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Louis Vuitton Appoints Pharrell Williams as Virgil Abloh’s Successor for Louis Vuitton Men’s

Posted on Feb 15, 2023

Another big change is happening over at LMVH. In the first move from Louis Vuitton’s new CEO Pietro Beccari, music producer Pharrell Williams is filling Virgil Abloh’s shoes as the creative director of the brand’s men’s division.

Fashion fans and followers were caught off guard by this development, especially after the light rumors that British-Jamaican menswear designer Martine Rose was in talks for the role.

Prior to Pharrell’s appointment, Louis Vuitton led us to believe they would bring on a series of guest designers, à la the current Jean Paul Gaultier landscape, before finding the official successor. KidSuper’s Colm Dillane was the first and only guest designer to co-create with Vuitton. For Fall 2023, he made a collection full of splashy color and fun harmonies of the KidSuper ethos and Abloh’s long-lasting vision.

Louis Vuitton Men’s FW23
Photo: Filippo Fior for Gorunway.com

With the help of LV’s in-house design team, Dillane rose to the occasion and seemed a great fit to fill the massive shoes left behind by Abloh. Many speculated that this guest appointment might, at the very least, come with a sequel. Yet, the weeks that followed his well-received show bore no word of Dillane’s return or even a note on the next guest designer. As we waited, in anticipation, for more on the brand’s future, Louis Vuitton delivered the announcement of Pharrell’s appointment on Valentine’s Day. Aw.

As soon as Business of Fashion made the news Instagram official, the comments floated between curiosity and excitement, but mostly, disappointment.

While many continued to root for Martine Rose and other female designers that would make a great fit (such as Grace Wales Bonner of her namesake brand Wales Bonner), some questioned the producer’s design credentials. To the latter, I say, let’s not forget that design school does not a great designer make. Some historically great couturiers and designers dropped out, couldn’t afford or skipped formal education to pursue fashion, and it didn’t break or make their talent.

However, there is much to be said about female designers, especially Black ones, constantly being overlooked in luxury fashion’s consistent game of creative director musical chairs.

This isn’t Pharrell’s first rodeo with Louis Vuitton. He first collaborated with the brand in 2004 with fellow music producer Nigo on a collection of sunglasses dubbed Millionaire.

Virgil Abloh and Kanye West in the Millonaire sunglasses
Photo: Getty

The killer shades were well-received by influential Louis Vuitton fans like Kanye West and Pharrell’s predecessor Virgil Abloh. Pharrell returned to Louis Vuitton in 2008 for a jewelry collab with LV’s then jewelry consultant Camille Miceli. The blingy collection was titled Blason and featured diamond-heavy bracelets and solid gold rings.

Last year, Vuitton reported their annual revenue surpassed €20 billion. A lofty price that puts pressure on CEO Pietro Beccari to keep building on that kind of growth. A celebrity at the helm of creative decisions is the safe and expected choice to get this done.

Black Designers

BruceGlen Fall 2023 Brings a Sermon of Saturated Color to New York Fashion Week

The Fashion Bomb Staff

Posted on Feb 14, 2023

You can also count on tasteful twins Bruce and Glen Proctor to drop a collection of punchy prints and colors. Typically Fall is a season for darker and more muted colors, but as true fashion fans know, there are no rules when you have enough style to rewrite the rule book.

Fall 2023 sees some familiar BruceGlen signatures ––like the Signal stripe and their recognizable use of ombre–– on a range of new styles like floor-length vests and spliced denim held together by gilded O rings.

Believe it or not, this season comes even more maximalistic than collections before. With outerwear updates and a colorful take on multiple BruceGlen-ified jerseys, there’s something here for every kind of dresser looking to renovate their wardrobe with every color of the rainbow.

Elsewhere in the collection, you’ll find the brand’s Grenade bag in a slew of new colors like delicate rose gold, while the twinkling Pochette is given a new look with harness detail. Recalling a famed 90s fashion show practice, Bruce and Glen sent models down the runway two by two for more coordinating looks. These ––of course–– provided the right amount of contrast against the looks a little more subtle in their approach toward dopamine dressing.

Fashion Bomb Men

LaQuan Smith Introduces Menswear in His 80s Glamour-Inspired Fall 2023 Collection

The Fashion Bomb Staff

Posted on Feb 14, 2023

In a multitude of ways, LaQuan Smith is growing. As the brand continues its success as an It Girl favorite, Fall 2023 sees the Laquan Simth woman with a new air of maturity.

The show opened with Smith’s new taste for tailoring. An asymmetrical LBD inspired by the traditional tuxedo came before an all-black suit featuring a cropped single-button jacket and relaxed single-pleat trousers with a hand-folded silk waistband. Smith’s signature sexy wasn’t too far behind, as look 3 was a metallic maxi skirt paired with an equally chromatic balcony bra top. Something we’re sure to see on Kim K in the coming months.

Champagne and caviar were waiting for guests in the Rainbow Room, where the elaborate show was held, while an iconic scene from Dynasty’s season 6 finale kicked off the presentation. There’s no doubt the gloriously wealthy and glam Diahann Carroll was on the mood board.

In true Dynasty fashion, the clothes are luxe. Dresses, something Smith does well, is done with his usual sexiness. Plunging necklines and keyholes, mesh fabrics, and open backs sashayed down the runway as to be expected.

However, the star this season was not the dress but the trouser. Smith is diving deeper into tailoring. For Fall 2023, he offers a selection of finely tailored suit options, from modernized tuxedo jackets to several solid trousers. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen tailoring from Smith, but it has never before looked as precise or considered.

He elevates his glam video girl ethos by building on his signature opposed to trying his hand at the classics. Trousers are slung so low they’re almost ‘bumster’ territory. The perfect styling companion, however, for his high-leg bodysuits.

Growth at LaQuan Smith also means exploring new territory. Alongside the second skin suede suits and opulent eveningwear, lay six men’s looks sharing the same exuberance as its women’s counterpart. The outerwear is lush and large, ranging in full fur coats and brightly colored wool options, while the suiting is unique with criss-cross jackets that crop on the sides.

If this season is all about Smith’s growth, I’d say he’s harvesting a good crop.

Trend

Exclusive: Luxury Lingerie Empire, Delisa Rose Launches the PRIMROSE Collection

Rashidah Young

Posted on Feb 14, 2023

Engineer turned designer, Taquiela Wright, celebrates women through confidence.

It’s Valentine’s Day and it just wouldn’t be complete without a saucy, exclusive preview from one of our favorite new, emerging intimates designers!

Meet Delisa Rose, a luxury lingerie brand–the timeless brand will launch its highly coveted new line, PRIMROSE Collection, via e-commerce on Friday, February 17, 2023. Featuring eight innovative designs, PRIMROSE incorporates kismet fabrics such as chiffon, lace, and mesh fabrics to create bold, soft, and elegant pieces – just in time for a loving holiday!

Made in the USA, inspired by the purple primrose, the PRIMROSE Collection aims to breathe renewal and youthfulness through its whimsical and intricate designs. From classic black lace bodysuits with bell cuffs, to fierce waist-snatching two-piece sets, the romantic and sultry collection exudes luxury, couture, and confidence.

And we’re here for it!

“Delisa Rose creates and designs cutting-edge and innovative looks that complement the woman’s body,” says Taquiela Wright, Delisa Rose’s Founder and Designer. “We are seeing a resurgence of body positivity, and the diversity of the market and consumers must remain front and center in today’s lingerie industry. With that in mind, I continue to push the envelope to curator pieces that embrace all shapes, sizes, and skin tones. Wear it. Love it. Live it!”

Crafted to challenge and change the narrative of style, Taquiela birthed Delisa Rose in 2021. Using her experience as an Engineer in the Oil & Gas industry, Taquiela uses geometric shapes and cuts to create unique designs and patterns often not seen in the lingerie space. Her goal is to empower women to embrace their bodies and boost their confidence through designs that embody couture, luxury, and elegance.

Take a look at some of our fave looks from the breathtaking collection that will be exclusively available at: www.delisaroseluxurylingerie.com. Which pieces will you covet on February 17th?

“Julia”: This luxurious Velvet & Lace Bodysuit is the perfect look if you want to stand out from the rest! This beauty is accented with a beautiful stretch floral sheer and gold lace exclusively made for this look only! Features figure-flattering boning and underwire cups, sexy and flirty bell sleeves, and is perfect for going out or lounging thanks to its stretchy and floral lace composition and sassy silhouette!

“Michelle”: Black Velvet Panty & Bralette is just the right amount of elegance you’re looking for when taking lingerie to the next level! This look is accented with a beautiful embroidery lace front. Features figure-flattering boning and underwire cups and beautiful bell sleeves, for a flirty and fun touch. This sexy little piece is perfect for wearing out to a party or lounging thanks to its elegant velvet composition and beautiful scalloped trims accents the seamed cups supported by spaghetti straps.

“Renee”: This luxurious Pink and Black Floral print Robe is long and flowy. It’s the perfect look just in time for spring, accented with a beautiful stretch floral lace side. This classic piece is perfect for wearing around the house when you want to feel extra elegant and beautiful.

“Delisa”: This luxurious Black Velvet Chemise is quite the elegant look if you’re trying to jazz up your bedroom life. This iconic style is trimmed in our signature eyelash lace with adjustable straps that can easily cross over as a sexy dress for a night out or a seductive night in.

Whew chile. From the looks of it, Delisa Rose may just get all of our coins! This collection is fire! Price points start as low as $250-$450, and better yet, it’s all hand-crafted and made with love in the U.S.A.

Photo Credits:

Models: Morgan “Viva” Bradley & Sierra Parker

Creative Direction: Divine Influence PR

Primrose Collection Campaign Photos: Rari Films

Model’s Glam: MakeupbyBarbee

Fashion

Jason Wu’s Show Takes Us On a Journey of Femininity and Romanticism on the Runway

Rashidah Young

Posted on Feb 14, 2023

Exquisite, and elegant, yet soft and luxurious, Jason Wu walked attendees through a dream-like fantasy with his Fall ’23 collection at NYFW located inside the Peter B. Lewis Theater at The Guggenheim Museum.

As models delicately strutted down a circular runway, it was apparent that Wu is one of best evening designers of our time. From illusion sheer and lace dresses to unfinished and romantic chiffon hems, Wu’s line was a testament of his versatility and his ability to create modern black-tie attire with a bit of a twist.

His collection, which was inspired by 20^th century photographer Karl Bloosfeldt and his botanical photography, influenced Wu to take a cinematic direction. You see hints of Bloosfeldt in a variety of Wu’s pieces including feminine stringy silk dresses, blouses and skirts that have the essentials of what makes a garden, loose flowers, and serpents.

The 40-year-old New York based designer who first debut the Jason Wu house back in 2007, has dressed celebs like Michelle Obama, Lady Gaga, and Priyanka Chopra for numerous formal occasions. You can clearly see in his latest collection that he was intentional about creating regal, and breathtaking gowns that we’re meant to be seen on a red carpet.

From onyx, nude, and rose-colored elaborate gowns, Wu showcased styles like blazer dresses with lace turtlenecks and ruffles down the seam, sheer see-through dresses with touches of fringe, and A-symmetrical dresses with peekaboo cutouts. His most notable design was a ruby halter top gown that flared beautifully from behind.

To say Jason Wu’s line was perfectly executed would be quite an understatement as his collection embodied ethereal beauty that shined with glamour and effortless elegance.

Fashion

Imperial Legacy Presents Monogram Streetwear at NYFW

Rashidah Young

Posted on Feb 13, 2023

With eye-catching monograms and impressive emblems imprinted on everything from bucket hats to bomber jackets, Imperial Legacy (IL) presented their “Dark Before Dawn” S/S 2023 collection at NYFW that brimmed with graphics galore.

In addition to oversized silk and graphic bomber jackets that are consistent throughout the line, the IL collection mixes innovative prints on halter tops which they paired with tulle skirts, and cargo pants styled with leather vests.

The Art House that was created by sibling duo, Markus and Faith Smith, has ushered a new set of rules in the fashion industry. “We wanted to create a line that embodies family which is where we got the term “Imperial” from, and “Legacy” to reflect the inheritance that our family will carry forever,” said Markus Smith. With a tagline, “Fresh is an understatement,” the brand goes above and beyond to deliver creativity and pop art in pictorial form.

Ceo Claire Sulmers stopped traffic on her way to the Imperial Legacy’s show in a futuristic silver bodycon dress that she layered with a gold metallic trench coat and completed with silver aluminum thigh high boots that looked as if she walked straight out a fashion-forward galaxy.

Attendees were in for a treat as model’s opted out to strut the traditional catwalk and instead performed choreography as they danced down the runway. “We partnered with Andrew Christy to include choreography in the show because we wanted to entertain guests in different ways so that they actually could see fashion in movement,” said Markus.

The Urban Wear line also includes multicolored swimwear for both men and woman in variety of options demonstrating the line’s versatility. At one point during the show, a model stripped down from wearing a sequence teal gown to a colorful one-piece body suit that showed how multifaceted that brand is.

Imperial Legacy presented cutting edge designs with an urban aesthetic at New York Fashion Week. Their mash-up of various styles encapsulated everything from street-fashion to athleisure wear and it will be compelling to see how subcultures adopt and implement Imperial Legacy into their wardrobe.

Celebrity Style

Rihanna Announces Baby #2 + Looks Red Hot in Custom Loewe, Alaia, and Salomon x Margiela Sneakers at Her SuperBowl 2023 Performance!

Rashidah Young

Posted on Feb 13, 2023

Rihanna is expecting again!

She debuted bump #2 at last night’s SuperBowl, as part of their halftime performance. She looked fierce and incredible in a custom Loewe look and Salomon x Maison Margiela sneakers, performing songs like “Work,” “B—- better have my money,” and “Run this town.” Mirroring the singer, Rihanna’s back-up dancers also channeled streetwear with white monochromatic parachute cargo pants with boxer briefs that held together with chains, perfectly paired with mesh tanks and oversized hooded bombers. Her back-up dancers’ futuristic sunglasses were on fleek as they moved rhythmically up and down the stage in their urban looks.

She later slipped on a floor length Alaia coat at a tribute to her friend, the late Vogue Fashion Editor Andre Leon Talley:

Although the main event was of course the Super Bowl LVII championship between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs, fans would beg to differ that it was in fact, “Rihanna Day.” With months of anticipation, the nine-time Grammy winning artist finally materialized in true fashion form, but this time, with the symbolic announcement of her second pregnancy by rapper A$AP Rocky. Check out some video below:

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Did you catch Rihanna’s performance?

If so, what did you think?

Images: Getty

Claire’s Life: Toasting to Success at the Sergio Hudson Fall 2023 Show with Hennessy X.O, Kimora Lee Simmons, and More!

Posted on Feb 13, 2023

Happy Monday!

Over the weekend, I was blessed to sit front row at the Sergio Hudson Fall 2023 show.

The offering harkened back to the 80’s with bold neon colors, print, and Barbie like hair. The season, Hudson introduced logo’d pieces and new prints, along with bright hued gowns with cut outs that I can see gracing any red carpet.

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For the occasion, I wore Sergio Hudson under a Konstantine Furs coat.

After the show, I toasted to success with Sergio, and his brand owner Inga Beckham, with a special engraved bottle of Hennessy XO.

I also grabbed a pic with Kimora Lee Simmons, Kim Hatchett, and Aoki Lee Simmons (who walked in the show) before calling it a night.

Here’s to many more Bomb Life NYFW moments, elevated by Hennessy.

Fashion Bomb Men

Fashion Bomber of the Week: Joseph McRae from New York

The Fashion Bomb Staff

Posted on Feb 13, 2023

Another week, another men’s style highlight. This week we’re honoring designer and NYC style star Joseph McRae.

McRae’s style is the kind of refined maximalism you’ll find within his namesake clothing line. Tailoring is pristine and sharp, with proportion play often being a main element alongside sentimental patterns. His signature look seems to be when he pairs relaxed trousers with tops that feature outsized sleeves or shoulders.

However, McRae is no one trick pony. He dabbles in streetwear and still incorporates his appreciation for cultural print.

If you’re interested in being featured as a Fashion Bomber of the Week, DM Fashion Bomb Men on Instagram your name, city, a brief bio on your style and 5-10 photos of your best looks.

Featured

Sergio Hudson Presents Bright Neon Palettes and Takes Us Back to the 90’s at New York Fashion Week

Rashidah Young

Posted on Feb 12, 2023

Exuberant and beaming with bright and neon palettes, Sergio Hudson set his NYFW runway show ablaze with colorful garments at Spring Studios, leaving us all to remember that he is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with, and ahead of his time.

From a coalition of zealous supporters who filled the room, to celebrity attendees, and the hottest stylists of the moment, Hudson’s show was overflowing with devotees who’ve precisely recognized Hudson’s undeniable contributions to luxury womenswear.

The South Carolina designer who is known for designing for celebs like Beyonce, Michelle Obama, and Rihanna, presented jaw-dropping, and graffiti inspired looks as an ode to the late 90’s. Channeling nostalgia for the vibrant era with neon colors, and shoulder pads.

In a true testament to the era, Hudson’s vibrant lineup also seems to honor the cult classic fashion of the hit 90s movie Clueless. Tailored skirt sets with structured shoulders dominated the catwalk. Aoki Simmons, following in her model mother’s footsteps, strutted down the runway in a black jacket dress cinched at the waist with a bright purple belt.

Hudson also made way for a line of baby tees covered in graffiti-graphics, which played another major nod to the 90s. Yet, in his sea of suiting and t-shirts, Sergio Hudson does not skimp on the sexy. This designer is yet another to grab hold of the no-pants trend and had models showing off their lovely legs in high-waist black briefs with nylons. Elsewhere in the collection he explored plunging cowl neck mini dresses and sequin eveningwear with thigh-high slits.

Hudson was initially inspired by Brooklynite and award-winning graphic designer Jason Naylors, whose global murals are known for spreading color and positivity through inspirational messages. In fact, the runway floor was covered in one of Naylor’s designs, which reinforced the theme of the evening.