Beyonce Heats Up Union Square With Fragrance Launch Party

Hey Glamazons! The creme de la creme of the beauty world mingled alongside our fave songtress Beyonce last night at Union Square for the launch party of Bey’s first fragrance, Heat.

Everything was decked in red (including Beyonce who wore a cute little flouncy dress by Marc Bouwer) and at some points felt like maybe you were in the pits of a nicely fragranced, celeb studded hell. Little sis Solange was on deck as the DJ and other celebs that showed up to show support included Usher, Michelle Williams, Sherri Shepherd, mom Tina (daddy Matt was nowhere to be found) and of course, the huz Jay-Z (who so cutely declared his love for Bey when asked what he thought about the new fragrance!)

Have any of you purchased Heat yet? If so, let us know what you think!

Beyonce and Michelle Williams. Um, is it just me or does Michelle look crazy?! I was NOT feeling this look on her….

Beyonce and her lil’ sis Solange pause for a photo at the DJ booth

Beyonce and Usher

Beyonce and her mom, Tina Knowles

The venue at Union Square. It looked really strange from the outside if you didn’t know what was going on inside lol

xo

Ferocia

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GLAM OR SHAM?: Pre-Grammy Looks from Rihanna, Jay-Z, Katy Perry and more

The Grammy Awards are upon us which means for the last few weeks, stylists, make-up artists, eyelash artists, PR girls and designers have been scrambling to outfit stars in the latest and greatest fashions.

Judging from the latest pics from Pre-Grammy events, some celebs will push the envelope in avant garde looks (a la Rihanna) stay safe and trend-friendly in sequins or silk (like Mary J. Blige and Katy Perry) or show up in a tacky cringe-worthy ensemble that anyone can pick up at your neighborhood Rainbow store (sigh…Ashanti).

Check out the looks from Clive Davis’ and Neyo’s parties below and give your verdict: Who was Grammy Glam and who was a Sham?

Rihanna’s multicolor pastel look was delightfully avant garde but the shape and hue was a lot to take in at once. I will say her light green make-up and polished hair was uberfabulous.

Ciara, is this a joke? The cheap-looking shaggy fur top paired with shorts and knee boots (darling, pick a season) was proportionally and aesthetically all wrong. The loud fashion faux paux is sure to turn heads—just not for the right reasons.

Fergie…the part lingerie/part electrical tape dress would make sense on a Vegas party girl, not a pop star. It is cheap and tacky and looks like it smells like plastic. Sham.

Though Mary J. Blige, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift’s dresses were sequined and safe (aka you could see a thousand of them at any New Year’s shindig or gala), atleast they looked glamorous and presentable. I live for the multicolor sequins on Katy’s dress.

It seems leather was a staple on the red carpet (see Ashanti’s disaster below) but Jennifer Hudson’s trendy purple color, shoulder detail and blunt bangs make the look undeniably chic.

The fellas stole the night. In all black everything, Jay-Z redefined cool in a New York City rockstar vibe with a motorcycle leather jacket, a chain necklace and black separates. Jamie Foxx brought his signature suave style in a one-button blazer with a shirt and tie.

Neyo’s signature fedora, shirt and vest captured his “perfect gentleman” motif to a tee, but I hate the sneakers. English gentleman meets street culture? I’m not buying it. And raise your hand if you’re tired of seeing a fedora on this man at every event…I understand hats are your thing but they make different styles.

Precious star, Gabourey Sidibe wore a black banded sheath dress and…flats? I LOVE Gabourey and what she represents as a full-figured woman in Hollywood who readily embraces her out-of-the-norm body size. But this dress is just not flattering. It makes her look ill-proportioned and does nothing for her shape. 

Ashanti is on my list. The gray leather zippered mini is cute, yes. But why did you borrow your sister’s dangly earrings from prom and clip on a blonde, curly weave from the beauty supply store? (Did anybody tell her that her hair doesn’t match in the front?!) No matter how chic she starts off, she always gets it wrong. Sham.

What do you think, Glamazons? Glam or a Sham?

Trend Alert: Mad for Plaid

Glamazons,

If I told you lumberjack and private school plaid is sexy, would you believe me? Well, you should. This season, the coolest trendsetters are making the ubiquitous pattern look hotter than ever.

The timeless print is getting a chic makeover this season with laidback oversize tunics paired with leggings and feminine, flirty skirts worn with fitted black tees.

The pattern has permeated menswear too with crisp, plaid button-down shirts and down jackets with plaid details hitting the stores.

Get the look with these celeb-inspired styles and scroll all the way to the bottom for affordable finds!

GLAMAZON FAVORITE: LOVE these plaid shirts from Cavi Designs, a menswear line worn by Jay-Z, Fabolous and more. They have a great selection of colors and an even better fit! $97.54, cavidesigns.com.

Kisses,

Coutura

Glam or a Sham: AMA’s

Hey Glamazons!

By now, we’ve all seen and heard about the spectacles at Sunday’s American Music Awards that everyone is talking about: Jennifer Lopez falling on her ass-et (what’s more appalling to me is performing a “Louboutin” song not wearing Louboutins), Adam Lambert making out with a man, Jay-Z taking an alleged jab at 50 Cent while Chris Brown tweets “Cornball” and Q-Tip tweets about “cocky rappers.”

But to me, the fashion was just as troubling.

While some celebrities looked beautiful, others took fashion risks that didn’t quite pay off (Rihanna) or made amateur style faux pauxs (Whitney, where was your shapewear?).

Take a look at the celebrities that made us turn heads or scratch our heads and give your verdict: Glam or a Sham?

We loved Whitney Houston’s ruched white gown but a Spanx would’ve smoothed out her (tiny) tummy.

Not at all crazy about Rihanna’s Marchesa ballgown with floral cut-outs, and Easter Sunday ready white Mary Jane pumps. However, the red cat eyes (and Neil Lane jewelry) were everything.

We think Rihanna’s body is AMAZING but the Fifth Element meets Amber Rose bandaged suit was way too much for us.

Lady Gaga’s antics always amuse but the unsightly strap over her panties looks like a diaper or holster. Odd…not in a good way.

Alicia Key’s Armani Prive dress was adorable, fresh and sexy. We love how she highlighted her amazing legs and kept her Lorraine Schwartz jewelry simple and stunning.

Her fall may be the talk of the town, but Jennifer Lopez’s Marchesa feathery dress with beaded bodice totally makes up for it.

I live for Fergie’s studded Armani Prive gown. Equal parts daring and dazzling.

Does it get any chicer than Shakira’s yellow Versace minidress and Lorraine Schwartz jewels? Note to Rihanna: this is how cut-outs should be done.

I think the Biker Chic trend is completely overdone here. And Leona Lewis’ soft hairstyle with cascading ringlets seems out of place when paired with her leather Vivienne Westwood dress, chains AND a three-finger ring. Not a fan.

We thought Mary J. Blige looked elegant but a tad too dressy for the event. Nonetheless, her expertly-styled blonde cut was the perfect complement to her glowing skin.

We loved Keri Hilson’s sparkly Louise Golden minidress and Alaia booties. She always gets it right.

Though some critics feel Toni Braxton’s dress is a bit too revealing for a 40-something star, I think her gown—and body—look stunning. The messy updo, on the other hand, is not red-carpet friendly. And she could’ve put that boy in a suit.

I think velvet is always a controversial choice, but when done right, it looks expensive and dapper. Jay-Z slightly misses the mark, in my opinion, with the brown color.

What do you think about these looks, Glamazons? Glam or a Sham?

Kisses,

Coutura

Angels In The Big Apple

I know, I know, I’m slightly late with this post so you’ve probably read all about the 2009 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show that happened this past Thursday night in New York.

But seriously Glamazons, I (Ferocia) have been running on fumes for the past couple of weeks and booked a last second flight back home to chill out and catch my breath for a second. (City life can get pretty harsh sometimes! Not that I’m complaining about it, but it’s good to take a break every now and again.) So, with that said, apologies for not posting earlier, but I was busy packing and jumping on a plane. Now that I’m settled, read on to get my opinion of the show!

You all should know by now about my secret obsession with the Victoria’s Secret Angels and I was fortunate enough to get a ticket to the show (thanks to the lovely AJ from VS Beauty…she seriously rocks my world!) Despite the dreary weather, I headed over to the site super excited! There were several other beauty editors/directors in attendance (including my lovely friends Erica Metzger from Ladies Home Journal; Heather Muir from Seventeen; April Franzino from Good Housekeeping and Leah Wyer from Cosmopolitan.

(from l to r) Erica, Heather & April

Leah Wyer (beauty director at Cosmopolitan magazine)

While waiting for the show to begin, I spotted several celebrities walking into my section in search of their seats including Russell Simmons (who brushed right past me!) and fashion designers Zac Posen and Christian Siriano (whom I love, love, love!). Further down across the way I spotted marketing guru Steve Stoute (whom I’ve been secretly obsessed with meeting since I moved to the NY three years ago!), Jay Z (looking dapper in a black suit complete with bow tie; probably in preparation for Diddy’s birthday party which was also happening that night) and Dr. Dre. Singer Keri Hilson looked waltzed in looking atothemazing and actress Michelle Trachtenberg looked pretty, but very pale (ew).

Jay -Z and Dr. Dre at the VS Show 2009

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg at the VS Show 2009

It was while waiting for the show to begin that I started to think about last year’s show in Miami and how there was something missing about this year’s show versus last year’s. (I was also fortunate enough to attend the show last year, click here to read all about it!)

This year, there was no electricity in the air; no buzz. Granted, there was plenty of noise due to the mosh pit of teenagers near the stage that (I heard) were specially flown in to dance and yell in the hopes of making the crowd of jaded New Yorkers seem alive on television. Maybe it was the rain outside…or maybe it was the fact that I was extremely tired. I don’t know…there just didn’t seem to be as much excitement this year. I think Miami (or any other tropical city) are the perfect sites for this type of show….I mean, beaches, pools and sunshine go hand in hand with beautiful, half-naked women, wouldn’t you agree?!

The show itself was pretty awesome! This year’s musical guest were The Black Eyed Peas and one look at Fergie’s legs and ass in those fish nets was enough to make me want to start squatting on the spot! (Her and Beyonce’s bodies are my inspiration to hit the gym haha).

The Black Eyed Peas performing at the VS Show 2009

The first performance was “Boom Boom Boom” (one of my fave work out songs!) and was complete with glowing neon colored-clad background dancers and flashing neon lights. I couldn’t help but to bop along in my seat (that beat is infectious!). I also loved the huge blow-up polka dotted dog that was in the middle of the stage during the PINK section of the show.

Other than the Black Eyed Peas’ musical performances, the surprise of seeing Heidi Klum walking (she just popped out a baby! granted she wasn’t as naked as she usually is presumably because she’s still on a hardcore workout regime to get tight again, but she still looked gorge!) and the fact that I got to hang out again with my beauty editor friends, I didn’t really find anything else too intriguing about the show.

VS Angel Heidi Klum works the stage at the VS Show 2009!

Chanel Iman looked cute (as usual) and Sesilee Lopez looked fierce in those green thigh high boots and matching lingerie set (I’d kill for a stomach like hers!). I was excited to see Liu Wen walk in the show..she’s the first Asian model to do so and I hope that the VS brand continues to keep adding a more diverse roster of models to the show roster.

Chanel Iman shows off her ‘ass’ets at the VS Show 2009.

Missing VS Angels this year were Karolina Kurkova (who just had a baby) and Adriana Lima (who’s still pregnant).

VS Angel Alessandra Ambrosio gives a new definition to the “hot” in hot pink during the VS Show 2009!

I did manage to snap a couple of pics on my camera phone (shhh! We weren’t supposed to take any pics during the show haha)

Pretty pink and green scene from the VS Show 2009

All of the models came out at the end of the show.

Did anyone else attend this year’s show? If so, what did you think? Let us know.

And don’t forget to watch the show when it airs on CBS Thursday, Dec. 1 at 10/9 central!

xo

Ferocia

Men’s Fall Trends! Cardigan Classics

The sexy new menswear staple for Fall? V-neck knit cardigans.

Sleek, comfortable and warm, cardigans will be your go-to knitwear piece as the weather gets colder. And believe me, it’s worth the investment. (Plus I secretly love how it falls over the shoulders and back. Hot!) Why, you ask?

(1) It’s as flattering as it is versatile. A cardigan looks as brilliant layered over a dress shirt and tie as it does with a white tee and jeans.

Kanye’s white tee, chain and jeans bring a casual vibe to his cardigan.

Layered over a dress shirt and tie, David Beckham’s cardigan has a preppy, polished appeal.

(2) It gives your summer clothes leverage. You can layer a cardigan over your beloved polos, short-sleeve tees and dress shirts and wear them long into the Fall season.

Pharrell gets more wear out of his white polo shirt by wearing a cable-knit cardigan on top.

See how other stylish celebs rocked the look below, plus scroll all the way down for affordable options from some of your favorite brands.

But beware: this is NOT your grandfather’s cardigan. Bold colors and contrast lining give it a fresh, updated feel.

Kisses,

Coutura

Fashion’s Night Out with Rihanna, Beyonce, Jay-Z, Estelle & Pharrell

Whew.

Fashion’s Night Out was even more exciting and exhilarating than I expected. My only complaint is that it should have a whole week! It was IMPOSSIBLE to hit every event I wanted to in one night…and in 3-inch heels! I must say though, my friends and I made the most of the night. Let me start at the beginning.

After getting Minxed, I returned to the office for a run-through for our still life shoot the next day. Disaster ensued. Our boss wanted all new clothing samples and I literally had hours to get them all in. Fashion’s Night Out was looking less and less likely but…when there’s a will, there’s a way.

While Rachel Roy tweeted about the shaggy fur vest that was flying off the shelves of her pop-up store (follow her at @rachel_roy), I packed, did inventory and sent sample requests in under 15 minutes. I slipped on my military jacket, Dereon black booties and leopard print clutch and hit the road.

Here’s my friends, Patrice, Sandrine (who has an amazing art, fashion and lifestyle blog you have to check out!) and I hitting the road for Fashion’s Night Out!

FIRST STOP: BILLIONAIRE BOY’S CLUB

We hopped in a cab downtown to the Billionaire Boy’s Club flagship store in Soho. First of all, Fashion’s Night Out in Soho felt like Halloween night for the fashion set. Everyone was dressed up and out on the town. There could have easily been a party outside – people were everywhere traipsing through the streets in heels and shades. The line in front of BBC in particular wrapped around the corner as “Faux-Rells” (our term for Pharrell wannabe’s) littered the streets decked out in head-to-toe in BBC gear. One girl from Arkansas had been waiting on line for four hours to get a glimpse of Pharrell. 

Inside, lucky shoppers enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and cupcakes, and chatted with the N.E.R.D. frontman as he worked the register. Kid Cudi made a guest appearance to the delight of the crowd that spilled onto the Soho streets and hung out with his fellow artist friend once inside the shop. Very cool! 

Pharrell headed to Billionaire Boy’s Club.

SECOND STOP: RACHEL RACHEL ROY

We made it through the Kid Cudi fan crowd out alive and sauntered over to the Rachel Rachel Roy pop-up store to check out the collection. If you are a true Glamazon fan, you know I am in love—wait, obsessed—with Rachel Roy’s new collection for Macy’s. Seriously. I’ve been talking about the pop-up store since the preview in May. My favorites from the collection, like the watercolor dress I adore, were all on sale for unbelievable prices. Even cooler? She hosted a twitter contest for a free pair of peace earrings. The first ten people who showed her tweet about the earrings won a pair! So glam!

While guests waited for the ladies of the hour, Rachel Roy and host, Estelle, we were treated to Good Humor ice cream outside the shop (did I mention my two favorite loves are dessert and fashion?). 

My friend Patrice loving her free ice cream!

Once they arrived, looking beautiful of course, they chatted it up with shoppers and fans then just lounged and took in the scene. Here’s a picture they tweeted from Rachel Roy’s account (twitter.com/rachel_roy). I personally love the two of them together and cannot wait for their upcoming jewelry line! 

Just as we were preparing to head out, in walks Iman looking statuesque and flawless. Everyone in the store went crazy as no one was expecting a guest appearance from the famed model/mogul, who was as gracious and sweet as ever! We had a wonderful time hanging out with them, but there was so much more to see! 

THIRD STOP: INTERMIX

We hit the Soho streets again only to run into a mob of fans chasing Vogue Editor-in-Chief and September Issue star, Anna Wintour down the street. I’ve never seen an impeccably-dressed fashion editor run so fast in my life. I’m sure after she got to safety, though, she was pleased with the great success of Fashion’s Night Out in NYC and all over the world (I heard London gave us a run for our money!). Congratulations, Queen Anna! Congratulations.

Inside Intermix, the diva of all divas was spotted hitting the dance floor. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, Rihanna, was partying inside the store in a hooded black dress, gloves, a spiky bracelet and these uber-cool studded sunglasses. Of course, she added a fierce red lip. Does it get any hotter than that? I don’t think so!

Once outside, we decided to hit up the Rocawear 25th Anniversary party uptown and as we went to hail a cab, we caught a glimpse of stylist to the stars, June Ambrose, modeling in the storefront window of Alexander McQueen! It was hilarious!!

LAST STOP: ROCAWEAR PARTY

At last, the final party of the night. We hit Rocawear’s 10th Anniversary party to celebrate the great success of the brand and rub shoulders with our fellow industry fashionistas and fashionistos. We ended the night partying to tunes from Jay-Z’s new album Blueprint 3 (LOVE Empire State of Mind with Alicia Keys) and shooting the breeze with Fashion’s elite. And as I’m rapping at the top of my lungs, who walks by? None other than Jay-Z dressed head-to-toe in black and wearing signature stunner shades. We even spotted Beyonce on the scene supporting her hubby! Unbelievable. 

Wow. I had no idea when I blogged earlier about Fashion’s Night Out, that I’d be shopping and partying with some of the hottest stars in the music biz. It was an amazing night and I loved every minute of it – can’t wait until the next one! Glamazons, what was your favorite moment of Fashion’s Night Out? Who was your favorite star sighting? And let me know what great pieces you bought at the events. 

Kisses,

Coutura

Photos: theybf.com.