Bellah's World

Vogue is the popular style or Fashion The definition of vogue is something popular or fashionable. The designer dresses in the pages of a fashion magazine are an example of something that would be described as vogue.

What is difference between vogue and fashion? As nouns the difference between fashion and vogue is that fashion is (countable) a current (constantly changing) trend, favored for frivolous rather than practical, logical, or intellectual reasons while vogue is the prevailing fashion or style.

Don’t let the stereotypical fall pleasantries fool you. Sure, apple picking is nice, but does anyone really prefer it to a day at the beach? Putting all your feelings about preferred temperatures or seasonal activities aside, here’s what you can look forward to now that a new month is here: a chance to show off your sartorial skills. Whether you want to impress the extended family with your blanket-but-make-it-fashion Thanksgiving attire or you’re planning for early holiday parties, November requires a collection of thoughtful fall outfits. It’s not the time to phone it in.

You can no longer simply throw on a dress and sandals without frostbite potential, so layer up. It’s time to show off your new By Far bag, your oversized blazer, and the neon Outdoor Voices fleece you’ve bought over the last month. It may be cold and dark outside, but incorporating a pop of color into your look or finishing off an evening ensemble with an of-the-moment accessory can make your seasons-old favorite sweater feel new again. Revisit the Fall/Winter 2019 runways for inspo, or look to your favorite influencers for IRL outfits you can impress the family with (even if it’s just via Zoom). Buy that new pair of snakeskin boots, dust off the shearling you’ve been storing away since March, and make November your best dressed month of 2021. Ahead, 30 outfit ideas for every day of November.

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8 Small Business Trends to Look Out for in 2022

This past year has gone by in the blink of an eye. Before we know it, 2022 will be here. And, you know what a new year means? A fresh start and a few new trends for businesses.

So, what kind of trends should you keep on your radar for the coming year? Let me lay it all out for you. 

Small business trends for 2022

New year, new business trends, am I right? It seems like every year there is something that’s all the rage in business. Some trends stay, while others come and go. And in the case of 2022, many trends are likely staying (ahem, remote work). But, experts anticipate a few new ones, too. 

Although I’m no psychic and can’t predict exactly which trends will become popular in the upcoming year, I do have some hunches, thanks to my 30-plus years of entrepreneurial experience. So, let’s take a look at eight small business trends for 2022 I think will we’ll see in the year ahead. 

. E-commerce businesses will thrive

Many trends sprouted in the last year or so due to businesses needing to adapt to survive the pandemic. One trend I’ve seen that will continue to be strong in 2022 and beyond? E-commerce. 

E-commerce businesses that sell products and services online are becoming huge. Why? Customers can easily and safely shop from home. And, business owners don’t have to worry about having a brick-and-mortar location. Not to mention, business owners can steer clear of some overhead costs; they can do all of their business online. It’s truly a win-win.

If you’re thinking about starting a business but are leery about opening a storefront, starting an e-commerce business may be the perfect new trend to follow. 

2. Remote work will continue to be popular

It’s no secret that remote work took the world by storm in the last year and a half. Nearly half of employees worked from home in 2021 due to the pandemic. And if you experimented with remote work like I did at my company, you probably found that it has quite a few perks for both your business and employees (or as I like to call them, “coworkers”). 

Chances are, remote work isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. But, that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I see it as a blessing. Remote work has taught employers like you and me a lot, like how offering work-from-home options can:

• Boost productivity
• Attract and retain top talent (anywhere!)
• Improve work-life balance

Because remote work was such a big hit the last two years, I see it sticking around next year (and maybe even for good). 

3. Communication applications will only grow in importance

A big part of making your business work is prioritizing clear communication with your team. Otherwise, poor communication with your team could lead to poor collaboration and even workplace drama (eek!). To strengthen communication in this remote era, communication tools and applications have become a must-have trend. And if I had to guess, it will continue being a big part of the year to come.

Communication tools and applications can help your team, remote or not. Applications and tools, like video conferencing software and messaging platforms, have been booming since Covid struck in 2020. And like remote work, they will probably be around for quite some time. 

If you haven’t already done so already and want to keep up with the latest trends, try out some new communication applications at your business. See what works and doesn’t work, and what helps improve your team’s ability to communicate and work together. 

4. Cashless payments will become standard for businesses

At one point in time, cash was king. But, move over cash, because there’s a new trend in town taking over payments. That’s right—I’m talking about cashless payments.

Cashless payments can include a variety of payment methods:

• Credit and debit cards
• Mobile or digital wallets (think touch-free technology)
• Payment apps

As technology advances, more cashless payment options will become available, which means your business may have no choice but to keep up to satisfy customers. In addition to accepting standard payments, consider also adding a cashless payment option or two to your list. That way, you can keep up with the times while also giving your loyal customers a few options when it comes time to pay. 

5. More and more events will be virtual events held online

Continuing with the Covid theme, you know what else I predict to be a hot small business trend for 2022? Virtual events. I’m talking about conferences, meetings, and trade shows. Why? Because Covid is still hanging around. Not to mention, hosting virtual events can help expand your reach and allow for more attendees. 

So, don’t be surprised if your favorite event, like an accounting conference, decides to host things virtually in 2022. Or, at least somewhat virtually with in-person and online options. Heck, you may even decide to host a virtual event to help keep your business, customers, and employees safe. 

Don’t let the trend of virtual events scare you off. Trust me, they can be fun, helpful, and educational, regardless of if you’re attending an event in person or watching it on your laptop from the comfort of your own home. 

6. Personalized artificial intelligence will become more commonplace

Artificial intelligence (AI) has quickly gained traction in the business world to help streamline certain tasks, and it’s going to become even more sought-after in the years ahead.

Depending on the type of artificial intelligence, this technology can help you increase sales, get to know your customers better, and even prevent fraud—and who doesn’t want all of that? Here are just a few examples of AI in business:

• Chatbots on websites and social media
• Smart assistants (e.g., Siri)
• Facial recognition
• Personalized recommendations
• Fraud-detection systems
• Personalized ads and marketing

AI has advanced over the years, and it’s going to advance even more in 2022 and beyond. So, do yourself a favor and look into AI for your business. You never know how this trend can help your business expand and succeed. 

7. Video marketing will continue to grow in popularity

As a business owner, you likely know that marketing techniques are ever changing. One day a marketing strategy is in, and the next day it’s out. One marketing trend that’s taken over (and that will continue to next year) is video marketing.

So for my old-school marketing friends, what in the world does video marketing include? It can be anything from videos on your website to using social media platforms (e.g., TikTok) to promote your products or services. 

Video marketing is packed with perks and opportunities for business owners. Don’t believe me? Approximately 84% of people say a brand’s video convinced them to buy a product or service. And, 54% of consumers want to see more video content from a brand or business they support.

So if you want to take your marketing up to the next level in 2022, consider incorporating videos into your marketing strategy. Test out using different platforms, like Facebook and TikTok, to market your company using videos (and don’t be afraid to have fun with it!). 

8. Gig workers will make up large part of the workforce

Freelancers, or gig workers, make up a huge chunk of workers. Last year, there were 59 million people doing freelance work in the United States. And, that number is only going to continue to grow in 2022, especially with our new normal from Covid.

Now you might be wondering, What in the world do gig workers have to do with my business? Depending on your needs, it could be a match made in heaven. You can hire a freelance worker to do a one-time job and get expertise in a certain area. Not to mention, you can cut down on costs associated with hiring a full-time employee. 

Just like children are our future, so are gig workers. If you’re looking for high-quality work for a lower administrative cost, consider looking into freelance options for your business this coming year. And who knows, maybe you’ll find a worker you like so much that you’ll want to hire them for good (can you say win-win?). 

More articles from AllBusiness.com:

• How Non-Tech Companies Can Benefit From AI
• Virtual Networking: 5 Pro Tips on How to Make Personal Connections Online
• 4 Common E-Commerce Mistakes New Online Sellers Make
• The Secret to Making a Great Product Video
• How Artificial Intelligence Will Affect the Human Workforce in the Near Future

6 END OF THE YEAR FASHION LOOKS YOU MUST HAVE:

Goodbye fast fashion, hello slow fashion. The age of the flash-in-the-pan trend is over; the lifespan of the trends that matter is now counted in years, not months.
To put this in broadsheet language, slow fashion is fashion’s third way. No need to make a stark choice between buying into the fast-fashion cycle (consumerist horror show, but jazzy) and swearing off fashion altogether (admirable, but a bit joyless). Slow fashion charts a different course. It is about looking agreeably current, rather than up-to-the-minute. It is about nailing the hemline or the dress shape that defines the decade, rather than the season. It keeps one eye on fashion, but its feet on the ground, remembering that clothes are not disposable.

This is an exciting moment. You know that thing when something really complicated goes wrong, and the first thing you do is turn it off and then on again? And sometimes, it works? Well, that’s basically what we’ve done to fashion. It’s had a reset. Fashion was on pause for the pandemic, but now it is back on – and it’s better than it was before.

It was a shock, when the switch flipped off: production stopped, stores closed, catwalks went dark. And the reset happened in our heads, too. Without shop windows to gaze into, we shopped our own wardrobes instead, rediscovering joy in what we already had. The resolutions many of us had been trying to make about buying fewer clothes were a whole lot easier to stick to when trips into town, and parties, were out of the question. Were we in the spring/summer catwalk season or the autumn/winter one? Suddenly that seemed irrelevant. We wore what would work on Zoom, or to walk the lockdown puppy, or to cheer us up.

As the fashion machine slowly restarts, it is finding a new, slower pace. Designers who were producing four collections a year have cut back to two. Smaller brands are adopting a batch-production model, taking orders in advance: if 45 dresses are ordered then 45 are produced, in the sizes needed, and nothing goes to waste. This means a delay between the day you place your order, and the day you get your dress – but maybe that’s OK. It turns out we have more patience than we gave ourselves credit for a year go.

Slow fashion still has trends, it’s just that they stick around, long enough for you to get a sensible amount of wear out of a piece of clothing. This is not about only ever wearing plain white shirts. (Nothing wrong with classics, but if you’re going to wear the same shirt for the rest of your life then, well, you don’t need me.) Slow fashion is about big-picture fashion, which changes gradually. It does not concern itself with debating padded headbands versus scrunchies, or if you should be doing something clever with a silk scarf. It is the basics – but it is most definitely not basic. Your slow-fashion wardrobe can be summed up in these six key pieces – for spring, summer and beyond. Take time to get to know them: they’re not going anywhere.

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The Saturday-morning blouse

We’re looking for the third way. So if the white shirt is the ultra-sensible eternal classic, while a puff-sleeved blouse in pink gingham with an outsize broderie anglaise prairie collar would be this season’s hot take, we are aiming somewhere in between. Let’s call it the Saturday-morning blouse. Maybe you have a vintage French one in your wardrobe, which you picked up at a market while shopping for baguettes and cheese on holiday, all flirty and bohemian and déshabillé, like Emmanuelle Béart in Manon des Sources. It could be silky and richly coloured, or the sort of sweet-natured blouse a March sister would have worn in the most recent Little Women film. If you don’t do frills, it could be an oversized, mannish cotton shirt with a ticking stripe. It should be fancier than a T-shirt, but less proper than a shirt. It is invaluable for bringing Saturday-morning vibes (the best ones) to every day of the week.

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The grown-up flat shoe

Flats used to be a fashion nonstarter. A decade ago, flat shoes were what you wore to play sport or run errands. When it came to stepping up, that meant changing – sometimes on a doorstep, or in the loos at work – into public-facing shoes, which had a heel. Then flat shoes became a fashion statement. There were limited-edition trainers, fur-soled loafers, designer Crocs (last year) and now this summer’s must-have: the eco-clog. Anyway, forget all those, and go for a classic loafer, or simple, clean, flat-white trainer, or an almond-toe slip-on. Or consider a ballet pump, which is back from the style wilderness as a wardrobe staple – take a look at Angelina Jolie (very slow fashion, in her trench coats and neutral palette, and seldom seen in a fly-by-night trend) who wore them on her recent British Vogue cover.

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The smart cardigan

Quite a lot of the cardigans currently on the high street are offered with matching bra tops to be worn underneath. This tells you everything you need to know about how the cardigan’s star has risen, and how its target demographic has changed. The cardigan to consider for inclusion in your slow-fashion capsule wardrobe, however, isn’t the ab-flashing twinset. The slow-fashion cardigan is oversized and chunky, but smart. The sort of thing Coco Chanel wore in Scotland with brogues and pearls, rather than the kind you wore in the sixth-form common room with your thumbs sticking through the holey cuffs. Colour, braid-trimmed pockets, brass buttons are all an asset, so don’t go too neutral. To be a true wardrobe treasure, your slow-fashion cardi should be a trophy piece, not the kind that gets slung over a chair and forgotten about.

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The 18-hour dress

All the It-dresses of the past few years have one thing in common: you can wear them for day and evening. Those nu-boho midi dresses we lived in through 2019? Enough outdoorsy wholesomeness to work at a picnic, but enough fashion content, thanks to the ruffles and tiered skirts, to make them dressy enough for evening. The shirt-dress? Sedate and business-appropriate when seen from desktop upwards, but has enough grace and poise to make an entrance. The Vampire’s Wife-style slim, high-waisted sheath dress? Unimpeachably modest, thanks to the demure high neckline, but undeniably show-stopping when done right. Any of the above are a sound investment. Sleeves are essential, if you are to be comfortable in it all day; rigidity is a nonstarter, for the same reason. Enough detail and interest to make you feel properly and interestingly dressed, but not so much colour, pattern or frill that you long to change into PJs.

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The toffee-coloured handbag

In the bygone age of the It-bag, the dream was to have a big, glossy, expensive black work bag and then a tiny, gaudy, Christmas-bauble of an evening bag. But for the past few years – and for the foreseeable future – the most desirable bag has been in a neutral, somewhere on the reclaimed-wooden-floor scale of ash to oak, in a moderate size that can house everything you need (minimal, now that diaries, tickets and even money live on your phone) without becoming a burden. Straw baskets in this colour, appealing though they are, are not your first choice here, because they miss the mark in a meeting room environment. But their ascent to glamour status tells us something about how the It-bag has changed: utility is now essential.

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Sweatpants

These are to the 21st century what jeans were to the 20th century. The end of stay-at-home orders may be in sight, but the end of tracksuit bottoms is not. Contrary to what you might have read, the pandemic did not invent the sweatpants. Instead, it consolidated a slow-fashion movement that was already repositioning the humble jogger as the go-to utilitarian, democratic trouser of now. In the Venn diagram of modern life, the sweet spot where streetwear meets Netflix-wear meets athleisure is a comfy, stretchy pair of trousers with an elasticated waistband. Pre-pandemic, sweatpants had already established themselves as a bona fide fashion-week look, worn with heels, blazer and statement sunglasses. The past year has rooted them into our psyche. The smarter-but-still-comfy version – neatly streamlined, in a fabric that holds its shape – is now a wardrobe staple: rejoice.

You might be asking yourself what is a MUSE OF FASHION.

Fashion Statement turns to its dictionary for help. A muse is “a force personified as a woman, who is the source of inspiration for a creative artist”. So muses are supposed to have a unique style which inspires the designer – though we can’t help but feel that where once they led, now they follow.

What does a FASHION MUSE DO???

Fashion Statement has been pondering this question for quite a while, ever since Lily Allen became Karl Lagerfeld’s muse. Lily is but one in a proud tradition of fashion muses. Who was the first? Fashion Statement would like to nominate the bang-on-16th-century-trend Mona Lisa, as depicted in the famous centrespread by “Leo” da Vinci back in the days of Renaissance Vogue. Totally working that drapery, Mona. In more recent times, Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly were muses to many an overpriced handbag. Sorry, we mean iconic fashion designer.

So what exactly did, or do, these women do? They seem curiously quiet on the subject. Perhaps it’s because they are trying to be mysterious. Perhaps because the weight of being beautiful makes it too hard to string a sentence together. Fashion Statement turns to its dictionary for help. A muse is “a force personified as a woman, who is the source of inspiration for a creative artist”. 

So muses are supposed to have a unique style which inspires the designer – though we can’t help but feel that where once they led, now they follow. Kelly and Hepburn had careers as movie stars and Oscar-winners. Today’s muses use Twitter a lot. Hmm. These days the muse job description seems to be: look pretty/airbrushed, appear in advertising campaigns, and wear very expensive clothes. Sweat shop labour, eh? Fashion Statement hopes that these poor overworked girls have a union.

But to be honest, the question we really want answered is: how can Fashion Statement become a muse? We’ve been scouring the jobs section of the papers for some time now to no avail. Could it be – surely not – that the hiring of muses is not done through the HR department? Fashion Statement just can’t believe it! We’re absolutely sure that Charlotte Gainsbourg sent in her CV and covering letter by email to Nicholas Ghesquiere of Balenciaga. The interview almost certainly included questions such as “What skills can you bring to this job?” and “What previous positions have you held as a muse?”, before moving on to specifics like “What’s the highest heel height you can walk in?”.

Charlotte took over the muse hotseat from previous incumbent Jennifer Connolly. The latter never looked entirely comfortable in her role. One might go so far as to say she looked [drum roll please] distinctly una-mused in some of the outfits [high hat]. For the unemployed muse, however, the man to lobby is surely Karl Lagerfeld. Not content with just Ms Allen, the man seems to have more muses than Fashion Statement has bags, and that’s no small number. There are also promising signs that his standards for musedom are not high – come on, now, surely anyone who can be inspired by Amy Winehouse can take on FS?

Take a look at some our October Muse From The Met Gala 2021 RED CARPET

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This year Fashion Weeks were on a whole different level of fashion and each Fashion Week brought the Fire on the RUNWAY, from New York to Milan, London, Paris, Miami, and Charlotte they played no games. A fashion week is a fashion industry event, lasting approximately one week, where fashion designers, brands or “houses” display their latest collections in runway fashion shows to buyers and the media. These events influence trends for the current and upcoming seasons. Let’s take a look at the Fashion that hit the runway for each Fashion Week.

Miami Fashion Week

Paris Fashion Week

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Milan Fashion Week

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London Fashion Week

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New York Fashion Week

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Charlotte Fashion Week

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HOW WILL YOUR YEAR END

The end of the year is a great time to revisit your finances and build a plan for next year. 

This year, particularly, may have brought some changes to your financial plan. In a year marked by “The Great Resignation” in the labor market, millions of Americans took an opportunity to rethink their careers, go for that big promotion or land a new job altogether. A career shift is a big opportunity, but it can also mean big changes for your financial picture. If your career pivoted in 2021, there may be a few loose ends to tie together before year’s end. 

Regardless, of whether your career took a pivot or not, this is the time to recalibrate and set yourself up on firm financial footing for next year. Here are a few things to consider as part of your year-end planning. 

BIG JOB CHANGE? 

If you experienced a job change in 2021, here are a few things to consider. 

Avoid a tax surprise from unemployment benefits: If you lost your job at some point this year and collected unemployment compensation, you’ll need to report it on your 2021 tax return unless you filled out a W-4V form from the IRS for voluntary withholding. If you didn’t, taxes may not have been withheld from those checks. If you received unemployment compensation this year, you may want to talk with your tax adviser now, so you aren’t hit with an unwanted surprise on your tax bill for the year.

Another common under-withholding risk: Even if you didn’t receive benefits, double-check to ensure you’re withholding correctly. People with multiple children, and those who earn non-wage income or are self-employed are more likely to under-withhold. If you fall into one of these categories, you may need to increase your W-2 federal withholding amount in preparation for a tax bill or to avoid the under-withholding tax penalty. 

Additionally, taking or opting out of the monthly Advance Child Tax Credit, new for 2021, could also impact tax withholding. 

Review your insurance policies: If you landed a promotion or changed your job in 2021, you may have more to protect today. Take a moment to line up your life or other insurance policies to account for your new lifetime income expectations and assets. Along the same line: If your home appreciated in value (as many homes have in 2021), you may need more protection.

In general, it’s worthwhile reviewing your insurance levels if you experienced any big life change this year. Did you have a child? Did you get married? If so, you may need to update beneficiaries on your existing policies or your coverage. 

CHECK YOUR INVESTMENTS

Investing for growth is a key component of building a retirement nest egg. While you may not be tapping your investments for a long time, there are a few things to check each year.

Rebalance your portfolio:Depending on what happened in markets through the year, your portfolio’s asset allocation (the mix of stocks, bonds and other investments) may no longer reflect a level of risk that’s appropriate for your goals. You may need to rebalance your portfolio to bring your investment holdings back in line with your risk tolerance and goals.

Transfer a 401(k) from your prior employer: If you switched jobs this year, don’t forget to bring your old 401(k) along with you. You can transfer assets in your 401(k) into your current employer’s retirement services, or you could transfer it to your own brokerage. However, you’ll want to do this properly to ensure you aren’t hit with a tax liability for an unintentional withdrawal (here’s how to do it).

Recognize capital gains or losses:Selling investments at a loss can reduce your taxable income for the year — it’s known as tax-loss harvesting. Depending on your situation, you may also want to sell investments that have appreciated and realize those gains. You may want to work with a financial planner or tax attorney to think strategically about capital gains or losses.

Final retirement contributions: If your budget allows, take advantage of the maximum allowable contribution to an IRA, 401(k) or Roth if those are available to you. The tax advantages these accounts offer can help you make your money go further over time.

REVISIT YOUR BUDGET

A little planning can help your budget go a long way. Take time at year’s end to review your budget and craft a plan for next year.

Revise or establish your budget:Review 2021 spending and create a budget for 2022 and beyond. Your budget keeps you financially accountable so you can prioritize the things that are most important to you. A financial advisor can help you build a budget as part of a broader financial plan. 

Review your emergency fund: If possible, replenish your emergency fund or get one started if you haven’t already. Aim to stash three to six months’ worth of expenses in an account that you can access in a pinch. If your family grew, or you have more assets or expenses, you might want to adjust that total amount. Having these funds in reserve can help you cover surprise expenses, such as a blown furnace or medical expense, without utilizing credit or dipping into long-term savings.

Consider refinancing your mortgage: With interest rates still historically low, you could lower your monthly mortgage bill and free up some room in the budget. You could also keep your payments the same but pay off your house faster and pay less interest over time.

Prep for big events: We can’t predict the future, but we can plan for weddings, surgeries, vacations, buying a car or home. If you’re planning a big-ticket expense in the coming year, carve that into your budget and start setting aside money.

Check your credit: Many consumer finance companies provide free, real-time credit scores. If you have access, check your score; and make sure it’s where you want it to be (typically 740 and higher is considered very good). Also, request a copy of your credit report. The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires credit reporting companies to provide a free copy once every 12 months. While we’re on credit: If you’ve accumulated credit card reward points use them before they expire!

Dig into health care: November and into December is typically open enrollment time for health coverage. Make sure you set aside time to review your health plan. If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) you could top off annual contributions to maximize the triple tax advantages — money goes in tax free, grows tax free and comes out tax free for qualified healthcare expenses. If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), consider spending the funds that won’t be carried over to next year as you may lose them otherwise.

GET STARTED!

This isn’t necessarily an exhaustive list, given everyone’s financial picture is different. However, it’s a good start. Simply getting this process started at the end of the year may reveal opportunities or areas for improvement you hadn’t considered for the year. As we enter the holiday season, consider making this financial check-up another annual tradition.

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Even though September technically marks the end of summer, it’s certainly not the end of fashion statements. Summer dresses are still a thing these dresses can be dressed up or down with layering in September a denim Jacket is another fall extensional I feel wears well in September/fall I like it for its versatility and if you get too hot you can take it off.

Dolce & Gabbana Fashion Show 2021

In the midst of Milan Fashion Week, Dolce & Gabbana celebrated the opening of its Via della Spiga 2 boutique.

In its architecture and design, the flagship captures the brand’s grandeur and whimsy. Founded by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabanna in 1985, the house remains synonymous with the most luxurious and decadent notions of Italian style.

Marble colonnades and gilded mirrors glitter throughout the three stories, connected by a dramatic black staircase. Each corner, whether classical or contemporary, stuns and surprises. The Italian spirit saturates the space. Lacquered wood and silver benches suggest Fellini’s glamour and creates the type of dressing room in which stars like Sophia Loren and Anita Ekberg would gown themselves. The baroque credenzas and gold thrones recall an earlier generation of women, like Lucrezia Borgia and Isabella d’Este, who plotted and posed under painted ceilings. In its grandest areas, where Corinthian columns erupt and red marble dominates, the space transforms into a temple to Venus, the original Italian beauty.

The soirée matched the splendor of the venue. Red and pink roses adorned the table, atop which silver candelabras gleamed. Breads and cheese were piled onto swirling platters, and fine wines flowed into cut crystal. The evening conjured decadent femininity as only Dolce & Gabbana can. Take a look at some of the fashion that hit the runway.

Sumter Fashion Week 2021 was by far amazing this year. Designers and Models came for all over to be apart of this Fashion event in Sumter SC. WLTX and The Sumter Item kept you updated with all the events for the week. Hear is a look at this amazing Fashion week

ARE YOU READY FOR FALL FASHION

It may be hard to believe, but it’s time to think about fall 2021 Women’s fashion trends. Before you know it, your iced coffee order will turn to hot chocolate and you’ll crave pumpkin pie. Don’t worry, you don’t have to pack up your bathing suits and shorts just yet. But while sitting poolside, it’s time to start dreaming about some of the fall season’s top style essentials. Keep scrolling for a cornucopia of women’s 2021 fall fashion trends.

WORK IT IN WORKLEISURE: WOMEN’S 2021 FALL FASHIONESSENTIAL

Remember when you were a kid and fall meant back-to-school shopping? While the days of picking a cartoon lunchbox and gel pens have passed, preparing to head back to work is in your future. For many, this autumn will signal less remote work and more in-person tasks work. But just because you’re retiring your trusty joggers that got you through the past year doesn’t mean you have to give up comfort. Get ready to give thanks for workleisure—the casual-chic fall 2021 women’s fashion trend.

Workleisure is clothing you can wear at the office that still has the comfort you’ve grown to love from your favorite sweats. It elevates comfy, yet-casual at-home wear to strike a happy balance with professional staple pieces. Instead of the traditional trousers you wore before COVID-19, opt for pieces like ponte skinnies or relaxed wide-leg pants. Look for less tailored woven blouses to update classics in your closet. While your first cup of coffee is brewing, slip into leggings with elevated touches like belt loops or zipper hems. Fly through emails in a thunderstorm-grey brushed-knit skirt and a fitted sweater. Throw on a trailblazing tunic blazer to seal the deal. Hear that? It’s the sound of you meeting your deadlines just in time to head home for a fall-themed movie night. And thanks to this women’s fall fashion hero of 2021, you didn’t even have to change your outfit.

FALL 2021 WOMEN’S FASHION TREND: NEXT-LEVEL LEISURE

Many have made the permanent switch to working from home, so what do the fall-fashion cards have in store for them? For those still clocking in at their home office or longing for chilly fall evenings, don’t give up on the loungewear trend just yet. Women’s fall fashion in 2021 is taking leisurewear to the next level. This season, it’s all about donning matching sweat sets in comforting neutrals like creamy vanilla and toasty terracotta. Refresh your loungewear collection with ribbed-knit tights with a matching loose-fitting pullover in these tones. 

Another trend to watch for is new textures. Refocus your collection with luxury fabrics like cashmere featuring trend-forward silhouettes. Picture bouclé bell-sleeve duster cardigans and flared waffle-knit lounge pants. A huggably-soft teddy lounge set is an essential as you listen to your fireplace crackle. 

Stylist tip: As the days start to shorten and the falling leaves give way to frost, incorporate sherpa layers. Try a sherpa quarter-zip between Zoom calls or a fuzzy pair of slippers to keep your feet cuddled up off-camera.

2021 WOMEN’S TREND MUST-HAVE: AUTUMNAL ACTIVEWEAR

Matching sets aren’t just for loungewear. When it comes to fall 2021 women’s fashion trends, activewear is getting in on the action, too. We’re talking about performance wear sets that take you from sweat to street to Saturday. 

Gear up with biker shorts, sports bras and matching fleece sets. If you are wondering how to style biker shorts this fall, pair them with a coordinating tank top carried over from summer with a hoodie. The twist? It’s all in the details. Look for contrasting drawstrings, throwback piping, velour textures and seasonal colors like rich neutrals, reds and plum. Up the energy at yoga with velvety joggers and a high-neck crop top in spicy shades of scarlet. Pump up your pilates routine with hazy purple leggings and cross-back tops.

Patterns are also pivotal to women’s fall fashion in 2021. This year you’ll see animal, dye-effects and abstract nature-inspired prints energizing your workout. A cheetah-print sweatshirt will help you slide into home plate at your rec-league kickball match. After the game, tie it around your waist while you grab a celebratory slice of pizza with your team. Get in touch with your creative side by sporting a steely blue watercolor activewear set. No matter which trend you choose, a pair of track sneakers will get you to the finish line.

2021 WOMEN’S FALL TRENDALERT: APPLE-PICKING INSPIRED FASHION

Caramel apples, apple pie, apple donuts—are you sensing a theme here? Apple-picking is an enduring autumnal activity, so it’s no surprise that it inspired a women’s fall fashion trend for 2021. Cozy up in one of our outfit ideas that’s perfect for a day of wandering an orchard and sipping fresh-pressed cider. Keep reading for our top fashion tips inspired by what to wear while apple-picking.

Cardigans and Pullovers

We’re all thinking it—autumn equals sweater weather. No trip to the apple farm would be complete without a sweater to snuggle up in. A Fair Isle patterned pullover is at the top of our fall 2021 women’s fashion trends list. Opt for a fitted style that you can tuck into a cinnamon-brown corduroy skirt while enjoying a sunset hayride. Another autumnal option is a cardigan. Channel your inner Taylor Swift and wrap yourself up in an old cardiganas you reminisce about seasons past. You can layer up in a piece passed down from a loved one, or pick up a new slouchy style currently found warming up the runways. 

Embrace chunky textures like cable knit and sink into earthy tones like butternut and rust. Unbleached yarn also adds a natural neutral option while finding eco-friendly clothing for your wardrobe. Staying warm is the core criteria while picking apples. Let’s see what other layering options are ripe for the taking.

Shackets

Looking for a more structured layer to wear while apple-picking and your other fall-favorite activities? Then shackets are the fall 2021 women’s fashion trend you need in your life. Shackets started out as a cross between a shirt and a jacket, but this fall you’ll see thick, woolen iterations to keep you warm. Don’t let the structured cut scare you. Comfort is still key, so look for an oversized style for an on-trend finish. When pondering how to style a shacket, shrug a plaid one over a ribbed henley and authentic wash jeans. Bonus style points if you find a shacket with pockets big enough for an extra apple or two. Go on. Your secret is safe with us.

Straight- and Wide-Leg Jeans

Straight- and wide-leg jeans are the apples of our eye this season. Fall 2021 women’s fashion trendsare doubling down on relaxed denim silhouettes, and we’re here for it. These laid-back separates are perfect for apple-picking inspired outfits. The roomier fit will keep you comfortable while you stretch to reach that Honeycrisp apple on the highest branch. Mirror the fruity colors of the grove with a pair of red-delicious mom jeans. Experiment with psychedelic 70s fashion and wear light-wash flared-leg jeans partnered with a vintage ringer tee. You’re almost ready to fill up a bucket to the brim with fresh Granny Smiths. All you need now is a pair of shoes.

Boots

Get over here, you big lug! Sorry, we were talking to one of our favorite fall 2021 women’s fashion trends—the lug sole boot. They’ll protect your feet from over-ripe apples strewn across the grass and are perfect for making that classic leaf-crunching sound. Lug boots go hand in hand with autumn. Add edginess to your apple-picking outfit with a combat boot-inspired pair. Bring back an early 2000s look with a pair of fishnet tights and a pleated plaid skirt. Feeling more of a sweet-as-apple-pie vibe? Bundle up in a bourbon-brown sweater dress matched with a suede knee-high boot. You will be as deliciously warm as a spoonful of melted caramel over an apple ice cream scoop.

2021 WOMEN’S FALL TREND: NIGHT-OUT STYLE

Night-out style didn’t get it’s time to shine in 2020. Good news: Fall 2021 women’s fashion trends are upping the ante with chic styles perfect for flirting with fall. Enjoy your first night back out on the town in fancy faux-leather pants and skirts. Complete the look in a statement-sleeve dress for a romantic Parisian vibe. Here are three more ways you can rock night-out styles this fall.

Bodysuits

How to wear a bodysuit? Any way you please. Versatility and ease of wearing are just some of the reasons why we’re giving thanks for bodysuits this season. Plus, they make night-out style a no-brainer. Our fall 2021 women’s fashion trends forecast says square necklines, off-the-shoulder and cut-outs will add a dash of pumpkin spice to bodysuits. Slip into a black bodysuit and olive utility pants for toasting marshmallows at a bonfire. Marigold yellow is the cream of the crop this season, so pick up a bodysuit in this happy hue. Wear it with those faux-leather pants we mentioned earlier for your first song back at karaoke. With a bodysuit, you’ll be hitting all the right notes.

Dresses

Dreamy dresses ruled spring and summer, so you can bet that they’ll play a pivotal part in 2021 women’s fall fashion trends. For a romantic dinner under the harvest moon, choose a baroque floral dress with a ruffled hem. Are autumn weddings filling up your calendar? Match the dried flowers and votive centerpieces at the reception with a flowy maxi dress in equinox-inspired emerald. And of course, we couldn’t forget the classic little black dress. Women’s fall fashion gives the LBD the 2021treatment with witchy mesh panels along with ultra-figure hugging midi silhouettes. Add these to your Friday night roster with pearls for the assist.

Pearls

Among accessories in women’s fall fashion of 2021, pearls reign supreme. Go classic with a pearl cuff to complement your LBD. Or style your middle part with pearl-drenched hair barrettes. 

Perhaps Harry Styles’ non-conformist take on a pearl necklace inspired you. Wondering how to wear pearls in an equally iconic way? Welcome a gender-neutral look with a pair of menswear-inspired plaid trousers. Adorn yourself with a string of pearls under the collar of a button-down shirt. Toss a shacket over your shoulders and a floppy brimmed hat on your head. Finish with mulled-wine colored loafers for a high-fashion ensemble as Autumn in New York plays in the background. There you have it: One last fall 2021 women’s fashion trend pearl of wisdom to add to your collection.

Ready to turn over a new leaf and greet fall with fashionable new pieces? Take your style quiz, schedule a Fix and ask your stylist for new gourd-geous styles to elevate your looks for the new season. You can relax and try everything on at home and shipping and returns are always free.

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The sunshine was like powdered gold over the grassy hillside. June is the gateway to summer. It is better to be a young June-bug than an old bird of paradise. Green was the silence, wet was the light, the month of June trembled like a butterfly.

While it’s been a quiet year for the fashion world, this season has unveiled seriously bold and stylish designs. Large and in-charge blazers, bold blue bags, and sleek face masks dominated Fashion Weeks over the last few weeks.

10 Summer 2021 Fashion Trends That’ll Bring You Immediate Joy

• Super Strappy Silhouettes. Rowan Top. …
• Super Strappy Silhouettes. Shiloh Solid Strap Detail Skirt. …
• Bra Tops. Sugar Satin Soft-Cup Triangle Bra. …
• Bra Tops. Band Bralette. …
• Halter Tops. Lulu Top. …
• Halter Tops. Bash Wrap Halter Bikini Top. …
• Side Cutouts. …
• Side Cutouts.

After a year of hibernation, we’ve lost all sense of what casual clothes actually are. 

Given that we’ve been stuck in loungeand sportswear for this long, we thought it would be good to have a little refresher on what makes a fantastic casual outfit, taking cue from content creators (and stylish women) such as Brittany Bathgate and Monikh Dale.

These women, while totally nailing dressing up in Cecilie Bahnsen gowns, bold red lips and super high heels, have a particular knack for dressing down, something that is easier said than done. Classic pairings of fisherman sandals and cable knit jumpers are employed by Alexis Foreman, comfy loungewear is a go-to for Abisola Marvel, while Alyssa Coscarelli opts for 1970s jackets and groovy prints, Ellie Delphine pushes the limits of ‘casual’ in short shorts and minis and Stephanie Broek takes minimalism to the extreme in navy, white and black.

While jeans and trainers are obvious contenders for the best casual clothes (for good reason), we don’t think you should be sleeping on roomy shirt dresses, good quality sandals, sturdy bodysuits and chunky knits. While some items work for every budget, we think sometimes these casual staples are worth investing in, to ensure even on your most chill of days, you feel luxe. 

From the right New Balance trainers to nab, to styling tricks that with give life to even the dullest pair of leggings, here are 35 casual outfits to inspire your next trip to the shop.

Meanwhile at Bellah Modeling Agency Fashion…

FASHION SECRETS Summer Edition

The Love For FASHION!!!!

The majority of us love fashion, in one way or another. We love the playful new trendsthat we can experiment with every season, the works of art that designers want to encourage us to wear on a regular Thursday, and the excitement of seeing our own personalities in a given dress or specific citrusy hue. While some would like to write off fashion as being something materialistic and vapid, I think it’s something that we create an intense, emotional bond with. It becomes apart of us.

What’s Coming up for June

May’s Top Fashion. May just came out of nowhere and summer is closer than ever! We are so excited to see all the New Summer Trends and some the old ones coming back. We are going to show you the best looks for the summer and all of Summer styles and Fashion Trend.

There may be a lot of uncertainty surrounding the summer months right now (will we actually be able to dine alfresco safely?), but one thing’s for sure: Nothing can stop the fresh summer trends from popping up. So gird your loins and pockets, warm-weather lovers, the best season is just around the corner. And your wardrobe needs some prep. It’s time to stash that heavy leather and chunky knitwear and usher in airy dresses, lightweight bra tops, and must-have square-toe mules. With an abundance of trends emerging from both the runways and your ever-shifting social media grid, we’ve gathered some ideas ahead—well, a top five, actually—to let you know what’s worth coveting for summer 2021.

Okay, this may be a summer classic, but it’s back with a fashion force this summer. With variations from maxi lengths to balloon sleeves, you’ll be living in these breezy numbers all season (even from home).

COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL FASHION WEEK 2021 Quick look back at some of the fashion from Stoi Designs

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Bellah Modeling Agency

Bellah Modeling Agency will be hosting there 1st show of the year 2021. Called Fashion Secrets “Summer Edition” Can’t wait to see all the summer fashion that’s going hit the runway. Save the date MAY 29

Bellah Models Have Been busy in May 2021 Take a look at there work.

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Sumter Fashion Week 2021

Sumter Fashion Week will be engineering the global fashion experience and attracting industry influences with a passport to arts, culture, fashion and entertainment. The destination is fashion with a journey through art and an encounter with style. Sumter Fashion Week is bridging the gap and connecting continents through fashion! Fashion is more than just the clothes on one’s back. It’s a movement, a feeling and an expression. Sumter Fashion Week and encourages established and up-and-coming designers through numerous industry and networking events. 

Sumter Fashion Week will have 2 runway shows, Pop up Shop Vendor Event the day of the main show, Meet the Models and designers event, and the Who’s Who of Su​mter’s Celebrity Kickoff and a Kids Fashion Day Spa Event.

This is Sumter’s 4th Annual Fashion Week

Save the date: Sumter Fashion Week 1st Casting Call June 12 Register Today!!!

Look Back on March and April Events

COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL FASHION WEEK

COLUMBIA KIDS FASHION WEEKEND

Bellah Live

Bellah Live is a talk show hosted by The Bellah Staff. The show focuses on empowering young women and men and encourages them to reach their goals and achieve their dreams. On Bellah Live you will meet Designers, M.U.A, Models, Hair Stylist, Event planners, Business leaders, and much more…. We will also keep you up to date with all the Hottest fashion trends and upscale events. Bellah Live will air once a week on our YouTube Channel So Subscribe today. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUHn-zBYdGXSOEKHxWVmD3A

Other Fashion News

From elegant French actresses to California-cool runway models, these celebrities have some of the most covetable styles.

• Solange Knowles
• Chloë Sevigny
• Alexa Chung.
• Sarah Jessica Parker
• Caroline de Maigret
• Naomi Campbell
• Diane Keaton
• Yara Shahidi

Whether you scan the red carpet for the latest in celebrity trends or you prefer to get your style inspiration from Instagram these days, there’s no denying the influence our favorite actresses and musicians have on seasonal style and fashion trends.

While most celebrities have access to an entire glam team and endless stylists on speed dial, certain famous folks rise above the rest when it comes to their personal style—both on and off the red carpet—which is something that can only come from a combination of self-confidence and a keen eye for design.

Here, we’ve rounded up a list of 50 of the most fashionable celebrities.

From elegant French actresses to California-cool runway models, these celebrities have some of the most covetable styles on the red carpet (and on Instagram) at the moment.

When it comes to celebrities pushing the boundaries around style and fashion, Rihanna reigns supreme. The elusive musician and fashion designer has been recognized by everyone from Vogue’s CFDA committee to the British Fashion Awards for both her designs and personal style—which are all about celebrating what makes her unique, rather than following existing runway trends.

“When I am putting looks together, I dare myself to make something work. I always look for the most interesting silhouette or something that’s a little off, but I have to figure it out. I have to make it me. I think that’s the thrill in fashion.”

English model, actress, and singer Cara Delevingne is best known for her signature bushy eye brows and androgynous runway looks—she’s tried-and-tested everything from a glossy bald look to a fitted blazer with little else—but the well-loved actress is most respected for her laissez-faire approach to fashion and the brazen confidence that comes along with it.

“I like a little bit of designer, with a bit of vintage and high street mixed in. I love it when you find those one-off key pieces, which end up becoming investment pieces.”

Fashion designer, best-selling author, and Instagram personality Rachel Zoe mixes her own designs with timeless classics, like vintage Chanel and Hermes, to create her own brand of laid back California-cool meets Parisian model. The ethereal designer prefers to stick with the classics rather than trends, by way of her impressive capsule wardrobe.

“I always say that I don’t like it when people follow trends too much, just because it is on the runway. I think what you wear really does need to reflect what your own personal style is.”

For many fashion aficionados, Victoria Beckham is the reigning queen. While the former Spice Girl first made a name for herself in the music industry, her foray from singer to designer came naturally thanks to her unmatched eye and attention to detail that has propelled her into the upper echelons of the fashion industry.

“I love fashion, and I love changing my style, my hair, my makeup, and everything I’ve done in the past has made me what I am now. Not everyone is going to like what I do, but I look back at everything, and it makes me smile.”

Whats up Bellah’s World Blog readers and fashion extraordinaire’s! If you are neither of these we still welcome you because you obviously want information on the newest trends in Fashion, or you randomly cam across this on you google page and decided to give it a gander. Either way….Welcome All!

COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL FASHION WEEK MARCH 23 – MARCH 27

I obviously did not post about March, so I am going to catch you up on what you missed out on locally and internationally, like I always do. One of the newest and biggest things that happened this month for the City of Columbia, SC was the first annual Columbia International Fashion Week. This was a week filled with interesting fashion from all over and from Columbia itself. It was a sold out show, and there were many fun filled events leading up the the Look Book Finale Fashion Show that was held on Saturday, March 27th.

March 23rd kicked of Columbia International Fashion Week with a Fashion Panel that was held online and in person. Of course, the COVID restrictions were followed to the letter for every event in order to keep people safe and healthy. There fashion consisted of four people who all are involved with the fashion world in different ways; Grace Cuffy (who own Cuffy designs), Stoi (who is another designers who owns The Stoi Company where customization pieces can be ordered), Laschaska Salmond (a walking coach and free lance model), and Macie-Lynn Shafer (model, assistant to Donna Anderson, and actress). The fashion panel was intense and many hard hitting fashion questions were asked from the latest fashion trends, to how to make it in this line of work, how to get men’s fashion to strive outside social norms, and how do women continue to strive for positions of power that were previously male only and still dress like a woman. It was a very intriguing one hour long session. Many of the question came from not only the in person audience but also the audience who where in attendance through Facebook live. Seeing as how this was the first year for something like this, there is obviously room to improve and grow, but it was a great start for an extraordinary week of fashion and fun.

March 24th was the Come Get Styled event that was held in a boutique called Now & Then in downtown Columbia, SC. Naida Rutherford and Donna Anderson, two of the most well know fashion experts in Columbia, personally styled all who came to this event. People came in with high hopes, and left with smiles and purchases that will keep them in style for months to come. It was truly a fun event for all in attendance.

March 25th was the virtual fashion show by another local designer, Dope the Model, and her brand/ boutique called Bend the Trend. This was one of the designers who also happened to in the finale fashion show as well. Her clothing line is very fashion forward, and melds colors and patterns with the latest fashion designs. It fits all body types and makes any one look good. The models involved with this had a blast, and the virtual fashion show was a great success and a sneak peak for what was to be expected on the coming Saturday. The photoshoot that was also held turned out great photos that were able to be posted on their social media sites.

March 26th was the Model Meet & Greet with all the models, designers, and other important personnel` who wanted to be involved with this event. It was held at the Gold Den, which is a hookah lounge and bar that is for high end dinning and partying. It was a fun event with a lot of networking and the food was phenomenal. It was a great way to relax and get to know all the major players for the next day.

March 27th was the highly anticipated fashion event of the month and a great end to the first annual Columbia International Fashion Week, the Look Book Finale Fashion Show. The morning started out for all of us involved, myself included. Models, Makeup Artist, Hair Stylist, and many more had to be at the venue at 9 am to start getting ready and to start setting up the venue for the show itself. The layout of venue space was an old Old Navy store located at Columbia Place Mall in Columbia, SC and gave off a retro warehouse vibe. The seating arrangement was two single rows, one on each side of the runway, in a U shaped pattern, giving each person a perfect vantage point of the two entrances/exits where models would be coming onto and leaving the runway. The vendors were also popping! There were a variety of vendors from food, to wine, to even non perishable goods and clothing. The line up designers also ranged from Urban Street-wear to High Fashion Couture; Mrs. Tyga’s Body Art (Show Opening), Bend the Trend, Melanie Caballero, Magnifique, The Stoi Company (Finale line), Tre’s Custom Design Collections, Law & Lady Law Wealth Collection, Obsessions Fashion, The Yellow Butterfly Collection, House of La’Rue, and much more! There was even a live performance by Nicole Marie! Overall, this was a week of nothing but non-stop fashion fun. If you missed out, then you have to wait til next year.

Did I forget to mention that it was covered by the news? Because it was. It made fashion history, and so did it’s owner Donna Anderson.

CHARLOTTE SEEN FASHION SHOW DAY

Another major fashion event that happened was the most anticipated show of Charlotte, NC, CHARLOTTE SEEN on Saturday, March 20th. CHARLOTTE SEEN is known for its high fashion couture shows, and I do mean shows. They have three shows in one day. The fashion ranges from Urban everyday wear to clothing that you see on Runways in major international shows. This year was no different. Out off all the three shows that I had the privilege of attending with the BellahLive Team from Bellah Modeling Agency, the second show of the day was my favorite. The them was retro/vintage decades, and boy did they represent. All the fashions were unique and eye catching. The models themselves ranged from young to old, and all ethnics were represented as well. The DJ also did an amazing job with the song selection, and everyone there was left impressed. One of my favorite collections included two amazing performers called TwinNation. These hip-hop performers were amazing, and they even recently performed at the Superbowl. I had the honor of following BellahLive around as they interviewed many models and personnel backstage. The talent that was there was just amazing. It was a great night.

MARCH 2021 HIGHLIGHTS

One highlight in the fashion industry from the month of March is the Louis Vuitton Men’s Summer 2021 Collection. If you haven’t seen the ads and video promos, then I urge you to go ahead and do so. 21 Savage was the featured model of this magnificent high fashion summer collection, and he did an amazing job modeling the attire. The new LV Men’s Summer 2021 Collection is a Capsule collection which blends the energetic and artistic vibes of West Coast skaters and artists in perfect harmony. The focus of this collection is lightweight leather, embroidered shirts, and light denim. Some of the highlighted pieces of this collection is even eco-friendly. They are made out of eco-friendly cotton and wool without chlorine and chemical paints and dyes. The collection was launched in two parts: first the blue Ink Watercolour pieces and the secondly the Ink Multicolour design pieces.

Next, Salvatore Ferragamo launches a new virtual interactive games that allows people to explore Spring/Summer 2021 collection, and it is called Enigma. It allows people to get acquainted with the styles, brands, and other aspects of the company’s fashions.

“Micaela le Divelec Lemmi, the company’s CEO revealed that the effort intends to reach new generations, while it also ties in with the revamped website’s intuitive browsing experience.”

Another highlight from the month of March 2021 is on of my favorites and deals with Coach. Coach has recently entered into the embroidery business by offering it as a service with its Coach Forever new collection. So far they have partnered with Sheena Liam in Malaysia to produce embroidered products like the ones you see in the image above.

Now I know you are probably wondering why this is a huge deal. Embroidery is on many things that you buy today, and most clothing has some small embroidered pattern or detail that makes it stand out from other clothing pieces. But what you don’t understand is that those are machine made, meaning that its embroidery but not really due to it being machine produced instead of individual produced by an actual person. Embroidery is actually a beautifully painful art and takes a large amount of time to learn and perfect.

There are only 5 of these embroidered bag total as of right now. They are beautiful and exclusive.

There is, however, more embroidery options for spring/summer collection and ready-to-wear collections coming soon.

This should not come as a shock, but it is a highlight from the past month. Kpop has become huge in America, there is no doubt about how these amazing international groups like BTS, Blackpink, Stray Kids, and other artists and groups are dominating the music charts. I mean just take how the BTS fans, referred to as ARMY, demolished the charts by religious playing BTS music and videos because they did not win a Grammy. (I myself happen to be a part of this fan base so I am partially to blame as well).

Therefore it should not come as a surprise that Kpop Idol Jisoo, from the famous girl Kpop group Blackpink, has become a new global ambassador for fashion and beauty. If we are honest, not only is international groups amazing when it comes to music, but Asian inspired street wear and fashion has also come to dominated the American Fashion Industry. Jisoo has inspired House of Dior’s Maria Grazia Chiuri for the Dior Fall 2021 collection. Blinks, aka Blackpink fan base, keep an eye out for Jisoo-approved looks on the runway because they will be nothing short of inspiring!

Since I referenced the Grammy’s earlier, of course I have to give my opinion on the fashions that showed up. Honestly, they were pretty impressive. Of course Billie Eilish came in a signature Eilish looking outfit, which she looked outstanding in, and even had a matching mask to wear. Noah Cyrus came in a stylish gown in a creme color with a cap effect that circled her face. The host of the Grammy’s, which happens to be one of my favorite comedians and host of the Daily Show, Trevor Noah came in a stunning classic suit by Gucci with a magnificent Afro hair style. Though there were many amazing and intricately dressed celebrities, the Queen of of the Grammy’s was none other than Doja Cat. She appeared in neon feathers and a moto-inspired look zipped all the way down. She rocked the look and left all of us wondering what show stopping ensemble she’ll pull out for the next award show.

Alright! We took care of the highlights of March, and now its time to focus on the month of April! This month has just started, but there are some exciting things coming up locally and in internationally that must be talked about. We can’t have you all left out of the loop.

COLUMBIA KIDS FASHION WEEKEND

First we will discuss a major event that happens in Columbia, SC every April, Columbia Kids Fashion Weekend! Every year, Donna Anderson host a kids fashion weekend where kids have photoshoots and get to rock the runway in the latest child fashion this side of the East Coast. This year it will be held April 24th-April 25th. If you have a kid that wants to be a part of this amazing fashion event, then be on the lookout so that yo can sign them up for it!

SPRING FASHION TRENDS

Lets talk about some of the most recent Spring Fashion Trends of 2021 that we have started to notice.

Bubblegum Pink has been dominating Instagram and spring themed fashions. If you are a lover of pink, then this Spring 2021 is for you, because its time to show off you Bubblegum pink outfits.

“It’s not hard to see why this perky shade of pink is resonating right now. “I think everyone is ready to make a statement with their clothing after such a quiet year,” our reader Ambika Dhir explained, and I feel that so hard. The whimsical color couldn’t have come at a more perfect time, as neutrals dominated for several seasons and many of us are eager to dress up again. Aniyah Morinia agrees with this sentiment: “You’re bound to turn heads and make every outing or errand a lot more fun and exciting when wearing this shade of pink.””

Another Spring 2021 fashion is none other than knit sets. I am confused on this one, but hey who am I to say no to this trend. Knit sets are becoming a thing on all shopping platforms. This is becoming a staple item that is a must for any fashionista or for those who are fashion enthusiasts. Its a quarantine trend that I think is here to stay. Especially with the weird change of weather from cold to hot.

“”The perfect happy medium, they’ll still look just as fantastic worn outside of the house as they do inside,” Dhir described. Seeing as these knit sets are offered in a range of combinations for every occasion, mood, and season, they’re here to stay, pandemic or not.”

Now a personal favorite trend of mine that I can’t wait to jump on is the baggy jeans trend. Baggy jeans with a cute fitted crop top or and over-sized t-shirt is just a comfy, and cute way to style these. The loose, lived-in style of these jeans are perfect for a relaxed and laid back Spring that we all our experiencing.

“I’m planning to wear them with an oversize blazer, white tee, and heels.”

Who What Wear,  Renia Jaz

The last Spring 2021 trend that I will talk about is the chunky boot. That’s right, the chunky boot is a stylish trend. Honestly, I do not hate them, and I can see the appeal of them when it comes to choosing them over other heeled boot options. Not only do they look comfortable, they look less hazardous that normal stiletto-ed heeled boots. I think its time we take a page out of the Goth, Emo, and Lolita style books and keep this trend around for a while.

“Nothing screams power and confidence quite like a pair of chunky boots.”

Morina

APRIL HIGHLIGHTS TO LOOK FORWARD TOO

A company called Dan Cassab (a Mexican Leather Jacket Label) will be debuting their first line of accessories made in collaboration with artist Leta Sobierajski. This collab will focus on infusing the artist’s vision with the already amazing leather production sustainability. The three post-modern patterns that Leta Sobierajski designed specifically for this collection are the Blob, Bolt, and Protozoa. You will be able to find then on crossbody bags, phone slings, and two different styled totes. A Mexico City artist even translated Leta’s swirls and zigzags into body paint for the campaign and advertisement of this collection.

Nike is ready for a relaxed and sunny summer with the launching of their new line of both men and women swimwear. The range and variety of the swimwear is astounding, including not only one-pieces, but bikinis and minkinis as well. The suits are made out of premium jersey knit with 100% recycled lining and an 85% recycled outer jersey. You can find this collection in playful, vibrant colors and patterns. It a swim wear that looks good on the beach and on the streets.

Something to look forward to in the month of April in In-House. In-House is an e-commerce destination for celebrity. athlete, and taste maker brands and will be launched this month. This includes brands led by talents such as The Weekend. The founders of In-House are Rob Lubin, MArk Obuz, and Tucker Radecki. These three have worked for many companies in the fashion industry and noticed the lack or destinations where brands such as these can be found. So they created In-House in 2019, and now it will offer 15 brands to start, and expected to increase to two dozen by mid-April. In-House launched Smokepurpp’s 6 Dead Bats brand exclusively in tandem with the artist’s EP “Psycho (Legally Insane) on Feb. 10, and the collection sold out in one day. This is definitely something to check out!

“We want to make sure our partners are brands with one main tastemaker behind it,” Obuz said. “We make sure that whoever we bring on has a story to tell.”

Lubin added, “It’s important to note that we’re not trying to be about an influencer marketplace. It’s really about fashion — brands built by a tastemaker but that stand on their own.”

“A couple years ago, it was about these collaborations where a big brand supports a tastemaker,” said Radecki, “but now tastemakers are doing things in their own way. Now people are bringing brands to life independently and it’s up to us to bring them to mass.”

An interesting and exciting thing in the fashion industry is that Alexander McQueen and Balenciaga are now fur Free!!!

NAIROBI DESIGN WEEK

April 3 to April 10 is Nairobi Design Week!

This year’s digital Nairobi Design week will showcase Kenyan talent through a series of live-streamed talks and discussions, as well as a curated showcase.

The event will start off with a panel talk, where over 30 creatives will share how they got where they are today and answer questions from the audience.

MODERNISM WEEK

Modernism week will be held April 8th through April 18th!

Some of Palm Springs’ most iconic buildings will be opened up to the public through a series of guided tours. Some of the properties included is Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate and Sunnylands (the winter residence of Walter Annenberg).

Visitors will also be able to join a tour of the desert city’s first wholly modernist neighborhood called Twin Palms.

FOR MORE AMAZING EVENTS IN APRIL

For more amazing international and cultural events got to the following site:

https://www.dezeen.com/2021/04/01/dezeen-events-guide-april-2021/

https://10times.com/fashion-accessories?month=april

Hello Bellah Blog Readers!

Happy Year of the Ox! Lunar New Years happened this past weekend, and now we are on a new lunar cycle!

It has been a month since 2021 has come into play, and the fashion and events at the beginning of this year has not disappointed all of us citizens of the fashion industry. There are many things that I need to catch you up on before the month of February is over and the month of March begins.

Before we deep dive into the fabulous month of February and the fashion that it aspired and gave to the public….lets talk about ground hog day. I, like most inhabitants of the world, was looking forward to warmer weather and spring time fashion. Unfortunately, the groundhog saw his shadow and cursed us cold-blooded people to suffer 6 more weeks of cold, shivering winter. *cue the eye roll and tears*

Something big that has happened in the world corresponds to one of the top fashion events that we all look forward too every year, New York Fashion Week. The CFDA Chairman, Tom Ford, announced earlier at the beginning of the year that he would no longer be putting out a NYFW Schedule. Instead they have an “American Collections Calendar”, but this is not the only change that our beloved NYFW is and has gone through this year.

NYFW has once again gone completely virtual on account of the still prevalent and spreading Coronavirus. With all the travel bands and rising cases worldwide, and all the health and safety concerns with hosting an event such as this, it just made more sense to keep the event viral with non-famous labels. Those high-fashion brands that normally held reoccurring spots in the annual NYFW shows futures are vague or they are just under wraps.

The CFDA has promised to not only release the schedule for those American Designers and Labels in NYFW, but also where those not in NYFW plan to host shows or appear worldwide. The American Collections Calendar features a handful of shows that will be virtual, starting this Sunday, and designers who will be present in mid-April. Some of the fashion weeks changes that were put into place due to the pandemic have been confirmed to make a permanent appearance in NYFW’s to come.

One of the labels that popped off in 2019 was the Fenty label that was owned by renowned R&B artists and performer Rihanna. After being in production for a little under 2 years, she has decided to close down her fashion label. The lingerie and makeup brand will continue to produce and sell as normal. Her ready-to-wear line has also been put on hold til further notice.

Though we all love Rihanna and Fenty, the truth of the matter is is that the prices for her amazing products were just too steep for the normal, everyday consumer. She promises to try to make the brand more economic, and to focus once again on her music. Though this is sad for all of the Fenty Fashion House lovers out there, just know that we love and support Rihanna’s choice.

Valentine’s Day has come and passed, but this year was probably the most fashionable yet. With everyone being stuck at home, online sites like SHEIN, Romwe, and more had high sales on cute Valentine’s Day lingerie and outfits. People also got creative with their gifts this year as well. From hand made gifts, to cute date ideas, Valentines day definitely got a makeover. Some of the most interesting gifts this year came from the celebrities, for example Michael B. Jordan gifted his girlfriend stocks for the holiday of love.

I do not know how that translates to a romantic gift and to a romantic evening, but hey……if it works than it works. All I know is that I would not know how to react if someone gave me stocks as a gift, no matter what Holiday it was.

Since we got whats happening in the Fashion Industry out of the way, and covered the most Romantic Holiday February has to offer, lets get down to Bellah business. There are many cool things that are about to be happening for Bellah modeling agency.

The first and most important thing that Bellah Modeling Agency staff would like you all to know about is our new location in Charlotte, NC. We now have a facility where we can host classes and other fashion events in this amazing city! If you are a model or an aspiring model in or around the are a of Charlotte, NC please go ahead and register to be a part of our Charlotte branch at http://www.bellahmodelingagency.com

Columbia International Fashion Week, which will be happening in March, has its first model casting call this Saturday, February 20th. Columbia International Fashion Week is a new Fashion Week that will be gracing the world and hopefully blowing other ones out of the water. We have high hopes for this fashion week and can’t wait to see how it turns out for its first year of being established. If you would like to join in on the fun as a model, designer, hair artist, makeup artist, or a volunteer please go to http://www.columbiainternationalfashionweek.com.

The other major event that Bellah Modeling Agency has coming up is the Annual Bellah Modeling Agency casting call. This is where BMA gets many of its new talents for the agency, and how you can become part of the agency yourself. This casting call will be happening March 6th! If you would like to be a part of this casting call then go to eventbrite.com and register today!

Bellah Affaire Magazine also had some pretty good issues come out. The last issue, which was the January-February, was on the beautiful and talented Naida Rutherford. We also included the Top 10 Influential Woman around the Columbia area, as well as some interesting SPring fashion and fashion related articles. If you, your business, or anyone you know deserves a chance to be in our magazine….please go to http://www.bellahmodeingagency.com and let us know why you should be in our next issue or our featured person/ business.

Last but not least, I would like to talk about the fantastic YouTube channel that Bellah Modeling Agency runs called Bellah Live! Bellah Live is a talk show that interviews business people, community leaders, and fashion icons to share with the world where they got their start in life and tips for the average, everyday people to aspire to be like them. This months special guest are Lisa Hopkins (debuted on Feb. 4), Rashika Cambell (Feb. 28), and Whitney Brown (Feb. 21). If you have a story to share with us, go to http://www.bellahmodelingagency.com and send us a message so that we can interview you as well. Also, don’t forget to follow and subscribe to our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages!

Hello Bellah Blog Readers! We are heading off the new year on the right note. COVID-19 is still a thing but there is now a vaccine out, so hopefully the would will be back to attempting to be normal soon. Even though there is a vaccine out, I know many of you will be staying away from it just because of the uncertainties that any new vaccine brings with it when it hasn’t been tested by the public yet. Just be safe, wash your hands, social distance, and wear your masks when out in public.

Martin Margiela Combeback?

I know you are probably wondering why I am talking about a person named Martin Margiela, especially if you are not from the fashion industry or involved in it. Martin Margiela is actually a fashion legend who retired about 12 years ago. He was a well-known fashion designers who retired in 2009, and now he is making a comeback…..but not as a designer. Mr. Margiela is making his comeback as an artist. There will be an exhibition called Martin Margiela opening on April 15th at the Lafayette Anticipations gallery in Paris, France. This will be a collection of paints, sculptures, and other work done by Mr. Margiela that have been previously unseen by the public. It portrays the same qualities of breaking the rules that his fashion collection had, which only reinforces the fact that Martin Margiela has always been, and will always be an artist. Let’s welcome back this legend and be supportive of his art as we all were of his fashion.

Alber Elbaz Returns??

Apparently this is the year for fashion legends to return to the industry or to industries that are closely related. Another fashion expert who is making a comeback in the year 2021 is no other than Alber Elbaz. Alber Elbaz in known for turning the fashion house of Lanvin into one of the most sought after-luxury brands. In October of 2015, Elbaz was pushed out of the Lanvin fashion house. Hes worked on some other small projects within the industry, but nothing as major as his new project that is re-entering him in the fashion industry…but with a dramatic twist.

Alber Elbaz is working on a film that he is keeping underwraps, but the one thing that we know is that it is fashion related. It is a joint venture with Compagnie Financière Richmont, dubbed AZ Factory, which is on the couture schedule for January 26th at 8pm.

Elbaz described AZ as “an innovative and dynamic start-up, meant to turn dreams into reality.” The luxury giant, parent of brands including Cartier, Chloé, IWC, Van Cleef & Arpels and Dunhill, said the venture would be project-based rather than the standard seasonal approach of most designer collections.

What is up Bellah Blog Readers!

Yes it has been a rough 2020 and we all are hoping for 2021 to make life more bearable. This year has been filled with a catastrophic pandemic, a crazy presidential election, and domestic and international crisis. Overall, its been one heck of a year!

Before we ring in the new year, we must first celebrate one of my favorite holidays! That’s right, its Christmas time, the time where families gather together to celebrate each other and all things happy! While you might have already decorated the house, put up the tree, and decided on the guest list and dinner menue…….you might not have finished up your Christmas shopping. Deciding on the perfect gift for you loved ones can be difficult, but we here at the Bellah Blog aim to help you choose the most fashionable gifts of the season.

Here are the must have gifts of the 2020 Holiday season!

Pearl Hair Accessories, Pleated Skirts, Mary Jane Pumps, Under the Knee Boots, the latest Perfume and Cologne, Luxury spa and self-care gift sets, the latest iPhone and technology.

These are just a few of the hottest Christmas gifts to give to your family, but the best gift you can give is your time and appreciation!

BELLAH 2021 TAKEOVER

Though 2020 is wrapping up, us at Bellah Modeling Agency are already looking towards the new year and what we plan to do with it.

To finish up the year 2020, Bellah is hosting a Gala on Saturday, December 19th that is invitation only! Model, parents, clients, designers, and other VIP guest have already received their invitations and have RSVP’d. This event will be one to end the year on a high note. It’s a formal black tie red carpet event that we at the blog will cover in full detail. Expect a scope on who wore what, and any drama that takes place! We also heard that there will be amazing performances, food, and secret awards given out. Look forward to hearing all about it in next weeks post!

With the Gala ending 2020, what will be opening 2021 and what surprises can you expect from Bellah Modeling Agency with the incoming new year?

Well the first show of the 2021 season will be Bellah Modeling Agency’s “Show Me Your Beauty” annual fashion show. This show promotes special needs models and clothing brands. It shows that anyone has what it takes to be a model, and that High Fashion can be for everyone.

After this is the annual Bellah Modeling Agency casting call that happens every February. Here, people from all over come to audition to be apart of the number one modeling agency in Columbia, SC. Potential model candidates walk in front of panel of judges and answer a set of questions for them.

Along with the normal fashion shows and yearly events and fashion weeks that Bellah puts on every year, there are two new projects that have been added to the upcoming year’s calendar. March 23-27 will be the first ever Columbia International Fashion Week. This will be a fashion week filled with model, designers, and people from all over the world. A week full of high fashion that will one day be the talk of the world. The other new project for 2021 is the Sumter Beauty Pageant that will take place on September 18th. This will also be an annual thing that people from SC can be a part of.

With all these, and more, amazing things going on…..Bellah Modeling Agency will not only become a household name but a world recognized power in the modeling and entertainment industry. Are you ready for us to take over 2021?

Hello Bellah Blog Readers!

I hope that everyone has been staying safe and trying to not go stir crazy while still being stuck in the house. Those of you who are able to start living life with the new norms….please do what you must to not only protect yourself, but others as well.

TIKTOK CHINESE STREET FASHION

While we have all been living this crazy COVID-19 Quarantine life for over half a year now. During this time, the social media app TikTok has become the nation’s, and the world’s, favorite past time. Why? Well to be honest, the videos on the app are fun to watch, create, and share.

Many businesses and those who rep brands are able to spread the word of those companies, same as social influencers who want to reach out and connect with more brands. It is a perfect platform to show off clothing, and in China, the people have taken it even further.

The fashion ranges from classic streetwear to traditional “hanfu” clothing reinterpreted in fresh, modern ways, and worn with a signature confidence and attitude that comes across especially strong when the slow motion effect is on.”

-Hannah Hyclack, “These Hypnotizing Chinese Street Style Videos are Taking Over Tik Tok”

If you are an avid TikTok scroller, you have probably realized that a lot of the feed on your for you page have been nicely, fashionably dressed Asians on the street. I am here to tell you that these TikTok’s might not just be your average good looking and well dressed people who enjoy making videos for the rest of the world to like and recreate.

There has been some speculation that these videos are a response to the indoor fashion events that been cancelled world wide. Many people are now becoming invested and interested in learning more about Chinese Street Fashion. Most of the world was not aware of how into fashion the Chinese were. These videos have brought attention to a culture and its fashion that would’ve probably been ignored or unknow to the world in today’s society. Social media is a spectacular way to connect with the world outside your own.

2020’S TREND OF BANDANA’S

Chinese street fashion isn’t the only trend that TikTok has brought to the US. The app has also brought back the trend of wearing bandana’s.

Bandana’s was trend for the early 90’s. Stars and famous personnel in the 90’s used bandana’s in many unique and fun hairstyles. The star Hilary Duff had many bandana looks in the hit Disney show “Lizzy McGuire”. TikTok has definitely reminded people and the younger generation how cool and fun a bandana can look.

Some of the most popular bandana looks are the following: the film star, the royal, the Jackie O, the Serena Van Der Woodsen, the French Girl, the Cowboy, and many more. Another show that highlighted bandana styles is none other than Gossip Girl. The shows iconic character “Serena Van Der Woodsen”, played by Blake Lively, use bandanas in many of the episodes.

Bandana’s are becoming more popular everyday, and this is definitely a trend that we at Bellah are okay with!