Real Style: Rebirth 2008!

Hey!
So every year I try to make it out to New York Urban League Young Professional's Rebirth event...
Chock full of people of color, it's a chance to mix, mingle, drink great wine and engage in a focused cultural event. Last year, the event featured a fashion show; this year, filmmakers of color showed shorts and drummed up interest for their feature films. I attended to catch a bit of Real Urban Professional Style, and was not disappointed!
These young men looked dapper in argyle sweater vests, glasses, and blazers, while the young lady in the middle keeps cool in a belted seafoam tunic worn over footless tights.
It's spring, but baby it's cold outside! These girls struck a balance in sleeveless dresses worn with tights and booties.
This talented filmmaker, Pete Chatmon, came to the event in a sophisticated steel pinstripe blazer worn over a pink checkered shirt; his glasses are a nice touch. Chatmon, called the 'Next Spike Lee,' recently produced a movie called 'Premium' starring Zoe Saldana, Hill Harper, and Eva Pigford. He's definitely one to watch. Check him out and catch a preview for Premium at www.double7film.com or www.premiumthemovie.com.
Hello ladies! These two beauties look cool and carefree in strapless dresses in seasonless marigold and cream.
Traditional v-neck sweaters and blazers were the rule for these two young men...
These young urban professionals were corporate yet cool in pencil skirts, pumps, and shift dresses in neutral colors like gray and black...
And check out this showstopper! This young lady showed out in a white tuxedo worn with a ruffled black top. Amazing! I had to ask where she purchased, and she revealed the outfit was top to bottom Roberto Cavalli for H&M. If I had ever become dissuaded with H&M designer series, this outfit renewed my faith! Guess I'll be back on line for the next one...

With that said, does Rebirth 2008 have Real Style?

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Want to become involved with the New York Urban League Young Professionals? Check out their website (www.nyul.org) here.
*Check out my post from Rebirth 2007. These events are always super fun!
*Want to be hip to the New York Urban Professional Scene? Check out my girl Jen at the B-Life (www.the-b-life.blogspot.com). She always has the rundown of what's poppin in NYC, plus restaurant reviews and more! Tell her I sent ya:)
*Bossip wonders...
...who looked hotter? [Bossip]
*Yet another story on April's Vogue Cover. The author wonders about Annie Leibovitz’s' 'inspiration' and mixes in some history. An interesting read! [Media Assasin]

Friday Mail Bombs

Hey!
So it's the end of another great week!
Let's get to it.
Ramona says, "I need your assistance! I've been trying to find some jeans and or pant’s like what Kim Kardashian wore to TRL..."
"...Could you help me please?"
Sure! Looks like Kim is trying to bring the seventies back in some dark wash bell bottoms. It works! Try these:
Left to Right: J Brand The Doll Bell Bottom Jeans, $209, www.saks.com; Grey Ant Welt Jeans, $286, www.tobi.com; J Brand Lovestory Bell Bottom Jean, $178, www.madisonlosangeles.com.
Next up super trendy reader Chiriga asks, "I love turquoise for the spring!"
"...Where can I find the shoes Angela Simmons has on???"
Get a Simmons look with these $128 Fauta Moretti Closed Toe Slip Ons...
...from www.yoox.com.
Teagan says, "I am trying to find this dress that Genevieve Jones wore at New York's Fashion Week..."
"...I can't find who the designer is anywhere online. Would you be able to help me? I would really like to wear something like this for my birthday coming up in April."
Hey there! I couldn't find the exact dress, but thought you could go with these floral print frocks to get a similar look:
Top Row: Plenty by Tracy Reese Ruffled Shift Dress in Gumdrop Stripes, $339, CoutureCandy
Nicole Miller Aqua Floral Swirl Silk Dress, $153, www.bluefly.com.
Bottom Row: Tibi Coral Reef Dress, $420, www.net-a-porter.com; Single Printed Satin Dress, $325, www.net-a-porter.com.
Just throw on a belt and sandals for a party ready look!
Next, Joi asks, "I was wondering if you could help me find something similar to the dress that Elise Neal is wearing..."

"...I absolutely love it."
I did a quick search and found this lovely Robert Rodriguez Ruffled Organza Dress:

...get it for $363 at www.nordstrom.com.
Reader Stephanie wrote in a while ago asking, "I wanted to hit you up about this dress that one of your readers you posted is rocking ..."
"...That black and white striped number is FIERCE!!!! Do you know where I could find it?"
The young lady in the picture admitted to wearing Sass & Bide, but you can get a similar look for less with this $70 Mitred Stripe Dress...
...from www.ardenb.com.
Lastly, reader Sheria has a wardrobe query. She says, "I'm going to a wedding at the end of May and I need to know what to wear. Got any suggestions!?!"
Try these beauts:
Top Row:Milly Margarita Floral Shift Dress, $340, www.neimanmarcus.com; Joolay Cotton Dress, $92, www.bloomingdales.com.
Bottom Row: Chetta B Tunic Dress, $250, www.neimanmarcus.com; French Connection Fit & Flare Mini Dress, $140, www.asos.com.
Oh and several of y'all got in touch asking, 'When are you having a Meet & Greet LA? Chicago? London?"

Not quite sure, but I'll try my best to pop in as soon as I can!

Have amazing weekends...I'm going to look for sneakers:)

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Random Hotness:
Juliana Jabour Bicolor Tunic Dress, $212, shopbop.com
To the Max Pleated Shirtdress, $118, www.nordstrom.com.
*Check out new store Pink Cherie (www.pinkcherie.com) for low priced look-at-me jewelry. A few picks:
Left to right: Drop Earrings, $21; Diva Earrings, $25; Love Unlimited Necklace, $29.
All at www.pinkcherie.com. Bonus: Use code FashionB10 for 10% off.
*Remember, my damies....

...vote for the Fashion Bomb! You can vote every single day! Let's put urban fashion on the map.
*Check me out! [DC Goodwill Fashionista]

Cute Fashionable Sneakers

So,
I went to my podiatrist the other day who informed me that I could stop hobbling around with a bandaged left foot (yay!), and could finally upgrade....to sneakers (boo!).
Horrible, I know.
I had high high hopes that I could at least wear pretty ballet flats after my surgery, but he wouldn't budge! "Sneakers," he said, "nothing more, nothing less." [As an aside the nurses, etc, are probably so fed up with me for always asking for fashionable socks and a cuter boot! But I digress..]
Obviously, as a fashion obsessed chick, I immediately took to looking for chic sneakers...styles that would actually look OK with work outfits or even *gasp* skirts and dresses. High tops are fine for a younger set, but a grown woman can't walk around the office with pastel sneaks!
I found these neutral options:
Top Row: Diesel Sport Women's Ballerikah Slip-on Fashion Sneaker, $80, www.endless.com; Vans KVD 46, $46, zappos.com
Lacoste Lyndon Dotty, $80, www.jildor.com.
Bottom Row: Converse by John Varvatos Chuck Taylor Laceless Sneakers, $95, www.saks.com; Puma Mostro Perf Shoes, $100, www.nordstrom.com; Nike Sunyassi, $79, zappos.com
If I wanted to amp up the edge, I could do so in bright colors or metallics:

Top Row: Prada Linea Rossa Buffalo Dance LaceUps, $250, www.saks.com; Onitsuka Tiger by Asics, $84, zappos.com
Bottom Row: Puma by Miharayasuhiro Sneakers, $118, www.yoox.com; Stuart Weitzman Russia Hour, $190, zappos.com

And if I really wanted to stunt, I could of course go with these logo laced lovelies:

Left to Right: Fendi Black Nylon Logo Stripe Sneakers, $316, www.bluefly.com; Gucci Sneaker, $410, www.neimanmarcus.com; Louis Vuitton Zephyr Sneaker, $490, www.eluxury.com.
But that seems a bit over the top!

At any rate, I'll have to find something to tide me over until I can wear 'normal' shoes.

It'll be good to have a pair in my arsenal for the weekends...must keep it fresh at all times!

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Reader Chiriga is too chic! In response to yesterday's Purple Haze Post, she says, "I loooooove purple!"

"...I'm up on my trends!"

Yes you are! And snaps for boldly mixing that purple off the shoulder dress with red accessories.
*The Genevieve kiss mystery has been solved! Reader 'Courtesy of Moi' wrote in saying, "The guy with the braids is a twin. Their names are Ricky and Dee Jackson..."
"...They did the lego belts for Marc Jacobs' collection a while back."
Ohhh, ok. Anything cool with Marc is cool with me! Seems like they were long overdue for their Fashion Bomb debut! Check out Dee & Ricky on their webbie, www.deeandricky.com.
*The Chicago Tribune on the controversial Vogue cover. [Chicago Tribune]
*Get 20% off Shop Jake Shoes (www.shopjake.com)...

...I can't wear them, but you can! Just enter the code 'springshoes' for your discount.
*Speaking of Spring Shoes, Mark your Calendars....
...yours truly is having a Meet & Greet/No More Boot/Shopping Celebration on Wednesday, April 16th at Soho's Te Casan!!! From 6-8:30 come sip champagne, shop, and mingle with your fellow Fashion Bombers! It's gonna be sooo...much...fun!

RSVP to rsvp@tecasan.com. Can't wait to meet y'all. Did I mention you get 20% off the Spring Collection?? A celebration indeed, indeed. Go to www.tecasan.com to pre-shop.

*There's a pretty huge entry in today's Women's Wear Daily Memopad section on the Vogue cover controversy. Fashion Bomb favorite Bethann Hardison weighed in on the conversation, saying, "Every photograph that they've put of a dark person in recent years has never been good. Jennifer Hudson has her mouth wide open. LeBron James had his mouth wide open. We have other expressions." Another great quote is from Helena Andrews, a culture editor for the website www.Politico.com who says, "It brings up the question of whether people are asking these questions in the editorial meeting of doing the sorts of images that conjure up those sorts of [feelings]. It's clear no one raised their hand during the editorial meeting and said, 'Wait a minute.'" Good point. If you have something to say, why not write a letter to Vogue? They publish them every month. Put pen to paper and mail to 4 Times Square, New York, NY 10036. OR e-mail them at talkingback@vogue.com (include your daytime phone number). Put all those college degrees to good use. [WWD]

Trend Talk: Purple Haze

Hey!So I've been seeing the color purple pop up on on many red carpets in the celeb circuit. Eye catching yet sophisticated, it flatters most skin tones and also complements some of spring's bright accessories:

Venus Williams wears a cap sleeve shift with a metallic bag to ESPN the magazine's 10th anniversary celebration...
Kelly Rowland slips on a halter neck cocktail with a gathered skirt for a Prada Cocktail Party...
Angie Martinez goes for a wrap dress for the red carpet of Hot 97's Full Frontal Fashion Show...
And next top model Jaslene opts for separates in a body clinging tube top for BET's Rip the Runway...
This trend even crossed the pond to Paris...
...where Rihanna made pretty purple pop against a blue jacket and an electric yellow purse.
Want Rihanna's look? Go with the following:
Left to Right: French Connection Jack Jersey Jacket, $148, www.bloomingdales.com; Alexander Wang Tank Dress, $253, www.standardstyle.com; Nordstrom Deco Crinkle Patent Tote, $198, www.nordstrom.com.
The best of the rest:

Top Row: Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Crepe de Chine Mini Slip, $136, www.revolveclothing.com; Pintucked Charmeuse Dress, $225, www.neimanmarcus.com.

Bottom Row: Full Swing Dress, $98, www.bebe.com; Traffic People Satin Trim Silk Chiffon Dress, $130, www.asos.com.
Smootches!

Fashion, News, What Nots

*Blog Make Fetch Happens pontificates upon this Old Navy Commercial...

...starring model Nina Keita [Make Fetch Happen]
*Uhhh...
Who's this guy? Our favorite fashionable socialite Genevieve Jones was spotted swatting spit with this mysterious man March 20th at Radar Entertainment's new fashion division party. His pigtails are raised in approval!
*Fashiontribes on how to get...
...a Global Chic look. [Fashiontribes]

Brooklyn Fashion Weekend: Designers You Should Know

Hi!
So as promised, I'll give you the best of what I saw at Brooklyn Fashion Weekend! Several designers showed, but I only saw a handful...out of those only two caught my eye.
First designer that you should know is Joan Vaccianna (www.vaccianna.com), who says on her website that, "lights from hard core steel buildings [and] the pulse of trains underground," inspired this contemporary collection tailored for the young woman with edge.
The collection featured sheer knits and ruffled satin tops worn with pencil skirts...
Evening and cocktail dresses fashioned out of everything from skin clinging leather to more forgiving chiffon and satin...
..and sultry frocks with short hemlines and tailored bodices.
The final walk...

...not quite avant garde, but very promising. And her work with leather is in fact different--I look forward to seeing more! Keep posted on Vaccianna by going to www.vaccianna.com or its Myspace page, www.myspace.com/dezinez4u.

I also enjoyed designer's Miss Bruno's presentation (www.missbruno.com). The collection consisted exclusively of overwhelming, eye catching scarves, perfect for spring weather.

The ample fabric allows one to pull the scarf over the head to fashion a hood...
...colors like coral and cream pop against more demure backdrops. And boys...don't sleep! This works for you as well...
I caught the final walk:

Fun!
It's always great to discover new talent; and an event like Brooklyn Fashion Weekend allows us to see the next big thing. Next stop, the Tents of Bryant Park!
Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Miss Bruno's designs are available on their website! A few of my favorites:
Top Row: Peze Cafe, $50; Delancey Blues, $110.

Bottom Row: Rupees & Yen, $60; U-Carmen, $40.
All at www.missbruno.com. No lie, I'm thinking of getting a coral creation. $40 is a steal for unique style!
*The Wall Street Journal on the business of selling...
...Lauren Conrad. Am I the only one slightly annoyed by her? She's super cute, but talent? Questionable. My two cents! [WSJ]
*Should I get a reality show too? Just askin... (rhetorically, of course)
*One of our favorite bad girls, Eve...
...is set to help design Cartier's ‘love’ bangles. [Fashionista]

Real Style: Brooklyn Fashion Weekend

Hey!
So on Saturday I attended Brooklyn Fashion Weekend. It was in my backyard, so I figured I could hobble over and see what it was all about.
I made my way to Northside Pier, a gallery/showroom in Williamsburg....
Brooklyn's chic set came out in their spring best, and I of course had to snap a few pictures of Real Style:
These chic chicks were representing Clutch Magazine (www.clutchmagonline.com). They welcomed spring in cropped jackets and skinny jeans, accented with floral scarves, sunglasses, and slick hairstyles. 
Ladies from the blog 'In a Word Fab' ( www.inawordfab.com) wore a mixture of booties with stockings and light jackets.
More scarves in full effect, whether worn for warmth or style. I loved this group's quirky style (peep the chic nerd glasses!)...
More colorful scarves care of Alex Magazine (www.alexthemagazine.com).  The young lady in the middle wears a bold fedora and leather jacket, while her friends represent for male fashion with a striped cardigan and t worn under a blazer, and a sporty jacket and baseball cap on the right. 
Trace Mag in the house! I had to snap this group--the lady is the center looked striking in nerd glasses and a bold high top fade.
And diva on the left is spring ready in a floral 3/4 length shift, while young lady on the right holds on to the vestiges of winter in a fur vest and high waisted pants.
After the show (more on that tomorrow), I caught a bit more men's style:
Guys, are you taking notes? The outfit is simple, but what sets it off is his slick jacket, blinged out belt, and dark sunglasses. Lastly...
These ladies (friends of the designer Miss Bruno) were working all kinds of trends: Floral tops with matching pumps, belted tunics, fluttery tie neck tops with high waisted button front jeans, and billowing skirts.

Magazines are great, but sometimes the best fashion is found in Real People.
So what do you think. Did Brooklyn Fashion Weekend bring the Real Style?

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Monday fun just because...

Thanks BMWK! Hmmm...which early 90's styles have already made a comeback?
*Botkier is coming to Target. Yippee! [In a Word Fab]
*Stay tuned tomorrow for my Brooklyn Fashion Weekend Favorites!
*Donatella Versace...
...on her matching purple luggage. Seems a bit silly to me. [NY Times]
*Heatherette...
...teams with MAC Cosmetics. [MyItThings]

Mail Bombs! Yay!

Sigh...finally Friday...
Thank goodness!
Let's get started.
Reader Latasha from Detroit, Michigan loved Eva Longoria's dress:
She says, "It's so cute! Any idea who made it???"
Latasha, you have great taste! As soon as I saw that dress, I knew it was from Gucci's Spring 2008 collection...
..one of my favorites! The prints, bursts of yellow, and feminine silhouettes--to die for! Check out the rest of the Gucci Spring 2008 collection here. I love, love, love it.
Next, Anickia says, "Where can I find these boots!?!?!?"
" I love them want them, gotta have them!!!!""
I'm not exactly sure, but from the dagger like heel to the pointed platform toe box, I think those boots are Alexander McQueen. Take a look at a few detail shoe shots from his Fall 2007 collection:
I couldn't find Lauren's exact boots online, but you can come close with these $482 Alexander McQueen Boots...
...from www.yoox.com.
An anonymous reader fell in love with Rihanna's shoes saying,"Could you please tell me the brand of shoes she's wearing PLEASE!"
"...an alternative will do."
An alternative will have to do, and I found a pretty good one in these $79 Nine West Lucero Pumps...
Get the rest of Rihanna's look with the following:

Left to right: Acne Jeans Blended Top, $129, www.eluxury.com; Xhileration Red Bead Necklace, $17, www.target.com; Nudie Jeans High Kai Skinny Jeans, $249, www.tobi.com.

Now for wardrobe queries:
Amber writes in with a pretty complicated request. She says, "My graduation is soon and they are very strict about what we can wear. It has to be a tea length or longer white dress, and it cannot be strapless, bare shoulders, spaghetti straps, or halter top! With all that, it still has to be somewhat formal. I've been looking and I cannot find anything, and I'm on a budget (I have to pay for college after this, lol), so can you possibly find me some ideas?"
Talk about strict requirements!
I searched and could only find this Philosophy di Alberta Firetti dress to fit your style criteria...
...but at $459, I think it's way out of your budget. Plus it's not that cute.
Perhaps you can get around the rule by wearing a long dress that comes with its own shawl...
...like this $248 JS Collection Brocade Bodice Gown.
You can get really creative by simply buying a cute, long strapless gown, then wearing a cardigan or shrug to cover the whole 'sleeve' requirement:
Top Row: Sandy Starkman Smocked Dress, $149, www.bloomingdales.com. Ruffle Cropped Cardigan, $49.50 www.gap.com.
Bottom Row: Signature Washed Linen Collection Long Bias Cut Dress, $69, www.spiegel.com; Women's Shrug Cardigan, $24.50, www.oldnavy.com.
Throw some hot accessories in there to dress it up. Good luck!
Lastly, Jewel says, "I am attending a party this Sunday (yes, Easter Sunday). It will be an after-8pm affair, mix and mingle and the host requests that we all wear linen. Could you please suggest some items that scream: classy, fabulous, and sexy!"
I hope I'm not too late!
Try these:

Top Row: Italian Textured Linen Corset Dress, $139, www.bebe.com; Zebra Print Linen Dress, $100, www.jcrew.com.
Bottom Row: Chambray Dress, $148, www.marciano.com; Miss Me Puff Sleeve Dress in Silver, $101, www.revolveclothing.com.
Think that does it for today. Happy Easter, Happy Weekends, ntc, et al!
Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Did I mention you can vote for the Fashion Bomb everyday for the Glam Awards?

Let's make it happen! Click the button above and find TFB under 'Fashion Publishers.'
*Eric Wilson on a Christian Louboutin Shoe Exhibit at FIT.
Might have to check it out. [NYTimes]
*Parlour Magazine on Ads that promote Skin Lightening [Parlour Mag]

Breaking into Fashion: Constance White

Happy Thursday Fashion Bombers!
Next in our 'Breaking into Fashion' series is none other than eBay Style Director...
...Constance White!
In charge of forecasting trends, promoting eBay’s Fashion offerings to consumers and advising eBay on fashion-related strategy, Constance is one of the country’s most respected fashion experts and frequently appears as a commentator on the 'Today' show and 'Entertainment Tonight.'
You might not know this, but Constance actually started her career in publishing, holding posts as a style reporter at The New York Times, executive fashion editor at Elle, and associate sportswear editor at Women's Wear Daily. She also wrote "Style Noir,"(1998) arguably the most comprehensive fashion book on the history of black designers, models, and trends (secret, I used it as a source for my Black History Month series--it's a must read!).
She was kind enough to interview with The Fashion Bomb and tell all you aspiring journalists how to get your Manolo Blahnik in the door!
She says, "The advice starts off the same for everyone: get a degree, read everything you can about fashion, and intern! Interning is learning and networking and it is an unbeatable combination! This may include working with a designer, working at a newspaper or magazine or working in retail."
Can't afford to take on a non-paying internship? "Look around for college programs that will help you afford a non-paying internship," she advises, " If you’re older, work at a retail fashion store or work for money at night or on the weekends to allow you to work for free during the day (even if it’s just for a summer)."
If you want to distinguish yourself, "Working at Women's Wear Daily and doing well there is one way," she says, " Some others include breaking stories at a newspaper...you can also embrace and make a name in celebrity style, which is a relatively new route, and also work for someone or somewhere that is well regarded."
For women of color, she has this pointed piece of advice, "Get out of your comfort zone or discomfort zone – and meet all kinds of people. Don’t allow yourself to be defined in a straight jacket. Related to this is – be aware of how you dress, how you wear your hair. What’s fashionable to your friends or immediate circle may not be “fashionable” in the job you aspire to."

Sound advice!

If you want to keep track of Constance, check out her blog on E-Bay ( http://blogs.ebay.com/constance.white). And I had to ask. Any plans on updating 'Style Noir'? "I may write another book," she says, "only when I can pause and scratch my nose."
Looking forward to it!
Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*I'm working on 'Breaking into Fashion' requests for event planners, photographers, makeup artists, and hair stylists. Anything missing? And if you're looking to become a buyer, stylist, publicist, and more read the Breaking into Fashion Archive here.
*Thanks to Muse Magazine and Steal Style for pics!
*So the cover of Vogue's April issue already has tongues wagging. Can you tell why?
Click to EnlargeI can see the point, but are we going to take issue with everything? Robin Givhan of the Washington Post says, "The whole LeBron thing really comes down to … maybe Vogue should have more people of color on their cover, male and female...Maybe then they won’t be so scrutinized when they do put a person of color on their cover.” Good point, but devil's advocate: Can we deny the blatant consistency with historical images? Did Vogue consult anyone before going with this cover? Should we assume that they really don't know better? If not, why? These are intelligent people here. Read more in this article. [ABC News]
*Thanks to Coutorture for the shout out!

Modern, Updated Trench Coats

So...
I don't know about you, but I've had it with my winter coat!
It's a hot coat--don't get me wrong--but I'm ready to throw on a brighter color, lighter fabric, and more shaping silhouette.
While you can always go the traditional route with a khaki or black trench coat (as I discussed in my first trench coat post), newer versions offer variations on the conventional, adding bows, luster, ruffles, shortened sleeves, and eye catching colors.
Celebrities know what's up:
Beyonce...
...steps out in a slick green number for a night on the town.
Alicia Keys opts for a black trench with white contrast stitching...
Mel B wilds out with a belted leopard jacket...
And Amerie shines in a satin trench...
...accented with bright gold buttons.
If you want to update your outerwear wardrobe, try these well priced options:
Top Row: Three Season Trench Coat, $75, www.edressme.com; Soia & Kyo Asymmetrical Trench Coat, $265, www.nordstrom.com; Belted Trench Coat, $37.80, www.forever21.com.

Bottom Row: Jones New York Belted Trench, $174, www.bloomingdales.com; Michael by Michael Kors Belted Trench Coat, $128, www.nordstrom.com; Laundry by Shelli Segal Trench with Faux Patent Leather Trim, $138, www.nordstrom.com.

Top Row: Hotkiss Ruffle Collar Trench, $54, www.nordstrom.com; Lantern Sleeve Trench, $118, www.ardenb.com; Overlay Trench Coat, $84, www.armaniexhange.com.

Bottom Row: Metallic Jacquard Trench Coat, $150, www.edressme.com; Metallic Leather Trench, $99, www.newport-news.com; Lexi Trench, $42, www.guess.com.

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Check out the website Goddess Zuri (www.goddesszuri.com)...
...for cool t-shirts and jewelry at low prices.
*Deal of the Day:
Vylette Windbreaker, $35, www.modcloth.com.
*In case you can't afford Tracy Reese's frocks...
...you can get a T. Reese Essence with her Sally Hansen Nail Polish Collection [All Lacquered Up].
*Vote for me!

Spotlight On: Jourdan Dunn

Hey!
So the International Fashion Weeks have finally wound down, and if you've been paying attention, you might've noticed that there's a new supermodel in town...
...Jourdan Dunn.
While beauty Chanel Iman has been getting lots of attention with her one of a kind look, 18 year old Jourdan is now joining the ranks, helping to diversify catwalks.
First spotted shopping in London clothing store Primark, Dunn has skyrocketed to the top, walking in hot ticket shows like Marc Jacobs, Valentino, Zac Posen, Tommy Hilfiger, Alexander McQueen, and Hermes.
She made history recently, appearing in the Prada show during Milan Fashion Week...
... Prada using Jourdan was notable for many reasons: Prada is known for having a homogenous cast (and has been accused of starting the colorless model trend); Milan has a reputation for abhorring the brown; and apparently Jourdan was the first black model to walk a Prada show since Naomi Campbell 15 years ago.
...She better work! Style.com recently included Jourdan in its list of Top Models, praising her 'endless legs' and admitting that this Fall was her 'breakthrough season.'
On top of being gorgeous, she's also smart, recently speaking out about the lack of diversity in fashion, asking, "Why should our catwalks be so white? [I go] to shows... there's just me and maybe one other coloured face..." Preach!
The Fashion Bomb has attended every single 'Blacks in Fashion' talk initiated by Bethann Hardison, and maybe just maybe, will be around to record a serious change in the industry.

We shall see...

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Jourdann recently appeared in a Dazed & Confused Editorial photographed by David Slijper...

...snaps for exposure, but something bothers me about this...
*Just received my two ton Vogue in the mail, and was tickled to see a spread featuring Liya Kebede photographed by Norman Jean Roy...

Click to Enlarge
...this Vogue is seriously a monster, but worth a weekend read. Flip through for a short piece on the marriage of Thelma Golden to designer Duru Olowu, an article on Michelle Obama by Fashion Bomb favorite Andre Leon Talley, and a feature on CNN reporter Gwen Ifill. I see you Vogue! [Thanks MakeFetchHappen for scans]
*Get a Beyonce look...
...with this $235 Michelle Jonas Dress from Pink Mascara.
*The New York Times on the business...
...of Sex and the City. How many of y'all knew about Manolo Blahniks before the show?? [NYTimes]

Real Style: Philly 2

Happy Monday!

So you fabulous readers continue to send me Real Style submissions. Today we have another Philly creation...

Reader Maryam aka 'Classic' says, "As a fashion merchandising student I must say that I love your blog!!!"
"...Here are pics of me hopefully I'll see myself on there!"
Today's your lucky day, Maryam. Thanks for reading!

And cute shirt! But a Fashion Bomb T would be a bit cuter.

Stay tuned, they'll be available before you know it!

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Only a few more weeks in a soft cast before I can bust out the stilettos! Of course I'm having a party. Stay tuned for details on the Fashion Bomb's next meet and greet in NYC. I want to meet and greet y'all!
*Get a Kimora red carpet look...
...with this $139 Sexy Strapless Dress from www.bebe.com.
*Hey! You can vote for the Fashion Bomb everyday for the Glam Awards...
...let's represent for urban fashion! Go to Glam.com to vote and look for the Fashion Bomb in the Fashion Publishers Category.
*Become a fan of the Fashion Bomb on Facebook!
*Steal Tichina Arnold's look...
...with this $67 Rachel Pally Batwing Mini from shopbop.com

Mail Bombs + Contest Winners

Hey!
So today's the big day!

I'm announcing the winners of the T-Shirt contest at the end of this post...which means I'm going to keep Mail Bombs super short...
Let's get to it!
Reader Linsay loved the dress Raven Simone wore to the “College Road Trip” premiere...
...she says, “Can you tell me who designed it?”
I couldn’t find the exact dress, but did find this $310 Kay Unger creation...
...the color is brighter, but the silhouette is there. Get it at www.neimanmarcus.com.
Asia loved Dania Ramirez's flat sandals...
She says, "I love her shoes, can you please help me find them or something similar?"
Try these high and medium priced options:

Top Row: Danke Black Leather Sandals, $110, www.stevemadden.com; Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Paige Flat Thong Sandal, $190, www.shopbop.com .

Bottom Row: Chie Mihara Ankle Wrap Flat Sandals, $350, www.saks.com; Charlotte Ronson Amelie Buckle Flat Sandal, $136, www.shopbop.com

Now for a wardrobe query:
I frequently get questions asking: "Claire, how do I wear these shoes?"
Most of the times, these shoes are some wild card, crazy purchase that the buyer just had to have...before they realized they didn't have anything to wear with them.
Juanita says, "I recently bought these shoes. I couldn't pass them up! They were on sale..."
"... However, I need some ideas on how to wear them."
Lola from St. Maarten wrote in with a similar query. She said, " These two pairs of shoes have been sitting in my closet forever...problem is I have no idea what to wear them with! (They are colours and styles that I don't usually wear)..."
"... You may ask...why did you buy them...I am such a compulsive shopper, I buy stuff just because its pretty besides my friends think I need more colours in my closet :-)"
Lola also found these beauts..
She says, "So, I was browsing Forever 21 online when I came across these very cute and very cheap (might I add) purple and grey pumps ....They are wonderful!!! Any advice how to dress these babies up or down?"
It's an epidemic!

But don't fret.
The answer all the time is very simple: If you purchased a pair of hard to match shoes, wear them with a neutral, run of the mill outfit. Make the shoes the exclamation point to a subdued ensemble.
Wear your red shoes with a classic t and jeans combo...
Pop on purple with a neutral cream dress...
Or pair orange with all black...
If you must wear color, you can always try to go for matchy matchy...
...but I personally think that can look tacky tacky.
That does it!

Now for the winners of the T-Shirt Contest!!!
Drumroll...

In 1st place with 44.2% of the vote is this colorful, explosive T...
...designed by Shari from Chicago...
About her win, she says, "Much love to all the people who voted for my shirt! It's very cool to know that people want to wear something I designed!"
In second place with 39.1% of the vote was the Sin City Shirt...
...designed by Canadian student Natasha...
About her win, she says, "All the contestants did such a great job! There are so many talented people out there, it made for such a fierce competition. Thank you to those who voted for me I really appreciate it!"
Lastly, in third place, with 37.3% of the vote was this Bomb T-Shirt...
....designed by the super hot Cranberry Girls (www.cranberryglitz.blogspot.com)...
...they'll receive a $100 coupon to bag designer Sukari New York and a Fashion Book Bonanza, including copies of Fabulosity by Kimora Lee Simmons, Effortless Style by June Ambrose, and Lloyd Boston's book, Before You Put That On.
That does it for now. If any of y'all are particularly feeling a design that didn't make it, leave a comment! I'll definitely consider making more down the line.
For now...
Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*I want to thank Kyle, Jorge, Iulia, Eugene, Mallori, Alia, Eddie, Sydrena, Jennifer, Elle Woods, Victoria, Charle, Paul, Jaja, Yaa, and Juanita for submitting designs. They were all great in my book! I wish I could make them all!

*Congrats to contest winners: Shari, Natasha and Cranberry! You're the bomb.

*Another special thanks to my contest sponsors: DJPremium.com, Modcloth.com, Lulus.com, SuiGenerisBoutique.com, ElizabethGrant.com, Lifebooker.com, Trace Magazine, SukariNew York, and UrbanBella.com!
*Cathy Horyn says her invitations to some high profile shows...
...aren't in the mail. But she doesn't seem to mind. [NYTimes]
*Chic and Untroubled wonders if the Anna vs. Carine feud...

...continues. I'm sure those covers are pure coincidence. [Chic & Untroubled]
*Karl Kani teams with Saks...
...for new clothing line, Kani Kouture. [Allhiphop.com]
*Become a fan of the Fashion Bomb on Facebook.com!

Round Two: Pick your Favorite Fashion Bomb T!

Hey!

Today's round two of the Fashion Bomb T-Shirt Contest!

I received more than 1000 votes from across the country and abroad. Amazing!

For set 1, there were clear front runners:
Click to enlarge
The Cranberry girls were popular, as were Natasha and Jaja.
Set 2 also had its favorites:
Click to enlarge
....Jorge, Yaa, and Shari rose to the top.

Now's round two!

Pick your three choices below.

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Oh, and update: I was able to secure third and maybe fourth place prizes! I hate choosing. I honestly thought they were all great, so the more the merrier!
I'll announce the winners on Friday after Mail Bombs.
Smootches!

Fashion, News and What Nots

*Polls close earlier today (Midnight EST, 9pm PST).

Style File: Mary J. Blige

Hey!
So voting didn't end until very early this morning, so I'm going to take today and truly narrow everything down...stay tuned tomorrow for round two!

In the meantime, I figured I'd go back to business as usual with a Style File on diva, songstress, and R&B queen...

...Mary J. Blige.

With all this time, I can't believe I've never done a Style File on her! She's been on the scene since I was at least fifteen, bringing the soulful songs and great street chic style:
For red carpets, her signature as of late has been flowing, grecian gowns...
...in solid or ombre colors worn with make-a-statement jewelry and accessories.

From time to time, she opts for something more form fitting, whether long gowns in spandex blends...

...or alluring cocktail length frocks with t-necks...
For more casual events, she flaunts her body in tight tops and skinny pants...
...or goes a bit more prissy in pencil skirts topped off with an eye catching blouse...
...worn with booties or cute stilettos.

Whatever she chooses to wear, one thing she won't leave home without is a luxurious, lustrous...
..fur coat...
..luxury is the rule, not the exception for this diva, and she flaunts her taste with no apologies.

I wonder what she would do if PETA 'Anna Wintoured' her and threw flour or paint on her??

Pure comedy!!

Ha!
Get a Mary J casual look with the following:

Top Row: Robert Rodriguez Draped Jersey Halter Top, $187, www.nordstrom.com; Maria Animal Top, $98, www.marciano.com.

Bottom Row: High Waist Linen Skirt, $98, www.bebe.com; BCBG MaxAzria Black Bubble Skirt, $70, www.bluefly.com.

Step it up in these cocktails...

Left to Right: Brunya Glitter Neck Dress, $148, www.nordstrom.com; VJC By Versace T-Neck Halter Dress , $428, www.searlenyc.com.

Rock these on the red carpet...

Left to Right: Green Georgette Dress by Nicole Miller, $290, www.edressme.com; ABS by Allen Schwartz Ombre Beaded Dress, $575, www.bloomingdales.com.

And don't forget...
Left to Right: Knitted Multi Fur Vest, $350, www.bloomingdales.com; Wendy Katlen Faux Fur Jacket, $396, www.revolveclothing.com.

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Tomorrow's Round Two: Log on to cast your final votes!!!!
*Just for fun, a few Mary J. Blige Oldies but Goodies:

Real Love (Don't Front, this is still the jam)

I Can Love You (Who you lovin', who you wanna be huggin?)
And my current 'feel good jam'...

Just Fine (I ain't gone let nothing get in my wayyyyy/No matter what nobody has to sayyyy!)
*Marc Jacobs, Francisco Costa of Calvin Klein, and the guys from Proenza Schouler were nominated for the 2008 Womenswear Designer of the Year Award by the CFDA. Is it strange that they're all men? For womenswear? [WWD]
*Oh junkie junk...
...the Glam Network Awards are open for voting!!! Vote for The Fashion Bomb in the 'Fashion Publishers' category. Visit Glam.com for more details. And vote for me!

The Fashion Bomb T-Shirt Contest!!!

So!

Today's the day to cast your vote for the first Fashion Bomb T-Shirt!

I received over 15 submissions from places as local as Brooklyn to the far away reaches of the Republic of Moldova, Chisinau. Had to look on a map for that one...it's a small country between Romania and the Ukraine. I'm amazed people that far away read this little old blog!

So to review, the first place winner wins a gift totally approximately $500...

...and includes Gift Certificates and prizes from sponsors DJPremium.com, Modcloth.com, Lulus.com, SuiGenerisBoutique.com, and Trace Magazine.

The second place winner receives a gift valued at $300...

...packed full of beauty products from Elizabeth Grant, Miss Jessies, Sean John, and Lifebooker.com.

We had so many great submissions, I think we should have a third place winner. I'll try to come up with something!

For right now, it's up to you. Look over the following, try to picture yourself rocking these t's in the spring under a hot cropped leather jacket...and at the very end, vote for your favorites!

Let's get started!

First up sisters Doreen and Joan, designers of the up and coming dress label Cranberrry (www.cranberryglitz.blogspot.com) submitted two designs. The first, from Joan, is," the story of a typical girl who has so many things in her closet but still has nothing to wear and so her closet is basically a mess."

"....kinda like a bomb exploded in it...lol...I hope you get the picture!!" I do!
The second is from Doreen...
..she says, "I basically illustrated an image of a glam chic carrying a bomb in her gloved palm...I hope you like it!!" Love it!
Reader Jaja offered two designs as well...
"...I wanted it to be provocative, practical, eye-catching, cheeky and of course, memorable," she explains, " I also wanted to emphasize and associate black beauty with fashion, hence the black model...." Very cute.
Mallori from Hattiesburg, Mississippi thought a self portrait would make a great shirt...
"This is a drawing that a friend did of a photo of me...," she admits, "I think it exudes fashion, style, and fierceness." Love the shades, but we'll probably have to photoshop out that Chanel logo...replace it with a bomb or something (Copyright-eek!!!).
Next, Natasha from Toronto, Ontario felt the following summed up the Fashion Bomb Readers...
She loved, "...the Sin City idea of black and white and hits of colour..."
Y'all, do you see how talented you guys are? And how HARD this contest is going to be?!?
We've got a ton more, can you believe it? Keep scrolling...

Artist Eugene from Atlanta, Georgia whipped up several designs...
And Alia from Brooklyn imagined this sporty tee...
She tells us, " I wanted the design to be simple, sleek and stylish! I wanted it to be something both men and women could wear, and something that could go on anything from a shirt, to a jacket to a bag. So I kept it simple, making the BOMB stand out the most, so that it would be the first thing people saw and they'd want to know more." I like the way you think!
Kyle from the University of Illinois conjured up these tops:

I love the colors...perfect for spring!
And Eddie from the urban animé company Redd Sea (www.reddsea.com) had the following interpretations:
He simply says, "Thanks for the opportunity to shine..."
Jocelyn from Toronto, Ontario put forward these interesting takes...
"For the first one, I had to include a photo of my fashion icon & model, Hannabeth Merjos," she says, "From her Ray Ban sunglasses to the lip gloss applying gesture, Hanna embodies a true "Fashion Bomb."Moving onto my second design, the quotes simply means fashion is everywhere. Or the person sporting the shirt is very hip. It all depends on the way you interpret it.."
Just a few more...
Sydrena from Detroit Michigan provided this fierce cotton number...
She confesses, "My design is actually me as three different colors because I represent three different personalities, the casual, the funky, and the sexy. I labeled the design " I Am Fashion" because I feel each women is fashion in their own way. We look to other women as inspiration but we are our own design, our own style, our own fashion..."

Jorge, a student at FIT, proposed this idea...
...He envisioned, "A 'fashion spy vs. spy' concept printed on a sheer-ish white v-neck. The black silhouette graphic will look sleek and expensive."

Paul from Dover, New Hampshire went for a profile...
He says, "I wanted a silhouette of a fashion forward and confident looking woman holding a bomb. I guess kind of James Bond inspired..."
Shari from Chicago suggested this cute colorful top...
...She reveals, "I wanted to find a way to illustrate a woman who is stylish and fashionable...as for the circle design behind her, I wanted something that would symbolize an explosion and I wanted something that would pop, so I filled it with a lot of color."
Iulia from the Republic of Moldova had a tons of designs, so I'm just going with her top two...
"...Usually I combine details from one's wardrobe like bowties, belts or buttons and put them on unordinary places on clothes, " she says, "When I see a simple/usual clothing item, I find ways to make it become interesting and attractive."
A few more!
Intern Charle drew up this simple shirt...
And Juanita supplied this modernist interpretation...
Jennifer was scared she missed the deadline...
"...I HOPE I'M NOT TOO LATE!" she exclaimed, "I COULDN'T START DESIGNING IT UNTIL 11:45 TONIGHT BECAUSE MY BABY STAYED UP LATE BECAUSE SHE HAS A STOMACH VIRUS! :( I HOPE YOU LIKE IT!!!!" Oh Lord. Hope baby is fine!
And Tosin aka Elle Woods from Maryland sketched a few shoe bombs...
Victoria from New Jersey presented four designs...
.....I just couldn't choose, so I posted them all!
Lastly, reader Yaa from Media, Pennsylvania blessed us with following sophisticated tee...
...Her inspiration was, "Stylish simplicity. I wanted my design to look very classic, yet still current. I feel that my design embodies the Fashion Bomb reader: smart, funky, and fabulous."
I.love.these.

Phew! That does it!

I'm simply blown away by the level of skill, sophistication....everything.

You guys are the bomb!

Ok, enough. It's time to vote. There were so many submissions, that I had to create two separate polls.

Pick your top three choices from each set

I'll have a round two this week with winners from each set.

Ok, Rock the vote!
Set 1 (pick three press vote)

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Set 2 (pick three press vote)

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*And I want to say a HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to design a hot t-shirt. You are profoundly talented and, frankly, all winners in my book!
*Another very special and heartfelt thanks to my contest sponsors: DJPremium.com, Modcloth.com, Lulus.com, SuiGenerisBoutique.com, ElizabethGrant.com, Lifebooker.com, Trace Magazine, and UrbanBella.com!
*In the meantime, everyone else can have fun shopping! Enter NU30Y for 15% off at DJPremium.com, blog for 10% off at Modcloth.com, and thefashionbomb for 15% off at Lulus.com!

*Click any of the images to enlarge and see details.
*Voting ends 2am EST, 11pm PST.

Real Male Style: Texas

Hey!
So reader Michael (who was a contestant in our fashionable male contest) wrote in with his interpretation of Real Style:

He says " I styled this pic for a photo shoot as a representation of myself as a sartorial character, and have worn it quite a few times...While it is in black and white I think it captures a dandy's character."
Love a man in a vest!

Do you?

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Stay tuned tomorrow for the T-shirt contest. I received over 15 submissions, and honestly wish I could pick them all! Be sure to check back in to revel in the talent of some of your fellow readers...and to cast your vote!

*For all my plus size fashionistas in Philly, check out new boutique Evangeline Plus (www.evangelineplus.com). They sell 'Real Clothes for Real Women."

*In case you were worried, Naomi is fine. [Bossip]
*Our favorite fabulous chick...
...is reportedly with child. [Bossip]

Mail Bombs!!!

Hey Guys!
It's our favorite time of the week...

...let's get 'er done!

Reader Kadi fell in love with the outfit Rihanna wore to Chanel's Spring 2008 show in Paris...

She says, "I absolutely love Rihanna and the sweater dress she's wearing. Can you help me find who it's by?"
Hey! So at the Chanel show, of course Rihanna is wearing a Chanel dress...
...adapted from Lagerfeld's Pre-Fall 2008 Collection.

Adrienne from Washington, D.C. had to have Ciara's shoes...
She says, "I need them for my upcoming "Quarter Century Fiesta"! Do you know the designer and where I can get the shoes? Thanks!"
I couldn't find the exact pair, but felt that these $396 Prada shoes came close...
If that's too much, you can get a similar look for less with these $83 Nine West Metropop Sandals...

...from www.zappos.com.
Next reader Tanaiya fell in love with Kerry Washington's look recently...
...She says, "Kerry looks gorgeous. Who makes her dress?"

It seems Kerry is keen on wearing off the runway, and sporting this Oscar de la Renta number...
...from his pre Fall 2008 collection.
Reader Tiphanie adored Janet Jackson's look in a Parade Magazine article...
She says, "I love the coat and the color. If you can help me out, I would be so thankful."
Get Janet's look for less with the following: Left to Right:City Style Trench Coat., $50, www.newyorkandcompany.com; Pintuck Trench Coat, $138, www.ardenb.com.
Tabby from Chicago comes with a Wardrobe Query. She says, "My husband and I are attending a spring banquet for his company and are both clueless on what to wear. My husband wears a suit 3 times a year and other than that he is a jean guy. I seriously need to upgrade him but I have no clue where to go or what to pick for him to wear. The banquet is semi formal and I want us both to look hot. Any suggestions? "
Your event is semi formal, which generally means that you guys should be wearing something between business casual and black tie. To answer your question, I figured, why not take a style cue from hot couple, Will and Jada Smith?
For your event, tell your beau to pop on a light colored suit with a simple solid shirt underneath (tie optional)...
...you can balance him out by wearing a print dress in a complementary color. Try these:
Left to Right: Glen Plaid Two Button Suit, $148-$325, www.bananarepublic.com; Plenty by Tracy Reese Sri Lanka Claudia Dress, $134, www.revolveclothing.com; J. Lindeberg Sportswear Casper Bridge Poplin Shirt, $55, www.tobi.com.

If you want to step up the formality a bit, he can go with his black suit, yet chic it up with a black shirt and tie...

...you can shine in a strapless cocktail:

Left to Right: BOSS Black Enzo Dress Shirt, $95, www.nordstrom.com; David Meister Pleated Strapless Dress, $430, www.neimanmarcus.com; Hickey Freeman Black Herringbone Silk Tie, $81, www.bluefly.com.

If you hit the town afterwards, tell your husband to bust out his old jeans, but add a bit of sporty style with a quilted leather jacket...
....you can pop on a cute short suit (bright color optional):

Left to Right: Jonah Short in Parchment, $225, www.dvf.com; Corpus Lambskin Quilted Leather Jacket, $462, www.revolveclothing.com; Isaac Mizrahi for Target Riley Almond Toe Pumps, $15, www.target.com.

So...there were a ton more Mail Bombs, but I think that does it for today.
Have amazing weekends, and keep checking in....you never know when your Mail Bomb might take center stage!

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*So this is your last chance to submit your T designs! Competition is fierce...
....so bring your A game! Deadline for contest submissions is tomorrow at midnight.

*Save/Splurge of the Day:

Left: Gucci Suede Kelly Platform Sandals, $540, www.bluefly.com; Gabriella Rocha Hip Black Sandals, $60, www.zappos.com.
*Christian Soriano...
...wins Project Runway. Fierce! [Washington Post]
*Guy Trebay...
...sums up the Alexander McQueen, Givenchy, Prada, Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent shows. [NYTimes]
*Check out Concrete Loop for Runway Reviews. My bad for not reviewing the European shows (I figured you'd get enough on style.com). But count on me to throw my voice into the mix next season. [Concrete Loop]
*Cool shoes...
...from Paris with love. [NYMag]

Cool Online Find: Prise NJ

Hey,
So I was looking online for low cost, yet cute party frocks, and came across a cool website, www.Prise NJ.com...
...the owner, it turns out, is a young lady named Yudy...
...who's a fan of the Fashion Bomb!

About Prise NJ, she says, "It actually all hit me when I turned 30 about one year 1/2 ago. I realized that I don't want to work in an office for the rest of my life, I've always had a "Passion for Fashion," so it was the perfect thing to do..."The name Prise (pronounced Pris'e) means excessively prim and proper.

Check out a few of its cute items all under $50:
Zebra Print Black & White Dress, $30; Lavender Drape Front Detail Bandeau Dress, $45.
Silver Mesh Camisole Dress, $45; Print Dress, $30.
Mustard Halter Top, $15; Sequin Trim Halter, $20.
You really can't go wrong with those prices!

And luck you: Yudy is willing to offer all Fashion Bombers free shipping on all their Prise NJ purchases. Just put 'free shipping' under the comments section at checkout and mention "The Fashion Bomb Blog."

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Reader Chiriga was feeling the 'Nerd' Glasses post yesterday. She says, " I love the big specs! Check out my pair..."
"...Got them from a vintage spot called Screaming MiMi's in Soho."
Fashion Bomb readers are so chic! But you know what would make her outfit cuter? An official Fashion Bomb t-shirt. You still have a few days to submit your designs...

Trend Talk: Nerd Glasses

Hey!
So surprise, surprise. I'm pretty blind.
Believe it or not, yours truly sported painfully nerdy coke bottles with plastic frames for most of adolescence. As far as I was concerned, it was definitely not a good look...I was more than happy to trade in my specs for contacts in junior high.
Interestingly, a nerdy glasses trend has been blooming amongst fashionistas of note--with surprising results:
Fashion Bomb friend Kesh actually looks hot rocking black specs with a strapless tube dress, doorknockers, and gold chain...
Neo-Soul Queen Erykah Badu has taken to wearing large librarian glasses, but makes it sexy with a deep cut button down, scarf, and beret...
And trendsetter Kelis rocks a turtoise shell pair...
...with a striped turtleneck.
This trend is even transcending gender, with Style Czars like Kanye West...
...and Damon Dash...
...unabashedly sporting glasses at the most fashionable events.
Could lame be the new cool?
If so, try these:
Top Row: Risky Readers, $14, www.urbn.com; Editrix Readers, $58, www.anthropologie.com.
Bottom Row: Cazal Glasses, $300, www.filthydripped.com.
For Guys:

Johnston & Murphy Readers, $60, www.johnstonmurphy.com.

Might have to dust off my old frames and give 'em a twirl.

Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Deal of the Day:
Boombox Bling Necklace, $14, www.lulus.com.
*Splurge of the Day:
Get a Kelly Rowland airport look...
...with this $1,445 Miu Miu Matelasse Large Hobo...
...from Bergdorf Goodman. (Thanks AosGrl!)

Get her Look: Teyana Taylor

Hey!
So today I wanted to take a look at fly Girl Teyana Taylor...
...she's been making her rounds on the celebrity circuit ever since her appearance on MTV's Super Sweet 16.
Pharrell's newest protege has ganked the cover of Fashion Bomb Sponsor Trace Magazine...
...and is all set to drop her album, From a Planet Called Harlem (Star Trak), later this year. She popped up recently on BET's Rip the Runway (which airs tonight at 10pm):
...and always stands out with a quirky, unique style. A talented singer, rapper, choreographer, Ms. Taylor's got the b-girl, bubble gum, skater, yet street style on lock...
...rocking t-shirts, trucker hats, skinny jeans, and multicolored sneakers, all topped off with a throwback 80's dookie chain.
She's like a cute little sister...but I'd probably want to borrow her clothes instead of the other way around!
If you want a Teyana steeze, start with the following:
Top Row: Dreamland Tee, $14.80, www.forever21.com; Von Dutch Trucker Hat, $25, www.stylesell.com; Christian Audigier Batwing Hoodie, $160, www.djpremium.com.

Middle Row: Dookie Rope Chain, $60, www.amigaz.com.
Bottom Row: Adidas Grace Mid, $85, www.urbn.com; Lux Acid Wash Jean Black, $68, www.urbn.com; Pastry Blueberry Cream Shell Toe Mid, $70, www.drjays.com.
Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Peep Teyana plus Lauren London, Nelly, Toccara, Jaslene and more rocking Sean John, Zac Posen and Baby Phat at BET's Rip the Runway tonight at 10pm.
*Get 15% off that Christian Audigier Batwing Hoodie by entering NU30Y at DJPremium.com.
*Reader Giselle was feeling Rihanna's Paris look...
...I was too!
Get a start with the following steals:
Top Row: Halogen Zip Front Leather Jacket, $180, www.nordstrom.com; Leopard Print Bag, $78, www.spiegel.com.
Bottom Row: Triple Strap Bracelet, $13, www.amigaz.com.

Find the rest of Rihanna's style staples in this vintage Mail Bombs Post.
*Thanks to 3rd Power Outlet for pics!

*Check out the new song on my MySpace Profile. It's called 'Everybody Nose' by N.E.R.D. I love it!
*Did you know Billionaire's Boys Club has a blog? It's mainly a showcase for BBC and Ice Cream products, but the pictures of Pharrell are enough for me!
Check 'em out at www.bbcicecream.com/blog
*Learn more about Teyana in this Vibe Article by Laura Checkoway.

Real Style: Tennessee

Wow,
It's March already! Where or where do the days go?
Huh?
So after I mentioned that my hurt foot prevented me from snapping Real Style on the streets, you guys came through like allstars with tons of pictures!
This week, we have Niesha from Memphis, Tennessee...
She brought out her flyest for Allstar Weekend in New Orleans.
She says, "I'm usually more plain, I don't take many risks as far as mixing patterns and colors. I stick to the basics but I think that I still have some style."
I think so too!
What do you think?
Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*Still getting some great submissions for the t-shirt contest, but not enough! C'mon guys, this is a dope contest!! You have a week!

*Speaking of t's, check out Nosaj Authentics, a new t-shirt company out of Richmond, VA...

...the company produces hand painted canvases, women's clothing, and men's shirts. Check 'em out at www.nosajauthentics.com.
*Gossip hotspot Concrete Loop has exlusive pics...
....of the new Sean John ads. [Concrete Loop]
*Get an Alexis Phifer acessories look...
...by layering these $68 Yochi Lucite Long Necklaces...
...from www.ravinstyle.com.