February on TFB

"Suddenly all my ancestors are behind me/ Be still they say/ Watch and listen/ You are the result of the love of thousands."--Linda Hogan, 'Walking'

Hey Y’all,
So February is going to be huge for the Fashion Bomb!
First, Fashion Week is coming to NYC February 2nd-9th!

Photo courtesy of www.ohjoy.blogs.com
I’m a huge idiot and didn’t even think to apply for press credentials before deadline. Totally sux, I know. But I've asked peeps I know in fashion to hook a sistah up…let’s hope they follow through. My goal is to go to at least one show a day...gonna make it happen as Mariah would say.

The second reason February is huge for TFB is that it’s Black History Month! Time to look back and give a nod to everyone who set the path. In celebration, I'm doing a review/tribute to one black designer, new or old, for every weekday of the month.

Photo courtesy of Bernstein & Andriulli
When I told peeps of my plan, they were like, ‘Are there enough for you to cover?” I say, “Yes!” I can find 20+ black designers! But let’s say this: it’ll be a learning experience for both me and you.
So stay tuned tomorrow for installment one.
Smootches!
PS Proenza Schouler's line is hitting Target stores on Friday!

I'm broke as a joke cuz rent is due, but please do hit it up if you have the funds.

PSS I saw this shoot in the Sunday Times Magazine and thought it was darling!



Random cuteness. Nothing more, nothing less.

Real Casual Style

"Do that Prada, Gucci, full length leather/Bourbon's cool or Coogi sweater (Sweater)/Twenty-inches pop my feather/The Birdman daddy I fly in any weather."Birdman, 'Still Fly'

Happy Tuesday!
I really liked my coworker's outfit the other day, so I decided to snap a quick pic:

Her oversized sweater looks great with her skinny jeans, and the chic slouch gray boots tie it all together. I'm a huge fan of brightness in the midst of winter doldrums--the yellow in her sweater adds a refreshing touch of light.
Cute.
Smootches!
PS New York is great and all, but it's not the only city with fashionable women! Send me pics of people you know who are fashionable for future Real Style posts. As Jay-Z said, "Show me what ya got". I know ya got somethin...
PSS I was reading WWD today and came across this quote by Karl Lagerfeld regarding the 'skinny model debate':

"There are more fat people in the world than too skinny ones, and the fat ones have big, big problems. Nobody cares, they're not glamorous...We are designers, not doctors who have to care about 'eating disorders.'"

Tell us how ya really feel! LOL.

Spring Preview: Color!

“Hundred carats have 'em froze for an eon/ Red, black, and white Chevy now I'm ridin' Deion/ Put them lights off in my rims, now I'm ridin' neon/ Our cars look like cra-yon, girls know I'm the man though/ I can shoulder lean... I don’t know how to dance tho.”—Young Dro feat T.I., ‘Shoulder Lean’

Hey Y’all,

So I saw this pretty spread in WWD ages ago…

…it talks about how bold, bright colors are the new trend for Spring. Vibrant colors work well on any complexion and instantly pump up the pretty factor. Whether you sport a firy red bag with a standard suit or go all the way with head to toe blue, primary colors will be the ‘it’ thing come March.
Seeing that we’re still at least 2 months shy of anything resembling warm weather, I think this may be a wee bit premature. But I guess it’s never too early to start thinking of sunshine and bare shoulders:)
Smootches!
PS In case ya didn't know...

Serena beat Maria Sharapova in the Australian Open!
From an article by the Associated Press:

“Don't ever tell Serena Williams she can't do something. Her response will be devastating for her opponents. Just ask top-ranked Maria Sharapova. Sharp and intensely focused from the start, Williams simply overwhelmed Sharapova 6-1, 6-2 Saturday to win the Australian Open and her eighth Grand Slam title.
"It was an awesome win, because I had so many critics. So many people ... saying negative things," Williams said. "Saying I wasn't fit, when I felt that I was really fit, and I could last three sets.
"It's always like, tell me no and I'll show you that I can do it. I get the greatest satisfaction just holding up the Grand Slam trophy and proving everyone wrong."

That's right girl. Show and prove.
Happy Monday!

Points of Interest: Vogue's February Issue

“One of the quarrels I have with European feminism is that they equate emancipation with looking ugly. “ Ayaan Hirsi Ali in Rebecca Johnson’s Vogue February article, ‘The Unbeliever.’

Happy Friday!!!

So I was tickled to receive my February issue of Vogue yesterday in the mail...

Apparently it's the 'Female Empowerment' issue.
I usually just flip through the book at first to get an idea of what’s going on, then delve into reading it—cover to cover—at a later date.
I was almost shocked to see that Vogue had not one, but two black contributors for the issue!

One was Edward Enninful...

... who, in response to ‘What do you wear to work?” said, “Black on Black is always chic.” I was confused by that statement just by looking at the picture, but I kept on scanning…
Then I saw that there was a beautiful black woman (in a hot suit)...

...named Ayaan Hirsi Ali, who is profiled in the back of the book. So of course I flipped to check her out.

So this woman is a very controversial figure…

She's an outspoken critic of Islam’s treatment of women, and has basically had to flee persecution several times. She was involved in making the Anti-Islam movie Submission with Theo van Gogh (You might have heard of this) which resulted in his death.
Vogue also included an excerpt from her book, the Infidel, where she talks about rescuing family members and friends during Somalia’s Civil War.

Definitely check it out!
Go on Vogue for showcasing sisters who, controversial or not, are doing it for themselves.
Want to know more about her story? Take a look at this video:

Smootches!
PS Shout out to Andre Leon Talley who featured the PBS DVD Boxed set of Eyes on the Prize: America’s Civil Rights Movement ...

...in his ‘Life with Andre’ section.

At $385, it’s still very Vogue, but hey, you can’t put a price on history!
Have good weekends!

Real Style: Mixing Brown and Black

"Engine, Engine, Number Nine/ On the New York transit line/ If my train goes off the track/ Pick it up! Pick it up! Pick it up!/ Back on the scene/ Crispy and clean/ You can try/ But then why/ Cause you can't intervene."--Black Sheep, 'The Choice is Yours'

Hey,

So I ride the cross borough train everyday from abode to office. The train in New York is like a fashion show in progress. So many people, so much great style, it's invigorating.
This chic Brooklyn lady lives by my station, and always looks well put together. The other day, I got up the courage to ask to snap a pic:


I thought she did a great job of mixing brown and black. One of the archaic fashion 'rules' is that you should *never* mix the two, but there are ways to do so artfully (without looking like a train wreck).
I think the key is in the tones of brown you choose to wear. Her top and sweater are light enough as to not clash with her black skirt and tights. The fur on her medium brown boots match her top well enough to pull the look together.
I like her style!
Smootches!
PS Serena advanced to the Finals in the Australian Open! And guess who she's playing?? Her fashion nemesis, Maria Sharapova. Stay tuned!

Men's Style: The 80's are Back

"I'm talented, yes I'm gifted/ Never boosted, never shoplifted/
I got the cash, but money ain't nothing/
make a million dollars every record that I cut and/
My name is Special Ed and I'm a super-duper star/ Every other month I get a brand new car.” Special Ed, 'I got It Made'

Ah memories…that was the first tape I ever owned…
Anyway it seems the 80's are back...




For Guys anyway.
I think I like this trend. There's something mildly sexy about dookie chains and big sunglasses.
Or maybe I'm just waxing nostalgic for my childhood...
What do you think?
Smootches!
If you loved Special Ed as much as I did, here's a video for your viewing pleasure:

Serena Williams: Holdin’ down the Court

“I am the ultimate competitor…Definitely ready to create some more carnage.”—Serena Williams after making it to the Australian Open Semi Finals.

Serena Wiliams made it to the semifinals in the Australian Open today…

… so I thought it would be fitting to give her a little fashion shout out.

Everyone tries to act like Maria Sharapova brought style to the tennis courts…

And was the pioneer in terms of eschewing tennis whites in favor of body skimming dresses and electric skirts.
But we all know Serena was the first to bring the badness! Take a look:





Can't forget that catsuit!
People try to say her 'fits are inappropriate--too much booty in the pants--but I think she's stylish and would cut someone to find out her workout regimine!
What do y'all think?
Smootches!

Designer Spotlight: Rachel Roy

"I don't wanna make another Jay-Z. What I'll do is make the Jay-Z of fashion, Rachel Roy." - Damon Dash in the March 2007 issue of XXL magazine

Good murnin!
Rachel Roy, in my opinion, is beautiful, stylish, and super chic.

It seemed to me that she was little more than Dame Dash’s boo…

But she’s also a very talented designer.
According to her website, www.rachelroy.com, the Seaside, California native started as a stylist for magazines and music videos, then became creative director at Rocawear (where she presumably met Dame). She launched her own collection in Spring 2005—not too long ago.
I’m loving the following looks I found on www.shopbop.com:

Harlow Blouse, about $241

Jean Dress, about $173

Lana Short Jacket, about $460

Francesco Long Reversible Jacket, $328

Grace Long Bow Blouse, $322
They’re cutting edge and fresh!
I’m also feeling these spring looks I found on the website www.pomegranita.com.

Gorgeous...and the ruffles are on point!
Too bad the cheapest thing is about $173 (on sale!)…
Want to know more?
Watch this:

Andre Leon Talley is definitely a fan:)
Smootches!

Style File: Kelis!

"Where there is cheese there are rats/ wherever there are rats there are cats/ wherever there are cats there are dogs/ If you got them dogs, you got b*tches/ B*tches always out to put their paws on your riches/ If you got riches,you got glitches./ If you got glitches in your life computer/ turn it off and then reboot her, now you back on./ Can't just put the cap on the old bottle once you pop it that'll spoil it, gone and drink it and enjoy it."—Kelis feat. Andre Benjamin 'Millionaire'

Hey faithful readers!

Most celebs have great clothes with the help of oodles of money and stylists…But few are courageous enough to be bold and assert their individuality quite like Kelis.

Kelis hasn’t always had ‘great’ style per se....there were those days when her hair and clothes were a bit ‘wild’...

But we'll forgive her!
She has evolved into a certified fashion trend setter through the use of her signature haircut...

Accessories, like sunglasses...

Bright, Vibrant Colors...

And cutting edge, unique pieces...

It’s always refreshing to see someone out there with a style all their own. As Coco Chanel once said, “Fashion Passes, Style Remains.”
Have great weekends!
Smootches!

Pour out a little Licquor...Suede Magazine

"There is a frustration in what we do...In a sense, there is not a road, not a path, that we go down... We can't just sell the magazine. We have to sell the audience. We have to explain that our audience buys things, that they are valuable. It's just plain dollars and sense."-- Michelle Ebanks, group publisher at Essence Communications Group, in a New York Times article dated December 7th, 2004.

Hi ladies,
Today The Fashion Bomb presents a tribute to Suede Magazine.

To be honest, I didn’t really pay attention to Suede when it popped in on newsstands with its colorful covers and brown hued beauties. I believe I flipped through the premiere issue with Alicia Keyes on the cover...

...remarked at how a few spreads gave me a mild headache...

...then sort of forgot about it.

I’m kicking myself for being so apathetic about it...One of my homies over at Essence recently showed me a few issues and I instantly fell in love with the eye catching beauty spreads...

Innovative fashion shoots...

And engaging art, historical, and political features...

Yes, that's an article about Barack Obama before his presidential bid!

Suede displayed everything from sunglasses...

to contributers...

to letters to the editor...

...in eye catching and inventive ways.

Plus, it seems Suede was the place to go for style addicts like myself...

I mean, we’re talking about ankle boots now, but Suede featured booties back in 2005!

I love me some Essence, and the young Vibe Vixen is certainly growing on me. But, for us brown skinned ladies who moonlight as fashionistas, I loved Suede's multiple fashion spreads featuring women who look like me....one issue of Suede had about 5 spreads! Vogue only has 2, maybe 3. (Perhaps it was those expensive shoots, though, that drained Suede's bank account.)

Regardless of the reasons it closed its doors, I believe I speak for many women when I ask 'Where for art thou, Suede?'
What do y'all think?
Smootches!

PS A Women’s Wear Daily article by Marc Karimzadeh reports today that designer Stephen Burrows, who I wrote about here, will premiere a new daytime line at a lower price. The article says, “The new dresses [will] wholesale from $125 to $195, compared with $225 to $880 for the evening line. At the lower price points, the new pieces are likely to sit with Nanette Lepore, Tracy Reese, and Diane Von Furstenberg at specialty stores." The piece goes on to say that the line, “Will open to the market on Feb. 7th for fall distribution.” Unfortunately what the piece DOESN’T SAY is WHERE WE CAN BUY this new line. What good is a lower price point if noone can find it??? Updates to come!

I wear my sunglasses at night...and inside

"Stunna shades on and my wrist look heavy/ I wear em in the dark like Fab 5 Freddy"--The Federation 'Stunna Glasses @ Night'

Sunglasses, in theory, are made to shield eyes from the damaging rays of the sun. In practice, of course, people sport shades in all types of situations...in the club, on the red carpet, at night, inside well lit buildings....

Guys seem to rock the 'sunglasses at night/inside' look a lot:





And girls do it too...though not as frequently:





But I'm wondering...are sunglasses in the absence of sun obnoxious...or cool? And can you only pull it off if you're a celeb?
What do y'all think?
Smootches!

PS Check out the funky jewelry, t-shirts, and handbags at the Honeyroom (www.thehoneyroom.com):

It's a cute online boutique.
Bonus: Enter the coupon code thefashionbomb and receive 15% off orders of $30 or more. I know I'll check it out! I'm a sucker for a good sale:)

Smootches!

Style Diary: Red Carpet at the Golden Globes

Hey Y'all,

So I caught E!'s Red Carpet Coverage of the Golden Globes last night and thought it would be cool to do a minute by minute style diary of celebrity fashion. Just my two cents. Enjoy!

6pm-- Guiliana Depandi...

...looks gorgeous! I'm feelin' her ruffle front black gown, Chopard earrings, and cute hairdo! Ryan Seacrest looks like....a dude in a suit. This is all about the ladies today, so...

6:05-- Aaaaaah! Jay Manuel! I absolutely love Jay, but I prefer his blonde 'do to the silver. His tie/cravat/bow is very cute, however. He's talking about bringing the 'old to the new' and vintage digs. I wonder: what makes a designer gown vintage? Is vintage the equivalent of last season??? Or two seasons ago??

6:15--Wow Vanessa Williams.

She's a beautiful women, but all the puff, fur, and frizz just don't appeal to me. Her face is gorgeous, and that's the only thing that's working for her tonight.

6:17--Jennifer Love Hewitt's dress...

...looks like she made it at home!

6:18--I realize that I need to go to the supermarket to get some food, but...priorities, priorities! Fashion before food.

6:19--My brother calls me, asking me to go online and find the location of a Best Buy in Santa Monica, California. So. He's calling me in Brooklyn from California to find something in his area. When I can't find it, he hangs up on me. Ridic. Instead of being offended by his rudeness, I get back to it.

6:21--My boyfriend has his hands on the remote. Turns it to ESPN. I'm going to choke him if he makes me miss anything. After a pinch, he jumps back to the Red Carpet.

6:24--BACK! Ryan Seacrest with Vanessa Williams.

...Vanessa is getting a lil 'old diva' on me...this look is just not fresh. She reveals that she's wearing a Carmen Marc Velvo dress, Fred Leighton jewels, and a Edwards-Lowell fur. She styled herself in about an hour and...it shows. My boyfriend says, "F*ck she looks good." What does he know? He explains, "It's the big hair." Riiiiight.

6:30--Sienna Miller with Ryan Seacrest. Sienna reveals that she's wearing a Marchesa dress and Cartier jewelry...

My bf said, "Is that Jude Law's girl?" "Yes" "She's not that hot." I think she's cute! And her accent is delightful! Oh! She just said, "La-di-da!"

6:35--The purse with the mirror company is rejoicing right now.

Two shout outs already...

6:36--America Ferrara aka 'Ugly Betty.'

Ummm...Ugly Betty is Hot! LOVE her purple dress. L-O-V-E! And three cheers for the curvy girls.

6:40--ESPN again. I'm going to kill this man. Yes, it's a commercial break. No, I don't want to watch Hockey Highlights. No! No! No!

6:47--I see Chloe Sevigny...

This chick is FIERCE and her one shoulder dress is amazing. Can't wait to see who it's by.

6:48--Penelope Cruz...

...hot, hot, hot. She's wearing a Chanel couture gown by Karl Lagerfeld. And les ruffles again!?!? Does Karl Lagerfeld read the Fashion Bomb??

6:50--The bf is asleep! Yay! No more channel skipping or ESPN.

6:52--Ugly Betty with Ryan Seacrest!

So she's wearing a Brian Reyes gown and Fred Leighton jewelry. The color looks great on her...It really pops and speaks to the 'bright color' trend that's starting to take hold.

6:55--Eva Longoria looks smashing.

Her dress reminds me of America Ferrera's gown, but I feel like America's color looks better on her.

6:58--Ryan Seacrest is poking around for details... Eva's dress is Ungaro. "The premiere of Eva and Navy." Ok, she just did a little twirl...

...Ok, the back of her dress wins out over America's. Sorry Ugly Betty!

7:01--J.LO!!!!!

She's also wearing a Marchesa dress. One shoulder joint. She looks very Greek Goddess in her Lorraine Schwartz jewels. J.Lo usually causes my jaw to drop to the floor, but this dress is kind've yawn worthy. Why is Marc hiding in the corner?? Anyway, I think the one shoulder dress is a theme this time around. And the back details?!?

... Pimpin. Eva and J.Lo have the backs going on.

7:13--I thnk I just peeped Puff on the carpet with a Ryan Leslie type character...

I wonder if Cassie is around...

7:18--I spy Cameron Diaz wearing a one shoulder gown. The one shoulder of her gown is...

...a ruffle! I swear, you heard it first on the Fashion Bomb. And an aside: I'm starting the beret revolution! More on that later.

7:20--Ryan Seacrest is hitting on *everybody*. Guess he's really trying to squash that 'gay' rumor.

7:28--Yay! Will and Jada.

Jada's in a beautiful salmon dress that pops. Who made it? Will Marchesa score yet another name drop?

7:30--Seacrest interviews the hotties from Big Love...

...Turns out Chloe is wearing Yves Saint Laurent. The other girls are wearing...whatever. The dress looks different up close.

7:31--Brad and Angelina. Angelina is a bad b*tch....

..My boyfriend woke up from his slumber to say, "Superstar couple."

7:36--Brangelina with Ryan Seacrest...

Brad is sooo hot. Still. Angelina refuses to talk. I like her strapless gown. No word on who it's by. Ryan was so busy trying to get the scoop on the family that he forgot to ask.

7:40--Oh Sh*t, Beyonce!

She looks AMAZING in her sequined gown. Her decolletage, makeup, jewelry, everything is on point. My boyfriend says, "Best looking chick I've seen all night, bar none." He must not be including me! I'm wearing a fluffy baby blue robe by Vicky's! Update: After a few punches to the chest, he retracted his statement. Beyonce's the second best chick he's seen all night, next to his girl.

7:50--Eddie!!

He's aged well. Something's going on with his mic.

7:51--Cut to Beyonce.

Homegirl did everything right...lots of weave, but not overboard. Looks like she rubbed it down with some Vaseline, popped on some sequins...Bey is WORKING IT!

7:52--Jay Manuel just noted that Angelina was not feeling being there. I mean. If you think about it, celebrities, jewels, and dresses is not what should be on our agenda. But we all need a break from saving the world sometime, don't we??

7:56--Boo. Credits. Guess the red carpet coverage is over. Sucks because I wanted Ryan or Giuliana to talk to Beyonce. Let's just assume her dress is House of Dereon...

7:58--I see Jennifer Hudson!

Pretty. It looks like she's wearing navy.
Ryan is totally overdoing it with the macho commentary. I don't buy it!

7:59--Just got a more complete look at Cameron Diaz.

Her red lips sream, "Free woman" but her dress says, "Wreck!" Ruffles gone wrong.

8pm--The show is starting. Maybe the supermarket is still open???
Update: It was!
Smootches!
All pictures courtesy of E!Online, AP, and Reuters.

Did you Know? Malcolm Harris

"This event is not about one designer or a group of designers...This is truly a chance to show that we are not this self-consumed, superficial and/or elitist industry."--Malcolm Harris in a Women's Wear Daily article dated January 5th, 2007

Happy Dr. Martin Luther King Day!

A week or so ago, Women's Wear Daily featured a short article on Malcolm Harris, designer of the line Mal Sirrah...

...and his DesignersforDarfur Benefit during fashion week next month.
To be honest, I hadn't heard of Malcolm Harris before, but I was very impressed by his desire to contribute to such a worthy cause.
WWD reported:

"Chado Ralph Rucci, Zac Posen, Naeem Khan, Jeremy Scott, Sue Wong and Mary Ping are among the designers who have agreed to create an outfit that will be sent down the runway. Participants will make clothes in red, black, green or yellow, or any combination of those colors that are symbolic of Africa. Their creations will be auctioned online immediately after the event, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the nonprofit Save Darfur Coalition."

Pretty amazing. Fashion is at its core quite superficial and materialistic. It's refreshing to see designers putting their creativity towards helping others every once in a while.
Didn't know about Malcolm Harris or his line? Take a look at his website here or watch this video...

Featuring his Spring 2007 collection.
If you want to learn more about how you can help with the conflict in Darfur, visit www.savedarfur.org.
Smootches!

Real Quick

Hey Y'all!

Thanks for the birthday wishes!!
They really mean a lot:)

Although yesterday was officially the last day of Jewelry Week on the Fashion Bomb, I wanted to let y'all in on a little jewelry secret of mine....

That's right. The Jewelry Stand.

If you go to Union Square, Soho, or virutally anywhere in NYC with heavy shopping traffic, you will inevitably pass by a Jewelry Table. It's the epitome of one stop shopping for cool, different accessories at a great price! It's normally 'cash only'...and I've never paid more than $20 for anything.
Off to brunch!
Enjoy Martin Luther the King day!

Smootches!

My Bday + Jewelry Week Day 4: Boutique Finesse

"Go, go, go, go, go, go/ Go, Shawty/It's your Birthday/We gon' party like it's your birthday/We gon' sip Bacardi like it's your Birthday/ And you know we don't give a f&*@&k, it's not your birthday!"--50 Cent 'In da Club'

Hey Y'all!
So...not only is today the last day of Jewelry Week on the Fashion Bomb...BUT it's also my Birthday!!! Yayayayay!

For such a fabulous day, it's perfectly fitting that I present you with an equally fabulous jewelry find: Boutique Finesse, an online accessories boutique founded by Howard University alum Carla Rutledge.

Pixie Bracelet, $10

"I'm a bargain shopper who loves accessories," says Rutledge, " My passion for accessories became my inspiration to start Boutique Finesse."

Sunrise Earrings, $11

"Each item in my collection is hand picked with love, care and every woman in mind," she continues, "From an accessories junkie to a sophisticated lady, Boutique Finesse has something for all styles."

Hard Candy Bracelet in Blue, $12

A fan of the lines Foxy Originals and Yoochi because of their, "unique and youthful [designs]," this entrepreneur is an expert in scouting out unique pieces and passing her fierce finds onto you.

Regal Necklace, $18

Red Hot Earrings, $13

Bonus: she hosts 'Champagne Parties' where you can try on and purchase items in the comfort of your own home:


Looks fun!
I'm loving how affordable everything is. Taking a look at her website,www.boutiquefinesse.com, I can't find anything over $25! Chic and Inexpensive:)
Smootches!

PS It's still early, but I've already gotten a *great* present from my boyfriend! He knows I'm a total NERD and also a complete FASHION ADDICT, so he got me the perfect gift:

In Vogue: the Illustrated History of the World's Most Famous Fashion Magazine
Yay!
I'm about to gets ta reading...need to be prepared when I meet Anna Wintour:)
Have a good one!

Jewelry Week Day 3: Sandy Hoof

"Chocolates and flowers die and get eaten, but jewelry is forever.”--Lori Wear

The Fashion Bomb presents Day 3 of Jewelry Week: Sandy Hoof Jewelry by Amber Cartwright!

Heart with Wings, $100

The line comprises pieces made of brass, copper, silver, gold, leather, ribbon and found objects. Items range in price from $50-$150.

Revolver Necklace, $100.

"I really like mixing the pretty with the unusual," says Cartwright who named her line after the mustangs that roam the beaches of her North Carolina hometown. "I have taken inspiration from World War II aviation, Civil War medical instruments, hunting and trapping culture and hipster punk culture of my neighborhood in Manhattan."

Revolver and Cuffs, $100

Craftmanship runs in Cartwright's family, as her grandfather was a welder, her father a carpenter, and her mother a seamstress. She says, "I remember being in the shop with my father making shelves and objects for the house as a child. It was the same with my mother and clothes. I always enjoyed making necklaces and crafts for friends."

Victorian Fan Earrings, $75

Handcuff Necklace, $100.

To buy, visit www.sandyhoof.com, www.lolli-reincarnation.com or www.pixiemarket.com.
Smootches!

Jewelry Week Day 2: Starlet Accessories

"Accessories are important and becoming more and more important every day. They can completely change the look of an outfit, and women like the idea of having a wardrobe that's versatile. For instance, a strong piece of jewelry can make a simple outfit look elegant.”--Giorgio Armani

Hold onto your seats ladies. Today is day two of Jewelry Week on the Fashion Bomb! On the mic: Starlet Accessories launched last fall by young designer Christine Chow.

Vintage Japanese molded rose on adjustable brass chain with little gold leaves, $60.

Vintage stamping of two birds, accented with iridescent
glass bead, $30.

The jewelry, which Chow describes as, "unique, beautiful and wearable all at once," is handmade with high-quality materials like glass, metal and enamel as well as natural materials like horn, wood and semi-precious stones. She designs with the modern female lifestyle in mind - earrings, bracelets, and necklaces, "that you can dress up or dress down, and can transform to suit different outfits."

A dramatic curtain of black and silver chains, $70.

"I'm a big shopper myself, and I just got tired of being overcharged for consumer products that are either poorly made, or made of cheap materials," says Chow, " I'm constantly sourcing for the best prices on both vintage and new elements so that I can pass the savings on to my customer; everything in the collection right now is under $100."

Antique metal and fabric buttons and Czech glass buttons, with a
floral clasp, $85.

An anklet enthusiast and Brown graduate, Chow believes that jewelry should enhance a woman, not overwhelm her. In terms of designers, Chow favors Tufi Duek, Tsumori Chisato and Deadly Girl Couture and draws inspiration from the rich, strong colors and clean lines of the Art Deco period.

Vintage goldplated bird on a black horn pendant, with a gold vermeil
clasp, $65

Luscious purple jade beads in an assymetrical mix on a
vintage, etched chain, $85.

Pieces are available for purchase at www.starletaccessories.com.
Bonus: She's offering a winter sale of 20% off nearly everything on the site!!! Run, don't walk!
Smootches!

Jewelry Week Day 1: SISU

“It is the unseen, unforgettable, ultimate accessory of fashion that heralds your arrival and prolongs your departure.”--Coco Chanel

Today is day one of Jewelry Week on the Fashion Bomb!
Jewelry is the overlooked MVP in the fashion world. The proper accessories can make a black dress go from bla to ballerific, and can transform an outfit from frumpy to fly.
This week, I'm profiling young jewelery designers. Check out their pieces, hear about their journey into the industry, and learn their inspirations.
First Up? My designer friend Sarah Johnson, and her line SISU.

Starfish Necklace, $210

The name SISU comes from the Finnish word for 'Chutspa'.
The line launched in October 2005, and comprises pieces of precious and semi-precious metals and stones (mainly blue and yellow Topaz, Rubies, Labradorite, Peruvian Opal, and Tourmaline).

Coin Pearl Layering Necklace, $250

"My style is organic. I let the stones speak for themselves, " says Johnson. "I create hammered surfaces to metal to offer a natural look...My pieces are inspired by nature in color, texture, and silhouette...like they were plucked from a forest or stream. Nature is timeless.

Green Opal Blocks Earrings, $200

"I can sit for hours polishing or adding hundreds of tiny pearls to a chain," she continues. "Because I can't wait to see the finished piece...I'm also inspired by the materials. When you have a luscious strand of rubies--the possibilities are endless as to what you can create."

Hammered Earth Medallion 14 Karat Necklace, $1750

Designing since she was young, Johnson counts David Yurman and Me & Ro amongst her favorite designers, Sarah Jessica Parker as an accessory diva, and exploring, yoga-ing, reading, relaxing, and netflix-ing as some of her favorite leisure activies.

Shipwreck with Pearl and Lab Bangle, $245

Pearl Cavier Drop Earrings with Smokey Quartz, $210

Interested in buying? Price points range from around $100-$2000. Little earrings with precious stones are also available for around $100-$150 (and limited ones for around $80).
To purchase or to set up an appointment, e-mail Sarah at sarah@ilovesisu.com.

Smootches!

PS Stay tuned for installment two tomorrow!

Real Style Chez Oskar

So I caught brunch this weekend with some friends at a hot spot in Fort Greene Brooklyn called Chez Oskar (211 Dekalb Avenue)...

They have delicious food and a great ambiance!

My friend Namik was part of the party. She always looks fabulous, so I had to snap a pic...

...I loved her scarf and fly hair style.
Stay tuned tomorrow for day 1 of Jewelry Week on the Fashion Bomb!

Smootches!

Un Chapeau

"Ha! I've got your hat! Take that, Hatless! Now go back to the quad and resume your hacky-sack tournee!"--Stewie Griffin of the Family Guy

Sometimes, ladies, you don't feel like doing your hair. Sometimes, just sometimes, the thought of curling, braiding, dying, or frying just doesn't appeal.

So you reach for a hat.

But a fashionable lady can't grab just any old hat off the rack.
Baseball caps....

...are better suited for guys or pre-adolescent girls.

Scullies...

...might make you look dated.

And the full on white fur...

...just looks crazy.

I personally think menswear inspired hats a la Marlene Dietrich...


...are super stylish and sexy.
For modern examples, look no further than the most fashionable celebrities.
Kelly Rowland...

and Mary J...

...beautifully update the look with sharp fedoras.

Halle Berry joins the fray...

with a dark page boy.

And the ever fabulous J. Lo....

...looks hot in a chic bowler.

I personally like this Burberry Driver's Cap...

...at Saks for $160.

And this Eugenia Kim equestrian cap...

...at Shopbop for $165.

When looking for hats, stick to tame, neutral colors or patterns in a smooth wool.
Off to find a topper!

Smootches!

Looks I love: Ruffles!!!

"Open up your sleeves, man. Let your ruffles take the air. Let them flow. Let them ripple."--Leslie Howard as Percy Blakeney, the Scarlet Pimpernel

So I went to see the fabulous movie Dreamgirls over the Holidays and almost fell out of my chair when I saw Beyonce in this scene with Jamie Foxx...



Her makeup was absolutely *amazing*, but I adored her ruffled blouse most of all...I oooh'ed and aah'ed so much, I got the 'Shhhhhh!!!'

Though Dreamgirls is a period piece, ruffles transcend time and increase one's feminine factor exponentially. I found a few celebrity examples:
Mary J. looks banging in this ruffled frock she wore on a recent trip to South Africa...


And hot Halle Berry layers a vest and jacket over her ruffles...

...for understated elegance.

Elle magazine's January issue also has some great 'ruffle' examples....
Though I'm not a huge Jennifer Garner fan (at all), I fell in love with this Chiffon Chloe Blouse featured in her shoot...

...only $1,730.

Later on in the mag, there's a feature on the ever chic Chloe Sevigny...

...wearing a *hot* $4,800 party-ready Oscar de la Renta gown (that was also featured in Vogue this month on one of their writers, Florence Kane).

If you want to ruffle up your wardrobe, Macy's has this Michal Kors Tuxedo shirt...

...on sale for $38.99.

The French website La Redoute has this great ruffle trim sweater...

...on sale for $24.99

And the GAP has this cute Puff Sleeved Tuxedo Shirt...

...on sale for $19.99.

Now, cherchez le ruffle.

Smootches!

Fashion Resolutions

Phoebe: My New Year's Resolution is to pilot a commercial jet plane. Chandler: That's great Pheebs, now all you have to do is find a plane load of people whose resolution is to plummet to their deaths.
--Lisa Kudrow as Phoebe and Matthew Perry as Chandler in Friends

So it's New Years resolution time! I of course have tons of personal goals...hit the gym like a maniac, eat more grains and roughage, shift my career into first gear, become an editor at Vogue (or Elle or W or Harper's)...but priorities ladies!
First, and foremost, I must make a few New Years Fashion Resolutions.
I've whittled it down to about 5...let's get to it!

1. No more cheap shoes!

It's one thing to buy shoes on sale, it's a totally different thing to buy cheap shoes that fall apart after one season. I love me some Nine West (Lord knows I do), but I had this one pair of cute black pumps. I had to get the heels fixed like every 2 weeks or so, which I guess is fine, but the last, absolute last straw was when I got caught out in the rain with them, and they actually cracked in the front (right by the pinky toes)! My Manolo meter has been on unofficial hiatus, but I'm looking to revive said meter in the New Year.
In the meantime, I found a pair of Coach mid height heels (sorta like these)...

...that were $100 marked down from $200. Not bad...and since the rescuscitation of the Manolo meter is in effect, let's say that it's now at $200 and counting!
Another important thing: Comfort! When I finally get my hot shoes, I need to be able to walk in them every day (if I want to) without pain.


2. Chill on Chinatown!

My post about fakes ignited the biggest, most hilarious, and well balanced debate in the history of the Fashion Bomb! I absolutely *loved* it, and have decided that I'm ultimately gonna follow Kimora Lee's advice: rock whatever scarves, bags, and clutches I can afford--with pride!


3. One status bag. Somehow. Someway. I'm getting my first real, non-vintage, affordable status bag...and by affordable, I mean that the price won't equal my monthly rent.
A good starter bag could be either the small $595 or large $620 Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag in either the traditional, monogram canvas:

Or in Damier:

I'm leaning towards the Damier pattern because it's more distinct...I've seen great fakes of the monogram canvas bag, and I want something that can't be mistaken for faux.

4. J.Crew in moderation.

Ok, ok, I confess: I am *obsessed* with J.Crew. Yes, I'm a sucker for cable knit and class!
My mother was *appalled* this past Xmas when I took her to my local J.Crew and the salespeople were like, "Hey Claire!" and "It's been a while, how have you been??" She shamed me, calling me ridiculous. She's right, but I'm trying to change...besides I need to funkdify my look up a bit, and argyle screams 'Connecticut Mom' not 'Fashionista.' I'm gonna amp it up with more sample sales, boutique shopping, and pieces from young, chic (and cheap!) designers.

5. Lastly: Fashion Shows, Fashion Shows, Fashion Shows!

The thought of not only viewing new collections firsthand, but also being in the same breathing space as Anna Wintour and Andre Leon Talley gives me goosebumps. Hopefully no more sneaking in, crashing, or finagling. I mean I'll do it if I have to, but...let's get some invites crackin.

I think that's all...what are your fashion resolutions??
Smootches!

Happy New Year!!!!

Hey Y'all,

Happy 2007!!
I had a smashing night out last night!
I'm sure you're wondering what I ended up wearing:) My mom and I hit the pavement the day after Christmas, and found ourselves, of course, at Lord & Taylor.

Though I initially wanted something sequined, I decided that the metallic look would be just as nice (not to mention cheaper). After trying on several options, I chose this gold jacquard pouf strapless dress by Jessica McClintock:

Cute huh?

I didn't take a full on pic, but this should give you an idea of how I accessorized:

That's an Adrianna Papell velvet shrug with a single string of pearls, and vintage pearl and diamond Christian Dior earrings. I found the earrings for only $25 at a thrift store (Brooklyn's Hooti Couture to be exact).
I also channeled my inner designer with the shrug. It initially had velvet strings to tie in the front, but I felt the tie wouldn't look right with the bow on my dress, so...I ended up cutting the strings and sewing the nubs back. Sometimes you have to do a little tailoring to make sure your look is just right:)

Lastly, I popped on these patent peep toe BCBGirls shoes....

....with sheer black stockings.
I was happy with it!

Here's a pic of one of the cute dresses I saw out...

...I liked her train, shoes, and fur. Doesn't hurt that homegirl knows how to strike a fierce pose!

Smootches!