Happy Thursday Bombshells and Bombers ! Meet our fashion bomb kid of the week Cali Todd (@calistar0830) from Miami, Florida. This mini bombshell knows exactly how to be oh so stylish from sneakers and sunglasses to hair bows and dresses. Cali is definitely an example of a lil fashionista !
Here are a few of Cali’s looks..
This lil diva keeps shows us what fashion really is ! Let’s take a look at a few more looks..
Cali Todd is a true mini bombshell and we love every single look !
Want your tot featured here? DM @ FashionBombKids for a potential feature
Love is Blind. And Lauren Speed Hamilton and Cameron Hamilton are proof of that. At a time when we are all yearning for love and light, we could think of no better couple to feature for our first exclusive editorial of 2020.
Lauren and Cameron posed in ornate rooms, which were bathed in sunlight, and decorated with contemporary artwork and luxurious furniture. In their first fashion photo shoot, the couple modeled pieces from Hideoki Bespoke along with couture gowns by Esé Azénabor, frothy robes by Oyemwen, bold separates by Sai Sankoh, and shoes from Shoe Boulevard. Stylist Ms. Amy J placed the couple in the perfect settings, offering, “The location was beautiful, regal, and elegant. From its manicured landscaping to its architectural details and large open balconies for every room, it definitely gave a perfect feel of romance to flow along with the theme of the shoot.”
Dedrick Thomas, the Mississippi born, Atlanta based tailor and owner of Hideoki Bespoke, took control of Cameron’s dapper ensembles, pushing the limits of his style while allowing him to stay true to who he is. Thomas said, “[These looks embody] what fashion and Hideoki is all about: Traditional elegance with modern sophistication. [These are looks he] can wear now, in 10 years, and in 20 years.”
Our Buckhead location was also significant for Thomas, who says, “Atlanta is not really known for fashion, and through the collaboration of Hideoki and Fashion Bomb Daily, we were able to show the world and the country that Atlanta does have a foundation and a case for Elegance in Fashion, just like New York and Paris.”
As for Lauren, the photos went deeper than the surface. She tells Fashion Bomb Daily, “I hope that these photos represent to the world that Love conquers all, regardless of your race, sex, religion or orientation. Until we learn to appreciate & value people for who they are on the inside instead of the outer appearance we will continue to cheat ourselves out of the most beautiful things about human existence. Love knows no boundaries and we are most powerful when we come together in solidarity and unity. I’m so honored that Cam and I represent just that; LOVE and LIGHT based purely on loving each other for who we are as people, our character as human beings and the light of our spirits. Regardless of surface aesthetics… we connected as two people traveling on this journey called life, working to contribute to this world to make it a better place for our (future) children and grandkids. “
Cameron adds, “I hope these photos will symbolize the beauty and strength that comes from bold, tenacious love. I want people to see that while we can confidently stand as individuals, we bring so much more to the table when we stand together... I want people to see that Black Lives Matter, Black Beauty Matters, [and] Black Fashion Matters. I am honored to have the opportunity to model Hideoki Bespoke clothing and I want people to see my pride in wearing it. I want people to feel the love that Lauren and I have for each other; I wish to instill a sense of urgency in valuing Black Lives and a sense of hope that the type of love we share is possible. I believe that love conquers all and I want others to believe that too.”
In conclusion, shoot stylist Ms. Amy J offers, “It was beautiful to witness a love without fear. Love that wasn’t planned but was destined. A Love that didn’t care what people thought. Cameron told me during the shoot that talking with Lauren, he just knew she was the one. There is nothing more powerful than a Man who knows what he wants and a Women who’s bold enough to accept it and give Love another try. You could feel their energy on set. You would’ve thought they’ve been married to each other for years.”
As one of my favorite verses says, “Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.”
Yvonne Orji, known to most of the world as Molly from HBO’s hit series Insecure, has taken center stage with her new stand up comedy special “Momma I Made It“.
She wore a beautifully tailored custom jacket by Laurence Basse. The high low brocade jacket was belted and paired with thigh high Balenciaga boots and earrings by Melody Ehsani.
Yvonne has also worn her designs prior to her HBO appearance.
The designer, Laurence Basse is no stranger to the big screen herself. Before making an appearance on the design competition reality show, Project Runway, she modeled for 15 years, working with brands such as Jean-Paul Gaultier and was featured in magazines such as Cosmopolitan.
While on Project Runway, she was often complimented by the judges on her tailoring and leather work. She made it to the finals and presented her work at New York fashion week. She told The Chicspy, ” I love fast cars and motorbikes, some people would probably say I’m a “tomboy,” so my design aesthetic is very much my style, which is very unique–not too masculine or too feminine.” Some of her work is pictured below.
What do you think of this designer’s aesthetic?
And did you check out Momma I Made It? What did you think?
If you haven’t seen it yet, check out a trailer below:
Happy hump day Bombers and Bombshells! This week’s Bomber of the week is hailing all the way from the Bahamas. Scroll down to check out Aljeron from Freeport .
Aljeron writes, “I’d like to consider my style ‘Smart Casual Streetwear'”
“I like pieces that can be remixed and worn different ways,” he states.
What do you think of this Bomber style? Slide over to his Instagram @flyyellowbwoy to check him out!
Fashion Bombshell of the Day is a feature showcasing the singular style of Fashion Bomb Readers. Send your name, location, a description of your style, and 5-10 clear, unfiltered, head-to-toe pictures of 5-10 different outfits (no collages) to Bombshell@FashionBombDaily.com. Images submitted will be featured on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or any of our social media platforms. Comments can be harsh, so bring your A game! Please be advised: once published, pictures will not be removed or taken down.
** RIGHTS: ONLY UNITED STATES, AUSTRALIA, CANADA, NEW ZEALAND ** New York, NY – Fashion Icon Anna Wintour shows off her style while out for a stroll in New York.
Pictured: Anna Wintour
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According to Page Six, Wintour wrote the following emotional note to staffers last week, “I want to start by acknowledging your feelings and expressing my empathy towards what so many of you are going through: sadness, hurt, and anger too.”
“I want to say this especially to the Black members of our team — I can only imagine what these days have been like. But I also know that the hurt, and violence, and injustice we’re seeing and talking about have been around for a long time. Recognizing it and doing something about it is overdue.”
“I want to say plainly that I know Vogue has not found enough ways to elevate and give space to Black editors, writers, photographers, designers and other creators. We have made mistakes too, publishing images or stories that have been hurtful or intolerant. I take full responsibility for those mistakes.”
Anna Wintour with Pulitzer Prize Winning Fashion Critic Robin Givhan (left) and Investigative Fashion Writer Teri Agins of the Wall Street Journal (Middle)
“It can’t be easy to be a Black employee at Vogue, and there are too few of you. I know that it is not enough to say we will do better, but we will — and please know that I value your voices and responses as we move forward. I am listening and would like to hear your feedback and your advice if you would like to share either.
ANNA WINTOUR,ANDRE LEON TALLEY
at NY Premiere of ”The Butler” at Ziegfeld
8-6-2013
Photo by John Barrett/Globe Photos
“I am proud of the content we have published on our site over these past few days but I also know that there is much more work to do. Please don’t hesitate to be in touch with me directly. I am arranging ways we can discuss these issues together candidly, but in the meantime, I welcome your thoughts or reactions.”
Anna Wintour has been the Editor in Chief of Vogue since 1988. For more than 30 years, she, “has not found enough ways to elevate and give space to Black editors, writers, photographers, designers and other creators.” It seems that she has some inner work to do to pinpoint why, exactly, that is.
iamJumpManOfficial wants you to post a video explaining why you really want some retro Jordans and what the history of the shoes means to you!
JumpMan was named Jordan by his father because he saw GREATNESS in his child and future talented artist. Tell us why the Air Jordan brand is important to YOU and your community. Tag @iamjumpmanofficial and hashtag #REALLY along with a video explanation why on @instagram or @twitter.
You will be entered to win 1 of 2 pairs of Retro Jordans. There will be a 1st and 2nd place prize.
Winners will be drawn on Wednesday June 17, 2020 @ 9pm CST on @iamJumpManOfficials IG Live!
While you’re getting your video together, listen to the iamJumpManOfficial Mixtape on Soundcloud here.
It has a chill sound and features songs by up and coming artists. It’s Fashion Bomb Approved!
Today’s fashion bombshell is Jelinda from Illinois. Her name on social media is @shesafashionlover visit her page to check out more of her personal style. she writes, “I decided to make a political, yet fashionable statement through my art! I started to think…who will we be remembering next? Who will be the next hashtag? This is my way of spreading a message! There is so much further we need to go, but first I plan on SPARKING the conversation!”
She continued by saying, “After Sandra Bland was killed in 2015, I knew I had to find a way to CAREFULLY and FASHIONABLY spread a message that people would understand. I came up with the idea to create a purses with the names of people affected by police brutality. My goal is NOT to have a new fashion piece! My goal is to START A CONVERSATION. These bags are more than just names to me, they are voices that are no longer heard! I see now that these bags spread knowledge and awareness of their unfair situations.
A lot of times I find myself educating people while shopping or even getting gas! Until now, not ALL stories were heard!The facts are, countless black people are losing their lives FOR NO REASON. I cannot watch from the sidelines and hope for better days. It is time for me to use my voice.
Fashion Bombshell of the Day is a feature showcasing the singular style of Fashion Bomb Readers. Send your name, location, a description of your style, and 5-10 clear, unfiltered, head-to-toe pictures of 5-10 different outfits (no collages) to Bombshell@FashionBombDaily.com. Images submitted will be featured on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or any of our social media platforms. Comments can be harsh, so bring your A game! Please be advised: once published, pictures will not be removed or taken down.
All this month, we are profiling bomb designers You Should Know from Fashion Bomb Daily Shop! Today’s feature goes to Sai Sankoh, the creator of fabulous printed dresses, kaftans, and coverups:
She writes, “I was born in Sierra Leone, and lived in London, Sweden, and Ghana briefly, till my move to the States 19 years ago. I attended Virginia Commonwealth University.”
“…I started blogging on “Because I am Fabulous”, in 2011, about food, travel, lifestyle and of course fashion. I think that was the peak of blogging. I got to meet so many people, and create beautiful relationships and connections, and it just felt natural. As much time as I spent on it, I needed to monetize it, so a couple of years ago, my developers and I reinvented my blog, and created a fabulous aggregator now called Luxury Checkout (www.luxurycheckout.com). Its low maintenance and works on its own, which gave me the flexibility to pursue design. “
She continues, “A lot of my prints are inspired by where I am from, where I have lived, and my previous travel destinations. I have lived a colorful, glamorous and exciting jet setter lifestyle, and that translates in my designs. I love the Zen nature of Bali, the vibrancy of Ghana, and the extravagance of Dubai, and I try to blend all of those vibes into creating a print or a piece.”
She tells Fashion Bomb Daily, “Fashion has always been a passion of mine, even though, growing up I was a self proclaimed Tomboy, I always loved being unique and different. Getting dolled up is always a pleasure. I love beautiful gowns, well-tailored suits, and I always smile and feel at home when I’m surrounded by stunning garments. I love the art of it all, and that includes the process of design. Also, it was always the one avenue I could express myself, without feeling judged or uncomfortable.”
In conclusion, she writes, “The Sai Sankoh brand is for the unapologetic woman who knows who she is, what she wants, and enjoys the finer things in life. She is fabulous and sexy, and won’t sacrifice her comfort.”
For designers, she offers, “Don’t give up, it’s not easy, if it was, everyone would be doing it. If you are passionate about something, do your best and the rest will follow. Stay Fabulous!!”
In the midst of all this civil unrest along with revelations of innumerable past injustices that were not prosecuted (!) the only thing that somewhat keeps me sane is escaping, momentarily, into an episode of Insecure. Last night’s episode, directed by Kerry Washington, was excellent. The fashion has been on point all season, and last night was no different:
The recent murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery, coupled with the agitation, paranoia, unrest, and ennui from Covid Quarantine, have produced an explosion of attention on past and present racist practices in the world–and the fashion industry.
Now that the nation has aligned itself with marches and rallying cries to end police brutality and racism in general with the #BlackLivesMatter movement, several fashion brands including Zimmermann, Eugenia Kim (who we wrote about here), Revolve, ban.do, Reformation, and Forward by Elyse Walker have been called out for only paying lip service to the cause. According to comments and confessions from former workers, behind the scenes, these brands are allegedly discriminatory and unfair to their workers and customers of color.
@ElyseWalker
While their social media posts portray that they care about the movement for racial equality, comments left by former employees portend that they don’t walk the walk in real life. Under Elyse Walker’s #BlackLivesMatter Post, @RachMoon wrote, “If black lives matter please make sure your employees are demonstrating that on their social media pages and getting educated before posting.”
In a follow up post on @ElyseWalker‘s page, called Change, an anonymous user (who noticed their comments kept getting deleted so created the name @EwKeepsBlockingMe) wrote,” I’ll be monitoring this post to see if you take it down. You are one of the most racist boutiques that I have worked for. You favored white people over people of color. You treated your employees of color with disrespect.” Read more below:
These cries of foul play continued over at brands Bando, whose CCO Jen Gotch admitted to saying and doing racist things. She is taking a leave of absence to “learn, grow, and heal.”
Revolve, yet another company who admitted to not responding soon enough to the #BlackLivesMatter movement (or being diverse when it came to plucking influencers —something we wrote about in 2018), finally fessed up and said they would be turning inward to rectify the issue and creating a $1 million fund with donations to the families of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor.
Their intentions seem good, and we can only hope that their sentiments are sincere! But we can’t help to think that in a couple weeks, all the brands mentioned above will go back to business as usual.
We’ve all been here before. Vogue’s July 2008 issue included an article called “Is Fashion Racist?” and the opening line included someone rolling their eyes and asking if we were still talking about this. That was in 2008. It’s 2020. People are stuck in their ways and it seems that not much has changed.
But here’s what is changing: Through the power of social media and smartphones, bad behavior has been admonished and exposed. We have choices now, in what we read and where we shop. The power is in our hands and credit cards to determine where and how we spend our money. And we have the power to hold back until a brand has truly shown that they value our dollar.
We’ll be reaching out to many of the brands above to see how we can help them shift and change, if change is truly what they desire.
Until then, check out FashionBombDailyShop.com, a growing E-commerce platform that promotes Designers of All Colors, and caters to all sizes, up to size 5XL. Fashion Bomb Daily and Fashion Bomb Daily Shop truly live and espouse the phrase that Fashion is for Everyone.
Love & Light,
**Main Image: Elie Saab used for Illustration Purposes Only