Beauty. Individual Nail Style

Photo's:
Top - (via) Jody Watley, Mac Cosmetics Artist, Shibuya, Japan
Bottom - (via) Yass 'FrostyJam' Imperial House of Waacking, Tokyo, Japan

Life Notes.

Quote Of The Day.

"Let him that would move the world first move himself." - Socrates

Donna Karan Spring 2012

From the Donna Karan Spring 2012 - that hair is snatched! It's difficult to pull off the 'dewy' skin without looking as if you just stepped away from a hot stove but I like the fabric wrap on the ponytail.
The collection is inspired by time spent in Haiti.

Photo's: (Via) Vogue.it

Art and Fashion.

Donna Karan New York Fashion Week Spring 2012.

Missoni For Target.

Today is the day that Missoni will be available at Target. Signature patterned and colorful clothing, household items and very cool make-up brushes and bags.

I have my eye on these pieces.

You can shop the collection online, in-store  or while they have stock. Available from September 13 - October 22.

The full lookbook: Here

Individual Style. Miki House Japan

Photographed in Osaka. Miki House Japan

Seeing this shoe display made me reminisce of when my son and daughter were little. Japan has the best children's clothes; so stylish and fun. I must say the clothes are always age appropriate as well.

I know I spent a small fortune there when my children were little, to see the joy was always worth it.

Thought Of The Day.

One of the cool things about Japan, is that positive messages are a part of their culture. You can find fun or inspirational quotes from children's lunch boxes and utensils to department store walls. I was at the cashier's booth paying for gifts and this was the sign in front of me so I had to snap a photo of it.
I believe it's true, very in line with it's the journey not the destination.

I'm appreciative to do what I love and never take it for granted.

Art and Music. Jody Watley

Jody Watley and Takako Utsumi (Illustrator). Tokyo, Summer 2011

On my trip to Japan last week, I had the pleasure of meeting Takako Utsumi who me presented me with these incredible illustrations. She did a phenomenal job with the detailing (down to including my signature handheld fan open and closed). I love the Japanese Kimono designs and use of color as well.

I'm wearing a piece of illustrated art on a honey colored T-shirt with my likeness from "Larger Than Life", my second album from 1989.  I don't know the name of the guy who drew it, but I remember he gave it to me in New York City when I performed at Summerstage with Masters At Work back in 2003 (I sang 'I Love to Love' which also featured Roy Ayers). I was in awe of this illustration and still am. I'm sure photographer Steven Meisel, who was behind the lens for the original photo would also approve. It's cool when people get the details of a person's features and the nuances that make us all unique. I'd like to reproduce this shirt for my online boutique - maybe the artist will read this blog and say yes to the idea.

I have a few gorgeous giant art pieces hanging in my house that were given to me professionally framed. I've also kept many small works of art that I also cherish. that someone would take their time to create their art because of their appreciation of mine is something I never take for granted or dismiss.

My green pashmina and lace fan are also gifts - I'm a lucky lady!

Classic Style. Ashford & Simpson

Beyond writing so many classic songs for themselves and so many others from Diana Ross, Chaka Khan, Marvin Gaye, and more - Ashford & Simpson always gave you fashion and complimented each other well in music, love, life and style. I discovered designer Norma Kamali from Ashford & Simpson back in the late 70s when I was in the group Shalamar, as well as Charles Jourdan shoes. Onstage, Nick had so much charisma right along with Valerie. They were truly a dynamic duo and remained stylish through the years.

I had the pleasure of being a guest on their radio show several years ago and we shared great conversation. 

Nick encouraged me to go back to singing in my 'money tone', we all had a laugh about it. Both appreciated my exploration and broadening of my music and choosing to sing more in the warmer register of my range - but I totally understood and appreciated the reminder from him.

RIP Nick Ashford. My thoughts and prayers are with Valerie Simpson, their daughters, family and friends during this difficult time.

Photos (via) bsimagearchive.com

Nature's Beauty. Almond Butter

One of my favorite snacks is green apples with peanut butter. A friend recently suggested I try almond butter - I'm hooked!

As it turns out, it's considered a healthier option to peanut butter. Almond butter is low in saturated fat (zero trans fats) and contains natural quantities of calcium, protein, fiber, magnesium, vitamin E and folic acid. All of these nutrients are great for lowering cholesterol and good for your heart.


Read More Here: Almonds and Almond Butter

Beauty. Nail Trends - What's Hot Summer / Fall 2011

Copper

Army Green

Sapphire

Color Blocking

Leopard 'Shatter' 

At my nail appointment this week, I opted for the army green on my toes. I intend to try sapphire next. The YSL blue looks divine.

I've done color blocking on the nails a new and modern twist on the standard french manicure. I'm digging the "Shatter" leopard nails - must try that!

Updating your nails is a nice way to spruce up your look without breaking the bank.







Photo's and more info Via Click to read more: Instyle Magazine

Quote Of The Day.

Classic Style. New Vinyl

New limited edition 12" singles from The Step Kids " Legend In My Own Mind" on Stones Throw Records and "Little White Doves" from Dirty Vegas. What really caught my eye is the white vinyl - very cool.


Some aficionados still make vinyl available for collectors, even if they don't have a turntable; and of course it serves the niche based DJ culture worldwide. There's really nothing like holding the music in your hands. Vinyl reminds us that music is more like art as opposed to the digital format which makes music feel more like data, which it isn't in my opinion.

There was nothing like getting a vinyl album or 12" single looking at the artwork, reading liner notes and dropping the needle. There's a new generation discovering what that feeling and process was like, through these types of special pressings.

I've joked that whenever I finish "Chameleon" it will released on vinyl only initially - just because..

Quote Of The Day.

"Do or do not - there is no try." - Yoda

Thought Of The Day.

Music Notes. Little Dragon "Crystalfilm"

I love this song from band 'Little Dragon'. The fan-made video using footage from the classic 1966 film 'The Endless Summer' is juxtaposed perfectly as visual accompaniment to the lyrics and music.


The new 'Little Dragon' album is called "Ritual Union". I've discovered countless gems and artists in music beyond the limitations of the usual over-saturated and ever limited play lists in 'commercial' fare dating back to over a decade ago when I discovered and immersed myself in the incredible and vibrant underground music scene. Online stations, blogs, NPR Music Programs, etc -- venture out.

His Shoe Game. Missoni Desert Boots and Kenny

Missoni Desert Boots. Fall/Winter 2011

A new bit of flair added to the classic 'Desert Boot' from Missoni. I have to say these made me think of being in Junior High when they were a must have for girls and boys who wanted to feel cool and in style. If you had on some desert boots, you walked with a bit more attitude. This is a fond memory thinking of it now.

I had a crush on a boy named Kenny (isn't there a cute guy named Kenny at every school?), who wore a light brown pair all the time. Kenny was a star basketball player at the school and a senior (I was in 7th grade). He was tall, thin, ridiculously good-looking with paperbag brown skin. Kenny had a great smile with a big afro (a lot of girls were suckers for a guy with a big fro' and I was one of them too for a minute). The hilarious thing is Kenny didn't know I or any of my friends were alive, lol. My girlhood friends and I knew exactly when he'd be coming down the hall changing classes and where he sat during lunch.
We'd all be scrambling around and walking past him trying to be seen by him, like most of the girls at the school - but to no avail. Roller-skating was huge at the time. It was the thing to do on Saturday afternoons after Soul Train went off. Kenny was of course 'The Best Skater' and smooth as silk. To my shock, Kenny came up to me and asked to 'couple skate' once and I nearly fainted inside but played it totally cool. My friends and I gave each other a quick look sharing our own private moment as only we knew when it came to our collective Kenny crush.
All I could think of as we went around the rink was don't trip or fall and embarrass myself and most of all don't mess up and embarrass Kenny - as we glided around that floor in perfect precision.

Kenny and his desert boots had it going on.




Photo (via) HighSnobiety

Denim Style and Textile Innovation. "The Commuter" by Levi's

The technology involved with Levi's new 'Commuter' style is terrific, they look great and this is a cool ad. However, the male model really caught my eye!

Quote Of The Day.

"Always give without remembering, and always receive without forgetting." -Brian Tracy

Life Notes.

Nail Art.

From a vast array of colors, press on foils and art, there seems to be an endless and growing range of choices for your mani-pedi. I discovered this nail art from London on Tumblr, if you live or are visiting the UK you're in luck!

Check out: The Illustrated Nail


You can also shop nail foils via Nail Couture LA, discovered from my friend and Beauty Consultant Shawanna Davis: Here

Life Notes.

Art and Fashion. Nicholas Kirkwood and Keith Haring

Must see the incredible full collection: HERE

Classic Style.

Designer Patrick Kelly, Iman, Grace Jones, Naomi Campbell in the 80's.

I love the energy and joy in this photo.


Via: vintageblackglamour.tumblr.com <- One of my favorite blogs, full of classic images and history.

Thought Of The Day.

People will always have opinions about what you choose to do in life. It's OK to listen and be open but no matter what other's may think; everyone must choose what feels right, it's an individual choice. There is no one size fits all, and it's impossible to please everyone -  who wants to anyway? Understand there will always be those quick to criticize change or anything they don't understand. Some get into a comfort zone and stay there - if that feels right for you, cool - but don't expect other's to do and be the same. In music it seems the majority of fans would prefer an artist to find a way to do the same thing over and over in a different way. This idea has always been difficult for me..it's just not who I am and it can be frustrating because you constantly encounter those who want you to be what you were - back then (whenever that 'then' is for them). I've never been afraid to be myself or risk alienation from those who's comfort zone I didn't feed enough through my various artistic incarnations to date.

As a parent, we have to also give our children the tools of guidance confidence and encouragement to create and walk their own paths, as we would ourselves.


As long as you are walking in a positive direction - we all must live authentically and in our own time, place and destination, giving our wings the opportunity to flourish and grow into better people, artists, employees, family members, spouses, etc.  Look how far you've come - not where you've yet to go - you're on your way.

Celebrate yourself today and keep on steppin'!

Quote from David Viscott:

"This is my journey. This is my life. I create the road as I walk."




Photo Via: favim

Thought Of The Day.

Jody Watley Individual Style Spotlight | Azzedine Alaia and The Business of Fashion

In Azzedine Alaia. Vintage | 1983. London, England

Azzedine Alaia is another designer I started wearing back in the early 80's while living in London. Other early supporters were his muse supermodel Naomi Campbell and the inimitable Grace Jones. His body clinging dresses were must haves as well as the terrific sculptured jackets (One of my favorite vintage pieces is a butter soft Alaia leather coat worn in my "I'm The One You Need" video in 92) and suits with precision detail. Over the years he produced less work and his flagship stores closed. After the tragic death of his sister in the 90's Alaia seemed to disappear from the industry.

I find parallels in his philosophies with regard to not wanting 'crank out' merchandise at frenetic paces, choosing to focus instead on quality at one's own self designed pace and to make a choice with regard to what area of an industry you feel most passionate. In many ways, the music industry is the same. Artists have a choice on which path they choose as to which part of the game to work and what path (s) to take; there is no one size fits all. He presents collections only when he feels he has something to show to small gatherings and private clientele, and has always worked on his own time frame. This approach may not bring in the mega bucks but there's something to be said for this type of individual style and approach in such a competitive and lucrative Industry; where handbags and signature perfumes are where the real money appears to be.

Read the Article from Business of Fashion: HERE

Nature's Beauty. Bountiful Summer Fruits and Vegetables

When you look at your plate how vibrant are the colors? Greens, Red, Blues, Orange, Yellow and so on represent natural antioxidants and vitamins beneficial to your health on a daily basis. I think it's a lifestyle choice to consider year 'round; making sure your plate looks a bit like a crayon box with a range of hue options.

During the summer one of my favorite's is roasted corn with a dash of sea salt, fresh lime juice and a sprinkling of butter (though it's not really needed).

Eat fresh!

Thought Of The Day.

Gifts You Give Yourself.

Are you burdened by your consequences, or is your life blessed by the consequences you create? That depends entirely on the choices you make.

It may seem at times that the consequences are there to punish you. Actually, they’re there as a manifestation of your thoughts, your actions and your attitude.

You cannot change the consequences that surely flow from specific actions. However, you can indeed change the actions you choose to take, and by doing so you can decide which consequences you create.

Consequences are gifts you give to yourself, created by the choices you make. If you don’t like the consequences you’ve been getting, that’s a clear and valuable message you’re sending yourself.

Positive, authentic, meaningful thoughts and actions bring desirable consequences. As reliably as day follows night, the way you live creates the life you experience.

Take control of your consequences by putting positive intention into your choices. Make use of the power you have, and you can go wherever you choose. - Ralph Marston

Music Notes. Honeyroot

I heard this song while in Japan last year getting sunrise morning coffee at a Starbucks and asked what they were playing (I went to iTunes as soon as I returned to my hotel room) I play it often because it has good vibes to me - music can touch you wherever you are in the world, if you're open to it.

For The Shoe Lover In You. Chloe

I prefer heels, but I adore these Chloe flats. Tres Chic!

Thought Of The Day.

"People think a soul mate is your perfect fit, and that's what everyone wants. But a true soul mate is a mirror, the person who shows you everything that is holding you back, the person who brings you to your own attention so you can change your life." - Elizabeth Gilbert

Classic Retro| Jody Watley. Jean Paul Gaultier

In London. Candid 1984 in Jean Paul Gaultier Cone Bra. 

Cover Art (Japanese Edition) 1988 In Gaultier.

I discovered the designs of a few favorites such as Jean Paul Gaultier while living in London in 1983, post Shalamar. One of my first pieces was his velvet cone bra. I bought the smaller orange version and also the larger more extreme cone shape in Burgundy, though I never wore it - it didn't suit my personality. Madonna would later make the more extreme shape famous in the 90's.

I wore this  unique creation on my UK 12" Promo single video "Where The Boys Are" written with former Buggles member Bruce Wooley and produced by Gary Langan, Anne Dudley and JJ Jeczalik who went on to be  "Art of Noise.

On the rare UK promo "Girls Night Out", I'm wearing wearing an early version of his corset dress.







When I moved back to America in 1986 and signed to MCA I pulled it out of my UK style stash for the cover art and video for "Don't You Want Me", knowing fans in America would not have seen me in it due to the UK release being so obscure. My UK label didn't know how to market me and shelved the project, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The great thing was being able to experiment with a new look and Identity for my solo career. I knew I didn't want to fit in the stereotypical box of black artists. I'm still happy with this song and video - peacock feather shaped hair and all. The hat is by Stephen Jones whose work with Gaultier also caught my eye.





The Gaultier Museum Retrospective reminded me of my own love and support of his designs through the years.

You can see me in Gaultier in my video for "Still a Thrill" filmed in Paris, France at The Opera House rocking a Black fishnet top dress with leather bra underneath (also Gaultier) and wool bubble bottom dancing in rotunda with Tyrone Procter..as well as the end scene in red Gaultier dress when the video goes from black and white to color.





I will have to share a post of the journey of my quest of Gaultier couture for my video "Friends" in 1989, it was quite an adventure.



The media and most people credit Madonna for wearing Jean Paul Gaultier, and while she is definitely better at Marketing than I and her PR team perhaps more adept at getting that message across. Traditionally in the music business it's no secret white artists have taken cues from black artist (cue Elvis and my godfather Jackie Wilson and so many others over the years). Madonna definitely took things to another level, and certainly never had the baggage and politics of 'You need to be m more black, more urban, more ghetto, more street.." amongst issues I had to deal with at the time - as a cutting edge woman in music - who happens to be black. We are BOTH trendsetters. To be clear it isn't just about Gaultier, rather about raising the bar for individuality and style. Grace Jones is another unsung artist and someone who inspired me.

I was already rocking his designs and a major supporter of his work before Gaultier was really known to the mainstream fashion world, that's no shade because I respect and like Madonna very much - we even had the same manager at one time early in my career; people in the office said I was the only one she was nice to.

In Jean Paul-Gaultier Tartan Vest, Jewelry and Scarves worked as a head-wrap.

In Gaultier studded sleeved jacket paired with bustier and leggings performing "Don't you Want Me" "LIVE"

Photo's Jody Watley (c) All Rights Reserved.

Art and Fashion.

Quote Of The Day.

"I carry myself the way I do because I am royalty within myself." - Iman

Jean Paul Gaultier Restrospective

"The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From Sidewalk to The Catwalk" Retrospective  is currently on display in Montreal's Museum of Fine Art. The collection of 100 pieces will move to Dallas and then on to San Francisco's opulent de Young Museum. Everyone I know who has seen the McQueen Exhibition in New York has raved about it with lines running hours long to get in. No doubt the other side of creativity and vision from Gaultier will also not disappoint. I hope both make it to Los Angeles.

Read More: Here

Jody Watley Individual Style Spotlight. Rahsaan Patterson

I love that Rahsaan chose this piece of art to represent his state of 'Bleuphoria". His vision to go beyond the standard fare of male vocalists featuring a suit, tie and designer glasses is inspired. He chose to have a piece of art commissioned by Arte Da Saudade reflective more of his spirit than choice of fashion. That's what I call individual style!


Rahsaan Patterson's 'Bleuphoria' due to be released on July 19 is not to be missed. in my view this is his best most diverse musical art.  I came to join a stellar cast of guest vocalists including Faith Evans, Lalah Hathaway and more chatting with Rahsaan via Twitter in a purely spontaneous moment - a benefit of realtime social media.

Read Here: Bleuphoria

Thought of the Day.

I snapped this photo while in New York on my way to get coffee.



Photo: Jody Watley

Quote Of The Day.

"If I didn't define myself for myself, I would be crunched into other people's fantasies and eaten alive." - Audre Lorde

Versace for H&M

Versace for H&M sounds fabulous. Just hearing "Of course we'll have leather, studs. Rock and Roll," roll off the tongue of Ms. Donatella Versace is worth watching the short announcement. No doubt the hardcore fashionista's will be in line, overzealous and snapping up every item in sight before the rest of us mortals even get a chance to have a look once it hits stores.  I've never had luck with any of these limited edition designer offerings at H&M. I blogged previously of my last hilarious attempt with Lanvin for H&M.

Quote Of The Day.

"A successful life is lived through understanding and pursuing one's own path, not chasing the dreams of other's." - Chin-Ning Chu

Beauty. Eylure Double Lashes

I made one of my frequent visits to the beauty supply yesterday. I'm a longtime products fiend; moisturizers, creams, exfoliates, hair and bath products, candles, along with everything in between. My favorite fellow aficionado and beauty expert Shawanna Davis in Los Angeles gave me these lashes to try out at the store. I've received so many terrific samples over the years from the store.
Anyone who rocks false eyelashes and goes for the full effect knows you generally have to add a second pair to get the most dramatic finish in accentuating your eyes.

EyLure has a product that eliminates that step. Their lashes come doubled. I love them already.

Nature's Beauty. Tips For Storing Your Fresh Fruit

I'd like to share this informational post about how to properly store fresh fruit. There's no doubt we inevitably have questions whether to leave at room temperature on the kitchen counter, or to refrigerate.

Read more: Here

Thought Of The Day.

"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will and not refuse to do something that I can do." - Helen Keller

50 and Fabulous. 3 Quick Energy Boosting Tips.

Learning to deal with hormonal changes is a natural process but a struggle for millions of women. It's all in your attitude when it comes to making lifestyle changes to adjust. I look at it as a form of adult puberty and a new beginning. Rather than complaining embrace it with positive energy.

Here are 3 quick tips to pick up your energy:

1. Stay active
Exercise, jump rope, walk, dance
2. Stretch
There are various stretching exercises big and small to incorporate into your
daily life regardless of if you're sitting at a desk or computer at the office or home. Loosen up your neck, shoulders, legs, ankles, back and so on.
3. Laugh
Try not to take everything so seriously. Doing so weighs you down. Lighten up!

Classic Retro| Jody Watley Vintage 1989.

Photographer Victoria Pearson and I came across the Jeep "Hot Chocolate" while on location in downtown Los Angeles shooting photo's for my tour book. I didn't want the tour book to be a standard artist's tour book. The idea was for the book to be more like a fashion magazine. We seized the moment and set up the shot in minutes.

I'm wearing Jean Paul Gaultier (including the bangles), and bronze stiletto mules from Frederick's of Hollywood. I became a fan of Gaultier and began wearing his designs in 1984 while I lived in London. As with all of my imaging, there was never a stylist - just me wanting to reflect my own style and sense of self.

I've always loved knowing what I want to do, though remaining open for spontaneous moments like this.

Thought of The Day.

Be careful who and what type of energy you allow into your life and living space. Let your home be your private sanctuary overflowing with good energy and love.

Be mindful of the energy you put out into the universe too. When you walk into a room, bring light!



Photo: (Via) http://www.modernlivingrooms.co.cc/