Über Talk: Idris Elba

Last night was the 83rd Academy Awards(Oscars) and as usual the lack of blacks represented was not present, or so I heard since I didn't watch the entire show. However, another Hollywood A-Lister made it apparent that he feels the same way. In honor of black history month, actor Idris Elba was a featured speaker at Rutgers University's Newark Campus for the Lens Project's "Artist Spotlight" series and he had no problem telling the audience how he feels about blacks in Hollywood. “Halle Berry and I were the only two black actors nominated for this year’s Golden Globes (Idris for Luther and Halle for Frankie & Alice). The Oscars aren’t designed for us…let’s focus on making more films.” When asked about the Tyler Perry and Spike Lee debate he goes on to say,

I don’t like all of Tyler Perry’s films. Yes, I did work with Tyler for
“Daddy’s Little Girls” because it portrayed a positive image of a black father.
I am happy for Tyler’s success…we need Tyler Perry…by going to support his
movies, we need to show economic strength. But we are also responsible for
elevating film. I’m not with buffoonish characters like Madea or Big Momma."

Out of all the black actors in Hollywood I was more than surprise Idris Elba felt this way, hopefully next year blacks will have another "Precious" moment and make history we like we did last year.

Über Trending: When "Trendsetting" becomes UNIFORMITY

In this day and age genuine trendsetting is very hard to find. It makes me often wonder what exactly is different now? Thinking of past labels like Ed Hardy, Von Dutch, Crocs [horrid to begin with], and the latest [soon-to-become] victim Ralph Lauren's POLO.

Lately what started off as being different has become the status quo and some how has been morphed into societies minds as still being different. Unfortunately, as fashion has it...trends comes and GO's...but when do you actually call it quits? It actually sucks for those who wore these items or labels first creating a personal brand for themselves. But when the general public gets a hold of the trend....then what?

Trend tsunami's are a designer's dream/nightmare...its very good publicity/sales for the moment but in the long run it is doomed for failure. When the public finds a new label/trend the label [polo for example] will only be a thing of the past and sales will never be the same again.

In conclusion folks, don't be afraid to be yourself and go against status quo. Find a look for yourself and develop it as you grow. It doesn't hurt to follow some of the trends but don't become apart of the trend-murderers who makes it OVER KILL!!!

Über Inspirtation: Following Your Dreams Terrence J.

Terrence from 106 and Park discussed via twitter about his aspirations to get into the television industry and described quitting his 30k job, moving to NY, and living on a floor for 8 months so he could pursue his dreams...

"Today is a new day. A new opportunity to follow your dreams. Take advantage of this blessing. Take that leap. Whatever your dream is, you have to step towards it. The more steps you take the more the universe will conspire to assist you… "

When asked by a follower what to do to pay the bills while pursuing a dream, he responded:

"when following your dreams you will be temporarily inconvenienced. Tyler Perry was HOMELESS years before becoming a MILLIONAIRE. Only you can determine the amount of sacrifice your dreams are worth."

Über Talk: The History of Fashion [press] Week

During World War II, fashion insiders were unable to travel to Paris to preview French collections. This proved to be the catalyst behind the launch of the world's first fashion week. Originally called "Press Week," this stylish affair took place in 1943 in New York City. Organizer Eleanor Lamber hoped to detract attention from the French and to thrust American fashion into the spotlight, and she did. Press Week was a huge success, and magazines began featuring a variety of U.S. designers.

There are four major fashion weeks that take place in the same order every year: New York, London, Milan, and Paris. Dubbed the "Big Four," this collective group holds two events a year – Fall/Winter in February and Spring/Summer in September. These shows provide a sneak peek at new collections and upcoming trends.

In 1994, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week moved to Bryant Park after many years of being held in crowded lofts, clubs, and restaurants. IMG, a lifestyle and sports marketing and management firm, has produced the event since 2001.

courtesy of QVC.com

Über Talk: 53rd Annual Grammy's [Red Carpet]

Is this the Grammy's or a costume party?

Super Hero Ciara
Cheetah Nicki
Angel Katie Perry

Egg Lady GaGa

On a more serious note: here are some other celebrity appearances
Monica

Will, Jada, and Willow Smith

Jennifer Hudson

B.o.B

Keri Hilson

Jennifer Lopez

Faith Evans

Lil Wayne, Nicki, and Tyga

Bruno Mars

Rihanna [Loveeee the new hair color]

Über Inspiration: Talented Women Past and Present

While continuing to celebrate black history month we wanted to praise the past and acknowledge the present while highlighting the future.

Below is a trailblazer who set the tone for some very uber inspirational women. Althea Gibson was beyond an African American athelete she was a tennis pioneer. She broke down barriers nationally and internationally at a time when prejudice and racism had an influence on society and sports. "I am honored to have followed in such great footsteps. Her accomplishments set the stage for my success, and through players like myself and Serena and many others to come, her legacy will live on," says Venus Williams on the impact Althea Gibson has had on her career.

These inspiring women have been carrying the torch for many years and have ground breaking records not as atheletes but also as African American Women. These women dominate on the court as well as off the court. Serena and Venus Williams are truely dynamic at what they do. Together the sisters have won 12 grand slam titles and have a host of other accomplishment under their belt. Serena has her own fashion label called "Aneres", while Venus is the chief executive officer of her interior design firm "V Starr Interiors" and together they both became part-owners of the Miami Dolphins ( the first African-American females to obtain ownership in an NFL franchise). Both these women are uber fab and we can't wait to continue watching them raise the bar from sports to fashion and everything in between.

Up next is a young lady that is already leaving her mark on the tennis court. At age 14, Taylor Townsend is a three time tennis champion reigning from Jonesboro, Georgia. In 2010, Taylor won the International Tennis Federation World Junior Tennis Finals Champion title with the United States Tennis Association (USTA) girls’ team. Although, she is only a freshman with her stats she is definitely an athlete we should all expect to see in the future.

Über Inspiration: Matthew Knowles American Story

In this Fox news clip Matthew Knowles, Beyonce' & Solange's father, tells his story on growing up and raising his daughters to who they are today!

Found on www.concreteloop.com

Über Designers to Watch: Melody Ehsani

Melody was born and raised in Los Angeles; she's a designer with a passion for both fashion & justice! Her unique accessories have been spotted on celebrities such as: Rihanna, Lupe Fiasco, Erykah Badu, Alicia Keys, and Nicki Minaj just to name a few. Her love for design has transformed into an outlet for individuals to truly express themselves.

My style is inspired by paradox, controversy, justice and pushing the envelope in showing that you truly cant judge a book by its cover. I design to upset the equilibrium. I design to inspire. I design to serve. I design because I was created to do so.

For more info on Melody Ehsani go to http://www.melodyehsani.com/

Fashion Yay or Nay: Alexandra Burke

Who: Alexandra Burke

What: Save the Children - No Child Born to Die
Wear: *unknown designer* A burgundy blouse, khaki skirt, brown skinny belt, and nude heels.

My opinion: I gotta give her a definite YAY! This outfit is perfect for an interview within the fashion industry, a night out on the town, or even a day at work. This look can be very versatile and it has Überchic written all over it!

For a similar look...

Alexandra Burke; Campaign by UberChicBar featuring round toe shoes

Draped Back Tee, $87
Camel Seam Bodycon Skirt, $55
CAPECORAL, $80
Unknown - Persian Turquoise Necklace With Diamond & Turquoise Clasp -...
Jewelry | Designer Accessories | NET-A-PORTER.COM, $345
ASOS Leather Double Wrap Utility Boyfriend Belt, $34

Über Inspiration: Oprah Winfrey

Here at Überchic we are continuing to honor African Americans by celebrating and acknowledging those from the past, present, and who's got next. It would only be appropriate that we kick this off with one of our favorite media moguls Ms. Winfrey. Oprah is the prime example of breaking boundaries no matter what the color of your skin is. Take a peak below for a quick mini bio and be inspired by her journey to greatness.

Über Inspiration: Willi Smith

In honor of Black History Month Überchic will be spotlighting past famous African American designers, entertainers, and models who have made a major impact on the pop culture industry.

Überchic spotlights: Willi Smith (1948 - 1987)

Born in Philadelphia, PA; Willi Donnell Smith was destined to become what fashion industry considers, "one of the most successful young fashion designers in fashion history".

Williwear was founded in 1976. Around the time of his death his company was selling $25 million worth of clothing a year.

You can see some of his famous work within the famous "School Daze" (A Spike Lee Joint), he designed the costumes!

I don't design clothes for the Queen, but for the people who wave at her as she goes by.

Über Goodies: S&M - Rihanna

Rihanna is the perfect example of where fashion meets entertainment! She takes everything to a whole new level & here at Überchic we LOVE it!!! Check out her new video!!


BTW: This video has been banned in 11 countries....

Überchic Designers to Watch: Coco && Breezy

These dynamic twins who aren't even 21 yet are making a HUGE impact within the celebrity/fashion scene!!! There sunglasses are futuristic and universal all at once! Check out this interview below that describes who they are and what their brand is all about!



For more info on Coco && Breezy go to www.cocoandbreezy.com