Hey Hey,
So Valentine’s day is coming up! Whether you’re cupcaking with you boo or hanging with your friends for a girl’s night out, the occasion calls for some saucy sparkle–preferably in red. Let’s look at celebs to see how it’s done:
Celebrate in a short hemmed cocktail like Serena and Eve…
…or go tea length… … a la Alicia and Janet.
If you’re not really felling going all out, opt for a layered look… …throw a wrap sweater or jacket over a dress like Sanaa, or simply wear a red knit with a leather jacket and leggings like Gabrielle.
If you’re feeling more ‘bahumbug’ but still want to show a little spirit, try adding a belt to your ensemble… ..slipping on a sleek shoe… …rocking a cherry colored bag… …or really getting adventurous with a turban…. …live a little!
A few Valentine’s worthy items for a steal:
*Wonder what I’ll be doing?? Well…if you’re a Fashion Bomb vet, you’d know that I have serious foot problems. I decided that after Fashion Week, I would finally get my bunion removed. The surgery is set for tomorrow morning! Ack! I am terrified….terrified!!!! But. What better time than now? So while y’all are all cupcaking, boozing, and dancing, I’ll be holed up with my foot in a boot:( Knowing me, I’ll still try to update through my valium haze. Hopefully one of the interns can come through for me during my recovery. Pray for me!
* An Early Mail Bomb for ya:
Reader Maryam loved Rihanana’s look in this picture… …she says, “I wanted to know if you can help me find this dress Rihanna had on at the Clive Davis Pre- Grammy Party last night. Its so hot!!!!!!!!! “
Rihanna’s wearing a Mara Hoffman dress from the Fall 2008 collection (fresh off the runway!)…
So the Grammy Awards were last night… ..I was out, so I didn’t get a chance to watch. I heard they were fire! I had to check out the red carpet for fashion fun…and was a bit disappointed: Beyonce is unequivocally gorgeous, and impeccably stylish in most cases, but this chiffon sequin concoction screamed “Princesse Barbie” to me.
It seemed more fitting for a girl playing dress up than a superstar. I also wasn’t extremely excited with sister Solange’s choice… …the short hem is sexy, but the boxy top half and patchwork details take away from her overall look. Rihanna was shockingly demure… …she usually brings it in a show stopping gown in a great color, but this blue dress, while bold, fell flat. And Alicia Keys…. …looked gorgeous, but something about this navy blue number reminded me of events past… …I totally ‘get’ going with what you know, but for Ms. Keys, I’d like to see a bit more silhouette variety. But not all were ‘misses’: Fantasia is definitely not known for her Fashion sense… …and therefore I was proud to see her in this super elegant floor length black gown…. …I’ll even cosign her two toned hairdo. This is the closest to class that I’ve ever seen her–Kudos! I also really liked Corinne Bailey Rae’s choice… ..short, simple and flattering, she shined in this sequined blue cocktail. My absolute favorite look of the night, at first glance… …Kelis. Doesn’t she just look bossy? Ok, having the ‘n word’ emblazoned on the back of her jacket is controversial, and a pure publicity stunt for her man… …but if you can look past that (I know, it’s hard), I’ve got to give it to her. She totally trumped tradition and dress code by wearing pants, but still looks glam in gold topped off with a bright red lip, sunglasses, and a hot haircut. With all the chiffon, tailoring, and updos, Kelis made it work in her own way.
Hey!
So I’ve finally recovered from Fashion Week!
As you can see, I’m very snap happy….I took a ton of pictures in the tents that I didn’t get to post, so I figured, what better time than today?
I saw this young lady while waiting in the line for Custo Barcelona. Â I loved her gold brocade jacket, and her striped tights were an unexpected touch. Skinny jeans and pumps are accented with a feminine, cinched waist African print top. This model’s whole look–from her boots, bag, to her over the top hair—exemplified casual chic. And lastly this Runway coach is working fitted jeans and a pompadour hairdo on the catwalk of Chris Han.
I couldn’t forget to take a pic at Sean John…
This dope fashion designer and stylist was sporting a skeleton print hoodie, straight legged jeans, a scarf, and plaid hat. He was fierce! He’s doing big things–check in for updates on him soon.
And that does it for Monday Real Style!
Now: The Contest.
After over 30 submissions, our contest winner is… …Vanessa from New York! Cute dress!
Within 40 minutes of my publishing the post, she correcty answered that the ladies in this picture: ..were (left to right) Liya Kebede in Calvin Klein, Jourdan Dunn in Zac Posen, and Hollis Wakeema in Tracy Reese!
About her win, she says, “I’m a little surprised…I almost never win anything…this is exciting!“
Congrats! Enjoy your styling with Pieces! You’ll love it, promise.
Smootches!
Hey!
I’m up bright and early on Saturday to give you the scoop on the Sean John Show!
Yesterday, I made my way over to Cipriani’s near Grand Central Terminal as early as possible…
..I just had a feeling that the line was going to be nuts.
As predicted, the scene seemed a hair short of mayhem, with a line that stretched halfway down the block… …full of stylists, publicists, and editors waiting to see Diddy’s first show in five years.
I hopped on the back and settled in for a long wait, but the line moved quite rapidly, check in was a breeze, and I was in in no time! The seats slowly started to fill in… … and I had my Canon Power Shot poised to take pictures:
Mama Puff was perched front row in full fur glory… … next to Spike Lee in a very fashionable Obama ’08 t-shirt. Baby momma Kim Porter was also in the house to show support.
Cassie wasn’t very far away…
…looking svelte in a strapless canary yellow Herve Leger dress.
Crooner Trey Songz was also in attendance… …as was design czar Roberto Cavalli… …seated closely to rappers Fabolous and Q-Tip. Apparently K-Fed along with a few other ‘A-listers’: Ellen Pompeo, Helena Christenson, and Wilmer Valderama were there as well.
The show started promptly, and I’ll be honest, I was loving all the male model eye candy!
The clothes themselves, however–a compilation of outerwear, suits, and shaggy sweaters–were a mixture of sleek and absurd. I consider Diddy to be a super stylish man, so as I was looking at his collection, I constantly asked myself: Would Diddy wear that?
For most of the collection, the answer would be a resounding, “NO”:
Tweed, brocade, or even sequined jackets can be sophisticated in steel gray, but the rib grazing cropped cuts worn over long shirts would turn most fashionable men away.
Jackets with fur accents are chic in most circumstances…
…but, again, the short length would deter most style mavens, and chinchilla accented sleeves would get an “I’ll pass.”
I was also skeptical of the wearability of tailored jackets in red leather…
…I don’t think the boys in The Band would cosign red fur trim or long sparkly scarves.
But some pieces did have redeeming qualities.
The suits and wool coats were generally impeccably tailored, and perfectly suited for a CEO… The sequined shirts were a bit over the top…
…but I could see Puff rocking them for parties in Ibiza or St. Tropez.
And a few other pieces, like motorcycle jackets in gray and cream… …and nubby sweaters… …would fit seamlessly into the wardrobe of an adventurously chic man.
So while some items were edgy, Puff brought it back with a few can’t go wrong style staples. A great balance and a perfect reintroduction to the world of high fashion.
Of course I caught the final walk:
Is ‘Superstar’ the theme of all urban fashion shows these days? I guess everyone’s really feeling Lupe Fiasco.
The final walk was certainly very ‘Diddy’ and Tyson was a welcome touch.
Bravo.
After the show, I caught a few pictures with resident allstars, including Cassie…
Trey Songz… Blogger Micah Jesse (www.micahjesse.com)…
..and Chanel Iman! So that does it for Fashion Week for the Fashion Bomb… …it started and ended with quite a bang!
Smootches!
Fashion, News and What Nots
*Remember this video?
After seeing it, I totally expected for the show to be a mixture of menswear and womenswear; as you can see, the show was purely men. Turns out a few of my model girlfriends went bright and early to the casting, and were told that Diddy called it all off. Was the viddy purely publicity? I wonder.
* Check out Concrete Loop for more show pictures plus celeb goss.
Hey Hey!
So sigh of relief: Today’s the last day of Fashion Week! To be honest, the excitement level has been on a slow decline since the first weekend. I plan on hitting up Sean John tonight. That one should definitely be interesting!
In the meantime, I’ve gotten a record number of Mail Bombs (seems there are a few new readers…) and have a contest up my sleeve, so…
…Let’s get started!
Newcomer Elizabeth says, “I’ve been trying to find this dress...” “… Can you help me find something similar?!“
Hey! I couldn’t find the exact dress, but these certainly could give you the Kim K essence: Left to Right: Alice + Olivia Sequined Sweater Dress, $330, www.neimanmarcus.com; Michael Kors Runway Cashmere Turtleneck Dress, $627, www.eluxury.com; Mock Neck Bell Sleeve Dress, $84, CoutureCandy Reader Ryan also had a sweater dress query, and says, “I am desperately trying to find out who made Christina Milian’s sweater dress for the GM fashion show…” “...Trying to suprise my girlfriend…any help would greatly be appreciated!“
How cute! Could this be for Valentine’s day?
Anyway, since the GM event was a year ago, Christina’s exact dress is most likely not in stores. But lucky you, I found a few substitutes: Left to Right: Turtleneck Sweater Dress, $29, www.spiegel.com; Turtleneck Sweater Dress, $89, www.victoriassecret.com; Cable Babydoll Sweaterdress, $65, www.victoriassecret.com.
Hope she likes it!
Next, lots of people seem to have their sights set on the beach! Mimi says, “Okay so I know it’s winter and about 30 degrees outside, but I really need a swimsuit. I’m kind of shy to show off my thighs, so I’ve been looking all over for a cute skirted swimsuit. Could you help me find one?“ Reader Kristen is also looking, and says, “I‘m desperately trying to work on a budget for spring break. I want to find a cute bikini, preferably animal print and keep it under 100. I’m not trying to splurge on a swimsuit this year. PANAMA CITY HERE I COME!“
You guys are hilarious! Here are a few options, skirted or not, for less than $100: Top Row: Diane von Furstenberg Chocolate Zebra Striped Halter, $96, www.bluefly.com; W Swim Exotic Paisley Halter and Skirted Bottom, $69, www.macys.com.
Reader Brittiny has a wardrobe question for a different type of weather. She says, “I was wondering if you could find some cute rain boots? Yesterday it stormed all day and there I was in the rain getting soaked. I realized I didn’t have rain boots; I need some. Do you have any ideas? I’m a student in college so I’m on a budget.”
Everyone has to deal with the elements, but not everyone weathers it all in style. There are plenty of products out there under $100 that’ll help you survive while looking chic:
Lastly, Erica says, “I have an inquiry about a fabulous dress that a fellow Fashion Bomber was sporting back in November… “…I loved it! I’ve searched and searched, but could not find anything similar for the spring or summer in that color, perhaps you would know where I could find something that looks that great that I could rock?“
Hi Erica! The closest thing I could find to Bre’s dress was this $148 Palm Burnout Dress… …from www.ardenb.com. If that doesn’t work, perhaps Bre can divulge where she found her frock? Update: Bre’s dress is from Banana Republic, but it’s last season! Lucky you, my sister Teri has the dress, and is totally cool selling hers. Erica, if you’re interested, e-mail her at terilili@aol.com.
That does it for Mail Bombs!
Now, since you guys love contests, I figure, what better time to have one?
I haven’t really been focused so much on the runway in my posts, figuring that my hardcore fashionistas can go to sites like nymag.com and style.com for pictures and reviews available almost minutes after the show. But if you’ve been paying attention, you’d see that there’s a lot more color on the runways–bravo!
In celebration, I’m going to give the first person to tell me the name of the model AND designer of the following looks (three separate answers)… Click to enlarge
… a style consultation plus gift certificate to Fashion Bomb Fashion Week Sponsor: …Pieces Boutique! As witnessed by a few of my Fashion Week wardrobe choices, Pieces stocks well-edited, chic items for the fashionista with discerning taste. Carrying brands like Marie Marie, Tibi, Vivienne Westwood, and LAMB, you’re always bound to find something fresh to add to your repertoire. And owner Latisha Daring (shown here with husband Colin)…
…truly has a unique eye for style and will get your wardrobe ready for spring! Check out a bit of her work:
* I understand there are a lot of newcomers to the blog, so here are a few tips for Mail Bombs:
~ Look under the Mail Bombs topic on the left hand side to make sure I haven’t already found the answer to your question. If the dress/item you’re looking for is 2 months old or more, you might get lucky. If not, e-mail away!
~Try to attach a picture of what you’re looking for.
~If I haven’t gotten around to your question, I’m really sorry! It’s basically just me doing all the sleuthing (believe it or not), so I can only get a handful done every week. Be patient!
~If I haven’t found an answer, and it’s been a while, the reasons most likely are: 1. The item you seek isn’t available online, 2. The item is custom made, or 3. I have no idea. But I try!
Thanks:)
*Have great weekends!
*More contests to come!
*Shop Pieces online store at www.piecesofbklyn.com or pay ’em a visit at 671 Vanderbuilt Avenue (at Park Place) in Brooklyn.
Happy Thursday!
So as riveting as it may be for you to attend Fashion Week vicariously through me (riveting I’m sure), celebrities have also been representing in their Fashion Week best, wearing the hottest designer frocks to perch on the front row. Today I decided to take a break from “Claire’s So Called Life” to look at how some of our favorite celeb hotties brought it for the tents.
Songstress Amerie…
…shined in a sleek satin belted trench and pumps for Baby Phat, then went ivory, girly and frilly for BCBG Max Azria.
Fashion Bomb friend Christina Milian… …works all black ensembles to everything from Herve Leger to Rock & Republic and Baby Phat. Whether a cute top with black lame leggings and boots or a sheath dress with sheer paneling, she seems to understand that black on black is always chic.
Joy Bryant… …goes from preppy at Michael Kors to seriously saucy at Herve Leger in an icecicle orange signature bandage dress.
And ANTMer Jaslene loves the saucy look as well…. …wearing short, skin clinging dresses in electric colors and glossy tones at both Vivienne Tam and Baby Phat.
Our favorite socialite Genevieve Jones… …goes for classic black and white combos whether wearing a conservative cardigan or belted tunic dress.
And Rihanna showed off her cute pixie cut in black outfits worn sheer, embellished, sequined, or feathered… … never forgetting a quick pop of orange pumps.
So, the rule for the front row: Sleek dresses worn sheer or short, concealing cardigan sets with skirts, all the while sticking to a neutral color palette of white and black. Throw in a hot shoe for good measure.
Get a fashion week celeb look for less with the following:
Today, I give you an update on designer Byron Lars… To review, Lars trained at the Brooks Fashion Institute in Long Beach and the Fashion Institute of Technology before launching his first collection. His 1991 collection was hugely popular, earning him the title of “Rookie of the Year” by Women’s Wear Daily. In 1996, Mattel asked him to design a collectible Barbie doll, complete with her own wardrobe. His Barbie designs proved so successful Mattel asked Lars in 1997 to develop an entire line of African-American Barbie dolls, all dressed in designer clothes. In response to “Where are you Now?” Lars replies, “I’m working on my collection, Byron Lars-Beauty Mark, which offers a full range of sportswear.” Among his career highlights, he says,”When I was first starting out, I attended a fashion function for the Democratic party, and Calvin Klein and Donna Karen were there. They both came up together and told me that they liked what I was doing. I remember running home and calling my parents and telling them about that. It was one of my most memorable moments.” Byron Lars Polka Dot Mini Dress, $290
In terms of advice for the younger set, he says, “As with anything else, you just have to make sure that you love it love it love it and are willing to sacrifice a great deal for it. I don’t believe the television images really convey how much sweat equity goes into realizing a collection. You have to love it and be willing to work almost tirelessly for it. Love the work for the work’s sake.”
Interested in Byron Lars Beauty Mark? You can find retail locations by calling 212-575-1783. Lars’ collection is also available in New York at the stores New York Look, Runway, and Palma.
If you want to know more, check out this old New York Times article about Mr. Lars.
Hi!
So yesterday, I decided to take a break from the tents and attend the Fall 2008 collection of Stephen Burrows…
…held at Due per Due, a showroom in midtown.
To review, Stephen Burrows is one of the first African American designers to reach international acclaim. He made his name designing for the 1970’s club crowd–think slinky dresses on the long legged Studio 54 set. He laid low in the early eighties, only to revamp and reenergize in 2002. Since, he’s shown Spring 2007 and Spring 2008 collections.. His show on Tuesday opened with a gold shearling jacket with metallic buttons… … and was followed by a succession of signature matte jersey dresses of varying lengths… …whether draped in long grecian one shouldered styles, or worn short, accented with long chain necklaces, bags with beaded chain handles and gloves.
I absolutely loved his contemporary wear: fluid frocks in gray, green, and mauve with thigh skimming hems and body flattering silhouettes: “The storyline is about the culmination of water and earth, and includes elements of matte and shiny, sexiness and body consciousness,” Burrows said, “I used a lot of matte jersey, charmeuse, and hammered satin.” Sapped from the show, Burrows only plans for the night were, “[putting] the showroom together and going to sleep!“
Of course I snapped a picture with the resident industry heavyweight… …Bethann Hardison. She did casting for the show. I asked her how she was enjoying fashion week, and she revealed, “Honestly, I haven’t seen much.The tents make me sick! They’re overcrowded, so I only go to shows of friends.” She had been to Diane von Furstenberg and Tracy Reese, and was looking forward to Marc Jacobs and Michael Kors. She plans on having the next “Absence of Color” talk in September. I’ll keep you posted!
I also had to get a picture with the man of the moment: …Stephen Burrows! He was sweet as pie.
For aspiring designers, he offered the following advice, “Learn the business, and become a master of mixing the creative and the commercial.” Got it?
You can view the rest of the collection and find retail locations for Stephen Burrows frocks at www.stephenburrows.com.
So today, you get one two punch: a Fashion Week update and a Black History “Where are they now?” moment all in one!
It’s back to the tents in the morning. If anything cool happens, you’ll be first to know!
Smootches!
Fashion, News, and What Nots
*Yes, that’s my $30 Zara dress, tailored to the hilt. What do you think?
*I’ve been writing about Stephen Burrows since 2006! Check out my old posts here and here.
Hey!
While viewing collections and celebrities are the main reasons most indulge in Fashion Week, I also go to view how real people adorn themselves for the occasion.
People of color were representing with lots of Real Style, and of course I had to snap a few pictures: A Gucci purse worn with a navy blue coat, short boots and matching beret signal understated chic. A straight fit siren pencil skirt and zebra print top are enhanced with a vintage-esque belt and clutch. Donning an all black ensemble consisting of a cape, scarf, skinny pants and glasses certainly makes a statement. This young lady flaunts bold colors early, matching purple boots to a purple plaid tie neck top, yet mutes it all with a generous fur. Haberdasherry at its best, this young man always looks fetching with a top hat, vest, and walking cane. And an all beige skirt suit and spectator shoes are jazzed up with a cute bowl haircut.
While everyone looked great, the Real Style Award would have to go to this young lady… …a Hampton University student with a flair for fashion. She stood out by mixing prints like plaid and herringbone with elements that were demure, yet chic (i.e. a black leather pencil skirt and patent leather bag). I had to ask her about her outfit, and she revealed that aside from her Steve Madden shoes, everything was vintage! With a student’s budget, she managed to look like a magazine girl. Great job.
It’s only Tuesday, but I’m already tired of the crowding, lines, and waiting in the tents. It’s a circus! I have a few offsite shows on my platter, including a very cool one today. Stay tuned!
Smootches!
Fashion, News, and What Nots
*Check out Zulema Griffin’s Fall 2008 Video Presentation:
“Can you help me find it please? Thanks!!!“
Top Row: All Saint Black Crop Tab Bommer, $570, www.asos.com;Â Harlow Marilyn Tee in Scarlet,$84, Pink Mascara
Bottom Row: Jet Skull Skinny Jeans, $132, www.ronherman.com; Kenneth Cole Croc 3 Pointer Pumps, $117, www.bluefly.com. 
Reader Ryan also had a sweater dress query, and says, “
