There’s no denying the vibrations of the “see-now, buy-now” movement in fashion right now. Designers in New York City, London, and Milan already committed to selling select pieces from their Fall collections, while many in Paris took a firm stand on holding fast to the traditional schedule and way of doing things—save for Courreges and Paco Rabanne thus far. Naturally, we all wondered how a brand like H&M would respond to this momentous change, given the brand’s position as one of the biggest fast-fashion retailers in the world and its ability to morph runway designs into affordable pieces months after the originals walk down the runway.

Funnily enough, the Studio line won’t be buying into the idea—at least not yet. It wants to stick to the collection’s mantra, which was created as a stage for its designers to flex their prowess outside of nonstop retail pressures. And the show was a full-on production, even boasting a choir whose booming voices rung out as the looks made their way down the catwalk.

The cast was a roster of heavy hitters with supermodels Pat Cleveland, Amber Valletta, Jourdan Dunn, Ashley Graham, and more posing in the ensembles. The assemblage was an ode to Swedish heritage with ankle-length colorful, embroidered frocks giving a nod to traditional Swedish folk dresses and an artful take on the print of the lynx on diaphanous trousers, tunics, and even a jumpsuit.

A taste of the exotic and gesture to modernity were given with python thigh-high boots, cropped trousers, a short-sleeve moto jacket, and waist-cinching belt in both natural and red hues. Wide-brimmed hats with intricate beading topped off each look.

The 80’s were captured with pinstripe bustiers, high-waist roomy pants, power suits, and double-slit pencil skirts.

The designs will hit H&M stores and its online shopping portal in September. Like everything else the brand puts out, they’re sure to go fast.

Thoughts on the latest from H&M Studio?

Images: VOGUE.com

Despite the various conversations that have circulated around Hollywood on the necessity and importance of diversity for media (especially over the past few weeks while gearing up for the Oscars), it seems one thing was slightly overlooked in the conversation: Promoting diversity WITHIN various minority groups. Well, that conversation resurfaced yesterday when the new Nina Simone biopic ad came out, showing a very darkened-up Zoe Saldana  in the role.

While many people (self included) were ecstatic about the theater debut of the film (set for April 22), others were discontent by the casting of Zoe Saldana as Nina Simone, for various reasons.

One of the biggest reasons for the discontent, however, became more apparent from the ad, where it was clearly evident that Saldana’s skin had been darkened with makeup to better reflect the melanin of Nina Simone. Although some may say that there’s nothing wrong with that, the first thing that jumped in my mind was, So…they couldn’t have found a darker-skinned actress to play the role?

Why did the casting directors, producers and screen writers not consider nor think a woman of Simone’s actual skin color could play this role, but instead re-institute a similar idea of ‘blackface’ to the screen, this time using an actual woman of color (and in case some will argue this is not an example of black face, it’s still using makeup to portray a skin tone that is not one’s own).

Twitter user @Dart_Adams asked, “Why did they DARKEN Zoe Saldana rather than cast a darker actress since it was such a crucial part of Nina Simone’s story?”

Was Saldana the only woman of color that could be found to tackle Nina Simone’s story? Was she the only woman of color in Hollywood willing to take on the role of one of America’s greatest musician activists of the 20th century?

@AntheaButler joked, “That Zoe Saldana pic as Nina Simone looks like the blackface of a bad Halloween or frat party.” For her part, Saldana has yet to respond to the backlash over the film’s new poster.

Now, don’t misunderstand that it is wonderful that Zoe Saldana has been given this opportunity to bring something to the role of Ms. Simone, and that this much better than the alternative (a non-black actress playing Simone). However… were there no other options that could have presented opportunities for more diversity of black women in Hollywood?

Scenarios like this make one wonder why you don’t see many dark-skinned women in roles (even with the increase of diversity over the years), but still, how can you neglect a darker-skinned actress a role of another woman with her hue?

“We understand that there are these beauty issues,” Lanita Jacobs, an anthropology teacher at the University of Southern California, remarked on Zoe as Nina, “and sometimes what sanctions people’s right to speak on these kind of issues is whether they have had experiences born of what it means to have kinky hair, or to have wide noses or darker skin. Nina’s music taps into a certain kind of awareness born of the way she looks.”

Jacobs says casting the fair-skinned Saldana, then darkening her with makeup and giving her a prosthetic nose and an Afro wig, is particularly offensive to women who have had to struggle with acceptance because of their own dark complexions.

People online have even made suggestions that Viola Davis, Uzo Aduba, or Lupita Nyong’o would have been more admirable selections.

Davis has spoken out before on discrimination she has faced in Hollywood, not jut for her age or gender or race, but specifically, by her being a darker woman of color. “When you do see a woman of color onscreen, the paper-bag test is still very much alive and kicking. That’s the whole racial aspect of colorism: If you are darker than a paper bag, then you are not sexy, you are not a woman, you shouldn’t be in the realm of anything that men should desire.” (TheGrio)

What do you think of Zoe Saldana being cast in a role of a woman who faced constant prejudice due to her dark skin? Is this morally a huge flag about the lack of diversity within our black acting community, or should we just be happy about the opportunity and keep moving forward?

Paris Fashion Week kicked off on March 1st, which means we are now on the fourth and final city of Fall 2016 RTW fashion month. Emerging talents showcased on Day 1, including Y/Project, Koché, and 2015 LVMH Young Designer’s Prize winner Simon Porte Jacquemus of Jacquemus with highly imaginative collections. For the next 8 days, be prepared for nonstop show coverage, trend reports, and backstage details from Paris Fashion Week!

Youth Revival at Jacquemus

All eyes were on Simon Porte Jacquemus, who presented his Fall 2016 RTW collection to adoring millennial fans from all around the world. As a self-funded, self-taught designer and lest we forget winner of 2015 LVMH Young Designer’s Prize, Jacquemus promoted an accessible aesthetic complete with oversized geometric shapes, emphasized shoulders, and divine coats. Inspired items included a diagonal split pantsuit with decorative bow ties and a dress overlaid jumpsuit – certainly edgy for everyday wear, but his pieces got our brain cells moving on a Tuesday afternoon.

Sultry As Usual at Anthony Vaccarello

Always expect Anthony Vaccarello to pump up the volume on sex appeal. It’s somewhat hard to believe that the brand has only been around for 7 years considering the celebrity diehards who consistently rock his designs: Diane Kruger, Rosie Huntington-Whitely, and Nicole Ritchie plus: if you consider his hand at Versus Versace, the celebrity number jumps to include Ciara and Cassie amongst others. This time around, Anthony Vaccarello opted for corsetry detailing defined at the hip instead of the waist. It worked! Models were still characteristically sexy, but with a little bit more ease.

Everyday Artifacts at Koché

You may not have heard of this brand, but French label Koché launched by female designer Christelle Kocher is bringing a phenomenal mix of craftsmanship and wearability to her designs. Kocher’s resume include Chloé, Sonia Rykiel, Dries Van Noten, and Bottega Veneta and thus, it is no surprise that the Fall 2016 RTW collection consisted of intensely handcrafted hoodies, sweaters, and jackets. Each a unique creation, fans standing by were surely tempted to snag a piece for themselves.

And The Rest…

Y/Project stayed true to its unisex ethos and swung between historical references (see bishop sleeves) and inventive seductive dressing, such as exposed hips in leather bodysuits. Atlein, a brand founded by Antonin Tron, made its PFW debut (they don’t even have a website yet, check out their IG!) and impressed editors with his figure-flattering pieces that won’t break the budget. Anrealage took an abstract tact with boxy silhouettes, some even “coded” using a technique called visual cryptography, which made for a undeniably stunning presentation.

What are your thoughts on Paris Fashion Week Day 1?

Check back in for our PFW Day 2 Recap!

• Shows: Maison Margiela, Dries Van Noten, and more!

Source: Vogue.com

Reality star Khloe Kardashian took to Instagram to flaunt her curves in a $1,550 Stretch Denim Strapless Dress from Cushnie et Ochs‘s Spring 2016 Ready-to-Wear collection.

The form-fitting number features an internal bustier and decorative front button closures. While Khloe accessorized her ‘fit with matching Christian Louboutin pumps, the runway model slipped into a pair of patent leather ankle strap heels.

Cute!

To purchase your own version, check out additional details here.

What do you think?

 

Signing Out — Esmesha

I don’t know what it is. But I’ve been on this “men’s style” binge for the past couple weeks.

Fashion Bomb Daily is a hub where all types of fashion creatives can garner inspiration while learning more about the hottest trends and what to wear/what not to wear. But, we do focus alot of attention of the women – let’s not forget about our guys!

So, with that, I figured I’d showcase ankara-enthusiast Christian Alaro hailing from Silver Spring, Maryland!

Christian Alaro is the ideal destination for fashion-forward men who don’t mind making a statement. With a plethora of mind-numbing prints, Alaro’s love for mixing high fashion tastes with a street-style coolness proves that his designs aren’t for the faint of heart.

Versatility is another factor I search for when highlighting designers. I question whether the pieces can be dressed up while also possessing the ability to be dressed down, I also look for the overall appeal behind each design. (And, Alaro has surpassed all my editorial standards, lol!)

And, ladies, fret not! Christian Alaro also caters to the fashionistas! Peep the ankara-inspired jacket below!

Prices for one of these dope designs can run between $60 and $100. But, the quality of each piece is worth every penny.

To see more from the Christian Alaro brand, visit the official Etsy shop here. Or, follow this up-and-coming designer on the ‘Gram @by_christian_alaro!

What do you think?!

 

Signing Out — Esmesha

 

Jessica Biel was spotted at the opening of her new restaurant Au Fudge in West Hollywood and she looked every bit of chic! The actress rocked a Giambattista Valli Haute Couture 7 White Floral Embroidered Strapless Dress and $745 Christian Louboutin Rivierina Yellow Ankle Strap Pumps.

Jessica’s flirty look features pastel floral appliques, a fitted waist and a midi length. Although I couldn’t find her exact ‘fit on the runway, Giambattista Valli did confirm that this was, indeed, their design via Twitter.

To set off the fresh vibes of her classic dress, Biel topped everything off with a pair of Christian Louboutin Rivierina Yellow Ankle Strap Pumps.

These lovelies are crafted from yellow patent leather and also boast a gold specchio leather ankle strap and a 4.25-inch heel. (To cop the neon pink version, take a quick detour here.)

Hot! Or Hmm.. What do you think of Jessica Biel’s Giambattista Valli Haute Couture 7 White Floral Embellished Strapless Dress and Christian Louboutin Rivierina Yellow Ankle Strap Pumps?

Hot! She looks amazing!

Hmmm, not feeling this one. Next!

 

pollcode.com free polls

I loovvveee this!

Perfect for spring, no?

But, let’s hear what you guys think!

Thoughts?

 

Signing Out — Esmesha

We’ve hit mid-week folks! Let’s keep our Bombshell momentum going with another international submission, Norma from Manchester:

She says, “My name is Norma and I’m from Manchester and I’ve now been blogging for almost a year. “

“I have enjoyed this experience, which has allowed me to showcase my style which I would describe as being vibrant and classy. “

“I enjoy trying out new trends.”“ I have since discovered that blogging puts you under a microscope, therefore you have to develop a thick skin.”

“People will judge you about your dressing and your weight and can be so harsh…”

“…but I have learnt to remain true to my fashion sense and just accept that people are entitled to their own opinions.”

“ I’ll just continue doing me for now! ““ My website is www.originalmangu.com.”

“Thank you for your consideration!”

Yes Norma! Keep rockin’ girl. I loved everything and your shoe game is poppin’. My favorite looks of yours are the one’s in all black. Classic! Ya’ll stay friends with Norma on IG: @original_mangu . Let us know in the comments, what do you think of Norma’s style?!

 

 

What do you think of Norma from Manchester?

Go Norma! This is a Bombshell!

Yaaasssssss.

I dig her style, really.

Hmm, I’m not sure how I feel…

I think this is a NO.

 

pollcode.com free polls

Fashion Bombshell of the Day is a feature showcasing the singular style of Fashion Bomb Readers. Send your name, location, a description of your style, and 5-10 clear, unfiltered, head-to-toe pictures of 5-10 different outfits (no collages) to Bombshell@FashionBombDaily.com. Images submitted will be featured on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or any of our social media platforms. Comments can be harsh, so bring your A game! Please be advised: once published, pictures will not be removed or taken down.

Today I’d like to introduce you to Michael Maven, a line of contemporary separates established in 2013 by South African siblings Natasha, Nadia, and Mihkael Michael.

Their Fall 2016 collection is all about avant garde, unexpected takes on the traditional. Think coats with shoulder cut outs, LBDs with fuzzy straps, cocktails with button details, and off the shoulder frocks with flute like sleeves.

Everyone from Micah Gianelli to Zendaya to Kendall and Kylie Jenner have been spied in Maven’s wares.

The line is sexy, sophisticated, and unquestionably chic.

Learn more at MichaelMavenOnline.com.

What do you think?

Angela Bassett did not come to play games as she posed effortlessly on Instagram in a $595 Milly By Michelle ‘Italian Cady’ Crisscross Halter Jumpsuit:

Her crisscross front halter jumpsuit features a keyhole at waist, a hook and eye closure at back and an concealed back zip.

 

She never disappoints. All the way HOT!

If you’re up for the splurge purchase here.

What do you think?

Despite what society tells us, we know that beauty is more than just about your facial features. It encompasses everything about you, and we want to continue to promote women (and men) who are changing the perception of beauty in this industry. Thus today, we give you plus-size model Precious Lee.
Precious has recently garnered a lot of publicity in the modeling world, solidifying a campaign with Lane Bryant as one of their newest additions to their plus-size models featured in their ad pages.

Not only is she putting on for women of color, but she’s also representing for other plus-size models trying to break into this industry! Personally, I love how she’s comfortable in her skin, and flaunts her curvaceous size 14 frame in a way that is sexy yet still sophisticated. She doesn’t deny the gifts she’s been endowed, and that’s a confidence we should all carry!With beautiful dewy mahogany skin, arched brows, and pouty sultry looks, her beauty aesthetic is definitely one that’s unique and old Hollywood resounding. At the core, her body confidence and push to change what a ‘model’ is or what ‘beautiful’ skin types are prove to other women that they are beautiful no matter what size. We love women who encourage others to pursue their dreams, despite whatever society tells you is ‘beautiful’ or not! All of you are beautiful and have the potential to pursue whatever you want! She’s absolutely stunning.

So that’s Precious Lee, and she’s our Beauty Crush Wednesdays. Is she yours?