Seeing Red

Kerry Washington visits MTV's 'TRL' at MTV Studios Times Square October 23, 2007 in New York City

Jurnee Smollett attends Allure’s Face Cocktail Party last night in Beverly Hills, November 14, 2009

Dania Ramirez arrives at the Reopening of the Burberry Beverly Hills Store on October 20, 2008 in Beverly Hills, California

Laura Izibor attends Elle's Women In Music Issue Celebration, New York, June 9, 2010

The little black dress is so passé. Trust me. Color can be chic too. Red cocktail dresses were the weapon of choice for the four celebrities above. Pair with a classic black belt and neutral heels so your dress can do all the talking. See below for hints on how to incorporate the simple yet eye-catching look into your wardrobe.

My Picks!

Left to right: Warehouse Cutwork One Shoulder Dress, $100, www.asos.com; Signature Essentials Off Shoulder Cocktail Dress by Herve Leger, $1050, www.shopbop.com; Lauren by Ralph Lauren Dress Adara Ruched Jersey Dress, $124, www.bloomingdales.com; Merona Women's Twisted Neckline Dress in Deep Love, $39.99, www.target.com

Left to right: Kimchi Blue Bow Belt, $24, www.urbanoutfitters.com; Skinny Faux Leather Belt, $4.80, www.forever21.com; Logo-Buckle Belt, $160, www.bloomingdales.com; Stud Belt, $23.99, www.frenchconnections.com

Light as a Feather

Kerry Washington attends the 2nd Annual ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Luncheon at the Beverly Hills Hotel on February 19, 2009 in Beverly Hills, California.

Jennifer Lopez arrives at American Music Awards after-party on November 22, 2009.

Iman attends the The 2009 Women of the Year hosted by Glamour Magazine at Carnegie Hall on November 9, 2009 in New York City.

Rihanna makes a guest appearance on Norwegian TV show 'Skavlan' on January 21, 2010 in Oslo, Norway.

If you want to stand out form the crowd this Spring, feathers are the way forward. Nothing says, "I'm a fashion risk-taker" like a whispy, feather-tiered skirt or dress. The ladies above are already in the know. Whether it's conservative chic like Kerry Washington or abstract rebellion a la Rihanna, there are a myriad of ways to wear feathers. My favorite inspiration is from Jennifer Lopez. Turn up the glamour by pairing a feather skirt with a sequin corset for extra va va voom!

My Picks!

Left to right: Haute Hippie Elongated Feather Vest, $347.50, www.shopbop.com; Sue Wong Strapless Dress with Ostrich Feathers, $518, www.nordstrom.com; Plunging Feather Dress, $530, www.neimanmarcus.com; Haute Hippie Genuine Ostrich Feather Minidress, $394.90, www.nordstrom.com

Left to right: Feather Mini Skirt by Lia Kes, $199, www.calypso-celle.com; Laser Cut Feather Skirt by Rare, $118, www.topshop.com; Vero Moda Feather Skirt, $67.99, www.asos.com; ASOS Black Feather Skirt, $110.48, www.asos.com

Left to right: ASOS Nude Feather Clutch, $42.49, www.asos.com; ASOS Black Feather Clutch, $42.49, www.asos.com

Feathers are best done in neutral colors like nude, black and white. This look won't come cheap so be prepared to spend some money, but it'll be worth it. There's nothing worse than cheap looking feathers. Try online stores like ASOS, ShopBop and Topshop for more economically friendly items. I have the black feather clutch from ASOS and wherever I wear it I always get a barrage of compliments. Finish a "feathered" look with gold accessories and sky-high pumps.

Brush Your Shoulders Off!

Beyonce leaving Movida Nightclub in London, UK on May 26th, 2009

Rihanna arrives at the Balmain Pret-a-Porter show as part of the Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 1, 2009 at Intercontinental Paris Grand Hotel in Paris

Halle Berry arriving at the Shangahi Film Festival, June, 2009

Ciara arrives at the BBC Radio 1 studios on April 23, 2009 in London, England

Beyonce leaving dinner at the Waverly Inn, New York in June, 2009

Winter is about to hit us so now is the time to buy summer trends at bargain prices. The Balmain Jacket craze shows no signs of dying down so grab yourself an original (or a budget-friendly inspired version). Net-a-Porter currently sells the originals but you can also find "knock-offs" at your favorite stores such as Topshop in the UK or Shopbop.com here in the US. Beyonce and Ciarahave championed this look by pairing their 80's / Michael Jackson inspired jackets with skinny jeans. Or make like Rihanna and add a little volume down below. Either way, these power jackets will take you well into 2010.

My Picks!

Left to right: Short Extended Shoulder Jacket, $135, www.topshop.com; Cotton-blend tuxedo jacket by Balmain, $3805, www.net-a-porter.com; White army-style jacket by Balmain, $3564, www.net-a-porter.com; Crystal-embellished canvas jacket by Balmain, $6389.60, www.net-a-porter.com

Left to right: ASOS Power Shoulder Tux Blazer, $113.37, www.topshop.com; Ruffle Peak Jacket by Robert Rodriguez, $495, www.shopbop.com; Blade Runner Jacket by Elizabeth and James, $425, www.shopbop.com; Button Detail Denim Jacket by Queen's Look, $85.50, www.yesstyle.com

Ranging from $85 to $6000+, now is the time to buy one of these amazing jackets. Winter may be closing in, but buy one on sale and wear it for the next five years. Every fashionista needs a powerful blazer in their wardrobe and now is the cheapest time to buy one. If you want the real thing be prepared to pay at least $3000 - and that's a bargain! My favorite is the tuxedo blazer from Topshop. At only $135, it's a fail safe investment.

The Sleeves Have It

Beyonce arrives at the premiere of Cadillac Records held at The Egyptian Theater on November 24, 2008 in Hollywood, California.

Veronica Webb attends the opening night celebration of the New York City Ballet at David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln CenterNew York, November 25, 2008

Paula Patton arrives at 51st Annual GRAMMY Awards at Staples Center, Los Angeles on February 8, 2009

Puffed up sleeves seem to be all the rage these days. If you thought you'd left pink, frilly, puff-sleeved birthday dresses behind you think again. Now you can wear them in black for the after party. Take your cue from Beyonce, Veronica and Paula. They prove that any trend can be modernized. The sleeves definitely have it. See below for some inspiration.

My Picks!

Left to right: Chetta B Lace & Taffeta Dress, $525, www.saksfifthavenue.com; Juicy Couture Short Puff Sleeve Waisted Shell, $298, www.revolveclothing.com; ELLA MOSS Agnes Puff Sleeve Dress in Heather Grey, www.revolveclothing.com

Left to right: Lamé shift dress by Rue Du Mail, $2000, www.brownsfashion.com; Noreen dress coat by Beyond the Valley, $168, www.farfetch.com; Silk Puff Sleeve Dress, $42, www.forever21.com/twelve

Big isn't always better. So if you're apprehensive about donning voluminous sleeves, opt for dresses with subtler "puffs". This look is great for those who want to take a little risk with their style choices but not look too fashion conscious. My favorite has to be green dress from Forever 21's "Twelve by Twelve" line. For $42, you simply can't go wrong!

Color Complex

Taraji P. Henson arrives at the Black Enterprise All-Star gathering celebrating Oscar week on February 20, 2008 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California.

Mel B spotted in Los Angeles, California earlier this year.

Meagan Good with Tulle Coats at Boost Mobile at Marquee Lounge on January 21, 2008 in Park City, Utah.

Cate Blanchett and Andrew Upton pose during the official launch of the Sydney Theatre Company's '2009 Main Stage Season' at the Wharf Restaurant on September 1, 2008 in Sydney, Australia.

Alas, fall is coming. I'm not sure I'm ready yet. Try brightening up the impending cooler days with a bold, colored coat/jacket. Rainbow inspired outerwear is so easy to find. Every online boutique and high street store are offering an array of show-stopping hues. Just be sure to pick the color that best matches your complexion - not everyone can get away with sunshine yellow.

My Picks!

Left to right: Bethany Wool Blend Coat, $34.80, www.forever21.com; Double-breasted princess coat by Miu Miu, $1320, www.net-a-porter.com; Hooded Button Detail Coat, $130, www.topshop.com; Kinicki Coat, $328, www.fcusbuymail.com

Left to right: French Connection Square Button Jacket, $252.42, www.asos.com; Ruffle Cuff Pea Coat by Juicy Couture, $398, www.shopbop.com; Petal Bow Neck Jacket, $117.20, www.asos.com; Pique Wool-Blend Coats, $89.50, www.oldnavy.com

I've had my mind set on a red coat ever since I saw my sister's red coat from Mango, UK last year. Other colors I'm drawn to are blue and fuschia. Don't overdo this look by adding other bright colors to the mix - let the coat speak for itself. Pair it with neutral colors like black, dark denim or even white.

Register to Vote - NOW!!

Beyonce and Jay Z out-and-about in New York City on August 4th, 2008.

Alicia Keys wears her Barack Obama T-Shirt while at The Black Ball, July 10, 2008.

Halle Berry left a shopping center in Century City today proclaiming her love for Barack Obama via t-shirt with one that read Barack The Vote July 29, 2008.

Eva Pigford models the "Sunshine" Barack Tee priced $25 available at www.barackthevote.com

LisaRaye McCoy proudly shows her support for Barack Obama while out-and-about in Beverly Hills, California.

There is no excuse ladies. The countdown is on and whatever your political affiliations you must register to vote. Fear not. Registering doesn't take more than a few minutes of your time. Visit http://www.rockthevote.com/ to fill out the simple form. You'll need a printer to print out the form once you've filled it out electronically. Note that your "ID Number" is either your driving license or social security number. If you don't have either, put a zero in the field and you can proceed by clicking "Prepare Form". You must, however, indicate that you have neither a driving license or social security number on the paper form you print out. Then all you have to do is send it to the appropiate address and you're done!

For those of us who are not citizens (I'm British), we'll be showing our support via the ultimate statement - Fashion! Make like the ladies above and wear your point-of-view proudly across your chest. See below for where to buy the coolest Obama tees.

My Picks!

Top: Obama, $20, www.ragamuffinclothing.com; Barack Obama Picture, $16.50, www.democraticstuff.com; Barack Obama Signature Ladies Natural T-shirt, m, $20.08, www.shopbarackobama.com; Obama 08 Ladies Black T-shirt, $20.08, www.shopbarackobama.com

Bottom: NV Me Boy Beater, $20, www.barackthevote.com; Obey Obama Progress Tee, $28, www.urbanoutfitters.com; Team Barack T Shirt, $38, www.siralistairrai.com; Obama Hope Tee, $32, www.shopintuition.com or www.hopeshirt.com

I acknowledge that Obama mania is at fever pitch but it's not just hype, my love for him is REAL! To prove it I'm ordering my graphic tee ahead of time and I'll wear it proudly during his inauguration. Paired with denim capris, silver hoops and designer shades, there's no mistaking where my support lies. If you want to put your hard earned money to good use, order tees from official sites like http://store.barackobama.com. Any purchase is considered a federal contribution to the Obama Victory Fund.

One Blazer to Go!

Thandie Newton attends the gallery opening party of Established and Sons, at Established and Sons on October 11, 2007 in London, England.

Naomi Campbell leaves after appearing in a Manhattan Criminal Court for assault charges on November 15, 2006 in New York City.

Vanessa Williams poses for a photo at the HomeAgain event launching 'Bring Pets Home' campaign at the Animal Haven in Soho on October 25, 2007 in New York City.

Sharon Leal attends Women's Health Magazine's Premiere 'Blue Issue' event at the Mondrian Hotel's Sky Bar Co-Hosted by Molly Sims and Rebecca Gayheart on October 18, 2007 in West Hollywood, California.

Yes I know we are still in the dead heat of summer but owning a tailored black blazer is a must whatever the season. Blazers can instantly turn a casual outfit into a sophisticated winner. Take style tips from the four ladies above who all invested in a fitted, black blazer and reaped the benefits on the red carpet. Whether your heading for a business meeting or just want to transform a favorite dress, blazers have you covered... literally!

My Picks!

Left to right: Linen SS Jacket, $24.80, www.forever21.com; Executive Career Blazer, $24.80, www.forever21.com; Satin Tuxedo Jacket, $32.99, www.charlotterusse.com; Stripe Blazer, $110, www.topshop.com

Left to right: Ellie Cord Blazer, $54.50, www.delias.com; Cropped One-Button Blazers, $39.50, www.oldnavy.com; Cotton blazer, $125, www.bananarepublic.com; Super 120s pinstripe three-button jacket, $240, www.jcrew.com

Congratulations on your decision to buy this wardrobe staple - now the fun can begin! Even though there are plenty of cheap blazers on the market, I suggest investing in the most expensive you can afford. It'll be worth it in the long run as it will last for years to come. Stores like J.Crew, Banana Republic, French Connection and even Ann Taylor Loft are fail safes. If you're on a budget try the Gap or department stores like Bloomingdale's which always have sales. If that still sounds too pricey you can always head to Forever 21 and co., they won't last as long but they're an instant substitute at a price no one can beat.

Get it Shorty!

Halle Berry pictured outside of her beach front home in Malibu, California on July 15, 2008.

Beyonce arrives at Nice Airport on May 19 2006 Cannes, France.

Brandy attends the LG and Jermaine Dupris Fusic Party for BET June 27, 2006 in Los Angeles, California.

Julissa attends AllHipHop.Com's Relaunch Celebrity Bash at the Newspace August 03, 2006 in New York City.

Don't let mini skirts have all the fun. Another way to let your legs breath is to don a bare of thigh skimming shorts. Wear them for a shopping trip, to travel or even on the red carpet (ok, maybe a party since most of us aren't famous). The best thing is, if you get the right pair of shorts they can take you seamlessy from day to night. Look to the ladies above for proof postive that shorts are the way forward!

My Picks!

Top: Bow Tie Linen Short, $17.80, www.forever21.com; Button Tab Linen Short, $44, www.topshop.com; Amber Pleated Short, $17.80, www.forever21.com
Middle: Sasha Gauze Short, $26.50, www.delias.com; The Banded Short, $19.50, www.alloy.com; Twill Matalot Short, $56, www.topshop.com
Bottom: Chino 3" Short, $39.50, www.jcrew.com; Belted Twill Shorts, $15, www.oldnavy.com; Cotton Twill Shorts by Vince, $145, www.net-a-porter.com

Shorts are perfect for day AND night. Wear flips flops for daytime chic (Halle and Beyonce) then switch to heels for evening glam (Julissa and Brandy). I personally love to wear shorts with crisp, sleeveless shirts i n the summer - especially shirts with "puff sleeves". If you don't have a washboard stomach like myself, my I advise you to invest in shorts with a waist. Low-rise shorts are not our friends!

Jeans 101: Viva La Color!

Rihanna shopping with dog Oliver in New York City on May 13th, 2008.

Jada courtside at the LA Lakers Vs. Celtics game 4 finals on July 13, 2008.

Fergie spotted in Los Angeles on August 20th, 2008.

Kelly Rowland officially launches St Aubyn's Holistic Centre London, England - 03.05.08.

Hands up those of you who last wore colored denim when you were five years old? You are not alone! I've been in two-minds about the colored jeans trend since it hit the streets last year, but Jada Pinkett and Rihanna (a stonch believer in colored denim) have convinced me to a least try on a pair. My main concern is that those of us with curves are going to end up looking like a giant crayola crayon... not very attractive. If you decide to venture into this trend, tread carefully. Start off with flared jeans or a denim jacket and see how you fare. Baby steps ladies. Baby steps...