Women's Fashion Trend - Leopard Print Coats

Classy not Brassy!
Leopard print is always in fashion whether it’s a item of clothing or an accessory and personally I wear the odd bit of leopard print all year round, but at the moment the must have leopard print trend is in the form of a vintage coat.

The new collections in our favourite stores on the high street heavily feature the leopard print coat and it seems to be pretty popular with our favourite celebrities such as Alexa Chung, Kate Moss, Mary-Kate Olsen. See pictures above for just how big this has taken off with the fashionista’s.

Leopard Print is a love it or hate it trend an understandably you might hear the words ‘leopard print’ and automatically think ‘Bet Lynch’ but this is so not the case! After reading this I’ll having you thinking more along the lines of classy not brassy!

Leopard prints are no longer considered trashy, as proved by our celebrity fashionistas, and the print coats are a perfect and chic way to keep warm through winter. However, like most trends there’s a trick to pulling off the leopard print coat trend so listen up…

Shorter girls should go for cropped coats or thigh length versions while taller girls can go all out in a maxi length coat if they wish!

As leopard print is such a bold trend I would stay clear of wearing it at the same time as any of the other major detailing trends i.e. lace, sequins etc. Now this would be brassy!

Remember to keep it simple and wear with jeans or leggings in the day, but go wild on a night out and wear it with your favourite LBD. Try accessorising yours with a red or black belt to add instant glamour, show off your waist and give it a better shape.

Killer Party Heels

So a sexy heel is the only shoe you’ll be needing over the party season… and when I say heel I mean a proper heel… The higher the better for this upcoming party season so not a kitten in sight please!
You may have seen the new Alexander McQueen crazy 10 inch heels on the catwalks recently, but I’m not actually expecting you to purchase and strut your stuff in these. I do love killer heels but these actually might kill you!
Take the lead from the heel queen herself, Victoria Beckham, and invest in a pair of killer heels that will take you through to the New Year, although by New Years Day you’ll probably want to wear slippers rather than sky scraper heels!
You can literally wear your heels with any outfit you want from dresses and leggings to playsuits and sequin knickers, just remember one thing… the sky is the limit! You can even inject some colour and brighten up a plain block dress with some vibrant heels like Beyonce and Mary Kate below.

Now I know Victoria Beckham lives in heels and even wears her Christian Louboutin’s to a Lakers game, which personally is a bit much for me, but you don’t have to just wear your heels on a night out… dress down heels with a pair of skinny jeans like Victoria, Audrina Patridge, Blake Lively and Nicole Richie… you’ll look laid back but chic.
So seen as its Christmas you have no excuse not to treat yourself and I personally recommend to go to some stores at StarPlaza sich as VOILE and RIO. The Voile Holiday boutique collection is a lush combination of studs, straps, and ridiculously high platforms and are definitely lush and the Bisou (for example) collection consists of colour, platforms and sequins for perfect party feet!

I'll show you here in this posts, some fabulous shoes which you can't miss them on this season of the year!
Happy Christmas and enjoy!

Don Jazzy Produces Darey's New Album

Darey Art Alade has returned with yet another single titled Stroke Me, a track he plans to include in his next recording. 

Produced by the CEO of Mo Hits Records, Don Jazzy, with support from the Soul Muzik duo of Del B and Password, the song was recently premiered in Lagos, where the singer thanked his fans and the media for their role in his career, starting from his days in the Project Fame Africa house. The event also featured the unveiling of the winner of his TV project, The Most Undareyted Show.

Now moving into a new phase, Darey and his team are hoping to keep fans busy this Xmas, with the new track, which is already generating discourse among music lovers. The full album is billed to be released next year, after an international release scheduled for February 2010. 

Meanwhile, the VCD compilation for Darey’s award-winning videos is set for release. To be marketed by Okeysonic, the compilation will include the award-winning videos, Not The Girl, More, Carry Dey Go and others. 

With big-budget videos, breath-taking performances and chart-topping singles, Darey has finally won the hearts of music lovers, playing at gigs and winning both local and international awards.

Powede Lawerence 18-year old emerges Miss University

Powede Lawerence 18-year old emerges Miss University

POWEDE Lawerence, a 200-Level student of Nursing and Miss Niger Delta University (NDU), has beaten 49 other university queens to emerge the 2009 Miss University/United Nations Nigeria (MUN) in a colourful parade of beauty and brains.

Organised by Visions Innovations and Concepts Ltd in partnership with the Bayelsa State government; the third in the series held at the Glory Land Cultural Centre, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital.

Chisom Egwuatu, Miss Anambra State University (ANSU), emerged first runner up, while Adama Onyanta, a 300-Level Biochemistry student and Miss University of Jos (Miss UNIJOS), picked the second runner up position.

Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of Mrs. Sylva as the Grand Patron of Miss University/United Nation Nigeria Foundation. The African Coordinator of the United Nations pageant, Ms. Syndee Keitte, conferred the award on her.

The Bayelsa first lady urged all the contestants to help spread the message of her cancer awareness project aimed at saving the lives of women.

Shortly after being crowned by the outgoing queen, Miss Aminat Jenny Ayuba of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, the new MUN 2009 burst into tears of joy.

Among the panel of judges that decided the winner were the publisher, Ovation International, Chief Dele Momodu; Executive Vice-President of Conoil Nigeria, Oma Eyewuoma, an engineer; Executive Vice-President MUN Organisation, Miss Tolulope Ademulegun; Miss USA 2007, Mrs. Stephanie Hunt; Mrs. Ginika Tor; Mrs. Mary Manzo; Executive Assistant to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Ms. Julie Donli; Barr. Megan Bozimo; and Mr. John Agha.

The queen will represent Nigeria next year at the Miss United Nations International pageant in the United States and the Miss University Africa pageant in South Africa.

The Future Awards 2009 Season 5 Nominees

The Nominees

Actor of the Year

Omoni Oboli

Gideon Okeke

Mercy Johnson

Kemi Lala Akindoju

Tonto Dikeh

Ali Nuhu

Mercy Aigbe

Nonso Diobi

Best Use of Advocacy

Tunde David (YGC Africa)

Stephen Oguntoyinbo (Talk Village International)

Onodi Daniel Chinedu (Nigerian Youth Association, Benin Republic)

Ndubude Matthew Ekene (Nigeria Youth Fight Against Malaria)

Emmanuel Odiase (Smokefree Foundation)

Chuks Etuka (Will to Survive)

Isoke Aikpitanyi (Casa de Isoke)

Light Up Nigeria

Best Use of Science

• Oteri Ogoghorie (0.1 Seconds Automatic Changeover)

• Akintunde Babatunde (Novel tidal-flow constructed wetland system for wastewater treatment)

• Ify Aniebo (Research in malaria)

• Bade Adesemowo (Power Back Alarm)

• Tosin Ogunrinde (Invention in robotics)

• Okelola Mayokun (Research in climate change)

• Godspower Oboide (Magnetic safety bumpers)

• Kamal Olaleye (Power inverter innovation)

Best Use of Technology

• Bode Pedro (Veda Technologies)

• Ike Orizu (mytruspot.com)

• Olufemi Akande (iWorks)

• Temi Kolawole (Antigravity)

• Uche Eze (bellanaija.com)

• Saheed Adejuwon (DigiWorks)

• GobbleAbba Studios

• Jay Aloysius-Chukwuemeka (Bluelabs LLC)

Businesss Owner of the Year

• Oghenekaro Agono (Tremor Perfect)

• Erefe Fynecountry (Deheney Services)

• Debola Lewis (Yvent Couture)

• Ayo Arigbagbu (Dada Books)

• Hassan Rilwan (Focal Point Publishing)

• Henry Oraika (Motomedia)

• Uyi Omokaro (DM2)

• Sylvester Olusola Adade (Pearl Creations)

Creative Artist of the Year

• Olanrewaju Oluwafemi

• Onyeka Nwelue

• Andrew Esiebo

• Jumoke Verissimo

• Babadeji Ogunnubi

• Adekunle Samuel Owolabi

• Yakaa Celestine

• Richardson Oviebo

Excellence in Public Service

• Dr. Iofarfa Tor-ayin (Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi)

• Emmanuel Etim (UNFPA)

• Jerry Uchechukwu Eze (UNFPA)

• Dr. Idoko Abraham Braimah (General Hospital, Lagos)

• Fatima Zara Modibbo (Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria)

• Dr. Adedayo Osholowu (Lagos University Teaching University)

• Ngozi Iheukwumere (University Teaching Hospital, Ilorin)

• Oluwatoyin Jegede (Engineering Department, University of Lagos)

Journalist of the Year

•Toyosi Ogunseye (The Punch)

• Ruona Agbroko (NEXT)

• Rachel Ogbu (Newswatch)

• Chinedu Iroche (NEXT)

• Segun Adeoye (TELL)

• Amina Alhassan (Daily Trust)

• Afolabi Adekoya (Citypeople)

• Funke Adetutu (BusinessDay)

Magazine of the Year

• Ace

• Soundcity Blast

• The Applause

• Revealed

• Genexx

• Acada

• Dynamix

• Tripz

Model of the Year

• Aminat Ayinde

• Ibukun Jegede

• Olubunmi Ademokoya

•Tayo Ishola

• Warebi Martha

• Isi Atagamen

• Bisi Sowemimo

•Owobowale Ogunlaja

Musician of the Year

• Dare Art-Alade

• Wande Coal

• Banky W

• MI

• Omawunmi

• Rooftop MCs

• Kel

• Psquare

Music Producer of the Year

• Jesse Jagz

• DJ Clem

• JMartins

• K Solo

• Tee Y Mix

• Dokta Frabz

• Terry G

•Dekunzy

On-Air Personality of the Year (Radio)

• Tosyn Bucknor (Top Radio)

• Matse Uwatse (Wazobia FM)

• Toolz (Beat FM)

• Amake and Charles (Hot FM)

• Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi (Beat FM)

• Gbemileke Oyinsan (Inspiration FM)

• Bernie Ark (Cool FM Abuja)

• Chuks Roberts (Cosmo FM Enugu)

On-Air Personality of the Year (TV)

• Yvonne Ekwere (Silverbird TV)

• Cynthia Okpala (MTV Base)

• Adaure Achumba (Silverbird TV)

• Denrele Edun (Soundcity)

• Gloria Ebong (Channels TV)

• Veronica Onuchi (HiSoccer)

• Deji Falope (Street Dance)

• Andre Blaze (Nigezie)

Professional of the Year

• Franklin Ozekhome (Insight Communications)

• Abdularahman Aliyu (Abuja Investments Company Limited)

• Simi Dosekun (Kachifo Limited)

• Ifeanyi Ajuluchukwu (Access Bank)

• Dipo Okuribido (Banwo & Ighodalo)

•Fopefoluwa Adebayo (Goldman Sachs)

• Aneto Okonkwo (Management Consultant)

•Ifunnaya Maduka (Dean of Students, Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls)

Screen Producer of the Year

Dragon Fly Productions

Clarence Peters (Capital Productions)

Tola Odunsi (Storm Productions)

Imoh Umoren (Ultima Studios)

Chuka Ejorh (NeverMachine South Africa)

Yinka Obebe (Nigezie)

Gbenga Salu (Renders & Illusion)

Kenneth Gyang (“Finding Aisha”)

Sportsperson of the Year

• Osaze Odemwingie (Football)

• Vivian Chukwuemeka (Shotput)

• Mikel Obi (Football)

• Ikechukwu Uche (Football)

• Fatima Abinu (Lawn Tennis)

• Obafemi Martins (Football)

• Janet Dung (Athletics)

• Aruna Quadri (Table Tennis)

Style Entrepreneur of the Year

• Muyiwa Osindero (Clothesense)

• Uche Nnaji (Ouch!)

• Tobi Vincent (Alvince)

• Linda Ikeji (Blackdove Comms)

• Ugonna Umeruo (House of Nwaocha)

• Adetola Olateju (Xquizit)

• Biobelemoye Omoniyegha (Labelle’s Touch)

• Funke Ogunde (Phunk Afrique)

Team of the Year

•Africa Youth for Change

• Knighthouse Productions

• Light Up Nigeria

• Yellow Dog Productions

• Salsa Federation in Nigeria

• The Umusu Wives

• Gbagyichild Entertainment

• Glitz Youths

Young Person of the Year

• Ik Osakioduwa (On Air Personality)

• Toyosi Akerele (Youth Advocate)

• Tolu Ogunlesi (Journalist)

• Asa (Bukola Elemide) (Singer/Performer)

• Ify Aniebo (Scientist)

• Qudus Onikeku (Dance professional)

• Stephanie Okereke (Actor/Movie Producer)

• Cobhams Asuquo (Music Producer)

All nominees are Nigerian citizens aged 18-31. For the next two weeks, any complaint about any of the nominees can be sent to nominations@thefuturenigeria.com. After that, no other complaints will be entertained. The two-month judging process begins immediately. Voting, which is 50% of the first stage of the judging process, begins immediately. Voting ends December 31 2009. More information on the nominees and the judging process (including the Central Working Committee report) is on

Grammy Awards Nomination 2010

Beyonce and Taylor Swift lead Grammy nominations with ten and eight nominations respectively.

Song of the Year
Poker Face – Lady Gaga
Pretty Wings – Maxwell
Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) – Beyoncé
Use Somebody – Kings of Leon
You Belong With Me – Taylor Swift

Black Eyed Peas – “I Gotta Feeling”
Bon Jovi – “We Weren’t Born to Follow”
The Fray – “Never Say Never”
Daryl Hall and John Oates – “Sara Smile”
MGMT – “Kids”

Best Rock Album
AC/DC – Black Ice
Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood – Live from Madison Square Garden
Green Day – 21st Century Breakdown
Dave Matthews Band – Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King
U2 – No Line on the Horizon

Best Rap Solo Performance
Drake – “Best I Ever Had”
Eminem – “Beautiful”
Jay-Z – “D.O.A (Death of Auto-Tune)”
Kid Cudi – “Day ‘N’ Nite”
Mos Def – “Casa Bey”

Country Duo or Group With Vocals
Brooks and Dunn – “Cowgirls Don’t Cry”
Zac Brown Band – “Chicken Fried”
Lady Antebellum – “I Run to You”
Rascal Flatts – “Here Comes Goodbye”
Sugarland – “It Happens”

Record of the Year
Beyoncé – “Halo”
Black Eyed Peas – “I Gotta Feeling”
Kings of Leon – “Use Somebody”
Lady Gaga – “Poker Face”
Taylor Swift – “You Belong With Me”

Album of the Year
Beyoncé – I Am…Sasha Fierce
Black Eyed Peas – The E.N.D.
Lady Gaga – The Fame
Dave Matthews Band – Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King
Taylor Swift – Fearless

Best New Artist
Zac Brown Band
Keri Hilson
MGMT
Silversun Pickups
The Ting Tings

Best Female Pop Vocal Performance
Adele - Hometown Glory

Pop Duo or Group With Vocals

Beyonce - Halo

Katy Perry - Hot N Cold

Pink - Sober

Taylor Swift - You Belong With Me”)

Best Male Pop Vocal Performance:

John Legend - This Time

Maxwell - Love You

Jason Mraz - Make It Mine

Seal - If You…

Stevie Wonder - All About The Love Again

www.Grammy.com!

Tiger Woods crash scene pictures

Tiger Woods

His wife, nanny turned bikini model, Elin Nordegren could be arrested for domestic violence, if police determine that she attacked the golfer, though he has said that the accident was his own fault.

Pics thanks to TMZ

Tiger Wood's statement after the accident...

“This is a private matter and I want to keep it that way. Although I understand there is curiosity, the many false, unfounded and malicious rumors that are currently circulating about my family and me are irresponsible.The only person responsible for the accident is me. My wife, Elin, acted courageously when she saw I was hurt and in trouble. She was the first person to help me. Any other assertion is absolutely false. This incident has been stressful and very difficult for Elin, our family and me. I appreciate all the concern and well wishes that we have received. But, I would also ask for some understanding that my family and I deserve some privacy no matter how intrusive some people can be.”

As you all know, I had a single-car accident earlier this week, and sustained some injuries. I have some cuts, bruising and right now I’m pretty sore. This situation is my fault, and it’s obviously embarrassing to my family and me. I’m human and I’m not perfect. I will certainly make sure this doesn’t happen again.''

Car Park Catwalk… Vivienne Westwood

Monday night saw Selfridges underground car park host the exclusive SS2010 Anglomania Collection by Vivienne Westwood. An unlikely venue for a catwalk show you might think, but one that went well with Westwood's infamous contemporary drapes & casual layering tones.

Dame Vivienne is without a doubt one of Britain’s finest originators for celebrating individuality through fashion. Her collection consisted of ruffles, stripes and tribal prints to die for, reeking style & statement femininity. She manages to effortlessly combine glamour with a touch of everyday quirkiness, teaming a burgundy ball gown with a military cap!

The show attracted the presence from press, buyers & celebrities alike. Tracey Emin, Sadie frost, Florence Welch (Florence & the Machine) Little Boots & Nicola Roberts (Girls aloud – now a regular at Westwood’s shows) all joined in the exclusive preview of the collection. See the image below for just a selection of celebrities that attended the event. If you want some A-List style in your life, then you cannot go wrong with an item from Vivienne Westwood – the fashionista’s choice!
Daisy Lowe strutted her stuff as one of the stars of the show, her touch of quirkiness?… a face full of sparkling rhinestones! The night was also graced with a performance from 13 year old Dionne Bromfield, the talented god-daughter of Amy Winehouse, who donned a printed prom dress from the SS selection.

Women Fashion Blog has definitely got a lust for the collection, as I’m sure you will too! Luckily the wait is not so long… The collection will be available in Selfridges and online at premium retailers from late December.

Celebrities at the Show

Women’s Party Fashion Trend – Velvet

Recently I have seen a lot more velvet clothing available within the latest women’s collections. It is going to be a key trend this winter, especially in the whole party season scene. The men are getting right into this trend at the moment, with everything from Blazers, to linings and footwear featuring this luxurious fabric. The women are never left behind though, so we are seeing some beautiful dresses, jackets, footwear and accessories released just in time for your big night.

Velvet is just an amazing fabric, it exudes extravagance and class, which is just what you need for a formal event or the office party. It can be show stopping especially if you pick a statement piece like a velvet dress or play suit for an edgier twist. The fabric becomes a true focal point to your outfit, and it means that you can then tone down the rest using killer black heels, and clutch purse for a look that is pure chic, but totally sexy at the same time.
If you are not confident enough to pick out full velvet clothing, you can get some amazing mixed velvet items that are teamed with more subtle fabrics as well as clothing that just has velvet detailing or lining. A perfect way to get in on the trend without being over the top. The other great benefit to velvet is that is adds amazing texture to any outfit. It will definitely make you stand out in comparison to all the other LBD’s and with feathers, faux fur, studs and other detailing being the major trends this year, we can see that it is all about texture in order to create great outfits.

So take a look below at some of the best velvet items I have found this season.

Top 6 Women’s Winter Boots

These Boots Are Made For Walking
Boots are always a hot trend for winter and the perfect way for us to make a fashion statement and survive the cold!
Lets face it if we didn’t have our boots on our feet wouldn’t survive! Boots are big! Not only do they look great but they also allow us to change our look and update our wardrobe instantly. Add a pair of winter boots and tights to pretty summer dress for an instant update… perfect! Whether you want to be stylish and sophisticated or sexy and serious or just casual and comfy, your winter boots will help you do it.
When it comes to winter boots there are literally hundreds of styles available, from stylish shoes boots to sophisticated over the knee boots, from leather to sheepskin, from laces to zips, but whatever your style you are sure to find a winter boot to suit!
If you want to look like you’ve walked straight off the catwalk wear an over the knee boot, these are all over the catwalks at the moment like Vivienne Westwood and Prada:

Apart from the over the knee boots the other trends to look out for are shoe boots, ankle boots, lace up boots and buckled, belted and studded boots (these have become a trend of there own!) And of course the beloved UGG boot, although every season a prediction is made that the UGG will be ditched, it is still here and as popular as ever before.
All styles can be worn flat or heeled (except the UGG of course!) And all styles can be worn with a dress, leggings, jeans or skirts so whatever your style the winter boot will be sure to add an edge to your look.
To start you off I have picked out my top 6 boots.
Enjoy…

As you can see, there are lots of stylish boots in RIO. RIO and Bisou are my favourite stores to buy original and fashionable shoes!
We are now so close from winter... So why don't we go buy some winter boots to be always fashionable at Stardoll? Be the first one!

2face leads Campaign Against Fake Drugs

As part of activities to mark his 10th anniversary as an artiste, hip-hop star, Tuface Idibia has entered into partnership with Love Idoko’s Motivation Magazine, to stage a campaign against fake drugs in Benue State. The even billed for November 13, in Markurdi, the Benue State capital, will parade notable entertainers, who will be joining in the sensitisation campaign.


Idibia, who was recently appointed an Ambassador of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), will be using the platform to campaign against the menace of fake drugs that has been killing many innocent citizens of the state and beyond. The event will mark the artiste’s first public outing in his home state since his appointment by the agency.



For the first leg of the event, Tuface alongside other invited entertainers, Love Odoko-led Motivation Magazine team and NAFDAC team to be led by the DG, Dr. Paul Orhii, will tour major secondary schools in Markurdi, crating awareness among teenagers on the danger that fake drugs pose to human health.

The awareness tour will culminate into a night of music and comedy later in the evening, at the In-door Hall, Kontagora Complex, Makurdi, where participants will be thrilled buy the artistes. To be anchored by Nollywood actors, Desmond Elliot and Ada Ameh, the night of fun will feature artistes such as Gordons, I Go Dye, J Marttins, Bovi and others, who have already indicated interest to join Tuface in the campaign.


Speaking on the upcoming event, Love Idoko whose magazine is at the forefront of the planning, assured that her team is working round the clock to ensure a successful outing.

“We understand the importance of this event, so, we are taking it very serious. Though putting up major events such as this is a difficult task, we are not leaving any stone unturned in our effort to make the best out of this campaign. Our partnership with Tuface to mark his 10th year anniversary will surely become a reference point in Benue State as far as event management is concerned. So, everybody should look forward for great outing.”

Hollywood Movie: IJE

Feature film IJE prepares to meets and exceeds Hollywood’s expectations at all exclusive screening

The time has come for Nollywood films to be taken seriously, for them to be able to compete with international films, and have lasting value. Change has been brewing for since the inception of film-making in Nigeria, and for 14 months an incredible woman has been working on making the film that will undoubtedly make Nigerian films a force to be reckoned with. Her name is Chineze Anyaene, and IJE: The Journey is what we've all been waiting for.

Chineze Anyaene, Nigerias's director and producer is changing the face of Nollywood and she is here to stay. With a production company that can rival any of its kind, Chineze Anyaene is bringing Nollywood what it needs: professionalism, quality, creativity and class. Anyaene is the youngest female director coming out of Nigeria, and also the first woman to film a Nollywood film on 35mm.

Genevieve Nnaji, who was recently profiled by American media mogul Oprah Winfrey as one of the most famous people in the world, and Nigeria’s sweetheart Omotola Ekeinde play lead roles in the movie, a rare occurrence which sets the tone for an incredibly captivating story full of twists and turns.

IJE is creativity, IJE is entertainment, IJE captures the essence of Nollywood and Hollywood.

Screen shots From the Movie IJE: Omotola

Screen shots From the Movie IJE

Screen shots From the Movie IJE

The exclusive screening of IJE: THE JOURNEY will be held at Warner Bros. on November 14, 2009 in Burbank, CA. For more information, interviews, sponsorship and promotional opportunities please contact ijethemovie@gmail.com.

Party Season Accessory – Chain Bags

With the party season upon us, I continue my guide to the party season with a great accessory that will really set your outfit off… the chain strap bag. These sexy new styles have just made an amazing impact within all of our lives here at Women Fashion Blog and I think they have a real ‘edge’ compared to the standard bags on the market right now.
As we know, the glam rock look is massive right now and the chain bag will really set off any casual or nighttime outfit which makes use of true rocker pieces like leather jackets, black leggings, graphic tees and the like. However it can also be dressed up beautifully this party season when matched with a great LBD or party dress and killer heels.
There are loads of styles available which are right on trend from sleek and chic, to sequined or leather… but whichever style you pick you can be sure to finish off your party outfit in style. Many celebrities have been seen rocking the look recently and it is fast becoming THE party season accessory of the year. So if you want something different and a way to stand out whilst still looking great, look no further.

Trend Collection – Bold Shoulder

With the 80’s trend being absolutely massive right now in women’s fashion, the bold shoulder has made a dramatic return on the catwalk previews and in the world of celebrities. When I say bold shoulder, I mean exaggerated definition of the shoulder area like they had back in the day with shoulder pads. Now no-one is saying we should all be reaching for the foam right now, as this season’s hottest trend is made simple with the beautiful collection of shoulder detailed pieces available for us all to buy.
Today’s bold shoulder trend concentrates on bringing it bang up to date – and in some cases going futuristic with it. The shoulders on the latest collections are structured and are all about creating drama with delicate detailing and cuts. As you can see above, this trend has taken off massively with everyone from Diane Kruger to Kim Kardashian to Miley Cyrus rocking the trend in their own individual way.


The key piece in this party season would be the structured shoulders dress. If you are looking for a new LBD then you would not go wrong getting your hands on one of these, as it will be bang on trend whilst making a massive statement. It can’t fail to have people looking at you and admiring your style. Don’t think it ends there though, as there are blazers, tunics and tops which all make use of this trend and can be worked into your wardrobe easily.

Hervé Léger

World's Youngest Mother - Kordeza Zhelyazkova

Kordeza Zhelyazkova, an 11 year old girl from Bulgaria, just gave birth to her daughter, making her the world’s youngest mother.

While Kordeza and the baby are healthy and in high spirits, Jeliazko, the 19 year old father of the child, now faces six years in jail for having sex with a minor. The father says that he was fearful and really scared when he found out Kordeza was pregnant. He says they didn’t plan to have sex or a baby although he fell in love with Kordeza the moment he laid eyes on her.

He added: ‘I was walking past the school when I saw some boys mocking her and I told them to leave her alone.
‘Then she arranged to meet me and asked me out on our first date. I thought she was 15. She didn’t tell me she was 11.’
Kordeza added: ‘I didn’t want to say in case he wouldn’t fancy me.’
Their daughter was conceived within a week of their meeting.

Kordeza said: ‘I didn’t know I was pregnant until my grandmother saw I had put on weight. I just thought I’d eaten too many burgers.’
Her grandmother Dida, 55, said: ‘It’s normal for our girls to have babies young. It’s our tradition. But I didn’t want it for my Kordeza – I felt she was too young.’

The family planned a three-day Roma wedding for October 22 – so Kordeza and Jeliazko could be married before the baby was born. But Kordeza went into labour a week early, on the second day of the ceremony.

She said: ‘I had been having pain in the morning and a couple of hours into the wedding it got worse.’
She was rushed to hospital and gave birth 20 minutes later.
Kordeza said: ‘It was quite easy but painful too. I was very happy when I saw her. She has a nose like me and hair like Jeliazko.’

Both grandmothers will be guardians of baby Violeta, and Kordeza and her daughter will receive £70 a month in state benefits.

The age of consent in Bulgaria is 14.

Here’s what Kordeza had to say about being a mom:

‘It feels strange to be a mum and have a baby. I used to play with my toys but now she is my new toy. She is so beautiful, I love her. Violeta is the child and I must grow up. I am not going back to school – I am a mother now.’

The age of consent is 14? I find that quite pitiful. Having sex and being a mum when you are supposed to be a child. Really sad!

Kordeza and her child have a really long road ahead of them. I only hope they find good people to guide them through the right path and push them to something better.

Hot Colour Combo – Black and Gold

A new colour combination is really making waves in women’s fashion at this moment, and today I'm going to show you some of the key items that you can use to nail this latest trend. Black and Gold has always been a great colour contrast that I have used each and every season for parties, nights out and formal affairs. However with metallics being this season’s must-have and gold embellishment being top of the list, I have seen many more pieces that mix the 2 colours together so it takes the all the hard work away from you!

From sequins to studs, this combination has been seen on celebrities and catwalks alike this season (see main picture). I can see why it has taken off so much because LBD’s are the key piece for party seasons and black in itself is a slimming colour which always has you looking your very sexiest. Match black with gold and you have the most amazing colour contrast possible in order to stand out from the crowd. Gold also adds a little bit of glitz and glamour to any outfit and is completely timeless, so you know you can pull out the same items next season/year as well.

To really ram home that this is the biggest party season colour combination take a look at EVEN MORE celebrities that have been spotted in this combination recently:

Sparkle This Party Season!

All I want for Christmas is….. Sparkle!
Glossy Hair? Check.
Flawless make up? Check.
Head turning party outfit? Check.

Here at Women Fashion Blog I have been working hard to deliver your Christmas wardrobe in time for the party season.
Sequins made an early appearance this year and have been around since summer but as Christmas is getting closer be prepared to see a whole lot more. The trend for this party season has an 80s vibe with a festive sprinkling of sequins, glossy satins, luxurious lace, high-sheen silks and sexy velvets. Not all together though… Obviously!
The key to wearing this trend is to keep everything to a minimum, so if you’re wearing head to toe sequins, avoid detailed accessories and fancy silhouettes, as they will add an over-the-top drama to your outfit. The point of wearing these glamorous fabrics like satin, silk and velvet is to look sophisticated, chic and sexy – not trashy.

If you don’t have the budget to splash out on a new party piece try adding a wow clutch for instant glamour and sophistication or statement accessories to your LBD. Chunky statement necklaces and embellished bid collars add just the right amount of sparkle and Christmas cheer. Note no earrings needed!
The party season trends can be seen at Balmain, Gucci and Christopher Kane so when you hit the stores looking for that perfect party outfit take inspiration from the designer gods and remember Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without glitter.

Coming Soon...

Fela Anikulapo Kuti's work enjoys posthumous revival

Abami Eda Lives on: Starting November 23, musical theater fans visiting New York won't just be angling for tickets to Broadway productions of "Chicago," "Mamma Mia!" and "Rock of Ages." They'll also have the chance to see "Fela!" -- a new musical at the Eugene O'Neill Theater about the influential Nigerian musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, and the opportunity to choose Afrobeat over show tunes, ABBA hits and Disney songs.

What's at stake in this Broadway venture, however, is much more than recreational tourist dollars. The show will help find a larger audience for Kuti, who before his death in 1997 pioneered Afrobeat from the sounds of James Brown and West African high-life music, became a political icon in his native Nigeria and earned the admiration of everyone from Paul McCartney to the Brazilian singer Gilberto Gil.

Rikki Stein, Kuti's former co-manager and the executor of his estate, plans to capitalize on this exposure to cement his legacy as one of the greatest artists of the 20th century.

"I have an abiding regret that Fela never achieved the recognition he deserved during his lifetime," Stein says. "We have a long row to hoe in terms of general knowledge and acceptance."

ALBUM REISSUES

In addition to green-lighting "Fela!," Kuti's estate has licensed his catalog to the newly revived Knitting Factory Records. The well-timed deal will result in the reissue of Kuti's complete catalog -- 45 albums -- during the next 12 years.

"The industry always talks about who the next big legacy artist will be," says Ian Wheeler, label manager of Knitting Factory Records. "It should have been Fela years ago. We're really trying to bring a new audience around the world, and particularly in the U.S., to his music."

Up first is the October 27 release "The Best of the Black President," a compilation of Kuti's best-known material. The set is being sold at previews of "Fela!" and at Felabrations, a series of Afrobeat DJ parties organized by Knitting Factory Records and its marketing partner, Giant Step.

"We're a conduit for raising awareness of Afrobeat," says DJ Rich Medina, who founded the Kuti tribute party Jump N' Funk in 2001 and headlined four of 18 Felabrations nationwide. "It's a way of helping the cause."

"The first thing we're doing is galvanizing the core base of Fela fans," Giant Step founder/CEO Maurice Bernstein says, "then using the messaging to make him relevant in a universal way. You can live in Detroit and understand what (the famous Kuti saying) 'Music is the weapon' means, just like you would Bob Marley's 'One Love' or Marvin Gaye's 'What's Going On?'"

The first batch of reissues arrive February 2: "The '69 Los Angeles Sessions," "Live With Ginger Baker," "London Scene"/"Shakara," "Rodoforofo Fight," "Open & Close"/"Afrodisiac" and "Gentleman"/"Confusion." It's not only the first time Kuti's early London recordings with Koola Loobitos will be reissued but also the debut of his catalog on vinyl, which Knitting FactoryVampire Weekend. hopes will attract a new generation of music collectors who listen to African-influenced bands like

"Every day there are traces of new people discovering Fela's music," Wheeler says. "But there has never been a swell of activity around him like this."

Though MCA reissued Kuti's catalog in 2001, Bernstein, who also helped market that series, says its potential wasn't fully realized. "MCA was a major label, and no matter how much they said they loved Fela and how important he was, he was definitely lost in the shuffle," he says.

Stein is all too familiar with labels' conflicted admiration for Kuti. In the mid-'80s, he says he met with every major about the prospect of a deal. "They all received me respectfully and saw Fela as akin to Miles Davis or any of the jazz greats," Stein recalls. "But they'd ask: 'Rikki, which three minutes of this 18-minute song do you want me to put on the radio?' "

"I'd ask Fela to write me a small tune," Stein adds. "He used to say, 'I'm writing African classical music. Don't mess with Tchaikovsky.'"

A deal nearly came to fruition in 1993, when then-Motown Records president Jheryl Busby offered Kuti a five-album deal under his new Africa-oriented label, with a $1.3 million advance for each album and another $1 million for full ownership of Kuti's catalog, Stein says. But after talking to his spirit advisers, Kuti refused to sign until April 1995. Busby left Motown the week of the scheduled signing, and Andre Harrell's first action as Motown's new president was to ax the African label.

BODY/MIND EXPERIENCE

In Knitting Factory Records and the producers of "Fela!," Stein has found partners who are more attuned to the cause of expanding Kuti's legacy.

"Fela!" re-creates the Shrine, the Lagos, Nigeria, nightclub where Kuti played multiple nights each week with his band, Africa 70. A collective of singers, dancers and musicians performs Kuti songs including "Shakara," "Zombie" and "Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense" behind lead actor Sahr Ngaujah, who won an Obie Award for his spot-on portrayal of Kuti in the show's Off Broadway run last year. The effect is less stuffy theater and more raucous concert -- just as its creators intended.

"The Broadway experience can be like sitting with blinders on," "Fela!" director/choreographer Bill T. Jones says. "This is a show you enjoy as much with your body as with your mind. It's free and communal."

"There was a constant struggle between keeping Fela's music pure and deconstructing it for the audience," says the show's musical director, Aaron Johnson, who translated Kuti's Yoruba and pidgin lyrics and is also the conductor/trombonist of the acclaimed Afrobeat band Antibalas. "I've been very pleasantly surprised with the response so far."

Nor have the most controversial aspects of Kuti's life been smoothed over, from his simultaneous "wedding" to 27 women to his clashes with the Nigerian government that led to a brutal 1977 attack on his Kalakuta compound. "It's all out there," Stein says. "Fela has not been sanitized."

That hasn't done anything to quell the show's positive word-of-mouth, the result in no small part to the fact that tastemaker musicians like the Roots' Ahmir "?uestlove" Thompson have sung its praises. Jay-Z called it "fantastic" after attending a show, fueling reports that the rapper will become involved with it in an official capacity.

"There's going to be an enormous incentive for people to investigate Fela when they know that Jay-Z, Will Smith and Alicia Keys are all rabid fans," Stein says. "It's a sign that the underground is moving overground."

Further proof that a Kuti revival of sorts is under way: A screenplay for a biopic is in the works, to be directed by the U.K. filmmaker Steve McQueen ("Hunger").

"I believe that with the show, the film and the reissues, a lot is going to change," Stein says. "We'll see a much wider audience for Fela. There were a million people at his funeral shouting, 'Fela will live forever.' Of course, they were right."

(Editing by SheriLinden at Reuters)

NEW YORK (Billboard)