Fashion Accessories to Look Fab This Fall

Ah, fall! The season of pumpkin spice, rustling leaves, and...refreshing your fashion game! Let's face it: While we adore our comfy sweaters and jeans, it’s the accessories that truly make or break our autumn outfits. So, if you're eager to know which items will elevate your look from "meh" to "magnificent" this season, keep scrolling.

1. Gloves That Scream Style

It starts to get pretty cold once fall starts to get into full swing, so it is never a bad idea to invest in a really nice pair of womens gloves that you can pop on whenever your fingers start to feel the chill. Ideally, you should choose a pair of gloves in a long-lasting fabric, such s leather, and in a neutral color that will go with as much of your wardrobe as possible, unless you want to splurge on multiple pairs throughout the cooler seasons.

2. Chunky Scarves for Chunky Fun

Remember those super-wide scarves that basically envelop half your face? They’re back on the fashion agenda! And trust us, there's nothing more fabulous than a big, chunky scarf paired with some oversized sunglasses to make you look like the coolest, most sophisticated lady on the block when fall comes around. It's like Hollywood glamour met your grandma's knitting circle – in the best way possible.

3. Hat's Off to Fedoras

When it comes to fall accessories, the hat is a classic that just won’t quit. Beanies are fantastic, no doubt. But if you're aiming for a chicer look, the fedora simply must be your go-to when pumpkin spice season comes around again. It's versatile, stylish, and can instantly upgrade a simple outfit into something that is much more sophisticated. Plus, bad hair day? A fedora's got your back... or rather, your head!

4. The Evergreen Hoop Earrings

Hoops! Big or small, gold or silver, embellished or simple – hoop earrings are a timeless accessory that just seems to fit the fall months perfectly. They aren’t always ideal in the summer when you are very active and they can get caught n things, but when you’re spending more of your time snuggled up in coffee houses and going for walks in the leaves, they are ideal. Their circular shape also harmonizes with the cyclical nature of the season quite well. Not only that, but they'll even draw attention to your face and make any autumn look pop.

5. Boho-inspired Layered Necklaces
The more, the merrier! Stacking delicate gold and silver chains of varying lengths can add both depth and interest to your outfit. Incorporate some fall-inspired charms like leaves, acorns, or even tiny pumpkins for an added touch of autumn whimsy that will make even the simplest flannel and jeans outfit a lot more interesting.

6. Ankle Boots with All the Details

While technically footwear, ankle boots have transcended into the realm of accessories due to their versatility and sheer power to transform an outfit the very second they are slipped on to the feet. Look for fun textures, metallic details, or unique heel shapes if you really want to make a statement this fall.

7. Statement Belts to Cinch Your Look

Big buckles, patterns, or even belts with funky textures can add a pop to any autumn ensemble. Use them over dresses, cardigans, or your favorite fall coat to accentuate your waist and add a touch of polished charm.

8. Handbags with Fringe Benefits

Fringe isn’t just for the Roaring '20s or rodeos anymore. A bag with some fringy details can add movement to your outfit, and it's undeniably fun to swish around, and somehow it just seems to fit the season where the weather is getting cooler and leaves are falling from the trees, so it is perfect for autumn.

9. Brooch the Subject

Brooches are the unsung heroes of the accessory world. Pin them to your scarves, hats, or just on your coat for that added pizzazz you need to cheer you up when the weather starts going south. This season, look for autumn-inspired ones or even those vintage gems tucked away in your grandma's jewelry box and wear them on the lapels of your coat for a touch of simple, elegant, class.

10. Spectacular Specs

Glasses aren’t just for reading anymore. With so many trendy frames available, glasses can be the centerpiece of your autumn look. Clear frames, tortoiseshells, or ones with a hint of metallic can elevate your face and outfit in an instant.

Now you know, you can use these accessories to enhance your existing fall wardrobe and look even more amazing than usual!

Simple Rules For Accessorising

Accessories are a simple way to add some interest to your outfits. Whether you want to refresh your style, or just to add a pop of something extra, getting your accessories right can lift an outfit, and make you look more put-together, more stylish, or more fun. Here’s how to wear accessories in the right way.

Choose only three or four large pieces. Mixing bigger pieces, like chunky jewelry, can look good, but stacking too much on can end up looking confused. Choose a few pieces and let them shine, and don’t overpower them by piling on too many pieces at once, especially while we’re all taking over our faces with masks (buy stylish ones at Mask Market). 

1. Only wear a full matching set of accessories if the pieces are small. A matched set of bigger pieces can look too much. You’re don’t need huge stones in both necklace and earrings, for example. Smaller pieces can be worn as a matching set, as this looks deliberate, and not old-fashioned. 

2. Forget the rule that your handbag must match your shoes. This rule is a classic, but it’s dated. For a more modern style, ditch this rule. Instead, choose a bag that complements, not matches. A contrasting shoe and bag combination can look chic. 

3. Embrace your glasses. If you wear glasses, view them as an accessory and find frames that suit your style. You’ll feel more confident when you wear them, and your glasses can add to an outfit instead of detracting from it. Whether you opt for something discreet, or statement frames, choose a style you love and you’ll like wearing them. 

4. Contrast the outfit. If you’re wearing a plain outfit, you can choose bolder accessories. A dress in a plain color and a simple cut is a great base for some dramatic pieces, or to show off a beautiful necklace or a set of large earrings. If your outfit is more dramatic, keep your accessories plainer so they don’t get lost. If your dress has a strong print or a bright color, choose accessories like simple stud earrings, or a slim bracelet to let the dress take center stage.

5. Don’t be scared of color. Accessories can be an easy way to add a touch of color to your outfits. Don’t always opt for black or neutral accessories. Reds and pinks, for example, will look beautiful against black or navy outfits. Choose a color to stand out. 

6. Theme your outfit. A simple outfit can be made to feel more modern, classic, or vintage very easily by the accessories that you choose. For example, a dress in a simple cut can be styled with a classically shaped handbag and a brooch, and will seem vintage, or can be paired with spike heels and a studded clutch, and will look very modern. 

7. Try metallics. If you aren’t sure what color accessories will go best with your outfit, try a metallic. This looks modern and will work with lots of different styles, without adding an ill-matched color. 

3 Gorgeous Fashion Gifts She's Sure To Love

Are you thinking about buying gifts for the special girl in your life? Whether you’re purchasing lovely presents for your friend, your partner, or your wife, we think you should definitely consider some wonderful fashionable choices. Here are some of the best possibilities that the special girl in your life is sure to love and appreciate.

A New Handbag 

First, you might want to think about buying a beautiful handbag for your partner. A handbag is a signature item for any fashion lover. A girl can have many handbags, one for each outfit. They come in a variety of different sizes and styles. For instance, you can get a clutch that will be perfect for formal occasions. Alternatively, you might want to consider purchasing an everyday handbag. It’s important to note that if you buy a high quality handbag, they can last for years and will never go out of style. As such, they can be the perfect gift. 

Jewelry 

You might also want to consider buying jewelry as a gift for your partner. It’s important to think about the type of jewelry that is going to match their style. Everyone is different in this regard. For instance, you might want to consider going minimal if you know that your partner tends to wear plain jewelry with an industrial aesthetic or design. Alternatively, you could opt for something more exciting and bold like a 2 carat diamond ring. If you are purchasing an option like this, then it’s important that you do explore a professional guide. You need to know the right features to focus on when you are making this particular choice. 

Earrings are another great choice when it comes to buying fashionable gifts for your partner. A big benefit of investing in a pair of earrings is that you don’t have to worry about sizes. Again, this is just a case of finding the style that your partner is sure to love. Some girls love larger hoop earrings while others prefer earrings that are smaller and more discreet. Earrings can also suit any gift buying budget and still look fantastic. 

Clothing

Finally, you might want to think about buying clothing for your loved one. A big thing to think about when you are buying clothing is sizing and to ensure that the style matches their particular body shape. You will also need to explore their wardrobe and make sure that you are choosing clothing that does match their preferences. If you are completely stuck here, then it is possible to cheat. You can think about buying a gift card for their favourite fashion store. This can still show that you care and that you have taken the time to get a card for a store that they absolutely adore. 

We hope this helps you see that there are some fantastic gifts that you can buy your girlfriend, partner or wife. These choices are always going to leave her smiling and ensure that your presents are well received whether it’s for a birthday or any other special occasion. 

The Top Trend Predictions for 2021

2021 will be a wild ride for fashion lovers and style enthusiasts everywhere. With us still being in the middle of a pandemic and changes are happening with the way consumers shop, it will definitely give way to how differently people dress and style themselves. Here are a few trend predictions that may give way in 2021.

Photo Credit: @mariama

First thing to know about fashion trends is that they are always on a cycle which means trends never really go out of style, permanently at least. Trends somehow never really leave our wardrobe. With that being said, some of the era’s I think will make a big comeback is the 70’s and the early 2000’s. With the rise of social justice and political consciousness within Gen Z and younger Millennials, I definitely think the trends of the 1970’s hippie movement will make a serious comeback. Think DIY denim, cottage dresses and crochet pieces. Also, just like the 70’s people will be way more conscious about what they wear and the materials that are used to make it which means sustainable brands will make a huge wave this year as well. 

Photo Credit: Glowsly.com

Of course, the rise of the Y2K has already made head way in 2020 but be prepared to relive the 2000’s even more with the reboot of many brands such as Baby Phat and Juicy Couture. You may see the return of baguette bags, fuzzy bucket hats, and even velour sweat suits. 

Another trend we will see is functionality and comfort over everything. No more are the days of fitting into a size 7 shoe when you are a 9 just to be stylish. After the events of 2020, people are slowly realizing that you can have comfort and style at the same time. People want longer lasting pieces that they’re able to mix and match while also being able to get work done then hang out with their friends afterwards. It’s all about versatility and functional wear. 

With just some of the trends I listed  it doesn’t mean you have to run out and add these items back into your wardrobe. Style is about your personal expression and how you want to represent yourself. But if you did want to add some of these looks to your wardrobe this can be used as a little guide to be ahead of the pack.

Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2021

Fashion lovers and style enthusiasts rejoice. The Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2021 is here and not only did they announce one color but two! The two colors selected will be Ultimate Gray (PANTONE 17-5104) and Illuminating (PANTONE 13-0647) as the shades for Pantone's Color of the Year 2021. According to Teen Vogue, the last time Pantone announced two colors for color of the year was back in 2016. Now, that you know what the colors of the year are I’m sure you’ll be rushing to your wardrobe and finding ways to match up your yellow and grey hues in your closet. Before you rush out to get that fancy looking yellow dress or some grey stylish joggers, let’s take a look on what these two colors actually represent.

Photo Credit: The Inquirer

After doing a little digging, I was able to do some color theory research to see what these colors actually represent and what message you will be sending with adding these colors to your signature style. My first color to do a little research on was yellow. Not just because it's one of my favorite colors but visually it's  appeasing and welcoming. Thanks to 99design, I was able to find that yellow is for happiness, hope and spontaneity. After the year we’ve had, wearing this color to uplift your spirits and give you some hope for the future of 2021 is not a bad idea. With your wardrobe you will let everyone know you are ready for positivity and good vibes which may invite new relationships and opportunities to come your way. 

For grey, the first thing I thought of was dull and boredom. But after doing some research my thoughts on the color changed. With my research I saw that grey can represent professionalism, formality and conventionality. With the color grey, you can give off the message of being grounded, trustworthy and even being ready for business. Adding this color to your wardrobe will definitely give your closet a more mature feel which can be a good thing. It sends the message you are ready for anything that comes your way and you are truly a boss. 

Photo Credit: Vogue

With the combination of these colors, your style can definitely elevate to new heights. Even if you want to add these colors as accents with accessories, jewelry or shoes. You definitely will be telling the world you are ready for whatever 2021 will throw at you with style and grace.

A Fusion of Math and Art by Diarra Bousso

Diarra Bousso’s experiences as a mathematician, artisan and former Wall Street Trader have led to the creation of Diarrablu - her lifestyle brand. Her designs showcase her culture with every detail and piece - it tells a story.

“I grew up in Senegal, and I wanted to be the perfect student…. I was never a cool girl or an ‘It girl’, I was a nerd,” Bousso told POPSUGAR. Bousso comes from a family of artisans. “In the summers when I would go to my dad’s village, I’d see that work and it’s so rich and beautiful”, she said. Between splitting her time visiting her dad’s village and attending a private French school in the city, Bousso explained she wasn’t sure how to connect between the two worlds. “I always knew that I was going to do something at the intersection of those two worlds, but I didn’t know how to do it”.

She moved to the United States where she attended graduate school at Stanford University, graduating with a degree in math and education research. Bousso didn’t want to go down either path and found herself stuck trying to figure out how to blend her background in math with her love of fashion. She started doodling during her spare time and realized, “ I can doodle, and I can also write a math code to do the doodles for me”. While it isn’t common for designers to code their designs, Bousso was creating her own rules.

“Once you write a couple of equations, by just changing a few numbers, you can create a new print very quickly. So it makes the process of drawing now very efficient because you can draw one thing, then actually create thousands by just changing the numbers”, she explained.

The equation that Bousso writes creates Afrocentric shapes and prints that also tells stories, centering on the diversity of Africa. She described the process as empowering. Bousso owns the production of the prints and no longer has to attend markets or trade shows for fabrics. Also, she has an approach that allows her to save money without washing fabric. “Algorithms allow me to solve a very important problem in fashion in terms of sustainability. They also allow me to really explore creativity beyond what’s available, because there are no limits to what you can make”.

This new technique has not only allowed her to engage with her audience but, to also create polls to find out which designs they prefer. “We produce what people want. There’s no excess inventory”, she said. Once she has the pattern in fabric form, she cuts it to maximize the amount of pieces produced; creating a dress, a necklace, shoes and a face mask from three yards of fabric. “We keep it iterating until there is nothing left”, she explained.

Bousso’s designs are made for both luxury and comfort. Her collections are endless and each design takes you to a place of peace, freedom and stillness.

Photo Credits: POPSUGAR

Report: Juana Norales

How to Forget Fashion and Find Comfort in Your Own Style

How many times have you squeezed your feet into a pair of shoes or spent an evening feeling constricted by uncomfortable shapewear? Everyone likes to look good, but this is often at the expense of feeling comfortable. There are probably plenty of times when you have been out and not enjoyed yourself as much as you could, simply because your feet were sore from wearing high heels, or you didn’t dance because your dress felt too tight. So often, the pressure to look good comes before being comfortable and enjoying the moment. But, it doesn’t need to be this way; feeling comfortable and confident in your skin is a much better option than forcing yourself to dress in the same way as everyone else. No one stands out when they simply follow the crowd and dress the same as everyone else, so why not forget about what you think you should be wearing and start dressing in a way that makes you happy?

Developing your sense of style is an essential part of expressing yourself through your clothing. How you dress has a significant impact on how you feel and how you present yourself to others. So, why not embrace your uniqueness and feel comfortable at the same time? 

Here are some tips to help you embrace your style and feel comfortable at all times:

Start with Your Feet

If you hate wearing heels and can’t wait to kick them off as soon as you get through the door, then why not skip having sore feet and choose footwear that helps you to enjoy yourself instead? Swap your killer heels for a pair of awesome flats and see how much more you can enjoy yourself when you go on a night out with your girlfriends. 

Get the Basics Right

Your underwear acts as the foundation for every outfit you wear, so getting it right is essential. Underwear that feels tight and constrictive can get extremely uncomfortable very quickly, so comfort wins every time. It is possible to find underwear that is both comfortable and looks great, you just need to know where to look. Check out Undywear.com for reviews and recommendations to help you find the right undies for you.

Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment

If you have gotten used to dressing in a certain way and have just put up with feeling uncomfortable, it may take a little while to develop your style. Experimenting with different looks and figuring out what you do like and don’t like is the best way to develop a look that helps you feel like yourself. 

Bringing more of your personality into your fashion choices and dressing for yourself and not other people is a liberating experience. Feeling comfortable in your own skin and channeling your own style is a great way to feel more confident and true to yourself. Letting go of other people’s expectations of what you should be wearing and feeling comfortable dressing for yourself is always the best option.

Cushnie's Goodbye

The effects of a nationwide quarantine have devastated the fashion label Cushnie to the point at which its closure was made official in late October. The tragic end to one of the rare high-fashion brands in America helmed by a black woman brings into question the industry's promises to employ more racially diverse talent.

Even eponymous owner Carly Cushnie herself began as a co-founder alongside Michelle Ochs before the latter’s departure in 2018. As her solo career flourished, she remained vocal about how influential positions in the fashion industry are almost entirely occupied by white men. Devoted to her morals to the very end, Cushnie vowed to continue fighting for racial equity in the next stage of her profession.

The dissolution of Cushnie begs the question of when the next black female designer will rise to such eminence, if at all. Major fashion labels have implemented programs that will provide more opportunities for creators of color, and the efficacy of these changes will be determined in part by the success of future black female designers.

Photo Credits: Vogue

Report: Nia Hunt

I Am Not Wearing Your Letterman Jacket

In these months of solitude, the bored masses have switched on to Netflix to help them escape the mundane feeling of the lockdown. This constant tuning in is no new feeling to teenagers, whose viewership has created an entirely new genre of melodramatic “teen” shows and movies. While I binged (and rebinged) these shows, I became increasingly interested in the patterns of dress. As a fashion zealot, I tend to fixate on styling within any form of media - I get excited by fresh perspectives in fashion. Especially when it is portrayed through a young character’s style. Sadly, as I binge hop from Riverdale to Love Victor, I am underwhelmed by the lack of originality in the costume designer’s styling choices. It leaves me to question if there is a dress code for every mainstream teen-oriented TV show and if this rulebook accurately depicts the taste of the current generation.

Throughout these teen melodramas, one-dimensional characters are condemned to insipid styling. Costume designers should use their fashion expertise to amplify the characters’ voices, creating dimension to these teens through clothing but many designers fall flat. However, the issues with costumes is not entirely the costume department’s fault. Hollywood costume designers have to answer to showrunners and the network to ensure that each garment they choose is on brand for the series and the channel.

The aesthetic issues of a show fall on the shoulder of its creator and writing team; the vigor in which they describe each character paints the picture of who the character is, therefore hinting at these character’s style. This causes a hindrance in the creativity for a designer making it hard for them to push boundaries, delivering stimulating costume concepts that their bosses can approve. Here lies the real root of the problem, aside from the basic network TV character breakdowns, a designer’s creativity is dwindled based on what network heads think their audience wants to see. Yet heads of networks (like seventy year old Mark Pedowitz from The CW) are typically the jobs of older white males who have not been in high school since the sixties. So, what do they really know about what our generation likes to wear? 

Consider their most popular show, Riverdale. This hit teen drama centers around five main characters that exemplify every single high school movie character trope ever. The All-American jock (who is ironically played by the New Zealand actor KJ Apa), the girl-next-door (Lili Reinhart), the bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks (Cole Sprouse), the rich daddy's girl (Camilla Mendes) and the mean popular head cheerleader (Madelaine Petsch). The Riverdale cast is dressed in tropes: the staple “bad boy” leather jacket is paired with all of Sprouse’s outfits, while rich girl Mendes always adorns her fit with a pearl necklace and Apa constantly sports his football letterman jacket. 

Although some of these costume pieces do hold weight for some characters (like Mendes’ pearl necklace was a gift from her father before he went to prison), numerous costume choices simply promote these outdated tropes. Every week we tune in to watch Petsch, the prettiest popular (twenty-six year old) high-school girl, do a slow-motion strut down the halls in her mini-skirt, crop top and heels. She evokes the sense that, “Every girl wants to be her and every guy wants to do her” (F*&% the Prom- another teen flick starring Madelaine Petsch as the mean popular head cheerleader). It is baffling to watch the different shows replicate these tropes (sometimes with the same actor) with the costume design only emphasizing these stereotypes, confirming how superficial screenwriters think teenagers are.

Generation Z is a lot more than the silly high school tropes that are portrayed on TV and we show it by how we dress. We play and experiment with gender norms, always pushing the boundaries of fashion, asking the fashion industry to give us more: more inclusive sizes, more dynamic silhouettes, more comfortable clothing. Most shows don’t represent the dynamic tastes for this generation but, recently one show redefined the style of teen melodramas. HBO’s Euphoria pushes the boundaries of young adult fashion. The show’s characters and costumes embody everything Gen Z is: fun, bold, unique and unapologetic. Euphoria’s make-up artist Doniella Davy was informed and inspired by teen influencers who she researched for the show. Davy wanted to immerse herself in a younger generation’s fashion choices so that she can authentically create looks for young characters, paying off in her first Emmy for Outstanding Contemporary Make-up. This show loves to rebel against the norms of teen show costume design - throughout the series, a transgender character wears non-gender conforming undergarments. “There is a lot of power seeing a young trans girl not really trying to conform to a cis-gender standard” Hunter Schafer (Euphoria actress) stated regarding her character’s costumes. This series recognizes young adults and how we use clothing to express all aspects of ourself.

As Shakespeare’s once said, “Theatre holds a mirror up to society” (Hamlet); although, film is not exactly the same as theatre, it is a mass form of storytelling. People stare at these screens hoping to escape while wanting to find themselves. From the character development to the fashion styling, the lack of genuine adolescent depictions can be disheartening causing one to believe that their story doesn’t matter. As an impressionable teenager, when you watch a show that is supposedly made for you, you should be able to connect to real characters rather than clichés. Hopefully, with Euphoria unveiling what it looks like to be a teenager in today’s society (and receiving accolades for their honest work) there will be a paradigm shift in major studios; causing them to create characters that resemble this generation versus propelling old-fashioned Hollywood ideals.

Photo Credits: Pinterest

Report: Taylor McKenzie

A Long-Awaited Princess Diana Inspired Collection

New York based-label Rowing Blazers is commemorating the style of the late Princess Diana for the Fall/Winter 2020 collection. Some of Diana’s most notable looks, as well as other influenced pieces, are featured in the 80s inspired collection.

A number of items worn by Princess Diana have been recreated in collaboration with the original designers throughout the collection. This includes her “I’m A Luxury” sweatshirt, which was reproduced with Gyles Brandreth, co-creator of the original alongside George Hostler. Another one of her eye-catching pieces is the “sheep sweater”, designed by Joanna Osborne and Sally Muir’s Warm & Wonderful Knitwear label and worn by Diana to Prince Charles’ polo matches. Although this piece has been copied before, Rowing Blazers’ FW20 is the first time the original sweater has been produced since 1994.

The FW20 collection features a selection of French terry sweats and t-shirts, rugby shirts inspired by climbing culture, student societies and a range of patchwork tweed items. Other cultural references include pieces embellished with the “Are You A Preppie?” poster, while Rowing Blazers has also reinterpreted the Sherry Top Sider CVO into two new colorways. 

Rowing Blazers creative director Jack Carlson explained the collaborations, “Both of the sweater designs have been copied or referenced by others over the years (sometimes without crediting or acknowledging the original designers). But collaborating with the original designers is exactly what makes this so special to me. When I was little, in the early “90s, my family lived in Hampstead in North London, and my mother had one of the original sheep sweaters. It looks as great now as it did then”.

Photo Credits: Hypebeast

Report: Juana Norales

Costuming Catwoman

Zöe Kravitz winning the role of the iconic Batman villain Catwoman has roused conversations about her forthcoming portrayal of the character, one of the topics of discussion being her wardrobe. There have been glimpses of the costume design months prior, and now the newly released images from the set of The Batman provide a more definite tone for Kravitz’s villainous style.

The first trailer for The Batman featured Catwoman in an outfit that viewers found underwhelming. A torn ski mask and a uncouth cat burglar bodysuit seemed to be a massive downgrade from the more sleek, alluring fashion sense of past depictions of the femme fatale. Nevertheless, Kravitz praising costume designer Jacqueline Durran for the progression of the character’s personal style indicated that the shoddiness was temporary.

The latest images from the film pictured Kravitz clad in leather boots, a trench coat, and a hat, affirming that this iteration of Catwoman will be just as characteristically seductive as her predecessors. While this ensemble was likely the plainclothes attire of Catwoman’s secret identity, Selina Kyle, the coquettishness on display is undoubtably a harbinger of a far more memorable super-villain costume.

Photo Credits: W Magazine & Vogue

Report: Nia Hunt

Dressing With Purpose

Deep down, we all feel that the way we dress affects how the people perceive us. We want to think that our dress style brings us advantages, but does it? 

Dressing with purpose is all about using the clothes you wear to project an image that helps you achieve your goals. In the workplace, the aim might be to rise through the ranks or take a senior leadership position. On the dating scene, it could be to attract a specific type of person.

Whatever it is, the idea has a lot of merits. When you start dressing with purpose, you view your clothes as a tool to transform you into the person you want to be, not merely a reflection of who you are right now. 

But what does it mean to dress with purpose on a practical level? Let's take a look. 

Stop Telling Yourself You Rock And Surrender To The Evidence

We live in an age of body positivity. No matter how dreadful we might think we look, we should embrace the idea that we're all beautiful and that nobody is ugly. There's no such thing as "looking bad."

If you dress with purpose, though, you need to take a completely different approach. What you look like is neither here nor there. It's how other people perceive you that counts in most cases. In a sense, you're trying to use your clothes to communicate ideas about how others should view. If you want to appear more authoritative, then wearing more black and smart garments can help. Getting rid of anything that looks flamboyant is beneficial in this regard too. 

Ignore Your Existing Wardrobe

Many of us are beholden to our existing wardrobes. We believe that we can only buy clothes that complement our current outfits. So we ultimately wind up buying the same types of garments over and over again. 

If you want to break out of this fashion rut, your only choice is to ignore what you already have in your closet and start again. 

Remember, if your current clothes haven't been serving you well, it doesn't make sense to continue using them. As tools, they aren't fit for the job. 

Find A Style That Communicates Your Value

When we focus on brands and fabrics, we tend to underestimate our style choices on the values we espouse. A person wearing Air Jordan sneakers gives off a radically different impression from somebody wearing a top hat. 

You want to find a style that communicates your values, not some vague aspect of your personality. The aim shouldn't be quirky for the sake of it. Quirkiness isn't a value. 

If you're struggling with this idea, try writing down your values on a piece of paper. Create a list of things that matter to you and how they might relate to the clothes you wear. If you like the idea of modesty, then that'll influence your choices. Similarly, if you want equality or freedom, those values will also filter into your wardrobe. 

Black Fashion Fair

Antoine Gregory is a paragon of black solidarity in fashion, using his passion for the art form and immense social media influence to innovate the Black Fashion Fair.

Gregory’s major internet presence began with him joining Twitter in 2012 with a nascent academic career as a fashion merchandising management and fabric styling student at the Fashion Institute of Technology. He sought to interact with black designers, a vigor that was impassioned by his dissatisfaction with the lack of black designers on the 2016 New York Fashion Week schedule. Thus, he took the initiative by showcasing black designers in a Twitter thread, which became so popular that he dedicated his online presence to championing such underrated talent.

In the vein of the once-successful Ebony Fashion Fair, Gregory created the Black Fashion Fair, a digital trade show through which fashion buyers and consumers have the privilege of patronizing over 20 black brands. He is also advising these brands and assisting them with their commercial presentation. Initially a physical event being forced onto an online venue turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Gregory realized that the internet is the most effective means of connecting with one’s audience. As further proof of his noble intentions, the only monetary contributions he requests of the designers are 15% of proceeds, which will fund educational programs teaching the youth to design.

Even at the conclusion of the Black Fashion Fair, Gregory will continue to release different collections’ exclusive pieces each month. Additionally, his website contains a directory of black designers, thereby familiarizing the public with these names year-round.

Gregory aspires to expand to hosting galas, exhibits and trunk shows - with the success of his social media ventures, those goals will likely come to fruition.

Photo Credits: Complex

Report: Nia Hunt

Mabel's Kangol Revival

The BRIT Awards’ newest “Best Female Solo Artist” Mabel is looking to the past for her first foray into fashion, as she is not only collaborating with H&M but also with the newly revived ‘90s streetwear brand Kangol. Mabel is positively elated to embark on this new project, as she feels honored to share her affinity for streetwear with such esteemed labels. As such, she is eager to model the designs that she has helped create.

The 31-piece collection encompasses a multitude of sleek casual attire emblazoned with the Kangol logo. Among these items are classics such as puffer jackets and oversized T-shirts, alongside more unique pieces like the long-sleeved midi dress. Mabel’s bold contributions to the collection are her street-style slip dress and a pair of joggers that are also branded with Kangol logo.

Interestingly, Mabel introducing a new generation to Kangol was made possible by her own mother, singer-songwriter Neneh Cherry, from whom she inherited her appreciation for the brand. Thus, Mabel is revitalizing fashion from a bygone era by making a new audience appreciate its finesse while updating them with her own modern interpretation.

Photo Credits: Hello Magazine

Report: Nia Hunt

Marc Jacobs Releases a Polysexual Collection

While gender and sexuality continues to be a pivotal topic in the year 2020, designer Marc Jacobs is not holding back in his recent collection that he just dropped which celebrates polysexuality. (A polysexual person is someone who is attracted to multiple genders and identities.) The new collection titled “Heaven” focuses on teenage daydreams, alienation nation, queer youth, candy ravers, apocalypse sugar and toxic shock valley girls while playing homage to the films of the new queer pioneer Gregg Araki, the pushy sculptures of Mike Kelley and artist Cindy Sherman. The shopper can decide what is right for them as the items are not intended toward a specific gender.

This correlates to Marc Jacobs’ messaging for his audience, which goes back to the designer’s past themes exploring subversion, girls who are boys and boys who are girls, those who are neither, and other multifaceted characters in the Marc Jacobs world. In the past, the designer has touched on gender fluidity in all spaces from fashion to beauty: He has advocated for men wearing makeup, spoken about being boxed in by labels and identifications and is a proud feminist. In the world of Marc Jacobs, you can be whoever you want and ignore societal norms of what’s expected.

The “Heaven” collection celebrates individuality and enigmatic personalities in all forms. The campaign was shot by Larissa Hofmann and styled by Danielle Emerson. Up and coming stars such as Iris Law, Jyrell Roberts, Vegyn, fashion darling Lily McMenany and more are featured in the ads. Shoichi Aoki, creator of legendary street style bible FRUiTS, created the Marc Jacobs lookbook and best of all the “Heaven” line starts at an affordable price point. Shop the new releases.

Photo Credits: Marie Claire

Report: Juana Norales

Lego x Levi Collaboration

Lego and Levi’s have partnered up this fall to design a new collection taking art to the next level in fashion.

The new and exclusive line features Levi’s notable signature pieces such as trucker jackets and straight jeans but takes things up a notch with a playful twist: personalized legos! The well-known denim brand’s classics are decorated with flexible base plates that you can snap Lego tiles onto to put together your own piece- or you can allow the designs to have their own spotlight.

The nostalgic Lego x Levi collection will also include hoodies, bags, hats and even a cargo vest, all with fun Lego-inspired details such as colorful buttons and a bright-red Lego patch to substitute the Levi’s traditional leather version. “This is such a fun collaboration celebrating self-expression, creativity and nostalgia,” Karyn Hillman, chief product officer for Levi Strauss & Co., said in a press release. “With the customizable base plates, Levi’s is now literally a new blank canvas for Lego play.”

The exclusive line was released on Oct. 1 on Levi’s website and in select Levi’s stores and every customizable purchase features a bag of 110 Lego Dots, which will allow you to accessorize your pieces while bringing out your inner child. Check out the new Lego x Levi’s collaboration.

Photo Credits: POPSUGAR

Report: Juana Norales

Meet Jerri Reid Of Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer Conversation

Jerri Reid in Jerri Reid New York SS21

At the rise of Covid-19 many of us first questioned the timeline of fashion week and would we see the regular calendar continue - the question weighed over many of us for months! It was refreshing to see design houses and designers across the globe take advantage of the uncertainty and plow into production mode - thus my interest in Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer based in Brooklyn New York wow’d instagram with his latest collection paying homage to the Black Is King film which debuted earlier this year in July. I was taken aback at quick of a turn round the young designer produced and released his well crafted designs reflecting some of the films most memorable moments.

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Noah L : Male feminine energy is seen often through androgynous fashion and art, now heterosexual men are being praised for it, what are your thoughts ? 

Jerri Reid: I think it is showing a level of bravery, to be acceptable in their peers' sight. If Quavo from the MIGOS decided to make a nod to Camron wearing all pink, then ALL men would wear it. It sucks that Queer Black Men are truly the tastemakers of fashion and not often credited, but that's a systemic issue of hate within the community. I went to the march in D.C. this past month and not one mention to trans lives happened. We (LGBTQIA+) STILL don't exist in black spaces. 

Noah L: As a black designer - what does it mean for you to receive recognition for your efforts to create original and lasting pieces? 

Jerri Reid: It means EVERYTHING to receive recognition for not just my craftsmanship, but my efforts to thrive. It's really about setting intentions with all you do. If you are only doing things simply because, then what is your purpose? My life and career as an artist is purpose-driven and is also a return to love. Love of self, love of culture, love of life, love of art, love of spirituality, love of family and friends, love of growth, love of opportunity, and love of the Most High. This is what propels me to use my gifts to teach the youth of our community the values of sewing for the past 4 years. 

Noah L: Would you consider COVID an opportunity to have thrived ? 

COVID-19 came about but it didn't stop my resilience to be innovative in a time like this. I didn't want to create a bunch of masks in an oversaturated peak-time market, but I did want to present fashion. The virtual presentation i did on instagram in July really opened the minds of people I wasn’t aware I could reach. People were messaging me with positivity to keep progressing. Most importantly, they were happy with the injection of culture and blackness. When i saw BLACK IS KING, I knew it was an opportunity for the world to see the star that I am, In more ways than one. Days before it dropped, a snippet of the ALREADY video was released. The wednesday prior to its official release (7/29) I RAN to the fabric store to get all I could to interpret the still shots. I shot and edited everything on my own that saturday (8/1) and released it sunday (8/2). I was shocked at myself because the push i gave myself validated that I can do whatever I want and meet deadlines for my growing brand. It was seen by Zerina Akers, Jerome Lamaar, Shatta Wale, and many more who took part in the marking of Black Is King.

 Queen Bey has seen it also. This was validation for myself to keep going and know that validation is within always. 

Noah L: Your recent collection felt like a praise to power and glamor for the black community and almost a push to be seen - would you consider your designs activism?

Jerri Reid: WOW - I didn't think this recent collection embodied a sense of activism. I can see where activism can come into play, it being being pro-black, pro-afro caribbean, pro-afrolatino, and pro-queer. Humbly, I just wanted to be unapologetically myself at all costs. Someone said to me that what I've done is the first of its existence. A designer has not done a virtual presentation of themself in their designed garments EVER. I did get a bit teary-eyed when hearing it. The thing is, we are nothing short of powerful, glamorous, and black. when I hear it, my reaction is "so what else is new?" (laughter)

Thank you so much for this opportunity for telling my truth. I appreciate this platform for providing spaces for black queers. continue to be amazing!

For more from Jerri Reid visit JerriReid.com or Instagram at @JerriReid

Homemade Black Girl Magic

“Black Girl Magic” has been conjured in the home of Alissa Bertrand, an Atlanta designer whose three daughters modeled her gorgeous fashions. Bertrand’s creative solution to balancing childcare during the pandemic is an impeccable blend of colorful youthfulness and vintage elegance. From reused material, she has woven picturesque designs that further beautify the girls’ natural Afrocentric majesty. By depicting brown-skinned children flaunting their afros in their glamorous attire, the resulting photos affirm that black features are symbols of beauty on par with the vibrant, aesthetically pleasing patterns that are also on display.

As of this past summer, Bertrand’s homemade children's clothing has earned her a sizable audience of over 20,000 Instagram followers. While Bertrand has voiced concern about her skyrocketing popularity merely being the product of a fleeting interest in black businesses, the prominent blackness of her brand is still an important quality to emphasize. Unambiguously black children parading their mother’s hand-crafted dresses and ensembles is positive representation that will undoubtedly resonate with customers of the same racial identity. Bertrand has always strived to depict the kinds of images that inspire confidence in young girls, as she was deprived of them in her own youth, and at last that aspiration has come into fruition.

Photo Credits: Vogue

Report: Nia Hunt

Comme des Garçons Meets North Face Japan

Comme des Garçons’ newest collaboration with The North Face Japan is a unity between two drastically different brands resulting in a chic end product. The collection consists of a hoodie, T-shirt, and dress shirt, each marked with The North Face logo and Comme des Garçons’s heart icon. The products being sold exclusively by the latter brand have an additional “CdG” emblem on them. The goal of this collaboration is a common one among fashion labels, which is to provide clothing that is both warm and stylish.

To appreciate the impressive synchronization between Comme des Garçons and The North Face, it is important to understand their stark differences. Comme des Garçons is a high-fashion French and Japanese label whose garments are bizarre and experimental yet classy and elegant. Meanwhile, The North Face has been providing rock climbers, hikers, and other outdoor adventurers with durable layers that withstand the elements. Thus, by allying with The North Face, Comme des Garçons will reach a more casually-outfitted audience while in turn giving outdoorsmen attire a more avant-garde flair.

Photo Credits: COMPLEX

Report: Nia Hunt

I Like Those Balenciagas

Cardi B’s lyric “I like those Balenciagas, the ones that look like socks” turned out to be a rather prophetic one, as the superstar rapper is now the face of the esteemed brand’s Winter 2020 campaign. She announced the delightful news on Instagram, recalling her Times Square billboard and declaring that her next one will be on grand display in the fashion capital of the world, Paris.

Cardi B becoming the centerpiece of Balenciaga’s newest campaign was the brilliant idea of creative director Denma Gvasalia, as well as the first celebrity collaboration in her career. 

Being constrained by quarantine measures unexpectedly brought out Gvasalia’s creativity in preparing the shoot itself. Naturally, the photos were shot in Cardi B’s residence, and the creative team made the most of the environment. Gvasalia dressed Cardi B in a sleek black gown from her Fall 2020 collection, and in place of a typical glamorous studio set was a backyard strewn with children's toys and a white Balenciaga Neo Classic bag. 

These contrasting images, intentionally or not, symbolize the resourcefulness and artistry of fashion creatives that prevail in defiance of the challenging restrictions imposed upon them.

Photo Credits: Harper’s Bazaar

Report: Nia Hunt