I’m a little pressed for time so let’s get straight into today’s Bomb Blogger feature highlighting the sartorial talents of Melissa Holdbrook-Akposoe of Melissa’s Wardrobe!
Melissa is one of my go-to bloggers! Whenever I’m in need of a little inspiration, she never ceases to amaze. Her effortless cool is undeniably awesome and her knack for building a wardrobe around strong neutrals is incredibly tailored. In addition to style tips and flawless photography, Melissa’s blog also focuses on other aspects including beauty, travel and (something we ALL love) food. It’s basically the one-stop shop for the modern day woman!
Melissa’s closet is a playground of sultry and tomboy-chic pieces. She can rock the boudoir-inspired trend and, then, turn around and slip into a jumpsuit and bomber combo. This Bomb Blogger’s wardrobe staples include classic pointed pumps, cropped skinny jeans, lots of lace, flirty dresses and a mean purse game! I’m here for everything!
Slay on, hun!
Want to know more about Melissa of Melissa’s Wardrobe? Well, visit her official blog here or feel free to follow this fierce fashionista via Instagram @melissaswardrobe!
Continuing in our ‘Breaking Into’ Series, we decided to delve into the world of entertainment business and how you can have a successful career in it. Who better to sit down with and talk to than Karleen Roy, the founder of THE VANITY GROUP, a New York City-based boutique luxury lifestyle management company servicing A-list celebrities and powerhouse brands. Since 2013, Roy has been the trusted ‘make it happen’ woman behind many impossible-to-get restaurant reservations, lavish red carpet events, and last minute getaways on private jets, for celebrities like Common and Diddy.
As a creative, well-connected, and unapologetically black entrepreneur with impeccable style, Karleen’s been profiled time and time again for her work in the entertainment business. She started her career as “an eager publicity intern at Def Jam Records in the Artist Relations department,” noting that she was always excited to do everything an intern does–even grab coffee and order lunch for the executives. Despite it being an unpaid internship, the lessons she learned became applicable to her own business , including the sheer force of networking and how tables will turn when you are consistent.
Originally from Memphis with midwestern roots (she spent the early part of her childhood in St. Louis), Roy attended the Mecca, Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she majored in Sociology and minored in Public Relations. “I did not know I wanted to work in entertainment…that came maybe around my final year in college. But I did know I wanted an exciting career where I could use all the things I learned in my studies. I applied for many jobs and internships in every field I could after school and did not get a response nor hired for any of them! Def Jam was the only opportunity that panned out and it was the one I really wanted so…. LOOK AT GOD!!“
After leaving Def Jam, Karleen went on to work as an assistant to Ne-Yo and his production company, Compound Entertainment. The experience taught Roy that studio life was not necessarily for her; effectively, she made a shift working over at Sony Music by day, and by night working events as a volunteer all over town for multiple entertainment companies who needed extra help, among them, Violator Management. “Violator managed all the top music acts at that time,” she told us, ” Puff, Busta, Missy Elliott, 50, LL Cool J, Mariah Carey, and Q-Tip to name a few. That was a major career learning experience, I picked up so much there by just being a sponge and watching people like Chris Lightly who founded the company and the day-to- day managers who worked the artists projects.”
Her big ‘break’ came when she “landed a coveted role at Bad Boy as an assistant in the Chairman’s Office, Sean “Diddy” Combs. ” After always having dreamed of working for Combs, Roy literally jumped at the opportunity, saying she ” went to the nearest Kinkos to work on my resume and put a whole presentation together on why they should hire me for the job!” Starting off as the Assistant to Chief of Staff, she was then promoted to 2nd Executive Assistant to the Chairman, then first assistant and then finally promoted to Senior Executive Assistant to the Chairman. “My time at Bad Boy and working alongside Mr. Combs was priceless and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. Mr. Combs is the hardest working man in show business and regarded as one of the biggest global figures of our time. To be his right hand and driving force of communication for him and the Executive Office is the best training there is for anyone interested in entertainment or anyone hoping to sharpen their skills in business.”
After working at Bad Boy for years, Roy had thought her next move would include artist management, talent relations role or support of another music executive. After resigning and taking time to figure out what exactly she wanted to do next, she began doing things to pay the bills to hold her over, including producing red carpet events, organizing various personal requests for celebrities, planning international trips for wealthy people she knew, helping a stranded artist get a jet from Point A to Point B. She said, “It was at that time where I was like “Okay…this IS a business” – and that is pretty much how The Vanity Group was conceived. After doing my due diligence and consulting with the proper professionals, I was like “okay time to jump out the window and just make this thing real” …and the rest is history.”
Aside from the daily administrative work of emails, follow ups, calls, and maybe a business dinner, Roy explained that events and project differentiate her average day. “Most of the time, our clients do not give us a heads up or much of a lead time for most of the projects we work on, so things can get completely crazy and non stop! Those are the moments I love, fast paced days that are no guts no glory!”
What are some of those projects that her team have worked on? “We have done projects like Justin Beiber’s huge birthday party in 24 hours, Ne-Yo’s massive wedding where we were brought on to manage the event in less than 10 days, Puff’s New Year’s Eve party within 2 days, completing the interior design project for Rick Ross’s 109-room estate or surprising a singer with 10,000 pink roses to be delivered to their studio AFTER the flower market closes – those types projects for example we can not foresee so when we get the call we just shift gears to make it all happen!”
In order to keep up with a schedule that’s ever changing, one must possess a creative mind that’s constantly stimulated and inspired. “Living in New York has absolutely inspired my style over the years. I love the big black hats worn by the Jewish men in Brooklyn, I purchased a few of my own. I’m also obsessed with the traditional African garments worn by the African men in Harlem on 116th and 7th Ave; chances are you will find me wearing something similar at least once a week. My everyday style is very much about comfort and functionality so I love that it gives you all of that with great colors, patterns and cultural style references. I’m also inspired by my rap clients (who are pretty cool if I do say so myself), their style and influence has definitely rubbed off on me. I call it “urban chic”….I live for a nice heavy chain, fly gold jewels and love a man in a dope watch!“
So by now, we definitely needed advice on how to break into the entertainment industry from self-made Entrepreneur, Roy. Her advice was simply, “to get into it because you genuinely have an interest in the field, and not because you want to be around famous people or hang out with them.” She added, ” In today’s age, which is much different from when I started, people are really eager to hang or associate themselves with famous people so they can stunt for the Instagram likes. Those people never last because they are in it for the wrong reasons.”
What are some things you should know as an industry hopeful? Looking the part is certainly key. As a “walking billboard” for her brand, Karleen vocalized being polished and looking the part are definitives for success. “Image is everything, especially in the social media space that we are in. When you look the part, people definitely take notice.“
Words of wisdom, indeed! Some finishing tidbits including her memorable career-stopping moments (such as coffee with Madonna) and Oprah calling Sean Comb’s office to thank Roy for the the bottle of Tequila that had been sent to her. “She did not call to speak to him, she asked FOR ME! She said, “I know it’s from him, but I know the assistants are the ones to usually send it off so I wanted to say thank you, to you and him.” I think I died!”
Ending our interview, we had to ask her thoughts on #BlackGirlMagic, considering her whole life seems to exude it. ” I’m totally in love with the Black Girl Magic movement! It is the epitome of pride and support amongst young Black women. I’m thankful for my supportive village of black girlfriends and friends in the business as we always support and champion each other along the way which is something we all need. Every girl can use a little encouragement and push in their lives.” Amen!
For all those entertainment industry hopefuls, entrepreneurs, and fellow #BlackGirlMagic supporters just trying to find their way, this interview was heavy with gems and advice. What do you think? If you’ve fallen in love with Karleen Roy or even want to learn more about The Vanity Group, check them out on IG: @VANITYGROUPNYC and their site, WWW.THEVANITYGROUP.COM.
I’m still on a high from Saturday’s Cocktails with Claire x Miss Diddy LA. It was so much fun to see and meet the vendors in person. I saw so many items that I wanted to take home! Among the favorites was today’s Bomb Product of the Day, D Piper Twins $175 Striped Shari Dress:
The box-silhouette dress features a horizontal and vertical stripe detail. Made of 100% cotton, the wide-sleeve dress has front pockets, one of which extends past the hem.
I got to see this bad boy in person and I must say, this dress is Bomb! It is a splurge, but totally worth it.
You can purchase here for $175. What do you think? Would you rock the Shari dress?
Okay, let’s all sit back and take a minute to observe the Ultimate Snapback (can we make that nickname official?) that is Chrissy Teigen. Three weeks after the birth of beautiful baby girl Luna Simone, Chrissy and her pre-summer summer body hit up Los Angeles hot spot Jones Bar for a date night with hubby, musician John Legend. Mommy duties haven’t made the supermodel any less stylish. Chrissy dressed up a black leotard and black denim cut offs with a $3,267 Givenchy Deconstructed Black Tuxedo Jacket and a $790 pair of Gianvito Rossi ‘Portofino’ Black and White Ankle Strap Sandals. The black silk deconstructed tuxedo jacket from Givenchy features a front button fastening and cut out details.
Draped details, three-quarter length sleeves, side flap pockets and a straight hem make the jacket versatile; throwing it over a satin slip dress or over a tank top and distressed jeans can complete either look with ease.
The supermodel beamed as she showcased those enviable legs in Gianvito Rossi’s ‘Portofino’ sandals. At a comfortably sassy height of 3.25 inches, these black, off-white and tan suede sandals are perfect for a simple date night slay.
The open toe, adjustable buckle enclosure and smooth leather lining elongate the legs without having to suffer in a stiletto.
I think we can all agree (especially with John Legend) that Chrissy looked amazing. But at a total of just over $4,000, do you think it’s worth the splurge? Given the “budoir” trend making waves among fashionistas the world over, you can definitely find less expensive alternatives. But for the spendy, you can purchase the tuxedo jacket here, and click here for the sandals. Not to be outdone, proud papa John Legend was equally stylish in a $1,715 Saint Laurent Gaberdine and Leather Teddy Jacket and a $310 Saint Laurent Vampire Printed Tee.
What do you think of this gorgeous couple’s style?
Miss Diddy rocked a hot caged top from House of CB.
At the end of the night, we gave a Toyota Bold Award to Tamika, who rocked a striped crop top, high waisted pant, and an accent coat.
I’m actually still pouring over pictures (there are so many more!).
See the best in the gallery (scroll to the top to enjoy).
Thank you to Marsha Badger and her squad of fly volunteers for lending their efforts. Thank you to The Finishing Touch for the bomb FBD pillows and Evolution Event Rentals. An extra special thank you to Lauren, Ayanna, and Kortney from Elles Couture Events for putting on such a fabulous event!
And a super huge thank you to sponsors Toyota, Dark and Lovely, and Hennessy!
Her grey mirrored metal shades features a clear acetate layer, metal temples cut out in the iconic French fashion house’s signature Cannage motif, a rounded square shape, clear nose guards, and grey gradient lenses.
Her floral print dress boasts allover colorful embroidery, a mock neckline, cap sleeves, an A-line silhouette, and straight hem.
Her platform sandals feature chunky sky-high, 4.9″ heels, crisscross straps, and bow detailing.
So cute!
If you’re up for the splurge, get Jessica’s shades here, frock here, and sandals here.
Just as much for her music and fashionable aesthetic, Rihanna is slowly becoming more and more known for her humanitarian work. The bajan beauty was recently in a video with her organization, Clara Lionel Foundation, wearing a $245 Intermix Chase Tie Strap Cream Shoulder Knit Top:
The shirt features cut-out shoulders with self tie straps. Along the hem’s edges you’ll find scalloped detailing and flared long sleeves.
If you’re down for the splurge, you can buy this top here.
Check out the full video on the work Rih’s doing globally:
Happy Monday, beautiful Bombers and Bombshells!
Can you believe I’m still recovering from Cocktails with Claire New York, co-hosted this year by the lovely Miss Diddy LA?
After imbibing the food and libations, Bombshells sat down to receive mental nourishment and personal empowerment from our industry insiders.
To say the panel was inspiring would be an understatement. Everyone on the panel gave insight on their backgrounds, and offered tips on how to break into their respective industries. The resounding theme: set goals, work hard, create a distinctive look, stay persistent, and don’t bend, even in the face of adversity.
You guys came equipped with your questions, and shared your stories with us as well.
Some even brought us to tears.
Doing the panel made me see that there is more to fashion than just pretty clothes and accessories. People of color in the fashion industry need support, direction, mentorship, and advice (along with a good time!). I’m glad the panel was able to provide that support, even if just for the moment. I can’t wait for the next one!
Stay tuned for video, so you can get a sense of the scene. To say it was amazing would be an understatement!
In terms of style, you guys represented, as per usual.
Designer Samantha Black worked gray separates of her design.
Gorgeous Bombshell IslandChic77 showcased a wrap of her design, called WrapQueen.com. Boom, she’s a Bombshell!
My Snapchat homie LuxeleBlanc added punch to a beige dress and button down with fringed, lace up sandals from Just Fab.
Of course our panelists came to slay.
Ty Hunter looked dapper in a Topshop suit.
Alicia L. Quarles skewed sparkly in a sequined top, jeans, and bold platform sandals.
Angela Yee worked distressed jeans, a crop top, and blazer, along with a bomb Chloe fringed purse and Chanel boots.
Kitty Cash showed off her stems in printed separates Chris Gelinas and Karen Gallo shoes.
And I wore a look from Kyna Collection, a designer that will be apart of Fashion Bomb Daily’s CCW Collective e-commerce site!
It was a great time, and it a sincere pleasure meeting and speaking to so many of you!
Also, thank you to our brunch drink sponsor Myx Fusions.
Part 2 of Cocktails with Claire x Miss Diddy LA was even more fun!
Stay tuned for the recap in two shakes.
Also, see more pictures from our day event in the gallery (scroll to the top and enjoy!).
Bombshells who attended: What did you think?
What are some of those projects that her team have worked on? “We have done projects like Justin Beiber’s huge birthday party in 24 hours, Ne-Yo’s massive wedding where we were brought on to manage the event in less than 10 days, Puff’s New Year’s Eve party within 2 days, completing the interior design project for Rick Ross’s 109-room estate or surprising a singer with 10,000 pink roses to be delivered to their studio AFTER the flower market closes – those types projects for example we can not foresee so when we get the call we just shift gears to make it all happen!”
