Zoë Kravitz for Nylon

Photo Credit: Nylon

Wicked Cool Cover Shot! Nylon is finally climbing its way to my heart. Nylon's edgy millennium girl (look and feel) is hip and cool and 'oh so' Nasty Gal-esque.

Honestly, the only print copy (of Nylon) I own is the March '15 issue with Rita Ora gracing the cover. And I certainly can't wait to pick-up the August issue, b/c I'm a super denim enthusiast as well as a Zoë Kravitz fan. (You might have a new subscriber soon, Ny!)

It's a breath of fresh air to peep some new flavor on the covers of Nylon. I like to read mainstream fashion magazines that showcases various types of  stylish women. (A+)

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

Words of Wisdom, By Maya Angelou

Photo Credit: Source

“When you know better you do better.” — Maya Angelou

Beauty And Healthy Hair Tips From Atlanta Real Housewife, Kenya Moore

Photo Credit: thefamedriven.com

Beauty Notes! Hype Hair asked its Twitter followers which Real Housewives of Atlanta cast member has the best hairstyle and I responded: Kenya Moore all the way! Moore went on record a few months back and gave us a peek at her (real) hair — free of weave and clip in hair extensions. Since then I've been in awe of Moore's beautiful full head of hair. What's her secret? Conditioner...and her fab hairstylist Lawrence Washington.  Also, it was reported that Moore has been developing a hair care line for the last 6 years. The "top quality" line will promote healthy hair from the roots. I am sure many spectators are on edge waiting for the line to launch. I am ;) 

KM Faves! Make Up For Ever is one of Moore's favorite beauty products (specifically the shadows and foundations). The pretty pageant princess is a fan of Bobbi Brown cosmetics, too! [Source] 

Kenya Moore Tweets nikkistyle™  

Diversity On The Runway FW/14

Photo Credit: womansvibe.com

A "Promising" New York Fashion Week Observation! There is certainly a lot of fun and creativity on the FW/14 runways. But, I particularly noticed racial DIVERITY, and I am wholeheartedly ecstatic! From  Lisa Perry, to Mara Hoffman, to Monique Lhuillier, to Tess Giberson, to Thakoon, to Tracy Reese and more—many of us witnessed, first-hand, women of color confidently stopping the runways in New York City. Could it be that the industry is finally realizing that fashion IS diversity? Personally, I think the industry is beginning to warm up more to the idea. I get it, baby steps. However, let us keep in mind not to judge a book merely by its cover. Fashion Designer, Tracy Reese, believes that there is plenty to be done behind the scenes (AP, 2014). Now I'm a bit curious: Reese's statement left me wondering how it really is for women of color off the runway. 

Photo Credit: mbfashionweek

"I think by saying that diversity is beautiful, that is a beginning, to look at all people and to see the beauty in each of us and their value is a very strong beginning. It's important to keep the conversation going, then people will start to broaden their vision." -TR

*Not Just About The Runway* Reese (TR) goes on to say that "there are so many amazing jobs in the fashion industry as a whole. It's not all about design. We need great PR people of color, for one. That's a very non-diverse group. It's all facets of the industry that have to be addressed." -TR

Colorful Runways

Lisa Perry

Mara Hoffman

Monique Lhuillier

Nicole Miller

Tess Giberson

Thakoon

Tracy Reese

Vera Wang

Vivienne Tam

Zac Posen

Photo Credit: All Runway Photos - Source

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (NYC): Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2014 RTW

Photo Credit: fashionmanifesto.wordpress.com

A Hit for Hilfiger! Fall is only a few weeks away, but Tommy's giving us a reason to beg for summer to stick around, and/or impatiently look forward to spring 2014. How about a Baywatch upgrade? C'mon you remember Baywatch, right? The hit TV series that dominated most male Boob tubes about twenty-four years ago? (Did I just say 24 years? I did. Yikes!) Anyways, Tommy Hilfiger literally modernized the lifeguard babe and put her in stylish, colorful, sporty swimwear. And say goodbye to flirty Baywatch babes with pearly whites, which is so ancient history. Tommy's Angels [below] are all about the business; no smiling and all attitude.

Kudos, Tommy! For those who aren't into wearing two piece swimsuits, Tommy gives an alternative, a sexy side cut-out one piece.

Photo Credit: All Runway Photos via WWD

Remembering Aaliyah Dana Haughton (January 16, 1979 - August 25, 2001)

Photo Credit: Black Enterprise

12 years later and still ... missing you.

Lauren London Covers Vibe VIXEN

Photo Credit: Vibe VIXEN

Mag Notes! Check out actress Lauren London on the cover of Vibe VIXEN, June 2013. I'm a super sucker for eye-catchy magazine cover shoots, as well as DIVERSITY! Seriously, I loathe looking at the same 'ole faces on the cover of glossies (i.e. Beyoncé, Rihanna), and am thrilled to see Lauren come out-of-the-woodwork to grace the cover of Vibe VIXEN. In the interview excerpt below, Lauren reveals her beauty regimen, chats about sneeks -- and I am excited to learn that Miss. London < 3's Rachel Zoe (one of my faves!)

Interview Excerpt: London on Style 'n Beauty

Photo Credit: P. Series Stylist

VIBE Vixen: Tell me about your beauty regimen? What are some of your must-haves? Lauren London: I have to have MAC spiked [eyebrow pencil] and bronzer. 

I know you’re hiding some beauty secrets, too. [Laughs] As  long as your eyebrows are clean and you have a clean face, you’re good to go.  

Any style trends you’re anxious about or that you want to die this summer? I’m really over everyone wearing Jordan’s, even though I wear Jordans [Laughs]. But I’ve been wearing Jordans since ’92. I really want everyone to put it away. 

You don’t believe the girls rocking J’s are real Jordan heads? No. I just feel like there are certain girls that never have worn them before. 

Now, the photo shoot was very 70s inspired. How does that style era influence you today? It influences everything. I love anything inspired by the 70s, from the music to the clothes. Capricorn has this joke that I dress like Stevie Nicks. 

What celebrity or influences out there are killing the style trends across the board? I love anything Cameron Diaz. Gwen Stefani, Victoria Beckham. I like Halle’s style. Charlize, she’s effortless. But I dress more like Drew Barrymore. I want Rachel Zoe’s closet. 

Who doesn’t? Who are your top 3 favorite designers? Alexander McQueen, Givenchy and McCartney. 

If you could design a shoe collection or fashion line, with whom would you want to collab? Rachel Zoe. [Source]

Photo Credit: Vibe VIXEN

Rachel Roy Launches Digital Magazine

Photo Credit: rachelroy.com

Boss Lady Inspiration! I love Rachel Roy's social media presence, and overall marketing strategies (Yes, I'm paying close attention to the folks that handle their online image, well.) Miss. Fashion Designer-Extraordinaire is owning it.

"Design the life you want to live." -Rachel Roy

Rachel Roy recently launched a Digital Magazine called, The Life; she is slated to discuss an array of relevant lifestyle topics from fashion, to beauty, to philanthropy and everything in between, a definite must-read. Roy is the "perfect" mentor and should be recognized and admired for many things—in addition to her talent for designing sharp clothing. Rachel is a polished businesswoman, a dynamic public speaker, a philanthropist, and wonderful mother. And, she gives great advice. Rachel, you seriously rock! 

Source: VIBE Vixen | Follow Me on Twitter: @nikkistyle

Happy Birthday Aaliyah! (1/16/2013)

Photo Credit: 22h22

Photo Shoot: Beyoncé For GQ

Mag Notes! Well. The rumors are true: Baddie Bey covers GQ  [February 2013].

Interview Excerpt:

On Her Collaborators: "I've been working with Pharrell and Timbaland and Justin Timberlake and Dream. We all started in the '90s, when R&B was the most important genre, and we all kind of want that back: the feeling that music gave us."

On Songwriting: "I used to start with lyrics and then I'd find tracks—often it was something I had in my head, and it just so happened to go with the melody. Now I write with other writers. It starts with the title or the concept of what I'm trying to say, and then I'll go into the booth and sing my idea. Then we work together to layer on."

On The Album's Influences: "Mostly R&B. I always have my Prince and rock/soul influences. There's a bit of D'Angelo, some '60s doo-wop. And Aretha and Diana Ross." 

On Her Inspirations: "Even the silliest little thing that you hear on the radio, it comes from something deeper. 'Bootylicious' was funny, but it came from people saying that I had gained weight and me being like, 'I'm a southern woman, and this is how southern women are.' My motivation is always to express something or to heal from something or to laugh and rejoice about something." [Source]

So, what do you think about Bey's GQ cover? Tell me on Twitter: @nikkistyle

Photo Credit: GQ 

Flick of the Day: Delilah - PHOTO

Photo Credit: Facebook

JUST IN! Rihanna's 7th Album Cover

Photo Credit: Instagram 

Music Entertainment! The "good girl gone bad" is ... still bad!

The Barbadian recording artist, Robyn "Rihanna" Fenty took it to Twitter and Instagram early this morning to reveal her 7th album cover. Unapologetic is set to drop November 19.

Are you loving the cover? Tell me on Twitter.

Happy Birthday Aaliyah! (1/16/2012)

still, my favorite artist... 

(Jan 16, 1979 - Aug 25, 2001)

Photo Credit: Facebook

Remembering Aaliyah Dana Haughton (January 16, 1979 - August 25, 2001)

Remembering the beautiful and talented, Aaliyah Dana Haughton. See my favorite photos, vids and quotes here: http://officialnikkistyle.tumblr.com.

Photo Credit: Tumblr

Flick of the Day: Kelly Rowland - PHOTO

Photo Credit: justjared

Eva Longoria Covers ALLURE April 2011 - PHOTO & BEHIND-THE-SCENES VIDEO

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Allure

Interview Excerpt:

Longoria once told a magazine that she loved vibrators so much that she gave them as gifts to her girlfriends. "That was, like, seven years ago—premarriage," she says. "It's hard for me to censor myself, because I like to be honest and free and say exactly what I'm thinking or feeling. Unfortunately, so many things are taken out of context, and [now] I'm a little more cautious about what I say."  

Longoria hopes that, in the very near future, she'll get to accomplish one thing that she's been wanting to do for a long time: curl up with a good trashy novel. "I'm in a transition stage, settling into a new routine," she says. "And I welcome it."

Allure magazine's April 2011 issue is on newsstands now.

Halle Berry Covers EBONY - March 2011

Photo Credit: Just Jared

Style Notes | In the March issue of Ebony magazine, Halle Berry chats with editor-in-chief, Amy DuBois Barnett about topics relating to beauty, race, love and parenting as a single mom. On newsstands now! 

Side note: If you haven't read Amy's book, Get Yours!: How to Have Everything You Ever Dreamed of and More, I highly recommend you get a copy!