"A Fresh Pair of J's"

If you've been paying attention to any of the trending topics (TT) on twitter.com today, you probably noticed that Michael Jordan's newest shoes dominated the TT. #coolgreys, #michaeljordan and #butyougotthemjsthough were just a few of the most popular TT that spurred the conversation surrounding the footwear release. Michael Jordan fans have been clamoring for Jordan's for years lining up at stores in the wee hours and in the coldest temperatures in hopes of getting a pair of the coveted shoes. Michael Jordan shoe releases are more highly anticipated than Christian Louboutins and Manolo Blahniks combined.


I'm no sneaker head, but after observing the mania surrounding the release of the "Cool Greys", I started wondering if there is a way that fashionistas dress up their J's and successfully incorporate them into the chicest of wardrobes?





A picture of the "Cool Greys", a reissue of the Retro 11's that Michael Jordan wore in his final game in the NBA.




Ciara is a celebrity dancer and music artist that is often seen around town in her Jordan's. Here she is at her album launch party wearing Air Jordan V's "Raging Bull".





Picture courtesy of sneakernews.com


Let's break down how we can take tips from Ciara on how to successfully incorporate Jordan's into an outfit that doesn't include basketball shorts.

• A loose fit boyfriend jean perfectly compliments the sneaker. Since they are a bit "dressier", they are a step up from the normal sweat pant that is worn with tennis shoes.

• A fitted v-neck top. Adding a top that is fitted adds a feminine touch complimenting the loose and more masculine fit of the boyfriend jeans.
• Include a a statement accessory such as a chunky necklace, chandelier earrings or a large cocktail ring.

Socks and Other Signs of a Well Dressed Man: Contrasting Shoes

I was looking through the latest "Star Gazing" pictures on Essence's website, and I came across this picture of Kanye going to Rihanna's concert. The first thing that I noticed were how his shoes contrasted with suit. Women have been successfully adopting this trend for many seasons, but this is one of the first times that I've noticed a man correctly incorporating the not so matchy shoe trend. But, why am I surprised? Kanye is one of the most stylish men. If I were a man, I'd take a note from Kanye and make sure that my shoes didn't match my attire :)

Image Courtesy of Essence.com

Classics: Never Underestimate the Power in the Black Pump

Black Pumps are an essential in a woman's wardrobe. They can be worn in the height of summer with a flirty dress, in the dead of winter with a tweed skirt suit or out on the town with a pair of jeans.

Here are a compilation of my favorite classic black pumps from this season:

The suede and studded York Platform Pump by Sam Edelman. This pump is perfect for going out and can be paired with skinny jeans or black tights, a flirty skirt and blazer.

This Jessica Simpson patent pump is a great investment. It easily transitions from the office.

This VANELi "Philys" Peep-Toe Oxford incorporates this season's jazz inspired trend with the classic black pump.