Make Believe Breaking News


With 1 of our absolute faves....Mr. G.J. Finch of Ant!podium


Matsuri Mamas!


More Make Believe News

Smarter than we look

Disco Magic

Mother & Daughter, Germany 1952


Spring Babies

Purikura!

Wire...the site of too many memories to recall them all

Double Denim. aka Canadian Tuxedo.

a lil slice of heaven


It's never "Sayonara", it's always "See you soon!"

xoxo

Ambony
Amber & Ebony

One Love. One Nippon.

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 04:27:00 +0000

If you find yourself in the enchanting hub of Tokyo this weekend, please join our friends at Tokyo Dandy for their big fundraiser event. It is an amazing time to come together with a gorgeous community and make a big difference for the country we love so much...Japan!

Good Friends and Big Hearts are coming together to pile up supplies and necessitites to help the beautiful beings who were effected by the March 11, 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Northern Japan. Bring 3 items to donate to Second Harvest, who will deliver the goods to those in need. See what can be donated here.

When：2011年3月26日（土）
Where：Trump Room
Open：23:00 – 5:00
Door：エントランスはフリーですが、各自最低でも3点以上、必要としている物資リストからお持ち頂ければと思います。

**The list of gorgeous DJs who have all pitched in to help was just released...you can be assured that our Tokyo Family will come together and the entertainment will be a reminder of why we all love this city so damn much! ♥♥♥

The strong sense of community, love and respect for one another in Japan is amazingly beautiful and it makes me love the country unconditionally.

I believe that no one person can change the world, but together we can do anything! So together, let's do all that we can (and then some more) for all of the beings in the world suffering and living in fear. May every being feel love, warmth, strength, and community.

One Love. One Nippon. ♥

Amber Joy & Ebony Fleur

xoxo

Helping You Help Japan - One Love!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 04:25:00 +0000

I have lived all over the world and I have always said that Japan is my home away from home. It is magnificently gorgeous country filled with people who have the most beautiful spirits. It is a safe and warm place that has always welcomed me and shown me more community and love than I have ever known. As the wrath of last weeks earthquake and tsunami breaks my heart, I know that we can come together to make a difference. So please take time to look at how you can help and take time to send healing and positive thoughts to Northern Japan, as that is who needs it most.

I have put together a list of ways that you and your families and friends can help Japan's….people, economy, pets and spirit!

The Japan Earthquake & Tsunami Relief Fund launched by GlobalGiving.org

Second Harvest is taking care of the people who have suffered from the devastating effects of last weeks earthquake.

To send food and supplies to the area in need
Send donations to Second Harvest

I believe that all beings are equal, and the animal suffering need to be rescued and cared for, just as the people do. Pets are part of our families, they are our children.

          Read about the animals
          Help the animals
          Help the animals - Japanese site

If you can speak Japanese, volunteer by translating

Apple is also Dedicating Resources to the crisis in Japan

iTunes has created a simple iTunes donation page that makes it simple to donate anywhere from $5 to $200 to the Red Cross with just a few clicks.

• Canadian Red Cross

Please be smart and very conscious about what you hear. Do not be fooled by the media who is on its way to creating a Hollywood film from the disaster.

Do Not believe everything you read and see.
Believe that people are suffering
Believe that the community is being strong and people are coming together to help each other
Believe that no one person can do it alone, but together we can make the biggest difference!

This is a fantastic blog post that my good friend Dan from Tokyo Dandy has written, and I stand by him in his efforts to direct the concern and prayers to the North of Japan, to those who are truly suffering.

One Love! ♥

Amber Joy & Ebony Fleur

Wined, Dined and Valentined

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 05:42:00 +0000

I always think it is a little bit funny that on Valentine's Day in Japan girls give chocolates to boys and more specifically, office ladies give chocolates to their co-workers. So while many ladies around the world are getting showered with roses and being wined and dined and valentined, the ladies in Japan are giving heart shaped boxes of chocolates away.

However, I have learned that if Valentine's Day happens to fall on a Sunday, women need not feel obligated to give because it's a holiday and they won't even be at the office. Snap! I also learned that when someone really doesn't want to give away a sweet Valentine surprise, they call it "giri-choko" meaning "obligation chocolate". So seeing as this year Valentine's is on a Monday, I am sure there is a lot of cheap insincere chocolate floating around the offices in Japan!

On the brighter side, I really do hope there is some love in the air today so that the boys are getting "honmei-choco" too... aka "Chocolate of Love" or the "true feeling chocolate". I bet those chocolates taste much better!
Psssst: If anyone doesn't want their chocolate....please send it this way!

Not to get ahead of myself and just so no one thinks this is unfair, don't you worry ladies, you get chocolate treats in return on March 14th, "White Day". And the best part about this special day is that we can expect more than just chocolate....this is where the men roll out the big guns. The term "sanbai gaeshi" is used, which means "three times the return". They say good things come to those who wait, and by waiting til March 14th.....the good things will most likely come in the form of cookies, jewelry, lingerie, white chocolate and marshmallows! Oh My!

To get in the mood for love on this lovey dovey day....here is a heartwarming song about sweet Valentine's Kisses from Japan....

So on this chocolately romantic day we send u almost revolting amounts of love and kisses!!!
mmmmwah!
X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡X♡

I wanna go Higher!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 21:16:00 +0000

If you have been following Ebony and I at Make Believe for a long time, you will know that we have dabbled in the music world. Sounds a little crazy I know, but with the help of our favorite musical wizard Oli Chang, we were able to make some fun dancefloor magic.

We have put down the mics and left music to the pros lately, but Oli continues to blaze on, and his band the High Highs are making HUGE waves in NYC and all around the world!

This post is a little tribute to Oli, Jack and Zach of the High Highs, and a little gift for our readers ears. I know you are gonna love what you hear. Perfect for a cozy winter afternoon...

In need of a home...

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 04:30:00 +0000

When one is looking for a home, all the sudden everyone else's dwellings begin to seem so inviting and worthy of jealousy. I have lived in 30 different homes and I am still under 30 years old! Sounds kind of insane, but it doesn't actually feel that weird. I am a mover. I have been doing it all my life and I must say that I am getting damn good at it. However there are times when all you want is a cozy place to rest your head, a place that is your own.

One of my very favorite homes I have ever lived in was in Zoshigaya in Tokyo. It's is the place where Ebony and I met. She met me in the graveyard near her house in Tokyo to show me her spare room for rent. Who knew that we would warp into Ambony!?!?!

A walk through a eerily magical graveyard...

...takes you to a small hidden little pathway....

...which leads you up to one amazing old Japanese house, we liked to call HOME!

Old sliding doors and tatami floors...

A bathroom so small you couldn't even shut the door all the way when u were sitting down on the floor toilet. Guess it would have been easier if we weren't such gigantic gaijins.

So until I find a home, I will keep fantasizing about my dream home....a combo of many of the places I have laid my head to rest, and many places I have yet to visit.

xx
Amber Joy

Never Grow Up! No Matter What.

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 23:49:00 +0000

What's the secret to life? I don't know. Even if I did I couldn't tell you cause then it wouldn't be a secret anymore. And I am not a big mouth. All that I know is being goofy and having fun is essential. And not a day should ever go by without laughing to the point of some kind of deleriousness.

So that is why I constantly dream of amusement parks, ice cream and screaming on thrilling coasters. Just before I had to say goodbye to Tokyo this time, me and my friend Magu snuck away to the base of Mount Fuji to one of my favorite places in the world....Fuji Q Highlands!!!!

Oh Fuji san, so glorious!

I realize that I look like the big kid and Magu looks awfully serious. But it is just that he takes his jetcoasters very serious. No joking around.

Eejanaika....feels a little like getting beat up for your lunch money, but the thrill is worth the pain!

And then a break to kick it with my new friends!

Love the sushi games! Though not entirely sure how they work???

Fujiyama...love of my life!

And after this little adventure, I couldn't shake my craving to ride more coasters. So I headed to the centre of Tokyo to ride one of my classic favorites...Thunder Dolphin!

Everyone who knows us gals knows that we live for the fun stuff. We are big kids and we will forever value the thrill of a rollercoaster. When Ebony and I lived in Tokyo, we used to ride our bikes down to Tokyo Dome on a Saturday morning and ride the amazing Thunder Dolphin...

Waaaaoh! I can almost feel the wind in my hair and the shriek in my voice!

Until the next time...xoxo

Theo Adams + Louis Vuitton

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 12:33:00 +0000

Everyone says that "Love Hotels" are the best hotels in Tokyo to keep you fully entertained and satisfied. This is generally true, however last week the geniuses from the London based Theo Adams Company came and paired up with Louis Vuitton to make magic. The magic that they made came in the form of a HOTEL. It was an incredible party that was slightly based on the big LV party in London earlier this year. But the difference here is that Theo Adams' show (never to be imitated) and David White's golden design touch made it better than any other!

From elevators that took you nowhere except to sparkling dead ends where you were serenaded by divas and gospel choirs, to luggage rooms with eeery dancers and trapeize artists hanging from the rafters along with Louis' Leather, to a replica of the original Louis Vuitton store, incredible singers and a string quartet, a silent disco with performance, kawaii Harajuku girls taking your photo...only to have it broadcast in the big party room where more real magic happened.


Best moment of my life...a gospel chior jumping into the elevator singing Ain't No Mountain High Enough!


The most genius elevator man....literally! He used to be a Dean at Parsons, NYC

Mademoiselle Yulia and our favorite elevator man!

Moshi Moshi, Yoruko Banzai desu.

We musn't forget the peep-show style hotel room where we could spy on stunning models trying on the latest Vuitton collections in a glimmering gold room. And in true Paris Texas peep-show form, we pervs had a phone to call the models and ask what we may. Later that night, the room was swapped over into the suite of the star of the show...none other than the gorgeous Gwendoline Christie...

The show on the main stage changed my life. I really forgot who I was and where I came from while I was entertained and serenaded by the best of the best....Ladies and Gentlemen....The Theo Adams Comapany!

Sonoya was incredible!!! And we were so surprised to see her in the show!


Theo, you changed my life!

Oh yeah, and then Sister Sledge came out to perform a few classics and we screamed so hard back at them, that they invited us on stage to give a little helping hand for my fav..."We Are Family".

There were floors of fun and of course champagne flooding our heads. It was one of the best nights in my life spent with some of my very best friends! As the night toned down, we sached across the big dance floor with silver fans in hand dancing like wild gypsys.

We are family!

Amongst the heaps of incredible emotions, what was the highlight you ask???

Well it was heading back up to the silent disco when it was quieting down and all that was left was the all black room, disco ball hanging in the middle and plush caramel leather headphones hanging from the ceiling. Then we danced and the sweat began to pour. There were a few different sound tracks, so while I was grinding down to Beyonce, next to me Rachel was screaming along to some party anthem, while others had a more classical flavor. No matter what was playing in our headphones, screams and laughter were pumping out of us!

Wooooah! This night is going down in history!
xoxo

Friday Night Full of Kanye and Nippples!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 04:46:00 +0000

It was meant to be a quiet weekend in Tokyo, as it was the only weekend where I could feasibly be in bed before 2am every night. A very difficult thing to do in a city that actually never sleeps. But an uneventful weekend quickly warped into on of the best Friday Nights of my life….

Yulia, Sachiko and Jo on our charriot for the evening...

Kanye West was hosting a super secret showing of his new unreleased film "Runaway". It was essentially a 40 minute music video for all the tracks on his new album to be released next month. After he gave a quick introduction for the film in an old movie theatre in a strange location in Tokyo, Kanye took his seat in front of me and then turned around to say "what's up?" to me. And as the lights went down, I smiled and felt a little star struck. It was awesome watching him get into his own beats in the opening scene. The old school, non computerized explosions and the ballerinas were definitely my highlights and there were a few amazing tracks that upped my respect for Mr. West once again.

After the Q&A, where I actually asked a question and could feel my voice quiver as all the coolest B-boys in Tokyo turned to look at me, we hung in the lobby chatting. Kanye came and talked to us for a while and it was refreshing to hear is views on inspiration and criticism, as well as how good he was at taking a few jokes I jabbed at him.

Mademoiselle Yulia, Kanye West and me (Amber Joy)

The new Kanye vinyl that he hadn't even seen yet!

As everyone scattered format he theater, I rushed to Shibuya to see my friends filming a music video / documentary in a Kareoke booth. The Trippple Nippples are some of our best friends in Tokyo, and I have witnessed enough of their shows to know I was in for a magical experience. Once I finally found the kareoke place on a loud dirty street, I wandered up to the 4th floor. Like Hansel and Gretel's trail of bread crumbs, I found a trail of feathers and knew I was in the right place. As I walked up to room 403, I opened the door and sweat, smoke, flour, and feathers poured out.

The small room was packed with about 30 people screaming and dancing a sweaty dance to the infectious performance given by Yuka and Qrea

Yuka and Qrea Nippple after the shocker of a show!

The gentlemen geniuses behind the Nippples, Jo and Jim, couldn't have looked better in their fuzzy bear heads.

The Trippple Nippples have been on the Tokyo scene for a few years now, and have performed in China, Korea, Japan and Sydney. There are some big things brewing for these Nippples, so look out for them…a Trippple Nippples show should never be missed! In fact, as I left the sweaty slimy Kareoke booth, I almost forgot that just hours earlier I had been hanging with Kanye.

Just another Friday night in Tokyo…..

Oh yeah. P.S. This is what I wore...

Before I left my hood I went to Garter (my favortie place in the world) for find something to wear. The lovely Koshiro let me borrow this killer Garter jacket and after too many compliments (even from Mr. West) than are good for a girl, I obviously had to have it. A borrow turns into a buy! Thanks Koshiro! x

Fancy a Fancy Him Family Reunion?

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 04:07:00 +0000

It was Saturday night in Tokyo's Ni-Chome, and the streets were packed. The heart of gay town was buzzing with drunkards and drag queens as we were reunited with old friends made in this crazy city over the years. Fancy Him is one of Tokyo's most renoun parties which definitely lives up to all the hype. It was their 5 year anniversary and we celebrated in style....

Two of my best besties! Rachel ilil and Soni laughing in the streets!

The Amazing Madoka Gwns and Shunsuke.....Madoka's hair mask was shockingly incredible and insane...it felt like she wasn't even there cause we never got to see that gorgeous smile!

Lovely Leo wearing somthing more incredible than can be described....and I am sure the genius that he is made it himself!

Real Men. DJs Kosuke Adam and Detto K were there to provide some of the best dance beats, and Jonte (center), well Jonte was there to shine! He didn't perform for this occasion, but in the past he performed at Fancy Him and it was incredible!!!! Watch it here.

I love that fact that parents wanted to come out and join in the fun too. They had read about Fancy Him and wanted to see what it was about!

Papa owns a pet store!

Roxi + Detto K

Koshiro wearing Betty Boop.... his shop Garter is my favorite place in the world! Seriously, no store with better style! I die for Boutique Koshiro!!!

Everyone is rocking Matsumira san style.....bum bags mean a serious night out!

Me and Leo....Africa Amber Joy and Leopard Leo!

The gorgeous Peli on deck!

Qrea (Trippple Nippples) and Tap (Fancy Him)

Anita san and Magu!

Things start getting a little crazy back outside

The birthday boy sporting the latest and greatest Banzai tank.

I remember the first Fancy Him I went to just about 5 years ago....It was magical. No matter how many ears go by, I will always remember laughing and dancing in the streets, drinking outside of Sunkus and then hitting the dance floor and shouting "One More" at DJ Anita San at 5 am as the sun rises outside and the glitter falls inside.

We ♡ you forever and always Fancy Him!!!!

Hermes Days

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 14:08:00 +0000

I met my friends Dan and Joe in Yoyogi Park to enjoy the last real hot day of Tokyo summer (though we didn't know it then). As the sun went down in the the park, we did our best to freshen up and get ready for an Hermes party that our friends The Akimoto family were throwing.

When we strolled up to Omotesando Hills, a big posh shopping center between Harajuku and Aoyama, we were ready for a little party in the Hermes shop. Little did we know, Hermes was doing it right and was hosting the party in the entire Omotesando Hills....a gigantic spiral of fashion.

The Oh So Lovely Akimoto family...Yu, Go and Kozue.

Joe and Yu hanging "backstage"....which was actually out in the open for everyone to see, so it was more like "frontstage" with an orange rope separating the models from the masses.

Hermes Orange Everywhere....

We spent the evening laughing, drinking champagne, eating chocolate covered pretzles and playing in purikura booths. Some good old fashioned fun with my friends was the best way to start a lovely long weekend...

Moustache braids!

Amazingly dangerous and amazingly incredible footwork!

Furry feet!

Don't cross the Akimoto sisters...or they will cross you!

Thanks for a great evening Hermes!!!

We love you! xoxo

Harajuku in 3-D

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 09:49:00 +0000

Last Saturday in Harajuku, the legendary fashion spot Laforet saw a whole lot of action! Harajuku in 3-D was a masterpiece put together by some amazing people doing incredible things on the scene here in Tokyo. So I was just delighted to be able to assist styling and help out ensuring things ran smoothly at the event which had Meiji Dori buzzing.

These creepers and Barbie bracelets had me wishing I was a little girl again! Kawaii!

Playing around with possibility

Oh, the controversy of this little guy...glad we got to use him!

Lots of things were happening inside, while we scrambled around getting a last minute pair of boots.

I wish I could try this on my hair, but I am pretty sure it would take a lifetime to do

The models getting wrapped in black capes. Then they would cruise up the street to the light box which is where they dressed before hitting the stage.

Born Ready!

Eat your heart out ladies, Detto K is the man of the hour

Cue dance party on stage to the the banging beats supplied by Mademoiselle Yulia!

The boys are backstage!

One last look at that amazing stuffed animal! Raaawrr!

Feeling the wrath of the big YEAH party the night before, we all came and conquered and had a blast doing so. I cannot wait to work with all my friends again...these are always the best collaborations!

Check out Tokyo Dandy's amazing coverage of the event here.

Styling: Joe (Tokyo Dandy)
Assistant: Amber Joy (Make Believe) - that's moi!
Photographer: Dan (Tokyo Dandy) - clearly these shots here are not taken by him...just little ol me took these!
Art Direction: RALPH aka Yoshirotten
DJ: Mademoiselle Yulia
Models: Tanc, Hiroki Kaminaga, Detto K, Maho, Fuyuri, Sono

Top Me Up Top Shop!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 05:48:00 +0000

Nothing better to do on a rainy Wednesday night in Tokyo than head to Shinjuku's gigantic Top Man store, drink champagne, enjoy live music and mingle with friends. Well, I sure couldnt think of anything better, and with fashion party season in full swing, my blood was aching for more booze....champagne to be exact. Champagne has become a regular part of my diet, and my old self who used to claim that it gave me headaches is long gone. Now I love to let the Moet floooooowwwwwww!

Live music was provied by Rox and later on in the eve Carl Barat (former Libertines member). I think both sets were well received, but I will be the first to admit that when seeing live music in a shop that is buzzing with tipsy party goers and blazing fluorescent lights, I have the attention span of a hyper-active teenager. Forgive me and my lack of attention span.

The who's who in Tokyo were all ushered to the line of fire....photography fire

Our main men Dan and Jo from Tokyo Dandy

The lovely Yuya Nara and Sachiko from Shima who later stepped in as the evenings impromptu make-up artists

Our gorgeous long time friend Mademoiselle Yulia

Verbal and Yoon of Ambushed were debuting their collaboration with Top Man. The result is incredible! Be sure to check it out here...

Carl Barat signing Yulia's Jeremy Scott bag...oh how so many worlds collide!

I leave Tokyo for what must of been 9 months and Daruma (Dex Pistols & Roc Star) and his lovely wife went and had a gorgeous baby! Amazing!

And for those of us who were not ready to settle down, it was time for more fun

But as the booze ran dry, we all went a little wacky and hit the make up department. A bit too much to drink and nothing to do caused party goers to get a little "creative"...

Yoon working on Kosuke Adam's gorgeous face

Jealous Dan?

And so everyone wanted in on the fun....

Thanks Top Shop for a lovely evening, and an even bigger THANK YOU for coming out with your new line of make up....it really offers hours of entertainment!

Eat Your Fruits and Veggies in China!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 01:20:00 +0000

Ebony and I reunited last month in Hong Kong and were bound for Mainland China. Generally quite adventerous, we found ourselves eating some awfully strange and awfully greasy food. From "Shake n' Bake" tofu to raw egg pastries to rainbow jellies from the grocery store...

All we knew was that we wanted to steer clear of the ducks heart, sliced up turtle on rice, $1 escargot and of course we were hoping to pass on the tiger leg soup too.

It didn't take us long before we realized that we missed those bright, colorful, juicy things that used to be a part of our diets. What are those things called again? It seemed so long since we had fresh fruit and veggies that we forgot their names.

After a little detective work, we found some gorgeous fruit juice stands and markets in Hong Kong to feed our needs.

Though we had to work to find the juicy stuff, it was well worth the wait! And my quivering insides were glad to be reunited with fresh food!

An Eye for Detail

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:48:00 +0000

Recently, while my other half was away fighting off cowboys in her motherland, I was fortunate enough to accompany my favourite monocle wearing gentleman, Darcel to lunch at the Japanese culinary icon that is Nobu.

Despite daily fantasies I'm not normally a lady who lunches so it was a treat to accompany Darcel on one of his 12 grueling reviewing assignments for NY Restaurant Week.

We got things started with cucumber cocktails and tomato ceviche, more cooling than an open fire hydrant in the NY heat.

Classic sushi, oh and classic wall street-ers too!

All topped off with a glass of creamy strawberry-basily-cakey delight. I took care of both of these.

Just in case all that wasn't fit for Darcel's discerning palate we were presented with a specially prepared plate of mango, melon and raspberry mochi ice cream (De Niro must have sent those out).

And the meal as seen through the eye of my date:

To see all Darcel's restaurant week reviews check this out.

Thank you Darcel!

Africananana

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 03:59:00 +0000

It was sizzling, it was sweaty, it was the beginning of summer here in New York. And what could be better to do on a hot Memorial Day long weekend than hit up the Dance Africa festival at BAM.

We came on bike, on train and on foot. And we sweated it out in the hot sun, tried on dresses, danced to all kinds of different beats, ate jerk chicken, made great new friends, drank cane juice and basked in the glory and culture that was oozing out onto the streets.

One of the most incredible men I have ever come across! Genius style!

What cleanse?

You are breakin' my heart here. Too cute!

I want to come back in my next life looking like this pretty please!

Living vicariously through Anthony as he made somer serious purchases. Hello. Best hat ever?

New friends from all over the place!

I have never seen a girl so happy, or so quiet...after she got her fork and her home style food!

Sweet tamarind....a real sweetie!

um, what's it gonna take to transport everything here to my closet?

Yes Kaiti. Yes!

One of my fav male looks...sharp, yet subtle.

Mr Goodstuff, is that you?

And now for some of my favorite things.....

Essential pantsuit

Michelle Obama Handbag...obviously!

The most ridiculous thing about this dog was actually its owner's GOLD lipstick. I need to get some!

I have got two words for you...tropical pizazz!

What a weekend!!! And what a festival. I really wish it happened every week!

Drunk As A Dragon

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Thu, 27 May 2010 22:44:00 +0000

Although the event on Monday night at Macao in NY was actually called the Drunken Dragon, we all left there drunker than any dragons! Thanks to the gorgeously mixed and mastered exotic drinks, our table was flooding with our favorites...the "Calamity Chang," "Lovee Long Time" and of course the knockout mixing of champagne and absinthe, aka "The Dangerkat". Needless to say, by the end of the night we were all telling each other just how much we love one another.

The Gorgeous Kaiti Dangerkat and Matthew Chiu...our fav NYC movers and SHAKERS!

Matthew dancing on the bar.

After we came out of the haze of our hangovers, we were able to remember just about everything that happened. Every little thing impressed; from the table service catering, to the ambiance, to the costumes. But not surprisingly, the dancers stole the show. Our gorgeous friend Kaiti Dangerkat organized the entertainment and the show put on by the House of Dangerkat dancers was epic. These dancers ruled the evening and had everyone standing on table, doing chin ups and screaming for more!

The scene of the crime...

The culprits...Ebony, Craig, Thomas and Jenny all looking for trouble

I didn't lie...we were literally doing chin ups above our table (oops!)

After the show...some backstage bonding.

Circus runaways? Circus runway?

Oli and Gio aka Jelly Jells, new found besties!

Our lady of the night....Miss Dangerkat

Recently Kaiti and Matthew did some incredible modeling for us at Make Believe...so we wanted to say Thank You and help them celebrate their big night with a lil MB lovin'!

Thanks for one of the best nights in a long time!!!

xoxo

Our Darcel Never Disappoints

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Mon, 17 May 2010 23:19:00 +0000

What is better than a cynical friend? A cynical friend with so much talent, it blows our minds. Craig Redman, the genius designer behind our favorite character Darcel, jetted off to Paris last month to show those stylish Parisians what he's got. With an incredible solo show at Colette, this guy is one to be watched... even Mr. Karl Lagerfeld thinks so!

If you don't already follow this "egg on legs" you should definitely check out his Darcel Disappoints blog. Just when you think you are having a bad day, sometimes there is nothing better than spying on someone else who is having a worse one.

For this same show, Darcel collaborated with Ebony's main man, Oli Chang, to release a series of short "Disappointing Moments" videos. Check out one below. Genius.

Thanks for your frown Darcel, you always manage to turn our frowns upside down!

xoxo

p.s. If you are in paris be sure to pop into Colette. The Darcel show is up until the 29th of May... you will not be disappointed!

We Got it Covered!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:27:00 +0000

They say that good things come in threes, I am not sure who "they" are but we are gonna believe them on this one. Having never been on a glossy cover, we were ecstatic to hear that we are on the cover of Nylon Japan this month. And what could make us 2 girls happier? To get word that Make Believe is also featured on the cover of Frankie in Australia for the May-June issue! Eeeek!

Frankie May-June, 2010

Nylon Japan April, 2010

(this one is thougher to see, but Make Believe is in there...as a belt!)

So these are just two out of the good three and now we are ready and waiting for the third dose of good news!

Thanks Japan and Australia for all your love...we love you so much right back!
xoxo

Did 2Pac Actually Ride Horses with Bob Marley?

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:38:00 +0000

It was a pretty chilled weekend for us, spent in Brooklyn for the most part. Cruised around the Brooklyn Flea Market in Fort Greene in search of some... well not actually really in search of anything. But I did manage to find all the parts to make up a perfect outfit as well as some amazing globes, mouthwatering mexican food and some sunshine in the park.

Then we crossed over the bridge into Manhattan to check out the J-cation festival at the Japan Society. It smelt like Tokyo and some DJs cranked the hits while we drank sake, ate cream puffs and fried chicken and checked out some incredible historical Japanese prints. Asobi Seksu finished off the evening with a massive electronic set. It was a great show to see, but I really would have enjoyed it more with a beer in my hand and ear plugs in my ears. Ouch! It was a little loud for us ladies!

On Sunday I ventured to the street of Bedford Stuyvesant for an afternoon walk and found a few interesting things....

A car that had been lit on fire last night, not sure if it was insurance related or what?!? It was awfully strange to see.

Some elegant artwork portraying some of those most influential men in music... riding horses in the wild west???

This would look lovely hanging over the fireplace!

And finally some stylish household items which are seeming more and more like a must have for me!

Gimme More Baltimore!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:23:00 +0000

I was finally able to see straight after a very big weekend and an amazing Saturday night spent at Brooklyn's Best party called The Rub. Some ancient friends of mine, Smalltown DJs and Wax Romeo were in NYC DJing Flashing Lights and The Rub and when they asked me to tag along to Baltimore too, there was no way I was gonna say no.

So we met on a grungy street corner and had to start begging for a car to rent. Didn't quite have all the paperwork to rent a car from the fancy places, so we had to go to a grimey place in Park Slope. With a whole lot of negotiation and a fear that we would be given a car without brakes, we jumped in our little Ford and left the city.

In search of juicy crab cakes, we went to The Dizz where we indulged in some local cuisine with the locals (who may or may not have appreciated us?!)

Break it if you got it... Mandeep makes the right decision and orders the best fish and chips around!

Obsessed with the flamingos!

Deep fried Mac n Cheese bites....I die for you!

Baltimore is quaint and picturesque when you are on the "right" side of the tracks, and when you are on the wrong side, lock your doors and windows and prey that you don't pop a tire. GPS should really offer the choice of "Avoid the Hood" or "Avoid Conflict", instead of just helping you avoid tolls!

For breakfast, we stumbled upon Paper Mood Diner the craziest establishment EVER. Crawling with dolls, GI Joes, Barbies, Pez dispensers and the strangest mannequins... they served us up some serious breakfasts of champions.

A bit too creepy before my morning coffee!

All bathroom symbols should have to be mimicked by Ken & Barbie

Clearly, this is one of my favorite places ever, seeing as I didn't take too many pictures of much else!

On the way back, we had to get Mandeep to the worlds farthest airport to catch his flight home. So we drove up through the Bronx, Sleepy Hollow and so many areas of the city that I have never heard of. It was an adventure for sure, and even though I didn't realize it, I was desperate for a little break from the Big Apple.

And back to reality....

We Found Spring!

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 14:41:00 +0000

One of the most depressing things about not being able to be everywhere in the world at the same time, is not being able to be in Tokyo in spring. Hanami (cherry blossom season) is the most heart warming and special time in Japan and it is the best for picnicking, drinking and just enjoying spring.

In search of blossoms and spring time rejuvenation, Ebony and I set out to find hanami in New York this weekend. We did not find parks lined with blue tarps filled with salary men drinking sake, Japanese hippies drumming in Yoyogi or cherry blossom flavored alcohol pops, but what we did find was blue skies, artificially flavored Easter bunny treats, police arresting people in parks for drinking and well.... blossoms!

First day on the new bike... smooth operations!

Magnolias are my favorite!

Clutch hanami tree

All the Park Slope yuppies were looking at us like we weren't wearing pants...in total disgust of our choice of artificial, non-organic snacks. Heaven forbid!

A bit more yuppie flavored

Keeping an eye out for Police cruising the park on 3-wheel cartoon cars, stopping drinking in public. Good thing we had those sneaky paper bags! Fools 'em every time!

Even the strictly Manhattaners were coaxed into crossing over to the other side for a picnic!

Uncle Mario arrived from Chile just in time. Please stay!

The most glorious little tree on my street

Jackpot!

All I can say is that spring in New York is pretty damn nice!

Do I look Like a Slot?

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 21:18:00 +0000

Staring at her from across the room, her red lights shimmered and her glossy buttons caught our eye...she was indeed a slot...

Getting distracted in a new city is expected and getting distracted in New York is inevitable. We were out shopping yesterday and the first thing to catch our eyes was an incredible Japanese slot machine in perfect working condition. How could we say no to her, looking up at us so lovingly, making us feel so なつかし(nostalgic). So we did what we do best, we made a sound decision and bought the slot machine before we bought anything else.

Something tells me this is exactly how addictions are formed...

Stick Your Foot in it?

noreply@blogger.com (make believe) — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 14:46:00 +0000

Usually it is me who blabs on and on and ends up saying too much. I am the queen of sticking my foot in it...and this is my castle!

....random foot sculpture we found in a truck while cruising around Brooklyn in the miserable rain! At least it made us forget about the rain for a minute!