July 2008: The Birth of Vogue

Lately, discussions about ‘first lady fashion’ has been floating about the media and trickling down into everyday conversation: Michelle vs. Cindy. But, surprisingly enough, it is Mr. Obama’s name that popped up in conversation between Franca Sozzani, editor at Italian Vogue, and Steven Meisel, fashion photographer extraordinaire.

Like most people, Ms. Sozzani, is intrigued by this years presidential election. She found Mr. Obama to be the source of inspiration when she and Mr. Meisel began discussing an all black issue of (Italian) Vogue in back in February. This July, brace yourselves. An all black issue of Italian Vogue will be hitting the shelves in Europe next Thursday, and in America shortly after.

Kyle Hagler, an agent at IMG, asserts: “You want to sell the model on the basis of her beauty, not her race.” He further explains that he uses his “beauty perspective” when sending a model to a casting call. The decision to omit any indication of race to a prospective client always prompts a follow up call saying, “You didn’t tell me she was black.” It is no secret that the fashion world is plagued with racism and apparently (some) people have had enough. Nonetheless, fashion industry remains one of the few facets of society that can still practice outright bigotry without any consequences….up until now.

Bethann Hardison, a 60s model turned agent and advocate of diversity on the runway, called for a meeting in Bryant Park to discuss exclusionary tactics and tokenism. Ms Hardison aims to help enlighten people in the industry. “They need to see what they’re missing out there,” she said.

We have yet to see the end results...

Naomi Cambell

“Franca doesn’t realize what she’s done for people of color.” -Ms. Naomi Campbell

Sessilee Lopez

“Here’s this exquisite girl,” he said, addressing no one in particular. “What don’t you get? She’s a beautiful woman. There was no trick to it.” –Steven Meisel, Fashion Photographer

Liya Kebede

"Liya is elegant. To me, she walks like a princess. Now the girls all look the same—from the first to the last."-Franca Sozzani

Tyra Banks

"I have asked my advertising clients so many times, ‘Can we use a black girl?’ They say no."-Steven Meisel

Allow Us to Reintroduce Ourselves

Welcome! This summer marks the first anniversary of Cocoture. As we welcome you to our fabulous blog, we hope you enjoy the best Cocoture has to offer in art, fashion and lifestyle from our perspectives. Though its been quite some time since we have posted any new articles, we can assure you that we have not lost our luster - nor have we diminished our enthusiasm for great style and fabulous living. In upcoming issues you will be sure to enjoy a broader array of topics and we encourage you to offer your input by posting your perspicacious comments.

Cocoture welcomes the notion of fabulous coco chicks with open arms. Join us as we celebrate our immaculate beauty and grace and all that it entails. --Haute Ciaccolate




Needless to say, it has been awhile, but we are finally back and better than ever. Over the past year we had the opportunity to travel the globe, and are eager to share snapshots as well as our ever-evolving tastes with you. We not only intend to profile fashion and art, but we would also like to use this space to reveal various facets of culture both domestic and global. So without further ado, we would like to re-introduce Cocoture.

Welcome. Enjoy.
Hot Coco

The Power of White: On Black Skin… Of Course

Let’s be real, white looks fantastic against black skin. Now I’m not referring to Puff Daddy (or is it P. Diddy now…who knows) “White Party” outfits, but simply wearing white causally. White is automatically chic (unless you plan on wearing white stretch pants) and enables coco skin to stand out like no other color. While wearing white you can accessorize your outfits to the fullest with ornate necklaces, bangles and earrings. In addition, you can easily pair white with all of those vibrant shoes and handbags in the back of your closet that you bought years ago and never wore (you know what I’m talking about, all those past purchases that you justified as “funky” even though you knew they were a stretch). So for the last few days of summer (esp. Labor Day) embrace all the white clothing in your closet and rock it to the FULLEST.


(The photograph above is from the “street style” section of style.com. We saw it and couldn’t resist posting it because this “hot coco” looks FAB).

COCO Quote of the Week

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”
-Coco Chanel

Michelle Obama: The Political Style Fixture

Now I’m not one to solicit my personal political beliefs, but I stand with Oprah and the millions of others that support Barack Obama.

As the old saying goes, “Behind every great man there is a great women”. This cliché stands true to Michelle Obama. Michelle is the primary driving force behind Senator Obama’s presidential campaign. She not only shows her support through her frequent national appearances and earnest speeches, but also cares for their two young (ADORABLE) children. Michelle is incredibly intelligent, educated and successful.

In addition, this do it all mother, wife and professional has not let her hectic schedule get the best of her appearance. Michelle looks radiant on a consistent basis, with a fabulous wardrobe, impeccable hair and make-up that is constantly in tact (cough…cough… Condoleezza might want to take a few notes). Michelle steers clear of ill-fitting nondescript garments, and wears ensembles that are both tailored and chic. Noted by Vanity Fair as one of the Best Dressed women in 2007, Michelle Obama is a graceful style fixture that is here to stay.

COCO Quote of the Week

"I don't do fashion, I am fashion."
-Coco Chanel

Black Art v. The Black Artist

(I preformed a Google search for “Black Art” and this is one of the many images that the search engine found…)

There is an ongoing debate in the art community on how to classify art made by African American artists (often referred to as black art). After doing a good deal of reflection on this term, I came to the conclusion that “black art” does not exist. Yes, Black artists do exist, and at times they do create work that reflects our culture, but black artists should not be limited to one genre, but rather be looked at as artists that create work that inspires them. Although it is possible to create art that is thematically black, it is impossible to construct art in a distinctly “African American style”. Although art created by African Americans is capable of reflecting the history of artists of color, black artists should not be limited to art that reflects African American subject matter.

A recent article in the New York Times titled “Reluctant Fraternity, Thinking Post-Black”, investigates the notion of black art and the black artist. Through examining and interviewing four prestigious African American artists (Edgar Arceneaux, Rodney McMillian, Mark Bradford and Kori Newkirk) journalist Jori Finkel explores the psyche of the contemporary black artist. I would highly suggest reading this article. Even if you are not very familiar with art “Reluctant Fraternity, Thinking Post-Black” provides a brief overview of the state if black art, and does a solid job of incorporating various perspectives.

Mark Bradford, one of the artists featured in the article currently has work on display Eden’s Edge at the Hammer Museum, Los Angeles (10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, (310) 443-7000). This group exhibition features fifteen Los Angeles contemporary artists and will be on display until September 2, 2007.I highly recommend the show and if possible, I advice you take the time visit the exhibition (and during the summer the Hammer Museum has free admission). In my opinion, Bradford’s work is moving, and quite frankly the best in the show.


WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Tracy Reese: Cocoture, It’s Far from a Fad, It’s a Movement

(All of the looks featured above are apart of Reese's Fall 2007 collection)


Fashion designer Tracy Reese creates pieces that are feminine and flirtatious. Her use of rich fabrics and flattering cuts make her one of the most well received fashion designers in the industry. Although Reese is young, she has been a part of the fashion world for over two decades. As a Parsons graduate, Reese’s formal training coupled with her innate sense of style has made her a fashion mogul. The designer’s collection is created with the female figure in mind; her elegant dresses fuse classic cuts with a contemporary flair.

Although her pieces are incredibly lady-like, they are also youthful and fun. In addition to dresses, Reese’s line also includes accessories and footwear (I mean lets be real, a girl can never have too many shoes and handbags). Her self-titled line can be found at Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdales, Barney’s and other high-end retail stores and boutiques. Reese’s collection is comprised of pieces that can be worn causally during the day and stunning cocktail dresses that are perfect for evening affairs. She has taken the fashion world by storm, and is one of the most successful contemporary female designers.

Reese is here to stay; her pieces are elegant, chic and epitomize the finest in Cocoture attire.

A Square in a Bowl

A communicative exchange between his turquoise tap shoes and the rhythmic sounds coming from the jazz quartet. Stamina. The improvisation and masteries as his feet took on the role of the percussion. Dilettantish. On Sunday evening Savion Glover tap danced on a sound amplified square in the center of the stage at the Hollywood Bowl. As the jazz quartet comprised of Tommy James, Dwayne "Cook" Broadnax, Patience Higgins and Andy McCloud iver" by Duke Ellington, Glover brought in the funk with his rhythmic reconnaissance. Bass drum. Through his choreography he became a composer and a musician. I watched with heartfelt awe as Glover translated the jazz music into tap dancing and translated the tap
dancing into jazz music. A true artist he is.

Among his list of accomplishments: Tony Award for his choreography in the Broadway smash hit Bring In 'Da Noise, Bring In 'Da Funk, recipient of the 1996 Drama Desk Award, the Outer Critics Circle Award (choreography), two Obie Awards, and two Fred Astaire Awards for his choreography and performance in Bring In 'Da Noise, Bring In 'Da Funk as well as the 1996 Dance Magazine Choreographer of the Year Award.

Enjoy life. Enjoy Beauty. Enjoy the arts

COCO Quote Of the Week

"The best color in the whole world, is the one that looks good, on you!”
-Coco Chanel

“Hot Chocolate” of the Week: Tracee Ellis Ross

At Cocoture, we do are best to stray away from Hollywood coverage. In a world where celebrities are on the front cover of EVERY magazine and newspaper, we strive to provide our readers with a more diverse outlook on stylish African-American women and what it means to be FABULOUS.

Nevertheless, we must acknowledge actress Tracee Ellis Ross. This “hot chocolate” has mastered looking fashionable and effortlessly chic on a consecutive basis (and lets admit it, the Girlfriends cast is pretty stylish, in addition to serving as one of the best portrayals of black women on television). Whether dressing down in a simple blouse and jeans or dolled up in a couture gown, she always manages to look fierce.

This “hot coco” of the week’s style is bold and elegant. In addition, Ross does not attempt to conceal her curvaceous body, but rather accentuates her fabulous shape with form fitting clothing that is tasteful and classy. As African-American females we realize that at times (more often than not) it’s difficult to find flattering clothing. However, since Ross is a master at styling clever ensembles, she never appears to have this dilemma. Rather than limit her style to the latest trends, this vixen draws inspiration from both old and new pieces.

It’s no wonder that Ross has made a name for herself as a fashion icon. Some might say that her style is inherited; others may believe that it was acquired during her earlier career stints as a fashion editor and model, but one thing is for sure, this style siren looks splendid every time we see her. Tracee Ellis Ross embodies Cocoture in every sense of the word.

We are Back!

Sorry for the delay. Cocoture is back in action!

Hot Chocolate, Hot Style:"Cocoture" Fashion Spotlight

Fashion publicist Bonnie Morrison understands style inside and out. This “hot chocolate” takes her job incredibly seriously. Not only is she an accomplished director of publicity at KCD, a fashion public relations firm, but she is also constantly on the scene rocking the chicest outfits. Morrison has made fashion her business both professionally and personally, with a style that is as eclectic as it is ladylike. Although Morrison’s style varies from everything between jeans and tank tops to couture gowns, one thing is for sure; she always looks vibrant and tasteful. In an industry with very few black women, Morrison firmly holds her ground. This New York socialite often wears her hair in a simple pulled back style. Her less is more aesthetic makes her outfits stand out and speak volumes. Morrison’s fabulous style and professional expertise coupled with her radiant smile ensures that she will remain a fixture in the New York fashion and social scene.

Behind the Music...

We are all familiar with the saying, "behind every successful man stands a strong woman". Well, this holds true for our beloved music sensation, Stevie Wonder and his wife Kai Milla. 


Kai Milla reins as one of the defining queens in one of the most highly competitive industries, FASHION. Needless to say, she has earned her right to be at the top standing amongst the ChiCest of the ChiC. Her background is in the arts, so it's only natural she would shine in this arena and become a talented and guiding entrepreneur. With her fashion company, Milla Design Group, she has landed herself in a position to compete with the best of the best and has become a representive for all aspiring female African-American designers.

Kai Milla unspeakably illustrates the fact that women can stand on their own and become recognized for their talents.


Always remember, you are what you wear. So work it out ladies!

Mozart Dances

Mozart Dances, a critically-acclaimed presentation by the Mark Morris Dance Group, will make its victorious debut at the Dorthy Chandler Pavillion in Downtown Los Angeles. Morris’s mastery of innovation manifests through his visually titillating dance performances, which capture the pulchritude and sentiment of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s masterpieces. Morris’ majestic affectation of movement and technique is displayed in all its splendor through a merge of folk dances, balletic lifts, pose and sculpture.

Dances was commissioned by the Barbican Centre (London), Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts (New York), New Crowned Hope (Vienna). So happy to have the Mark Morris Dance Group in L.A.!!


PERFORMANCE DATES/ TIMES
Saturday, October 20, 2007 7:30pm
Sunday, October 21, 2007 2:00pm
Sunday, October 21, 2007 7:30pm

Enjoy life. Enjoy beauty. Enjoy the arts.

COCO Quote Of the Week

Although Ms. Coco Chanel may not be coco in complexion, this fashion visionary landed her way onto this site because of her innate understanding of style. This design icon created timeless pieces and had a mindset that embodies “Cocoture”.


“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.”
-Coco Chanel

Shosheba Griffiths: Hot Chocolate!

This Jamaican chocolate drop, Shosheba Griffiths, was discovered by a local scout at her highschool. As fate would have it she won "Face of the Caribbean" contest soon afterwards...go figure! In little to no time she took a bite into "The Big Apple", where she graced the cover of Teen Vogue and Nylon. This chic young lady has aspirations of going into nursing after modeling. Not only is she a gorgeous addition to the catwalk, but she has goals and ambition. What a gal! She soooo makes the Hot Chocolate list.

Welcome to the Tour of "Cocoture"

We would like to cordially welcome you to "Cocoture", a blog created for the chicest of the chic. Join us as we discuss style, beauty and art through the lens of three savvy Los Angeles natives. We have created a site geared toward young (or young at heart), beautiful, effortlessly chic women. "Cocoture" refers to these fabulously fly ladies as "Hot Coco". We will feature en vogue's latest from the runways in Paris to the streets of Los Angeles. We will also discuss everything from maintaining a luscious mane to luxurious make-up tricks and skin care remedies. In addition to style and beauty, "Cocoture's" cultural coverage will keep you up to date with the latest happenings in the Los Angeles art scene. So sit back, relax and tune in frequently as we bring you the finest in "Cocoture".