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! 

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!

Lupita Nyong'o is the fresh,new face for Lancome

The Lupita reign continues on strong and in the best way! The 31-year old Kenyan actress, who won an Oscar for Best supporting role in 12 Years a Slave, joins the ranks of Kate Winslet, Penelope Cruz and Julia Roberts as one of Lancôme's ambassadors. Although she is the fourth actress to cut a deal with Lancôme, she is their very first BLACK ambassador!  The new ads will appear in September.

"I am truly honored to join the Maison Lancôme, a brand with such a prestigious history that I have always loved. I am particularly proud to represent its unique vision for women and the idea that beauty should not be dictated, but should instead be an expression of a woman's freedom to be herself," Nyong'o said in a statement released by the French beauty house.

This announcement is right on the heel of her recent stint with the French high fashion brand, Miu Miu, for their spring 2014 campaign. 

The French love them some Lupita and it’s quite understandable why!

Françoise Lehmann, General Manager of Lancôme International, said the company's decision to add Lupita was because she is "talented and committed, true to her African beauty, and showing a great curiosity and open-mindedness in her career choices."

Oui oui Monsieur! Two snaps for Ms. Lupita Nyong’o!