Nell Robinson- Jamaican Supermodel in COSMO!

Nell Robinson-Jamaica’s sweetheart, a true “Island Goddess” turned international supermodel, graced the pages of this year’s August edition of US Cosmopolitan Magazine!!

“Nell now being a household name to many across the globe,  has an  unprecedented record holding of the most requested model via email since her first appearance in Cosmopolitan Magazine Uk Issue march 2008″ said one popular blog site.

The Magazine has generously rewarded this ”Goddess” with a prestigious eight page spread rightly entitled ‘The New Sexy Must – Haves’’ (Aug 09 issue) which is absolutely breath-taking, photographed by french photog Arthur Belebeau.

She donned fabulous pieces by top designers Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo, DKNY, R&Y Augousti, Leyendecker, Bebe and H&M.

Gorgeous. Absolutely gorgeous!

That’s all I have to say!

For Nell’s official FashionModelDirectory.com profile, please visit http://www.fashionmodeldirectory.com/models/Nell_Robinson

YOUTH FOUNDATION’s Charity Fashion Extravaganza

Youth Foundation Presents the Charity Event of the year, in the form of a Spectacular
Held at Sandy Lane Country Club on Saturday the 19th December.  Show commencing 7.30pm.

The Charity Helps the youth of Barbados to achieve their Dreams or potential. The line up includes all the top designers throughout the Caribbean, featuring; Pat Blackman – Caribbean Designer of the Year,
Simon Peter, Rojoe, Avark, Cassandra Motley and Nefetarri, showing their latest collections  featuring the stunning international model Tenille Stoute.

Also featuring Diamonds International ’s  fabulous range of  diamonds and jewellery.

On arrival, there will be drinks, canapés  and an amazing auction.

 
Tickets are $150 per person, on sale at  Diamonds International stores; Holetown, Bridgetown, & Sandy Lane. Exclusive VIP tickets available at 269-1508.
Spectacular Fashion Extravaganza, Sandy Lane Country Club, Saturday, 19th December. It’s going to be an amazing night and it’s not to be missed, things like this do not happen in Barbados.

 
Exclusive VIP tickets can be had for $300.00 you get to go backstage to meet the models and your own table in the VIP area. Remember, General Tickets are $150.00
If you can make it would love to see you there.

RIHANNA on GQ!

RIHANNA has come out on top yet again with some amazingly stunning pictures for GQ MAGAZINE’s JANUARY 2010 ISSUE. RiRi poses topless for the cover of the magazine with only some tiny hot leather pants covering her bottom half.. oooooo, daring..   

     

 

Images sourced from RihannaDaily.Com

    
  
 

    

Images sourced from RihannaDaily.Com

 

Information compliments http://butterfly-productions.org

Miss Barbados 2009- Leah Marville

Miss Barbados 2009, Leah Marville, is making significant strides in the international prestigious contest, Miss World 2009!

This international top model is competing against some of the world’s most beautiful ladies, all vying for one of the world’s most sought-after pageant titles. Ms. Marville, has really been making strides that no previous Miss Barbados has done before!!

All the publications have reported that Leah is the BEST we have ever sent and the ONLY that has ever had the genuine opportunity to win this thing!

Leah (left) with Miss Scotland

Most recently, the prestigious site known for accurately predicting the winners of the world’s most anticipated pageants, Missology.org, had an online poll ‘Miss World 2009 People’s Choice’, and Barbados was voted #1!!!

Miss Barbados Leah Marville, and Miss Bahamas Joanna Brown

So, if the rest of world seems to agree with Leah winning this year’s Miss World Pageant, then what’s stoping us?!

Full info on Marville-

Full name: Leah Janine Marville
Age: 23
Statistics: 32 – 23.5 – 34.5
Weight: 110 lbs
Height: 173 cm
Educational Background: Erdiston Primary School, Queen’s College Secondary, University of the West Indies – (Bachelor of Laws) LLB (HNS)
Occupation: An International Model and Student of the Norman Manley Law School (where I took a year’s break)
Hobbies: Watching movies, intimate dinners with friends, reading, laughing, dancing, hosting for tv, creating positive ideas for new projects
Philosophy: Dare to believe in yourself and your dreams WILL come true and even when the going gets tough, never lose grip or sight and DREAM ON!!!!!!!

The poll from Missology.org:

Miss World 2009 People’s Choice

Who should be the Miss World 2009? [16186 votes total] Barbados, Leah Marville (7039) 43% Hungary, Orsolya Serdült (4795) 30% Indonesia, Karenina Sunny Halim (1294) 8% Bahamas, Joanna Brown (544) 3% Philippines, Marie-Ann Umali (478) 3% Vietnam, Tran Thi Huong Giang (469) 3% Mexico, Perla Beltrán (264) 2% Puerto Rico, Jennifer Colón (207) 1% Albania, Armina Mevlani (167) 1% Venezuela, María Milagros Véliz (100) 1% Trinidad & Tobago, Ashanna Arthur (89) 1% Jamaica, Kerrie Baylis (81) 1% Malaysia, Thanuja Ananthan (51) 0% Dominican Republic, Ana Contreras (37) 0% India, Pooja Chopra (32) 0% Belize, Norma Leticia Lara (30) 0% Brazil, Luciana Bertolini (29) 0% Thailand, Pongchanok Kanklab (29) 0% Panama, Nadege Herrera (23) 0% Bolivia, Flavia Foianini (23) 0% Poland, Anna Jamróz (21) 0% France, Chloé Mortaud (20) 0% Colombia, Daniela Ramos (18) 0% Belgium, Zeynep Sever (16) 0% Peru, Claudia Carrasco (15) 0% South Africa, Tatum Keshwar (15) 0% Nepal, Zenisha Moktan (15) 0% Guyana, Imarah Radix (13) 0% Canada, Lena Ma (13) 0% Ecuador, Gabriela Ulloa (11) 0% Montenegro, Marijana Pokrajac (11) 0% Nigeria, Glory Chuku (10) 0% El Salvador, Elena Tedesco (10) 0% Singapore, Pilar Carmelita Arlando (10) 0% Netherlands, Avalon-Chanel Weyzig (8) 0% Iceland, Guðrún Dögg Rúnarsdóttir (8) 0% Argentina, Evelyn Lucía Manchón (8) 0% Belarus, Yulia Sindzeyeva (7) 0% Slovakia, Barbora Franekova (7) 0% Romania, Loredana Violeta Salanta (7) 0% Aruba, Nuraisa Lispiër (7) 0% New Zealand, Magdalena Schoeman (6) 0% Macedonia FYRO, Suzana Al-Salkini (6) 0% Suriname, Zoureena Rijger (6) 0% Gibraltar, Kaiane Aldorino (6) 0% Guatemala, Alida Boer (6) 0% Lebanon, Martine Andraos (5) 0% Turkey, Ebru Åžam (5) 0% Martinique, Ingrid Littré (5) 0% Sri Lanka, Gamya Wijayadasa (5) 0% Italy, Alice Taticchi (5) 0% Serbia, Jelena Marković (5) 0% Ireland, Laura Patterson (5) 0% United States, Lisa-Marie Kohrs (5) 0% Hong Kong China, Sandy Lau (4) 0% Portugal, Marta Cadilha (4) 0% Israel, Adi Rudnitzky (4) 0% Japan, Eruza Sasaki (4) 0% Paraguay, Tamara Sosa (4) 0% Finland, Sanna Kankaanpää (3) 0% Norway, Sara Skjoldnes (3) 0% Costa Rica, Angie Alfaro (3) 0% Sweden, Erica Harrison (3) 0% Kazakhstan, Dina Nuraliyeva (3) 0% Croatia, Ivana Vasilj (3) 0% Côte d’Ivoire, Rosine Gnago (2) 0% Northern Ireland, Cherie Gardiner (2) 0% Ukraine, Evgeniya Tulchevska (2) 0% China PR, Yu Sheng (2) 0% Egypt, Samah Shalaby (2) 0% Namibia, Happie Ntelamo (2) 0% Bosnia & Herzegovina, Andrea Å arac (2) 0% Korea, Kim Joo-ri (2) 0% Luxembourg, Diana Nilles (2) 0% Malta, Shanel Debattista (2) 0% Tahiti, Nanihi Bambridge (2) 0% Greece, Alkisti Anyfanti (2) 0% Sierra Leone, Mariatu Kargbo (2) 0% Curaçao, Chantalle Thomassen (2) 0% Australia, Sophie Lavers (2) 0% Zimbabwe, Vanessa Sibanda (1) 0% Angola, Jesinalda Silva (1) 0% Russia, Ksenia Shipilova (1) 0% Scotland, Katharine Brown (1) 0% Slovenia, Tina Petelin (1) 0% Spain, Carmen Laura García (1) 0% Moldova, Maria Bragaru (1) 0% Lithuania, Vaida PetraÅ¡kaitÄ— (1) 0% Ghana, Mawuse Appea (1) 0% Mauritius, Anaïs Veerapatren (1) 0% Georgia, Tsira Suknidze (1) 0% Honduras, Blaise Masey (1) 0% England, Katrina Hodge (1) 0% Kenya, Fiona Konchellah (1) 0% Tanzania, Miriam Gerald (1) 0% Denmark, Nadia Ulbjerg Pedersen (1) 0% Czech Republic, Aneta Vignerová (1) 0% Wales, Lucy Whitehouse (0) 0% Zambia, Sekwila Mumba (0) 0% Swaziland, Nompilo Mncina (0) 0% Austria, Anna Hammel (0) 0% Latvia, Ieva Lase (0) 0% Guadeloupe, Béatrice Blaise (0) 0% Uruguay, Claudia Vanrell (0) 0% Uganda, Maria Namiiro (0) 0% Bulgaria, Antonia Petrova (0) 0% Ethiopia, Lula Weldegebriel (0) 0% Germany, Stefanie Peeck (0) 0% Mongolia, Battsetseg Batbaatar (0) 0% Cyprus, Christalla Tsiali (0) 0% Liberia, Shu-rina Wiah (0) 0% Botswana, Sumaiyah Marope (0) 0% // EMAIL THIS POLL

Click Here for FREE Web Polls, Guestbooks, and Forums.

Rihanna on Saturday Night Live!!

International Barbadian superstar Rihanna, rocked the house at Saturday Night Live (SNL) on 5th December 2009.

Once again, this regular chart-topper has proven that she cannot be kept under wraps! ‘Cuz she’s so HARD!!!

…prepare for the crotch grabbing………

I present to you.. RIHANNA!!

Dre DeCarlo- The RAW Series…

Welcome to the real Dre DeCarlo..

rebellion…

style….

I AM FASHION. DEAL WITH IT!!!

PHOTOGRAPHY: Logan Thomas

WARDROBE STLYING: Dre DeCarlo

THE WAIT IS OVA!- Rated R!

IT’s here!!!

What everyone has been waiting for, the dynamic return of RIHANNA!

Her new album ‘Rated R’ has dropped today, 23rd November 2009!!!!!

It’s the fourth studio album by the Barbadian singer. The album’s first single, “Russian Roulette”, written by Ne-Yo and Rihanna, was released on October 20, 2009.

GET YOU COPY NOW!!!!!

BAJAN INVASION at Islands of The World Fashion Week 2009

The 2009 Islands of the World Fashion Week was held on the 4th – 8th November, 2009 in Nassau and Paradise Island, The Bahamas.

Barbadian models who participated were;

Imogen Cooper

Kari McCarthy

 

Alyson Holder

 

Sedia Jackman

 

Nia Walcott

 

 

The bajan team rocked the Bahamas with their unique fierceness, as they were the only contingent that were given the privilege of wearing almost ALL designers that were shown at this year’s Islands of the World Fashion Week. They were the seeming favorites of the event.

They were even picked up by a limo!

 

model Kari McCarthy in make-up

THE BAJAN INVASION- (left to right) Kari, Alyson, Imogen, Nia and Sedia

AMAs 2009- the Hits!!

 

Rihanna in a floral Marchesa gown with sexy laser cut-outs.

The 2009 American  Music Awards were held at Nokia Theatre. Live on Sunday (November 22) in Los Angeles.

The stellar performances of the night were Lady Gaga’s smash hit ‘Bad Romance’, Adam Lambert’s first single off his album “For Your Entertainment” and the most anticipated return of Rihanna on the international stage performing ‘Wait Your Turn’ and ‘Hard’.

Rihanna’s performance started with a Michael Jackson-esque intro with a ghostly voice welcoming the audience to her ‘madhouse’. It was very Thriller meets Marilyn Manson & Madonna. She even made her entrance on a giant pinwheel, suited in a balck & white stripped body suit with white wedged heels.

Gaga made mouths drop with yet another shocking performance involving an ablazed piano.. yes, I said an ablazed piano, as in a piano on fire!!

Lambert on the other hand was shocking in a different way. His performance not only involved fire as well, but also bondage artists and male sex slaves on leashes, a dancer’s head grinding against his crotch simulating oral sex, and had a hand on his own crotch. He also made out with a male band member and flipped his middle finger.

To sum it all up, this year’s AMAs was one to remember.

YOUTUBE it if you miss it live!

Are You A Fashion Victim?

What is a fashion victim?

Wikipedia states:

“Fashion victim is a term – claimed to have been coined by Oscar de la Renta – that is used to identify a person who is unable to identify commonly recognized boundaries of style.”

And in my opinion, there’s a fine line between being a fashionista and a fashion victim. You’ve probably heard the term before. Furthermore, you probably see them everyday or maybe you are one, but are totally oblivious to this possible fact.

So, let me share some information to help you all re-evaluate your ‘personal style’.

As many fashion journalists or stylists would agree, fashion victims are people who take a fashion trend and run with it regardless of how it looks on them, whether it is totally clashing with their skin tone, their body frame/shape, height, age etc.

First pointer; ALWAYS aim for the classic pieces, timeless collections should always be in your wardrobe. Such as, the little black dress, white shirt dress, black slacks, pumps etc. One can never go wrong with stuff like this because they usually fit the average individual, fashionista or not!

Secondly, don’t be attracted to the ‘big names’ just because of the name! Regardless of brand, one should always be conscious of whether the article of clothing or accessory suits your body, skin tone, age, etc.

Another horrible occurrence is when one is wearing too many trends at once and therefore taking the look from the glamourous to the ridiculous. For example; if pink is in, for the love of all things right, DO NOT WEAR ALL PINK then have matching accessories and shoes. It’s too much at once! Colour overload!

Also, spend more time with yourself! Get to know you! Fashion victims often forget that it’s okay to have a personal sense of style. They just wear what the rest of the world tells them to. You can avoid being a fashion victim by taking a step backward and returning to what you love to wear. Think about what style of clothing looks good on you. Don’t just buy something because it makes you feel ‘in’ or ‘trendy.’ Buy it because you love it. And don’t be afraid to match items of clothing that you haven’t seen anyone else wear. That’s okay. That’s called having ‘personal style,’ and that’s exactly what you need to do in order to avoid being a fashion victim and to promote uniqueness.

- Dre DeCarlo for KURAMAMAGAZINE.com

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW!: America’s Next Top Model winner- MCKEY SULLIVAN

What is your full name?

Brittany McKey Sullivan

How long have you been modeling?

On and off for the last 5 years.

What has the progression experience been like as a model?

Well, sometimes I didn’t do anything. I was a hair model for a couple years when I was in college and now after doing the show (America’s Next Top Model/ANTM), everything seems to be going pretty well! There’ve been ups and downs but that’s just the industry.

What was the America’s Next Top Model experience like?

For me, it was definitely a great experience. It was extremely stressful though, the entire time I was there I was depressed (giggles). The first couple of weeks I had to get used to all the cameras being around ALL THE TIME! But after a while you pretty much don’t even recognize them anymore! I was really focused, so ALL my energy went into getting a little better every week and not being in the bottom two (smiles). I wouldn’t focus on winning because I think that distracts you in a way. It’s really difficult living with so many girls. You’re always around each other, bickering but… humans are adaptable, so I adapted. It was good but I don’t think that I could do it again (chuckles).

At the G Star Fall 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Hammerstein Ballroom on February 17, 2009 in New York City.

So, what are you doing now in life?

I just moved to Paris.  I’m taking some classes there and I’ve been there for about 3 weeks now and when I get back there, I’m gonna be looking for some agencies. I didn’t want to just go as soon as I got there and be totally clueless so I decided to wait a while to feel out the city (smiles). My agency (Elite Model Management) is in Chicago and New York and they have an affiliate in Paris, so… I’d probably be going with them but I’m not sure yet (smiles).

At this year's Absolute Caribbean Fashion Weekend in Barbados, where she ripped the runway and conducted a modeling workshop.

What has your experience been like in Barbados?

It’s very cool!! (smiles brightly) (chuckles) Not only am I in a tropical place with very nice people, but I get to see what fashion’s like in other parts of the world where it isn’t like a big fashion centrral. The models are much nicer even if they don’t know much about the industry, they’re not at all catty and moody like (using fingers as claws and making a funny face) RARRR!! (LAUGHS) Like how those in New York and Paris are. The designers are VERY talented and you get to see things that arn’t scripted, you get to see the rawness. And that’s a good thing.

How do you handle the ‘cattyness’ from the other models internationally?

Well, alot of them arn’t very nice, especially behind the scenes, the interviews and confessions (on ANTM). All the ‘cattyness’ gets hard during the show but you would have noticed that in the show, I just went cooking and kind of ignored them (laughs). Alot of them are VERY competitive and are really mean to you but I just don’t understand how being mean is going to help your chances but it seems to be what they think!… (sigh) I just ignore (smiles).

How did you get into modeling from being a kick-boxer and martial artist?

Well, I did mixed martial arts and what actually got me into modeling was a really bad soccer accident. I had to get 3 knee surgeries and therefore modeling went pretty well with that (chuckles) because you can’t exercise too much or you’ll get too big or masculins-looking then you won’t be able to fit into the clothes so… I’m doing great! (laughs).

What is you main goal in modeling?

Hmm.. To push myself as far as I can! Do my best, then move on with my life. and do something else because I just want to be the person I am when I wake up every morning and when I go to bed every night, to feel like I’ve done something with my life. So, if modeling ever stops feeling like that for me then I won’t do it anymore.

What do you see yourself doign after your modeling career?

I would like to be a doctor, a neonatal surgeon…… (silence) (McKey laughs)

Okay.. When you were in college, what did you study?

Law, Chemistry, Biology and Government & Politics. (long pause)

So, what’s it liek being a CoverGirl® ?

It’s excellent!! CoverGirl® is a wonderful company, they’re very good to me (smiles). It helps me to do alot of things like the Make A Wish Foundation. It makes me feel good about myself.

McKey's CoverGirl® ad

How would you describe your personal style?

I’m not particularly into fashion. I like clothes, but I don’t like shopping. I liek tiemless things, I’m not very trendy. I’d say I’m vintage, very vintage. I’m a medieval first lady (laughs).

How would you describe McKey/Brittany? … the person, not the model.

hmmm… I guess I’m just kinda lame! (laughs) I’m boring, I like to play with the dogs, I looooooove animals, I love going for walks, I love playing sports, I love cooking… I’m you’re average woman, home in her pajamas. (laughs) I don’t do crazy things, I don’t party alot….. I’M LAME! (laughs).

So, who are you wearing?

Uh…. Target (laughs)

What is your advice for aspiring models around the world?

Be organized, polite, don’t get in your head that you’re above anything, because you’re not! Remind yourself that you need to think of this like a business person. Learn how to take criticism, and you have to stay strong in who you are as a person to do so. Realize that you aren’t done growing as a person and you’re not done changing. Keep pushing because if modeling is what you really want, THEN PUSH!

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW! : President, Producer & FOUNDER of Miami International Fashion Week- Beth Sobol

As an international fashion model for many of the world’s top fashion houses in the U.S., Europe, South America and Far East, and a fashion show producer for over 25 years, Beth Sobol’s experience and dedication to producing highly professional fashion shows and special events is unsurpassed.

      Since 1975 Beth has lived and worked in more than 30 countries accumulating extensive experience and international contacts in all phases of fashion show and special event production and is recognized as a pioneer on the international fashion scene.

      During the past several years, Beth has become most notable for her concept, development and implementation of Miami International Fashion Week.  Miami International Fashion Week, which initially presented the latest collections of designers from Latin America, has grown to include designers from North and Central America, Europe, the Middle East, Canada, Asia and the Caribbean, and has garnered international attention within both the fashion and corporate worlds, securing sponsorships from major multi-national companies and media partners from around the world.

      Beth has worked with many of the industry’s most influential designers and producers and has developed both professional and personal relationships worldwide.  Her clients include local, international and major U.S. fashion designers, international special event production companies, charity and fund raising groups, foundations, national fashion associations, international fashion councils, international designer salons, fashion magazines, public relations companies, trade show management companies, shopping malls, national department stores, art galleries and private educational institutions.

  

 

When did your interest in fashion start?

At the age of 19, when I started modeling.

I heard you were once a top international model. Tell me a little about that, the experience.

I model for 20 years in 28 countries for all the top designers in the world.

in her modeling days, Beth seen here on the catwalk for Pierre Balmain in Paris

What was the most challenging part of modeling?

Managing all of the bookings, I was a very busy internationally traveling model.

What was your most memorable moment of your modeling career?

Doing the press shows in Paris, Milan, London and Tokyo.

What would you say to aspiring fashion models?

Stay focused and treat it as a profession. If managed well, you can have a long career and make a lot of money.

model strutting her stuff on the MIAMI INTERNATIONAL FASHION WEEK runway

 

How did you get into fashion show production?

When I retired from modeling my old clients asked me to produce their shows when I no longer wanted to model. My first clients were Chanel, Fendi, Escada, St. John and all of the designer shopping malls in South Florida.

How long have you been doing fashion show production?

Since 1996.

Where did the idea of Miami Fashion Week come from?

I produced a show in Guyaquil, Ecuador with 21 Latin American designers from 12 countries and they all wanted to go to Miami. Two years later, I launched the first Miami Fashion Week and brought them all in.

What was your initial intention?

To create a fashion week for the best emerging designers from around the world and introduce them to the international press and US market.

Would you say that you have fulfilled this initial intention?

ABSOLUTELY!!

 

How do you decide which designers will participate in Miami Fashion Week?  (see attached)

When you first started in modeling and were traveling around the world, did you see yourself doing what you’re doing now, or did you have other ambitions?

I originally planned to be a chef and have studied cooking all over the world but plans changed and I created Sobol Fashion Productions.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?

Continuing to build MIFW into an even greater world class event and supporting more international designers.

## 

Requirements for Designer Participation

Miami International Fashion Week 2010 
 
 

1. The designer must have been in business for a minimum of two (2) years continually designing collections with a minimum of four (4) collections in total or two (2) collections per year.

    

2. The designer must have received press coverage in their country from prior collections.

    

3. The designer must produce a minimum of 30 pieces per collection and provide all shoes and accessories required to complement the collection.  Jewelry and accessories designers must produce a minimum of 15 pieces per collection. 
4. The designer must be able to manufacturer, produce and ship the collection on the US timetable of 60 days from the date that any order is placed.  Manufacturing/production capabilities and quality control are very important in the evaluation process. 
5. Photos of the latest collection and designer biographies in English must be submitted by email for evaluation.

VITA PERFORMS AT 2009 Soul Train Awards

Rockin' it out!!!!!!!!!!!!

Vita blew the roof (and let’s not talk about how hott those shoes are, hahaha)!!!!! She rocked the house at this year’s Soul Train Awards presented by Centric at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia on November 3, 2009, alongside the likes of Estelle and all the other greats she met like Fantasia, Toni Braxton etc. The show will air on Centric on November 29.

Vita’s seatholder at the Soul Train Awards

Vita doing her thing with Estelle at the Awards ceremony

Beyonce, Keri Hilson, Maxwell and Jamie Foxx were big winners at the awards show. Congrats to all of the winners and nominees.

Hope to see you on that list next year Vita!

Lots of love and support, from yours truly,

-Dre DeCarlo.

Why The Little Black Dress Will Always Be Hot

Many of you have probably heard the term ‘LBD‘ before, and if you’re not a fashionista, one tends to get lost. Okay.. so, according to most fashion sites,

” A little black dress is an evening or cocktail dress, cut simply and often with a short skirt, originally made popular in the 1920s by the fashion designer Coco Chanel. Its continued ubiquity is such that many refer to it by the abbreviation, LBD.”

Audrey Hepburn

Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel changed the whole scope of things when she first designed the little black dress/ LBD. In 1926 Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel published an image of a short, simple black dress in VOGUE Magazine. It was calf-length, straight, and decorated only by a few diagonal lines. Vogue called it “Chanel’s Ford.” Like the Model T, the little black dress was simple and accessible for women of all social classes. Vogue also said that the LBD would become “a sort of uniform for all women of taste.”

Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel (19 August 1883 – 10 January 1971)was a pioneering French fashion designer whose modernist philosophy & menswear-inspired fashions have made her a fashion legend and an important figure in 20th-century fashion.

And they were absolutely correct! Even DECADES after (about 8 decades to be exact), the LBD is still a must-have for women everywhere and has become a staple within the fashion industry WORLDWIDE. Designers such as Hubert de Givenchy, Christian Dior & Bill Blass have all tried to copy the original design and replicate the initial image of Coco.

However, in most recent times, designs for the ‘LBD‘ have evolved. For example,

Allessandro Dell’ Acqua FW08.09

Balenciaga FW08.09

Versace  FW08.09

Now, there are many different ways to utilize and accesorize the ‘LBD’. Feathers, ruffles, seuins, beads, leather, wool …there are so many materials and accesories that designers are using now to make their ‘LBD’ stand out of the bunch [look at photos below] and to try to revolutionize what was once simple (although in my opinion I prefer the simple ones ).

It’s so classic [and also depending on how simple it is], this elegant yet sexy piece suits most women. You can pop in a simple sexy ‘LBD’ when paired with bold colored or bold pattern heels and bag/accesorizes that match or coordinate (as pictured below) to get that simply-chic look.

Victoria Beckham (left) and Lady Gaga in LBDs

For those who may be unaware, there is actually a new term called ‘TBD’, according to Glamour.com which basically means ‘tiny black dress’ -the modern version of the ‘LBD’. There were just a few tweaks made to make it look more personal [please look at photos below] to portray more character and individuality for the unique fashionista.

Why do we need LBDs? Here are four great reasons why, according to fashion stylist Colin Megaro:
1. Black is flattering for all sizes, shapes and skin tones. No matter who you are there is a LBD out there for you! Take the time to find one that makes you feel great and fits you properly.

2. You can wear black any time, during any season and to most events. The LBD is chic, classic and sexy all rolled into one. It’s the perfect dress to be worn for a night out on the town or as a cover up at the beach.

3. You can wear this dress a dozen different ways. Jazz it up for evening with a beautiful beaded bolero or tone it down with flats and a wrist full of bangles. If you would like to wear it to work layer a cardigan sweater or blazer for a more refined look.

4. Last but not least: one of these dresses is never enough. Have a few versions on hand that can work with the rest of your wardrobe.

 

- Dre DeCarlo for KuramaMagazine.com

Absolute Caribbean Fashion REPORT! – Caribbean Catwalk Night

The 2009 Absolute Caribbean Fashion Weekend was held at the Fairmont Royal Pavillion, St. James, BARBADOS. There were three nights for different showings. The designers were categorized by region; Barbados Night, International Couture & Caribbean Catwalk. Friday, Saturday and Sunday respectively.

Designers featured on the Caribbean Catwalk night were as follows; Shawn Griffith Perez, Kimya Glasgow, Kimon Baptiste, Queen Esther- Kummba Designs, Heather Jones and Claudia Pegus. Special runway appearances were made by America’s Next Top Model winner McKey Sullivan and international Canadian top model Simone Small.

Absolute Caribbean Fashion Weekend, Caribbean night,  showcased talented designers from across the region, whose works consisted of some FABULOUS designs, coupled with a few near misses as well as a few total disasters……

Claudia wowed the audience with her ‘Tribute to Michelle Obama’ line. Inspired by the fashion stylings of Michelle Obama herself. It was a definite hit amongst the audience and fashion media.

model Imogen, wearing a fabulous fuschia dress from Claudia Pegus' line

model Shani, wearing the Claudia Pegus 'show-stopper' of the line, 'Tribute to Michelle Obama'.

winner of America's Next Top Model cycle 11, McKey Sullivan, rocking it in a Claudia Pegus piece

Queen Esther, from St. Lucia, was another crowd pleaser with her Kuumba Designs. Showing many fresh, innovative ways to design, wear or create clothing strictly from white cloth. Which, in my opinion, is VERY hard to pull off, as the preceding designer hailing from Trinidad &Tobago, Shawn Griffith Perez, failed at his attempt to TRY to achieve the same effect. Don’t get me wrong! Some of his white pieces were beautiful, just very few! And his tie-dye pieces were HORRENDOUS!

international Canadian top model Simone Small, donning a fabuluos piece by Queen Esther

model Kenyah, wearing Kummba Designs by Queen Esther

model Nia, wearing a DISGUSTING dress by Shawn Griffith Perez

model Sedia, wearing a HOTT dress by Shawn Griffith Perez

Ms. Heather Jones… hmm.. colorful, VERY colorful, very caribbean-inspired. Liked it for the most part but some of her pieces were just WAY over the top, and not in a good way (as pictured below) !

Heather Jones' 'show-stopper', worn by McKey Sullivan

model Orchid, wearing a beautiful Heather Jones piece

Heather Jones' piece- eww..

Heather Jones' piece- hott!!

Favorites of the weekend were Claudia Pegus, Pat Blackman, Kuumba Designs, Jewel Shannon & Kimya Glasgow. Other participating designers were either disappointing or fell short of average, or just plain old boring, has-been stuff. Sorry, I like to be honest .

 

-Dre DeCarlo for KuramaMagazine.com

Bajan Model Rocks LONDON FASHION WEEK ‘09!

Barbadian beauty, Syanne Patterson, blew the roof of this year’s London Fashion Week Spring/Summer ‘09!!

She donned the designs of Pierre Garroudi, for his Spring/Summer 2010 Ivory Collection.

Recently, Patterson also copped a modeling contract with British model management company, Leni’s Model Management, after many years of modeling in her homeland Barbados, since her teens.

 

Go on girl! We’re proud of you. KEEP ON DOING YOUR THING!!

xoxo

-Dre DeCarlo.

Dre DeCarlo’s List of Top Models in Barbados ‘09

**Please keep in mind that this list is based on performance and NOT the amount of jobs or level of experience!**

RANDOM ORDER…

Alyson Holder (Flawless Management- BARBADOS)

Imogen Cooper



Shannie (Gadal Model Management- BARBADOS)

Deneise Dennis (Flawless Management- BARBADOS)

Kari McCarthy

Kenyah Hope (Gadal Model Management- BARBADOS)

Sedia Jackman

Photography compliments: Logan Thomas, Khalil Goodman, Adrian Richards, Jaryd Niles-Morris and Marcus Art.

Russian Roulette- RIHANNA: IT’S FINALLY HERE!!!

RIHANNA’s NEW ALBUM – RATED R – HITS MONDAY, NOV. 23rd

 

“Russian Roulette,” first new single pick –written by Ne-Yo – was launched worldwide today, Oct. 20th on radio and on official Rihanna website.

“Russian Roulette” video to premiere on ABC-TV Long-awaited follow-up to 2007’s worldwide multi-platinum Good Girl Gone Bad.

 

THANK GOD SHE’S BACK!!! Now some REAL music has arrived .

KEEP READING AND LISTEN TO Rihanna’s new single ‘RUSSIAN ROULETTE’.

RIHANNA- The Wait Is Ova!!!!

That’s right guys!!! ‘Little Ms. Sunshine’, (nickname dubbed by Jay-Z) is back!! Although a name change may be in order because, let’s face it, she ain’t ‘little miss sunshine’ no more!

 

As reported on various entertainment blogs and COUNTLESS news sites, Rihanna has released the Promo video of her up and coming musical comeback/promo video, ‘The Wait Is Ova’. [<--available at this link]

 

Her comeback album [4th studio album] is to drop November 23rd, 2009!

 

 

 

photo from the video shoot.. for more go to http://realtalkny.uproxx.com/?attachment_id=33396

Interview: International Model RAMA DIOUF

This African VOGUE cover girl has started to make strides within the European fashion industry and continues to wow all those who are fortunate enough to grab a glimpse on this Senegal-born beauty.

Here’s a look at an exclusive interview that I conducted with her.

 

 

What is your full name?

Rama Diouf, but you can call me Rama

 

When and where were you born?

Ho good question, let me think… I was born in Dakar in 1986,
Sénégal, West Africa. Hot sun, soft sand, beautiful sea and baobab
tree!

 

Where did you grow up?

I lived in Dakar from the little sunshine I was to my 21st birthday !
And I think I grew up a bit to 6′ (183cm). Then, my studies took me
to Paris in France where I’ve been living so far

 

When did your interest in modeling start?

Fashion has always been a passion. In 2006, I participated in the first
edition of “Ébène Top Model” with Katoucha Niane. I never forgot what
she said to me : “Ho, she has a beautiful body!” (laughs). I then tried the
famous Elite Model Look in 2007 ; I was published in the Senegalese
magazine “Relax” ; but I took a break, because my studies in computer sciences took all my time…

 

 How did you get started?

Well, can I say as a free-lancer first?(giggle) In Senegal, but it really
started in France. I did many fashion shows for young fashion
designers, TV commercials (Orange, Smartbox, etc.). I met a lot of good
photographers and did some contests, like “Miss Earth France 2009“
beauty contest where I was elected 2nd runner.

 

Was it a rough journey or did things just come along for you?

It was very rough. I had to fight my way in this industry. I would say
80% of failure at castings, time consuming, but fun and… Hey, it’s
fashion!

 

What and when would you say was your breakthrough point?

First agency after 1 year of rough time, first job : Catwalk for the
Grazia’s Street Fashion Show in 2009. Then, I was scooted by 3 more
agencies in which I work today. One of them is Slides Models.

 

What have been your struggles within the industry?

Well, as you noticed, I’m a black model who works in France… which
means struggles! It’s not easy. The predominantly white community
cannot identify with a black woman as the clients said.
Once, I was filtered at the entrance of a casting. A woman took my
composite but did not let me see the client. On leaving, the designer
saw me and asked me to come with him for fittings…
Walking with a 33″ / 24½” / 35″ body and a height of 6′ don’t open all
the doors!

 

 

What is your main goal?

I would like to become a fashion icon, go as far as possible in the
fashion industry. My main goal? Reveal once again the concept of
“Black Beauty”. And as Barack Obama said, “Yes, we can!”.

 

What is your advice for those little girls watching you, wanting
to be fashion models?

Having the “right” body is something, but the “right” spirit is all. You
have to be passionate, available at all times and above all be able to
overcome failures. In summary, be motivated!

 

- first digital editing and last shot are from Mario Epanya ,
- Second is from Gilles Avenel,
- Third is from B-Rouss

Folks, contact Rama if you want to work with them.

Last but not least, you can discover a part of her work here :
http://www.ramadiouf.com :)