Watch out Kendall, Joan and Chanel! Supermodels have a surprising new form of competition for designer campaigns: video game characters. Creative Director of Louis Vuitton, Nicolas Ghesquière, has an interesting new campaign featuring Final Fantasy 4 video game character, Lightning.
The theme of the “Series 4” campaign is the blending of reality and fantasy, just like the futuristic inspiration for the brand’s spring collection and runway show. Expect to see references to anime, space and the digital world. The company partnered with video game designer, artist, and director Tetsuya Normura of Square Enix to create and animate the visuals. The multimedia campaign is new territory for the brand as Ghesquière hasn’t experimented too much with previous ad campaigns.
Head to Ghesquière’s Instagram to watch a part of the campaign video, and see this merger of fashion and technology.
I don’t really do too much with my nails: I love gel but there’s only so many times in succession you can wear it without doing serious damage. And I use my fingers more than the average person—constantly typing away at the keyboard—so I often find manicures don’t last. But I must admit, I’m quite smitten with these $13 Song of Style x Formula X Nail Polishes:
Aimee Song is one of my faves and the trio of lacquers are chic and subtle enough to wear day-in and day-out. They’re a limited-edition collection as part of the ongoing #ColorCurators collaboration: a partnership that showcases 10 stars in beauty, fashion, and fitness and their customized nail colors. Each month, a curator will reveal their three shades. I can’t wait to see who’s next!
Mintfluencer is my fave by far and has the cutest name!
With the advent of Instagram, our Bombshell feature’s popularity has shifted to social media! Instead of dozens of comments on the site, all the votes and comments are on the ‘Gram! Therefore, I sifted through hundreds of Bombshells from the past year, and included Bombshells who were able to get over 4,200 likes on IG (most Bombshells get 2,000 or less).
Regardless of popularity or timing, these Bombshells killed it.
Classical/Jazz vocalist Erica has more than just astounding talent: she has amazing style! Her short selection of well tailored looks embraced neutrals, punctuated by great shoes.
@AshleesGram wrote, “I like this a lot? The fashion bloggers you usually pick seem to all look the same (blogger starter kit) ripped jeans, strappy sandels, and flannel shirts with a attitude pose to boot.lol This woman is giving me mature, stylist, classy, sophisticated lady! Kudos.”
Sabine The B Stinger worked chic and simple looks to the max.
The bright eyed Florida based Bombshell summed up her style perfectly, typing, “My style is classic, with a hint of trend.”
5,642 likes made her a Fashion Bomb favorite! @MonicaTeamGood said, “Never heard [of] her but her swagggggggg is on overload! The world better follow because she is about to blow!” Kaboom!
We’ve had loads of 2nd timers this year, including Marche from North Carolina.
About her style, she said “I like trends as much as the next person but also try to pair them with classic pieces that I can wear to work and years to come.”
Absolutely everyone wanted to know where she bought her items and @TheBlaqueMusePhoto wrote, “Oh my god love this and she has my body type too lol.”
Brenda worked a series of feminine styles and silhouettes, incorporating loads of African prints.
The 3rd time Bombshell said, “I would say my style is very colorful, trendy and happy.”
Rae B was on board, and said, “Girl you killed it! I loved every fit…from the patterns to the color schemes. I wish more of my African genes were dominant because your curves are crazy and your waist is snatched! lol lol sigh to be a woman with the “apple shape.”
In her Bombshell post, Chaunie wrote, “In my world, there are no rules to the fashion game. As long as you have pure confidence in yourself, you can wear whatever you desire!”
@KenyaDoll wrote, “Her style is hot!!! Love it!!!”
Krystal Rene added, “Love the wardrobe! Love her style! Loved the positive things she had to say! Your fashion represents who YOU are. She’s polished with a hint of edge!”
Whooo, that was a doozy!
But we’re done!
Who should be Bombshell of the Year?
Lupita Nyong’o might just be the epitome of #BlackGirlMagic. The Mexican-Kenyan actress and film director has stolen the hearts of many in the film industry, black community and of course, the fashion industry with her impeccable style and beautiful chocolate skin!
Lupita stirred up a huge controversy when she stated she was Afro-Latina, but she was indeed born in Mexico, although later raised in Kenya. She came to the United States to attend college (Hampshire College), and later returned for her master’s degree, which she would receive in Acting from the Yale School of Drama.
Although she made her acting debut in 2008 with the short film East River, many of us would come to know her four years later when she would have her first feature role in the historical drama, Twelve Years A Slave. It would be her amazing performance in the movie that would win her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, and would push her into the spotlight of the film industry and the fashion world.
She is the first African to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, as well as the first Kenyan actress to win an Oscar and the first Mexican to win the award. Go girl!
Nyong’o has recently made headlines again, this time for her co-starring role in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, currently playing in theatres; she’s already confirmed playing her role again in the next Star Wars movie, set to come out in 2017.
However, Lupita is not simply a celebrity. In 2014, she was named “The Most Beautiful Woman” by People and “Woman of the Year” by Glamour. That same year, she was chosen as one of the faces for Miu Miu’s spring campaign; she has appeared on the covers of many fashion magazines, including Vogue. She is also the newest face to the Lancome brand.
She is also a social activist back in her homeland of Kenya, where she has partnered with the international conservation organization WildAid to help elephants; while also advocating for women’s issues acting and the arts in Kenya. She even has a day named after her (October 20th in Harlem, FYI).
While she may be all of these things, she has definitely carved out a space for herself as a style icon of the 21st century. We can not deny her style is sharp, impeccable, and complimentary of her complexion and shape. Even when she stirs controversy with her style choices, she is dynamite in standing by her choices and looks fabulous along the way. Let’s check out just 25 times she beautifully showed us that #BlackGirlMagic.
With the advent of Instagram, our Bomber feature’s popularity has shifted to social media! Instead of dozens of comments on the site, all the votes and feedback are on the ‘Gram! Therefore, I sifted through dozens of Bombers from the past year, and included those who were able to get over 2,000 likes on IG (most Bombers get around 1,000 likes or less).
Regardless of popularity or timing, these male fashionistos killed it.
2nd time Fashion Bomber Darren introduced himself by saying, “I trust my own fashion sense so taking risks and actually pulling them off is easy for me.”
His submission was chock full of curated looks, both subdued and more adventurous.
He made readers open their minds, with @FashionLawLawyer writing, “I was just debating with myself how I feel about men in ripped/destroyed denim….he looks pretty good.”
We have another model on deck! Sheldon aka Fitz from New York was another crowd favorite.
His Instagram was littered with comments like, “He’s got what it takes,” and “He gets a rare thumbs up from me!”
The kudos continued to his post. Hello wrote, “He is really handsome and is definitely a bomber!” Jilliboo added, “How cute is he?! he looks great in the mono chromatic white outfit. Keep up the great work, handsome!”
Dex was one of our most popular Bombers of all time with 3,747 Likes, almost double the tally of some of his counterparts.
@BrownSugarNikki was feeling it, and wrote, “It’s different from the normal men’s fashion and I like it!”
T Lucidity summed it up nicely on his post, writing, “Well, it’s about damn time! Maybe that’s what this feature needed, in terms of originality, a male perspective! BombMale, for sure!”
Kevon hit us with a man bun and an ample dose of chic.
He wrote, “I’m okay with being the “weird” one in the room.”
While many on Instagram didn’t quite ‘get’ his look, Bombshells on the site did! C said, “Why am I appreciating the ol’ school immitation Hilfiger sweatshirt…it shows he has a sense of humor about fashion….”
Indeed!
And that does it!
Who was the Bomber of the Year 2015?
And, we’ve come to the close of yet another year! We’ve witnessed the evolution of some of our favorite fashionistas and we’ve even watched the growth of some notable up-and-comers. The year 2015 was a pivotal year for a plethora of trends including sheer gowns, sculpted silhouettes and the signature monochromatic look. But, there a few style mavens who managed to get it right in ‘fits that inspired, raised eyebrows and even tugged at our heart strings.
So, join me as we take a trip down memory lane in our favorite looks of the year!
Style extraordinaire Rihanna has had quite the fashionable year! The 27-year old bombshell held us captive as she flaunted some of the most eye-catching (and controversial) outfits. But, it was her 2015 Met Gala showstopper that shook the globe. The singer arrived on the red carpet while uplifting a Guo Pei 2010 Couture yellow fur trimmed gown that screamed oriental goodness!
The Bad Gal’s look also featured intricate detailing, a monstrous train and tons of color. She also donned a matching gold headpiece, pearls and shimmery gold pumps. The showstopping number was an absolute hit on social media and proved that it was one of the evening’s most talked about pieces.
And, I’ve got to admit – this is one of my personal faves for 2015. This look translated perfectly with the Met Gala theme (simply coined “China: Through the Looking Glass“) and left an imprint in the hearts of fashion lovers everywhere. Slay, Ri-Ri!
‘Yonce was another star who made quite the splash at the 2015 Met Gala! The superstar turned heads and dropped mouths as she sashayed down the red carpet in a sheer tulle evening gown by Givenchy. With a high ponytail and nude platform pumps, all eyes were on her as she slayed for the masses.
Mrs. Carter’s bedazzled dress boasts strategically placed multicolored stones, a sleek silhouette and long sleeves. The sultry ‘fit also houses an open back. Whew!
This woman is flawless. Although it was fun to watch Bey serve it up at the Met Gala, it was even better watching the responses this dress got! There were some who felt this was a bit much and then there were others who felt it was a complete hit. Heck, I’ve even seen some prom dresses fashioned after this style. But, if you ask us here at FBD, Queen Bey struck us hard with one!
I’m so excited about our next nominee! Kyemah Mcentyre literally came out of nowhere with her original African print gown. While high school seniors across the country were sifting through pages of magazines looking to the hottest celebs for inspiration, this rising designer took the creative route and concocted her own sartorial masterpiece.
Kyemah’s breathtaking dress showcases a plunging neckline, a full skirt and a striking print. The Instagram sensation kept her accessories to a minimum as she donned a simple gold choker and a matching gold head piece. She looks so regal, no?
It was almost impossible to scroll down your timeline without coming across a picture of this dress – I mean, Kyemah was everywhere! From television to social feeds, her story has made quite the impact on fashion up-and-comers and her daring spirit has landed her spot among our yearly favorites. She also proves that being sexy doesn’t necessarily call for showing all the goodies.
And, shoutout to this dazzling diva on grasping the title of Prom Queen! I love it!
Zendaya Coleman has truly grown up before our very eyes. I’ve watched her effortlessly transition from a Disney star into a full-fledged bombshell – yet, she shows no signs of slowing down! The actress/singer made one of her most memorable walks across the 2015 Oscar red carpet while she rocked a soft off-the-shoulder Vivienne Westwood creation and faux locs.
The 19-year old’s choice of hair seemed to garner both a huge amount of praise and some backlash as well. In a more telling account, E!’s Fashion Police Giuliana Rancic reacted to Zendaya’s fearless combination while expressing that she looked as if she smelled of “patchouli oil…or maybe weed”. After the statement was made, Instagram and Twitter went in on Rancic – ultimately, coming to the defense of our girl Zendaya.
In spite of the controversial reactions, this look soon proved to be one of Zendaya’s most iconic after she debuted her own Barbie fashioned after this chic (but edgy) styling. Yes!
The ageless Jennifer Lopez sizzled as she celebrated her 46th birthday in a black sheer paneled number by Bao Tranchi. This was yet another piece that hit social media pretty hard! Her racy number features an open back, multiple cutouts and a fitted silhouette. She stuck to the all-black rule as she slipped into a pair of mesh heeled sandals.
Although she continued to slay repeatedly throughout the year, it was a daunting task to choose her best looks. This was definitely on of her more risky outfits. But, with a body like that and the boyfriend to match, it seems like Jenny knows a thing or two about capturing (and holding) our attention. Either way, she looks great! Can’t wait to see what she rocks in 2016.
Chinese actress/singer Fan Bingbing was a consistent fixture on our fashionable radar this year. But, it was at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival where she truly stole of hearts. Fan uplifted a gorgeous floral embroidered gown by Ralph & Russo which also boasts statement-making sleeves, an off-the-shoulder feature and a fishtail silhouette.
When I first saw this, it screamed ‘old Hollywood glamour‘. From her emerald gem-encrusted earrings to her sleek ‘do, this stunning number struck a chord with fashion enthusiasts everywhere.
Classy and cute is the style objective here. And, Fan Bingbing owned every second.
So, it’s no secret that Solange is a frequent highlight here on the blog. Her effortless cool and an undeniable style presence has placed her atop best dressed lists time after time – yet, throughout 2015, her style evolution has continued to make waves.
Back in May, the naturalista attended an event at Versailles as she donned a black ruffled strapless top from Stephane Rolland‘s Spring 2015 collection and white wide leg trousers. The B&W color palette gives this ensemble a dose of classic flair but the structured ruffle also adds a bit of personality to Solo’s ‘fit.
To complete her look, the fashionista added a spicy red lip, gold rings and pointed pumps. Hands down: she slayed this one!
And, to round out our Outfit of the Year, we have Mrs. Tina Knowles Lawson! The 61-year old stunner wed beau Richard Lawson in an intimate, all-white ceremony aboard a yacht. For her big day, the bride kept things timeless and elegant in a Romona Keveza Spring 2015 wedding gown which includes a gold belt, long sleeves and asymmetrical detailing.
When the public caught wind of this mind-blowing affair, social media went crazy. Mrs. Tina Knowles Lawson was all over the ‘Gram, Twitter and even the evening news. Now, this is how you break the internet.
I’m so happy for her. And, doesn’t she she look great?! Show ’em how it’s done!
New Year’s Eve is fast approaching!
I’ve been so busy traveling around that I haven’t had time to properly plan:/ I usually like to be out of town, but it looks like I’ll be in NYC, hitting up a concert followed by a House Party!
Wherever your New Year’s plans take you, take a look at a few ideas to ring in 2016 in style:
While cruising one of my favorite Instagram feeds for Stylish Inspiration, I happened upon Kashmir Vii, an artist that creates accessories, coasters, canvas paintings, and tees inspired by African-American Icons and Pop Culture.
Coming to America, House Party, Living Single, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air…all your favorites from the 80’s and 90’s are reflected on the cute and compact totes and clutches.
All the bags are crafted out of polyester with a canvas feel.
Prices are reasonable at $40-$50.
Wear yours as an accent to an already popping look.
I love these!
Purchase the clutches here. See what else the artist has on tap at KashmirViii.bigcartel.com.
Thoughts?
