BV on Style

The Kardashians To Launch K-Dash Clothing Line

Priscilla Monteiro — 2010-09-01T15:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Fashion News

The KKK has hit again -- Kim, Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian, that is. The sisters are known to look fabulous in virtually anything they wear, and, now, they will demonstrate their sense of style through their very own fashion line.

The line, K-Dash, will make it's debut in a runway show slated for Friday, September 10 at 9 PM Eastern Time at QVC's pop-up store in New York's Rockefeller Center as part of Fashion's Night Out.

The line will include ready-to-wear clothing as well as accessories such as belts, handbags, leggings, tunics, faux fur-trimmed vests and more. Unexpectedly, the sisters aren't designing the line. Instead, they hired, Ginny Hilfiger, sister of Tommy Hilfiger but are said to approve every piece and every fabric that Ginny selects. Prices for these items will range from $20 to $240. Now that's fierce!

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Jay-Z and the New York Yankees Team Up to Release Limited Edition Merchandise

Priscilla Monteiro — 2010-09-01T13:48:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Fashion News

The New York Yankees announced that limited-edition co-branded Yankees/Jay-Z merchandise will be sold exclusively at Yankee Stadium. The items went on sale August 30th and will be sold until September 14th. The merchandise will be available at Yankee Stadium through the Jay-Z / Eminem concerts taking place in the venue on Sept. 13 and Sept. 14.

All items will feature Yankees and Jay-Z logos, and all items have been seen and approved by Jay-Z. Merchandise will include men's and women's T-shirts and hoodies all by Majestic Athletics, along with New Era 59/50 fitted Yankees caps with the album logo from Jay-Z's 'The Blueprint 3'.

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Rapper Clothing Lines

Hip-hop mogul Jay-z and former partner Damon Dash launched the clothing line Rocawear in 1999. When the two parted ways, Dash sold his stake in the company for $22 million. In 2007, Jay-z sold the rights to the brand to Iconix Brand Group for $204 million, however the rapper still owns stakes in the company and maintains control over marketing, licensing and product development.

Rapper Clothing Lines

Sean "Diddy" Combs will go down as one of the most successful rappers turned fashion designers. His line Sean John launched in 1998 and in the past 12 years has flourished into quite the empire. In 2008, the media mogul added Enyce clothing line to his growing clothing brand.

Rapper Clothing Lines

In 2003, rapper50 Cent teamed up with famed designer Marc Eckoto launch G-Unit Clothing Company. The line offers accessories and clothing designed primarily by the rap mogul, while marketing and merchandising of the brand is handled by Mr. Ecko. After a brief hiatus, the clothing line re-launched in the spring of 2009.

Rapper Clothing Lines

Kanye West is no stranger to fashion. The man that boasted 'Ralph Lauren was boring until I wore him,' seemed destined to create his own clothing line. Sadly, only two days after his line Pastelle debuted online, it folded. Insiders attribute the failure to his bad behavior, primarily his infamous VMA's stunt.

Rapper Clothing Lines

N.E.R.D.'s front runner Pharrell Williams partnered with Japanese designer Nigo to develop the line Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream. The luxury lines consist of t-shirts, polos, denim, suits, hats, sneakers and accessories. The exclusive line has flagship stores in New York, Hong Kong, London and Tokyo.

Rapper Clothing Lines

In 2003, rapper Nellylaunched the popular women's line Apple Bottoms. The line's denim jeans became an instant favorite for many young women with 'apple shaped' derrieres. Since then, the rapper launched a line dedicated to men called Vokal.

Rapper Clothing Lines

Eve first launched her clothing line Fetish back in 2003 but the line was unexpectedly canceled due to creative differences between the rapper partnering company INNOVO Group. After re-launching the line three times, the rapper appears to be content with her product.

Rapper Clothing Lines

Eminem launched his urban clothing line in the summer of 2003. The line, which features hoodies, active wear, t-shirts and jerseys, was acquired by Rocawear in 2006. The '8 Mile' rapper still has full design control, but the partnership has helped the quality of the line.

Rapper Clothing Lines

Damon Dash has been working on launching his clothing line CEO for quite some time. The line has yet to debut to the public, but has been featured in a Magic Trade Show in Las Vegas. The former Roc-a-fella executive actually owns a stake in his ex-wife Rachel Roy's successful line. He might want to take notes!

Rapper Clothing Lines

Lupe Fiasco's luxury line Trilly and Truly launched in 2006. The line -- which is based on the three concepts anarchy, peace and history -- re-launched in the spring of 2010.

Rapper Clothing Lines

The product has been designed to celebrate Yankee Stadium's first official concerts on Sept. 13 and Sept. 14, when Jay-Z and Eminem will co-headline in the Bronx.

Yankees/Jay-Z merchandise can be purchased in-Stadium during games or seven days a week at the Yankee Stadium Great Hall Team Store near Gate 6, located on the northwest corner of 161 Street and River Avenue.

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T.I.'s New Collaboration with Yamaha YZF-R1 & AKOO Clothing

Priscilla Monteiro — 2010-09-01T13:24:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style

Looks like recording artist Pharrell isn't the only one implementing his clothing line aesthetics into motorbikes. Rapper Tip 'T.I.' Harris revealed the customized Yamaha YZF-R1 at the Magic Tradeshow in Las Vegas last week. The motorbike was the result of the collaboration between custom sport bike builder and designer, Rob Uecker, from Voodoo Industries and T.I.'s AKOO Clothing design team.

Many industries have collaborated with fashion and now the automotive industry has joined the race.

"When I look at the AKOO brand I see classic, rugged American styling, which compliments the R1's aggressive street stature," Rob Uecker told Black Voices.

Yamaha has worked closely with T.I. to tailor the right design true to T.I.'s image. The bike is officially dubbed "AKOO YZF-R1″ brings AKOO's masculine style into Yamaha's rugged yet modern street-king look. The bike is retailed for a whopping $80,000, which is more expensive than a home in some regions.

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Few Black Models in Solo September 2010 Editorials

Claire Sulmers — 2010-08-31T23:59:00 00:00

Filed under: Fashion News

Jezebel recently analyzed the September issues of 10 fashion magazines in search of black models who scored their own fashion editorials. Aside from Kelly Moreira, who graced eight pages in Teen Vogue; Chanel Iman, who appeared on eight pages in Allure; Georgie Badiel, who was featured on 10 pages of Elle; and Lyndsey Scott, who made the pages of W, most magazines, including Marie Claire, Harper's Bazaar, Vogue, Glamour, Lucky and Cosmopolitan, neglected to feature a black model carrying an editorial by herself:
Why was it important for black models to go it alone? "A fashion magazine uses its glossy fashion editorial pages to announce what is beautiful, fashionable, and 'now,'" says Jezebel. "When only white models are utilized in the highly desirable September feature fashion shoots, the message being sent is that to be beautiful, fashionable and 'now,' you can't be black."
The story doesn't count celebrities (like Halle Berry on Vogue's September cover), maintains Jezebel's editors, because most of them, although black, have very light skin and straight hair. Their appearance underscores the beauty of mainstream white features, and therefore is not a true reflection of diversity. It's unclear why Jezebel chose not to count editorials that included models of all colors, like Vogue's "We are the World" editorial, featuring Joan Smalls and Jourdan Dunn, or Sessilee Lopez's shoot in Glamour with Tommy Hilfiger.

When talks first began about increased diversity in fashion, advocates were decrying the complete exclusion of minorities in fashion magazines and on runways. Now, even though magazines are making steps in the right direction (the September issue of Vogue is very diverse--down to advertisements featuring Joan Smalls and Namik Minter), outlets continue to cast a very critical eye. Is it really important for magazines to feature black models on their own or is it okay to feature a diverse cast of colors and racial backgrounds?

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The 20th Annual NAACP Theater Awards: The Rundown

Claire Sulmers — 2010-08-31T12:24:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Red Carpet

The NAACP Theatre Awards, the annual ceremony recognizing outstanding people of color in theater, took place last night in Beverly Hills, Calif. Actors such as Nia Long, Meagan Good and Mo'Nique Coleman attended the event in a host of well-plucked gowns. Who do you think won the award for best dressed?

Meagan Good followed the white-gown trend of the Emmy Awards, opting for a one-shoulder dress with a cutout detail and mesh back. She accented her look with diamond hoop earrings that reflected the sequins peppering the bodice of her gown.

Mo'Nique Coleman looked lovely in a drape-neck green dress and strappy silver sandals. She kept her accessories simple so her curly updo could shine.

Lovely Nia Long sizzled in an asymmetric peach empire-waist gown. Her signature short haircut underscored her simple makeup and white-stone chandelier earrings.

Fresh Prince alum Tatyana Ali went for safe in a little black dress and black sandals. Brilliantly coiffed hair brought her look to red-carpet level.

Twin Tamera Mowry sparkled in a strapless champagne frock with a frilly skirt. Her perfectly coordinated outfit oozed fab, down to her well-manicured fingernails.

Ashanti, who won an award for her role in Dorothy in 'The Wizard of Oz,' vamped it up in a blood-red gown with a mermaid hem. While her dress is eye-catching, her crystal-encrusted sandals and large cocktail ring stole the show.

You can't go wrong with white, as LisaRaye displayed in this floor-length snow-white gown. The dress' generous silhouette is endlessly flattering, and her chunky, large-linked necklace and bracelet offer a dash of edge.

Lastly, Naturi Naughton looked simply sweet in a ruched olive cocktail mini. Silver T-strap sandals and chandelier earrings completed the look.

Who took the honor of best dressed?

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Hot or Not: Tameka "Tiny" Cottle

Hayat Mohamed — 2010-08-30T16:15:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Hot or Not , Red Carpet

Tameka "Tiny" Cottle was one of the many celebrities that attended Steve Harvey's 8th annual Hoodie Awards, this weekend in Las Vegas. Other guests included, The View's Sherri Shepherd, Holly Robinson Peete, Michael Clark Duncan, Antonia "Toya" Carter, Wendy Raquel Robinson and Tank.

The newlywed hit the red carpet wearing this harem pants-inspired jumpsuit, metallic studded heels and a black clutch. Cottle put a little flair to her 'all black everything' look by adding a few hot pink highlights to her hair; a request made by her hubby T.I. So are you feeling her getup? Hot or not?

Previously: YaYa DaCosta

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Emmy Awards 2010 Red Carpet: The Rundown

Lauren Williams — 2010-08-29T22:07:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Red Carpet

Grecian gowns, sexy silhouettes and 60s-inspired updos were popular trends on the red carpet at the 2010 Emmy Awards. Stars like Rutina Wesley, Kim Kardashian, Amber Riley and Eva Longoria Parker showed off the latest styles -- for better or worse -- at the annual television awards. Who do you think won the award for best dressed?

Talented singer and actress Amber Riley, of the famed show 'Glee', wore a white Grecian gown that was very flattering and gave her an ethereal look on the red carpet. We approve.

Also opting for an ethereal white gown was Kim Kardashian, who thankfully chose a body-hugging style that wasn't vulgar.

NBA player Tony Parker and Eva Longoria Parker looked sleek in black, and the 'Desperate Housewives' star was working this form-fitting, textured gown.

Mindy Kaling of 'The Office' was wearing two of the night's trends -- a shortened hemline and mile-high hair.

'Glee' star Naya Rivera's hair matched Kaling's, but her dress was a lot more dramatic. And probably better for a national beauty pageant than the Emmys.

Rutina Wesley couldn't have looked more different than her 'True Blood' character Tara. She brought some Hollywood glamour in this white and black dress with a dramatic slit.

'Access Hollywood's Shaun Robinson wore a Grecian-inspired red dress that was beautiful... but sort of blended in to the red carpet. What are they chances she would pick a color that was the exact same as the carpet?

She plays a sexy trophy wife on 'Modern Family,' and nominee Sofia Vergara dressed for part in this body hugging cream dress with a slimming stripe of sequins.

At award show after award show, Tracy Morgan opts for a white tuxedo jacket. His girlfriend looks glamorous, but his choice of red carpet wear is getting tiresome.

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2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

'Glee' cast member Amber Riley looked angelic on the red carpet in this flowing Grecian gown.

2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

'Desperate Housewives' star Eva Longoria and hubby Tony Parker looked chic in black. Longoria chose an elegant textured gown for the evening.

2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

Kim Kardashian opted for an elegant and more sophisticated look on the red carpet, wearing a white ethereal gown.

2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

Mindy Kaling of 'The Office' turned heads in this short hemlined dress and regal updo.

2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

'Glee' star Naya Rivera hit the red carpet with an elaborate 'do and dress.

2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

'True Blood' star Rutina Wesley brought Hollywood glamor to the red carpet in this black and white gown, with a dramatic slit.

2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

'Access Hollywood's Shaun Robinson looked stunning in this red Grecian-inspired gown.

2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

Sofia Vergara of 'Modern Family' heated up the red carpet in this form fitting cream dress.

2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

Comedian Tracy Morgan opted for his usual red carpet tuxedo look while his girlfriend dazzled in a beautiful black flowing gown.

2010 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

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'Takers': The Clothes That Made The Men

Christina M. Tapper — 2010-08-27T23:59:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Interviews, Men's Style

It didn't take much work to transform the stars of 'Takers' into a dapper set of bank robbers. With Idris Elba's statuesque frame, T.I.'s swagger, and Michael Ealy's sex appeal, it's no surprise that styling the actors for the action thriller was quite easy-and fun-for costume designer Maya Lieberman.

"Their characters are fashion-forward; very stylish and very cool," Lieberman told AOL Black Voices. "So it wasn't difficult dressing them. They all know how to wear suits very well."

Impeccably clothed as if they stepped off the pages of GQ, Elba, T.I., and Ealy donned crisp Versace and Gucci suits as an infamous group of clever bank robbers in 'Takers,' which opens in theaters this weekend. The elusive crew, along with Chris Brown, Paul Walker and Hayden Christensen, try to execute one last high-stake heist, even with the LAPD on their tail. Lieberman and her team wanted to avoid dressing the guys like typical Hollywood crooks.

"We wanted to show that the guys are high-end bank robbers who can walk away from a job in Dolce & Gabbana," she says.

As the leader of the pack, Elba was outfitted in a wardrobe that made his character, Gordon Betts, stand out from the rest.

"We had to make sure viewers knew who was in charge," said Lieberman, who also dressed the British actor for 2009's 'Obsessed.'

"He's the boss, so he has to look the part."

Decked out in a white Versace dinner jacket juxtaposed with black shirt and trousers, Elba channeled James Bond's sleek style in the film.

"We were going for that Casino Royale feel," she said of Elba, who was nicknamed "The Hanger" because of how well the clothes look on his body.

The only member of the group imprisoned for an earlier job, Ghost, played by T.I. also wore Versace for most of the film. Even with a slimmer build than the others, the rapper still commands attention.

"He walks so tall," Lieberman said. "So he knows how to strut in a suit."

Lieberman used Ealy's blue eyes to decide what garments would best fit his character.

"Michael has light eyes, so we went with blues and silvers for him," says Lieberman of Ealy who wore a blue Gucci suit during his nightclub scene with Zoe Saldana (in a Collette Dinnigan mini-dress).

A gun-toting Chris Brown was dressed in edgier pieces like John Varvatos jackets and motorcycle boots.

"Because Chris is young, we wanted to dress him in trendier styles," Lieberman says. "His clothes gave him more of a rock and roll style."

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Beyonce Hits St. Tropez in Style

Claire Sulmers — 2010-08-26T16:16:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Hot or Not

Beyonce is currently vacationing in St. Tropez with hubby Jay-Z, wearing a plethora of outfits that reflect the sun and sand of the French Riviera. Let's take a look at some of her most eye-catching wardrobe choices.

Beyonce stepped off a white yacht wearing a pair of African-inspired shorts by Boxing Kitten, along with a $1,226 ikat shirt by Dries van Noten. She mixed patterns artfully, making sure each piece picked up the burnt orange and burgundy hues of the other. She accessorized her look with an adventurous leopard purse and chunky gold jewelry.

A few days earlier, she flaunted her love of leopard in an animal print cover-up and vintage Chanel baubles. She accented her look with her favorite Chanel Nouvelle Vague eggshell-blue nail polish and a Canon EOS Camera.

For a chilly night, she opted for an olive-green wrap sweater, a matching draped tank, black short shorts and House of Dereon Camouflage Tulip booties. Her casual style brings to mind her 'Survivor' video, upgraded with hanging necklaces and large gold hoops.

For a day at the beach, she showed off her shape in short shorts and a cropped top, revealing a peek of her white embellished bikini top. Though more laid-back, her favorite gold jewelry was still in full effect.

She went for comfort and ease in an olive-green romper for a walk around town. She accessorized her fun look with a gold rope necklace, suede brown bag, tortoise sunglasses and gold sandals -- perfect for a bit of sightseeing.

What do you think of Beyonce's vacation style?

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Celebrity Plastic Surgery

Lil Kim: There's no denying that Lil Kim's look has evolved over the years, and we're not referring to her outrageous fashion sense. The provocative rapper has gotten her boobs and nose done, along with a tummy tuck -- to name just a few procedures -- becoming more and more unrecognizable along the way.

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

Looking at the beautiful Tasha Smith, it's hard to imagine what the "Why Did I Get Married, Too' actress would need to fix on her amazing body but Tasha recently admitted on the Wendy William Show that she underwent plastic surgery on her under arms. Looking at the before pictures, we honestly can't tell the difference!

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

Heidi Montag Pratt: The 23-year-old reality star has gone under the knife so many times she's starting to make Lil Kim look au natural. In 2007, she had a breast augmentation, rhinoplasty and collagen lip injections. Earlier this year, she underwent a staggering 10 surgeries, including another breast augmentation, a chin reduction and butt implants -- all in one day. Pratt has said she plans to get more work done in the future.

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

Janet Jackson: The Jackson family has become notorious for their nose jobs, but unlike her siblings, Jackson knows her limits. Although she's had some work over the years, she's still maintained a good structure to her nose.

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

Kelis: It's no secret that Kelis is taking ex-hubby Nas to the cleaners in court, but the 'Milkshake' singer did a good job of concealing the fact that she might have had a subtle nose job a while back.

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

Kelly Rowland: In 2008, the singer turned in her itty bitty club pass and got breast implants, going from a modest A-cup to a B-cup. Kelly said she underwent the surgery to feel more beautiful and fit better in designer clothes. We're just glad she didn't overdo it like some people in her industry...

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

Kim Kardashian: We're not sure why Kim Kardashian is a star, but there's no question the reality star is stunningly beautiful. That's why talk that she has been dipping in plastic surgery -- starting with a nose job -- is shocking. She's starting to look more and more like her mother -- and that's not a compliment!

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

La Toya Jackson: This Jackson sister has clearly had her share of plastic surgeries over the years -- from nose jobs to breast implants. Many people believe that her surgeries had her resembling her late brother Michael Jackson. Whether or not this was her true mission--we think she succeeded.

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

LL Cool J: We believe LL has been sipping from the fountain of youth, because in our eyes he hasn't aged a lick! Judging by the photos a simple cosmetic procedure could have attributed to it. Photos suggest that he could have had a little work done on his under eyes, a procedure known as blepharoplasty. The ladies aren't mad at you L!

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

Mariah Carey: Mimi has become famous over the years for her large- than-life voice, persona--and breasts. In the early 90s it was rumored that the singer agreed to have breast implants to please her then-husband, music exec Tommy Mottola. We don't know about you but we would have preferred diamonds.

Celebrity Plastic Surgery

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Zoe Kravitz Appears in Alexander Wang Ads

Priscilla Monteiro — 2010-08-25T13:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Photos, Designers, Fashion News

With musician Lenny Kravitz and actress Lisa Bonnet as her parents, there's no wonder why young Zoe Kravitz is so talented. The singer/actress/model recently caught the eye of designer Alexander Wang, and was selected to be the face for his fall collection of T by Alexander Wang, shot by famed photographer Terry Richardson. The 21-year-old has posed alongside model Max Motta in ads that just recently hit the streets of NYC, promoting Wang's ready-to-wear collection.

Alexander Wang's campaign isn't the first modeling gig Kravitz has snagged. In 2009, the starlet was approached by designer Vera Wang to become the face of her Princess perfume. Since then, Kravitz has taken the modeling world by storm. Kravitz recently graced the cover of W Magazine's September 2010 'New It Girls' Issue, alongside America's Next Top Model YaYa DaCosta.

The budding actress has several television and movie roles in the works, including a role in the fourth installment of the X-men series 'X-Men: First Class.'Outside of her film endeavors, Kravitz serves as lead singer and co-writer of the band Elevator Fight.

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Recycled Style: Summer Looks Transformed for Winter

Priscilla Monteiro — 2010-08-24T17:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Budget Fashion

Summer is close to an end and so is that your summer wardrobe. But before you begin shopping for fall and winter garbs, you may want to take another look at some of your summer styles. Did you know that many of your summer looks could easily be recycled?

Have you ever considered revamping one of your summer dresses with a blazer, stockings and some booties? Or how about a pair of shorts with wool tights paired with a cardigan? Not every article of summer clothing -- such as tropical colors -- gets a pass, but you'd be surprised by how versatile a summer wardrobe can be. Black Voices has taken the liberty to give you few style guidelines for recycling your wardrobe.

FLORAL DRESS:

1. Edana Neckalce ($48, chicos.com), 2. Lauren Mervin Ava Snake-Embossed Clutch ($295, endless.com), 3. Elizabeth and James Sandal ($152, zappos.com), 4. Opening Ceremony Pointed Hem Blazer ($144.90, lagarconne.com), 5. Veda Sahara Bag ($298, shopbop.com), 6. Me Moi Cashmere Tights - Light Grey ($33, lorisshoes.com), 7. Charles by Charles David Black Patent "Ponce" Ankle Booties ($147, bluefly.com)

SHORTS:

1. A Bird to the Wise Owl Necklace ($11.99, modcloth.com), 2. Carla Mancini Fringe handbag ($336, bluefly.com), 3. Pleated Chiffon Sleeve Top ($30, topshop.com), 4. Jeffey Campbell Cast Tan Leather Sandal ($100, jildorshoes.com), 5. Zodiac Coin Bracelet ($24, urbanoutfitters.com), 6. Clockface Studs ($12, topshop.com) 7. Alice + Olivia Cotton Knit Cocoon Cardigan ($106, theoutnet.com), 8. 3.1 Phillip Lim Pleated Front Blouse ($130, theoutnet.com) 9. Chainlink Stretch Wristwear ($32, topshop.com), 10. Marc Jacobs Dreamy Logo - Sia Embossed Crossbody Bag ( $278, nordstrom.com), 11. Cole Haan set of 2 Drop Needle Ribbed Tights ($33, bluefly.com), 12. Seychelles Women's Mamie Bootie ($94.33, endless.com)

PANTS:

1. Floral One Shoulder Top ($24, wetseal.com), 2. Juicy Couture Stone Pyramid Cuff Bracelet ($98, bloomingdales.com), 3. Ball and Chain Stud Earrings ($19, bananarepublic.com), 4. Karen Millen large Tassel Big Bag $187.04, asos.com) 5. Luiza Barcelos Womens Peep Toe Sandal ($268, endless.com), 6. House of Harlow 1960 Tribal Earrings ($50, boutiquetoyou.com), 7. Did Dye Vertical Scarf ($95, toryburch.com), 8. Maje Ampoule Leather Top ($485, net-a-porter.com), 9.)3.1 Phillip Lim Leather Opera Gloves ($152.75, mytheresa.com), 10. Oasis Roxy Leopard Chain Crossbody Bag ($47.18, asos.com), 11. Giuseppe Zanotti Patent Toe Pump ($595, couture.zappos.com),

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Fabulous Celebrity Women Over 40

Patrice J. Williams — 2010-08-24T15:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Fashion Files, Photos, Fashion News

September fashion magazines are hitting newsstands and there's one resounding similarity: many of the cover girls are over 40. With Halle Berry on Vogue and Jennifer Lopez on Glamour, women of a certain age are looking better than ever and leaving the youngn's envious.

Classy, beautiful and influential are all adjectives that don't do these ladies justice. They've developed a unique sense of style and grace that only comes over time. Here are BV's top style icons over 40.

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Fabulous Over 40

Halle Berry: 40
She's the first Black woman on Vogue's September issue since 1989 and it's well deserved. The Oscar winner looks ravishing whether she's dressed to the nines in haute couture or in casual boyfriend jeans.

Fabulous Over 40

Jennifer Lopez: 41
Even after two kids, Jenny on the Block proves she's still got it. Whether she's killin' it on the red carpet or tearing up the stage with her dance moves, J Lo is one hot mama!

Fabulous Over 40

Iman: 55
There would be no Naomi or Chanel Iman without the Iman. The regal African beauty drapes her frame in body grazing frocks and is never afraid to embrace bold colors.

Fabulous Over 40

Grace Jones: 62
The model, actress, singer and muse of Andy Warhol always keeps her audience interested with her outlandish, androgynous styles. Her avant-garde tastea can be seen mimicked in the stars of today like Lady Gaga and Rihanna.

Fabulous Over 40

Michelle Obama: 46
The First Lady has access to the best frocks around the world but she can frequently be seen wearing affordable, accessible wears from J. Crew. She shows women everywhere great style can be achieved without breaking the bank.

Fabulous Over 40

Diana Ross: 66
Go big or go back to the dressing room has to be this diva's motto. She's embraced big hair, fluttery lashes and sequins galore since her Motown days.

Fabulous Over 40

Tina Turner: 70
Our youth-obsessed culture can't keep this woman from rocking crowds. After a half a century in the biz, she continues to flaunt those infamous legs in minis and stilettos.

Fabulous Over 40

Ruby Dee: 85
We doubt there are any house coats in the closet of this octogenarian. Her belted, scarlet Kevan Hall dress at the 2008 Oscars proves true style and beauty knows no age.

Fabulous Over 40

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Kimora Lee Simmons Leaves Baby Phat

Hayat Mohamed — 2010-08-23T13:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Fashion News

Kimora Lee Simmons recently announced that she's parting ways with her 14 year-old relationship with Baby Phat and Phat Fashions. According to E! Online, Kimora will be dissolving her ties as of September 1st to focus on other business ventures such as her clothing lines, KLS, Fabulosity and Kouture by Kimora Collection for Macys.

"After 14 years of conceiving and nurturing Baby Phat, it's time for me to move on and further expand my other businesses and create a new phenomenon," Kimora says. "I adore all those who have faithfully been with me since the beginning."

"I'm forever dedicated to my family, fans and customers. My inspiration has always come from the fabulous women who have been with me through the years as we've grown from young party girls to power players! "We're ready for our next journey together and we're taking a whole new generation of incredible young women with us. Girl power unite!"

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Real Love

Actor Djimon Hounsou and Kimora Lee Simmons arrive at the "Inception" Los Angeles Premiere at Grauman's Chinese Theatre on July 13, 2010 in Hollywood, California.

Real Love

John Legend and Christine Teigen pose for photographers during the Capitol Magazine cover party at Cafe Dupont on August 18, 2010 in Washington, DC.

Real Love

Actor Terry Crews and wife Rebecca Crews attends the premiere Of Warner Bros. "Lottery Ticket" at Grauman's Chinese Theatre on August 12, 2010 in Hollywood, California.

Real Love

TV personality Khloe Kardashian and NBA player Lamar Odom arrive at the 2010 Teen Choice Awards at Gibson Amphitheatre on August 8, 2010 in Universal City, California.

Real Love

Tameka 'Tiny' Cottle and T.I visited the AXE Lounge in Southampton on Friday to announce that he is performing a secret show to kick off the "AXE Music One Night Only" concert series in Manhattan on Monday night on August 13, 2010 in Southampton, New York.

Real Love

Rick Fox and Eliza Dushku arrive at the 9th Annual InStyle Summer Soiree on August 12, 2010 in Los Angeles, California.

Real Love

Producers Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith attend a "The Karate Kid" press conference at The Ritz Carlton Tokyo on August 5, 2010 in Tokyo, Japan. The film will open in Japan on August 14.

Real Love

Recording artist John Legend (R) and Christine Teigen attend the Intermix Summer Rooftop concert at Skylight West on August 4, 2010 in New York City.

Real Love

Lamar Odom and Khloe Kardashian attend Power Balance Goes "All-In For A Cure" at Drai's Hollywood on August 3, 2010 in Hollywood, California.

Real Love

Actor Terry Crews and Rebecca Crews attend "The Expendables" Los Angeles Premiere at Grauman's Chinese Theatre on August 3, 2010 in Hollywood, California.

Real Love

Kimora took to Twitter to let fans know that there will be no Baby Phat fashion show during Fashion week this year, something she blames on execs.

"I will not b there. And corporate has decided not 2 do one!"--->RT@starchild36: @OfficialKimora "Can I come to the Baby Phat show for fashion week?"

The star of 'Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane' also tweeted that her daughters Ming Lee and Aoki Lee -who currently both model for the line - will also be ending relations with Baby Phat.

Although we're sad to see the face of Baby Phat leave, something tells us Kimora will be just fine.

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Beyonce Accused of Stealing Designs for House of Dereon

Claire Sulmers — 2010-08-20T15:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Fashion News

The European brand E-Label has recently accused Beyonce of stealing their designs for her line House of Dereon. The owners specifically point to a pair of leggings, (pictured above) which they say look eerily similar to the the pair of 'Heavy Metal' leggings from their Fall/Winter 2010 Collection (pictured below).

The 'Single Ladies' songstress allegedly bought the E-Label leggings from the London store Topshop on a recent trip to England.

One of the labels' owners, Heba Hallgrimsdottir made a statement addressing the incident:

"This is naturally huge and I am still half in shock. I didn't [recognize] straight away that this was her own label: I just thought she was wearing our leggings. It is practically just copy/paste...I have only just heard about this and no decision has yet been taken. We need to inspect her brand's trousers closer because, according to law, it is not copied if a certain number of things have been changed from the original design."

What do you think? Does E-Label have a case?

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Naomi Campbell & Dolce Gabbana Give Back

Hayat Mohamed — 2010-08-19T16:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Designers, Fashion News

Model maven Naomi Campbell has quite the track record for behaving unladylike, but before you consider nominating the model for the next season of 'Bad Girls Club,' you may want to consider her recent philanthropy efforts.

The renown runway model is teaming up with Dolce & Gabbana to design a limited edition collection of t-shirts for her personal charity, Fashion for Relief. The shirts -- which celebrate the veteran model's 25 years in the modeling industry -- will each display an iconic image of Campbell. The limited edition collection comes in 14 different styles and will be sold exclusively at Dolce & Gabbana boutiques for $200 a pop.

All of the proceeds will go to Campbell's charity, which raises money within the fashion industry to help those in times of need and places in need. Naomi Campbell will be stopping by Dolce & Gabbana's Madison Avenue location on September 10 to sign tees from the collection.

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Hot or Not: YaYa DaCosta

Hayat Mohamed — 2010-08-16T15:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Hot or Not

YaYa DaCosta was in attendance at InStyle's 9th annual Summer Soiree event in L.A. looking heavenly in this all white strapless gown and Grecian-styled belt. She paired the look with dangling feather earrings, a white clutch, bangles and over-sized rings. Are you feeling the outfit? Hot or not?

Previously: Selita

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Rapper Clothing Lines: Between the Lines

Priscilla Monteiro — 2010-08-13T14:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Designers, Fashion News, Men's Style

In 20 years time, rapper will.i.am hopes to have the fashion industry respect of a designer like Yves St. Laurent. This is what he told the Globe and Mail when he was in Toronto earlier this month for the Canadian launch of his clothing line, I Am. Ambitious? Yes. But the popular recording artist, who attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles before joining his group The Black Eyed Peas, is certainly not the only rapper with big dreams of conquering the fashion world.

It seems that everywhere you turn these days, another rapper is coming out with a clothing line. Successful rap artists like T.I. (Akoo), Nelly (Apple Bottoms and Vokal), Jay-Z (Rocawear), Diddy (Sean John), Kanye West (Pastelle, Air Yeezys), Damon Dash (CEO), Eminem (Shady),Trina (Pink Diamond), Eve (Fetish), Fabolous (Rich Yung), 50 Cent (G-Unit), and music mogul Russell Simmons (Phat Farm/Argyle Culture) have all dabbled in the fashion industry, some more successfully than others.

But are clothing lines another artistic outlet or simply another way for rappers to make money?

"Music and clothing go hand and hand, and it's only natural that a rapper would want to do a clothing line," Dave Saulters, fashion expert and former lead designer of Phat Farm told Black Voices. "The days of just slapping their name and face on a brand in order to sell are long gone. You have to be creative and priced right these days."

Rapper T.I. has been considerably successful with his line A.K.O.O., which stands for "A King of Oneself." Despite the rappers legal woes, the line -- which launched back in 2007 -- has done quite well.

"Having a celebrity behind a line oftentimes gives that brand instant credibility," said James Chung of Turbo Holdings, a clothing manufacturer with over 30 years in the apparel industry. "There is an instant fan base that will be loyal to the brand and such a fan base can equate to dollars at the checkout aisle."

Jay-z has also seen a great deal of success with his clothing line Rocawear. The 'On to the Next One' rapper inked a sweet licensing deal with Iconix Brand, who also licenses Material Girl, Badgley Mischka, and Candie's. Interestingly enough, Jay-Z parted ways with longtime business partner Damon Dash but managed to stay on-top in both the charts and the stores with a multi-million dollar selling brand sold in virtually every retail store and urban boutique across the country.

After Jay-Z and Dash split, Dash attempted to launch his own clothing line named, CEO. The line was intended to bring out the inner Chief Executive Officer in all of us. Unfortunately, CEO failed and eventually closed up shop.

On the flip side, Jay and Dame's pal and rap mogul, Sean "Diddy" Combs furthered his empire with his Sean John label back in 1997. The line has proven its success and eventually lead Diddy to open up his very own retail store. Sean Jean lovers can now shop for just about everything, from suits, knitwear, bottoms, outerwear, leather accessories, shirts, ties, hats, denim and even children's clothing.

One would think that it would be relatively hard to breakthrough in a crumbling economy where stores are closing down left and right, but many rappers these days are determined to expand their portfolio, regardless. Considering how hit or miss the fashion industry is, one wonders if rappers should just stick to what they know best: rapping!

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Rapper Clothing Lines

Lupe Fiasco's luxury line Trilly and Truly launched in 2006. The line -- which is based on the three concepts anarchy, peace and history -- re-launched in the spring of 2010.

Rapper Clothing Lines

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High-End Designers to Carry Plus-Size Clothing

Claire Sulmers — 2010-08-13T13:33:00 00:00

Filed under: Designers, Fashion News

A few weeks ago news broke that Saks Fifth Avenue would start carrying plus-sized clothing by high end brands like Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, YSL, Alexander McQueen, and Prada.

Not too long after, international brand Marc Jacobs also unofficially announced it would start carrying clothing in sizes larger than a size 14. According to the Guardian, Marc Jacobs president Robert Duffy tweeted that the company is in the early stages of planning a plus-size range.
Though 34 percent of Americans over 20 are considered overweight or obese, designers historically hesitated to create big sizes because they thought larger women didn't spend money on pricey designer clothes. But with a growing number of plus sized yet stylish women like Mo'Nique, Gabourey Sidibe, and Queen Latifah on red carpets and the increasing popularity of stores like Torrid, it's clear that catering to this demographic is a sure way to build a brand and increase its bottom line.

What do you think?

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Halle Berry Covers September Issue of Vogue

Hayat Mohamed — 2010-08-12T13:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Celebrity Style , Trends, Fashion News

For months, rumors have been circulating about actress Halle Berry covering the coveted September issue of Vogue. According to Vogue.com the Oscar-winner will indeed be the first black woman on the 2010 September issue since Naomi Campbell graced the cover in 1989. "There was no way I could say no," says Berry when asked about her cover coup, Vogue's fall fashion issue. "I'm going to be on the biggest issue of the year!"

Although this will be Berry's first time ever covering the September issue, this marks the second Vogue cover for the actress since her December 2002 appearance. For the cover, the 'X-Men' star ditches her regular cropped 'do for a look that eerily resembles Vogue's editor-in-chief Anna Wintour's infamous bob. In the issue -- which hits stands the last week of August -- the actress will be discussing motherhood, being single and her upcoming roles in Broadway and on film.

In the fashion magazine world, the September issue marks the most important month of the year as it compiles the best of pre-fall fashion, lifestyle and feature stories. Berry's appearance marks a huge milestone for black Hollywood considering the past ten September issues of Vogue have covered white actresses and models. In the past, the magazine has garnered a great deal of criticism for its lack of diverse representation.

Halle Berry and Naomi Campbell aren't the only black females to appear on Vogue's cover. Supermodel Beverly Johnson became the first black woman ever to cover Vogue in 1974. Media-mogul Oprah Winfrey was given the honor in 1998, Jennifer Hudson in 2007 and First Lady Michelle Obama in 2009.

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Black Vogue Cover Models

Beverly Johnson, August 1974

Black Vogue Cover Models

Peggy Dillard, August 1977

Black Vogue Cover Models

Shelia Johnson, March 1980

Black Vogue Cover Models

Shari Belafonte, June 1986

Black Vogue Cover Models

Karen Alexander, January 1989

Black Vogue Cover Models

Naomi Campbell, September 1989

Black Vogue Cover Models

Kara Young, October 1989

Black Vogue Cover Models

Karia Kabukuru, July 1997

Black Vogue Cover Models

Oprah Winfrey, October 1998

Black Vogue Cover Models

Halle Berry, December 2002

Black Vogue Cover Models

In response to their typical 'all-white' issues, Vogue Italia was inspired to create an all-black issue in July 2008, which featured black models from across the globe. The issue highlighted some of the fashion industry's most prominent black models including Naomi Campbell, Liya Kebede, Iman, Tyra Banks, Jourdan Dunn, Noémie Lenoir, Veronica Webb, Toccara Jones and Sessilee Lopez.

To read an excerpt from Halle Berry's interview in Vogue before it hits stands, visit the Vogue website.

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Hollywood's It Girls: YaYa DaCosta & Zoë Kravitz Cover W

Lauren Williams — 2010-08-10T16:11:00 00:00

Filed under: Fashion News

At this point, we know the deal when it comes to mainstream magazines' ubiquitous "Hollywood up-and-comers" issues: it's unlikely there will be very much diversity on the magazine's cover. Remember the controversy over Vanity Fair's "Young Hollywood" issue, which featured no actresses of color?

W magazine has done a better job with it's cover for its September "New It Girls" issue. Former 'America's Next Top Model' contestant and 'The Kids are All Right' actress YaYa DaCosta and Hollywood royalty Zoë Kravitz are both featured.

Not only are the two women up and coming entertainers, they're also stylistas -- DaCosta has her model cred and Kravitz is a mainstay at fashion week -- making them uniquely suited to cover a fashion magazine like W.

The cover also features Jennifer Lawrence, Greta Gerwig, Kat Dennings, Jessica Chastain, Emma Roberts and Mary Elizabeth Winstead.

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