We made it to Day 4 people, which means we’re halfway through Fashion Week! Day four I decided to come with Esmesha to see the Jonathan Simkhai show, which looked to be a knockout show (Solange is a huge supporter of the brand as is the entire CFDA).Heading over onto 14th Street, we trudged our way on through the cold in an effort to get to MILK Studios, where many shows have been taking place this week and where we were sure to get to Jonathan Simkhai’s Fall 2016 show!Once we were inside, we received our Press credentials and got into the line with fellow Press to head upstairs. Then, the reality of Fashion Week happened. The show was full and they weren’t letting anyone else upstairs. Defeated and downtrodden, I searched through Instagram hashtags, hoping to find anything, ANYTHING that could give me hope for the show. Anna Wintour was there. In that moment, I knew I had to stay, just in case she, or someone else I could recognize, came out.

Many of you who have been running into me this week (because let’s face it, crazy blonde locs like mine are hard to miss) have been asking me one question in particular, which is, “Jame’, what tip would you give to someone trying to do what you’re doing?!” While there are a million answers to that question, the thing that has carried me the farthest would definitely be resilience and tenacity. Going that extra step is vital to getting what it is that you want. For example…This awesome photo I snagged with the beautiful Urban Bush Babes founders Ciprianna Quann and TK Wonder may LOOK like we just caught each other after the show. What this photo doesn’t show is me seeing them walk out the door and ditching my jacket and purse to run up a block before they got in their car (mind you, in 15 degree weather)! Thank goodness they were nice. But that extra step is what it takes…I also recognized two of the models from Simkhai, Herieth Paul and Grace Bol (you may recognize Herieth because she’s the latest Maybelline spokesmodel!). Both ladies were SUPER kind to take a photo for me, and their skin made me completely envious. I need whatever they’re using.The lovely June Ambrose snuck up on me today, but we couldn’t miss that hat of hers! I somehow caught this pretty clear shot of her beautiful outfit as she brisked on by….*sigh* We also got to finally meet Shiona Turini, the woman responsible for many of the looks behind Beyonce’s “Formation” video and Rajni Jacques. I didn’t snag a photo, but let me just say they are both just as kind and beautiful in person.As for me, I opted for a menswear-inspired getup, with a navy and white polka dot top under a cobalt blue blazer (with awesome purple inside-layering). I paired it with some purple trousers and my black booties for a quick height boost. My hair…well, that’s a whole different story.

 

Anywho, I’m ready to retreat into the covers! The days have been long, nights have been short, and work has been plentiful, but days like this show that even if it doesn’t work out your way, it can still work out. Make sure you’re keeping up with us on IG and my personal IG, Theblondemisfit (where I plan to keep you guys up to date!) See you all tomorrow!

The Grammy’s are going down tonight in LA! Are you excited about the red carpet?
Before the main event, crooners and their gorgeous dates attended Clive Davis’s 2016 Pre-GRAMMY Gala and Salute to Industry Icons.
Take a look at the evening’s attendees:

Ciara and Russell Wilson have been making their rounds!

Ciara showed off her stems in a black high slit gown by Ronald Vanderkemp. She knows what works for her, and werks it. Hot!

Andra Day is gorgeous, no? She looked amazing in a Roksanda Zubin Colorblock Gown, featuring festive Valentine’s Day colors.

Chrissy Teigen glowed next to John Legend in a forest green Galvan London gown.

Janelle Monae and Jidenna were fetching in neck ties and impeccably tailored ensembles.

Tori Kelly wore a custom Monique Lhuillier white jumpsuit with beading.

Brandy’s white Ruffian gown was simple and sweet.

Jordin Sparks skewed sexy in a Halston halter gown with side cut outs.

Keke Palmer bet on a lace purple gown by Lethicia Bronstein.

Miranda Kerr showed off her lithe form in Balmain.

Ellie Goulding looked bomb in blue.

Lastly, Jazmine Sullivan flashed some leg in a high slit sparkly velvet gown.
Inside…

Gwen Stefani traded her signature red lips in favor of a lipstick red Michael Costello Mrs. Robinson cocktail.

And Janelle Monae, Russell Wilson, Ciara, John Legend, and Chrissy Teigan danced it up to the sounds of Earth, Wind, and Fire.
Looks like fun times!
Who had your favorite ensemble of the evening?
Images: Getty

Happy Monday, Bombshells!
I’m in LA fulfilling my duties as a member of the Colgate Optic White Smile Squad (more on that later)!
I hope you’ve enjoyed New York Fashion Week thus far through the eyes of Fashion Bomb Daily newbies Esmesha and Jamé: aren’t they adorable?

At any rate, the Fashion Bomb train never stops: we’re having our first Claire Cares and CCW Collective Fashion Show this Tuesday, February 16th in NYC:

As I mentioned here, FBD’s 10th year is all about passing the baton, and grooming new, promising talent. Jesse Queen is a young designer with a niche product that has universal appeal, and we are helping her put on her first presentation!
RSVP to Show@FashionBombDaily.com.
Hope to see you there!

Karrueche Tran was white hot at her KaePop Brunch, clad in a $191 Bossa Byblos Dress:

Her Balmain-inspired dress features gold double-breasted buttons, a halter neckline with cutout detailing, and a form-fitting silhouette.

Werk Karrueche!

Get Kae’s dress for a splurge here.

Thoughts?

Tracy Reese opted for a interactive presentation this season rather than her typical runway show, but that didn’t mean that Tracy Reese didn’t put her mark on fashion week. The brand convened the usual culprits of fashion and entertainment in an intimate gathering at The Roxy Hotel in New York and debuted a short film entitled “A Detroit Love Song” followed by the Fall 2016 RTW collection in the barroom nearby.

In homage to Detroit and its cultural melange, the collection was a mix of slouchy suiting, 1930s speakeasy references in leg garters and leather boots, and natural printed blouses and dresses channeling the city’s rebirth. Knit and silk gowns in rich wine and navy blue, crochet lace overlaid dresses, and houndstooth bombers with athletic stripe were thrown in for good measure.

Tracy Reese always gives a great balance of wearable chic. Her clothes are fashion-forward for the everyday woman with powerful pops of glamour and bold silhouettes. The two fur coats added an extra dose of sophistication and the mesh face netting accentuated the old-school nature of the collection.

Tracee Ellis Ross is a major fan of the brand, so I’m picking the floor-length landscape dress as a potential look for an upcoming event. Paired with black strappy heels, this multi-green hued gown would look phenomenal with Tracee’s complexion and natural hair. A long-sleeved floral number would make for another romantic ensemble for a red carpet moment.

No event would be complete without industry insiders — stylist June Ambrose and original creator of New York Fashion Week Fern Mallis were on hand to lend support at the presentation. In her tribute to Detroit, Tracy Reese no doubt made her hometown proud.

 

What do you think of Tracy Reese’s Fall 2016 RTW Collection?

Source: Vogue.com

Derek Lam constantly refines and reinvents the idea of sportswear, however, this collection appeared to ditch all previous notions and embrace the urban socialite chicness of glam and class.Of course the speciality of the brand, trench coats and peacoats , made an appearance; rich camels, soft browns and fuzzy greens embraced the collection as he did not shy away from color.Bright, bold and beautiful colors came down the runway, encapsulating the beauty of the season while also showing his audiences that a little pop of color for Fall is not such a bad thing. The cohesiveness came with the spontanuity of the collection, presenting a sequined royal blue gown in the same presentation as varied tweed ensembles reminiscent of the 70s.Offsetting his colorful collection, he offered alternative dresses in black and in white, flowing down to the ankles in soft fabrics of cream with plunging necklines. He featured dresses that consisted of tulle fabric, perfect for a fairytale or a dream.

 

What do you think of Derek Lam’s latest collection?

Hey ya’ll!

My time in New York has been such an eye-opener. I mean Fashion Week has been a complete whirlwind of shows, celebrities, editors/stylists and (of course) temperatures falling below zero. But, despite the treacherous walks down the street, there is so much beauty within this city. I’ve been inspired on so many levels!

Now, my second day in the city was kind of light. Initially, I was scheduled to attend the Suno Fall 2016 presentation at Pier 59 Studios but, due to writing obligations and a shortage of time, I decided to forgo the show. Instead, I attended Herve Leger.

The Herve show was very interesting. And, not the “good” interesting. First off, our seats were practically given away upon arrival. Sam, Jame and I ended up in the back with behind a camera happy adolescent, an up-and-coming blogger and a young woman who kept stepping on my big toe, lol.

The show itself was commendable. You can see more of our thoughts on the show review here.

After the show, I wandered off and ran into a few old colleagues who were being snapped by the street style geniuses. And, among all the bombshells and bombers, I spotted my girl Ashley Dunn. Ashley is a Houston-based stylist whose done an impressive amount of work for local television talk shows, news segments and women all over the city. I met her a little over a year ago and it’s brought me back to the realization of the importance of networking.

As a first time attendee, I’ve realized that networking is a huge responsibility to those who come out and support these designers. New York Fashion Week gives those looking to break into the business an excellent opportunity to touch bases with the top dogs (i.e. – editors, stylists, writers, etc.) while also discovering other like-minded individuals. There’s truly nothing like it.

In just two days, I’ve met bloggers, Fashion Bomb readers, designers and even business owners. Networking is a powerful tool! I’m telling you. If you ever get the opportunity, get out there and make your presence known. You never know who you may run across! (Business cards are a MUST.)

But, let me get off my soapbox! Lol, day 2 was legit. I also had an enlightening lunch with Jame and we discussed so many aspects of writing/blogging as well as our personal lives. She’s an absolute pleasure.

So, that about rounds up my day! I survived the disrespectful winds as well as the excruciating cold but, hey, I’m still kicking!

I’ll keep ya’ll posted as my adventure continues to unfold.

 

Signing Out — Esmesha

Hands down, Jonathan Simkhai’s Fall 2016 presentation is among one of my top three presentations this season!

Simkhai’s unadulterated sartorial talent manifests within each and every one of these dynamic looks. With a strong love for monochromatic palettes and a touch of romanticism, this New York designer has taken modern femininity to new levels.

Although the platform for this collection rests upon neutral colors and sleek silhouettes, Simkhai effortlessly manages to keep his looks fresh and unpredictable. His attention to detail is also apparent through his use of sultry features which include off-the-shoulder effects, plunging necklines and even sheer ensembles.

In addition, more “unconventional” touches were also injected into this fashionable jambalaya. Simkhai’s love affair with timeless fringe, fluted hems and plays on texture also add a bit of depth to his versatile pieces.

White/navy lace midi dresses, sleeveless turtleneck tops, tailored peplum jackets and ruffled wonders all made their way down the catwalk. And, the chic vibes continued as retro-inspired suits also made a quick cameo.

With a growing fanbase, this designer has captured the attention of fashion favorites including street style maven Shiona Turini, creative director/fashion content editor Rajni Jacques and the legendary Anna Wintour. But, despite his fashionable following, the Simkhai brand continues to evolve as an innovative power house.

The designs from this fall collection are perfect for fashionistas who crave a bit of a sculptural influence within their wardrobe. All in all, each look tells a different story yet the theme remains consistent – Simkhai proves that a simple touch of glamour can help to alter an entire look. Whether it’s a fox fur or a gold silk slip dress, the elegance that oozes from these creations is unparalleled.

So,  what do you think of Jonathan Simkhai’s Fall 2016 Ready-to Wear collection?

Pictures: Vogue.com

 

Signing Out — Esmesha

If socially conscious is the modus operandi for our generation, then Pyer Moss fits right up our alley. Designer Kerby Jean-Raymond did not take this mantle upon himself, but enlisted none other than music legend Erykah Badu to collaborate and make her styling debut in his Fall 2016 RTW collection.

The atmosphere was expectant — it’s not everyday you hear of a music legend collaborating with a fashion designer and the collection is not plastered with their name (see Fenty x Puma). If you’re not familiar with Erykah Badu’s forays into fashion, she recently graced Riccardo Tisci’s spring 2014 Givenchy campaigns and has been known to rock ‘top hat’-‘torn overalls’ gypsy style for a number of years. Badu contributed a large assortment of her own personal accessories to style the Pyer Moss collection, including her signature chauffeur hat with pins — a style many of the models rocked on the runway.

The mood was heavy given the collection’s focus on human emotion and depression. Entitled Double Bind, the collection found its footing in a theme of two contrasting things in conflict. Exhibit A: a group of choral singers draped in white with ‘Pyer Moss’ in simple text across their chests singing opera interpretations of traditional trap songs. Luxurious alpaca fur, sheepskin and floor-length teddy-bear coats were accessorized with graphic tees featuring ‘Why So Blue’ and ‘Suffer No More.’

The front row had its fair share of supporters, including Robin Givhan of The Washington Post, Julee Wilson of The Huffington Post, Nikki Ogunnaike of ELLE.com, and model-adovocate extraordinaire Bethann Hardison. The show closed with the poster “My demons won today, I’m sorry,” but from the audience’s perspective – no apologies were necessary. Jean-Raymond did his thing and we’re looking forward to seeing more from the brand on the horizon.

What do you think of Pyer Moss’ Fall 2016 RTW Collection?

Images: New York Times

 

Solange Knowles took to the Tibi Fall 2016 show in the brand’s $375 Plum Featherweight Cashmere V-Neck Pullover, $895 All Over Sequin Nerd Pants, and $248 Furla Mini Stacy Leather Bucket Bag:

Her classic cashmere sweater boasts a v-neck, dropped-shoulder cut, relaxed fit, ribbed edges, and a button closure.

Her wide-leg cropped trousers feature all-over sequins, a flat front closure, and side seam pockets.

Her mini bucket bag showcases a drawstring closure and single top handle strap.

Another flawless look!

If you’re up for the splurge, get Solange’s sweater here. pants here, and bag here.

Are you feeling it?