Rainy Day Diva™

When I came across this, I was captivated by the three things I love: handbags, shoes and books!  Not to mention the fact that this isn’t just some random picture-at least not to me.  This is what’s up and coming from one of my favorite designers (especially for handbags) – Cole Haan.  The thing about makeup, handbags and shoes that I love is that they are the great equalizer!  It doesn’t matter whether you are a size 4 or 24, or if you stand 4′ 11″ or 6’2″. When your makeup is right, your shoes are fly and your bag is fabulous you’re are on your way – or at least you should be.  So here’s a peak at what Cole Haan is up to this season.  The bag below almost made me teary eyed, but if I bring one more reptile into my closet, I might get a citation.

This gives the whole librarian, schoolteacher image a whole new vibe, right? And if you have to go flat, go in style with these animal print ballerina flats.

Next week, is the beginning of Fashion Week with the kick off Fashion’s Night Out.  The great thing about it, is that it doesn’t just happen in NYC.  Fashion’s Night Out takes is global.  Every major city should have some type of fabulousness going on.  Check their website for more info, here.  A map of events is also in the September issue of Vogue.  Then, there are some really great reads on the way this month. So the book stores and libraries aren’t a bad place to be, either.  I’ll keep you posted.  Meanwhile, watch out for Earl. I’m talking about the storm, but that goes for men, too.  Enjoy the weekend!

September may be stylish, sexy, stunning and so on, but October is starting to look down right delicious.  These three gents will be guests in your living room this fall.  Each starts a brand new season, starring in what looks like some exciting TV.  Until then, check your mail boxes and news stands for the October issue of Essence magazine.  Boris Kodjoe is sexy Undercovers, Blair Underwood is President in The Event and Lance Gross is still bringing the swagger on House of Payne.  Ladies, you might just want to spend a few more nights at home or at least get TIVO.  You’ve been warned.  More style and fashion from the upcoming season to come.  Stay tuned!

Meanwhile, here’s a clip for your afternoon entertainment. Let me know what you think!

September is here.  Can you believe it?  2010 is definitely in a hurry.  This month alone is full of activity: deadlines, back-to-school, end of summer vacations, end of the 3rd quarter at the office.  But there’s another side to this month of new beginnings.  September is stylish, smart, sexy, sweet, silver, stunning and simple.  September is a month of beauty, fashion and it ushers in a new season.

I’ve been stockpiling all the September issues of the glossies, getting my makeup and fashion fix this month.  There’s always new trends, new designers, and new campaigns.  While everyone was highly anticipating and raving over Halle Berry gracing the cover of Vogue’s September issue with a slicked out bob (as well they should), another hot model/actress managed to snag the cover of W rocking a fro none the less.  I’m talking about Yaya DaCosta.

You may remember Yaya as the runner up to Eva “the diva” Marcille on America’s Next Top Model a few cycles back.  Well, Ms. DaCosta has worked steadily to build an impressive career since her Top Model days.  Yaya has starred alongside acting greats such as Antonio Banderas, modeled in major magazines, and even had a recurring role on ABC’s hit series, Ugly Betty.  She played Vanessa Williams daughter.  That’s a little pie in the face to all those who say the Top Model contestants only turn up on milk cartons.  Take that!

What I love about this cover is that it gives you it gives you smart, sexy and stylish looks that go along with the fluctuating temperatures that September can bring.  Ya Ya and Greta both are wearing makeup that is a subtle transition from spring to fall makeup looks.  A rosy lip and touch of lavendar on the lid is a nice balance.  A look that can take you from the office into the evening.  Long lashes are always a nice touch and with a lot of mags showcasing girls with barely there lashes nowadays-I loved it.  I’m even loving the Ralph Lauren cashmere turtle neck.  Jennifer’s bold red lip is a bit more of what I’d expect for September fashion, but it still works.  A look like that needs precision-don’t try to skip the lip liner on that one.  Use one that is closer to the shade of the lipstick itself for that look.

I could not end this post without circling back to the hair.  I’m loving the fro.  I haven’t seen a fro on the cover of a major fashion mag in well…never. Kudos to W on that one!

I’d like to hear your thoughts on the cover?  What’s on the agenda for you this September?

This fall’s nail colors are going to be so hot.  While some lines are ushering in subdued elegance, MAC is bringing the drama!  Celebrity manicurist and salon owner, Jin Soon has set a bold, daring look for nails the fall and winter nail lacquers.  Her inspiration: China.  The colors have a range of finishes from opaque to pearl.  Concubine is a berry color that is just short of burgundy.  Nice if you aren’t ready for bright red or a deep grape.  However, if you want to get noticed, I’d suggest Imperial Flower, a pearlescent bright orange  or Ming Blue.  There’s something about blue nail polish that is tricky, especially if you work in the office  I think you’ll find that Ming Blue strikes just the right balance.  If you were looking for a green that wasn’t reminiscent of mint or seaweed, then you might want to give serious consideration to Jade Dragon.

If you’re in the NY area check out Jin Soon’s salon, here.   You are going to love the salon.  Their services are excellent.  But if you don’t take the train, you better take some quarters.  The meter maids don’t miss a beat.  Check the Fall/Winter ’10 nail lacquer swatches below.

Last night was the 62nd annual Emmy Awards.  The red carpet was full of fashion fabness and a few faux pas.  The show itself got off to a bang with a Glee opening.  While, I haven’t watched a full episode of Glee yet, I enjoyed the opening which featured, host Jimmy Fallon, Tim Fey and wardrobe makeover mid song from Tim Gunn.  It seemed that ruffles and goddess-inspired gowns were all the rage.  Here’s a few of my favorites.  What do you think.  Who rocked the hottest hair, makeup and fashion?

Kim Kardashian - Photo, Jason Merritt

Mindy Kailing

Amber Riley

Heidi Klum - Photo, Jason Merritt

Claire Daines - Photo, Matthew Imaging

Eva La Rue - Photo, Matthew Imaging

Julia Louis Dreyfus

Ok.  So most of these were winners.  I just have one question for Julia Louis Dreyfus–Why? The gown really isn’t bad.  It’s just that mid-rif baring is not for everybody.  There are times, when no matter how shapely and fit you are, you should just pass.   Just my opinion.

Palace Pedigreed, MAC F10

MAC has me saying hello, kitty!  No, not that kitty.  I’m talking about MAC’s new Fabulous Felines collection.  While I’ve been eagerly awaiting MAC’s Venemous Villains collections to drop in September, they’ve been in the lab creating more beautiful colors.  In the meantime, my inner little girl dreams can sport some big girl glam with the Fabulous Feline Collection.  Leopard Luxe, Burmese Beauty and Palace Pedigreed (pictured above).  These colors are rich, intense, and even a bit daring.

Leopard luxe gives you the warm browns and soft tones that are expected for fall, but very rich.  Palace pedigreed adds a slight electric vibe to the traditional plums that we see in the fall season.  Burmese beauty is a treat.  You know green has been in high demand this season and Burmese Beauty is an eyeshadow that is a brownish green, but it’s complimented by Showstopper (matte), a blackened brown which should make for an interesting smokey eye.  This particular set interest me most because, I would normally not think to pair a green and a rose together.  This is stepping out of my box and I am so looking forward to it.  Each collection includes pigment.  For Burmese Beauty the pigments are Antiqued green and Gold Stroke (both frosted) an interesting pairing to say the least. This fall is going to be hot!

Makeup Tip!: The thing to remember with using pigments on lips or eyes is that they are highly concentrated.  However much you think you need, start out with a fourth of that and build from there.  You can make them really sheer and soft, or very intense.  Intensity should be intentional-not an “oops” or an “oh well”!

Burmese Beauty, MAC F10

Leopard Luxe, MAC F10

I don’t know if its because we had a recent dip in temperatures, a few gray, rainy days or the fall issues of magazines that have taken over my living room, but I’m starting to become preoccupied with fall colors.   It’s too early for boots and sweaters and I am intend to soak up every bit of summer that is left.  But I won’t have to sacrifice one summer outfit to start wearing Essie’s nail colors for fall.  When I first saw Little Brown Dress, I knew that would find a place on my shelf.  I love the rich chocolate color.

We went really deep this summer with the grape and “almost black” nail shades, alternating them with bright greens and pinks.  This collection gives us similar alternatives, but with muted tones that are still rich.  I’m looking forward to Sew Psyched a jade green. I keep saying I’m going green with nail polish and just haven’t yet.  It’s a trend I like.  I think Sew Psyched will take me there.   Merino Cool is another that I’m anxious to try, because this fall’s neutrals are still in shades of gray and this should pair nicely.  Take a peek at the other color swatches below.  Let me know what you’re planning on wearing this fall.

Just last week I was listening to the Steve Harvey Morning Show and as a regular segment Essence Editor, Angela Burt-Murray came on to discuss hot topics.  The question was something to the effect of, is church or religious beliefs hindering the black women from finding a mate.  Another jab.  Well, I listened as they discussed what some women are doing or thinking that limits their dating options and ultimately there chances at marrying.  Inevitable the word “dating pool” came up.  And it was suggested that some women ditch certain criteria to increase their dating pool.

Oh, if only I’d had a microphone.  It’s true that some women, regardless of race or ethnicity are too picky.  I mean, if his eyes have to be the exact shade of chestnut, or he has to be precisely, 6’2″ tall, I agree you may need to rethink that.  I also had the major laughs of seeing Steve Harvey talk to two women on Oprah last year and I think one of their requirements was that he be able to tango.  Laughable?  Heartily.  But on a serious note, I take issue with the idea of giving up what is important to you, to increase the size of your dating pool.

Divorce courts are full of people who had no standards, no criteria, and plenty of options.  I mean if we want to increase the width and depth of our dating pool, we could only require a pulse.  Why not include incarcerated men, emotionally unavailable men, men behind on child support, those without dreams or goals.  And let’s not forget those whose self-esteem is so low that they need a harem to make them feel like men.  I believe they call themselves “players”.

Once I was told by a wife that I was too picky because I wanted a man with a job.  She went on and on about how she is putting her hubby through school.  Noble, yes.  Would I do it?  Perhaps.  But my initial criteria includes a paycheck.  After all, I work and that would be something the two of us have in common.  Extenuating circumstances would have to be explained.  Being alone is not the same as having the plague.  Ask somebody in a bad marriage, they’ll tell you.

Your thoughts?  Are our standards really to high?

By the way, you can check out My Blogalicious post, here.

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I just got turned on to the Rachel Zoe Project earlier this year.  This woman has a behemoth to-do list and manages to entertain and amaze while getting the job done.  She’s become as highly recognized for her signature phrases as she has for her style and creativity.  Among her go-to phrases, “I Die”.  In the September issue of Harper’s Bazaar, Rachel is featured in a photo shoot where she does just that-die, over and over again.  This layout reminds me of a hybrid between an America’s Next Top Model assignment and a Derek Blanks altar ego shoot.  Zoe is paired with several designers including Michael Kors, Brian Atwood and one of my favorites, Vera Wang.  Here’s a peek.

If you could create your own fantasy photo shoot, who would it be? Mmmmhhhh…

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