RDQLUS Dropshots; 120217

"I am 'royalty'; whether by breed or by deed… I am 'royalty'." - Steve G. (RDQLUS)
The idea behind of the the most recent designs for RDQLUS CREATIVE's 'RGC' imprint was the idea above—that a person's status and standing in this world can still be of his own making. There are standards, old ways, rules of engagement but my pedigree is not only determined by my bloodline but my efforts. In ancient times, a peson could be elevated into the status of a "noble," even in contrast to his bloodline pedigree. All after him would have nobel blood. Apply this logic to our own efforts and we can all elevate our status and apply that pedigree to all we do and all who come after us.

So what does that have to do with the new design? Instead of a font or typeface of some poorly constructed, badly conceived "old English" letter, I decided I would earn my stripes and create a custom calligraphic mark to add to the visual lexicon and logo system I use for 'RGC'. In a long, very detailed and painstaking process I began with basic sketches and slowly followed the process thru many revisions to create the RGC calligraphy "R." When the first sample of the new lids in the RGC Spring line showed up, it was a bit overwhelming to see something I had conceived and created from start to finish—by my own hand—sitting tangibly in front of me. This is now a family mark in the pedigree. Let's be "royalty." [read on…]

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Observatorial; 120217

Loving these LASCO steppers.

In a sub-culture of many smaller subs & genres, and part of a larger sub-culture itself, sneakers can no longer face simplistic classifications. As a designer/creative director who aspires to someday get my grubby artistic paws on a project or two for Nike or adidas, in my ritual run to the bookstore to grab periodicals there's always a couple of sneaker mags in the bunch. The typical, expected footwear is always represented, but every so often there are a few pair that stand out and challenge the admirer to make an admission that these are not your 10 year-old's gym shoes.

Take this stunning sneaker from indie upstart LASCO (Los Angeles Shoe Co). Dress-shoe leather in fine finishes and buttery tones, a silhouette not unlike popular, time-tested boot styles, and the comfort pedigree of a sneaker are all qualities of a "kick" made in short very runs; I challenge anyone to say their wingtips or Jimmy Choo(s) are any more well-constructed. And as I've always said, if the spot got hot and moves needed to be made quickly, I'm betting my get-up-and-go is going to be far more effective than your loafer-laden steps. Just saying.