From Shadow & Act:

“Originally when I started it was kind of up to a 16 and I designed something really beautiful for my mom who is a 16 and people really gravitated to that, so I’m going to do it from you know from 2′s, 4′s, all the way up to 3x and the challenge has been, how can I really create something beautiful for all women? That’s really what really inspires me. I mean there’s not a lot to do if you’re just trying to dress people like myself there’s really no challenge in that. Do you know what I’m saying? I don’t mean that in an ostentatious way, but creatively for me to be able to speak to all women is what really inspires me, so I’m very excited about that now.”

Although the items aren’t yet for sale or priced, the collection definitely has a range of options that defy body type and age group. You can view M.Michele Designs here.

What do you think of Michael Michele’s line? Would you wear it?

“Fashion is full of meaningless terms like ‘tribal’ and ‘urban…like the word ‘exotic’ — it makes me cringe,” she tells The New York Times. Jennings is also the editor of the African fashion magazine Arise.

Many designers agree with Jennings’ assessment, and in spite of recent African-themed collections from Burberry and designer Michael Kors, some of them feel that African style is not always interpreted with its international aesthetic in mind.

“We design clothes for the global modern woman who shops in Johannesburg, Milan and Dubai,” said designer Ayaan Mohallim, speaking of the condescension that African style if often met with. The Mataano Spring 2009 collection appeared on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” and she and her twin sister are now brand ambassadors for Iman Cosmetics.

The New York Times adds that the key to transforming African influence from one of stereotype to authenticity is in the visual presentation. Read more about the African style resurgence and check out some gorgeous designs here.

A little while ago I stumbled across Bon Bon Vie, a t-shirt company aimed at women of color, and fell completely in love. As soon as I saw the “brown skin lady” t-shirt (worn by Afrobella on Twitter), I wanted it immediately. Already a fan of the Black Star song, the shirt seemed like THE perfect piece to rock when I wanted to be comfortable, but still look GOOD. Plus…I am a “brown skin lady,” so it works. #win

After seeing the Black Star inspired tee, I clicked on over to the Bon Bon Vie site and was amazed. In a word, the t-shirts are fierce.  Not only are they the brainchild of black female designer, Shari Neal, they are also full of positivity.

Personally, I’ll be copping a few of these fly shirts, and in honor of women’s history month (or just because it’s Thursday), I think you should too.

What do you think of Bon Bon Vie’s shirts? What’s on your favorite t-shirt?

But Ambrose is more than the 21st century celebrity stylist tweeting “Thirsty Thursday,” she is a breathing style pioneer.

Ambrose put Missy Elliot in a Hefty bag and made it look dope. Ambrose put a then Sean “Puffy” Combs in a shiny suit and sparked a cultural revolution. And while Bravo takes Rachel Zoe into a third season for her widely watched “Rachel Zoe Project,” it seems for over a year now, June Ambrose has been quietly demonstrating to television executives that she like Zoe, also deserves a reality show.

Ambrose’s YouTube videos like her tweets are a riot. The over-the-top fashion savant who styled long before it was glamorous takes her small yet coveted YouTube following behind the scenes as she outfits starlets and travels globally to her hometown in Antigua to a search for loose tea in London’s Harrods.

Her videos are informative, intuitive, and insanely hilarious. So where is June Ambrose’s reality show?

Can’t you just imagine it? All aspiring stylists of color would have a mainstream reference. Ambrose like Kimora Lee Simmons can show viewers how she balances career and motherhood. Not-to-mention we’d have a first-hand look into her jetsetter lifestyle–touring with Jay-Z, and intimate evening dinners in her swanky Manhattan residence.

I mean, if we must endure the elongated torture of American so-called reality entertainment, why not give it one last dose of fierceness (we loathe that word too) with Black America’s original style architect–Ms. Ambrose on your Phillips plasma weekly.

Would you watch a June Ambrose reality show? Which network could you see her on? Sound off!

Get your daily COCO fix for the latest urban fashion and beauty news, how-tos, designer profiles, plus-size fashion and more!

Malika Romeo, more commonly known as Mali Ro is an emerging fashion power player. Her “flashy but minimal” luxury lifestyle brand MÚS by MaliRo leans on classic silhouettes in bold handmade designs. On the heels of her 2010 spring/summer collection, Mali Ro speaks to CLUTCH about her ‘The Eclectic Muse’ and how she’s following her dreams at a shocking 20!

Clutch: How did you get your start as a fashion designer?
Malika: My story isn’t the cliche, “I’ve wanted to design since I was a little girl.” My grandmother used to make my clothes and I’ve known how to hand sew for as long as I can remember, but I just have to say, if it weren’t for my Fashion Illustrator teacher in high school and her pushing me to take summer courses at FIT, I don’t know if I’d be doing this. Let’s fast forward though, I started a Fall Collection towards the end of my last semester at college in ’08, I was 18 years old. I graduated with my degree in Fashion Design from Wood-Tobe Couburn College and shortly after I was contacted to do a few fashion shows. I had already done about 4 internships in the industry and I wasn’t intrigued in working for someone else. I wanted to be the Head Designer and the one projecting my ideas to others. So I decided, why not start my own clothing line…My parents always told me that my career should be something that I love and and I LOVE to design and sew clothing. I am now 20 years old and glad I made that decision!

Clutch: Where did you draw inspiration for your latest spring collection?
Malika: For my Spring Collection, ‘The Eclectic MÚSE’ my first thought was that I wanted color. My previous collection was Black & Gold and I just wanted to play and experiment with color. So I took the color blocking route and imported it into my designs. My muses are Zoe Saldana and Whitney Port. This collection is pretty much for the girl who’s out on the town. While designing, I thought about the girl who loves to stand out as soon as she walks into a room. As for the fit of the pieces, which girl doesn’t love a bodycon. So I made the colors pop and kept the silhouettes minimal and that’s what MÚS is all about ‘You can be flashy but minimal’ all at the same time, it’s such a great feeling, the colors are quite eclectic and random I have nudes, neons, pinks, that’s why I called it The Eclectic Muse.

Clutch: What can we expect to see in the Fall collection from Mus by Mali Ro?
Malika: I always say that I love the element or surprise and never dish what my next move is, but for Fall, I’m thinking lots of layers, not really trying to go the traditional route of dark colors I’d like to have some color in there. That’s all I’m sharing!

Clutch:  How would you describe your brand in five words or less?
Malika: MÚS is flashy but minimal.

Clutch: Who is the ‘Mus by Mali Ro’ consumer? What type of woman represents your brand?
Malika: The MÚS by Mali Ro consumer ranges in age from 18-30. The MÚS woman is loves to stand out. You can simply tell by her choice of clothing.

Clutch: How much of your personality and personal style is infused into your brand?
Malika: My personality is classy and very fun and it definitely shows with my choice of rich fabrics, colors,prints etc. As for my personal style, I dress according to my mood, so I would create as many mood fitting pieces as I can, so that everyone can find something that they like.

Clutch: What other fashion designers do you admire or look up to?
Malika: I admire two designers, Diane Von Furstenberg being the first because her choice of fabric is always the best, she’s not just about the look but she’s about the feel and quality of her clothing. I also look up to and completely admire Whitney Port. She is a new and young designer who has her successful line ‘Whitney Eve’ and I admire everything about her from her work ethic to her professionalism, to her humbleness and her patience. Those are key things you need in this industry and I make sure that I maintain all of that. Diane Von Furstenberg and Whitney Port are such phenomenal women.

Clutch: If we were to take a look in your clutch, what would we find?
Malika: I’d have an oversized clutch lol. You would find my lipgloss, my cell, my itouch, gum, some lotion, my flats (cause there’s no way I’m going home in heels) I think that’s just about it.

For more information about Malika and the MÚS by Mali Ro collection, visit the official website www.musbymaliro.com

Popular e-tailer ASOS.com has launched a new brand, ASOS Africa which falls under their new initiative, The Green Room – a new online marketplace merging brands that promote people and the world. The ASOS Africa capsule collection (which is in conjunction with SOKO Kenya) will consist of several chic silhouettes such as blazers, jumpsuits and playsuits, cropped trousers all using African Kanga. Kanga is a vividly colored printed cotton fabric that is traditionally worn by men and women throughout Eastern Africa. The collection will also begin to incorporate accessories as well as organic hand-crocheted tees and vests embellished with brass beading. What do you think of the collection so far Clutchettes?

“On our continuing quest to find new inspiration, we recently spent time in African working with artisans and small producer groups. The vibrancy of the continent inspired us to create the ‘ASOS Africa’ collection with the aim of supporting trade in Africa.” -Caren Downie, buying director, ASOS.com

Price points for the ASOS Africa capsule collection range between £15-75 for clothing and £18-32 for accessories. To see more from the collection, visit the online shopping site here.

THE DESIGNERS

Boxing Kitten
Featuring African textiles in 50′s silhouettes, Maya Lake’s “ethnic rockability” bursted on the scene in Fall 2009. Tweeting about her latest looks, sizes available and a search for interns, you can find Boxing Kitten worn by Alicia Keys and Beyonce in the upcoming “Put It In a Love Song” video.

Follow Boxing Kitten here: www.twitter.com/BoxingKitten

Bijules
Clutch spotlighted Bijules over two years ago. Fergie, Rihanna and Beyonce are among the few daring enough to accessorize with Bijules and despite her growing clientele, Jules Kim stays approachable and candid as she tweets her latest inspiration ideas and jetting to and from LA.

Follow Jules Kim here: www.twitter.com/Bijules

Rachel Roy
Clearly a Clutch darling, Rachel Roy’s Twitter is a digital showroom of her latest news and jewelry collaboration with friend, Estelle. Celebrate the Month of Love with Rachel Roy for Twitter follower exclusives! Look out for Roy’s final giveaway this Wednesday. You could actually win the RACHEL Unevel Lapel Trench!

Follow Rachel Roy here: www.twitter.com/Rachel_Roy

THE EDITORS

Robin Givhan
The aficionado whom every fashion head should know is Robin Givhan, the Pulitzer Prize winning fashion editor for the Washington Post. With a shy 193 followers, it’s obvious that Givhan is busy penning MObama stories and that’s why we love her! A thrifty user, you can bet that when Givhan tweets, it will be something meaningful.

Follow Robin Givhan here: www.twitter.com/RobinGivhan

Kenya Hunt
If you’re outside of New York, you may not recognize the face or name but Kenya Hunt’s reach is beyond the Big Apple. As the global fashion editor of the UK’s Metro newspaper, Hunt’s insider’s perspective is invaluable. If you want the front row deets on London Fashion Week, Kenya is the woman to follow.

Follow Kenya Hunt here: www.twitter.com/kenyametrostyle

Bevy Smith
Smith was the Fashion Editor for both Vibe and Rolling Stone magazines. Currently a TV personality and contributing writer for Paper, Smith is coveted as the “Fairy Fashion Godmother” by a slew of brown fashionistas. Dishing comedic commentary and priceless fashion advice by the minute, Smith never leaves her uptown home without Twitter.

Follow Bevy Smith here: www.twitter.com/Bevysmith

THE PR MAVEN

Bonnie Morrison
Working at the all-powerful KCD, Morrison did Public Relations before it became the cool thing to do. With an impressive resume that boasts, Proenza Schouler, Dries van Noten and Phi, Morrison is as down to earth as your next-door neighbor.

Follow Bonnie Morrison here: www.twitter.com/fiercegrandma

THE STYLISTS

June Ambrose
With over 40,000 followers, Celebrity Stylist, June Ambrose is notorious for her twitpics and “chai tea spills” (e.g., fashion gossip). Carrying Twitter along to photo shoots and “daily spirals,” be inspired by her street style poses and the day in the life of a style architect.

Follow June Ambrose here: www.twitter.com/Juneambrose

Mariel Haenn
Known for her trend-making work for Rihanna and Ciara, Mariel is a fashion stylist on the rise. Tweeting her posts for WeResistSimple.com, Mariel takes you behind the color popping styles of Rihanna’s “Rude Boy” video among her other fashionable adventures.

Follow Mariel Haenn here: www.twitter.com/MarielHaenn

THE BLOGGERS

The Fashion Bomb
Not just another fashion blog, the woman behind The Fashion Bomb is a Harvard grad who has written for Real Simple, Essence and Newsweek. Recently becoming international, Claire Sulmers now takes up residence in Paris with added coverage in London, Atlanta and New York City. Tweeting on Black fashion and celebrity looks for less, The Fashion Bomb is a must to follow!

Follow The Fashion Bomb here: www.twitter.com/thefashionbomb

Kathryn Finney
A style contributor to the Today Show, CNN Headlines News and E! News, Finney is most known for her Amazon best-selling book, How to Be a Budget Fashionista: The Ultimate Guide to Looking Fabulous for Less. Now penning The Budget Fashionista blog, Finney tweets on “Budget Style Picks” for both petite and plus-size women.

Follow Kathryn Finney here: www.twitter.com/kathrynfinney

Najwa Moses
An on-air correspondent for an array of news sources and brands, Moses prides herself for being on “the left of fashion.” Her blog at Styleaholics.com has been a go-to for funky and eclectic fashion finds and events. You can also find Moses blogging for Bluefly at flypaper.bluefly.com. Tweeting her blog posts and “what’s with the watermelon-toned suit?” Moses’ candid and insightful updates will keep you coming for more.

Follow Najwa Moses here: www.twitter.com/najwamoses

Wendy Lam
The founder of Nitro:licious, Wendy Lam has achieved international acclaim. Noted by Paris Vogue as a blog to watch, Lam tweets on fashion week and the latest collections from street to high-end designers.

Follow Wendy Lam here: www.twitter.com/Nitro_licious

Susie Bubble
One visit to the Style Bubble and Susie will have you hooked with her quirky charm. Based in the UK, Susie features her personal street style and all corners of aesthetic. Tweeting live from New York to London Fashion Week, Susie is a humble spirit and one we encourage you to follow.

Follow Susie Bubble here: www.twitter.com/susiebubble

THE WILD CARD

Who’s the singer turned DJ with a no holds barred style? Whose Twitter takes you from the studio to the club and back in the embrace of her cutie son? It’s none other than Solange Knowles! One of the chiefs of Twitter, Solange boasts nearly 400,000 followers. Tweeting on fashion, music, her damn blog and Houston, Solange’s Twitter is a sanctum of lifestyle.

Follow Solange Knowles here: www.twitter.com/solangeknowles

Meet The Baddest Brothers in Fashion

Look up “booted and suited” in the dictionary and, nine times outa  ten, you’re gonna find a picture of a Brother next to it. If I’m lying, may the goddess strike my Nordstrom Fashion Rewards card in two with a bolt of lightning. Not for nothing, but when it comes to being “dipped and whipped,” “so fresh and so clean,” and just generally “razor sharp,” Black men have the game on lock! And, I say this as a Sister, knowing good and damned well, we INVENTED the game! But, I ain’t mad at the boyz, so credit where credit is due – and credit is definitely due. It doesn’t seem to matter, either, what style they choose to express themselves. Whether it be Cab Calloway in his clean, white Zoot, Michael in his studded, red “Beat It” jacket, or Steve Harvey’s in his “Sunday Best” – Brothers have this uncanny knack for pulling of their look(s) with mad flavah. Nary a collar is left unpopped, no shoulder sits accumulating dust and definitely no wire hangers! And, is it me, or is there some common thread (pardon the pun) that runs through it all? It‘s like flossin‘ is just flossin’ is just flossin’, no matter what. With Brothers and fashion, there’s this sort of universal undercurrent of pride, cocksuredness, even defiance that comes through whether it’s Pharrell in his skateboard/street chic, LL with his silly one pants leg rolled up, or Lenny Kravitz wearing …ummm, well..…nothing! It’s the same “cult of ego,” the same deliciously subversive bravado and the same mad attitude that jumps out at you. So, so juicy.

Well, no doubt, consciously or unconsciously, Black men have historically exploited fashion to do a lot more than just look fly. They’ve used it as a form of social commentary, as a political statement with which they give a big ol’ middle finger to a world that sometimes seems to rejoice in seeing them humbled or, even worse, completely broken. Maybe Woolworth’s could refuse a man the basic human dignity of service, but in 1960 when four young, Black college students held a lunch counter sit-in to protest the violation of their civil rights, they sure as shootin’ rolled up in that piece dressed to the nines, like they deserved the respect they were demanding- rocking”shiny dress shoes, top hats and stylish over coats. And, from then until now, with the wardrobe-conscious Jay Z practically owning the music industry (“I paid a grip for the jeans, plus the slippers is clean”) and our very own sharply dressed President of the United States straight flossin’ in the big office, Brothers have instinctively understood and used fashion to communicate some serious ‘ish without so much as having to part their pretty, pretty lips.

REAL RECOGNIZE REAL
If there’s one thing the fashion industry lusts after and tries oh-so-desperately to “bottle” it’s authenticity. Well, authenticity, edge and raw emotion. So, it’s no wonder that fashion has often emulated and sometimes imitated the style of Black men. And thankfully, a handful of Brothers have been savvy enough and connected enough to tap into a tiny corner of that lucrative market to make their own millions. Everyone from Sean Jean to Russell Simmons and the aforementioned Jay Z and Pharrell are pushing their very own, hugely successful clothing lines. It’s also really heartening to see more and more young Brothers on the come up today, in all different avenues of the fashion game. Standing on the shoulders of design legends like Willi Smith, Stephen Burroughs and Gordon Henderson, a whole new crop of bruh-man fashionistas “keep, keep, keep rising to the top.” And, while I wish I could shout each and every single one of them out (as I type this, I realize I’ve forgotten Malcolm Harris, whose “one dress” design has even gotten Angela Jolie’s nose wide open!), here are just a few of the most influential tastemakers in the game right now:

THE LEADING MAN – Patrick Robinson
With his gorgeously unruly mane, he may LOOK like the ever-comical Huey from the Boondocks, but you’d better believe that Patrick Robinson is no joke. This man is straight running ‘ish in the contemporary American design world right now. After paying his dues at the coveted houses of Giorgio Armani, Paco Rabanne, Perry Ellis and Anne Klein, Robinson now serves as the Creative Director for The GAP (translation – homey is nicely PAID!)

THE ROCKSTAR – LaQuan Smith
At 21, baby boy may still have the taste of Similac on his lips, but fashion-wise, shorty is getting his grown man on. Just this month, Smith debuted his first collection (“Water Goddess”) during New York’s Fashion Week with the likes of Andre Leon Talley, Misa Hilton and Mama Combs in the audience to cheer him on. Best known, until now, for outfitting Rihanna and for his outrageous chainmail leggings (donned by none other than Lady Gaga), Smith is poised to blow the hell up. With his bold creativity and high-profile devotees, LaQuan Smith is definitely a “fashion moment“ who has the chance to last a minute.

THE GENTLEMEN – Ozwald Boateng & The Brits
Modern-day dandies should get on their knees and kiss this man’s overpriced wingtips. Ozwald Boateng is the absolute end for men who understand and value style. His colorful, beautifully tailored suits are cut with the precision of an origami figurine. Credited for breathing new life into the stuffy Savile Row (the celebrated street in Westminster, London where tailors do their thing for the royals and well-to-dos), Boateng lent his impeccably, elegant taste to the House of Givenchy (2003-2007). His career has far exceeded the trajectory of any ordinary craftsman. He was the first tailor to ever stage a runway show in Paris, and his talents were featured in a popular documentary series entitled “The House of Boateng.”

The British Invasion Continues: Although very different from Boateng in their styling sensibilities, be on the lookout for other crazy-talented Brits making waves from across the pond, including Romero Byran, Wale Adeyemi and Duro Olowu. Olowu, is particularly intriguing. Also known as the better half of Thelma Golden (curator, The Studio Museum in Harlem), Olowu fuses the bold colors of Mother Africa with the delicate florals and prints of the traditional English Lady, bringing a whole new phunk to “Tea Time.” Cheers!

THE ICON – André Leon Talley
What can I say about André Leon Talley, except “All Hail the Queen?” Yo, brother man has been doing the damn thing in fashion since as long as I can remember, and then a whole bunch of years befo’ that. Currently VOGUE’s beloved “Editor-at-Large,” and judge extraordinaire on America’s Next Top Model, Talley has earned the V.I.P. treatment at any runway show he damn well pleases. He’s larger than life, he’s always extra, he’s BFF’s with every celebrity from here to Bollywood, and we love him to bits because he STAYS fabulous. Believe THAT!

THE CANDY MAN ( ‘Foot Candy’ that is) – Courtney Crawford
In the tradition of Etu Evans, a hot new couture “cobbler” is creating foot fy-ah for the unapologetically sexy woman. To call his designs “shoes” does not do them justice, whatsoever. Crawford’s creations are little pieces of art that just happen to fit ever so nicely on a foot. Cinderella ain’t never seen hotNESS like this, yo! Keep those pedicures on point, ladies, because if Courtney keeps this up – we‘re gonna to need to have the peds looking tight (p.s. Beyonce and Mariah are major fans).

THE GLAMOURAMA – Kevan Hall
If it’s opulence, luxury and old Hollywood drama you seek, look no further than Kevan Hall. The talented Detroit native is known for glamour, glamour and more glamour. Think curvaceous silhouettes in luxurious fabrics. Think designs that whisper Dorothy Dandridge and Grace Kelly. Think Hollywood starlets like Angela Bassett, Vivica A. Fox and Renee Zellweger, simply dripping with diamonds, and clinking glasses at super exclusive cocktail parties in LA-LA land. Hall’s creations scream fabulosity in an unapologetic falsetto, and let you channel your inner Diana Ross!

THE VELVET UNDERGROUND – Nacimod Deeodee, Bill Johnson, Epperson
Ain’t it always the way that the most innovative and creative talents go under the radar? Yep, that’s right, the illest boys in fashion are names you may not ever have even heard of …YET. At the HOUSE OF NASSAT in NYC , Dominican-born Nacinmod brings us funkay, quirky crocheted hotness straight out of FLATBUSH. And, a few hours south, the multi-talented DC designer, Bill Johnson, has created a collection called “Transient” for the modern-day nomad, in a style he calls “retro-futuristic.” (http://www.bjstudio95.com/). Smart money says to keep an eye on these both of these talented fellas and also on a brother named Epperson (better known as former reality contestant on “PROJECT RUNWAY”). Epperson’s delicately feminine and tribal creations (some worn by Ms. Erykah Badu) continue to make waves at the annual Harlem Fashion Row.

So, keep checkin’ their fresh, because when it comes to high fashion – Brothers are straight killin’ the game these days, and definitely making it haute to death!

**Did I leave anyone out? Commit fashion blasphemy? Hit me up with a comment.

When we saw the iamkelis.com army of glossy skulls that fenced her, Kelis revived as the piercing lady of unprocessed edge. But nothing could prepare us for what happened next.

Kelis’ response to a PETA attack proved she was our reigning satirist of fashion. Kelis jokes, “And the paint throwing, that’s just ridiculous! What if I was hurling Louboutins and Pierre Hardys at every sad poorly dressed person on the street?” She questioned, “What about art?” This led us to the recent red carpet photo of Kelis at the “First Annual Data Awards.” In a post-baby body that banged, Kelis wore a fleshy jump suit oddly coupled with a black tuxedo jacket. Alexander McQueen’s Armadillo heels were nearly an afterthought to Kelis’ hyper-makeup, an ear to nose connecting chain and her near floor-length grey hair. Honestly, we didn’t know what to say. Heads bowed in somber. Our girl was taking it too far or so it seemed. The Web exploded with criticisms from industry laypersons to aficionados. 83% of Clutch readers voted the look a drab. One reader commented, “It’s statue of liberty meets unicorn.” OK! magazine described the look as “a fishy, Mel B – circa 98, weird attempt at Lady Gaga.” The Gaga comparisons continued over at New York Magazine’s The Cut. In a “Dear Kelis” letter that goes as far to call her an ass, the post read, “You are not Lady Gaga and this attempt at avant-garde fashion doesn’t compare to her get-ups.”

“You are not Lady Gaga and this attempt at avant-garde fashion doesn’t compare to her get-ups.” New York Magazine

Ummm…what? Since when did Lady Gaga become the go-to premier of style? Are we talking about the same artist who put her head in an eerie reef of horsy hay at last year’s “MTV Video Music Awards?” We don’t dispute Gaga is a provocative artist whose unorthodox looks have inspired recent runway. We recognize a source of these comparisons lie at Kelis’ choice to wear the McQueen’s after Gaga wore them in her “Bad Romance” video. Seemingly when Gaga experiments with fashion it’s grippingly revolutionary and when Kelis does it she becomes an ass. Now we’re not defending Kelis but let’s be frank here–Gaga is a new artist. Kelis has been at this since 1999. What makes Gaga exempt from the legions of sycophants who have mirrored the looks of the sartorial influencers? Can you say Madonna?

Kelis did “edge” and “avant garde” before most of us knew what these forms were. It’s authenticity translated so sincerely because Kelis has never really been a manufactured project. When Kelis staged a protest in her debut video “Caught Out There” marching down a street in a technicolored curly afro, she made it okay for the brown girls to be aesthetically unpredictable and to scream, “I hate you so much right now” on and off the track whenever he cheated. We clearly weren’t ready for the mode of wickedness she conjured up in “Get Along With You.” And when Kelis married rap king Nas, she did it unapologetically in an emerald green wedding gown. Let’s discuss who really put high-waisted denim on the map. In 2006, I personally searched the four corners of the earth trying to master Kelis’ “Bossy” look. Oh, and dare we talk of hair? Kelis’ style has progressed throughout the years from urban quirky to an unmatched congruency of high-street fashion. Our very own fashion joker, we can never tell what satchel of riddles Kelis will pop out. We love to decrypt her.

While Kelis’ “Data Awards” look among some of her other fashion misses have made us scratch our heads. Let us remember the best of pop culture fashion is grounded in contention and should forever provoke. Kelis is deservingly iconic and will undoubtedly become a sustained point of reference in our cultural memory. If Kanye West can rant and ruin award show moments, why can’t Kelis be an Avatar?

Take a look at some of our fave Kelis looks

Stocking up on quality accessories might sound like a pricey proposition, but if you shop smart and buy what’s in line with your personality (and budget), your cost per wear should be significantly low.

1. Bags
Few accoutrements have gained as much importance over the years as the handbag. Utilitarian purposes aside, we’ve rarely seen an outfit suffer from the addition of a stand out carryall. Since we practically carry our whole lives in our purses, it stands to reason that they would be associated as a representation of a total persona. Nothing says sophisticated like a clutch that can take you from day to night, a sturdy satchel or bowler adds professional polish, and frameless shoulder bags lend an effortlessly relaxed appeal. Be bold with bags with embellishments and bright colors or keep it classic with rich neutral tones and smart details.

2. Shoes
Whether you’re a street pump princess or a sexy stiletto lover, putting your best foot forward can only sharpen your style. For instance, pointy-toe (not as exaggerated as popular styles from years past) shoes can instantly elongate legs and charming flats can give thrown on jeans and t-shirts the appearance of being thoughtfully planned. This is also the perfect category to think outside the box with color-metallics can act as neutrals and matchy-matchy (shoes to ensemble) isn’t necessarily considered a do.

3. Jewelry
Adorning yourself with distinctive gems can add a new layer of dimension to a seen-before ensemble. Layer on the jewels for unexpected appeal or pick one conversation piece to make a dramatic statement. Use trinkets and baubles to highlight your best assets-shiny studs light up your face, rings draw attention to lithe hands, bracelets can anchor toned arms, and dangling earrings accentuate strong shoulders and a graceful neck.

4. Eyewear
Face framing shields for the glamorous, shy or mysterious can do wonders. Need to run out the door, but don’t have time for an all encompassing make up routine? You can still look ‘finished’ as a multitude of skin flaws can be forgiven behind a pair of fierce sunglasses. Even if you have perfect vision, the addition of a pair of non-prescription spectacles to your everyday wear is a great way to switch it up. Be sure to choose the right shape and size in order to compliment your lovely face.

5. Scarves
Throwing a scarf on is an easy option to incorporate a bit of print or color to your existing style staples. We’ve come to love them as accentuating neck pieces that add a flattering flash of color, but these wardrobe work horses can pull triple duty as a sash, wrap, or head dress.

6. Belts
It’s hard to believe that something so small can so completely transform the mood of an outfit, but this ultimate shape shifter is simply a must for any style chameleon.
Voluminous, otherwise shapeless frocks can become figure grazing garments with a cinch at the waist. Layered over jackets, dresses, or tunics the stylish possibilities abound.