The Full Report on Nicki vs. Miley

“Miley, what’s good?”

Those fighting words from Nicki Minaj were heard all around the world last Sunday night during the 2015 MTV Video Music Awards.

The potential for drama was high that night. Between Nicki vs. Taylor Swift, Taylor Swift vs. Kanye, there definitely was tension in the air. We just didn’t expect that sparks would fly between Nicki and Miley.

If you missed out last Sunday and were not able to watch, or if you simply live under a rock, here’s the video of what went down during  the awards show between Nicki and Miley:

Phew. That was intense right?

Other people were crying, “Staged!” But most sources (and even Nicki herself) declares the authenticity of this moment. This beef and this heated exchange wasn’t staged and it wasn’t an act. Just look at Miley’s genuinely shocked expression on the video. This was a direct result of an earlier interview that Miley did where she made comments about Nicki Minaj’s concluded Twitter beef with Taylor Swift.

Here’s a brief recap if you’re still clueless.

Last July, Nicki Minaj called out her lack of video of the year nomination for Anaconda. She stated that because she wasn’t white and skinny, her pop culture phenomenon chart-topping song and video was snubbed. Taylor Swift took offense and thought it to be a pointed tweet to her, but Nicki denied that it was meant for T-Swizzle and they ended the misunderstanding quickly. I mean, they did perform together during the VMAs.

So there’s no bad blood there.

A mere days before the VMA Awards, which Cyrus was slated to host, Miley’s comment regarding this whole Nicki vs. Taylor issue was published.

Miley Cyrus said, “If you do things with an open heart and you come at things with love, you would be heard and I would respect your statement. But I don’t respect your statement because of the anger that came with it … What I read sounded very Nicki Minaj, which, if you know Nicki Minaj is not too kind. It’s not very polite.”

Wow.

Obviously Nicki Minaj did not take to Miley’s comment kindly. AT ALL. A lot of people, Nicki included clearly, that Miley’s comment was way too personal and basically stereotyped Nicki as an angry black woman.

As she came up onstage to receive the Best Hip Hop Video for Anaconda, she then called out Miley.

That anger is real.

So whose side are you on? Are you Team Nicki or Team Miley?

One thing is for sure though, their confrontation aside, both ladies served up provocative fashion on the red carpet.

Nicki and Miley can certainly serve up some exceptional red carpet sexiness though.

So that’s the latest in pop culture news, it’ll be the brunch topic this Sunday for sure. I’m glad I prepared you. Have a great weekend ladies!

Style Icon: Karlie Kloss

Karlie Kloss a.k.a “The Body” is one of the most popular, in-demand models at the moment. This Victoria’s Secret Angel doesn’t just have her killer, toned bod going for her. She also has contracts with brands like Juicy Couture, Joe Fresh, and Lacoste as well as with high fashion houses like Oscar de la Renta, Chanel, and Dior, to name a few. A quintessential part of Taylor Swift‘s girl gang (Karlie was in the recent Bad Blood video), Karlie’s star is at its pinnacle, and the way things are going, she’ll be one of the supermodels of our time.

How gorgeous does Karlie look in her new Versace campaign? Green with envy. Literally.

This navy blue Jason Wu gown is pure royalty. I love it! It’s made for the red carpet.

Karlie Kloss looks positively radiant in this Vogue shoot. That tortoiseshell belt is exquisite!

Do you need further proof than this? Karlie Kloss is indeed “The Body.”

Black and gold is a timelessly glamourous combination. It looks chic every single time.

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Karlie’s supermodel status aside, she does have stellar off-duty style and red carpet style too! Here are some of my picks of her off-duty sartorial best.

How do you elevate a basic pair of ballet flats? Throw on leather leggings and a blazer-cape hybrid. So fashion forward.

Make your white frock feel more modern with structured heels. I love how minimalist this is. Sophisticated and chic!

What I love about Karlie’s style is that she knows exactly what works for her. This silky scarf gown is a perfect example. The lace-up heels make it more edgy, and less typical lady.

Consider this look your next office style inspiration. Black and white plus tailored to perfection equals classy and powerful style.

Perk up your black trousers and white button-down with a tote that’s anything but basic, just like Karlie does.

Karlie makes a compelling case for winter whites. The cable knit sweater gives just the right amount of texture to this look.

Blue tweed with an A-line silhouette is universally flattering, and Karlie knows it.

Stripes with brown leather is a modern casual classic style pairing. The red lip knocks this look out of the park.

All Images from WhoWhatWear and Fashion Gone Rogue

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Which Karlie look is your favorite? I love her simple yet effortlessly chic style!

Color of the Year: Marsala

Every year the Pantone Color Institute selects a color they dub “color of the year.” Pantone is a company that creates tools for fashion, interior, and textile designers to ensure color accuracy and vibrance. And every year, Pantone never fails to start a color trend. This 2015, Pantone has named Marsala as the hot and trendy hue that is sure to take the world by storm.

Adaptable to both men’s and women’s fashion as well as home styling, the rich color of Marsala is just as warm and robust as the wine it derives its name from. Style wise, Marsala provides us fashionistas with so many opportunities for styling this hue all year round. Although the color is very reminiscent of fall, Marsala can be worn all year round. I am personally so in love with this earthy and sophisticated red-brown hue.

Here I give you some styling inspiration as well as some tips and tricks so that you can easily get in on this color trend too! Take a look at my picks and fashion ideas below.

Glamorize Marsala with hints of gold and leopard print. Both gold and marsala are warm hues that are sure to work well together. A Marsala feathered skirt is a worthy addition to your evening wear rotation, and a welcome change from your typical cocktail wear.

Sometimes, all you need is one trendy accessory to turn things around and elevate your look. A Marsala hued wide brim hat is a great way to cover your head and stay warm from fall to winter, and it’ll easily complement your cozy plaid flannels and cozy sweaters. The best part is that you can take this Marsala accessory toward summer dressing as well. It is a great topper for those breezy maxi dresses. 

Don’t shy away from donning Marsala from head-to-toe, the understated elegance and warm saturation of this hue is flattering to most skin colors and isn’t too loud or overpowering to be worn as a monochromatic look. Insert some leather and exotic animal skin into your look for some dramatic and fashion forward texture play. 

 

Midi skirt plus Marsala equals a trendy combo that your closet will die to have. A pleated midi in Marsala can be worn with a variety of pieces, you can wear it with a crop top for more casual occasions or you can opt for more polish as shown in this look. The striped oxford shirt and pearls add a classic twist to the Marsala piece.

Marsala when done in tailored and structured shapes is so attention grabbing. Add an oversized belt that’s very current, and you’ve got a contender on your hands. For serious street style chops, Marsala is the way to go as it shows your trend savvy and fashion knowledge. 

Casual days get a trendy update when you throw in a relaxed fit Marsala button-down into the mix. This rich hue pairs amazingly well with jeans, and again looks so stunning when worn with animal print and your favorite gold bling.

An athletic spin on Marsala is a styling idea that you should look into. The juxtaposition of the sporty platform slip-ons with the mystery and femininity of Marsala is pure perfection. A leather cross body satchel and sunnies definitely add that downtown cool vibe to this look. 

Adding some Marsala to your office look is a great way to insert color into your everyday work wear without looking inappropriate or out of place in the board room. Marsala is a subtle and warm shade of red-brown that can pair well with your blue office separates and tailored blazers. Try a Marsala tailored pant for a standout stylish office look. 

When in doubt, pair it with black and white. Outerwear has been a fashionista staple for many seasons now. Most street style stars make a sartorial statement through their topper of choice, make yours count with a Marsala trench coat. It’s a classic silhouette that is given a modern spin by this trendy color. This coat will go well with most fall hues, but black and white just gives it that edgy graphic feel. Taylor Swift has been nailing the street style game as of late, and this on point outfit is no exception. She basically affirms the chicness and wearability of Marsala in this papparazzi perfect street style look. The green check scarf and her khaki-colored peacoat look like they were made to go with her Marsala hued denims.

So which Marsala look caught your eye? I am looking forward to some Marsala-hued shopping this weekend!

 

Shopping Guide: Top Fashion Jewelry Brands

Fine Jewelry is undoubtedly at the top of every woman’s dream list. It is an investment that will be an heirloom and will outlast trends and time. However, fashion or costume jewelry holds a special place in every fashionista’s heart and her closet and jewelry box, of course. High street brands like Zara, Mango, River Island etc., all have their respective takes on fun and fashion forward bling. But here I’ve rounded up the brands and some top picks for fabulous and glamorous fashion jewelry that are both playful, elegant, tasteful, and are of high quality. Ditch those statement costume jewelry that are tarnished or have missing stones, and invest in sparklers that pile on the wow factor.

DANNIJO

Sister Jodie and Danielle, the founders and designers of DANNIJO, put a premium on sustainability and women empowerment. What started out as a way to raise funds for their grassroots women’s initiative in Africa turned out to a be highly successful and coveted line of costume jewelry. With aztec and geometric influences and rock n’ roll lifestyle feel, DANNIJO is at the top of every it girl’s list. This brand has been spotted on the likes of Rihanna, Blake Lively, and Natalie Portman.

Rashida Jones wearing a Dannijo necklace

 

Images from DANNIJO.com

 

LULU FROST

Founded and based in NYC, Lulu Frost has a distinct aesthetic combining art deco architecture inspiration with contemporary kitschy and girly influences. The brand has had collaborations with eponymous retailer, J. Crew, and has been spotted on First Lady Michelle Obama, Beyonce, and Taylor Swift proving the brand’s diverse yet sophisticated look. Marrying antique and modern, Lulu Frost captures the crux of what it means to be chic and stylish.

Olivia Palermo wearing a Lulu Frost necklace

 

 

Images from LuluFrost.com

BAUBLE BAR

Another NYC made and based jewelry brand, Bauble Bar is at the forefront of fashion jewelry online retail. They have an entire range of customizable jewelry and special services to cater to brides-to-be. They pretty much have every service you can imagine. Bauble Bar even has guest bartenders, who curate their own collection. Emma Roberts and Coco Rocha are some of the stylist celebs that they have collaborated with. There are also available stylists online, whether by chat, mail, phone or video, for any of your burning questions on accessorizing.

Guest bartender Emma Roberts wearing Bauble Bar

 

Images from BaubleBar.com

EDDIE BORGO

Making edgy jewelry since 2008, Eddie Borgo is a NYC brand that takes inspiration from the wonderful city it is based in. Aside from harnessing and capturing the vibrant and upbeat energy of New York City in its designs, Eddie Borgo is also inspired by vintage costume jewelry, American tradition and heritage, and heavily rooted in the rock n’ roll culture. This luxe jewelry brand injects street style trends and urban vibes effortlessly into each piece. The designer, Eddie Borgo, has won many awards including the CFDA Swarovski Award for Innovation in Accessory Design.

Sienna Miller wearing an Eddie Borgo tiara

Images from Net-a-Porter

JENNIFER MEYER

Marrying the special quality of personalized jewelry, modern high street style, and the timeless elegance of fine jewelry, Jennifer Meyer has become a quick A-list favorite. From the Olsen twins to Jessica Alba, her understated yet statement making jewelry have been making fashion headlines and winning her scores of fashion fans from all over. Luxury meets wearability, her designs are handmade with love and Los Angeles and definitely have that distinctive echo of bohemian style and an easy air of sophistication.

Elle Fanning and Drew Barrymore wearing Jennifer Meyer Jewelry

Images from Net-a-Porter

LIZZIE FORTUNATO

Twins Kathryn and Lizzie Fortunato have been consistently creating eclectic jewelry since 2008. Using influences from various world cultures and handicrafts, these pieces are adorned with hand beading, loom embroidery, and vintage textiles. If you’re looking for something perfect to go with your bohemian pieces or to update your summer style, Fortunato Jewels are it. Their pieces are where high-end and world-class craftmanship go together to create cool pieces that every girl would love to have on their necks.

Image from Lizzie Fortunato Instagram

Images from Lizzie Fortunato

Happy Xmas shopping ladies!

 

Style Icon: Taylor Swift

British Vogue’s November Issue cover star, country music icon, street style star, and pop culture phenomenon Taylor Swift is a force to be reckoned with. At such a young age she broke out onto the scene in a big way, with infectious rhythms and insightful, deeply felt lyrics. Her famous relationships (and breakups too) have been immortalized into country/pop-rock songs that has the rest of the world singing along. She has recently been making the news and making major headlines with her feminine and vintage inspired street style looks. Each look she steps out in is pure perfection, and she has us swooning over her to die for style. She always looks polished and always look paparazzi ready, which goes to show that you can stay true to yourself and not always follow the trends.

Start your own trend just like T-Swizzle has, and  learn from her sartorial savvy, as you browse through my top 10 picks of Taylor Swift’s best street style looks.

A departure from her typically sweet street style, Tay Tay shows that she can turn up the glam and exude a bit of naughtiness with this sexy black jumpsuit. She still maintains her signature girly vibe by toting her top handle vintage frame bag. Opting out of accessorizing and just letting the black pieces be the focus of this look is such a classy style move.  

In the summer, we saw Taylor Swift in one matching printed two-piece set after another. She practically lived in those crop tops and full skirts. She stays loyal to her affinity for matching sets and makes it more fitting for the fall in this knit sweatshirt and pencil skirt duo.

Taylor Swift turns up the glamour in a sparkling and shimmering Gucci gown during this year’s Grammy Awards. With just some elegant ear danglers as her accessory, she completely owns the red carpet in this beautiful silver column gown. 

I wish that we could all look this good on the reg, just like Taylor Swift does. She manages to look modern while donning vintage pieces. She looks absolutely flawless in this covetable outfit composed of a yellow houndstooth cropped sweater, mint green skater skirt, coral heels, and a lovely taupe frame bag. 

Want to know how to make even a pair of denim cutoffs look elegant? Do it like Taylor and add some polished extras into the mix. You can never go wrong with nude pumps, black frame top handle bag, and a white sabrina neckline top. Improve this casual look even further with a red lip and loose, tousled hair waves. 

If there was ever an argument about investing in tailored shorts for the summer, this look will be one of the strongest cases for it. A pair of brightly colored tailored shorts up the ante and gives a ladylike vibe to Taylor’s fondness and preference for menswear inspired footwear like these low-heeled oxfords. 

Taylor Swift might not be a school girl, but she certainly nails back-to-school style in this outfit. A red and blue patterned sweater dress  with her two signature staples, heeled oxfords and structured leather totes all make for an A plus look.

This is further evidence that you need not hold yourself strictly to the matching purse and shoes style rule. Sometimes, breaking fashion rules can be fun since the unexpected always leads to more excitingly chic looks. Simply take a gander at this printed sheath dress look and how the hot pink peep-toe pumps and hunter green bag play off each other stunningly. 

An orange and pink color block sweater can make your daily spring to fall uniform so exciting. Pieces such as this sweater are great for quickly and easily perking up your basics, like camel colored skinnies and black tasseled loafers. 

Taylor makes us like her even more as she embraces high street brands like Aldo. She totes a maroon structured purse from Aldo and matches that deep burgundy red shade with a deep-V sweater worn over a grey mini dress. The bowler hat and matching burgundy colored booties are just the right accessories to finish off this winsome look.

Which look is your favorite? All of Taylor Swift’s looks are so amazing, I simply can’t choose!

Images from Teen Vogue and InStyle