Kelly was born a poor Mississippi lad who, at an early age, took to art and fashion thanks to his grandmother. Having later attended Parsons School of Design, he eventually moved to France after receiving an anonymous one-way plane ticket to Paris. There he scored a job as a costume designer and would sell fried chicken dinners on the side to make ends meet – It’s called  W-E-R-Q, ladies.

Kelly’s designs were soon recognized and in high demand. His colorful and flirty clothes caught the attention of the Chambre Syndicale, an elite fashion group based out of Paris where only the most famous designers gain admission. Kelly earned a spot showing at the Louvre Palace in 1988 thanks to this sought-after and blew the crowd away with his fitted silhouettes, bold color choices and avant-garde fascinators.

Tragically, Kelly passed away in 1990 at the age of 40, leaving behind a most colorful memory. In primarily using African-American models, Kelly paved the way for such famous names as Naomi Campell, Grace Jones, Iman and Tyra Banks.

Girls were screaming, flailing, falling and overacting all in an effort to rise to the challenge of shooting with one of the top posers in the game, but in the end Cycle 5′s Bree Scullark was dismissed. Her wailing and slapstick-like performance from the shoot ultimately turned off Tyra, Nigel, Coco and ALT but considering Bree’s one of the only Top Model girls who actually works, methinks she’ll be fine.

Photos: Styleite

And now here are the girls:

1. Raja

The most recent winner of our Rupaul’s Drag Race would kill in Milan. We tuned in every week to the “reality competition” to watch her creative costumes and fierce runway walk. Her legs were made for the signature  thigh high slits of Versace.

The Biebs. Looking prom-king cool in his ban.do pom pom flower and “too laid back to tie buckle” bow tie, rugged vest, and (here we go…) black studded earrings. Girls swooning nationwide.

- Getting gay married just got super convenient. And kinda trashy…er. [Refinery29]

- Alexander McQueen left the majority of his $26 million estate to charity, but not without providing for his loved ones: that includes $410,000 to each of his three sisters and two brothers; $82,000 each to his housekeeper, godson, nephews and nieces; and another $82,000 to his dogs. Those nephews and nieces probably should have paid a few more visits to Uncle Alex. Or at least peed on his rug. [Fashionologie]

Klum’s got a panel of hair, beauty, makeup and fashion experts on board but we can expect a fitness, design, organization, “event planner” and “craft” expert to join in on the (something vaguely resembling) fun.

I didn’t even know I needed an event planner expert but I can always use some help with my craftin’. My allegiance, however, remains with Type F, because Tyra’s got the one expert I do need: André Leon Talley.

If Heidi had ALT yelling in her face about trench coats, I might change my mind. [The Cut]

Poor Lindsey Wixson. The teenaged super in training fell about four times on her catwalk down the runway, eventually crawling her way backstage where Naomi was no doubt there waiting with motherly open arms rather than brandishing her usual cat-o-nine-tails to punish Wixson’s lack of coordination. After all it was charity! The audience didn’t mind and even cheered as the young model was engulfed in a sea of fabric on her numerous tumbles.

Then along came Whoopi.

After Tyra spoke — with obvious bemusement — about a girl’s foot getting mangled after tripping on a rose petal (first hint that you should hang up the stilettos) during the Top Model finale, Whoops Goldberg subtly brought up the models falling at Fashion for Relief to the shock and amusement of the live studio audience.  Joy, always the voice of instigation asks if something was wrong with the show itself…

But Tyra’s too smart for that.  She plays it off, explaining that, “Sometimes it’s the runway. Sometimes it’s the floor. Sometimes it’s the shoes. And sometimes it’s the damn model.” Behar, like a dog with a bone, won’t let it go, saying “It can’t be the damn model cause too many of them had fallen…” before the ladies erupted into a cacophony of squawks and squeaks at each other. But amidst the chatter we hear Tyra say, “I wasn’t there…I don’t know.”

Ay, that’s the rub. Tyra might not have been in Cannes for the Fashion for Relief show, but that doesn’t mean she didn’t drop by earlier to grease the runway and saw off some heels to re-pay Naomi the snub of not getting invited. Is this all conjecture and hearsay? Of course. Is it all true? Eh, maybe. But the ball is in Naomi’s court. And that bitch does not play fair. [NY Mag]

- Daphne Guinness insists that she’s not Dita von Teese, referencing her upcoming stunt dressing for the Met Ball in Barney’s store window on May 2nd. She insists on modesty, saying that she’ll be “getting dressed behind something.” Guinness will of course be wearing Alexander McQueen to honor the late designer’s Savage Beauty.  [NYT]

- When you make Time‘s 100 Most Influential People list, dying your hair red is apparently front page news, especially if you’re a renowned purse ambassador for Chanel like Blake Lively. [Refinery29]

- Speaking of Chanel, PoshGlam takes a look inside of celebrity stylist Anya Sarre‘s quilted Chanel bag, which is decidedly more posh and glam than the insides of our bags. [PoshGlam]

- If like me you’re wondering what kind of rug Prince Charles will cut at the Royal Wedding, wonder no further: it’ll be a funky rug. [Styleite]

- America’s Next Top Model is returning for its 145th cycle and Tyra‘s bringing back “models who became breakout characters and who had the most memorable stories from past seasons,” i.e. the top models who have nothing better to do. Which is pretty much all of them. [USA Today]

-

What would a Tyra production be without Tyra taking the opportunity to chew so much scenery even Bette Davis would ask her to reign it in a little? Luckily La Banks does not disappoint and gives a very literal interpretation of the LBD’s versatility with an extended multiple personality disorder metaphor, that is until André mercifully puts her down. No one’s ever going to give Tyra an Oscar, but god bless her for tryin’ — although I did say the same thing about the Emmys.…

Next thing you know Tyra’s experiencing what I’ve only dreamed about every night since I was 14 — André Leon Talley screaming in my face in French.

Then she sits on his lap and he tells her a little haute couture bedtime story, which begins thusly: “The Little Black Dress will take you throughout your entiiiiiiire life.” Fasten your seatbelts, we’re going on a sartorial journey! Mama Bear continues,”When you have doubts, you just go back to that Little Black Dress, wear that and you will be safe.” That is unless you encounter a wolf in cheap clothing.

On this magical journey, ALT also imparts some wholesome lessons for the kids:

- how to properly pronounce Givenchy. Not “GA’-VEN-TCH” but “ZHEEvonSHAAAY.”

- Coco Chanel created the little black dress in 1926

- you shouldn’t call her Coco, but Gabrielle, if you’re feeling respectful

- And perhaps the most important lesson, the Word of the Day, dreckitude: The lowest point in the lowest ebb. The lowest of the lows. See also:

And despite this “ultimate little black don’t,” we all lived Happily Ever After.

Link Love: Fa-Fa-Fa Fashion

- I’m loving Tyra Banks: Harvard student. She lives in the dorms, eats in the cafeteria and wakes up daily at 730 for study sessions with her classmates. Not only that, she’s never too busy to help out her fellow students : “I’m giving a billionaire that has a business that’s been in his family for 300 years—I’m giving him advice about strategy! Or how to penetrate the American market!” And don’t forget, how to sit without sitting. [NY Mag]

- Riccardo Tisci would have turned down his post at Givenchy had it not been for one pesky little factor: his mom. Turns out Mama Tisci was on the verge of selling her house and moving into a retirement home: “When I heard that it was like a knife in my heart. I felt like such a failure, that my mother had to sell the house of my father whom I don’t remember. And then I went to Paris, and they showed me a contract with all these zeros on it, and it was like help from God. I thought ‘If I sign this, my mother will never have to worry again.’ So I signed it.” Sometimes all it takes is a mother’s guilt. [Vogue UK]

Photo : Andreas Rentz/Getty Images

This first episode explores the versatility of the trench coat and André lays down the law while cradling baby Tyra on his Chado Ralph Rucci-cape-covered knee:

A: When you put on a coat you suggest high-octane mystery.

T: But why not put on a pea coat or a–

A: TOOOO SHOOOORT!

Next Tyra gives advice on how to JAZZ UP a trench coat and for any advice regarding the jazzing up of anything I am strictly ON. BOARD.

She suggests a wide cincher belt that she wants you to know — by yelling it over and over again — that it costs $12 at Payless. Doesn’t it feel good? And by wearing said trench with a statement necklace you’ll add a “little sex appeal” as well as some “snap and sass.” Finally zhush those sleeves and suddenly your trench has gone from “blah” to “Rrrr”  – it’s like Tyra is the poet laureate of our generation. Her or Nicky Minaj…

Anyway, André — sensing a lull — returns to discuss the history of the trench coat with Tyra still on his lap and along the way we’re introduced to the Word of the Day, “kicky.”

T: What is a kicky?
A: KICKY IS UP!  YOU’RE UP! YOU’RE UP! KICK! KICK! KICK! UP! UP! UP!

Scratch that, ALT’s had a choke hold on poet laureate since the 80s.

Finally we’re left with a disturbing conversation about whether ALT grooms “down there” — for the record he does not and for the record I feel as scarred as a child who first learns their parents have sex.

I just thought there was a secret portal into a magical haute couture world where Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington argue all day under all those capes…thanks Tyra.

Though I’m totally signing up for Type F now…mostly because she told me to.

- In the wake of the disaster in Japan (you know, the whole country ceasing to exist and everything) Uniqlo‘s parent company Fast Retailing will donate 1.4 billion yen ($300 million…it sounds more impressive in yen) to organizations aiding the crisis and 700 million yen in clothing. It’s nice when fashion reveals a heart beneath all the loathing. [Racked]

- Tyra Banks on wowing the Ivy League: “…it’s like, well, oh my God, why is a model going to Harvard? But that’s actually a good thing, because when people have low expectations, you’re just constantly going, ‘Ta-da!’ And they’re like, ‘Wow.’ It doesn’t take a lot to wow them when they have low expectations.” That should, like, totally, be Harvard’s new motto! [Fashionologie]

- Emma Watson is slowly taking over the fashion world. First she created a green capsule collection for Alberta Ferretti and now it’s been announced that she’s the newest face for Lancôme. She’s taken some time off from Brown to focus on all her extracurricular endeavors — you hear that, Tyra? Brown’s got an opening! [WWD]

- Kate Moss’s 90-minute commercial for Dior’s new Addict lipstick (an unfortunate name considering their former creative director is currently in rehab) shot by Jonas Åkerlund and featuring music by Duran Duran. In the ad, we get a glimpse into the glamorous life of Kate Moss and shockingly there’s not a single line of coke… [YouTube]

- And we get to see a completely different side of La Moss with her short for Comic Relief where she gets drunk and goes all Fatal Attraction on a teddy bear. 5 bucks this version is more true to life than the Dior ad. [Telegraph]

- For the record, Daphne Guinness does not think Victoria Beckham is an “ugly pig” who “annoys the shit” out of her. She just thinks she couldn’t walk a mile in her 10-inch tranny platforms without the help of a backer. [Fashionista]

- Crystal Renn gets to werq in Marni while hanging a fashionable ten with a Chanel surfboard for the first in the week-long editorial project, Crystal Renn: Identity.  For “Surfer,” her identity was apparently Gidget on acid. [Stylecaster]

Shot by Ellen Von Unwerth, Tyra took time out of her busy smizing schedule to write the accompanying story. Ann looks incredible and brought that weird, angular posing that kept her at the head of the Top Model pack to the pages of Italian Vogue. All Ann needs now is a few high profile runways next season and she’ll land the cover by the end of the year. So ALT speaketh, so shall it be.

Photos: Stylite

Stephanie Seymour (July 23, 1968) As a muse for the late Richard Avedon, Stephanie Seymour created some of the best fashion photographs of the 90s, then upped the iconic ante when she strolled down the aisle as Axl Rose‘s bride (the two were dating at the time) in Guns and Roses‘ classic “November Rain” video. Though supermodels appearing in music videos was nothing new in 1992, very few looked as perfect as Seymour in that epic wedding dress. Perhaps a little too rock & roll for a royal wedding, but I would at least consider it, Kate Middleton.

Claudia Schiffer (Aug. 25, 1970) Reminiscent of a young Bridget Bardot, Claudia Schiffer’s sultry good looks catapulted her to supermodeldom in the early 90s. Though she made a comeback in a series of gorgeous ads for Salvatore Ferragamo in 2007, don’t expect to see Schiffer on a runway anytime soon; the German stunner maintains that she’s “very shy.” I’m the same way until I get a little liquor in me, hence, we just need to booze up Claudia and throw her — heels first — onto that catwalk. ASAP.

Heidi Klum (June 1, 1973) The ultimate Victoria’s Secret Angel, Klum hung up her wings for good in 2010 to focus on her thriving businesses: in addition to producing the Peabody Award-winning Project Runway (yeah, Heidi Klum has a Peabody), Klum has tried her hand at design, acting, painting not to mention re-populating the world with the help of her virile husband Seal…seriously, Heidi’s been pregnant nonstop for like the past ten years. I’m just going to say it, someone needs to separate those two.

Kate Moss (Jan. 16 1974) The kittenish face of “Heroin Chic,” Kate Moss’ arrival in 1990 sparked a sweeping change in the world of modeling. The glamazons of the 80s and early 90s now seemed outdated compared to the 5’7 Moss when she appeared in The Face magazine, shot by the late Corrine Day. Notoriously private — she rarely gives interviews — Kate Moss is still the most ubiquitous face in modeling of the past twenty years. As a regular in ad campaigns and a favorite muse for many photographers, Moss also practically owns the cover of British Vogue. Despite her amazing career, Kate has had her share of ups and downs…both fueled heavily by cocaine.

Photo: Harper's Bazaar

Tyra Banks (Dec. 4, 1973) Tyra Banks started off a rail-thin high fashion model before morphing into a voluptuous swimsuit cover girl, then a Victoria’s Secret Angel, then a fat-ass Emmy-winning talk show host and the professional smizer/creator of the now international Top Model series; in short, she is the ultimate model as mogul. And while I and a generation of other girls have learned everything we know about modeling from Ms. Banks (admittedly it took me a while to figure out how to find my light), she still has a few tricks up her sleeve (or in this case, turban), such as this shot from Vogue Italia’s iconic “Black Issue.”

Gisele (July 20, 1980) The last of the true supermodels, Gisele came along during the wave of Brazilian bombshells in the late 90s. With her athletic body and distinctive horse trot, she’s stayed at the top of the model heap for the past ten years, earning the one-name recognition to which all supers are entitled. Though there are several heirs to the throne (Karlie Kloss, Chanel Iman, Coco Rocha, Hilary Rhoda, Agyness Deyn, Anja Rubik, Jessica Stam, the list goes on and on…), the queen is not abdicating anytime soon.

Photo: Models.com

RPDR:3 is basically what happens when you take the bastard child of America’s Next Top Model, Project Runway and American Idol, throw a wig on it and let it run free in size 12 heels on subscription cable.

Last night’s episode, “The Queen Who Mopped Christmas”  introduced us to the 13 queens who would compete for the title of “America’s Next Drag Superstar.”

Before they could even put down their purses, Ru showed up to give them their first challenge: a photo shoot with super hunky photog  and A-Lister Mike Ruiz. The queens had to jump for their love, posing on a trampoline while making it look both easy and sexy. The winner of the challenge was Raja, a lanky lady whose style will make you go Gaga.

Tyra would be proud.

The contestants were then given $50 and 10 minutes at a thrift store to find pieces that would go into creating their best holigay couture. Amidst a sea of shade and despite a breakdown or two, the queens got their tucks together in time for the runway.

Wilhelmina Slater herself, Vanessa Williams joined PJ Runway alum Santino Rice, Michelle Visage (Ru’s old co-host on 90′s relic, The RuPaul Talk Show) and Mike Ruiz (with guest Santa, Bruce Villanch) to judge the queens on who best embodied the principles of CUNT – Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent.

Raja won again, this time with a look reminiscent of Vivienne Westwood and a walk that would put most supermodels to shame. Meanwhile Venus D-Lite and season 2 cast-off Shangela had to lip-synch for their lives to Vanny Williams’ own “The Right Stuff.”

Things got a little ugly — eyelashes and wigs flying everywhere — and though Shangela was the first to be eliminated the last time she hit the stage, she proved the better woman this time around and Venus had to sashay…away.

Raja is clearly the front-runner for RPDR:3, but my money might be on one Ms. Manila Luzon who gives epic face.

This promises to be a fierce season, full of the backstabbing, weave-pulling and bitch-slapping that the best of reality TV can only aspire to. Welcome back, Ru. And may the best tranny…

WIN!

Link Love: RuPaul’s Drag Race

“According to her lawyer, filming begins this week and will continue through Fashion Week, which means Jessica should be sitting front row at a bevy of shows. Her show will reportedly revolve around her life and her friends, which means a fair amount of fashion moments, photoshoots, and party scenes.”- Modelinia

Here’s to exclusive peeks into the world of a supermodels’ lifestyle all while enjoying the perks of reality tv and feeling fashionable all at the the same time!

Jorge Alexander from Germany,  Jorge Alexander

Krystal Johnson from NYC,  High Off Fashion

Sarah Banks from NYC, Sarah Banks Hartshorne

A big congratulations to our winners and a big thank you to everyone who submitted  an entry. Stay tuned because Fashion Indie has great contest coming up including Show Your Best Skin & Win.

Molly Sims

Sims got her start as a Victoria’s Secret runway model, but soon transitioned to a Sports Illustrated bikini babe and is best known as a Cover Girl model and for her peppy Old Navy ads. In 2009 Sims launched a line of jewelry, Grayce by Molly Sims, sold on graycebymollysims.com. It has taken off, and now sells through Henri Bendel and a handful of boutiques, including Scoop, Ron Herman and Matches London. Items in her new collection retail for between $135 and $795 (at full price). Sims also starred for five years on NBC’s Las Vegas, and has appeared in various big-screen titles.

Elizabeth Hurley

The former Estée Lauder model, now 45, launched a swimwear line, Elizabeth Hurley Beach, in 2005; it now includes tunics, sarongs, shorts and kids’ wear. In 2009 she began manufacturing food products with ingredients grown on her 400 acres in the Gloucestershire countryside. Elizabeth Hurley Food’s organic snack line is sold at London retailer Harrods. Hurley raises her own pigs, cows and sheep at her farm, and sells their shanks at butchers across Britain. She recently partnered with Prince Charles’ organic food company, Duchy Originals, though the new line has yet to hit stores.

Cindy Crawford

The original supermodel, now 42, known for her Clairol and Pepsi campaigns, among others, had a hugely successful line of workout videos. In 2005 she partnered with HM Richards on an eponymous line of home furniture, sold through retailers like Rooms to Go, Art Van and Raymour & Flanigan. She recently partnered with JCPenney to sell a home décor line and a mid-range jewelry collection, One Kiss. She also has a line of anti-aging skincare, Meaningful Beauty, and a branded shoe collection sold through European retailer Deichmann. Crawford still strikes a pose for the likes of Omega Watches and Russian department store TSUM.

Elle Macpherson

In 1990 Elle “The Body” Macpherson, best known for her record five Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition covers, teamed with Bendon Limited Apparel to create an eponymous line of intimate wear, now a global seller. The line, which includes maternity bras as well as lingerie, has been so successful that the bombshell now out-earns her best years as a supermodel, with an estimated yearly $10 million paycheck. Now 47, Macpherson also has a line of skincare, The Body, sold in Europe. MacPherson took over as the host of Britain’s Next Top Model, and also serves as executive producer.

Marissa Miller

The Victoria’s Secret Angel has also graced the cover of the 2007 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Fashion clients have included Marc Jacobs, Tommy Hilfiger, DirecTV and True Religion jeans. In 2008 she launched a shoe line with skateboarder/surfer-oriented company Vans. In 2009 Harley-Davidson made Miller, 32, its first ever brand face; a co-branded clothing line is in the works. This year she became a “First Mate” for Captain Morgan Spiced Rum (playing the captain’s sexy sidekick in a viral video and commercial) and an NFL spokeswoman. In 2010 she designed a women’s paddle-up board for Surftech; it comes in pink and purple and bears the model’s name.

Erin Wasson

Since 2002 this former Victoria’s Secret beauty has been the face of Maybelline in print and TV ads worldwide. In spring 2009 she dovetailed her love of surfing and fashion by launching a line of eponymous beach-inspired women’s apparel through skating and surfing lifestyle company RVCA. Wasson also partnered with Mouawad (Heidi Klum’s jewelry partner) to brand a collection of chain-inspired jewelry, LowLuv, now sold in dozens of boutiques in the U.S, Canada, Europe and Japan. She is also an investor in 100 Lafayette, a hip New York City dance club. She recently raised $12,000 in an hour for Best Friends animal sanctuary by selling her designer cast-offs.

Heidi Klum

The Sports Illustrated swimsuit model turned Victoria’s Secret Angel hung up her wings in September 2010 after 13 years with the lingerie giant. But the gorgeous German, now 36, is busy as ever (evidenced by her $16 million take-home pay from June 2009 through June 2010). Stateside, Klum hosts the designer reality show Project Runway and, in her home country, Germany’s Next Top Model (Klum gets a cut of all her GNTM discoveries’ revenue.) The mother of four also hawks jewelry; an anti-aging skin care line, In an Instant; two maternity wear lines, Loved and Lavish; and gadgets on her website. In October she launched a line of fashionable sporty clothing, with New Balance, sold exclusively on Amazon.com.

Gisele Bundchen

This former Victoria’s Secret Angel and wife of NFL quarterback Tom Brady recently caused some controversy by saying that mothers should be legally required to breastfeed. The mostly highly paid model in the world, earning $25 million a year, has both high-fashion clients, like Balenciaga and Versace, and mass retail brands like H&M. Ipanema by Gisele, a line of sandals with Grendene, a Brazilian sandal maker, is available in 80 countries; her take from the 30 million pairs sold in 2009: about $8 million. Bündchen also owns a hotel, the Palladium Executive, in Brazil. Last year she founded Sejaa, an environmentally friendly skincare line.

(credit: Forbes)

A bang is great for concealing a large fore- or fivehead, just ask Megamind understudy, Tyra Banks.

They’re also good for covering a bald spot or for testifying at the Hague, both useful to Tyra’s archnemesis, Naomi Campbell.

The China bang is the most severe of bangs, straight as a pin and twice as sharp. Katie Holmes traveled to the Far East and brought back a bang that did what Tom Cruise and his team of Scientologists couldn’t: gave her some personality.

Then there’s the sloppy bang that’s more playful and is favored by many a soccer mom, such as this mother of two, Jennifer Lopez, who is on her way to pick up the twins in the minivan.

Rihanna‘s career was founded on a bang. After she bobbed it, she side-banged it and her career took off under the aegis of an Umbrella-ella-ella.

]]> http://fashionindie.com/what-a-little-bang-can-do-5-celebrity-bang-makeovers/feed/ 0 http://fashionindie.com/celebrities-are-wearing-laquan-smith/ http://fashionindie.com/celebrities-are-wearing-laquan-smith/#comments Thu, 11 Nov 2010 16:24:46 +0000 Jill http://fashionindie.com/?p=172347 While the rest of us were trading stickers for our sticker books in our Gap Kids ensembles, LaQuan Smith was teaching himself how to sew on a sewing machine he received for Christmas one year during his youth. The hard work has paid off, because now Smith is dressing everyone from Rhianna to Tyra Banks and the young designer has received a lot buzz for his edgy womenswear. To see more photos of Smith’s creations, check out LookBooks.com.

A lawsuit filed was filed here in Manhattan by Nicholas Hamman-Howe who alleges that Marin offered to make him a star in exchange for sex favors. Isn’t that the age old tagline. “Do for me  and I’ll make you a star.” Welcome to the industry people! I totally don’t condone this behavior but C’ MON!

Not going to lie this may or may not be true but it’s super likely. On the other hand it might just be a nobody model who’s upset he didn’t sleep with Nole in the first place. Maybe Tyra can intervene.

Not gonna lie to you, I’ve been slacking on my ANTM. Not because I’ve tired of seeing girls who will never, ever, ever be a top model being humiliated week after week by Tyra Banks and my illegitimate father, André Leon Talley.

I mean, that show is schadenfreude at its best.

No, rather, I simply forget when and where it’s on, which is understandable as I often forget when and where I am on a regular basis.

However, now that I know this nonsense is going on, I will make a definite point to catch up and tune in regularly.

Who in gay hell has a conveyor belt on a runway?

Sign me right up!

“Mommy, Mommy, please, please.” Can you just imagine the amount of whining going on in the households of tweenagers across the U.S. when they discover that there is such thing as Modeling Camp? I am even pining to go. What fun would that be? Daily walk-offs, applying lipstick, vomiting…I’m there. The reactions from the readers of The Huffington Post is that of horror, comparing Modeling Camp to those scary pageants like the Universal Royalty Child Beauty Pageant that JonBenet Ramsey used to belong to. But I don’t think they are similar at all. Modeling and Beauty Pageants are two different animals altogether. What they teach you at beauty pageant school is nothing that you can use in real life. What…big hair and bugle beads? Not unless you are Debbie Reynolds does that figure into our current fashion landscape. At least with Modeling Camp there the intention to introduce kids to the business of modeling. Surely they do not cover, sleeping with the photographer in order to get new pictures. But you know what I mean.

Let’s face it, neither of these institutions are going anywhere. Even with all the recent exposés on child beauty pageants, including Kathy Griffin’s goof on Bravo’s My Life on the List, there will always be those chubby mid-western moms pushing their dainty, little, loved ones onto runways in Ramada Inns till the end of time. And as for models, well, they have fully come into their own thanks to Tyra Banks and heroin chic.

So do I…Oy.

Click here to follow I MEAN…WHAT?!? on Twitter.

LINK LOVE:I Wanna Go To Modeling Camp

“I have always been passionate about harnessing my experience and knowledge in the beauty and fashion businesses and creating an engine that would provide my audience with inspirational and instructional content to help them look and feel their best,” said Tyra Banks, Chairwoman and CEO of Bankable. “I am very confident that with Demand Media, that dream is about to become a reality.”

Demand Media, Inc., a leading online media company, and Bankable, a company focused on beauty and entertainment, today announced an exclusive partnership to create a new digital consumer-focused brand dedicated to beauty and fashion. Together, Demand Media and Tyra Banks plan to launch a multi-platform digital presence embodying her unique philosophy of Beauty Inside & Out, closely supporting her core mission to expand the definition of beauty. The efforts will include the development of an interactive web property, an engaging online video series and unique mobile applications. Per the agreement, Tyra Banks will become a shareholder in Demand Media.

Girlfriend is keeping busy!

On top of writing a book series, Tyra Banks has announced she is partnering with Demand Media to launch a fashion website.

Makes sense.

The new site, which will debut later this year, will feature videos, how-to’s, photos, mobile apps, quizzes, interviews and articles.

We can’t wait to see the videos. Who doesn’t love watching some crazy TyTy???

Image via Getty Images.

LINK LOVE:Tyra To Launch New Fashion Website

“McQueen was considered royalty in the fashion community. I feel like a queen whenever I wear his clothes ” – Tyra Banks

Tyra has decided to cancel her show and get back into modeling, she just re-signed her contract with her former agency, IMG.

LINK LOVE: Modelinia

LINK LOVE: Gallery Cat

See full gallery at Envy!

LINK LOVE: OH NO THEY DIDN’T

I hope you guys remember the ‘choker’ because if you don’t then I’m obviously really old! Tyra Banks has made the attempt to bring back this style of ‘necklace’ by wearing it on the red carpet to the 23rd Annual Kids’ Choice Awards. Would you wear a choker?

Image via Just Jared

Leave it to PETA to get in heat with the White House. Their latest ad which features the slogan, “Fur-free and Fabulous!” includes an unauthorized photo of Michelle Obama. She stands with other fur-less wonders including Carrie Underwood, Oprah and Tyra.

My only question is why Carrie? It seems as if they really could have gone with a “powerful women of color” thing here. Carrie just takes the whole thing back to Texas. Are there no other famous black women who’ve gone fur free? Or did they feel they needed a splash of ‘casian to keep the leaf eaters happy?

Give us your opinion in the comments. We want to see what you have to say about this. Should Michelle be pissed or honored? Should Carrie be in this photo? Has PETA (once again) gone to far?

Today Tyra and a panel of “experts” plan to have a period party. Letting the bloating and bitching begin!!!!

Here’s the description of the show from the Tyra.com website.

The Tyra Show is putting the exclamation point in periods!

Everything you wanted to know about your little friend, but were too afraid to ask, will be discussed in this no-holds-barred discussion on periods!

From cramping to color, to having sex or not while you’re on your period — nothing is off limits! The Tyra Show’s expert panel of doctors, tackles all of your most embarrassing questions. And, Tyra tells us a personal story about her first time trying something new!

Plus, we meet a woman who has had nothing but harrowing experience with tampons and guide her in the right direction.

I’m really concerned about that “trying something new” thing Tyra plans to share.

Any thoughts on what it might be?

Banks gave a speech about her stay in New Zealand and discussed the importance of embracing all kinds of beauty, encouraging young women to love themselves “inside and out”. Then broke down into tears.

SIDENOTE: This category was added for info like this, stuff we care about but find seriously boring!

LINK LOVE: Tyra Suffers Breakdown in New Zealand!

Syracuse University Prof. Robert Thompson, a popculture expert, has decided that he is now the fortune-teller to Gossip Girl downfall.  He told the news:

“The silence is deafening, ”Gossip Girl’ was like Twitter – when people first discovered it, they couldn’t stop talking about it. But the enchantment has worn off.

The premise of the show was so interesting and exciting in the beginning, but this season’s story lines don’t seem to be clicking. It’s not like if you watch an episode this season, you can say that it’s fundamentally worse than it was last season – it just doesn’t seem to have the shelf life of other programming.”

AOL Television’s Maggie Furlong also had a bit to say regarding the fame of the characters, and her recent Gossip Girl article that only recieved one comment:

“They’re no longer that interesting, that would have never happened a year ago. Now everyone wants to argue about the Gosselins instead.”

What is the world coming to! I’m still in love with Gossip Girl, but maybe they should’ve thought a little harder about their image before they gave Hilary Duff a role, and Tyra Banks a guest spot…just sayin. Then there was of course that the ‘flashback’ episode with Brittany Snow that made everyone want to stop watching the show, and that girl from ‘Privelage’ trying to convince everyone she hadn’t already been on a CW show…

LINK LOVE: Livejournal

Lyrical Malarky created a hilarious ‘book’ of how Tyra Banks, and everything else under (and above) the sun, was created…here’s the first ten:

¹ In the beginning Tyra created the heaven and the earth.

² And the earth was without a runway, and void of all fierce colors and outfits; and improper lighting caused darkness upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of Tyra worked the runway upon the face of the waters, striking fierce poses at each step of the way.

³ And Tyra said, Let there be lighting: and there was lighting, and stage hands, and production assistants.

⁴ And Tyra saw the lighting, that it was good, minimized her imperfections, and made her eyes smile: and Tyra divided the light from the darkness to ensure fierce day and night photos.

⁵ And Tyra called the light Tyra, and the darkness she called Naomi. And the evening and the morning were the first days dedicated to the Spirit of Tyra.

⁶ And Tyra said, Let there be a makeup studio in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the women at the counters of Macy’s from the female-like men.

⁷ And Tyra made the makeup studio, and divided the cosmetologists, which were under the firmament, from the make-up artists which were above the firmament: and it was so.

⁸ And Tyra called the firmament the CW. And the evening and the morning provided Cover Girl lighting.

⁹ And Tyra said, Let the models under the heavens be gathered together before me unto one place, and let the has-been judges appear before them behind a desk: a living legend, feminine black man, and Indian man with odd teeth: and it was so.

¹⁰ And Tyra called the dry land the judging room; and the gathering together of the models she called “(insert number) of you stand before me”: and Tyra saw that it was good.

It gets better, check out the rest in the link!

LINK LOVE: Livejournal

Tyra Banks finally reveals her ‘real’ hair, which is not soo bad. Wonder why she doesn’t wear it like that more ofter…

“It’s not just a magazine … it talks back to you,” Tyra said on the Today show this morning. “This is going to allow for a community of women. It’s real and it’s raw and it’s going to allow for a connection to me like you’ve never had before.”

Great, just great.

LINK LOVE: NY Mag ]]> http://fashionindie.com/tyra-banks-to-launch-online-magazine-shed-her-weave/feed/ 2 http://fashionindie.com/tyra-launches-beauty-inside-and-out/ http://fashionindie.com/tyra-launches-beauty-inside-and-out/#comments Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:30:23 +0000 Marissa Moshell, Student http://fashionindie.com/?p=60673

Just in time for tonight’s premiere of America’s Next Top Model, Tyra has let loose some news of her latest endeavor: an online magazine. Ms. Banks explained that website was designed to be real and raw, which I guess translates to one of her first pictures, when she finally reveals her real hair. Really? This just isn’t necessary.

Okay she can keep her talk show and Top Model, but she needs to nix the site. Anyone who has the phrase “dream big, ignore the haters, celebrate uniqueness, and seek the beauty in everything,” replaying via audio on the homepage just needs to stop.

LINKAGE: NYMag

I’m always surprised at how busy and nutty-acting everyone gets during Fashion Week prep. Everyone is in a huff. I’ve seen a lot of models in Soho, they’re almost all in huffs. Except for the “It” models, you know like Ash and Jethro. I bet they’re never in anything like a huff, they’re only in magazines. Is Cole Mohr still “It”?

Anyway, I got invited to the model casting for Duckie Brown. It made me feel a little special, but whenever I told anyone they sort of laughed. Everyone thought I was trying out to be a model, I wasn’t. Duckie wanted me there to cast models, and pretend to DJ. I really like pretending.

It was self-defeating though. The casting, I mean.  I was the short, pasty, black-clad kid with grandma glasses and bad hair. Everyone around me was 6 foot tall, healthy, fit, and beautiful. It was awful, and amazing. Amazing because they were changing and naked and trying on great clothes.

Two boys I party with came on a go-see. Is that an official term? Go-see? Or did Tyra make that up for America’s Next Top Model? But, right, Jace and Harvey came on a go-see. It was nice seeing them out and about during the day. And I think both of them were cast, because they have amazing walks and are so handsome.

Oh. Did anyone see that Craiglist missed connection from Tuesday? A friend posted it to my Facebook. I think someone I know, a boy, gave a man a blowjob at the Box while his girlfriend watched. It all happened on the balcony, I mean, I must have been a few feet away. Was it you? Tell me the truth. I need the scoop.

I think it’s a good nightlife when things like this can still happen. It reminds me of Studio 54.

It’s so sad that the Ruff Club is ending. I don’t know what else to say. It’s the end of an era, or something. There’s a rumor that Peaches Geldof and Jethro Cave will be there. That they’re going to DJ. I love Nick Cave, and his son Jethro is amazing. I didn’t know that Peaches is still around. Can I have her job? What is her job?

P.S.

I forgot to mention I met Christopher Sauve and Julia Frakes yesterday while creeping Soho with Alex. Chris was the nicest, like so pleasant. Julia was a button, but I kind of think I squeezed her hand too hard. Alex thought her pants were a great Beacon’s find, but of course they were Erin Wasson. Nicollette said Julia was a downtown luminary.

I guess she must be if she’s curating a collection at Screaming Mimi’s for Fashion’s Night Out. I’m jealous, wish I was curating a collection.

Did you know that even the Disney Channel changes its New York programming before and during Fashion Week? I told you, nutty-acting. Everyone.

Size 12 ‘model’ not so Glamorous!

Okay, let’s talk about this…Lizzie Miller makes an appearance in Glamour Mag’s Sept issue, posing happily in a thong. And everyone is talking abou it. Why, cuz she’s plus sized? The mag is claiming that she’s a size 12, the average american women. She doesn’t look like a 12 to me, maybe am 8 with a gut! Tyra Banks is a plus size model, this girl is just chunky.

Also, she’s apparently a model…even though I googled her and the only thing that came up was an old mag cover. So, why is she posing almost nude for Glamour? Not sure! To cause controversy would be my guess, mag’s seem to like that, since they have nothing else to feature. I believe we are now one step closer to the fall of all fashion magazines!!!

I’m kindof upset that I didn’t know about this before, but America’s Next Top Model is coming back for yet another season, but this time, all of the girls are under 5’7. This seems a bit odd for Tyra and the judges who always love the tallest girls, but hey, maybe petite modeling will finally take off (doubtful, but you can dream, right?).

LINK LOVE: Livejournal

This new season of Gossip Girl is just filled with celeb cameos, including Tyra Banks.

Pics Via Seventh Sq

With the exception of that one time I was a guest of the Tyra Banks show, I really have never seen it. My guess is that it’s all about Tyra and her wacky adventures in Discount Fashionland, which is why I believe she felt the need to pose around Soho in high heels from DSW and last seasons Herve Ledger dress. Either that or she’s auditioning for a role in Destiny’s Child the movie.

QUICKLINK: TyTy Baby’s Soho photoshoot

I’m almost inclined to think that she would make a better dude!

More Pics: Just Jared

P.S. Be a ***STAR***

On the Tyra show today, the issue of saving yourself until marriage came up. Tyra interviewed a couple who have been married for two years and are still unable to have sex. Shocking, I know!!!

BUT, get ready for what comes at 2:06, I won’t tell you, you have to see it for yourself.

To watch the video, click here.

Times are tough, and when it’s time to trim the fat its only fair that the once-famous supermodel, whose only real purpose is to make it look like it’s not really all about Tyra and provide shallow, empty commentary, should pack her bags and leave the house.

“The current state of the economy has forced shows to make major budget cuts industry wide,” says America’s Top Model executive producer Ken Mok, in a joint statement with Tyra Banks released Monday. “America’s Next Top Model is not immune to these financially challenging times. We’ve had to make significant cuts in every area of the production and, unfortunately, Paulina was a casualty of these cuts.”

Honestly, I don’t think it’s going to make a difference since the show is a joke anyway. They should’ve stuck with Janice even if she did talk out of her ass half the time, at least she was entertaining. So who’s up next…Frederique Van der Wall?

Hugs and Disses,

Daniel Saynt

Considering all her recent topless, beer belly shots its amazing that Kate Moss was able to vomit up enough cocaine boogers to squeeze into this gold thingy. Seriously though, have you seen her naked lately, it’s like she went from model to mom. I hate to say I miss Pete Doherty, but at least he kept the girl thin.

Sidenote to Marc. Dating a hot Brazilian hombre does not make you a hot Brazilian hombre by association. One more shade of brown and you’ll just about burn the jew out of you and well officially start calling you Valentino Jr.

I only enjoy looking at Anna Wintour when she’s standing next to her hot step-daughter Bee. This editor seriously needs to consider a new look cause she’s getting grannylicious on us. You were the shit in 2007, now you’re just shit. Get something done immediately cause your magazine is just bleeding ink right now and there’s nothing exciting about it. Just a thought from one editor to another.

P.S. Can we get more tits in American Vogue? Paris Vogue is getting way to expensive on the monthly.

Dear Jessica Biel,

Justin looks like a total douche. Please call me.917-450-5238.

Hugs and Disses,

Daniel Saynt

Wait, was this year’s theme “Bridge and Tunnel” or “Jersey”? It’s so hard to tell.

In Malowi wearing Playboy bunny ears above the age of 30 is equivalent to assassinating the president. Just thought you should know.

WARNING: Getting slapped around by your man will turn you butch. Spread the word.

HOLY FUCK, Fran Dresher still gets invited to SHIT!!!

KKK robes are SOOO much more stylish nowadays.

Brillo Pad + Sheet Metal + Helena Bonhan Carter  =  Mary-Kate Olsen

HOLY FUCK, Kirsten Dunst still gets invited to SHIT!!!

Last week I was walking my dog Foxy and she spit from her ass a giant, steaming pile of what Tyra Banks has on her head.

Ivanka Tafetta Trump.

Andre Leon Tally looks like he’s part of some super secret society like The Skulls or that one from Eyes Wide Shut Gossip Girl expect instead of accepting members based on their status and cool, they only accept fat asses who wear muumuu’s to cover up their jelly rolls.

SIDENOTE: How many desperate gay interns to you think fit under that thing?

Nothing says “NOTICE ME” better than wearing a wedding dress to the gala.

Great job Elizabeth Hurley on not seeming at all desperate.

SIDENOTE: How many desperate pr interns do you think fit under that thing?

Straw hat and drawstring dress pants?!? Yup, the theme was definitely “Jersey”.

SIDENOTE: How many of Seals babies do you think fit under that thing?

LINKAGE: Met Costume Gala: Highlights [Photo Gallery]