Keeping UP Daily: Black Publisher Passes Away.

Wilbert "Bill" A. Tatum, retired publisher of the New York Amsterdam News, the Harlem-based newspaper that has covered the city's black community for a century, has passed away at the age of 76. 1933 -2009 (see rest of story at NY Daily News)

"Bill Tatum represented the best of American media leaders, and the Black Press. He was a fearless defender of the underdog, and a dedicated teller of truth." (NAACP)

"It was men like Bill Tatum that helped us Keep Up on the things going on in the Black community. It is people like him that we strive to Keep Up with everyday. You are an inspiration to us all" (Keeping up with the Huxtables)

Oooh wee, I’m like the camouflage Louis…

Greetings Gentle Readers, Sartorially Savvy here with this week’s advice on how to stylishly “Keep Up…” alright, alright, now we know a few of you have been salivating at the thought of this week’s column… So, we won’t delay too much longer. Indeed it’s true. We’re going to be discussing the all important bag this week… But before you get too too excited, we’re going to break our usual mantra and dedicate this first one to the fellas. Reason being, ladies, you know as well as we do, the discussion of your bags could go on for days, so, we’re going to save that for Part II. It simply would not be fair to try to combine the genders on this one, unless you all wanted to read a doctoral dissertation on bags… We didn’t think so. That being said, while this may be directed towards the fellas, ladies, PLEASE take note; reading this piece will give you essential gift ideas for the men in your life, and if you’re a “keep it simple/on the go” lady, then this might serve as something applicable to your own steez. We’ll give you 3 classic (And a wild card for the those willing to strike out on a style limb) bag shapes/styles that are easy to fit into your daily lives, and come in enough variations as to be able to adapt to current trends, and your own personal styles. Let’s get into it, shall we?

The Duffel: Duffel's come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but most are square, circular, or a hybrid of the two. They also have two handles on the opposing sides for your hands, zips down the middle to open, may have pockets and pouches on the inside and out, and many also have a shoulder strap. You’ve likely had a duffel bag of some sort since a very young age, think about it, what were you carrying your Transformers and X-Men in to those sleepovers with your homeboys?!? Lowkey, you were probably carrying your Transformers in your Transformers duffel bag…Now that we’ve grown up past the days of trading Wolverine for Cyclops and our tastes have matured a bit, it’s time our duffel's should as well. To truly “Keep Up…” invest in a leather or high quality canvas duffel, it’ll serve you excellently on those quick weekend trips, longer excursions, and just jaunts across the city where you need carry a few more belongings than usual. It’ll last a life time. There’s a reason good duffel's are often passed down from generation to generation. Because of their size, the duffle isn’t your everyday bag, don’t treat it as such. You shouldn’t be carrying enough with you everyday that you need to use it everyday. And if in your line of work or life, you DO need to carry a duffel with you everyday, then make sure it’s a good, quality one, such as the leather or canvas we listed above. It’ll take the wear and tear of everyday use better than most other fibers. You can cop the duffel by your favorite designer for a bit of style and flair, or visit a classic luggage spot (Cadillac Luggage in Detroit has some EXCELLENT options) to peep some other options. If you get the duffel in leather, opt to have it engraved for a personalized touch and an air of sophistication.

The Book-bag: Just like the duffel, you’ve likely had a book-bag, backpack, knapsack, whatever you choose to call it, or two in your day as well. Back in the day, we utilized them for our Trapper Keepers (Remember Trapper Keepers?!?!?!, don’t act like we’re the only ones!!!), pencils, calculators, and text books in. That’s not the book-bags we’re talking about here… In the same realm as the grown up duffel is the grown up backpack. Save the Jansport’s for the kids, we’re “Keeping Up…” here. A nice black or brown leather book-bag will keep you on the right side of the “Swagger of a college kid…” vs. “8th grade Pre-Algebra,” debate. In addition to leather, the durable canvas option is also viable here. We’d recommend that you all stay away from the designer monogram backpacks, it usually just comes off as “I’m trying too hard…” Feel free to cop the designer option, just make sure that it’s subtle. Use your book-bags when heading to Bus Boy’s & Poet’s in D. C. to check out some ill artists AND do get some work done. Throw in your lap top, your copies of Our Kind of People, The Souls of Black Folk, and Song of Solomon with plenty of room to spare for the new issues of GQ and Details. The book bag also makes a good carry-on for plane trips, almost every book bag can fit into the overhead compartment of a plane or underneath the seat in front of you.

The Messenger/Soft brief case: Fairly new in the spectrum of shapes of available bags, the messenger is like a hybrid of the classic mail-bag silhouette and a much slimmer brief case. It came about, quite literally, for messengers to put documents/binders/folders into to courier to their destinations. And now, like so many things that originated from a specific purpose, it’s part of the style lexicon. Most messengers are about 5-7in wide and have a flap that comes across the top to cover the contents of the bag. Filled with pockets, compartments and secret stash places, messengers also have long strap that is usually slung across the body or used as a shoulder strap. Some higher end models also have a handle atop that enables the bag to double as a soft brief case of sorts. Following the aforementioned theme of the other bags, we’re not talking about rockin’ the mesh messenger that you did in halls of your high school; cop these in high quality canvas and leathers too. The reason for this is it that it ensures durability and also is a far more sophisticated and stylish option for its owner. This one it’s okay to rock the designer label, as the messenger is automatically a more grow up option than the book bag. A word to the wise about messengers: A book bag it is not, you’re not going to get the kind of space in these that you would in a book bag or duffel. Utilize your space wisely, keep to your essential possessions; a lap top, charger, magazine or two, charger for the celly, and a few other knick knacks. You don’t want your bag to be overstuffed or look sloppy. That defeats the entire purpose of the sophistication of leather or high quality canvas.

The WILD Card
The Satchel: Most of us have seen a satchel before, and not known what it was. The best way we like to describe it is an oversized doctor’s bag. You all remember the kind of bag Dr. Huxtable used to carry with his stethoscope, thermometer, and whatever else he kept in there? Looking almost like a barn with handles, a satchel is pretty much that, just a little bigger, sometimes bordering on the size of some duffels. Satchels have two handles for carrying and collapse close just like those doctor’s bags, they usually have zippers as well. There’s a vintage cognac colored leather satchel sitting in our home in Detroit that’s almost as old as we are that mother dear just won’t give us, our last name branded into it and everything!!! It’s quite beastly. We might just have to make away with it and fail to mention it to her… But we digress… The satchel is bad enough for every day use, but you likely won’t need the space it contains, a notable exception to this is if you’re on the yard at Morgan, Howard, or another HBCU (after all, if you’re “Keeping Up…” you’re at an HBCU lol… We still have love for our friends who attend(ed) non-HBCUs), the satchel is a VERY stylish alternative to the book bags your peers are likely carrying. Hit the yard at 12 on Monday and you’re sure to catch an eye or two. Otherwise, save the satchel for weekend trips, road trips, and vay-kays. And don’t go trying to find a cognac colored leather satchel either!!! J/k. The same rule applies here Gentle Readers, leathers and canvas. We want you to have these bags down to the next generation, give them a head start in the race to “Keep Up…” stylishly.

Ladies… We got you. SOON. We promise. Until next time…

Stylishly Yours,
Sartorially Savvy
“Fashions fade, but style is eternal.” ~ Yves Saint Laurent

Getting Rid of the "I" Attitude (I put my nigga on..my nigga put...)

As a race we have constantly been on a mission to make it to the top. Too often do we live in poverty with only dreams of making it out. Those of us that see our dreams turning into reality are on a mission to get to the top alone. Isn't it crazy how our race differs from the rest?

Our mission this year is to figure out how to put our heads together and help each other become successful. This year is about combining talents and making our journey a much easier one. If you look around you at some of the other races, you will see them working together to make their way in this crazy country.

I don't know about you, but I have a ton of talented friends and we can't wait to see the success that comes from us working together to get to the top. If you don't know how to turn the "I" attitude into "We", here it goes:

Example 1: On the Come up Together

If you are an up-and-coming artist then you need a team. You need a manager, publicist, lawyer, stylist...just to name a few.

Look no further than your immediate circle if you have any friends that are trying to grow in these fields. Each day help each other become better. If you do not have a circle of friends that you can reach out to...maybe you need to extend your circle and reach out in a new direction.

Result: You probably have a team of people that want to see each other grow. You have a team that probably has your best interest at heart. You also have maximized on the number of people that are going to make it to the top. Gooooo hard together...its much easier than doing it alone.

Example 2: Already at the Top

We all heard the saying, "I put my niggas on...my niggas put they niggas on"

Let's say you are Ludacris and you need a personal chef. You have a homie that loves to cook all of the time. Send him to culinary school and make him your personal chef! :)

Result: You don't have to leave everybody behind. Once you bring someone else up with you...they can reach back also.

The point is that we all must work together to get to where we want to be. If you want success...model the examples around you. If everyone else works together, we think that we can do it alone? What do we have some magic superpowers that makes us different? Clearly we do not, because it isn't working for us.

Let's take the "I" attitude and turn it into "We".

Below give an example of how you have worked with someone to become more successful?

Young and Keeping Up: SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC'S Events

Isis Samuels Swaby, Owner of SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC’S EVENTS

Who's Keeping Up this week? Isis Samuels Swaby shows us how she is helping us "Keep Up" in fashion. Vintage...so classy!

Established in 2008 by Isis Samuels Swaby , SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC'S Events is a vintage brand which promotes online and sells the vintage items at SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC'S shopping events. The event is a free 1-day vintage shopping and celebration monthly event. The website will also introduce new products monthly on SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC's site. Also, the SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC's Events will feature new young visual artists, and designers projects.

SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC’S PREVIEW

When asked how Isis thinks she is "Keeping UP" She responded by saying, "I am Keeping Up by arranging SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC'S Events that promotes young New York City's young professionals, who are making a positive impact to inspire their peers. SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC Events presents a foundation that can provide a networking platform for New York City's young professionals.Therefore, I am remaining creative and focused on making my dreams a reality in New York City. I was interested in event planning, art, and fashion, so I decided to combine all of those interests. Also, I am involved in a program called NFTE, National Foundation of Entrepreneurship, and I spent two weeks at NFTE Biz Summer Camp at Columbia University Business School to develop a business plan. Now my business plan is taking an effect."

Isis, owner of SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC'S Events gives her advice on how other people can Keep Up, "Stay focused, and never give up on yourself. Be your own pr, by networking, and networking. If you are not comfortable speaking to different types of people, push yourself to be social, and put yourself in different kind of atmosphere, and always take risk. Life is too short not to live up to your full potential."


Please mark your calendars for the next SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC's Event:

EVENT

SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC

1-day monthly shopping and celebration event
vintagewear shopping for young professionals
Showcasing "Touch & Feel" ISSARTworks. Paintings
cool art for young professionals

DATE
03.28.09
DETAILS
SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC'S EVENTS

Please RSVP, and for more information to: PARTY@SHOPSUPERETTE.COM

SUPERETTE + VINTAGE NYC
shopsuperette.com
http://www.superettevintage.onsugar.com/
ISSARTworks. Paintings
issartwork.com

Sartorially Savvy’s Must Have Item of the Week!

Greetings Gentle Readers, Sartorially Savvy here with a little something new!! This week begins a new feature here at “Keeping Up…” We’ll be coming to you each week with a weekly MUST HAVE. Something that should be in your closet in hopes of helping you all “Keep Up…” stylishly and have the ever illusive, all important, complete wardrobe! We’ll list the item, and tell you how you can wear it in different environments and how to use it to pull off different looks and what to pair it with. If you already have it in your closet, excellence! if not, then do your best to get it!! We know this is a recession, so we won’t be telling you all to go out and cop Birkin bags or anything… only what’s very necessary like Salt-n-Pepa!

The cable knit crewneck sweater

Classic like a pair of door knocker earrings and a Kangol, the cable knit crewneck sweater is to your wardrobe what rice is to the world; that is it’s a staple. For those who don’t know, a crew neck is the most popular and common type of neck in most tops. It’s etymology comes from the sweaters worn by oarsmen, or those who rowed the oars on boat. These men were the boat’s crew… hence, crewneck. Crewnecks are round and collarless. Pretty simple right? Bet.

The next part is just as simple, the cable knit refers to the stitching producing a pattern resembling the twisting of two ply cable. Basic enough right? Cable knit crewnecks are staples because of their classic nature, widespread availability and ease of wearing. It’s a piece that is universally flattering. Make sure you have your size. The shoulder seam should be at your shoulders, not your elbows and the sweater should fit fairly close to the body, without too much excess on the sides. You’re wearing a sweater, not a garbage bag. You can wear them by themselves, or put a button down oxford, tee, or polo underneath or a jean jacket or blazer over top.

Cable knits come in almost every color in the rainbow; seriously, we have one in eggplant, and texture, from cotton, to cashmere and a blend of almost everything in between. Stick to natural fibers with these because they’ll last longer and keep their shape better than synthetics. Pair these with jeans and sneakers for a casual weekend look, or slacks and loafers, or a pencil skirt and pumps for look that goes from day in the office to a night on the town. Be sure to cop the cable knit crewneck in your signature of favorite color, and when pairing with an oxford or polo, try either the exact same color for a sophisticated monochromatic look, or a contrasting complementary color. We pair our eggplant sweater with either an eggplant oxford, or lime green polo. Just like rice, the cable knit crewneck is all about what you pair it with. Make it your own, play with color, texture, and accessories. Just make sure you have at least one in your closet!! Until next time Gentle Readers…

Stylishly Yours,
Sartorially Savvy
“Fashions fade, but style is eternal” ~ Yves Saint Laurent

Friday's Top Ways to Keep Up

1. So you let the media be your teacher? Take the time to read what is going on with our government and economy. It is really important that we not focus so much on the celebrity gossip, cartoon images, and constant complaints about the economy without completely understanding what is going on in the Country in which we live.

So many people rely on the media to feed them all that they need to know. The reality is that the media feeds us their point of view on the issues and we simply take it in. We do not have any other information to negate what they feed us. If we put half the energy we do into social networks, gossip blogs, and television..and put it into reading to gain knowledge, we would be in such a better place.

Our weekend homework:

Write down five topic areas that you would like to learn more about. Challenge yourself and actually pick up a book that covers these topics. Here are some suggested topics:

1. Read the Stimulus plan http://big.assets.huffingtonpost.com/finalstim.pdf

2. Read up on your Black History facts (read a biography of a famous Black person in history...sometimes they can give a lot of insight on how we can succeed in life)

3. Read a few books on your field/craft (marketing, pr, management, fashion...)

4. Read up on this history of our economy and some of the actions taken by the pass Presidents.

Aol Black Voices list the Best Books of the Week

2. Tyler Perry is going innnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn! Does this man ever stop? He at the top of his game and is still going hard. He is determined to bring Black actors and movies to the forefront. Take a look at a film clip from his new movie Madea Goes To Jail...Showing Now!

Michelle Obama helps Kids Keep Up During Black History Month

The first lady hosted a Black history Month celebration in the White House yesterday. 200 schoolchildren attended the celebration featuring Sweet Honey in the Rock, an award-winning female a cappella ensemble.

Mrs. Obama seemed a bit surprised when the sixth- and seventh-graders from three local schools said yes, they knew slaves helped build the White House, that President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation upstairs in a bedroom named for him, and that the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders met in the building with Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson to discuss the end of segregation.

Michelle Obama made sure to leave the kids with a positive message, encouraging them to work hard to succeed in life. I am glad that Black History Month was finally celebrated in the "White House"

Thanks for helping "Them" Keep Up Michelle!

Is There a Racist Undertone? ...Don't Play Dumb

The recent picture that was in the New York Post has caused a huge uproar, making people go as far as boycotting the New York Post. I have no clue if the Post meant to have some type of racist undertone, all I know is that they knew better. The bottom line is that Black people have been made a mockery of for years and there are certain symbols that represent this mockery. As the article passed through a few different eyes, I am certain that someone recognized how it could be taken and simply ignored how it might effect people. The New York Post understood what they were doing.

All I am saying is don't play dumb and please do better!

(and everyone please actually read the stimulus plan that they are referring to...so that we can do better)

Keep Up!

Audermars Piguet Watch, Dimples in your necktie, Hermes briefcase, Cartier tie clips… Part 1

Greetings Gentle Readers, Sartorially Savvy here with this week’s way to stylishly “Keep Up…” This go ‘round, we’ll be discussing accessories; the must haves and developing a signature accessory look. At this point in life, you probably have a favorite accessory, or series of accessories… For example, I know that The Socialite is especially fond of her Marc Jacobs bags, and yours truly finds it hard to go a day without a pair of Gucci aviator sunglasses. These might be our signature accessories, or perhaps just piece in our over all accessory scheme. Perhaps your personal accessory style is more minimalistic, you wanna be low key with just maybe a subtle belt, scarf, and jewelry theme going on, or maybe, you wanna go all out with the accessories, the belt, the hat, the jewelry, the bag, the sunglasses, and the scarf. Either way, we’ve got you covered. We’ll show you how to do this son!!!

Before we begin, let’s discuss what exactly falls into accessory territory… Your hats, belts, scarves, bags, necklaces, watches, sunglasses, and other pieces of jewelry all fall into the category of accessories. Accessories like apparel, give you the opportunity to express a bit more of your personality than just your ensemble alone. An important note is to make sure that your accessories are congruent. Meaning, while a little contrast can definitely be a good thing, think that bright red bag with a black dress and pumps, making sure that your accessories all follow the same theme is key. Too many different colors will have you looking like Rainbow Bright, and while that look was cute circa 1987, we’re a little too old for that now. That being said let’ get to the nitty gritty…

Belts can be used (for the ladies) to cinch waists and create that classic hourglass silhouette, belt your un-tucked blouses and pair with jeans for an urban chic look or belt sweaters and tunics to create mini dresses and pair with leggings. For the fellas, you can use designer and statement belts (and we’re not talking belts with name plates and scrolling LED lights here gentlemen, b/c that’s NOT “Keeping Up…” by any means!!) by statement belts we mean D-ring belts, extra long braided belts and the like. Use them when you’re wearing button downs or polos that are tucked into your jeans and or slacks.

Sunglasses are usually gender neutral, with some exceptions. The trick to rockin’ shades properly is to find a frame that fits your face. Aviators and wrap-around’s are generally flattering to all face shapes and come in some of the hottest styles. Find a pair that both compliments your face shape and exudes your personality and personal style.

Scarves are perhaps the hottest accessory of the moment. While extremely classic, scarves are seeing a resurgence in popularity right now. Rock your scarves your way…whether knotted around the neck, pulled through a loop, or wrapped into a cowl, make sure they say YOU. Experiment with textures as well, scarves are available in a variety of fabrics, from the uber luxurious cashmere, to animal textures like wool and alpaca, and silks and even cotton, vary your texture depending on the weather and look desired. Just limit your number of scarves to one, the whole, “Lady w/a 100 cats” look isn’t in this season. It wasn’t in last season, and we’re pretty sure it won’t be in next season either. Just sayin’…

Jewelry is perhaps amongst the most personal of the accessories, most people wear jewelry that means something to them; especially the fellas, as we don’t tend to wear too much jewelry, making that which we do, likely more sentimental and important. Gentleman, keep your jewelry subtle, a nice watch, pair of cuff links, maybe a ring or bracelet, and perhaps a short chain or necklace of sorts. Let’s keep in mind, we’re “Keeping Up…” we’re not Soulja Boy. No. Seriously. And don’t be afraid to mix gold and silver, it’s no longer taboo. Just don’t go overboard. Subtlety is key here. Ladies you all have opportunity to do a bit more with your jewelry than the fellas. Find a particular piece of jewelry and develop it into a signature. If you love necklaces, begin collecting pieces that make a statements in your favorite colors, textures, tones, gems (or faux gems, this is after all, a recession), if earrings are your thing, do the same, switch it up rock the studs one day and the chandeliers the next. If you’re a bracelet kinda girl, vary your textures, the chunky wood cuff one day and the gold bangles the next, perhaps a lil’ of both!

While we know this wasn’t exactly the most comprehensive coverage of the accessory game, but we’d like to think we gave you a good jumping off point. The whole point of accessories is to accent not only the ensemble, but also the wearer. Your accessories should be personal. Whether they POP off your outfit, or are seamlessly complementary, just make sure they’re YOU. Until next time Gentle Readers… “Keep Up…!”

P. S. And yes, we intentionally left bags off this list. As important as bags are, they deserve their own entire column!! Ladies, fear not, we’ve got you! And fellas, don’t sleep, in this age of the messenger and brief case, we’ve got you on the bag tip too… Who knows, perhaps that’ll be covered in part 2?!?! Stay tuned…

Stylishly Yours,
Sartorially Savvy
“Fashions fade, but style is eternal” ~ Yves Saint Laurent

A Year of Growth...R.I.P Mommy...I am Trying to Keep Up!

As I reflect on the year that has passed, I see so many moments that I knew were meant to be times that I was suppose to grow. But there was one moment that stood out from the rest. It was the situation where I thought I lost someone that kept me going though this crazy thing we call life. She was the one that I would run to every time something did not make sense and I needed answers. She was the beat that helped me keep my rhythm. Her existence served as an example everyday to the type of woman that I needed to be .

What happens when you think you have lost your guiding light? Your entire world begins to crumble and you cannot figure out how you are going to go on. You wake up everyday wondering how you are going to make it through the next hour?

Well for a moment I felt like this after my mother passed away on February 17th, 2008. And as I look back at this day, I cannot believe that it has been a year? A year of cries, smiles, but most importantly growth. What started off as a whole bunch of confusion and whys, ended up being the biggest growth I have had in years.

You see my mother was a lady that represented excellence in everything that she did. Growing up as the oldest of six, she was determined to succeed to help her family. Her dreams came true when she became Dr. Sophie Womack. But helping sick babies was not the end of her goal to help others. She set on the board of many organizations that helped our community in different ways. She started her own non-profit organization that raised money to for various causes. She became the first African American Woman President of Wayne County Medical Society. Everyday she touched and inspired someone new. Her life was dedicated to the improvement of others lives.

As a child looking at this image, I didn't think I had any other choice but to follow in her footsteps. For so many years I thought that I needed my mothers guidance to get me to where I wanted to be. It wasn't until she passed away that I realized that she had already given me the tools that I needed. And I realized that the last day that we saw each other was when she finally passed the torch. I looked up at the sky and knew that she was looking down on me ready to see me reach my goals. At that moment I knew that she would be with me forever.

My guiding light became brighter than it had ever been before. It shines down every time I wake up and walk one step closer to my destination. It shines every time I write a new post for this blog. My mother taught me that if you aren't helping others, you aren't helping yourself. So as I continue with this blog I hope to inspire and motivate people everyday in any way that I can. One can only hope that I live up to my mothers teachings and make her proud in some type of way.

If there is one person that we should "Keep Up" with it would be Dr. Sophie Womack, MY MOTHER.

RIP Mommy...may your dreams live on!

…Look at his peacoat and tell me he’s broke!

Greetings Gentle Readers! Sartorially Savvy here with this week’s way to stylishly “Keep Up…” Now, before we get into this week’s piece, we must apologize for our seeming absence from the blogosphere. We had a tinge of the bubonic plague, and are just now getting back on our feet. As it is still very much winter where we and the majority of our friends and family are (and if you’re somewhere warm, we’re jealous) we figured we’d discuss outerwear this week!! We hope we’ve helped get you to the top of your game with your wardrobe, but, if you step out of the house, looking all sharp UNDERNEATH your coats, jackets, wraps and what have you, but your outerwear’s wack… then that excellent 1st impression you’ve worked so hard to put forward, will be all for naught!! So, let’s make sure that doesn’t happen shall we? We can’t have our good readers not up on game! That simply will not do…

Your outwear should fit as well as the clothing underneath. That being said, you don’t have to buy a XXL because you think that your clothes will make it look right. Wrong, again. You’ll end up looking like you’re layering b/c you have no place to put your clothes and going to sleep under a bridge. And even if you ARE going to sleep underneath that overpass on I-95, you don’t want to look like it do you?! Buy the same size outerwear as the clothes underneath; designers and manufacturers cut coats and jackets with the understanding that clothes will be going underneath them. So, let’s go over 3 non-gender exclusive essential pieces of outerwear that you likely already have in your closet, if not, GO GET THEM NOW!! They’ll serve you for all occasions, and well!

The Black Leather Bomber: Before we get into specifics, let’s define exactly what a bomber is, shall we? A bomber, named as such because they were originally designed for fighter pilots in WWII to keep them warm while flying at high altitudes, stops at about the hip bone of the wearer and usually has a stretch material that cinches around the hip bones and stops air from coming up into the body of the jacket. For ladies, some bombers may stop around the waist area, or between the waist and hip bones. We recommend the bomber over other fits of leather jackets because it’s a more classic silhouette, and is generally flattering to every body type. Fellas, the bomber is your classic leather jacket that looks great over jeans and sweater, or a button down and slacks, or anything that’s fairly casual. You don’t want to pair the bomber w/your suiting/blazer options because of where it falls. The length of most suit jackets/blazers is longer than that of properly fitting bombers and wearing them together, creates an awkward proportion. Simply put, just like that bad chick at the bar, who you know has stalker tendencies, stay away!!! Ladies bombers are good for your casually sexy ensembles as well. Throw on over your sweater and jean combos, over a tank or tee with long skinny jeans and peep toe shoe booties, for a little edgy look a la Rihanna… For those truly fashion forward, try the bomber with a turtleneck or cowl-neck sweater, pencil skirt, and platform pumps. Both make sure the remainder of your ensemble coordinates with the black in your jacket if you plan on incorporating as a part of your outfit. However, if you’re removing the jacket, or won’t have it on for the majority of the day/won’t be seen that much in it, worry not about keeping it extremely coordinated.

The Khaki Trench: Whether Burberry, Bebe, Brooks Brothers, or Banana Republic, this one is classic like Smokey Robinson singing “Tracks of my Tears.” The perfect coat for an Indian Summer day in October, or a brisk day in April, the trench is the perfect multi-function option. Its silhouette can be easily dressed down to rock your sweater and jean combos, or perhaps your slacks and polos, pencil skirts and blouses, and jeans and camis rock nicely underneath the trench and just as easily dressed up with your suiting and dress options as well. Style your trenches up with scarves, rolled up sleeves, popped collars, and belts.

The Pea coat: Taken from the classic naval staple, this coat works just as well on dry land as it does on the sea. Just as with the previous 2 options, the pea coat is a classic silhouette, longer than the bomber and more loose fitting than the trench. The pea coat fits perfectly between both. The pea coat falls about mid thigh, and can come belted or not. Some ladies options often have belts, usually not for the fellas. Pea coats are double breasted and usually have wide collars making them perfect for popping. To “Keep Up…” cop the pea in a deep rich saturated color like emerald green, bright fuchsia, orange, or the classic navy on the dark side, or, flip it and do a cream, baby blue, pale pink, or gold/tan.

Bundle up Gentle Readers!!! It’s a little brisk outside!!! But look AMAZING while doing it!!! Until next time…

Stylishly yours,
Sartorially Savvy
“Fashions fade, but style is eternal…” ~ Yves Saint Laurent

Friday's Top Ways To Keep Up

1. Reflect on all of the accomplishments we have made as a race as we celebrate 100 years since the NACCP was formed. Yesterday marked the 100th year and was celebrated as the Image Awards honored Blacks for their success in 2008. Isn't it amazing that on the 100th anniversary a Black man became president of the United States of America? This just goes to show that visions really do come true.

Imagine how far your dream could go. Dream BIG!

2. This Valentines Day do something creative for your love one. Everyone does the typical things when the 14th comes around. Dinner, movie, flowers, candy, cards, and teddy bears. Come on we can do better then this.

This year do something that makes your mate know that you truly do care about them. Let's dig deeper into your relationship and pull out some things that mean something to the both of you.

They key is to think about something that your mate really likes. It could be a food, song, artist, place, picture, etc...

Take that favorite thing and make it a big deal. Let me show you what I mean:

So my ex-boyfriend wants to write films and make movies. So for Valentines Day I gave him a card that said tonight you can make your very first film. I borrowed a video camera, got some props, and let him direct his film. He was so excited. Well I guess your wondering what the film was about? Let's just say this film will not be sold in stores near you. (I know I know...come on everything on this site can't be PG :)

So you get the idea. The crazy thing is that the most creative things end up meaning so much more, but costing so much LESS!

If you need any ideas feel free to send me an email @ bwomack@imkeepingup.com

Make sure that you have a list of things that your mate likes.

Also do not forget to check out the recipe of the month from The Culinary Goddess below.

And this months contest and free giveaways on this side of the blog.

Recipe of the Month: For the “LOVE” of Food

February is always one of those months when half the world is excited for the 14th and the other half isn’t. Well this year we can ALL be excited because “Love” is universal and this day doesn’t have to be shared with THE love of your life but rather all the people in your life that you love! So whether it’s your significant other, your best friends, or your parents, prepare this meal and feel the love!

Spice Rubbed Lamb Chops

Ingredients:
4 (4oz) Lamb Chops bone in
2 teaspoons Salt
4 teaspoons Cracked Black Pepper
2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
2 teaspoons Onion Powder
2 teaspoons Paprika
2 teaspoons Chili Powder

Preheat Oven to 400º. Mix the spices together is a cup and rub the chops down until both sides are completely covered. Place the chops is a small backing pan covered with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the covering from the chops and the chops from the oven and place in the broiler. Broil on high for 2minutes on both side and then remove and cover to keep warm.

Stuffed Pasta w/ Blackberry Mint Wine Sauce
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon Butter
¼ cup Blackberry preserve (no seeds)
¼ cup Mint Jelly
2 tablespoons Aged Balsamic Vinegar
2 Cloves Garlic minced
1 ½ cups White Wine
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Cracked Black Pepper
2 cups stuffed pasta (I prefer cheese or veggie stuffed)

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until tender. Once cooked drain the pasta. In a small sauce pan melt the butter and sauté the garlic on high. Then add the blackberry preserve, mint jelly and balsamic vinegar and blend well. Once you’ve combined slowly add the wine and reduce the heat. Add the salt and pepper and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. Once heated through add the pasta to the pan and toss.

Place two lamb chops in the center of the plate and spoon the pasta and sauce around it. If you’d like add a sprig of fresh mint for freshness and flavor. And there you have it!

Share the LOVE!
From My Kitchen to Yours!
The Culinary Goddess

Michelle On The Cover of Vogue...Out with the Blow and Go - In with the Roots

Michelle Obama makes the cover of the March 2009 edition of Vogue Magazine! (see picture of the cover) The majority of the First Ladies have been covered by Vogue, but only two have actually made the cover, the other being Hillary Clinton. The thing that makes this so amazing is the new standard of beauty that Michelle is creating. So many style magazines and blogs constantly talk about her style and beauty. They cover a type of Black woman that America has never paid attention to.

It is great to finally see another form of beauty being shown and admired. Michelle represents your average Black woman who has to blow dry, flat iron, press the roots, and then wrap her hair at the end of the night to make sure that it is still popped the next day. She does not have your typical long straight hair and other long admired white features.

There are so many forms of beauty, and I am glad that Black women can now see their own image on magazines as highly respected as Vogue. Isn't it great that a few years from now we might not have to convince our daughters that there is not just one standard of beauty? Being Black is a great thing, but so often we are convinced that our texture of hair and the color of our skin does not represent beauty.We think that we have to look exotic, wear weaves, and change the color of our eyes.

All I have to say is thanks Michelle and Vogue for helping little girls around the world understand that God made a variety of beautiful people and that we must embrace all of them.

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL ALSO. KEEP UP!

What do you think about Michelle being on the cover of Vogue?

Do you think that having her represent a new form of beauty will have any effect on how our society views beauty? Or will people still not be convinced?

This Chris Brown Mess Got Me Thinking...

All around us we are watching so many Black people achieve success in a number of ways. We couldn't be more proud of Barack Obama for achieving one of the biggest accomplishments of our race. We smiled as Lil Wayne was announced eight times as a nominee for a Grammy. We couldn't have been more happy for the Black Coach, Mike Tomlin, and him leading the Steelers to victory. Micheal Steele became head of the RNC (If that makes you happy or not). Desiree Rogers became Barack Obama's Social Secretary. A f-ing Black Vogue came out this year...amazing.

Black people are at the top of their game and have the potential to help those around them "Keep Up" in ways that we could never imagine. Then what the hell is going on? Why must we do a million things that negate our success? I guess once you make it, it is a ticket to act the heck up. I know I know...they are human. I also know that some celebrities never asked to be role models. Grow up and realize that you didn't have to ask for it, it comes with the territory. If you do not want the responsibility then trade in the "Straight to the front of the line, invited to the hottest events, can't wait to open my free box of designer clothes, I get million dollars to do it, get our of jail free card" in!

Please I am tired of hearing Blacks say that they do not have to carry the entire race on their shoulders. That's fine, but does it really take a lot to act right and just do your job? You are a role model by default. You can't ask for an easier way to influence people under you. Some of us try everyday and only a few people hear us hollering. It does not make sense that the following happened:

Plaxico shot himself

TI had weapons of mass destruction

Lil Wayne does mass destruction to his body by taking drugs

Jim Jones jumps someone

Jesse Jackson talks shit about Barack Obama on TV

Chris Brown "might have" beat up Rhianna

Athletes can't stop saying what they want to people

Beyonce called out the Jackson's and basically said they weren't shit

And the lists goes on...

How do we finally have a positive Black family in the spotlight that we can look up to, but then create other BS that serves as a negative image to our youth. Come on Chris who was your role model Ike? Beyonce why would you come at Michael and them? TI are you in the army? Jesse what do you stand for? Jim Jones are you in high school? Lil Wayne are you trying to be the top crack head also; they don't have an award for that homie.

I understand that it is hard being in the spotlight all of the time. It is also such a hard job to have people in your personal life 24/7. You tell us everyday that you are just like everyone else...you mess up. But are you really normal? How much of you fame would you trade in to be average again?

Come on celebs help us "Keep Up". Helping others should be the task of the entire race. What do you think your task should be? Or are you to big to care?

KEEP UP!

Friday's Top Ways To Keep Up: Don't Act Like We Aint Never Been Broke Before!

It's a recession and it sucks being broke, but why we act like this is something new? Black people have always been able to survive. We have been put in so many situations that have forced us to create unique survival methods. So why we acting brand new?

We are some of the most creative people that I know. We know how to get on the corner and turn a nickle into a dollar fast. We ain't never been given anything, so I don't know what we are reaching for now?

This Friday I want you to force yourself to be creative. Take a about a half a hour out of your day to think about some ways that you can make money. Your ways to make quick money can also turn into great business ideas.

The key is to think about something that people need. Or better yet think about what you need. Here are a few ideas:

1. Get paid to create and manage someones Myspace and Facebook pages. This is easy to a lot of us, but their are so many people that have their own businesses that have no idea how to create these pages. Social networks have become the new way to market your business. Why not get in while people are still learning.

2. Mobile Car Wash Hustle from my friend over at Freeman Press (check it out)

3. Look up all of the street fairs and outside events that are coming up in the spring. Then make an item to sale that goes along with the event. Get a vendors license, set up shop, and make that money. You can even do something as simple as sale water. I have a friend that sold water at the Alpha Kappa Alpha Boule and made so much money just by passing out water. And kudos to those that set up shop at the Inauguration.

4. Sale some of your belongings on EBay.

5. Have a garage sale.

6. Have a party or put on an event at your house. Make it something that people want to come to and charge to get in.

7.. Find something that you are good at and do it for your friends and neighbors. (do hair, fixing stuff, shovel snow, rake leaves, typing, blogging, writing, cooking, cleaning)

Please share your ideas with us...help everyone Keep UP!

YOU BETTER MAKE THAT MONEY!

Also check out this months contest

ADIDAS AND CANDACE PARKER EMPOWER FEMALE ATHLETES TO SHARE PERSONAL STORIES

Isn't amazing how far female athletes have come? What use to be a time where only men where considered athletic, is now a time where women are at the top of their game in almost every sport. If the song "I can do anything you can do better than you can...no you can't...yes I can" has ever been true, it is now. Women have worked so hard to show the world that they too can succeed in sports.

That is why it is exciting to hear about adidas new campaign. On February 1st adidas started a enter-to-win promotion encouraging women to share their real stories about training struggles and successes. Three entrants whose inspiring stories receive the most votes will star in the new women’s ‘Me, Myself’ campaign alongside adidas basketball star Candace Parker.

“It celebrates women of all ages and athletic abilities and shows that despite our struggles we can achieve our impossible, " says Parker.

Here's how it works:

This distinctive and inspirational new women’s imagery celebrates individuality, confidence and motivation through a series of intimate portraits depicting women during key moments in their fitness routines and daily lives. The campaign features real women alongside Parker, 2008 WNBA MVP and Rookie of the Year, and throughout the month of February, consumers are invited to become the New Face of the ‘Me, Myself’ campaign:

Consumers can place their photo in the ‘Me, Myself’ campaign creative and share their stories and sources of inspiration both in-store and online at www.adidas.com/women.

Participants can invite friends and family to vote for them via an online widget compatible with Facebook and other networking sites.

The three entrants whose stories are chosen will take part in a professional photo shoot with Parker in the spring and images from the shoot will be used in ‘Me, Myself’ in-store and online creative.

Contest retail partners include Adidas Sport Performance stores, shopadidas.com, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Hibbett Sports, Sports Chalet and Scheel’s stores across the US, as well as Paragon Sports in NYC.

Adidas seeks to celebrate women's achievement and have them learn from each other's stories. Candace Parker is a great partner for this project, because she has such an inspiring story herself. “Candace is coming off a remarkable year; she won Gold in Beijing, took home the Rookie of the Year award and was selected MVP of the WNBA. Her inspirational story lends itself perfectly to this campaign and we hope it encourages women to share their personal successes and triumphs," said Britt Jorgenson, US brand marketing director, adidas sport performance.

The ‘Me, Myself’ campaign also includes the launch of the new adidas women’s site, www.adidas.com/women, which will be home to an innovative styling tool that allows users to create and personalize their own color palette so they can mix and match outfits while browsing through the key styles and products featured in the new adidas women’s collection.

Candace Parker and adidas are Keeping Up!

Is there anything women can't do?
Is is safe to say that women are better than men? ;) lol

Sartorially Savvy goes political… Well, kinda…

Greetings Gentle Readers, Sartorially Savvy here with a special little tidbit for this week. First, we have to send a HUGE thanks to Shyah Dickerson and the amazing folks over at Phat Fashions for including us in this historic event!! We are truly humbled by our inclusion. Now, we know you all are out wondering, “What’s ole’ S dot Savvy talkin’ ‘bout?!” Well, last week, we were sent one of Phat Fashion’s Phat Premium tee shirts honoring OUR President, Barack H. Obama. The shirt is, quite frankly the pure hotness. Not only were we thrilled to have been included in this, but we were excited to have a hot new piece in our wardrobe. We rocked it last week, and almost everyone we ran into asked where we got our shirt, and how they could get one!! Unfortunately, the shirt we received isn’t available in stores, or for sale… But, my Gentle Readers, you know S. Savvy looked out for you all!!! There is a wide selection of other rather stylish Phat Premium garments at the Phat Farm website http://www.phatfarm.com/ And once again, a HUGE thanks to Shyah Dickerson and the amazing people of Phat Fashions!!! Check out the shirt below… And hey! There we are wearing it!!!

What do you think about the shirt?

Stylishly Yours,
Sartorially Savvy
“Fashions fade, but style is eternal” ~Yves Saint Laurent

Keeping Up Daily:

Congratulations to Eric Holder on being confirmed as U.S. Attorney General. Holder will also make history as the first African American to hold the highest federal law enforcement position.

JENNIFER HUDSON AND SEAL TO PERFORM
AT "40TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS"
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, LIVE ON FOX

Sean "Diddy" Combs, Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer,
Regina Taylor and Kerry Washington to Appear
on Star-Studded Special Coinciding with Organization's Centennial

The NAACP congratulates the Republican National Committee (RNC) on the historic election of Michael Steele as its new Chairman. Mr. Steele is an experienced, principled leader and a friend of the NAACP. He has been supportive, over the years, of civil rights issues and has worked on behalf of affirmative action initiatives that support closing the gap of economic disparities that exist nationwide.

Dont forget about our contest for this month

Keeping Up With the Huxtables, A Personal Story (READER SUBMISSION)

All my life, my family has been Keeping up With the Huxtables, so when I stumbled across this blog, I knew it was fate. My parents are from the South and they moved up North for a better life. (I know typical and cliché but, true). My newlywed parents were living in St. Louis, Missouri where my dad was working as a research biologist and my mom was teaching. After six years, my father decided to relocate his wife and young daughter (my sister) to Ohio in order to start his own business.

It wasn’t until after they relocated that my parents began Keeping Up With the Huxtables, literally. They joined a nearby church that was full of other young upwardly mobile African American families and began a network of support and love that created a healthy living environment for their children. They also became members of Jack and Jill in addition to membership in a certain fraternity and sorority, respectively. This network allowed me to interact with other children of color whose parents were raising their children in two parent homes and just trying to succeed in life.

At the time I did not enjoy being toted around to what I considered to be boring, bourgeois events. However, I now realize that it was crucial to me not becoming another statistic. Another black girl pregnant before exiting high school. Another black girl opening her legs for money to chase a high.

But, Keeping Up With the Huxtables is no gimmick; it’s a way of life. Keeping Up With the Huxtables means paying your bills on time, being a father or mother to your children, and participating in community activities. But, not only that, Keeping Up With the Huxtables means family togetherness and support. Telling each other how you feel so that you can resolve problems together. My family always ate dinner together which provided us with time to share current news and divulge problems we were having. This made us sympathize with one another and gave us ammunition to be of assistance to one another. And although, our series is not over, I truly believe that we are Keeping Up With the Huxtables, literally.

Candice T. Newberry

Keeping Up Reader

Dont forget about this months contest

Bristols 6 and Keeping Up with the Huxtables have teamed up to present the "Sheer Genius" Contest!!

Here is how it works:1. Visit Bristol6.com to learn more about the company and their newest product Nippies Natural.

2. Answer the following three questions correctly: a) Name the popular celebrity that caused a media uproar when she showed up at the 1999 VMAs with her entire breast pratically exposed? b) Name 2 celebrities that have worn Nippies before? c) Who came up with the idea of Bristol 6:
i. Two guys and a girl?
ii. Two girls and a guy?
iii. Three girls?

3. Submit your answers to http://us.mc11.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=victoria@imkeepingup.com. Include name and shipment information.

4. All submissions will be reviewed by the Keeping Up team and the staff at Bristol 6.

5. The winner of the contest will receive their very own shipment of Nippies Natural (adhesive or non-adhesive)!!!

Here at Keeping Up, everyone is a winner!

Just for Keeping Up readers, Bristol 6 is offering 15% off!! Use this promotional code: KEEPINGUP (Note: The promotional code expires on 2/28/2009 so get your orders in fast!)

*The contest will go on the entire month of February. Winners will be announced the first week in March. So submit, tell a friend to submit, and check back to see if you are a winner!

Jennifer Hudson Keeps Up! She is Amazing...But look at the great shoes that she fills...