On the Scene: The Birth of a Nation Hollywood Premiere with Gabrielle Union in Rodarte, Aja Naomi King in Huishan Zhang, Garcelle Beauvais, and More!

The Birth of a Nation Hollywood Premiere went down last night with our favorite stylish stars in attendance. Though we’re absolutely still on the fence about seeing the film, a powerful assemblage of black stars such as these is a rare and beautiful thing.

So let’s stick to the fashion for now, shall we?

Gabrielle+Union+Premiere+Fox+Searchlight+Pictures-rodarte

Gabrielle Union was a vision in a white lace Rodarte gown with a thigh-high slit. Hot!

Aja+Naomi+King+Premiere+Fox+Searchlight+Pictures-huishan-zhang

Aja Naomi King looked ethereal in a white, feather-detailed Huishang Zhang stunner. This was fab.

Garcelle+Beauvais+Premiere+Fox+Searchlight

Garcelle Beauvais went bold in a strapless cobalt jumpsuit. Gorgeous!

Premiere+Fox+Searchlight+Pictures+Birth+Nation-annie-ilonzeh

A short-sleeve, sequin embellished mini dress and cutout booties were on the agenda for Annie Ilonzeh. Nice seeing her back on the red carpet: she’s always hair goals.

Premiere+Fox+Searchlight+Pictures+Birth+Nation-chadwick-boseman

Mr. Black Panther himself Chadwick Boseman kept it simple in black and navy. He’s so handsome!

Premiere+Fox+Searchlight+Pictures+Birth+Nation-gloria-govan

Gloria Govan gave some flair to a simple, gray heathered maxi dress with a statement-making necklace. Simple and chic!

Premiere+Fox+Searchlight+Pictures+Birth+Nation-nas

Nas was dapper in a striped suit.

Premiere+Fox+Searchlight+Pictures+Birth+Nation-jesse-williams

A pared-down duo was on the menu for Jesse Williams—accented by a dot print shirt and suede shoes. He looks good in just about anything!

Colman+Domingo+Premiere+Fox+Searchlight+Pictures

Colman Domingo was one of my best dressed of both the night and the week in a forest green Ports 1961 star-patterned suit.

Premiere+Fox+Searchlight+Pictures+Birth+Nation-angel-parker

Last, but certainly not least was Angel Parker in a curve-hugging, black and navy frock. Hot!

Who had your favorite look of the night? Are you planning on seeing The Birth of a Nation?

Show Review: Gucci Spring 2017

Alessandro Michele has firmly placed Gucci in the 70’s and his set for the Spring collection was a carbon copy of a discotheque from the disco-charged decade. The entire venue was pretty in pink: not unlike many of the designs on display nor the iconic Italian fashion house’s pieces since the raven-haired dynamo assumed his role at its Creative helm.

gucci-spring-2017-1

gucci-spring-2017-2

gucci-spring-2017-47

gucci-spring-2017

Though love might not be exactly what you were looking for when you headed out to Studio 54 back in the Seventies, it was certainly on the agenda for Michele. Multi-finger rings, the oversized pleat cuffs of cropped trousers, and the transparent collar of a high-neck gown featured red, embroidered “Loved” text, while a black and beige tulle confection boasted an embroidered heart with a dagger through it. Seemed pretty synonymous with the way the world feels about Gucci currently—madly in love with its designs though not always able to make that infatuation plain due to high-fashion price points.

gucci-spring-2017-4

gucci-spring-2017-5

gucci-spring-2017-6

gucci-spring-2017-7

We’re quite aware that florals for the season are far from groundbreaking, but it was fun to see the way the house riffed on them for Spring. A head scarf in the nature-loving print felt like retro at its finest when paired with the assortment’s embellished shades, while a yellow, single-button suit had the pattern embroidered on its flap collar and sleeve cuffs for a red carpet-ready spin on the classic pairing.

gucci-spring-2017-8

gucci-spring-2017-9

gucci-spring-2017-10

gucci-spring-2017-11

As Michele is wont to do, some of the looks were complete visual overload: utterly unwearable in their runway form but definite fun for over-the-top fashion lovers.

gucci-spring-2017-12

gucci-spring-2017-13

gucci-spring-2017-14

gucci-spring-2017-15

Suiting had a slew of iterations including a vest with a deep scoop neck and matching cuffed pants, a navy duo with orange trim and a longline blazer, a timeless black tux for the gents, and a short set with time-honored dragon embroidery.

gucci-spring-2017-16

gucci-spring-2017-17

gucci-spring-2017-18

gucci-spring-2017-19

gucci-spring-2017-20

Bows added a sugary sweet taste to the collection—accenting otherwise sultry sheer gowns, dresses already brimming with embellishment and fanciful detailing, the tie-neck of a striped lace blouse that could actually work for the office, and the collar of a contrarily preppy menswear ensemble.

gucci-spring-2017-21

gucci-spring-2017-22

gucci-spring-2017-23

gucci-spring-2017-24

Michele had a real love affair with sporty chic, contrast stripe leggings—yes, the kind you might wear to the gym or out on a weekend with an oversized t-shirt and sneakers. He placed the athletic anchors under a double-breasted, floral jacquard tuxedo-inspired dress, a ruched floral tunic, a blush babydoll dress, and a single-button, floor-grazing coat a in bow-accented lace-up iteration.

gucci-spring-2017-29

gucci-spring-2017-30

gucci-spring-2017-31

gucci-spring-2017-32

And how could we forgot the accessories? Sequin-embellished booties with barely visible peep-toes, lace tights with bow-detailed cutouts, flatforms given flair with snake motifs, graphic “future” emblazoned shoulder bags: nothing is off-limits in the world of Gucci.

gucci-spring-2017-32

gucci-spring-2017-33

gucci-spring-2017-34

gucci-spring-2017-35

Celebs are flocking to Gucci like never before—be it for the brand’s statement-making accoutrements or its jaw-dropping gowns. I fully expect to see fans including Beyoncé, Margot Robbie, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kourtney Kardashian in these wares fairly soon at fashionable parties, movie premieres, and on the red carpet.

gucci-spring-2017-25

gucci-spring-2017-26

gucci-spring-2017-27

gucci-spring-2017-28

Thoughts on the latest from Gucci?

Images: Vogue.com

Philipp Plein’s Alice in Ghetto Land Milan Fashion Week Show Causes Uproar

Designer Philipp Plein rankled more than a few fashionable onlookers with his latest show, titled #AliceinGhettoLand. In typical Plein fashion, the show was pure spectacle, featuring musical acts by Fergie and Fat Joe, confetti, and a loud hip hop soundtrack. An oversized garden gnome oversaw the festivities with the word ‘Pimp’ emblazoned across his chest.

Models in short shorts stomped atop thigh high cut out boots and embellished booties, sporting oodles of opulent accessories, from nameplate necklaces to gold chains and door knocker earrings. The rap references were copious, from one model carrying a bejeweled boombox to yet another bopping around in gilded sneakers and a baseball cap.

4 Philipp Plein's Alice in Ghetto Land Milan Fashion Week Show Causes Uproar

5 Philipp Plein's Alice in Ghetto Land Milan Fashion Week Show Causes Uproar
6 Philipp Plein's Alice in Ghetto Land Milan Fashion Week Show Causes Uproar
8 Philipp Plein's Alice in Ghetto Land Milan Fashion Week Show Causes Uproar
2 Philipp Plein's Alice in Ghetto Land Milan Fashion Week Show Causes Uproar
3 Philipp Plein's Alice in Ghetto Land Milan Fashion Week Show Causes Uproar
11 Philipp Plein's Alice in Ghetto Land Milan Fashion Week Show Causes Uproar


Far from wearable and chock full of kitsch, the most offensive aspect of the show might have been its lack of originality. We saw all of this 10 years ago at Baby Phat.
10 Philipp Plein's Alice in Ghetto Land Milan Fashion Week Show Causes Uproar
But what most have taken umbrage to is Plein’s glamorization and almost ridicule of the concept of ‘ghetto’ and what that means.

4  philipp plein spring 2017
8  philipp plein spring 2017
5  philipp plein spring 2017
3  philipp plein spring 2017
2  philipp plein spring 2017
philipp plein spring 2017
philipp plein  spring 2017

The almost constant narrative of cultural appropriation in the fashion industry is more than obvious here. When the culture of origin does something it’s frowned upon and has a negative connotation. But when European designers embrace it, it’s fun! Cutting edge! And entertaining!

Fashion Bomb readers expressed their distaste. @Moultrieee wrote “GHETTO LandJ? This designer’s LACK OF CREATIVITY and privileged views are making my skin crawl. The fact that people supported this and didn’t see a problem. The association with certain items and the word GHETTO is even more disrespectful to my culture. This is a problem for me.” @Dan-Ieb continued, “Non black people and this ‘ghetto’ fetishization. The obligatory big earrings and gold chains in 2016? [This is] cliché and racist.”

When I first observed the show, I thought: ghetto doesn’t necessarily mean black, so what me worry? But the true insult lies in Plein’s disrespect and skewed interpretation of hip hop culture, an intrinsically black art form, and labeling it ghetto.

Bye, Philipp Plein.
What do you think?

Fashion Bombshell of the Day: Ashley from Dallas

Today’s Bombshell is Ashley from Dallas:

Fashion-Bombshell-Of-The-Day-Ashley-From-Dallas-1

Ashley writes, “My fashion style changes depending on my mood at the time.”

Fashion-Bombshell-Of-The-Day-Ashley-From-Dallas-3

She says, “My favorite looks are bold, chic, and simple.”

Fashion-Bombshell-Of-The-Day-Ashley-From-Dallas-2

She added, “I believe there is no price on fashion and no clothing piece is too ugly.”

Fashion-Bombshell-Of-The-Day-Ashley-From-Dallas-4

Ashley, your style is super cute. I do love your floral romper!

For more on Ashley, visit her Facebook! What do you guys think?

What do you think of Ashley from Dallas?

 
pollcode.com free polls

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.

Splurge: Ayesha Curry’s Instagram Self Portrait Floral Vine Overlay Layered Ruffle Cap Sleeve Mini Dress

Prior to heading to her first book signing for The Seasoned Life, beauty and culinary diva Ayesha Curry took to the Instagram clad in a $560 Self Portrait Floral Overlay Layered Ruffle Cap Sleeve Mini Dressayesha-curry-instagram-nyc-book-signing-self-portrait-60s-vine-floral-dress

This elegant mini dress is infused with the playful spirit of the 60’s, constructed by layering light blue guipure lace with intricately detailed floral vine embroidery.

self-portrait-60s-vine-floral-overlay-dress

With a fitted angled waistline, the cap sleeved dress has a flattering sheer mesh upper bodice and features a flared skirt with and asymmetric ruffle organza trim.2-self-portrait-60s-vine-floral-overlay-dress

This is a darling look, no?

If you’re up for the splurge, shop it up here.

ayesha-curry-instagram-nyc-book-signing-self-portrait-60s-vine-floral-dress

Would you wear it?

Lookbook: Ghanaian Designers DPiperTwins Release Their New Collection!

True story: I first discovered this tantalizing duo back in 2014 after they were featured as our Bombshells of the Day. But, Danielle and Chantelle Dwomoh-Piper quickly proved that they were more than just pretty faces with impeccable style.

As the moguls-in-the-making begin their worldwide takeover, DPiperTwins‘s social media presence corrals about 45,000 followers on Instagram and over 11,000 likes on Facebook! In addition, these Ghanaian influencers have also been featured by brands such as celebrity eyewear designer Steve Boi, Bud Light, Marie Claire, Lucky Magazine and more.

Naturally, after receiving word that DPiperTwins released a new and improved Spring collection – I knew I give our Fashion Bomb Daily readers the tea as to where they could garner all the fashionable goodness. So, keep reading as we get into a quick glimpse of one of the brightest collections of the season!

Lookbook-DPiperTwins-Spring-17-1

Lookbook-DPiperTwins-Spring-17-2

Lookbook-DPiperTwins-Spring-17-3

In contrast to their Autumn/Winter 2015 collection, DPiperTwins’s voluminous pieces are reminiscent of vintage at it’s best. With structured polka dot crop tops, midi skirts galore and pastel, tiered ruffle stunners, this compilation of on-trend wonders bridges the gap between two eras, in the name of fashion.

The 60’s-inspired silhouettes are evident as you sift through the first few images but, not too soon after, you come across a more modern take on the same combinations. There’s also this sense of an effortless cool that resonates deep from within each look – although the outfits are styled to perfection –  the true beauty lies within the originality and versatility of the designs.

Lookbook-DPiperTwins-Spring-17-4

Lookbook-DPiperTwins-Spring-17-5

Lookbook-DPiperTwins-Spring-17-6

Now, DPiperTwins are pretty reasonable when it comes to pricing their pieces. After some research, I discovered that a single product from this collection will run you between $70 – $190.

Many may say, “Eh, that’s a little steep!” while others will urge “Yes! Where’s my credit card?!” But, in all actuality, the quality of the designs are like no other. The products can be easily paired with other closet staples and you definitely get a bang for your buck. Trust me, these women are the truth!

Lookbook-DPiperTwins-Spring-17-7

Lookbook-DPiperTwins-Spring-17-8

Lookbook-DPiperTwins-Spring-17-9

And, I’m here for everything!

From the exuberant use of jewel-toned hues to the playful yet feminine tones of each showcased piece. I think it’s safe to say that this presentation was a definite success. The styling was flawless, the photography was top of the line and the model slayed for days. Great job, ladies!

To see more from DPiperTwins, follow the fashion powerhouses via Instagram @DPiperTwins or visit their official site/shop here!

 

*Credits*

Model: Renee Bhagwandeen of America’s Next Top Model, Cycle 20

Photographer: Andrew Fennell

Hair and Makeup by: Richard Lomax

 

Sound off below: Are you feeling DPiperTwins’s new collection?

 

Signing Out — Esmesha

Steal: Olivia Palermo’s London Fashion Week Zara Urban Collection High Collar Sweater and Side Band Trousers

Olivia Palermo took in a couple of shows during LFW in a $36 Zara Urban Collection High Collar Sweater and $100 Side Band Trousers:

Olivia+Palermo+Front+Row+Arrivals+Day+3+LFW-zara

Her sleeveless sweater boasts a high collar and a contrast asymmetric hem.

zara-urban-collection-high-collar-sweater

Her trousers feature double side bands, zipped pockets, and a concealed closure.

zara-side-band-trousers

I live for her style!

Olivia+Palermo+Front+Row+Arrivals+Day+3+LFW-zara-1

Get Olivia’s top here and trousers here.

Would you wear them?

Olivia+Palermo+Front+Row+Arrivals+Day+3+LFW-zara-2

Splurge: Serena Williams’s Gucci Spring 2017 Milan Fashion Week Gucci’s GucciGhost Word Art Embellished Bomber Jacket

Not only does she serve a few mean aces on the tennis court, 22 time Grand Slam champ Serena Williams is ready to for match point at Milan Fashion Week. The beauty served a side of saucy at Gucci‘s Spring 2017 fashion show while sporting a $2,750 GucciGhost Word Art Life Is Gucci Embellished Bomber Jacket from the brand:

serena-williams-milan-fashion-week-guccighost-life-is-gucci-bomber-jacket

Brooklyn-based street artist Trouble Andrew collaborated on the luxury brand’s Fall Winter 2016 Fashion Show collection, by incorporating his art into Gucci’s Creative Director’s, Alessandro Michele’s designs. The final product is a mix of two cultures — a juxtaposition of the past and the present.

gucci-guccighost-life-is-gucci-bomber-jacket-2

This sleek bomber jacket boasts a crystal bow embroidery on the front, blue/red web trim and a zip front closure.

gucci-guccighost-life-is-gucci-bomber-jacket

Trouble Andrew’s Life Is Gucci graphic design word art is emblazoned on the back.

gucci-guccighost-life-is-gucci-bomber-jacket-back

Cute!

Want it? Purchase here.

serena-williams-milan-fashion-week-guccighost-life-is-gucci-bomber-jacket

Beauty Crush Wednesday: Khoudia Diop

With each passing day, we have to remind ourselves that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes and shades–especially in an industry that constantly tries to project its narrow standards upon us.  This week, we stumbled across someone who is a beaming example of the beauty of diversity.  Enter Khoudia Diop.

Khoudia Diop BCW 2

The gorgeous model hails from Senegal and spends her time between Paris and New York.  After being cast as one of the models for Tori Elizabeth’s and Victory Jones’s The Colored Girl Campaign, many (ourselves included) took notice of Diop’s striking beauty.

Khoudia Diop BCW 10
Khoudia Diop BCW 3

With skin as dark and as smooth as obsidian, Diop has remained steadfast in her mission to stay unapologetically black as she vehemently denounces any support for the use of skin lightening agents.

Khoudia Diop BCW 1

A stunning white smile and a head of curly tendrils compliment her enviable complexion.  And with skin like that, there’s hardly any need for her to wear layers of makeup.  A touch of gold in the corners of each tear duct is all she needs.

Khoudia Diop BCW 4

Diop may have only recently gotten her start in the modeling world, but the confidence of this self-proclaimed “Melanin Goddess” seems to know no bounds.  And that’s why she’s this week’s Beauty Crush!  For more, spy our gallery above and follow her on Instagram here.

What do you think?  Is Khoudia Diop deserving of the title?

 

Fall 2016 Shopping: 10 Vibrant Velvet Finds Under $100 You Need Now!

Fall is officially upon us and you know what that means: It’s time to revamp our entire wardrobe!

While it’s ideal to embrace those summer staples while pairing them with cool weather essentials, you can’t fight the rise of the season’s up-and-coming trends! And, this go round, that includes an 80’s throwback that combines rockerish-grunge vibes coupled with that 90’s aesthetic. (Hey, velvet!) We’ve seen this unique fabric pop up at retail stores everywhere and a large number of our fashion faves (including Kendall Jenner and GiGi Hadid) have also uplifted their own versions on and off the runway.

Without further ado, let’s get into some of our favorite velvet finds under $100!

1) ASOS’s NIGHT Ombre Velvet Midi Bodycon Dress, $65

Fall-2016-Shopping-10-Vibrant-Velvet-Pieces-Under-100-1

Take on a more luxurious approach by donning this standout ombre bodycon stunner from ASOS! Add a black lace-up heels or a pair of your favorite sneakers and you’re ready to go!

2) Topshop’s ‘Renee’ Velvet 2Part Sandals, $80

Fall-2016-Shopping-10-Vibrant-Velvet-Pieces-Under-100-3

After spotting these soft pink lovelies at Topshop, I was instantly taken with their eye-catching ability. Trust me, in person, they’re the bomb! I’d style them up with distressed denim and a sheer top or even a matching velvet dress (if you’re up for the challenge!) Get them now!

3) Missguided’s Velvet Longline Velvet Bomber in Navy, $56

Fall-2016-Shopping-10-Vibrant-Velvet-Pieces-Under-100-2

Bomber jackets are a tried-and-true fall style staple. They possess the ability to dress down any ensemble but they also add this cool girl aesthetic to your everyday looks. Spice up your next ‘fit with this jewel-toned velvet topper, courtesy of Missguided. Are you feeling it?

4) Ego Official’s ‘Isabella’ Over-the-Knee Boot in Black Velvet, $50

Fall-2016-Shopping-10-Vibrant-Velvet-Pieces-Under-100-5

Okay, ya”ll – confession time! I’m been lusting for a pair of velvet OTK killers for about 2 months! Now, I’m quite picky when it comes to investing in such lavish pieces but Ego Offiical‘s ‘Isabella’ just made life that much sweeter. With a chunky 4-inch heel and a sleek design, you can channel your inner “Beyoncé-on-her-Formation-World-Tour”. Yes! Cop them now!

mango tassel velvet clutch

5) Mango’s Velvet Tassel Clutch, $55

In need of an eccentric bag that’ll keep all your bombshell/bomber daily must-haves close by? This chic clutch will fit seamlessly into your fall wardrobe and is a steal at only $50. Get it here.
6) Boohoo’s Lottie Velvet V Plunge Ruched Bandeau Midi Dress, $40

Fall-2016-Shopping-10-Vibrant-Velvet-Pieces-Under-100-12

Let your curves do all the talking as you slay in this tantalizing pick from Boohoo! If you’re looking for a quick frock to slip on as you head out for a night on the town with the girls, look no further!

7) Nasty Gal’s Cut Outta Here Velvet Jumpsuit, $98

Fall-2016-Shopping-10-Vibrant-Velvet-Pieces-Under-100-9

For my fearless bombshells (who are always on the lookout for distinctive wardrobe additions), get into this phenomenal cream cutout jumpsuit that features a deep v-cut neckline, flared bottoms and a clean silhouette. Purchase it at NastyGal.com.

8) LuLu’s ‘Well Wishes’ Black Velvet Choker, $11

Fall-2016-Shopping-10-Vibrant-Velvet-Finds-Under-100-8

The resurrection of the 90’s is in full effect and chokers are here to stay. If you’re searching for a piece that screams ‘versatility’, here’s your pick. So, indulge yourself here!

9) Steve Madden Edit Boots, $90

steve madden edit bootie blue
steve madden velvet burgundy bootie


Dying to incorporate this vintage-inspired trend in a more understated way? Try these sapphire finds from Steve Madden! The fancy footwear has a block heel, and comes in black, burgundy, taupe, and blue.

10) New Look’s Shell Pink Velvet Striped Bodysuit, $25

Fall-2016-Shopping-10-Vibrant-Velvet-Pieces-Under-100-10

Bodysuits are another contagious trend that has conquered the entire fashion world! You can find the fitted staples at almost any department store but, an option that houses that extra lush velvety touch, is available via New Look. See more here!

Whew!

So, what do you think of the featured items? See anything worth purchasing?
If so, indulge below:

Signing Out — Esmesha