Hey Bellas!
Happy Monday!
So yesterday I was delighted to attend my buddy Malcolm’s Forum on Breaking into Fashion.
Around 5pm, I made my way over to Runway at 4 East 28th street, and took a seat amongst the crowd…
…the room was filled with aspiring and established models, designers, bloggers, and writers of color.
After Malcolm introduced the panel (and everyone introduced themselves), we got down to advice hour. Want to know how to break in?
The following tips:
For Models/Actors: Be prepared to specifically talk about who you are and what you want to do. Be able to sell yourself in 30,60, 90, or 120 seconds. Practice! For models, have your portfolio ready–your portfolio should have 5 good pictures and 10 wonderful pictures. Also always have it on you: you’ll never know who you could run into! Ms. Jay and Malcolm stressed that portfolio pictures must be professional–no back shots from the club or pictures from your sister’s wedding! Also, models, Ms. Jay stressed to show up to castings with clean hair, clean makeup, a nice wax, and nails and toes done. Got it?
For writers: Intern, intern, intern at magazines you love. If you can’t work for free, find ones that pay (I know of a few, e-mail me if you want details). Also network your booty off (this goes for everyone), because most times it’s not what you know, but who you know.
For Designers: To get your line going, don’t wait for a golden egg: get your products out there! Malcolm started his line with $500! Make what you can, then go online and sell them on myspace; make your friends cart them around; create a buzz and get blogs to write about it. E-mail me!
Great advice, no?
After the forum, I went around to meet and greet:
These two Fashion Bombers readers, Ashley and Alanna… …are currently in school for Journalism and Fashion Marketing respectively. They came to network, network, network.
Lakisha and Fatiya… …are aspiring models, and came for advice on portfolios and presentation.
Julia… …is also a model and muse to Malcolm. Check her out in Malcolm’s Spring/Summer Collection video on his blog www.cutsewandblog.com.
Diana.. …is an aspiring stylist (and Fashion Bomb Reader)!
Jewrel (left) and Marco Hall… …are just fabulous, no? Love the colors and decolletage! Anyway Marco (www.myspace.com/marcofh) designs all of Andre J’s clothes, and Jewrel is a Makeup Artist.
This aspiring designer, Nia, calls herself Suppamodel…. …She works for Blackplanet.com (and is apparently featured on the homepage). She’s also in the works to create a line called Suppamodel for women sizes 14-34. Check her out on blackplanet.com…I’ll keep an eye out!
Last but not least, I ran into Yannize and Lauren… ….bloggers from the hot blog Style Ammo! Always great to meet fellow bloggers in person.
I, of course, had to take pictures with a few of the Fashion glitterati:
I caught Andre J in all his fabulousness… ….I loved his coat, turban, and infectious energy! One thing he said that stuck with me, “Live your life. It’s yours, noone elses.”
Also, had to take a picture with Ms. Jay…. ….who had so much to say about the industry. I learned that he lived in Paris for 20 years, and Japan for 3. He also speaks four languages outside of English. He’s a fashion veteran…I’d love to pick his brain one day. He’s a super smart dude, and I was honestly in awe.
Ran into Memsor Kamarake, Fashion Director at Vibe… …who promised to read the blog today! Turns out he started off as a fashion assistant at Vibe and just worked his way up! That’s the way to do it.
And of course couldn’t leave without saying goodbye to buddy Malcolm… …who put it all together!
It was a great event, and won’t be the last. To sign up for updates, visit the forum’s myspace page: www.myspace.com/breakingintofashion. Post ideas, ask for advice, and stay apprised of upcoming panels. Also, of course, continue to read the Fashion Bomb…I’ll keep you posted. A group shop of the illustrious panel members. From left: Malcolm Harris, Memsor Kamarake, Tia Williams, Tyson, model Jaizen. In back: Andre J. Image care of Tia’s Blog Shake your Beauty
Smootches!
*The event’s proceeds went to the organization Save Darfur. If you don’t know what’s going on over there, google Darfur and give/do all you can to alleviate the situation over there. Also, I read a great book that delivers the story in a gripping, searing way…. ….What is the What by Dave Eggers. It’s a must read…and now it’s in paperback, so there’s no excuse! Get it for $11 at www.amazon.com. It tells the story of refugee Valentino Achak Deng; how he lost his family, joined thousands of other orphaned children in refugee camps, and moved to America. Great reading!
*RIP Donda West
Story and image via Style Ammo
It’s Friday! I had a late night last night, but woke up a lil early to see what I could do…. Let’s get to it! Reader Subi says, ” I am LOVING this floor length gown Jennifer is wearing in Miami!“ “Where can I get it??? I am 5’10 and can’t seem to find floor-length casual dresses…” To get a JLo floor length casual look, look no further than shopbop.com Left to Right: Rachel Pally Long Smocked Camisole Dress, $211; Yaya Aflalo Majestic Dress, $277; Susana Monaco V Halter Dress, $319. All at shopbop.com We’ve got lots of JLo love this week (could it be her baby announcement?), but reader Nakaya says, “I love J Lo’s look in this picture…” “How can I get it??“ Sure. To get this look you only need a cute cape: Left to Right: Mackage Cape, $495, www.bloomingdales.com; Andrew Marc-Mode Felted Wool Cape, $276, www.saks.com; Suede Cape, $35, www.newport-news.com Shiny Leggings… Left to Right: NM Exclusive Leggings, $175, www.neimanmarcus.com; By Malene Birger Metallic Flecked Leggings, $67.50, www.net-a-porter.com And a cute black sandal: Left to Right: Jessica Simpson Lotus Sandal, $92, zappos.com Guess Platon Sandal, $100, zappos.com You’re set! Next up reader Joi says, “Can you please tell me where I can find this outfit that Raven Symone has on?” Lol at this picture. Anyway, you can get her shockingly hot look by pairing a ruffled black top… Left to Right: Amelia Shirt, $28, www.forever21.com; D&G Dolce & Gabbana Ruffle Front Blouse, $175, www.net-a-porter.com; BCBG Stretch Cotton Blouse, $118, www.saks.com. With a large black belt… Left to Right: Double Prong Wide Patent Belt, $48, Streamline Belt, $68, www.kennethcole.com. And a shiny stretch pencil skirt…. Left to Right: Satin Tuxedo Pencil Skirt, $89, www.lizclaiborne.com; Glamour Satin Double Vent Pencil Skirt, $98, www.bebe.com. It’s a good look! Lastly, Reader Nori says, “‘I’m hoping you can help me. I’m trying to find out who makes the T-shirt Beyonce is wearing in the attached photos.” ” It’s casual and chic at the same time.” Hey! Apparently Beyonce’s wearing a purple version of this t-shirt… …you can make it in any size or color at the website www.amorphia-apparel.com. Get the tee for $25. The site’s actually really cool! That does it for this week… I’ll try my best to get to more next time around:) Smootches! PS Make sure to come to the “Breaking into Fashion” Panel this Sunday! It from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at Runway, 4 East 28th Street (between 5th and Madison Aves). Roll out!
Hey, hey! So I’m back, unscathed, from Roberto Cavalli. No fights a la Viktor & Rolf (thankfully), but I didn’t cop anything! Why? I’m a bum and totally didn’t wake up early enough to get a respectable place in line. I power walked over to H&M at 51st and 5th this morning at 9:50 (read 10 minutes before H&M opened), and quel surprise! …the line was dumb long. Perhaps the longest I’ve ever seen it? I wanted to get a few quick pix of Fashion Bomb-esque readers before the floodgates opened, so I headed straight to the front wondering: How long have you been waiting? Janet, Darvin, Tatiana, and Xander…. ….said that they’d been waiting in line since 6:30. They came for the clothes, clothes, clothes…I absolutely love that Xander was still able pose while on the phone. And shout out to Tatiana who’s a fan of the Fashion Bomb! Mike, John, and Keisha… …had been waiting since 7:30 with coffee in hand. They said they’d had a late night and just decided to go home, change, and walk over to H&M. Talk about dedication! This fabulously stylish group… ….had been waiting 2 hours. Can you believe they initially didn’t want to get snapped (citing head scarves)?? I thought they looked wonderful! Last but not least, Fama, Alex, and Lindsay… ….held it down for a respectable hour. With a line this long…. …I figured I wasn’t destined to own any of Cavalli’s H&M issue exotic print dresses. But I hopped on the end anyway just to see if I could get lucky. The queue moved pretty quickly, and once I got in…. ….of course, total mayhem! Unlike Viktor & Rolf and Madonna, the racks and tables were literally wiped clean…. ….nothing, and I mean nothing was left by 10:15! Roberto Cavalli himself was in the house taking pictures and watching the girls go mad… ….this group… …was actually screaming for him like he was a rockstar. Though I couldn’t find even a scrap of leopard print chiffon, not everyone suffered the same sad fate…. ….some were very, very lucky. Look out for those dresses on Ebay! I must admit: these designer sales are exhausting. And almost insane. I think third time’s a charm for me… So. Did y’all go to H&M this morning? How was it round your neck of the woods? Smootches! * Seems it was just as crazy in London.
Hey hey!
So as you’re reading this I’m probably braving the crowds at Roberto Cavalli for H&M. I’ll give you the scoop later, but wanted to tell you about a brand of shoes I’m currently gaga over….
Oh…Deer!
5 reasons why I love them:
1. They’re cute.
2. They’re comfortable. And this means a lot considering my foot issues…
3. They’re sky high, perfect for a night out.
4. They’re affordable enough (i.e. not $500 or even close!)
5. They give off an “air of Louboutin” with their soupcon of a red heel.
Hi Guys, The results are in! The results are in! The results are in! After a total of a whopping 400 votes, we have winners! So our first place winner, with 36.93% of the vote, is none other than…. …Joy from London! The Most Fashionable Fashion Bomber says, “Thank you to all those who voted and big-ups to my competitors. I must also thank Claire, the original Fashion Bomber, for having this site because I feel it’s what keeps me current tho’ I’m miles and miles away from home. I’m glad that my Philly roots have brandished me with this soulful fashion vibe that melds well with the new Euro flair that I’ve acquired in London. And to all my fellow Fashion Bombers, in the words of Kimora Lee Simmons, ‘Go in Peace and Serve Fashion!'” Hot! Love it! In second place, with 26.8% of the vote, is our aspiring boutique owner and designer… …Chiriga! She didn’t have any concluding words–perhaps she’s speechless with joy? [Update! We have word from Chiriga! She says, “I am so excited to hear that I am one of the Winners. I had so much fun reading people’s comments. I thought everyone was very brave and VERY FABULOUS!!! Kudos to ALL the ladies- they are all FASHION BOMBS!!!! Everyone looked Dope and had very different styles…. This is what fashion is all about…taking pieces you like and dressing it up around “your” style. I love to see other people in fabulous clothes and this contest did it for me… I got to see styles from different areas of the country and even over seas…. I am inspired…Lots of inspiration!!! I need it….Please look out for Peace & Glam…. It’s going to ROCK!!!”] We’re sure it will! And lastly, in third place, with 23.5% of the vote is… …Sade from Brooklyn! She says, “My style can be described as fun, chic yet conservative; I hope that this is what all of the Fashion Bomb readers saw when they viewed my pics. This was a great experience because I got a chance to see what people actually thought about my style. Thanxxx so much!” That does it for the contest! I hope that you ladies enjoy your James Jeans, Shop & Mingle tote, and $50 Lulu’s Fashion Lounge Gift Certificate, respectively. This was so much fun! I need to do this more often, no? Now back to my regularly scheduled programming… Smootches! *Shout out to Charle, The Fashion Bomb’s newest intern! *I’m totally going to Roberto Cavalli at H&M tomorrow! I’m broke as a joke, but going with a friend. Guess I’ll be blogging vicariously through her! H&M designer sales are always so much fun. Don’t remember? Check my posts under the ‘HM Designer Sale’ topic. Memories…
Hey,
Voting is go sooo well for the Contest! I love how the poll gives results right after you vote; and how the system’s set up so overzealous supporters can’t vote more than once. Genius! Voting ends tomorrow morning!
Until then, I’m gonna take a quick break from ‘Real Style’ to talk about a hot red carpet trend: embellishments.
Stars have truly been shining lately, donning frocks and tops decorated with stones, sequins, gromments, and crystals. Let’s take a look:
Ciara…
Happy Monday! So after receiving over 100 votes and comments, the interns and I have whittled down our contestants. Below, the top four. Vote again today; Instead of leaving comments, just vote using the handy dandy poll below. We’ll announce the winners very soon!
Smootches!! PS Special thanks to EVERYONE who participated! You’re the bomb! Sales, Coupons, What Nots * For my Beauty Bombers… 20% off at Sephora.com until November 21st. * For my Model Bombers (From the good people over at Frenzy)…
Are you America’s Next Top Model material but just never went to the casting? We’re looking for you! Come to our model casting Wednesday November 7th. Details: You must be 21 years old or older with valid ID!!!! You must bring swimwear or wear it underneath your clothing. Ladies, bring shoes. You must be available on December 19th 2007. If you think you have what it takes come down to: M1-5 Lounge. Located on 52 Walker Street (take the A, C, N, R or Q train to Canal Street and walk to Walker Street) Wednesday, Novemeber 7th, 2007. Casting will begin at 4:30pm. Don’t be late! Show up prepared with your portfolio. Please email thefrenzytv@yahoo.com if interested.
Hey Everyone! It’s Friday… ..you know what time it is! I’ve been super busy this week with all my travels, so this post’ll be quick. No matter, all the more time for you to vote for our most Fashionable Fashion Bomber contest (scroll on down)! The participation has been great. I’m so excited! I’ll remind you of the prizes at the very end. For now, let’s get to it! First up reader Kat says, “I love Halle Berry’s outfit in this picture…” “Can you tell me the designer? And can you find something close?” Hey Kat. Halle looks smashing in that dress, no? She’s wearing a blue version of this Versace number…. …from the line’s Spring 2008 Ready to Wear collection. If you want a similar look for less, I found that these gowns came close: Left to Right: Elegant Halter Gown by Niki Livas, $128, www.edressme.com; Sean Collection Stretch Satin Halter Gown, $258, www.nordstrom.com.
Next, Sawsan from Canada says, “I fell in love with this dress that premiered on an episode of Gossip Girl…” “… I love the cut, design and color. New years is coming and I can see myself in that…if you can find anything similar and affordable I would appreciate it.” Hey, lovin’ the Canadian love! The dress reminds me of a strapless version of this Spring 2007 Versace dress… ..seen on both Cassie and Amerie… …earlier this year. If you want a similar look, I found that dress staple Cache provides something close in this Animal Brocade dress with Pleating…. …for a reasonable $198. Update: Reader Jassine attests that this dress is by designer Jasmine de Milo! She says, “The cost is approximately $548 and can be found in a Fifth Avenue Boutique called ‘The New York Look’.” So if you’re ever in New York, Sawsan, you can get the real thing on Fifth Avenue! Thanks Jassine… Next, Charlotte in D.C. says, “I love the sweater and pants that Jaslene is wearing in this photo….” “… Would you please help me find something similar? Thanks!” Hey! You can get a Jaslene look with the following: Left to Right: Lacquer Regency Print Cardigan, $43.90, www.nordstrom.com; La Made Ribbed Tank, $25, www.madisonlosangeles.com; Joes Jeans Pharaoh Trouser, $174, www.barneys.com. Next up, reader Daphne says, “I’ve been looking for a winter coat that is 3/4 sleeves and not black that is below the waist. I have been searching for days… have you found any that you think are just FAB?” Hey! So you’re looking for a short 3/4 sleeve coat? A few options for ya: Click to Enlarge Left to Right: Marc by Marc Jacobs Kinloch Short Coat, $426, www.standardstyle.com; Adam + Eve Herringbone Cropped Swing Coat, $213, www.revolveclothing.com; Filmore Cropped Pea Coat, $180, www.nationaljeancompany.com; Michael by Michael Kors Kimono Sleeve Jacket, $190, www.nordstrom.com; Herringbone Tweed Jacket, $189, www.bebe.com. There are lots of non black options, but prices are steep…good luck! Lastly, reader Keirsten says, “I saw these shoes and I definitely want them...” “… HOWEVER, they are a bit pricey ($600). Do you have any idea where I can get these shoes or find a similar pair that are cheaper?” Hey there. I know that both Cole Haan and Steve Madden had versions of this shoe, but that was many years ago. I did a quick search, though, and found the following options: Left to Right: Jessica Simpson Women’s Leela Pump, $52, www.endless.com; Guess Python Pumps, $42, www.guess.com. Hope that helps! As I always say, I’m not short on answers, just on time! Stay tuned… Smootches! To recap, prizes for the Most Fashionabe Fashion Bomber are:A pair of James Jeans for 1st place; a LeSportSac Tote from Val Style’s Shop & Mingle for second place; and a $50 gift certificate to Lulu’s Fashion Lounge for Third Place. Have great weekends!
Hey Guys,
So I’m back from Miami! It was absolutely wonderful to sit by the pool in the sun, but I’m happy to be back on the grind…time to refocus.
So I received many, many great submissions for the most fashionable Fashion Bomber contest…I am so impressed! Fashion Bomb readers hail from around the globe, and have lots of different yet chic interpretations of style.
I’ll introduce you to our contestants; cast your vote by leaving a comment. We’ll filter down the top choices soon and by next week we’ll have round two!
I’ll profile in the order received.
The first submission is from a young lady named Chiriga from New York City who says, “My style is hip-hop/urban/chic. On an everyday basis I love a tee- shirt and jeans with a GREAT shoe—- I like to accessorize my outfits with big vintage inspired necklaces, big bangles and/or hat or scarf”…
She continues, ” I am an aspiring Designer and Boutique owner. I am in the midst of launching my first Women’s clothing line called ‘Peace & Glam.’… “…My style is all over the place, but it works–well I think so…lol!”
It definitely works! Chiriga has a great eclectic style…And kudos to her for mixing up trends with more vintage elements.
The next submission is from reader Shanae who hails from Toronto, Canada… She says, “I really don’t know how to describe my style other than I love anything that makes me feel like a lady. I love wearing dresses and I am a big sucker for anything by Diane von Furstenberg.”
Love the prints…and I must admit, I’m a sucker for DVF, too!
Next, we have Fashion Bomb follower Sade who says, “Since the moment I found the Fashion Bomb, I’ve been obsessed !” “…I love all of your postings and the daily advice you give!”
Thanks soooo much Sade. And please tell me where you copped that yellow cardigan…
Next, we have Anitra from Columbus, Georgia, who is a senior magazine journalism student at Florida A&M University… She says, “I like shopping at Forever 21, cute, one of kind boutiques, online, pretty much anywhere! I think my style is sophisticated and classy. I like to be up on the trends and I love reading fashion magazines and blogs!”
Quite fly, I must say for a student. A+ Lovette from Chicago wanted to flash her fabulosity… She says, “My style is pretty classic. I hardly ever buy trendy stuff because I like to look in my wardrobe and know that I can wear anything I have 5 years down the road. My everyday uniform though is a pair of jeans and a cute fitted top w/ either ballet flats or a pair of heels.” She continues, “I’m a SERIOUS shopaholic, and tend to shop at least once a week in stores, and 2-3 times weekly online. I can’t say I’m loyal to one brand, but I am a fan of H&M & Express.” Me too. And are you wearing those Tory Burch Denueve Quilted Pumps??? I covet… Now we’ve got some family love from sisters Veronica and Vanessa from Cincinnati, Ohio… Veronica (left) says, “My style is classic by day and flashy by night. I have all the basic, practical pieces–blacks, whites, tans, reds, designer denim, black dresses, trench coats, etc. But I’m definitely flashy when I dress to impress or go out, I love short dresses and skirts and killer shoes, especially peep toes and patent leather, and black pumps. Since I’m still on a graduate student budget, my favorite brands are Seven for All Mankind, Express, and Theory and H&M when I can make my way through all their clothes. My favorite brand of all time is classic monogram Louis Vuitton–I cannot live without my Speedy 25 and my matching accessories.” Vanessa (right) says, “I have a funky, unique style…my favorite brands are American Apparel, H&M and Urban Outfitters. I’m also obsessed with Louis Vuitton–we get it from our Mom!”
Louis Vuitton speedy is indeed a classic pick. Cute, ladies.
Just a few more…(I told you there were a bunch!)
We have another Toronto diva! Keenda from Canada says, “I would describe my style as Simple yet Sharp! I love hunting for key pieces (Coats, Belts, Skirts, Dresses and Purses) at Value Village and a few vintage stores on the fashion strip (Queen St.) in Toronto.” “…I love bright, bold colors, being Creative yet Classy. I look for pieces that are timeless and versatile. I buy Teen Vogue every month for ideas, lots of colors and creative and funky options. My favorite stores are Zara, Value Village and House of Vintage (Queen St. in Toronto)! “
Hot! Looks like I need to visit this Queen Street in Toronto for a few Boutique Spotlights…
Next, we have Shaunya from Brooklyn who calls herself a ‘Cheap Style Diva’… She succinctly summed up her style with the following:
Coat: Zara $99 bucks Dress: Zara $29 bucks Bag: Yves Saint Laurent $500 Shoes: Dolce & Gabbana Loehmann’s $80 Cheap Style: Priceless
LOL! Loves it!
Now we have a truly overseas selection from reader Joy hailing from London, England (yay international!)… She says, “My style is quite eclectic, depending on the day. I range from earthy to ultra chic and then from revolutionary tees to sexy casual chic. My biggest inspiration is Tracee Ellis Ross’s character on Girlfriends, Joan. Last season the show’s stylist killed it dressing her! I don’t really have any favorite brands other than Youmewe. Other than that I mostly wear vintage items.”
Um, Joy, I might have to STEAL that Gucci bag! And peep your leather leggings. Dying, love your outfit!
Next, we have Charle from New Orleans, who attends school in Chicago… >Charle even included a pic of what she wore today to school… …You are certainly a fashionable student! I didn’t diverge much from jeans back in the day…
Just a couple more…
We have Ora from Birmingham, Alabama… She says, “I think my style is depictive of my up north and down south roots. In the winter I wear all styles of timbs, boots and hoodies, in the summer dresses sandals stilettos and wedges. I am plus size 16-20 depending on the store, but i stay on my grown and sexy.”
Cute!
Latrice says, “I’m a lover of eveything fashion and many designer items but being the college student that I am, I can’t afford them…” “…I have to stick with dreaming, at least until I graduate….†With your style, I’m sure you’re ‘Soon be Famous.’ Keep it up!
And lastly, lastly, lastly, we have Renata… …who was so fly that she only sent her picture. It speaks for itself!
Phew! That’s it!
So when voting/commenting, tell me your top 3 choices…and we’ll go from there.
I want to say THANK YOU to everyone who put themselves out there for this contest. The Fashion Bomb would be nothing without its fabulously chic readers (seriously)! And even if you don’t win the prizes, I think all of you are fly, fierce…amazing!
I heart you all!
Now let’s get the votes going….and I’m going to try to find a few more prizes…we need some good stuff for a contest this hot!
Smootches!
…to more demure babydoll dresses in pretty peach…
… accessorized with hot ankle boots or stilettos.
…topped off with crystal encrusted sandals or peep toe pumps. She sometimes sasses it up with a pair of leather pants…
…or a menswear inspired fedora…
Cute!
Left to Right: BCBG Tie Front Tunic Dress, $135, www.macys.com; Tiered Satin Bubble Dress, $295, www.neimanmarcus.com.
Top Row: Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Chain Neck Top, $275, www.activeendeavors.com; INC International Concepts® Printed Smocked-Waist Silk Blouse, $51.75.
Guess Platon Sandal, $100, 
