chic-smartly stylish

Chic Reads: Solange Knowles blazes the pages of French Glamour

2012-06-11T15:49:00.000-07:00

Once again Solange Knowles makes her fashion mark in a super fly editorial for French Glamour Magazine's July 2012 issue. The always stylish Solange, looks model worthy for the shoot. Although styled, somehow Solange manages to still infuse her undeniable twist and fashion personality. Enjoy these chic images and interview snippets!

"My style is very eclectic as I like to take risks, but I always cling to glamorous touches and classic details. I’m not necessarily inspired by magazines or fashion. I surf a lot on blogs and find it cool to see real style from real people. My travels also influence me. I always take lots of pictures, and then inject all those inspirations into my wardrobe, my home decor, or my makeup. And we can’t forget the icons: Diana Ross, Erykah Badu, Bjork, and Lauryn Hill."

"My hair is not very important to me….so i don’t encourage it to be important to you. Im very emotional today (involving something else) , so i’m letting the momentum of that help me to express the fact that…I dont want to talk about no damn hair…..no mo."

Solange is not just her hair, but she rocks it so well! I love this skirt and metallic jacket combo!

"If you have different prints, both pieces have to have the same fabric. Certain colors like violet and pink also work well with animal prints. And then, you have to create a certain harmony; I avoid mixing African patterns with Aztec prints, for example."

Would you be bold enough to sport a turban?

images French Glamour

Beyonce makes a dazzling return to the stage at Revel

2012-05-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

In her first concert performance after giving birth to Blue Ivy, Beyonce commanded the stage only as " Sasha Fierce" can. The sold out Memorial Day Weekend performances were held at the Revel Resort and Casino in Atlantic City.

Beyonce admitted to having nervous performance jitters prior to hitting the stage, however rave reviews about the show continue to buzz. She worked hard to return her post baby body to its previous state in 5 short months since giving birth. I must say Bey looks amazing!

The Costumes

Beyonce's stage costumes were exclusivley designed by Ralph and Russo. The couture pieces were embellished with 500,000 Swarovski crystal elements by 20 couteriers and took an astounding 4 weeks to make. “Beyoncé wanted us to be really creative and create fun and edgy designs that had an ultra-glamorous feel to them”- Tamara Ralph designer Ralph and Russo

image: Swarovski

image: Swarovski

Other images: Kevin Mazur/Wireimages

Trending: Floral Denim

2012-05-28T13:19:00.000-07:00

In addition to the bright jean trend is the feminine yet sexy floral printed denim/bottoms trend. From soft hues on a white background to traditional denim washes for major contrast and impact; floral jeans make a chic statement. Combined with a solid bright top or crisp white, these jeans are fresh summer look. Several premium denim designers offer their take in skinny, cropped and also shorts. How would you rock them?

Citizens of Humanity roll up jean

Rochelle Wiseman in cropped skinnies by Paige

I love this floral short and yellow blazer combo with Yves Saint Laurent nude cap toe pumps. Rochelle does it again...chic smartly stylish!

More Vanilla Star...

Jessica Alba goes bold with color blocking in Erdem

Rhianna wears shorts from Topshop in NYC

Minka Kelly in Dolce &Gabbana

Ciara shops in Beverly Hills in Citizens of Humanity

More Paige...

Happy Memorial Day: Fashion Ode to the American Flag

2012-05-28T10:27:00.000-07:00

Catherine Malandrino

Rhianna in a Torn by Ronny Kobo tee

UNIF at Singer 22

Dsquared Spring 2012

Solange in American Flag shorts

Wildfox Couture

More Wildfox Couture...

amfAR Cinema Agaisnt AIDS Gala: Best Dressed

2012-05-25T15:19:00.000-07:00

This year's Cannes Film Festival has been full of celebrity and fashion greatness. Last night's 19th annual amfAR Gala kept this trend going and did not disapoint! The amfar Cinema Agaisnt AIDS event is a long time Cannes favorite. Attendees include film festival participants, celebrities, and well known individuals in the areas of fashion, business, entertainment and socialites. My best dressed choices below.

Liya Kebede looks stunning in a less traditional, yet super chic white blazer and satin pants suit

Love love love! Nina Dobrev in a beautiful blue Elie Saab gown with a thigh baring split

Karolina Kurkova in a spring 2012 Roberto Cavalli gown

Janet Jackson flaunts a new slim figure in low plunging Emilio Pucci design

Dainty in Chanel, Diane Kruger. Interesting and bold choice with the leopard Louboutin pumps

This is the second time we've seen Milla Jovovich in Atelier Versace at recent events.

I'm feeling the choice of color and draping in this Burberry gown worn by Cara Delevingne

Ana Beatriz Barros in a gorgeous printed gown by Roberto Cavalli

MoMA Garden Party: Solange Knowles

2012-05-24T11:10:00.000-07:00

Solange Knowles was guest and DJ at the after party for Tuesday night's Museum of Modern Art annual Garden Party Benefit in NYC. Solange looked pretty chic, as usual in a one leg floral print and blazer combination by Italian fashion and textile designer Flaminia Saccuci and nude pumps

“A little peekaboo is a lot sexier than putting it all out there,” Solange said of her floral print dress. “Touch it, “It’s latex.”

The printed latex jacket and skirt is from the designer's 2011 Graduate Collection. More Flaminia Sacccuci here

Trending: Pretty Pleats

2012-05-23T20:02:00.000-07:00

I'm a huge fan of feminine looks. This season's pretty pleats paired with tangerines, corals and soft pastels, scream girly and chic.

I love this studded pleated dress from the House of Dereon's spring 2012 collection. A mix of edge and softness. View the Spring 2012 collection here

LuLu's is a go to favorite for trying out trends with little investment and affordable pricing. They actually had quite of few pleated styles I liked. Click to Shop LuLu's

"My Sheer-ona" top and Neon Coral box pleated skirt

Mint pleated skirt and knit sweater combo

In an unexpected way I like Kate Bosworth in a mint pleated maxi skirt from this years Coachella festival. Dressed down with a soft grey sweatshirt and Isabel Murant sneaks.

More Topshop...

Kim Kardashian Promotes New Fragrance in Red

2012-05-21T10:14:00.000-07:00

This weekend while promoting her new fragrance, True Reflection at London's Rose Club; Kim Kardashian was quite the bombshell in Red. The looks were both classy and sexy.

Arriving with Kanye

Kim looks lovely with parted pulled back hair, soft makeup and nude lips

Here Kim wears a black/red lace combo by Emilo Pucci, Spring 2012. She paired the dress with the same Top Ford shoes

Billboard Music Awards 2012: Best dressed

2012-05-20T22:39:00.000-07:00

Red carpet looks from tonight's 2012 Billboard Music Awards in Vegas. My favorites, so far below:

Taylor Swift with sleek straight hair in Elie Saab.

Alicia Keys wearing Alaia Couture, pretty twisted updo and a classic red lip

Miley Cyrus opted for a more mature and sexy look in a plunging Gaultier dress and contrasting Louboutin pumps

Brandy wears a fringed dress by Herve Leger
images: Kevin Mazur

Milla Jovovich in Atelier Versace at the 2012 Life Ball

2012-05-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Model Milla Jovovich wears a stunning Atelier Versace gown at the Life Ball in Vienna. Versace has had a constant presence on the red carpet in recent weeks. The Spring 2012 Couture Atelier collection is the first after an 8yr absence and is well worth the wait! The 20th annual Life Ball was held in Vienna, Austria and raises money for people living with HIV and AIDS.

The lime green crystalline sugar-granule beaded gown features a sexy high thigh split and back baring gold plated trimmed cut out waist.

images: Getty

images: Yannis Vlamos

Trending: Summer Wedge Report/Steve Madden Sale!

2012-05-19T11:33:00.001-07:00

Wedges are my all time favorite for style, height and comfort! Steve Madden's Friend's and Family sale runs thru Monday May 21st and offers 25% off plus FREE shipping! So why not grab a few?! Incorporating the season's trends are a sampling of my favorites below! Just click images to Shop!

Eva Marcille in LA wearing "Winonna" print wedges. Her friend's shoes are cute too!

Printed

Colorblock

Stripes

Cork

Cut Outs

Inspiration Board: Market Finds at Layla Grace

2012-05-19T10:10:00.001-07:00

Home and furniture boutique Layla Grace recently launched a new catagory called Market Finds. I've been drawn to natural hues for interiors lately and was compelled to check out the offerings after coming across some fabulous linen studded pillows by Jaime Young. I love the way modern embellishments are paired with vintage and worn styles. Take a look and be inspired! View the entire collection at Layla Grace.

Jamie Young Studded Natural Linen Pillows so chic!

Bliss Studio Geometric Mirror Chest. I would love this chest on a the wall going up the stairwell in my home!

Brownstone Flynn Upholstered Bed. Luxury, style and comfort.

For a glam office space; Eloquence Coco Madame Desk. The name says it all! I love the vintage French design.

Natural materials, beautiful style. Waterfall Island Chandelier, made of sea shells strung by copper.

Bergdorf Chamois Ottoman

The Fashionably Chic: Jada Pinkett Smith, Cannes Film Festival 2012

2012-05-18T21:12:00.000-07:00

The petite starlette has been such a fashion pleasure to watch at this year's 65th annual Cannes Film Festival in France. While promoting her lastest film, Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted, attending events, and rocking the red carpet; Jada shows her amazing curves and style. Her choices include a who's who list of designers Spring/Summer and Fall 2012 collections. What looks are your favorites thus far?

Atelier Versace

Alberta Ferretti. I love this color!

Day Chic, this studded Versace Fall 2012 dress, with Ferragamo peep toe shoes

Roberto Cavalli

Versace

Paco Rabanne

Cannes Film Festival 2012- Best Dressed

2012-05-18T20:11:00.000-07:00

My favorites from the red carpet opening day.

Eva Longoria in a stunning sheer rosette covered Marchesa gown.

images: Getty

Diane Kruger is princess perfect in a mint colored gown by Giambattista Valli Couture.
image: AFP

Chic and sexy; Delores Chaplin in Lanvin

image:EPA

Day 2

Beauty Freida Pinto wears a Paco Rabanne Spring 2012 dress with gold chain mesh underlay

image:AP

Not everyone can pull this look off, but Fan Bing Bing looks gorgeous in this soft floral dress.
image:AP

The Fashionably Chic: Tracee Ellis Ross

2012-05-17T12:49:00.000-07:00

I'm sure most people have a small list of people they would love to meet, talk with, hang out, and also in my case SHOP with! Tracee Ellis Ross is one of those people for me. Outside of being exceptionally stylish and chic; Tracee's inner beauty shines through. Today I'm sharing some of my favorite style moments and quotes by Tracee.

I love this photo, because its has motion as shows a bit of her personality! Gotta Love the Isabel Murant sneakers also!

Natural beauty with braided hair and crisp simple white sleeveless top and high waisted jean trousers.

above images: Uptown magazine March 2012

"Eventually I faced the inevitable, this was the body and the booty I was given, and I might as well start loving them." -Tracee, from her contribution to the book "Naked: Black Women Bare All About Their Skin, Hair, Hips, Lips, and Other Parts"

" Now you can't just text me and invite me on a date. You need to pick up the phone and call me. That's not being a diva. That's having self-esteem." -Tracee, Vibe Vixen 2006

“I have loved magazines since I was a child … And let me explain something, I do not read magazines, I look at the pictures … When I was in high school I would make wish boards. They were feelings and images, not words. It was all fashion.”

“I was shy, but it came out in a big personality. My turning point was when I let my hair go naturally and I got contact lenses. I am really blind, by the way. I have these big eyes that don’t work!”

Celebrity Chic: Solange Knowles on Mother's Day

2012-05-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

Solange Knowles was spotted out an about delivering gifts, and taking a bike ride with her son as she celebrated Mother's Day. Seemingly effortless and simple, but major chic is Solange in a yellow top and cute bow accented shorts. I would rock this look in a heartbeat!

Solange can often be seen in yellow, most recently at the Met Gala. Here she accents it with a red bag and studded Azzedine "Alaia" Suede Flat sandals.

Shop the look below!

Shorts
Sandals

Michelle Obama Mother's Day Tea/ Reception to Honor Military Moms 2012

2012-05-12T10:30:00.000-07:00

Michelle Obama and Jill Biden host afternoon tea in The White House State Dining room to honor military mom's and their families as a part of the Joining Forces initiative. Later, the first lady and Biden help the children assemble hand made gifts to present to their mothers and grandmothers. Michelle thanked her mom, Marion Robinson for being her "rock". “She has taught me to believe in myself, and more importantly, to pick myself up whenever I stumble. She is always a shoulder to cry on and talk to, and I do that a lot.” She also praised grandmothers for "filling in whenever needed."

Wearing a Rachel Roy dress with a brocade patterned bottom, she greets guests.

With Jill Biden helping assemble gifts.

The greatest fashion accessory is her genuine infectious smile.

Later with Jill Biden; casual yet still chic, Michelle wears J Crew Minnie pants in deep orchid and a Sonia by Sonia Rykiel spot and striped knit top and sweater combo.

At the Naval Observatory assembling care packages that included a charm bracelet with the American flag, hand written notes and gift cards to distribute to mothers and wives of deployed troops.

images:Winn McNamee/Getty

Shop the look!

Cropped Pants
Flats

ASOS Africa SS 2012 Collection

2012-05-10T21:48:00.000-07:00

E-boutique ASOS recently launched its Spring/Summer 2012 highly anticipated AFRICA collection. The successful collection is inspired by traditional African and tribal fabrics. I LOVE the mix of pattern!
This year's 21 piece collection, include Kitenge and Kanga prints and hand-woven Kikoy paired with a sporty vibe, all affordably priced! Produced in Kenya, a portion of proceeds from every piece sold goes to support local east African communities. In collaboration with SOKO and several small African communities, the production of the collection helps to enable underprivileged communities to establish sustainable business through their local craftsmanship.

Printed Shorts in Geo Print with Collarless Top Chic!

Organza Skirt

Mombasan Print Dress

Floral Kanga Print Hotpants and Top with Striped Jacket

Zebra Print and Striped Dress

Midi Zebra Print Shirtdress MY FAVORITE!

Striped Kikoy Pants and Jacket
Shop the collection below

Casual Pants
Shorts

The Fashionably Chic: Zoe Saldana at the Cosmopolitan Latina Premiere Issue Party in NYC

2012-05-10T17:57:00.000-07:00

Zoe Saldana was picture perfect at last night's Cosmopolitan Latina Premier party in New York.
Her look was feminine, stylish and chic. She wore a blush Elie Saab Couture dress and Brian Atwood Claudia pumps, a Bottega Veneta clutch and jewerly by Frit Design.

The perfect accessory...NY Giants Victor Cruz

The premiere issue was released May 1st. Zoe on following her heart: ""The reality is, I have gotten this far because I don’t pay attention to anything but my heart and what I want to do. And if it's a hit today, or if it’s a miss tomorrow, seriously — no regrets because if I follow my heart I can never be wrong."

Inspiration Board: Changes at American Vogue

2012-05-09T12:48:00.000-07:00

The Death of American Vogue as we know it?
By: Hudson De Witt Kelly Guest Blogger and Freelance Public Relations Executive

Diana Vreeland, editor in chief American Vogue 1963-1971 with model

It may ring true now more than ever when Fashion Editor/Fashion Maven Diana Vreeland said these words as she saw what fashion magazines where here for "What these magazines gave was a point of view. Most people haven't got a point of view; they need to have it given to them-and what's more, they expect it from you. [...][I]t must have been 1966 or '67. I published this big fashion slogan: This is the year of do it yourself. [...][E]very store in the country telephoned to say, 'Look, you have to tell people. No one wants to do it themselves-they want direction and to follow a leader!'"[21] and I say this because there are major changes going on at American Vogue that explains this point of reference in which I use to start off this blog.

Diana Vreeland photographed by James Karales in her Vogue Office, New York 1965

Before I even continue we need to understand the power of Vogue Magazine we must understand its power. Vogue was not just a magazine for women to browse about its fashion pages, it gave you an idea and it created industries; public relations, marketing executives, assistants, make-up artists, photographers, modeling agencies all benefited and massed great wealth because of Vogue and of course its readers because Vogue knew that it had an audience of women and yes men that wanted not only a better world but a fashionable one that had class, integrity and hope.
Yes, there was actually a list of models that supported Diana and Anna no matter where they went, they inspired music, art, home décor, Parson’s school of Design, everyone benefited and still does on Vogue’s success that is why it saddened me when models began to be whipped of the covers of Vogue. Again as a very passionate person and a very passionate man I can see past what divides men and women as Vogue inspired me to be so much better in the world that I created for myself. It allowed me to see everything in color, vibrant color. I was able to see past being an abused, neglected child and know that even the rich and elite had hardships that I too could survive and make a better way for myself.

But for years now change has taken place as models who once credited there success and still will to Vogue magazine where replaces with celebrities marketing their next CD, movie or other project thus making Vogue more like People then the magazine we have known and loved for so many years. I was four or five when I read the 1969 Vogue my Grandmother still had and I found others dated all the way to the 40’s those probably shaped her life as they would my mothers, sisters and me. So since the OJ Simpson car chase that captivated us all we have seen a shift from make believe to reality. Television has forever been altered when reality television became the norm and now Daytime TV is gone from us just as I fear that one day Vogue will be as well.

Vogue cover, circa 1917. Early covers featured artist drawings and paintings instead of photographic images.

Again after all the tides in advertising sales dropping, the turn to reading our magazines and newspapers online; Vogue’s readership subscriptions have held steady but it is one of the costly magazines to produce. So it surprised me today when Vogue altered the landscape yet again by announcing two trends they will now follow; first being no models under 16 no matter how mature they are for Teen Vogue and two they announced no more “skinny” models will be featured in the pictorials as well so that leaves half the industry unemployed as they are under immense pressure and photo shopped to look even thinner but this controversy began with Kate Moss maybe even before but now with Vogue taking this sort of stand means other big things are only set to come for this media giant.

I know and have worked with a lot of these young women, have become close to some of them such as Liya Kibede, Karlie Klass, Natalie Vodianova, Chanel Iman not to get to name dropping but I see it as important because they are both very healthy young women who I don’t want careers to suffer because Americans are on such a crusade to make everything so normal so in the very words of Diana I too say that Americans need direction and whom else to lead the way but Vogue Magazine hopefully with style, class, taste and ideas that no one will ever be able to take away.

Good day to you all
Hudson De Witt Kelly

Met Gala 2012: Best Dressed

2012-05-08T14:03:00.001-07:00

Celebrities hit the red carpet of the 2012 Met Gala in grand style. Held at the Metropolitan Museum of Arts; this year's event celebrated the Costume Institute's latest exhibit entitled, "Impossible Conversation". The exhibit is a tribute to renowned designers Elsa Schiaparelli and Prada. My chic favorites from the night:

Beyonce in Givenchy Couture

Jessica Alba in Michael Kors

Rhianna in Tom Ford

Amber Head in Zac Posen

Solange in Rachel Roy

Dianna Agron in Carolina Herrera

Paula Patton in Vera Wang

Hilary Swank in Michael Kors

Karolina Kurova works the carpet in Rachel Zoe Collection

Diane Kruger in Prada

Must Haves: Alexander McQueen Box Clutch

2012-05-07T16:53:00.001-07:00

Happy Monday! I hope everyone had a fashionable weekend! The Alexander McQueen Box Clutch has been making a welcome appearance on many red carpets and events. Well deserving these clutches mix edgy and fashion forwardness with red carpet gowns and street chic alike. Practical to hold your essentials and make a statement these are splurge worthy!

Cassie attends the Paris runways looking ever so glam and edgy at the same time with a pointed manicure

Emma Stone makes an dainty all McQueen statement at the 2012 SAG Awards.

In one of her first appearances since giving birth to baby Blue Ivy; Beyonce with a sequined skull box clutch accents a Alice Tempereley tangerine dress. She completed the look with blue nails and accessories.

Crystal Brittania Box Clutch

Snakeskin Knuckle Box Clutch Purple Shell Box Clutch
Pink Snakeskin Clutch
Leopard Classic Box Clutch

Closer View!!

Gold Wave Anenome Whipsnake Clutch

Must Haves: A White Blazer

2012-05-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

Generally speaking a structured blazer is a wardrobe essential. However the crispness of a white blazer adds instant chic to variety of spring and summer looks. This season's versions include trending design elements like peplums and zippers to name a few. The look can be worn dressed up or casual and provides a chic contrast to this season's brights.

Kim Kardashian is often seen sporting a white blazer. Recently she was spotted in a ruffled blazer from Givency Spring 2012. To complete her look Balenciaga leather leggings and Louboutin shoes

Givency Spring 2012 runway version

More Christian Louboutin...

Heidi Klum looks fabulous in a J Brand version, also paired with leather pants

A look from the Spring 2012 Milan Fashion week runway is this stunning white blazer and sequined gown by Roberto Cavalli

Shop!

Blazers
Leather Jackets

The Fashionably Chic: Michelle Obama in Naeem Khan at the 2012 White House Correspondents Association Dinner

2012-04-30T21:47:00.000-07:00

Fashionably Chic is an understatement! I love Michelle Obama for her impeccable style and beauty that comes from within. As one of my favorite chic fashion icons; you will see a lot of her here. Known for wearing the best in emerging designers, the first lady made a grand appearance wearing Naeem Khan at the 2012 White House Correspondents Association Dinner. Carla Amorim Aurora rose gold and orange sapphire hoop earrings, soft hair and makeup, and over sized cocktail ring completed the look. Stunning, gorgeous, radiant, chic!

The paisley organza gown is a modified version of a one shoulder look from the designer's 2011 fall collection.

images:Getty images

Must Haves: High-Low Hemline Dresses

2012-04-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

My goal for work attire is fashionable yet comfortable. My go to choice is usually a dress because its super easy one piece dressing in the morning. Grab some shoes, accessories, handbag, throw on a dress. Check! Out the door! Yesterday I wore a dress with a high-low hemline and recieved several compliments out and about and at work. Also referred to as asymmetrical, this style has been around for a few seasons and also making appearances for Fall 2012. So today I'm sharing a few pics you may enjoy!

I absolutely love everything about this dress!

image: Annabelle Fleur via Lookbook

DKNY Spring 2012. On trend with the fiery tangerine color. Love the shoes too!

DKNY Spring 2012

Just Cavalli Spring 2012. Perfect destination vacation look or summer guest at a wedding.

Check out some everyday versions for summer below!

More ABS by Allen Schwartz...