With today’s admiration of the coined phrase “Black Girl Magic,” there are many reasons to dig through the archives on what shaped black fashion, beauty, and entrepreneurship. The exhibit, ‘Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair‘ celebrates historical success.

Created by the Chicago Historical Museum under Johnson Publishing Company, the exhibit is currently on a 9-city tour and has touched down in Washington, DC at George Washington University’s Textile Museum. It will remain there until July 24th.

Founder and fashion mogul the late Eunice Walker Johnson paved the way for people of color in the fashion industry, specifically models who faced racial discrimination at many fashion houses. She started her own fashion show empire, Ebony Fashion Fair and cosmetic line, ‘Fashion Fair Cosmetics.‘

With help from her late husband, John Johnson, founder of Johnson Publishing Company, from 1958-2009, they supported charities at their fashion shows and in the end raised more than $55 million for black organizations during their 30-city tour around the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean. It soon lead Ebony Fashion Fair to become the biggest traveling fashion showcase ever.

Johnson was heavily known for her themed fashions shows that brought nothing but entertainment and electric energy to the catwalk. With her connections to European designers and Black designers she made sure she had the best couture designs displayed on the runways (she is pictured with Yves Saint Laurent below).

From YSL, Oscar de la Renta, Pierre Cardin, Paco Rabanne, Givenchy, Jean Paul Gaultier, Valentino, Emanuel Ungaro, Vivienne Westwood to Patrick Kelly, Stephen Burrows and more, she splurged more than $1 million on garments  and stuck closely to bold colors and prints throughout her collections.

As previously reported, Back in 2011, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers held a three-term auction with approximately 1500 garments for sale.

Now, many of the most prominent couture designs, more than a 100 of them are displayed at The Textile Museum as well as memorabilia of the great Eunice Johnson herself.

Take a look at some of the designs right here!

Emmanuel Ungaro design, haute couture bridal gown, Fall/Winter 1996-1997

Designed by Vivienne Westwood, haute couture, special order, Fall/Winter 2002-2003 

Designed by Angelo Marani, haute couture, Fall/Winter 2005-2006

Haute Couture, evening look, Fall/Winter 2001 by Hanae Mori

Designed by Stephen Burrows, Spring/Summer Ready-to-Wear 2007 evening dress.

Cocktail dress ready-to-wear Fall/Winter 2003-2004, designed by Tilmann Grawe.

One of Johnson’s favorites, Haute Couture designed by Pierre Cardin. Appeared in the “Fashion Seduction” show for Ebony Fashion Fair.

Special order Fall/Winter 1986 dress themed “I love Fashion Scandal” designed by, Patrick Kelly.

Missoni, Fall/Winter 2006-2007 Ready to Wear, day look.

Designed by Krizia, Haute Couture, Fall/Winter 1981-1982.

Designed by Bob Mackie, haute couture evening gown, Fall/Winter 1984-1985.

What are your thoughts on the Johnson legacy?

Images: Fashionista, and on Instagram from @masterpupeteer, @lindajohnsonrice, @yoganisamoon, @kerilhenderson, @karonf, @jenkohudson

It’s Friday, which means it’s time to delve into the fabulous looks of the week! Of course we have you to thank for helping us decide based on all your likes. So let’s get into it, shall we?

1. Janelle Monae in Christian Siriano: 31,106 Likes

You would think someone whose wardrobe consists of predominately black and white would somehow run out of ways to stun, but not Janelle Monae! She made her presence known at the CFDA awards in a fabulous pant suit by Christian Siriano. Who would have thought a half crop top half blazer would be so damn epic. Can we please just take a moment to applaud Siriano on such a risk-taking bad ass creation!

He didn’t just stop there with the design, he pushed the envelope a little more by adding stripes opposite the black on her top and pants. Though this is a quirky take on the pant suit; it is bold and sexy in every sense of the way. Heck, she deserved an award just for this ensemble right here. You guys did good, first place was no doubt hers to win.

2. Lil Mama in Charles and Ron: 13,165 Likes

Lil Mama served in a dolphin print Kimono dress by Charles and Ron. With a face beat to the gods and the ultimate diva stance, she clearly knew she was killing it.

She paired the look with gold metallic Steve Madden platforms, the perfect pairing for her flowy dress. Her soft curly coif and plunging neck line made this look all the more appeasing. The confidence she speaks through this photo just captivates you.

3. Ms. Tina Lawson in Karen Walker: 9,235 Likes

Queen Bey’s mama, Ms. Tina Lawson, never skips a beat with reminding us that the apple does not fall far from the tree. She slayed in a peach colored rosette dress matched with the perfect sunnies. I’m a huge fan of monochromatic looks and mama Tina hit it on the nail with this one. What can I say, she’s a bad mama jama!

4. Naomi Campbell in Ralph Russo: 8,756 Likes

Naomi Campbell has been slaying catwalks since I was in diapers and somehow still manages to look the same decades later. Catwalks are not the only thing this veteran model knows how to own. She looked regal in an ivory gown by Ralph and Russo at the Monte Carlo Fashion Week Gala. The one shoulder couture gown with embellished trim was not only perfect for her skin tone, but it also hugged her in all the right places. Naomi just knows how to go glam with it!

5. Vanessa Hudgens in Gucci: 7,545 Likes

If a day off comes with all this Gucci in tow, I’ll gladly take it! Vanessa trotted around LA on her day off in this casual look accessorized in all Gucci. This is the perfect example of how a look can go from drab to fab if paired with the right pieces. She dressed her denim with the popular Gucci double g belt which went well with their leather mules. Then, there’s the large ‘Blind for love’ bag with red accents that tied the look together. I just love how Vanessa pulled this off so effortlessly!

That’s all for the round up! I’ll catch you back here next week!

Who do you think had the best look?

Happy Friday!

Today’s Bombshell is Domonique from Charlotte, North Carolina.

She writes, “I would describe my style as Simple, Sexy, Chic because it directly correlates to my personality. When I step out I own my outfit, I own my style. This is me. You’re going to feel me when you see me.”

“I love Rihanna and Beyoncé’s style. I can definitely say they have inspired my style greatly. They are beautiful & confident women who demand the room at every event. Who wouldn’t want to learn from them?! Lol”

“I am currently looking into breaking into the beauty business however, I enjoy being in front of the camera modeling. I think as the years have went by I have discovered a passion to help other women/models. I will pursue becoming creative director on future photo shoots & possibly photography.”

 

More pics here

Thanks Dom! You are certainly all that!!

Learn more about Domonique on Instagram @domoniquebrooks

What do you think of Domonique from Charlotte?

<em>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 <a href=”mailto:Bombshell@FashionBombDaily.com“>Bombshell@FashionBombDaily.com</a>. 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.</em>

Happy Friday!

Today’s Bomber is sleek and sophisticated, Mr. Emanuel Byrd from Collierville, Tennessee.

He writes, “I would describe my style to be Simple, I like to shop in high end stores and thrift shops to mix and match the clothes.”

“My favorite fashion quote is, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” —Yves Saint Laurent”

More pics here

Thanks Emanuel! I’m digging your swag!

To learn more about Emanuel view his Instagram @Thislifemmanuelde

What do you think about Emanuel from Tennessee?
Fashion Bomber 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 <a href=”mailto:Bombshell@FashionBombDaily.com“>Bombshell@FashionBombDaily.com</a>. 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.

Airport style has become a popular fad amongst celebrities and the like.  At times, a celebrity’s travel look is more calculated and well put together than their everyday look and rightfully so.   Airports are some of the busiest places in the world, and you never know who you may see.  So, it’s important to travel in style.

A lot of fashion lovers draw a blank when it comes to choosing their travel attire.  Trapped between being comfortable and in fashion, they panic and end up rolling with a mediocre outfit that has them wishing they were invisible.  Fret no more!  For your travel style inspiration, we have 25 fashionable airport styles that will give you an array of ideas for your next airport run.  Also included are travel must-haves that you can purchase now.

Let’s get into the looks below!

Keep it sporty for the airport like Bella Hadid.  Find a vintage sports tee and pair it with some joggers and fresh sneakers.

Got a statement coat like Nicole Ritchie?  It’s the perfect cover up for traveling.  It keeps you stylishly warm in the below zero temperatures at the airport, and it also allows you to wear whatever you want underneath.

Turn your swag up while keeping it comfy like Ciara did in this sporty look.  All you need is a trendy Letterman jacket, a plaid shirt to tie around your waist, your favorite jeans and some fresh sneakers.

Solange never disappoints when it comes to fashion.  Her high-waist paints look like the perfect traveling attire – super stylish and comfy enough for a long plane ride.

Take a note out of Kendall Jenner’s traveling style book and rock a matching set to the airport.  This takes the pressure off having to choose a separate top, pants, etc.

Keep it cool like Rita Ora and throw on an Adidas track jacket, some cute shorts, or leggings or both!

Why not rock an eye-catching coat and statement hat like Fan Bing Bing?  If you love bold looks and are up for the extra attention,  go for it!

No matter where you are, grunge always works.  A cute beanie cap, some plaid pants or jeans, and some funky boots will definitely have you floating through the airport on trend.  Just ask Miley Cyrus.

If Rihanna rocks a onesie in the airport then it’s acceptable!  Get a cute onesie, pair it with some fly sneakers and your travel attire is complete.

Distressed jeans, a cute sweater and some booties will never go out of style!  As you can see on Emily Rakowsky, this look works perfectly for the airport.  It looks fabulous and is relaxed enough to enjoy your plane ride.

Check out more celebrity travel style below.  Also, shop some airport style essentials for your next excursion!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Which is your favorite airport look and why? Also, shop some airport style must-haves below!

The vastness and beauty of Africa should be the exact things that inspire all fashion designers everywhere, but with cultural appropriation rampant in the fashion industry, sometimes I wonder if being influenced by the continent and all it has to offer does more harm than good. Thus, I had an initial cringe upon hearing that 3.1 Phillip Lim was inspired by photographer Jackie Nickerson’s photographs of Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe. Luckily for us all, his designs were beautifully and tastefully done—not a complete surprise, but one never knows—with riffs on traditional Maasai plaids. There could absolutely still be a bone to pick as these tribeswomen and men won’t profit off of Lim’s designs, but this was at least done with the right intention in mind…if that even still counts for anything.

Leather and PVC played against cozy knits for the ultimate Fall mash-up—capturing what sartorial-loving ladies will actually be wearing when this assortment hits stores.

Other pieces channeled that easy, breezy mindset of resort in pristine all-white, classic khaki, tie tops for the utmost versatility while on vacation, and high-fashion spins on the timeless track suit.

Accessories continued that tribal-inspired vibe with oversized drop earrings in bold hues and rope-accented sandals.

Glossy jackets tied around the waists of several looks felt incredibly modern, functional, and how actual fashion-minded people might actually wear them based on the temperature changes during Fall—but they often detracted from the rest of the ensembles, becoming the main focal points.

I’m most interested in actually purchasing the brand’s signature paperbag trousers done in patent leather, shiny statement-making jackets in the same texture, and the assemblage’s array of wearable crossbody leather bags.

And though Lim’s pieces aren’t often red carpet ready go-tos, celebs will definitely gravitate toward a ruched, cross-front crop top, a knot-accented piece that will look perfect with everything from high-waisted denim to pencil skirts, a trench-inspired dress that could double as a vest, and a super cool plaid suit.

What do you think of Lim’s Resort offerings?

Images: Vogue.com

After Selena Gomez’s flirty pink gown at the 2017 Met Gala, all eyes have been on Coach. The brand’s Creative Director, Stuart Vevers, is continuing that fun-loving, féte-ready mood for Resort—with a slew of designs that are perfect for work, play, and every single party in between.

Denim is given a spirited spin with embroidered patches, scallop lace trim, front seam detailing on retro-inspired jeans, and a barely-there cutoff and jacket combo that we wish we could wear right now.

My affinity for Coach shoes started in high school and I’m happy to report that I’m definitely looking to pick that love back up for the season. I’ve been all about booties in 2017 and the collection is brimming with them. When paired with shearling vests, wispy printed frocks, patch-emblazoned leather jackets, fuzzy sweaters, and mini dresses, Vevers demonstrates their versatility more than a few times over.

Bags are inarguably the things the brand is best known for and they did not disappoint. Colorblock leather, star-accented suede, flap fronts, mini sizes, and stud embellishment are all on the agenda.

As is requisite for real-time wear when the collection hits stores, outerwear is strong, yet simple enough to meet every person’s style proclivities. Puffer vests, classic solid coats, sumptuous shearlings, and 70’s chic leathers make a powerful, yet pared-down statement.

Sasha Lane, Chloe Moretz, Hari Nef, and Rowan Blanchard are all fans of the brand, thus I’m certain each and every one of them are already clamoring to slip into the designs at hand. A star-print mini dress seems like just the piece for the former Girl Meets World actress, while a sheer-hem LBD would be just the thing to show off the aforementioned model’s mile-long legs.

Thoughts on the latest from Coach?

Images: Vogue.com

Zawe Ashton was pretty in pink at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition Preview Party across the pond, clad in a $1,838 Roksanda Hillevi Hammered Silk Satin Midi Dress, $1,212 Small Leather Top Handle Bag, and $327 Roksanda x Malone Souliers Dana Leather Pumps:

Her rose and pastel-yellow hammered silk-satin dress hails from the designer’s Spring 2017 collection. It features striped cuffs and a cinched waist.

Her grained leather bag boasts a top handle silhouette, metal carry handle, detachable leather shoulder straps, a hinged opening, and gold-tone hardware.

Her pointed-toe pumps feature functional heels and black and beige woven-elastic crossover front straps and black zip fastenings.

Pretty!

If you’re up for the splurge, get Zawe’s frock here, the navy version of her bag here, and the camel iterations of her shoes here.

Thoughts?

Olivia Culpo mixed high & low on the ‘gram—pairing her very own $58 Olivia Culpo x Le Tote White Ruffle Blouse and $48 Black Vegan Leather Flounce Skirt with a $1,197 Alexander McQueen Black Leather Waist Belt, $1,561 Versace Black Mini Metal Stud Stardust Bag, and $940 Isabel Marant Black Leydoni Booties:

A post shared by Olivia Culpo (@oliviaculpo) on Jun 7, 2017 at 5:20pm PDT

Her cotton poplin blouse features long sleeves, a button-front, and ruffle detailing.

Her vegan leather skirt boasts a flounce hem and mini length.

She’s always flawless!

A post shared by Olivia Culpo (@oliviaculpo) on Jun 7, 2017 at 12:35pm PDT

Get Olivia’s blouse and skirt for a steal here and here.

Would you wear them?

A post shared by Olivia Culpo (@oliviaculpo) on Jun 7, 2017 at 5:20pm PDT