Jeans 101: The Skinny

Keshia Knight Pulliam attending Nick Cannon's Birthday celebration and opening of the PNB Nation store earlier this month in Los Angeles.
Rosario Dawson poses backstage after an appearance on MTV's Total Request Live at MTV Studios in July of this year.
Eve walking back to her hotel in NYC in June of this year.
Halle Berry shopping in Los Angeles last week.

I don’t wear skinny jeans, but for those brave enough here’s a good selection of pics to inspire you. I like skinny jeans which scrunch up at the ankles like Keisha’s – too cute! There is some debate as to whether skinny jeans are going out of fashion. Many of the shops have pulled them from their Fall lines, but I don’t believe in strictly following style ‘rules’ so scroll down for ‘My Picks.’

My Picks!

Left to Right: Daredevil Skinny Jean, $118.00, Guess; Earnest Sewn Harlan Wilt, $198.00, www.bluebee.com; 12 Inch Pencil Leg by J Brand, $159.00, www.girlshop.com; Siwy Tina Slim Stretch Flute, $188.00, www.freepeople.com
Left to Right: Ranahan Skinnier Baxter Dark Wash Jean Stretch, $182.00, www.shopintuition.com; Distressed skinny jeans, $34.80, Forever 21; Premium Denim Skinny Jeans by Mossimo Black, $27.99, Target; Skinny fit, $58.00, Gap

Team with a classic black blazer and pumps for a night bar hopping or dinner. I think skinny jeans also look great with round-toe flats and turtlenecks! Share your thoughts on these jeans.

Topshop...

Topshop U.K. recently re-launched their new site and it’s fantastic!! I picked just of my favorite pieces above, but everthing looks great – man I miss U.K. shopping. But I don’t have to wait much longer, Topshop is making plans to open in the U.S. They hope to open in New York in Spring of 2007 and then on to other states. Click here for the full article. They’ve also recently announced that Kate Moss will be designing a new label for them. Read more about it here.

Kelis in Vibe Vixen…

Check Kelis out in the holiday issue of Vibe Vixen magazine. Love the cover, love the lipstick and the fake eyelashes are so over-the-top, but that's Kelis! Go out and buy this magazine it’s quite good and according to Vibe it’s doing pretty well financially. Visit www.vibevixen.com to learn more…

Jeans 101: Booty-Proof

Serena Williams arriving at the Rock and Republic Spring 2006 show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Sony Studios last year in California.
Beyonce arriving at her hotel in New York City last year.
Melyssa Ford arriving at the Sprite Street Couture Showcase in May of this year in New York City.

Since I’m always getting emails asking me about where to buy jeans I’ve decided to do a few “Jeans 101” posts. Each post will help a different body type/shape. First up are the big booty gals! Some of these brands I’m sure you are all familiar with, but I also tried to find some lesser known brands. Keep in mind that I haven’t personally worn all the brands mentioned, my recommendations are based on a form of research called “googling” and suggestions from friends. Feel free to leave your own feedback and experiences with certain jeans… :)

My Picks!

Left to Right: 5 Pocket Basic AB Stitch Jean, $59.00, Apple Bottoms; Leigh Boot Cut Jean by Citizens of Humanity, $180.00, www.shopbop.com; Onyx Brazilian Pant, $69.00, www.shopjlo.com; Dojo jeans by www.7forallmankind.com
Left to Right: Iced Roc Jean, $58.50, www.rocawear.com; 5 Pkt Jean by Lady Enyce, $49.00, www.drjays.com; Item # 37JC5730 Honey Booty Fit, $158.00, www.joeseshop.com; Jolt Embroidered Yoke Jean, $44.00, Macys

Apparently Rock & Republic are now making jeans for women with bigger hips and butts. I’ve never bought their stuff and I don’t know anyone who has, but I’d be interested to hear from someone who has because I always assumed their jeans were for the super skinny… I also want to hear about other brands you recommend.

What Say We?... Yay or Nay?!

Eve at the MAC Chinese Dress event in Los Angeles last Friday.

NAY! Are those cat ears upon her head? Oh dear, maybe it’s a bow? I thought with it being Halloween and all, Eve had got into the spirit of dressing up and was ‘channeling’ catwoman on her way to the prom! In any case the hair and ‘bow’ ruined the whole look, which is a shame because I love the dress. Note to Eve: The blonde hair ISN’T working. :(

Style on the Go...

Christina Milian attending the the "H&M celebrates Viktor & Rolf Collection with a Wedding and fashion show" last Friday in Beverly Hills.
Jody Watley was also at the "H&M/Viktor & Rolf Collection” event on Friday.
Jennifer Hudson arriving at the 17th Annual Mercedes-Benz Carousel of Hope Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Saturday in Beverly Hills.
Garcelle Beauvais at the 17th Annual Mercedes-Benz Carousel of Hope Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Saturday in Beverly Hills.

Y’know I almost made Christina Milian this week’s ‘Yay or Nay,’ but lucky for her Eve looks waaaaay worse and even though I don’t like the heart-shaped shirt she still looks amazing. Speaking of amazing, Jody Watley looks great for 47! I know 47 isn’t old still, she’s working the h*ll outta that dress. Check out Jody’s new site here. I know y’all are probably fed-up of Garcelle but she just gets it… Not seen a bad pic of her yet. And who else can not wait to see Dreamgirls? I hope it doesn’t disappoint, it would be great for all those involved to receive great reviews for their roles. Jennifer Hudson certainly looks like she’s ready for the spotlight. That dress is perfection on her.

Harriet’s Alter Ego...

Harriet’s Alter Ego store front in Brooklyn.
Inside the Harriet’s Alter Ego.
Some of Hekima Hapa's unique designs.

Cast your mind back to 1999. Can you remember what you thought you’d be doing in 2006? I was just starting my Bachelors degree and thought by now I’d have a burgeoning career as a fashion editor for a major magazine! At least Hekima Hapa and Ngozi Odita, owners of hip boutique Harriet’s Alter Ego, are well on their way to becoming the next retail phenomenon. Starting in ‘99 as a small vendor stall in New York City, the edgy and always unique line now resides in Park Slope, a trendy neighboorhood in Brooklyn…

“Inspired by the textiles, detailing, and functionality of indigenous dress, designer Hekima Hapa and chief operating officer Ngozi Odita are bringing cultured couture to the streets of New York.”

Not only can shoppers find original pieces handcrafted in the store’s upstairs loft, they can also visit the beauty bar where customers recieve complimentary make overs and consultations. And while you’re there you can also browse their gallery space which showcases local artists. They even offer sewing workshops! Famous clients include India. Arie, Talib Kweli, M.I.A, Mos Def, BET and Yerba Buena, so head down there and see what all the fuss is about for yourselves.

Address:
Harriet’s Alter Ego
293 Flatbush Avenue
Park Slope Brooklyn
NY 11217

Store Inquiries: 718 783 2074 or info@harrietsalterego.com

My Two Cents!

I have recently been invited to become a guest reviewer for the cosmetic site Palacinka.com! I was so excited to be offered the chance to work with them as I love the concept of their site. Rather than have us waste our hard earned money on a new and much-hyped beauty product, Palacinka invites regular women like you and me to review various companies and their lines in order to gain honest opinions. I know this to be true since I don’t have to review products I don’t like! The site specializes in products for women of color, which makes it an especially valuable resource. My first review for Paula Dorf cosmetics is up on the site so head their now to read the full review...

“Finding the perfect foundation is like looking for the Holy Grail. Every woman lives for the day when she finds that perfect match...” Click here to read more.

Foundation: Perfect Glo Foundation in Cocoa, $45.00, Paula Dorf

Avenue.com

Top: Metallic Kabuki Sweater, $34.95, www.avenue.com
Pants: Stretch Crepe Pant, $39.95, www.avenue.com

Wide Studdes Belt, $18.00, www.avenue.com
Left to Right: Long Boucle Jacket, $79.95; Metallic Kabuki Sweater, $34.95; Faux Suede Skirt, $44.95 all available at www.avenue.com

Sorry for neglecting by fuller figured sistas, but I have a great online store for you to make up for it. Avenue.com is completely in touch with the all the current trends for Fall, so much so that I’m mad that they don’t cover my size! Clothes range from sizes 14-32 and the site has an extensive accessory and shoe section. Check out this gorgeous belt for just $18! Also browse through their denim line, prices are very reasonable. It’s also worth noting that they have a “shop by outfit or collection” section where they put head-to-toe outfits together so you can get ideas for some great looks! Visit www.avenue.com and start working on your Christmas party season wardrobe!

Not Just a Pretty Face...

Not content with being geniuses, Harvard university students are now putting out a national alumni publication called ‘02138.' Gracing their premier cover is none other than Rashida Jones, a Havard alum herself. Inside Miss Jones claims to have once aspired to becoming the “first black Jewish woman president.” Failing that, she’s settled for, “a little acting, modeling and producing [to tide] her over for now.” And why did the magazine choose the name 02138? It’s the zip code of the Ivy League's neighborhood. Visit www.02138mag.com for more info.

Jill Marie Jones

Jill Marie Jones attending the Broadway opening night of "Chicago" at the Ambassador Theatre this past August in New York City.
If you search for Jill on www.gettyimages.com you’ll see some great photos of her on the red carpet; this girl knows how to dress. These polka dot dresses seem to be everywhere and the dots keep getting bigger and bigger! You know the deal scroll down for the hook up…

Steal Jill's Style...

Dress: Velvet Torch V-Neck Dress, $68.00, Nordstorm
Left to Right: Lemore, $99.95 (On Sale!), Steve Madden; Wallet Clutch in Black Croc by Merona, $14.99, Target; Nowell Necklace, $13.99, www.gojane.com

I’m on the fence about the yellow necklace, seems like she just throw it on last minute, but I think it just about works. I love this dress by Nordstorm which I spotted on Fashion Nette-work, it’s such a classic. You could always add color to this look by pairing the dress with a bright colored shoe, try red.

Best of the Rest...

Left to Right: Printed Cross Front Dress with Banded Empire Seam, $64.00, Rampage; Dotted Matte Jersey Halter Dress with Peekaboo Tulle, $39.99 (On Sale!), Rampage; Edlin Dress, $38.99, www.gojane.com

Here are some slightly cheaper alternatives to Jill’s dress.

Hmmm…

Help me out people, are we feeling these heels? I guess once you spend the three hours it’ll take to put them on, you have no choice but to like them huh?! Those gladiator-esque straps are taking it hella far! If it were up to be I'd take half the straps off each shoe and then we might be on to something. I must say I'm lovin’ the red in-soles, even if no one ever sees them they add a little something extra to a pair of shoes. Check them out on www.intermixonline.com.

Shoes: Cesare Paciotti Gladiator Sandals, $520, www.intermixonline.com

The Hit List…

Dress: Mariko Babydoll Dress by Matthew Williamson, $2,203.00, www.net-a-porter.com
Red Dress: Classic Turtleneck Sweater, $19.80, Forever 21

Top: Printed Full Sleeve Tunic, $98.00, www.freepeople.com Jacket: Tweed Bomber Jacket, $120.00, www.riverisland.co.uk

Pumps: Carrie leopard, $90.00, Guess Round Toes: Miss Sixty Celest Leather Heel, $160.00, Urban Outfitters

Silver: 'Silver Streak De Luxe' Athletic Shoe by Adidas, $149.95, Nordstorm Green: Puma Lab 2, $70.00, Urban Outfitters

The only thing I can a honestly afford on this list is the red turtle neck dress, which I’m seriously considering, other than that I just love looking at the other pieces. Round-toe heels keeping going in and out of fashion, but this pair will go perfectly with all of my jeans and will always be relevant. And how amazing is that Matthew Willamson dress?! Yeah I know it’s freakin’ $2000, but window shopping can be just as satisfying as purchasing (well nearly!). Besides, I find that looking at designer’s lines inspires me and helps open up my mind when I go shopping. And with the winter months fast-approaching I guess sensible shoes are in order. I love sneakers with color and since green is one of the colors for fall, these sneakers by Puma are perfect.

Blog-a-licious…

Someone emailed me and asked what my favorite blogs are, well here’s the list. I’m addicted to all and check them everyday, plus you’l probably be able to tell that they all inspire me. Check them out when you get a chance and show them some love.

Afro Bella - Hair & Beauty
Frugal Fashionista - Fashion & Shopping
Juicy News - Entertainment & Fashion
Lavish Magazine - Fashion & Culture
Urban Socialite - Fashion & Culture

While I have your attention I need a favor! Could all of you email just 2 of your friends about this blog with the link, if you haven’t already… I’m promoting the blog every spare minute I get, but it makes sense to ask for your help. Thanks so much in advance…. Angel aka Sylvia xx

Style Flashback: Beverly Johnson

Donyale Luna may have been the first African-American model on the cover of Vogue, but Beverly Jonhson holds that honor for Elle Magazine. Originally from Buffalo New York, Beverly has graced no less than 500 covers over her 30 year career, making her one of the most successful African-American models. She even acted in a few movies, which I didn’t know. Film roles include, The Baron (’77), Ashanti (’79), and more recently The Meteor Man (’93), How to Be a Player (’97). She also guest starred in various television shows the most recent being “Girlfriends.” These days Beverly is busy running her two successful online businesses selling hair products and wigs. She currently lives with her daughter Anansa in New York. It’s a shame because I can’t find out more about her on the web. I’d like to know more about the progression of her career and the hurdles she faced being a model in the 70’s, but there is literally nothing out there. You can however browse through old photo shoots in the gallery section of www.beverlyjohnson.com. She was and still is stunning.

Cash, Check or Charge?

Cash: Snake Square Toe Court, $50.00, www.asos.com
Check: Carrie, $90.00, Guess
Charge: Brown Snakeskin Casteg Pumps by Sergio Rossi, $468.00, www.bluefly.com

Sergio Rossi have a gorgeous pair of snakeskin pumps out at the moment, they’re a classic in my book. The pair from Guess are showstoppers (I see you Allie Nicole!), but I love the cherry red pointy pumps from ASOS (As Seen On Screen) too. Shoes this powerful need an equally powerful outfit, so team with your favorite pair of jeans and a sexy shirt.

Style Spotlight: June Sarpong

For those who don’t know June Sarpong is a British television presenter who I absolutely adore! I remember waking up to her and Vernon Kay on Sunday morning’s “T4” – Is that show even still on? Anyway, I’ve watched her style evolve and perfect itself since the beginning of her career and it seems to have peaked. I for one am so thankful that she did away with her excessive use of lip gloss (you Brits know what I'm talking about!) But I don’t just love her for her sense of style, June is one of the most charismatic TV personalities out there and I especially like that she’s a fellow African (Ghanaian to be precise). While researching I also found out that she spent a whole year in hospital when she was 14 after a serious car accident and she recently accepted the role as a Prince’s Trust Ambassador (Prince Charles founded the organization). She visited Ghana last year as part of the "Make Poverty History" campaign and she said of the experience, “I don't think I'll ever be the same again. Every evening I have been in tears. It makes me appreciate my life in London so much. People who think they have got it hard should come and see this.” Real talk.

Note: That is not her man!!

Sanaa Lathan on the cover of Essence…

Pick up a copy of Essence next month, Sanaa Lathen is featured on the November cover looking fantastic. I don’t read Essence on a regular, but I’ll pick up a copy because I adore Sanaa. Apparently Ms. Lathan is rumored to be dating Terrell Owens… These ladies love them some athletes, I wish them the best!

Style on the Go...

Nia Long attended the 9th Annual Lili Claire Foundation Benefit Hosted by Matthew Perry at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
Jada Pinkett Smith arriving at the Redbook's 2006 Strength & Spirit Awards at Avery Fisher Hall earlier this week in New York City.
Regina Hall attending the fuse Fangoria Chainsaw Awards at the Orpheum Theater last week in LA. The awards show will premiere on fuse October 22, 2006.
Kidada Jones and Rashida Jones (Quincy’s daughters) attended the Charlotte Ronson Cocktail Party last week.

Congratulations to Jada Pinkett-Smith for being an honoree at the Redbook's 2006 Strength & Spirit Awards. Her work with the organization she started with husband Will was the reason for her accolade. The "Will and Jada Smith Family Foundation" intends to “strengthen and support all families by working with grassroots organizations that promote inner-city development and youth education.” Read more about it here.

Nia Long looks great with her new hair style, she’s another one who can pull off any length and still look fab!

Regina Hall is looking supa cute – she hasn’t really done anything great since her role as Sanaa’s sister in “Love & Basketball,” but look out for her in the soon-to-be-released “The Elder Son” and “Scary Movie 4” due out in 2008 (why?!)

Finally Quincy’s baby girls Kidada and Rashida Jones were spotted out and about last week. I guess they could be considered ‘socialites’ too, right? Kidada definitely has her own unique style and Rashida always looks fresh… Wonder what they do for a living?