Fashion continues to Christopher Columbus Urban Culture

As I searched the internet this past weekend to figure out what my next post should be an interesting article, which I read a few days ago, popped up again in my newsfeed. I am happy that Black Twitter was swift on the up-take but it's articles like this which drove me to create Blak Labels:

Now, every one knows that fashion is one big retrograde hamster wheel with sequins, avant garde and exquisite hand-crafted artistry thrown into the mix every now & again to present it as a "new must-have/trend". However, there were always a reference to where this "new" idea originated. May it be commentaries such as "90s grunge chic" or "Elizabeth Taylor realness" we are reminded somehow or in some way where the trend began. But Elle, or particularly Danielle Prescod, decided to alert the masses of this trend without a single reference to Timberland’s popular and longstanding place in African-American culture. That feels like a slap in the face especially coming from a background where Timbs were my go-to boots before Uggs even entered the picture. A staple for the Fall/Winter months from when I was a kid and such said tradition carried into adulthood. Hey, let's not lay all the blame on Elle. They were just one of many offenders who've been feigning ignorance and dabbling in culture appropriation. Last month, during NY Fashion Week, Lucky magazine tried to rename gelled down baby hairs as "slick-down tendrils"; Marie Claire called Kendall Jenner's cornrows "epic" & "stylish"; a reporter from Los Angeles Times wrote a hairstyle article claiming braids were first seen on an actress by the name of Bo Derek from the movie "10". 
Then finally, NY Times & Vogue decided to rediscover a section of a woman's body that us, women of color, don't really consider a "trend" but more of our anatomy: 

Really? That's like re-discovering the Blues and calling it straight out Jazz. To add salt to the already festering wound, both articles reference Jennifer Lopez as the matriarch and founder of the voluptuous derriere. Then to continue this impertinent dance of obtuseness, NY Times takes another step by stating:

"Not that this is exactly new. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Jessica Biel, Rihanna, Serena Williams, Pippa Middleton and Beyoncé (who, on her tour that just ended, wore a bodysuit with the tush cutout) have all been praised for their behinds."

This only makes them look foolish and emphasizes the racial dissonance in the industry. Yes, these women have been praised for their backsides; (Jessica Biel & Pippa Middleton??? They were really reaching with those picks! Why not Shakira?Oh wait, she's Latina *sighs*) however, the author pretty much trapezed between giving diminutive attention to African-American culture without divulging too much. BUT (pun intended) you can't mention a song like "Baby got Back" by Sir-Mix-a-Lot and then in the same breath (well, article) mention only white women and A-list celebrities as the ones pioneering the big booty trend. So we are just going to ignore Erykah Badu, Pam Grier and, if you want me to take it way back, Sara Baartman? 

In no way am I saying "Hey, white people! Stop taking our stuff! We see you! You're not slick!". Actually, quite the opposite. Culture appropriation is the heart of this country and it's definitely what makes us unique. All I am asking of Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, NY Times, LA Times and any other media outlet that they stop Columbusing our culture. Stop stepping over us and replacing prominent black figures with "mainstream appropriate" figures. Give credit where credit is highly due! Stop calling our style "ghetto", "urban", "untamed" then flip-the-script when those same items are worn by our white counterparts. Clearly there is no issue of recognizing culture since Elle published articles about being 'French-chic'. So why can't African-American culture get the same recognition and we are right here in your backyard? Either journalists are getting lazy or they just don't care. Whatever the reason, Blak Labels, Black Twitter, Jezebel, FashionBomb Daily and others are here to remind you!

Happy 'Columbus' Day everyone!

Tracee Ellis Ross, mixed & loving it!

Hello Blogosphere! It feels good to be back! I know I've been on a small hiatus but sometimes life gets in the way. And when that happens you just have to buckle down and get to work! Speaking of 'work' can we take a second to admire how Tracee Ellis Ross is werking this dress!

Love love love it! The 'Black-ish' star posted this pic of herself on Instagram wearing a custom floral printed dress from Duro Olowu Spring 2015 collection. The cut of the dress is simple but what gets me is the variety of bold prints that work cohesively together to create this beautiful soft pastel color scheme. To add the cherry on top she paired it with a bright pink Christian Louboutin pumps (Breast Cancer Awareness!).

By the way, have you been tuning in to 'Black-ish'? I watched both episodes and thoroughly enjoyed it. To me, I honestly don't see too much of an issue with it. I can understand how some can view the show to be a bit racist or some who are wishing a return of the Cosbys; however, I believe this is an appropriate take on a modern multi-cultural, pre-dominantly Black family within the suburbs. Times have change but there are still social issues, especially identity, that Blacks deal with today. May it stem from being raised in a mixed family (ex: white mom, black dad or vice versa) or being the only Black person within your office. This show has potential to address these issues and more. I think 'Black-ish' is mainly being attacked for the name. But hey, like the classic saying goes, "don't judge a book by its cover.." 

'Black-ish' comes on every Wednesday, at 9:30pm on ABC. 

What are your thoughts on the show so far?

Can't get enough Lupita!

It was only a matter of time before Anna Wintour got the hint and graced the cover of Vogue with the talented dark-skin beauty, Lupita Nyong'o, who has been slaying the red carpet and our hearts! The Most Beautiful Person of 2014, as named by People magazine, was photographed by Mikael Jansson in the enchanting city of Marrakech. On the cover she is seen wearing a Prada Fall 2014 frock that perfectly reflects her colorful style and her signature low-cut hairstyle for the infamous glossy American Fashion Bible July issue. If you think she looks stunning on the cover wait until you see the spread! Pure perfection! I am loving the fact that Hollywood and the Fashion World are loving and appreciating Lupita. It really is given dark-skin women not only a boost of self-esteem but also hope. Hope that they, just like their light-skin or white counterparts, can be seen as a beautiful individual.  Check out a few of the pics of her in Givenchy, Proenza Schouler and more. Two snaps and encore for Ms. Lupita! 

Designs of a Decade fashion showcase

Tanise Francis, co-founder & designer of Fabric Twinz

Skin, cut-out patterns, lace, slits and sheer oh my! Last night was the Fabric Twinz premiere of their spring/summer line Designs of a Decade as well as designer, Tanise Francis, 27th birthday celebration! It was an all-white extravaganza and the new items from the line definitely did not disappoint! It actually embraces and embodies the edgy, risque, chic woman of NYC. Although there was no fluorescence or glow-in-the-dark as she previously mentioned from our last meet the basic ready-to-wear style and provocation of the line allowed me to simply say "Who cares!? I want it!" 

Click here to read more.... 

Nicki Minaj: Pills N Potions & free clothes!

THIS JUST IN!!! 

If you're in NYC and want some free clothes then pay close attention! Starting at around 1pm TODAY, a pink RV with the words #NICKIMINAJCOLLECTION emblazoned across the side will be driving through the city today and tomorrow giving away free clothes from Nicki Minaj's K-Mart collection. Did you catch that? FREE CLOTHES!!! The artist herself will be doing her rounds to promote her song 'Pills N Potions'. 

Of course, I just got wind of this at the last minute so there's no way I'm going to be able to catch the RV today. But if you're like me and missed out on today's giveaway don't fret! They are making their rounds tomorrow, Saturday June 7, as well! Here's where to catch them, and score some free duds:
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: 106th Street and 3rd Avenue, Manhattan
3 p.m.: Parsons Boulevard and Hillside Avenue, Jamaica (At the Brown Underground)
3:45 p.m.: 156th Street and Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica (At the Jamaica Colosseum Mall)
5:30 p.m.: Atlantic and Flatbush Avenues, Brooklyn (At the Barclays Center)
6:15 p.m.: Fulton Street and Flatbush Avenue (At the Fulton Mall)

Nicki Minaj you are on a roll! Thanks for hooking up my summer wardrobe! 

The Best Dressed at the CFDA Awards 2014

Last night the fashion crowd assembles for the 2014 Council of Fashion Designer of America (CFDA) Awards, one of the biggest fashion events of the year. Consider it a follow-up to the Met Gala which in this case, it was desperately needed to make up for the lackluster fashion display at the Met. The CFDA Awards celebrate the best and the brightest of the industry this year. Of course I had to critique and compile my list of the best dressed; however, I had a LOT to choose from! I think a lot of celebrities brought their A-game this year!

First up is supermodel Iman wearing a color-block dress by Juan Carlos Obando. I am not a big fan of the way this fits on her or the loose material. Kind of makes her look like she's unraveling. But the colors are no doubt gorgeous on her & she looks magnificent at her age!

Next is Queen of the Runway & mentor on the show "The Face", supermodel Naomi Campbell stuns in this metallic embellished gun-metal gown!

Model Coco Rocha stunned with this black-white number designed by Project Runway winner, Christian Siriano. I've been following Siriano's work & I am glad he's getting the recognition he deserves. His designs are very detailed, ethereal & unique. 

It seems like all the models were killing it at the CFDA. Chanel Iman looked nothing less than gorgeous in a black beaded Monique Lhuillier dress.

Joan Smalls did not disappoint & strutted her flawlessness all over the red carpet in this sultry Prabal Gurung gown with a thigh high slit. Werk!

Liya Kebede, model & founder of  the Ethiopian clothing line LemLem, kept it chic & simple in a white blouse with an embellished white pencil skirt designed by Wes Gordon. 

Actress Olivia Wilde stayed on trend in this black fringe dress by Decades. The funny thing is I have been steering clear of anything fringe so far because I have a serious disdain for it. But this look is not bad at all & made me see the light...just a bit.

Grammy Award winning actress Lupita Nyong'o looked amazing in this colorful striped crop top & matching culottes designed by Suno. This definitely played to her playful nature & changed the tone of the evening since majority of the attendees opted for floor-sweeping gowns or dresses. 

I love Emmy Rossum's style and this J. Mendel dress did not disappoint! The color isn't the best but she pulls it off anyway & I just love the lace inset on her chest! 

SOLANGE!!! I felt after the media lashing she has been receiving from the elevator showdown at the Met Gala, this event & this outfit was so needed to bounce her back into our good graces. She is serving some Diana Ross/Donna Summers realness in this Calvin Klein shimmering gold dress! Yasss girl!

Coming in at #2 is recipient of the well deserved Style Icon of the Year award, Rihanna! Wearing a crystal-embellished sheer gown with matching gloves, hat & a soft pink fur stole to cover her lady bits this outfit, designed by Adam Selman, leaves very little to the imagination. Surprised she's not my #1 pick? Well, simply I want to see Rihanna do a little bit more than show us her sexy naked body. When I saw this it made me go "Wow! Typical Ri-ri.." instead of "Wow! She blew our little fashion mind...again!"

And coming in at #1 is legendary supermodel & casting director Bethann Hardison, recipient of the Founders Award for her fight for diversity within fashion! Wearing a heather grey Prabal Gurung dress, Hardison greatest accessory is her passion for fashion & equalizing the playing field for models & designers of color. 

Do you agree or disagree with the order of 'Best Dressed'? Who were your favorites?

The Best of the Met Gala 2014

Last night was the annual Met Gala extravaganza! The night that every fashion lover anticipate besides New York Fashion Week and Fashion Night Out (pleasssseeee bring it back this year!). The annual ball, which formally kicks off the Metropolitan Museum of Art's yearly Costume Institute exhibit, always brings in an array of stylish celebrities/stars and of course, some stunning couture. This year the theme of the night is a tribute to Charles James, America's First Couturier, which means bright colors and some over-the-top gowns. This year was quite underwhelming and it felt that a lot of celebrities played it safe so the pickings were slim. Nonetheless, I managed to create my top 10 list. You know I only list the ones that I truly like so if there are people missing from this list but they made an attendance to the gala, well better luck next year! 

Janelle Monae comes in at #10 simply because I wasn't sure if I wanted to hate this look or love it. At this angle, Janelle looks stunning in her Tadashi Shoji cape and pants attire.Her hair plus make-up just adds to the wow factor! However, I saw another pic of her in the same outfit that made me go "Holy Vatican Batman!"

Supermodel Joan Smalls is rocking the Bejeezus out of that Vera Wang dress! I love the silk tulle underneath that gives the dress its elegance. My only issue is that the color of her shoes and lip clashes. Its either one or the other not both. 

Kim K is another celebrity who has been a hit or miss with me. This Lanvin black/blue dress with an Angelina Jolie slit was a hit for me. It showed off her post baby bod quite nicely. The end.

Supermodel and Queen of the runway, Naomi Campbell, kept it simple in a white Givenchy dress with sexy cut-outs and a feather wrap. I've seen Ms. Campbell in outfits much better than this one so this was actually somewhat of a let-down but she's in her 50s so to look that good is a win every time. 

Zoe Saldana looks really cute in this Michael Kors black ball gown with a black-white paisley pattern on the bottom. But the Met Gala is not about cute! I really do wish to see her be more daring and couture with her looks and next time, leave the puff.  

Now for the top 5! This Ralph Lauren couture gown looks amazing on Chrissy Teigen and I absolutely love the color on her! Even the ruffled collar enhances the dress more than hinders it and the sexy side-boob doesn't hurt either!

LUPITA!!! I always look forward to her outfits. Her and Katie Holmes, who wore a bright yellow Marchesa gown that resembles Belle from Beauty & the Beast, played on the 'costume' aspect of the Met gala. This green, feather sequin mesh dress by Prada gives her that 1920s flapper girl realness and the color looks amazing against her skin. The only problem with Lupita's outfit is that its not in theme (its all about couture gowns).

Of course Rihanna looks fresh off the runway! Donning a two-piece Stella McCartney ensemble, Ri-Ri showcases her toned midriff and stays trendy with the monochromatic white-on-white effect. Her hair in an updo, light make-up & minimum jewelry softens the look. 

I am not a big fan of Blake Lively but I give props where props are due and I could not take my eyes off of this Gucci dress! Its simple yet gorgeous and the nude/blush color is lovely! The cape just makes it 'Super Glam' and gives the dress a 'Gone with the Wind' fabulosity! 

Yes, Beyonce is #1 on my list! I am absolutely in love with Beyonce's ensemble! This Givenchy dress (made with over 2,000 black Lorraine Schwartz beads), the headpiece and the lipcolor gives me LYYYFE! 

Do you agree or disagree with the order of 'Best Dressed'? Who were your favorites?

Oui oui! J'adore Rihanna pour LUI!

When my friend sent me the text of Rihanna's latest magazine cover I had to pick my jaw off the floor! 

Rihanna on the cover of French magazine Lui May 2014 issue

Daaaannnngg Ri! She did say how she likes to be "out the box, out of line" in her S&M song so this should be no shocker that the Bajan beauty opt to bare all  for this magazine shoot. Inspired by Lui October 1972 featuring Karin Schubert—1970's German actress turned pornographic actress in the 1980s- the pop singer trapezes on the line of art and NSFW which is usually her thing. The magazine revealed the cover via Twitter on Tuesday, April 29 and was shot by famed photographer Mario Sorrenti. This cover follows after the release of her Vogue Brazil cover, which was also a banger! 

Rihanna on the cover of Vogue Brazil May 2014 issue

In my opinion, I would have to say this is her sexiest photo shoot to date, next to the photo shoot she did with Kate Moss! If you don't believe so judge for yourself! Either way I'm giving Rihanna two snaps!

Blak Friday; Blogger of the Week

It’s the last Friday of April and my April reign (get it? April reign à rain? I made a funny!) is coming to an end!  But with it brings new opportunities, new beginnings and maybe a new hair-do! I know I’m not the only one who gets that “I need to do something different” itch when the weather starts to get warmer. But who can you trust with your hair? This brings me to my Blogger of the Week! This week is another friend of mine from college whose skillful hands are touching the manes of models & natural girls all over! Say hello to hair stylist/ blogger Ashley Lee of Ashley Lee Styling!

I admit I was surprised that Ashley didn't start a fashion blog. I’ve always known her to be stylish, polished and dressed to impress! I was convinced fashion was her calling! However, when she launched her website and started posting videos for hair care and her work at photo shoots, I was pleasantly surprised! Her work has been featured on Whim online magazine, ThatsFoxy.com, SevenTribes magazine and the latest Txture magazine (hasn't been released yet)! Also the way she hooks up her own natural hair can seriously leave a girl with hair envy. I reached out to Ashley to ask my standard “simple” 4 questions.

BL: Do you feel there are more or less beauty products available for women of color?
I believe the market is greatly expanding to accommodate women of color (black women in particular). When it comes to makeup, I think women of darker skin complexions have the most difficulty whereas if you are a woman of color (black, Hispanic or Asian) I do feel as though beauty products are readily available.

BL: If you have to recommend a makeup brand or represent one, which would you choose and why?
I'm not really a make up buff, more of a drug store junkie. However, for low prices makeup I've found that maybelline has always made me happy with both foundations and lip color. I particularly like the mousse line that they have and am now using a liquid foundation of theirs. I get great coverage, in other makeup I find that they have great pigments and the cost is low which makes it accessible to almost everybody.
BL: What is one basic item that every woman should have in their makeup/ hair care arsenal?
For makeup, I think every woman should own a brow powder. No matter how little makeup you have on, if your brows are done, you look alive. As for hair care, I think every woman should own a wide tooth comb to safely detangle and avoid breakage.

BL: What do you love most about blogging?
My heart and soul is committed to hair care and advocacy. Although I love being trendy and fashion forward, I find myself obligated as a cosmetologist to spread knowledge about all things having to do with hair and beauty in my power. Just like you go to your doctor about your health, I want people to come to me about their hair.

 

Her site, Ashley Lee Styling, also offer services ranging from basic shampoo and blow out/set to spa services such as lash extensions and facials. She also does in-home visits! Book her through Prettier Please and have the salon come to you! Don’t forget to follow her on Instagram and Twitter, @alstyling! Two snaps for Ms. Ashley Lee! 

Keke Palmer makes herstory!

Keke Palmer was always like a shooting star to me: You don't see her too often but when you do she always shines or amazes you with her appearances or performances. This time is no different. 

Keke Palmer at Elle's Women in Television Celebration 2014

It was recently announced that Keke Palmer was picked up by BET and Mathis Productions (Judge Greg Mathis) in association with Telepictures for her very own daily talk show! At age 20, the singer/actress will be the youngest talk show host in TV history. A record like this hasn't been achieved since Ricki Lake first hit the scene with her show and she was only 25 years old.  The idea stemmed from Palmer's and fans' interactions on social media. 

“I like to read quotes that touch on how I am feeling,” she said. “If I am dealing with confusion, I will read quotes about clarity and peace of mind. I started posting these quotes on my Twitter page, and the fans responded so positively! I realized that many of them were dealing with similar issues, and the quotes helped to open up a genuine dialogue between us.”

Aimed at young adults, the show is set to cover topics such as fashion, pop culture, social issues, sex as well as feature celebrity interviews, street segments and  undercover gags. The Keke Palmer Project, the alleged name of the show, is set to air in July.

I am really happy and excited for her! There has been a lot of ratchetness all over television with no signs of slowing down. Hearing this was like a breath of fresh air because we need more positive, Black women to be showcased! I am looking forward to this show and will set my DVR to record it if I have to (more than likely since most talk shows happen while I'm at work anyways). But most definitely two snaps for Miss Keke Palmer!

On the Horizon - Fabric Twinz

Happy Monday everyone! I hope your weekends and Easter were grand! I had the pleasure on Thursday before Good Friday interviewing a very humble young woman with a fashion line thats puts the word GLAM in glamorous! I was quite surprise we were able to meet so quickly seeming as I contacted her so late the previous evening. But she responded A.S.A.P and from the emails plus text messages I could tell this was going to be a very pleasant experience. We met up at her showroom located near 27th street off of 5th Ave and suddenly I became self conscience. I wasn't dressed to kill matter fact I think I looked a bit geeky. I really didn't think too much into my outfit, which is bad because first impressions are key! But I think I got lost in the excitement that this was going to be my first interview I just didn't want to sound like an idiot. Well, I didn't sound like an idiot but I may have accomplished looking like one, good job!
After being swiped in and checking myself over in every reflection I laid my eyes on, I met with Tanise Francis, co-founder of Fabric Twinz.

New York City based designer, Tanise “Fabric Twinz” Francis is creating quite the buzz among the stars. Known as one half of the “The Fabric Twinz” duo by the industry’s elite, Tanise has been able to maintain the popularity and integrity of the Fabric Twinz brand since her partner’s departure in 2011. Since then, she has dressed and styled hip hop icons such as Lil Kim, R&B sensation K.Michelle, actress Elise Neal, Terri Vaughn, tv host Rocsi Diaz. Reality TV stars from VH1′s Love & Hip Hop and Basketball Wives such as Thairy Jose, Shaunie O Neal, Jennifer Williams just to name a few. Even many of NYC’s most popular socialites.

Click here to learn more....

Happy Sunday!

Hope everyone have a blessed Easter Sunday! ❤️ Make sure to tune in to the blog tomorrow! I managed to nab an interview with an up-coming designer who's been quoted to be "the Black Vera Wang of fashion"! Now that's one defining statement! 

Blak Friday; Blogger of the Week

It's Good Friday and I still haven't gone grocery shopping for Easter Sunday! Ugh! But I am prepared to dish another Blogger of the week! This week I'm featuring a very dapper, young gentleman who is a good friend of mine prior to the creation of his blog. Say hello to David Rochez of From NY to TX.

David at Suit Supply Grand Opening in Texas

Back in college (why does that feel eons ago? -__-) he would always lay out his outfits and question the style, the color coordination, the vibe it gives off and if it was on trend or ahead of the trend. At first I thought this was slightly off since I hardly met any guy around our age as meticulous with their outfits as he was. I was use to the idea of a man stepping into his closet, throwing on anything that doesn't have a stain, a hole (sometimes that doesn't even matter) or a pungent smell and walking out the door. However, I've grown accustomed to his questioning and eye for details which later blossomed into admiration and appreciation. His style spoke several different languages to me but that's what I loved about it! One day he could look like a preppy Harvard student the next a suave gentleman from an ad for a sophisticated cognac A model, stylist, men fashion blogger, savvy thrifter and teacher of etiquette it was only right I got in contact with him and asked him a few questions so you guys can get to know the man behind the ensemble.

BL: If you had to name your style, what would you call it? Why?

Lol, I'd say my style would be traditional with an edge. When I'm dressed up I'm more tailor, but I love wearing my leather jacket whenever the weather in Houston allows me. That's why I say traditional with an edge.

BL: What is your opinion of a man taking a high interest into his fashion and style?

It's a great thing, we as men and everyone else should know that appearance is everything and with style once you understand who you are as a person your style starts to reflect that.

BL: What is the one basic item every man should have in his closet?

Besides clothes that fit his body type, I would say a very nice watch and shoes. That's one thing my mom taught me growing up.

BL: What do you love most about blogging?

Being an inspiration is what I love about blogging.... It's a passion, I'm good at it (being modest of course)

Make sure to follow him on Instagram and Twitter @_frmnytotx and check out his site, From NY to TX, for tips, style ideas and the latest in men fashion trends. Let's not forget, two snaps to David Rochez, Blogger of the Week!