Hey!
So as you know, I fell in love with Kimora Lee’s choice for the Costume Institute Gala a few days ago…
…I thought it was fresh, pretty, and different. You can tell Kimora understands style: she knows how to take risks without falling on her face!
Of course I wondered to myself who designed her multicolored frock, and thankfully several of you e-mailed me to let me know that the designer is in fact Kevan Hall… …yes! Silly me, I thought I had featured most designers of color on the Fashion Bomb, but there are always others hiding in the folds!
So Kevan Hall was born in Detroit and studied fashion design at Cass Technical High School before attending Los Angeles’ Fashion Institute of Design… …he struck out on his own throughout the 80’s and 90’s before becoming Design and Creative Director for the legendary Halston in 1998. In 2002, he started his own signature line, the Kevan Hall Collection. Now you can see his sophisticated, tailored frocks on the likes of Vanessa Williams, Felicity Huffman, Vivica A. Fox, Virginia Madsen, Garcelle Beauvais, Debra Messing and Renee Zellweger. Looks from his Spring 2008 Collection
When asked what he is up to now, he reveals, “One of our recent projects was the wedding gown and reception dress for Tia Mowry. She was adorable and so in love!“ Spring 2008
“…I enjoy the process of design from concept to execution…But the most gratifying part is seeing a design come to life on a beautiful woman.” Fierce!
Find out more at www.kevanhalldesigns.com, or if you’re in LA, pay him a visit at 8313 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (323-658-7979).
Smootches!
Fashion, News, and What Nots
*New York Magazine actually hated on Kimora’s dress saying, “Thank goodness no children with sticks were around because they might have mistaken her for an African piñata and started whacking her. ” Oh my, what clever snark! I, for one, applaud Kimora for wearing an African inspired gown to a very stuffy, traditional event. Represent!
*If you want to understand the motives behind similar hateful comments, be sure to attend Glamour’s panel tomorrow! Click to Enlarge
I like my sleep, so no promises that I’ll attend.
Here’s a “Claire’s Life” quickie:
Last night I went to Spotlight Live for the Mary J. Blige and Jay-Z concert afterparty. Truth be told, I went to take a picture with Mary, but this is the best I could do:
…So close!!! Cute haircut. (I’m just noticing this now, but is that Kevin Liles in the background???)
Anyway…No matter, I was able to catch up with a few of the other celebs in the house.
The baddest, Trina, was very gracious and sophisticated: Stephen Baldwin was cool and down to earth (and offered my friend the rest of his Red Bull!): And highlight of the night had to be meeting some of the boys from Day 26…. …they were super sweet and kept the Ciroc flowing all night:)
Believe it or not, it’s 3am. Sleep time!
*Just for fun, a quick Day 26 viddy:
Cute! Buy their album here.
*This is so funny! I just looked online for pix of MJB from last night. Check out this picture: Notice anyone in the background?? I guess I did manage to get a pic with her…sort of! *Thanks to Carine of PDG PR and Dante Simpson of DSA Media Group!
If you’re like me, you’ve developed a bad habit of waiting til the last minute to run to Hallmark to get whatever ‘Mahogany’ card is leftover.
After numerous guilt laced phone calls on the day in question, I decided: No More!
There are plenty of cool items you can give to mom without spending a ton. And hey, it’s Wednesday, so if you order today, it should still reach Mom Dukes in time for the holiday.
I decided to help everyone out a bit, and give you 25 ideas for fashionable Mother’s Day Gifts all under $100:
1. Jewelry: Moms wants to feel like sassy vixens, and nothing does that more than modern, funky jewels. Gift her the following affordable picks for a cool look:
*Shout out to one of the greatest TV Moms: …who happens to have one of the best names ever! Ha!
*Um, have y’all seen the pictures of Rihanna in Elle’s June issue? Homegirl is so frickin fierce! Check out the rest here.
*Log on to enter my girl Meghan’s Sex & the City Shoe Contest. [Miss Meghan]
Didn’t get a chance to post these Met Ball pix yesterday (my bad!): Everyone looks sophisticated and svelte. I personally prefer Joy Bryant’s Pucci Gown out of this batch. Like Kimora…out the box and beautiful!
“Fashion encompasses an array of artistic expression, but I am exposed only to the final product of the displayed image- style. Although I like styling, my interests are also held captive in the beauty arenas. Can you feature some make-up artists in the future?“
I’m not typically a beauty girl, so I decided to get in touch with my buddy Desiree… A Fashion Bomb fanatic and two time Real Style subject, Desiree is also an aspiring makeup artist and beauty writer. She says, “I’ve been devouring beauty knowledge since I started wearing lipstick! Every time I bump into celebrity makeup artists I think, “I wish I had a blog to share this knowledge with other women.“
Well, there’s always the Fashion Bomb!
A few weeks ago, Desiree went to the International Beauty Show, and caught up with celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine… An industry veteran, Sam has worked with everyone from Mary J. Blige, Brandy and Vanessa Williams to models Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, and Iman. Basically, he’s the bomb!
He was gracious enough to answer a few questions for you aspiring beauty buffs out there.
Enjoy!
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When Chicago native Sam Fine moved to New York City, he certainly didn’t have makeup artistry in mind. “I moved to New York to become a Fashion Illustrator, ” he admits, “I took a job behind the cosmetics counter because I thought it would be easy…It looked really fun and no one there looked like they were doing any real work (laughs)…“ “…My best friend, who was a professional Makeup Artist, helped me tremendously and really taught me makeup. He helped me to translate my one-dimensional understanding of art into the three-dimensional world of beauty. I just practiced, and got into it, and really decided that I was going to take it seriously…Eighteen years later, you see where I am. “ An industry go-to, Fine has worked with everyone from Oprah to Gabrielle Union, Beyonce, and Tyra Banks, and has painted faces for Covergirl Campaigns, music videos, tours, and innumerable magazines. Fine, who made up Patti Labelle’s face for $150 when he first started out because he was just, “young and dumb and happy to be there,” attributes his success to his inexorable passion for his work. “Looking back, I think there’s a beauty to being naive and just going out on your own and doing something that you have a real passion for.“ For you aspiring makeup artists, Sam stands by ‘real world’ experience instead of traditional beauty school. “I refer to the cosmetics counter as the real “School of Beauty”- the real hands-on training, ” he says, “There, you’re dealing with women of all different ages, features, and textures. And, you learn to understand personalities, which I think is a very big part of this industry. Education helps tremendously and school will make you more prepared to do a celebrity client; but, at the counter, you’ve dealt with so many women and so many different concerns that you can jump right in there and feel a lot more secure about doing a celebrity client…” “…Being behind the counter, being on sets, and assisting– those are the kinds of things that add invaluable experience and really help to mold a career in a way that education doesn’t,” he says, “That’s where you really excel and learn what the business is truly about. Assisting and interning is so important because you get the experience that you need to be a lot more secure in your own artistic ability. It sharpens your own point of view on what beauty means to you…“ Looking for his secret? He simply states, “When you put yourself in a position to do something great you’ll just meet similar people along the way.” In terms of ‘Breaking In’ it seems as if the answer is: get to work! “This is one of the few businesses that doesn’t have a real training ground. There’s no direct route into the industry. At the end of the day, it’s really about what you do with your education and your passion…the passion is what helps you to excel…” Fabulous!
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Learn more about Sam’s work at his website, www.samfine.com and keep your eyes peeled for an instructional makeup DVD this fall on his blog, www.samfine.com/fineblog.
Also pick up a copy of his book, Fine Beauty… Purchase by clicking here.
Smootches!
Fashion, News, and What Nots
*Snaps to Fashion Bomb flygirl Desiree for coordinating this amazing interview!
*If you, too, want to contribute to the Fashion Bomb, e-mail me with interest! I’m accepting applications for Fashion Bomb summer interns. There’s no bling involved, but I can promise it’ll be lots of fun. Shoot me an e-mail at thefashionbomb@gmail.com along with a few ideas you think could work.
*Fun Fact: Sam is responsible for this May Ebony Magazine cover… …featuring the beautiful Ugly Betty star Vanessa Williams. Fine more clips from inside over at Concrete Loop. [Concrete Loop]
*Check out the Breaking into Fashion archive for profiles of stylists, publicists, editors, and more! If you have something in mind you’d like to see, e-mail me.
Fashionistas and Celebutantes of every stripe converged last night for the Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. A few pictures of Fashion Bomb esque celebs: …snaps to Thandie Newton for going with a mid thigh lingerie inspired dress along with sexy gladiator sandals! She really pushed the envelope (as you can see, most people wore floor length Princess gowns). And I’ve got to give it to Kimora for also thinking outside the box in her colorful creation. Beyonce looks like she’s pageant ready in her champagne gown, and J. Lo quite demure in her ice blue frock. Zoe Kravitz stepped it up significantly, and Iman looked radiant, as usual. If I had to pick a winner, I’d go with Kimora for picking something appropriate yet interesting (I wonder who designed her dress..?). But what about y’all? Whose outfit fits your fancy?
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
So on Friday I was hanging on 5th avenue with my buddy from London…we were walking and talking, catching up, when I saw this seriously dapper young man…
Click to Enlarge
…I mean, are you serious? He was soooo well turned out with his embroidered jacket, pinstriped vest, cravat, and matching pocket square…not to mention his gold rimmed sunglasses, bold jewelry, and pointed shoes. He kept it a little edgy with an Afro and a lollipop… literally EVERYTHING was on point. I had to ask what he did to achieve such Fabulosity….turns out he works at Bergdorf Goodman.
Figures.
So, what do you think? Doesn’t he have great style?
Smootches!
Fashion, News, and What Nots
*Just for some Monday fun, a hip hop fashion throwback:
Time for some fun!
Several people wrote in inquiring about Alicia Keys’ shoes in this picture: Alero says, “Do you have any idea who makes them or have you seen anything similar?“
Stellar intern Adriana searched, and found that Ms. Keys is wearing these Dior Mary Janes: …go to www.diorcouture.com for retail locations.
In yet another Alicia Keys request, Jaime wanted to know how to get this hot dress… …According to this source, she’s wearing a Calvin Klein creation. The closest approximation I could find was this Calvin Klein Wool Jersey Dress… …available for $1,603 at www.net-a-porter.com. Loads of people were also interested in Alicia’s shoes, but the terns and I searched with no luck! If you can find the brand plus a link or picture, I’ll send you a Fashion Bomb T! E-mail thefashionbomb@gmail.com with your answer! Update! You guys are so fast!
Tammi C wrote in saying, “Alicia’s shoes are Sergio Rossi…” “…check them out here.” Go to www.sergiorossi.com for price and buying info (warning his shoes average about $700…though one reader wrote in saying, “I will eat Ramen for these!!“) Anything for fashion, huh? Anyway, congrats Tammi!
In non Alicia Mail Bombs, Aisha from London says, “I am obsessed with Keyshia Cole’s top…“ “…It is fire!! I want it…I need it, I am obsessed with it…lol, where can I find it?? The best feature of the shirt is the ruffled neck line for me.“
It looks like Keyshia’s wearing this $222 Warhol Factory X Levi’s Ruffle Tux Tank… …from www.barneys.com.
Now for a few wardrobe queries.
Nina from Washington, DC writes, “After getting rained on today while trying to hold my toddler and hold an umbrella, I’ve come to the conclusion it is high time I got a rain coat with a hood. All the ones I’ve found are not fashionable in the least! I know they must exist. Can you point me in the right direction? My current budget is around $100…but I’m always interested in seeing the beauty that I can’t afford as well!“
Sure! Try these affordable options: Left to Right: Gallery Short Trench Coat, $118, www.nordstrom.com; Elie Tahari Brenna Hooded Coat, $268, www.saks.com; Hooded Trench, $100, www.freepeople.com.
Next reader Raven says, “I’m a senior in high school and my prom is coming up!! I decided to do it BIG! and go with a white gown! but now I’m clueless on how to make it stand out..what color shoes and accessories should I pair with my dress..if you can please write me back i would greatly appreciate it..“
Hey there! I’ve done a few posts about white outfits… …Generally, white looks great with metallic accessories…I personally think gold looks a bit more dressy than silver. For your prom make sure your accessories pop with details like stones, sequins or beads: Top Row: Knotted Gold Leather Sandals, $30, www.stevemadden.com; Franchi Metallic Flap Clutch, $66, www.bloomingdales.com; Jacqueline Ferrar Krystal Sandal, $50, www.jcpenney.com.
Bottom Row: Elissa Bloom Jewel Pouch, $41, www.ebags.com; Guess Okanarra Evening Sandal, $99, www.macys.com; BJuliet Gold Metal Clutch, $38, www.stevemadden.com.
Next, Deesha writes in saying, “I have a party to go to this coming weekend, and I have a dress that needs some livening up. As you can see I have the shoes and the dress…“ “... but I need help with accessories, what would you recommend?“
Your dress is so simple (and cute), you can go wild with bold accessories: cascading necklaces, cuffs or bangles. Use these for inspiration: Top Row: AV Max Gold Straight Link Necklace, $36, www.bluefly.com; Cousin Claudine Stretch Bracelets, $85, www.intermixonline.com; Xhileration Gold Toned Multistrand Necklace, $13, www.target.com.
Bottom Row: ASOS Woven Metal Cuff, $13, www.asos.com; Chains and Gem Necklace, $64, www.bebe.com; Kimberly Faith Gold Cuff, $53, Couture Candy.
Lastly, proof that you guys actually follow my advice!
Nique wrote in last week asking for shoes to match this dress: …I suggested some silver strappy numbers and voila: Party Perfect!
Deesha, Raven, you have to tell me how it all works out (and send pictures!)
Have amazing, fabulous weekends.
Till Monday…
Smootches!
Fashion, News, and What Nots
*Wanna learn how to strut the Runway like a superstar??? Fashion Bomb friend Andre J is offering classes in NYC for men and women, young and old titled “Strut the Catwalk.” Click to Enlarge
According to the press release, “If your desire is to become a runway model or to enhance your current skills, then these classes are for you! Andre J has worked with top name designers, make up artists, and photographers and would love to teach you all there is to know about fashion and walking the runway.” For a mere $500, you too can live the dream. E-mail ajrunway@gmail.com … you better work!
*NY Mag’s Fashion Blog imagines the Presidential Candidates in Comme des Garcons, Gaultier, and Lanvin…. …ah the magic of photoshop. [NYmag]
*Project Runway winner Christian Soriano does Puma… …yup that’s him with Fashion Bomb friend Estelle. Only one degree of separation! [MyItThings]
Um…have y’all seen Alicia Keys lately? Homegirl has been working it out with the dresses, pumps…everything! I’ve been flooded with Mail Bombs about how to get her look. I figured I’d start early with an outfit she wore yesterday to TRL:
*Have y’all heard of Martin & Osa? It’s a new upscale brand by American Eagle. I took a look at their site…they have tons of cute work separates at affordable prices. A few picks: Top Row: Scarf Neck Top, $38; Print Silk Shirt Dress, $78.
Bottom Row: Pintuck Front Shirt, $58; Bootcut Trouser Jean, $88.
Not bad! Check ’em out at www.martinandosa.com. Bonus: Get 30% off your order by entering 32619559.
*Eric Wilson of the New York Times on Steve & Barry… …he wonders: how are the clothes so cheap? [NY Times]
*Save the Date!!!!
My homies up in Harlem are having an Uptown Emerging Designer’s Market May 17th and 18th!!!
The event will feature up to 50 cutting edge designers of men’s and women’s apparel/accessories, complimentary cocktails, gift bags, guest DJ’s and more! Plus it’s free!
Wanna go? RSVP to rsvp@uptownedm.com. Also check out their website, www.uptownedm.com.
*Forbes just released the ‘15 top earning models,’ ranking sultry catwalkers based on their yearly income. Gisele Bundchen smashed her competition, taking the first place slot with $35 million. Fashion Bomb-esque models trail in comparison, with Selita Ebanks in 12th place at $2.7 million and Liya Kebede in 15th place with $1.5 million. See who else made the list here. [Forbes]
Hey!
So the color turquoise has been popping up as of late on many the red carpet whether blessing full on frocks or popping with accessories. The cool color is perfect for warm weather, reflecting the clear sky and flattering most skin tones.
Let’s take a look at how some of our favorites rock it:
Selita Ebanks looks stunning yet simple in a cool blue thigh length cocktail…
*W Magazine is looking for interns!! Fashionista reports, “W Magazine needs full time and part time interns for Fall ’08. You should be prepared to work 2-5 days a week, for 8 – 12 hours a day. You will be working in the W fashion closet, calling in clothes, helping to pack for fashion shoots, and occasionally assisting on sets. You will be really bored and really stressed unless the only thing you have ever wanted to do is work at a fashion magazine.“
So many of you write in asking me how to break into fashion…this is how!
If interested, e-mail garrett_munce@condenast.com with a short explanation of why you’d be perfect for the job (oh and your Fall ’08 schedule). Do it!!
…yes! Silly me, I thought I had featured most designers of color on the Fashion Bomb, but there are always others hiding in the folds!
…he struck out on his own throughout the 80’s and 90’s before becoming Design and Creative Director for the legendary Halston in 1998. In 2002, he started his own signature line, the Kevan Hall Collection. Now you can see his sophisticated, tailored frocks on the likes of Vanessa Williams, Felicity Huffman, Vivica A. Fox, Virginia Madsen, Garcelle Beauvais, Debra Messing and Renee Zellweger.
Looks from his Spring 2008 Collection
Spring 2008
Fierce!
Click to Enlarge
5. 
