O.M.O. Writes

//O.M.O. WRITES MOVES TO DOT COM//

2011-09-14T00:59:00.000-04:00

Just as the blogger followers are coming in like hotcakes, I have to say goodbye to blogger. But fret not! Just head over to OMOWRITES.COM!

That's right, we're dot-com-ing it, my lovelies! Still working on the layout, but the general gist is available as are current posts. Thanks so much for reading O.M.O. Writes on blogger and for those who followed via the blogger tool.

//REAL STYLE: DAY 5: FASHION WEEK S/S '12//

2011-09-13T11:23:00.001-04:00

O.M.O. Contributing Photog, Chelsey Wilkins of ChellyWellzShop

//CELEB SIGHTINGS @ RACHEL ROY//

2011-09-13T09:30:00.001-04:00

PHOTO CRED// O.M.O. Contributing Photog, Chelsey Wilkins of ChellyWellzShop

I would be a bit crazed if I saw Kim Kardasian, should I be embarrassed to say that? She seems to be an amazing go-getter and just so much to admire. Her interview in Glamour a while back put her in a serious light for me.

Joy Bryant always looks so regular to me. She obviously doesn't have a glam squad but I don't either...so...what's the reason for not having shiny locks or a pampered pout?

//RACHEL ROY S/S 2012//

2011-09-13T09:05:00.000-04:00

PHOTO CRED// O.M.O. Contributing Photog, Chelsey Wilkins of ChellyWellzShop

Though seemingly schizophrenic in selection, there is a method to the madness of my fave looks from one of fashion's sweethearts, Rachel Roy.

Roy took her Spring/Summer 2012 collection to a Far East place and I am not totally sure why, but the contrasting brilliant hues against black was subtly Asian enough that I appreciated the reference. Not all wraps were kimono, but more DVF. She's also tapped into the pajama look that is great for this Fall but will it really last into the Spring as literally?

//RISE + SHINE, ANOTHER FASHION WEEK DAY!//

2011-09-13T08:12:00.000-04:00

PHOTO CRED: O.M.O. Contributing Photog, Chelsey Wilkins of ChellyWellzShop

Taken at Rachel Roy.

//FINALLY, FASHION'S NIGHT OUT SHOTS!//

2011-09-12T07:02:00.001-04:00

Fashion week has barely begun and I feel like there's already so much to get through. But let's start with Fashion's Night Out. It had to be the craziest one ever, flanked by non-fashionables who walked in + out of stores just for the beverage and the kids running up + down Prince chanting 'Ye without any sign of Your Highness.

Besides that I ran into friends, took shot of cute peeps, had baked mac + cheese at the unsuspecting surfing shop, Vilebrequin and had a super awkward encounter with a previous boss at French Connection. See the shots below!

//FACE-2-FACE AFRICA EDITOR//

//DJ BONNIE DANGER + SHYVONNE//

//RICCI STEEZ + FRIEND, TEE//

//EBONIE SIMONE +KESHAWNA BOONE//

//JENNI KAYNE: SS 2012 PREVIEW//

2011-09-09T17:03:00.000-04:00

While FNO shots are to come and my attendance to Blogger's Night Out and the Style Like U party are awaiting my attendance, here's a sneak peak at Fashion Week amazingness!

The Jenni Kayne SS 2012 preview is giving me my last wind for the summer as fall creeps in, making it actually feel like Mother Nature made a bee-line to the fashion show season at hand!

//THE RUNDOWN: FNO + SUCH//

2011-09-07T07:41:00.001-04:00

//PHOTO CRED//

So here's the rundown!
1. Fashion's Night Out is Manana and I have my itinerary planned for once! Third time's a charm, I guess. Have no idea where to go? See my plans //here//
1A. It's freezing and I think I may wear my hat like Stevie Dance in the shot above!
2. After reading Blogging Your Way to the Front Row by Yuli Ziv, I've been integrating tips knowingly and, some how, subconsciously. Shouts to me for getting a real [starter] camera Nikon P500 and a photographer with a better camera who will take street shots of me. oooh! Thanks for the inspo, Yuli!
3. I bought two other amaze books on Amazon: Rework by Jason Fried and Ellements of Personal Style by Joe Zee

Bonus point: I'm having a great time enjoying my world, not the "real" world. Hope you are as well! See what I'm talking about //here//

//FOOL'S GOLD DAY + NIGHT OFF//

2011-09-05T13:06:00.000-04:00

What to do if you're not doing the West Indian Day Parade or just laid up...Fool's Gold is always a good time--see you there!

Fool’s Gold Day Off

Juicy J
Danny Brown
Just Blaze
Brothers Macklovitch (A-Trak & Dave1)
Araabmuzik
Cubic Zirconia
Party Supplies
Nick Catchdubs
+ Special Guests

City Winery Backyard
155 Varick St, NYC
(Entrance on Spring btwn Hudson & Varick)
2-8pm / All ages
Free!

//ERYKAH BADU SPEAKS ON CREATIVITY + SUCH//

2011-09-05T12:00:00.001-04:00

//SOURCE//

It's no wonder that Erykah Badu seems to affect her men to their core, changing their lives forever and leaving them always with her name on their tongue...in their songs.
The woman is so sure and cool in how she speaks, with almost a masculine energy. It's captivating.

After all that insightful talk from which I milked crazy amounts of inspiration she has the simplest, girliest response to the last question: "What makes you smile?" Watch to see what I mean...

//WHAT I WORE: LABOR DAY 2011//

2011-09-04T20:36:00.001-04:00

Deets// Equipment shirt courtesy of Loehmann's Gift Card, American Apparel skirt, Zara heels, Vintage belt
No West Indian day parade for me. Kept it low key as far as quality time at home, running, doing some yoga, cooking and last minute nights out. Feels like I have all the time in the world!

//LOVE FOLA IN VAMP//

2011-09-02T16:47:00.001-04:00

VAMP from Folasade on Vimeo.

Fola has a millie projects that she produces and updates seemingly simultaneously. Here's another, Vamp.

//I STILL WANT ONE: THURSDAY FRIDAY//

2011-09-01T11:20:00.001-04:00

//SOURCE//

Thursday Friday Hermes Birkin Canvas Tote...

//STYLE INSPO: NICOLE RICHIE//

2011-09-01T08:16:00.003-04:00

Though not many, there are a couple style shots of Nicole Richie in my inspiration folder. As I give my "length" a break for my cropped look, she's even more note-worthy to me.

//TRANSITIONS, TRANSITIONS: DRESSING A/W//

2011-09-01T07:06:00.000-04:00

//SOURCE//
A page from a 2003 Fall issue of Nylon. So ready for layers!

//VOGUE TURKEY: AUTUMN ENSEMBLES//

2011-08-31T09:02:00.005-04:00

With September being a day away and crisp Autumn temps creeping up on us, this editorial in Vogue Turkey is especially inspiring.

It proves why I'll never tire of lace, sheer or a choppy DIY--yes, to hacking at a maxi skirt! [see above] Those 3 things, and I'd like to add audacious, colorful fur, are just a few things that are so glam people won't be able to take a day of you in! And we love that!

//SOURCE//

//FEATURED ON ESSENCE.COM 40 FAB FASHION BLOGGERS//

2011-08-31T06:37:00.002-04:00

O.M.O. Writes was featured in a round up of 40 Fab Bloggers. Shouts to friends also featured: Jared Lowe of LoweFactor, Christina of LoveBrownSugar, Celia of A Fraction of Fashion, Najwa of Styleaholics, Rae and Gabe of Stuff Fly People Like, Teena of Fashion For Breakfast, Jess of Glamazons, Josh and Travis of Street Etiquette, Saneeta of Chic Inspector, sP of Swagger of Paris, Misha of The Fab Chick, oh! and last but not least Claire of The Fashion Bomb.

It's so funny...we were all blogging and linking and tweeting each other. But this is great, so another shout to Zandile [and Terrence] for compiling such a great list on which to share company.

See the full run down //here//

//LENNON SHADES AND LACE SKIRTS//

2011-08-30T12:32:00.001-04:00

Love StyleSight for how spot on they are when it comes to trends. But here's two that I've been on for a while. Keep it here and tell your friends about O.M.O. Writes to be the first on what's fresh in fashion, style and trends!

Click the images for me wearing these trends months, even a year, ago!

//FADER.COM FEATURES JAVANA MUNDY//

2011-08-29T09:58:00.001-04:00

//PHOTO CRED//
Fader's Styled By features my girl, Javana Mundy who is 1/3 of our art exhibition series The Reawakening.

See Javana's blog //here//

//CURRENT OBSESSION: TOM FORD'S BLACK ORCHID//

2011-08-29T02:34:00.001-04:00

Tom Ford's Black Orchid Fragrance. The little-appreciated, lesser-sibling-to-blue-denim black cut-offs. The super trendy for this coming Fall, the varsity.

All of this is just a few of the reasons that this Knight Cat collage is everything.

//FASHION ICON: FRIDA KAHLO//

2011-08-26T15:17:00.001-04:00

Frida Kahlo has actually been on my inspiration board for years. The strength in her demeanor and attention she commands in her look is so provocative and admirable.

The fashion inspo she evokes of long full skirts, art deco jewelry and everythign artistic and reoltionary doesn't hurt either!

See my Frida Kahlo collage from 2008 //here//

//SOURCE//

//ONEANDRA CESBEDES, SCIENTIST?//

2011-08-26T15:13:00.001-04:00

//PHOTO CRED//
Oneandra is comfortably fashion-forward in this pink pout, summer turban and spiked bracelet. So striking just because I know her profession. She's a scientist.

I guess people are still scientists...someone has to be. The term just seems so elementary and yet so abstract, complex and distant. I'd understand biochemist more for some reason.

//INSPIRED BY STEVE JOBS//

2011-08-25T16:28:00.001-04:00

Finding this key note speech that Steve Jobs gave at a 2005 Stanford graduation came just as I got news that he had stepped down as CEO of our favorite computing system powerhouse, Apple.

In his speech, he reminds us to follow our intuition, crappy things often lead to amazing things in life and that we should "Stay hungry. Stay foolish." I hope his lessons continue to ring true as he embraces this new chapter in his life.
//SOURCE//

//IRIS APFEL: "NOW I HAVE A FANBASE"//

2011-08-25T12:06:00.002-04:00

She's already on your coffee table or shelves amongst others at your local library. Iris Apfel has long been the cause of interest, intrigued and discussion. I had the pleasure of meeting her just this week //here// The New York Times speaks with Apfel to discuss her new-found fame, though.

"But now, at 90, she seems baffled, and clearly tickled, to find herself on the cusp of pop stardom, an unlikely celebrity whose fame has been constructed almost entirely around her look. “I’m a geriatric starlet, my dear, don’t you know,” she said the other day. Relaxing in her Park Avenue apartment, a visual feast of cabbage rose patterns, paisleys and brocades, she added, “All of a sudden, I’m hot; I’m cool; I have a ‘fan base.’ ”"
Read on //here//

//GARAGE: NEW MAGAZINE IN TOWN//

2011-08-25T09:19:00.001-04:00

//SOURCE//
Garage, the new magazine said to be launched during fashion week, is headed by former Pop editor, Dasha Zhukova and features Shala Monroque as Creative Director. I just hope they'll be giving them out for free at the mag' kiosk during the shows :/

//LADY GAGA X FASHION LINE//

2011-08-25T07:17:00.002-04:00

//SOURCE//
"Gah-ments, Dah-ling!" Can't you here Gaga screaming that in the showroom?

Lady Gaga is said to be working on a fashion line with her little sister, Natali Germanotta who is currently attending Parsons and working on costumes for a new off-Broadway show. That combination already sounds devastatingly interesting...hope not predictable.

//CHICKEN BEFORE EGG: iPAD CASES//

2011-08-24T17:16:00.002-04:00

I may not have an iPad, but that won't keep me from lusting after these iPad cases that, as Refinery 29 points out, also function as clutches. Besides, having an iPad case will guide the "Universe" to plop an iPad into my lap...Can't blame a girl for channelling her thoughts!

//MR. KATE JEWELRY--GAH!//

2011-08-24T16:23:00.003-04:00

I love raw, earthy, heirloom-bound jewelry. And even as a jewelry designer, I'm never hesitant to gush over the work of other designers. Kate Albrecht, designer behind Mr. Kate takes us somewhere that decayed, layerd, clever pieces exist. It's all about Rose gold this season and Mr. Kate's got you covered, as modeled by Alexandra Spencer of 4th and Bleeker.
Shop Mr. Kate //here//

//SOURCE//

//LOEHMANN'S BLOGGER SHOPPING EVENT: THE OVERVIEW//

2011-08-24T07:31:00.001-04:00

It's the Loehmann's Blogger Shopping Event! Here's A QUICK overview with tons more shots TK!

Stylist, Felix Mercado dishes on the seasons trends and how to shop them for much, muhc less at Loehmann's. "Loehmanns is the secret you don't want to keep to yourself," Mercado says.

Bloggers and Loehmann's buyers listening. Notebook-ready!

Living Fashion Legend! Iris Apfel admires the Shards Of Glass ring I designed for my jewelry line TNEMNRODA.

Chatting with the handbag, intimates and accessories buyers to find out shopping's hotspots for you!
Quick tip: go cleaner and classic for handbags. The days of super adorned are over!

Photo op with Iris and amaze personal shopper Victoria.

Shopping! Thank you Loehmann's and Alicia Lutes at Hip Genuis!

Stay tuned to O.M.O. for more shots and info that will help you win the awesome giveaway I have lined up from the shopping event...
//Photo Cred: Sean Greene//

//WHAT I WORE: LOEHMANN'S SHOPPING EVENT//

2011-08-23T01:42:00.003-04:00

Deets://
BCBG Generation bangles (set of 2) $20 -> $9.99
Fur Vest $180 -> $79
Equipment Blouse $208 -> $79
Wool Medium Floppy Hat $45 -> $29
Romeo and Juliet Couture Maxi Dress $158 -> $39.99

That's super crazy savings, no imperfections, original markdown! I tried everything on altogether once I got home.

I'm still so excited from my shopping experience at Loehmann's, where myself and six other bloggers were invited to the discount department store for trend talk with Stylist Felix Mercado and shopping with a $300 gift card.

Observing Loehmann's from a distance and, of course, having walked by it on so many occasions as it's walking distance from my job, I thought it to be a retailer for an older woman. I thought the woman who is devoid of fashion insight shops at Loehmann's. That is soooo far from the truth!

Don't compare it to Century 21 either. The Chelsea-based Loehmann's is super organized, on and ahead of trend with a selection that keeps your eyes darting across the floor.

It's seriously my new fave store. Check my twitter for the tons of twitter updates I made throughout the event and after! //here//

p.s. I picked out a great giveaway item for one of my readers! The giveaway post TK ("to come" in journalism-jargon).

//TREND REPORT: POLKA DOTS//

2011-08-22T17:06:00.001-04:00

//SOURCE//

The jovial print makes a major statement this fall in every garment type, fabric and print style!
Be on trend this Fall with billowy spotted blouses, '70s style jumpsuits and dramatic print-all-over maxi dresses.

For the timid, accessorize in the trend. This means, polka dotted scarves, bangles and bags...why not?

//SOURCE//

//O.M.O. WRITES SEEKS A RESIDENT PHOTOG//

2011-08-22T07:43:00.000-04:00

Goodbye to the days of asking friends to take shots of me--"No, not with you...just me."
It's time. O.M.O. Writes needs a resident photog!

Team with me every weekday to produce amaze style shots. You will earn photo cred, a transportation allowance and a small fee for taking my daily style shots. Be an O.M.O. Writes Contributor!

Contact me at samantha.smikle@gmail.com if you're interested.

//Requirements//
-You must live in NYC with the ability to travel to various locations in the city once everyday.
-You must own a professional camera
-You must email me the shots unedited after each session

//Compensation//
-Photo cred on each post
-Metro Card to cover transportation to and from our shoot location and/or small fee for each session

//THAKOON FOR THE HORN OF AFRICA//

2011-08-19T15:11:00.001-04:00

//photo cred//
Many designers source ethnic societies for their aesthetic value with no regard for the actual community from which this inspriation is derived. Not Thakoon!

As the Horn of Africa [Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Djibouti, to name a few] suffers from the worst famine of their history, experiencing widespread drought and limited food supplies, Thakoon offers a scarf from the same print featured in the Fall 2011 collection. 100% of the proceeds will go toward a relief organization for the region.

Visit Thakoon //here//

//EMBELLISHED SHOULDERS//

2011-08-19T07:41:00.000-04:00

//SOURCE//

Embellished shoulders will be relevant for some time to come. With the progression and deconstruction of the shoulder from to severe '80s power dressing to soft puff sleeves to just off with them in cut outs, studding and pearlifying possibilities are endless!

Check out my video about Rihanna's bold shoulder //here//

//TREND REPORT: WET WIPES TAKE OVER//

2011-08-18T12:02:00.002-04:00

I knew I couldn't be the only one advocating for the convenience of moist towelettes or just plain ol' baby wipes as I mentioned in my "O.M.O. Secrets" post. //Read here//

NYT Fashion jumps on amazing-ness in a wipe to feature the onslaught of a million reason to use them. From Sunscreen to tanning bronzer to deodorant the wipes have been infused with whatever you can think of, packaged and sold as some ingenuine idea!

I hold fast to my initial POV, use a good unscented hypo-allergenic baby wipes for makeup removal or a quick freshen up session and most needs--your life will be changed forever. But feel free to supplement with a few specialty wipes.
Sunscreen wipes //here//
Self Tanner wipes //here//
Deodorant wipes //here//

//SOURCE//

//STREET ETIQUETTE NYT FEATURE//

2011-08-18T07:26:00.001-04:00

It's the New York Times! It's "All the news that's fit to print!" As a journalism major in school, I was taught that the New York Times is the newspaper authority. So when you're featured among the pages, print or digital, it's...ummm...kind of a big deal.

Shouts to Josh and Trav of Street Etiquette who earned a feature on NYT Fashion for their development of a niche of fashion that orginated eras ago--Dandy style. They're hailed in the article for their partnerships with companies like Nike and Sebago, congratualated for their planned college tour and admired for their step out of the normal static street style poses and introduction of active, in motion editorial personal style shots.

Any one who's read Street Etiquette knows what a leap it is for men's fashion. Even Mos Def, now mentor of the duo recognizes their influence saying, "They want to elevate the awareness level of young people in their communities. As opposed to ‘We’re better than y’all,’ it’s ‘You can be this, too.’ All of it is a political expression,” he said. “White people have all kinds of archetypes, from Brad Pitt to Al Bundy, everything in between. The cultural paradigms that are aggressively promoted to young black people and young poor people are extremely narrow.”

//SOURCE//

//MODEL MUSE: AJAK//

2011-08-17T14:00:00.001-04:00

I met Ajak the other day at a video shoot and she was the sweetest thing ever!

My girl and I were goofing around, singing and acting like we were going to really take this on the road and she was goofing right along with us. How adore! But, clearly, when it comes to her craft, she puts on a completely different face--so talented!
See more of Ajak //here// at IMG

//MIU MIU MUSING ON THE PACE OF FASHION//

2011-08-17T07:39:00.004-04:00

Miu Miu Musing on the Pace of Fashion from The Business of Fashion on Vimeo.

Legendary interview with fashion influentials at some atelier of sorts in Paris, I'm sure, discussing the pace of fashion. I can listen to Shala [Monroque] speak forever, so classy and intellectual.

Besides that, of course, there's great bits of info in here and how amazing would it be to say, "Well, I've heard Shala say..." or "I agree with Susie Menkes that..." Yay for fashion resources!

More from Business of Fashion //here//

//LYCHEE MOJITO @THAILAND CAFE//

2011-08-16T08:16:00.004-04:00

If we go out, I'll probably always suggest Thailand Cafe [95 2nd Avenue, NYC].

The Pad Thai never disappoints, the apps are super meals combined, and the Lychee Mojito is huge, amaze and 5 bucks. Can't beat that with a bat!

photo taken during good times with friends via Instagram *Shouts to Kendall!*

//STYLE INSPIRATION: AURORA SANSONE//

2011-08-15T10:43:00.000-04:00

With a penchant for maxi dresses and easy breezy Italiano style, that means fuss-less hair, little to no makeup and loads of fun bracelets, Aurora Sansone's style is effortless and refreshing.

Even in the Aquilano-E-Rimondi dress worn right below to the Milan Men's fashion shows this summer, the Vogue Nippon fashion editor made headlines all over fashion blogs. Confidence and authority just oozes from her sartorial choices. Aurora is def a new style inspiration.

//CHEERS TO LITERACY//

2011-08-15T09:33:00.000-04:00

Writing in my notebook on the train the other day, a man next to me commented on how wonderful my penmanship was and how I'm a rare breed as no one writes anymore [everyone texts, emails etc.].

Well, glad to see that I'm not the only one who still reads physical books as well. There's nothing like the smell of pages or the freedom to write notes in margins. Something the Kindle just can't give me.

//SOURCE//

//WHAT I WORE: 1 TOP, 2 WAYS//

2011-08-15T08:22:00.003-04:00

Here's the H+M sweater I bought just last week. I kept it summmer-y on the right pairing it with last summer's high waisted H+M shorts and Spring Shoes gladiator sandals.

But in my second wear [left], I went Autumn/Winter on myself! Finishing the sweater look with American Apparel leggings and Steve Madden Wedges.

Which do you prefer? How wold you style the sweater? Thanks for your input!

//MIND GAMES: LIVING IN HAPPINESS//

2011-08-13T20:32:00.002-04:00

Life was light as kids. We played pretend and explored unknown things in our imagination. Try it now!

Live as if you're new to your city. Your job is amazing for someone who just moved there, isn't it? Your boss' dick tendencies are now comical and you see all the positive in this experience which is part of your journey to your goal. And you love it!

Live life to enjoy your journey, not as a means to something that will "really make you happy." Good luck, love, peace and blessings!

//TREND REPORT: THE SPIKES LIVE ON!//

2011-08-12T09:55:00.001-04:00

It's the trend and the DIY-frenzy that won't die--Spikes.

Maybe it's just too fun, maybe it's just too cool, maybe because there are always new things to stud, spike or rivet that you never thought to before, but it's certainly a trend that has no end in site. I believe it's time for me to concede to my own spikey dreams--get my oxfords, handbags and turbans in on the action!

Don't forget to vary sizes, placement design and metal finishes of the studs, spike, rivets to differentiate your look and technique from the next "Studding Stacy." What will you be studding?

//SOURCE//

//SURFACE TO AIR DUE FOR FASHION'S NIGHT OUT//

2011-08-12T06:55:00.004-04:00

Surface to Air, the London-based multi-disciplined boutique agency makes it's way over to NYC this fall. Just in time for Fashion's Night Out, and that's no coincidence.

The consulting machine produces creative campaigns, music videos, gallery shows, fashion collections, not to mention develops collaborative design projects with artists like Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth and Kid Cudi, who just designed a $1,200 leather jacket [eek!]

Their Fashion's Night Out Event will be a super hot ticket and bring out so many different people, engrained deeply in fashion and everything cool, I'm sure.

Can't wait for what other new fronts will be popping up on the FNO map!
//SOURCE//

//i-D PRE FALL ISSUES GO TWITTER HAPPY//

2011-08-10T09:15:00.000-04:00

As twitter continues to take over the world, i-D's pre-fall covers feature the Twitter "@."
Tweet me too! //here//

//SOURCE//

//MISTAKEN IDENTITY IN A FASHION EDITORIAL//

2011-08-10T08:25:00.001-04:00

OH-EM-GEE! It's me, in an editorial! Not really, not at all. But this models reminds me of myself.
javascript:void(0)
Is that strange?

The style is similar in a cleaner and messier way, the hair too is so reminiscent of...well, mine. I'd like to think I was a source of inspo!

//SOURCE//

//WHAT I WORE: H+M SUMMER SHOPPING//

2011-08-08T10:09:00.001-04:00

H+M t-shirt dress, vintage belt via my dad, really old Steve Madden sandal heels

H+M did this longer in the back, shorter in the front thing with so many pieces including this one. Check out my latest dressing room diaries to see more.

//H+M DRESSING ROOM DIARIES: S/S + A/W PREVIEW//

2011-08-08T09:16:00.003-04:00

Wore this dress ($29->$19) almost as soon as I bought it! Love the graphic design. Love the mumu shape and how easy-breezy chic it would be belted with high heeled sandals.

This top ($29) felt very Ashley Olsen tucked into these jeans ($49). But not sure about the fabric, I passed.

At 49 bucks, this sweater was one of the pricier buys but for a piece that's absolutely seasonless, I couldn't resist! The split begs for layering!

I just had to try these on! H+M is doing these '60s mod inspired pieces. Super structured and color blocking galore. The jacket was really cute opened too, but the fabric was too junior for me.

A fun chunky knit ($49), again with the slits and the longer in the back situation. The designers are really focusing on common element in the design.

I'm always attracted to the billowy blouses. This one felt too old though. The peter pan collar and the print was too forced. It's better in green, but then it doesn't come across as vintage...gets confusing.

Long in the front!? This was a no.

This top ($17) was cute but when you have similar camis, it wasn't cute enough. It had this elastic peplum thing going on. And the jeans ($49)--loved until it got to the ankles. They refer back to the '60s theme--cropped with slits at the hem on the inseam and the outside, which means they flare out. Also a no.

//O.M.O. SECRETS//

2011-08-07T05:13:00.001-04:00

In the way beyond midnight hour...some thoughts...let's call them O.M.O. secret tips!

Always wear nice underwear!
My mom used to say it was because, if God forbid, you end up in the emergency room and they need to undress you, you won't be embarrassed. But I'd take it a step further and say wear sexy underwear! In my graphic/artsy mumu-belted tshirt dress, I still felt sexy, 1. because I was wearing cute heels but 2. but also because I knew what I had on underneath. The "The Lacey" from Vicky Secret is my fave. Lacy AND comfortable. No matter what you're wearing, you'll feel amaze knowing that you have incredible undergarments on!

Baby wipes are always your friend.
I have a pack of non scented baby wipes in my bathroom, in my night stand drawer in the boudoir and sometimes in a ziplock in my purse! They're great for all the afters of things: after yoga/workout, after the restroom, after sex, after a long-night-out-when-you-can't-bother-to-actually-wash-your-face-before-bed [makeup wipes are a waste, baby wipes are multi-use!]

Practice discretion.
No one likes a Chatty Cathy. Know when to zip the lip. Know when less is more. Know when to listen. Know when to answer something with silence and a look. My looks speak volumes! People respect discretion far more than putting it all out there.

Never tell a guy when you're length is fake.
Since wearing extentions a few of my guy friends have been amazed and hynotized by the growth spurt, only for me to ruin the dream with "oh, these are my pieces!" [This is where discretion should come in]. They've all said they'd rather not know the deets on whether my length is legit.

Give collarbone.
My mom always said that the collarbone or as they say in fashion "Décolletage" is so sexy. It's def the most sexy thing on a woman before we move down to the obscene. Own it. Wear it. Work it!

Lastly...
I don't have a lastly but hope you've enjoyed these! :)

//TOPMAN X DEXTER WONG//

2011-08-05T16:46:00.001-04:00

//SOURCE//
With Topman designer collabs from the likes of Dexter Wong, the Brit fashion source gives men a chance to wear floral, color block like their femail counterpart and be cas' in tweed.

Cheers to chic sweatpants!

//LOLLAPALOOZA FUN-NESS: VOGUE PLAYS DJ//

2011-08-05T16:27:00.001-04:00

//SOURCE//
Apparently everyone has a playlist now. And next up is Vogue's as inspired by Lollapalooza!
Listen //here// as the fashion bible plays DJ!

//OMO TREND FOREASTS NAILS SILK PRINT PANTS//

2011-08-04T09:05:00.003-04:00

Remember my last look with the silk pants? See it //here// Well, WhoWhatWear Daily has pinned it a trend to watch!

Be ahead of the trend with me, follow my forecasts! More trend reports //here//

//PLAYLIST: CARIBBEAN SUMMER//

2011-08-02T11:04:00.001-04:00

Hooked on 8 tracks, my second playlist channels my background. From smooth reggae at backyrad BBQs to Spanish music blaring on Sunday house cleaning to dutty whining-inducing riddims. Here's my "Caribbean Summer" playlist for those memories.

//CURRENT OBSESSION: BIRKENSTOCKS//

2011-08-02T09:05:00.002-04:00

Ever since I wore my girl's gold "Gizeh" Birkenstocks home from achy-platform wedge-totured feet, I've wanted my own pair!

The tree hugging, hike-ready sandals suddenly appeared chic to me as I equated them with my super stylish friends, Eniola and Chioma who also live by them! And now Ashley Olsen! I better get a pair before the Birkenstock company cathes on and they double in price!

//source//
Get yours //here//

//PLAYLIST: 8 COUNTS IN THE MIRROR//

2011-07-29T03:31:00.002-04:00

Upon coming home late from work, hopped up on evening coffee, I ended up with enough energy to do a whole routine in the the mirror to Frank Ocean's Bricks & Steel. It was hot, trust me! hhaha And when another song came on, I was more inspired to try my hand at 8 tracks that choreo another set.

Enjoy the fruits of my inspo! *note: the first play will be my exact order, plays thereafter are shuffled*

//INSPIRATION BOARD: A/W 2011//

2011-07-28T09:30:00.000-04:00

TNEMNRODA, Traci Ellis Ross, Catherine Baba, Fave editorials...it's all on there inspiring me for my A/W 2011 collection.

See my jewelry line, TNEMNRODA

/WHAT I WORE: THE PANTS//

2011-07-28T08:15:00.000-04:00

Deets//Forever 21 tank-Zara pants and heels-American Apparel tube bra
The pants give you British pajamas but served with strappy heels and a "boyfriend" tank it's fresh and sexy.

//TREND REPORT: RED + PINK//

2011-07-28T07:00:00.001-04:00

source//
My nails are currently giving you a fuchsia pink pinkies and fiery orange-red on the rest--amazingly summer and clashing thanks to OPI's [I'm Indi-a Mood for Love + Cajun Shrimp.

I'm a big fan of clashing colors and one finger designs on pinkies or index fingers, rather than the tried and true ring finger decision.

The runways are also expressing an affinity for rule breaking! PINK AND RED! Wear it this Fall says looks from Prabal Gurung [below] and editorials alike. Don't stick to these colors it also works with Blue and green, orange and red, orange and pink...combo are endless!

Will you be trying this trend?

photo cred//

//SOLESTRUCK A/W '11 LOOKBOOK ADVANCE//

2011-07-25T19:52:00.001-04:00

Sure, it's only the pages that TNEMNRODA is featured on, it's an exclusive nonetheless :)

Click, click, click ->
Solestruck Shoes
TNEMNRODA

//REBLOGGING LIKE CRAZY!//

2011-07-23T19:48:00.000-04:00

REBLOGGED the shit out of my girl Tikedi's tumblr! Had me confessing crushes and everything! Check her Tumblr, aptly named TIKEDI //HERE//

//SUMMER PLAYLIST a la LALA LOPEZ//

2011-07-23T19:42:00.001-04:00

Listening to stylist, Lala Lopez's summer playlist. Not sure how long it is, but at well over 20 songs deep of electronica, R&B and rap, it's enough to keep me plugging away A/C-bound, at home. Thanks girlie!
Listen //HERE// and make your own!

//SUPER DUPER FALL INSPO VIA VOGUE PARIS, AUG 2011//

2011-07-21T18:54:00.001-04:00

It's a behemoth of a fashion story and this is not even all of it! Lara Stone, Freja Beha Erichsen, Isabeli Fontana, Natasha Poly and Arizona Muse [basically all the runway model heavey hitters!] round up with Vogue Paris for a shoot that glorifies and realizes key looks from the A/W 2011 shows.

That reptile situation from Chloe? Check!
Furry 70's from Fendi? Check!
Soft, major shoulders from Miu Miu?! CHECK, CHECK, CHECK!

And while you're scrolling, don't forget to make a fall shopping list from this mega source of inspo!

//LOVE KANYE IN MONSTER VIDEO//

2011-07-08T17:09:00.000-04:00

OK editorial shot in a music video! OK styling!

//MARVIN'S ROOM//

2011-07-08T13:19:00.001-04:00

Drake's, Marvin's Room is unarguably the most covered song this summer. Chris Brown, Jojo and Teyana Taylor, whose version is below [source] have covered it. I love every version, enjoy.

Sidebar, peep how Drake is at the bar in the beginning of his version! HA! Yea, right! Ya'll don't sit at the bar! LOL

Teyana Taylor "Her Room" Directed by TAJ & Mike Ho #TPK #oSm from Director | Mike Ho on Vimeo.

//YES, MA'AM//

2011-07-08T09:21:00.003-04:00

So what is she? A solid 50?
Find me dressed in a million neons at 50 as well!
//SOURCE//

//YES, SUMMER LACE//

2011-07-08T08:58:00.000-04:00

Back with more obsessions from Stockholm Street Style. It's only summer lace because it's worn in the summer. Wear lace whenever and love it!

//ARCHIVE IT, BABY//

2011-07-07T16:58:00.001-04:00

More Yes's from Stockholm Street Style Manana! Check back....for now check the archives :)

s
x

//YES, PATTERN-MIXING//

2011-07-07T16:52:00.003-04:00

I used to catergorized my style by print mixing or just flat out clashing colors. It was my thing.

I've pared my style down back a bit from that, but it's refreshing to just dress with absolute abandon...intentionally.

//EXCUSE ME//

2011-07-07T16:52:00.000-04:00

Excuse me while I blog everything from Stockholm Street Style!

Everything looks so good and so spot on like these sandals that I need in my life. Doesn't matter the brand just been obsessed with the style.

//YES, SHEER//

2011-07-07T16:27:00.001-04:00

Anja Rubik in this sheer number is a definite.

//WESC X ANNA SHEFFIELD'S BING BANG//

2011-07-06T10:47:00.003-04:00

The streets and edge of studded and spiked jewels come together for a collab that would be super cute with your sneakers! :)

My fave pieces from this collection are the Bing Bang Bongo Headphones, $50-110, Forever Name Plate Necklace, $79.20, Bar Two Finger ring, $88. Seriously the first pair of headphones like this that I want! The col;ection is due out by the end of the month on wesc.com. //SOURCE//

And sidebar, who's with me on bringing back double plated name chains!

//TREND REPORT: BUST OUT YOUR SNEAKERS!//

2011-07-06T10:13:00.000-04:00

Tucked in the depths of your closet, I bet you have a cute pair of neon orange Nike Air Max or ice cream colored Reeboks. They miht not even be tucked that far, you just wore them yesterday didn't you?

Cheers to you if you did because there's a comeback of kicks for ladies! I said it //HERE// a bit ago and so does trusty WWWD.

Bape has also jumped on the steez with a line for women due out this fall in limited numbers...and there's always the men's section. Size 6 in Boys, please!

//KATE MOSS TIES THE KNOT//

2011-07-05T12:19:00.002-04:00

Everyone's favorite model, Kate Moss, has finally tied the knot with on-again-off-again main squeeze, Jamie Hince of The Kills.

Nothing short of what we'd expect of an always effortelessly fashionable icon, Moss' wedding dress was designed by John Galliano and shoes by Manolo Blanik with "something blue" inside. Hince wore a suit, tailored skinny, by YSL's Stefano Pilati as are all his looks for their 3-day celebration.

Would Kate Moss put her bridemaids in dresses from hell? Of course not! They all wore simple shifts and slippers, instead! And just when I posted about how wonderful and fresh a floral garland would be, leave it to Moss to stay on trend, topping the bridesmaids off with one as well.

Mario Testino was said to have shot the wedding, images of which are to appear in Vogue's September issue [fingers crossed]. //SOURCE//

Besides the fashion of it all, let's take a personal look at the fact that Moss is 37 and Hince, 42. //SOURCE// While the couple seemingly took their time to figure things out over the last 4 years, I def always look to solidyfy things short of nuptuals super early on in my relationships and I'm only 25!

I could stand to take a tip from Kate and any other women out there who know how to go with the flow and trust that things will happen as they should...

//HIGH-FASHION DOODLING//

2011-07-05T12:01:00.000-04:00

//SOURCE//
OUTLET StyleCaster MODEL Rising musician, Sky Ferreira PHOTOG Hugh Lippe STYLIST Martha Violante ILLUSTRATOR Bernadette Pascua

//IT'S ART, BITCHES!//

2011-06-30T12:03:00.003-04:00

THE REAWAKENING from Nunnie20 on Vimeo.

Me and two other lovelies are curating a pop up gallery exhibit called The REAWAKENING. Read below for deets!

THE REAWAKENING PRESENTS // SERIES I //
An explosion of fresh, unfiltered visual art of various mediums, THE REAWAKENING goes beyond the traditional parameters of your typical art gallery. This 3-part series exhibition will feature a curated collective of new artists of varying mediums [fashion, home décor, visual art, film and music] to represent one theme

THE EXPERIENCE //
The viewer meets the artists and interacts with their works personally in a refined boutique gallery. The opening show’s direction is EXTREMES. A few topics explored: breaking down standard conventions of hair and building up, furniture design turns socially-conscious and avenues of religion and sexuality meet in a common place.

SERIES I will feature works by artists Artists for Humanity, Awol Erikzu, Felipe Baeza , Joanne Petit-Frere, Jessica dela Merced and a performance by Iyadede!

SPONSORS //
The Bakari, NudeVodka, Prometheus Springs and M&J Trimming

//VLIEGER + VANDAM TO PACK HEAT//

2011-06-29T12:34:00.002-04:00

Vlieger and Vandam have been doing this since 2002! Shame on me for just coing onto the dopeness that is there bags.

3D images, guns, knives crosses and the sort are embossed using a millinery machine. The leather parts, customized by hand, are then sent off to a manufacturer where they are assembled.

Who else but your girl, Riri has been seen carry heat, I mean, a Vlieger &Vandam. Moma has recognized hem forthe political statement. Get your own //here//.
//SOURCE//

//SUMMER IS: WRISTS LOVE//

2011-06-29T10:49:00.002-04:00

Free from the sartorial confines of knits, coats and cardigans that the cooler weather calls for, we can flaunt our wrists with lots of love and accoutrements this summer!

//PHOTO CRED//

//SUMMER IS: DESIGNER BRIGHTS!//

2011-06-29T08:58:00.001-04:00

//CELINE 2011//

//PRADA FALL 2011//

//SUMMER IS: KANYE IN A WHITE TEE//

2011-06-28T13:00:00.002-04:00

//PHOTO CRED//

//CATHERINE BABA IN PARIS SUMMER//

2011-06-28T12:37:00.000-04:00

A season is not what it is without style shots of O.M.O.'s fave fashion icon, Catherine Baba. "Yes!" to lounging in the Paris summer breeze and hopping on the back of bikes [bicycles, of course]
//click the shots for more on Baba//

//photo cred//

//HOW TO MAKE A FLORAL GARLAND//

2011-06-28T12:30:00.000-04:00

Saw a girl int he subway, a tourist of course, with a flower garland. I wanted my own right away and started turning the wheels on how I'd make my own.

Well, wheels turn no further, Refinery has us covered!

See instructions //here//

//W MAGAZINE: BEHIND THE MUSES//

2011-06-27T16:41:00.001-04:00

//SOURCE//

//KATE MOSS AT DANZIGER PROJECTS//

2011-06-27T11:28:00.004-04:00

Where are the shots that I can't find in a google search?
While I appreciated the younger, seemingly rare shots of Kate, I couldn't be sure of the deets as the pieces missed info plaques! In any case, it's Danziger Projects and it's Kate Moss, so go see it until June 30th.
Danziger Projects
527 W 23rd St
New York, NY 10011
(212) 629-6778

//FADER BREAKS STORY WITH DRAKE//

2011-06-27T10:32:00.001-04:00

I heart Drake and Nikki. And together it's magic, I love the bits where she kinda swoons...I mean...it's Drake, who can blame her!

Nikki gets to the real meat of the situation. Like he makes music for lonely rides on the road at night and that his single is dropping like tomorrow!

Follow her on Twitter, she's hilarious! //Tweet, Tweet//

//FT. GREENE FESTIVAL 2011//

2011-06-27T08:41:00.001-04:00

Another year of the Ft. Greene Festival and this one proved to be a summer reunion of friends long ago seen and seen just yesterday. Of course, I snapped the fashion!

//Quinn Aston//

//Javana Mundy//

//Kwesi Abbensetts//

//The Gang//

//RES IN TNEMNRODA ON COLBERT REPORT//

2011-06-24T01:40:00.000-04:00

Singer, Res, in the TNEMNRODA "Angles" Bangle. Price upon request [samantha.smikle@gmail.com] Shouts to friend and stylist, Chay.

//LOVE ME SOME LYKKE LI: "GET SOME"//

2011-06-22T14:33:00.001-04:00

New fave and old fave.
I'll follow you Lykke, girl!
p dot s, how amaze would she be in a TNEMNRODA cuff?! It's so her steez!

//BEYONCE COVERS TIME MAGAZINE//

2011-06-21T14:57:00.000-04:00

Eeek! It's my second Bey post in less than a week! What does this mean???

I def love a Beyonce track but fashion wise...she leaves much to be desired. Of late though, she's been pulling the right chords on my guitar (I dunno where that metaphor just came from...but let's go with it!) She's perf on the cover of...wait for it...Time Magazine. Who knew!

//source//

//H&M X VERSACE, 11.2011//

2011-06-21T14:23:00.002-04:00

With all the over-the-topness that Versace has solidified it's place in fashiondom with, you better expect extravagence for it's collab with our fave fast fashion retailer, H&M. So I'm just going to get my coins together starting today for this black leather body-con embroidered dress *GAH!*

//TNEMNRODA IN SOLESTRUCK'S A/W 2011 LOOKBOOK//

2011-06-21T02:01:00.002-04:00

Here's a sneak peak at the SoleStruck.com Fall 2011 lookbook! And guess who's pieces are used in the shoot?

That's right! Super excited for the sneak peak shot that features my TNEMNRODA "Mia" shades! Shouts to stylist and friend, Lala Lopez of Lala NYC

Get your own pair //here//

//WHAT I WORE: 1 OF 2//

2011-06-20T08:24:00.000-04:00

//Deets: Random tee cropped, Forever 21 body con skirt under Vintage lace skirt, Vintage belt, Aldo wedges, Vintage necklace, bag, scarf via my Mom//

Writing the deets to this look I just realized it's majorly vintage! Love vintage shopping and I'm long overdue for a good trip.

The inside scoop is that this shot was taken on Sunday morning, the morning after a party on Saturday night. But I also wore the lace Vintage skirt in the day on Saturday to the Solestruck casting, coffee and dessert at Balthazar in SoHo and to visit my artist friend in Harlem.

So I also wore it with black Kurt Cobain tee cropped, A. Wang super short black silk shorts and a brown leather woven belt...can you picture it?

//REAL STYLE: SOLESTRUCK CASTING CALL//

2011-06-20T01:24:00.000-04:00

//Visit Toyin's Twitter//

I should remember to include myself in shots! Saturday was super duper eventful, to start the day off I went out to the SoleStruck casting call with 141 others. My outfit was super cute, but there aren't any shots of me. I guess I get caught up in being photog sometimes. I was number #47...

Pictured above at the far left is Danielle of The Elle Files and, right next to her, Kirsy of KirsyLovett.com

//PARTY THIS SATURDAY!//

2011-06-17T18:00:00.001-04:00

//SQUARE-ROUND PEEPERS//

2011-06-17T17:05:00.000-04:00

Bey has her moments, when she does it right. Here she shows us a peeper trend that I can't get enough of.

//WHAT I WORE: I'M A JEWELRY DESIGNER//

2011-06-16T16:37:00.000-04:00

//DEETS: H&M top and necklace YMI jeans STEVE MADDEN wedges TNEMNRODA bangles and amethyst ring//

//BLAKE SCOTLAND LAUNCH//

2011-06-16T07:26:00.001-04:00

Blake and I

Last night I attended the launch of the super-on-the-edge-of-everything-you-want-in-your-closet boutique, Blake Scotland. Beuatiful people, sipped beautiful things [I love Hendricks Gin] and looks at beautiful things, like my jewelry! See it below, on sale at Blake Scotland!

Blake Scotland is TNEMNRODA's coming out, the first boutique to carry my line--and what an amaze opp to be carried at a spot that encompasses the girl that I design for!
Shop at Blake Scotland//64 Clinton Street, LES, NY

//BE A SOLESTRUCK MODEL + FREE SHOES!//

2011-06-16T07:12:00.000-04:00

//CELINE, RESORT 2012: TO HAVE, HOLD + WEAR!//

2011-06-15T13:03:00.002-04:00

It's been a while since I've wanted an entire collection for my own, to have in my closet and wear every single day. Yes, those would be my vows. Phoebe, marry me!

Forget the 10 carat rough cut diamond [yes, that would be my wedding ring] I'll take all the pieces I've highlighted here from your 2012 Resort Collection.
Thanks Pheebs! xoxo OMO

//SOURCE//

//CHIOMA NNADI ON VOGUE STYLE DAILY//

2011-06-13T11:43:00.002-04:00

I was blank. No news worthy ideas to pitch to Chioma for stories. It happens, but instead of being completely empty-handed, I once pitched a new feature idea: Take shots of your daily looks...

That was in our Fader days. Chioma has since found a new home at Vogue, and the team there has also taken notice of her style. Visit the site to go through a business week's worth of looks! Stick around here where I'll cover the feature with highlights and comparisons!

//DAY ONE//
"If I’m feeling low-energy on a Monday morning, I’ll reach into my closet and pick out the brightest thing I own. It’s a real pick-me-up (and orange is the new red!)."

Orange will extend beyond this Fall, all the way through Resort 2012! Try it in a lighter shade for the Fall, Winter and Resort seasons.

[L: Acne, Resort 2012; R: Chris Benz, Resort 2012]