The Fashion Hangout

Adeola Ariyo for Sports Illustrated South Africa Swimsuit Edition

2011-10-18T12:41:00.000-07:00

I know this is very delayed and these pictures have been out for a while, but I was too excited to just let it go. How AMAZING does she look???

The most BEAUTIFUL GIRL in the UNIVERSE!

2011-09-13T05:24:00.000-07:00

Last night Miss Angola Leila Lopes was crowned Miss Universe for 2011. It's the first time that an Angolan has won the title. How beautiful is she???

US Elle October Edition - Four Times the FUN!

2011-09-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

The October Edition of the US Elle has caused a huge wave in the blog o-sphere, it's the first time in 8 years that they have had a model on the cover. Not only do they have a model on the cover , they have four different covers with four different Victoria's Secrets models on them. Does Anyone wanna buy these for me?

I AM BACK!

2011-09-11T10:08:00.000-07:00

Hello fellow FASHION LOVERS, so sorry that I disappeared! I have been gone for a while, but I am back and I am here to stay! If you have any suggestions on what you would like to see on this blog please don't hesitate to leave a comment on this post!

AHHH Agyness Deyn is coming to South Africa !!!!

2011-04-20T23:50:00.000-07:00

My LOVE for Agyness Deyn is indescribable , she is one of my favourite models. If you don't know who she is you are really out of touch, she is this generation's Kate Moss. Agyy is a style icon and was voted one of the 30 top models of the 2000s by the Paris Vogue. She will be in the country ( Durban specifically ) for the 031 Collections presented by Mr Price. The event will showcase 8 established designers including Amanda Laird Cherry and Leigh Schubert and 8 new designers. Aggy will be here as a guest stylist and judge of the New Designers Competition.

Sessilee Lopez in Botswana for Gaborone Fashion Night !!!

2011-03-30T23:56:00.000-07:00

You should all know I have a HUGE girl crush on Sessilee Lopez, I have said it a million times and I will say it again I love her. Anyway she is in Botswana for the inaugural Gaborone Fashion Night which launches tomorrow night. The event is set to showcase two New York based designers Koketso Chiepe and Indashio and two designers from Botswana Mpho Kuaho and Botho Chalebgwa. Sounds like its going to be a great show will keep you guys posted !

Elle South Africa 15th Annivesary Edition

2011-03-21T05:58:00.000-07:00

Elle South Africa April 2010

This year Elle South Africa is celebrating its 15th Anniversary. I LOVE the Cover. The April Edition Cover Stars were all finalist in the Fresh Face competition that was hosted by the Elle magazine last year. I am really impressed with this cover. If we (local magazines) don't give our models opportunities to be cover stars who will. I have always been a fan of the Elle magazine and their cover choices , this cover and Venantia Otto's ( Face of Africa 2006) covers are some of my favorite Elle covers.

Elle South Africa October 2006

Flaviana Matata Wins Model of The Year Award at the Arise Africa Fashion Awards !

2011-03-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

I am so happy for Flaviana she won Model of the Year Award at the Arise Africa Fashion Awards which were hosted during the Arise Magazine Fashion week in Lagos over the past weekend. This year Arise Magazine decided to hosts its won Fashion Week away from the African Fashion International brand. This event saw 50 top African Designers showcase collections... Back to Flaviana if you don't know who she is , ah where have you been ??? She won the first Miss Universe Tanzania pageant in 2007, she went on to represent Tanzania in the Miss Universe Pageant later on that year.After her winning Miss Universe Tanzania she went on to Model in South Africa and while in the country she was represented by ICE Models. Fast-track to 2010 and Flaviana signed with Next models in NEW YORK and she hasn't looked back since then!

In her first season abroad she walked for Tommy Hilfiger, Rachel Roy and Charlotte Ronson to name a few. She has been featured in campaigns for Topshop and has also been in an L'Officiel Magazine editorial. The sky is the limit for this girl !

Kate Menson at New York Fashion Week Fall 2011

2011-02-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

Yes I know , I have put up like three posts on Kate Menson but I can't help it I am just EXCITED!!! Here are some pics of her at the Yoehlee Fall 2011 show ! ENJOY!!!

Update on Kate Menson!!

2011-02-07T05:28:00.000-08:00

So a few weeks ago I said I suspect that Kate is being represent by Muse Model Management in NYC and now I have confirmed it ... SHE IS BEING REPRESENTED BY MUSE MODEL MANAGEMENT!!!! I am so happy for her , not only are they representing here but they put her in their show package for New York Fashion Week which is coming up soon. What's a show package you ask ? Well all the top model agencies in the city create show packages— which is a packet of select model cards designed specially every season. So each model gets a cool card created for her, so when she goes casting she carries that card with her. Not all the agency's models make the package , the agency will pick the girls who they think will get cast in the shows... So this means Kate is going places... If you did not know Muse represents models like Georgie Badiel, Shena Moulton and Nana Kieta , so ya it is a big deal!

Here is Kate's Show Card !!

Look of the Week: Super Model Iman at the 2011 BET Honors

2011-01-16T04:23:00.000-08:00

Kaone for Glamour Magazine

2011-01-07T07:17:00.000-08:00

Photos via Muse Management Blog

Kate Menson for Marie Claire South Africa January 2011

2011-01-05T11:08:00.000-08:00

How AWESOME are these pictures of Kate. I was totally blown away when I saw them.Love the Grace Jones inspiration of shoot. I got them off the Muse Management blog, which really excited me. You see Muse Management is an agency in New York that represents the likes of Georgie Badiel and Nana Kieta , so this makes me wonder if Kate is now one of their girls. I really hope she is! I have loved Kate from day one, the very first day they announced that she had been chosen to represent Ghana in the Face of Africa competition , I knew she would win. Hope to see more of her !

Oluchi for Nordstrom January 2011 Catalog

2011-01-05T10:49:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to see these awesome pictures of Oluchi, so I decided to share them with you, ENJOY.

P.S How hot is her body , I can't get over it !

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom

Random Video

2011-01-01T05:25:00.000-08:00

Fashion Week: The Africans from Henry Jacobson on Vimeo.

I found this video and really enjoyed the photography. It was taken last year at New York Fashion Week during the Arise African Fashion Collective. Lukundo who won last year's Face of Africa is featured in the video and there are some awesome pics of her throughout the video.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T05:14:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everybody! I hope you all have a super blessed 2011. Last year I did not do much work on the blog and this year I would really like to make it a priority. If you can all assist me by telling me what you would like to see on the blog , I would be really grateful. Can't wait to see what 2011 has in store for us!!!

My Favorite Models for 2010 !

2010-12-30T12:08:00.000-08:00

Rose Cordero

Anais Mali

Ajak Deng

Chrishell Stubbs

Flaviana Matata

Jeneil Williams

Joan Smalls

Melodie Monrose

P.S. I had to cut the list down to eight girls because I could go on forever. I fell in LOVE with these girls in 2010.

2010-12-12T11:11:00.000-08:00

Arise Magazine is back, I was a bit worried that they had stopped operating all together, but Issue 11 will hit stands on the 18th of December. Arise will no longer be a monthly publication it will be a quarterly magazine, I hope that doesn't mean an end to the Arise Fashion Collective at New York Fashion Week . But all things aside how beautiful are the models on this cover ??They are all wearing Deola Sagoe’s Vintage Collection which was first shown at African Fashion Week earlier this year . I hope that Arise will be around for a while , African Fashion needs a magazine like this, our version of Vogue !

Miss South Africa 2010

2010-12-12T11:01:00.000-08:00

Miss South Africa 2010 was just crowned a few hours ago, the lucky lady who took the crown is 24 year old Bokang Mantjane.

You all probably know that I am not a a big fan beauty pageants, but none the less I find myself watching year after year . I am a disappointed in the Miss SA brand it has lost its flair the show is dull and the girls aren't particularly exciting. What I did find interesting is that quite a number of the judges were fashion people. Sun International really needs to pull up their socks!! I really have nothing else to say about the lackluster show ...

The Colour of Beauty ?

2010-11-23T11:36:00.000-08:00

So I came across this documentary called The Colour of Beauty. It follows a Black model around New York as she tries to make it big. It is such a wake up call! Please watch and leave your thoughts in the comment box I don't wanna say too much !

Thoughts?

Zambia's Gem : Lukundo !

2010-11-12T12:29:00.000-08:00

Tears of joy as Lukundo was announced as the Winner of Face of Africa .

If you don't know who Lukundo is , you my friend have been fast ASLEEP. She won the Face of Africa 2010 competition after having entered two times before. She is the first Zambian to have won FOA. I must admit that I did not expect her to win till the night of the finale. She was amazing , her walk is FIERCE and don't get me started on her great shoulders and amazing cheek bones. Thanks to Facebook , Lukundo and I were able to have a little interview were I got to ask her some questions.

Miss V: How has winning Face of Africa changed your life?

Lukundo: My life has changed so much , I am doing something I really LOVE and the prize money has enabled me to become a landlord.

Miss V: I heard that you had previously cast for FOA and had never made it . What did you do differently this time, that you not only made it to the top 24 but you won ?

Lukundo : Honestly I did not do anything different, the Lord had planned everything out for me, he knew my time would be 2010 , so he blessed me with patience.

Miss V: What is your dream model job ?

Lukundo: I have so many model dreams, doing a perfume or cosmetic campaign and my favourite walking the runway in Paris.

Miss V: Who is your favourite designer ?

Lukundo : Stella McCartney

Miss V: Other interests outside of modelling ?

Lukundo: I love to travel and I am interested in photography , choreography, design and drawing.

Lukundo really has a good head on those sexy shoulders of hers. She is the perfect example of how patience can pay off in the long run .I wish Lukundo the best of luck and hope to see her on those Parisian catwalks soon! Here is a slide show of some of the work she has done, ENJOY!

After 25 years Miss Naomi Campbell is still going strong !

2010-11-08T00:49:00.000-08:00

I know I am a bit delayed but I had to do this post. I was inspired by the November issue of the South African Elle which has Naomi on the cover. I have been in love with Naomi since I was like 13, I thought wow she is really pretty, "when I grow up I wish to be as beautiful and as famous as she is". As I got older and became more interested in the world of modeling I began to realize just how much she had changed the face of modeling for black women. Yes I know that Iman, Beverly Johnson and Naomi Watts all did amazing things for black models, but Naomi has proven that a black model can be a power house. She has transcended all barriers , and she fought for it. I remember watching an interview where she was telling a story about how she had to fight to get the same pay as white models for doing the exact same job. This year Ms. Campbell is celebrating 25 years in the industry , that is more than most models can even dream of ! Whether you love her or hate her you have to admit that very few models have had such success. She was the first black woman on the cover of the British Vogue and also the first black woman on the cover of the American Vogue September issue . I won't even list all the shows she has walked in , from Versace to Victoria's Secret she has done it all. I don't think there is a single black model who does not list Naomi as an inspiration,I know I sure do! To celebrate her 25 years in the industry her friends at Dolce&Gabanna designed a special edition t-shirt for her and also threw her a series of parties in major fashion cities around the world.

Here is some Naomi through the Ages !

Sports Illustrated Swimwear Edition South Africa

2010-11-07T07:50:00.000-08:00

Its that time of year again , its Sports Illustrated Swimwear Edition time again. Candice Boucher is on the cover of this year's swimsuit edition (LOVE HER). Rosette Mogomotsi made her SI debut this year. Also making her debut in the SI Swimwear edition is Tarryn Kim Cornelius, who won the SI New Model Search. I really love SI, those bodies are just SICK ! Here are some images from this years mag, enjoy !

For more pics go to www.sportsillustrated.co.za

Face of Africa 2011 : When is it coming ?

2010-10-30T00:33:00.000-07:00

Lukundo Nalungwe and the other Nine FOA 2010 Finalists

I have received a number of emails and facebook messages from girls wanting to know when Face of Africa will return... And just like ,all of you I don't know! I wish I knew so I could fill you all in but unfortunately I am CLUELESS. But I decided to do this post for one reason, just because you don't know when the competition is coming back, does not mean you can chill and twiddle your thumbs... You should be exercising, get your skin ready, researching your favourite models, designers, photographers etc... As Tyra Banks always says a good model should know the industry. I am not sure what the requirements for 2011 will be but this should give you an idea whether or not you qualify. Last year the requirements were as follows;

Minimum height was 1.72 m
Maximum hip measurement was 96cm
Age - 17 and 24 years old

Over the next few weeks I will be posting recipes for facials , easy to do exercises and anything else that will help you get ready for the competition...

Who is that Girl?

2010-10-28T05:52:00.000-07:00

We were introduced to 23 year old Thembi Kobeli on last year's Face of Africa. Standing at 1.79m tall she made it to the top five but didn't win. A few moths later she is everywhere, as in everywhere. I had really hoped to do a more personal interview but that did not happen, maybe next time I will get to chat to her. I REALLY like Thembi , I love her face she has great features and I like how she transforms from girl next door, to a high fashion editorial model... So far we have seen her in Woolworth's adverts , in the Marie Claire,the Elle and True Love . I hope to see her securing some blue chip accounts and maybe even going overseas ,I think she would good in Paris because of her striking features , s. he reminds me of Aminata Naira. I will be patiently waiting to see what she does next !!!

Thembi for True Love

Thembi for David Tlate

Thembi at the 2009 Face of Africa Finale

Spring 2011 Ready to Wear - My Top Ten Picks

2010-10-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

The Spring 2011 Ready to Wear Fashion weeks have just come to an end ( well its been about ten days since the last show) and I have decided to share my top ten favorite looks with you ! After hours of contemplation and at times confusion these looks are it for me. The main reason I was drawn to these looks is I feel most of them can be easily re-created by ordinary people like you and me. Enjoy !

Viktor & Rolf

Balmain

Band of Outsiders

Dolce & Gabbana

Jaeger London

L.A.M.B

Mulberry

Paul Smith

Ports 1961

Rachel Roy

THE TOP TEN MODELS: the decade's most unforgettable faces according to Style.com

2010-10-13T04:55:00.000-07:00

Style.com is celebrating its Tenth anniversary this year, and as a part of those celebrations they have created their top ten of the decade's lists. They have the top ten fashion icons of the decade to the top ten ten collections of decade, so I decided to share their selection of the decades top ten models. I must say I do not agree with all the choices , but hey one can't argue with the gurus at Style.com. Please note that there is no rating on this list.

Here they are :

Lara Stone , who at a size 4 has been called fat , but she doesn't CARE!

Miranda Kerr , Orlando Bloom's wife and Victoria Secrets Angel

Natalia Vodianova, we all know her from those super Calvin Klein ads

Stella Tennant,who brought androgyny to the runways

Agyness Deyn , is considered a style icon for all the quirky fashion choices she makes

Chanel Iman,the youngest and only girl of color on this list

Daria Werbowy, who was chosen as the exclusive face of Prada in 2003

Gisele Budnchen , the world's highest paid model of all time

Kate Moss , what can one say about Kate , either than legendary

Freja Beha Erichsen , what else do you need when Karl Lagerfeld is your number one fan

I AM BACK!!

2010-10-13T02:26:00.000-07:00

So I have been gone for a while, so much has happened in the world of fashion! Fashion Weeks have come and gone , Alexander McQueen died, Halle Berry became the second black woman in the history of American Vogue to snatch the cover of the September Issue! But I am back... The face of this blog is going to change I have a few things up my well sewn sleeve! WATCH THIS SPACE!

Much Love

Miss V

Alek Wek on the Cover of the Elle April Issue!

2010-03-20T01:02:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to abouth the April 2010 issue of the Elle magazine because my one of my favourite models Alek Wek is on the cover! This also happens to be the 14th anniversary issue and is thus a collectors issue. I am particularly excited about this issue because it has an interesting article that looks at if Black Covers sell, which has been a point of contestantion for years! I hope to see lots more black models on the covers of magazines like the South African Elle in the future!

Rozana Hall signs with Black Opal Cosmetics!

2010-03-07T06:37:00.000-08:00

Rozana was part of the Face of Africa top ten and she made to the top three on the night of the show, but alas she did not win it! For those of who don't know already Rozana is now a spokesmodel for Black Opal Cosmetics in Zimbabwe.Black Opal Cosmetics is an American brand , specializes in beauty products for women and men of colour and is distributed in several countries all around the world.I am really excited for her hope there is more to come for her cause I think she is just super super super!

Lukundo Nalungwe: Face of Africa 2010!

2010-03-07T06:15:00.000-08:00

About a month ago 22 year old Lukundo from Zambia won the Face of Africa competition and I must say I did not see her coming... BUT on the night of the show she blew me away her walk on the run way was super and after seeing her portfolio on the Omodel Africa website I am really convinced that she has a bright future ahead . I am anxious to see what she will be doing in the future! Here are some of her post show pics, enjoy !!

Lukundo at New York Fashion Week for the Arise Show.

At the Arise Fashion Show After Party... I Love the outfit!

images taken from omodelafrica.com

Audi Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2010!

2010-01-15T11:25:00.000-08:00

The Audi Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2010 shows are about to begin! From the 20th - 23rd of January the Sandton Convention Centre is the place to be. The line up includes Thula Sindi , Machere, Leigh Schubert and David Tlale whose show will be by invite only!I suspect that the Face of Africa Top Ten will be walking in the David Tlale show as it is a joint effort between him and Jan Malan , the Face of Africa head judge! Tickets are available at Computicket from a R100 each and you can also get an all day pass for certain shows at a R100.

Thula Sindi, will be showing on Saturday the 23rd.

Leigh Schubert will be showing on Friday the 22 nd at 18h:00.

Machere will be showing on Wednesday the 20th at 21h30.

Please support South African Fashion and try get to all the shows!Visit www.africanfashioninternational.com for more information.

2010 Wardrobe Must Haves!

2010-01-08T02:40:00.000-08:00

There are certain clothing items that are must haves. These are pieces of clothing you can wear throughout the year, regardless of your personal sense of style. You can dress them up or down, wear them throughout the year. All you need is to get the right accessories and shoes and you'll be fashionable the whole year through So here they are!

The ruffled blouse. You can wear this with skinny jeans and as it gets colder throw a blazer or cardigan over it.

The Boyfriend blazer, you can dress this up and down .Pair it with a vest during the day.

Skinny jeans in a grey wash.

An over sized cardigan is an essential for when the weather starts to get chilly.

Boyfriend jeans.

A pencil skirt .

A cross over bag, in a neutral color.

A Busy Year for Arise Magazine!

2010-01-08T01:40:00.000-08:00

Arise Magazine is breaking new ground for African fashion yet again! It will be taking the African Fashion Collective to Paris fashion Week in March. The African Fashion Collective was launched at New York fashion week last year and will be entering its third season in February this year. I am so excited about this ,its a chance for African designers to showcase their work in the world's fashion capital Paris!

Arise will also launch the Arise Africa Fashion Rocks Festival at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa this year. It seems as though it will be a very busy year for Arise and I can't wait to see it all!

They will be BIG in 2010!

2010-01-06T10:13:00.000-08:00

This post is on my favorite models of color who I think will rock the international modelling scene this year! You might recognize some of them while some of them are like complete strangers to you, but I promise you they won't be strangers for long ! I am really hoping we will see more models of color on the ramps ,in editorials and in campaigns!

American R'el Dade.

Georgie Baddiel.

Aminata Niaria.

Sessilee Lopez.

Arlenis Sosa.

Chanel Iman.

Tao Okamoto.

Lyndsey Scott.

Ciara for L'Officiel Magazine!

2010-01-06T09:31:00.000-08:00

My first post for 2010 is an editorial that Ciara did for L'Officiel , a French fashion magazine. I must say I was amazed I don't usually buy into the whole celebrites as models thing but she really rocked it out , check it out!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T07:42:00.000-08:00

Hey guys 2010 is well under way and I am really excited ! I get the feeling that we will all see the fashion industry locally and internationally transform! Watch this space 2010 will be super!!

Merry Christmas and A Very Happy New Year!

2009-12-24T01:14:00.000-08:00

Hi guys thank you so much for supporting me and the blog, I still have so much to learn! So next year the Fashion Hangout is coming back bigger and better... Hope you guys will keep supporting the blog and you will tell all your friends about it and become followers. I am hoping to do so much more get new features going and make the already existing one's better!

I wish all of you and your loved one's a Happy holiday season and may all your dreams come true in 2010! And as Liya Kebede said " If you don't have a dream in life, I don't know what you have. You have to want something beyond your reach!" So go out there guys and make your dreams come true... I will be there with you!

p.s look out for new posts in the first week of January!

Much Love
Verna
xoxoxoxo

Liya Kebede for Elle Italia January 2010

2009-12-19T02:33:00.000-08:00

Lost & Found !

2009-12-19T02:11:00.000-08:00

You are all probably wondering what the heck is Lost & Found... Well it's any fashion lovers dream and I just had to share it with you. Lost & Found is a group on Facebook that sells vintage and second hand clothing and is run by the most fashionable person I know Amy Rawhani. So Amy and I had an interview of sorts were she shared what inspired her to start the business , how it works , how to rock vintage clothing and her thoughts on style... Here it is!

Amy Rawhani , the brain behind Lost & Found!

Q: What inspired you to start the business and how does it work ?

A : I started up my business two years ago, so I was doing it while I was a student. I have always had a special affinity towards fashion, but due to study constraints , I had neither the time nor the resources to go into designing and manufacturing. However, I also had a special feigning for second hand and vintage clothing, and having bounced the idea around for a really long time, I didn't want to be the kind of person who constantly spoke about something but never did anything about it. So in January 2008 with a little loan from my parents I started up a business sourcing and selling vintage and second-hand clothing online, on a facebook group with a bidding system. Initially I started out with my friends and a customer base of 24, but now via word of mouth I have about 435 members/customers. Due to study constraints like time, I have only managed to do it every quarter. I suppose it's also because I'm very picky and protective with my li'l project and as such don't want to pass it onto anyone else. Its also very important to me in the sense that a lot of my sources are either in the informal economy, or in the charity business, and therefore my business aids in the sustainability of other people, and has a much more far reaching effect than just my own customer base.

Q: What do you like about vintage clothing?

A: The quality ! There is nothing in the world like it , often a lot of the stuff I get is handmade which makes it even more awesome, it can't be repeated. There is only one person in the world wearing that specific item at that time in that way!

Q: So how should we rock vintage clothing ?

A: Mix it up ! Wear a vintage skirt with a Mr Price tank. Get a tailor and adjust it in such a way that it can be taken to its original form. Don't drastically change it , unless you have the guts to!

Q: Whats your style advice for all aspiring fashionistas?

A: DON'T BE SCARED TO TRY A STYLE OUT! Never be scared to experiment and have fun with how you express yourself. Don't ever feel like you have to keep to a certain style cause people expect it of you , just because you see something on a mannequin doesn't mean that's how you have wear it .I'm the girl who will take her shoes off in a club - comfort is most important because it affects your whole mood and demeanor , so people will pick up on it. LOOKING GOOD IS NOT AS IMPORTANT AS FEELING GOOD! Style has nothing to do with money...

Here is a link Lost & Found check it out and join the group. Check out the slide show below its a little taste of whats available on Lost & Found!

Face of Africa!

2009-12-15T05:58:00.000-08:00

Okay guys we are down to the top 12 now so its two more eliminations before we know who will be fighting it out for the top honours in Lagos next year .Jasmine is gone as I told you she would be but I am heart broken that Sandra has gone home , I am no longer guessing who will be in the top ten cause you never know what will happen. But I will say I think Rozana is winning Face of Africa this year , she is yet to dissapoint , her work just gets better and I love her... Tell me what you think in the comments box below!

Rozana Hall has a great chance of winning Face of Africa.

Sessilee Lopez for MAC!

2009-12-15T05:46:00.000-08:00

I have a major girl crush on Sessilee and I love seeing her new campaigns so here she is for a new line from MAC cosmetics called all ages , all races... Don't know when it will launch in South Africa but look out for it!

Polyvore: Express Your Style

2009-12-15T05:38:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine told me about Polyvore.com a while ago and I thought I should share it with you. The idea behind the site is you can create your own outfits , mix and match designer clothing , start your own trends. They supply pictures of clothing or you can upload you own pictures. Its really great for all fashionista's and if you not sure about a combination you can share it with you friends and get their feed back. I love playing around on it ... Here is the link try it and you'll be hooked http://www.polyvore.com/ ! Here are some of my favourite combinations created by Polyvore experts!

Blake Lively in Marie Claire by Kristy Bell featuring Fendi bags

Style Rihanna by Karine Minzon Wilson featuring Forever21

For Argentium [join my new group] by ♥♥Ammy♥♥ "BE ORIGINAL" featuring Chanel clutches

Beauty of the Week

2009-12-15T04:28:00.000-08:00

Hey guys , we have a new Beauty of the week... Check her out at the bottom of the page! If you also want to see yourself here email me your picture , name , age and location at nhlabangana@yahoo.com, thats what Ruby did ! You never know who is looking! If you are interested in any of the girls we have up here send me an email too...

Miss World 2009!

2009-12-13T23:13:00.000-08:00

Miss Gibraltar won the Miss World Crown on Saturday night in Johannesburg , while Miss Mexico and Miss South Africa came in second and third!

Miss World 2009 , Kaiane Aldorino.

First Runner-up Miss Mexico, Miss world and Second Runner-up Miss South Africa Tatum Keshwar!

Pre-Fall Preview.

2009-12-12T02:16:00.000-08:00

Hey guys I always try to keep the blog as local as I possibly can, but I also want to keep everyone up to date with what is going on in the fashion capitals of the world and what your favourite international designers are doing. All the big design houses have just launched their pre-fall ranges and here is a taste! So remember these looks for when our weather gets cooler and you will look amazing!

Alexander Wang

Micheal Kors

Zac Posen

Oscar de la Renta

Burberry Prosum

Introducing The Beauty of the Week Feature!

2009-12-11T02:26:00.001-08:00

If you look at the bottom of the page you will see a picture of a beautiful girl and she is our beauty of the week! This is not a competition it's a celebration of all the different types of beauty. You can nominate yourself and your friends for our beauty of the week. Just email me you picture,age,nameand location and I'll put you up there... Lets celebrate our beauty and diversity!

Trend Watch: Shift Dresses!

2009-12-07T05:21:00.000-08:00

I am almost sure that you have all seen a dress like this, you probably didn't know it's called a shift dress. This is a must have item for the summer.They were really big during the summer in the Northern Hemisphere and I spotted quite a few on the Spring/Summer 2010 runways. Shift dresses go way back and were really huge in the sixties. So how do you tell a shift dress apart from any other dress. Firstly they are usually simple, short above the knees with no definition around the waist and the neckline is usually a high scoop neck. You can wear your shift dress with a belt and if you buy one in cotton you can keep and pair it up with leggings or tights for winter.Dress it up or down its super! I'm not sure where you can get them locally , but at least now when you go shopping you'll know what to look for!

White Shift Dress

Michelle Obama in a black shift dress.

The legendary Twiggy in a shift dress during the sixties.

Steven Meisel is a Genius!

2009-12-07T04:11:00.001-08:00

All you fashion fundis will know who Steven Meisel is, he really needs no introduction ,but for those of you who are less knowledgeable he is one of the worlds greatest fashion photographers and this is just not my opinion its a FACT! His latest assignment for Vogue Italia is amazing he has taken something we all use everyday, Twitter as his inspiration for this fun editorial. I really love this not only because some of my favourite models are featured in this story because its just genius!

Sessilee Lopez

Agyness Deyn

Face of Africa Update!

2009-12-07T04:10:00.000-08:00

Hey guys I haven't updated on Face of Africa in a while so I think its time for a recap. Its now down to the top 14. Selam was sent home on Saturday (this episode will show next week here in S.A)and last week Gorata and Carolyne were sent home. I am really bummed that Gorata was sent home, I had hoped she will make it to the top 10, now I have to replace her with Ernania from Mozambique who really surprised me.I did some digging and I discovered that Jasmine from Namibia was also sent home. This show is getting interesting, in four or five weeks depending where in Africa you are, we will know who is part of the top ten. I have to say I am Loving Sandra from Uganda you are great!

Sandra from Uganda.

Ajuma Nasenyana

2009-12-06T03:24:00.000-08:00

I had to do a profile on Ajuma, she is an amazing Kenyan born Supermodel who has made waves on the international modelling scene. 25 year old Ajuma is represented by ten different agencies all around the world and has done campaigns for Fabi, Marc Jacobs and Nolita.Her claim to fame? She was 4th runner up in the Ford Supermodel of the World and hasn't looked back since then! Ajuma's runway resume is amazing she has walked for Alexander McQueen, Just Cavalli, Issey Miyake , David Tlale , Kluk CGDT and many other amazing designers. I really love her an her beautiful ebony skin!

Ajuma in the current issue of Arise

Sunglasses!

2009-12-06T01:51:00.001-08:00

Sunglasses are a summer ESSENTIAL. I think they are the perfect accessory for any summer outfit. Here are some beautiful shades you can try out this summer! From classic beautiful frames and shutter glasses for the daring!

How to Walk in Heels!

2009-12-06T01:22:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing I know is all women ,well almost all women love shoes especially high heels. We all dream of wearing Jimmy Choo's , Monolo's and Christian Louboutin's, but if you like me you can't afford them nor walk in them... So here is a video tutorial that will help you learn how to walk in heels so when you do buy a pair of Louboutin's you'll know how to rock them...

Proudly African : David Tlale!

2009-12-05T01:43:00.000-08:00

David Tlale is hard to miss with his afro,sunglasses and amazing sense of style.He won the South African Fashion Week Elle New Talent Competition and the Sunday Times Best New Designer of the Year in 2003 and has been doing amazing things for South African fashion since then. His designs have been described as being very elaborate. The last two years have been amazing for David. He was chosen in 2007 to showcase his designs at the Paris Couture Fashion Week Exhibition and later on that year he showed his Ready-to-Wear collection in Paris. In 2008 he was voted as SA's most stylish person, he was awarded the Mzansi Star Fashion Designer Award and designed a showstopper for British model Jordan Dunn which was showcased at the Virgin Mobile Cape Town Fashion Week.

He aslo launced his Green Collection which is for voluptous women in 2008 . In September of this year he showcased his work at the Spring Summer 2010 New York Fashion Week as part of the Arise Promise of Africa Collection. When you think that this man is done, his not ! On the 26th of November he launched his new shoe range that will be stocked at Luella stores all around South Africa.

David still has many aces up his sleeves and I am really excited to see what he will do next.

Tyson Beckford in a DT design at New York Fashion Week.

Supermodel R'el Dade for DT at New York Fashion Week.

A pair of DT shoes.

Who is that Girl?

2009-12-05T00:33:00.000-08:00

I am sure you have all seen her in Ponds latest campaign and I am sure you all agree that she is a beauty! She is 26 year old Zambian Tanya Manganyi.I must admit I wasn't totally convinced when I first saw her but now that I have done some research on her I am sold. She seems to be making waves right now, she was part of this years Sports Illustrated Swimwear Edition and I have spotted in quite a few editorials.She is signed to Boss Models and I really can not wait to see what she does in 2010!

Winds of Change!

2009-12-05T00:16:00.000-08:00

As you will notice the blog is no longer called models anonymous its now called the fashion hangout... I decided to change the blogs name cause we are now moving in a new direction, the core focus wont be on models anymore but I'll be giving a more "holistic" view of fashion. So look out for new features!
Thanks for all your support thus far!!!

Face of Africa : What does the future hold for past winners and contestants?

2009-11-28T02:53:00.000-08:00

The name Oluchi Onweagba is synonymous to the Face of Africa brand, but if I say the names Bevinda Mudenge, Ramatoulaye Diallo and Nombulelo Mazibuko very few people will know who I am talking about. All these women have one thing in common they have all won Face of Africa but Oluchi is the only to have made waves in the industry and she is still going strong. I have always wondered what happend to these women, who do you blame for their disappearance, the agents, the shows producers or the models themselves. I have to say the models themselves.This competition is great launch pad into the international world of modelling but it does not neccessarily mean that if you win you will be an instant hit , you have prove yourself!

The shows more recent winners Kaone Kiaro , Venantia Otto and Kate Menson seem to be enjoying more success than some of their predecessors. Kaone is back on our screens as the host of this year's show and and has landed contracts with big brands such as Nivea and Mr. Price. Past contestants such as Lerato Moloi didn't win the competition, she was even sent back form New York for being "too big" but she is doing amazingly, she is currently a spokeswoman for Elizabeth Arden.

Some people are still very skeptical of the Face of Africa brand and think that it's not as successful as it should have be . Some critics have questioned the "beauty' of the contestants. While some people question if the contestants are actually passionate about modelling and the fashion industry or if they are drawn to the competition only because of the cash prize and have no intention of actually continuing on as models.

I think its unfair and unrealistic to expect the judges and producers of the show to take control of the contestants careers after the show has ended. Its meant to be a a starting point , after one is eliminated or wins its up to them to make the most out of it. America's Next Top Model creator Tyra Banks has been criticised for not builidng the careers of past winners and contestants and in her defence she stated that it was up to the girls to make the most of the opportunities they had benn afforded.

I hope that this season's winner does well on a local and international level.

Nombulelo Mazibuko

Ramatoulaye Diallo won the competition in 2001.

Lerato Moloi was a finalist in 1999 and is one of the shows successful contestants.

This years host Kaone Kario.

Face of Africa Spoiler!

2009-11-28T01:06:00.000-08:00

I just found that Jasmine from Namibia has been eliminated from the show. I don't know when we will see her elimination on tv. So far my predictions for the top ten seem to be on track! Good Luck with your future plans Jasmine...

Arise Magazine Africa's Leading Glossy !

2009-11-28T00:50:00.000-08:00

"Arise breaks new ground by celebrating Africa's brightest innovations in fashion, culture and society." I love the Arise magazine and thought I should share this amazing magazine with you. It reallt deservesto be called Africa's leading glossy. Arise was launched in october 2008 and the first issue hit newsstand in February in 2009 . Naomi Campbell , Liya Kebede, Sessilee Lopez, Oluchi Onweagba, Betty Adewole and most recently Alicia Keys have graced the cover of Arise. Many people have come to know Arise through its sponsorship of the Arise African Fashion Collective that made its debut at New York Fashion Week in February this year. The inaugural Arise Africa Fashion Week Awards is another way that Arise contributes to the growth of the African fashion industry. This is part of the reason why I am a great fan of Arise , it is great to see a magazine that is celebrating our fashion designers, models, artists and photographers.

I hope it wont die out and will continue innovate and inspire us all!

Alica Keys on the latest cover.

The Arise African Fashion Collective at New York Fashion Week in February

Oluchi for Arise.

Introducing the Proudly African Series

2009-11-27T22:40:00.000-08:00

Over the next few I will be looking at some of Africa's top designers and models.I feel our designers and models don't get the credit that is due to to them so this is a tribute of sorts and I would really like it if all you modelsanonymous followers sent me an email and told me who you would like to see featured up here...

Zimbabwe Fashion Week!

2009-11-25T04:26:00.001-08:00

Its true next year the first ever Zimbabwe Fahion week will happen in Harare! This is the brain child of Zimbabwean born model Priscilla Chigariro who is now based in Jhb. The inaugural show might feature some South african designers who will not only judge the competition but who will also be showing some collections. I am really excited about it just shows that the African Fashion industry is growing at an amazing rate... Well done Priscilla! Visit http://www.zimbabwefashionweek.com/ for more information.

Priscilla Chigariro

"Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels!"

2009-11-25T03:36:00.001-08:00

Kate Moss
Originally uploaded by nhlabangana

Kate Moss was recently qouted as saying that "Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels," and she has come under lots of scrutiny for this comment. Many people feel that it was irresponsible for Kate to say something like that considering that she is a role model for many young girls and her statement has made it seems as though its okay for people to starve themselves. The modelling industry has been accused of perpetuating unrealistic images of women, and over the past few years the models have gotten skinner and skinner. The "Say No To Size Zero Campaign" is one organization that is against overly skinny models. A size zero is equivalent to a size 4 in the U.K which is a size 28 here in South Africa. Those against size zero's advocate that models should atleast be a size 6 which is a size 30.
Some African models such a Lerato Moloi have been sent home in the past for being "overweight." Last month Ralph Lauren came underfire for doctoring a picture of a model to make her look skinner than what she really is. There are many other examples of situations were designers have used boney models for their shows, and last year two South American models made headlines after they passed away from complications related to eating disorders.Certain cities have tried to place bans on models who are too skinny from taking part in fashion weeks hosted there. But is that really enough, I think the designers and fashions creme de la creme should take responsibility. I mean if Anna Wintour put a few normal sized women in her magazine then someone else might follow suit. Designers and Editors create trends we follow what they say and it might take time but they could change this idea that the skinner one is the better off they are.
The industry should promote a healthy body image rather than an unatainable fallacy...

Face of Africa Update...

2009-11-25T01:15:00.000-08:00

Face of Africa is getting really exciting but I must say I wish the show was an hour long. Anyway in this week's episode Namibia's Magnaem is sent packing... Its really sad to see the girls cry but it is and a competion and someone must win. Rozana is doing exceptionally well and was picked as model of the day on day three of model boot camp she shared this honour with Lukando from Zambia.As we get closer to the top ten I am tempted to start predicting who will make it to the fina in Lagos next year.

My Predictions for the top ten are:

Rozana
Lukando
Esperanca
Lilian
Gorata
Nardos
Diana
Benedicta
Thembi
Sandra

And I must say the way its going right now I think Rozana has a massive chance of winning this thing... She is fierce but she must watch out for Lilian, Lukando and Esperanca...

All Hail the Great Oluchi!

2009-11-20T06:18:00.001-08:00

As the first M-net Face of Africa , Oluchi Onweagba has had an amazing modelling career. She has graced the covers of magazines such as Pop ,ID, Surface, and Vogue , been the face of L'Oreal . Recently she was chosen as the host of the West African version of America's Next Top Model and started her own modelling agency Omodel Africa based in Johanesburg. Her runway record is also quite impressive she has walked for amazing designers including Christian Dior, Anna Sui, Jeremy Scott, Valentino, and Balmain just to name a few. She has also been part of campaigns for Banana Republic,GAP ,Lancome, and Clinique and yet gain this is just to name a few ...Models . com rates her in the top 20 sexiest models in world !
Its hard to believe that this is the same girl who won Face of Africa 10 years ago. What makes Oluchi so special is that she is the most successful winner of the competition.I find her so exceptional cause she is 1.85m tall and many people say that is too tall for a model, but she has clearly over come this to be ultra successful...Proving once again that if you want it badly enough you can do it!

I LOVE HER!

A Picture is Worth a 1000 Words...

2009-11-20T06:12:00.000-08:00

Hello people here are some pictures from last night's Victoria's Secret show!

Chanel Iman

Heidi Klum

Marissa Miller

My girl crush Sessilee Lopez

Homegrown Candice Swanepoel

Alessandra Ambrosio

Doutzen Kroes

Selita E. Banks

I Love it can't wait to see it!

What do YOU need to be a Model ?

2009-11-20T05:42:00.000-08:00

People tend to think that being a model is easy. Its not, its a career not a hobby ,its not something you can do in your spare time and hope to be successful at. I have met so many people who think the only prerequisite to being a model is being beautiful and that's also not true so I have decided to break it down to all of you who want to model.

Firstly there are different types of modelling, such as commercial, editorial and fashion which includes ramp modelling. The most important thing is height espcecially if you want to be a fashion model. Here in South Africa the minimum height requirement is 1.72m but internationally it seems to be a lot stricter and the minimum height requirement is like 1.74m. Kate Moss is 1.72m tall and has done amazingly well , but I think anyone shorter than that might not do as well on the High Fashion front.

Hips Hips Hips or rather the lack there of , are also very important internationally the maximum hip requirement is 91 cm. The South African Modelling industry is a bit more linient so anyone up to a size 34 could be successful.

Good skin ,a great personality also go along way in this industry. The question is how does one get discovered? Most agencies in South Africa have an open door policy so you can practically just walk in, but you must have pictures with you. These are usually a head shot, a full length shot in a bikini, and some shots in your own clothes. Certain agencies give your the option to upload your pictures and measurements on their sites.
Different agencies have different requirements so check out these websites to see what each agency is looking for.
If you are based in JHB checkout, www.headsmodels.co.za ; www.starmodels.co.za ; www.icemodels.co.za and www.omodelafrica.com.
All Cape Town model wanna be's checkout , www.bossmodels.co.za ; www.fusionmodels.co.za ; www.zeromodels.co.za and www.elitemodelafrica.com .

I honestly believe that if you really want to model you can , cause like anything else in life its what you put into it. If you don't meet the crazy requirements to be a fashion model, you could always do plus size modelling or print.There will always be someone out there who tells you that you not good enough , pretty enough , skinny enough, but just remember that Tyra banks, Liya Kebede and many other successful models have all been rejected by somebody!!!

One of the world's most successful models and is not 6 feet tall or perfect... So what's holding you back!

A Sexy Secret Indeed...

2009-11-19T12:46:00.000-08:00

The Victoria's Secret girls in Time Square yesterday. The Show is being recorded tonight and I can't wait to see how the high fashion girls like Chanel and Lyndsey do... And my girl Sessilee Lopez is back! Now we wait till the 1st of December...

The 2009 Victoria's Secret Show

2009-11-18T01:54:00.000-08:00

I know for a fact that all women love love love the annual Victoria's Secret Show. This year its due to air on the 1st of December, the question though is who will be walking in this years show with three of the Angels having given birth recently. Heidi Klum , Adriana Lima and Karolina Kurkova are going to be missing from this years show , but we will get to see Heidi Klum as she will be this years hostess... New Editions to the Victoria's Secret line up include Lyndsey Scott and Aminata Niaria . Chanel Iman,Candice Swanepoel , Emanuela de Paula, Lindsay Ellingson and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley have all been named as the new Victoria's Secret Angels.

Rosie

Candice

Emanuela

Lyndsey Scott

Aminata

First Face Countdown for Spring /Summer 2010 Season Begins!

2009-11-17T11:29:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know one of the greatest honors a model can receive is being chosen as the first face/ look out at a fashion show. The first face is a model who opens the fashion show and is considered by the designer as the model of the season and an upcoming model.

Every Season Fashion T.V has a first face countdown and the girls who opened the most shows are counted down from number ten to one,the question is who will receive this seasons honors. Previous seasons first face winners include my girl Natasha Poly who has taken the top spot quite a few times...

Natasha Poly

The countdown will end on Friday with the number one model being announced, but for now number ten and nine are out.

Number ten is Imogen Morris Clarke.

Chanel Iman comes in at number nine.

Can't wait to see who is number one!

Latest News on Face of Africa

2009-11-17T10:36:00.000-08:00

Hey guy I am having major problems with the mnet website so I wont be able to load any videos from the show on here till I sort it out.I also think that the show's airing is delayed in South Africa and we are one episode behind so here is a quick catch up.

Day two of boot camp consisted of the girls answering questions on fashion and being taught some stuff on how to be stylish... I am all for honing talent but I was really upset to find out that the girls fashion knowledge is DICEY , one of the girls did not know who Dolce and Gabbanna were (Really now people). At the end of day two Nancy form Zambia and Mosinyi from Botswana were both sent packing. Seems as though they have a model of the day thing going and the honors went to Tholakele and Rozanna from Zimbabwe!I must say these two girls are fierce, think either of them could take it and that would be great and a first ,a Zim girl winning Face of Africa!

I have pictures from Swahili fashion week which took place earlier this month and the Face of Africa girls were there doing their thing on the catwalk.

These are my four favorite girls, Rozanna (Zimbabwe), Lillian (Tanzania), Thembi(SA) and Tholakele (Zimbabwe). If you want to see more from Swahili Fashion Week visit www.swahilifashionweek.com .

Sisters are moving up in the world!

2009-11-11T06:02:00.000-08:00

My three favorite models have all moved up on the models.com ratings. I Love it its great to see young women of color doing great things , and being recognized for it...

Chanel Iman is now number 15.

Arlenis Sosa is now at number 22.

And mommy to Jordan Dunn is at number 19 now.

Good luck ladies and keep going Strong.

Taki Simeli, Miss South Africa 2009 Finalist

2009-11-11T05:34:00.000-08:00

Its that time of the year, Miss South Africa time. Really excited about the competition one of my favorite South African models is a finalist in this years competition. Not only is she beautiful , she is smart and one of the most caring and supportive people I know.Her name is Taki Simeli. Good Luck girl show them what you are made of. The Show will air in the 13 th of December on Sabc 3 tune in and watch as someone's dreams come true.

Miss Sessilee Lopez can be Fierce and Soft!

2009-11-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

People are used to seeing Miss Sessilee Lopez looking all fierce well her softer side was revealed on the Major Models Blog check it out...

Looking so regal!

Fierce Sessilee see the difference.

This is what a true model should be like, VERSATILE able to go from fierce to regal and beautiful!!
Love Sessilee!!

Face of Africa Top 24

2009-11-11T02:57:00.000-08:00

The top 24 was announced last week To the contestants surprise four of them had to go home on their first day at model boot camp , and the unlucky quartet was made up of Nok from Sudan, Neo from South Africa , Nyagoa from Sudan and Linda from the DRC.

Now 20 girls are left and the competition is getting more and more feirce here is your top 20:

Benedicta from Ghana.

Blessing from Nigeria.

Carolyne from Kenya.

Diana from Kenya.

Ernania from Mozambique.

Esperanca from Angola.

Gorata from Botswana.

Jasmine from Namibia.

Lilian from Tanzania.

Lukando from Zambia.

Magnaem from Namibia.

Marvis from Nigeria.

Mosinyi from Botswana .

Nancy from Malawi.

Nardos from Ethopia.

Rozana from Zimbabwe.

Sandra from Uganda.

Salem from Ethopia.

Thembi from South Africa.

Tholakele from Zimbabwe.

Who is your favourite in the top 20 leave a comment below...

Face of Africa Returns...

2009-11-08T05:37:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the first episode of Face of Africa 2009 aired . I am really excited about this show... This season has seen Face of Africa transform into a 14 episode show and the stakes are high. Amongst other super prices the winner will receive $50 000 in cash, a dinner date with the IMAN and chance to walk in New York Fashion Week, talk about a great start to one's modelling career! For the next few months I'll be keeping you guys informed about everything going on in Face of Africa land, from who is in the final 24 to who has been eliminated... I'll also look at the judges and see what their claim to fame is, and profile previous Face winners. This is exciting Afrca's biggest and richest model search is back and I'll be watching and keeping you guys informed all the way!!!!