Fashion Bombshell of the Day: Nadia from New Jersey

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Today we have a maternity Bombshell! See what Nadia from New Jersey sent in:

The blogger for NacStyles.com wrote, “I would describe my style as a mix of trendy and classic.”

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“I like to combine high end and low end…”

“… but I LOVE a good bargain so I enjoy dressing on a budget a lot more. “

“I’m not a huge fan of Maternity clothes so I have been wearing a lot of non-maternity pieces…”

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“…and most are pieces that I already own.”

See more here:


Simple and sleek! Love that Biggie tee.
See Nadia’s blog at www.nacstyles.com.
Are you feeling it?

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 6-8 clear, unfiltered, head-to-toe pictures of 6-8 different outfits to thefashionbomb@gmail.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.

Fashion Week Discussion: Should Designers of Color Use Models of Color on The Runway?

Quite an interesting discussion erupted on Instagram when I posted a picture of Stella Jean‘s Fall 2014 collection, which showed today in Milan.


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Stella Jean Fall 2014

Instead of focusing on the bright African prints and lustworthy shoes, commenters were more dismayed at the lack of diversity on Stella’s runway.


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Stella Jean Fall 2014

Stella Jean, who is half Haitian and half Italian, is known for her vibrant kente and ankara printed separates, mixed with European menswear tailoring. She, however, didn’t use any black models in her Spring 2014 show. Out of 30 looks for Fall 2014, 3 were modeled by women of color.


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A look from Stella Jean’s Spring 2014 Show

@SoulfulSwag wrote, “Who’s her audience? I hate when some African based designers only use Caucasian models! Are you afraid your clothing won’t sell if you actually use black models?”

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@KidCadaver went on to look at Jean’s Instagram page, noting, “Stella Jeans IG, when viewed in the aggregate, looks odd for its overwhelming presentation of white models in ‘African’ inspired clothing.” @AsamPete added, “I just viewed her IG page and I must say I am disappointed in her lack of model diversity.


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A picture from Stella Jean’s Instagram

Bethann Hardison has been spearheading the movement for Diversity on the Runway since 2008. I agree that it would be nice to see a few more women of color on Stella’s runway, though she did use a handful this season.


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Stella Jean Fall 2014

The bottom line is: designers still believe that women of color, particularly black/brown women, can’t sell clothes. The common belief is also that black women are not the target luxury customer; they’re not the ones buying the bulk of merchandise, so why cater to them by including them in advertisements or in runway shows?

Models display creations of Prada Spring

We obviously know this line of reasoning is false. Still, this season in Milan, some of our favorite fashion houses, including Etro, Dolce & Gabbana, and rapper’s delight Versace only used one black model on their runways.


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Versace Fall 2014

Perhaps Stella is simply following in the footsteps of her colleagues, keeping diversity to a minimum as to not ‘shake the table.’ Perhaps she simply didn’t have any back models available! Jean is based in Italy–perhaps she believes her runway models truly reflect her consumer base. Jean is also half white. Maybe she identifies more with her Caucasian lineage than her Haitian heritage, despite her design aesthetic.

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We may never know.

The bottom line is: diversity is the ideal for us at The Fashion Bomb and for people like Bethann Hardison, Naomi Campbell, and Iman. It would be great if diversity were the ideal for all designers–especially those of color; especially since there are so few designers of African descent showing on an international scale.

Stella Jean with Anna Dello Russo
Stella Jean with Anna Dello Russo

But it’s clearly not a priority for everyone. And I guess that’s their prerogative.


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Stella Jean Fall 2013

What do you think?
*See more of Stella Jean’s work under our Stella Jean tag.

2014 Cayman Islands Fashion Week Recap

Summer is just around the corner in the Big Apple, but I had the privilege to travel to a destination where it feels like Summer all year: the Cayman Islands. I’m sure you’re wondering what this has to do with FBD — well I had the honor of traveling there for 2014 Cayman Islands Fashion Week. I had never been to Grand Cayman and I’m always looking to add new stamps to my passport, thus I couldn’t wait to take in the sights, sounds…and the fashion!

After flying in on American Airlines and enjoying two days of parties, poolside relaxation, a tour of the Island, and tons of great conversation with the designers and models, we were shuttled to the big event which was held in a reformed airport hangar.

On tap were local designers including Norma Ebanks and Melissa Dilbert, as well as world-renowned designers including Edwing D’Angelo, Yumi Katsura, and Andrew Christian.

Norma Ebanks captured the vibrancy of the island, with bold prints and electric hues.

One of my personal favorites was CARNI, a menswear line steeped in functionality and athletic-inspired design with mesh jersey-influenced tops, leather drawstring track pants, zipper accented trousers, and colorblock shorts — all in wearable neutral hues.

Edwing D’Angelo served up a slew of sophisticated separates, punctuated by floral prints, lace, and cutout detailing for sultry peeks of skin.

It was all about prints and two-tone hues for Cesar Galindo and his collection of flowing dresses with the occasional blouse, pair of pants, or jumpsuit thrown in for good measure.

It was a really fun show! I also loved pieces from sexy swimwear line Afrodesiak.

I couldn’t have enjoyed myself anymore than I did! If you’ve never been to the Cayman Islands, you need to book your trip now. I’ve been to islands before and a number of other countries and this is officially in my top 3 when it comes to the most beautiful places in the world. The sun is hot (bring loads of sunscreen), the water is clear and warm, the people are beautiful, and the weather is wonderful. I will definitely be making my way to Grand Cayman again!

To read more about CIFW, visit www.caymanislandfashionweek.com. Thanks so much to Terry Donovan and Cindy Rosan Jones at Guavaberry Marketing for having me! The Holiday Inn Resort Grand Cayman couldn’t have been more perfect.

What did you think of the fashion at Cayman Islands Fashion Week?

Fashion Bombshell of the Day: Telia from Atlanta

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Today’s Bombshell is Telia from Atlanta:

She says, “I love to accessorize and challenge my closet by putting different patterns together.”

” I believe in being edgy instead of trendy.”


” I think my style is inconsistent…”

“… sexy…”


“… and chic.”


” I don’t believe in just high fashion but vintage buying and household names.”


” I love mixing all three to complete my outfits.”


You have some really great pieces. Love that herringbone skirt suit.
See more of Telia on Instagram @BRAREIAM.
What do you think?

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 6-8 clear, unfiltered, head-to-toe pictures of 6-8 different outfits to thefashionbomb@gmail.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.

Fashion Bombshell of the Day: Chastity from San Francisco

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Chastity from San Francisco has been a Bombshell before, and submitted for her first time in 2014. Take a look at her latest looks:

The owner of GarnerStyle.blogspot.com says, “This upcoming year, I’ve explored my own personal style more…”

“…Taken some chances…”

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“… and have tried things that I wouldn’t normally try.”


” I often find myself working on more fashion forward looks that encompass mixing prints…”

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“…. using bold colors…”


“… and items traditionally not considered suitable for a plus size woman.”


See how Chastity remixed a few items in her wardrobe here:

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Hot!
You look great, as usual! You have great proportions and awesome taste. I want that printed look.
See more on Instagram @GarnerStyle.
Thoughts on Chastity’s latest flix?

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 6-8 clear, unfiltered, head-to-toe pictures of 6-8 different outfits to thefashionbomb@gmail.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.

Fashion Bomber of the Day: Tim from New York

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The fashion is poppin’ in Milan, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have time for our Bombers and Bombshells! Today’s male style submission is from Tim from New York:

The celebrity fashion stylist and blogger for Epikstyle.com writes, “My style is forever changing.

” I really like to switch up my looks almost on a daily basis…”


“… it all depends on how I’m feeling that day.”


” I really like experimenting with every aspect of my look from my hair down to my shoes…”

“… without neglecting masculinity.”


” I like to be fun…”


“… unpredictable”


“… and effortless with my style.”

Very nice! Really feeling everything about this submission. Are you?
See more of Tim’s style on Instagram @epikstyle.

Fashion Bomber of the Day is a feature showcasing the singular style of male Fashion Bomb Readers. Send your name, location, a description of your style, and 5-8 picture(s) to thefashionbomb@gmail.com. Images submitted may be featured on Facebook or Twitter. Comments can be harsh, so bring your A game!

Fashion Bombshell of the Day: Aghogho from Maryland

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You guys seemed to be on the fence about yesterday’s representation of the DMV! Hopefully you’ll be more convinced with Aghogho from Maryland’s style:

The blogger for Zeldanfestus.blogspot.com types, “I’m Nigerian – American from Maryland (the DMV) currently residing across the pound in Edinburgh, Scotland.”

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” My style is for the most part: minimal, simple and chic.”

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“I have an avid love for vintage, flats and accessories, which I acquired whilst studying at Howard University.”


“I normally mix designer, high-street and vintage in my daily ensembles; trying to wear at least one statement accessory to pull my entire look together. For example, here I’m wearing: vintage + modern jewellery, a Fendi bag, Carven Flats and a Topshop Dress.”


“I’ve lived in London, West Yorkshire, and Edinburgh whilst in the UK, and for the most part my surroundings have slightly influenced my style.”


“I try as much as possible to dress for my shape + height (I’m 5’11’). My weight has fluctuated through the years and I know that all trends do not suit my shape or taste.”


“Of course being Nigerian, I have an affinity to prints every now and again.”



“In regards to fashion, I tend to ‘ball’ on a budget. I have a seasonal list and try to stick to a certain amount each year on shopping. I try as much as possible, to never pay full price for designers…unless of course I have to. I scored these YSL PomPom heels for a mere £70.00, I blog about how to find sale items from time to time.”

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“I believe in quality over quantity.”

” I tend to save for big items and guard against impulse buys. I’ve lost lots of money doing that and know the importance now of money management. Thus, I tend to repeat pieces a lot.”


“As I get older, I’m less concerned with trends and seek to buy timeless pieces that will stand the test of time and by God’s grace and be passed onto my future daughter. Now, if only I’d win the lottery so I could step up my bag game! *smile*”


Hot! Classic, timeless, chic, polished…you’ve got it going on!
See more of Aghogho’s style on her blog Zeldanfestus.blogspot.com and on Instagram @ZeldanFestus.
Thoughts?

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 6-8 clear, unfiltered, head-to-toe pictures of 6-8 different outfits to thefashionbomb@gmail.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.

Fashion Bomb TV: Talking Style and Beauty with Zendaya Coleman

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A Givenchy American Dream Tank, L'Wren Scott Striped Canvas Skirt from The Outnet, and Duckie Confetti Fur claire sulmers zendaya coleman

Happy Thursday!
So I mentioned here, I interviewed Fashion Bomb favorite Zendaya about fashion and beauty on the last day of New York Fashion Week!

She was totally adorable and lots of fun.

She has a new partnership with Carmex lip balm. With her creative input, it now has very cool packaging with a stylish twist. See us chat it up here:

I’m really working on this TV thing!
How did I do?
And what do you think of the latest from F Bomb TV?
Video by Sam Centore

Fashion Bombshell of the Day: Karin from Maryland

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Today’s Bombshell is Karin from Maryland!

She says, ” I was born in Germany, I am of Nigerian descent, and I reside in Maryland (The DMV area!).”

“Differing from the norm definitely portrays my style. Wearing what makes me happy is my policy. I don’t follow trends, I set my own.”


” My style is the 21st century avant-garde movement! I’m definitely pushing the boundaries of what is accepted and expected!”


“… Growing up I never could comprehend why people always had something negative to say about my [vision]. It’s evident that people misconstrue anything that differs from the norm.”


” Now, I’m so used to people saying things like “WOW… only you could pull this off!” When I first started hearing it, I pondered to myself “am I really wearing something unusual?” I honestly saw a vision this morning and made it reality.”


” My reality to some seems to be very peculiar, and to others, daring. But in my opinion, it’s simply a reflection of me.”


” Whether it’s my clothes, accessories, or my sweet crush, a unique pair of SHOES, I put it together and make it my own…TANTALIZING!”


” Individual style should be a reflection of you….Embracing me! :)”


” I have a passion for fashion, a love affair with vintage, and an unbreakable bond with my love my new clothing line, Uniquely Atypical by Karin.”

Refreshingly different! You have your own point of view and pull it off with flair. Hot!
See more of Karin’s style on her site, www.uniquelyatypical.com.
What do you think?

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 6-8 clear, unfiltered, head-to-toe pictures of 6-8 different outfits to thefashionbomb@gmail.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.

London Fall 2014 Fashion Week Style Diary Day 2: A Peter Pilotto for Target Moto Jacket and Pencil Skirt, CC Skye Clutch, and Gianvito Rossi Leather and Perspex Pumps

A Peter Pilotto for Target Jacket and Skirt, and Gianvito Rossi Leather and Perspex Pumps
A Peter Pilotto for Target Jacket and Skirt, and Gianvito Rossi Leather and Perspex Pumps
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On my last day at London Fashion Week, I decided to try a few of the Peter Pilotto x Target items I purchased on for size.

I had my eye on several pieces from the collection, but have a thing for blues and greens! The light blue check moto jacket and matching pencil skirt (and shorts) were easy choices.

I’ll be honest: I’m not so good with makeup. Or rather I haven’t had time to do my makeup. So the theme abroad has been large sunglasses and lipgloss.

A pair of Gianvito Rossi pumps and a black jacket to keep me warm, and I was set for a day of shows.

I flew to Milan this morning! And plan on attending a handful of functions. As always, stay tuned to @ClaireSulmers & @FashionBombDaily on Instagram and TheBombLife.com for irreverent, occasional posts.

*Did you get anything from the Pilotto x Target collection? I’d love to see how you rock it! Send your pix to thebomblife@gmail.com.
Photos by David Nyanzi