I’m not too fond of Michael Jackson but no one can dispute the cultural impact that he had. That is why I am featuring Michael Jackson inspired fashions below. Take a look:
Glove, $2.99
Jacket, $80.00
Loafers, $89.00
Tshirt, $25.00
Belt, $21.00
Sequined Skirt, $121.00
Sources: unifclothing.com, fredflare.com, missguided.co.uk, endless.com, fredflare.com, kaelasroom.blogspot.com, pophangover.com
Every monday night at 9 PM, my DVR records ABC Family’s new show Make it or Break it. My good friend, Candace Cameron Bure stars in this show and in the beginning that is the only reason I even watched it. Despite the show only being two episodes in, I have fallen love with it! The show is also the reason I learned about Ryan Calhoun who is 26 year old recording artist from Los Angeles, CA. His song “Who We Are” played during the show and I became intrigued with it so I immediately googled him and listened to his songs on iTunes. Three e-mails later, my interview with Ryan was finalized. What a character he is! Smart, funny and blunt is how I would describe him. He illustrates these characteristics on his Myspace where he wastes no time playing around stating things such as “I don’t know if I have that many accomplishments and most critics would/will probably hate my music” but that’s exactly the attitude that made me want to talk to him to begin with because instead of listing all of his accomplishments, I just got to listen to his music instead. That was really refreshing and quite clever because he does speak through his music and you kind of feel like you’re getting to know him better after each song that you listen to.
The music is all original and written by Ryan himself. Songs like “What I want” is the type of song you would want to play on a rainy night, it is really intimate. Then there are songs like “Draining” that are personal and a little more upbeat. One can not help but wonder what type of person or situation inspires Ryan to write these type of lyrics but with over 1,811,816 plays on Myspace and a number one spot on the iTunes charts I suspect we’re going to hear a lot more of Ryan. You can hear his music on shows such as MTV’s The Real World and now on Make it or Break it. Ryan will also be touring this summer with Alisa Turner who herself is a talented artist too.
With intrigue comes curiosity so I decided to ask Ryan some questions. Below they are answered gracefully. Take a look:
1. How long have you been playing music? Who encouraged you start singing and do you write you own music?
RC: I’ve been playing music since I was about 11 or so. I grew up in a very musical family, but I would say my sister encouraged/influenced me the most with music. And Yes, I write all my own music.
2. Who influences your music? Are there any mainstream or even indie artists who influence you? What about family, friends, (ex) girlfriends, etc.
RC: I think i’m influenced by so many different things. I try and draw from all my life experiences. Heartache, love, hurt, fears, failures, dreams etc.
3. Your music has been featured on MTV and your song “Who We Are” was recently featured on the new ABC family show Make it or Break it. Please describe what it feels like to hear your own music being played on TV.
RC: Ya know, it’s a little surreal, but of course it’s a great feeling. It’s nice to know that people are connecting to something that is so personal to me.
4. When, where and how were you discovered? Or did you do the discovering by sending out demo’s or auditioning?
RC: haha, well I don’t know if I’m “discovered” quite yet, but hopefully getting there. Yeah, a lot of this business is just keeping your nose to the grind and being persistent. I’ve sent out a lot of cd’s, emails, mp3s to a lot of different people. It’s nice to see some of the hard work pay off.
5. How would you describe your music and what do you hope to accomplish with it?
RC: I’ve finally come up with a description of my music. “Unapologetic Pop Rock” haha… I want to continue to just make honest music and have a career at doing it. It would be nice to play Madison Square Garden one day.
6. You are going on tour this August with Alisa Turner. Is this your first tour and what do you expect to experience while you are on the road?
RC: Not my first tour, but my first tour with Alisa. Being on the road is an interesting experience. It’s always full of surprises. I guess you always have to expect the unexpected.
7. Other than the tour, do you have any upcoming projects?
RC: Just going to be working on more touring, more TV and Film placements. Stuff like that.
8. Which artist (dead or alive) would you like to work with and why?
RC: There are a couple. I would love to work with Bono and The Edge. Dave Grohl and probably MJ…
9. What is your advice for people who want to pursue a career in music?
RC: Stay true to yourself and your convictions. just be persistent and do it because you love it.
10. What is your favorite song that you perform? And why?
RC: I really enjoy performing “who we are” I don’t play too many songs on the piano (most of them are on guitar). It’s good to change it up…
To my favorite song by Ryan Calhoun as well as a look at his music video to the song “Draining”:
Take a listen to more of Ryan Calhoun’s music here and take a look at upcoming tour dates and/or locations here.
Source: Ryan Calhoun
The much talked about sneakers designed by Kanye West for Louis Vuitton became available today – but good luck getting your paws on them, they’re already sold out! I wonder who bought these 900 something dollar sneakers, during this type of economy?
West makes great music but he is your typical overconfident male which makes him annoying. Equally annoying is it the fact that he is suddenly part of the fashion world. However, I was surprised by is the fact that his sneakers for LV are actually quite nice (minus the price tag). Take a look:
I can’t help but to think the footwear below is really cool. I don’t care if they’re designed for men, I wouldn’t mind wearing them!
What do you think?
According to NY Magazine, last week, French President Nicolas Sarkozy said full-body veils, like burkas some Muslim women wear over their clothes, are “not welcome” in France. That sounds like something our former President would say and yet I can not help but be incredibly angry at the fact that these men get to rule countries. If somebody like Iran President Ahmadinejad said tthat the cross was not welcome in their country, imagine what type of war would be started then. Many do not realize that the muslim faith is a beautiful faith that includes Jesus as a Prophet. Muslim’s are dedicated believers that pray five times a day and fast during Ramadan. The Muslim faith is accepting – in fact, it is so accepting that you just have to profess your faith of Mohammed in order to become a Muslim. I grew up with Muslims and I thank God for that every day. Every since 9/11 there has been such ridicule towards that faith and I just don’t understand why. Many don’t even know that the majority of the worlds muslims do not exist in the Middle East, but in Indonesia instead. It’s disgraceful. But all women who wear burkas got the last laugh four days later, because the George V hotel in Paris hosted a fashion show that included nothing but designer fashions that muslim women could wear from designers such as Nina Ricci and Blumarine. Take a look:
I’m glad to see that Muslim women are being recognized by the fashion world. Hopefully, the President of France will apologize for his tasteless remarks.
Taylor Swift looks incredible in the pages of Glamour Magazine! Just like Elle UK gave Emma Watson a simple white wall to work with so did Glamour Magazine with Ms. Swift. But unlike Emma, she makes that white wall pop!
Take a look at more photos of Ms. Swift in Glamour Magazine here.
Sources: ifitshipitshere.blogspot.com, nymag.com, telegraph.co.uk, omg.yahoo.com
The editorial below featuring Gisele Bundchen is getting kind of old but I forgot to post it on here when I first saw it. Honestly, if anybody can walk in those ankle breakers (I don’t know if its at all possible, do you? There looks to be about a foot worth of heel!) while chewing gum it’s Ms. Bundchen herself. Eat your heart out.
I write about Marc Jacobs a lot and it’s getting to the point where it’s ridiculous but I can’t help it. Here are my favorite new items from his special items selection, available at all Marc Jacobs stores and more than likely on Ebay in a few weeks. Take a look:
Bowler bag, $49.99
Glass drop ring, $8.00
When I first moved to New York City, Bebe was the store I went to if I needed workout clothing. It now seems that over the years, Bebe has completely renovated its image and now seems more couture than anything if one is to judge by the photos from its Fall Campaign featured below. So far, the leather and denim jean featured in the last photo below, is the only item that I know for sure is going to be available. Hopefully all of the designs featured in the campaign will be, but I doubt it. I will make sure to update you as soon as I know!
White the Bebe design below is not nearly as bad as the YSL copycat I featured with Bebe a few weeks ago, it does seem as though there was inspiration taken from Christian Louboutin. Take a look:
Christian Louboutin
Bebe, $159.00
Pair them with…
Dresses are designed by Hannah Marshall.
I don’t really care for rap. It just doesn’t strike the right nerve with me nor does it give me frequent goosebumps like genres such as R&B… But, if one rapper can give me goosebumps, it’s Jay-Z. In the song, Death of Autotune, he mentions hot 97 and all major New York City radio stations which I personally credit for introducing me to Jay-Z. I just found that sort of ironic. Take a listen/look at his new song “Death of Autotune” below. It’s a fun, festive tune. Something you just want to put on when you’re with a group of friends.
But! Emma Watson is on the front cover of UK Elle Magazine. The cover is brilliant but the inside pages, not so much. It is nothing compared to the Teen Vogue editorial and just seems kind of… Blah? I mean, couldn’t they be a little more creative and give the girl something more to work with than a bland, white wall? I am, however, extremely jealous that she got to wear Alexander McQueen booties (they have an awesome skull zipper). They’re fantastic!
Source: bebe.com, barneys.com, thefashionspot.com, shop.amelieboutique.com, elleuk.com
Lady Gaga is absolutely obnoxious. That’s why I like her and to think that she used to be a songwriter ie. someone who worked behind the scenes. Today, Lady G is one of the biggest pop stars in the world, she gets to wear leotards in public and is an artist that no one would recognize if she were to walk down the street in regular clothing and no make-up. She’s smart and by far one of my favorite artists.
Below are photos of The First Lady of The Dance Floor from a feature in Maxim Magazine. Take a look:
I highly doubt anyone but Lady Gaga would wear a leotard and fishnets in public. But who knows? Some of you might just do that! I say go for it.
Leotard, $26.50, Sunglasses, $14.80, Fishnets, $6.00
The gloves featured above/below are designed by Alexander McQueen and cost $470.00 – Who can afford that?!
So I went on a quest and found these fingerless gloves that are very similar to McQueen’s version, except they cost me $6.99! Take a look:
I apologize for my horrific manicure but you can purchase my gloves (which are designed by Charlotte Russe) here.
I am always reminded of Betsey Johnson when I see Lady Gaga. Just take a look at my favorite looks from the Betsey Johnson’s Spring 2009 RTW Runway Show:
Can you picture Lady Gaga wearing the looks above?
Source: amygrindhouse.com, wetseal.com, bleudame.com, net-a-porter.com, gossiplicious.com
Thanks to Molly Sims, these Dolce & Gabbana designs caught my eye and interest. Take a look:
I am in awe. I absolutely adore the dresses but also the proportioned butterfly-shaped shoulders. I also feel that the hot pink colors mixed with the black and white colors are very powerful. You can view the rest of the Dolce & Gabbana Winter 2010 show here.
What do you think?
H&M is collaborating with an accessories brand for the first time. They’re teaming up with Jimmy Choo for holiday retailing and according to The Guardian , the collection will include footwear, accessories and clothing. I don’t even want to know how fast that collection is going to sell out but it’s fantastic news, anyways!
I found some old things in the attic today. My vintage/very beat up Fendi bag and tan leather wedges! They’re so comfortable!
I also found an old H&M vest which was bought when I lived in Europe about 7 years ago. It’s a little boxy but I am sure I’ll use it in my wardrobe this Fall.
You take a listen to The Fray’s cover of Kanye West’s song “Heartless.” This song has always been extremely personal to me and The Fray just increased my love for the song. Just like Mandy Moore’s cover of Rihanna’s “Umbrella”, The Fray’s version allows for one to realize exactly what is being said and sung of within the lyrics. Beautiful. Take a look/listen:
Source: Zimbio.com, DolceGabbana.com, luisaviaroma.com
Necklace available here from Urban Outfitters.
I actually didn’t know that Alexander McQueen also designs jewelry. Take a look at this incredible skull ring, designed by McQueen which is available via. FarFetch:
Every single video of Kanye West’s new song “Paranoid” which features Rihanna has been removed by YouTube due to Copyright infringement claims. However, below are some photos of Rihanna from the video & I don’t know about you, but I think her tape/lingerie get-up is pretty cool. Gotta love Ri-Ri & I really think Kanye should stop being mad over the leak. If people want your music that bad that they’re going to alter it, leak it or whatever then take it as a compliment. Don’t act like a baby. Anyways, take a look:
Rihanna was recently spotted in London wearing this:
Get her look for a lot less here:
Jacket from Charlotte Russe, $26.99, jeans from Topshop.com, lace bra from Calvin Klein, $24.00, Tank from oldnavy.com, $8.50, zipper boots from Alloy.com, $24.99, necklace from forever21.com & lipstick from MAC cosmetics, $14.00.
All links featured above are direct links and will take you the item in which is featured on youarewhoyouwear.
Sources: Seoghoer.dk, farfetch.com, urbanoutfitters.com, celebrity-gossip.net
Source: TMZ.com
Thanks to Chris Brown and rapper Bow Wow, I had myself a giggle this afternoon. While the matter in which they refer to, is not a joke the ignorance in which they illustrated sure is. A recent video clip which was filmed by Chris Brown and Bow Wow was brought to my attention by a friend of mine and can be viewed below.
Chris Brown would just like the whole world to know what he “ain’t a monster”. This might be true but he needs to grow up and stop acting like he’s innocent. The affidavit is available for anyone to read which clearly states the physical and verbal abuse that he used towards his girlfriend. He’s supposed to be an example and right now all he’s illustrating is that you can beat the crap out of your girlfriend, not take responsibility for it and then appear in stupid youtube videos while at the same time encouraging ignorant behavior.
It makes me really angry. It shouldn’t since I personally do not know these people but from what the guys at my college have said regarding this matter, makes me believe that his actions are not generally viewed as wrong by people in my age group (he is my age too). A lot of the guys I discussed this with said that she “probaly deserved it” and Mr. Brown’s actions following his arrest, do not discourage the type of behavior in which he illustrated that night.
I think it’s a shame. Mr. Brown owes the public no comment but I still feel that he should act more responsible. I still feel he should make people aware that he knows what he did was wrong and I still feel he should not act like a monster, if he wants people to view him as anything but a monster.
If you or somebody you know is facing any type of abuse, please visit www.dosomething.org – This site offers resources, advice and tools for young adults who either are in an abusive relationship or know somebody who is. The site also offers a Public Service Announcement with a video recreated from the affidavit of the Chris Brown & Rihanna case. The video illustrates what he did to her, according to the police report. I encourage you all to take a look at it – I will not be purchasing Brown’s new album Graffiti upon its release. I’m officially boycotting it.
Rihanna gets her revenge in her own way by continuing to look amazing in everything she does. Below is a photo of her from a few days ago, I absolutely love her jacket and statement lips. Take a look:
Source: ContactMusic.com
That was a quote from Marilyn Monroe and that’s what I thought of when I saw the V Magazine Swimsuit issue. It’s raw, provocative and just a little bit vulgar. I feel that V Magazine makes the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue look boring mostly because of its use use of powerful colors & neons layouts. V Magazine also did an excellent job incorporating black & white shots, my favorite being of Charles Devoe (he’s eye-candy indeed). The photos were taken by Mario Testino. Take a look:
The issue features many more photos – Take a look at the rest of the V Magazine Swimsuit Issue.
Also, I just viewed Beyonce’s new video for her new song Ego (I really wish she’d just put the leotard to rest, NY Magazine agrees that it’s not charming stating the following, “We felt more comfortable with Britney (in her prime) dancing around in stretch pants and crop tops. The dancing in leotards must stop. Do it for the children, ladies”) and that’s when I also viewed the Diva video for the first time. I fell in love with her fringe sunglasses but I couldn’t find these sunglasses anywhere but I did find a pair with a similar concept from Germany designed by Bless
Bless duo design
Sources: VMagazine.com, NYmagazine.com, theinsider.com, colette.fr
Source: Daughtry Official
I just learned that my favorite band in the entire world, Daughtry will be releasing their second studio album July 14th, 2009. Their sophomore album is titled “Leave this town” and Daughtry’s record label, RCA just released the first single from this album which is titled “No surprise.” The song was co-written by the band’s lead singer Chris Daughtry and Chad Kroeger whom is the lead singer of the band Nickleback. According to Nielsen Soundscan, during 2007 when Daughtry released their first record it became the best selling album of that year and I have no doubt that Leave This Town will do just as well, if not better than their first album… I could not be more excited!
Listen to “No surprise” below:
