Men's Fly Fashion: T.I.'s Akoo Spring 2010 Lookbook

T.I.'s clothing brand, AKOO, has had the kind of public trouble lately that could rival...well, T.I. himself. They caused controversy for their risque Newark billboard that featured a woman simulating oral sex. Weeks later, they were sued by Akoo International for trademark infringement regarding the brand name.

Still, the drama hasn't deterred the label from churning out another flawless collection for the Spring 2010 season. The look imbues classic, Americana style with a hip, urban edge.

From plaid cargo shorts to cool denim to faded nautical tees, the collection offers time-honored classics with a youthful vitality. The impeccable fit and rich fabrics are unrivaled across the urban 'rapper-turned-designer' clothing landscape, with the exception of Diddy's successful brand, Sean John.

In short, the collection proves that the 'King' title from the brand's moniker, 'A King of Oneself' is truly deserved. Check it out below:

What do you think of the collection? What piece are you picking up when it hits stores?

Kisses,

Coutura

ENTER TO WIN: H&M and Lucky Magazine Style Eye Competition

H&M and Lucky Magazine know that the most fashionable minds aren't on the runway; they're on the street. The popular retail chain and shopping magazine have joined forces to find three such stylish stars through their Facebook competition, which ends at 12AM TODAY.

Here's how to enter: Click here and upload a picture to the Facebook Style Eye application that shows off your unique, eclectic fashion sense. After sharing your style with the world, vote for others whose style you find most inspiring.

H&M and fashion lovers everywhere will vote for three winners that win several awesome prizes! The style stars will land a trip to NYC for an exclusive spread in Lucky Magazine, be featured in how-to online videos, score a $500 shopping spree at H&M, a gift bag from MTV and tickets to a concert while they're in the city. Fun!

Click here to enter and here for a list of rules.

Good luck from The Glamazons!

Kisses,

Coutura

Spring Fever

JCrew

Feminine & Chic

Anthropologie

Exotic & Bold

pictures from jcrew & anthropologie

WOULD YOU WEAR?: Willow Smith's Converse Sneaker Pants

It's no surprise that Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith's children are creative. But while Jaden Smith is starring in the Karate Kid remake, Willow Smith is turning heads on the orange carpet.

The pint-size fashionista pushed the envelope in a pair of pink custom Converse Extension I sneaker pants, a striped shirt, white jacket and matching sunglasses. Very cool!

The Converse sneaker pants don't look completely wearable (i.e. they seem like they are uncomfortable to get on) but the concept is supercool. They're designed for Converse by Daryl van Wouw.

Would you wear them?

Kisses,

Coutura

Jergens Skincare Teams Up With Jane Krakowski

Actress and singer Jane Krakowski wants you to know that the safest way to get a glowing tan this season is with Jergens. So, she's teamed up with the brand and the Skin Cancer Foundation to help spread the word. In a new video, Krakowski reveals some of her secrets to staying beautiful as well as how she gets (and maintains) natural-looking color with Jergens natural glow moisturizers. Each time the video is viewed between now and August 31, 2010, Jergens Skincare Team will make a $1 donation to The Skin Cancer Foundation. So get to clicking, Glamazons.

This is a super easy way to help donate funds for a great cause!

xo

Ferocia

The Secret To Showing Good Face

It's no small secret that (deep down) every woman just wants to show good face. I mean, why else do you wear makeup everyday?! Duh.

Ok, on a serious note, I think that makeup should showcase your natural beauty (not hide it) and everyone isn't blessed to have picture perfect skin like a super model. Enter L'Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Professional Magic Perfecting Base. I used it on my skin while in L.A. during a shoot for the ESSENCE It Girl casting (I'm the host!) and all I can say is wowza! This stuff really works; as it should since it was created in part by makeup artist (more like a makeup God!) James Kaliardos. You can wear it alone or underneath makeup for an instant matte look. It effectively masks all flaws such as fine lines, wrinkles and pores. (Just check out my face below. I mean, maybe I don't have tons of fine lines and wrinkles, but it definitely gave me a noticeable all around smoother look; perfect for working in front of the camera.)

The best part (besides the fact that it's sold right at the drug store for only $12.95!) is that it's fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic. (So those with sensitive skin can partake in this magic-in-a-jar as well.) Yes, it really is as great as I make it sound so you may as well stop reading and go grab it now; and be sure to let us know what you think after you use it!

xo

Ferocia

Ask The Glamazons: Best Brands of Jeans for Curvy Girls?

Finding the perfect pair of jeans for a curvy woman is an almost impossible feat. From plummer's butt to Mom jeans, there are tons of pitfalls a girl must avoid when choosing the right pair. I know the struggle all too well. Besides having a super tiny waist and curvy butt (that precipitates my obsession with leggings), I penned a denim special for The Magazine about this very problem.

After months of personal and professional research, here are the best brands I've found for curvy women:

• CJ by Cookie Johnson - comfort, style and impeccable fit
• Joe's Jeans
• Not Your Daughter's Jeans - technology to lift and shape your curves and slim your tummy.
• Rozzie Rae Jeans - boasts jeans that are cut to fit your unique shape like apple (fabric cut generously in the waist) and pear (more fabric around the hips)
• Baby Phat
• PZI Jeans - caters to curvy women of all sizes with styles for short, medium, long and extra long legs!
• Apple Bottom - Founded by rapper Nelly, these jeans are designed to contour to fit women with ample rears. (But please, go for the ones without the huge annoying logos).

PLUS...here are a few tried-and-true tips on shopping and caring for jeans for curvy women:

• Curvy women should choose jeans with stretch (4 to 5% spandex) that contour to fit your shape.
• Don't cling to a size. Every brand uses different fit models, so a size 14 at Old Navy isn't the same as a size 14 at Baby Phat.
• When trying on jeans in the dressing room, sit down. It's a surefire way to tell if your jeans will gap in the waistband once you wear them out and about.
• Choose jeans with an outseam close to your thigh to give the appearance of thinner legs.
• Put jeans with stretch in the dryer on a low setting as the machine weakens the lycra.
• Baggy jeans aren't flattering on most curvy women. They obscure your shape and make you appear larger. Jeans that skim your curves are ideal like skinny jeans. You CAN wear them.

If you have a fashion, beauty or career-related question you want The Glamazons to answer, email theglamazonsblog@gmail.com or tweet us at @glamazonsblog.

Kisses,

Coutura

VIDEO GLAM or SHAM: Kelis' Acapella

The original fashion rebel Kelis is back with a hit dance record, "Acapella," an album, Flesh Tone, and tons more eccentric fashion looks.

The latest video shows the R&B singer in full Avatar mode: tribal garb with feathers, bright beaded necklaces, embellished corsets, body artwork and even bows and arrows. We also see Kelis showing off her bikini bod, gold painted skin and Statue of Liberty headband (yes, it makes a return) in a lair fit for a Queen. Another scene shows Kelis in a galaxy full of crystal studs in a black embroidered jumpsuit.

The visuals, which include bold fuschia lips while the rest of the frame is black-and-white, are pretty fascinating. And the makeup is just stunning but I have to admit I'm not a fan of the gray braided hairstyle. It's just not becoming on her and makes her look old (my opinion).

Nevertheless, this video is fresh and futuristic both visually and sonically. And the best part? Her and Nas' son, Knight, makes his first cameo at the end of the video. I love a rockstar Mom!

Check out some of Kelis' head-turning looks and her new video below. Glam or Sham?

Kisses,

Coutura

Photos: Necole Bitchie

VIDEO GLAM: Erykah Badu's "Window Seat": Why I Want to Be Naked Too

Erykah Badu is truly an icon. For her latest video, she ditched the eccentric clothes, the famous afro, even the Rick James-inspired style she rocked last week on the Wendy Williams show, for a raw, naked look. Yes, naked as in butterball, butt naked. Click here to see the video.


The neo-soul icon gave the ultimate artistic expression when she walked confidently down the Dallas street where JFK was assassinated, disrobing with every step.  By the end, as Erykah stands naked in broad daylight surrounded by unsuspecting passersby, a shot rings out, her head snaps and she falls to her death, with blue blood flowing from her that reads "Group Think." Whoa.


The concept is so deep and freeing. I emphatically applaud her. It's open to interpretation, but my take is that it isn't pure nudity, or sexuality like we've seen in previous videos (i.e. Lady Gaga's nudity in Telephone). As Erykah disrobes, she's shedding her "group mentality" and freeing her body and also, her mind and spirit. She's boldly and fearlessly expressing her individuality and defying the group's way of thinking, mirroring what JFK did as President. Many believe he was assassinated for his unique, bold ideology and so too, was Erykah, once she was completely free and naked at the end of the video. It's art, people. The video is loaded with meaning.


It fits with the lyrics of the song as she sings that she is searching for a "place to fly, a place to cry" alone with "no one next to" her. I get that concept. I always take the Window Seat on planes for that reason. To be in my head, free from distractions and opinions and judgments, and to just be at peace with me. It is an empowering, peaceful place, alone, staring into the sky---and it's all the more commendable that Erykah was able to find that place of individualism and emotional nakedness surrounded by people. I wish I could be that free (figuratively, not literally. So don't worry, no naked strolls down Times Square in my future).


Of course, that concept, which is substantiated by Erykah's recent tweets (@fatbellybella), flies above people's heads. But she could care less. And of course, most people are harboring over the fact that she has a great butt. Which flatters her (she's retweeted several comments about it) but they're also missing the point. And again, she could care less.


The booty scene isn't merely powerful because she's got amazing curves, but because it marks the first time she is truly defying social decorum, by walking down the street in her undies. The power isn't just in her shape, but in her body language. She's not ashamed, or sexualized, which are the two ways women appear when they are nude in public. She's confident, brave and at peace. She's in her world, strutting proudly and freely like a Queen, while in regular black panties and in the midst of everyday folk who scream that she's insane.


I don't plan on disrobing down a Dallas street, but I live for artistic expression and commend Erykah's. While points about traumatized children are valid, I think criticism that she's "stripping" to sell records reduce her beautiful video and profound concept. Erykah is, and always has been, much more than sex.


What do you think? How did you interpret the video? Do you commend Erykah or believe it was in poor taste? Discuss.


Kisses,


Coutura

Lipstick Of The Moment: Petals and Peacocks by MAC

Hey Glamazons! In my never-ending pursuit of trying new beauty looks, I've decided to start rocking lipsticks. I know, I know, this is something that I should have been doing a long time ago, but I've always been a lip gloss kind of girl. But now I plan on starting wearing a new shade at least once a week.

With that said, I am pleased to reveal the shade I'm currently obsessed with: Petals and Peacocks from MAC's Liberty of London collection. It's the perfect pinkish, purplish shade for spring! (I wore it out recently at a birthday party for one of my best (gay) guy friends, Alex; that's him picture above.) What do you think?

xo

Ferocia

FIRST LOOK: Secret Moments by Victoria's Secret Beauty

When it comes to some of my favorite memories I definitely have scent association. I may be as blind as a bat (thank God for contacts because without them I see nothing!) but most everything that I remember is associated with some type of sound or, most importantly, a scent.

Well, the lovely ladies at VS Beauty (including super model Alessandra Ambrosio, who's the face for this new collection) also think the same and will be launching a new line of fragrant body care based solely on some of their favorite memories. Here's the scoop on the new scents:

Girls' Scent

-An electric, flirty scent infused with Pink Peony and Waterlily

Island Escape

-Inspired by the crystal blue waters of the ocean, this scent is a breath of fresh ocean air mixed with beachy Coconut and Sugarcane

At First Sight

-A pretty mix of Violet and Bergamot

Side note: At the event, Alessandra shared that she helped to create this scent based off of the first time that she saw her daughter after giving birth. Too sweet!

Room 504

-A sexy, sultry scent infused with Amber and Passionfruit

Side note: One of the VS Beauty execs shared at the event that the reason she helped to create this scent was to capture the moment that her fiance proposed to her. She met this guy and (although it as a long distance thing) they did everything in their power to see each other as often as possible. One weekend they met up and there at the hotel in room 504, he proposed! Ugh. The romanticism of it all gives me major swoonage.

Good Day Sunshine

-Happiness personified; an uber pretty mix of peach and blue freesia, it's the perfect pick me up for a dreary day.

Each scent comes in a Sheer Fragrance Mist ($12); Daily Moisture Body Lotion ($10); Nourishing Body Cream ($12); and Daily Body Wash ($10).

My favorite? Why Girls' Night of course! Be sure to check 'em out at your local Victoria's Secret next month (April 2010) and let us know which ones you like.

xo

Ferocia

GLAM OR SHAM?: Katy Perry in The Blonds at the 2010 Kids Choice Awards

You can always depend on Katy Perry to inject a dose of rock-and-roll on the orange carpet. The wild starlet turned heads at the 2010 Kids' Choice Awards in a colorful barely-there frock by one of our favorite brands, The Blonds. 


Katy showed off her amazing bod in the dress from their Fall 2010 collection, which looks pretty much like a corset with some fabric hanging over the bottom. The Blonds top, I mean, dress offers the kind of fabulous flourishes we expect from the brand: glitter, iridescent color and tons of stone gems.

Katy pairs her glamazing dress with equally sparkly Christian Louboutin Lady Lynch Zepa Strass heels.

What's the verdict, Glamazons? Is it fabulous or scandalous? And is scandalous a bad thing? Discuss.

Kisses,

Coutura

GLAM OR SHAM?: Keke Palmer in Adam Lippes at the 2010 Kids' Choice Awards

The Kids' Choice Awards is the perfect setting for fun fashion, and Keke Palmer proves it in her flirty, colorful minidress.

The nominee wore a fun, vibrant dress from Adam's Spring 2009 line. The v-neck minidress is encrusted with colorful stones that offer a bright, youthful vibe.

A fresh-faced Palmer paired the dress with Christian Louboutin's adorable lavender patent leather "Banana" pumps. Tres chic.

I adore a young, fashionable style star, and Keke always seems to get it right! What do you think of Keke's look? Glam or a Sham?

Kisses,

Coutura

GET THE LOOK: Lea Michele at the 2010 Kids' Choice Awards

A flawless beauty herself, I just loved the beauty look actress Lea Michele rocked at the 2010 Kids' Choice Awards. Her makeup artist Melanie Inglessis gives us the scoop on how she created the look:

"For Lea's look, I wanted to keep her makeup simple yet flawless and classic. It had to compliment her hair and dress without overpowering it. Lea has amazing bone structure, so once she decided to keep the hair off her face in a simple ponytail, coupled with her gorgeous pink dress, we went for a "modern day" ballerina look. I didn't want a particular feature to stand out but instead I created an overall balanced look to celebrate her youth and beauty.

For her face, I wanted her complexion to be flawless and bright so I started by applying CoverGirl Simply Ageless Concealer under her eyes to make sure she looked wide awake followed by an overall base of Giorgio Armani Luminous Foundation. Then, I applied MakeUp Forever HD Powder to set the look followed by a highlighter. On Lea's cheeks, I started with CoverGirl Simply Ageless Sculpting Blush in Plush Peach to create a warm flush of color followed by Kevyn Aucoin Sculpting Powder to further accentuate her cheekbones.

On the eyes, I wanted something natural, but still bold enough for the red carpet, so I applied CoverGirl Smoky Shadowblast in Bronze Fire on the lid and crease and the white shade of CoverGirl Smoky ShadowBlast in Onyx Smoke to the browbone and inner corner of the eye. Next, I added CoverGirl Eye Enhancers in Cafe Au Lait to darken the crease for a little more drama; followed by CoverGirl Perfect Blend Eyeliner in Black/Brown. To lengthen and define Lea's gorgeous lashes I applied many coats of CoverGirl LashBlast Length Mascara in Black.

Since we decided to accentuate her eyes, I wanted to go more natural and just use a slight stain for her lips. I used Kevyn Aucoin Flesh Tone Lip Pencil followed by CoverGirl Outlast Lip Stain in Bit of Blossom."

xo

Ferocia

Liberty Of London for Target

 This handbag is definitely as one-of-a-kind as it gets.  Not only is it chic and oh so cute, but its made New York City billboards in Times Square!!!  From March to June, 9 Liberty of London for Target billboards are going to be in Times Square.  1,600 limited-edition bags are going to be made from the canvas from the billboards.  Each bag is $29.99, and you have to pre-order them.  The bag will be shipped to you in September.  I think this is so unique, and I'm thinking about getting one.  I'm sure they're going to run out soon, so if you like the idea and the bag you better order one quick.

These are the Liberty of London for Target Patterns.  Aren't they amazing.  They're so fun.  Liberty of London for Target has everything.  From bedding, bicycles, dining, furniture, home decor, men's apparel and accessories, women's apparel and accessories, and storage and organization, the new brand at Target can stylize any part of your life.

I went onto the Liberty of London website, and found that they sell fabrics.  Above are some of my favorite, and I'd really appreciate it if you'd comment on what one you like best.  I'm going to be sewing a skirt (the type that you wear high waitsted and the waist part is elastic), and I'm thinking about maybe getting one of these fabrics for it.  If I'm able to master the skirt, I'll hopefully sew a romper also.  I'm in love with rompers right now, but haven't bought one yet.                                                                      pictures from target and liberty

GLAM OR SHAM?: Tyra Banks at the 2010 Kids' Choice Awards

The Kids' Choice Awards gives celebs a chance to take fun, lively fashion risks, and this year, Tyra Banks did just that.

The model turned mogul showed off her svelte figure in a bright form-fitting red knee-length sheath dress. In a daring fashion move, Banks added a pair of bold yellow pumps and a matching clutch to the ensemble.

She completed the look with a gold choker and sleek, shoulder-length highlighted hair.

What do we think of Tyra's bold color choices? Glam or a Sham?

Kisses,

Coutura

GLAM OR SHAM?: Jada Pinkett at the 2010 Kids' Choice Awards

Whether dressy or casual, Jada Pinkett Smith is a style icon on the red carpet. She wears looks that compliment her petite frame and highlight her perpetually glowing skin.

Last night's Kids' Choice Awards was no different. The gorgeous actress hit the orange carpet in a pair of bubble shorts that elongated her legs, a white blouse, layered necklaces (with a cross, also seen on Rihanna) and Givenchy sandals (previously spotted on Amerie, below).

Most interesting was her inverted braid high ponytail. Unique and utterly gorgeous on her, in my opinion.

What are your thoughts on her look, and that unique hairstyle? Glam or a Sham?

Kisses,

Coutura

GLAM OR SHAM?: Zoe Saldana at the 2010 Kids' Choice Awards

Zoe Saldana hit the 2010 Kids' Choice Awards wearing Spring's hottest trend: dressed up denim.

The gorgeous Avatar star ruled the orange carpet in a look that screamed casual luxury: an Isabel Marant cropped jacket, Nobody dark denim skinny jeans, L'Agence white tank and Christian Louboutin peeptoe pumps.

Her adorable pink clutch and berry lips added a much-needed dose of color.

What do you think of her casual chic ensemble? Glam or a Sham?

Kisses,

Coutura

GLAM OR SHAM?: Rihanna at 2010 Kids' Choice Awards in Pumps and Ankle Socks

Do the fashion rules apply to Rihanna? I think not.

The uber-stylish star hit the 2010 Kids' Choice Awards in a 70's-inspired look. Rihanna wore a peach, sharp-shouldered chevron print dress by Christian Dior. She accessorized with a belt, layered necklaces and...nude Brian Atwood pumps with ankle socks?

Ever the fashion risktaker, Rihanna's sparkly socks and nude pumps push the envelope...but in a good way?

Decide. Is the look Glam or a Sham?

Kisses,

Coutura

Photos: Just Jared.

Prints On The Runway

Dries Van Noten Spring 2010 RTW



pictures from style.com