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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.
Check it out:
1. @SimplicityXStyle from New York (5,183 Likes, 104 Comments)
To this day, we still don’t know this elusive Bombshell’s name! We will now and forever refer to her as her Instagram handle, @SimplicityxStyle.
Her ensembles bubbled over with designer duds, from DSquared2 sandals to Céline bags, and fuzzy Chanel purses.
@Dear_Fashionista cosigned, “Yes. She’s everything! Her shoes slay. The shades!? Chile yes!” Agreed!
2. Erica @epapillionposey from Colorado (4,501 Likes, 161 Comments)
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.”
3. Shenique @shequestyle from Turks & Caicos (4,117 Likes, 103 Comments)
Shenique from the Turks & Caicos brought loads of color, prints, and punch to our Bombshell feature.
Readers were wowed, leaving comments like, “She’s gorgeous, great smile and fashion as well.”
@Honye_xo was over the moon, typing, “YES! YES! A million times YES! ?????” We couldn’t agree more!
4. Eunice aka @fashionsplayground from Wales (4,405 Likes, 99 Comments)
Eunice dazzled us all with her bomb looks and bodacious form.
She worked a wrap dress like no other, and enlivened everything from jumpsuits to wrap skirts with her singular flair.
@IamChevinell effused, “Wow this lady is gorgeous. Simple and elegant yet sexy. Yasss girllll ???”
5. Sabine @thebstinger from Florida (5,642 Likes, Over 138 Comments)
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!
6. Charmaine @Charmsie from Atlanta (5,407 Likes, 142 Comments)
Charmsie is all around creative, whether she’s unleashing a litany of looks for Halloween or moonlighting in our Bombshell feature.
She wrote, “My style is very eclectic, I can look like completely different people throughout the week and I love that.”
You guys loved it, too, with Antoinette typing, “Charmaine is awesome from head to toe!!!!!!! She’s a fashion DIVA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!“
7. Marche aka @marcherobinson from North Carolina (5,743 Likes, 147 Comments)
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.”
8. Brenda @theonlyskinnybish from Ottawa (4,782 Likes, 203 Comments)
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.”
9. Teki @teki_02 from Texas (4,292 Likes, 97 comments)
Teki from Texas slayed with simple ‘fits that every woman could find flattering.
On Instragram, readers wrote, “Killed it, completely!” and “Murdered Every Look.”
She wrote, “I don’t think fashion should be about only sticking to high end designers, but rather how you can obtain the look of a high end outfit.”
10. Chaunie @southernfashiondoll from Dallas (4,552 Likes, 80 Comments)
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.
1. Johnny aka @johnnydotjpeg from New York (2,259 Likes, 94 Comments)
Johnny from NY danced into our hearts with a diverse sartorial selection. Suits, sneakers, jerseys…whatever he wore, he worked it.
Readers were pleased! @Angelica.Fields typed, “He cute love his style,” and @Yansstyle wrote, “I dig it.”
His post garnered an impressive 16 comments, and 89% of readers voted, “Hot! Kaboom! This is a Fashion Bomber!”
2.Gregory aka @artofastylist from Maryland (2,481 Likes, 91 Comments)
2nd time Fashion Bomber Greg from Maryland got his pose on with obligatory shades and unmatched pinache.
Words used to describe him were “Dope,” “Dapper,” and “Classic.”
On his post, the praise was unanimous, with comments ranging from, “Everything is impeccably tailored!” to “Awesome style!”
3. Willie @williesparks from Chicago (2,233 Likes, 46 comments)
Willie from the Chi gave GQ realness with modelesque poses and magazine worthy pix.
Most comments focused on his undeniable good looks.
Hunny Bee typed, “I like the subtlety of his style and it doesn’t hurt that he’s a cutie lol.“
4. Darren @thereal_darren from L.A. (2,788 Likes, 63 comments)
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.”
5. Grant aka @grantkee from Memphis (2,011 likes, 65 comments)
Grant represented for Memphis in a mixture of high and low pieces, from Hermes to vintage tanks.
He was submitted by former Bombshell Peyton, who wrote, “I am submitting my darling friend and former commercial model for Fashion Bomber of the Day.”
Dyshaun approved, writing, “Nice. Very.”
6. Sheldon aka @_fitz_ from NYC (2,377 likes, 45 comments)
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!”
7. Dex @dexrob from New York (3,747 Likes, 86 comments)
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!”
8. Jean @theplainvillegent from Dallas (2,131 Likes, 77 Comments)
Jean was another 2nd timer who wanted us to see how his style had evolved over the years.
His forté? Well tailored suits in an assortment of colors, from more traditional navy blue to lipstick red pants.
@Shante1019 summed it up nicely when she wrote, “Sharper than a tack!” Review his post here.
9. Cecil @sea4short from New York (2,393 Likes, 85 comments)
Photographer and personal shopper Cecil said he, “Fancies the elements of femininity composed in a masculine way.”
Leoliness saw the inspiration, writing, “Yesssss… I love every look. He is giving me Lenny and Miguel…”
Her opined, “He dresses better than most females.” Do you agree? See his post here.
10. Kevon @kay_style_ from L.A. (2,288 Likes, 156 Comments)
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?
*Stay tuned for our Bombshell of the Year Post!
So, the #BestOf2015 continues…
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!
1) Rihanna in Guo Pei 2010 Couture at the 2015 Met Gala
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!
2) Beyonce in Givenchy at the 2015 Met Gala
‘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!
3) Kyemah Mcentyre in Kyemah Mcentyre
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!
4) Zendaya Coleman in Vivienne Westwood at the 2015 Oscars
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!
5) Jennifer Lopez in Bao Tranchi at her 1 Oak Birthday Celebration
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.
Werk it, hunty!
6) Fan Bingbing in Ralph & Russo at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival
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.
7) Solange Knowles in Stephane Rolland Spring 2015 at Martell Cognac 300th Anniversary at Versailles
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!
8) Tina Knowles Lawson in Romona Keveza Spring 2015 Wedding Dress
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!
So, who do think takes the title?
Signing Out — Esmesha
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:
Sequins are always a good idea! Pair a $120 Rare Opulence feather trimmed black cocktail with feathered sandals and a Jennifer Le Cairo clutch. Get the exact dress here, or play with a few other sequined options by the brand below:
Keep monochrome going into 2016 with a pink furry vest by Elie Saab and high waisted drawstring pants by Rodarte.
Accessorize with an Elie Saab box clutch and Jimmy Choo pumps. Get the look for less with a Minkpink Faux Fur vest, Alice + Olivia pants, and Ted Baker Court Shoes.
Lastly, if you’re hitting up a house party, keep it simple in a festive top, jeans, and pumps.
While we chose a Cushnie et Ochs top, jeans, and Jimmy Choo pumps, you can work with options for less, including this cute number from Lulu’s.
Be further inspired by these fabulous celeb NYE perfect ensembles:
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?
Happy Monday, folks!
As you’re well aware, I spent the past week in Lagos, Nigeria, visiting fabric markets, luxury boutiques, and more! During my time there, I patronized restaurants, did a bit of shopping, and lived it up!
Take a look at a few Fashion Bomb tips for Lagos:
1. How to Get There.
We were booked on a direct flight from JFK to Lagos on Arik Air, a Nigerian airline operating a domestic, regional and international flight network. I flew business class, and I must admit: it was nice! The roomy seats fully reclined, the food was delish, and the decor was reminiscent of a discotheque!
The business class service was the bomb, and I was happy as a clam watching Nigerian and international movies while sipping champagne. But then I landed…and my suitcase didn’t appear on the baggage carousel.
Thus began three days of confusion, unanswered questions, and frustration. It seemed as if Arik didn’t have a computerized system to find my checked bag. Bag tag numbers were written down on forms instead of put into a system, and it seemed everyone we called didn’t know where my bag was! I feared it was lost, stolen, switched, or had completely disappeared into the ether. Thankfully, after several Snapchatters and insiders asked about my luggage’s whereabouts, it was located, and I was given my belongings.
After all that, I’d honestly recommend flying Arik again, ONLY if you DON’T check your bags. I spoke to my father, who was a pilot for United Airlines for several years, who also said that he tries not to check bags on international flights with airlines he’s not super familiar with. I’d say it’s a good rule of thumb! If not, Delta also flies to Lagos…
Just saying!
2. Where to Stay
Pierre and I stayed at the Radisson Blu, which has nicely appointed rooms, a yummy restaurant, and a cosmopolitan outdoor dining and pool area.
My room was freezing because of a broken Air Conditioner, but aside from that, I have zero complaints about Raidisson Blu! Customer service was tight. It was bomb!
3. Where to Eat
I probably gained about 10 pounds in Lagos. The food is DELICIOUS (if you like spicy food). Egusi soup, peppered snails, beef stew, pounded yam, Joloff rice, jumbo prawns…my mouth is literally watering thinking about all of it! I loved it all (though the food didn’t always love me…!).
We had the best cuisine in all of Lagos, so behold, my favorites.
This snazzy café and restaurant features bumping music and some of the best in Nigerian cuisine. You can get everything from Beef Burgers and Grilled Steak to Peppered Snails and Roasted Fish.
What to Get: The Seafood Okra and a Chapman with Ciroc.
In addition to food, Terra Kulture has a bookstore on the main floor, and an art gallery on the 2nd floor. Pop by for readings, events, and mouth watering meals.
What to Get: The Egusi Soup
Bring your laptop to Crust and Cream to get some work done while sampling their menu. All the seafood is a safe bet; they have more American cuisine than other restaurants mentioned.
What to Get: The Crispy Prawn Appetizer.
4. Where to Shop
Meidei exclusively carries African designers, from Eve & Tribe to Ada by Alter Ego, and more.
Their prices run the gamut; there really is something there for everyone!
With goals to expand into a department store, Meidei’s 2nd floor houses their beauty enclave, where you can get a mani pedi, hair and makeup, body scrubs, organic products, and more.
Shoe game crazy? Make it even crazier with haute heels from Florence H.
Inside their two locations, you’ll find flats, heels, and booties by Sergio Rossi, Rene Caovilla, Giuseppe Zanotti, and Casadei.
Alara Lagos is a fashionista’s dream! Your eye will dance with delight as you gaze at all the beautiful items and breathtaking architecture.
The concept store carries local art, furniture, and European brands that cater to an African or global aesthetic like Stella Jean, Dries van Noten, Mary Katrantzou, Marni, Nicholas Kirkwood, Stella McCartney, and more.
Prices are steep, but I challenge you not to find something you enjoy.
All about accessories? Look no further than Polo Avenue. You’ll find Rolex Watches, Gucci Bags, Jimmy Choo heels, and Les Petits Joueurs bags, along with sparkly, vibrant baubles by lesser known designers.
Try on shoes and bags as you swill champagne. Guys, they have stuff for you, too!
You’ll love every minute.
See more at PoloLuxury.com.
5. What to do
When I go away, I like to luxuriate. Which means, lay by the pool, dine at a delectable restaurant, maybe go out a day or 2. While we spent a lot of our time on the move, I was able to relax at Oriki Spa (7B Oju Olobun Street V/I Lagos; OrikiGroup.com).
I decompressed with a full body massage, foot rub, and facial using all natural ingredients.
It was heavenly! Book your appointment at OrikiGroup.com.
And that does it!
Do you have anything to add?
*See more Lagos, Nigeria insights at TheBombLife.com.
A few extra Lagos, Nigeria Notes:
*A lot of my friends asked me about security and safety. It’s hard to say, as we were accompanied by a driver and security the whole time.
I met some residents who didn’t think security was necessary, and others who did. Suffice it to say that Francis never had to use his gun, but it felt good to have him there. If you don’t have a mobile security guard, it would be a good to have a local contact who can pick you up from the airport or help you in a pinch.
**Uber just opened up their Lagos chapter, so you can definitely use them to get around. See more at Instagram.com/UberLagos.
***Images: Karl Pierre
Little Mix star Jade Thirlwall celebrated her 23rd birthday in New Castle while sporting a $225 House Of CB ‘Claudia’ Blue And Nude Lace Deep Plunge Long Sleeve Maxi Dress:
Her leggy look is crafted from fine blue lace, sheer nude mesh and features a floaty maxi design.
The sultry number is comes equipped with nude shorties.
Werk it! If you’re up for the splurge, purchase yours here.
It’s been a year of designer shake-ups in fashion (but honestly isn’t that becoming the norm?).
Brands as simple and familiar as American Apparel or Abercrombie & Fitch have been revamped with new creative heads just like the luxury labels (think Balenciaga and Gucci). Though it seems like product production is at an all time high (seems may honestly be a light term to use), designers still have the onus of standing out amongst it all. Here are a few that have.
1. Olivier Rousteing of Balmain
No matter your opinions about his design aesthetic or business strategy, one must admit that Olivier Rousteing is a major part of the culture zeitgeist. Whether you chalk it up to his celebrity friends, bevy of social media followers (he’s the most followed fashion designer on Instagram) or the sex appeal of his designs, he’s definitely created a name for himself. So much so that one can quickly forget that Balmain is not the same size as brands that are thought to be it’s contemporaries like Givenchy and Valentino. Of course, it’s impossible to mention the brand and not acknowledge their well received H&M collaboration, which gave regular girls a chance to have a piece of their embellished pieces in their repertoires.
Everyone rom Nicki Minaj to Jada Pinkett Smith, Jennifer Lopez to the Kardashian/Jenner clan has worn a Balmain piece this year.
It’s easy to say that Balmain might have had the best year ever.
2. Riccardo Tisci of Givenchy
Though he had a somewhat crowning year in 2014, 2015 has been good to Riccardo Tisci as well. He made a sizable splash in September when he opened the gates of his New York-based fashion show to the public.
And don’t forget his multiple Vogue covers. It’s been the perfect year to follow up his 2014. At one point, after naming people like Victor Cruz as the face of the brand, he even got fellow designer Donatella Versace to pose in an ad campaign.
What we love about Givenchy’s Riccardo Tisci is his commitment to diversity and pop culture. What other brands casts Alicia Keys, Erykah Badu, Victor Cruz and more in ads?
3. Laquan Smith
Sure, sometimes it’s about the big brands–but not all designers are behind Parisian-based houses. Queens-raised LaQuan Smith has been doing his own thing for years (we’ve been supporting of course) and this year, it seems everyone was taking notice.
Sure Kim Kardashian has taken to his sheer beauts and crop top and skirts sets (which caused insanity), but everyone from Beyonce to Jennifer Lopez to Rihanna has donned his wares before. It’s big news for a designer in his late 20s!
His eye catching, silhouette driven designs are sure to continue grabbing notice, well into 2016.
4. Alexander Wang of Alexander Wang and Balenciaga
Being a New York-based designer and being named to a major couture house is a hell of a big deal and that’s what happened to Alexander Wang. Though his role was short lived, the designer no doubt learned a lot from the role while trolling through archives and working hand-in-hand with the house’s couturiers.
Now having refocused his attentions solely on his namesake, it’ll be interesting to see what he has in store for the future.
5. Kanye West
This year we finally saw #YeezySeason in full. With fashion shows and his first Adidas line finally hitting stores, we got a chance to really see Ye’s design chops.
What we found? His strengths lie within the shoes that he creates that sell out release after release.
While Adidas has already announced they will not produce the next apparel line for the rapper, we doubt he’s going to slow down.
That does it!
What was your favorite designer/brand of 2015?
