Fashion News: Iman to Be Honored With CFDA Award Tonight!

It's truly a good week when it starts out with news this amazing. My favorite model of all time and one of my greatest Style Icons, Iman, will be honored with a Fashion Icon award at the CFDA Awards tonight at Lincoln Center!

Previous winners of the award have included Kate Moss and Sarah Jessica Parker, but this is an amazing honor for black models from every era, a group that has seen much struggle within the fashion industry. The recognition of one of the greatest models and businesswomen of our time is a huge step in the right direction and well-deserved per her impressive body of work. She's a Fashion Icon and a role model that you can have it all, work very hard and still be a class act.

For those who would like to read the spectacular piece on Iman that was published in Friday's New York Times regarding this award and her fantastic career (written beautifully by Teri Agins), please click here.

Bravo, Iman! We look forward to covering what spectacular creation Alexander Wang is reportedly creating for you and please enjoy this amazing reward. ADORE YOU!

Global News: Lulu Guinness, Diane Von Furstenberg and Estee Lauder

We've got fabulous news from around the world. Let's get to it, shall we?

Lulu Guinness, the amazing British accessories and beauty maven, is launching her first US e-commerce store TODAY. Exclusively for the launch, the designer created this adorable Stars and Stripes clutch to add to her legendary Lips Collection of handbags. The bag will be available only online for a limited time but, I mean, really: who can resist this bag? Not me. Sorry, I digress. The site features expanded content and videos featuring the designer’s personal reflections on her individual bags. More sites are planned for expansion, with Japan, China and Korea following the US and UK. It's super fabulous and you MUST HAVE the Stars and Stripes Lips clutch, so head over there and check it out.

Meanwhile, legendary designer Diane von Furstenberg recently launched a gorgeous store in Latin America in Iguatemi, Sao Paulo. True to her worldly style, the designer partnered with the City of Sao Paulo to sponsor the exhibition Journey of a Dress,  a retrospective of her work, life and career curated by Vogue Editor-At-Large, Andre Leon Talley. The exhibit features all of the Warhol paintings of Diane, family photos and all of her legendary wrap dresses by decade.

The boutique and exhibition were launched with fourteen hundred of the city's social set attending a proper Brazilian style bash. If you're traveling to Sao Paolo, this boutique and the exhibit are total must-sees. The mini wrap dresses in her vibrant prints for spring are something to see!

Last but most certainly not least, Estee Lauder has announced the two newest faces of their brand: French model Constance Jablonski and Chinese model Liu Wen. These two lovelies will join Hilary Rhoda, Carolyn Murphy, Elizabeth Hurley and Gwyneth Paltrow as part of the global advertising campaigns beginning June 2010.

It's a whole new world for the powerhouse beauty brand, as it marks the first time a French model and a Chinese model have been signed to represent the legendary label. It's a great statement on the progression of the ideal of beauty and of the world as a truly global marketplace.

More news forthcoming from NYC and around the globe. Keep it here for all the fabulousness that's fit to read! xoxo

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: Work Your Own Runway with Our FSB Playlist!

While we're watching the models strut their stuff on the runway, we thought it might be cool for you to do a little strutting of your own. Which is why we asked one of our very own, Lauren "DJ Lips" Lipsay, to create a playlist for you, which you can download here for FREE! Introducing the Fashion.Style.Beauty playlist!

Runway-inspired and cool enough to the point where you'll want to shake your groove thang in random places, it's all for you. Here's what you'll be rocking out to when you download it:

1. Hold The Line - Major Lazer feat. Mr. Lex & Santigold
2. Baditude - Spoon, Harris & Obernik
3. Miss You (Dr. Dre Remix) - The Rolling Stones
4. Ready For The Weekend - Calvin Harris
5. Ghosts N Stuff - Deadmau5 feat. Rob Swire
6. Memories - David Guetta feat. Kid Cudi
7. You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real) - Sylvester
8. On To The Next One - Jay-Z feat. Swizz Beats
9. The Reeling (Calvin Harris Remix) - Passion Pit
10. Carry Out (Julien Creance Remix) - Timbaland feat. Justin Timberlake
11. Gifted (Steve Aoki Remix) - N.A.S.A feat. Kanye West, Lykke Li & Santigold
12. Glamorous (Space Cowboy Remix) - Fergie feat. Ludacris
13. Heads Will Roll (Club Remix) - Yeah Yeah Yeahs
14. Hot (Play & Win Remix) - Inna
15. Make Me - Janet Jackson
16. Sleepy Head - Passion Pit
17. Smoke (Radio Edit) - Jus Jack feat. Phil Garant & Matina Parisi
18. Step One Two - Kaskade
19. Telephone - Lady GaGa feat. Beyonce
20. What It's About - MC Flipside & A-Divizion
21. Where's Your Head At (Klaas Remix) - Basement Jaxx

So download it and jam out while you watch our coverage of New York Fashion Week! Woo!

Countdown to New York Fashion Week: Get Your Ticket For Fashion For Relief

Hot off the presses, there’s something pretty cool happening during Fashion Week. You all know that I love the mixture of good fashion for a good cause and supermodel Naomi Campbell evidently feels the same way. She’s organizing this year's Fashion For Relief™, a fabulous charity fashion show and auction on February 12th at 7:00 PM at the Bryant Park Tents. Styled by Rachel Zoe, hair by Orlando Pita, make up by Charlotte Willer for Maybelline New York, and jewelry by Chopard, this special event is not only a celebrity-laden fashion show, it’s a fundraiser and YOU can buy a ticket to attend if you're an American Express cardholder!

All of the proceeds will go to CARE with the goal of raising funds to rebuild Haiti’s healthcare system for women and children.

Hosted by Sarah Ferguson, Dutchess of York, the runway show will feature world-renowned designers, celebs and VIP strutting their stuff on the catwalk. All of the clothes worn on the runway will then be available for purchase on Net-a-Porter. Again, all donations are tax deductible and 100% of the event ticket sales will benefit CARE. Past celebs who have walked the runway for this fundraiser include Beyonce, Boy George, Christian Slater, Claudia Schiffer, Erin O’Connor, Faye Dunaway, Iman, Jamelia, Jessica Stam, Kate Moss, Yasmin Le Bon, P. Diddy, and Tyson Beckford. The event promises to be top drawer.

In the press release was a quote from Naomi, who said, “I am deeply saddened by the recent tragedy in Haiti. So many have been killed and severely affected by the earthquake - women and children in particular are most vulnerable in disasters. Fashion is universal, personal and touches everyone. Our aim is to use this season’s catwalk shows in New York to reach people and help raise crucial funds to help save the lives of women and children.”

Want to attend a star-studded celebrity fashion show for charity? Listen up: American Express Cardmembers will have exclusive access to purchase tickets before the general public for $100 and $150 starting tomorrow, February 5 at 10:00 AM at Ticketmaster.com. After that, they’ll be available to the general public until they’re gone.

I’ve always said that you can’t buy your way into a show at Fashion Week, but this is the exception that matters. So buy a ticket, get fabulously decked out and come out for a cause. Because now more than ever, it’s truly fashionable to give.

Fashion Insider: A Sneak Peek at the Hudson Jeans 2010 Collection

You've most likely seen the provocative ads with Georgia May Jagger wearing my goal weight jeans everywhere. Oh yes, the daughter of Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall is wearing one of the FSB Obsession of the Day items everywhere I look in print: the fabulous Hudson Destroyed Skinny Jeans with British Flag Detail in Jagger Wash ($297). Le sigh. Le grumble. Le diet and exercise to get into them.

The folks at Hudson Jeans were kind enough to invite me to the market preview of their 2010 collection, so I hustled over to the Garment District to take a look at the hotness that will be clothing celebs and denim addicts everywhere this year. The result: four new capsule collections of pure denim fabulousness. Put on a hat, Jeans Junkies, because these upcoming styles are about to blow your mind:

The Minimalist: Amazing and gorgeous, these are jeans constructed from denim in its purest state and have a very raw, classic denim appeal (think the texture of original classic denim with no spandex or additives - gorgeous). Subtle stitching, they're for the denim purist and the avid collector/wearer (See: Exhibit A: Me).  Available in white, black and pure blue unwashed denim washes, they're something to behold and will be available in Feburary.

Resurrection: Honestly, these are genius and the epitome of "reduce, reuse, recycle" in theory and in practice. Each pair is constructed entirely from recycled denim from the Hudson archives. This means that no two pairs are alike and they are something to behold. The price point on these masterpieces is a tad higher per the handcrafted quality but honestly, if you take your denim collection seriously, you must have a pair. No, no, I insist. Save up and mark your calendars because they're coming in April.

D.I.Y.: Let say you had a denim wish list. What would you ask for when it came to your perfect pair of jeans? Well, rather than playing Mad Scientist with your designer denim, let the good people at Hudson read your mind and give you denim that answers every jeans dreamer's fondest fantasies. Think exposed zippers and cut-off, raw-edged waists. Oh, how will you ever go to work on Monday after unleashing your inner rock star in these babies? Think up a good story now because they're coming at you in April as well.

Subversion: Utterly some of the coolest denim anywhere, this capsule collection is entirely military-inspired with offerings such as the cargo pocket jean. The styles will be available in military green and jet black so get ready to command attention in, yep, you guessed it - April.

Something else that's coming that will have you swooning is an entire collection of supersoft, highly versatile, tissue-weight tees. Oh yes, they went there and once you get your hands on a few of them, you'll never come back.

Sexy, highly covetable and swoon-worthy, mark your calendars to get your hands on Hudson denim, coming to a fabulous retailer near you in 2010.

Obsession of the Day: The Lacie Panty from Victoria's Secret

I have officially reached an age where I no longer have the patience to wear underwear that is uncomfortable. You know what I mean: itchy, too tight, too loose, too ragged underwear that makes you want to throw your fist to the sky in anger and rip them off right in the middle of the street. Life is too short, folks. Underwear that not only looks bad under clothing but is uncomfortable is absolutely unnecessary. Cut that out. Cleanse. Release. Throw that madness in the trash.

Originally given to me at a function, I've tested and will now vouch for the soft, versatile and oh-so-sexy The Lacie panty by Victoria's Secret ($16). Seamless under clothes, soft and yes, as far as I can tell it's true - one size really does fit all.  It's not tight, it doesn't roll and it's just generally good stuff. It's a panty that's so cute you might strut around in them at the gym without fear of the dreaded race to the shower because you forgot it's not cute to wear raggedy drawers in public. Date night, daytime, weekends, whatever - it's a good investment and I'm officially obsessed.


The Lacie by Victoria's Secret. $16 or current sale has them 3 for $30.

Spring It Girl Campaigns: Karen Elson for St John, Karlie Kloss and Marion Cotillard for Dior, and Alexa Chung for Pepe Jeans

Photo courtesy of St John

Legendary ladies-who-lunch/power businesswoman brand St. John has decided to make a change in their advertising campaign. The reign of Angelina Jolie/Mario Testino is over and we now have the fabulous Karen Elson. The vibrant redhead looks to die for in the new ads for Spring/Summer 2010. In case you aren't aware of her other street cred, she's also married to rocker Jack White of The White Stripes, The Raconteurs and most recently The Dead Weather. Models and rock stars kind of go together like peanut butter and jelly, don't you think? I'm personally loving this campaign almost as much as I miss the old school ads with former exec Kelly Gray that ran forever. (AOL Stylelist)

Meanwhile, it looks like Dior is pulling out all the stops. The print campaigns feature It Model Karlie Kloss in a striking campaign that has the young model (she recently just got a driver's license, people) as a Lauren Bacall-esque stunner. You know how to whistle, don't you, Karlie? (WWD)




Adding to this stunning print campaign is Academy Award-winning actress Marion Cotillard as directed by David Lynch in a new music video campaign for Dior built around the legendary Lady Dior handbag. According to the good folks at WWD,  this second installment of Lady Dior campaign will feature Cotillard as a working woman who becomes a wanton lounge singer at night, as she'll emerge from behind a velvet curtain to sing "Lady Rouge," a song penned for the video by none other than Scottish rockers Franz Ferdinand. Shot in NYC, the video will premiere on January 14th on ladydior.com but if you missed the first installment, "The Lady Dior Affair", directed by Olivier Dahan, please click above. It's genius, really. (WWD)

Last but not least before I head out for the day, It Girl and television personality Alexa Chung seems to be finding her footing just fine after the cancellation of her MTV show. The charming, waif-y Brit has landed an ad campaign with Pepe Jeans and looks edgy cool surrounded by adorable male models.(Graziadaily.co.uk)

Loving the S/S'10 campaigns so far!Who is your favorite It Girl of the moment? Let me know in the comments section.

America's Next Top Beauty Model: Enter the Purple Lab HSN Model Search!

Is that you over there, practicing your best magazine cover face in the mirror? Honey, if you've ever wanted to be a model, Purple Lab Cosmetics wants to give you a shot at your big break!

You see, Purple Lab (maker of my makeup bag staple Huge Lips, Skinny Hips) is heading to Home Shopping Network next year with some genius new products, like Lashionista Modelista (mascara and liquid liner duo), Silk Sheets (luxe foundation), Luvah (double-plumping lip stain with glossy topper and aphrodisiacs), Luxury Squared (concealer and highligher in one), and Cheek Implants (cream blush with collagen). None of these products are even in stores yet but you can get on the waitlist and pre-order them now via these links.

In order to celebrate their appearance on HSN in February 2010, they're looking for a spokemodel. Oh yes, former Star Search watcher, they want a fabulous person to stand beside Creatrix Karen Robinovitz (practice the pronunciation now: it's row-BIN-oh-vits) and help properly display those genius products to millions and MILLIONS of HSN viewers.

Purple Lab is about beauty and glamour and since we all know that has nothing to do with height, body weight or preference of handbag, this contest is open to anyone and everyone. If you think you're fierce enough to strut your stuff in front of tens of millions of viewers and make love to the camera, submit a photo or video that best explains why you should be chosen to be the glamour gal for this double duty beauty brand. After that, Karen will announce the winner LIVE on HSN on February 18th at 8 pm. So pack your bag, because if you win you will be whisked away for a trip to Florida (do I post the best contests or what? Florida in Feburary? I'm totally jealous) and appear on HSN!!!

More details are available here but, I mean, really, what more can I give you other than a chance to become a star? Enter now and remember the little people! Good luck!

FSB Want To Know: Your Thoughts On The French Vogue Blackface Issue?

This morning, the writers at New York Magazine's The Cut happened upon a new issue via the fabulous ladies of Jezebel: it appears that French Vogue has decided to feature Dutch model Lara Stone in blackface as part of their supermodel issue. Here is an excerpt:

"French Vogue has a reputation for controversy, and this month's issue is no exception. Steven Klein shot Dutch supermodel Lara Stone in blackface makeup for a spread styled by French Vogue editor Carine Roitfeld.... The roster — including Kate Moss, Kristen McMenamy, Yasmin Le Bon, Eva Herzigova, Claudia Schiffer, Anna Selezneva, Diane Kruger, Constance Jabloski, and Eniko Mihalik — is entirely white. No black or Asian models made the cut. But they hired Lara — and her curves — in the spirit of inclusiveness, right?"

Ok, let's break this down to its basic facts. French Vogue is a fashion magazine, fashion magazines use models and, last I checked, we have plenty of amazing, gorgeous, authentically black models out here. I mean, I don't know about you but if I'm going to include Kate Moss, Eva Herzigova and Claudia Schiffer in a "Model" issue, I would include their 80's supermodel peer, NAOMI CAMPBELL, who happens to be, you know, black. God, even if Naomi wasn't available, we have other black major models they could have utilized: Alek Wek, Veronica Webb, Tyra Banks, Iman, Chanel Iman, Liya Kedebe...? Look, I get that this is artistic expression but if we're truly trying to make the artistic statement that she's a blank canvas, could we have hired a black model and painted her white as well? Just saying...

Also, no Asian models? Again, if we're talking about the supermodel era, Jenny Shimuzu was groundbreaking and Devon Aoki also cannot be ignored. If the point of art is to provoke, then they've definitely created a provocative photo spread but at what cost? If we look to fashion to dream, what does painting a model in blackface say to women of color who aspire to wear the clothes, either on the runway or real life?

I'm DYING to hear your comments on this one. Is this perfectly acceptable or in very poor taste? Leave me your comments below and let's chat.

Daily Style Icon: Linda Evangelista

Images courtesy of WireImage, clockwise from top left: Dominique Charriau, Lalo Yasky, Tony Barson, Donato Sardella

I've decided to bring this feature back because we all need a little fun, fabulousness and music in our lives. I'm still loving on supermodels so today's icon is one of the legendary supemodels of all time, Linda Evangelista, aka "The Chameleon." This is the woman who hands down unknowingly coerced me into trying five different shades of hair color in the 90's.

Evangelista knew she wanted to be a model at age 12 and did exactly that. After being discovered by an agent at the Miss Teen Niagara Contest in her native Canada, she signed with Elite Model Management in New York City as a teen and quickly shot up the ranks to become part of "The Trinity" of supermodels, with best friends and fellow supermodels Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington at her side. Famously joking that she and Turlington wouldn't "get out of bed for less than $10,000 a day," Evangelista's career took a controversial dip when Julien D' Ys cropped her hair short at the direction of photographer Peter Lindbergh for a photo shoot, causing many runways and campaigns to drop her. When thousands of women began to copy Evangelista's close-cropped style and hair color, advertisers realized the goldmine of the even-morphing model's popularity and she became more popular than ever.

When I think of Evangelista's style, it's not fashion but beauty that comes to mind. Evangelista is a great lesson in beauty: create the perfect canvas of a face and it can become a signature of your own personal style. Not all of us can have her flawless bone structure, but there are certain keys that we can follow: perfectly arched brows and amazing skin can almost negate the need for makeup but can truly set you apart from the rest.


Makeup is dandy but a flawless face is the one of the keys to real style. One of my new favorite kits to get this gorgeous skin? Philosophy's Advanced Makeup Optional Skin ($98), which includes potent portions of some of their best skincare products in one amazing package: Purity Made Simple, The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash, When Hope Is Not Enough Firming and Lifting Serum, Hope In A Jar SPF 20, and Help Me retinol treatment.

Evangelista continues to model to this day and I for one am thrilled to see her every time. One of my favorite Linda Evangelista moments is this video she did with her fellow supermodels in the early 90's for singer George Michael. It's time to pump up a little attitude with "Freedom 90." Linda, thanks for reminding us that with a little care our skin, our hair and our lives can be the true expression of our own personal style...and that as women we reserve the right to change any of them at any time.

New for Fall: Maggie Rizer Tapped As New Face for Dooney and Burke

If you're a fan of American accessories brand Dooney & Burke, you might have noticed some changes lately. As the label returns to a philosophy of “Great American Style,” designer Peter Dooney decided to introduce a strong new collection for Fall '09, which includes a new face for the label: iconic American beauty, Maggie Rizer. The model follows in the footsteps of other recognizable names, such as Mischa Barton, Lindsay Lohan, Emma Roberts and Hayden Panettiere.

In a statement to the press, Dooney went on to explain why model/actress/AIDS activist Rizer was a natural pick for the brand and its customers, saying, "In addition to representing the perfect American girl-next-door Maggie is a dynamic woman, balancing her many projects and her tireless fundraising activities. She lives a hectic life as we all do.”

Just because we're swamped doesn't mean we can't look fabulous while we live our over-scheduled lives. The gorgeous bag you see Rizer carrying in this ad is a new design from the Fall campaign, the Juliette Bag ($185). A casual bag that can be carried by its top handles or slung across the body for hands-free chic, it's a stylish solution for running around town in effortless style.

Check out the new ad campaign in your favorite magazines and then head to your favorite department store or the company's website to check out some of the brand's new and exciting designs for Fall. There's something there for every woman who craves gorgeous American style.

Beauty Crush: Lancome Spokemodel Arlenis Sosa Honored At Latin Pride National Awards

As you know, I'm a proponent of beauty in every color of the rainbow, so I would like to extend congratulations to Lancôme spokesmodel Arlenis Sosa, who was honored at The Latin Pride National Awards last Thursday night in Boston. The awards recognize the most successful representatives of the Latin community in sports, film, music, education and, of course, fashion. The Dominican model wore a gorgeous gown by fellow Dominican Oscar de la Renta, an ardent supporter of the model. Arlenis is currently hard at work on a special charity project to benefit underprivileged people in her home country. As I've said before, giving back is ALWAYS in fashion.

As it is important to recognize our own, I tip my laptop in honor of both Arlenis' accomplishments and for Lancôme's decision to show such diversity in its advertising. I've received word that Arlenis just shot a major Lancôme makeup ad in Paris with a well-known photographer whose name cannot be released (don't you love the suspense?) while she's walking the runway in the Spring 2010 collections in Europe.


By the way, if you don't have it already, my newest Lancôme obsession is Hypnôse Drama Instant Full Body Volume Mascara ($24.50) - lush, thick, amazing lashes without clumping and tons of build-up. Wiggle the brush under the lash line and swipe upwards and BOOM! goes the dynamite - HUGE, THICK lashes. Run, do not walk, to purchase it. Moisturizer, concealer, this mascara and a good lipstick is enough to make any woman Arlenis hot when you leave the house.

Congratulations, Arlenis. Keep doing good. It's always makes the world a little better when beautiful people do beautiful things.

Editor's Thoughts: Where Are All The Black Models?

Photo credit: Photo by Oktay Cilesiz/AA/Cameleon/ABACAPRESS.COM Photo via Newscom

I just read some news pieces from one of my favorite sites, Fashionologie, about Naomi Campbell's comments regarding the fact that she feels the industry is sliding backwards in their placement of black models on the covers of major magazines. In a recent interview with the UK Telegraph, she says,

"This year, we have gone back all the way that we had advanced," she says. "I don't see any black woman, or of any other race, in big advertising campaigns."

Campbell, ever-outspoken, goes on to address the special edition of Italian Vogue from last year that highlighted models of color, stating, "That made some noise, but, unfortunately, we are the same as before," she says. "People, in the panic of the recession, don't dare to put a girl of colour in their campaign, full stop. Nor of any other race. It's a shame. It's very sad."

As Naomi is about to hit her 25th anniversary in the world of modeling, it seems that her support base is not there as it once was. I reported earlier that Yves Saint Laurent famously threatened to pull all of his advertising if Naomi wasn't given the cover of French Vogue and Naomi's famous supermodel counterparts, Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington, also protected her and famously threatened not to do shows unless Naomi could come as well. I hope that camaraderie is not completely lost but she does have a point: how many black models (or models of anything other than Caucasian descent) have you seen in advertising lately for luxury goods? I'm not talking about celebrities. I mean models.

It will be interesting to see if the $1 trillion dollars of spending that black women reportedly account for now will demand the shift happen again. We see diversity in ads for mass market brands but other than jewelry or alcohol-related purchases, why does it seem such a risk to show a Black woman living a luxurious lifestyle in the apparel and accessories befitting her status?

We've even taken swipes at our own First Lady if she wears anything that might be too expensive. Every time she wears something over a certain amount of money, people claim that she's "losing touch with her public." My gut instinct is that a black woman in power wearing couture makes people nervous, that it's somehow offensive or unrealistic. It's just silly: women of color are making huge strides in the world and they should dress accordingly. We have a black First Lady wearing Jason Wu, Isabel Toledo, Thakoon and Michael Kors. The rightful place of all women is truly where we dream we can be, not where some lack of image tells us we can't go.

You may ask, why is it important that a black woman be on the cover of a major fashion magazine, why all the fuss? Because in an image-driven world, young women of color are bombarded by images on a daily basis that say, "This could be you someday." Without aspirational branding and images that show women of color highlighted as powerful tastemakers, we must work extra-hard to reinforce the message that it is possible for a woman of color to reach this level.

Naomi has a point and my question to the $1 trillion spenders out there and to the companies who I suppose don't care that their customer base will eventually erode as the world demographic changes: who will make the demand for change? Most important, how soon?

Daily Style Icon: Naomi Campbell

Every week on FSB I try to pay homage to those with impeccable style. This week's Daily Style Icon series is a tribute to the fabulous supermodels of the early 90's. We continue the series with another of my all-time favorites, Naomi Campbell.

Despite her tempestuous (and sometimes violent) tabloid headings, no one can argue with the fact that Naomi is arguably one of the greatest supermodels and catwalkers of all time. Discovered window shopping at the age of 15 outside Covent Garden in her native London, Naomi was thrust into runway walking almost immediately and started working in lucrative campaigns with Lee Jeans, Ralph Lauren and François Nars. Her career was solidified when at age 15 she appeared on the cover of Elle, replacing another model and setting what would be a historic career in motion. She became the first black model to grace the cover of Paris Vogue in August 1988, after legendary designer and personal friend Yves Saint Laurent famously threatened to withdraw his advertising if Campbell or any other black model, wouldn't appear on its cover. She was also the first black model to appear on the cover of British Vogue, Vogue Nippon and Time. She has appeared on more than 100 magazine covers and is still a formidable force on the runway long after most models her age have since retired.



Naomi will always be the ultimate catwalk goddess to me, with her legendary stride and fierce strut. I always think of her in dresses with a little bit of sex appeal, like this David Meister Embellished One Shoulder Dress (on sale for $178.90). Paired with these stunning Stuart Weitzman Silver Nitetime Sandals (on sale for $99), you too can borrow a little of Naomi's signature swagger for your own nighttime look.


Naomi, tempestuous one, thank you for hanging in there, being fierce and working it for all its worth. You're still the one to watch, in my opinion.

Daily Style Icon: Christy Turlington

Every week on FSB I try to pay homage to those with impeccable style. This week's Daily Style Icon series is a tribute to the fabulous supermodels of the early 90's. We start the series with one of my all-time favorites, Christy Turlington.

Discovered horseback riding as a teenager, Christy's exotic looks quickly garnered her work on the catwalks and in print with some of the world's premiere designers. With several lucrative contracts to her name with companies such as Maybelline, Chanel and (most famously) Calvin Klein, even though Turlington rejects the title of 'supermodel', she 's than earned the title. She has appeared on well over 500 magazine covers throughout her career and her face and likeness were used on mannequins designed by Ralph Rucci for a Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibit. Many have called her "The Face of the 20th Century."

Christy is just as intelligent as she is beautiful. She's well-known as one of the first models to take an active stand against smoking as well as appearing in PETA ads against the wearing of fur. Ever the student of life, she's currently enrolled at Columbia University in a graduate program for public health so she can actively take on her next role in life, which is an activist for maternal health care worldwide.

For me, Christy Turlington was one of the first role models of exotic beauty. You didn't exactly know what her background was and for once, it really didn't matter. As someone whose looks don't exactly scream one specific background, she made me feel there was some recognition of beauty that didn't necessarily fall into a category. Christy, thanks for proving that being an original and remaining true to who you are can look and be completely fierce.


When it comes to style, Christy can make even the most basic of items look amazing. There's a photograph of her doing yoga with just a grey t-shirt on that I think is just brilliant, so in homage I think this GG 750 Oversized Boatneck Top ($159) is just the perfect slouchy item post-yoga, paired with these True Religion Jordan Boyfriend Jeans ($228) and these adorable vegan and earth-friendly Coconuts Edie flats ($59).


Please do enjoy this profile on Christy on Canada's Fashion File:

Daily Style Icon: Iman

For this week on Fashion.Style.Beauty, I wanted to pay homage to style icons that had a direct impact on me as a woman of color. We end the week with today's icon: Iman.

Iman is one of the greatest supermodels of color of all time. First recruited as a model by American photographer Peter Beard in 1975, she relocated to the United States and landed her first modeling assignment for American Vogue in 1976. My favorite story about Iman is when she auditioned for the late great American designer, Halston. When presented to him in his showroom, he said, "Darling, can you walk?" Insulted, she replied, "Of course I can walk! How the Hell do you think I got here?!?"



She was beloved by late fashion great Yves Saint-Laurent, who reportedly said, "My dream woman is Iman." She moved on to appear in movies, television and in 2007 started her own cosmetics collection for women of color, I-Iman. Following the long tradition of models marrying rock stars, she married another FSB Daily Style Icon, David Bowie, in 1992.


When I think of Iman, I always think of her in beautifully draped Halston-like creations. I'll probably pull out my own Iman moment the next time I have an evening activity with this A.B.S. Black Matte Jersey Halter Dress ($162). Jeweled strappy sandals, hair pulled back and long stiletto earrings should make the look complete.

When it comes to learning to love yourself and demanding that the industries that serve you must meet your needs, not that you must theirs, I think of Iman forging a path for women of color and get just a little more aggressive. Iman, thank you for always remaining an icon of strength, sheer glamour, intelligence, exceptional class and beauty.

FSB Morning Juice: Michelle Obama, Cindy Crawford, Kate Moss and Barneys New York

Happy Monday morning! After a fantastic weekend we're ready to cover everything that's fashion, style and beauty for you. Let's get to it!

More Love from MObama?: First Lady Michelle Obama has single-handedly kept J.Crew afloat and has solidified the names and careers of Isabel Toledo and Jason Wu. However, other than a brief flirtation with Michael Kors and Narciso Rodriguez, the new style icon has seemingly no interest in the big-name American designers like Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan. Where is the love? (WWD)

Want to Cozy Up With a Supermodel? Cindy Crawford has designed a collection of home décor for mass retailer JC Penney’s. She describes the line as "…designed to inspire and help create a look that’s fresh, effortless and enduring." The prices are reasonable and it’s actually pretty cute. Watch out, Martha Stewart.
(PeopleStyleWatch)

How About Eating With a Supermodel? Kate Moss is writing a cookbook. We’re actually quite impressed that the supermodel, formerly known as "The Waif" because of her thin appearance, actually knows how to cook. We’re in. Let us know when it hits bookshelves.
(Fashionista)

Barneys Gets a Lifeline: Istithmar World Capital, the Dubai sovereign wealth fund that owns struggling luxury retailer Barneys New York, has given the struggling store a $10 million infusion of cash to help it ride out the recession, saving hundreds of jobs and Simon Doonan’s legendary displays for a little while longer.
(NY Post)

FSB Quote of the Day: "I know I'm vulgar, but would you have me any other way?" - Elizabeth Taylor

FSB Afternoon Buzz: Nina Ricci, Carrie's "Big" Wedding Dress and Worshiping Kate Moss

TGIF, people! We’re taking this Friday to tie up some loose ends and get ready for a birthday party. Too bad it’s raining. Looks like it’s time for a martini and some anti-frizz product!

Drum Roll, Please: We’re waiting with breathless anticipation to see who will be announced to replace Olivier Theyskens as the designer of Reese Witherspoon’s red carpet favorite, Nina Ricci. After Puig Fashion Group ousted Theyskens (much to Anna Wintour’s dismay, as she wrote about in her Editor’s Letter in April’s Vogue,) the fashion group is stating they want a fresh perspective. They supposedly will announce that Peter Copping, who earned his stripes under Marc Jacobs at Louis Vuitton, will take the design helm any day now. Interesting times are afoot, we’re sure.
(The Cut)

Buy Carrie’s “Big” Wedding Dress: Those of you who were mad for Vivienne Westwood’s wedding dress that Carrie wore to her almost-wedding to Mr. Big in Sex and the City: The Movie now have a shot at purchasing the gown. Three U.S. boutiques (including Hayden Olivia Bridal in our beloved Charlotte, NC) have been selected to sell the dress out of ten worldwide. The $15,000 price tag includes optional fittings in London with Westwood and team. As the movie’s theme song says, "Labels or Love" – it’s up to you and what your credit limit can handle, brides.
(PeopleStyleWatch)

We Also Worship Kate: Purple Lab, a hot new cosmetics company started by style maven Karen Robinovitz, has created an adorable book on how to get Kate Moss’ eclectic style. Check out a sneak peek of the hot new booklet named after their gorgeous lipgloss of the same name here. Don’t worry, more about that lipgloss to come, ladies.

FSB Quote of the Day: "It's a sin to be tired." – Kate Moss

Beauty List: Top Five Reasons to Visit Cutler/Redken Salon

Spring is springing and you’ve been working on that body all winter. How about that hair? Most of us tend to go darker in the winter, neglect our basic cuts and in this economy, some people are foregoing maintenance altogether. This will not do. FSB recommends if you live in New York or Miami, you head over to Cutler/Redken Salon for some well-deserved pampering and a fresh style. Here are the top five reasons why:

1) Rodney Cutler and his team perform the minor miracles you see on the catwalks at New York Fashion Week. If major designers trust gazillion dollar models with the Cutler team, it’s safe to say you can trust them with your own hair.
2) The stylists are all highly trained experts who will consult with you before your treatment, listen to you during the entire process and will not stop until you’re completely happy. We know this because this is where we get our hair done and we are the first ones to leave a salon if this does not happen. If you’re in NYC, we’ll even recommend our stylist, Stacia. Yes, that’s how much we love you.
3) Rodney personally hand-picks the people who work in his salons to ensure that everyone is approachable, friendly and professional. A salon where you actually laugh and have fun with the staff is a novel concept, we understand, but something we can’t live without.
4) Your hair is your crowning glory, which means you should always hire the best you can afford to manage it. Most premium stylists cost anywhere from $200 up to premium cuts at other celebrity stylist salons that can go as high as $900. Cutler gives you the same quality at around $100. It’s mid-range in price but judging from the rave reviews of our own hair, we’re willing to vouch for the high quality.
5) Because it’s spring and it’s time to get a brand new look. You want to go into the warm weather looking smoking hot. Book your appointment now.

Need we say more? We’ve even given you our stylist’s name! Deep conditioner, gorgeous color, cut, bang trim: they do it all. Call 212-308-3838 here in New York City or 305- 672-4499 in Miami’s South Beach. But go show your poor hair some love by calling in the professionals. It’s Cutler Time.

FSB Lunch Buzz: Neiman Marcus, Rihanna and a Catwalking Robot

While you contemplate carbs or no carbs for lunch, we’re mulling over what’s new and noteworthy this afternoon:

Good Spokesmodel Gone Bad? Cover Girl is currently conducting a poll of customers to see if Rihanna is still a viable spokeswoman for the brand. Executives fear that consumers' attitudes toward the singer are less than favorable after her decision to stay with Chris Brown following the alleged assault. (The Cut)

ANTM Casting Meltdown: Auditions for the next cycle of America’s Next Top Model ended in a riot and injuries this past weekend. The casting call for potential models under 5’7 broke out in pandemonium after a fight broke out and a car fire sparked mass hysteria of a bomb scare. If this is how the casting went, think about what will happen when these women actually get on screen! (E! Online)

Need for Markdowns? Neiman Marcus posted a $509.3 million net loss due to writedowns of more than half a billion. The retailer said it would make some adjustments, return merchandise. Wow. (WWD, sub. req)

The Rise of The Fembot Model: Japanese technologists have created a catwalk robot that will be walking the runway at Tokyo fashion week. At only 5’2, something tells me that even Kate Moss isn’t exactly nervous about this. (Telegraph UK)

FSB Quote of the Day: “I dress for the image. Not for myself, not for the public, not for fashion, not for men.” – Marlene Dietrich