Yippee!
Welcome to the first mail bombs post of the New Year!
Believe it or not, people have been getting pretty agitated that Mail Bombs have been out of their lives for the past few weeks.
Christmas, Holidays, and Vacation, they say: Bahumbug! Bring me my Mail Bombs!
Thankfully, today, I’m finally back on the prowl…

…let’s see if I still got it!
First up, Melyssa from Toronto says “These boots are oh-so HOT!!!”
…”Who makes them??? And where can a Toronto fashionsta such as myself could cop a close match for a more reasonable price?”
Well, Melyssa. Your taste is oh-so expensive! Those hot studded beauties are none other than Christian Louboutin’s Donjon Over the Knee Boots…
..available at www.net-a-porter.com for $2,350! I think that’s how much my whole wardrobe costs!
Anyway, with that level of craftsmanship, it’s hard to find something similar, but I thought these Quai D’orsay Snap Flower Trim Boots gave off a similar effect…

…for $299 at www.forzieri.com. Not quite Louboutins, but close enough (and almost 100 times cheaper!)

Next, we have another Toronto reader (who’s spreading the Fashion Bomb Bug up there??)
Tiff Says, “I’m pretty tall and as a result I wear size 11 shoes. I can’t find a hot pair of leather boots in my size ANYWHERE! I’m sick of tall stores and their “trust me these are in ” now fashions. I’m desperate for a pair of flat knee high leather boots. can you recommend any sites I can try online? I’m in Toronto so online is usually my only option.“
I did a quick search and found the following flat styles, all available in size 11:
Top Row: Sudini Adjustable Waterproof Flat Boot, $200, www.nordstrom.com; Frye Women’s Paige Boot, $347, www.endless.com.

Bottom Row: Corso Como Dame Boots, $260, www.piperlime.com; RSVP Billie Boots, $140, zappos.com
I’m on the fence about this next Mail Bomb’s style quotient, but…. Shanaya from Oakland, CA wanted to know where to get a look like baby sis Solange:
She says, “I just love the patterned tights under her tunic!“

Do you? Well, if you want a Solange boudoir-esque style, simply match the following with a black patent handbag and shoes:
Left to Right:Paul & Joe DouxReve Dress, $598, www.madisonlosangeles.com; Corset Belt, $58, www.ardenb.com; Wolford Streamline Tights, $52, www.barneys.com.
Next, Audrey says, “I NEED Rihanna’s bathing suit here!“
“…It’s so vintage sexy. I love it! Where can I find it???”
Rihanna’s bathing suit in Louis Vuitton, but you can cop her swimsuit game with the following high and low priced items:
Top Row: Lenny Deep V-Neck Maillot, $235, www.saks.com; Badgley Mischka Glitter Girl Swimsuit, $250, www.neimanmarcus.com.

Bottom Row: DKNY black tie tank swimsuit, $60, www.bluefly.com.

Save ’em for the summer!
Next, Tiffany says, “My favorite color is purple and I absolutely heart any shade hue or variation of it!”

“…Can you help me find a few good purple picks?“
Get in a purple haze with the following:
Top Row: Paneled Halter Dress, $159, www.bebe.com; Searle Silk Satin Crystal Dress, $698, www.searlenyc.com.

Bottom Row: Rag& Bone Bubble Dress, $515, www.neimanmarcus.com.
Next we have a mail bomb for the fellas! Shareta wants to dress her boo up like Bow Wow…
…for the New Year.
She says: “My BF is obsessed with Nautica and button up polo type shirts. I am trying to get him to be more stylish. He definitely has the body for this shirt I just don’t know where to find it. I know nothing about mens fashion. But I know this shirt is hot! Any help at finding this shirt or one like it will be greatly appreciated!!!“
Get his look with the following military inspired tops:
Left to Right: ASOSMan Military Shirt, $34, www.asos.com; True Religion Brand Jeans Overdyed Poplin Western Shirt, $136, www.nordstrom.com; Ever Korea Double Layer Shirt, $253, www.revolveclothing.com.
Reader Brian is also a Bow Wow fan, and wanted to get his leather hooded look…
…as a Christmas present.
Looks like I missed the deadline, but if you’re still looking, I felt this Nevada Jacket by Ever came close…
…get it for $880 at www.activeendeavors.com.
Next, we have our first Facebook query!
Reader Cheryl came upon a picture of a facebook beauty…
….wearing a lovely turquoise, yellow, and pink number in her profile pic.
She says,”I was wondering if you could help me locate this dress. Pretty please! 🙂“
Well, the world is indeed small, because the woman in the picture is my friend Chinwe.
She revealed, “The dress is BCBG and I got it on eBay!”
Good luck!
Lastly, Arielle from the Islands says, “ I wanted to know if you would do a little feature on winter wear essentials. I’m from the Islands and I need help!!!”
Oh Arielle, I feel your pain. When I was coming up North from Atlanta, I believe I had one lonely poleyester blend sweater to my name! I didn’t know any better, so before I came up, I bought a North Face ski jacket, a fleece, and a face mask…the first time it snowed, I remember being bundled up to the hilt with mittens! I so wish I had a picture (I might dig it up)…
In the meantime, you’ll need a good coat in wool and down, a few wool or cashmere sweaters, wool socks, and winter accessories–a cute hat, scarf, gloves. And don’t forget your feet! Get a pair of leather boots as well as sleet proof snow boots. Want to do it in style? These should get you started:
Top Row: Michael Kors Black Quilted Hooden Down Jacket, $195, www.bluefly.com; Diesel Taupe Wool-Alpaca Cable Knit Sweater, $115, www.bluefly.com; GUESS? Wool Blend Military Coat, $168, www.nordstrom.com.

Middle Row: Hat Attack Hatat-Signature Solid Hat, $40, www.lisakline.com; Love Quotes Scarf, $85, Pink Mascara
Cashmere Lined Gloves, $49, www.talbots.com.
Bottom Row: Jada Boot in Brown Leather, $170,CoutureCandy
Lofty alpaca shawl-collar sweater, $60, www.jcrew.com; Juicy Couture Nylon & Faux Fur Snow Boot, $195, www.neimanmarcus.com

You can spend a lot or a little on winter items (I just wanted to give you some ideas). Either way, good luck–it’s cooooold out there!
Smootches!

Fashion, News, and What Nots

*There were a bunch more Mail Bombs…I’ll get to them next week!

*Deals of the Day
Abaete Tricolor Charmeuse Dress, $149, www.saks.com.

Beyonce’s Milly Kaleidescope Dress…

…marked down from $405 to $243 at www.net-a-porter.com.
*This isn’t a political blog, but…
…Yay!!!!! The deadline to register to vote in New York is January 11th. Register here.
Don’t know why I’m excited? Read this.
*This is sad.

Happy Thursday!
So I went to the gym yesterday afternoon to take my regular cardiosculpt class, and was blown away, momentarily, by the sheer volume of newbies sweating away on the ‘mills. Then I realized that (duh) tons of people make ‘Working Out’ one of their first New Years Resolutions. All the holiday goodness is just too…good!
As I said in my first post about Work out Gear, looking fly, sporting a new top, or rocking some new kicks motivates me to sweat it out.
Looking at celebs, there really isn’t much to it!
If you’re a casual girl like Nicole Richie or Rihanna, a simple white wife beater, t shirt, and pants will do…

If you’re a more active girl, like Mel B….
…splurge on a Nike issue top and matching pants.
A few options:
Top Row: LiveStrong Velocity Sport Top, $45, www.nike.com; TQM Women’s 2×1 Rib Tank, $10, www.footlocker.com; Personal Best Short Sport Top, $28, www.nike.com.
Middle Row: Adidas by Stella McCartney ‘Run’ Midlayer, $210, www.nordstrom.com
Bottom Row: Nike Enthusiast Capri, $45, www.nike.com; Workout Pants, $41, www.puma.com.

*So Mail Bombs have gotten sort’ve backed up over the past few weeks due to vacation, so I decided to get an early start today!
Michelle from Orlando, Florida loves Kim K’s look in this picture:
She says, “I think her outfit is a cute look and I like the bag because it looks like something I’d wear going to and from work...”
Get Kim’s look with the following high and low priced items:
Top Row: T-Bags Solid Off Shoulder Top, $114, shopbop.com
Harmony Wash Foxy Jean, $79, www.guess.com; Signature Stretch Silk Smocked Top, $40, www.spiegel.com.
Bottom Row: Roberto Cavalli Boots, $418, www.yoox.com; Julie K Jaye Bag in Purple, $242, CoutureCandy
ASOS Tie Back Slouch Heeled Boot, $80, www.asos.com.
Kim K’s cool and all, but am I the only one kinda heated that she’s with Reggie Bush?? Why not me????
*Deal of the Day:
Add Down Large Collar Puffer Jacket, $211, shopbop.com

Once again, guys, Happy, Happy New Year!
Today is ripe with new possibilities, let’s get it!
So I promised that I’d give you a taste of New Years Style.
I made several stops on Monday night, the first being a house party thrown by a friend.
I had to snap a picture of this party attendee…

…who was celebrating ’08 in a bold way with pink suede booties, an ethnic print halter top, and an emerald green clutch.
Sure, she didn’t have flashy sequins or a short cocktail, but she celebrated stylishly and in her own unique way.
What do you think?
Smootches!
PS I went to a huge party afterwards, and snapped a few pics. Stay tuned!

*Of course celebs represented for New Years. A few looks:
Mary J Blige rocks a winter white jacket over knee high boots…
Angela Simmons looks sultry in a lace overlay black dress…
Kelis is scintillating in citron…
Mariah is white hot in this strapless. I can’t lie, I like this look.
Did celebs represent for the New Year?

I had so much fun last night! New Years revelers came out in style.
I’ll do my best to give you an update tomorrow.
Until then…
Smootches!

Hola Chicas!
I’m finally back in NYC!!!
I can’t lie…going from 70 degrees, beautiful water, and blue skies to 40 degrees and gray is a bit of a bummer. But I’m excited to party it up for New Years in NYC!

So of course with the New Year comes New Years resolutions.

Last year, I had exactly five fashion resolutions. Let’s see how I did!
My first was..
1. No more cheap shoes!

I’d had several horrid experiences with broken heels and the like. There was my black stiletto that snapped while walking down 5th Avenue; my Nine West pumps that sprung a leak by my pinky toe; and countless other tales of woe and pain.
Thankfully I invested in Cole Haan Nike Air pumps as I mentioned here…
…And the pain, broken heels, and cracks are over!
Hallelujah!
The second…
2. Chill on Chinatown!

I’d been caught in the past with a few fake items from my trip to China. Tired of the ridicule, I decided to take Kimora’s advice:

Don’t buy fake luxury-brand pieces–the people you’re trying to impress will know right away you got that Louis Vuitton on Canal Street. Go for unexpected middle pieces from middle-tier brands (the ones other women probably won’t pick)

…the words of a true fashionista! I went ahead and followed Kimora’s counsel when finding a new work bag. I invested in another Cole Haan creation…
It’s big, red, and fits everything!
My next resolution from last year was to get…
3. One status bag.

For some reason, I stopped lusting after the status bags. While any classic should be a part of a woman’s wardrobe, I haven’t had the extra funds to indulge. Perhaps I can look into this for the New Year….

4. J.Crew in moderation.

My obsession with J. Crew used to be embarrassing. All the people in there knew me or thought I worked there! I’m proud to say that I haven’t purchased one cable knit sweater this year. I did indulge in this jacket…
…and a bit of cashmere….but I’m getting better (promise)!
Lastly:
5. Fashion Shows, Fashion Shows, Fashion Shows!

When I first started blogging, I was lucky if I had an invite to one show. Thanks to the Fashion Bomb I’ve been able to go to shows large and small from Baby Phat to BCBG. And I plan on going to even more this coming February!

1. Take The Fashion Bomb International.
I started with the Bahamas…
… but I really want to give you guys a taste of urban global fashionista flavor. I’ve got my sights set on Europe, Africa, and even Asia. Let’s get er done!

2. Chill on the big ticket items.
As you can see above, I’ve made some pretty big wardrobe investments this year. At this point, I no longer need to spend a grip on wardrobe essentials; my focus should be small, inexpensive items to complement what I have. I promise, this year, I’ll shop more vintage, more Forever 21, and spend less than $100 on any one item. You don’t have to spend a ton to have great style. Remember Kesh??
She said “Nearly everything you see me wearing costs less than a large pizza. I dress so cheap I should be homeless!”
It can be done!

3. Lastly… Take The Fashion Bomb to the stratosphere!
This means more updates, more shows, more cool designers and great picks. Also, more reader participation. Tell me what you’d like to see more so I can give you a better experience!

Think that’s all. What are your resolutions?
Smootches!

*Looks like the Fashion Bomb will be partying with the JI Group for New Years!
…bring your flyest, cause I’ll be watching (and taking pictures)! Tix are now $175, purchase by clicking here.
*Posts have been a bit sporadic with the holidays and vacation, but I promise to resume normal posting (mail bombs and all) in the New Year!

Hey Guys,

Merry Christmas Eve!
So surprise, surprise. I brought my black lappy with me to the Bahamas! And while I’m on vacation, I knew that I wanted to capture a bit of Bahamian Chic.
My cousins took me to the Carnival…

…which is basically Coney Island on a smaller scale.
I went with my early Christmas gift (a sleek Canon Powershot) determined to find some Real Style for y’all.
To prepare, I asked my cousin what was in style on the Island. She revealed:

Hey!

….with style scouts yearning to duplicate her look?

Kerry Washington….
…who seems to live on the party circuit with a bevy of hot frocks in her quiver?

…with undeniable style since the beginning of the year.

Also, the true test of an Uber Fashionista: Style doesn’t even stop…

*I leave on a jet plane tonight for Atlanta. I’m bringing my black lappy, and will try to update, but…no promises!
*Mary J. Blige and Patti Labelle don’t care a stitch about Peta, do they?
…they rocked floor length furs at Mary’s album release party last night in NYC.
I’ll confess: I’m looking to rock a cute, short fur for New Years and My Birthday (Mark your calendars, January 12th!). But I’m thinking of getting something vintage…somehow a used fur seems more ethical? Or perhaps I’m delusional…
*Calling All Designers!
The Uptown Emerging Designers Market (UEDM) is a monthly market that will take place at the Hip Hop Culture Center in Harlem starting in February 2008. The UEDM will allow up-and-coming designers a fun and profitable environment to display their talents and sell their creations to the general public. Whether you’re a designer of clothing, jewelry, bags, interior decor or more, the UEDM offers you a unique opportunity to showcase your designs! In addition to a selection of exclusive clothing & accessories, the UEDM will include great music, cocktails, and an engaging exhibit provided by the Hip Hop Culture Center.
For more information about vending opportunities or to be added to the UEDM mailing list, please contact UptownEDM@gmail.com .
*Deal of the Day:
Frye Sunny Pleated Short Boots, $124, shopbop.com