Kerry Washington: A Woman On The Move With A Purpose. #Isupport

Photo Credit: usatoday.com

I read a lot of celebrity interviews and magazine cover stories. Like a whole lot. I even watch interviews on youtube.com, specifically listening closely for the dim messages spoken...that essentially highlights the core values of certain celebrities. And whether they consciously intend to elaborate on those values or not — the beliefs are there — really tune in and you'll hear. Based on those values, I will choose whether or not to support the work or brand of an actress, artist, or author. In other words, dope fashion, punchlines and beats will not suffice. What are you really saying? What are you really about?

I look at the total package. I don't focus solely on "what's trending."

Kerry Washington Is The Total Package.

And she's got my undivided attention! Here's why: Kerry Washington (KW) is an actress and activist that devotes a considerable amount of time on making a difference in the world as it relates to diversity, politics, humanity and ending violence against women [Women's Health]. Washington's philanthropic passions are consistent and transparent by way of her (acceptance) speeches, which magnifies the beauty of her brand. Moreover, the acting roles she lands compliments a larger vision in terms of female empowerment, especially her starring role in ABC's hit TV series, Scandal, as Olivia Pope. Washington's enormous love and commitment to all-the-above, as well as her great fashion sense, leaves her fans in awe and wanting more. I study celebs with brands that are infused with worldly impact-driven values and endeavors, like KW. Hash tag, #Isupport. 

Kerry's Stance On (Person)al Style.
Unless you've been living under a rock, I'm sure you've heard of the Met Gala. A sea of fashion enthusiasts have been banging away on computer keys to write about 'failed' fashion on the Red Carpet. C'mon, do we really care that Kim Kardashian allegedly jacked Beyonce's Met Gala look from a billion years ago? And now according to reports, Queen Bey allegedly has been copying Jelena Karleusa's style for a hot minute. (Jelena, who?) 

Are you guys really wow'ed by this stuff? Kerry and I are not. Hash tag, #EndRant.

Washington was recently quoted in a mainstream fashion magazine 'on style' specifically on criticism. As a result, my admiration and respect for KW tripled. Hash tag, #Isupport.

"I don't like this thing about who got it right and who got it wrong, because we're not all trying to be the same person." - Kerry Washington

Kerry's right: We're not all trying to be the same. Let's remember that :)

Photo Credit: eonline.com

Model Spotlight: Dominique Armorer

Noteworthy! I was not able to find a lot of "press" but from what I have read, International Fashion Model, Dominique Armorer is known to rip the Caribbean runways. According to Coco Velvet International Fashion and Model Mgmt., Dominique was first discovered in San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago (yasss bish!) — my daaalin' daddy's home country, which is why I had to spotlight Dominique *wink*

In any event, it's no secret that diversity is lacking on fashion runways and in magazines, so I make it my business to shine a light on talented brown beauties that we must pay attention to: Did you hear that mainstream media folks? I'm talking to you! 

Following is Dominique's model stats: Height- 5'10" | Bust- 34 | Waist- 24 | Hips- 34 | Dress- 4 | Shoe- 9.5 | Hair- BLACK | Eyes- BROWN

Click here to browse Dominique's profile, and follow her on Instagram. 

From The Archives

Issue 80 "True Beauty"

Photo Credit: FMD

Let's Get It Trending: #LoveInTheCity

From left to right: Chenoa, Tiffany, Bershan, Kiyah [Source]

Love In The City is a phenomenal docu-series on OWN Network about four fabulous friends embracing both life's charms and challenges in New York City; "they are learning that there is much more than just sex in the city." #Pow

Photo Credit: Source

Here's my round-up of the cast of characters: Bershan Shaw is the supportive best friend; she is genuine with a can't stop/won't stop outlook on life despite insecurities. Chenoa Maxwell is a bit eccentric. I haven't quite figured her out yet, but I do sense that Chenoa is hard on the outside and fragile on the inside; outward vulnerability is far-fetched. And, I'm about to go out on a limb with this: I think Chenoa is the friend that most is envious of, because she appears to be so well put together regarding mental strength, style, and sophistication. C's intriguing. Kiyah Wright is the cool "tell it like it is" friend that enjoys a good time—cocktail in hand—especially after a long day of beautifying females at the salon (prob listening to endless drama. Draining!) Tiffany Jones is the petite, cutesy friend (w/sass!) Tiffany has a snap-back personality, BUT it's a characteristic that's useful for someone that's constantly raising awareness for philanthropic causes. Tiffany likes to be heard and you'll hear her all right...the voice is piercing :) 

The show is a realistic portrayal as it relates to the lives of everyday African-American women (actually, all women) that are either married, single, searching, or satisfied. And from artsy to advocacy, all four women are professionals with admirable careers and aspirations. Ah yes, finally, a show that's not ratch-ay. I haven't seen any physical brawls, the word "bitches" has not been blurted out every 10 seconds, and malicious gossip is pretty much non-existing. These are women that I can relate to; these are "my" friends. 

Watch Love In The City on OWN, Saturdays at 10/9c. Let's get it trending!

XoXo :) nikki

Photo Credit: Hype Hair

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (NYC): Rebecca Minkoff's Spring Collection

Photo Credit: Pinterest

New York Fashion Week! It's a sunny Saturday morning, the television channel is set on Bravo on The Rachel Zoe Project, and I am reviewing collections whilst updating my LookBook(s). You can sort of say that I'm in full fashion mode — yes that's fair to say — actually. First up, Fashion Designer, Rebecca Minkoff. Minkoff's spring/summer 2014 collection is infused with cultural inspiration: the Latin American female. The pieces are spicy and colorful yet balanced with easy, wearable, sporty pieces. 

Photo Credit: elle.com

The entire collection has a "where fashion meets comfort and style" feel. Though, [I am fixated] on the featured look which is one of my faves. The outfit breakdown:

• Mesh Stitch Track Jacket in Black 
• “Let’s Go To Mexico” T-Shirt 
• Palacio Lace Angelica Skirt in Sun

Click here to browse the full collection.

{Fashion Illustration}
Rebecca Minkoff: Spring/Summer 2014 RTW

Photo Credit: Facebook