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Many women return to their natural hair texture after years of relaxing expecting a wonderful journey, only to discover a new set of hair woes they thought they’d left behind with the relaxer. Design Essentials® gathers the numbers, through in-house data of women who are relaxed and natural, but the number of women going back to relaxing is a reality not often addressed.

The transitioning process for those who are ceasing to straighten their hair through chemical means as well as the management process for those who have been natural for longer periods can be eased through the education process. As women embrace their texture and learn more about the personality of their hair type, curl pattern product preference, and internal and external factors, they will find empowerment.

Here are some of the chief surprises along with solutions for naturals seeking to embrace and enhance their natural textures.

Tangles: Knots, snags and snarls stemming from highly textured hair can cause frustration from even the most patient naturalista! Tangles occur when the shaft of the hair’s cuticle is raised. These raised cuticles snag each other and cause friction. Smoothing the cuticle allows hair to slip freely with less snags.

Varying Curl Patterns: Due to genetics as well as hair that has been over processed or previously chemically altered, there may be multiple curl patterns in a single head of hair. Women who opt to transition from relaxers may see a marked difference between relaxed hair, which has been permanently altered and new natural roots. By strengthening the entire hair strand and adding a filler such as micro-fine proteins, previously relaxed hair regains its strength and can easily be styled to blend with varying curl patterns.

Dullness and Breakage: Strands that crackle and pop aren’t restored from surface applications of pomades and moisturizers. By using ingredients that penetrate the hair shaft and infuse moisture from within, highly-textured hair can attain luster. Also, when straightened, the hair usually will not need additional gloss and shine products, due to the smoothness of the strands themselves.

Shrinkage: Depending on the curl pattern of your natural hair, you may have beautiful curls, but the length isn’t there unless you stretch it. The relaxing process breaks hair bonds in order to straighten the hair. But curl elongation can occur without permanently breaking the hair’s bonds. Through strengthening treatments plus thermal styling, temporary elongation of the curls can yield longer strands, fuller styles and more defined curls.

Frizz: Encounters with humidity foster previously-styled hair to revert to its original state. A shield or barrier that locks moisture into the hair shaft, preventing the need for your hair to draw it from the environment is the best fix for frizzy hair. This process can also be done on a treatment level, with temporary products designed to fight reversion.

In order for naturalistas to ensure the style they leave the salon with remains the style they go home with, they need to partner with their stylist to learn how to address their chief hair concerns. Not only does a treatment system like Design Essentials® Strengthening Therapy help to straighten, stretch and strengthen the hair, it also delivers up to 12 weeks of frizz free and humidity resistant lasting style. Ultimate shine and manageability is also achieved through naturally-occurring ingredients such as micro-fine amino acids and a botanical blend of honey, sweet almond oil, rose hip oil and panthenol.

For more information about Design Essentials® www.designessentials.com.

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The Black Panther Party was a force to be reckoned with during an era in American history where African-Americans fought to prevent their own subjugation.

During the 1960s and 1970s the Black Panther Party functioned as an organized front, ready and willing to militantly combat violence against black people. Their contributions to the development of a more liberated environment for African-Americans within a racist American society is immeasurable. Their importance to the process of building the societal structure that we now know is undeniable. As we celebrate another Black History Month, Hello Beautiful honors the influence that the Black Panther party has had in the Civil Rights historical canon.

How To Recreate Coretta Scott King’s Classic Look

As we remember their historical importance, and look back upon the Panther experience, we especially honor the strong, bold, powerful image of the Panther woman. The women of the organization were in many ways the coal that kept the engine running. They served an imperative purpose, and helped to propel the Panther message, but they always did so with style. The Panther women’s distinctive style holds its own place in our memories.

In honor of the characteristic urban military look that the Blck Panthers are not famous for, we’re giving you a look back at some vintage panther photos.

If you are interested in recreating the Panther look, we’ve got you covered! Take a look at some of our Panther inspired looks with a modern twist. Check out the originators of “All Black Everything” in our gallery, and dont forget to equip your self with a good pair of these:

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2010’s Woman To Watch: Janelle Monae

Commander in Chic: Every Woman’s Guide to Managing Her Style Like a First Lady (Atria Books; $26.99) comes at a time when women – black, white and everything in between – are looking to define their personal style, which many of us struggle with. Mikki is considered a lifestyle & beauty expert (among other well-earned titles) so she is more than qualified to give us her take on how to become the chicest lady in the room while having a style that’s all your own.

What was your goal in writing this book?
Simply put, I want every woman to be the “Commander in Chic” of her life. I want to see us all own our lives and master style with distinction. I used Mrs. Obama as a muse to empower women everywhere to do so – from mastering great style from within to establishing a wardrobe of bankable pieces and a signature look. It is my goal to see women utilize the book like a personal style diary – one where they’ll find the kind of guidance that takes the guess work out of what works on a multiplicity of subjects, among them:
- Where and when to shop and what to buy.
- Must-have accessories with timeless appeal.
- Great makeup finds and savvy application how-to’s.
- Targeted hair care, performance-driven tools and styling aids.
- Prime hand and nail care.
- Physical wellness and core fitness practices at every age.
- Mental and spiritual empowerment.

What advice would you give a woman who struggles to define her personal style?
Know that it’s about coining a look that works for you based on who you are and how you live your life. Remember style is a form of self-expression and so it really comes down to what you want to communicate. To understand your personal style code, ask yourself, what predominant style sensibility am I comfortable with? How would you define it? Classic? Elegant? Boho? Edgy? Once you establish your style-persona, shop accordingly and above all, remain true to yourself.

How do you define your own personal style?
I define my style as “classic with a twist.” I’m clear about what works for me and what doesn’t. My look is based on a modern, chic and effortless sensibility that keeps pace with my busy, always-on-the-go lifestyle. 90% of my wardrobe consists of great dresses, which make getting dressed an effortless affair. The balance is composed of smart separates that allow me to work them to new perfection just by a change of accessories.

Click here to get even more amazing advice from Mikki Taylor and learn what your fashion & beauty do’s & don’ts should be!

Hue Knew It? I did. Become a HueKnewIt.com FaceBook Fan & Follow me on Twitter: @hueknewit for product giveaways – just had two giveaways on my fan page last week so don’t miss out on your chance to win!

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FALL TREND: Ponchos & Capes

We can’t go right to the socks, right? Here are a few ways to slowly keep yourself up to date with the weather while still rocking your favorites from this summer:

Flats: This summer was all about the flip flops or going barefoot.  Open toed heels were the in thing and you could see people’s pedicures everywhere.  Autumn doesn’t mean that your feet need to be completely covered already! I have always been a big fan of flats: they cover your toes for those nights that are starting to get a little breezy.  They keep your toes dry when the rain starts coming back and puddles are around.  Rather than go straight to the socks, sneakers, and boots everyday, warm your feet up slowly by wearing around flats like a champ.

Scarves: Once the goosebumps start appearing, people reach for the baggy sweat shirts way too soon.  Warm yourself up with style and look into scarves.  I have started seeing the light scarves come out already and they have beautiful prints.  They are easy to wear and do the job of getting you ready for the colder weather.

Blazers: I have always been a promoter of blazers.  They are cute and do the job of keeping you warm.  Rather than go right for the bulky clothing to throw over your t-shirt in the next few months, get a few fitted blazers.  They go with anything and add style and sophistication to your outfit!

Tights: Don’t pack up those cute dresses that you bought this summer already! You can still rock them as the weather gets colder, just throw on something to keep your legs warm.  Tights have always been in, and they can help your body react to the temperature changes.  You can still keep it stylish by getting some fun panty hoes and incorporating them into your outfit.

So what do you say? The slight weather changes doesn’t mean that you need to give up all the style that you gained this summer! Do you have any other ideas on ways to stay stylish in the cooler weather?

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We’ve heard it all before, men are from red planet pixie dust of Mars and women are from the fiery sulfuric mists of Venus. We couldn’t be more different even if we wore the same skeletons. We think different, feel different emotionally, speak differently and execute tasks differently. We’re worlds apart. So, why would we ever wear the same clothes? As the worlds of fashion and androgyny evolve, we sit back at the edge of the catwalk and watch designers and fashionistas bridge the gap between manly-man maschismo and superwoman feminism on the runway. Here is a list of the most celebrated unisex threads, accessories and trends that we are still going gaga over.

1. The Rihanna Mohawk

If you walk throughout any fashion-forward megacity cosmopolitan metropolis or even an small urban college town, we’re sure you will see young women with asymmetrical tresses. But, the pop princess ready made her mark on the indie androgynous male glitterati type, gay or straight, this summer. And the look—depending on the face, of course—is a win-win.

2.The P-Funk Pumps

What do you call vibrant nigh knee-high laced boots that look remarkably futuristic? We don’t know either, but it recalls a certain pioneering soulful, funk punk rock group if we do say ourselves.

3.Michael Jackson’s Rhinestone Jacket

Once upon a time on a now celebrated televised special known as Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever featured a former boy soprano who would later blossom into the premier pop megastar of the 20th and 21st centuries, Michael Jackson. Introduced by comedic legend Richard Pryor, Jackson and his band brothers shimmered and shined, singing Jackson 5 classics. Then, his iconic performance of his signature “Billie Jean” came. Jackson may have wowed the cheering audience, but fashionistas everywhere took notes on his trademark threads. The King of Pop’s glimmering black rhinestone jacket was taken and worn by women alike. In modern-day, only a year after his passing, Jackson devotee Chris Brown rocked out on stage with a mock rhinestone jacket and H&M has also a designed a similar jacket for their women’s summer 2010 line.

4.Kanye West’s Alain Mikli Shutter Shades

Seriously, was there anything bigger than these shades in 2008? Introduced to the public by one of the greatest producer emcees of the 21st century, Mr. West created a trend of offbeat shades starting with the famous shades by Armenian-Lebenese France-based designer Alain Mikli. When West’s Graduation hit “Stronger” launched around the globe, fashion outlets had sold out and bootlegging kiosk owners their hiked prices.

5.Africana Dashikis

During the late 80s and early-90s, there was a short and unsung movement that involved rappers and celebrities rooting to return back to the motherland. Among the ghettoblaster summer anthems like “Fight The Power” and a powerful shift in hip-hop music, people were donning dashikis everywhere. Regardless of color, these African staples are still more powerful and more visible than ever.

6.The Button-up Vest

There once was a time when the line between menswear tailoring and female haute was as divided as the republicans and democrats on healthcare reform. Now, its for the birds and fashion Berlin Wall is beginning to crumble. Worn by Usher, Trey Songz, Mario, Beyonce and Rihanna alike, the opened button-up vest is in full-effect, sparking the ultimate fashion question: Who wears it better, the boys or the girls?

7.The Disco Ball Pants

Year 3000, here we come! We thought Studio 54 chic had long since been in its twilight days: Less people tap razors on mirrors for their latest fix, no one wears boots with goldfish swimming in their glass heels, and bell bottoms have become more specific to women than to men. But recently, male fashion models have been seen on runaways in bow-chicka-wow-wow shattered mirror pants and with Lady Gaga bringing back the glitterball bra and pants on tour and in her videos, we’re seeing a truly unique rehash that we hope doesn’t go away anytime soon.

By Marcus Scott Unisex Items

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Lifestyle Artists Mr. & Mr. are changing the ways that we think about recycled materials by using them in cutting edge artistic pieces including haute couture wearable art. Abiola Abrams interviews artist Christopher Trujillo about their latest show at the Renaissance Fine Art Gallery in Harlem. Here’s what’s next… The haute couture Origami Jacket that I am wearing was designed by the other half of Mr. & Mr., Michael Jerome.

Watch!

Save the Date! Special LIVE Abiola on LSD: Love, Sex, Dating & Drama broadcast interview with ZANE and virtual book release party for the Queen of Erotica on Shovio.com on Saturday August 21st from 7:30-10pm EST. More info on the Lifestyle Love, Sex, Dating blog. See you on Twitter and Facebook. If you’re wondering about my Wearable Art Origami Jacket, here’s more.

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Make a statement with a bold and bright handbag this season! Check out our favorite bright handbags from Melie Bianco.

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STYLE TREND: Candy Colored Dresses

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This season’s candy color trend offers the chance to move away from the safe colors of black, brown and grey and welcome the warm season with bright hues. Take a look at some bright and look at me dresses:

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STYLE TREND: Gold Bangles

Macy Gray, she of the madness and mad talent, is BACK . Does she hit or miss? Check it out…

The fabulous Macy Gray is back with a high fashion look and a new sound. We loved this new album named The Sellout and hope you will too. Check it out — Macy Gray’s thoughts on The Sellout in an exclusive EPK — video after the jump!

Watch the video below: Macy Gray opens up about her new album and the personal growths throughout the making of “The Sellout.”

Macy Gray‘s new album The Sellout is hot! Check it out. Go Macy!!

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VIDEO: Macy Gray’s “Beauty In The World”

What do you think? Let’s chat about it in the comments on Twitter or Facebook.

VIDEO: Macy Gray Talks Sexy Men and Ex Boyfriends

And you know where to find me: my new weekly show “Abiola on LSD: Love, Sex, Dating and Drama,” following Star and Bucwild on Shovio, monthly at “Abiola’s Kiss and Tell Live Revue” at Madame X, daily on AbiolaTV.com, and of course buy Dare by Abiola Abrams wherever you buy books.

The summer is here!!  Well, sort of.  It’s impossible to keep up with this constantly changing weather, putting a huge damper on our cute summer outfits. Nobody wants to carry a heavy jacket around with them in June.  Generally, the easiest solution is to throw a lightweight sweatshirt over what you’re wearing and carry it around with you. Luckily, jean jackets and blazers are in so you can be warm while looking cute and having something small enough to throw in your bag when necessary.

What’s the point of wearing a cute outfit if you’re just going to cover it up with a baggy sweatshirt?  Jean jackets and blazers look cute while still showing the cute outfit underneath. They have the ability to dress up or dress down an outfit, making them suitable for any occasion!

Jean jackets could easily come off as farmer-ish, so it’s important to find one that fits you right.  Anything too long or baggy can look sloppy.  Jean jackets that fall above the waist generally cover you up just enough without being overbearing.  One problem that people often have with jean jackets is finding something to wear them with.  Denim on denim can easily come off as “too much jean”.  Something that generally works is a jean jacket with a bright colored top underneath to provide contrast.  Just to be safe, the bottom should be anything but blue.  White or off-white is usually your best bet, so that you get enough contrast while drawing attention to each part of your outfit.  A jean jacket over a bright colored dress gives you a pullover with style.

An easy way to dress up jeans and a t-shirt is to add something with a little more edge- a blazer.  Blazers are light and comfortable while adding glam to any t-shirt and jeans. They’re something you can wear to work and keep on when you go out for drinks after.  Blazers can be formal or informal, depending on what you dress them up with.  The good think about blazers is that they can be worn with jeans, work pants, skirts, or dresses.  When it comes to jean jackets and blazers, the sky’s the limit!

SPRING TREND: Rompers

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5 Ways To Rock Spring’s Hottest Trend: Patterns

Rule of thumb:

Avoid the camel toe! It’s really easy to show too much when wearing spandex.  If you feel uncomfortable, chances are that other people can tell.  Always wear a shirt that is long enough to cover anything bad that the spandex highlights.  This includes love handles, also!

For people who are short, it’s really easy for leggings to remind everyone of your height.  In this case, add a pair of pumps to the outfit and you’re golden.  The length added by the heels allows people to focus on the shape and muscle in your legs instead of your height.

Printed leggings are dangerous.  If you’re trying to pull off patterned spandex, then wear a solid top.  Leggings are pretty attention grabbing as it is- you don’t want to have too much going on.

When hanging out at home, leggings make it easy to be comfortable and sexy at the same time.  Sweat pants hide all the positive features that your legs have to offer.  Throw on a pair of leggings with a sweatshirt instead and look even cuter when watching tv on the couch.

Overall, don’t say no to leggings! Take a risk and test them out- but remember to make sure that you’re comfortable in your outfit, and to follow the rules above!

SPRING TREND: Rompers

The Hottest Celeb Pics

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5 Ways To Rock Spring’s Hottest Trend: Patterns

Click here to shop the looks and view them below.

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Hey Rockstars,

Here’s How to Win Ms. Badu’s Jewelry!

IT’S EASY.

• I am picking TWO (2) LUCKY WINNERS from comments here, on my Twitter, or Facebook to win this Erykah Badu exclusive. Just leave a comment, facebook or tweet me — and you’re entered to win ONE (1) wooden ankh CUSTOM necklace.
• Join Hourglas39 who recently won a giveaway from Whitney Houston, PirateX who won the entire Sade catalog and our lip gloss winner…
• Void where prohibited, must be 18 to win and within the 50 United States.
• Winners will also be posted on AbiolaTV.com.

And Guess what?!

The light wood custom Ankh measures slightly over 2 inches with a 30 inch long dark wood beaded chain. Only 50 custom Erykah Badu Ankhs were created for special online giveaways and will not be available for retail sale.

Here’s the Official Info:

A special venture to commemorate the release of Erykah Badu’s new album New Amerykah Part 2: Return of the Ankh. Fans will win a custom “Erykah Badu Ankh” jewelry piece (as seen in above image) designed exclusively by the masterminds of GoodWoodNYC.
GoodWoodNYC specializes in custom rings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, pins and earrings. They utilize a variety of exotic woods including, Zebrawood, Bloodwood, Lacewood, Purple heart and Birch. All GoodWoodNYC designs are hand sanded, painted and lasered by designer and founder Kerri O’Connell along with a team of wood carving elves. For more information please visit: http://goodwoodnyc.com/

Keep the festive feeling of Cinco de Mayo alive throughout the summer by sporting these bright colors, patterns, and prints!

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Always a spring favorite, nautical-inspired clothes are making waves this season. Look for striped sailor tops, rope details and anchor touches – with a modern twist. Here are some of our favorite pieces:

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Zoe Saldana Shows Off Spring Latest Trends: Florals

GALLERY: Chanel Iman Is Summer Chic For Express

Want to put together a fun and trendy wardrobe for spring? This season’s must-haves calls for anything floral, strappy and bright. Wardrobe Staples

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Look like a million dollars for under $100

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TREND REPORT: African-Inspired Fashion

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SEE THE REST HERE!

Check out her outfit at the event and tell us if you think she looks FAB OR FUG!

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Y-E-S, I said it, I called her a “B” right to her face. I leveled my gaze, tapped her on the shoulder and gave her the once over. Sister- said I, it’s been a long day but I just have to say, I know you’re a member- you’re a B-O-M-B-S-H-E-L-L.

When was the last time that another woman gave you a compliment? For me, that’s rule number one of being a bombshell. We are N-O-T intimidated by another woman’s fierceness. All my girls are feline femme fatales; the rest got fired in 2009. The word of the day is B-O-L-D all bombshells are familiar with it. It takes style, skill and courage to set yourself a part from “the crowd” a.k.a. the Beyonce Betas that are-the next woman.

In the words of the 80’s funk band Klymaxx, “don’t make me come down to your level and be a BW- a basic woman”. Ladies, it’s time to amplify your B-O-L-D factor from basic to bombshell. Here are some adjustments- any thoughts?

The Aura: When basic women think of aura, they think attitude and sass but a true B.I.T (Bombshell In Training) knows that manners and style are what leave a lasting impressions. Separate yourself from the pack with vintage elegance, now that’s a bold move!

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The Silhouette: B.I.Ts come in every size, shape and shade of sexy but we all strive to be healthy. From white teeth, to attacking a flight of stairs without grasping our collective chests, a true B.I.T knows a girdle will do only so much. Pack a lunch or boldly hit the gym during your hour of power.

The Signature: Basic women follow trends but we know that trends are like the catwalk, simply an offering for us to select from. Be bold and define your own look. Ask yourself, can I “own” this look and does it work for my body type?

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A Lady Gaga hater, or Kelis fan, has sent their very own collage into Necole Bitchie, comparing the two songstresses styles, and declaring Nas’ baby mama the queen of originality!

We’ve seen this comparison before, but it was with Rihanna. After all, Kelis perfected that iconic shaved-head haircut years before RiRi, Cassie, Lala, Mel B., Raven Symone and co. did.

Do you agree?

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The Black Panther Party was a force to be reckoned with during an era in American history where African-Americans fought to prevent their own subjugation.

During the 1960s and 1970s the Black Panther Party functioned as an organized front, ready and willing to militantly combat violence against black people. Their contributions to the development of a more liberated environment for African-Americans within a racist American society is immeasurable. Their importance to the process of building the societal structure that we now know is undeniable. As we celebrate another Black History Month, Hello Beautiful honors the influence that the Black Panther party has had in the Civil Rights historical canon.

How To Recreate Coretta Scott King’s Classic Look

As we remember their historical importance, and look back upon the Panther experience, we especially honor the strong, bold, powerful image of the Panther woman. The women of the organization were in many ways the coal that kept the engine running. They served an imperative purpose, and helped to propel the Panther message, but they always did so with style. The Panther women’s distinctive style holds its own place in our memories.

In honor of the characteristic urban military look that the Blck Panthers are not famous for, we’re giving you a look back at some vintage panther photos.

If you are interested in recreating the Panther look, we’ve got you covered! Take a look at some of our Panther inspired looks with a modern twist. Check out the originators of “All Black Everything” in our gallery, and dont forget to equip your self with a good pair of these:

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2010’s Woman To Watch: Janelle Monae

Diesel Denim by designer Sophia Kokosalaki makes a Black and Gold splash at New York Fashion Week, video below. Do these sexy semi grunge looks for women hit or miss? Do they do the Black and Gold proud? Abiola weighs in…

It’s Fashion Week in New York City and two days ago at 5pm Diesel showcased its Black and Gold line designed by Sophia Kokosalaki. The collection was a blend of street smart mixed denim looks that could easily go from the runway into our closets. Easy, breezy and date-worthy for single goddesses and marrieds alike. However…

One thing we really hope that does not come back is grunge inspired fashion. Perhaps this is why we’re simultaneously scared and titillated by these images from Diesel and Sophia Kokosalaki. We love the images at the top and the next one but…

Ever spend hours shopping, planning and primping your fabulously fashionable outfit only for your guy to look at the finished product with total indifference?

It’s no secret that men and women have very different perspectives on fashion. While we fret over matching, monotones, layering and styling, men have a much more lax approach to what they wear and how they wear it. We often justify our crazed fashion obsessions by arguing that we want to look good for our significant others. But in reality, he might be looking at your perfectly-pieced-together outfit and thinking that you look….weird.

Glamour Magazine recently asked a group of men for their opinions on popular fashion trends that women often wear, and their answers may have you rethinking what you wear on your next date.

Here is a list of 10 things that guys just don’t get about fashion, accompanied by a man’s opinion courtesy of Glamour:

1.) High-waist jeans

“I’m not a fan of the high-waist jeans some girls wear—it reminds me too much of my old elementary-school teachers.”

—Mike, 29

2.) Really high heels

“Call me crazy, but if a gal looks like she’s really uncomfortable in the shoes she’s wearing, it makes me uncomfortable—I don’t care how hot the shoes are. I’m not saying you should rock New Balances instead, but if you can’t wear those heels without grimacing every step, maybe save them for seated events.”

—Alex, 28

3.) Harem pants

“I think that the weirdest women’s fashion choice has been those weird dumpy pants that make it look like girls have poops in their pants. I don’t want to talk to anybody wearing those pants.”

—Peter, 30

4.) Hippie headbands

“Hipster girls have started wearing what look like belts on their heads. It’s cute in a pathetic way because it looks like they got confused while they were getting dressed.”

—Robby, 30

5.) Cool hats

“If ladies are wondering whether they should wear that new hat they picked up on a whim at Urban Outfitters—you know, the fedora or the Newsies-style hat or even the trucker hat—the answer is always the same: dear God, no.”

—Mike, 32

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6.) Pantsuits

“When a woman wears a men’s-style button-down shirt, it’s super sexy; when she also wears slacks, a tie and a vest or blazer, it’s super manly—and not in the good Diane Keaton in “Annie Hall” sort of way.”

—Ian, 26

7.) Bodysuits

“There’s nothing less sexy than getting to third base and realizing that your girl is wearing what is essentially a one-piece swimsuit.”

—Ryan, 27

8.) Embellished bags

“One sweeping fashion trend that boggles the male mind is the case of the Gigantica-Godzillaca-Bedazzlement-Titanic-Tote Handbag complete with metal rings, chunky chain handles, leather loops, vertical zippers and who knows what. Girls can pack a guest room in there. Honestly, they look like Andie Walsh from “Pretty in Pink” stitched them at home after a bottle of chardonnay.”

—Rick, 30

9.) Furry boots (in summer)

“I can’t help but laugh when I see urban women sporting those super-furry Ugg boots. Sweetheart, you’re not competing in the Iditarod or about to plant a flag on Everest. Your run to get a blueberry smoothie and a manicure doesn’t require extreme survival gear.”

—Dave, 24

10.)  Fancy swimwear

“What’s with wearing fancy shoes, jewelry and makeup when you’re just hanging out at the pool?”

—Rob, 33

What do you guys think?

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The newest trend in celebrity fashion requires a pair of scissors and a few well though out slashes.

Cut outs are taking over the fashion game, as everything from tights to couture dresses are now available with carefully placed holes, tears, slashes and gashes.

While the look is blatantly sexy, it is very important that cut-outs be done conservatively. This means that private body parts need not show, and the crafty openings should be relegated to one area of the body.

Here is a prime example of how the cut out trend should, and should not be done:

If done correctly, we think that cut-outs are a fly new trend. Take a look at celebs demonstrating a few ways to bare skin in the gallery below:

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Here are our top 3 picks for how cut-outs should be done:

Option 1

If you are going to rock cut-out tights, keep it simple and wear them with classic pieces like a blazer and plain pumps.

Option 2

Go with a simple dress that has a few cut-outs placed in non-revealing places.

Option 3

A cool cut-out bootie is chic if worn with simple pieces.

Like what you see? Find it all at Polyvore!

Whats your opinion on the cut-out trend?

Nicki Minaj is in many ways the pioneer of the Wannabe-Barbie fiasco that is sweeping the teen/tween nation.

Her signature pink hair, bright makeup and bubbly, airhead persona tie into the image that she has parlayed into “Harajuku-Barbie” pop-rap success. There is much speculation that she even altered her body via various sketchy implant surgeries in order to further her crusade for Barbie’s plastic perfection.

While some regard Minaj as a hot new trendsetting rap princess, and dig the doll style, others see her as talent-less, simple and tacky. The Barbie allure is undeniable, as the brand has been around for decades influencing and entertaining young girls. But if Minaj’s “Barbie Movement” is nothing more than a call to adhere to impossibly fake standards of beauty while dropping oversexed lyrics (“now we drinkin’ Syzurp, pour it down my a** and let him drink it ’til he bizurp”), I think I’ll pass. While the look is working well enough for the “Harajuku Barbie” herself, there are countless other poor souls out there who are ending up looking like this:

What do you think? Is the Barbie Movement hot or not?

WTF? Lil’ Mama Disses Nicki Minaj For What She “Represents”

Check out this video to hear Nicki Minaj explain her Harajuku-Barbie Movement:

Take a look at Nicki Minaj below:

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Mariah’s “Up Out My Face” ft Nicki Minaj

GIRLFIGHT: Kid Sister vs. Nicki Minaj

Minx is definitely the hottest nail trend of the moment, although the ostentatious designs that are so popular among celebs like Rihanna and Eve are somewhat of a put-off to many people.

For the more subtle folks out there, Minx is releasing a new line of nail overlays with a less flamboyant feel. The “Teaser Collection” features 10 solid colors, finished with Minx’s signature iridescent shimmer. The company also plans to release another 30 designs in the next few months.

Take a look at the new Minx Teaser Collection below:

Minx has become hugely popular because of its dual appeal; a flawlessly smooth appearance and complex designs that are virtually impossible to hand paint. The actual Minx applique consists of a solid film, instead of liquid polish, with a heat activated adhesive back that is applied directly to the nail.

Minx can only be applied by certified professional manicurists, at select salons across the country. To find the salon nearest you, go here.

Check out this gallery to see celebs wear Minx, as well as a few other popular nail trends:

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Check out these star-studded nails below and try something new with your own!

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Spring 2010 Runway Hair Trends

Yes, make-up expires! Trash it!

We have always defended Rihanna’s tenacious fashion choices, and looked at her as an emerging fashion icon.

But as The Fashion Bomb points out, as of late our favorite “rude-girl” has been completely abandoning the clothes altogether. Many of the same fashionistas who once admired Rihanna’s sense of style are left wondering, what happened?

It seems like Riri’s fashion trajectory has peaked, and is now settled into a steady decline. While she has always been a master of “pushing the envelope” with her fashion choices, it seems that the envelope has fallen off the proverbial fashion table and is in danger of being swept up and thrown away altogether.

While we love the brazen attitude and who-cares demeanor, Rihanna, we implore you to take it back to basics; and by basics we mean bothering to put something (anything) on. After all, you can’t be a fashion icon if you don’t even bother to wear clothes.

In “Hard”one of her latest singles to hit airwaves, Rihanna asks, “where the bloggers at?” Well Rihanna, we’re right here, and we are all saying to you in unison, “where the clothing at?”

Take a look at some of Rihanna’s most recent revealing looks:

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Rihanna Readies Next Single; Can You Guess Which?

Take a look at Rihanna’s video for “Hard:”

GALLERY: Rihanna & Matt Kemp’s Love Fest Continues

Here is a look back at Rihanna’s hits and misses of 2009:

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Best Trends of 2009

Accordingly, we’ve all questioned our own taste level when the most lauded designers display seemingly unwearable get-ups labeled as couture, that we could never see ourselves wearing. Most couturiers create looks that are fantastical, impractical and overly extravagant (not to mention expensive). But it is possible to incorporate the couture aesthetic into your everyday wardrobe. Its important to remember that couture is different from Ready-To-Wear, and should not be taken literally. Couture shows are the designer’s choice to create art on the runway. Still some of the couture concepts can be made wearable with the right amount of tweaking.

Check out this gallery for some ways to simplify couture looks, making them into wearable outfits:

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All of the items in the couture inspired looks can be found at Polyvore.com

Also, check out these photos of supermodel Liya Kebede in a couture spread for ELLE Magazine:

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2010 Trend: How To Rock A Fierce Ponytail

VIDEO: Naomi Campbell Was A Child Actress?

Here are five tips to help you revamp your wardrobe for the new year:

1) Out with the ill-fitting

Get rid of anything that no longer fits. Whether you lost a few pounds or outgrew a few of your clothes in 2009, there is no place for ill fitting garments in your 2010 closet. Trash any thing that is too big small, long or short. Make space for new, more flattering things in order to ensure that no part of your

2) Try new things

Get out of your 2010 style rut! Don’t let your clothes become a uniform. If you have been wearing the same things in the same way over and over this past year, shake things up in ’10. Take risks and be bold.

2010 Trend: Grey Is The New Black

3) Get inspired

If you find yourself admiring some one’s style, feel free to incorporate it into your own. Draw inspiration from you favorite celeb, a well known style icon or even a stylish person that you know personally.

4) Get tailored

The best way to take an average wardrobe and make it extraordinary is to become well acquainted with your local tailor. Normal off-the-rack garments can be made to look like custom creations with minor tweaks. Altering clothes to fit your body specifically will help you will transform your look in a great way.

Supermodel Liya Kebede Covers ELLE Mag

5) Invest in a few statement pieces

Adding a few strong statement pieces to your wardrobe will help you to sand out more. While it is virtually impossible for the average person to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe every year, a few strong items will make you look and feel brand new. Invest in an uber-fabulous pair of Louboutins, A Balmain(esque) vest, a butter soft leather or this seasons it-bag. Equip yourself with some classic, quality items that will last and build the rest of you wardrobe around them.

Want to know what else is hot and what’s not for 2010? Check out this gallery:

Is Fergie Selling “Ghetto” Image To Get Ahead?

Check out the hottest celebs pics on the net!!

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