Brown Girl Gumbo

Now that Fashion Week is coming to a close this evening, it’s time for me to sum it all up! Being that it was my first time being a member of the press invited to various fashion shows and parties, it was an overall good experience. However, waiting in line for 30 minutes or more for a 6-minute show wasn’t exactly my cup of tea, but hey, the things we do for the love of fashion, right?

The most popular trend that I noticed on the catwalks was: non-existent BGs. Don’t get me wrong, there were a few, but definitely not enough. Designer and fellow BG Tracy Reese definitely represented for us on the runway. From the looks of things, it seems like the fashion industry hasn’t changed their ways since the controversy surrounding the lack of color on the catwalks was brought to the forefront last year.

Aside from the model blackout, the most prominent fashion trends I noticed for the upcoming fall season were: rich greens, bold golds, punchy purples, satin, structured silhouettes and the already popular metallic fabrics and black tights.

As for the party scene, I attended a few that were cool, but none that blew me away. So for all of you who wish that you could’ve gone to some of these events, it was fun, but rest assured that it’s not as fabulous and glamorous as you may think. Hopefully, I’ll have a more exciting experience tonight or in September during the Fashion Week Spring 2009 shows. Until then, check out some of these celebrities who attended a few of the fashion festivities!

Saleisha, winner of “America’s Next Top Model” cycle 9.

Djimon Hounsou and Kimora Lee Simmons

Singer Amerie

Tyra Banks and Russell Simmons

Tyson Beckford

Joy Bryant

Christina Milian

Rihanna

Salt-n-Pepa

Star Jones and Vivica Fox

LisaRaye

Aisha Tyler

In New York City, most BG fashionistas carry a designer “status” handbag. Whether it’s vintage or the newest one on the market, many women feel like they have to carry designer purses from Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, Prada and Chanel to maintain their fabulous fashion style. Personally, I’ve never been a fan of buying bags based on the designer. I don’t care if the bag was made in Italy or the United States, if I like it I’ll buy it. To me the quality and structure of the bag are paramount. As long as it looks good, I’ll wear it, however, I have never worn a knock-off and never will.

Although I have heard that classic A-list handbags will last you a lifetime. Maybe one day I’ll find out, but until I bring home enough money to frivolously purchase one of these super expensive purses, I’ll continue rocking my chic affordable leather Kenneth Cole bags!

What do you guys think?

Chanel Tote Available at www.efashionhouse.com for $1888

Louis Vuitton Manhattan Available at www.eluxury.com for $1560

Fendi Turtle Spy Bag Available at www.eluxury.com for $1910

Prada Calfskin Bowler Available at www.bergdorfgoodman.com for $1595

Super Tuesday is tomorrow and it’s super important for those of us who are living in one of the 24 states where primary elections are taking place to exercise our right to vote. This presidential race has been one of the most exciting and historical in recent memory. To have an African-American and a woman representing the Democratic Party is nothing less than spectacular!

In honor of my choice for the Democratic candidate – Barack Obama, I came across some cute tees and hoodies that support his campaign. A play on words from the successful Rock the Vote campaign made popular on MTV in the 1990s, these Barack the Vote shirts make a statement both fashion-wise and politically. Not only do they promote Obama, 25% of each purchase is donated to his campaign.

Even if you don’t plan to “Barack the Vote,” please go out and let your voice be heard through your ballot. We can make a difference!

$20

$20

$20

$20

$20

$40

All shirts (they have guys’ apparel too) are available at www.barackawear.com

Yes, that time of the year is upon us New Yorkers yet again – Fashion Week! The crazy hustle and bustle of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week officially starts tomorrow and I’m so excited. This is my first year being invited to cover several fashion shows. I’m looking forward to seeing all the fashionistas and fashionistos from around the world clamor to see what designers like Tracy Reese, Diane Von Furstenberg, Nicole Miller and tons of other talented fashion designers have in store for Fall 2008.

I will bring you guys with me as I attend the shows, parties and all the craziness that goes hand in hand with Fashion Week. Hopefully, after receiving bad press for not using enough BGs as models in the past, leading designers will take notice and include more of us on the runways. If not, you’ll read about it from me and my fellow bloggers.

Stay tuned for the Fashion Week round-up!