Keeping The McQueen Legacy Alive

After the tragic passing of Lee Alexander McQueen the fashion world mourned the loss of an incredibly inspiring designer. The Alexander McQueen legacy is being preserved by Sarah Burton, hailing from Central Saint Martins and closely working with the late Alexander she is more than qualified to lead as the Creative director.

Sarah has preserved the Alexander McQueen signature style combined with N added a feminine essence, rumour has it she may be in line to design Kate Middleton's dress for the royal wedding this April.

Diary Of A Shallow Black Girl x

Picture Perfect

London born photographer Kayt Jones began her career in photography aged 17, money saved to purchase her car was instead invested in a Leica M4. Kayt's father Terry Jones is the founder of i-D magazine and former Vogue Director, with childhood memories of time spent in her dad's studio editing photographers pictures Kayt career was predetermined. The seeds of theses memories blossomed in the career she paved for herself.

Kayt is flies the flag for female empowerment, her portfolio contains many nudes images displaying the female form as a symbol of beauty. A perfect example of Kayt's work graces the latest issue of i-D magazine. Beauty has many faces and self acceptance is the foundation to understanding that.

Models Karlie Kloss and Jourdan Dunn

Cinematic influences are also apparent in Kayts work , she captures the moment at which the models become character of an untold movie. With her work featured in fashions most influential magazines, and having worked with world renown super models Kayt is redoubtably an inspiration to young female photographers.

Diary Of A Shallow Black Girl x

If Dreams Could Come True

On this bright Sunday afternoon while baking cupcakes I was listening to Choice Fm( a popular urban radio station in London) and George Kay mentioned the possibility of B2K reforming. Now I know many people might not know or remember them, well you should they were a phenomenon, causing pandemonium where ever they went.

(J-boog, Raz B, Omarion and Lil' Fizz)

I can remember the day I first laid my eyes upon them, it was my cousins birthday and were setting up for the sleep over Uh Huh came on and I was in awe. From then on I was in infatuated, unable to contain my excitement went played on MTV, I spent most of my pocket money on Word Up magazine so I could plastered my wall with posters and my mind with B2K's star signs, favourite foods and colours. I know its slightly obsessive but i'm not ashamed lol.

Even though the group have disbanded partly due to 3 of the members leaving their management however Omarion felt that J-boog, Raz B and Lil Fizz wanting to pursue solo careers, Omarion has had the most success as a solo artist with songs "O" and "Icebox", but i never anticipated that B2K would come to an end and i still love B2K

Romeo, Romeo

During my early teen years i had many crushes the list includes J-boog(of B2K),Lil Zane, Danger(of ATL) and Bow Wow( formerly know as Lil Bow Wow), i had countless posters that concealed my walls, door and ceiling courtesy of Word Up magazine and Black Beat magazine and of course my mum who funded my obsession lol. My love for Bow wow grew and I became Mrs Shad Gregory Moss,often disregarding Lil Romeo's talent and appeal.

I was never a fan of Lil Romeo, I never understood the attraction or fascination but as of late my eyes are seeing the now mature Romeo in a completely different light. as i have matured my opinions and preferences have developed. A interview on the M'onique Show with the Miller Family displayed his maturity and sense of respnsibility, his younger sister Cymphonique Miller is a talented triple threat that is following in her brothers footsteps.

going to upload the interview but unfortunately I couldn't find it but the clip below is just as interesting so enjoy :)

The List........

Most of you maybe confused the title but if you're singleton like myself it's something you hold dear to you're heart and is in the forefront of your mind. The moment you lock eyes with a guy you break the gaze and retreat to the list which prematurely terminates any chance of the guy to proceed. After a converstion with Nana I realise i'm in the persuit of perfection, which I know isn't realistic however I still persevere, hoping that the there is someone out there that meets my requirements. A childhood fantasy of a prince charming ive kept throughout my teens and im fearful it could continue into adulthood.

At the age of 13 when my prime focus shouldve have been my education mines often drifted to my hair and boys, one day after school along with my best friend i drafted my list which I still have to this day somewhere among my pile of memories from school. The list is divided into 3 sections which are looks, personality traits and hobbies and interests. I look back and laugh about it now but only difference is I no longer keep the list I the back of my diary, I have it imprinted in my brain. I still believe its importants to have a guideline but I try not to dwell on the physical, i'd be lying if I said appearances don't hold importance because they do as much as character and substance.

After some reflection maybe its time to admit i'm shallow but hey i'm only human,i try to appreciate everyone as an individual however until i erase the notion of "Mr.Perfect" i will remain single. Part of being human is being flawed, I im far from perfect, I just have to learn to accept other people imperfections. 

Great British Hairdresser

For those of you that aren't familiar with this show its a search for the next big session stylist in Great Britain. Session stylists are the creative masterminds that produce iconic hairstyles for the stars and covers of magazines. Behind all great starts they're great hairdressers, I one day will become one but I have so much to learn before that day comes so I immerse myself into anything about hair.

Celebrity stylist James Brown who has a client list to be envious of with the likes of Supermodel Kate Moss as a close friend and Demi Moore, Lily Allen, Angelina Jolie as clients he's more than qualified to decide who the next big thing in session styling will be. Week by week the stylist are given gruelling challenges against the clock to fight for their place. The editor of Glamour magazine Jo Elvin also judges the hopefuls often clashing opinions with James but as the winner will premier their work on the cover on Glamour magazine her opinion definitely holds power,WAG and model Abbey Clancy hosts the show engaging with the contestants to obtain their thoughts on their performances and James critiquing their work.

I haven't yet selected my favourite of the 10 as there are many attributes that make a great hairdresser; technical ability, creativity, bubbly personality and a eye for fashion are a bare minimum. As the weeks go by hopefully with the direction of James Brown the hair stylists will progress and blossom into the great session stylist they have the potential to be and produce hair worthy of a magazine cover that will make James proud.

This show will make a dream a reality for one person, boosting their profile, confidence and salary. Finally there is a show on t.v I can relate to that inspires me.

A night in natures playground

My usual friday consists of rushing around in the morning to get ready for work in the salon, this week however was different I was mentally preparing myself for the night ahead as I had exchanged salon life for a 2 day venture into the woods. In hand my fushia faux croc weekend bag,my sleeping bag and hunter wellies. I try to be practical and fashionable but its a difficult task.

As usual the rest of my play work group were running late, a 9am meeting time dragged out until 10 am, I passed the time by reading the latest Comso magazine. We awaited for my tutor Jackie and when she arrived I was gob smacked and amused, we were traveling to Kent in bright yellow mini bus.

A couple of hours later we approach the gates, we unload our luggage and are told we have to walk to get our tents. I have been camping previously but to be honest I played the damsel in distress act to avoid pitching the tent or carry logs for the fire however this time I chose to be more independent, a strong female. That was short lived lol but I did help with the tent. We waited for Alex to arrive with food and other resources, not that i knew who she was.

I made sure i came prepared, I made a list of all essentials including a portable Blackberry charging as most users know that the battery life is short lived, but to my dispear I left it at home in my other bag so unfortunately I had to turn my phone off so I couldn't take pictures of activities.

There were many experences that i enjoyed, during the night the sky was so mesmerising, the stars peirced through the deep blue sky, as was flames of the camp fire, we're so bombarded with technology we become blind to beauty of nature.

The reason for this venture was to explore the elements, i'm currently gainig a qualification in Play work which is the study of how children/ young people develop during playing.Living in inner city London most children are deprived of playing with the elements and the objective of the visit to natures playground was to explore and develop ideas of what activities we could provide a group of children if we brought them to the woods.

We went back to basics no electricity, walking to all destinations and collecting logs to keeps the fire going for warmth and to cook with . Not only do this encourage being resourcful but it encourages working as a communtiy. Im a city girl so I could never subject my self to using a man-made toilet with no running water for more than 26 hours but this experience made me grateful for the conveniences I have and often take for granted.

This is an experience a lot of people should take advantage of if the opportunity arises

Nana and Zateesha discuss The Brits Award 2011

Zateesha- The Brits this year was hosted bt Mathew Cordon at the O2 arena, the star studded event always hosts the best of british musical taalent with international stars also making appearances, each year the contributions to music are awarded and artists grace the stage.

Nana- Over 48 hours after the 2011 Brits Award and we have decided to analyse the event. Our main focus, as ladies is the fashion and make-up, But I think Zateesha wants to have a say about Rihanna's performance. (she always does) 

Lets start of with Rihanna.

Nana-  She definitely stole the show with 4 different outfits and her fierce performance. I am not a big fan of her when it comes to her music, but i definitely love her style, hair and make up.  I think she has a great influence on the fashion industry. And I am always proud of anyone who hold their head up after any tragic event.

Nana-  Rihanna's flaming red hair ensures that, you spot hair 10miles away, so for her to arrive in a blue slash purple dress with a lemon green bow, plus blue shoes makes it impossible to avoid her. Not many people..., I should rephrase that, apart from her, I do not see or want to see anyone else attempting to pull this look off. Not saying is the best dress on the carpet that night, but for me I think she wore dress and it definitely stole the cameras.

Nana-  After her saucy performance, Rihanna took her award for best international act in this floral print dress. It is very classy, pretty and quite girly the dress is somewhat like a wedding gown and the red flowers match her fierce flaming hair.

Nana-  I thought her performance was good. I did not like the red flowing dress that she opened her performance in, but she soon took it off to show a a barely there lacy one piece. I loved how she look in that. I have always been envious with her body and who isn't. She really rocked the stage.

Zateesha- Over the years the more I've been exposed to Rihanna the more I seem to critique, as a consumer I'm entitled to express my views and as a lover of art I can appreciate the cutting edge hair choices, flawless make up and daring fashion choices I'm yet to be as pleased to see her onstage. My understanding of a live performance is obviously different to Rihannas who was drowned out by a pre recoreded medley of her hits. I thought the permance was stiff, the enthusiasm on her face didnt quite follow through to her body but she livened up a bit during Whats my name. Rihanna has an amazing body but none of the dresses did her any justice not to mention im not a fan of florals.

Nana-  Cheryl looked stunning on the night, She wore a black sparkly dress by Stella McCartney with nude shoes. Previously her fashion sense has been heavily criticised and I think she got it absolutely right last night at the Brits. Cheryl dress showed of the tattoo on her back, in this daring dress but made sure she kept her hand on that thigh length slit.

Zateesha- Agreeing with Nana this time Cheryls dress, she looked elegant but still sexy with an exposed back and as she walks you see the high split which seems to be a growing trend. This is Cheryl doing what she does best; looking pretty.

Nana-  Alesha Dixon looked stunning in this mini gold knitted dress, those on going legs were worked to the max. My only criticism is the shoes, I think black suede ankle boots would have made it more edgy.

Zateesha- Alesha Dixon the golden goddess with legs for days, i think the jacket is a no-no it shortened her torso making her look out of portion but i disagree with Nana i like the shoes. Her make up and hair were kept simple, Alesha exudes beauty and radiance.

Nana-  I love Jessy J, but I am sorry i hated the dress... I think its ugly but her shoes, now that is something Dixon should have been wearing. All in all her acceptance speech was so heart felt and I am happy for her. And not to forget, I love her make up, red lips dark smokey eyes, number one stunner.!

Zateesha- Lady of the moment Jessie J unfortunately i wasnt a fan of her dress, i loved the colour but not the style it was ill fitted but for me her always perfect dark glossy cleopatra inspired long bob with the bangs saved her. I wouldve loved to see her perform on the night.

Nana-  Adele gave one of of the best performance of the night, if not the best. I loved how she kept everything covered but still looked sexy. I think she's got some great curves and I think she should show it off more.

Zateesha- Adeles performance was amazing, you dont need fireworks and dancers when you have a voice like Adeles, her midi hemline was very flattering and the detailing on the bust was beautiful. With her hair back in a bun herr make up took centre stage, this illuminated her soft, smoky and seductive eyes.

Nana-  Ellie Goulding looked great in this ivory goddess dress. I must say mini dresses and thigh length slits were popular at the awards. I love that gold vintage necklace, but again I do not like those shoes.

Nana-  I don't know who they are, but I did not like what they wore.

And the only guy in our collection, 

Nana-  Yes, It is Bieber.... He don't belong, but I had to place him here. I absolutely adore him, and I think he looked great. :D

Zateesha- My favourite perfomances of the night were Adele and Plan B, they’re such great vocalist but brought something different to the stage.

Im so proud of Tinie Tempah hes come such a long way and it goes to show hard work really does pay off, if you have a dream persue it and dont give up.

Its times like these i feel proud to be British, we have so much talent and diverstity within our music but the only way we can progress is to support our own as much as we do with American

xoxx Nana  & Zateesha xxox
Diary Of A Shallow Black Girl

Bold & Beautiful: Leona Lewis

Known for her sultry voice Leona Lewis is often put on the back burner in the fashion stakes, it seems Miss Lewis has upgraded her style with long chocolate tresses, eye grazing fringe and a wardrobe that makes Andy Warhol's colour palette seem dull.

There will be many critics(probably fat, ugly and only friends are ones on Facebook) but i'm loving the new look, the injection of colour instantly demands attention, with 70's inspired bangs Leona is on trend for SS fashion. I feel inspired to follow suit and steal her style. Leona is definitely one to watch!

Beautiful, Dark and Twisted

I've always envied ballerinas, their lean contoured, gravity defying physiques combined with the ability to capture an audience with passion enriched movement. So when I saw the trailer for the movie The Black Swan my imagination was ignited by Darren Aronofsky dark twist on the classic Swan Lake.

Natalie Portman portrayed the character of Nina, a ballet dancer who must master the role as the innocent white swan and the seductive black swan. Nina's technical ability was outstanding but lacks the passionate to convincingly take to the stage as the Black Swan but is pushed by Thomas (Vincent Cassel) her director to lose herself in the role. Nina behavior was rather odd at times, she seemed psychotic and frigid but after the introduction of her mother it became apparent that Nina's mother begrudged her for her own short lived ballet career.

I'm not a ballet expert but i can appreciate art and music accompanied the film beautifully, it created intensity with every crescendo i felt a part of the illusion. I related to Nina's character as i often find myself confined by my frigid nature, i think that many people should feel free and lose themselves in the moment and enjoy life. Although Nina's end was tragic her last moments were triumphant, she was finally free in her element.

My make up must haves!

I'm a beauty junkie that can't leave a department store or cosmetic counter without sampling different products , I like to mix and match so I use Estee Lauder, Max Factor, L'oreal Professional , Barry M, Rimmel and MAC to name a few some products below are my favorites.

For the best application you must ensure your skin is prepared so I use

Amie Morning Dew matte-finish moisturiser, packed with plant extracts its pH balanced giving me a smooth matte appearance to balance my combination skin(its vegetarian and vegan friendly too).

For a flawless base I use MAC Studio Fix liquid foundation in NW 45, I like to use my fingers to apply this as it blends into my skin without lines however a foundation brush and sponge result in an equal finish. Another great tip I learnt at beauty school to make a tinted moisturiser use equal parts of foundation to moisturiser, mix the two together and apply, a pea size amount of each is usually enough.

MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural provides a radiant finish and reduces shine, this can be applied with a large powder brush over your foundation or even alone. Packed with minerals and reflective particles its a must have that looks amazing in pictures.

For contoured cheek bones to rival Kate Moss MAC Mineralize in Gold Deposit to highlight, this is also great on brow bones and the body to illuminate the skin.

An old favourite of mine is Rimmel Royal Gloss available in 5 shades i just love Delicious, it leaves my lips soft with a seductive shine, non sticky and sweet tasting its cant be rivaled.

Although there are many of mascaras on the market nothing quites beats fake lashes for me, strip lashes are my usual preference as i can come home from a long day at work or a night out with the girls with worrying about panda eyes in morning.

These are my make up must haves because natural beauty needs some enhancing

A Week Of Freedom

So I'm just evaluating my week of being natural NO WEAVE NO RELAXER NO MAKE UP and I must admit the thought of it initially made me uneasy, I was worried at the thought of having to look at my reflection and be dissatisfied was daunting. To be honest most like woman I'm always singling out bits I don't like from my elfin ears to the gap in my teeth.

From a young age I've been image conscious, school mornings began with a ritual of 2 hours of hair prep and styling followed by make up some may say its ridiculous but I had to be ready for my public, others had an expectation of me that I had to maintain and ponytails on a bad hair day were unacceptable and ignited queries regarding the state of my hair.

For many years my crowning glory has been masked with weaves and altered by relaxer which after some time takes its toll on the hair line; Super model Naomi Campbell is a victim of traction alopecia and I wish to not suffer the same fate. The only way to prevent it is to let me hair be free.

During this time I reflected on how my hair represents me and my identity. With arguments or debates justify the replacement of curls, kinks and 'fro's by relaxed poker straight hair and weaves that mimic asian, hispanic and european I honestly believe it about conformity.

Working in a hair salon myself I often hear false promises of clients claiming they will stop relaxing their hair but the truth is they won't. I struggled with the hair task myself, made to feel like my hair isn't acceptable or beautiful by on the whole black woman.

As the week came to end I grew more fond of my textured hair, I have however returned to chocolate long waves but when I have more length I will proudly parade my own hair.