Ajak Deng Isn’t Leaving Modeling and Believes There Is Much Work To Be Done

We were quite shocked and out of sorts when supermodel Ajak Deng announced her retirement from modeling last week, though we’re not naive to the intense pressures of the industry. Luckily for us, it seems Ajak had a change of heart, as she took to Instagram to announce the fact that she wouldn’t be leaving modeling after all:

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In the post, Ajak said, “I was selfish to only think of myself and forget the people that have always been there for me through the worst times and good times,”. She continues, “I feel like I have touched so many young people’s lives, gave them hope. Just because I come from NOTHING does not mean that I can’t make something for myself and for that I will still want to continue to touch more lives. Yes sure giving up is easier but who will fight the war that we are so in denial about? I am just getting started and modeling isn’t the only thing I will be successful in, in my lifetime. I apologize to every kind soul/heart that I have broken in the past week. I thought giving up was easier but I am going to stay and fight this war with kindness, forgiveness, love and support to all humanity. We are all beautiful and deserve to be respected. #BigLoveToHumanity.”

A photo posted by AJAK DENG (@ajak_deng) on

At the beginning of the statement, she talked about the first time she noticed herself in a Philipp Plein campaign, as well as her first season in Milan and the prejudice she encountered. “I remember my first season in Milan, walking through the the airport and seeing the @philipppleininternational campaign. Wishing I could one day be one of the faces up there, NOW all I can say is thank you for making my dream come true. P.S my first season in Milan, no one booked me and I was so destroyed because they weren’t booking black girls like me that season and thank God for my sweet and encouraging agent @meansss who told me that there was absolutely nothing wrong with me and that I was one of the most beautiful girls in the world, to wipe off those tears, come back to New York, and change their minds one day at a time. She continued to support and still have my back even though I decided to throw it all away after our hard work and for that I came to realize that she is my spirit and a guiding angel.”

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We’re happy to see that Ajak is continuing in the industry: she’s one of our faves. Her decisions with this have been courageous and though racism and prejudice in the industry is something we unfortunately report on what seems like weekly, it does take bravery for her to address that huge issue head-on in a public forum.

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We can’t wait to see what’s next for her! Thoughts on Ajak’s decision?

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Bomb Product of the Day: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Coconut Range for Body

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Palmer's Cocoa Butter's Coconut Range for Body
2  Palmer's Cocoa Butter's Coconut Range for Body
8  Palmer's Cocoa Butter's Coconut Range for Body

I’ll admit it: I LOVE Palmer’s Cocoa Butter. I use it to moisturize my skin every day.
So, I was excited when I heard they launched a Coconut Range for the Body, loaded with naturally occurring antioxidants and fatty acids that create a breathable moisture barrier to help lock in long-lasting hydration.

The new collection includes Lotion, Body Cream, Hand Cream and Body Oil.

The products contain the exotic Tahitian Monoï Oil, derived from the petals of the Tiaré flower, an ancient Polynesian beauty secret used for centuries to heal skin ailments in cosmetics and in traditional cultural rites.

I’m super excited to smell and test the products. I’m sure they’ll be just as fabulous as regular Palmer’s Cocoa Butter!

Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Body Range is available at Walmart, Target, Walgreens and other mass stores nationwide for $7-$9.
Will you be checking it out?

Carmelo Anthony Teams Up With Macy’s and Nickelodean for Fashion Line for Boys

Carmelo “Melo” Anthony may an NBA All-Star, Olympic gold medalist, father and husband, but now he can add designer to his resume.

The Basketball star has teamed with Macy’s and Nickelodeon to produce an active line of boy’s apparel and accessories. The collection of graphic T-shirts, hoodies, shorts, pajama sets, socks and basketballs are all inspired by one of Melo’s favorite things: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Carmelo Anthony and Lala Anthony attend "Power" New York PremiereSet to appear in early May exclusively at all Macy’s stores and on Macys.com, it is said that the line is only temporary, and that once products sell out, they will not be replaced on shelves.

Prices for the collection range from $20-$35, so it’s definitely one that is within the affordable price range for many families looking to give their child a little bit of ‘Melo’.

This isn’t Anthony’s first time designing, however; If you remember, he lended his designer experience to the Jordan brand at Nike, as well as with Foot Locker, Samsung, Haute Watches and Jeep. The collection will happen right before the release of the sixth “Teenage Mutant Nina Turtles” movie in June. Perfect timing.0 Lala Anthony's Versus x Versace Party Versace Cutout Devoré Silk Shirt and Zip Detailed Stretch Pencil Skirt + Carmelo Anthony's Versace Baroque Print Quilted Bomber Jacket copy

Glad to see Anthony exploring his other talents off the court! Will you be stopping by a Macy’s to pick up anything from the line?

 

Splurge: Angela Bassett’s Instagram Victoria Beckham Black and Blue Colorblock Strapless Dress

Angela Bassett's Instagram Victoria Beckham Black and Blue Colorblock Strapless Dress
2 Angela Bassett's Instagram Victoria Beckham Black and Blue Colorblock Strapless Dress
Angela Bassett's Instagram Victoria Beckham Black and Blue Colorblock Strapless Dress

I wonder what Angela Bassett’s workout regimen is?
The ageless beauty posed on Instagram in a $3,550 Victoria Beckham Strapless Bustier Two Tone Dress:

Her dress has a fitted skirt, a straight hem, and an exposed full length zip.

Hot! But side note: why is V. Beckham so pricey? Her designs seem so simple. They always look great but $3,550 for a strapless dress? Geez Louis.
At any rate, if you have the coins, purchase at NeimanMarcus.com.
What do you think?

Designers! Apply to the 2016 Design Entrepreneurs NYC Mini MBA Program (Deadline March 31st)

Bibhu Mohapatra designer
How to Break into Fashion with Designer Mimi Plange
fit fashion design class

Harlem’s Fashion Row recently tipped me off to a New York ‘mini MBA’ opportunity for designers, coordinated by Design Entrepreneurs NYC.

The program provides selected designers with the business acumen, resources, and community to grow their companies. Emerging New York City designers whose businesses have been open for at least one year are eligible to apply here.

25 lucky entrepreneurs will be immersed in weekend learning intensive classes on marketing, financials, and operations, and will have access to mentorship, industry contacts, FIT professors, and more.

Applications close on March 31st. Apply here.
Good luck!

On The Scene: The Mercedes-Benz and African-American Film Association Oscar Viewing Party with Kenya Moore in DSL Designs, Tracee Ellis Ross in Thai Nguyen Atelier, Jamie Foxx in Jack Manson, and More!

The Oscars certainly didn’t end right after Chris Rock, folks! There were a ton of viewing parties all around Hollywood, one of them being the Mercedez-Benz and African-American Film Critics Association Oscars Viewing Party, where a ton of melanin abounded! Let’s see what they wore:

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Thandie-NewtonThandie Newton looked sultry in a black silk Dennis Basso dress.

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Tracee-Ellis-RossTracee Ellis Ross never disappoints. She appeared on the Red Carpet in a Thai Nguyen Atelier dress. The sleeves throw me a little, but overall I love the dress and the color and fit on her.

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Jamie-FoxxJamie Foxx put on for menswear in Jack Manson, an up-and-coming designer. Nice!

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Wesley-SnipesWesley Snipes followed suit (no pun intended) in a dark blue fitted tuxedo.

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Regina-TaylorRegina Taylor looked regal in a black sequined gown. Easily one of my favorite looks of the night.

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Tamala-JonesTamala Jones rocked out in a lace white jumpsuit. She topped it off with some open-toed sandals and dewy makeup.

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Vanessa-Bell-CallowayVanessa Bell Calloway went for a shimmery gold mini-dress with matching color open-toed sandals. I think the shoe choice brought the outfit down significantly, and think a pair of gold heels would have been a better choice. Your thoughts?

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Angel-ParkerAngel Parker went for a LBD with some black booties to match. Even though it’s understated, I think her natural makeup and hair choice compliment the outfit a lot!

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Adina-PorterAdina Porter showed out in a white and gold mesh Marcell Von Berlin gown with a middle slit. Thoughts?African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Sheila-ShahSheila Shah went for fairytale glam in this plunging neckline silver-embellished tulle dress with matching silver shoes. I loved the look.

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Anthony-AndersonAnthony Anderson went for men’s chic in a well-tailored grey suit. Classic, timeless, perfect.African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Viewing-Party-Beverly-JohnsonBeverly Johnson shined in a metallic silver gown.

African-American-Film-Critics-Association-Oscars-Viewing-Party-Kenya-MooreKenya Moore pushed all baby rumors aside by rocking an LSO Designs multi-pattered dress. The slit ends at a weird spot, but I definitely like the look!

And there you have it, guys! Stay posted on the site as we update with names of Designers and more photos. In the meantime, did any looks stand out to you?

Splurge: Kendall Jenner’s Bottega Veneta Fall 2016 Fashion Show AYR Camel The Robe Maxi Coat and One Teaspoon Love Machine Jumpsuit

After stomping the runway at the Bottega Veneta Fall 2016 Fashion Show, Kendall Jenner was spotted in a $585 AYR Camel The Robe Maxi Coat and $115 One Teaspoon Love Machine Jumpsuit:

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Her classic camel hair coat boasts an open front, shawl collar, and side-seam pockets.

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Her soft silk blend jumpsuit features a drop tapered crotch, zipper detailing at the calves, hip and rear pockets, and belt loops.

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I love her off-duty style! I definitely need this jumpsuit in my life.

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If you’re up for the splurge, get Kendall’s coat here and jumpsuit here.

Thoughts?

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Bomb Product of The Day: Philadelphia Printworks School of Thought Crewnecks

Philadelphia Printworks’ School of Thought crewnecks will take you right back to your school daze.

Bomb Product of The Day Philadelphia Printworks School of Thought Crewnecks3

Each $37.50 crewneck features a fictional university based on a historical figure in Black History.

Bomb Product of The Day Philadelphia Printworks School of Thought Crewnecks4

Marcus Garvey, Ida B Wells, and Harriet Tubman are a few of the heroes highlighted with universities that match their craft or field.

Bomb Product of The Day Philadelphia Printworks School of Thought Crewnecks1

It’s the last day of Black History Month, so why not celebrate the magic of your melanin!

Bomb Product of The Day Philadelphia Printworks School of Thought Crewnecks2

You can find all their black power themed products,including t-shirts and tote bags, here. Which black intellectual would you loved to have be your alma mater?

Bomb Product of The Day Philadelphia Printworks School of Thought Crewnecks

Caitlyn Jenner Announces MAC Cosmetics Collaboration

The Kardashian/Jenner clan is slowly taking over the beauty world. Following the lead of her daughter, Kendall and Kylie, who both recently released a eye shadow palette and nail polish collection, Caitlyn Jenner has announced a collaboration with MAC.

Caitlyn Jenner Announces MAC Cosmetics Collaboration3Jenner created a limited edition lipstick with the make-up heavyweight. The dusky, nude rose shade is entitled “Finally Free” and reflects the fearless way Jenner shared her transition with the world, and her new life since.

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Thanks to her role as a transgender activist, 100% of the proceeds from the $17 lipstick sales will benefit the MAC AIDS Fund Transgender Initiative. This is one of the first products to donate all the proceeds instead of pocketing them. The proceeds will go towards funding organzations and programs dedicated to improving transgender lives.

 

Caitlyn Jenner Announces MAC Cosmetics Collaboration

The lipstick will be available exclusively on maccosmetics.com starting on April 7th. This may be an indication of more beauty products to come as Jenner recently filed a trademark to create makeup, skin care and fragrances under her name.

There’s no doubt these lipsticks will sell out fast! Will you be buying one?

Splurge: Taylor Swift’s Maia Restaurant Isabel Marant White Dryam Double Breasted Jacket, White Dallin High Rise Peg Leg Trousers, and A.L.C. White Ali Top

Taylor Swift was white hot while dining at Maia Restaurant in a $800 Isabel Marant White Dryam Double Breasted Jacket, $490 White Dallin High Rise Peg Leg Trousers, and $195 A.L.C. White Ali Top:

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She completed her look with a $170 Moyna Envelope Clutch and $595 Manolo Blahnik White BB Pumps.

Her twill blazer features peak lapels, long sleeves, button-fastening cuffs, patch front and chest pockets, and a double-breasted silhouette.

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Her trousers boast a flat front, high waist, belt loops, quarter-top pockets, creased wide legs, a zip fly, and a double hook-and-bar closure.

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Her bodycon top features a cropped silhouette, square neck, shoulder straps, and a pullover style.

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Hot!

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Get Taylor’s jacket, pants, and top for a splurge here, here, and here.

Are you feeling it?

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