Monday, February 27, 2012
Reality Stars: The New Style Mavens
In the reality television era, it is no surprise that real life stars with actual talent aren't being emulated anymore. The blame can be placed on ratings and greedy television executives who aren't concerned with the content and quality but the fights and ratings. Television is rarely bombarded with our favorite actresses and actors instead we have to stalk blog websites to get just a glimpse of them. "Stars" such as Kim Kardashian, Snooki, NeNe Leakes, and Chrissy Lampkin just to name a few are the new models for what's hot in fashion.
Recently, I was visiting one of my favorite fashion websites; The Fashion Bomb, and the topic of discussion circulated around people being more interested in emulating the styles of reality stars rather than actual stars. There was one post where a reader of Fashion Bomb wanted to find a look alike outfit similar to video vixen Keyshia Dior's birthday outfit. Claire, the editor and creator of the blog posed the question who and why would someone want to wear that particular outfit in public. There were many different responses and it left me with the conclusion that these C-list stars are deciding what is appropriate. Arguably, many would say this is a problem because just by their t.v. attire one could say there are no limits. While a shirt that says "I'm Rich B***h" may be cute and makes for good branding for NeNe Leakes; however, if you showed up to work with that on, unlike Ms.Leakes I'm pretty sure instead of making a profit you will end up losing.
Now, do not get me wrong I have too fallen victim from watching Kim Kardashian's everyday looks to draw some inspiration for my own wardrobe. I will admit there is nothing wrong with being inspired by someone's looks just be aware of when it is appropriate and when it isn't. As Claire mentioned on her blog it is alright to wear a bodysuit unless you are on stage dancing with Beyonce or if you plan on starring in the new rendition of Black Swan. Snooki gets paid big bucks to walk around in booty shorts and a bra. It is considered entertainment I guess. It is NOT o.k. for YOU to do it. I came across an article last month about a VIBE shoot that went wrong. A young woman showed up to photo shoot wearing a mesh see-through leotard. I guess she thought it was fine because she was auditioning to be a VIBE Vixen and they are known for their risque lingerie.When the photographer saw what she was wearing he told her to go home because it was too much.
Again and Lastly I stress it is totally fine to be inspired by these looks. Inspire means to influence. If you see something you like take bits and pieces and make it your own because if you go all the way it may send out the wrong message and prevent you from obtaining a job because of someone's perceptions of you and who they think you represent.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Audre Lorde
"If I didn't define myself for myself, I would be crunched into other people's fantasies for me and eaten alive."
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