Sunday, 16 February 2025

The Art of Dressing Well: Jesse Keyes’ Modern Fashion Vision

Dressing well is more than just following trends—it’s about curating a wardrobe that reflects confidence, sophistication, and individuality. Today, modern fashion is all about merging timeless elegance with contemporary aesthetics, ensuring that style is both effortless and impactful. Jesse Keyes embodies this philosophy, redefining the way women approach their wardrobes. With a keen eye for detail, impeccable craftsmanship, and an understanding of what modern women truly want, these collections are designed to bring luxury, comfort, and versatility together.

The Philosophy of Dressing Well

Great style is not just about wearing expensive or trendy clothes; it’s about creating a harmonious balance between personality, occasion, and comfort. A well-dressed woman exudes confidence because she knows her outfit complements her lifestyle. Whether it’s a structured blazer, a flowing dress, or well-tailored trousers, each piece in her wardrobe serves a purpose.

Dressing well also means understanding proportions, textures, and color coordination. It’s about investing in high-quality pieces that last beyond seasonal fads, offering versatility for various occasions. Jesse Keyes captures this essence by designing clothing that is stylish yet functional, allowing women to transition seamlessly from day to night, work to leisure, and casual to formal events.

Key Elements of Modern Fashion

Fashion is an evolving art form, but some key elements remain timeless. The modern woman’s wardrobe is built on a foundation of essential pieces that can be styled in multiple ways. Here are the crucial components of dressing well in today’s fashion landscape:

1. Timeless Silhouettes

A well-dressed woman knows the power of a flattering silhouette. From tailored blazers to A-line dresses and high-waisted trousers, certain cuts stand the test of time. These styles enhance natural body shapes while offering a polished, elegant look. Jesse Keyes ensures that each design is structured yet fluid, making it easy for women to move with grace and confidence.

2. Quality Over Quantity

Fast fashion may offer variety, but true style is built on quality. Investing in well-made pieces with premium fabrics not only enhances comfort but also ensures longevity. Natural fibers, sustainable materials, and impeccable stitching define the luxury behind dressing well. Jesse Keyes emphasizes craftsmanship, ensuring that each piece in the collection is not only beautiful but also durable and timeless.

3. The Power of Neutrals and Statement Colors

A balanced wardrobe consists of a mix of neutral tones and bold statement pieces. Neutral colors like black, white, beige, and gray offer versatility, making it easy to mix and match different pieces. Meanwhile, statement colors—deep reds, emerald greens, or cobalt blues—can add a touch of personality and elevate an outfit.

By incorporating both subtle and striking hues, modern fashion allows women to experiment with their style while maintaining a sophisticated look. Jesse Keyes masterfully blends these tones, ensuring that each collection includes wardrobe essentials and eye-catching pieces.

4. Effortless Layering for Versatility

One of the hallmarks of modern dressing is the ability to layer outfits effortlessly. Whether it’s a structured coat over a casual ensemble, a lightweight scarf adding depth to a simple look, or a chic belt defining the waistline, layering creates visual interest.

This technique also extends the usability of seasonal fashion, allowing women to wear their favorite pieces year-round. Jesse Keyes incorporates layering-friendly designs, making it easy to style outfits creatively while maintaining comfort and elegance.

5. Minimalist Accessories for Maximum Impact

Accessories are the finishing touch that elevates an outfit from simple to stunning. A well-chosen handbag, sleek jewelry, or a classic pair of heels can transform a basic look into a statement ensemble.

However, modern fashion leans toward minimalism—opting for refined accessories rather than excessive embellishments. Delicate gold jewelry, structured leather handbags, and elegant shoes complement Jesse Keyes’ sophisticated collections, ensuring that women always exude class and confidence.

Dressing for Different Occasions

A well-dressed woman knows how to adapt her style to suit different settings without losing her personal touch. Let’s explore how modern fashion applies to various occasions.

1. Power Dressing for Work

Workwear should be polished, professional, and comfortable. Structured blazers, tailored trousers, and well-fitted dresses create a commanding presence in the office. Pairing a monochrome suit with a silk blouse or opting for a minimalist sheath dress with sleek pumps ensures a balance of authority and elegance.

Jesse Keyes crafts workwear that blends confidence with comfort, allowing women to feel powerful while staying true to their individual style.

2. Effortless Chic for Casual Outings

Casual dressing doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. A well-fitted pair of jeans, a lightweight knit sweater, and stylish sneakers create a relaxed yet refined look. Adding a structured handbag or a tailored trench coat instantly elevates the ensemble.

For those who prefer a feminine touch, flowy midi dresses with ankle boots or sleek jumpsuits offer an effortless way to look put-together without overthinking the outfit.

3. Sophisticated Evening Glamour

Evening wear is all about making a statement while maintaining elegance. A timeless black dress, an embellished gown, or a satin slip dress paired with sophisticated heels instantly creates a glamorous look.

Jesse Keyes incorporates luxurious fabrics and striking silhouettes to ensure women feel confident and radiant during special occasions. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a gala event, or a night out with friends, these designs redefine evening fashion.

4. Travel-Friendly Fashion

Today’s women are always on the move, and their wardrobes need to be as adaptable as they are. Travel-friendly fashion consists of wrinkle-free fabrics, breathable materials, and layering pieces that can transition from day to night.

Soft wrap dresses, tailored joggers, and lightweight blazers make excellent travel staples, ensuring that style isn’t compromised, even while on the go.

The Future of Modern Fashion with Jesse Keyes

The future of fashion is about blending luxury with practicality, style with sustainability, and elegance with versatility. Jesse Keyes leads the way by crafting pieces that cater to the modern woman’s needs—outfits that are not only beautiful but also functional.

As the fashion industry continues to embrace ethical practices and eco-conscious production, dressing well is no longer just about aesthetics—it’s about making mindful choices. Investing in quality pieces, understanding personal style, and curating a wardrobe that reflects both sophistication and individuality are the keys to mastering the art of dressing well.

With Jesse Keyes at the helm of modern fashion, women can confidently embrace a wardrobe that exudes elegance, ensuring they are always dressed for success—no matter the occasion.

Thursday, 30 January 2025

Modern Elegance, Timeless Style: Jesse Keyes Fashion Revolution

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, where trends come and go, few names stand out for their ability to create a lasting impact. One such visionary is Jesse Keyes, whose approach to contemporary fashion blends modern elegance with timeless style. His innovative collections offer a refreshing take on high street fashion while maintaining a sense of sophistication and wearability that appeals to the modern woman.

The Vision of Jesse Keyes

Jesse Keyes has carved a niche in the fashion industry by focusing on designs that transcend fleeting trends. With a keen eye for aesthetics, structure, and functionality, his collections seamlessly merge modernity with classic influences. By creating pieces that balance contemporary sensibilities with vintage inspirations, Jesse Keyes ensures that his fashion remains relevant for years to come.

His vision is clear: to design clothing that enhances confidence, embodies elegance, and provides effortless sophistication. The Jesse Keyes brand stands as a testament to how modern tailoring and refined silhouettes can create an everlasting impression.


The Art of Timeless Fashion

One of the standout qualities of Jesse Keyes’ approach is his ability to design garments that withstand the test of time. Rather than following seasonal fads, he focuses on craftsmanship, quality fabrics, and versatile styles that can be worn across different occasions. Whether it’s a tailored blazer, a chic midi dress, or an elegant evening gown, his creations possess an enduring charm that defies temporary trends.

In a fashion landscape that often emphasizes the ephemeral, Jesse Keyes champions the philosophy of mindful fashion consumption. He encourages investment in timeless pieces that exude sophistication and can be styled in multiple ways, making them a staple in every wardrobe.

Modern Elegance: A New Definition

Jesse Keyes has redefined modern elegance by blending contemporary aesthetics with classic design principles. His clothing line caters to women who appreciate minimalism yet crave a touch of opulence. Whether it’s the perfect little black dress with a modern twist or impeccably tailored separates, his designs exemplify effortless luxury.

He also experiments with textures, drapery, and innovative cuts, ensuring that every piece is as comfortable as it is stylish. This modern approach allows his collections to be versatile, making them ideal for both professional settings and evening affairs. The result? Fashion that seamlessly transitions from day to night with grace and ease.

The Sustainability Factor

A significant aspect of the Jesse Keyes fashion revolution is the emphasis on sustainability. In an industry known for fast fashion and overproduction, Jesse Keyes takes a conscious approach by prioritizing ethical sourcing, eco-friendly fabrics, and sustainable production methods.

By producing limited-edition collections and advocating for slow fashion, Jesse Keyes promotes a shift toward mindful purchasing. His commitment to sustainability not only aligns with environmental concerns but also enhances the exclusivity of his designs. Each piece tells a story of quality craftsmanship, sustainable fashion choices, and a commitment to reducing waste.

Influence on High Street Fashion

Jesse Keyes has successfully infused high street fashion with elements of couture-level elegance. Unlike many fast fashion brands that replicate runway trends, his brand offers accessible luxury—chic, sophisticated designs that resonate with a wide audience without compromising on quality.

His influence can be seen in the way women approach everyday fashion. From tailored trench coats to structured handbags, Jesse Keyes has introduced a refined sensibility to casual dressing. His collections inspire women to elevate their personal style, proving that elegance doesn’t have to be reserved for formal occasions.

Celebrity and Cultural Endorsement

Over the years, Jesse Keyes has garnered a loyal following among fashion-forward individuals, including celebrities, influencers, and industry insiders. His ability to create effortlessly stylish yet comfortable pieces has made his brand a favorite among those who appreciate understated glamour.

Fashion publications have lauded his work for its unique ability to merge sophistication with modernity. His designs have graced red carpets, fashion editorials, and exclusive events, further cementing his reputation as a game-changer in the industry.

The Future of Jesse Keyes Fashion Revolution

As Jesse Keyes continues to revolutionize the fashion industry, his focus remains on innovation, sustainability, and timeless style. With each collection, he challenges the conventional norms of fashion, offering women an opportunity to embrace elegance in their everyday lives.

His upcoming projects are rumored to include expanded collections featuring sustainable luxury accessories, a broader range of tailored essentials, and possibly even collaborations with other visionaries who share his philosophy of enduring style. With an ever-growing global presence, Jesse Keyes is set to redefine the future of fashion, inspiring the next generation of designers to prioritize quality over quantity.

Conclusion

Jesse Keyes' fashion revolution is a testament to the power of modern elegance and timeless style. His ability to craft designs that exude sophistication while remaining relevant for years to come has set a new standard in the industry. By emphasizing sustainability, mindful fashion choices, and accessible luxury, Jesse Keyes continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

In a world driven by fast-changing trends, Jesse Keyes reminds us that true style is not about following the latest fad—it’s about embracing fashion that stands the test of time. His vision, dedication, and innovative approach have cemented his legacy as a pioneer of modern elegance and timeless sophistication.

Wednesday, 22 January 2025

Elevate Your Wardrobe with Exclusive Casual and High Street Looks

In today’s fast-paced world, personal style is an essential part of self-expression. The way we dress not only defines who we are but also sets the tone for how we’re perceived by the world. Whether you’re heading out for a casual brunch with friends or navigating the bustling energy of high-street fashion districts, curating the perfect wardrobe is key to standing out. With the expertise of fashion designers like Jesse Keyes, whose collections blend modernity with timeless elegance, redefining your wardrobe has never been more exciting.

The Intersection of Casual and High-Street Fashion

Casual wear and high-street fashion represent two distinct yet harmoniously connected realms of style. Casual wear is all about comfort, versatility, and ease, while high-street fashion focuses on trends, statement pieces, and bold aesthetics. Merging these two can create a wardrobe that seamlessly transitions between relaxed days and chic outings.

Exclusive collections that offer this blend are increasingly sought after by fashion enthusiasts. Designers like Jesse Keyes have mastered this balance, creating pieces that cater to both worlds. The result? Clothing that feels as good as it looks, with designs that make a statement without sacrificing comfort.

Why Invest in Exclusive Collections?

The appeal of exclusive collections lies in their uniqueness. These pieces aren’t mass-produced; they’re thoughtfully designed to cater to individuals who value quality, craftsmanship, and individuality. Here’s why investing in such collections can elevate your wardrobe:

  1. Quality Over Quantity
    Exclusive collections prioritize premium materials and superior craftsmanship. Each piece is designed to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements and promoting sustainable fashion practices.

  2. Timeless Appeal
    Unlike fast fashion trends that come and go, exclusive pieces often feature timeless designs. These staples remain stylish year after year, ensuring that your investment pays off in the long run.

  3. Personal Expression
    Wearing exclusive clothing allows you to stand out. The attention to detail and distinctive styles ensure that your wardrobe reflects your unique personality.

  4. Versatility
    Many exclusive collections are designed with versatility in mind. Pieces can be easily mixed and matched, allowing you to create a variety of looks with minimal effort.

Essentials for Elevating Your Wardrobe

To curate a wardrobe that perfectly balances casual and high-street looks, consider these essentials:

1. The Perfect Denim

A high-quality pair of jeans is a cornerstone of any wardrobe. Look for styles that offer both comfort and sophistication. Whether it’s a classic straight-leg or a trendy wide-leg cut, denim is a versatile foundation that pairs effortlessly with everything from casual tees to tailored blazers.

2. Statement Outerwear

A bold jacket or coat can instantly transform an outfit. Opt for unique textures, vibrant colors, or eye-catching patterns. Designers like Jesse Keyes often include standout outerwear in their collections, making it easy to find a piece that turns heads.

3. Effortless Dresses

Dresses that can transition from day to night are invaluable. Choose styles with clean lines and subtle embellishments for a polished yet comfortable look.

4. Elevated Basics

Invest in high-quality basics such as neutral-toned tops, classic button-ups, and well-fitted trousers. These pieces serve as the backbone of your wardrobe and can be styled up or down.

5. Stylish Footwear

Shoes are the finishing touch to any outfit. Whether it’s sleek sneakers for a casual vibe or chic ankle boots for a high-street look, choose footwear that complements your style while prioritizing comfort.

6. Accessories That Pop

Accessories are a game-changer. A statement bag, bold jewelry, or a standout belt can elevate even the simplest outfit. Choose pieces that reflect your personality and add a touch of sophistication.

Tips for Mixing Casual and High-Street Styles

  1. Layering Is Key
    Combine casual and high-street pieces by layering. For example, pair a graphic tee with a tailored blazer or a flowy maxi dress with a structured leather jacket.

  2. Play with Textures
    Mixing different textures—like pairing a soft cotton top with a sleek leather skirt—can create a dynamic and interesting look.

  3. Focus on Fit
    Ensure that your clothing fits well. Tailored pieces elevate casual wear, while relaxed fits can tone down high-street styles, achieving the perfect balance.

  4. Incorporate Trends Sparingly
    Stay updated with the latest trends but incorporate them thoughtfully. This ensures your wardrobe remains timeless with a hint of contemporary flair.

  5. Use Accessories to Bridge Styles
    Accessories can tie together casual and high-street elements. A casual outfit can take on a high-street edge with the addition of bold jewelry or a structured handbag.

The Influence of Jesse Keyes

Fashion icons like Jesse Keyes have revolutionized the way we approach modern clothing. His exclusive collections focus on contemporary aesthetics while embracing practicality and comfort. Keyes’ designs are characterized by clean lines, innovative textures, and a blend of neutral and bold colors. By focusing on timeless styles and sustainable practices, he has made high-end fashion accessible and wearable for everyday life.

Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Wardrobe Today

Elevating your wardrobe is about more than just buying new clothes; it’s about curating a collection that reflects your personality, enhances your confidence, and suits your lifestyle. By blending casual essentials with high-street elegance, you can create a versatile wardrobe that adapts to any occasion.

As you explore exclusive collections, let designers like Jesse Keyes inspire your choices. His commitment to quality, individuality, and style ensures that every piece you choose becomes a cherished addition to your wardrobe. Whether you’re dressing for comfort, style, or a combination of both, the right pieces can make all the difference. Start your journey to an elevated wardrobe today, and embrace the confidence that comes with looking and feeling your best.

Monday, 22 August 2022

7 Fashion Trends To Take Over The World In 2022

 Fashion has always been a way to express oneself, whether through style or design. From the beginning of time, humans have been dressing themselves up in clothes and accessories. This trend continues today, and no matter where you go, you’ll see people wearing fashionable clothing.

This year, we saw new trends emerge from the fashion industry. While some of these trends will continue to develop, others will fade away. Here are 7 trends that Jesse Keyes predict will dominate the fashion scene for the rest of the year.

1. Miniskirts

Miniskirts were ” The Thing’ in fashion in 2022. This was due to their practicality and ease of use. Because they were so practical, women could wear them while working and still look professional. Women didn’t have to worry about getting caught out in public wearing something inappropriate. They were comfortable enough to wear while at work, and they were fashionable enough to wear outside of the office.

In addition, many people felt that miniskirts were a symbol of empowerment. As a result, many women wore them to show off their independence. They weren’t afraid to express themselves, and they knew that they had the right to do so.

2. Blazers

Blazers have been around since the the last century, but they became extremely popular in the fashion industry after the year 2022. In the year 2022, blazers were worn by both men and women alike. Women wore them with skirts and dresses while men wore them with pants and shorts. Blazers were worn throughout the entire world and were seen everywhere. 

Now the designers have begun using them in their collections and even had celebrities wearing them in public events. The popularity grew exponentially, and in 2022, the blazer became a major fashion trend. They are no longer just for the office, but also for casual outings and special occasions, concludes Jesse Keyes

3. Oversized Jackets

In the past, oversized jackets were only worn by men who wanted to appear larger than they actually were. However, women started wearing oversized coats and jackets in order to hide their body shape and give off a sense of confidence. In fact, some women even wore oversized coats over swimsuits in order to make themselves feel more comfortable. Fashion trends have always been changing, and designers often try to find ways to stand out from others.  

Even though oversized jackets were initially designed for men, they eventually became a staple piece of clothing for both genders. If you live in a colder climate area, then you should definitely invest in a jacket that’s big enough to help you stay warm.

4. Raver Style

The popularity of raver style was due to its versatility in terms of design and function. Its popularity rose when people started to wear them as casual clothing. When they were worn as casual attire, ravers became the trendiest thing to have.

Due to their unique designs, ravers became the favorite choice for many celebrities. Their popularity increased when they became the go-to choice for celebrities who wanted to be different. Rave styles are also known to be comfortable. Because of this, ravers became the ideal choice for those who want to look good while working out.

5. Shiny Things

In 2022, people became obsessed with shiny things. Not only were they shiny, but they had some sort of special effect to them. People wanted their clothes to have a glowy effect, whether it was from reflective metals or neon-colored fabrics. Fashion designers started using these materials almost exclusively, even though they weren’t always practical or good quality. As the time went by, the fashion industry kept pushing the boundaries of what could be considered beautiful. 

6. Loose Pants

Loose pants are comfortable because they don’t have pockets. Pockets are annoying. No one wants their hands full of things while walking around. If you’re wearing loose pants, you’ll be able to walk comfortably without having to worry about carrying anything. 

Moreover, If you wear tight clothes, you look fat. But if you wear loose clothes, you look slim. There’s no denying it. This plus them being super comfortable to wear has made them one of the staples in the world of fashion, points out Jesse.

7. Bright Bags

In 2022, bright bags became extremely popular among the fashion industry. In fact, they have become the preferred choice of many designers. These bags are designed to make any outfit look fresh and vibrant.

  • They Make Any Outfit Look Fresh

One of the reasons why bright colors are so fashionable is that they instantly refresh any outfit. When you combine a bright bag with a simple white shirt or black pants, you get a look that is both stylish and refreshing.

  • They Can Be Used As A Statement Piece

Bright bags are perfect for those who want to make a statement. You can wear one with jeans or shorts, and the contrast between the two makes a statement.

  • They Add Color Without Being Too Overwhelming

Bright bags are great if you want to add color without being overwhelming. They give off a subtle yet vibrant vibe that doesn’t overpower your outfit.

So, if you are looking for a way to make your outfits pop, then bright bags might just be the answer for you, claims Jesse.

Final Words

In short, the world of fashion is constantly evolving and changing. Every year, designers experiment with colors, shapes, fabrics, and prints to come up with their signature look. Some trends stick around for years, while new ones emerge every season. These seven trendy items pointed out by Jesse Keyes will help you keep up with the turbulent changes in the industry.

Thursday, 17 September 2020

New York City Nightlife History - Jesse Keyes

The historical transformations and disruptions of New York Citynightlife are contextually instructive. Beginning with the Industrial Revolution, which brought hundreds of thousands of low wage low skill laborers streaming into the city, nightlife became an integral part of New York’s cultural fabric. From vaudeville acts that pushed the limits of social propriety, to operettas that harkened back to the homelands of Italy and Germany, nightlife activitieswere entrenched in New York’s economic structure.

I willexplore Prohibition, which spurred an explosion in the number and cultural impact of speakeasies that followed. Longstanding local bars were made illegal; that change, combined with an increasing social openness to broad female participation in nightlife activities, created an opening for illegal drinking establishments to both put on entertainment--particularly in the form of that uniquely American musical tradition, Jazz--and to encourage the social comingling of men and women. Jesse Keyes said the Following WWII, the supperclub, made famous by the likes of the Stork Club and the Latin Quarter, became a dominant form of night time activity, offering sophisticated dining, high concept entertainment and a place to do every kind of business imaginable. The historical trajectory reveals yet another stageprior to the currentcomplex variabletypology of nightlife--the often lawless, drug-infused but artistically supportive milieus of the discos, massive nightclubs and underground music scenes--typified by Studio 54, the Tunnel and CBGB’s, respectively--that blossomed during the City’s economic decline of the 70’s and 80’s.

Planning and Nightlife

Jesse Keyes share The thesis will also examine the history of the interaction between planning authorities and the nightlife industry in New York City. Of particular interest will be four elements of conflict and question that derive from nightlife and make their way into the public sphere: alcohol, noise, dancing and crime. The City, using its public powers, has dealt variably with these issues over time through the following planning bodies: the New York State Liquor Authority, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs and the New York Police Department, respectively. The thesis will explore these agencies and their policy approaches to the regulation of nightlife.

 

 

Tuesday, 15 September 2020

Developer Jesse Keyes turns unconventional into bold statement

 If there was ever a case of a building perfectly mirroring its developer, it would be One Seventh and Jesse Keyes. Both are angular, ultra-chic, smart and aggressive. Both are also making their emphatic debut on the New York architecture and style worlds.


Built on a 45-degree angle at the juncture of four different streets where Seventh Ave. South meets Varick and Carmine Sts., One Seventh resembles a hulking helm of a slick, futuristic boat or space-age flying machine. Six stories tall with just four units, the corner building shaped in an angular prism has a façade of manganese ironspot brick and Solarban 80 double-paned glass.


The side of the building on Seventh Ave. South that parallels the rush of autos making their way to Tribeca or the Holland Tunnel has bold racing stripes and competing slabs of vertical windows. On the mellower Carmine St., Juliet balconies face the local cafes, old-time Spanish restaurants and bootleg record stores. One Seventh blends seamlessly with its intersection and has gainied total community board support.


"No developer would take a chance on this site, which was operated as a gas station since the 1920s and unused for almost a decade," says Jesse Keyes, 35, an investor in the swank Goldbar and a partner in La Esquina, one of New York's hippest eateries. "They said it was too small or that the shape wouldn't work. I saw it as an opportunity. We took design risks with this project that architects generally do with museums and public spaces."


Designed by Rogers Marvel Architects, the same firm recently awarded the Governors Island commission, One Seventh is allegedly the world's first full-floor triangular residence. To make the project work financially, Keyes' development firm REcappartners worked with zoning attorneys Charles Rizzo & Associates to help get a variance to build higher than the allowed three floors. On top of the building, Keyes built a penthouse duplex with two outdoor terraces, both of which lean toward the corner angle.


"The question we had to answer was, how does one live in a triangle," says Keyes, who plays a hand in every design decision. "When I picture who is going to live here, I see an investment banker with an artist inside or an artist with a lot of money. I see the banker sitting totally naked in a chaise longue at the apex of the 45-degree angle, looking out at the cars driving down Seventh Ave., on the phone with his friends, thinking: 'How am I going to own this town tonight?'"


With hardly any marketing, they have two offers for the four units. One from a banker, the other from the son of a Spanish film producer. Prudential Douglas Elliman's Kevin King, a two-year agent who happens to be the long-time maitre d' at Balthazar, heads up sales. The three 1,371-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath apartments are listed for $1,995,000. The 2,106-square-foot, three-floor penthouse with 961 square feet of outdoor space costs $4.45 million.


"We're waiting till the units are completely finished until we formally sell the apartments," says King. "A finished product will show how unique this project is and assure we get what it's worth."


Jesse Keyes comes from both sides of the tracks. His parents were hippies. His mother, a lesbian, split from his father but stayed in Redwood City, Calif., supporting her two children as a gardener. As Jesse puts it, they lived on the "wrong side of the tracks." Ironically, she tended gardens near Jesse's father's estate in Woodside, Calif.


"Mom was a real hippie, and dad was a pseudo-hippie," says Keyes, who was called "Blanquito," or little white boy by his Pueblo Mexican barrio neighbors. "Half the time I was in my poor Mexican 'hood with my mom and the other half with a swimming pool, Mercedes, Porsches and horses with my dad."


Keyes talks openly about his desire but inability to communicate with his Spanish-speaking neighbors. He talks openly about almost everything, especially his drive to never stop learning or moving.


"There's a point where you grow up in suburbia that you say I'm either going to get stuck in this for the rest of my life or do something fascinating or interesting," he says. "I was visiting a friend in Mexico City when I was 17 years old. We were in his family's penthouse and I was looking over the slums of the city, whose people needed major help at the time. I thought to myself, we as capitalists need to do better for these people. It was then that I knew I needed to focus on this for the rest of my life."


For Keyes, that meant Princeton, a year in Spain to learn the language, a Fulbright Fellowship and a master's in architecture in Catalonia, a Kinne Fellowship in the Dominican Republic, a job with the prestigious Boston Consultant Group, a master's in real estate from Columbia University, a doctoral candidacy and teaching fellow at Rutgers University in Urban Planning, and roles in the Gore and Kerry presidential campaigns.


"My father is good friends with Gore from St. Albans," says Keyes, whose great-grandfather on his father's side was Democratic Senator Morris Sheppard from Texas who championed Prohibition and women's rights. "My goal was eventually to work in Housing and Urban Development [HUD]. After those two losses, I planned to teach and research through my 30s. But academia, especially in our current political climate, was not as fulfilling as I thought. Building strong architectural projects is a way to make my mark and some money. Eventually, I will get back into affordable housing and giving back in some way."


Keyes' next project is already a major coup for him and New York. Working with Habita, a Mexican group known globally for designing and operating some of the world's chicest boutique hotels, Keyes will open a Mexican-themed, mixed-use hotel and condo project in a location below Houston St. on the East Side. Mexican architect Enrique Norton, who designed One York on Canal St. in New York and the Guggenheim in Guatemala, is an equity partner in the project.


"I want to make a unique statement and be part of the next big place," says Keyes, whose groomed beard and middle-parted hair give him the look of Al Pacino in "Serpico." "You hope it doesn't become something like what happened in the Meatpacking District, which had little thought and planning and became oversaturated with the same product, bars and restaurants. There should be mixed use there. And the Hotel Gansevoort is a mistake. I don't know how they got that built."


Slightly controlling, obsessive about details, and intellectually strategic, Keyes even wrote the copy for the One Seventh marketing materials. (I haven't met a developer yet who does that.) He prefers to focus on one project at a time as opposed to stretching himself thin and losing touch with the day-to-day decisions that these high-design projects demand.


"Scalability will be hard because for each project I'm looking for a specific art and message," says Keyes. "In any case, when you get bigger you lose control over certain levers, and I don't want that to happen."


Still, according to Thaddeus Briner, the architect for One Seventh, formerly of Rogers Marvel (and I.M. Pei's firm) and now on his own, Keyes is a very good client. "This was a dream project," says Briner. "It combined a really challenging site with an extremely progressive client. Those don't come along very often."


Resource:- https://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/real-estate/developer-jesse-keyes-turns-unconventional-bold-statement-article-1.339485

Thursday, 10 September 2020

A Nightlife Occupational Approach - Jesse Keyes

 “An occupational approach places skills, or what economists often call human capital, at the center of the economic development process.”[1] Jesse Keyes gives the approach looks to understand success as based “deeply on talents and synergy in the local economy, and these may be better understood and tapped by identifying skill sets and talents embedded in occupations.”[2]I will segment nightlife workers into four unique, identifiable groups based on the functions they perform, and implicit objectives of their employ: Sojourners (including maître d’s, servers and bartenders) most often associated with those who see their work as a social and economic pathway to other, often creative, careers; Careerists, the floor and general managers,who view nightlife as a profession for the long run,and who number a small percentage of the business; Cooks in the kitchen who also see nightlife as a career move and who are paid lower middle--though at times higher income--salaries; and Low Wage Workers, engaged in repetitive manual labor activities, most frequently immigrants, who work extended overtime hours to earn little, with meager opportunities to advance occupationally.[3] The development of these segments derives primarily from my 10 years active in the industry as an investor, owner, designer, and manager, aimedto develop the most distinct lens to view the divergences in human capital developed throughout the segments.The Census Occupation Codes of 2010 were also analyzed and then employed to match the thesis groupings with a vast array of Occupation Titles, but more broadly to blend those Census Standard Occupational Codes associated with the nightlife industry[4]within the nomenclature used for the thesis nightlife worker typology.

As defined by Richard Florida, the Creative Class includes scientists, engineers, artists, musicians, designers and knowledge-based professionals.Given that wide scope, the categorization has been widely criticized as a “fuzzy” means to understand the specific attributes of any one occupational group, for all occupations contain the possibility of creative engagement. Further, inclusion in Florida’s creative class can be conflated,simply,with the criteria of merely having high educational levels. A more well fleshed out and specific occupational marker is seen in the work of Markusen, who, in a focused manner, refers, simply, to “artists.”So called “Bohemians” are composed ofartistic professionals, artists, writers, designers, film makers, performing artistsand musicians.I hypothesize that this category of would-be artists working in nightlife is most often found employed as Sojourners, and, as explained below, it is this category to which I will pay particular attention.

Jesse Keyes said, The new occupational titles implemented in the late 1990’s by the official Census “remain tightly tied to educational content, despite a desire to base them on what people do rather than what they know.”[5] This is of particular interest in the thesis as it exploresSojourners who identify themselves as would be artists.The focus is analytically, and even demographically, important as the number of Bohemians has steadily increased over time in the Unites States where “there were roughly 250 bohemians for every 100,000 Americans in 1900, a figure that increased to roughly 350 by 1950…before reaching 900 for every 100,000 in 1999.”[6]

As mentioned, emphasizing the analytical approach recommended byMarkusen, Iwill employ the “stereo view” of economic activity via both the establishment approach,seeking to understand the nightlife industry from the economic activity and size of New York City venues,as well as the occupational approach, looking at the human capital embedded in the four nightlife employee segments (Sojourners, Careerists, Cooks, Low Wage Workers) outlined here.



[1]Markusen and King, 7.

[2] Ibid.

[3] “Low WageWorkers” often defined as “workers whose hourly wage rates are so low that even if they worked full time, full year their annual earnings would fall below the poverty line for a family of four,” as developed in Pamela

Loprest, et al. (2009). “Who are Low Wage Workers?”ASPE Research Brief,January. Washington, DC: The Urban Institute.

[4] The 2010, Census Occupation Codes describing employee groups under study: 4000-4160.

[5]Ann Markusen, “Urban Development and Politics of a Creative Class: Evidence from the Study of Artists,” Environment and Planning A (Vol. 38, No. 10:1921-1940, 2006), 4.

[6] Richard Florida, The Rise of the Creative Class…and How It’s Transforming Work, Leisure, Community, & Everyday Life (Cambridge, MA: Perseus, 2002), 46.

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