Our Fashion Week correspondent tries to look the part.

I like bright colors and shiny things, but I can’t claim any actual fashion expertise. Last week, I nevertheless found myself on the list for multiple New York Fashion Week events.

I fit none of the criteria and/or stereotypes regarding that merit NYFW invitations … most of my clothes are free or thrifted, my haircut is a $5 number a la Phresh Cutz, and some of my wardrobe has been with me since I was 14, when I stopped growing (especially in the chestal regions). So what do I possess? (more…)

Home of Shit Political People Say videos.

First sports fans got a reason to not own a TV, then Breaking Bad fans, and now: political nerds! YouTube just announced it will be live-streaming for free not only the Republican and Democratic conventions this year, but also all the debates, which promises to be a better experience than NBC’s Olympics livestreaming fustercluck (or its TV broadcasts too, probably). This means no more crowding around the one TV in the bar trying to hear Paul Ryan speak over the din of the crowd; you can watch him alone in the dark of your bathroom, as he was meant to be heard. (more…)

Not pictured: tiny meatball grease stains.

Ikea: terrible and amazing, brilliant but Machiavellian, a money saving place to get your furnishings without worrying about your kids and a guaranteed way to ruin your relationship in the process. So we’re all conflicted about Ikea, but the Swedish furniture embassy is trying to make your experience slightly less traumatic: Ikea just launched its first YouTube series of how-to videos on assembling its notoriously tricky furniture pieces. It also includes videos aimed at helping you “find your style,” and it turns out “your style” involves lots of Ikea stuff! The assembly videos are meant to complement the printed instructions. They’re similarly full of cutesy images and devoid of complicated narration. Only two products are available right now, but Ikea says it will add one new one ever week. “We understand that not everyone is a natural DIY-er at heart,” an Ikea spokeswoman said in a press release. But at least we can help you get the stuff home by yourself. 

There's lots of crap out there. Nominate us some great local videos

Is there anything less Brokelyn than the pomp and flash of the Oscars? The carbon-belching limos and blinding glitz may not jive with our thrifty sensibilities, but the starry spectacle is still pretty fun to watch, even as we sit here fishing for our Superfunded supper on the Gowanus Canal.

Our film world dreams are really more of a YouTube budget than an Avatar one. YouTube is infinitely creative, totally DIY, and most of all, entirely democratic and free to all the people, of all shapes, sizes, budgets and dimensions.

That’s why we’re proud to announce the first-ever Brokecademy Awards, the most prestigious blog-based, statue-free but glory-rich awards to honor great achievements in Brooklyn YouTubery. And here’s the best part: you’re our nominating panel! (more…)