Met Gala Fashion 2013: Best & Worst Dressed

This year’s Met Gala was all about opulence, as this year’s theme took the punk route. If only Rihanna was able to make an appearance, we all know she would have stolen the spotlight & the top spot on every best dressed list. Nonetheless, The stars stepped out & some embraced this theme like never before. Some soaring & some crashing & burning. Let’s take a look at some of the best & worst looks out that night. Please keep in mind that these are MY opinions & may not be the desired results of others.

BEST DRESSED: Cameron Diaz in Stella McCartney. Not punk, but still rocking it.

BEST DRESSED: Nicole Richie in Topshop

BEST DRESSED: Supermodel Anja Rubik

BEST DRESSED: Miley Cyrus in Marc Jacobs

BEST DRESSED: Anne Hathaway in Valentino Couture

WORST DRESSED: Beyonce

WORST DRESSED: Kim Kardashian

WORST DRESSED: Madonna

WORST DRESSED: Sarah Jessica Parker

My Favorite Great Supermodels Of ALL TIME- Bianca Jagger!

I was sitting at home one day, going through various fashion magazines as I usually do & I came up with the idea for this list. To list great supermodels that I feel have passed through the industry & left something unforgettable.

Inspiring, legendary, revolutionary, muses, glamazons & game-changers. All of these are words used to describe the following models who have graced the most prestigious runways & magazine covers, inspired top photographers or have made monumental changes within the industry over the years. Please keep in mind that this list has been listed at random & not numerically judged. Each model will have her own individual post.

Let’s start with BIANCA JAGGER!

Bianca was mostly known as a style icon & for her marriage to legendary rock star & frontman of The Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger. Bianca was also a prominent jet-set celebrity of the 1970s, known particularly as a close friend of famous artist Andy Warhol & one of the most frequent patrons of the famed Manhattan nightclub Studio 54 which has been a hub for fashion’s elite social scene.

The Nicaragua native who stands only at 5ft 6in, also starred in films/tv shows such as Flesh Colour, All You Need Is Cash
(also known as The Rutles), Miami Vice, Street Hawk, Hotel, The Colbys & Success.

Bianca is now a Council of Europe Goodwill Ambassador, Founder & Chair of the Bianca Jagger Human Rights Foundation, Member of the Executive Director’s Leadership Council of Amnesty International USA & a Trustee of the Amazon Charitable Trust. She has touched on controversial topics such as genocide, the war in Iraq, the war in Afghanistan, the war on terror, war crimes against humanity, crimes against future generations, the former Yugoslavia, Sri Lanka, Central America, Iran, Iraq, India, children and women’s rights, the rights of indigenous peoples, climate change, the rainforest, renewable energy, corporate social responsibility, the ensuing erosion of civil liberties and human rights & the death penalty.

Bianca on the cover of Vogue, March 1974

Bianca at nightclub Studio 54

Bianca on the cover of Vanity Fair, November 1986

Bianca in British Vogue, December 1974

MISS BARBADOS WORLD 2013: The ‘Tale of A Swan’ Masquerade Ball!

It’s that time again! Time to welcome back the Miss Barbados World Pageant! This year’s proceedings will kick off with the Capita Financial ‘Tale Of A Swan’ Miss Barbados World Masquerade Ball on Saturday, 27th April at the Barbados Concorde Experience. The official unveiling & presentation of this year’s delegates will the event’s main attraction.

Entertainment will be provided by Barbadian artist, NIKITA, who will give the audience a cabaret-style performance. Guests will be able to enjoy the cool sounds of R&B/Pop vibes, while enjoying the evening’s cocktails & hors d’oeuvres.



To join this night of fun & flair, PRE-ORDER YOUR TICKETS at admin@missbarbadosworldonline.com!

Please provide:

1. Name 

2. Number of Tickets

3. Contact Number

DRESS CODE: BLACK TIE (STRICT) – THE MASQUERADE MASKS WILL BE PROVIDED ON ENTRY.

My Newest Fashion Obsession & Women’s Fashion Must-Have: Jason Wu Resort 2013 Bags!

The Jason Wu Resort 2013 Karlie Clutch

Some say that Jason Wu’s Resort 2013 collection is altogether softer and more fluid than fall’s militia chic, and they are so right! This collection is richly filled with bold color choices, sophistication & flawless femininity, and though this collection is breathtaking in it’s entirety, the handbags are the standouts for me. Hence why I’ve chosen them as my women’s fashion accessory must-haves!

It is reported that Wu’s resort look was sparked by coming across some taxidermy bugs with bodies made of watch parts! Yeah, believe it or not! Artist Mike Libby’s machine-like beetles, wasps, butterflies & scorpions have most certainly left Wu with such a lasting impression that it inspired him to create these beautiful bags. Wu’s three bag shapes include the Daphne, the Karlie clutch & the Jourdan! Each are designed in a variety of bold, eye-catching color combinations. There’s no way you can miss these bags!

I’m ridiculously obsessed with these bags. So much so that I’m jealous that I’m not a woman so I can rock these fabulous fashion statements. But the best part about these bags is that any kind of woman can rock them! You don’t even have to dress up. Going to lunch with a friend, going shopping, going on a date or to a cocktail party, these bags can be your statement piece for any occasion. The Karlie clutch is a bit more elegant & fancier than the Daphne & the Jourdan which are more casual, but as I said, all these bags can be worn no matter the occasion because they are all bold but not overbearing & can alternate with different outfits.

Enough from me, I’ve proven how much I love these bags. What do YOU ladies think??

Jason Wu Resort 2013 Jourdan Bag

Jason Wu Resort 2013 Jourdan Bag

Jason Wu Resort 2013 Jourdan

Jason Wu Resort 2013 Daphne

Jason Wu Resort 2013 Daphne

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: America’s Next Top Model All Stars Winner Lisa D’Amato Talks Fashion & Beauty

I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing ANTM’s All Star winner, Lisa, on a previous occasion. We touched on her personal past, her experiences on ANTM & life after the being on television.

This time around I wanted to touch base on beauty & fashion tips for my readers & her fans to enjoy. Lisa is such a down to earth, cool chick. I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed interviewing her.

1. What trend(s) are you feeling right now?
-I really love florals right now, 60′s….think flower child. Bright colors [always]  but also bright colors with a twist of dark lip color.

2. How would you describe your personal style?
-My personal style is always pushing the envelop. I love bright and a bit outrageousness. I love themed and edgy with a sense of humor as well.

3. What are five things you think a woman should always have in her closet?
-Little black dress, amazing comfortable stilettos [any color], comfy stylish boots, and a favorite pair of jeans. The kind you know your ass looks great in, and a leather jacket [any color].

4. What are three thing YOU must have in your closet?
-Same! :]

5. When you’re not modeling, would you say you’re a heels, flats or boots girl?
-Heels and boots girl. I’m not a flats kinda girl. I feel hot when I know I’ve put a little effort into how I dress in the morning.

6. What was your favorite personal style moment?
-When I won best dressed in high school for the Hall of Fame. I was poor! I was always at thrift shops and did a lot of creative mix and matches. I had a lot of fun with it.

7. For you, what’s the difference between style & fashion?
-Style is more unique to who you are. Your personality and flair goes into it. Fashion is a staple of what is “accepted”. I think no one should follow trends but be a trendsetter if they want to be.

8. Now, as a model you have to constantly look your best. What are three beauty secrets that are in your daily beauty regiment that you can share?
-I always have a little concealer under my eyes since I don’t sleep much, lipgloss and a little pressed powder, and I’m ready for my day!

8b. How do you get your skin so flawless?
-Skin is sooo important. I’m lucky I never had acne or pimples growing up, plus I learned about skin care very early on. Drink lots of water daily, wash your face every night & morning and use lots of moisturizer. I like using all natural products.

9. What’s your favorite skin care product & why?
-I use/buy all my skin care products from vitacost.com. Nothing on that site has cancer causing ingredients [almost all American products do]. Your skin’s pores soak everything in, nothing should be harmful to your health.

10. You’ve been recently married. Congratulations!! I must ask about the dress. Who made it & can you describe it to us?
-Most brides to be spend tens of thousands of dollars on wedding dresses. That is a shame. They should use that money towards a honeymoon! Lol.. I got my A line mermaid cut dress off of Ebay for $156.00! Brand new! They even made it to my measurements! I loved my dress, felt beautiful in it, and I don’t waste money. Period. Everyone thought it was so expensive!!!! Nope.

11. Question submitted by a fan: “What was your transition like from tomboy Lisa to glamorous Lisa?”
-I think I’ve always been both. I definitely can get pretty gritty, not scared to get dirty, but I’ve always been one to be creative too. Sewing, painting, fashion, makeup, hair etc. I’ve always had an eagerness to express myself…stand apart from the pack and not scared to work for it.

12. Question submitted by a fan: “What is your workout regime like? You have virtually no fat on your body!”
-Hahahaha! Yeah I do! Thank you though. I’ve always been a cross country runner, a gymnast and a dancer. I go to the gym regularly too. I usually go 4 days a week w/ an hour of cardio and another hour of light weights for arms, stomach, ass, and hips. Then about 15 minutes of stretching. I have a lot of energy.

13. Question submitted by a fan: “When you’re on a shoot set, what inspires your poses?”
-Music. I think that the look and vibe of what you want to convey needs the right music. EVERY photoshoot has music except for ANTM which makes it a little weird.

on set of her music video ‘Soldier’

Lisa posing with the official Dre DeCarlo blog logo, after answering my Qs

Trend Alert!: Red Is On The Rise!

From Jennifer Garner to Kate Hudson, Ashley Greene & Brooke Shields, red is back & hotter than ever.

Whether it’s a pantsuit, a jacket or a standout frock, this bright & sassy color is great for women of all ages & skin tones. It’s the one color you can’t go wrong with! The best is it doesn’t always need to be showcased in an over-the-top style. Stars such as Amanda Seyfried & Leelee Sobieski both rocked red in a non-conventional way. Leelee wore a knee-length jacket accessorized with a black belt, whereas Amanda rocked a bright red pantsuit that she paired with purple lips and purple pumps at Paris Fashion Week (see photo above).

Red is also a choice color for color blocking but not everyone can rock such a bold statement. So since the color stands so strong all on its own, try to keep the shoes basic. Like a nude colored pump is sure to work well. Also keep the accessories simple. Maybe some translucent accessories or the traditional black.

New York Fashion Week was the first to debut this color as a fall trend for this year, labeling it as an empowering color. One must exude confidence & dominance when rocking a bold color such as this. From the beginning of time, red has been known to represent passion, desire & power. Now that this year’s fall fashion trends of luxe fabrics & fur are using this same color, you’ve got the perfect excuse to step out boldly in style. And don’t worry my ‘non-zeros’, this trend is for you too. Red also sits well with the full figured lady looking to do a ferocious fashion statement. Be sure not to go full head-to-toe red though ‘non-zeros’. You can rock something like a daring red turtleneck halter top with a white blazer, black skinny jeans & red pumps. You’ve got that red, but it’s not an overdo.

Bajan-British Model Syria Edghill Cops Contracts!

You may remember this stunning beauty from one of my recent posts of her placing 3rd in this year’s Miss London Pageant & as a contestant in the Miss England semi-finals. Unfortunately, Ms. Edghill did not make the finals of Miss England but she was swooped up by London-based agency D1 Model Management.

Syria, an accountants and finance student, has been modeling since she was 16! After being scouted by fellow Bajan, former IMG model & Miss Barbados Universe 2005 Nada Yearwood, right here in Barbados. Syria cites supermodel and TV personality Tyra Banks as her inspiration. She has trained with Bodens Youth Theatre and has already landed parts in British soap operas EastEnders and Holby City, and a Spring Break commercial on Nickelodeon. I believe Syria is destined for a bright future with great heights.

Congratulations Syria! Knock ‘em dead!!

Fashion: Resort Collections Inspired By Art

Prabal Gurung and Aaron Moran

1. It’s not quite difficult to realize that Prabal Gurung’s colourful resort 2013 collection and Aaron Moran’s fragmented sculptures have a bit in common. Moran’s artworks are constructed using wood; however Gurung’s garments take inspiration from the shape. “But apply a fresh coat of paint to the weathered & worn feel of their muse’s objects,” said fashion writer Tania Braukämper. I don’t know about you guys, but i am in love with the fabrics, colors and shapes used by Prabal.

Helmut Lang and Kate MccGwire

2. Tania Braukämper says, ”Kate MccGwire’s intense artworks which were constructed from feathers are the kind that are both visually awe-inspiring and mildly unsettling.” Often thinking of yet another way to deliver the shock factor that artist Kate MccGwire is known for. Bringing forth something of such simple nature and twisting the visual to awe-strikingly intriguing to the eye. For resort 2013, Helmut Lang designers Nicole and Michael Colovos used MccGwire’s works as a basis for an abstract print that mimicked both the patterns and tones of MccGwire’s works.

Giles & Classical sculpture

3. As seen in the obvious photographic prints that are splashed across some of Giles Deacon’s resort 2013 pieces, the designer was inspired by the Classical statues at North Yorkshire’s Castle Howard (one of England’s ‘grandest’ private mansions, most notable for having multiple interpretations of Brideshead Revisited set amoungst its grounds.) Using the images of these stone-carved marble statutes was quite a brlliant idea, especially since no one else has done it before and definitely not, quite literally reprinted them onto a fabric dress!

(photos from Fashionising.com)

M People Barbados Magazine – Fashion Bloggers Features

(from left to right) Gigi, Tesha, yours truly(in the wall pocket..lol), Barrio & Junior

I was honored to have been chosen among the best of the best when it comes to fashion bloggers in Barbados, Gigi Ma’at, Junior Sealey, Tesha Todd and Barrio Dimitri.. Funny enough, we are all also stylists at heart, so we were our own stylists for the shoot. Shot by Barbadian photographer Khalil Goodman on location at his residence.

(from left to right) Barrio, Junior, Gigi, Tesha & yours truly at the end

Bajan-British Model Syria Edghill Makes MISS ENGLAND 2012 Semi-Finals

Bajan-British model Syria Edghill has made the semifinals for this year’s Miss England pageant!

To support Syria, please vote by texting ‘MISSSEMI14′ to 63333 (Britain only). For ALL of Edghill’s UK fans, call 09013078567 and dial 14 when prompted. Make sure she makes the finals! Tweet #SyriaforMissEngland2012 & keep rooting for this beauty to become Miss England 2012. She’s been proving herself over & over again that she is worth of the Miss England crown. Ms. Edghill placed 2nd runner-up in the Miss London pageant and seems to be a sure favorite among many & you can bet that she’s definitely got my support.

Follow Syria at @SyriaEdghill

Syria also came 3rd in the Miss London 2012 pageant (first from left)

DRE DECARLO: Photo by Logan Thomas

Women’s Spring/Summer Look: 2012

Flirty with a touch of sophistication. That’s how I sum up the looks for this year’s women’s spring/summer fashion. No need to stress, let me help you out with some fashionable options for this year’s spring/summer.

Hobo chic inspired bohemian patterns, florals (once again), stripes & lace. A few of the trends that have graced the fashion runways around the world in their spring/summer collections. Now, don’t just heed to the fashion gurus and wear whatever is in style. It’s not just about what’s in. It’s what looks fabulous on YOU! It’s all about YOU, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Maxi dresses suit all sizes; from my plus size bombshells to my ferocious size zeros. You cannot go wrong there ladies. BUT, watch out for the patterns. Vertical stripes help to elongate the body (chiffon, organza and other sheer fabrics work well), whereas horizontal stripes may disadvantage those with wide waists or full figured bodies. For my full figured ladies, you may try the contrast colors combined, bohemian patterns or even the animal prints (which I adore). You’re more of the feminine type? No problem. Go floral! You can never go wrong with floral during spring/summer (unless it’s a dress, don’t wear head to toe floral..not cute).

Mini dresses are also in for those ladies who like to show off their gorgeous legs. D&G, Betsey Johnson, Balmain & Paco Rabanne have all showcased mini dresses in their spring/summer collections and definitely seem to be a hit with the leggy & modelesque and petite women. Perfect for your cocktail parties or soirees, using bold color blocking patterns or tribal, which seems to still be a favorite from last season. You also have the option of wearing stockings, which are back in, or dark leggings to help pop your color blocking skills. Or you may even opt for pants with your top and/or a blazer to show off your color blocking skills.

Now as I always say.. Go worth and don’t do fashion, BE fashion! BE FEROCIOUS!

example of color blocking; shown in American Vogue’s September Issue 2007

further examples of color blocking

extreme color blocking

Comeback!

To all my fashion aficionados, music enthusiasts & professionals and the rest of my readers who frequent my blog pages, I know I haven’t been blogging as fluid as you or I would like. But no worries!! I’ve been working my butt off hunting down celebs and industry professionals for much more content.

I promise to make 2012 memorable and informative. So keep on the lookout. And thank you so much to ALL those who keep checking the site. I check my statistics every month and I’m never disappointed. So, once again, thank you and keep reading!

new promo shoot with photographer Logan Thomas. I will be spearheading an anti-drugs campaign

Miss Barbados WORLD Contestant – Nichola Maynard

Nichola Maynard, a strong, dominant personality with a smile bright enough to lighten up your darkest day. This warm, fun-loving individual will stop at nothing to achieve her goals, some may even say disclipine and perseverance has helped to mold this beautiful young lady for the challenge of competing in this year’s Miss Barbados World Pageant.

Maynard says, ” I am a currently a contestant in the Miss Barbados World Pageant 2011 who is
extremely excited about my journey ahead as I learn, progress and develop as an
individual. 

Described as the ‘life of the party’, determined,
hardworking, and down to earth; as a proud Island Girl I settle for nothing but the
best! Win or lose, I’ve reached a step further to the greater person I will
become destined for success.”

Take a look at her Facebook Fanpage and vote for her by clicking ‘Like’. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nichola-Maynard-for-Miss-Barbados-World-2011/135495163191902

MOTTO: Live. Love♥. Laugh

Miss Barbados WORLD 2011 Contestant – Sedia Jackman

 

Sedia Jackman is a nineteen year old aspiring model of Caribbean descent. She has an associate degree in Office Administration and Management and having graduated from College she has decided to focus her energies on pursuing an international modeling career.

 

Her statistics are:
Bust: 34 inches
Waist: 24 inches
Hips: 34 inches
Cup Size: DD
Height: 5ft 11 1/2 inches
Shoe Size: 10/11
Hair Color: Black

 

To date, her body of works includes:

Shows:
• Absolute Caribbean Fashion Weekend 2008 (Barbados)
• Fashion Meets Polo 2008 (Barbados)
• Simon Peter Show 2009 (Barbados)
• ACF Fashion Weekend 2009 (Barbados)
• Youth Foundation’s Charity Event 2009 (Barbados)
• Islands of The World Fashion Week 2009 (Nassau, Bahamas)
• Barbados Under the Water Festival 2010 (Toronto, Canada)
• Baje Free To Fly Media Launch 2010 (Barbados)
• BB Fashion Week 2010 (Barbados)
• Emilio Pucci Eyewear Launch 2011 (Barbados)

Magazines:
• Island Life Magazine Issue No. 38
• Nu Woman Magazine 2009

Campaigns:
• Face of Waterhall Polo Barbados January 2008
• South Central Album 2010 – Swimmin’ In Soca
• Digicel Barbados –Digicel Christmas Campaign 2010
• Banks Breweries – Banks Calendar 2011

 

Click “Like” on this page to vote for me to win the People’s Choice Award at Miss Barbados World 2011.

 

Miss Barbados WORLD Contestant – Marielle Wilkie

 

 

Marielle Wilkie, a well known print and runway model in the island of Barbados is one of the promising contestants of this year’s Miss Barbados World pageant (2011). Marielle has written up a small bio, just to give the public a little taste of her personality.

” For those of you that don’t know me, here is a little bit about me.
I love surfing, one of my passions is being in the water. I also love sewing and making outfits to wear, I went to canada to do arts and came back with glass blowing under my belt. Its an amazing art and really cool to watch as well! Another one of my great qualities is I’m a people’s person, I love socializing and meeting new people! I absolutely adore children, I believe that they are the new generation of the world and they need all the guidance they can get! That’s about it for now, if you want to know more you can tune into Tempo and Centric television to watch out journey to Miss World!”

 

Be sure to visit Marielle’s facebook fanpage, the contestant with the most ‘likes’ wins People’s Choice. So, click the ‘Like button’ if you like. – http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marielle-Wilkie-Miss-Barbados-World-2011-Contestant/195945737119108

 

I wish Marielle and all of the other contestants much luck! xoxo

Exclusive Interview- Pop/Rock Artiste ERYN WOODS

I had finally found the time to interview this up and coming musical phenom(via email). Hailing from Atlanta, Eryn Woods is a constantly rolling ball of …for lack of better words..AWESOME! Ahaha. She had intrigued me from the moment I discovered on a music site online. I hunted her down and contacted her immediately! Just within a few moments I was drawn into the allure of Eryn Woods. From her edgy 80s punk mohawk to her funky style and kind demeanor, Ms. Woods is a genuine sweetheart and I am officially a ‘kupcake’!! (A term she uses to describe her fans. Hahaha!!)

I took the liberty NOT to edit this interview so much, because I wanted the reeaders to really get a feel of Eryn’s persona. Happy reading!

1. What inspired you to become a performing artiste?

-I have been singing probably since i was able to talk! I have always been surrounded by music (good music) and I was always encouraged to do what I love to do.

2a. What influences have had a hand in your image? I’m seeing a little Cyndi Lauper, Madonna and Grace Jones, haha.

-Well, I guess you could probably name certain people from different generations but I definitely am just doing ME. Being an artist gives you the ability to express yourself the way you want to.

2b. I absolutely LOVE the mohawk! When did you get it done and what drove you to it?

-THANKS!!!! My mohawk was done in stages….and this was the end product. LOL I always loved trying different things and hair was my outlet, so this is what came from it.

3. Tell us about your music. Which kind of genre would you say you fit most?

-If you want a description of my music….i have been told “If Cyndi Lauper and Gwen Stefani had a love child….it would be me” LOL So i guess you can say that its pop…but of course i add some edge which brings in the rock!!!

4. Who are your idols/role models in music and furthermore, in life.

-Some of musical influences would be Cyndi Lauper, Missing Persons and Madonna.

5. Did you always see yourself getting into music, or did you have other major ambitions?

-I always told myself that if i didn’t or don’t do music…i don’t know what i would do in my life. Thats why i never stopped pushing….because I wasn’t going to give up on the one thing i knew I was meant to do.

6. Are you currently signed to a label?

-I am not currently signed to a label but i am signed to a. production company, Pharsound Productions. We are doing everything independently until the fan base expands!!!!

7. What have been the most difficult trials as an artiste?

-I believe that the most difficult trials would have to be the whole journey of getting to the top…I’m not even all the way there yet and I’ve been through more then I’ve ever thought. Its a lot harder than just…being a good singer and then getting signed. You have to work 24/7. But to be more specific…being a woman in this industry is probably the most difficult thing.

8. Name two (2) things you love about being an artiste.

-I love making all my kupcakes (fans) smile and happy. And I love traveling and meeting all different people all across the world.

9. Do you write your own songs? If so, what inspires you?

-I have other writers that I work with in the studio to write my music. We sit down, talk about what I am going through or have went through and write about that. But the one thing some people forget when writing music, is you still have to think about the consumers/fans and what they can relate too.

10. If there is one person in your life that you live to make proud, who would that be and why?

-The one person that I have always wanted make proud of me now and in the past was/is my mom. She has always been there for me and has encouraged me to pursue my dreams since I was a little girl. She came to every choir performance, theatre performance, competitions, etc. Sitting there supporting her baby girl. Even when she had a million and one things to do. Especially since I have 2 older sisters and 3 younger brothers. She has never let me down, so I never want to let her down.

11. What are your guilty pleasures? (Eg. food, fashion, cars, etc.)

-I would have to say the 2 things that I probably spend way to much money on are sunglasses and shoes (heels to be exact). I can’t live without them!!! hahaha

12. What is your biggest dream accomplishment as an artiste?

-My ultimate goal would have to be getting to a point in my career where “my words” make a difference in the world. And being able to help any one in need, especially young girls.

13. Last but not least, what advice would you give to all those asiring performers read this interview right now?

-I don’t know if i can say everything in a couple sentences but I’ll try to summarize it. lol

DON’T GIVE UP….there will be times that you want to stop because there will be some steps backwards but if you keep giving your all, you will go 2 steps forward. When you are meant to do this….DOORS WILL OPEN FOR YOU. And never think that it will all get done for you….you have to put your heart and soul into it and work hard. Even if you have a great team around you, remember its YOUR career and life.

I asked Eryn just to give a random quote to sum up the interview. She replied, “Kupcakes are about to take over the world!!!!!” <3

You can't NOT love this girl! Hahaha.

Dre DeCarlo, xx

Threads of Scarlet in Concert! – Review

Booming with excitement and spilling over with anticipation, the atmosphere was nothing less than epic. Saturday night, March 26th 2011, Threads of Scarlet proved to be not only the best rock act in Barbados but showed they are ones to watch.

From jamming to their original musical fusions such as Hot Box (a song promoting marijuana use) or rocking out to Falling From Far, a more classic hard rock ballad fully equipped with screams and high notes, Threads of Scarlet, for lack of better words, BLEW THE ROOF OFF! The event was highly publicised and the fans kept flowing in throughout the night, emitting an atmosphere reminiscent of Woodstock!

The event was also attended by fellow musicians Mahalia Philips of Nexcyx, which recently tore up the SXSW Music Festival in Texas, and Coverdrive‘s Amanda Reifer. Coverdrive got signed to Geffen Records this year and were spending most of their time in the studio. Look out for even more Barbadian musicians abroad.

Amanda Reifer and I

Dre DeCarlo, xx

RIHANNA- Head of the pack again!

Rihanna this week becomes the first artist to amass five 3-million-selling digital hits in the U.S. (combining lead and featured credits). She scores with Eminem’s  “Love The Way You Lie”, which has sold 3,000,000 digital copies in the past 11 weeks. Rihanna’s four previous 3-million-sellers are: ”Umbrella” (featuring Jay-Z), “Don’t Stop The Music,” “Disturbia” and T.I.’s “Live Your Life.”
Keep it coming RiRi!!! Make it LOUD!

Rihanna’s New Album “LOUD” Will Be Released on November 16!

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Shontelle Layne!

Known for her smash debut R&B hit, T-Shirt, the Obama Campaign song, Battle Cry and the soundtrack of  Confessions of a Shopaholic, Stuck With Each Other, Shontelle just keeps rising and proving to the world that she’s got it!!

Shontelle took some time out of her ridiculous schedule to answer a few of my questions on fashion,the up-coming album No Gravity and her newest single Impossible!!

1. How would you describe your personal style?
It really varies depending on my mood but I’d say a combo or surfer chick/skater girl/rock&roll/high fashion. Sometimes I’ll even go hobo! LOL!

2. Who is your favorite fashion designer?

At the moment I love Marc Jacobs. He never fails me. Plus he designs for Louis Vuitton, a staple in my everyday wardrobe.

3. When it comes to fashion, would you say you’re a minimalist or do you like to go all out?

Once again it depends. Sometimes naked/bare chic is right for the occasion. Tends to be softer and more romantic & natural. I prefer that for dinners/red carpet etc. But for stage or videos, I go ALL OUT! Some days I just feel like being crazy & I do something obnoxious like wear sunglasses or shoes that clearly have no right anywhere except a W or Harper’s Bazaar fashion spread or on a catwalk!

4. Are you a practical girl or do you have a liking for high fashion?

I like comfort first & foremost usually, especially since I travel alot. But I do have an obsession with high fashion and I can’t help myself at times. You’ll never know how much pain I’m in

5. Jimmy Choos or Christian Louboutins?

Haha! YSL or Giuseppe Zinnotti? :p

6. How do you put together your daily outfits? Do you have a stylist?

I have about 3 different favorite main stylists. 1 who just shops with me and helps me create my everyday looks (which I then put together myself day to day) and 2 others which I interchange for videos, performances etc. Often they collaborate with choreographers, set designers, management, PR, Marketing and each other. Styling is a very delicate process and can be very frustrating & complicated. It’s fun when you get it right. Not so fun when you don’t. But I have worked with so many stylists worldwide for different events & photo shoots etc.

7. Are you a fashion week regular? Or do you not like social events?

Shontelle posing with Vanessa Williams at the Ugly Betty Gala

Haha! I NEVER miss fashion week! I usually get invited to alot of designers shows & parties. Sometimes I even walk/model! This year I made my usual rounds at New York Fashion and I’ll also be doing LA Fashion Week events. I can’t wait to go to the international ones like London, Paris & Milan! Don’t even get me started on Asian fashion!

8. What was your most memorable fashion moment? (positive or negative)

OMG! Best fashion moment? Well apart from my features & spreads in Vogue, Elle & In Style, I’d say, shooting the Licky music video. I have never been surrounded by & adorned with more fierceness & fabulosity in my life!

9. Now, let’s talk about the up-coming album. What inspired you for this album?

All my experiences from Shontelligence. I traveled so many places and experienced so many things. So many new cultures, new art, new food, new music. No Gravity is a blend of all that!

10. The first single Licky, a provocative club banger, is not what you’re really known for. What made you come out of your comfort zone?

My “comfort zone” huh? Well I’m not quite sure what that is but I just put it this way. For me, music is much like film & tv are for actors. It’s fun to pretend to be someone else. I enjoy playing many different roles because I know somewhere, someone can relate. I like to make music for everyone. And some people are kinda licky! LOL!

11. Your more recent track, Impossible, is being VERY well received by your fans. Another ballad like T Shirt, which showcases your amazing vocals and really pulls at the heart strings. What was the inspiration for this one?

Impossible is truly perhaps one of my best vocal performances ever! It’s such a beautiful song and I love it so much. I gave my everything on that track. If you’re asking if it’s inspired by a real life experience….YES!

12. Did you write the song as well?

Actually I didn’t add much to Impossible except for my vocals and my emotion. They let me produce my own adlibs and stuff. Great producer, Arnthor Birgisson of the Aristotracks! The Swedish have taken over the pop game!

13. When will the album be dropping?

Probably closure to Summer 2010

14. Any collaborations?

Some freakin amazing collabs! I’m so hyped! Wish I could spill the beans but if I do now, Sylvia Rhone will kill me!

15. Anymore endorsements or any fashion lines we should be looking out for?

I’m actually working on some very cool stuff this year. Stay tuned…

16. Finally, what is your advice for the aspiring artistes out there that look up to you, especially those from Barbados?

Well every person’s entry into this industry is very unique & there is no particular strategy or formula except to have a team (note that word!) that you can trust and who are savvy and work hard! If you don’t you WILL fail! Believe in yourself, your talent and your ability to succeed. Go hard! Many people expected me to fail and even wanted that. The odds that I would were far greater than those of me making it. But talent only goes so far. You have to be smart! If music is what you love, then study your craft. Don’t just study the music, study the music business. It ain’t no sweet bread! You might not like the taste. But dessert is ALWAYS great!