Art and Fashion. David Downton

One of my favorite illustrators, David Downton will release "Masters of Fashion Illustration" out next month. The book will take us on a journey by celebrating work from some of the best fashion illustrators from the late 19th century through today's artists.
David's elegant images have been featured from magazines like VOGUE, Harper's Bazaar and for design houses Dior and Chanel.

I can't wait to get a copy of this book!

Notes.

"I wanted to change the world. But I have found that the only thing one can be sure of is changing oneself." - Point Counter Point, Aldous Huxley

Nature's Beauty. Lentils

As I get older, I make it a point to eat less meat. I try to have 3 on average meatless meals per week. I've tried to be a vegan, but old habits die hard.

Because of my love of Indian food (thanks to my daughter), dhal also known as lentils have become one of my favorites from the legumes, bean and pea family. Lentils come in a variety of colors and density.  It's another food that helps lower cholesterol, provides protein and includes Vitamin B and folate. Black beluga lentils are another great antioxidant for your diet. Unlike other beans, lentils don't need to be soaked and cook in less time.

Quote of The Day.

"Love without action is meaningless and action without love is irrelevant." - Deepak Chopra

Music Notes. Duke Ellington

I feel glamorous just watching and listening to this.

Daily Bliss.

There's nothing like the joy of listening to good music.

Photo/Illustration: (via) flickr

Hair Notes. Braid It Up

We know that braids and plaits have been around for ages. A few designers incorporated variations of the look on the runways in Paris for Spring 2011. Personally, I think it's a classic option that will always remain in style.






Photo: (via) style.com

Quote Of The Day.

"Some people succeed because they are destined to, but most people succeed because they are determined to." - Unknown

Men's Style. John Varvatos Star USA

I'm always looking for great deals. In this economy, if you can look great and keep most of your coins in your wallet, all the better.

A recent discovery is designer John Varvatos suits for $350.00 exclusively available at Nordstrom. The blend is primarily cotton, and not wool. Separately, the slacks retail for $99.00, the vest at $49.00 and the suit jacket a modest $199.00. Every man should have at least one great suit in his wardrobe, and a nice pair of shoes.





Photo: (via) www.dappered.com

Classic Beauty and Style.

The trailblazing Naomi Sims.

Art and Fashion.

Dior.
Photo: (via) Dior, Universe of Fashion, by Marie-France Pochna, 1996

Quote of the Day.

"If you find a path with no obastacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere." - Unknown

Jody Watley. A Candid Look at 20th Annual DIVAS Simply Singing

Deborah Cox was stunning in gold Marc Bouwer

Ledisi radiates in black.

The beautiful Pauletta Washington and I dished about our children.

Good vibes with the incredible Rahsaan Patterson, Shanice Wilson and her hubby Flex.

I didn't catch her name, but I love seeing young people pursue their dream.

The always fabulous Diva in charge, Ms. Sheryl Lee Ralph.

I rocked Geisha inspired elegance by Mon Atelier.

After DIVAS, I had another event to dash off to. I couldn't resist this photo op.

What a night!

Divativities. 20th Annual DIVAS Simply Singing

Custom Bags By Gina Alexander

With Damone Roberts

With the very gifted vocalist  Shanice Wilson

On Friday October 8, all of the DIVAS Simply Singing ladies visited the gifting suite in the afternoon at The Sunset Marquis Hotel after rehearsal. We were given everything from shoes, 'Diva' jogging suits, candles, earrings, teeth whitening treatments from Dr. Cesar J. Segovia, as well as custom bags with our images. All of the companies who donated items to support Sheryl Lee Ralph's amazing work in continuing to inform and educate people about about HIV and AIDS are to be commended. I can personally say I was so appreciative to receive so many wonderful items.

Damone Roberts then hosted a champagne reception and complimentary brow sculpting at his Beverly Hills Salon. I spent a lot of time talking to the charming Shanice and her lovely Mom. We were sharing music business trials and triumph stories. While eclectic music softly playing in the background, Godiva chocolate covered strawberries were being served on silver platters to the attendees. The festive energy made the evening extremely special. All of the Diva's left feeling properly pampered and ready for the show.

Nature's Beauty. Green Tea

I drink green tea just about everyday, without sugar or cream. I learned to enjoy it over the years when dining out at Chinese or Japanese restaurants. There was a time when I couldn't drink tea with some sort of sweetener. When I was younger it was more a case of tea with my sugar, but I outgrew that habit. If you are someone who is always looking for small ways to take care of your physical health, drinking green tea is one way to do just that. It's natural antioxidants and medicinal benefits have been known in Chinese culture for centuries, treating everything from depression to headaches and in recent years has shown up in research by America's National Cancer Institute.
Green tea is another of those gems which may help reduce risks of cancer, lowers cholesterol, prevent cardiovascular disease,  boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. I recently learned that it also helps in preventing tooth decay.
Green teas contains a bit of caffeine, but less than coffee.

Marc Jacobs Delivers Glam for Louis Vuitton in Paris

Marc Jacobs achieved his goal of bringing the camp glamour of the 20's to the Paris runway for Louis Vuitton's 2011 Spring Pret-A-Porter Collection. Jacobs has truly modernized the brand at every level. His collection used a color palette full of depth, variety, fun and drama, successfully incorporating a touch of Shanghai. Hair and make-up, especially the deep reds and burgandy for the lips compliments the look. It's also notable that Jacobs used models of color. In this day and age, it should be a given to see diversity represented, but sadly it's still not the case.

As a longtime collector of fans, the ones shown in this collection need to be with me - now!




Photos: (via) www.jeremydante.com

Notes.

"I have found thoughts and words to be the foundation for success and failure in life. I'm teaching my kids when to whisper and when to shout." - Diana Ross









Black Pearls for Parents - "Meditations, Affirmations, and Inspirations For African American Parents, Eric V. Copage, Quill/Willam Morrow 1995

Daily Bliss.

Sharing a laugh with a good friend.


Photo: (via) everydaypossibilities.blogspot.com

Art and Fashion.

Illustration: Clay Sadler

Work It Wednesday. Grace Jones

 

Classic Grace Jones at the 25th Annual Grammy Awards.



Photo: (via) flickr