Trendy Buzz

Trendy Look of The Moment - Kate Middleton

2011-07-12T18:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I give up! I tried in vain to turn a blind eye to the Duchess of Cambridge. The hype surrounding her was deafening and I automatically tune off when I am being force fed a potential celeb. But ever since Kate Middleton began her duties as the Royal Ambassador accompanying her better half overseas, I have to say that she has proven herself to be a force to reckon with in the competitive world of fashion. Her trips to Canada and California, were successful on all counts but the success lies mostly in her charm and effortless style. She chose outfits that were chic, comfortable and classic. It is clear that the she knows what works with her body type and her judgement served her well. She loves to be feminine but strong and she delights in flowy silhouettes and soft palettes that highlight her enviable figure. Princess Diana became a style icon with time and her daughter-in-law is poised to earn that same title. No matter how hard I try, I have to give the Duchess her due for living up to the hype and not falling into the sometimes irresistible world of cliche.

Amsale Girls Make a Splash!

2011-06-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

The much buzzed about show of the summer has now arrived to a dutiful audience of eager brides-to-be and those single lasses hoping to one day have a reason to browse the racks of uber designer Amsale Aberra’s exquisite high-end bridal wear.

Nestled in the money flowing neighborhood of the Upper-East Side, the boutique is a major draw for celebs and socialites, including Heidi Klum, Katherine Heigl and Halle Berry among others. Amsale demands perfection and her “girls” are more than determined to live up to the hype. Debbye, is the British export and retail veteran whose mission isn’t only to whip all the girls into shape but to also preserve the untainted reputation of the famed bridal salon. Lauren, is the eager small town girl from Texas who is dazzled by the big city but also homeless and needs to prove herself by moving ahead quickly even though boss Debbye isn’t so convinced she is ready. Emily, the naïve Midwesterner is ambitious and will do whatever it takes as the sales consultant to make the numbers but after taking time off for her own wedding, coming back to work proves to be a bummer as she fails to live up to her high expectations. Kori, a native New Yorker, left her prestigious job in finance to work as the “Greeter” in the Salon Concierge, but hopes to one day make it as a bridal consultant. Linda was hired by Amsale herself to serve as resident “therapist” to the frazzled brides-to-be needing that extra dose of confidence. But her life is far from stress-free as she copes with the reality of being the sole breadwinner after her husband loses his job. And finally, Samantha, the Operations Manager, who has at least a decade of experience in the bridal business, is a pro at her job as she expertly coordinates events that give the store just the right exposure while also keeping all the girls in check.

The drama is sure to be entertaining and consistent. It will absolutely give other bridal themed shows a run for their money. Make it your mission to check out Amsale Girls every Sunday night on WE tv at 10pm.

Trendy Buzz Kill of the Moment - Fergie Rocks Fur in June!

2011-06-25T15:03:00.000-07:00

After a rough winter, we are desperately trying to welcome summer with open arms, and Fergie decides to be the ultimate party pooper by showing up in a black fur-and-leather Louis Vuitton jacket at the amfAR Inspiration Gala in Paris! I know following the trends as a celeb is the key to survival but fur in June?? Being a slave to fashion is never cute Fergie! Its much more fun to be Trendy and cautious.

Trendy Royal Report - The Duke and Duchess On Public Display Again

2011-06-25T14:33:00.000-07:00

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge looked quite the pair as they performed their royal duties on Saturday attending a medal parade in Windsor. Kate looked quite fetching in her perfectly fitted military-style dress. She really understands the importance of showing off those legs! Wills looked fantastically dashing in his military uniform. Do these two have a stylist? They seem to have a knack for coordinating their outfits in an almost unnerving way. Where did the time go? It seems like just yesterday when Princess Diana and her less charming Prince also made the rounds, greeting eager crowds. Well, today we have Kate and William and they are not doing too badly. I guess their visit to our neck of the woods next month will be the true test.

Pippa Middleton - The Other Sister

2011-06-23T18:34:00.000-07:00

Pippa Middleton struck gold the moment her big sister became the Duchess of Cambridge. The Wedding of the Year literally put her on the map and made her a constant of all the major fashion outlets in the world. She is now being acclaimed as a world-class beauty with effortless style, whose jet-setting lifestyle is now being feverishly documented. Must be nice to be well connected and upper-class British! While she is pretty cute and stylish, so are thousands of girls I see in NYC. Why don't I appreciate what makes her so impossibly appealing? I guess in her case its a matter of luck, money, and pedigree. This is her time to shine and she is certainly making the most of it. Shine on Pippa!

Trendy Buzz Summer Hair Report

2011-06-23T18:14:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! And with the constant humidity and heat, being natural feels like the most natural in the world! It's time to let loose and be free of the curling irons and all electrical appliances dedicated to perfecting the "straight look", and embrace your hair in its complete simplicity. Not that straight-haired divas should be ruled out, but summer is all about being funky and stress-free and that also applies to our tresses. There is so much you can do to make the natural something to behold. The natural blowout look that actress/model Yaya DaCosta is rocking makes me excited for the sexy nights in the city that are in my future. Remember that this time of year is when kinky/curly hair blossoms. So take advantage and be adventurous! This our time to shine!

Trendy Buzz Kill of The Week - Kim Kardashian Proves Her Butt Is The Real Deal

2011-06-23T17:37:00.000-07:00

The Kardashians had me at hello for maybe 30 mins and now its almost unbearable to hear or see them flaunt the success they have garnered, thanks to a high number of bored fans who look forward to a trip to La La land every Sunday night on E! Kim Kardashian is the champion of them all. She has surpassed even her once good friend Paris Hilton whose own reality vehicle is now a certified failure to become the ultimate Celebrity. Now she has decided to once and for all put to rest the rumors that have been plaguing her all these years. The rumors about her much hailed and photographed backside. It's official! After a trip to the family doctor's office, and a butt-X-ray session which her sister, Khourtney and Khloe ( the spelling of their names irk me by the way), supposedly dared her to do, the most famous Kardashian sister can now proudly proclaim that her butt is the real deal. The fact that this piece of information is even reported truly makes me yearn for the excess of the 80's!

Princess In-Waiting

2011-06-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

South-African born Charlene Wittstock reeled her Prince in by sporting her full body armour in a swimsuit at the 2000 Olympics in South Africa. Prince Albert of Monaco was understandably smitten and ready for love. He promptly asked her management company if he could take her out for a date and the rest is history. She is now set to marry a real life prince and by the looks of it she was born for the role. It is reported that famed designer Karl Lagerfield has taked her under his wing so she is great hands as she tries to navigate her way through the new but familiar role of budding fashion icon. If this is a preview of things to come, she is definitely poised to put her late mother-in-law, Grace Kelly to shame!

Runaway Bride

2011-06-20T19:31:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like a jilted 85-year-old groom! Playboy for life, Hugh Hefner unfortunately wasn't able to hold on to his 25-year-old ultimate blonde, Crystal Harris long enough to at least make it to the alter. The almost "Mrs Hugh Hefner" bailed at the last minute, preferring to party her blues away in Vegas the very night she was to be wed, rather than commit to a guy almost 40 years her senior. Most of us would agree with her decision, but former Playboy mansion resident and ex-girlfriend Holly Madison is livid that the man who virtually put her on the map, was left high and dry this past weekend. The buxom blondes who each shared bed space with Hefner, have been engaged in a Twitter war ever since pics of Harris partying in Vegas hit the internet. But Holly Madison may need to call a truce on this one since it appears The Hef is recuperating just fine from the aftermath of his disaster. Not only have the famous Shannon twins moved back into the Mansion, but he has now acquired a younger version of his ex-fiancee - Anna Sophia Berglund, a 23-year-old Playboy Playmate. At least he's consistent!

Trendy Buzz Kill of The Week - Satoshi Kanazawa

2011-05-22T17:24:00.000-07:00

Dr. Strangelove, Satoshi Kanazawa, a London-based psychologist, recently concluded after "throrough" research at the London School of Economics, that black women are the less attractive of all the races. Based on his findings, he concluded that thanks to a "genetic mutation" and excessive amounts of testosterone, black women tend to have manly features that ultimately stifle the feminine features of all women of African desecent. Thereby making them distinctively more male than female. Obviously his findings are ludicrous and baseless and any self-respecting African-American female will not allow such a claim to influence how they feel about themselves or threaten their sexuality. Its painfully clear that being attractive or considered attractive has nothing to do with race or sex. It based on whats visually pleasing to the eye of an individual. Every race has features that are distinctive and even though we are constantly bombarded by images that seem to celebrate caucasian beauty, that isn't because they are superior. Its simply because most caucasians are in a position to be influential; they own the top cosmetic companies in the world and of course mostly causcasian models/actresses are hired to represent them. Thats only logical. Whats not logical, is having an influential scholar like Kanazawa using his talents to perpetuate negativity instead of trying to encourage hope and positivity. Black women have always been an easy target when it comes to ridicule and disrespect so this is just another nail in the coffin. For those of us that are self-assured and confident, we don't need any science experiment to dictate our self-worth. But for those women of color that are damaged and constantly seeking universal approval, Kanazawa's comments and conclusions pose a great threat. It just goes to show that no amount of education guarantees common sense and immunity to ignorance.

Trendy Music Artist - RETTA Interview

2011-05-22T14:39:00.000-07:00

Trendy - When did you first feel the urge to become a singer and how did your background influence you?

RETTA – The urge started in my mother’s womb (Laughs) ok it was more like how it started because 'when' can't be recalled anymore. To what I know I have always wanted to be a performing artist. Loved art from day one, mum says I started clarifying that when I was 5 but to what I can remember I can fairly say I was 6-7years. I was born and raised in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, well, it wasn't so easy then cause every parent wanted their kids in high potential courses like doctors, lawyers or engineers but it didn't take so long for my family to see that I was made for the stage. Plus, I am born into a musically inclined family so acceptance became very easy with time...Super thanks to Michael Jackson, he made me fall in love with the stage. (Smiles).

Trendy - Where do you draw inspiration for your songs and how would you describe your musical style?

RETTA - I am a soul artist but most of my songs are infused with pop...so you can call me a soul/pop artist...The new breed of extreme soul (Laughs). I get my inspiration from earth and its subjects...basically I write about everything I see, feel or hear that inspire me. I also write about my personal experiences in life as a whole or in the lives of others... there's always a message to be passed across in my music...a couple of artists inspire me as well, namely Dido, Tracy Chapman, Adele, Noisettes, etc.

Trendy - Which musical artists do you admire and who would be your dream collaboration?

RETTA - hmmm! For admiration there are a lot of them but I'll pick 3 out and give reasons… Adele, she's an intense vocalist, a soul perfectionist. Beyonce, she's a great performer. There are no dull moments with her. Lastly Michael Jackson' a Legend, may his soul rest in perfect peace. And as for my dream collabo artist…that would be BRUNO MARS. (Smiles) love him!

Trendy- Are you surprised by the success you are enjoying now and how far do you hope to go?

RETTA - Oh well! I wouldn't say I am surprised…more like Super Assured for a better tomorrow which is now anyways. As to how far I hope to go, all cannot be put on papers, because your magazine wouldn't have enough space to contain what I'll have to say (laughs) all I can say is I am going to go far above the skies. That's the dream (smiles).

Trendy - What are your goals for the future? Where do you hope to be in 5 years?

RETTA - Oh well after taking all the Grammies and Oscars, cause I would go beyond singing, like I told you, I love the stage. I would like to build the biggest music school in Africa and see to it that music is being taken more seriously and is not being looked down on. My dream for Africa music is to ensure that those coming up to take over from us add more value to what we leave off for them. In five years I'll still be on your TV screen and all up in your papers and magazine as the queen of soul. We only hope for the best and strive for it as well.

Trendy - What advice do you have for young hopefuls that are trying to break into the music industry?

RETTA - Always take your time and do it right, and strive for perfection and never go with average. Secondly, if you have a dream and you like what you see then live it. Never give up on yourself. Thirdly, Put God first in all you do and he will straighten your path.

Thanks to complete fashion for this opportunity. Stay blessed!

Trendy Look of The Week - Naomi Campbell

2011-05-19T18:14:00.000-07:00

Wow! If this is what 41 looks like, then let me at it!! Naomi Campbell continues to stun as she makes her rounds during the Cannes Film Festival. She definitely knows how to put her best legs forward!

Trendy Fashion Buzz - Fave Looks From The Cannes Film Festival

2011-05-17T17:32:00.000-07:00

Uma Thurman in Dolce and Gabbana

Paz Vega dazzles in an Azzaro jumpsuit and Chopar jewels

Naomi Campbell Strutting her stuff in Marchesa

Tilda Swinton conquers the Red Carpet in her two-toned ensemble

Sarah Jessica Parker is gorgeous in Elie Saab

Salma Hayek brings the sexy in Gucci

Zoe Saldana decked out in a Vionnet gown

New mom Penelope Cruz is stunning in Stella McCartney

The Cannes Film Festival is in full bloom and so far there are very few if any disapponiments in the fashion department. From Salma Hayek's Gucci ensemble to Uma Thurman's black Dolce and Gabbana lacy confection, the Red Carpet has been RED HOT with sexiness and elegance and the kind of chicness that only the French Riviera can inspire.

Trendy Buzz Report - Don Lemon Comes Out!

2011-05-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

CNN Anchor, Don Lemon has a new book out, Transparent, a memoir that details his life journey that includes growing up fatherless and the sexual abuse he endured when he was a kid. But most importantly he admits that he is in fact gay and has been in a stable relationship for the past four years. Wow! Didn't see this one coming! So many poor girlies including me are heartbroken! But kudos to him for courageously owning who he is no matter the consequences. Anderson Cooper take note!

Trendy Model Alert - Nyasha Matonhodze

2011-05-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

Our model of the moment is Zimbabwean born Nyasha Matonhodze. Born in 1995 (yeah, no joke). She became a finalist in the Elite Model Look competition at just 14 and went on to secure a contract with the prestigious agency in their Paris and Milan offices. And now the sky is the limit for this ingenue who recently graced the catwalk this past February during Fashion Week, walking for Marc by Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors and Louis Vuitton among others. She was just featured as a face to watch by Teen Vogue and we have to say that we agree.

Trendy Report - The Birther Issue

2011-05-01T18:03:00.000-07:00

Donald Trump has been collecting and dispersing insults over the whole birther issue. He seems convinced that bashing President Obama's intergrity and background is the only way he can shine as a worthy Presidential candidate. From comedian Jerry Seinfeld to late night host, David Lettermen, tons of celebs have expressed their disgust at the way Trump has diligently disrespected the President by knocking down his creditials and challenging him on whether or not he is actually a US citizen. Trump has made a career talking "big" and throwing his weight around, but will that be good enough when it comes to the 2012 elections? Sure, he will appeal to those Americans who fell under the spell of Sarah Palin. The small town, small-minded citizens who are threatened by anyone with an exotic and sophisticated upbringing, and comes perfectly packaged speaking a language they don't quite understand. I can see how President Obama can seem scary, he scares me too. But in a good way. He is scarily brilliant and seems too good to be true. Its obvious that he scares the Trumpster too, thats the only reason why he is going overboard to discredit him. Donald Trump needs to stop being a bully and rely on his own merits to get him into the White House.

Trendy Fashion Report - The Royal Wedding

2011-04-30T17:19:00.000-07:00

Kate Middleton finally married her Prince in style! The new Duchess of Cambdrige looked perfectly stunning and effortlessly elegant in her bridal confection by Alexander McQueen protege, British born Sarah Burton. The Royal bride was every inch the modern day Princess with her "something borrowed" halo tiara that the Queen loaned her for the special day. She opted to wear her hair down in romantic cascading waves, and the V-neck with lace overlay detail was a nice way to show some skin without being inappropriate. Many of us could hardly wait for the big reveal and she didn't disappoint. She obviously knows she has a fantastic figure and she opted for gowns that helped highlight her best assets in a classic and traditional way. The dress she wore to the reception also by Sarah Burton was equally breathtaking and featured an eye-popping beaded waistband that showed off her enviable shape while adding a spark of glamour. It's clear she wanted to maintain the romantic tone of the day with another gown that had the full flowing skirt and sweetheart neckline. The mohair cardigan was definitely a gorgeous accessory that helped complete the ensemble. Her younger sister and maid-of-honor, Pippa was also a stunner and many revellers believe she might have upstaged her sister. But its hard to steal the spotlight from a young woman who has won the heart of the future King of England. The Duchess has proven that she is more than capable to assume the new role she has acquired. Can't wait to see more from this new member of the Royal household!

Trendy Buzz Report - M3NSA Uncensored

2011-04-25T17:43:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of interviewing Ghanian born and London based music sensation M3NSA and it was pretty insightful.

Music has always been the center of his universe and he cites his mother as his early inspiration. Not wanting to sound cliché, he remembers that he had told his mom at an early age that he wanted to learn the piano and she took that request seriously and quickly arranged for piano lessons. He jokes that he got licks (a British term for getting spanked) if he missed his lessons. Those lessons paid off and set him on a path of discovering his love for his music and the talent that he unknowingly harbored.

When asked who his musical influences are especially the hip-hop artists, he immediately pointed that rap had always been his staple since the days of Young MC. He always mentioned EPMD Heltah Skeltah, Lord Finesse, and Ras Kass among others.

Here are more snippets from the interview:

E – Were you nervous getting into the music scene professionally? What were your expectations as a new artist?

M3NSA – Man, thing about me is…I’ve been making music since I was 12 even but…I NEVER saw myself as a musician. I am almost 30 and I’d say up until 4-5 years ago, I made music and delved into all of it because I simply enjoyed it and created without much effort.

E – So it just always came naturally?

M3NSA – It was never a conscious decision to become a “musician”. I guess it was more of a realization that I was headed in that direction as a full time career and so I embraced it all. And that is why I have such a catalogue of unreleased work. And I don’t really have any expectations, just work hard and hope I never run out of creative juices

E – Did you ever have that pressure to pursue something more tangible?

M3NSA - Naw, my dad is a full blown musician and actor, my uncles and aunts are worldwide recognized artists, film directors, fashion designers and professional photographers…functioning very well in Africa…my folks accept the arts even more than all that other corporate crap…to each their own .

E – Wow

M3NSA – Yeah, Very Strange buh?

E – So you come very a very artistic background?

M3NSA – My cousin co-starred in the last Bourne movie. And his father is probably the most recognized fashion designer in Ghana.

E – Impressive! So it runs in the family. Do you and your father share similar taste in music?

M3NSA – Yeah, we both love jazz and the old highlife music. I mean with my dad on some shows in LA.

E – So are you happy with where you are now and what do you hope for in maybe 5 years? Are there are other aspirations on the horizon?

M3NSA – Aww man, I just want to feed my family. (Laughter) Man I just want to be able to create music I like without any unnecessary pressures from labels, or the industry of even current fads just create you know, and have a solid fan base that appreciates quality music that’s not afraid to push barriers.

E – Do you like any of the music today? A lot of people feel uninspired by some of the stuff out there.

M3NSA – I do! I’m inspired by even the crappy stuff out there…it keeps me in check you know.

E – Is music going to continue to be your main focus, or are you going to get involved in other facets of entertainment, like acting, etc

M3NSA – Aw yuh, I mean I already did a film (pidgin musical) last year with Wanlov called Coz Ov Moni, hailed as the world’s first pidgin musical.

E – Awesome! So what should we expect from you next?

M3NSA – We’re pushing No1 Mango Street hard, you know, playing live with the 6-piece band. So expect us in your city soon!

E – Great! Good luck with the album and look forward to seeing you live soon!

Trendy Celeb Report - Benicio Del Toro and Kimberly Stewart Are Expecting!

2011-04-11T17:32:00.000-07:00

What is going on in the baby-making world? In what universe does one of Hollywoods's most talented actors hook up with Kimberly Stewart, whose only claim to fame is the fact that she is the daughter of rocker Rod Stewart? I guess just being a celebrity whether by default or through your profession qualifies you to link up with anyone in that world however random it may be. Del Toro's rep confirmed the baby news and explained that even though they are not a couple anymore (Shocking!), he is happy at the prospect of 31 year-old Stewart having his baby and will be supportive. Interesting...Despite my rabid imagination, I still can't create a scenario where these two meet and connect on any level. Hollywood sure is a strange place!

Trendy Spotlight - African Film Festival Entry - Thembi

2011-04-10T18:59:00.000-07:00

The African Film Festival is underway, and the list of films on the roster will impress any avid movie buff. It runs through May 31st so there is plenty of time to dive in and get your ultimate viewing pleasure. Most of the films will be shown at the Walter Reade Theater of Lincoln Center and at the Brooklyn Academy of Music's Rose Cinemas. One of the films that has stood out for me so far is "Thembi", the story of the South African girl who contracted AIDS at the age of 19 through unprotected sex with an ex-boyfriend and became the voice and face of the disease both at home and abroad. Her determination to not just become a statistic but to use her misfortune as an opportunity to spread the word and prove that life didn't have to end after such a devastating diagnosis, gave her the license to travel the world and educate teenagers about the consequences of not taking necessary precautions when it comes to having unprotected sex. She ended up having a daughter with her long time boyfriend and thankfully the baby tested negative for the virus. But despite Thembi's spirited approach to life she eventually fell ill with Resistant Tuberculosis and passed away at the age of 24 in 2009. Her story is both touching and inspirational. Hopefully her legacy will continue to live on.

Trendy Look of the Moment - Elle Macpherson Dives into Mustard

2011-04-09T16:33:00.000-07:00

Mustard is not necessarily a color many would readily consider but it seems to come alive in this chic ensemble model Elle Macpherson recently rocked at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami. The gold skinny belt helps to add that right level of elegance to create the illusion of a fancy jumpsuit. This look is yummy enough to make us hungry for those hot summer nights!

Trendy Beauty Report - Hair Rules!

2011-04-09T14:41:00.000-07:00

The warm weather is fast approaching. Thank God! And now is the time for effortless style. For those of rocking the natural do, Hair Rules is the answer to all our prayers. From the Quench Conditioner to the Kinky Curly Cream, all the products from this line provides their own special way of making your hair texture respond in a way that allows for easy manipulation and styling. Whether your hair is kinky, curly or wavy, you are in good hands with Hair Rules. Your "bad hair" days are officially over!

Trendy TV Report - Jersey Shore Cast Gets Raise

2011-04-09T13:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all you "Jersey Shore" fans, the cast is not only being sent to Italy for free but they will now be making $100,000 per episode. The sky is now the limit for these endless partiers! As much as we recognize that they deserve the raise in pay based on their unique ability to bring in the big numbers for MTV, it is still hard to swallow the fact that they are making more money than most college graduates will ever see in their lifetime. Reality TV is where is at for sure! By the way I think former cast member Angelina Pivarnick, should be on suicide watch after this announcement!

Trendy Celeb Report - Sidney Lumet Passes Away

2011-04-09T13:08:00.000-07:00

So sad to see that we are rapidly losing the Hollywood greats. Sidney Lumet died at his home in Manhattan. The 86-year old dilm director died of lymphoma on Saturday. Lumet directed one of my movies which starred one of my favorite actors - Al Pacino in Dog Day Afternoon (1975). He directed more than 40 films and worked with the likes of Paul Newman, Michael Caine, Henry Fonda, Katherine Hepburn and Faye Dunaway. There is also a connection to the legendary actress and singer the late Lena Horne. He married her only daughter Gail Jones and they both had two daughters, Amy and Jenny. Both happen to be screenwriters, with Jenny penning the screenplay for the 2008 critically acclaimed film "Rachel Getting Married". Looks like Lumet's talents run deep and will carry on despite his passing.

Trendy TV Report - Housewives No More

2011-04-08T17:56:00.000-07:00

BRAVO is saying a final goodbye to the DC Houeswives. After a disasterous first season, the network has decided not to prolong the inevitable and announced the DC franchise will not be given another chance to torture and bore us to death. The only notable storyline centered around the infamous White House crashers - Michaele and Tareq Salahi. But even that wasn't intriguing enough to captivate our attention. And all the other "wives" didn't really have enough "drama" to keep us coming back for more. It's pretty safe to say neither of them will be missed. The Miami Housewives should definitely be on edge. Judging by the numbers, they most likey are next in line. Maybe it's time for the franchise to go across the pond...Real Housewives of London sounds pretty good to me.