by: Akeem J.
Yet another fashion brand bites the dust in the world economic crisis! Designer Betsey Johnson, known for her bright and eccentric aesthetic filed for bankruptcy protection. Citing “severe liquidity problems” and 4.1 million in debt, this filing will result in the closing of Johnson’s 63 stores and the dismissal of 350 of the company’s employees.
While things are looking gloomy for Betsey Johnson LLC, this isn’t necessarily goodbye for the brand. Sacs Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdales will continue to carry the brand and Johnson’s flagship stores will remain in operation. Ms. Johnson will also to continue to design sportswear for the label.

Sultry singer Tank was the special guest Friday for the Mother’s Day workshop hosted by Grammy.com blogger Arjan Writes at the Microsoft Store in Lenox Square.
With 15 years in the music game, he recently released his fifth solo album, “This is how I feel.”
The singer performed some of his memorable hits “I Deserve,” and “Please Don’t Go,” along with his new single “Next Breathe.”
The event was very mellow, getting to know the more personal side of Tank, discussing his mother and his take on being a parent, teaching his children respect for others. Very down to earth he talked about his most memorable Mother’s Day of when he sang a song to his mother that he wrote for her.
He told us about how strong his friendship is with his mother and how much respect his has for her and all mothers.
The event also gave the audience a more personable and intimate performance listening to Tank with just the piano no band or background singers.
Make sure to look out for Tank in Kontrol’s Sexy Body Issue.
Carol’s Daughter adds dimension to their natural hair support by recruiting SOLANGE KNOWLES (who is already a staple ambassador for the hair care brand) for a new hair blog on Carol’s Daughter’s web site, called the Transitioning Movement. (transitioningmovement.com)
Beyonce’s baby sis did the “big-chop” almost three years ago and her hair transition has literally made her a natural hair icon. Every Monday, Solange will post a new blog about her experiences in transitioning and caring for her natural hair, while other posts will address varied care hair issues.
Inspiration for the new site is based on the idea that every woman should celebrate her own unique beauty.
by: Jovel Roystan
Donned as the Fashion Oscars or the Superbowl of Fashion, the 2012 Costume Institute Gala took place this Monday at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and it brought out some of the biggest names in popular culture, as well as some of the most brilliant (and not-so brilliant) garments imaginable. Needless to say, the Met Gala is a huge deal every year, but what is it really all about?
This annual event is a fundraiser that serves as the Costume Institute’s main source of annual funding for exhibitions, acquisitions, and capital improvements. More importantly, it serves as an opening event of sorts to kick off the Costume Institute’s upcoming annual exhibit. Regularly hosted by Vogue, Anna Wintour serves as a regular co-chair for the Ball and oversees the star-studded guest list. It’s important to be on her good side. Just ask Kim Kardashian…
This year, in honor of the Costume Institute’s new exhibit, “Impossible Conversations,” the event honored Elsa Schiaparelli and Miuccia Prada, two of fashion’s most iconic figures. These two Italian designers lived in largely different eras, but their work shares so many similarities. The exhibit is broken down into three sections, each highlighting these designers’ styles and influences, and it opens to the public tomorrow. If you’re in the New York Area between May 10th and August 19th, be sure to stop by the Metropolitan Museum of Art and check it out.
By: Britany White
The news lately has been swirling around Opening Ceremony and various other sites that the famed fashion brand KENZO, has teamed up with VANS to release the cutest sneakers of the 2012. These were shown before, but were at a very limited edition. Now, they’re becoming available for pre order at Opening Ceremony’s site at $125 dollars. Releasing for the second time in July, these sneakers are truly a must have. Of course they are more expensive than the normal retail price, but come on! These sneakers are a great collaboration AND conversation piece. Happy Shopping!