Claire & Adriana's New Years Fashion Resolutions

So it's New Years Eve!!
My boo and I are flying to London to party it up. What are you doing for the big day?
Along with celebrating with loved ones, this is the time to make resolutions for the New Year. Last Year, My Resolutions for the Fashion Bomb were quite simple:

1. Take the Fashion Bomb International (Hello! Checking in from Paris!)
2. Chill on the Big Ticket Items (I did do that--and managed to find quality items at sample sales).
3. Take the Fashion Bomb to the Stratosphere! (Work in progress, though we've certainly come a long way!)

With an eye on the future, Adriana and I are going to give you our New Years Fashion Resolutions for '09. For me, they're short and sweet:
1. Dress like Carine Roitfeld of French Vogue:

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While in Paris, I've nurtured quite an admiration for French Vogue. The shoots are eye catching, breath taking and push the limits, and the editrix, Carine Roitfeld, is uberly fierce.

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While Carine may play with color on occasion, she shows more often than not that black on black is consistently chic. Mixing slim pencil skirts with jackets in innumerable combinations topped off with sky high stilettos, Carine rules French fashion and looks super stylish while doing so.

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Roitfeld definitely invests in her pieces, and in a similar vein, I'd like to invest in my wardrobe once and for all! So instead of buying 5 J.Crew blazers (yes, I've done that), I'll save my pennies for items like the following:

1. Vivenne Westwood Red Label Stretch Wool Blazer, $835. 2. Christian Louboutin Blood Mary Ankle Boots, $1,365. 3. Alexander McQueen Checked Tulip Skirt, $1,495.
Of course I'll continue to scour sample sales and the like, but this year, it's all about building that ultimate Fashion Editor wardrobe!
2. Read more Fashion Literature:
I own both the Fashion Book by Phaidon and Fairchild's Dictionary of Fashion, but haven't had the time to read 'em cover to cover until now! I'm going to study like I've got an exam, and get my fashion knowledge up to snuff.
3. Lastly, continue to expand the Fashion Bomb!

A lot has happened in the past two years: multiple redesigns, contests, tons of cool events and even merchandise! Adriana and I plan on continuing the fabulosity, and we're looking to the New Year for new contributors, fresh ideas, more updates, and scintillating Real Style. Hope you'll join us for the ride:)
That does it for me!
Adriana has a few as well:
"1. Follow the "1 In, 1 Out" Rule

My closet was so full at the beginning of this year that it took about three rounds of purging to get it down to a manageable size! I started using the "1 in, 1 out" rule as a way to really make myself think about purchases: if you add a new item to your wardrobe, you've got to take out an old piece. It makes you think a lot more before you buy, and I'm willing myself to keep doing it in the new year!
2.Finally Watch a Whole Season of "Project Runway"

It's my dirty fashion secret: I haven't been able to sit through an entire season. Not because it's not fun or interesting--I just end up forgetting about it! It's terrible. This year I resolve to not forget and make it to the bitter end so that I don't have to hide anymore when it comes up in conversation!
3. More NY Scene, Fashion Bomb 101s, and Celeb Interviews

It's been a dream of a year working on the FB, and I'm grateful to both Claire and our readers for being fabulous and inspirational, as well as encouraging me to grow as a contributor. Here's to more NYScene, helpful 101s, and celebrity interviews to stimulate and satisfy your style jones!"
What are your fashion resolutions??
xoxo,
The Fashion Bomb

Fashion News: How to Shop Your Closet

"Shopping your closet" has been one of the hottest terms thrown around since we were officially declared in a recession, and the Wall Street Journal's fashion maven Teri Agins shares the scoop on just how your fellow fashionistas are doing it.Aside from tailoring your current pieces to jazz them up and selling jewelry you no longer wear (both of which Teri mentions), I'd also suggest tapping your friends to see if any of them need to do a closet purge. If enough people say yes, grab a few bottles of wine and invite everyone over for a chic closet swap party. It's a fun way to edit your wardrobe, get some new pieces, and kick it with your girls all at the same time!
Adriana
*Photo courtesy of The Wall Street Journal

Throwback Video: Toni Braxton's You're Making Me High

Here's a bit of a throwback viddy for your viewing pleasure:

A few modern observations:
*How fly was Toni in that white catsuit?
*A+ for the Pizza Guy (wasn't that Bryce from Groove Theory?)
*Um, who were those other guys? Did I see Marcus Schenkenberg?
*Vivica A. Fox, Tisha Campbell-Martin (Gina!!), and Erika Alexander (Pam or Maxine Shaw depending on your preference) all looked great!

Didn't you just love this video?

15 under $150: Items to Spice up your Wardrobe

Spice up your wardrobe with the following affordable items:

1. Kimchi Blue Tiered Houndstooth Coat, $70. 2. Coiled Snake Necklace, $8. 3. Beckerman Charlotte Plaid Tux Jacket, $102. 4. Pyramid Stud Hinge Bangle, $7.50. 5. Free People Aletha's Tube Dress, $108. 6. Chunky Cocktail Ring, $17. 7. Priscilla Patent Leather Tote in Brown, $34.50. 8. Dolce Vita Madison Pump, $136. 9. Nine West Untracable Tote, $99. 10. Steve Madden Elivate Boots, $101. 11. LAMB Leather Miniskirt, $119. 12. French Connection Lofty Pull Over Sweater, $90. 13. Leather Pleated Clutch, $90. 14. Delia's Bobbie Solid Coat, $99.50. 15. Pins and Needles Leather Vest, $148.

Brandy's Louis Vuitton Swag

Brandy keeps it blinged out, recently spotted sporting Louis Vuitton boots and a matching Speedy bag for a shopping trip:
If you dare to splurge, get a Brandy look with these blinged out accessories:
Left to Right: Louis Vuitton Jodie Monogram Mini Lin High Boots, $1,510. Monogram Mini Lin Speedy, $775.
Ah, if I were a rich girl...

Fab Links

Hey Y'all!
I'm fresh off a plane to Paris, and am going to get my jet lagged booty to bed!
If you still need your fashion, beauty, and gossip fix, check out the following sites--they're the bomb!
* JC Report lists the world's top five must stop shops:
*The YBF brings the gossip, exclusively reporting that Eva and Lance Gross are now engaged...
*Fashionista thinks Beyonce's Diva video is a recreation of Gareth Pugh's Spring 2009 Show:
*And Scandalous Beauty gives the scoop on After Christmas beauty sales!
Enjoy!
I'll be back in fine form tomorrow:)

Take It or Leave It: 2008

Hey Bombshells!
Adriana here, and besides checking out all the crazy post-holiday sales, I've been thinking about which 2008 fashion trends we should leave firmly behind and which should follow us into the new year. 2008 gave us quite a few fads. Let's take a look:
Statement Bags on Red Carpets:

I love a statement bag but think they speak best when toted on the way to work or during a weekend afternoon of errands--not at an awards show. Leave it in '08!
Nerd Glasses on Dudes:

I might be one of the very few to say this: personally, I dug this trend (though will admit it did get slightly played out) and admire when guys step away from the BAPE t-shirt and retro Air Jordans uniform. Take the trend to '09!
Rihanna's Vamp Swagger:

It's true: imitation is one of the highest forms of flattery. But you know it's bad when even superstars like Beyoncé start to copy pop's reigning fashion queen. Stars and stylists have enough fabulousness of their own (that's why they do what they do!) to come up with more original and personalized looks. Let's leave it in '08 and hopefully find other ways to be edgy in '09. Which leads us to Emerging Stylistas:

'08 saw lots of stars come out of the fashion closet and step their game up fiercely. Keyshia Cole, Cassie, Keri Hilson, and Solange are just some of the divas who put themselves on the style map with fresh looks that were fashionable and distinct. We need more originals: let's take it with us to '09!
Also in '08: celebrity clothing lines, Herve Leger dresses, stars. vs. models on fashion magazine covers. Which could you take or leave?
~Adri

Hayden Harnett and Thakoon available on Target.com!

Logon to Target.com for first dibs on their Hayden Harnett and Thakoon Go Collections:
Cute stuff! See more here.

Style Tribute: Eartha Kitt

In the midst of my Christmas revelry, I was saddened to learn that singer, dancer and actress Eartha Kitt passed away at the age of 81. Eartha made many contributions to the worlds of film, music and, of course, fashion:

Her saucy style remained fresh over her six decade long career, a sign that sophistication and sultriness know no age. She will be missed.

All I want for Christmas Is You!!

Merry Merry Christmas:)

Happy Holidays!!

Hey Bombshells,
I'm sure most of you are either chillin at home with your family or out doing last minute shopping. I'm about to hit the stores--I've still got a ton of gifts to buy!
With that said, We at the Fashion Bomb would like to wish you the Happiest of Holidays:
Check back soon for trends, celebs, chic ideas, shopping, and even more Fashion Bomb fabulousness.
Smootches!

Holiday Week in Chic

There weren't a ton of events this week, but Hollywood sirens still took some time to flaunt their chic:

I'm pulling for Zoe for this week in chic award. What about you?

Get the Look: Shiny Bubble Coat

It's *freezing* in NYC, and it seems songstress Estelle got the memo, rocking a chic shiny puff coat for Marquee's 5th anniversary party:
I'm personally contemplating buying one: I only brought a wool jacket from Paris, and it's just not cutting it! If you want the look as well, try these cute options:

1. Marc New York Belted Puff Jacket, $112.50. 2. Moncler Puffer Jacket with Oversized Collar, $699. 3. Juicy Couture Lady Black Puffer Coat, $448.
Stay warm!

Fewer Shows this Fashion Week

The economy is hitting everyone in the jugular, including several fashion houses. WWD reports that DKNY, Carmen Marc Valvo, Betsey Johnson and more will be ditching their runway presentations in favor of more private showings at their ateliers:
What will Fashion Week be without the typical overstuffed exhausting schedule?
Read more here.

Up to 70% off at Pieces in Brooklyn!

Hey Y'all!
I'm in NYC and of course you know that one of my first stops will be Pieces Boutique!
Lucky you, they're offering 70% off your next purchase, with men's and women's tops, dresses, outerwear and more already 30-50% off. I'll be there!
Check the holiday store hours:
Tuesday Dec. 23rd 10 am to 8pm; Wednesday Dec. 24th 10am to 8pm; Friday Dec 26th 10am to 8pm; Saturday Dec 27th 10am to 8pm.
They're located at 671 Vanderbilt Avenue in Brooklyn.
Happy Shopping!

Best of 2008: Real Style

Hey!
So I'm back in the states!! My flight was long, but I'm so happy to be here. I'm off to run a few errands (and pick up some Cocoa Butter!), but know a few of y'all still need your Fashion Bomb fix:)
Some of the best parts of this year were The Fashion Bomb's Real Style subjects:
From the streets of New York...

To Philly...
To California hotspots San Francisco and Los Angeles...

And even to international locales like London...

And Paris...

...Fashion Bomb Real Style subjects brought authentic, unique fashion to the streets in the most fabulous ways. Colorful, funky, and fun, Real Style 2008 was the bomb, and it will only get better (my first trip of the New Year will be to Rome!).
What was your favorite Real Style?
Smootches!

Thoughts? Nicole Richie's Harlow 1960

Nicole Richie has joined the ranks of celeb designers, debuting her line Harlow 1960 on ShopKitson.com.
A few items:

Top Row: White Leather Cocktail Ring, $55; Black Resin Triangle Necklace, $125; Black Leather Cuff, $125.

Bottom Row: Black Stud Leather Earrings, $60; Orange Pyramid Bangle, $65; Pave Thick Antique Ring, $48.
I'll be honest: the inner skeptic comes out whenever I hear another celebrity is launching a fashion or accessories line. But the fashionista in me says, "I like it!" Every item is flashy enough for a night out, yet simple enough to keep in rotation for casual days. And with prices ranging from $55 to $200, Harlow 1960 is pretty affordable.
What do you think?
See the rest here.

Chanel Iman and Jourdan Dunn for Vogue's January Issue

Hot blog Fashion Junkii has a few scans of Chanel Iman and Jourdan Dunn in the January 2009 issue of US Vogue:

The ladies are wearing designs straight off the runway--and looking absolutely fabulous!
Check out how their looks compare to the catwalk renditions here.

Best of 2008: Obama-mania

Another huge highlight of this year was the election of Barack Obama for President:
...intelligent, competent, and charismatic, Barack Obama came to symbolize change and progress in American politics. His importance was not lost on the world of fashion, who supported him from retail to runway:
In August 2008, Robin Givhan reported that designers like Diane Von Furstenberg, Derek Lam, Zac Posen and Tracy Reese would create t-shirts and tote bags in support of his campaign:

Fashion's Barack fever traveled to Parisian runways,where designers embroidered his name and likeness into garments for Sonia Rykiel's Spring 2009 show in October:
And then of course the Obama effect trickled down to the masses, with everyone--including Fashion Bomb readers--showing their support for our President elect:

In 2008, politics became fashionable. Let's hope it wasn't a passing fad!
Bisous!

Mail Bombs: Taraji's Flutter Sleeve Dress, Laila Ali's Ombre Sweater, and Vanessa Hudgen's Rocker Look!

Hey!
Check out the New Fashion Bomb colors! You like? I try to keep it fresh for ya:)
One thing that will always stay the same, however, are Friday Mail Bombs!
...Let's get started!
First of course we have a query about Fashionista of the Year Rihanna! Queenda says, "I'll be attending a Christmas Party next week and I already have the skirt I'm going to wear, the only problem is that I don't have a top. I came across this picture of the ever-fashionable Rihanna and I love what's she's wearing!"
"...Can you please find help me find this shirt or another alternative?"
Be the Queen of Chic at your party with these options:
1. Karen Zambos Vintage Couture Layered Ruffle Top, $183. 2. D&G DOLCE & GABBANA Chiffon Layered Babydoll Top, $472.50.
Next Nikki from Chicago loved our post on undercover fashionista Taraji P. Henson, and wanted to know where she could her flutter sleeve black dress:
She says, "I am going to a Player's Ball next month I want to keep it classy and hot at the same time. Please help me out....."
Taraji is wearing this $345 Black Halo Keyhole Ruffle Sleeved Dress...
...get the sophisticated sheath from www.pinkmascara.com.
Fashion Bomb convert Kalifa was browsing over at the YBF and saw this picture of Laila Ali:
She says, "I was wondering if you could find these pieces for me."
Get Laila's look with the following:

1. Vince Belted Ombre Sleeveless Sweater, $229. 2. Sweet Pea by Stacy Frati Mesh Turtleneck, $58. 3. ISDA & CO Ponte Slim Leg Pant, $136 4. Aldo Lioni Clutch, $16. 5. 7 for all mankind Women's Olivia Platform Pump, $210.
Fashion Bombshell Edrei writes, "Could you help me find the name of the designer of the black dress Gabrielle Union wore to the Seven Pounds premiere. Luv it!"Adriana found out through Instyle that Gabby's wearing a jersey dress from Kaufman Franco, similar to this one from their Fall 2008 line:Next Bebe says, "Can you PLEASE recreate this Vanessa Hudgens look?"
Sure! Get a cute rocker look with these:

1. Development Black Stretch Jacket, $228. 2. Alexander Wang Butter Crepe Pleated Front Shell, $126. 3. Cheap Monday Tight Skinny Jeans in Black, $65. 4. Steve Madden Cayce Sandals, $77.
Lastly, Tasia liked Ciara's embellished top and said, "Can you help me find something similar?" Ina favored her pants, saying, "I was wondering where I can find something similar. I have the same build as Ciara (tall, long, and muscular) and the inseam on these pants are superb!"
Adriana and I collabo'd to find this look:
1. Elie Tahari Uma Blouse, $147.50. 2. Victoria's Secret Pants, $78.
That does it!
I'm flying to the states this Sunday for the holidays. I am sooo excited to be back on my old stomping ground! Can't wait to spend time with my family and friends:)
I'll be updating next week from time to time, but will of course leave you enough time to spend with your loved ones (as I spend time with mine).
Bisous!