Urban Outfitters - Blog

03/28/13 12:25PM

Music Festivals 2013

Music festivals are the best part of the weather getting warmer. Any excuse to not shower for three days and drink beer at 11 AM, amirite? While we all know the big festivals that go down every year (Coachella, Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza), there are also a gazillion (yes, gazillion) smaller ones that look like they're going to be just as amazing. I mean, if I were in Austin, I'd totally be front-row for everything going on at the Austin Psych Fest. We aren't able to list every single festival (there are 4,000 Jam Band festivals alone), but here are the best of the best. Even good ol' Kansas is getting in on the action, so there's something for everyone! —Katie

Austin Psych Fest
Austin, TX
April 26-28

Shaky Knees
Atlanta, GA
May 4 & 5

Sweetlife Festival
Columbia, MD
May 11

Bottle Rock Napa Valley
Napa Valley, CA
May 8-12

Boston Calling
Boston, MA
May 25 & 26

The Governor's Ball
NYC, NY
June 7-9

Electric Forest
Rothbury, Michigan
June 27-30

Pickathon
Happy Valley, OR
August 2-4

Roots Picnic
Philadelphia, PA
June 1

Kanrocksas
Kansas City, KS
June 28 & 29

Sled Island
Calgary, AB, Canada
June 19-22

02/12/13 03:47PM

Selena Gomez and Sweetheart Sunglasses

Holla, Selena Gomez must’ve got the 300 Valentine’s Day cards I sent her. Why else would she be rocking these heart-shaped sunglasses? Aight, maybe this month’s Nylon covergirl isn’t smitten with me, just ahead of the game. But I’m still celebrating the fact that my celeb crush isn’t even creepy anymore because she’s totally like 20 now, basically runs around naked for two hours in Spring Breakers, and finally broke up with Bieber. Or did she? Whatever, starlet or not, we’ve got sweetheart sunglasses to keep you shaded from V-day through the summer. -Angelo

Dollhouse Sunglasses

Sweetheart Sunglasses

Melting Hearts Sunglasses

02/05/13 03:34PM

Natalie Portman in Leon: The Professional

Natalie Portman solidified her legacy as a bad bitch somewhere around the time she shaved her head, and in doing so, inspired the name of one of my favorite Seattle bands: Natalie Portman’s Shaved Head. But NP has been the real deal since her feature film debut in 1994’s Leon: The Professional, in which she played a 12-year-old girl taking up residence, and embarking on a journey of revenge, with the assassin Leon after seeing her family murdered. The film is a bit unsettling at times (I must be old if I feel compelled to note that) but it’s French so it’s totally okay. Get into it for the style rather than the gratuitous violence you’ll still be satisfied. With her signature choker, MA-1 bomber jacket, floral printed shorts and skirts, and ankle boots with scrunched socks, Natalie’s Leon look is just as legit in 2013 as it was in 94.—Angelo

Leon in his standard assassin-ing uniform: Scully, round glasses, and his apprentice's interpretation of the look.

Military vintage is always in and it doesn't get more classic than the bomber, which originated in the 1950s.

This old lady is just dope. Check out that quilted jacket.

Get the look:

MariaFrancescaPepe Studded Rope Necklace

BDG Quilted Bomber Jacket

BDG Erin High-Rise Denim Short - Printed

H By Hudson Buckle-Wrap Ankle Boot

01/28/13 01:42PM

Worn Wear

Patagonia is one of those rare brands that values the stories people live in their clothes more than the clothes themselves. Stemming from their decidedly un-corporate founder down to their minimal and functional clothes, the company focus has always been on adventure more than profit.

In that same vein, Patagonia recently launched Worn Wear, a companion to their already awesome Tumblr, this one devoted exclusively to sharing stories of well-loved Patagonia garments and the journeys they helped make possible. Be sure to follow for killer vintage outdoor pics, including some naked man-butt (y'know, if that's your thing,) and some insightful bits of outerwear history. -Angelo

01/22/13 11:00AM

Alana Paterson

One of our favorite photographers, Alana Paterson, has been making big moves in the male-dominated world of skate and lifestyle photography, balancing understated personal projects with a growing and impressive client list that includes brands like Brixton and Lifetime Collective. She recently shared a preview of some upcoming work for Urban Outfitters on her Instagram and we couldn't be more stoked to be working with one of the most talented up and coming female photographers in the game. Stay tuned. -Angelo

01/21/13 09:59AM

Meet Angelo Spagnolo

Say hello to our newest contributor Angelo Spagnolo, a writer and photographer residing in Portland, Oregon. When he's not writing his weekly column for Four-Pins or consulting menswear brands, he can be found skating around the city, drinking cheap beer and hanging with his orange cat Waldo. Watch out for his posts, coming to you in the very near future (or, you know, when he finds out how to work this thing).

01/15/13 04:40PM

Unknown Mortal Orchestra "So Good at Being in Trouble"

When I first heard of Unknown Mortal Orchestra in 2011 when they debuted with their self-titled record, I wasn't sure who they were—possibly another band from down under helping revive good old psychedelic rock? That is just what UMO (for short) is, and so much more. The band, now based in Portland, is made up of New Zealander Ruban Nielson, and two American lads, Jake Portrait and Greg Rogove, who are ready for round two with "So Good at Being in Trouble." This track definitely comes from the same vein as the groovy garage sound from their first record, almost reminding me of some smooth R&B. UMO's second record II, is out February 5 on Jagjaguwar. - Maddie

01/09/13 01:50PM

Dresses "Blew My Mind"

I'm in love with this super cute song "Blew My Mind" from Portland duo Dresses. Lead singer Timothy Heller's (yup, that's the girl) voice has me hooked. The song is available for free download now and their debut album drops in March.—Hazel

01/03/13 05:34PM

Portlandia Season 3

Portlandia returns for its third season this Friday on IFC and I couldn't be more pumped. I was pretty into the first two seasons and was a happy camper to hear that it was coming back for more. Upcoming cameo's from the likes of Jeff Goldblum and Chloë Sevingy are promising, I wonder who else will show up? -Bob

12/10/12 09:57AM

The UO Nice List: Portlandia

We got through an entire interview with Fred Armisen and Carrie Browstein from Portlandia without once mentioning putting a bird on anything. Find out what this comedy duo are doing during their bird-less holidays!

Please introduce yourself.
Fred: I am Fred Armisen.
Carrie: Hello, I'm Carrie Brownstein.

What do you love/loathe most about the holidays?
Fred: Chocolate (love).
Carrie: I love that strange stillness on the holidays. Once all of the bustle of shopping and anticipation comes to a halt, there is a wonderful, momentary quiet on Christmas morning or New Year's Day. It carries with it a very nice contemplative feeling. I loathe the crowds and long lines.

What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
Fred: A homemade synthesizer.
Carrie: I appreciate any gesture and am fine with not exchanging gifts and just getting to be around people whom I love.

What’s the worst gift you’ve ever received?
Fred: All gifts are nice.
Carrie: There are no bad gifts though my father's continual attempts to buy me clothing borders on misguided.

If you could ask for anything this year (and money is no object) what would you ask for?
Fred: Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Carrie: To be able to touch my toes. A short cut in putting the duvet cover on the bed.

What is your favorite holiday tradition that you share with friends or family?
Fred: Eating chocolate.
Carrie: Taking a walk on Christmas day after opening presents.

What’s your favorite holiday snack or food?
Fred: Chocolate.
Carrie: All of the cookies and chocolate that make up the inevitable sugar binge count as my favorite.

Without looking it up, what are the ingredients in eggnog?
Fred: Cream and sugar.
Carrie: Eggs and sugar. If eggs aren't in eggnog then I really have some studying to do.

Any idea how you will spend New Year’s Eve this year?
Fred: Not yet.
Carrie: Probably in that mind frame wherein you keep wondering whether you made the right decision as to your New Year's Eve plans.

If you could be any character from a holiday movie, who would you be and why?
Fred: Jiro from Jiro Dreams of Sushi. I loved his commitment to making the best sushi in the world.
Carrie: Esther Smith from Meet Me in St. Louis.

If you could plant a New Year’s kiss on your dream crush, who would that be and why?
Fred: Cindy Sherman. She is the greatest.
Carrie: Joan Didion. I mean, just a kiss on the cheek or a polite kiss atop her hand. She is one of my favorite writers.

What was your proudest moment from this past year?
Fred: Playing music with Hugh Cornwell.
Carrie: Learning steadiness.

What are you looking forward to most about 2013?
Fred: Is it not 2013 yet? I have to reset my calendar. Mine totally says 2013. That's why I was so early for that flight!
Carrie: Everything.

Shop Carrie and Fred's Wish Lists

12/07/12 11:25AM

Emergency Compliment

If websites could talk, Emergency Compliment would be the only one I would visit daily. If you're feeling blue today, click the link above and get ready to hear about how great you are as many times as you can hit refresh. If you like the compliment enough, you can order a print of it at the bottom but clicking "Thanks! I feel better."-Ally

11/06/12 11:49AM

Open For Business

Get a head start on your holiday shopping right on Black Friday at Open For Business hosted at The Cleaners (1022 SW Stark St.) in Portland, part of the Ace Hotel. The three day pop-up (November 23 to 25) market brings together a handful of local vendors including but not limited to Official Mfg Co. and Draught Dry Goods. Check out the vendor list in full here. -Bob

10/22/12 09:33AM

Mr. Poler: An Interview with Benji Wagner

Meet Benji Wagner, co-founder and creative director of Poler Camping Stuff—a brand that's quickly becoming one of our favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Interview by Bob Myaing

Were you an outside kid growing up?

Yeah, I was for sure. My parents didn't have television and my dad was always cycling, hiking or going camping. He is a photographer, so we were always going to National Parks and places like that. When I was a bit older, I got really into skateboarding and snowboarding and even though those aren't traditionally thought of as 'outdoors,' they are done outside and that always felt good.

What made you want to start your own company offering outdoor products?

I am a photographer and filmmaker and I had done a lot of work in skateboarding and snowboarding, and then as I got a bit older I was working for outdoor brands and cycling brands. I realized that I didn't feel that any brand out there was really speaking to young people the way I thought they should, so I set out to bring those worlds together and get people stoked on doing stuff outside whether it be camping, surfing or just having a picnic.

Got any memorable trail encounters? Human, animal or otherwise? The Pacific Northwest is home to Bigfoot after all..

I had a rattlesnake strike at me once, but I was lucky and it just missed me! Something that really sticks with me is seeing moose battle while up in Alaska. I don't think most people know just how big a moose is. They are super-tall, gangly prehistoric looking creatures. They are so big and awesome when you see them in person.

What's your ideal perfect camp meal?

Man, that's a tough one. It really depends on the season. I always like fishing and then cooling something like fresh trout in the summer. In fall, I would go with a stew or chili of some kind in a big cast iron pot with apple crumble for dessert. I love eating good food in the woods. I can't really explain it, it's like smoking and drinking for some people I guess. Perfect combo.

Got any notable summits or thru-hikes under your belt? It's okay to brag, I'm asking.

I would say no. I'm not much of a real Alpinist. I have done some backpacking and pretty decent hikes, but I'm an amateur. I hiked up Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland with my dad once and that was super amazing even though it was just a day hike. Part of what I am trying to express with Poler Stuff is that it's just as fun and can be just as meaningful to camp on the beach or hike one mile as it is to summit Everest. It's all about intent and personal vantage.

What places are on your bucket list to visit?

I would go everywhere if I could, and I mean that. I have never made it to anywhere in South America. I went to Egypt but haven't made it to anywhere else in Africa. I would love to go to the Poles.

Does your beard give you super outdoorsman powers?

No, it does help set the tone though, haha.

What would you say the Poler philosophy is?

Get outside and experience some camp vibes anyway you can. Get out from under your computer, your TV, your phone and do something that seems like a stretch. You won't regret diving in, even if you have difficulties, it will make your life more interesting and better for it.

Who are some people the the 'outdoor sports' realm who you admire?

Honestly, I have a thing where I really admire people that are non-competitive enthusiasts. I think it comes from being a skateboarder which is fundamentally not a sport but rather an art. It's rooted in individual determination and expression and can't be timed or judged. It's more like painting than it is like team sports.

Where do you turn when you need a dose of inspiration?

I love the internet and I'm not afraid to say it. If you are an inquisitive person it's a black hole of inspiration and wisdom—if you want it to be. It can also be the worst influence ever. It all comes back to your intent and how you use it. Beyond that I have three kids that are endlessly fascinating and inspirational. Kids speak truth and have no ego so that leads to all kinds of interesting stuff.

10/11/12 10:47AM

Campfire Cologne

While my camping trip this past weekend left me a little worse for the wear (a case of mild pneumonia, tyvm), there's really nothing better than being out in the woods, wrapped up in a blanket around a campfire. So if you're stuck inside the office and start missing the smell of weekends past, Campfire Cologne has come up with the perfect solution for you—just strike a match, light a slice of wood, and waft yourself in smoke until you feel your insides smile. Damn, I wish there was a way to smell this through my computer. -Ally

10/09/12 09:56AM

Best Made Camp Blanket

Best Made Co. and Pendleton came together to produce small batch of camp blankets complete with leather carrying sling for portaging between home and camp. If itchy wool isn't your thing then you'll be happy to hear that the blanket is woven with some cotton for a soft feel. More details at Best Made. -Bob

09/19/12 09:23AM

Hear Black

Hear Black, the journal of Kinfolk Magazine editors Nathan and Katie Williams, is filled with photographs of serene moments in both domestic and natural settings. I can't help but daydream while going through their site of a life that's hopefully not too far over the horizon. It's all just so... perfect! -Bob

09/12/12 09:19AM

Olivia Bee X Hermes

Photographer Olivia Bee shot this amazing video of her and her boyfriend Cooper Campbell (I hung out with them on the Rookie Road Trip, remember?) for Hermès! It's probably the cutest thing you'll ever watch in your life. - Hazel

09/10/12 09:22AM

Nike ACG Okwahn II

Something about these funky sneakers from Nike's ACG line, which stands for 'All Condition Gear,' really has me going. Aside from two perfect colorways (brown plus purple equals amazing) I'm really drawn to the colorful rope laces and specked midsole. Slamxhype reports that they'll be releasing sometime in October so keep a close watch on your local sneaker boutique if you're game. -Bob

08/30/12 09:46AM

Danner Stumptown Collection

Portland boot company Danner launched their Stumptown line last year with an impressive range of heritage-inspired styles, and this coming season they continue to expand their offerings. My top picks would have to be the ankle-height Tramline boot as well as the Mountain Trail Lotus Elise with its cushy crepe sole. -Bob

08/08/12 11:24AM

No Olympics in Portland

The Olympics would be a lot of work, and there would be jocks everywhere, so Fred and Carrie want to make sure they don't come to Portland.