Lil Kim posed with beau @thegreat_leader wearing a chinchilla jacket and a $2,875 Valentino Garavani Supervee Small Leather Bag.
The black leather style was made in Italy and features the house’s logo emblem in antiqued golden hardware. Its curved silhouette hangs from an adjustable shoulder strap and opens to multiple internal compartments.
It’s a cute bag, but would you splurge?
If so, get yours at MyTheresa.com.
Image: Backgrid
This morning, I toasted with Dove, Esi Eggleston Bracey, Kelli Richardson Lawson, Tai Beauchamp, Steven Jones, Latham Thomas, and many more to celebrate advancements with the C.R.O.W.N. Act and learn more about how we can galvanize our communities to end discrimination based on hair type in the workplace and beyond.
In case you’re not familiar, the C.R.O.W.N. act stands for “Creating a Respectful and Open World For Natural Hair.” Legislation surrounding the CROWN Act seeks to end discrimination against black women and men for wearing their natural hair at work and in school ! In 2019 alone, Dove and the CROWN Coalition have passed the CROWN Act in both California and New York! THIRTEEN more states are in progress AND a Federal Bill was introduced just last week.
My hope is that working with Dove and the Crown Act, young ladies of the next generation don’t have to worry about their hair when applying or on the job–they can focus on their talent and adding value.
Learn more about Dove and the CROWN act at Dove.com and TheCrownAct.com, and stay tuned for more ways we can get this ACT passed nationally and internationally.
Images: @Calligrafist
*For the day, I wore a top by Reco Chapple, a House of CB skirt, and Christian Louboutin pumps.
The votes are in, and we have the results of our Best of 2019 series. Read on for the winners in each category:
Stylist of the Year: Kollin Carter.
Though it was very close, Cardi B’s stylist Kollin Carter nabbed 1st place in the stylist contest. The young visionary single handedly turned Cardi B into a style icon, putting the Bronx born Bombshell into bold, head turning looks like the Thom Brown gown she wore to the Met Gala (which also won our vote for Outfit of the Year).
From Mugler to Sally LaPointe to Dolce & Gabbana, Kollin keeps Cardi on point. We can’t wait to see what he does next.
Shoe Designer of the Year: Jessica Rich.
Few fashionistas could step foot outside without donning a pair of perfectly cute clear heels, popularized by Jessica Rich.
The sheer versatility of her signature stilettos and sandals made them the go to heel for J. Lo, Cardi B, Kylie Jenner, Saweetie, Normani, Kelly Rowland, and more. Here’s to comfortable, cute footwear, and continued innovation!
Designer of the Year: Michael Costello
As we announced at the Faby’s, Michael Costello is our Designer of the Year. The weekend we announced it was quite impactful for him–he dressed three female rap legends in a matter of days: Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Lil Kim.
This year for Mr. Costello has been punctuated by many alluring looks, from Jeannie Mai sparkling in silver at the Sno Ball to J. Lo and Michelle Williams wearing Michael for a myriad of occasions.
Fashion Collab of the Year: Nicki Minaj x Fendi
Nicki Minaj was the first female rapper to collaborate with a luxury brand with her Fendi Prints On collection–for that she should be celebrated! Her fantastic collaboration with the Italian house was voted in first place with 90% of the vote!
The teaming of female hip hop and high fashion is a long time coming. Kudos to Nicki for busting that door open, blazing trails for those to follow fabulously behind her.
Fashion Bombshell of the Year: Sarlea Mah from DC.
The crowd has spoken, voting in Sarlea Mah from DC as Fashion Bombshell of the Year with 55% of your votes. We adore Sarlea Mah’s style, from her cinched waists to theatrical hats and bold prints. Slay on, Sarlea!
That’s the first batch of results! Stay tuned for Part 2 of Best of 2019, the winners circle.
Happy Tuesday!
A day after the Faby’s, I jetted down to Orlando for the Deck the Runway show presented by Fancy by Francesca Watson, hosted by Elise Neal.
The annual showcase highlights emerging designers from Florida and beyond. Check out a few stand out styles from featured collections:
Francesca Watson offered holiday ready dresses and festive separates for every age, shape, and occasion. Her collection comprised bold hues, embellishments, and high hems. I found many items I would add to my Christmas Wish List!
George & Ginger Pattern Company by KristiFitzpatrick
George and Ginger Pattern Co’s presentation was anchored by a geometric print, rendered in vests, dresses, and tops. Flirty ruffles and subdued silhouettes made this collection stand out from the crowd.
Reginald Wilson is a new designer, but presented very promising, couture level pieces that could easily be found on international runways. Strong shoulders, alluring cut outs, and sophisticated flair portends a very bright future for the emerging brand.
Cicily Swimline by Khadijah Glasgow
Want to go to the beach, but keep it cute and covered? Look no further than Cicily Swimline! The brand carries adorable swim dresses, two pieces, and sun dresses for the fashion forward yet demure.
East Coast Couture by LeeAnn Dussault
While one typically things of all black everything for East Coast, LeeAnn Dussault’s interpretation of the name conjures up swirly patterns, floral prints, and easy, breezy maxi dresses.
UDS Clothing presented sportswear, African Prints, and a little something for the fellas. Mini dresses, shorts, and tanks would be perfect for casual weekends in the sun.
Conservatives working women (think Olivia Pope) would love just about everything in Sarah Christie’s collection, from her smart, button front dresses to her fun pastel colored cocktails.
Theatrical was the call for Lainy Gold Designs, who offered fantastic feathers, birds, florals, and ruffles. Only the bold need apply.
That does it! See anything you like?
Learn more about these designers at @DecktheRunway.
To have Fashion Bomb Daily come and cover your next event, email bookclairesulmers@gmail.com.
Images: @VUMediaGroup/@OmarLateefPhotography
Nene Leakes was spied outside the Today Show with Strahan, Sara & Keke in a $776 Stella McCartney Velvet and Lace Top, $657 Stella McCartney pants, furry sandals, and a $3,390 Fendi Embossed Runaway Leather Shopper:
Stella McCartney reinvented the sporty sweatshirt with a touch of modern opulence. This casually slouched top is spliced in a rich array of romantic lace and plush velvet, its black finish keeping the intricate and artful look insouciant.
Crafted from a beguiling combination of velvet and lace, they are shaped with an elasticated waistband and gather at the ankles for a sporty touch.
Her leather shopper has Rattan top handles, an open top, and one exterior zip pocket.
Love it? Get Nene’s Look Below:
Hot! or Hmm..?
Images: Backgrid
*Lil Kim is a fan of the bag as well!
How would you pair yours?
Jay Z posed in Louis Vuitton for a portrait with fellow mogul Sean ‘Diddy” Combs, and showed off his fancy footwork: An $850 pair of patent leather shoes by Santoni:
While may supposed Jay’s shoes were Louboutin, he actually tapped Italian shoemaker Santoni, whose trademark is the orange sole.
Guys, would you splurge? If so, purchase here.
On Friday, December 13th, Fashion Bomb Daily celebrated its first Faby’s Awards, acknowledging those on the scene and behind the scenes who make a significant impact in the fashion and beauty industries.
Guests gathered at Westside Loft for drinks by Ciroc, food by Chef Ameer Natson of Fresh Chef Catering, beats by DJ JFK, and a performance by Models Inc!
After mixing and mingling, our ceremony began! Robert Verdi, Ashleigh Demi, and I shared MC duties giving awards to our fabulous recipients:
Our first Faby’s Award, Executive of the Year, went to Kimberly Blackwell, the CEO of PMM Agency. Executive of the Year is awarded to an entrepreneur who dominates their field while inspiring others with their integrity, commitment to community, and style. As Chief Executive Officer of PMM, Kimberly Blackwell is heralded as one of the country’s top executives in marketing and advertising. Between running her own businesses, sitting on boards, and brokering investments, she doesn’t have much time. Yet, she never complains – and still makes the time to “pay it forward” in the form of service to others. A quick view on her Instagram page @KimBlackwellPMM, shows a woman on the move, who easily goes from the boardroom to front rows at Gucci Shows in Milan. She is an inspiration to many, and for that, we gave her our Executive of the Year Award.
Our next Activism Award went to Esi Eggleston Bracey.
Esi Eggleston Bracey is a seasoned executive leader who has a proven track record of accelerating brand growth while doing “good” for our community. She was the person that put Queen Latifah on CoverGirl products … and then she added Ellen Degeneres, Zendaya, Rihanna and more. She was the person that created #GIRLSCAN and gave hundreds of thousands of dollars to organizations supporting girls. Esi currently leads the FIVE BILLION dollar Personal Care portfolio for Unilever North America, which includes brands like Dove, Degree, TRESemmé, AXE, and SheaMoisture. She has led the important work on DOVE around hair discrimination this year, working to ensure a world of beauty INCLUSIVITY for ALL of us.
Under her leadership, Dove co-founded the CROWN Coalition to drive legislative change with The C.R.O.W.N. Act … which stands for “Creating a Respectful and Open World For Natural Hair”. In 2019 alone, Dove and the CROWN Coalition have passed the CROWN Act in both California and New York! THIRTEEN more states are in progress AND a Federal Bill was introduced just last week. Esi’s dynamic energetic and out-of-the-box thinking has been the hallmark of Esi’s storied career … and we were delighted to honor for her most recent work to end hair discrimination for ALL of us in this country. A native of Chicago, Illinois, Esi graduated from Dartmouth College and currently lives with her family in New York City.
The Hairstylist of the Year Award, sponsored by True Indian Hair and Curls, went to Arrogant Tae. Tae attended the festivities with Dreamdoll wearing dollar printed designs by Duckie Confetti.
Our Designer of the Year award, sponsored by Aces Braces, went to Michael Costello. In his speech, he underscored the purpose of being kind to people and doing great work!
And our Fashion Icon award went to Living Legend Bethann Hardison for her consistent work towards diversity and inclusion in the Fashion Industry, topics that are near and dear to our hearts here at FBD!
Other award recipients included Stylist of the Year, sponsored by BlacGlas, which went to Kollin Carter, and Makeup Artist of the Year that went to Erika La Pearl! Other winners will be announced next week!
Bombers and Bombshells came from all over New York City and the nation to celebrate with us in festive ensembles! It was certainly time to shine.
For the occasion, I wore a dress by Designer of the Year recipient Michael Costello, jewelry by McKenzie Liautaud, hair from True Indian Hair, and shoes by Aminah Abdul Jillil.
And I spent the rest of the evening greeting guests and snapping flix!
This event would not have been possible without our wonderful sponsors Dove, @Ciroc @RayarJeans @nettlifestyle @captivatemarketinggroup @trueindianhair @allthingsdrbobbi @curls @blacglas @thronesnmore @rent4parties @freshchefcatering and @rococodesignursallie . Thank you to the staff @Westsideloft and to our staff @steven_lamont_ic and @shereneadrianna . Also Thank you to Umindi Francis @umindi360 of UFCG.
Also thank you to our gift bag sponsors:
We are already planning for next year! Get your tickets now at TheFabys2020.eventbrite.com. Also, if your brand would like to sponsor, email events@fashionbombdaily.com.
Images: @Nykielle, @VizualApe and Terrence Jennings
More pictures to come soon, sit tight! Keep it locked here at @TheFabysAwards for more fun flix from the night.
Thank you to everyone who attended! We love y’all!
While we were turning up at the Faby’s, another glittering event was taking place in LA: Diddy’s 50th Birthday Party!
Celebrities showed up and out for the mogul in a chic all black palette. Take a look at the best ensembles of the night:
Looks like it was a great time!
Stay tuned for more pix as they filter in.
What do you think?
Images: Getty for Diddy
So there a few new members in your band and you are thinking about adding an electric viola as well. By reading this buying guide, it will be easier for you to decide which model you should purchase. However, having the right instruments doesn’t guarantee complete success when going to the studio for a recording session. We recommend you to keep reading this article to find out some useful tips for you and your band.
Make sure you have the right gear
Besides the instruments and amps, you need a laptop capable of running digital audio workstation software. An interface capable of taking multiple XLR inputs is also required and 8 should be good enough for drums, room mics, and amplifiers.
Since a lot of XLR cables are needed, take your time and label each one of them so the signal paths don’t become confusing. Also, bring some extra strings, guitar cables, and patch leads so you will not waste time by going to the store.
Be prepared
Before going to the studio, make sure you chose a song (or songs) that everybody enjoys playing and which the band plays well live. Since you will be recording everybody live you need them to be at the top of their game so the band dynamic is as good as possible.
A good idea is to leave the solo part and vocals for another recording sessions so the band’s first experience in a studio is not too tiring. Having a friend with a solid engineering level will save you time and a headache. You can ask him/her to check the equipment’s settings and start/stop the recording.
If you can’t afford to go to a professional recording studio, you must pay close attention when choosing the recording place. It could be your regular practice place or even a small village hall. Just check if there is enough room to position the band and if there is excessive undesired reverb.
How to position the band’s members
Because you will use more than one microphone to record the song you are playing, there will be ‘spill’ or ‘bleed’ between some of the mics. This happens when an instrument on one microphone picks up the sound of another. Most of the spills that take place in a recording session are caused by the drums since they are such a loud instrument.
Because of this, you should record the vocal parts in a different session instead of having a sensitive condenser microphone picking up instruments.
How to lower the bleed’s level
It is possible to minimize the bleed caused by different instruments by placing the band members in a horseshoe shape or a semi-circle. This way, there is enough space between them but they are close enough to communicate. Also, amps should not be facing each other as this will cause feedback.
Recording the drums
If you are using a classical four-mic setup to get a clean sound, begin with the overhead microphones first. These have the role of getting the sound of the kit being played and you will obtain a clearer cymbal sound.
The mics should be placed around six feet above ground level and oriented toward the drumming kit. It is of great importance that they are fixed at equal distances from the drums to avoid mic phasing. This takes place when the same sound is reaching each of the mics at different times.
Recording acoustic instruments
The ideal method of recording acoustic instruments is to use a condenser mic. However, the risk of bleeding is too high and would negatively affect the overall recording. However, you can still play with your band even if you are an acoustic player. The key is to use an acoustic combo amp.
Recording the vocal parts
When recording the instrumental part, don’t forget about how vocals will fit into that song so band members should play as they would do in a live performance. For example, they need to lower the intensity of their playing when the first verse comes in.
The singer needs to get comfortable with the band recording and should try a few run-throughs before starting to record. This way, he/she will warm up his/her vocal cords and it will be easier to get an idea about the instrumental’s dynamic.
This year has been an exciting year for celebrity style. Cardi B alone keeps us on our toes with her chameleon-like trends. But which one of these ladies really stood out in 2019, and which one of them will get your vote?
1. Cardi B
Cardi B has had a great year. The “I Like It” rapper from the Bronx certainly stretched her fashionista muscles this year, and thanks to her stylist Kollin Carter, Cardi was on every best-dressed list there is. From giving us Jessica Rabbit vibes in a glamourous sparkly strawberry red dress by Yousef Al Jasmi to rocking vintage Thierry Mugler at the 2019 Grammys, Cardi had a great year.
One of her most memorable looks was this Thom Browne piece at her second MET Gala.
2. Beyonce
Queen Beyonce never disappoints and this year was no exception. Do you remember this little white Balmain number she rocked at the 2019 NAACP Image Awards earlier this year? Then by the summer, it was ‘Lion King’ season where most of her public appearances were fashionable Lion King moments to behold.
Bey in a caped, lion-inspired bodysuit by designer Georges Hobeika at her mom Tina Lawson’s Wearable Art Gala. It’s called fashion! Look it up!
3. Rihanna
Rihanna has had an amazing year in fashion. In addition to her burgeoning Fenty Beauty line and Savage X Fenty lingerie line, the Barbadian beauty has also launched her luxury brand, Fenty, with LVMH. So it’s only right that every time the camera catches her, she’s rocking something from her line. She seemed to enjoy the monochromatic look this year.
She finished off the year strong winning the Urban Luxe award at the British Awards this month, wearing, you guessed it – Fenty! Such a classy look completed with beautiful, full braids.
4. Zendaya
By now we have come to expect Zendaya to be on every best-dressed list there is. But will she get your vote for Most Fashionable Female Celebrity at the Fabby’s? Some of her best looks this year ranged from a custom Armani Prive cropped tuxedo shirt during Paris Fashion Week, an emerald green stunning silk custom Vera Wang gown, to a tailored Alexandre Vauthier suit.
One of her most talked-about fashion look this year was when she debuted a new scarlet hair color at a Spider-Man: Far From Home promo event.
5. Tracee Ellis Ross
There is never a bad time for some Tracee Ellis Ross, everyone’s favorite comedienne, actress, and melanin goddess. This year, from red carpets to fashion week, Tracee sported top designers such as Ralph and Russo and Versace.
As usual, she had a litany of wardrobe changes for this hosting gig. Here’s her Caribbean-inspired look while hosting the recent British Fashion Awards.
6. Bonang Matheba
This South African beauty is all style all the time and she favors designer Gert Johan Coetzee to keep her glamorous; even during wedding season.
The television personality and host shone brightly at the 2019 Miss South Africa pageant in a mustard yellow gown by the designer.
7. J Lo
This year was a huge year for J Lo on and off the red carpet. At 50, the ‘Hustlers’ star has shown that she’s still got it when she stunned everyone with an updated version of her infamous green Versace gown.
She slayed every look she wore, particularly turning heads in custom Versace at the 2019 Met Gala.
8. Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer has really grown into her own as a style maverick this year. Her stylist Scot Louie has been crafting mega looks for the ‘Hustlers’ star to match her growing mega success.
Wearing Roberto Cavalli, J Mendel, Coach and more, she finally finished the year strong and went wild in Cong Tri at the recent TIME 100 Next Gala.
9. Ciara
Ciara decided to go big because she certainly wasn’t going home as she took her place on various best-dressed lists this year, including for her 2019 Met Gala outfit by Peter Dundas. The carpets were no match for her bright ensembles.
Even her street style looks are making statements including this belted orange Off-White mini-dress, fresh face, and tight bun.
10. Monica
No best-dressed list is complete without the incomparable Monica Denise. From head to toe, Monica’s looks are well thought out and full of life.
Vote for your favorites below:
And be sure to join us for our Holiday Party and Awards show, The Faby’s, on December 13th in New York City. Get your tickets today at TheFabys.eventbrite.com.
