We Shall Overcome...In Couture!

Rihanna Is The New Face of Emporio Armani

2011-07-12T10:09:00.001-04:00

Rihanna on the cover of the couture of the Sept. 09 issue of Vogue Italia
(Photo courtesy of Nitrolicious)

"The Rihanna Reign just won't let up...."

Congratulations to Rihanna for being chosen as the new global face of the Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Emporio Armani Underwear and Armani Jeans campaign.

The campaign was shot on location in New York by Steven Klein (who also photographed Rihanna for the September 2009 issue of Vogue Italia), and will make it's worldwide debut in September.

First Lady Michelle Obama & Family Meet Nelson Mandela

2011-06-21T18:30:00.024-04:00

History was made today when Nelson Mandela, the first Black president of South Africa, and Michelle Obama, the first Black first lady of the United States, met for the first time in his home. Her daughters, Malia and Sasha, and mother Mrs. Robinson also met with Mr. Mandela.

Such a beautiful, historic moment! One that I never thought I'd see in my lifetime. My heart fills with pride as I look at this picture. :-)

Liya Kebede Is The New Face of L'Oreal

2011-06-20T14:05:00.000-04:00

(Photo: L'Oreal Paris)

International model Liya Kebede has been tapped to be the newest face of L'Oreal Paris.

"Liya is a very strong, inspiring, and courageous woman, with an extremely refined and enchanting beauty. Her generous commitment to the cause of women's wellbeing is also remarkable," says Cyril Chapuy, Global Brand President of L'Oreal Paris.

The catwalk diva, actress, entrepreneur and philanthropist will join Beyonce, Freida Pinto and Jennifer Lopez as a Spokeswoman for the brand.

But before folks start singing the praises of L'Oreal, check out The Black Snob's realistic take on this:

While this is exciting news for Kebede, fashion fans and all us horrible, unloved, yet incredibly hot black women out there, this is a smart move for L'Oreal who has some questionable race relation issues. In 2009, L'Oreal Paris was found guilty of racial discrimination due to the cosmetic house's pursuit of an "all-white sales staff" to promote their Garnier Fructis Style hair care products. Then, proving that being "light" and "bright" doesn't count unless, you too, are "almost white," L'Oreal was accused in 2008 of lightening the already honey-kissed Beyonce Knowles in her promotions for their hair coloring products.

Jill Scott Talks Fashion & Style with the NY Times

2011-06-18T18:00:00.005-04:00

Jill Scott at the Setai Hotel

Charcoal silk and lace top: Scoop

Leggings: American Apparel

Shoes: Guess.

(Photo: Kirsten Luce/NY Times)

Who Is Jill Scott? A straight up fashionista! Check out her NY Times fashion diary where she discusses her love for BCBG pencil skirts and her ability to switch from rock diva to librarian chic effortlessly.

Zoe Saldana Covers Harper's Bazaar Russia July/August 2011

2011-06-18T11:51:00.000-04:00

Halle Berry To Cover Vogue's September Issue!

2010-07-12T19:44:00.098-04:00

After weeks of speculation, WWD confirms that Vogue editrix Anna Wintour has tapped Halle Berry for the cover of the mag's coveted September issue!

In the words of Vice President Joe Biden, this is a big effin' deal! The September issue of fashion magazines, particularly Vogue's, is the biggest issue of the year and officially launches the Fall fashion season. To grace the cover of the September issue -- VOGUE'S September issue -- is a coup for a model, so I'm ecstatic that a sista gets the spot (although it would've been extra sweet if an actual black fashion model got the cover).

This will be the second time in Vogue's history that a Black woman has landed the September issue cover. The first was Naomi Campbell who was on the September 1989 cover.

Naomi Campbell - Vogue September 1989

(Photo: ClayCane.net)

Ms. Berry's first (and only much to my chagrin) Vogue cover was their December 2002 issue.

Halle Berry - Vogue Dec. 2002

(Photo: ClayCane.net)

Now, you all know how the magazine industry likes to say, "Well, Blacks don't sell" as an excuse not to have us on fashion magazine covers, so be sure to purchase a copy (or two or three) to prove them wrong. If we don't support us, who will?

Vintage Photos Of The Week

2010-06-18T19:01:00.000-04:00

This is one of my favorite pics of President Barack Obama (at the time, Senator Obama) and his daugher, Malia. Miss Malia is looking just too precious in her fuchsia dress and black patent leather Mary Janes, as she rocks her afro puffs!

Here's another one of my faves. Then-presidential candidate Obama took a break from the campaign trail to have fun on the bumper cars with his youngest daughter, Sasha (aka Sasha Fierce).

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Vintage Video Of The Week

2010-05-21T00:00:00.032-04:00

Most people think the late Lena Horne's first movie was Stormy Weather. Not true. In 1938, when Ms. Horne was 19 years old, she starred in a musical called The Duke Is Tops (re-released as The Bronze Venus in 1943). These "race movies" were prevalent in the 1930s and 40s, usually low-budget and made strictly for the African-American audience.

Above is a scene from The Duke Is Tops/The Bronze Venus with Ms. Horne singing "I Know You Remember".

SPECIAL NOTE: Tonight, the Turner Classic Movies channel will pay a special tribute to Ms. Horne with a collection of films from her movie career: The Duke Is Tops, Panama Hattie and Cabin In The Sky. The tribute will begin at 8pm EST. For more info, check out the TCM website.

Enjoy!

FLOTUS STYLE: Stately Glamour II

2010-05-20T07:27:00.011-04:00

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama pose with Mexican President Felipe Calderon and his wife First Lady Margarita Zavala before the White House State Dinner

First Lady Michelle Obama turned heads at last night's White House State Dinner in a stunning sapphire blue gown designed by Chicago designer, Peter Soronen.

The gown, a one-shoulder silhouette, was made of layers of chiffon with whispers of lamé for sparkle. A fully-boned corset and a pavé belt, Mrs. Obama's sartorial signature, accentuated Lady O's svelte waist.

An ebony halo of curls, sapphire and diamond drop earrings by Sutra Jewels and peep-toe kitten heels finished completed the look. Simply regal!

Oh, and President Barack Obama didn't look so bad himself! Aww...They're so cute!

LEGENDARY: Lena Horne, Our Bronze Venus (1919-2010)

2010-05-14T13:36:00.003-04:00

Lena Mary Calhoun Horne

Singer, Actress, Civil Rights Activist

(June 30, 1917 - May 9, 2010)

Stormy Weather was the first all-Black classic film that I had ever seen (and helped to establish my love for Black classic films). When I was a kid, the local television station would, once or twice a year, air this classic, and I would stop whatever I was doing to watch it. My favorite part was when Lena Horne's character, "Selena Rogers", sang Ms. Horne's signature song, "Stormy Weather" as the great Katherine Dunham danced in the background. Like everyone else, I was in awe of her beauty and the classy way she carried herself. Ms. Horne as a glamourous, sophisticated leading lady was a welcomed depature to the maid and "mammy" roles I was accustomed to seeing Black actors play when watching films from yesteryear.

It wasn't until I got older, and read more about Ms. Horne, that I learned that she was more than a pretty face. She was a pioneer who broke barriers for Black performers, becoming the first Black actor to sign a contract with a major Hollywood studio. Ms. Horne was also a fierce advocate for Civil Rights, working with Paul Robeson (which caused her to be blacklisted during McCarthy's Red Scare), refusing to perform for segregated audiences at USO performances, participating in the March on Washington in 1963 and, my personal favorite, throwing at lamp at a customer who made a racial slur at a Beverly Hills restaurant. In Brian Lanker's book, "I Dream a World: Portraits of Black Women Who Changed America", Ms. Horne said, "I was always battling the system to try to get to be with my people. Finally, I wouldn't work for places that kept us out. ... It was a damn fight everywhere I was, every place I worked, in New York, in Hollywood, all over the world".

Thank you, Ms. Horne, our Bronze Venus, for showing the world that Black is beautiful, strong, elegant, classy and courageous.

"I don't have to be an imitation of a white woman that Hollywood sort of hoped I'd become. I'm me, and I'm like nobody else." - Lena Horne

Suggested Reading:

The Hornes: An American Family by Gail Lumet Buckley

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-05-07T00:00:00.002-04:00

The Legendary Nicholas Brothers with their mother Viola

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND!!

Enjoy!

LisaRaye Explains Why She Always Wears White

2010-05-06T00:00:00.000-04:00

OUT & ABOUT: The 2010 Costume Institute Gala

2010-05-04T11:48:00.003-04:00

It was a night of fabulousness as fashionistas gathered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Spring 2010 Costume Institute Gala, hosted by Vogue. Held every year on the first Monday in May, this year's gala celebrated the Costume Institute's new exhibit, "American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity". Media goddess Oprah Winfrey co-chaired the event along with Vogue editrix Anna Wintour, and Gap Exec. V.P. of Global Design, Patrick Robinson.

Of course, our fashionistas were out in full force, as you can tell by the slideshow above.

FLOTUS STYLE: The Dining Diva

2010-05-02T09:27:00.011-04:00

(Photo: Getty Images)

(Photo: Reuters)

Our First Lady Michelle Obama looked ravishing at last night's White House Correspondents Dinner in a form-fitting red jersey dress by Prabal Gurung, spotted by the good folks at Mrs.O.

Here's what the dress looks like from the back, albeit in white:

(Photo: PrabalGurung.com)

Mrs. Obama chose two gorgeous cuffs to accentuate her ensemble: A white Bakelite cuff, with gold filigree and rose-cut diamonds from Bochic's Arabesque collection, and an 18 carat gold cuff with a 10 carat raspberry tourmaline stone, surronded by rose-cut diamonds in a star burst motif, designed by Sutra Jewels.

The Bochic cuff:

(Photo: Bochic.com)

(Photo: Getty Images)

Mrs. Obama's black jade and diamond earrings were also designed by Bochic, according to Mrs. T at Mrs.O.

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-04-30T00:00:00.037-04:00

Lola Falana in Faberge's Tigress Perfume Ad

(Photo Credit: Temple of Schlock)

When Faberge selected singer/actress/dancer Lola Falana to be the face of their Tigress perfume campaign in the mid-1970s, they were making history. This would be the first time that an African American woman served as a spokesmodel for a cosmetic line that was not solely for Black folks.

Enjoy!

JONES Magazine Goes National!

2010-04-26T09:48:00.002-04:00

I am thrilled to announce that JONES Magazine is now available to the masses!

Tracey Ferguson, founder and editor-in-chief of JONES Magazine, along with The NorthStar Group, announced the offical national launch of the luxury lifestyle publication last week, as well as a brand new website, JONESMag.com. Supermodel Veronica Webb graces the cover of the premiere issue.

Founded in 2005 by Ms. Ferguson as a regional magazine to serve women in the Houston area, JONES caters to African American and multicultural women who have an appreciation for the finer things in life. "The magazine appeals to stylish and chic multicultural women and serves as a premier shopping guide," says Ms. Ferguson.

I can't wait to get my hands on a copy, and I encourage WSOIC! readers to subscribe or purchase a copy as well. If we don't support us, who will?

In the meantime, you can catch Ms. Ferguson on her reality show "Keeping Up With The Joneses" that airs on Thursdays at 8pm EST on the Centric channel.

She's Baaaaack!

2010-04-24T00:00:00.010-04:00

(Photo Credit: WWD/Will Ragozzino/PatrickMcMullan.com)

Our favorite fashionista is back on the scene, much to the chagrin of her haters (Looking at you, Robin Givhan, Sally Quinn and April Ryan).

Desirée Rogers attended the New Museum Spring Gala on Thursday night in NYC, her first public appearance since she resigned as White House Social Secretary. She looked gorgeous in a pale yellow Calvin Klein mini-dress paired with Jimmy Choo Elapheskin & Eelskin Sandals.

Ms. Rogers spoke highly of her replacement, Julianna Smoot saying, "I love Julianna Smoot. I think she's doing a great job". And, of course, she sang the praises of our First Lady Michelle Obama: "I think Michelle is looking great".

This won't be the last we see of Ms. Rogers. She will be attending the White House Correspondents Dinner in D.C. on May 1st. And what will our fabulous diva wear to the soiree? Jason Wu, of course.

A Queen And Her Crowns: In Memory of Dorothy I. Height

2010-04-23T20:10:00.003-04:00

On Tuesday, we lost a soldier in the fight for Civil Rights. Dorothy I. Height passed away after a short illness. She was 98 years old.

While not a household name, Ms. Height had an enormous impact on the Civil Rights Movement as she served as president of the National Council of Negro Women, worked to integrate the YWCA and served as one of the senior organizers of the March on Washington. In 1994, Ms. Height received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2004 for her hard work.

Ms. Height was well known for her gorgeous collection of hats (or as we like to call them, crowns), as well as her lady like style of dress. I believe she used her fashion as a weapon against discrimination and racist stereotypes. Her crowns, dresses, pearls and crisp white gloves sent a clear message: "I, too, am a woman worthy of respect".

Thank you, Ms. Height. May you Rest in Peace.

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-04-16T15:28:00.000-04:00

Peggy Dillard-Toone - Vogue Aug. 1977

(Photo: Albert Watson)

Enjoy!

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-04-09T15:03:00.000-04:00

Billie Holiday

Jazz Singer and Songwriter

(April 7, 1915 - July 17, 1959)

Must. Have. Those. Earrings. NOW!

Enjoy!

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-04-02T15:54:00.000-04:00

Easter Sunday in Harlem, 1947

Henri Cartier-Bresson

(Photo: Henri Cartier-Bresson/Magnum/The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!

Enjoy!

Thandie Newton is the New Face of Olay

2010-03-31T19:53:00.003-04:00

Actress Thandie Newton has just signed on with Olay to be the new face of their Total Effects skincare line. The 37-year-old British beauty will appear in their ad campaign to commemorate the brand's 10th year in the U.K.

Ms. Newton tells Grazia magazine, "When filming, my working day is hectic, so trying to strike a balance between work, a family and time for myself can be challenging….Olay is a brand I trust and I love the fact that the range offers me an all-in-one, anti-ageing moisturiser which takes care of all my skincare needs."

Olay is thrilled to have Ms. Newton on their team, siting her as an "inspirational figure" for working mothers. "Thandie's pragmatic approach to a beauty routine ensures her skincare is as multi-tasking as she is".

At this time, the ads will only appear in the U.K, but we're hoping to see her in the U.S. in the near future.
(Hat tip: Beauty and The Dirt)

(Photo: Grazia Magazine)

Talking Hair with Wendy Williams

2010-03-22T19:37:00.020-04:00

Talk show host, Wendy Williams isn't just the "Queen of All Media", she's also the "Queen of Weaves, Wigs and Extensions"! Here she is on ABC Nightline talking about one of my favorite subjects: Hair!

Vintage Video Of The Week

2010-03-12T00:00:00.007-05:00

Since Academy Award winner Mo'Nique graciously paid tribute to Hattie McDaniel, the first African-American to win an Academy Award, in her acceptance speech, I thought it would be fitting to take a look at Ms. McDaniel's acceptance speech.

For more information on the life and career of Hattie McDaniel: Hattie McDaniel (Bio.Com)

OUT & ABOUT: Oscar Fashions!

2010-03-08T19:45:00.054-05:00

I think Anika Noni Rose's gown was the most underated of the night. I loved the jewel-encrusted bodice and the drapping of the skirt. Flawless!

Nicole Ritchie has come a looooong way, baby! She looked absolutely gorgeous in a vintage inspired sequined Reem Acra gown, Judith Leiber clutch and diamond and blackened platinum jewelry by Lorraine Schwartz. I love the eye makeup! Definitely one of my favorite looks of the night.

Queen Latifah looked regal in a pink, one-shouldered gown with rhinestone embellishments by Badgley Mischka. The mermaid silhouette perfectly accentuated her curves. Beautiful drop earrings made of South Sea pearls, diamonds and pink sapphires by Chopard complete the look.

Best Actress nominee Gabourey Sidibe worked the red carpet in a royal blue gown with silver beads embroidered in a flower pattern designed by Marchesa, one of my favorite designers. Jewels were by Lorraine Schawrtz. Ms. Sidibe said of her dress, "If fashion was porn, this dress is the money shot". Well, alrighty then!

Zoe Saldana brought the DRAMA in a Givenchy Couture gown from Richard Tisci's Spring 2010 collection, and not necessarily in a good way. I love ombré, but not this execution of it. All of that tulle at the bottom makes the gown look too costumey for the Oscars.

This blue Valentino gown does nothing for Mariah Carey, except make her look matronly. I think she's been listening too much to the fashion critics who say she should tone it down, and ended up playing it too safe. The peep-toe nude Louboutins are gorge, but way too casual for this event. I have mixed feelings about the diamonds. On one hand, I think Mariah was using them to jazz up the gown and bring a bit of old school glamour to the Oscars, but I think she may have overdone it just a bit. Love the brooch, though.

Zoe Kravitz is coming into her own as a fashionista. Here, Miss Kravitz dons a sophisticated strapless blush gown, accented with cognac red velvet by designer Alexis Mabille. Vintage 1920s Fred Leighton diamonds finished the look.

Paula Patton chose to bring a bit of Spring to the affair in a bright orange Carolina Herrera ensemble. All jewelry by Martin Katz.

Oprah Winfrey, my mentor and auntie in my head, was exquisite in this navy blue number by Carolina Herrera. I LOOOOVE this color on her! BTW, did you all notice that all of the women behind the movie Precious, with the exception of Paula Patton, wore variations of blue? Says Ms. Winfrey, "That was just some sort of divine synchronicity, I guess from Hattie McDaniel".

(Photos: Getty Images)

Backstage at the Academy Awards with Mo'Nique

2010-03-08T19:08:00.003-05:00

Mo'Nique takes over backstage at the Academy Awards! I love how she shows love and acknowledges the reporters that supported her when no one else would.

Mo'Nique's Date With Oscar

2010-03-08T19:08:00.002-05:00

(Photo: Getty Images)

Congratulations to Mo'Nique for winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress!!

Miss Mo paid homage to Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to win an Academy Award, in a Tadashi Shoji gown made of royal blue silk jersey, and accented the look with a white gardenia placed in her chignon. The look was topped off with diamond drop earrings and bracelet by Chopard and Jimmy Choo "Clue" platform sandals.

"The reason I have on this royal blue dress is because it's the color Hattie McDaniel wore in 1940 when she accepted her Oscar," she said, clutching her Academy Award. "The reason I have this gardenia in my hair is because it's the flower Hattie McDaniel wore wore when she accepted her Oscar.

"Hattie McDaniel, I feel you all over me, and it's time the world felt you all over them."

As I watched Mo'Nique accept her award, I couldn't help but think of the following: "No weapon formed against me shall prosper". As you all may know, there were several movie critics trying their best to smear Mo'Nique and ruin her chances of getting an Oscar nomination because she would not ~~beg~~ campaign for the Oscar. Instead, she wanted to be judged for her performance, which is what the awards is supposed to be about -- the performance. But Mo'Nique stood her ground and was rewarded. So, for all those media critics who said, "Who does she think she is?", here's your answer...

(Photo: Getty Images)

...an Academy Award Winner.

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-02-19T17:31:00.001-05:00

Sade (aka Helen Folasade Adu) is one bad sista!

After a 10 year abscence, she returned to the music scene with her new album, Soldier of Love, to capture the #1 spot, selling 502,000 copies!

Here's to you, Sade and to true talent!

Enjoy!

Here She Is...Miss America 2010!

2010-01-31T11:28:00.000-05:00

(Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty)

Congratulations to our new Miss America 2010, Caressa Cameron, who represented the state of Virginia!

The 22 yr-old Ms. Cameron hails from Frederick, VA, and is a communications major at Virginia Commonwealth University. As Miss America, Ms. Cameron's platform is Real Talk: Aids in America.

When asked about the childhood obesity epidemic, Ms. Cameron said, "Take away the TV, take away the video games, set some standards for our children! We need to get our kids back outside, playing with sticks in the street like I did when I was little".

As winner of the pageant, Ms. Cameron will receive a $50,000 scholarship.

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-01-29T16:29:00.000-05:00

Adrienne Belafonte Biesemeyer

We all know about Shari Belafonte, but little is known about her sister, Adrienne Belafonte Biesemeyer. So, I decided to get my Google on and this is what I found:

Adrienne Belafonte Biesemeyer is the daughter of famed actor and humanitarian, Harry Belafonte. Adrienne holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Art from West Virginia State College and a Master of Arts Degree in Community Counseling from the West Virginia Graduate College. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a private practice focusing on children and their families. She manages a program titled: FIREWALL: STOP AIDS whose goal is to 1. get in front of the AIDS epidemic with a preventive education program targeted at a new generation of sexually active youth, with the primary purpose being to prevent the further spread of AIDS. 2. To reach teens and young adults in South Africa and the United States who's generation is at the threshold of sexual activity and who have not yet contracted HIV or AIDS, and to make this population aware of how to protect themselves from AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Diseases. She is laying the groundwork for development of a new Life Style Curriculum for South Africa and the USA. (SOURCE: Peace Journey Bios)

Ms. Belafonte Biesemeyer is also co-founder, along with her daughter Rachel Blue, of the Anir Foundation and the Anir Experience.
Enjoy!

FLOTUS STYLE: Style of the Union

2010-01-28T11:34:00.001-05:00

(Photo: Mark Wilson/Getty Images)

(Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

First Lady Michelle Obama looked radiant in a long-sleeved plum dress designed by Isaac Mizrahi as she listened to her hubby, President Barack Obama, deliver his State of the Union address last night. Mrs. Obama topped off the ensemble with a single strand of pearls. Gorgeous!

Check out the back of the dress:

Work it, FLOTUS!

OUT & ABOUT: The SAG Awards

2010-01-24T12:13:00.144-05:00

The Screen Actors Guild Awards (better known as The SAG Awards) took place on Saturday, and our divas were out in their evening finest...

Actress Niecy Nash looked absolutely elegant in a white and black off-the-shoulder floor length gown, accented with a bold, statement necklace in lemon citrine from The Lookbook Collection by Charles Albert Jewelry. I love it!

Congrats to Mo'Nique who took home the SAG award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role. Her 1940s vintage inspired soft blush colored was sleek and elegant. Some were disappointed with Mo'Nique's look, saying it was too simple and boring. I disagree. I think she struck the right tone for this event, which is usually toned down, fashion wise. I think Miss Mo is saving the best for last -- The Oscars!

Paula Patton was all a glow in J. Mendel and Cartier jewels.

Gabourey Sidibe worked the runway in an electric blue gown by Pamella Roland. I loved the ruching and kimono sleeves!

Mariah was on fiyah in a red one shoulder, grecian goddess dress by Valentino, and jewels by Kwiat. Lovely, Mimi! Just lovely!

(Photos: Getty Images)

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-01-22T16:09:00.000-05:00

Shari Belafonte

Actress/Model/Writer/Singer

I love this photo of Shari Belafonte. It shows how fashion forward she has always been. Ms. Belafonte used to work the androgynous look like nobody's business!

Enjoy!

Mo'Nique Is Golden!

2010-01-18T08:42:00.001-05:00

(Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty)

Life is certainly golden for comediane/actress/talk show host and now Golden Globe winner, Mo'Nique. The diva won the Golden Globe for "Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture" for her role in the movie "Precious: Based on the Novel `Push' By Sapphire." Miss Mo'Nique glistened in a gold, strapless Reem Acra gown and diamond drop earrings and a diamond link bracelet designed by Everlon, as she gave one of the most moving acceptance speeches of the evening:

Congratulations, sista! I am so, so proud of you!

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-01-15T00:00:00.018-05:00

Paula Kelly

Dancer and Actress

Paula Kelly (b. October 21, 1943, Jacksonville, Florida) is an dancer and actress in motion pictures and television.

Daughter of a jazz musician, Kelly was raised in New York City's Harlem where she attended the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art, majoring in music. She continued her studies at the Juilliard School of Music majoring in dance under Martha Graham. Graduating with an M.S. degree, she performed as a soloist with major modern dance companies such as Martha Graham, Donald MacKayle, and Alvin Ailey. She also performed as guest artist and sometimes assistant choreographer for numerous television musical specials, including "Sammy and Friends" (starring Sammy Davis, Jr.); co-choreographer of the BBC production of Peter Pan, in which she also performed the role of "Tiger-Lily"; Quincy Jones' TV tribute to Duke Ellington, We Love You Madly; The Richard Pryor Show; and Gene Kelly's New York, New York, in which the two Kellys performed a duet.

Kelly made her Broadway debut as Mrs. Veloz in the 1964 musical Something More!, sharing the stage with Barbara Cook. Her other Broadway credits include The Dozens (1969), Paul Sills' Story Theatre (1971), Ovid's Metamorphoses (1971), and Duke Ellington's Sophisticated Ladies (1981) with Gregory Hines and Phyllis Hyman.

Kelly performed a dance solo at the Academy Awards for the nominated song "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang". She appeared on the London stage in Sweet Charity opposite dancer and actress Juliet Prowse as "Helene", for which Kelly won the London Variety Award for Best Supporting Actress. She starred in the record-breaking west coast premiere of "Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope" at the Mark Taper Forum, for which she was awarded the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award, Variety, and the first of three NAACP Image Awards.

Kelly's film credits include the Bob Fosse-directed film Sweet Charity; Soylent Green; The Spook Who Sat By The Door; The Andromeda Strain; Uptown Saturday Night; Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling; Drop Squad; and Once Upon A Time. . . When We Were Colored.

Kelly had a recurring role as Liz Williams on the first season of the sitcom Night Court, for which she received an Emmy nomination. Kelly has also guest-starred in a variety of television movies and sitcoms, including Sanford and Son, Golden Girls, Good Times, Any Day Now, and in the groundbreaking Oprah Winfrey-produced The Women of Brewster Place (based on the novel by Gloria Naylor), in which she portrayed one half of a lesbian couple (opposite Lonette McKee) struggling against homophobia in an inner city ghetto. She was nominated for a second Emmy for her role in The Women of Brewster Place.

Kelly posed for the August 1969 issue of Playboy magazine in a full-frontal (though shadowed) dance posture and in a stop-motion nude dance sequence. Kelly was the first woman ever to be pictured in a full-frontal nude pose in the magazine, with Marilyn Cole being the first Playmate so pictured. (SOURCE: Wikipedia)

To learn more about Ms. Kelly, check out her website: http://www.paulakelly.net/

Enjoy!

Rihanna Goes Hard on The February Cover of W Magazine

2010-01-13T13:51:00.069-05:00

(Photos: Craig McDean/W Magazine)

For the February 2010 cover of W Magazine, Rihanna goes hard in a Gucci cotton dress from their Spring '10 RTW collection, gold and diamond earrings by Ivanka Trump, Dior gold and diamond ring, and a beautiful white gold, black ceramic and diamond cuff by Chanel. For more info on the Rihanna's other ensembles, see WMagazine.com.

I think Rihanna is a perfect fit for W, which tends to be Vogue's edgier sister. I like the editorial, especially the photos of Rihanna wearing the cloche-esque leopard print hat and Michael Kors dress. However, I would have liked to have seen them go with color photos instead of black & white. Rihanna has a gorgeous complexion that would have been perfect to show off the cool palette from the upcoming Spring '10 season.

(Hat Tip: The Fashion Spot)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art Honors Eunice W. Johnson

2010-01-12T18:38:00.004-05:00

It was an afternoon of love, memories and celebration as family and friends gathered yesterday at The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Temple of Dendur for a tribute luncheon to honor the late Eunice W. Walker, who passed away last week at the age of 93.

(Photo: Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)

Carol Sutton Lewis, daughter of the late Percy Sutton, Gayle King, Ruben and Isabel Toledo, and Andre Leon Talley served as hosts for the luncheon. In attendance was a Who's Who of fashionistas and entertainers including White Social Secretary, Desirée Rogers, Wall Street Journal reporter, Teri Agins, designers Geoffrey Banks, Francisco Costa and B. Michael, Vogue editor Anna Wintour, Lynn Whitfield, Whoopi Goldberg, models Veronica Webb and Pat Cleveland, restauranteur B. Smith, socialite Susan Fales-Hill, director and chief curator of The Studio Museum of Harlem Thelma Golden, and Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson.

Desirée Rogers

(Photo: Kyle Ericksen/WWD.com)

Former president Bill Clinton made a surprise appearance as keynote speaker for the event, noting Mrs. Johnson's "ageless vitality". Ms. Rogers, who is a close and personal friend of the Johnson Family, read a letter penned by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, which lauded Mrs. Johnson's philanthropy and entreprenurship.

Susan Fales-Hill

(Photo: Kyle Ericksen/WWD.com)

Next to the luncheon was an exhibit of garments that were featured on the Ebony Fashion Fair runways. Linda Johnson Rice said of her mother, "I know my mother is looking down on us and all her wonderful clothes, thinking, ‘Wow, I did a pretty darn good job'".

Fashion Designers Geoffrey Banks (l.) and Francisco Costa (r.)

(Photo: Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)

Pat Cleveland

(Photo: Kyle Ericksen/WWD.com)

Desiree Rogers and Teri Agins

chat with Francisco Costa and Geoffrey Banks

(Photo: Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)

Thelma Golden

(Photo: Kyle Ericksen/WWD.com)

Veronica Webb and Whoopi Goldberg

(Photo: Veronica Webb/GlobalGrind.com)

Alexa Johnson, granddaughter of Mrs. Johnson

(Photo: Veronica Webb/GlobalGrind.com)

Ebony Fashion Fair Exhibit

(Photos: Veronica Webb/GlobalGrind.com)

(SOURCES: WWD: Desirée Rogers and Bill Clinton Attend Eunice W. Johnson Tribute and
Global Grind: FASHION MOMENT - Tribute to Eunice W. Johnson)

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2010-01-08T09:08:00.000-05:00

Eunice W. Johnson (1916 -2010)

(Photo: EbonyJet.com)

Check out Mrs. Eunice W. Johnson working the chinchilla! Alexis Carrington ain't got nuttin' on this Diva!

Enjoy!

LEGENDARY: Eunice Johnson, Our Fashion Fair Lady (1916-2010)

2010-01-06T16:41:00.005-05:00

(Photo: EbonyJet.com)

Grace and class are two words family and friends use to describe Eunice Walker Johnson, the founder of Johnson Publishing, Ebony Fashion Fair and Fashion Fair Cosmetics, who passed away Sunday at the age of 93.

Eunice Johnson looking over sketches with Yves St. Laurent

(Photo: EbonyJet.com)

Mrs. Johnson was a visionary who understood that image is everything to the Black community. Armed with luxurious haute couture gowns, statuesque brown beauties and a runway, Mrs. Johnson sought to redefine the image of the Black woman. She forced fashion designers to take notice of the beauty of Black women and how our darker hues could accentuate or enhance their designs. At the same time, Mrs. Johnson introduced us to a world of luxury and art, and helped to elevate our self-esteem. “She was an astute fashion person who had more than just fashion in her background. She was an interior designer. She was a lover of art", says Audrey Smaltz, founder of The Ground Crew, a fashion show production company, and former Ebony Fashion Fair commentor from 1970-1977. "She introduced me to luxury, art and culture way beyond what I went to school for. I graduated with an art degree. She took me to a Ph.D.”

The Ebony Fashion Fair began in 1956 as an idea by the late Jessie Covington Dent, who was looking to put on a fashion show that would benefit the Women's Auxillary of Flint-Goodroch Hospital in New Orleans. Enter the late John H. Johnson, founder of Johnson Publishing Company and the husband of Mrs. Johnson. The show was a success and Mr. Johnson, along with his wife, decided to expand it into a multi-city traveling fashion show to help raise money for other charities. Over the years, Ebony Fashion Fair raised more than $55 million for various charity organizations.

In the beginning it was rough. Many designers refused to sell their clothing to Mrs. Johnson because, according to Mr. Johnson, they were concerned that "white women wouldn’t value their designs if they were worn by Black women". However, through perserverance and her Southern charm, Mrs. Johnson won them over, becoming the largest buyer of European haute couture, according to Kenneth Owen, assistant producer of Ebony Fashion Fair.

Via the Ebony Fashion Fair, Mrs. Johnson was also instrumental in launching the careers of some of today's fashion legends like Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, Roberto Cavalli, and Pierre Cardin when they were the new kids on the runway. The work of Black designers, like B. Michael, Willi Smith, Patrick Kelly and Stephen Burrows were also regularly featured throughout the years. Pat Cleveland, one of the first Black supermodels, cut her teeth on the Ebony Fashion Fair circuit, as did actor, Richard Roundtree and TV personality, Janet Langhart Cohen.

Mrs. Johnson is survived by her daughter, Linda Johnson Rice and granddaughter, Alexa Christina Rice. In honor of Mrs. Johnson's philanthropy and contribution to the fashion industry, the Metropolitan Museum of Art will hold a special tribute on January 11th. According to EbonyJet.com, this event was planned months in advance prior to Mrs. Johnson's passing.

(SOURCE: EbonyJet.com)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2010-01-01T00:00:00.005-05:00

May you have a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!

Vintage Video Of The Week: MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2009-12-25T00:00:00.018-05:00

Christmas just wouldn't be complete without Eartha Kitt's "Santa Baby"!

Have A Happy and Safe Holiday!

Andre Leon Talley Comes To America's Next Top Model!

2009-12-23T17:01:00.001-05:00

I haven't watched America's Next Top Model in several years, but that may have to change. Why? According to The Cut at NY Magazine, Vogue magazine's Editor-at-Large (and friend and mentor-in-my-head) Andre Leon Talley will be the new full time judge on ANTM next season! WHOO HOO!

Between Mr. Talley and J. Alexander (aka "Miss Jay"), ANTM's next season is gonna be "must see TV"!

Beyonce Brings the "Heat" to the Fragrance Industry

2009-12-18T18:32:00.077-05:00

(Photo: WWD)

Passion, love and fever are what Beyoncé Knowles hopes her new fragrance, Beyoncé Heat, will inspire when it launches in February 2010. “A lot of my performances have had fire involved, so we thought ‘Heat.’ Also, red is one of my favorite colors, as is gold,” Ms. Knowles tells Women's Wear Daily in an exclusive interview.

The fragrance is described as having top notes of red vanilla orchid, magnolia, neroli and blush peach, that ease into honeysuckle nectar, almond macaroon and crème de musk, with a dry down of giant sequoia milkwood, tonka bean and amber to cap off the olfactory experience.

(Photo: WWD)

The bottle design is a mix of vintage and modern, an ode to Ms. Knowles's love for antique bottles. "I wanted something with an antique yet modern feeling. Even with my wardrobe, I always try to find things that have a little bit of something vintage, yet still timeless and classic."

Beyoncé Heat eau de parfum will come in three sizes: 1 oz. for $39; 1.7 oz. for $49, and 3.4 oz. for $59, as well as a 6.8-oz. Gold Sparkling Body Lotion for $24. More fragrances are in the works according to Coty, Inc., which licenses the fragrance.

Here's a sneak preview of the commercial:

(SOURCE: Women's Wear Daily)

Vintage Photo Of The Week

2009-12-18T14:39:00.000-05:00

Isabel Washington

Actress, Dancer, Civil Rights Activist

(May 23, 1908 - May 1, 2007)

From The History Makers:

Isabel Washington Powell was born in Savannah, Georgia, May 23, 1908, one of five children born to Hattie Washington, a dancer, and Robert T. Washington, a postal worker. At a young age, Powell was sent to a Catholic boarding school run by the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament in Cornwell Heights, Pennsylvania. After finishing her formal education, Powell moved to New York City and followed in the footsteps of an older sister, Fredi Washington, to become a dancer and actress. Powell performed as a showgirl in the nightclubs of Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance before dancing, singing, and acting in three Broadway shows in the late 1920s and early 1930s.

In 1934, Powell married Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. and assisted him in his election to the New York Council and as senior pastor of Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem. In 1944, Powell helped her husband become the first African American elected to the United States Congress from the east coast. In 1945, the Powells' marriage ended in divorce. Powell went on to serve as a teacher's aide in New York's Harlem community public schools for over thirty years.

From 1945 on, Powell had a significant social and community presence on the Island of Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts; she was noted for bringing together people of various races, ages, classes, and cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Powell was also recognized for promoting the political legacy of Adam Clayton Powell, Jr.

Powell was the mother of one son, Preston Powell. Powell passed away on May 1, 2007, just shy of her ninety-ninth birthday.

To learn more about Ms. Washington Powell, and her relationship with Adam Clayton Powell, check out her
memoir, Adam's Belle: A Memoir of Love Without Bounds.

Enjoy!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!

2009-12-17T12:15:00.001-05:00

Well, it has been a year since I opened up the doors to my little cyber corner. My, how times flies!

I just would like to thank all of you who have stopped by WSOIC!, and those who have sent me words of encouragement.

Thank You So Much!

-----,---'{@

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-12-04T00:00:00.001-05:00

(Photo: Craig's Pop Life)

Oprah Winfrey's recent decision to end her talk show in 2011, made me think of this 1989 Revlon ad.

Enjoy!

Stately Glamour (UPDATED: Mrs. Obama's Jewels)

2009-11-25T06:37:00.098-05:00

(Photo: Getty Images)

Michelle Obama stole the show at last night's White House State Dinner, in a custom-made gown designed by Indian-born designer, Naeem Khan.

President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, awaiting the arrival India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife Gursharan Kaur

(Photo: Reuters)

The champagne-hued gown was a strapless silhouette, made of silk chiffon fabric with sterling silver piets that were sewn on in an exquisite floral pattern, no doubt an ode to the elaborate saris of India. Mr. Khan said that the fabric was entirely handmade in India, and took three weeks and 40 people to make. Mrs. Obama completed her ensemble with traditional Indian bracelets known as "churis", a matching wrap and chandelier earrings made of rubies (another subtle nod to India) and diamonds. She looked absolutely regal and breathtaking!

U.S. President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama pose with India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife Gursharan Kaur before a state dinner on the North Portico of the White House
(Reuters)

Mr. Khan appeared on CNN's Larry King Live last night and said that his idea for the gown was "India, chic, simple, but still very glamorous". He succeeded and is well on his way to becoming a household name.

Hal Rubenstein, fashion director for InStyle Magazine had this to say about Mrs. Obama: "She looks like she's worth her weight in solid gold. What I love about her is that it's a pleasure to watch a woman of size and stature not apologize for her height and know how to stand tall."

And stand tall she did...In Couture!

(Photo: Getty Images)

UPDATE: Women's Wear Daily reports that Mrs. Obama's gorgeous earrings were designed by Bochic, and made of rose-cut amber and tourmaline. Gorgeous!

(Photo: Women's Wear Daily)

Sparkling Preview

2009-11-24T16:00:00.001-05:00

(Photo: Getty Images)

This afternoon, First Lady Michelle Obama spoke at a preview for tonight's State Dinner, in the State Dining Room at the White House. Mrs. Obama was joined by White House Curator, William Allman and Protocol Officer for the Visits Division of the U.S. State Dept., Tanya Turner to speak about the history and protocol of White House State Dinners. Also in attendance were young women from the White House Leadership and Mentoring Program. Afterwards

(Photo: Getty Images)

For this afternoon's event, Mrs. Obama remixed the J. Crew cardigan she wore on her April trip to London, paring it with an ivory pencil skirt designed by Rachel Roy, according to the good folks at Mrs.O, and a silver belt, one of FLOTUS' favorite accessories. Dazzling!

Mrs. Obama speaks with young women from the White House Leadership and Mentoring Program

(Photo: Reuters)

Official Details on The Obamas' First White House State Dinner!

2009-11-24T15:00:00.003-05:00

Courtesy of Lynn Sweet, Reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times:

Sample Table Setting For The Obama's First White House State Dinner

(Photo: Lynn Sweet/Chicago Sun-Times)

Guests will be at tables of ten.
Linens: Apple green
Flowers: Deep purple
hydrangea, garden roses and sweet peas in a palette of deep plum purple and fuchsia

Services and Place Settings
From the White House historic collections
Eisenhower Porcelain, 1955
Clinton China, 2000
Bush China, 2008-2009

Decor: A tent--more like a pavillion-- is on the South Lawn. The theme is a "garden theme," dedicated "to green and sustainable elements."

Place card (top photo) and Dessert Plate
(Photo: Lynn Sweet/Chicago Sun-Times)

Potato and Eggplant Salad
White House Argula with onion seed vinaigrette
2008 sauvignon blanc, Modus Oprendi, Napa Valley, California

Red lentil soup with fresh cheese
2008 Riesling Brooks "Ara" Wilamette Valley, Oregon

Roasted Potato Dumplings with tomato dumplings
chick peas and okra
or
green curry prawns
carmelized salsify with smoked collard greens and coconut aged basmati
2007 granache, Beckman Vineyars, Santa Ynez, California

Pumpkin Pie tart
pear tatin
whipped cream and caramel sauce
Sparkling Chardonay, Thibaut Janisson Brut, Monticello, Virginia

Petits Fours and Coffee
Cashew Brittle
Pecan Pralines
Passion Fruit and Vanilla Gelees
Chocolate dipped fruit

Guest Chef: Marcus Samuelsson

Entertainment for tonight's soiree will include Academy Award winner, Jennifer Hudson, award winning composer, Marvin Hamlisch, and Indian film composer, A.R. Rahman.

Michelle Obama Radiates at the Arrival Ceremony for the Prime Minister of India

2009-11-24T10:59:00.005-05:00

(Photo: Reuters)

First Lady Michelle Obama looked absolutely radiant in an Indian-inspired ensemble at the arrival ceremony for the Prime Minister of India and his wife, First Lady Gurshuran Kaur, standing next to Mrs. Obama in the photo above. Mrs. Obama's outfit is reminiscent of the Isabel Toledo ensemble she wore for the Inauguration Ceremony on that beautiful day in January.

The ceremony was held in the East Room of the White House, and kicks off several events that will lead up to the Obama's first official White House State Dinner. I cannot wait to see what Mrs. Obama will wear tonight!

UPDATE I: According to Lynn Sweet at the Chicago Sun-Times, Mrs. Obama's outfit was designed by Isaac Mizrahi:

Shortly after, FLOTUS entered with Kaur, who wore a green sari. FLOTUS wore an orange embroidered Isaac Mizrahi ensemble, a coat worn over a dress, with a sash tied in a bow around her waist. The pattern was fall festive, leaves. Her hair was swept back and she paired the outfit with drop earrings and copper pumps.

UPDATE II: Here's a photo of Mrs. Obama sans jacket

First Lady Michelle Obama meets with Mrs. Gursharan Kaur in the Yellow Oval Room of the White House, Nov. 24, 2009.
(Official White House Photo by Samantha Appleton)

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-11-20T18:00:00.003-05:00

The Ronettes

(l-r: Veronica Bennett, Estelle Bennett, and Nedra Talley)

(Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

With their tight skirts, skyscraper high beehives and thick, black kohl eyeliner reminiscent of Egyptian queens, The Ronettes claimed the title of the first "Bad Girls of Rock & Roll" in the 60s. While other girl groups of that era came across as singing about their crushes to their friends, The Ronettes sung directly to them in such hits as the infamous "Be My Baby" and "Baby, I Love You", driving the fellas wild!

To learn more about The Ronettes, check out The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame + Museum.

Enjoy!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-11-13T15:23:00.000-05:00

Check out Miss Diana Ross getting her coordination on!

Enjoy!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-10-30T15:38:00.001-04:00

"Graduation"

(Photo: Roy DeCarava/LATimes.com)

This photo, entitled "Graduation", was taken by famed African American photographer Roy DeCaravas who passed away on Tuesday. He was 89.

Feeling that the imagery of Black people lacked the beauty and dignity we deserved, Mr. DeCaravas sought to show the everyday lives of Black people in Harlem during the '40s, 50s and 60s'. "Graduation", which appears in DeCaravas' collection of works, "The Sweet Flypaper of Life"(1955), was considered one of his most famous photographs. The LA Times describes it as:

"...a young woman in a long white gown and a corsage who stands in rubble outside a tenement house. She is in sunlight, facing shadows. The image raises obvious questions about her future".

Read More About Roy DeCarava Here

Enjoy!.

Michelle Obama: A Vision in Red Glamour!

2009-10-28T11:08:00.032-04:00

(Photo: Glamour.com)

What a holiday treat! Our beloved First Lady, Michelle Obama, graces the cover of Glamour magazine's December issue. This is the first time in the magazine's 70 year history that a First Lady has appeared on its cover!

It should be noted that this Glamour's annual Women of the Year issue, and the magazine is honoring Mrs. Obama with a Special Recognition Award for her dedication to mentoring young women. In her interview with Glamour (conducted by Katie Couric), Mrs. Obama gives advice on mentoring, style and dating. You can read excerpts of her interview here.

Now, on to the fashion. According to the good folks at Mrs.O.org, the First Lady is wearing her own red cocktail dress by one of her favorite designers, Jason Wu. Exactly who designed that fabulous necklace is still a mystery, but I'm sure their name will eventually surface. Taking a guess, I say the necklace is one-of-a-kind design by Fenton, whose jewelry the First Lady has worn before.

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-10-16T18:24:00.000-04:00

This is South African jazz singer, Letta Mbulu. You might not recognize her name or face, but you've definitely heard her voice. She is the young lady that sings on Michael Jackson's "Liberian Girl". Ms. Mbulu has also worked with Quincy Jones on The Roots and The Color Purple soundtracks.

For more info on Letta Mbulu, check out her bio here.

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-10-09T00:00:00.002-04:00

Pat Cleveland

(Photo: Irving Penn)

This is a 1972 photo of runway diva, Pat Cleveland taken by the famed fashion photographer, Irving Penn, who passed away this week at the age of 92. RIP Mr. Penn.

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-10-02T19:09:00.003-04:00

Etta Moten, Singer/Actress
(1901-2004)

This is singer/actress Etta Moten showing serious swagger in a cloche hat. She was the first Black star to perform at the White House, and the muse for "Bess" in George Gershwin's opera "Porgy and Bess".

Enjoy!

Ebony Fashion Fair Shuts Down Its Runway For 2009

2009-09-28T10:01:00.005-04:00

After 51 years of dazzling runways across the globe, the Ebony Fashion Fair show has called it quits --- for now. Citing economic hardship and the lack of sponsors, Johnson Publishing CEO, Linda Johnson Rice has decided to cancel the fall 2009 shows.

From The Philadelphia Inquirer:

Annual Ebony Fashion Fair show is a victim of economy

By Naomi Nix
Inquirer Staff Writer

Mina Dia-Stevens recalls looking around the auditorium of an Ebony Fashion Fair show as a young adult and knowing that there were other African American fashionistas out there, from a cluster of giddy sorority college girls to a group of churchgoing women.

"They are exposing African Americans to world-renowned designers that they may not have known otherwise," said Dia-Stevens, who is an adjunct professor at Moore College of Art and Design and an associate professor at the Art Institute of Philadelphia.

And it's coming to an end, at least for now.

After more than 50 years of showcasing the highest caliber of fashion in the industry to mostly African American audiences, organizers of the traveling international fashion show have canceled its fall 2009 installment.

The Philadelphia Cultural Committee Inc., the nonprofit organization that has hosted the program annually in Philadelphia or New Jersey for 50 years, is among 180 organizations that will not put on a show this fall.

"The overall economic climate has presented challenges for many, including our potential corporate sponsors," said Linda Johnson Rice, the chairman and chief executive officer of Johnson Publishing Co., in a statement.

The firm, which publishes Ebony and Jet magazines, hopes to bring back a retooled show starting in fall 2010.

"In the coming months, we will develop a new business model to ensure that the show is a mutually beneficial endeavor," said Rice.

As a nonprofit endeavor, the Ebony Fashion Fair show has raised more than $55 million to benefit largely African American groups nationwide, according to Jeanine Collins, a spokeswoman for Johnson Publishing.

The Philadelphia Cultural Committee uses part of its $15,000 to $20,000 in proceeds to give scholarships to college-bound high school students who are interested in the arts.

Each year it gives $1,000 to five or six students who are pursuing higher education in New Jersey, Philadelphia, or Delaware. The remaining money goes to local charities.

"If we do not have the Ebony Fashion Fair show, it's going to be a deterrent to giving scholarships," said Gwendolyn A. Faison, president of the Philadelphia Cultural Committee.

Faison said the committee is meeting to discuss alternative fund-raising.

Over 4,000 shows have been performed to date in the United States, the Caribbean, and London, according to a representative from the publishing company.

The featured clothing includes cutting-edge couture fresh off the runways of Fashion Week as well as ready-to-wear "extravagant" pieces, said Cheryl Washington, a fashion designer and an adjunct professor at Moore College of Art and Design.

"It is a multitude of talent from all over the world," she said.

The show has exhibited the work of several notable African American designers, including Stephen Burrows, James Daugherty, L'Amour, B. Michael, and Quinton de' Alexander.

It was started in 1956 to support the Women's Auxiliary of Flint-Goodrich Hospital in New Orleans by John Johnson, then publisher and CEO of Johnson Publishing.

But Dia-Stevens says the show is more than just a few models strutting the latest fashions on the runway.

"When you see the show, it's like a performance - it's ambience, it's atmosphere," she said. "It is more theatrical than it is anything."

Thinking of her 14-year-old daughter, Dia-Stevens hopes to keep her family's appreciation for fashion alive.

"It is a special event that I would definitely want to experience with my daughter," she said.

These are trying times for the Johnson Publishing Company. The economy has taken a toll on its crown jewel, Ebony magazine, which may result in the sale of the magazine, and now they are forced to shut down what is considered a rate of passage fpr African American women.

Is this the end of a legendary era? Will a part of African American culture be lost?

Will high profile Black models, such as Tyra Banks or Ebony Fashion Fair show alumnus, Pat Cleveland, step in to rescue the Ebony Fashion Fair show?

Stay tuned...

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-09-25T18:20:00.000-04:00

Irene Cara
(Photo: Philip Michael Thomas/IreneCara.com)

With the remake of 80's classic, Fame opening in theaters today, I couldn't help but think of singer/songwriter, Irene Cara, who played Coco Hernandez in the original movie. So, as I was getting my Google on in search of pics of Ms. Cara, I ran across this photo of her taken by Philip Michael Thomas, her co-star in Sparkle and of Miami Vice fame.

Enjoy!

ARISE African Fashion Collective - Spring 2010

2009-09-22T18:49:00.000-04:00

Earlier this month, the ARISE African Fashion Collective made its second New York Fashion Week appearance to present its Spring 2010 collection. The collective gives exposure to African designers that otherwise would get lost in the fray. This season, the collective introduced four designers: Lisa Folawiyo, Tiffany Amber, David Tlale and Eric Raisina. Here are some pieces that caught my eye.

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-09-18T07:28:00.004-04:00

It was 26 years ago yesterday that Vanessa Willams made history by becoming the first African American to be crowned Miss America. To commemorate that achievement, I thought it would be fitting to post Ms. Williams' official Miss America 1983 photo.

As a bonus, here's video footage of the historical moment:

Enjoy!

Beyoncé (Finally!) Gets Her Own Fragrance (UPDATE! A&F Files Lawsuit Against Beyoncé!)

2009-09-15T18:49:00.008-04:00

Beyoncé with Bernd Beetz, CEO of Coty, Inc.
(Photo: WWD.com)

Coming fresh off her win for Best Music Video at the 2009 MTV Music Awards, Beyoncé Knowles has announced her entrance into the celebrity fragrance genre. Ms. Knowles has partnered with Coty Inc. to produce her own perfume which will debut in Spring 2010 in the Americas, and globally in Fall 2010.

Ms. Knowles had this to say about the new venture:

“For me, fragrance reflects a woman’s attitude and unique sense of style...While I love various perfumes, I haven’t found a scent that truly personifies me as a woman. Working with Coty, I was able to turn my ideal fragrance into a reality by creating an alluring and sophisticated fragrance; one that’s reflective of my inner power.”

While monetary details of the deal haven't been disclosed, one source says Ms. Knowles will make $5 million a year, or $20 million for three years. Another source says that because of the slow down in the fragrance market, and that her previous gigs as the face of Tommy Hilfiger's fragrance, True Star, and Emporio Armani's Diamonds, weren't that successful, the deal is no more than $10 million for three years.

I must say, "What took you so long, Beyoncé?". In fact, I don't understand why Beyoncé settled for being the face of a perfume in the first place. She should've skipped those deals with Hilfiger and Armani, and developed her own fragrance. There were plenty of companies that wanted to work with "the hottest chick in the game". Now, with the celeb fragrance genre waning, it looks like Ms. Knowles may have missed a golden opportunity.

(SOURCE: WWD.com)

UPDATE! (9/17/09) A day after Beyoncé announced the launch of her new fragrance, WWD.com reports that Abercrombie & Fitch have filed a lawsuit against Ms. Knowles claiming trademark infringment:

"The teen retailer alleged in a federal complaint filed Tuesday that a scent with that label would infringe on its own Fierce cologne trademark.

But Coty said Wednesday Knowles’ dual personality would not factor into plans for her perfume, which will be sold in department stores globally and launch in the Americas in the spring.

“We can confirm at this time…that the terms Fierce and Sasha Fierce are not being used as names of a Beyoncé fragrance,” a Coty spokeswoman said." (SOURCE: WWD.com)

A&F claims that a "Sasha Fierce" fragrance would cause a "likelihood of confusion" for consumers.

OK, everybody! If you have heard of A&F's "Fierce" cologne before today, please clap.

*CRICKETS*

I'm just sayin'.

She's Baaaaaaack!

2009-09-14T10:38:00.006-04:00

(Photo: Christopher Polk/Getty Images)

Janet Jackson ripped the stage in a moving tribute to her brother, Michael Jackson, at last night's MTV Video Music Awards. Miss Janet dancing with her big brother one last time moved me to tears. You could see the passion and fire in her face. It was as if she was saying to all of the critics, "My brother is the King and you WILL respect my brother. PERIOD." It was a powerful performance.

And I loved her twist on MJ's one white glove! Cute!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-09-11T19:22:00.005-04:00

Eartha Kitt
(1927-2008)

I'm not into full on animal print outfits -- a lil' splash of leopard on a scarf will do -- but this outfit is pure FIYAH!

Enjoy!

Janet Jackson on the Cover of Harper's Bazaar Oct. Issue!

2009-09-10T19:37:00.011-04:00

(Click to Enlarge Photos)
(Photo Credit: Tom Munro/Harper's Bazaar.com)

Now this is a pleasant surprise! First, it was announced that Janet will be performing a dance tribute to her brother, Michael Jackson, at the 2009 MTV Awards, and now Miss Jackson is on the cover of Harper's Bazaar magazine! WHOO HOO! It's like Christmukkawaanza in September for us Janet fans! I wasn't expecting to see Miss Janet in the public eye this soon, considering the sudden passing of her brother. Nevertheless, it's good to see Miss Jackson back.

In her first interview since MJ's death, Janet talks about how she's coping with the tragic loss, her memories of Michael, her new status as a single lady (Yes, she and Jermaine Dupri broke up) and her upcoming book.

One of Janet's revelations about Michael that I found interesting was about the ensemble he wore for the infamous Motown 25th Anniversary special:

"Do you remember that black jacket he wore for Motown's 25th anniversary? That's our mother's! He grabbed that from her closet! He loved anything that sparkled."

Can you believe it?!

You can read the full article here.

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-08-28T12:40:00.004-04:00

Portrait of a Lady c. 1930
James VanDerZee

Enjoy!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-08-21T08:10:00.006-04:00

African American Flapper with Fur Shawl
(Photo Source: Jazz Age Black Beauty)

I love, love, love 1920s fashion, so color me excited when I ran across this photo! You don't see a lot of Black flappers from this time period. She looks fabulous!

Enjoy!

Desirée Rogers Featured in Michigan Avenue Magazine

2009-08-17T07:51:00.005-04:00

(Photo: WWD/Michigan Avenue Magazine)

One of our favorite fashionistas, Desirée Rogers, is featured on the cover of the August issue of Michigan Avenue magazine.

While Ms. Rogers is known for her exquisite taste in fashion and her social activities, this particular article focuses on her philanthropic work in Chicago.

On why giving back is important to Ms. Rogers:

“As a young child in New Orleans raised by two teachers, giving back to one’s community was as important as reading, writing and arithmetic,” she recalls. “My father taught in the public school system and my mother ran the family day care business for children under five. I read to children at the day care centers and [my brother and I] helped my mother at Friday night bingo at the neighborhood church.”

You can read the full article at Michigan Avenue Magazine.

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-08-14T18:44:00.003-04:00

The One.

The Only.

Josephine Baker!

Enjoy!

Largest Private Collection of African American Art Destroyed By Fire

2009-08-09T16:15:00.004-04:00

(l-r) Front view of Peggy Cooper Cafritz's home before the fire. Ms. Cafritz in her entry hall.
(Photo: Sang An/O, The Oprah Magazine)

For over two decades, Peggy Cooper Cafritz, the prominent D.C. political fund-raiser and art patron, amassed one of the largest private collections of African-American and African art in the country. Ms. Cafritz's home and art collection were recently featured in the August '09 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine. Sadly, on July 29th, a tragic fire claimed Ms. Cafritz's Northwest Washington mansion that housed her entire art collection.

From The New York Times:

In Collection’s Ashes, a Heritage’s Seeds

By RACHEL L. SWARNS
Published: August 7, 2009

WASHINGTON — Every morning Peggy Cooper Cafritz steps outside and confronts the wreckage: the acrid smell of her incinerated walls and furnishings, the police tape clinging to a chain-link fence surrounding her property, the rumbling backhoe hauling away the charred remains of her longtime home.

She has been living in the house of a friend across the street from this scene, which she matter-of-factly calls “the ruins.” And for the moment, at least, she is all business, filling out insurance forms, talking to fire investigators and real estate brokers, replying to scores of e-mail messages and letters of sympathy. She has not had time, she says, to weep or grieve.

So, when asked about her loss, Ms. Cafritz hesitates. Her $5.2 million mansion here in the Kent neighborhood of northwest Washington held one of the largest private collections of African-American and African art in the country, more than 300 sculptures, paintings, photographs and other pieces that she painstakingly accumulated over the past two decades, often from artists whose careers she had personally nurtured.

The works of 19th- and 20th-century painters like Edward Mitchell Bannister, Jacob Lawrence and Romare Bearden hung amid contemporary work by artists like Hank Willis Thomas, Nick Cave, Kara Walker and Kerry James Marshall. Virtually everything was destroyed in the blaze that gutted the house on July 29, while she and her son were on vacation in Martha’s Vineyard.

“I had a wonderful picture,” Ms. Cafritz began, on the verge of a reverie about one of her favorites, and then she paused. “It’s gone. It’s gone. No more pictures, you know.”

“I’m hoping I can be strong enough not to be hit by that ton of bricks, not to become dysfunctionally sad,” said Ms. Cafritz, 62, as she sat on a couch in her temporary home this week. “Right now my emotions are submerged, like under water.”

(snip)

For 23 years her eight-bedroom mansion served as a meeting place for both the powerful and the unknown. She gave parties for John F. Kennedy Jr. and Bill Clinton, Jesse Jackson and local Democrats. She raised thousands for Barack Obama’s presidential campaign and was invited to the Stevie Wonder concert at the White House earlier this year.

But Ms. Cafritz — who in the 1970s had helped to found the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, a public high school here for talented and often underprivileged teenagers — also opened her home to foster children, poor students and struggling artists. And she regularly championed minority artists, buying their work, calling them with words of encouragement and haunting art galleries, art shows and auctions in Washington and New York to find young people with promise.

“When do artists need you the most?” asked Ms. Cafritz, who also collected some works by Latin American artists. “When they’re young. There is greater representation of African-American and Latino artists in these great art galleries and museums now, but it’s not enough. Too many people are unfamiliar with these young people’s work.”

The First Couple Has International Style!

2009-08-08T18:43:00.002-04:00

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama have made the annual Vanity Fair International Best-Dressed List!

This is President Obama's first time making the list, while Mrs. Obama makes her third consecutive appearance, receiving a record number of nominations. Others who made the list include singer, Alicia Keys, former NFL star and current NBC correspondent, Tiki Barber, Kelly Ripa, France's First Lady Carla Bruni, designer Rachel Roy and actor/philanthropist, Brad Pitt. For the full list, click here.

Noticeably absent from the list is Mrs. Obama's sister in Divadom, White House social secretary, Desirée Rogers. Why the snub? The Black Socialite TM spills the tea: In an interview with The Washington Times, Amy Fine Collins, special correspondent for Vanity Fair, said that although Ms. Rogers received "a significant number of nominations", "I don't think she is known enough. She is not that high-profile outside New York and Washington yet". I'm calling bs on this excuse. Ms. Rogers practically owns Chi-Town, and is well-known in New Orleans. She was featured in Vogue magazine in 2004 (wearing a fabulous black and white Jil Sander trench coat), which is where I first learned about her. I've been a fan ever since. Ms. Collins' excuse sounds like Caucasianese for "We can't have too many negroes on the list".

We Shall Overcome lies...In Couture!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-08-07T15:51:00.006-04:00

Singer/Actress, Dorothy Dandridge
(Photo: LIFE magazine/Ed Clark)
1951

Ms. Dandridge's face tells the tale, doesn't it?

Enjoy!

LEGENDARY: Fashion Pioneer, Naomi Sims (1948 - 2009)

2009-08-04T07:44:00.023-04:00

Naomi Sims at Oprah's Legends Ball
(Photo: Kwaku Alston)

The fashion industry has lost one of its legends.

The NY Times reports that Naomi Sims, considered by some to be the first Black supermodel, passed away at the age of 61 from cancer.

As the first Black model to appear on the cover of Ladies' Home Journal in 1968, Ms. Sims was not only a pioneer, but a trailblazer helping to usher in the "Black Is Beautiful" movement. As the late designer, Halston, correctly noted, Ms. Sims was the "great ambassador for all Black people".

And Ms. Sims took this responsibility seriously. In 1972, she was offered the title role in the "blaxploitation" movie "Cleopatra Jones", but turned it down because she felt it was a racist portrayal of Black people.

Ms. Sims was more than a beautiful face. Her ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit provided fashion models with the blueprint for maneuvering one's career beyond the runway. In 1973, Ms. Sims went from runway diva to business woman, creating the Naomi Sims Collection, a line of wigs and cosmetics designed specifically for Black women. The line was extremely successful, with annual sales of $5 million. Ms. Sims went on to write several books, as well as an advice column in Right On! magazine. In a 1969 interview with the NY Times, Ms. Sims said:

“There is nothing sadder than an old, broke model, and there are many models who have nothing at the end of their career.”

Ms. Sims' success in the fashion industry was a victory for all Black women. Every magazine cover, every editorial spread helped to redefine society's concept of beauty, as well as strengthen our self-esteem. As Ms. Sims overcame in couture, she took us along for the ride.

“It’s ‘in’ to use me...and maybe some people do it when they don’t really like me. But even if they are prejudiced, they have to be tactful if they want a good picture.” -- Naomi Sims

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-07-31T09:28:00.006-04:00

The breathtaking model, author and entrepreneur, Naomi Sims on the October 1969 cover of Life magazine.

Enjoy!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-07-24T18:43:00.005-04:00

James VanDerZee
Portrait of Girl with Fancy Dress, 1938
(Photo: MichaelRosenfeldArt.com)

A little diva in training!

Enjoy!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-07-17T10:23:00.013-04:00

When most people think of Ethel Waters, images of the "mammy" characters she portrayed in movies such as "Pinky" and "Cabin in the Sky" come to mind. However, there was another side to Ms. Waters that we never got a chance to see.

During her vaudevillian days, Ms. Waters cut a striking figure, earning the nickname "Sweet Mama Stringbean" for her tall and svelte physique. She was sassy and glamorous on stage, wearing elaborate costumes adorned with feathers and sequins, as she sang such hits as "Stormy Weather" and "Suppatime". This photo gives us a glimpse of Ms. Waters of just how attractive she was.

For more info on Ethel Waters, check out Jazzateria.

Enjoy!

Dontatella Versace Dresses The Jacksons

2009-07-11T08:27:00.006-04:00

This shot is reminiscent of En Vogue's Funky Divas album cover.

(Photos: Getty Images)

As I watched Michael Jackson's Memorial Service on Tuesday, between the laughter and the tears, I couldn't help but notice how fabulously chic the Jackson family looked. The beautiful yellow silk ties the brothers wore, the sharp hats the sisters donned (Miss La Toya worked that hat!)...so classy and elegant. Well, the woman behind their ensembles was none other than Donatella Versace:

Why Donatella Versace Was Chosen to Dress the Jacksons at M.J.'s Memorial

by Kate Scheyer
July 8, 2009, 1:07 PM

The Jackson family’s grief may be personal, but if they were going to mourn in front of the world yesterday at Los Angeles’s Staples Center, they were going to do it in style. So Michael Jackson’s sister Janet Jackson contacted Donatella Versace and asked her to outfit the entire clan.

Donatella herself is no stranger to public mourning, having lost her brother Gianni Versace, founder of the Versace fashion house, in 1997. It was Gianni who first collaborated with Michael, back in 1983; the designer was still an up-and-comer, and the singer was already a superstar in need of an ensemble worthy of a duet with Paul McCartney (“Say Say Say”). The unusual black-and-white-checked tailcoat Gianni whipped up must have pleased Jackson, as he continued to wear Versace both on- and offstage throughout his life. Several of Michael’s iconic, military-inspired costumes, as seen in both the Dangerous and HIStory tours, were Versace creations. Michael also liked his women in Versace: Janet wore the label onstage during her recent Rock Witchu tour, and Lisa Marie Presley appeared in campaigns for Versace’s offshoot label Versus during her marriage to M.J.

For Tuesday’s memorial, Donatella created more fittingly somber numbers than the frogged gold jackets and bodysuits her brother designed for Michael decades ago. The Jackson men were outfitted in sharp black suits and subtly golden ties. When it came to the women, Donatella couldn’t help but add some Versace flair, apparent in the sassy wide brim of Latoya’s hat and the subtly revealing sheer panels of Janet’s black sheath. In a move that was both Versace flash and poignant homage, the men displayed a single white glove as they carried Michael’s fittingly flamboyant gold casket. (Source: Vanity Fair)

But I'm not surprised that the Jacksons were so well put together. Even in times of tragedy, we (Black folk) always put our best foot forward. I remember when my 102 yr-old grandmother passed, there were so many fur coats at her funeral, I thought PETA was gonna roll up in the church!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-07-10T15:31:00.007-04:00

Usually, when we see photos of the late Coretta Scott King, she's either at an event, giving a speech or by the side of her husband, the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. . So, seeing this photo of her singing is a treat!

Not many people know that prior to marrying the Rev. Dr. King and becoming a civil rights activist, Mrs. King was an accomplished singer, earning a scholarship to the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. She also used her talent to raise money for the Civil Rights Movement:

In December 1956 she performed a concert in New York as a fundraiser for the Montgomery Improvement Association that became a model for the Freedom Concerts that later took place. King mixed narration, poetry, and music to recount the story of the boycott. She continued to perform these concerts over the rest of her life, later adapting the model for such special occasions as the annual commemorative service that takes place in Atlanta on the Martin Luther King Jr. birthday holiday. (Source: The New Georgia Encyclopedia)

Enjoy!

Serena Wins Wimbledon!

2009-07-05T19:33:00.014-04:00

(Photo: Getty Images)

Congrats to the 2009 Wimbledon Champion, Serena Williams!

Serena beat big sis, Venus, in two straight sets to claim her 3rd Wimbledon title and her 11th Grand Slam singles title. She now holds three of the four major titles: Wimbledon, the Australian Open and the U.S. Open.

The Williams Sisters are known for their innovative fashion sense, and Miss Serena didn't disappoint. She collected her trophy wearing a white, double-breasted mini-trench, with gathered pleats on the sides and in the back. Très chic!

But Venus didn't go home empty handed. Later, the tennis divas teamed up to win their second straight Wimbledon doubles title.

(Photo: Getty Images)

Amazing Grace

2009-06-29T16:51:00.002-04:00

Class. Strength. Dignity. Reverence.

Stay strong, sista.

Never Can Say Goodbye....

2009-06-26T18:53:00.014-04:00

MICHAEL JOSEPH JACKSON
THE KING OF MUSIC
(August 29, 1958 - June 25, 2009)

"And when the groove is dead and gone
You know that love survives
So we can rock forever, on..."

--- Michael Jackson, "Rock With You"

Michael Jackson has always been a part of my life through music, movies and television. He, and his family, were like distance cousins that I've never met. That's why his death is very hard for me to digest. Life without Michael Jackson is hard to imagine.

I have so many good memories of Michael: The Jacksons television show, the Jackson 5 cartoon series, his Motown 25 performance, trying (and failing) to do the moonwalk, watching MTV for hours just to see the "Billie Jean" video, dreaming of him singing "Lady In My Life" to me at our wedding (LOL!), my friends and I doing the routine to "Thriller" and "Remember The Time". Good times. Good times.

As the song says, "I'll take with me the memories to be my sunshine after the rain", but this is one hell of a storm that I didn't expect.

Rest In Peace, Michael. I'm gonna miss you.

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-06-19T13:23:00.002-04:00

(PHOTO: Jet Magazine)

In honor of Father's Day Weekend, here's a cute photo of the legendary band leader, Cab Calloway recording a duet with his daughter, Lael. The photo is from the Feb. 9, 1956 issue of Jet magazine. (h/t: Vieilles_Announces' Photostream)

Happy Father's Day!
Enjoy!

All Hail The Queen!

2009-06-11T10:29:00.015-04:00

Queen Latifah is the cover girl for the July issue of Essence magazine. In the feature article, Latifah reveals that she was sexually abused as a child. She also addresses rumors of her sexuality and her wish to be a mother.

I like the colors, but something's off about this cover. I can't quite put my finger on it, but I'm not really feeling it.

Now, I LOVE Queen La, but Essence has a bad habit of recycling their cover models. It's either La, Mo'Nique, Halle, Mary J. Blige, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Alicia Keys,....you get my drift. (And don't even get me started on their articles. That's a whole 'nother topic.) There are plenty of Black women that they could put on their covers. How about Whoopi Goldberg? I'd love to see how they would style her. Or how about using real fashion models for a change like Alek Wek or Jourdan Dunn?

If they insist on using the same sistas, switch it up! Take some chances with the cover styling. Do something avant-garde with Halle, a flashback to the Harlem Renassaince a la James Van Der Zee with Mo'Nique, or a different backdrop from the usual solid color. The same ol', same ol' is not cutting it, IMO.

What say you, dear readers? Is it time for an Essence overhaul?

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-06-05T19:10:00.005-04:00

I absolutely love this picture of diva, Diahann Carroll. She looks so summery and effortless chic.

Enjoy!

"Skeletons In Your Closet....."

2009-06-02T10:05:00.015-04:00

So, I'm perusing around the Cityfile New York website, looking for info on the beef between them and MSNBC's Keith Olbermann (Sidebar: Shame on you Cityfile! Team Olbermann!) when I ran across a very interesting story on Oscar de la Renta and his wife, Annette.

Apparently, author and journalist, Michael Gross has written a book, Rogues' Gallery: The Secret History of the Moguls and the Money that Made the Metropolitan Museum, that's causing quite a stir amongst New York's social elite. According to Cityfile, Mr. Gross spills some seriously scandalous tea about the history of the Metropolitan Museum and prominent members of New York Society ---- including the de la Rentas. It seems that the info is so juicy, that mainstream media outlets won't include it in their coverage of Mr. Gross' book.

But lucky for us, Cityfile doesn't give damn, so grab a cup of tea and a scone and feast your eyes on this:

Gross's account goes back decades, back to when de la Renta was a mere "Renta." (He only added the noble-sounding "de la" after he arrived in the U.S., explains Gross.) And he details how de la Renta got his start in fashion, a career that blossomed when he met an Estonian-born baroness and two-time divorcée named Aino de Bodisco. De la Renta had little interest in an intimate relationship with the much-older baroness who, says Gross, had "bad skin and wore heavy makeup." But "she was wealthy and well connected," and de la Renta soon found himself living in a free, luxe apartment and commenced an apprenticeship at Balenciaga soon after. The relationship was short-lived. Once he no longer had much use for his "sugar mommy," de la Renta moved on to an affair with someone else—a man—and then his first marriage to Françoise Langlade, the editor of French Vogue at the time. Langlade had been divorced twice and was widely known—much like de la Renta—to be bisexual. But both seemed derive benefit from the marriage, especially Oscar, who suddenly had one of the most influential figures in fashion as his chief promoter.

Langlade passed away in 1983. Oscar didn't remain single for long. Shortly thereafter, he took up with his current wife, Annette, who was married to another man at the time. Leaving her husband for the gay designer wasn't much of an issue for Annette, who would go on to become one of the dominant behind-the-scenes players at the Met. "He could give her the life she wanted," explained Annette's mother to a friend at the time.

OH. SNAP!

As the old Italian proverb says, "If you spit up in the air, it will land in your face" and this is what's happening to Mr. ~~de la~~ Renta.

Now, I don't care what dude does in his personal life. I just think he has a lot of nerve looking down upon First Lady Michelle Obama, a woman who has worked hard all of her life to achieve what she has, while he was basically pimping himself out to the highest bidder.

But isn't that pretty much par for the course for a lot of these so-called elite types? Always looking down at others, acting superior, while at the same time trying to keep their own skeletons in the closet.

So, in light of this revelation, I'd like to dedicate the following to the ~~de la~~ Rentas. Take it away, Stevie!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-05-29T11:10:00.006-04:00

Photo: Carl Van Vechten
Sept. 25, 1962

The incomparable actress and Civil Rights activist, Ruby Dee.

Enjoy!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-05-22T08:14:00.006-04:00

The Boss -- Miss Diana Ross!

No explanation necessary.

Enjoy!

Michelle Obama on the Cover of Time Magazine

2009-05-21T18:52:00.008-04:00

Our fabulous First Lady appears on the cover of TIME magazine!

Read the full article, "The Meaning of Michelle" here, and check out Behind The Scenes with Michelle Obama by TIME photographer Callie Shell. Very cool pics!

I personally prefer this photo....

...but then again, I have a bias towards black & white photos. However, both portraits say to me that the meaning of Michelle is POWER.

What is The Meaning of Michelle to you?

(Source: Mrs-O.org)

Michelle Obama Promotes The Arts in NYC

2009-05-19T08:43:00.022-04:00

First Lady Michelle Obama being introduced by Caroline Kennedy
Photo: Getty Images

Last night was the 69th Annual American Ballet Theatre Opening Night Spring Gala held at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. First Lady Michelle Obama, who served as honorary co-chair, attended wearing a black metallic Azzedine Alaïa dress and jacket designed by Thakoon, the Associated Press reports.

The evening event capped off Mrs. Obama's visit to New York to promote the arts. Earlier in the day, Mrs. Obama visited The Metropolitcan Musuem of Art where she cut the ribbon for the re-opening of the Met's Charles Engelhard Court and the American Period Rooms.

(l. to r.) Caroline Kennedy, ABT Artistic Director Kevin McKenzie, ABT Exec. Director Rachel Moore, Michelle Obama, Sharon Patrick, Edward Fox and Dr. Jill Biden
Photo: Mary Hilliard/New York Social Diary

Deborah Roberts and Al Roker
Photo: Getty Images

Cari Modine
Photo: Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images

Grace Hightower, socialite and wife of actor Robert DeNiro
Photo: Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images

Veronica Webb
Photo: Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images

Socialite Susan Fales-Hill (2nd from l.) and Iman (2nd from r.) with friends
Photo: NYSD

Et Tu, Iman?

2009-05-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

First Lady Michelle Obama, President Barack Obama, Iman, and Opera Singer, Leontyne Price

Say it ain't so, Iman!

Hat tip: lamh32, poster at JJP:

Michelle Obama no 'beauty' but 'bright': Iman

NEW YORK (AFP) — US First Lady Michelle Obama is not a "great beauty," but will "just get better with age," Iman, one of the first black supermodels, says in a magazine interview.
"Mrs Obama is not a great beauty," the Somali-born model and wife of rocker David Bowie tells Parade magazine's Sunday issue, reflecting on the first black US first lady, who is a lawyer by training and a former executive.
"But she is so interesting looking and so bright. That will always take you farther. When you're a great beauty, it's always downhill for you. If you're someone like Mrs Obama, you just get better with age," she said.
Iman, 53, also told Parade that her rise to catwalk superstardom did not free her from racism.
"You suddenly represent a whole race, and that race goes, Well, that person does not represent our ideals of beauty. For lack of a better term, it becomes what it was like during slavery," she said.
"One had the field n...(expletive) and the house n...(expletive). There was this notion that I was chosen by white fashion editors to be better than the rest, which I am not. I did not like being thought of as the house n...(expletive)."

When I first read this article, I thought that maybe she was taken out of context and that it would best to read the actual Parade magazine article which is here. The only difference between the two is that Parade left out the "house/field n" reference.

I can't lie. This really disappoints me. This is really out of character for Iman. I remember reading an interview where she said that she knew that they were trying to pit her against fellow Black supermodel, Beverly Johnson, and would have none of it and went out of her way to befriend her.

For years, she has spoken out about the discrimination Black models have faced within the fashion industry, and how they are shut out from doing runway shows or acquiring cosmetic contracts (the fashion model's equivalent to the Oscar). And why were they shut out? Because they didn't fit the industry's Eurocentric standard of beauty. Hell, once upon a time, Iman wasn't considered "a great beauty", and yet here she is using that same narrow beauty standard to critique Michelle Obama.

Here's an excerpt from an interview Iman did for CosmoGirl! in 2004:

"Beauty is being comfortable and confident in your own skin. I have no intention of ever writing beauty tips on how to make an African-American nose look slimmer or Asian eyes look bigger. That's degrading. Asian eyes are what's beautiful about you and what makes you different. I want my legacy to be that I've opened the gates to what's considered beautiful now — and you are beautiful."

Doesn't this describe Mrs. Obama? She's comfortable in her own skin, refusing to succumb to the bullying from those who try to dictate how she should dress or act. And like Iman, she has "opened the gates" and expanded the definition of beauty, so why is Iman trying to close those gates?

"I did not like being thought of as the house n...(expletive)."

Well, Iman, when you make comments like this -- which is no doubt based on Eurocentric beauty standards -- it doesn't help your cause.....sista.

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-05-15T13:48:00.006-04:00

Photo: Galos Publishing/AMNY.com

For this week's Vintage Photo of the Week, I thought I'd venture outside of the U.S. to Puerto Rico and share this picture of Ruth Fernández, the first successful Black female Puerto Rican singer. Here she is performing at the 1968 Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City.

Known as “El alma de Puerto Rico hecha canción" which means "The soul of Puerto Rico made song", this diva was the first woman to lead an orchestra and sing at the Metropolitan Opera House in NYC. Sra. Fernández also served as a Senator in the Puerto Rican legistature.

For more info on Sra. Fernández, check out Music of Puerto Rico.

Enjoy!

Jennifer Hudson on the Cover of Essence - June 2009

2009-05-13T19:40:00.007-04:00

Photo: People.com

Singer and actress, Jennifer Hudson graces the cover of the June 2009 issue of Essence magazine.

In the issue, the Oscar and Grammy winner opens up about her relationship with her mother, the late Darnell Donerson, saying "I was always a mama's baby. I'd go and sleep in her bed until I was 15 years old." People.com reports.

I think Ms. Hudson looks amazing, and it's great to see her back on the scene.

Stay strong, sista.

"Halt! Who Goes There!"

2009-05-12T19:14:00.001-04:00

Hattip: Jack & Politics

Someone's in BIG trouble!

Politico posted this video of Desiree Rogers and Valerie Jarrett having problems gaining entrance to the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday night. That's right folks. The White House Social Secretary and the Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama were made to dig in their purses for ID as if they were two random guests to the dinner.

Unbelieveable and unacceptable! And I'm sure the security guards received a nice little "You Know You Done Effed Up, Right?" memo to go along with their pink slip on Monday morning.

But as you can see, Ms. Rogers and Ms. Jarrett handled the situation with class.

Glamour Comes To Washington

2009-05-10T18:27:00.027-04:00

First Lady Michelle Obama
Photo: Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images

Glitz and Glamour was the theme at last night's White House Correspondent's Association Dinner in Washington, D.C., as Hollywood rubbed elbows with the D.C. Beltway. Comedian Wanda Sykes headlined the event, and brought the house down with her trademark brand of tell it like it t-i-z humor that ruffled the feathers of right wingnuts. Oh, well. Truth hurts.

Wanda Sykes

First Lady Michelle Obama looked elegant in a Michael Kors fuschia sheath gown, accented with one of her signature necklaces and silver strappy sandals.

Mrs. Obama's partners-in-fashion, Desirée Rogers and Valerie Jarrett looked devastating as usual, with Ms. Rogers in a Grecian inspired hot pink gown and Ms. Jarrett in a shimmery champagne ensemble. Mums was the word as to who designed their gowns, as the ladies were reluctant to give up the 411. That's right ladies! Keep 'em guessin'!

Desirée Rogers and Valerie Jarrett
Photo: Kyle Samperton

Black Hollywood and Society made its presence known at event. Among the attendees were comedian/actor Chris Tucker, Tyra Banks, Ludacris, Melody Hobson, Al Roker and wife Deborah Roberts, D.C. mayor Adrian Fenty and wife Michelle Fenty, Colin Powell, Donna Brazille, Suzanne Malveaux, Alicia Keys, Dule Hill, Kerry Washington and a host of others.

A Change has definitely come to Washington.

Kerry Washington looking fab in J. Mendel
Photo: Kyle Samperton

Alicia Keys

Forest Whitaker and wife, Keisha

Melody Hobson
Photo: Carol Joynt

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-05-08T12:51:00.006-04:00

In celebration of Mother's Day weekend, I thought it would be fitting to post this beautiful photo of the late vocalist, Dr. Nina Simone and her daughter, Lisa Celeste (now known as Simone) taken in 1971.

Enjoy!

Desirée Rogers Featured in WSJ. Magazine

2009-05-02T12:00:00.014-04:00

The über-fabulous and tres chic Desirée Rogers is featured in the May issue of WSJ. Magazine. Here she is looking stunning on the cover in a Viktor & Rolf trench coat and Cartier diamond stud earrings.

The actual article, however, was disappointing. From the first sentence, you know what The Wall Street Journal's agenda is:

"Desirée Glapion Rogers is the descendant of a Creole voodoo priestess named Marie Laveau Glapion..."

Oh, I can hear the right wing nuts now: "See??? I told you those Obamas were dangerous! They're into voodoo! That's why Obama won! He had Desirée put a spell on the country!"

The more things change, the more they stay the same. The racist tone is glaring, but that's par for the cause for Rupert Murdoch's News Corp., the company whose New York Post ~~tabloid~~ newspaper thought this cartoon was funny.

While the article had it's moments of insight into Ms. Rogers' life (She's a breast cancer survivor) and how she's using her business background to reshape the traditional role of the White House Social Secretary, it was also dripping with partisan propaganda, insinuations (claiming that the reason Michelle Obama started a garden at the White House was to deflect the negative press the administration was receiving over the AIG bonuses) and straight up elitism which sought to take away from Ms. Rogers' achievements, but only exposed the author's and her employer's insecurities and envy.

You can read the article for yourselves here: Desirée Rogers’ Brand Obama. But I must warn you: The hate in the comment section is THICK, so make sure you have a cup of chamomile tea at the ready.

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-05-01T12:27:00.004-04:00

Photo: Peter Lindbergh/Vogue

When she's not knockin' folks upside the head with cell phones, Miss Naomi Campbell can work the cameras like nobody's bizness! Here she is in a 1990 Geoffrey Beene photo shoot for Vogue magazine.

Enjoy!

Vintage Photo of the Week

2009-04-24T06:00:00.002-04:00

Check out this pic of the legendary Lena Horne christening the SS George Washington Carver on May 7, 1943, a WWII Liberty ship which she sponsored.

From Wikipedia:

SS George Washington Carver was a Liberty ship built for the United States Maritime Commission during World War II. The ship was named in honor of George Washington Carver, and was the second Liberty ship named for an African American.

The ship was initially assigned by the War Shipping Administration (WSA) to the American South African Line, Inc. for merchant service. In November 1943 the ship was allocated to the United States Army by the WSA and was converted to hospital ship USAHS Dogwood. The ship made multiple trips to ports in England from its homeport of Charleston, South Carolina, before sailing for duty in the Philippines in 1945.

In January 1946, the ship was converted to carry a combination of troops and military dependents as USAT George Washington Carver. The ship was laid up in the National Defense Reserve Fleet in 1947 and was sold for scrapping in 1964.

Enjoy your weekend!

Three In A Row! Liya Kebede on Vogue's May Cover!

2009-04-14T18:33:00.005-04:00

(Photo: TheFashionSpot.com)

This is exciting! Not only are there real models on the cover instead of celebrities, but for the third month in a row, Vogue has a sista on its cover! Liya Kebede lands the cover, while British sensation, Jourdan Dunn, appears on the foldout portion of the cover. Congrats ladies!

Oscar's Mea Culpa

2009-04-13T18:34:00.001-04:00

Check out Oscar de la Renta trying to do damage control on The View, but Barbara Walters ain't tryin' to hear it!

H/T: The Yakety Yak

Riiiight, Mr. de la Renta. Blame it on the media. Hell, while you're at it, why don't you blame it on the a-a-a-a-a-alcohol, too?