Stylishly.Yours

Mobile Blogging

2009-12-16T09:07:00.000-08:00

It has been awhile since I have posted a blog entry and I know that my readers have missed me because some of you were audacious enough to tell me! This is the first posting that I am doing from my new BlogPress app. Hopefully the ability to post from my mobile device will allow me to keep all of my readers up to date on what's really haute in the streets! Stay tuned for more! I love you all for reading!

Stay Stylish,
Marquis

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Breathless.

2009-08-14T23:02:00.001-07:00

Have you ever seen anything more beautiful in you life. Few thing exceed the simplistic beauty of the female silhouette.

Stay Stylish,

Marquis

Start 'em Young.

2009-08-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

Solonge posted this Twitpic of son, Juelz in a Tokyo shoe boutique. I say brava. Start training 'em young. Good style is a habit.

Stay Stylish,

Marquis

Kim Kardashian Goes Blonde.

2009-08-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

So Kim Kardashian debuted her new blonde locks at the Teen Choice Awards. There have been mixed emotions in regards to her new look, but I say brava! I think her new hair is haute fabulosity, and so is the Stella McCartney dress she wore!

The fact of the matter is that Kim hit the genetic lottery! She would look beautiful with any color hair. Some say the dye job is a stunt to get her recently ex-beau Reggie Bush back...I mean who could blame her, and if you ask me after seeing her on the red carpet today I think he is eating his heart out!

Stay Stylish,

Marquis

Beyonce Flys with Solo.

2009-08-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

For the first time in a long time I am able to say that is saw the Knowles sisters together, and they were equally matched! The two appeared in Japan promoting Samantha Thavasa Disney Collection.

For some reason Solonge's short hair cut suddenly works. It offers a blank pallet for her wardrobe and make up to pop off of nicely, allowing her to hold her own next to ever-flawless big sis Beyonce. Both girls get my stamp of approval.

Stay Stylish,

Marquis

New Do.

2009-08-09T23:12:00.000-07:00

I have been 'hair shopping' lately for a new style. I want to go back to school this fall with a new attitude. Gotta keep these girls on their toes!

I think that I have found it. This look was rocked hard by John Legend and I think that it will serve me well.

Stay Stylish,

Marquis

Exam Morning

2009-08-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

Late night of trying to study. Early rise for extra review. I threw on something comfy for the exam and layered on the accessories for a little flair.

Thanks for reading! More posts to come! Don't forget to send me your style and fashion issues.

Stay Stylish,

Marquis

Really Rhianna....the nails?

2009-08-03T22:12:00.000-07:00

All I can say is WHY?

Honestly I don't understand this choice in a manicure. Rhianna, what's happening to you lately boo boo?

I do love the accessories though...

Stay Stylish,

Marquis

Bad Hair Day for the Obamas

2009-08-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

First Lady Michelle Obama's fabulous new hair cut. So, why the bun?

I cannot express the pride that I felt the night that Barack Obama was named President of the United States. I said to everyone that style wise this would be the first family to rival the Kennedy's. Throughout the election process I constantly marveled at the pristine condition of President Obama's hair. I often joked that his barber was always lurking around some courner, just out of sight to sweep in like a Secret Serviceman and apprehend any rogue hairs.

First Lady Michelle Obama in my opinion is by far the most stylish First Lady we've had since Jackie O., and this is a fact that I can attest to personally. She made an appearance at my university in a HAUTE all black ensemble with patent accessories.

Of course, we cant forget the girls, who are cute as little buttons, but I must say that as of late I have not been happy with the condition of the Obama ladies' hair!

Above are pictures of the First Family on their way to a weekend retreat at Camp David. I have no words to express how much I detest this Olive Oyl-ish bun that Michelle Obama is rocking! I shudder to think that I have seen it on several occasions! The sad part is that she just got a fabulous new hair cut!

As far as the girls, well what can we expect if mom is rocking this dreadful bun. Come on, I'm not saying that we have to be permed and pressed at all times...they are after all human, but what is wrong with a nice clean pony tail or simple French twist? After all you have the best at your fingertips...call someone in to handle this situation. Clearly President Obama did, like I said before, his hair always looks good!

Stay Stylish,

Marquis

HAUTE Find...Claw Money Sunglasses

2009-08-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

New York based graffiti artist turned fashion designer Claw Money dropped out of New York's famed Fashion Institute of Technology in 1986 only to subsequently produce her own clothing and accessory line bearing the same alias.

The product line is patronized by the likes of M.I.A and Kanye West and soon yours truly! I just have to come up with an extra $250 to purchase a piece from her line of sunglasses, which I have fallen in love with. Above are a few samples for you to enjoy!

My eye is on the green pair (I could so some things with the pink and blue as well!). Haute fabulosity in sunglass form!

Stay stylish,

Marquis

PS- I love a basic aviator with a little something extra. Claw Money strikes again. Haute.

How to Dress for a Monochromatic Mixer

2009-08-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

Ladies: Doo.Ri, Badgley Mischka, Versace, Elie Saab

Gentlemen: Versace, Calvin Klein, Versace, Givenchy

So one of my style socials brought it to my attention that many people appear to struggle when trying to style themselves for parties that call for a monochromatic color scheme. In my opinion this is the easiest kind of party to dress for, perhaps because I really like monochromatic color schemes. I think that the reason people struggle at these kinds of events is that they don't know how to embrace the theme while still honoring their personal style. The fear of disappearing in a sea of black or white causes people to do things like wear ridiculous accessories in an effort to make a statement. If anything this is the opportunity to put your editing skills to use. This kind of monochromatic theme automatically produces a more chic, minimalist vibe--embrace it. Edit your styling and keep everything clean and precise. The key to making a statement when everyone is void of color is attention to detail. This is the perfect opportunity to play with texture to shift the energy in your ensemble from one piece to the next. For example, if you are wearing a slick well fitted trouser pair it with a top that has an interesting tone on tone detail, or perhaps a great jacket that has a lot of personality. Ladies if it is an all black affair go to that secret weapon that every lady should have, the LBD--Little Black Dress. Just keep in mind that every third lady at the party will probably have done the same thing, so make sure that yours has something special. Feel free to mix in metallics. This is a way to add a different energy to your ensemble without ignoring the rules of the theme because the metallic will act as a neutral while the black or white takes the role of your color. DO NOT cheapen your look by adding tacky colored accessories! That is the worst, and number one pet peeve of mine at these kinds of soirées. Above I have compiled a series of looks that get my stamp of approval. I hope that they will inspire you to create fabulous monochromatic looks that are expressive of your personal but remain chic the next time you get invited to Diddy's white party in the Hamptons or Oprah's Legends Ball!

Stay stylish,

Marquis

A Tribute to Black Barbie

2009-08-01T15:39:00.001-07:00

In addition to last year's history making all black issue of Italian Vogue, the magazine has decided to one up itself with a tribute issue to Black Barbie. The issue is in celebration of Barbie's 50th Anniversary.

Stay stylish,

Marquis

Can we just talk about this?

2009-07-31T20:30:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across probably one of my favorite photographs in history. 2007 Knicks game at Madison Square Garden. Court side. Who do we see? Three of my favorite women on earth! Mother Kimora, Big Sis Tyra, and of course my BFF Beyonce! I love it! Haute Fabulosity!

PS- The look in all of their eyes is totally "Look at the muscles on that one." I love it.

Stay stylish,

marquis

Oh, Rihanna.

2009-07-30T20:37:00.000-07:00

RiRi, this dress was a mistake...and actually so was this hair. SMH.

Stay stylish,

marquis

Sasha Fierce

2009-07-30T18:39:00.001-07:00

Enough said.

Stay stylish,

marquis

Keep it Chic to Sweep Her Off Her Feet!

2009-07-30T14:43:00.000-07:00

The other night a good friend of mine brought up the issue of first date attire. He felt that a lot of men might be wondering what is appropriate to wear on a first date in order to make a good impression without the appearance of trying too hard. Of course, first date attire is primarily dictated by the destination of your rendezvous, but I do have a few tips that are sure to produce a good first impression.

As stated previously the objective of first date fashion is to make an impression buy looking your best, but not making it look like you tried too hard. My best piece of advice is to show up looking like the best possible you in any given situation. Of course that can mean any number of things depending on where you are taking your lady.

For example, most first dates are centered around a food. Lunch, dinner, coffee, etc. If your meeting for the first time at a Starbucks for coffee I suggest a nice collard shirt and jeans. The same for lunch or dinner if you are going to an eatery that has a more casual atmosphere. Now, if you are going somewhere a little more formal then I suggest a well fitting suit and tie.

Some people choose to go to the movies for their first night out. In this case I suggest that you go back to the collar shirt and jeans option. Now I'm not talking about some wrinkled old oxford in a dreadful pattern paired with a baggy old sack of a denim option. Adorn yourself in a quality shirt that you have ironed or had professionally pressed, and a nice pair of dark washed jeans that fits you at the waist and does not have enough extra fabric in the leg or at the ankle to produce a second garment.

It seems to be a trend lately that new couples decide to meet at night clubs and bars. These place are designed for people to show up and show out. See and be seen. Naturally in this situation you will want to wear something a little more trendy and expressive. This idea is encouraged, but take it with a grain of salt. Don't do anything too over the top if efforts to impress. Still keep everything crisp, clean, and well fitted. In all these cases make sure that your shoes are in pristine condition. Women always look to shoes first. If your shoes are busted, your game is busted.

In all cases your objective is to convey that you have a sense of style and care about your appearance. Present yourself in a way that conveys confidence without being overly flashy. Make sure your hair is groomed appropriately and you are freshly shaven. Clip you nails. Think of your cologne as intimate apparel. It should only be experienced by others that come in close physical contact with you. If you date walks up to you and says "your wearing Aqua di Gio", your wearing too much. Opt for a mint right before you approach your date instead of gum to freshen your breath. It is not sexy for you to walk up to your date smacking on a piece of gum and having it roll around in your mouth while you are trying to introduce yourself. So obnoxious. Presentation is everything. I once read a study that showed that people develop their impression of you in something like 20 seconds. You only get one chance to make a first impression, make sure that it is the one that you want to be made.

Now that I have given you my first date fashion fix up it is time for you to put it into practice. Get out there and ask someone out. Remember what I have told you and you can't go wrong...at least not in the style department. In the end you have to just be yourself, I always say confidence is the best accessory.

OMG! The First CARTER KISS!!

2009-07-30T12:42:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows that I am a HUGE Beyonce fan. At times its actually a little crazy I must admit, but with a voice, face, body, and shoe game like that how can you blame me?! Any one who is conscious of pop culture and current events knows that Beyonce and Jay Z are ultra private about the personal lives, and of all the pictures of them that I have seen a smooch like this one has never been on record! I am so excited. People say what they want, but I love their relationship. They are beautiful together, and I can't wait until they reproduce!...But not too soon, I am not ready to loose my diva!

ATL Hair Spiral!

2009-07-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

So the other night was the Real Housewives of ATL premier party. This is what Sheree decided would be appropriate in the realm of hair styling. To me it appears that she may have dropped her blow drier in the water while she was bathing. Her stylist should be reevaluated.

OMG, don't forget to pack sneakers!

2009-07-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

Sydney, don't forget to pack a pair of sneakers!! Sorry guys I specifically told myself not to forget to put sneakers on the essential packing list! With all that walking around the Argentina you feet will thank you for a break from the sandals! Blisters, guh!

Stay stylish,

Marquis

Don't Cry for me, Argentina!

2009-07-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

My dear friend Sydney is embarking this saturday on a four and a half month study abroad adventure in Argentina. As resident stylist among my circle of friends naturally she came to yours truly for advice as to what to pack for this occasion.

The key to packing for a trip of this nature, or of any nature for that matter is to pack enough so that you have options, but keeping your packing efficient enough so that you are not traveling with your entire wardrobe.

Usually when helping someone with a project like this I would like to be present to oversee the actual packing, but being that I can't be there, I am just going to highlight what I consider to be the mix and match essentials that will help to keep my friend Sydney's Argentine adventure effortlessly chic at all times!

When packing, your first objective is to be aware of the climate conditions of your destination. Sydney, for example will be in Argentina during the winter leading into the beginning of summer. The climates of Argentina tend to vary from region to region, but in general you will experience warm summers and cool winters. Sydney will be spending her time in Buenos Aires which has a humid climate. It gets really hot in the summer, but winters are pretty mild as far as winters are concerned. Rain can be expected at anytime during the year as well as hail storms. What a spiral! I hate precipitation, which is why it is important to know what to expect. Imagine being in beautiful Buenos Aires in your cute little tank, summery skirt, and sandals then suddenly your smacked on the side of the head by a ball of hail! Its what you least expect but it could happen. Be aware of the weather.

Start your packing with the basics. If it were me, I would pack enough clean underwear for two weeks. This may sound like a lot, but keep in mind you are packing for four months. You don't know what your schedule will be like or what your laundry facilities will be like. You might not be able to do your laundry every week. Opening your underwear drawer and finding that you are fresh out of clean options is not a good feeling.

Now for some wardrobe staples. Sydney is a pretty casual dresser during the day, but she always keeps it cute. In the evening she plays it up a little more, but still remains effortless. I am going to advise her to pack six basic tees (2 white, 2 black, 2 color), three blouses (white, black, pattern), three pairs of shorts, three skirts, two good pair of jeans (I prefer dark wash), a pair of khakis, and a pair of slacks. Always pack a good denim jacket and a basic blazer. Also since she is going to be there during the winter it might be nice to be prepared with a couple lightweight sweaters. (I like cashmere, with varying necklines, including cardigans for variety.)

Anyone who knows me knows that I am all about accessories. This is where you take that basic tee and jeans and make it into an outfit that really expresses your personal style. Shoes--pack a black sandal, a brown sandal, and a dressy sandal in metallic or patent leather (I don't suggest flip-flops because you will probably be doing a lot of walking), black heels, brown heels, and a signature heel for evening. Bring a big tote bag that you can throw all of your essentials for the day in, and don't forget a smaller bag, perhaps a clutch for going out in the evening.

Don't forget belts and of course jewelry of varying lengths and styles that can be mixed and matched. Finally a great pair of sunglasses and an umbrella for those freak rain storms.

I haven't forgotten outerwear. Since Argentina is know for its high quality, inexpensive leather goods Sydney has elected to purchase a coat once she arrives which I think is a wonderful idea!

All of these essentials that I have listed were designed to be mixed and matched to create a countless number of outfits. Of course you might have a few signature pieces in your wardrobe that you might want to bring along to fill in the gaps, but I feel that if you stick to the list that I have provided you will always find that your have something fabulous and appropriate to wear, and you wont have to overload your suitcase!

I'm BACK!!

2009-07-28T10:49:00.001-07:00

I know that its been awhile, but I'm BACK. Did you miss me? Well here is an outfit that I literally threw together today...I had like 10 minutes to get out of the door. Tell me what you think.

Stay Stylish,

marquis

The H.B.I.C

2009-05-11T21:17:00.000-07:00

Spring 2009 Ready-to-Wear
Issa - Runway

Spring 2009 Ready-to-Wear
Hermès - Runway

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

For those of you who don't know, (and I expect that there are none) allow me to introduce the baddest trick in the game, Naomi Campbell. Body for days, and a 1970 DOB she is still shutting it down. (In case you can't do the math, she is 38!) In light of the new exhibit at the MET Costume Institute 'Model as Muse' I thought I would introduce some of my muses, Naomi is def qualified to be the first announced!

Stay Stylish,

Marquis Bias

stylishly.yours

Versace

2009-05-07T14:12:00.000-07:00

I just watched four runway shows on the Versace website. I live. Besides Donnatella is always entertainment.

Stay Stylish,

marquis bias

stylishly.yours

Costume Institute Gala 2009

2009-05-05T13:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday everyone who is anyone in the fashion industry (except me) was in New York and the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala, which is the social event of the season in fashion. Last year's Superheroes instillation was ushered out by this year's theme The Model as Muse. As you can imagine just about every supermodel to ever strut down a catwalk strolled down the red carpet on this evening. The trend among the younger models seemed to be short little mini dress to show off those killer legs that they are so famous for, but the ones that mad my best dressed list were the ones that held to traditional gala attire and wore ball gowns...call me old fashioned. Here are my choices for best and worst dressed. They range from Iman to Chanel Iman decked out in everything from Donna Karan to Louis Vuitton and sparkled with jewels from the like of Van Cleef and Arpels and Montblanc.

BEST DRESSED

Iman, in custom Donna Karan.

Anne Hathaway, in Marc Jacobs, with Van Cleef & Arpels and Genevieve Jones jewels.

Diane von Furstenberg with Tony Parker and Eva Longoria Parker, in Diane von Furstenberg and H.Stern jewels.

Ivanka Trump, in Brian Reyes and jewelry of her own design, with a Leiber bag.

Katie Perry in Tommy Hilfiger

Michelle Alves, in Marchesa, with Jesus Luz.

Flavia De Oliveira with Chanel Iman, in Zac Posen and Montblanc jewelry.

WORST DRESSED

Leighten Meester, in Louis Vuitton.

Madonna, in Louis Vuitton and Anna Hu Haute Joaillerie.

Resume day...

2009-05-02T21:04:00.001-07:00

I have been working on my resume and cover letters all day. I have some exciting opportunities before me right now, and all I can do is thank He from whom all blessings flow. I just pray for the diligence to see these thing through. I have been saying that I am the next big thing in the style industry, and I am determined to not let myself down!

Summer Trends for WOMEN 2009

2009-04-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

As promised here is my summer trend report for the ladies. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I am all about women’s fashion, so needless to say this report was far more exciting for me than menswear! (I guess since I am a man this fact is a little ironic, but women’s wear is just so thrilling!)

There are so many exciting trends this summer that I don’t know where to begin! I think I will just start at the very beginning and just lay it out right here in black and white. That’s it. Black and white is the trend. Neutrals are by far my favorite color palettes to work with when dressing myself. Also, I find that when I work with my clients I pull a lot of neutrals as well. In the family of neutrals for this summer are nude tones, which give that instant sophistication that I associate with a neutral color palette without the harsh severity that can sometimes come from black and white.

One of my oldest friends is a complete computer geek (I say this with love). His name is Jordan, and he totally does not get the whole fashion thing. He often wonders why I spend so much time and energy immersing myself in this industry. If we are going down that road I don’t really understand how he built his computer from scratch in the sixth grade but whose keeping track? Needless to say, because of our differing backgrounds we have some interesting conversations. One that is reoccurring in my mind is the debate on asymmetry. Jordan absolutely hates asymmetry. Recoiling in shock, I always counter with “OMG, I love asymmetry!” I actually am crazy about asymmetry in fashion, but oddly enough not in a lot of other areas. Anyway. Getting back to the point of summer trends, asymmetrical necklines are huge this summer and I am so excited! An asymmetric neckline is on of the most universally flattering for every woman, so all you divas out there need to run to your nearest trendy little boutique and pick up a piece that exercises this trend.

Another big trend this summer is transparency. Transparent clothing can be very sexy and revealing while still offering the wearer a sense of still being fully clothed. If you’re worried about showing too much skin, get over it granny, its summer! All jokes aside get your fix of asymmetry or transparency, with a side order of coverage by adding a cool summer blazer. To keep your summer blazers from getting to formal try pairing them with fun metallic fabrics or if you have the legs for it, a pair of shot shorts. I know what you must be thinking. “Really Marquis, short shorts?” “Who am I, Daisy Duke?” Before I loose all my potential style clients peep the visuals. While this trend is for the daring, it can be very chic if worn with what I say is the best accessory—confidence.

Now for the good stuff! As I told you in the men’s trend report I am a HUGE accessories freak, and being a man, my accessories usage can only go so far. When styling women however, I get to really show my love for accessories.

Accessories are like the icing on a cake—the best part! Having a musical background I like to think about accessories in the way that I consider lyrics to a song. The melody is what first catches your attention much like a great jacket or a perfectly fit pair of jeans, but as you listen to the song you begin to hear the lyrics, which tell the story. Your accessories should act in the same manner, telling a story about who you are as a person. Whether you are a songstress or a fashionista (or both), you are in luck because the list of exciting summer accessory trends has something that is sure to strike a chord with anyone.

If your like me you like to make a bold statement when your are adorning yourself. This summer achieve this with the use of belts, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Perhaps bring some ethnic/tribal influences into these pieces, as this is another trend seen in numerous collections for this season.

Going along with the tribal influences is another trend—fringe. In my opinion it takes a special woman to wear fringe, but almost anyone can throw this trend in with a fun bag or perhaps even an interesting jewelry piece without looking like she is channeling a country western star.

We can’t finish our trend report without talking about one of my passions—shoes. Bold shoes are really hot this summer, which is perfect since your are all going to be wearing those bold accessories we spoke about earlier, just make sure you do this with discretion. Speaking about shoes, other trends appearing this summer include strong

details, platforms, and strappy options like gladiators, peep toes and snake skin (real and faux). Finally we see the appearance of interesting heels instead of our usual stilettos.

Now that I have done all the work for your, grab you Birkin and head to the hot spots. Pick up some of these trends and go out and see and be seen during these summer months. That’s what its all about, just have fun!

Stay stylish,

M. Bias

stylishly.yours

2009 Summer Trends for MEN

2009-04-29T08:19:00.000-07:00

As summer quickly approaches I found myself beginning to think about how I was going to outfit myself for the up coming summer months. Every fashion savvy individual knows that the summer trend reports go out in January and February right after the runway presentations, but I thought that it might be nice to go back over some of these key trends and give my interpretation on what is hot and what really works for Summer 2009.

In my research on men’s style I find that the trends for this summer bear heavy emphasis on what I would consider to be summer classics. Board shorts are a staple of the modern man’s summer wardrobe. When going poolside, I find that this is the most universally appropriate silhouette for every body type. Just because you have the body to pull off a Speedo doesn’t necessarily mean that you should. No one needs that visual, kids go to the pool.

V necks and Polo’s are the go to shirting options for this summer. Pair these with sleek straight shorts in solid colors instead of your usual slouchy, bulky cargo shorts for a more put together summer day look for 2009.

Safari tones are a big color trend this summer, which segues well into another trend, which is pairing bright colors with more muted tones. Another way to embrace this trend is a slim, light grey suit. Light is definitely the operative word in terms of this trend. The suit should be light in color and in weight; this is after all a suit for the summer. For more options to pair with your summer suit try a shirt, pocket square, or even a light weight scarf in a nice gingham. This year checks and gingham have trumped the usual stripes of the summer months.

Being the accessories maniac that I am I could not close a summer trend report, or a trend report for any season without a section on accessories. The flavor of the moment is footwear. This summer, like most is all about being casual and comfortable while still being put together. Keep your shoes in chic browns and tans for the summer but don’t forget couple great pairs of black shoes as well, like one sandal and one closed option. The right shoe completes every outfit and these are the summer go to’s to lay the foundation for your best summer looks.

Leather loafers are a perfect completion for most summer outfits. Pair them with your polo and shorts, a V neck and a great denim, or even that grey suit with the gingham shirt. See! The stylist in me is always making outfits and showing the versatility in a piece!

Don’t forget a great formal dress shoe for the summer. We still have formal events in the summer months. This should probably be one of the black pair I told you about earlier. Make sure you polish them well! I prefer elongated dress shoes which are also still a big trend.

I hope this is helpful to all you fellows out there wonder what to adorn yourselves in this summer. Ladies fear not, your summer trend report is yet to come, and it is fabulous!

Stay stylish,

stylishly.yours