Men’s Fashion Flash: Jay Z ‘s Diddy 50th Birthday Party Santoni Orange Sole Patent Leather Shoes

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:

Jay Z in Santoni shoes, purchase at Bergdorf Goodman

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.

The Inaugural Faby’s Awards with Kim Blackwell, Bethann Hardison, Esi Eggleston Bracey, Robert Verdi Sponsored by Dove, Ciroc, Nett Lifestyle, and more!

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.

Miss Jay Alexander Wowed in all Black Accented by Sequins
The ladies of June’s Diary showed some love
From Left: Kelli Richardson Lawson, Brandice Daniel, Kim E Paige, Claire Sulmers, Esi Eggleston Bracey, Kim Blackwell
Models wearing @BlacGlas
Stylist @MickeyBooom came in a floor length fur
Rah Ali sparkled in all black
Black Ink Crew star Young Bae wore a sparkly dress and a Unicorn Horn Crown
Celebrity Hairstylist Neal Farinah posed in sparkly pants.
My hairstylist Theo Barrett threw up the deuces in a dapper outfit.
Blue Ivy’s stylist Manuel A. Mendez was bomb in stripes and Chanel.
Jewelry Designer McKenzie Liautaud posed with stylist Avon Dorsey
Lovely Ladies of L’Oreal

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!

With @ItsaManuWorld Manuel Mendez
With Sandra LaJoie
With the Ladies of Frances Grey
Antoine Phillips, Claire Sulmers, Umindi Francis , Kim Blackwell
With Hairstylist Neal Farinah
With @IamJiton
With Dr. Bobbi of Aces Braces
With Karen Mitchell of True Indian Hair, whose hair I wore for the night
The ladies of Blacglas looked absolutely stunning!

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!

On the Scene: Diddy’s 50th Birthday Party Featuring Kim Kardashian in Vivienne Westwood, Kylie Jenner in Balmain, Beyonce in Kujta & Meri, and More!

While we were turning up at the Faby’s, another glittering event was taking place in LA: Diddy’s 50th Birthday Party!

From Left: Pharrell, Kanye West, Diddy, Jay Z

Celebrities showed up and out for the mogul in a chic all black palette. Take a look at the best ensembles of the night:

Beyonce and Jay Z pumped through in all black looks. Beyonce wore a dress by Kujta & Meri, styled by Zerina Akers.
Kim Kardashian posed next to hubby Kanye West in a Vivienne Westwood dress.
The Kardashian/Jenner sisters shined with Kim in Vivienne Westwood, Khloe Kardashian in Bryan Hearns, and Kylie Jenner in Balmain.
Corey Gamble and Kris Jenner looked bomb in Dolce & Gabbana
Cardi B posed with Offset in Michael Costello
Naomi Campbell pumped through in an Atelier Versace dress
Jay Z posed next to Puff in a Louis Vuitton jacket and Santoni patent leather shoes.
Mary J. Blige was stunning in a Yousef Al Jasmi dress and David Webb Jewels, styled by Wayman and Micah.
Vashtie was a vision in Dior.
Yung Miami opted for Dolce & Gabbana

Looks like it was a great time!

Stay tuned for more pix as they filter in.

What do you think?

Images: Getty for Diddy

What You Need to Know Before Recording with Your Band

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.

Best of 2019: Most Fashionable Female Celebrity Including Cardi B, Beyonce, Rihanna, Zendaya, and Tracee Ellis Ross + RSVP to The Faby’s December 13th in NYC!

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.

Bomb Product of the Day: Dolce and Gabbana Keira Floral Sandals

Floral designs in fashion are a classic. You can get this Spring/Summer essential style with clothing, bags and even shoes.

Dolce and Gabbana Keira sandals are pure feminine elegance. These red satin multi-strap heels (as worn by Saweetie) are hand embroidered with delicate pink roses and features a winding green stem – giving the effect of the flower climbing up the heel. The entire look is finished off with jewel accents to add that bit of sparkle. 

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Bomb_Product_of_the_Day_Dolce_and_Gabbana_Keira_Floral_Sandals_9

Undeniably a splurge at $2,575, and they are also available with vivd red roses in black ($1,275) and nude ($1,377) on DolceGabbana.com, or Farfetch.com

Bomb_Product_of_the_Day_Dolce_and_Gabbana_Keira_Floral_Sandals_4
Bomb_Product_of_the_Day_Dolce_and_Gabbana_Keira_Floral_Sandals_3

These beauties are so show-stopping, Dolce and Gabbana decided to do a lily version also ($1,945). This style uses mordore nappa leather and is available in a metallic green or lilac colors.

Bomb_Product_of_the_Day_Dolce_and_Gabbana_Keira_Floral_Sandals_5
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With so many styles to chose from, which are your favs?

Thank you to our 2019 Faby’s Awards Sponsors: Dove, Rayar Jeans, True Indian Hair, Ciroc, and More+ RSVP Today!

The Faby’s are going down tomorrow from 7-10pm at the Westside Loft, located at 163 Bank Street! The dress code is time to shine, and we can’t wait to see you and all your fabulous outfits! If you haven’t RSVP’d yet, get your tickets today.

The event truly could not be possible without our sponsors! So here’s a rundown on are all star supporters , who are helping making this wonderful celebration of fashion and style possible!

Dove

Dove is our premiere sponsor, and we couldn’t be happier! Dove is committed to helping women realize their personal potential for beauty by engaging them with products that deliver real care. Our VIP gift bags will be full of Dove products for you to try and feel fabulous! Get your tickets here.

Rayar Jeans

Rayar Jeans has avant-garde designs that are both cutting edge and wearable. Their patented, exclusive design adds a modern twist to your traditional denim with sturdy, malleable chains that decorate distressed patches. Get yours here.

True Indian Hair

True Indian Hair is sponsoring our Hairstylist of the Year Award! Founded by entrepreneur Karen Mitchell in 2005 in New York City, True Indian Hair provides its diverse clientele with healthy, luxurious, 100% virgin cuticle hair culled directly from donors in East Indian Temples and Brazil. The hair strands are handpicked , sterilized, and sorted for the best quality and textures in order to provide customers with a superior product that stands apart from the so-call “remy” hair being sold on the market today. They’re Fashion Bomb Approved! Learn more at TrueIndianHair.com.

Ciroc

Ciroc will be providing drinks for the event! Come to The Faby’s for White Grape Cosmos (Ciroc White Grape. White Cranberry Juice, Lemon, and Simple Syrup) and VS Sidecars (Ciroc VS, Lemon Juice, and Triple Sec). Yum!

BlacGlas

BlacGlas is sponsoring our Stylist of the Year Award! The contemporary line comprises many items that would work for our “Time to Shine” Dress code, including the sequined jumpsuit, above, worn by the beautiful Mya. BlacGlas will be in the building with a couple models! Get your tickets here.

Aces Braces x All Things Dr. Bobbi

Dr. Bobbi of Aces Braces is sponsoring our Makeup Artist of the Year Award! Dr. Bobbi is my dentist, and specializes in cleaning, whitening and tooth gems! Learn more here.

Rent 4 Parties

Rent 4 Parties will be providing fabulous decor for our event! Based in New York City or New Jersey? Go to them for fun throne chairs, gilded pedestals, walls, and more!

Nett Lifestyle

Started by Kevin Barnett, Nett Lifestyle creates elevated experiences for brands. The Faby’s will certainly be swanky! Learn more at NettLifestyle.com.

Chef Ameer Natson

How could we forget the food? Chef Ameer Natson of Fresh Chef Catering will be providing scrumptious hors d’oeuvres for cocktail hour, including sweet potato cornbread and lobster Mac & Cheese!

Also thank you to our desserts, decor, and PR partners:

UFCG

BCakeNY

Rhome Embellishments

That does it! If you’d like to sponsor the Faby’s, it’s not too late! Email events@FashionBombDaily.com for details on how you can be added to our line up!

And see some of you tomorrow! Dress code: Time to Shine. Get your tickets at TheFabys.eventbrite.com.

Most Fashionable Couples of 2019: Keyshia Kaior & Gucci Mane, JLo and Arod, Meghan Markle & Prince Harry + RSVP Today for the Faby’s!

Just like that, it’s almost the end of another fabulous year! And we at Fashion Bomb Daily have been giving plenty of thought to the most fashionable people of 2019. We’re kicking off the festivities with Most Fashionable Couple !

Read on for who our editors determined were the most stylish duos, and if you’re in New York, Save the Date for Friday, December 13th, and RSVP for the Faby’s, which will be our 1st Annual End of the Year Awards! We will be acknowledging the best in the fashion and beauty business from Stylist of the year to Fashion Bombshell of the Year and more! Leave your nominations for categories in the comments and RSVP for our event here.

Without further ado: please find our most fashionable couples below!

In no particular order:

  1. Keyshia Kaior & Gucci Mane

While there are many couples who dress stylishly, Keyshia Kai’or and Gucci Mane are serious about fashion, and match each other’s swag consistently.

Coordinating colors, bold, logo laden prints, copious diamonds, designer bags and shoes, and pieces that look like they just popped the tag characterize this Fashion Bomb couple, who stunt hard whether court side at Basketball Games or front row at fashion shows in Milan.

With the theory “more is more,” the Davis Duo are always all the way turned up. We would describe their style as bold, flashy, and rich.

Few can deny how fresh they are, and if anything, they keep the fashion industry talking at every turn.

2. J. Lo and A Rod

Jlo & Arod pose for a recent photo shoot for their collection with Quay Australia shades.

Jennifer Lopez is a certified style icon, so it’s only fitting that her man, Alex Rodriguez, would follow suit.

This couple is not only good looking, but they’re also fitness freaks, which certainly helps make their clothes look impeccable.

2019 saw them posing together in a Quay Australia campaign, attending the Met Gala in Versace, and even getting engaged.

We can’t wait for the wedding, we know it will be one for the fashion books!

3. Beyonce and Jay Z

There is no couple more iconic or important to pop and hip hop culture than Beyonce and Jay Z.

The Billion Dollar Duo have been together for decades, sold millions of records, and have graced innumerable events in eye catching looks.

While Beyonce tends towards unbridled glamour in sparkling Yousef Al Jasmi, straight off the runway Balmain Couture, Cong Tri, and Peter Pilotto, Jay Z keeps it simple in suits from Frere and Tom Ford.

As always, they present the perfect balance of North and South, Texas elegance and gritty New York chic. Separate, they are fierce, but together, they are unstoppable. See even more fashionable people at our First Annual Awards show, The FABY’s, taking place Friday, December 13th. RSVP here.

Are they the most fashionable couple of 2019? Vote below!

3. Gabrielle Union & Dwyane Wade

Though Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade have made a fashionable pair for quite some time, this year, they added a mini fashionista to their brood: Kaavia James.

Understandably, the parents changed focus slightly, honing in on more casual ensembles made for chasing teething toddlers on the move.

Nights out for America’s Got Talent called for more curated looks for the couple.

And of course Kaavia offered a welcome dose of cuteness when she accompanied mom to work.

4 . Kim and Kanye

Few can think of fashion without thinking of Kanye and Kim Kardashian West.

While Kanye used to be a bit more flashy, dubbing himself the Louis Vuitton Don while sporting pastel polos and Goyard prints, over the years he has stripped himself of most logos and colors, allowing his iconic wife to shine.

As for Kim, she draws enough attention for the both of them, whether working Riccardo Tisci x Burberry, custom Rick Owens, or vintage ensembles.

5. Karrueche Tran & Victor Cruz

Karrueche Tran and Victor Cruz are another couple with amazing style.

Karrueche looks good in just about everything–and so does Victor! Whether kicking it on the beach in fab swimwear, cruising on red carpets, or flexing at fashion shows this photogenic pair gets it right 99% of the time.

They manage to coordinate without making it look intentional, keeping in similar tones while still staying true to their unique styles.

6. Victoria and David Beckham

Posh and Becks have been fly since the 90’s, with Victoria being so fashion obsessed that she launched an eponymous line.

Their sartorial penchants are simple: well tailored pieces, muted colors, effortless chic.

7. Teyana Taylor and Iman Shumpert

Teyana Taylor and Iman Shumpert are a match made in fashion heaven, and play well off of each other’s androgynous, gender neutral tendencies.

They both have an edgy aura and do streetwear better than most. They consistently take fashion risks that pay off.

Are they the most fashionable couple of 2019 in your opinion? Vote below!

8. Hailey and Justin Bieber

Hailey Baldwin married Justin Bieber this year! Hailey said “I do” in style, wearing a custom Off White dress by Virgil Abloh, styled by Maeve Reilly.

On regular days, the couple is super casual, both sporting flip flops, sneakers, and touches of leather.

9. DJ Envy and Gia Casey

Anyone who follows Gia Casey and DJ Envy on the ‘Gram knows that they live for a family coordinated moment, and are never shy about flaunting all the hottest brands.

Some of their favorites include Versace, Balmain, Chanel, Gucci, and of course Hermes.

10.Meghan Markle & Prince Harry

The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle has assumed her new role with style, conforming to a conservative dress code, characterized by neutral tones.

Though her and her hubby are a bit restricted when it comes to style, she still manages to look flaw free thanks to her natural good looks and impeccably tailored pieces.

11. Jada Pinkett & Will Smith

This Iconic couple has been lighting up the scene for decades–great genes of course help them and the entire family look great in most ensembles. They can shut down any red carpet at any time.

12. Cardi B & Offset

Over the years, Cardi B has become a certified fashion icon, and with Offset by her side, she can’t go wrong.

Cardi B in Rayar Jeans

Whether in runway Dolce & Gabbana at an awards show, or in Fashion Nova at the club, the two look goodt, with Cardi typically in a figure flattering dress with equally colorful hair, and Offset dripping in diamonds.

Though Cardi tends to steal the show, Offset is always there by her side, graciously complementing her swag.

Cardi_B_in_Mugler_Grammys

Are they the most fashionable couple of 2019? Vote below!

13. Ciara and Russell Wilson

Ciara and Russell always mean business when they show up.

Russell tends to go with a jacket or a suit, equipped with a poker face just as consistent as his fun curly hair. Ciara always has her perfect legs on display in gowns by Givenchy, David Koma, Philipp Plein, and more.

14. Jeannie Mai and Jeezy

Jeannie Mai and Jeezy are one of the newer couples on the list, and we can’t decide if we love their style, or just love them together!

Though they haven’t stepped out a ton, for formal events, they always look super cute, with Jeannie in a stunning gown, and Jeezy in a dapper tux. Even cheesing on the beach, they look bomb!

Here’s to even more fashionable moments in 2020 and beyond!

Vote on your favorites below:

We will be revealing all of our categories for Best of 2019 as the FABY’s gets closer! RSVP to our Awards Show in NYC on December 13th here.

What do you think?

Images: Zimbio/Getty/Backgrid/@Diggzy/@TheHapaBlonde/IG

How To Pick The Perfect Brand Name For Your Fashion Label

Are you thinking of launching your own fashion label? You’re in for an exciting ride! You’ll need to create your own fashion brand website, figure out a social media strategy, and refine your design process. But first, you need to pick out a name.

Perhaps you already have loads of ideas, or maybe you’re starting from scratch. Either way, your decision could make or break your business. An inappropriate name could turn off your audience before they even look at your products. 

So, how can you make sure your name sets you up for success?

1. Research your favorite brands

What brands do you follow and wear? What do you like about their names? Make a list of your top 10 or even top 20 brands, and research the story behind their names. You’ll discover that they come from lots of sources: a name, an idea, a verb, a company value, a special date, and so on. Let yourself be inspired. How could you incorporate a similar strategy?

2. Ask yourself, “What feelings do I want to inspire in my customers?”

A brand name sets up expectations in your audience. How do you want to make your customers feel? Sporty, classy, youthful, fashionable, rich? Write down a few adjectives, verbs, and objects that could form the basis for your brand name.

3. Permit yourself to come up with lots of ideas

Let your imagination run wild. Set aside a couple of hours to generate as many possibilities as you can. Don’t worry if some of them seem ridiculous. You don’t have to show anyone else this list! If you are working with someone else, work together. You don’t want to come up with a list of names you love, but your business partner hates. 

Five Tests Your Brand Name Must Pass

Once you’ve narrowed your list to a few favorites, run a few tests on each.

1. Is it original?

The last thing you want when setting up a new business is a lawsuit. Start by running Google and social media searches to make sure your name isn’t too similar to that of an existing brand. Next, run a check with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, or your country’s equivalent. Consulting with a specialist legal service can be well worth the money. Consider it if there’s room in your budget.

2. Is it offensive?

Make sure your name isn’t offensive. Does it have negative connotations in other languages? Do some groups associate it with tragic events or slurs? An hour or two of research could save you a lot of embarrassment. As a general rule, don’t try to shock people with your brand name. Not only will it cause offense, but “shocking” names tend to date quickly. A name that seems outlandish today might be cringeworthy in a couple of years.

3. Is it memorable and easy to spell?

Your name might be smart and descriptive, but it’s useless if people can’t remember it. If your brand name makes use of a common word, stick to the original spelling. In general, it’s best to err on the side of simple and short. 

7. Are your preferred domain names and social media handles still available?

You’ll need a website and a presence on the most popular social media platforms. If you can’t secure the rights to the right domain name and social media handles, you’ll need to come up with a new idea. 

8. Does your audience like it? 

This may be the most crucial test of all. When you choose a name, you risk developing tunnel vision. Because you like it, you may assume that your target audience agrees. It’s time for a reality check. Run it past as many members of your chosen demographic as possible. If the majority dislike it, it’s time for a rethink. Don’t let pride get in the way of making the best decision for your brand.

Your Efforts Now Will Make Your Life Easier Later

Does this sound like a lot of work? It is! However, don’t underestimate the power of a brand name. Rebranding an established business is difficult, so it’s much better to spend time getting it right from the beginning. You’ll thank yourself later.

Best of 2019: Fashion Bombshell of the Year Featuring Charlie from LA, Mina from Miami, Kelsey from Orlando, and More

Fashion Bombshell of the Day is a feature showcasing the singular style of Fashion Bomb Readers. This year’s Fashion Bombshells came with their A-game, showing off their unique sense of style! As apart of our first annual FABYs, we will be selecting a Fashion Bombshell of the Year from our 2019 nominees!

Let’s get into our Fashion Bombshell nominees:

  1. Charlotte Kamale (@charliekamale) from LA

We love her sleek, sexy, and sophisticated style that’s infused with a whimsical flair. Her curve hugging fits are graceful and tasteful. Charlotte is a fashion and lifestyle blogger who spends her time traveling the globe, trying out new cuisines, and looking bomb while on the run.

2. Mina (@MinaaMonroe) from Miami

She embodies the quintessential Miami Business woman, Modern, Stylish, and Unbothered. We love her easy and effortless ensemble choices and the way she accessorizes every outfit impeccably. Between being a newlywed and running multiple businesses, her sense of fashion has not wavered and she is someone whom we check for #StyleInspo.

3. Zhane (@__zhanes) from Philadelphia

Zhane describes her style as “…random, outlandish, modest and sometimes out of the box. I like to look at fashion like NY fashion week everyday, some days my outfits have a story to it and some days I just felt like being different because that’s what makes me happy.

4. Ama (@amagodson_a) based in London

Of Ghanaian heritage, Ama has quite the impressive resume as an image and content curator, stylist, and overall style influencer! She describes her style as, “colorful, chic, and smart and sometimes androgynous!

5. Kelsey  (@koolkelsey) from Brooklyn

Kelsey stated when it comes to her style “…I enjoy standing out and I like my style to reflect that.” She further states, “…whether it’s through stacked accessories or one unique piece.”

6. Janeisha  (@janeisha_missvi) from St. Croix, Virgin Islands

Janiesha states “…I’d like to think that my style is inspired from my home. I love bright colors, I love edgy pieces that accentuate my Caribbean curves and my go to is a bold red lip that shows my confidence as a woman with big dreams from a small island…”

7. Toni (@primalaprincess) from DC

Toni is a blogger, creative director, and stylist that loves to express her style through popping colors! She describes her styles as “vibrant, bold, and a mix of chic and street style.” She further adds, “I love feminine silhouettes that accentuate the body. However, I also love baggy clothes and tons of layers.”

8. Daiquan (@idesign8) from Charlotte

Daiquan is a style influencer and Youtuber who loves to showcase her fashion sense, beauty tips, and other lifestyle hacks. Her style can best be described as trendy chic as she knows how to keep her style on point with the season’s latest trends. Her go-to piece is a power blazer and she also loves to dabble with Afrocentric prints occasionally. 

9. Kelsey Ashley @KelseyAshley_ from Orlando

She says, “My style is eclectic.” “When I wake up, I dress according to how I feel. I’m inspired by Janelle Monae, Janet Jackson, Lady Gaga, and Rihanna. My signature is my measuring tape, which I carry around as a reminder to push myself beyond measure.

10. Sarlea Mah (@sarleamah) from Washington DC

She is a fashion and travel blogger with amazing style and zest for life. Her statement hats and small waist make for the perfect hourglass shape. We love watching to see where she’ll jet to next and how the scene will inspire her style choices.

We still cannot get over these fabulous Bombshells and their impeccable sense of style!

There can only be one Bombshell of the Year and it is time to cast your votes for your favorite Bombshell from 2019:

Vote for your favorites above, 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.