ISSUE 4 WELCOME TO THIS WEEK’S FIERCE LIST…

Sorry I didn’t post last week, I had so much on I didn’t manage to dedicate any time to pull ‘all things fierce’ together. Anyhow, I’m back and whilst I’ve still got to buy and put up the Christmas tree, go Christmas present shopping (I’m yet to buy a single present) and do the worst bit of all… the dreaded food shop, I’m going to complete this post this week, even if it means not reaching Bluewater and Asda.

Next week Friday, I’ll be at a girlfriends house with the rest of the girls and their other halves, stuffing our faces with left over Chicken (I can’t be bothered to cook Turkey this year)… enjoying Boxing Day with each other, so I hope you all enjoy the holidays, be merry and drink plenty!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, if my stomach isn’t too full I’ll be back on the 2nd Jan. If I’ve still got food coming out of my neck, I’ll be back the week after – Friday 9 Jan!

Til then,
xxx

THIS WEEK EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT… BEYONCE’S AND ALEXANDRA BURKE’S X FACTOR PERFORMANCE

All I have to say is Beyonce is the epitome of fierce! She is just too damn hot. It’s like someone needs to tell her to ‘take a break. Just take it easy. Your fierceness is killing the nation’ know what I mean? Regardless if you’re a hater, she is on fire; first the video for her track’ Single Ladies’then her ‘effortless’ performance with Alexandra on X Factor as well as her solo performance of “If I was a Boy”. Jeez…

For those who missed both performances (I doubt there are many that did – apparently 8 million tuned in last week Saturday), watch the videos below to be blown away…

FASHION NEWS: CASIO RETRO STYLE DIAL & DIGITAL METAL BRACELET WATCH

Everyone knows retro chic is in and it seems the timepiece brand Casio are thinking they might as well cash in on a trend they know so much about. Presenting the bootiful’ Retro Style Dial & Digital Metal Bracelet watch, after nearly spending five minutes saying the name, you’ll be admiring your wrists once this baby is on.

I adore all things old school and this piece fits the bill perfectly… For a great price of £28.39, if your boyfriend doesn’t believe in stocking fillers, then you can most definitely treat yourself… well that’s what I’ll be doing! Available from ASOS.
http://www.asos.com/Casio/Casio-Retro-Style-Dial-Digital-Metal-Bracelet-Watch/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=432856&cid=5088&clr=Gold&sh=0

I’VE GOT MY EYE ON YOU… DURO OLOWU

Womenswear designer (and soon to be men’s) Duro Olowu, originally trained as a lawyer before becoming the New Designer of the Year for 2006. The British designer, whose father is Nigerian and mother Jamaican, launched his capsule collection for spring/summer 2005 and 12 months later was handed his award from Laura Bailey.

Olowu was first discovered by Vogue's Sally Singer and Julie Gilhart and is probably originally known for his stunning fluid dresses, made from vintage fabrics which he sourced from all other the world.

Now, I’m not a fan of his Spring 2009 Ready to Wear collection, (African print overkill if you ask me), however I did like some of his vintage fabric dresses from his 2008 collection. When he returns to what he does best, I’ll be happy, but for now, I’m patient enough to wait on the sidelines as I know he’ll be back.

TREND WATCH: TUX CHIC

Timeless yet insistently modern, the tux is a true fashion classic. This is a wardrobe staple which deserves props time and time again and which is rocking currently as an A/W trend. You’ll find tux inspired pieces all over the high street and designer houses; from Topshop to D&G, Reiss to Tommy Hilfiger (although I’m not really a TH fan). This weeks Fierce List ‘trend watch’ article was inspired by my friend RG and her recent purchase of the Silk catsuit from Reiss for £189. It looks so hot on her and as many of you readers know, the all in one (or catsuit should you wish to follows Reiss’ description), is one of my favourite looks.

French Collection do a superb version which I’ve been eyeing up for £100 (http://www.frenchconnection.com/) – I think I may need to add yet another one to my collection.

I’M IN NEED OF A … PAIR OF DISYAYA BANGLES

I first spotted these during my monthly online shopping scan and immediately fell in love. These bangles are so different and ‘statement esque’, they’re sure to jazz up any outfit which needs some pizzazz injected.

The designer, Disaya Sorakraikitikul is known for her distinctive eccentric designs and she has continued to do what she does ‘oh so well’ with this piece. Priced at £136 each, if you’re someone who has the extra cash to splash, I would definitely add two of these babies into your shopping cart. Available at Fenwick.

BEAUTY BUYS: DERMALOGICA DAILY MICROFOLIANT

After a monthly girlie night out with my close friends for some pampering at the Topshop Oxford Circus boutique, as organised by my friend RG, I was re introduced to the Dermalogica Skin care range and what a pleasant reminder it was. Having previously used Active Moist Moisturiser (I think) and their PreCleanse product many moons ago (due to PR freeness), I knew the brand was one which was worth the pennies, however I had totally forgot just how good their products actually were.

During our pamper session we were lucky enough to have the Dermologica face mapping process, which is like a mini breakdown of what skin type you are and what products are best suited for your skin. During this we got to try various products and one of these products was included in our goody bag. I’ve been using the Daily Microfoliant ever since, (two weeks now) and I must say my skin has a new found ‘brightness’ to it (if I do say so myself).

After cleansing (which I found weird), dispense about a half teaspoon of the Daily Microfoliant powder onto very wet hands and rub into a creamy paste. Apply to face and massage gently in circular motions for 1-2 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Now for the blurb… Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is a unique, rice based enzyme powder that microfoliates dulling debris and instantly leaves the skin noticeably smoother and brighter. Unique Skin Brightening Complex helps balance uneven skin pigmentation, while the active agents derived from Rice Bran and Rice Extracts help to regulate melanin protection and microfoliate dead cells.

This is a range of skincare products I’ve rated for years now… I think its about time I go back to them. Available from http://www.beautyflash.co.uk/ and most department stores.

THE LAST WORD… WHY DO THIS TO YOURSELF MOMSI?

I know this blog is supposed to be about all things fierce, however this can’t be ignored.

Diddy, I know you love your mother but why do you continue to let her get away looking like this? As reported on one tabloids site ‘why is her hair STILL that colour? You tellin’ me ain’t nobody told her nuthin bout that yet? Ms. Combs, ya son got too much money for this insanity’. After you finish cracking up, you have to agree with them. I’m not one to diss other people’s mothers’ but this is just plain out of order. I suppose Diddy got it wrong when he said ‘It’s all about the Benjamin’s. How about a bit of style too?

See you in a week or two! x

ISSUE: 3 WELCOME TO THIS WEEK’S FIERCE LIST…

What a week! Between entertaining potential new clients, entertaining the in-laws who are over visiting from Nigeria and watching the FIERCEST VIDEO OF ALL TIME all day every day since its release… (Beyonce’s Single Ladies), it’s been a busy one. Oh did I forget, plus rehearsing the killer move in the video where she goes down on one leg, whilst still shaking what ‘Mama Knowles’ gave her? (Friends, I promise you I will recreate that move at the next party we’re at. RG and MD, I know you’re with me on this one). Anyhow, it’s been hectic, so if it’s been the same for you, take time out to shuffle the documents which are currently sat on your desk and take a break while you chill lax’ to this weeks Fierce List…

THIS WEEK EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT… THE SUSPECT DENIED BAIL IN HUDSON FAMILY MURDER

Sorry to start off on a downer, but thought you might be interested to know…

William Balfour, the only suspect so far to be charged in the murders of Jennifer Hudson’s mother, brother and nephew, was denied bail on Wednesday 3 December. Reports state Balfour’s defense lawyer argued the evidence against him was circumstantial.
Balfour, 27 who was separated from the singer’s sister Julia, was charged with three counts of murder and one count of home invasion in connection with the deaths of Darnell Donerson, Jason Hudson and Julian King.

Prosecutors believe Balfour killed the three family members due to him being angry his estranged wife was dating another man. Multiple witnesses claim to have seen him with a gun and heard him say he had a weapon. It was also documented gunshot residue was found on the steering wheel of the car, that they claim he had driven the morning of the murders.
Balfour is due back in court for a bail infringement hearing on December 10. If he's found to have breached his bail, he will have to serve out the remainder of a term on attempted-murder, carjacking and stolen-property charges through May 2009.

Judge Raymond Myles has set the next hearing in the Hudson murders case for December 30.
Whether Balfour is guilty or not, I just hope the person who committed these sad killings are found guilty and the key is thrown well away.

FASHION NEWS: VICTORIA BECKHAM COLLECTION OF DRESSES DEBUTS IN SELFRIDGES

Victoria Beckham’s dress collection made its debut exclusively in Selfridges yesterday, one month before it hits Harrods.

I personally like Ms Beckham. Having looked after the press for a few brands which her and her fine, fine husband regularly enjoyed receiving freeness from, I’ve had the pleasure of dealing with her requests via her camp so many times I’ve lost count. Her ‘style radar’ may have been a long time coming (remember her WAG style; the big hair, jean shorts teamed with skinny legs in knee length boots which she used to rock… my thumbs are currently in the downwards position), well no more, for she’s got it right and I think she is most definitely ready, to be taken seriously as a fashion designer.

Whether or not we like her collection, someone or some people did, as only 3 dresses were left unsold on its first day, out of the 17 Selfridges had received and put out on the shop floor. They bought 58 dresses in total, which are to be split between the London and Manchester store. According to reports, dresses which were left on the rail included one strapless, hourglass evening dress in a size eight retailing at £1,920 and two simple black silk sequined shifts with soft fabric belts, in sizes 12 and 14, for £1,390.

I commend you Ms Beckham as you followed the old saying… ‘If you don’t succeed, try, try again’. Your solo tune ‘Out of your Mind’ may not have been your hottest, but your debut collection more than makes up for it. (My thumbs are now in the upright position).

I’VE GOT MY EYE ON YOU… JANELLE MONAE

An American alternative, soul, rock singer, Monae is signed to Bad Boy Records, via her co-owned label, The Wondaland Arts Society.

I’m yet to hear the complete album, but from what I’ve seen and listened to, I already like her. Maybe because she’s blatantly a female version of Andre 3000; quirky and pretty like him with a unique sense of style and the ability to create some hot tunes.

I did have the appropriate details re her current releases from the record company, but seem to have misplaced them, so will update you in the week. Or you guys are free to Google her; I wanted to make sure I listed the correct releases hence why I didn’t go by what I found on the web as you can never be too sure.

To solve the problem of killing two birds with one stone, instead of posting up her latest video, I’ve included the Christmas 2008 Gap advert which includes her singing, (its something I wanted to feature somewhere on the blog anyway). Other celebrities featured in this ad include Trey Songz, Flo Rida, Sandra Bernhard and Dixie Chicks…

TREND WATCH: BEANIE HATS

I think slouchy beanie hats are one of my favourite trends at the mo, as they add that little ‘something, something’ to your winter outfit when stepping out in this disgusting British weather. A favourite of males (my boyfriend owns a grey one which he accused me of losing the other day), and females, it’s a trend which works just about on anyone. So if you’re shy when it comes to rocking a seasonal trend, fear not. Just pop the beanie on your head, letting the back droop naturally and wa la… you have instant laid back chic. So effortless.
Why not try the River Island Scatter Sequin Beret (see picture above), it’s my favourite high street beanie, priced at £12.71 (the 2.5% decrease in VAT is skewing the normal .99p prices – not that I’m complaining)… Visit http://www.riverisland.com/

I’M IN NEED OF A … PAIR OF BALTIMORE KG PATENT SHOES

Picture this… As I travelled up the nearest escalators to the NEW Kurt Geiger store in Bluewater, a bright light shone in my direction. It blinded me for a few seconds, for I could see nothing around me expect a white light which beckoned me over to the store. Unsure as to what was going on, I followed the light and there it led me to a pair of the KG Baltimore patent lace ups which, (I swear), were floating in mid air, shining deep into my eyes. £120, http://www.kurtgeiger.com/

BEAUTY BUYS: CHANEL LE VERNIS

I was telling my close girlfriend RG that whilst I love the selection of colours Rimmel offer within their 60 Seconds nail polish range, I have to say that the price tag of £2.99 is there for a reason. I recently bought the Funtime Fuchsia polish and let’s say for arguments sake I painted my nails after a home manicure and pedicure on Monday night, by Tuesday afternoon it looked like I had taken the cheese grater to them. Every nail was practically chipped. I promise you I hadn’t done anything which could cause them to chip so badly… Anyway, don’t shout at me as I didn’t learn my lesson and I ended up purchasing another two colours; Pompous and Blue me Away. I will just have to make sure I put ten coats of top coat after, eh.

Anyway, this is suppose to me recommending my fav beauty buys, so if you have the pennies to treat yourself to a decent polish, then why not try the Chanel Le Vernis, £13. It is chip-resistant, thanks to an original, state-of-the-art, exclusive-to-Chanel formula and available in 22 colours. Yes, it costs a bit more than 60 Seconds, but I’m not complaining as its day two and I haven’t seen one chip yet, so fingers (and toes) crossed please.

OTHER STUFF… AWRIGHT TREACLE…

Due to the nature of my job, friends and family regularly hire my services for the planning of weddings, hen nights, baby showers and anything else they believe is worthy for a bit of ‘boujis glamour’. I’m organising a baby shower this weekend and I have arranged some great games and bought some even better prizes for winning individuals as well as those on winning teams. I had some budget left over so decide to treat each guest before they leave, by giving them a tasty cupcake, beautifully handmade and decorated by the cupcake company ‘Treacle’. As a regular customer, (solely for my events obviously), they have always gone down a treat at client events, so if you’re stuck on what to buy for your colleagues… a client… whoever, as a Crimbo treat – why not get them a selection of cupcakes? You can get a selection of vanilla, chocolate and lemon zest flavours with a selection of icing toppings for £40. Visit http://www.treacleworld.com/ for more info.

Til’ next Friday,

X

WELCOME TO THIS WEEK’S FIERCE LIST…

As I’m typing this, I’m currently attempting to get some work done whilst my 11 month old daughter is crawling up my leg. She’s normally with my parents (I’m lucky enough to have them look after her during the week, rather than a child minder or shockingly overpriced nursery), but for the past two weeks she’s been with me whilst they take a well deserved break to Nigeria for two months. I love my bambino, I really do – but bambino and work just don’t mix, so if this week’s instalment appears to be a bit of a slack job, I’m sorry! For more on me attempting to be ‘a Work at home Mum’, check out my latest post on http://www.oprahwannabe.blogspot.com/

Scroll down and let the Fierce List begin...

THIS WEEK EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT… WHITNEY AND BOBBY GETTING BACK TOGETHER!?

Yes, I haven’t made a typo… Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown are rumoured to be rekindling their romance. According to reports from the Chicago Sun Times, the couple have been spotted ‘clearly looking very romantic’ while dining together.

The couple had been married for 14 years before their marriage came to an end two years ago. Whitney’s camp is denying the rumour, stating the couple remain “good friends whose primary interest is the well being of their daughter”.

Now, I’m confused… last time I knew, Whitney was still dating ‘Brandy’s brother’ Ray J? Well, should this be true and she’s left Ray J to go back to Bobby, I couldn’t say I blame her. Having the ‘boy’ sing the lyrics from his ‘wackady wack’ tune ‘Sexy can I’, all day every day in my ear, would be enough for me to head back into the arms of ‘bad boy Brown’.

FASHION NEWS: SIVVY SEQUIN JEANS

Ok, you’ll see from the picture that they are not really denim; however they are from a great denim brand so let’s just pretend they are. With the Christmas party season coming up, you can shun the LBD for something more individual and sexier, (once teamed with some fierce heels and accessories) – you’ll be the envy of your colleagues/friends (yes, there is a difference between the two) for days… Some may say an additional incentive is the fact Kate Moss owns a pair, however, I on the other hand just think they’re fab. The Sivvy Hannah Jet Sequin is available from Donna Ida for £175

I’VE GOT MY EYE ON YOU… MICHELLE OBAMA

This lady is one to watch. Yes, we know she is one half of the most inspiration couple of 2008, but did we know the next First Lady Elect was going to be so ‘fierce’ with her dress sense? If it’s not Narciso Rodriguez she’s wearing on stage for her victory dress, then its casual chic in a Moschino dress and Giuseppe Zanotti pumps. This lady is not only intelligent, beautiful and a total inspiration (did you know it was Michelle who mentored Obama back in 1989 when they met at a Chicago law firm?), but she also passes with flying colours in the fashion stakes. She can do no wrong I tell you… no wrong.

TREND WATCH: A PAIR OF BALLERINA PUMPS I LOVE …

I’m not a fan of the ballerina pump which has been around for a while now (I’m 5”1, so you’ll understand why), however I came across these Contrast Reptile Ballerina shoes (the black pair) in Accessorize on a recent shopping trip to Bluewater with my close friend and I have to say they looked pretty decent on. For someone who has blatantly flat feet, its hard to make pumps work in a way where I don’t resemble a ‘house girl’, however these seem to have done the trick. Priced at £40, I think they’re a damn good buy.

Ooh, I should really big up a clients ballerina pumps here too as they are flying off the shelves having recently graced the fashion pages of Grazia. Check out http://www.arunaseth.com/ for bow flats… a little pricey at £325, however very elegant for those who want to make a statement with a sharp tailored suit or subtle girly dress.

I’M IN NEED OF A …

… Feathered bolero, having not taken a fancy to ANY of the shaggy gilets which have been confirmed as a ‘must buy’ this season by ALL fashion glossies. The feathered bolero looks far more edgy and ‘statement – esque’ than the gilet. Of the MANY followers of fashion I've seen wear the gilet; it just sang out to me they were wearing it because Vogue told them too. The feathered bolero is a harder look to achieve, so will keep some people watching from the sidelines, which I like. I was unable to ‘save as’ on the Topshop Ostrich version in plum from their website, so I’ve screen grabbed it instead… see above screen grab.

BEAUTY BUYS: TOO MANY TO CHOOSE FROM AND THEY ARE ALL FROM SELFRIDGES…

With Selfridges currently offering a voucher discount of 10% off their fragrances and beauty ranges to their customers, I think it would be wise on your pockets to concentrate on purchasing any of your beauty buys there. I’m thinking about treating myself to ‘For her’ by Narciso Rodriguez as I’ve smelt it on four girlfriends of mine plus a client and I must say its divine, however I don’t want to receive a kick in the ass from copying them (as they will do this), so I might just spend the monthly budget on new make up instead? There is a new brand called Illamasqua, whose roots stem from the 1920’s club scene and combines a rich heritage in the manufacturer of make up for film and theatre. (Their blurb, not mine…). They say their brand is for the ‘bolder person hiding inside of us all’ … interesting. I feel a Sasha Fierce moment coming on… Might just have to see if they are as good as they look, visit http://www.illamasqua.com/ for more information.

If you didn’t receive the discount voucher which has been making the rounds on cyber space this week, click the following link and enjoy; http://www.selfridges.com/beauty/voucher.html Obviously exclusions apply, so don’t get your heart set on getting anything for cheaper until you’ve checked what brands the voucher discount applies to in store. I don’t want anyone from Selfridges coming to sue me for false information… (That reminds me, I must put a disclaimer somewhere on this blog)… anyhow, the discount ends this Sunday, so quickly, form an orderly queue…

LAST THOUGHTS OF THE WEEK: MUMBAI, CONGO AND NIGERIA…

Enough fashion talk, lets get serious and think about saying a little prayer for those trying to survive, whilst a war and mindless murder is going on around them. Mumbai Massacre, conflict in the Congo and the child witches of Nigeria… all topics which are too sad and shouldn’t be happening.

Till next week.
X

BEAUTY BUYS: LIP THERAPY

I need to get back into blagging from other PR’s as I’m running low on my fancy beauty buys. One product I’m low on at present is my lip balm and considering the weather has taken a turn for the worst; I’m in need of something ‘top end’ to ensure my lips stay chapped free and plump. The brand I decided to treat myself to this time around was Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1 SPF4, £7.50. Yes I know you can pick up a chap stick or a miniature Vaseline for cheaper, but it’s just not the same. This balm really does revive the lips, leaving them soft and supple, so should any of you want to treat yourselves, pop down to Space NK or Selfridges and pick one up.

I’M IN NEED OF A… LEOPARD PRINT FUR JACKET

I’ve been looking for one… like, forever. Well at least since I bought my plain fake fur one from mango a few years ago. It fits (or use to fit), like a glove – it was totally made for me. Fast forward to now, I think I need to stop having Friday night take away if I’m to ever feel that ‘glamour puss’ effect it instantly adds to any outfit I wear with it.

Anyway, back to the fur version, I’ve seen a few about in ASOS, Koh Samui (not that I can afford it with a price tag of £484) and once again in Mango. At first glance the mango one was great; however on further inspection it doesn’t look so hot. They have a brown fur jacket for £70 which looks hot, but that would mean me spending £70 on something I already have at home, which in this credit crunch climate is not a sensible choice.

FASHION NEWS: CHARITY COUTURE

This week sees the opening of boutique Ex-owned. Probably the most glamorous charity shop you’ll ever come across, it’s got some damn good finds. Stella McCartney dresses and limited edition Alexander McQueen bags, I kid you not. Set up by fashion PR agency Exposure all proceeds are to be donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital. 10am – 6pm until 22 December; 2 – 4 Little Portland Street, W1; www.exowned.co.uk

THIS WEEK EVERYONE'S TALKING ABOUT...

... the OLSEN TWINS. As much as I can't stand their annoying pout (a friend in the know told me they whisper 'prune' in order to get the perfect pout for their poses)... you have to give it up to them, for they do know style and how to rock it. With this in mind, its no surprise they've published a coffee table book named Infulence, celebrating the 22 creative people who have inspired them. With the likes of Christian Louboutin, Diane von Furstenberg, Karl Largerfeld and Margherita Missoni gracing the pages, I have no doubt the book will be more than fabulous.

I do believe they've had a few fashion faux paus (the knee length gladiator boots anyone?), but at least they are individual with their style which is what makes them hot. Published on the 27 November (Penguin, £20) this will definitely be on my coffee table... when I buy one.

TREND WATCH: JUMP TO IT!

Yes, I love fashion but I wouldn’t say I’m a slave to it. I follow trends regularly and if I like them and more importantly if they suit me, then yes, I do go out and buy a few pieces to reflect it. But jump on the bang wagon ‘just because?’ No sir, not me. I think a person who has an individual style is much more of a ‘fashionista’ than someone who buys every ‘statement or investment’ piece fashion glossies like Grazia, Marie Claire and Vogue tells them. Anyhow, one trend I absolutely love, adore and have succumbed to, is that of the jumpsuit. It can be day or evening jumpsuits, either way the result is instant, full on glamour. I bought one from the Reiss SS 08 collection (image above to the left) and it’s so damn fierce that I’d happily wear it every time I’m due to go out on the razz.

Luckily for me (or though I wouldn’t care), the jumpsuit is set to be still on trend two seasons after I spent my £135 for my silk version, so happy days! You need to check out designers who have been sensible enough to include this trend in their AW 08 collections. Check the picture of the AW 08 ‘Ready to wear’ jumpsuit from Preen (far right) – it’s a keeper I tell you. Ahhh I’m in fashion heaven…. this eighties throwback is so to die for! Should you not be able to afford the Preen prices, check out Topshop who currently do two versions priced at £35 and £50.

I'VE GOT MY EYE ON YOU... TOLULA ADEYEMI

Tolula who? Well, this name has been off the radar until now. She is an actress/model/DJ (everyone's a DJ now right?), who has been linked romantically with UK actor Jude Law. The pair met last month a London's Bungalow 8 where 24 year old Tolula also DJ's.

Now it seems everyone wants a piece of this 'hot chick' as she's just been named to replace Daisy Lowe as the new face of Hari, the luxe sportswear label from London fashionista Lainey Sheridan - Young.

I see a new star in the horizion...