Concrete Threads

Couture 'NO-NO's'

2008-07-03T14:53:00.004-05:00

I've been really looking forward to this fall's design collections. I've been playing close attention, specifically to my favorite designer's, Christian Dior, Lanvin, Donna Karen, Marc Jacob, Alexander McQueen...to name a few. Many designers has already displayed their intentions for this fall's fashion trends, including it's couture fashions, by presenting prestigious runway/fashion shows.

I've seen a quite a few of the latest couture shows, and I must say that I've been well pleased, but all has not pleased me. Designs that is. For the most part, all of the designer's have designs that are great in their own right, but every now and then or more often than not, we viewers see a model prance down the runway, struting her best runway walk in something that looks like it came straight from the cartoon 'Jimmy Neutron' itself... No really! This is a horrible shame...It disgraces all that great fashion has to offer and if a designer is not careful, meaning, but putting items that don't make the cut, it really hurts their runway pres.

Dior for example, lovely, one of my fav designers in everything genre, including couture, for men and women. It's line been around a while and has clout in the design game, but see the pic attached. OOOh NO! Yes, it's from Dior's fall 08 line. Now, I'm just giving my opinion on this piece. I know that some of you out there beg to differ with my opinion, but I do also know that many of you out there definately agree with me. It's down right, truth be told, UGLY(if I'm allowed to quote this). I love mostly everything that Dior makes, but this piece, along with quite a few more of his Fall 08 pieces is NO-NO!

It's see through, which is not that bad if implemented correctly(my opinion) and look at the accessory.. the hat--no-no-no! It's couture and all of us can't wear couture, but I think none of us would wear this couture piece at all.

Let me know what you think!

5 Ways To Look Green In The Red

2008-07-03T00:46:00.002-05:00

Don't you love the Summer, but hate the Summer heat? I know I do. One thing that I try my best to do in the Summer is, 'STAY COOL', as I can at least. When the temp increases to above 100 degree's, it's pretty hopeless though. I stay in Texas, where our Summer's are real long and extremely hot. Fashionista's like myself, try to keep our apparel 'fierce', while trying to keep our body temps from rising. But when all else fails, you can't go wrong in the Summer with piece's where fabric is limited, if you get my drift. Light fabrics, shorts, etc, all in a day's work of keeping cool. Now, considering the condition of our planet, oil price's and global warming, our generation is trying it's best to buy and do things to change the way we treat our planet and all that it has to offer. One way is going GREEN! There's a lot of ways to go green, but my favorite way is of course, fashion. Yes you can go merge green item's within your Summer ward. I've put together my guest estimate/opinion of the 5 things you need to look 'green' in the red summer heat.
More like items that I've put together..
Item 1: Tee's. We all love them and their oh so cool in the Summer, breezy I mean. I found the cutest Kanji Kalligraphy Tee only $24.00.

Item 2: I didn't forget, you definately need a pair of Organic Cotton Black Capri's with leg slit(throw a little sex appeal in there), only $24.00 also.
Item 3: If the Tee is not cool enough for you or it's just not your summer style, try on a tank or cami, they're available in many different colors and very versatile. I also found some for only $10.00-sweeet!
Item 4:How about sleepwear, cool down when it's time for bed in a pair of Jersey Knit Pajama's, they're currently on sale for #39.00

Item 5: Accessorize your summer outfit with a beautiful 'green' thoughtful bag, benefiting the Solar Living Institute for only $30.00.

Guy's, the best thing about buying these cute items is that they are all eco-friendly, organicly made items that also benefit a major foundation. You're basically, saving our environment and helping other's, while of course looking 'fabulous.' The best of many, many worlds. So, this Summer, when your out and about, doing your shopping, make sure you stop to think about implementing 'green' articles into your ward......

Check out the items listed about at www.gaiam.com. You'll find everything 'green' that you need.

Odio's Fashionista's

Look Chic on a BUDGET!

2008-07-01T14:37:00.004-05:00

Posh chic, african chic, native chic, sexy chic, geek chic, casual chic.....need I go on? Chic is 'in' indeed. All different kinds of 'chic'. 'Chic''s even in the Wiki online encyclopedia. Who would have figured. Nevertheless, I love the Chic look, every one, because every one has it's own unique feel wrapped around the look. I like to look chic, my favorite actually is sexy chic and casual chic. What can I say, I'm a comfortable kind of girl(lol). The key my friends is looking chic on a BUDGET. That's right, BUDGET!
Step 1: Forget, 'DESIGNER'. The item's don't have to be designer for you have that 'chic' look Step 2: What type of 'chic' look are you looking for? Decide what you desire your look to be. There are a variety of 'chic' looks. Key-remember, chic is a dressed down, but upscale look, that's why the term fit's so well
Step 3: Look for bargain find's, this includes, consignment stores, thrift stores, used clothing store's, old vintage. Believe it or not, shopping at these places is like shopping in a treasure store, full of unseen treasures. We have to find them. or
Simply look on regular store rack for clearance items, marked down items, sale items.

Example: see attached photo of Kate Hudson, she does the Casual Chic look nicely.

You can have this look:
Long Sweater $25.00-Delia's
Black Sweater $10.00-Old Navy
Jeans $29.50 -American Eagle
Shoes $35.00-J.Renee

I personally love Old Navy, you can find everything you need to look fabulous at such great low price's.

Happy Shopping!

Nekiwa Smith
also at www.concretethreads.com
www.modofacile.com

How to Find Designer at 60% Off or more

2008-07-01T12:57:00.005-05:00

Who said that just because we are not famous celebrities or socialites, we can't look sharp or 'fierce.' That we can't shine in the glory of looking 'hot.' We definately can, we can! When shopping, I like to find the best deals and quality for a great price. Who doesn't like and want to wear designer, that is, clothes, shoes, handbags, accessories and more. Everyone would like to look their best as pertaining to society and our culture. I recently went on a search to find the best site(s) or store's to find the best designer's at the lowest price possible. Travel with me.....

First of all, shopping on line is alway's the best way to find cheaper items.

1)Best place for designer shoes, handbags, clothes and more items, including Dolce & Gabbana, Juicy Couture, Fendi, Pradi, Fornarina and more...

ww.raffaello-network.com- where items are available for up to 70% off retail.
see attached Fornarina shoe, original retail: $350.00, at rafaello: $139.00

2)Best place for designer clothes,shoes, handbags and other items, including: True Religion, Fitch, Chloe, Burberry, Valentino and more..

www.potentfashion.com- where items are available for up to 80-85% off retail. I like the way they talk!

3)If your taste is a little less extravegant, try www.smartbargains.com- you'll find Kenneth Cole and other's at up to 80% off, while yet it's the best place to find designer accessories at great prices, such as sunglasses: fendi, prada, calvin klein, diesal, armani, gucci and chanel

You'll love whatever you find on all of these site's. Make sure you send me a pic of your steals!!

Happy Shopping!

Nekiwa Smith
also at www.concretethreads.com
www.modofacile.com

Will you want "tha Goodies"

2008-06-29T12:08:00.001-05:00

Singer Ciara, we all know her, "Tha Goodie's Girl" (lol). Well, it seem's, she's stepping out into mainstream stardom even more so nowadays. It's reported that she's signed a modeling contract with agency Wilhelmina, a prominant-upscale agency. She's also looking into launching her own clothing line via Steve and Barry's. Steve and Barry's is great store, with trendy items at great low prices. Great look Ciara! Steve and Barry's also carrie's Sarah Jessica Parker's line "Bitten" and Stephen Marbury's line "Marberry".

Now, I'm guessing this is definately the thing to do if your a famous singer, model, actor, etc. Famous people's clothing line's tends to do very well regarding sale. I don't know, maybe because they have a whole team of marketing and advertising staff, maybe.

But, I definately look forward to Ciara's new line. Her last CD did pretty well and I really liked it. To me, she is maturing in her singing skill and production. I also like her style so I bet her line will be right in line with her fiery, hip-hop style, one of my fav's. So with Steve and Barry's and Ciara teaming up.

So everyone be on the lookout!!
Also at www.concretethreads.com

"Bootleggers", good or bad?

2008-06-29T11:53:00.000-05:00

BOOTLEGGER'S- we all know who they are, we all all know who they represent, we all know their motive. Money that is. Bootlegger's has alway's been looked down upon in the fashion world, but their pretty classic. Meaning, the fashion police and even the real police has not been able to put a stop to their business endeavors.

I personally, have alway's thought, in my heart that bootlegger's and anyone that purchased imitation, bootlegger products were wrong and possibly stealing, depending on how you looked at it. But, to tell the truth, I've purchased a many imitation products in my day, from stores and bootleggers. But while buying these products, my conscious would scream, 'you know you're wrong for this.'

The reason continued the sale and even purchased thereafter:

Reason 1: Loved the design

Reason 2: Great price

Reason 3: Bought if can't tell that's it's a cheaper, imitation, version of product

These are the reason's bootleggers are still in business today and probably will never go out of business. Most buyer's have felt the way I felt. Many time's, buyer's are unable to purchase the real, authentic product, at the original expensive price, and if a bootlegger cross their path and it's a great imitation for sell, it's as good as GONE!

I didn't really change my perspective or feelings regarding this being wrong until about a month ago. I was viewing an Oprah Show episode and one of my favorite designer's of all time, Mr. Marc Jacobs, was a featured guest. Oprah asked him a question, about his feelings towards people that piroted or bootlegged imitations of his products(Marc Jacobs is also a feature designer on the Louis Vuitton design team.) Mr. Jacobs replied, "I feel flattered and good to know that I have created and designed something so great that other's want to imitate. I have no problem with it."

Now, for Mr. Marc Jacobs himself, to say such a thing, wow, it made me feel alright about my past 'misdeeds' and possible my future one's. Oprah understood where he was coming from and this just made things better for me, I must say.

Now for all of you that have previously bought imitation goods, thought about it or just condemned those who do or had, please rethink your position...

Shine forever!!

Who's your fav runway Diva?

2008-06-29T11:50:00.000-05:00

I love to watch all model's, those from different backgrounds, ethnicities, build and social status, strut their stuff on the runway. I have a little bit of modeling experience myself and I know the feeling. Such a great feeling it is, to walk the runway, hundred's of eyes totally on you, the breeze through your hair and yes, the feeling of top-notch designer clothes touching your skin. Oh what a great feeling!For all of us who LOVE designer clothes, it gives the wearer such a great feeling. Because I can relate and I personally know the feeling of walking a runway, I respect all models that do this as a profession. I especially like watching my favorites to do it up on the runway. To be my favorite, I look for that 'it' facial look, build, culture, etc. I especially look for a particular runway finesse and grace, when walking the runway.

I would have to say, out of all the current, 21st century models currently modeling, Sasha Pivovarova, would have to be my favorite. Her rutty facial features, blond hair and sea blue eyes, very beautiful. But she also 'rip's' the runway when walking down it.I have a few model pioneer's that I respect and admire for blazing the forefront for all models. They were at the top of their game in their time. My list includes: Brook Shields, Kimora Lee(of course), Cristie Brinkley, Janice Dickenson, Beverly Johnson, Iman, Tyra Banks and more.

Who would you say is your favorite model?

My Checklist: Summer DO's and DON'T's

2008-06-29T11:45:00.000-05:00

I've been asked a lot for opinion on what to wear and what not to wear this summer. We all wan't to be in fashion and in line with current Summer 08 trends, but we can do without the fashion mishaps or miscommunications. The definition of fashion miscommunication is wearing an ensemble or piece of fashion because you might have seen someone else wear it or 'do it' that way. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS PEOPLE!!!! So I've brainstormed my own personal list of Summer fashion do's and don'ts.

Do's:

1. Wear bright summer colors

2. Play with different patterns and fabrics

3. Play with different accessories, such as earrings, handbags, shoes, etc.
4. Have more than one pair of nice sandals/summer shoes, that are versatile in color. They do not have to be very expensive, but quality and trendy

5. Make-up should be light and natural looking. Mauve's are in this summer.

6. Wear clothes that are tailored to your individual body shape. Example, it you are apple shape, do not try to wear hip-huggers. Take if from me, this is very unflattering. Pear shaped people pull this off very nicely. If you are pear shaped, try a nice baby-doll dress.

7. Make sure you dress light, summer light that is. Your attire should be in line summer trends, sandals, handbags, accessories. My pic's are grecian-meditarian style jewelry, gladiator sandals and a nice tunic summer dress-add a nice handbag and your set!

Don'ts:

1. Wear too short mini skirts, you know the one's that make it hard for a girl to bend over. We're trying to be sexy and fashionable ladie's, not 'HOOCHIE'

2. Never, never wear thick winter leggings or attire in 100 degree summer weather, this just make's us look foolish...

3. Please do not wear loud colors that are not blended well, example, other's think they spot a neon-orange walking a mile away
4.Do not pack on the foundation, powder, blush or any make-up. This is not the renaissance people. Make-up is for enhancement of what's already there, not painting on a totally new face.

5.Hair should be trendy, short or long, but HEALTHY. You can get away with pretty much anything in hair terms, but healthy hair is always in hair. Stay away from long, frothy bangs though. A little color or highlights are always in order.

6. Don't try to skemp around anything previously mentioned. You can definately find quality for less, but keep in mind, you do pay for what you get. So spending .99 cent on sandals might not be a good idea. They will definately fall apart before the end of summer. Shop around for deals on clothing, shoes and accessories. Remember a wise shopper is a happier shopper!!

7. DO NOT...wear winter shoes in the 100 degree Summer, this include's boots!

Hope you guys find my list valuable.....let me know how it have helped you in your fashion

journey.

Odio's Fashionista's

Fall's New Mono-Trend....

2008-06-29T11:43:00.001-05:00

I've been looking forward to this fall's collections. I love all seasonal wardrobes, from summer to spring to fall to winter. Because of my passion for fashion, it's difficult for me to totally glory in and enjoy the current seasons fashion (Summer) without anxiously anticipating the next season's (Fall) collections.I recently received a sneak peak at some of the most famous designers' plan for this Fall 08 collection's and trends. The Monochrome dress/design is nothing but new to the fashion world. It first hit the scenes in the 80's and like other styles and design's from the past, snook back to center stage on the design platform. I am a true fan of couture and past trends being revamped into 21st century design and fashion.

This style of dress is so cute and sensible that it is easy and simple to maintain. With it's versatile stature, each individual designer can add his or her own personal touch to each designer without destroying it's basic design patter and scheme. Hi-Class designer's ranging from, Nina Ricci, Anna Sui, Maurizio Pecoraro, Bottega Veneta and other's. It's the trend to definately keep your eye on this fall.It's also very versatile for the wearer. I can imagine myself in a Albino, cashmire, monochrome dress, with cream leather boots with a nice handbag to match. Ladie's, all you would need to do for day wear/work wear is add a pair of nice pumps to this piece. In order to spice it up for a night on the town, just add a pair of stiletto hills with matching bag, a few extra accessories and your ready to go. This is going to be at the top of my must have list this fall.

See this beautiful Albino monochrome dress....Happy Shopping!!

All around tha World: Jackson's

2008-06-29T11:39:00.000-05:00

Look out everyone!! A new clothing line is in the works and it's definately something anticipate. Singer Janet Jackson and brother Michael Jackson has a new line due to be issued this fall. Supposedly, Michael has hooked up with Ed Hardy and Christian Audigier to implement the men's clothing and Janet is pursuing the lingerie part of the line. When the line premiere's this fall, it will be carried by Kitson Couture, who is owner of Fraser Ross-a upscale couture gallary in LA.I don't know about you guys, but ladie's, wouldn't you purchase a piece of nice lingerie and underwear designed by the queen of sexy, herself?

Hell yes!! I definately would. Now Michael has always been a 'trendsetter'. For all of you who are old enough to remember, remember when Michael was hot in the late 80's and everyone started sporting black and red leather jackets, with silver zippers, with a sequined sparkle glove.....
Those were the days and Michael was the man, at least at that time. Michael is steal known as the father of Pop and his record Thriller has sold more records than any other record. The rest of ya'll try to top that. I don't know how the men's line would look, but with Michael teaming up with Ed Hardy and Christian Audigier, two well known, great designer's out of LA, it's bound to something be spectacular.I'm a future line owner and designer myself and I love looking for new line's to study and research. I can't wait on the Jackson's new line this fall and know you guy's can't either.

Stay Beautiful.....

The New RED

2008-06-29T11:31:00.000-05:00

Do all of you remember the retro-60,70,80’s look? Madonna, Goldie Hawn and a few other’s use to sport this trendy look. Well, it quickly went out of style, with the turn of the decade: 90’s is here!!! I grew up in the 80’s and at the time, loved the style. But who doesn’t love and try to ride the trend tide in their decade? We all do.The blue eye shadow, the poofy hair, the curly perms, the leather w/zipper jackets, the whole nine yards. You’ve probably seen that some aspect of this past trendy style is back and a big hit in Hollywood. Lipstick, especially. I personally, really use to hate RED lip color. I felt it made people look like vampires or zombies. But Hollywood has been incorporating the color red, very nicely, I must say, in movies and on celebrities. I like the new, up to date, red lip color, especially with the opaque face.

I brings back the whole Eva Gardner look of the early 50’s. CLASSIC….one might say! Kate Hudson, Eva Longoria, Julia Roberts and more has sported these looks recently at award shows and while on outings.(paparazzi gets all the good shots!!). Guys, I just love the look so much, I had to write about its beauty!!!!Stay GORGEOUS!!

Check my FOOT Work!

2008-06-29T11:25:00.000-05:00

I LOVE SHOES!! I think I may be totally obsessed with shoes. I REPEAT, I LOVE SHOES!! I really don’t know how many pair I currently have, but trust me it’s a LOT(LOL)! But what young woman doesn’t like shoes. All sorts of shoes. Shoes give me that tingly feeling on the inside, you know, that ooooohhhhhh, aaaaaahhhh, feeling. Let me stop. Everyone has something. A food fetish, a banana fetish, well I (and many of you) have SHOE fetishes. If I don’t have enough money to buy that “me” outfit, I will settle investing a great pair of manolo’s, pump’s, boots or hills. Anyday…..I recently saw Sex in the City, the movie with Sarah Jessica Parker and oh baby the Shoe!!!!!! See, that’s what I love about chick flicks, though I don’t like all. But at least chick flicks cater to us, women. A great flick with display great style and fashion, something most of us respect and draw from. The main type of shoes displayed in the movie is the Jimmy Choo shoe.

Jimmy Choo started around 10 years ago in a small town in England. Bet he never guessed his company would be so international and famous. A very smart, let me repeat, a VERY smart woman by the name of Tamara Mellon, knew of Mr. Choo’s tremendous success in her native, England and proposed a business gesture for him. Thankfully, he accepted and that propelled the Jimmy Choo company that we all know of today, WHOOPEE. I would have to say, right about now, Jimmy Choo has to be my favorite shoe designer. I know the price is a bit steep, sorry, very steep for us average folk, but if you can afford 1 or two pair, trust me, it’s a great investment and oh so comfortable. If you’re wanting to find Jimmy Choo shoe’s at a reasonable price, check the online market, where you can just about find in and everything reasonably cheaper that original price. Try this site: Really Long Link They have great Jimmy Choo shoes at reasonable fees.

Happy Shopping!!!

We! We! Louis!

2008-06-29T11:16:00.000-05:00

Everyone probably already know’s what bag this is. You might even know who sports it, especially if you watch daytime TV. I love all handbags, especially fashionable ones such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Fendi. I would have to say that this might be one of my favorite bags of all time, actually coming from the most recognizable designer’s of all time.Louis Vuitton and his French style has influenced and left a huge mark on the fashion industry, specifically handbags. So much so, Vuitton is also infiltrating the jewelry scene with a new jewelry line and more.Recently, Oprah had designer Marc Jacobs, Mattel, and the founder of the Jimmy Choo shoe line, as guest on her show. As you know, most of Oprah’s guest often bring gifts for her and or her audience. Well, this day, designer Marc Jacobs (which also happen to be one my most favorite designer’s of all time’s…my role model) brought his spring collection and you guessed it, this exquisite masterpiece of a purse. Unfortunately, this picture doesn’t do this handbag any justice at all. Note: Marc Jacobs is over the design team for Louis Vuitton International. Great look ha!!

This a Louis Vuitton monogram bag, with contrasting ostrich, lizard, python and accenting cabochons-a nicely shaped gemstones. Examples would include sapphires and rubies. The view of this bag from the Oprah’s show was truly magnificent. The ostrich, lizard and python skin offset and complimented the overall traditional Louis monogram so nicely; this bag can be worn with anything, everyday. This is the type of handbag that definitely stands ALONE!!! Only downside, if you’re wearing this bag, it will be the centerpiece of attention, not your outfit. But on the other hand, who would wear this handbag with any old thing. My motto, if bag is exquisite, gear is exquisite-that’s outfit of course (lol).

I would have to say that my favorite part of this bag is the orange toned ostrich skin at the top half, but I really love the entire purse, what can I say I love anything Louis Vuitton touches!!!

Blinded by tha light?

2008-06-29T11:13:00.000-05:00

You can definitely tell that summer has officially arrived due to huge amounts of capri’s, sandals, sundresses and SHADE’S or should I say sunglasses. Now I truly love the look of summer and all that it has to offer, but one thing that upsets me is a nice summer attire look with the wrong shades or sunglasses. Sunglasses are accessories and therefore should enhance your entire look not diminish it.

I love Tiffany’s new line of eyewear! I admire that they have increased in their design of their sunglasses. The Fall 08 collection has a whole lotta BLING added to specific pair. I think that it is the cutest thing. Now for the past 6 years or so, I’ve seen other sunglass designer’s dib and dab in added sparkle and bling to shades, but often the bling was too bulky so it looked like shing or the bling was too little so it looked like nothing(ha,ha).I think Tiffany has gotten the whole bling on the sunglass wear right! They’ve associated the bling to enhance and compliment the entire design of the eyewear piece. Now ladies’, I have a couple of steps that I’ve gathered throughout the years that I ALWAYS’S follow when picking out the right sunglasses:

Step 1: Always’ consider the outfit/piece that you are buying the glasses to accessorize with….

Step 2: The tone, shade and color of the frames should always be an undertone of the color of your ensemble, ex. If you are wearing hot pink, PLEASE DO BUY HOT PINK OR ORANGE SUNGLASSES!!

Step 3: If you plan on carrying a clutch or bag with this outfit, make sure that the sunglasses that you buy go in line with your bag, shoes, jewelry, all accessories (IT HAS TO BLEND WELL)

Step 4: If you are considering buying a pair of sunglasses that has a little bling, always make sure that the bling does not overshadow the entire look the glasses or vise-versa, the glasses should not overshadow the BLING!

Want to be "Rufflicious"

2008-06-29T11:09:00.001-05:00

Want to be Rufflicious!I remember as a little girl, growing up in the 80’s, my mom would put these little light colored dresses on me all the time, and all seemed to have large, small or medium ruffles…uh….I thought ‘THIS HAS TO BE THE MOST HIDIOUS THING EVER, I CAN’T WAIT UNTIL I’M ALL GROWN UP, SO I DON’T WEAR THIS STUFF.”

Well, I’m all grown up now and truthfully, up until this point, I’ve still despised ruffles and all that they stood for. When I would see other’s with a piece on that had ruffles (uh), I would be on the verge of actually peeoooking!!! But this season, ruffles is BACK and I think they are back with a vengeance, poking fun at all of the ruffle naysayer’s (that would be me).Many designer’s, from the runway’s in Paris, to the manufacturing plant in Indiana, has implemented ruffles with a 21st twist into their line. So far, I have no complaints. The new ruffle is greater than the previous, or greater than ever. I love the way that the ruffle has came back better, so now, I can buy a ruffle dress, blouse, pantsuit, etc., and won’t have no shame whatsoever. No shame because, hay, “I know I look good in this.” Ladies’, you have to feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, head to toe, in order to walk and live in confidence, not arrogance, but confidence. And confidence definitely shows!

Don't you just love this piece by designer Ellie Saab!

also at http://www.modofacile.com/

Puff! Be Gone

2008-06-29T11:06:00.000-05:00

Sugar and spice and everything nice, tomato-tomatoe, zig, zag, uhhhh! Nothing’s better than walking down the side of coast of a nice, cool, warm to the toes, sandy beach, wind blowing in your hair, water between your toes and oh yeah, handsome men. Summer is getting better and better each year. We look forward to it, especially those of you that are full time students, uh-hum. This is the time of year that we women show off our great sense of style.I have seen different types of accessories catered for some ensembles and drastically failing others. I love having different types and styles in my jewelry box. There is a feud between the metals for the winner of the best summer metal accessory award: Silver or Gold? Which one do you prefer? Which one do you think compliments this summer 08 fashion season? Each year, there are new trends infiltrating our stores, TV, even homes. I know because I am proudly part of it, though I do think that it is a little vain for there to be a battle between these two great metals.

Both are precious in their own right: silver is a great color for an accessory/jewelry, regardless of the cut or style. Gold is also, but is bolder in its flare and color. I like to say COLOURRRRRR. Silver was great for last summer and even this past winter. Silver or gold was the colour to sport, be it shoes, jewelry or handbags. Truly, I can’t pick between the two. Because both are so great and in line with this season, I normally choose based on the outfit that I am wearing, including shoes. I normally pick the subtler of the two if I am wearing a bold colour. If I am wearing a lighter, more timid colour, I normally pick gold, the bolder of the two. I’m noticing that the jewelry is getting bigger this year and more ethnic.

Diamonds also definitely spark. Diamonds are that pure, original, natural resource that’s been around and that’s been worn since the pharoahs and kings ruled every large nation. I prefer diamonds and gold any day.You definitely cannot go wrong with diamonds, gold or silver. Each of these compliment any outfit tremendously, bringing out the best in your entire look: clothes, shoes, make-up, hair and accessories.

Also at http://www.modofacile.com/

All That Glitter's Ain't Gold

2008-06-29T11:01:00.000-05:00

The "Maxi" Dress...ooh, la, la

2008-06-29T10:56:00.000-05:00

I don't really know what all of you out there think about this style of summer dress, but I LOVE IT!!!!Remember, Fergie wore a canary yellow maxi or Grecian style dress to this year's Grammy Awards. Kristen Bell, Halle Berry and many more have sported this upscale trend. I personally have two as part of my wardrobe. I am new to the blogging community, but not to fashion. I study the changing fashion tides with each season. You have to stay "fresh" and ready to IMPRESS, ha-ha. But anyway, hallelujah! Some fabulously-minded designer finally brought something new, interesting, and creative - something that expresses culture and trancends boundaries.

I love summer attire: the shoes, the dresses, the shorts, the accessories, the LOOK! But I have gotten pretty bored with the same old, same old basic summer layout. The Maxi Dress look is part of a widespread fashion vista that explores nativity, wildlife, different worldly customs, prints, etc.I REALLY love this concept. I am an African-American women and, oh boy, I have long desired to wear something ethnic, representing my background/forefathers and Africa, but to tell the truth, I have not really found a fashion statement that blends my heritage with the 21st century's style, trends and FASHION! Woopee...I've reached my plateau of fashion desire this summer of 2008 and all of the design kings and queens are implementing this great new fashion concept. I think that it is so cool that Old Navy has the cutest, affordable Maxi Style dresses available for around $-50; add a great solid print purse/handbag, bangled accessories and you're good to go, whether it be to the office, club, cocktails, picnic - whatever's on your festive agenda. I think the Indian style/Mediterranean gladiator sandals are the best shoe accessory to wear with the Maxi dress.

This is great! We can play with prints and colors and fabrics to bring together such a great, awesome look and trend. This is the fundamental beauty of fashion!!!!

Miracle's do happen-EVERYDAY

2008-06-29T10:48:00.000-05:00

Miracle’s do happen-EVERDAY

When shopping for that ‘right shade’ of foundation or coverage, do you often ask or say to yourself:

• I wonder if this is hypoallergenic.

• Let’s see if the label state’s that it has sunscreen…

• It better match my shade or at least as close to it as it can get!
• I hope it doesn’t smudge or run easily.I ask myself these exact same question’s also and even more. If you’re acne prone like me, the chemicals that are in the foundation is of utmost important, ya know!! ClichéMineral Make-up is the ‘in’ make-up these day’s because of the quote on quote minerals that are in them to make our coverage more even, smooth and create a great finish….But it’s so many brands on the market today, it’s very difficult to find that perfect brand of mineral makeup. I’ve found a brand that work’s great for me ---- WITHOUT THE BUMPS, PIMPLES, AND ACNE also. For sensitive skin, this is the best find, really.Sheer Miracle mineral foundation is manufactured without Bismuth Oxychloride. I heard your thought, ‘what in the world is that’ and ‘does my make-up contain it’. Well probably so, most mineral make-up has this chemical and it’s added to increase that much needed and wanted shimmery glow or look .Side affect, oh, well:• Itchy skin• Break out/acne prone skin• Blemishes• NEED I SAY MORE….So ladies’, we can have that even, glow coverage of mineral makeup without the hassles, oh and did I say that it’s reasonable. Prices range at around $18.00 per bottle. So guys go out and try this make-up and let me know what you think. I bet you won’t go back to ‘that other brand’

Nekiwa Smith

This message is posted also at http://www.modofacile.com/

Old vs. Vintage

2008-06-29T10:44:00.000-05:00

Vintage,Boho, inspired or just second hand?Lately I'm increasingly aware of people who taken the Oppurtunity out of an Op-Shop.Turning old items into new fashion is a hot idea in theory and if pulled of can be fabulous though mostly it's just been done, done, done!Kids these days roam the streets wearing worn out, had-thier-day,old items looking a little less than fresh.I'm all for reviving unique prints and styles,antique lace and well worn leather but leave the used and ugly on the rack.If purchasing a second hand item go for good quality fabric.Fit is a must so if it just don't fit get it altered.
Keep in mind todays modern form-fitting shapes instead of slumping around in a sack.It's all about attitude, if you but secondhand it shouldn't make you feel secondhand.I seem to encounter many a vintage shopper with elitist secondhand attitude towards those who only buy designer or new items.Leave it in the clothing bin where it belongs!Just because you decide to go vintage it doesn't mean converting head to toe.Otherwise you will appear to be trapped in a timewarp or mistaken for someone unable to afford normal clothes living off Mum's hand-me-down's.Instead mix those standout items with today's fashion ala Mischa Barton.Mum threw out most of her old clothes for a good reason , they had had their time to shine.Revive what will survive for you, as in good quality,beautiful pieces with a timeless appeal.I've always treated clothes as though they have feelings.When you think about it you don't want to be out on parade when your looking your worst and neither to they (clothes I mean).An line that at the moment in street fashion has to be drawn between vintage survival and over-used revival.

LOw Rider

2008-06-29T10:39:00.000-05:00

The low-rider boy,he skates, he steals or he owns spraycans....these have been common associations since the80's.The low-rider is a statement all of its own though I 've never been exactly sure what it mean't.Is it proof of a package too large for straight-fit jeans,a place for storage of stolen items,spray cans and alcohol (as seen in the cult film 'kids')or is it a fashion statement evolved from breakdancing or skating requiring loosefitting clothing to pull off the moves.It's admired by teenage girls,scowled at by anyone over thirty and seems to be a competition for the lowest among its contenders.
mmmmm....the low-rider.I revel in my teenage youth, sitting at Vic Park notorious for the best skaters in my very small town.My girlfriends and I would spend Saturday afternoon sunning ourselves,sharing cigarettes and eyeing off our favourite boy that week.They'd be practising jumps,doing ollies,giving us an eye every hour if we were lucky and all wearing their jeans lowride of course.I got a slap back to reality that times have changed the other day when I went the bottle shop for a bottle of red.I had my first siting of a new breed of low-rider.Somehow I have missed the way boys jeans have evolved into this new form of 'the low-ride'.This guy had taken the skinny stovepipe jeans (we still love might i add) and done what I thought was impossible to wear, a Lowlow ride!While standing behind this guy I immediately thought one word, Ouch.The jeans looked painfully tight and painful to watch.I hurt to watch him trying to walkout the door with his beer and board tucked under his arm.I wouldn't call it a walk,it was more of a waddle.
Is this a fashion victim gone too far? Does he really skate or is that a guy's version of a Balenciaga motorcycle bag tucked under his arm?I retained my sanity enough not to ask him outright but instead followed him two bondi streets to find out how he could pull off riding his skateboard in those damn tight pants.But of course I never saw him ride ..........