Hey hey!
So last night, my buddy Malcolm and I…

…went to In Touch’s 5th Year Anniversary at cool NY night spot Tenjune. That’s me (of course) on the right wearing a Mimi Turner top from Pieces Boutique in Brooklyn. Malcolm is sporting a hot navy blue military style jacket by indie designer Matt Levine.
The crowd was packed beyond capacity….
…and a good number of celebs were hangin’ in VIP.
Janet Jackson was in the house with her boo Jermaine Dupri…
Both looked fall ready, Jermaine in a multicolored sweatshirt, and Janet in a velvet belted trench and scarf (worn over a wife beater and jeans).
Mr. Lova Lova Shaggy also made an appearnance…
…loungin hard in a leather jacket, t-shirt, and dark jeans.
America’s Next Top Model reps Nigel Barker…
and Caridee…
…lit up the red carpet. I’m kinda feeling the color in Caridee’s dress. And peep her shoes! They seemed to be patent leather white spectator shoes. Work it!
The highlight of the night, of course, was a performance by Kanye West. I got a few personal pics…
He was so close, it was like he was rapping directly to me!
…I fell in love with his Louis Vuitton baseball jacket, sweater, and dress pants. And the glasses were a nice touch.
Swizz Beatz also came on towards the end to bless the mic…
…he was sporting a Gucci baseball jacket. I smell a trend…
It was fun, but you’re probably asking: What does this have to do with fashion, Claire?
Nothing! It’s just my way of explaining why I don’t have a post today! But I’ll bring it back tenfold tomorrow with tons of mail bombs:)
In the meantime, check the following hot blogs for your fashion fix:
*Sylvia over at I Like her Style finds a catwalk copy of Kerry Washington’s shoes.
*Naki at Style Chile gives the blow by blow of an event at one of my FAVE shoe boutiques, Te Casan.
*The B-Life discusses African American hairstyles for the workplace (I cosign)!
*Strictly Fabulous discusses political T’s. Hmm, what a novel idea…
*Hip Candy contemplates sporty Manolo’s.
*The hot girls over at Style Ammo take a look at Fashion Diva June Ambrose.
*And Robin Givhan, from Paris, considers: Where’s the Woman?
Smootches!
PS Venus Williams blogs from Tokyo…and she’s pretty funny! An excerpt:

Tonight I went to the player party, which was fun. I may have let myself down a little bit, because I immediately rushed to the french fries. I just went right to them. I don’t really eat much, so fries count as a carbohydrate! Boiled or fried, the only thing that matters is that I’m eating. I eat to live, not live to eat. And they were so nice and salty. Okay I did have other things like fish and whatever else I had on my plate – but those fries would have gotten cold if I didn’t take them – and even as they got us to do this thing where we hit a barrel with saki in it, all I could think of was the fries getting cold. I know I made the right decision.
Read more here.

“Don’t be fooled by the rocks that I got/I’m just I’m just Jenny from the block/Used to have a little now I have a lot/No matter where I go I know where I came from…”–Jennifer Lopez, “Jenny from the Block.”

Hey, Hey!
So today’s Style File shines a spotlight on actress, singer, and Puerto Rican spitfire…

…Jennifer Lopez.
Pregnant or not, this former Fly Girl has had the style game on lock for a long time.
Let take a look:
When J. Lo goes glam, she amps it up all the way in floor length gowns in skin flattering champagne or gold…

…at times opting for a more traditional white or black.
…always with minimalist accessories like small clutches and dainty necklaces.
No stranger to shorter frocks, you’ll catch J. Lo flaunting her well toned shoulders and legs in thigh skimming dresses in eye catching red tones…

Cool Greens…

Grays….

Or shimmery black…
…worn with stilettos or boots.
Madame Mark Anthony is also a fan of menswear inspired ‘fits, donning pants on occasion in wide leg styles…
…paired with flirty tops, jackets, or vests.
She’s also a fan of rocking signature headpieces…

…and can work the snuff out of a pair of over the knee black boots…

Hot.
Need J. Lo’s her headgear game? Try the following:

Left to Right:Felt Flower Hat, $16.80, www.forever21.com; Cloche Fedora, $220, www.activeendeavors.com; Logo Riding Hat, $34, www.armaniexchange.com.
Love her cocktail dresses? The following show stoppers should work:

Left to Right: Lilly Pulitzer Belinda Rosette Dress, $328, www.bloomingdales.com; DaNang Green Cotton Dress, $92, www.fashionchateau.com; Double Knit Halter Dress with Leather Trim, $149, www.bebe.com.
Just need a few signature J.Lo accessories? You can’t go wrong with black shoes!

Left to Right: Christian Louboutin Thigh High Boot, $1,790, www.barneys.com; Jeffrey Campbell Burbs Studded Heels, $100, www.shopintuition.com; BCBGirls Buffy Shoes, $110, www.piperlime.com;
Smootches!
PS Don’t forget about part two of the ‘Blacks in Fashion’ discussion going down October 15th at 7pm! Tickets are on sale for only $15. Click here to purchase. I’ll be there!
PSS Oh, and according to Perez Hilton and US Weekly…

..our lady of the day is indeed pregnant. Felicidades!

Hey hey!
So a lot of recent events caused red carpets to roll, and it seems the urban gliterrati decided to bring back the metallic trend for fall. Let’s take a look…
Sweet singer Tweet makes a statement…

… in a thigh length shimmery sequined frock paired with boots.
And actress Denise Boutte…

…recently channeled Tina Turner in a hot gold sequined cocktail.
Gorgeous acress Kerry Washinton opted for silver…
… but went for a more demure v-neck wrap dress and matching metallic sandals.
While Eva the Diva…

..stunted in an almost plastic looking strapless with sky high shoes.
Songstress Chrisette Michelle…
…went all brassy in a cute yet conservative dress.
And uber designer Tracy Reese…

…offered just a punch of silver in her jacket and t-strapped shoes.
Want the look? I of course have a few suggestions.
For full on metal, go with a dress….
Left to Right: Strapless Metallic Dress, $148, www.bananarepublic.com; Aqua Paneled Sequin Tunic, $194, www.bloomingdales.com; Nicole Miller Sequined Dress, $294, www.neimanmarcus.com; Tadashi Cold Shoulder Dress, $350, www.bloomingdales.com.
Too much metallic fever? Go a little softer with a jacket….
Left to Right: Alvin Valley Metallic Cropped Jacket, $269, www.neimanmarcus.com; Brocade Cropped Jacket, $148, www.ardenb.com; Kensie Gold Foil Metallic Jacket, $88, www.nordstrom.com.
Or keep it really simple (and more affordable) in your day to day with metallic accessories…

Left to Right:
BCBGirls Tate Bootie, $128.95, www.nordstrom.com; Big Buddha Uptown Bag, $85, www.ebags.com; Whiting + Davis Sleek Shoulder Bag, $75,www.nordstrom.com; Michael by Michael Kors Francesca Ballet Flat, $109, www.bloomingdales.com.
Smootches!
PS Part two of the ‘Blacks in Fashion’ discussion goes down October 15th at 7pm! Tickets are on sale for only $15. Click here to purchase. I’ll be there!

*Is it hot out there? The Telegraph in the UK reports that climate changes are creating a ‘fashion disaster.’
*A German pub maintains that Racism Clouds Paris Fashion Shows. The Daily Mail in London thinks so too.
*The latest from Cathy Horyn of the New York Times and Robin Givhan.

Happy Monday!
So I was on my way to the gym the other day, and couldn’t help noticing these ladies…

…aside from looking lost and speaking little to no English, these ladies had an amazing fashion sense, and I had to snap a picture.
I loved how they mixed luxury elements (peep the Chanel and Fendi bags) with trendy opaque tights, shorts dresses, and even boots. They were working their skinny jeans, ruffles, and jackets.
Now I hope they figured out where they were going….
Smootches!

It’s Friday! You know what time it is….

Let’s get started.
First up reader Natasha says, “I love Beyonce’s outfit in this picture…”
…“can you tell me how to get her look for a reasonable price?”
Sure! First, pair a sequined striped tank like these….

Left to Right: INC International Concepts® Mitered-Stripe Sequin Tunic Tank,$69, www.macys.com; CO-OP Barneys New York Sequin Tank $75, www.barneys.com.
With a pair of slim black pants…

Left to Right: Erin Skinny Pant, $79, www.guess.com;
Mint Shimmer Skinny Pant, $82.50, Pink Mascara
Knit Skinny Pant, $48, www.rampage.com
Add a cropped black jacket….

Left to Right:Alvin Valley black stretch double breasted cropped jacket, $261, www.bluefly.com; See by Chloe Cropped Wool Jacket, $246, www.net-a-porter.com.
Throw on a necklace like this Multi-Strand Black Bead and Gold Sliders Necklace…

…for $60 at www.anntaylor.com.
And add a bag, like this Filmore small satchel…

…for $138 at www.bananarepublic.com.
In terms of the boots, it’s been widely reported that Beyonce’s rockin DSquared. They’re unavailable, but you can get the same look with these Miu Miu Leather Wood Platform Boots…

…for $332.50 at www.net-a-porter.com.
Beyonce’s getting lots of love this week! Reader Shomika wanted to know where she could get Beyonce’s shoes….

…and how much she’d have to pay!
They’re most likely Cavalli’s or Zanotti’s (Beyonce’s faves), but the ‘terns and I couldn’t find an exact match. For a few cheaper options, we found these $179 Dark Patent Leather Speidel Sandals by Stuart Weitzman came close…

Too much? Try these $90 Jessica Simpson Presley T-Straps…

Or these $90 Guess Odina Sandals…

Good luck!
Next up reader Simone says, “I am really into the look of these long leather gloves I found on Nordstroms website for $148 for the winter…”

“..however I really am on a budget and don’t like to spend too much on accessories…would you look for a cheaper version? Preferrably in a hot color like purple, green, or maybe yellow? Something hot that will pop when paired with a black peacoat. Thanks!”
Hey Simone! Interesting Choice! I found that this line, Portolano, makes nothing but long gloves in interesting colors using leather, cashmere, or cotton. Check it:

Top Row: Portolano Magenta Long Leather Gloves, $78; Portolano Tan Long Leather Gloves, $78; Portolano Gray Long Leather Gloves, $78.
Bottom Row: Portolano Emerald Cashmere Elbow Length Gloves, $39; Portolano Red Long Leather Gloves, $78; Portolano Navy Cashmere Elbow Length Gloves, $39.
Luckily, they’re all under $100! Get ’em at www.bluefly.com.
Lastly reader Ashley asks, “I am going to Morehouse College’s homecoming this year with my boyfriend…

“…and I have no idea what to wear during the big tailgate that he has been talking about. My school (an Ivy) doesn’t have any comparable event. I know that I have to wear something practical, since I will be standing outside under a tent for a long time, but I am sure that everyone will still be dressed to the nines. Do you have any suggestions?”
Hey! Lucky you, one of my homies also went to Morehouse, and lent his expertise to your mail bomb. He says, “She should definitely be fresh…The women at our homecoming events know how to do it up without really doing it up. I would steer clear of blouses, dresses, or skirts! I’d probably go with really nice [skinny] jeans, a fly pair of heels (the highlight of the outfit), a rather plain tank top like top (layered with two different colors if possible), and a fly set of oversized shades (worn up for entire event, as an accessory only).”
He’s a little fashionisto himself, isn’t he??
First step, I’d say start with a cute, sexy yet sporty top in Morehouse or neutral colors (they’re the same as my school’s, I believe)….

Top Row: Long Sleeve Henley, $29, www.victoriassecret.com; Lacoste Long Sleeve Pique Polo, $82, www.nordstrom.com.
Bottom Row: Silk Cashmere Long Sleeve Sweater, $45, www.maxstudio.com; Leo & Sage Charcoal jersey wrap long sleeve shirt, $45, www.bluefly.com.
Next, pop on a pair of skinny jeans in a dark wash…

Left to right: Citizens of Humanity Avedon Stovepipe Jeans, $158; 7 for all Mankind Roxanne Jeans in Dark, $189, CoutureCandy
Get your oversized sunglasses going….

Left to Right: Gucci Black horsebit shield sunglasses, $186, www.bluefly.com; Christian Dior Glossy Sunglasses, $300, www.madisonlosangeles.com; Marc Jacobs Red Plastic Oversize Shades, $103, www.bluefly.com.
And the piece de resistance: the heels.
I personally would never wear heels to a tailgate, but Morehouse seems to do it a bit different. Go ahead and get yourself a fly pair of pumps with a reasonable heel (but bring your flip flops just in case!)…

Click to enlarge
Left to Right: Dolce Vita Allure Snake Pump in Natural Snake, $125, www.pinkmascara.com; 3 Pointer Pumps, $195, www.kennethcole.com; Christian Louboutin Graffitti Pumps, $675, www.barneys.com (love these shoes!); Cole Haan Black patent leather ‘Charlize Air’ pumps, $165, www.bluefly.com; Nine West Gabber Pump, $84, Zappos.com
You’re all set with a sporty yet sexy look!
Now get to shopping:)
Smootches!
PS For all my voluptuous readers, Monif C has offered a coupone code exclusively to Fashion Bomb readers! Enter FBOMB15 for 15 percent off their new collection of hot dresses, tops, and skirts. The offer expires November 30th.

Yay, it’s Thursday! Only one day till the weekend…love the weekends….
Anyway, I was out and about last night (at the YBF meet and greet), so intern Rachel decided to step in today.
Enjoy! And check for deets of the party at the end of the post…
************************************************************************
Hi, Fashion Bomb intern Rachel here!
As the fall returns once again, classic, muted colors like black, gray, beige, and brown appear for basic clothing pieces. However, this season proves that while you can never go wrong with a pair of dark skinny jeans or your favorite flats, you can splash some flair into your wardrobe with massive, colorful, and creative accessories of all types.
For starters, the easiest way to spruce up the classic, casual look of cute denim, a
simple dark top, and comfortable black boots is to accent the outfit with a large
shoulder bag or tote in a rich shade.

Meagan Good’s purse pops with its light color and golden chain. When looking for an eye-catching holder to carry through the streets, remember that different hues are key, and the larger, the better.
Try this tote, with its romantic red coloring and classy crocodile print:

Furla Crocodile Embossed Medium Tote, $465, www.bloomingdales.com
For something more casual and affordable, go for this J Crew tote in a pretty fuschia shade:

Nylon Somerset tote, $49.99, www.jcrew.com
And for more basic coloring, try this carrier in white:

Cecilia Quilted Patent Tote, $276.50, shopbop.com
When flashing those bags around the city, don’t forget to adorn your wrists with colorful bangles. These retro-inspired pieces add individuality to any get up.
For something simple yet sophisticated, try these gold bangles:

A.V. Max Set of Three Gold Bangles, $47, www.bluefly.com
Also go for these thick bracelets in different shades, such as green.

Tinted Lucite Bracelet, $5.80, www.forever21.com
Not to be outdone, the rings for this season come in varied shapes and sizes. Don’t be afraid to adorn those fingers with square-shaped rings like this one:

SURevolution Confeti Square Shaped Ring, $42, shopbop.com
Or, if you can splurge, go for something unique and eye-catching like this ring of sterling silver and topaz.

Stephen Dweck Cabochon Ring, $395, www.neimanmarcus.com
For earrings, you should try styles in bright colors, varying shapes, and most importantly, large sizes.
These earrings, both from Neiman Marcus, will adorn your more casual, simple outfits with a complementary burst of style.

Pictured from left to right: Grace Chan Onyx & Quartz Cluster Earrings, $80; Alex Woo Narissa Gold Earrings, $300; www.neimanmarcus.com
In addition to the earrings, choose necklaces of long lengths with swinging pendants, like these picks.

Listed from left to right: Kevia Gold Domed Honeycomb Pendant Necklace, $68, www.bluefly.com; Kenneth Jay Lane Gold and Pebble Necklace, $188, www.net-a-porter.com
And to tie together any great outfit, look out for wide belts that accentuate the upper body and provide an overall slimming effect.

Another Line Triple Buckle Metallic Snake Corset Belt, $98, www.nordstrom.com

Metallic Cinch Belt, $69, www.spiegel.com
So while shopping for fall accessories, just remember that size is everything and color is the way to go – larger does not equal gaudy this season, and rainbow shades or shiny patterns can accentuate the simple autumn styles!
**************************************************************************
Great job, Rachel! My correspondents and interns have really turned it out this week! Fab!
So as I said, I went to YBF’s meet and greet last night.
There were a good number of pop culture afficionados there.
Highlights of the night included a throwback performance by Soul for Real (remember Candy Rain???)…
…I literally was like a teenage groupie when they sang, “Everything Little Thing I Do.”
The night also included a performance by a cool indie rapper, Consequence…
….people in the crowd didn’t really know who he was. I have his CD…he’s worth a listen!
There were a few fashionable peeps….
..but what really caught my attention was this group of 80’s inspired guys….
….I’ve actually seen one of them around before, and took a picture, but didn’t think to post until today (yeah, how could I not!?!?). They were showing OUT in high top fades, glasses, Kangol hats, and cardigans. I personally love their look. Thoughts?
It was pretty fun!
The night was an early one for me…got home at a respectable 1am. Just enough time to sleep and get ready for work! Check out The B Life for more pictures.
Smootches!
PS Kanye Blogs! Pretty cool. Check it out here.

Hey, hey!
So for this week’s Style File, I decided to profile an unsusual suspect…

Cassie!
While her talent is somewhat debatable, I believe her style is consistantly impeccable. Let’s take a look:
For the red carpet, she wears anything from floor length black gowns…

…to more age appropriate low rise jeans accented with a cute shoulder baring tops.
…topped off with cute peep toes or Mary Janes.
For a night on the town, the shorter the better. She makes her mark in thigh skimming frocks…

With even the occasional shirt dress thrown in…

…for good measure.
When she’s super casual, she loves a soft striped sweater…

…paired with high waisted jeans or tights.
In the fall, you won’t catch her without some sort of cute cropped jacket or coat…

Skinny jeans…
…and you can’t forget the boots…
…even while watching basketball.
C’mon, cute!
Want a Cassie casual look this fall?
Start with a few hot jackets….

Left to right: Coffee Shop Belted Trench, $98, www.nordstrom.com; Cotton/Linen Spandex Moto Jacket, $48, www.maxstudio.com; Michael by Michael Kors Kimono Sleeve Jacket, $189, www.nordstrom.com;.
Throw in a couple striped sweaters…

Left to Right: Striped Cardigan, $18, www.forever21.com; Minnie Rose Pullover Sweater, $162, www.madisonlosangeles.com.
Pair with skinny, low rise jeans…

Left to Right: Levis Ultra Low 521 Skinny Jean, $58, www.urbanout.com; Cassie Skinny Jean, $29.80, www.forever21.com; Tom Five Pocket James Jeans, $168, www.searlenyc.com.
Throw on a few pairs of boots….

Left to Right: Kenneth Cole Reaction Go Along, $143,Zappos.com
Loeffler Randall Emmy Belted Boot in Black, $679, Pink Mascara
La Canandienne Divine Charcoal Boot, $260, www.piperlime.com.
And if you still plan on going out when temps dip south, of course get a few hot dresses….

Left to Right: Laundry by Design Metallic Lace Mini Shift Dress, $325, www.nordstrom.com; Solid French Cuff Shirt Dress, $45, www.gap.com; Elijah Shirred Mini Dress, $225, www.neimanmarcus.com.
And you’re set!
Smootches!
PS For the record, lip sync or not, I actually really loved Cassie’s first album. She had so many good songs on there…’Long Way to Go’, ‘Just One Night’, ‘Miss Ur Touch’, and of course ‘Me & U’…if you haven’t downloaded yet, give her a try. You won’t be disappointed!
PSS Roll out to YBF’s meet and greet tonight!
RSVP to ybfnyc@gmail.com.

Hey, hey!
So I haven’t yet bitten the bullet for my Macbook (I’m stupid, I know… I’ll do it during lunch!), but in the meantime, my friend Gigi was nice enough to guest blog for me today. She attended a charitable fashion event last week, and gave us the scoop on some cool designers for men and women.
Enjoy!
**************************************************************************
Hi Fashion Bomb Readers!
I’m going to step in the shoes of my homegirl Claire and help her out while her computer’s sick…I’m excited about my first foray into the joys of blogging.
I attended a charitable event last Saturday evening that incorporated one of my favorite activities: shopping! The event was hosted by the men of Triumph Entertainment , and it was held at a trendy boutique in Harlem called NHarlem (114 W 116th St bet Malcolm X and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd)…

… a portion of all the sales were donated to the Metro Manhattan Community Foundation.
NHarlem brings to Harlem what exists below the 96th street dividing line (Paper Denim & Cloth, Citizens for Humanity, Hugo Boss, Joe’s Jeans, etc), but it also showcases the unique creations of local designers such as Minoritees and Nubian Gardens.
What I loved most about the evening was that a few local designers were in the house to meet and greet shoppers. The first I came across was a handbag designer named Severe Erase who makes a slew of beautiful totes, shoulder bags, and clutches. Here she is with some of her bags in the background…
…Her online shop (www.sevybags.com) features purses that range in price from $200-$500. For a working girl, that’s not bad at all. What do you think?
The next designers I met were the two ladies of a line called Sukari…
..Sukari stands for “sweet” or “sugar” in Swahili and the name of each bag in this collection is inspired by a different place the designer has visited. I loved these bags, but for a diva on a budget, these may be a bit out of reach. My personal favorite was the espresso brown alligator skinned clutch (featured in the bottom left corner of the photo). HOWEVER, at a not-so-cool $3600, this bag amounts to way more than my mortgage payment…so even though I loved it, I had to say bye bye alligator, I’m gon’ have to catch you later (if you’re as frugal as me)! This may just have to be that type of bag your splurge on as if it were a Gucci. I can say this though: the quality is definitely on par with a Gucci or LV bag. If you’re interested in owning one of her creations, you can find them at www.sukaridesigns.com
I’ve also gotta give it up for NHarlem for coming equipped with their own in-house tailor, Omar…
Although he tried to play coy at first, I discovered that this man makes unique custom shirts and suits for men. Check him and his sleek designs out at at www.omarxomar.com…cop one for your man if you’re inclined to love a man in a suit or any other type of finely tailored outfit.
Now onto the patrons of the evening.
I thought these two ladies , Desiree and Harrah, looked wonderful.
Love that Gap shirt dress and the LV bag!
I also thought these two divas–Andrea and Brooke–were working it!
I loved how Andrea paired a bright casual skirt with a cute denim jacket. Brooke’s sophisticated pleated purple dress was definitely an eye-catcher all night.
Of course the men of Triumph Entertainment (Mike, Abdel and Kwame) were profiling in the shop
Blazers, jeans, and subtle accessories made for a very casual chic look.
Cute!
I’ve gotta say, this was a wonderful way to altruistically spend my Saturday evening while simultaneously pampering myself. Next time you’re up in Harlem, check out NHarlem and see for yourself all it has to offer!
**************************************************************************
Great job Gigi! I’m already in love with Sukari Designs’ clutches! That might be on the top of my wish list this Christmas! Sevy Bags are very cute as well. Stay posted to the Fashion Bomb for more Triumph events!
Smootches!
PS My girl over at YBF is having a hot party in NYC tomorrow!
I’ll be there!
Want to come and meet the uber fabulous Natasha? RSVP to ybfnyc@gmail.com.
PSS Model Casting Call! James Jeans (www.jamesjeans.us), which I absolutely LOVE, is seeking a model or model-like woman that can work a press preview (2 days) at the end of this month. She’ll be modeling James’ hot jeans for top fashion magazine editors. Compensation is cash (to be determined) and jeans! Requirements: Must be 5’8″-5’10” and a size 2. Email your photo, measurements and contact info to genevieve@jamesjeans.us. They’ll get in touch if you’re chosen for a fitting.
PSSS I’m clearly obsessed with Facebook! So what? Anyway, join The Fashion Bomb Group and write on my wall!

Happy Monday!
So a few weeks ago, a friend and I made a trek down to Coney Island…

…to ride the rides…Experience the Cyclone…
And eat yummy Nathan’s hotdogs…
…it was tons of fun!
We took a small detour on the boardwalk (had to take in the ocean), and ran into this young lady…
…whose seemed destined to be on the Fashion Bomb.
From her colorful hair to her gold bamboo earrings, on to the artful way she mixed and matched patterns, styles, and colors, this girl was working her own look in a very urban chic way. I personally loved her skinny blue jeans and prepster with a twist yellow and gray sweater.
What do you think?
Smootches!
PS My friend has the Style Network…last night I went over and couldn’t help watching Kimora’s Life in the Fab Lane marathon! I am officially obsessed…! But as obsessed as I am…I don’t think I’d ever want to be Mallory (her personal assistant). I’d much rather BE Kimora:)
PSS Check out the cool giveaway on the blog Chic and Untroubled.
PSSS Have you joined The Fashion Bomb Group on Facebook.com???

Hey, hey!
So I’ve been super swamped and out of sorts this week between my broken computer and a packed work and social schedule. Still, I found time to answer just a few mail bombs…

Let’s get it!
First up, reader Ms. B says, “I LOVE this belt from the D&G Collection…”

“…but the price is TOOOO rich for my blood! Can you tell me if you know where I can find a designer replica of this belt or something that is similar? I really love the idea of the metal chastity influence of this piece.”
Hey, so Elita found that the D&G Belt retails for $3,100 online…no matter it’s sold out. If you want something similar in a similar metal finish, and have a bit to spend, you can go with this Fendi Perforated Cummerbund Belt…

…for $430 at www.net-a-porter.com.
Too much? You can get that mirrored silver look with this Double Buckle Waist Belt…

…for $160 at Bloomingdales.
Still too much? I think this Linea Pelle Corset Belt works really well…

…and at $88, it’s a relative steal.
Next up reader Melody (among others) said, “I was wondering if you can find where one could get this cute top…”

“…that Alicia rocked recently at 106.”
I searched and searched, and the closest approximation I could find was this Diane Von Furstenberg Graciela Wrap top…

…available for $245 at shopbop.com
If you want the same sort of look, but don’t care much about color, this KLS Buttoned Turtleneck with Keyhole comes close…
…and is a bit more affordable at $165.
Update! Reader Bianca found that A. Keys is wearing this $425 Mischen Deco T-Back Charmeuse Blouse…

…BACKWARDS! Check out the alternate view in gray here:

To get the emerald version, visit intermixonline.com…sneaky, sneaky!
Next up, Jenni from New Orleans says, “Can you find this cute outfit Gabrielle Union was rocking (don’t forget the bag)…..”
“…I’m a teacher so I will need the cheaper version.”
No Problem!
Pair this $9 Lace Halter from Forever 21 …

With these affordable skinny jeans like these $68 Black Dazed & Confused Jeans from Urban Outfitters…

Slip on a pair of bronze sandals, like these $68 Sea Horse’s by Max Studio

If you want to splurge, go for it with this Babee D Canvas Touch bag for $382…

If not, Spiegel always has affordable lookalikes…

This one captures the essence and is only $54!
Lastly, reader De’Nae says, “I know these pants may be a big fashion faux paus, but do you have any idea where I can get these pants worn by Alicia Keys at the VMAs?”
“… I LOVE the slight sheen in the stretchy looking pant and I’ve looked EVERYWHERE and can’t find them. I’ve Googled, “Satin Pants” and you wouldn’t believe how many genie and Hammer pants that came up!!”
Hey there. They are a bit of a fashion faux pas, but if you can rock ’em with confidence, I’m not mad at ya!
I did a quick search and found that these Cheap Monday Satin Skinny Pants…

…fit the bill. Get ’em for only $65 at www.barneys.com.
That does it for today….
Smootches!
PS Reader Ms. Dee alerted me this cool trick on Tyra Banks’ site. If you like any of her or her guests outfits on her talk show, you can click here to find out what they’re wearing. Very cool!
PSS Have great weekends!
PSSS Join The Fashion Bomb Group on Facebook.com! Yippee!