Popular e-tailer ASOS.com has launched a new brand, ASOS Africa which falls under their new initiative, The Green Room – a new online marketplace merging brands that promote people and the world. The ASOS Africa capsule collection (which is in conjunction with SOKO Kenya) will consist of several chic silhouettes such as blazers, jumpsuits and playsuits, cropped trousers all using African Kanga. Kanga is a vividly colored printed cotton fabric that is traditionally worn by men and women throughout Eastern Africa. The collection will also begin to incorporate accessories as well as organic hand-crocheted tees and vests embellished with brass beading. What do you think of the collection so far Clutchettes?

“On our continuing quest to find new inspiration, we recently spent time in African working with artisans and small producer groups. The vibrancy of the continent inspired us to create the ‘ASOS Africa’ collection with the aim of supporting trade in Africa.” -Caren Downie, buying director, ASOS.com

Price points for the ASOS Africa capsule collection range between £15-75 for clothing and £18-32 for accessories. To see more from the collection, visit the online shopping site here.

THE DESIGNERS

Boxing Kitten
Featuring African textiles in 50’s silhouettes, Maya Lake’s “ethnic rockability” bursted on the scene in Fall 2009. Tweeting about her latest looks, sizes available and a search for interns, you can find Boxing Kitten worn by Alicia Keys and Beyonce in the upcoming “Put It In a Love Song” video.

Follow Boxing Kitten here: www.twitter.com/BoxingKitten

Bijules
Clutch spotlighted Bijules over two years ago. Fergie, Rihanna and Beyonce are among the few daring enough to accessorize with Bijules and despite her growing clientele, Jules Kim stays approachable and candid as she tweets her latest inspiration ideas and jetting to and from LA.

Follow Jules Kim here: www.twitter.com/Bijules

Rachel Roy
Clearly a Clutch darling, Rachel Roy’s Twitter is a digital showroom of her latest news and jewelry collaboration with friend, Estelle. Celebrate the Month of Love with Rachel Roy for Twitter follower exclusives! Look out for Roy’s final giveaway this Wednesday. You could actually win the RACHEL Unevel Lapel Trench!

Follow Rachel Roy here: www.twitter.com/Rachel_Roy

THE EDITORS

Robin Givhan
The aficionado whom every fashion head should know is Robin Givhan, the Pulitzer Prize winning fashion editor for the Washington Post. With a shy 193 followers, it’s obvious that Givhan is busy penning MObama stories and that’s why we love her! A thrifty user, you can bet that when Givhan tweets, it will be something meaningful.

Follow Robin Givhan here: www.twitter.com/RobinGivhan

Kenya Hunt
If you’re outside of New York, you may not recognize the face or name but Kenya Hunt’s reach is beyond the Big Apple. As the global fashion editor of the UK’s Metro newspaper, Hunt’s insider’s perspective is invaluable. If you want the front row deets on London Fashion Week, Kenya is the woman to follow.

Follow Kenya Hunt here: www.twitter.com/kenyametrostyle

Bevy Smith
Smith was the Fashion Editor for both Vibe and Rolling Stone magazines. Currently a TV personality and contributing writer for Paper, Smith is coveted as the “Fairy Fashion Godmother” by a slew of brown fashionistas. Dishing comedic commentary and priceless fashion advice by the minute, Smith never leaves her uptown home without Twitter.

Follow Bevy Smith here: www.twitter.com/Bevysmith

THE PR MAVEN

Bonnie Morrison
Working at the all-powerful KCD, Morrison did Public Relations before it became the cool thing to do. With an impressive resume that boasts, Proenza Schouler, Dries van Noten and Phi, Morrison is as down to earth as your next-door neighbor.

Follow Bonnie Morrison here: www.twitter.com/fiercegrandma

THE STYLISTS

June Ambrose
With over 40,000 followers, Celebrity Stylist, June Ambrose is notorious for her twitpics and “chai tea spills” (e.g., fashion gossip). Carrying Twitter along to photo shoots and “daily spirals,” be inspired by her street style poses and the day in the life of a style architect.

Follow June Ambrose here: www.twitter.com/Juneambrose

Mariel Haenn
Known for her trend-making work for Rihanna and Ciara, Mariel is a fashion stylist on the rise. Tweeting her posts for WeResistSimple.com, Mariel takes you behind the color popping styles of Rihanna’s “Rude Boy” video among her other fashionable adventures.

Follow Mariel Haenn here: www.twitter.com/MarielHaenn

THE BLOGGERS

The Fashion Bomb
Not just another fashion blog, the woman behind The Fashion Bomb is a Harvard grad who has written for Real Simple, Essence and Newsweek. Recently becoming international, Claire Sulmers now takes up residence in Paris with added coverage in London, Atlanta and New York City. Tweeting on Black fashion and celebrity looks for less, The Fashion Bomb is a must to follow!

Follow The Fashion Bomb here: www.twitter.com/thefashionbomb

Kathryn Finney
A style contributor to the Today Show, CNN Headlines News and E! News, Finney is most known for her Amazon best-selling book, How to Be a Budget Fashionista: The Ultimate Guide to Looking Fabulous for Less. Now penning The Budget Fashionista blog, Finney tweets on “Budget Style Picks” for both petite and plus-size women.

Follow Kathryn Finney here: www.twitter.com/kathrynfinney

Najwa Moses
An on-air correspondent for an array of news sources and brands, Moses prides herself for being on “the left of fashion.” Her blog at Styleaholics.com has been a go-to for funky and eclectic fashion finds and events. You can also find Moses blogging for Bluefly at flypaper.bluefly.com. Tweeting her blog posts and “what’s with the watermelon-toned suit?” Moses’ candid and insightful updates will keep you coming for more.

Follow Najwa Moses here: www.twitter.com/najwamoses

Wendy Lam
The founder of Nitro:licious, Wendy Lam has achieved international acclaim. Noted by Paris Vogue as a blog to watch, Lam tweets on fashion week and the latest collections from street to high-end designers.

Follow Wendy Lam here: www.twitter.com/Nitro_licious

Susie Bubble
One visit to the Style Bubble and Susie will have you hooked with her quirky charm. Based in the UK, Susie features her personal street style and all corners of aesthetic. Tweeting live from New York to London Fashion Week, Susie is a humble spirit and one we encourage you to follow.

Follow Susie Bubble here: www.twitter.com/susiebubble

THE WILD CARD

Who’s the singer turned DJ with a no holds barred style? Whose Twitter takes you from the studio to the club and back in the embrace of her cutie son? It’s none other than Solange Knowles! One of the chiefs of Twitter, Solange boasts nearly 400,000 followers. Tweeting on fashion, music, her damn blog and Houston, Solange’s Twitter is a sanctum of lifestyle.

Follow Solange Knowles here: www.twitter.com/solangeknowles

Meet The Baddest Brothers in Fashion

Look up “booted and suited” in the dictionary and, nine times outa  ten, you’re gonna find a picture of a Brother next to it. If I’m lying, may the goddess strike my Nordstrom Fashion Rewards card in two with a bolt of lightning. Not for nothing, but when it comes to being “dipped and whipped,” “so fresh and so clean,” and just generally “razor sharp,” Black men have the game on lock! And, I say this as a Sister, knowing good and damned well, we INVENTED the game! But, I ain’t mad at the boyz, so credit where credit is due – and credit is definitely due. It doesn’t seem to matter, either, what style they choose to express themselves. Whether it be Cab Calloway in his clean, white Zoot, Michael in his studded, red “Beat It” jacket, or Steve Harvey’s in his “Sunday Best” – Brothers have this uncanny knack for pulling of their look(s) with mad flavah. Nary a collar is left unpopped, no shoulder sits accumulating dust and definitely no wire hangers! And, is it me, or is there some common thread (pardon the pun) that runs through it all? It‘s like flossin‘ is just flossin’ is just flossin’, no matter what. With Brothers and fashion, there’s this sort of universal undercurrent of pride, cocksuredness, even defiance that comes through whether it’s Pharrell in his skateboard/street chic, LL with his silly one pants leg rolled up, or Lenny Kravitz wearing …ummm, well..…nothing! It’s the same “cult of ego,” the same deliciously subversive bravado and the same mad attitude that jumps out at you. So, so juicy.

Well, no doubt, consciously or unconsciously, Black men have historically exploited fashion to do a lot more than just look fly. They’ve used it as a form of social commentary, as a political statement with which they give a big ol’ middle finger to a world that sometimes seems to rejoice in seeing them humbled or, even worse, completely broken. Maybe Woolworth’s could refuse a man the basic human dignity of service, but in 1960 when four young, Black college students held a lunch counter sit-in to protest the violation of their civil rights, they sure as shootin’ rolled up in that piece dressed to the nines, like they deserved the respect they were demanding- rocking”shiny dress shoes, top hats and stylish over coats. And, from then until now, with the wardrobe-conscious Jay Z practically owning the music industry (“I paid a grip for the jeans, plus the slippers is clean”) and our very own sharply dressed President of the United States straight flossin’ in the big office, Brothers have instinctively understood and used fashion to communicate some serious ‘ish without so much as having to part their pretty, pretty lips.

REAL RECOGNIZE REAL
If there’s one thing the fashion industry lusts after and tries oh-so-desperately to “bottle” it’s authenticity. Well, authenticity, edge and raw emotion. So, it’s no wonder that fashion has often emulated and sometimes imitated the style of Black men. And thankfully, a handful of Brothers have been savvy enough and connected enough to tap into a tiny corner of that lucrative market to make their own millions. Everyone from Sean Jean to Russell Simmons and the aforementioned Jay Z and Pharrell are pushing their very own, hugely successful clothing lines. It’s also really heartening to see more and more young Brothers on the come up today, in all different avenues of the fashion game. Standing on the shoulders of design legends like Willi Smith, Stephen Burroughs and Gordon Henderson, a whole new crop of bruh-man fashionistas “keep, keep, keep rising to the top.” And, while I wish I could shout each and every single one of them out (as I type this, I realize I’ve forgotten Malcolm Harris, whose “one dress” design has even gotten Angela Jolie’s nose wide open!), here are just a few of the most influential tastemakers in the game right now:

THE LEADING MAN – Patrick Robinson
With his gorgeously unruly mane, he may LOOK like the ever-comical Huey from the Boondocks, but you’d better believe that Patrick Robinson is no joke. This man is straight running ‘ish in the contemporary American design world right now. After paying his dues at the coveted houses of Giorgio Armani, Paco Rabanne, Perry Ellis and Anne Klein, Robinson now serves as the Creative Director for The GAP (translation – homey is nicely PAID!)

THE ROCKSTAR – LaQuan Smith
At 21, baby boy may still have the taste of Similac on his lips, but fashion-wise, shorty is getting his grown man on. Just this month, Smith debuted his first collection (“Water Goddess”) during New York’s Fashion Week with the likes of Andre Leon Talley, Misa Hilton and Mama Combs in the audience to cheer him on. Best known, until now, for outfitting Rihanna and for his outrageous chainmail leggings (donned by none other than Lady Gaga), Smith is poised to blow the hell up. With his bold creativity and high-profile devotees, LaQuan Smith is definitely a “fashion moment“ who has the chance to last a minute.

THE GENTLEMEN – Ozwald Boateng & The Brits
Modern-day dandies should get on their knees and kiss this man’s overpriced wingtips. Ozwald Boateng is the absolute end for men who understand and value style. His colorful, beautifully tailored suits are cut with the precision of an origami figurine. Credited for breathing new life into the stuffy Savile Row (the celebrated street in Westminster, London where tailors do their thing for the royals and well-to-dos), Boateng lent his impeccably, elegant taste to the House of Givenchy (2003-2007). His career has far exceeded the trajectory of any ordinary craftsman. He was the first tailor to ever stage a runway show in Paris, and his talents were featured in a popular documentary series entitled “The House of Boateng.”

The British Invasion Continues: Although very different from Boateng in their styling sensibilities, be on the lookout for other crazy-talented Brits making waves from across the pond, including Romero Byran, Wale Adeyemi and Duro Olowu. Olowu, is particularly intriguing. Also known as the better half of Thelma Golden (curator, The Studio Museum in Harlem), Olowu fuses the bold colors of Mother Africa with the delicate florals and prints of the traditional English Lady, bringing a whole new phunk to “Tea Time.” Cheers!

THE ICON – André Leon Talley
What can I say about André Leon Talley, except “All Hail the Queen?” Yo, brother man has been doing the damn thing in fashion since as long as I can remember, and then a whole bunch of years befo’ that. Currently VOGUE’s beloved “Editor-at-Large,” and judge extraordinaire on America’s Next Top Model, Talley has earned the V.I.P. treatment at any runway show he damn well pleases. He’s larger than life, he’s always extra, he’s BFF’s with every celebrity from here to Bollywood, and we love him to bits because he STAYS fabulous. Believe THAT!

THE CANDY MAN ( ‘Foot Candy’ that is) – Courtney Crawford
In the tradition of Etu Evans, a hot new couture “cobbler” is creating foot fy-ah for the unapologetically sexy woman. To call his designs “shoes” does not do them justice, whatsoever. Crawford’s creations are little pieces of art that just happen to fit ever so nicely on a foot. Cinderella ain’t never seen hotNESS like this, yo! Keep those pedicures on point, ladies, because if Courtney keeps this up – we‘re gonna to need to have the peds looking tight (p.s. Beyonce and Mariah are major fans).

THE GLAMOURAMA – Kevan Hall
If it’s opulence, luxury and old Hollywood drama you seek, look no further than Kevan Hall. The talented Detroit native is known for glamour, glamour and more glamour. Think curvaceous silhouettes in luxurious fabrics. Think designs that whisper Dorothy Dandridge and Grace Kelly. Think Hollywood starlets like Angela Bassett, Vivica A. Fox and Renee Zellweger, simply dripping with diamonds, and clinking glasses at super exclusive cocktail parties in LA-LA land. Hall’s creations scream fabulosity in an unapologetic falsetto, and let you channel your inner Diana Ross!

THE VELVET UNDERGROUND – Nacimod Deeodee, Bill Johnson, Epperson
Ain’t it always the way that the most innovative and creative talents go under the radar? Yep, that’s right, the illest boys in fashion are names you may not ever have even heard of …YET. At the HOUSE OF NASSAT in NYC , Dominican-born Nacinmod brings us funkay, quirky crocheted hotness straight out of FLATBUSH. And, a few hours south, the multi-talented DC designer, Bill Johnson, has created a collection called “Transient” for the modern-day nomad, in a style he calls “retro-futuristic.” (http://www.bjstudio95.com/). Smart money says to keep an eye on these both of these talented fellas and also on a brother named Epperson (better known as former reality contestant on “PROJECT RUNWAY”). Epperson’s delicately feminine and tribal creations (some worn by Ms. Erykah Badu) continue to make waves at the annual Harlem Fashion Row.

So, keep checkin’ their fresh, because when it comes to high fashion – Brothers are straight killin’ the game these days, and definitely making it haute to death!

**Did I leave anyone out? Commit fashion blasphemy? Hit me up with a comment.

When we saw the iamkelis.com army of glossy skulls that fenced her, Kelis revived as the piercing lady of unprocessed edge. But nothing could prepare us for what happened next.

Kelis’ response to a PETA attack proved she was our reigning satirist of fashion. Kelis jokes, “And the paint throwing, that’s just ridiculous! What if I was hurling Louboutins and Pierre Hardys at every sad poorly dressed person on the street?” She questions, “What about art?” This led us to the recent red carpet photo of Kelis at the “First Annual Data Awards.” In a post-baby body that bangs, Kelis wore a fleshy jump suit oddly coupled with a black tuxedo jacket. Alexander McQueen’s Armadillo heels were nearly an afterthought to Kelis’ hyper-makeup, an ear to nose connecting chain and her near floor-length grey hair. Honestly, we didn’t know what to say. Heads bowed in somber. Our girl was taking it too far or so it seemed. The web exploded last Friday with criticisms from industry laypersons to aficionados. 83% of Clutch readers voted the look a drab. One reader commented, “It’s statue of liberty meets unicorn.” OK! magazine described the look as, “a fishy, Mel B – circa 98, weird attempt at Lady Gaga.” The Gaga comparisons continued over at New York Magazine’s The Cut. In a “Dear Kelis” letter that goes as far to call her an ass, the post read, “You are not Lady Gaga and this attempt at avant-garde fashion doesn’t compare to her get-ups.”

“You are not Lady Gaga and this attempt at avant-garde fashion doesn’t compare to her get-ups.” New York Magazine

Ummm…what? Since when did Lady Gaga become the go-to premier of style? Are we talking about the same artist who put her head in an eerie reef of horsy hay at last year’s “MTV Video Music Awards?” We don’t dispute that Gaga is a provocative artist whose unorthodox looks has inspired recent runway. We recognize that a source of these comparisons lie at Kelis’ choice to wear the McQueen’s after Gaga wore them in her “Bad Romance” video. Seemingly when Gaga experiments with fashion it’s grippingly revolutionary and when Kelis does it she becomes an ass. Now, we’re not defending Kelis but let’s be frank here. Gaga is a new artist. Kelis has been at this since 1999. What makes Gaga exempt from the legions of sycophants who have mirrored the looks of the sartorial influencers? Can you say Madonna?

Kelis did “edge” and “avant garde” before most of us knew what these forms were. It’s authenticity translated so sincerely because Kelis has never really been a manufactured project. When Kelis staged a protest in her debut video, “Caught Out There” marching down a street in a technicolored curly afro, she made it okay for the brown girls to be aesthetically unpredictable and to scream, “I hate you so much right now” on and off the track whenever he cheated. We clearly weren’t ready for the mode of wickedness she conjured up in “Get Along With You.” And when Kelis married rap king Nas, she did it unapologetically in an emerald green wedding gown. Let’s discuss who really put high-waisted denim on the map. In 2006, I personally searched the four corners of the earth trying to master Kelis’ “Bossy” look. Oh, and dare we talk of hair? Kelis’ style has progressed throughout the years from urban quirky to an unmatched congruency of high-street fashion. Our very own fashion joker, we can never tell what satchel of riddles Kelis will pop out. We love to decrypt her.

While Kelis’ “Data Awards” look among some of her other fashion misses have made us scratch our heads. Let us remember that the best of pop culture fashion is grounded in contention and should forever provoke. Kelis is deservingly iconic and will undoubtedly become a sustained point of reference in our cultural memory. If Kanye West can rant and ruin award show moments, why can’t Kelis be an Avatar?

Take a look at some of our fave Kelis looks

Stocking up on quality accessories might sound like a pricey proposition, but if you shop smart and buy what’s in line with your personality (and budget), your cost per wear should be significantly low.

1. Bags
Few accoutrements have gained as much importance over the years as the handbag. Utilitarian purposes aside, we’ve rarely seen an outfit suffer from the addition of a stand out carryall. Since we practically carry our whole lives in our purses, it stands to reason that they would be associated as a representation of a total persona. Nothing says sophisticated like a clutch that can take you from day to night, a sturdy satchel or bowler adds professional polish, and frameless shoulder bags lend an effortlessly relaxed appeal. Be bold with bags with embellishments and bright colors or keep it classic with rich neutral tones and smart details.

2. Shoes
Whether you’re a street pump princess or a sexy stiletto lover, putting your best foot forward can only sharpen your style. For instance, pointy-toe (not as exaggerated as popular styles from years past) shoes can instantly elongate legs and charming flats can give thrown on jeans and t-shirts the appearance of being thoughtfully planned. This is also the perfect category to think outside the box with color-metallics can act as neutrals and matchy-matchy (shoes to ensemble) isn’t necessarily considered a do.

3. Jewelry
Adorning yourself with distinctive gems can add a new layer of dimension to a seen-before ensemble. Layer on the jewels for unexpected appeal or pick one conversation piece to make a dramatic statement. Use trinkets and baubles to highlight your best assets-shiny studs light up your face, rings draw attention to lithe hands, bracelets can anchor toned arms, and dangling earrings accentuate strong shoulders and a graceful neck.

4. Eyewear
Face framing shields for the glamorous, shy or mysterious can do wonders. Need to run out the door, but don’t have time for an all encompassing make up routine? You can still look ‘finished’ as a multitude of skin flaws can be forgiven behind a pair of fierce sunglasses. Even if you have perfect vision, the addition of a pair of non-prescription spectacles to your everyday wear is a great way to switch it up. Be sure to choose the right shape and size in order to compliment your lovely face.

5. Scarves
Throwing a scarf on is an easy option to incorporate a bit of print or color to your existing style staples. We’ve come to love them as accentuating neck pieces that add a flattering flash of color, but these wardrobe work horses can pull triple duty as a sash, wrap, or head dress.

6. Belts
It’s hard to believe that something so small can so completely transform the mood of an outfit, but this ultimate shape shifter is simply a must for any style chameleon.
Voluminous, otherwise shapeless frocks can become figure grazing garments with a cinch at the waist. Layered over jackets, dresses, or tunics the stylish possibilities abound.

You’ve seen their faces on the runways of Paris or possibly noticed them in a center spread. If you haven’t, you will soon enough. These rising stars represent us; the multicultural woman, busting through the seams of a sometimes unchanging fashion industry.

Clutch takes a brief look at some of the women who are making fashion a bit lively – proving that diversity really is a beautiful thing.

1. Aminata Niaria – IMG

Nationality: Senegalese

Career Highlight: Strutted her stuff in the 2009 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.

2. Gracie Carvalho – Marilyn Agency

Nationality: Brazilian

Career Highlight: Featured in two consecutive DKNY ad campaigns (F09 and SS10).

3. Jeneil Williams – New York Model Management

Nationality: Jamaican

Career Highlight: Vogue Italia’s “All Black” issue in 2008.

4. Joan Smalls – IMG

Nationality: Puerto Rican

Career Highlight: Equally successful in ad campaigns (six to date) as she is during fashion week.

5. Kinée Diouf – New York Model Management

Nationality: Senegalese

Career Highlight: Being the muse of Lanvin’s Creative Director, Alber Elbaz.

6. Lyndsey Scott – Click Agency

Nationality: American

Career Highlight: First black model used in the Calvin Klein Fall 2009 show – exclusively.

7. R’el Dade – Marilyn Agency

Nationality: American

Career Highlight: Exclusively booked for the 2009 Valentino Couture show.

8. Rose Cordero – Supreme Agency

Nationality: Dominican

Career Highlight: One of the cover girls for V magazine’s September 2009 issue.

9. Shu Pei – Next

Nationality: Chinese

Career Highlight: Walked in over 40 shows during the Spring/Summer 2010 collections.

10. Tao Okamoto – Supreme Agency

Nationality: Japanese

Career Highlight: Ralph Lauren Fall 2009 print campaign.

WILD CARD: Amber Rose– FORD Models

Nationality: Cape Verdean and Italian

Career Highlight: Spread in Elle’s October 2009 issue styled by Boyfriend Kanye West.

It may seem a bit premature to start thinking about a spring wardrobe in January, but in our minds it’s never too early to discuss what’s coming up on the fashion horizon. Many of the designer collections revealed during Spring 2010 fashion week were certifiably covet worthy, but a few emerging trends had us wondering if our style savvy readers would be ready to rock ‘em come spring.

Lingerie Looks: After so many seasons filled with hard edged sensibility, fashion is showing its softer side again. What lies beneath comes to the light as femme fatale bustiers , camisoles, flouncy shorts, and chemises in a pastel palette become the sartorial focus for spring. Replacing traditional t-shirts, blouses, and dresses (if only for a season), the ‘unmentionables’ are ready for their close up.

Will you be flaunting your inner P.Y.T or keeping it in the closet?

Dare to Bare: Hand in hand with the lingerie looks are sheer and peak- a- boo opening details. Not a trend for the faint of heart, strategic cut outs and sheer panels are designed in just the right places to leave as much or as little to the imagination as you can brave. Even jewelry gets in on the game as look-at-me Lucite baubles and other transparent trinkets accentuate the theme.

You tell us, is the less is more style sheer madness or genius?

Denim vs. Denim: If there’s one item that gets top billing this spring it’s denim. From Ralph Lauren to Jean Paul Gaultier, designers have chopped and screwed, patched, bleached out, gilded, and streamlined the body of a beloved wardrobe staple. Vintage blues hues (sans the crazy washes and destruction) and head to toe denim dressing are the newest interpretations. Remember your favorite overalls from back in the day? Oh, yeah they’re making a comeback.

So, we want to know what you think, fashion don’t or fashion do?

Mixed prints: We were all giddy about the explosion of floral, ethnic, animal, and digital motifs that popped up under the tents. Otherworldly digital prints that lend a futuristic vibe to otherwise standard pieces were the stand out. The new news in this category is wearing a mélange of the aforementioned prints all in one tightly edited ensemble.

The bold trend definitely makes a statement, but does it say fashion forward or fashion fail?

Spring Leather: Not usually thought of as an ideal fabric for wear when the weather turns warm, leather is turning over a new leaf for spring in lighter weights and fluid cuts. Recreating itself in everything from shorts to drapey tanks, could leather actually be on its way to becoming a year round staple?

If runway offerings by Phillip Lim are any indication then the answer could be yes, but who’s throwing in their bag?

Funky Footwear: Designers continue to dazzle us with shoe designs that border on being categorized as architectural wonders. The most notable being the whimsical creations introduced during Alexander McQueen’s showing. Sure, they’re nice to fantasize about, but is it humanly possible to strut in them without suffering? Add clogs, chunky clear platforms, and sky high wedges to the list of feats for the fearless to attempt this spring. We can’t wait to see how Steve Madden manages to spin the McQueen’s into a knock off.

If he does (and we know he, or someone, will find a way) would you rock it?

It’s only right to start the New Year off with a fresh take on fashion. From London to California, Clutch looks at some of the year’s most promising talents and their hottest looks for Autumn/Winter 2010.

1. Bestow Elan
Designer Erzumah Ackerson draws inspiration from classic and vintage stimuli to create a contemporary women’s wear label that’s culturally aware and chic.

2. By Malene Birger
Malene Birger created her brand to inspire. Now, this namesake label is expanding globally; all while offering a unique, refined take on elegance.

3. Clemency London
Alison Clemency-Buddenhagen has an impressive resume (she graduated with honors from Central St. Martins and designed at Armani, Burberry and Calvin Klein ) but she has an even better design aesthetic that makes being a woman all the more enjoyable.

4. Hayden Harnett
The Brooklyn-based duo, Toni and Ben, created a collection for Target among other things while continuing to offer the essence of old world charm and new ideas to cater to an eclectic niche.

5. Ituen Basi
An ode to Nigeria is Ituen Basi, a refreshing celebration of Ankara and dresses that are just as lively and feminine as they are fluid.

6. Kimberly Ovitz
This newbie launched her line in Spring 2009 and is positioning the brand as a lifestyle collection for women through minimalism and modern edge.

7. Nuj Novakhett
Based in Thailand but ever present stateside is Nuj Novakhett. Her focus is all-encompassing but it’s no denying Manhattan as her muse.

8. Pepper + Pistol
Silvia Hillmann and Katrin Wiens’ Pepper + Pistol brand offers a wickedly wonderful vision through custom prints, fine detailing and feminine cuts that are just as gutsy as they are flattering.

9. Ruthie Davis
For Ruthie Davis, a love affair with shoes turned into a profession where her provocative heels and stellar craftsmanship have her on a path to greatness. Her designs have also won over the heart of Beyonce, who is often spotted pounding the pavement in them.

10. Serial Cultura
Jennifer Jennings merges printed art (all her original artwork) with organically structured silhouettes to give us Serial Cultura. Placing a huge emphasis on the design process, Jennings also produces locally in California.

Partly to blame is the allure of instant success on shows like The Hills and Project Runway. These fanciful interpretations of reality make it easy for fashion hopefuls to overlook the disclosure where Tribeca apartments aren’t included and financial backing, an innovative business plan and lots of endurance are your holy grail.

Below the glittery surface of fashion design are business mechanics whose absence can signify instant failure of a brand: especially an emerging one.

Luckily, Nicole Fisher had longevity in mind.

Almost a decade has passed since Fisher began her contemporary womenswear line NIC*FISH. Out of a noticeable void, Fisher’s dream of timeless, contented clothes developed into the go-to label for music ingénues Res, Esthero, AAries and Zap Mama.

Equipped with a degree from F.I.T., a family pedigree of fashion know-alls and invaluable mentoring experiences, Fisher’s arsenal of tenacity, ambition and charm elevated a vision of design into a fashion brand with expansion on the horizon.

Clutch: Tell us a little bit more about the birthing of NIC*FISH.
Nicole Fisher: NIC*FISH began while I was attending F.I.T. in NYC. I was working as an assistant stylist and designer for various artists in the music industry and on the projects of Philadelphia fashion stylists April Roomet, and Crystal Streets of the B. Lynn Group. These initial professional experiences gave me the opportunity to create custom pieces for a variety of creative talent.

Also during this time, my personal style began to evolve, as well as that of my peer circle. As we began to travel the world, ascend professionally, and mature personally, the more I saw that there was no specific designer wardrobe that catered to the lifestyle of an incredibly hip, globally chic, professional young woman. Fast forward to today, the NIC*FISH collection has evolved into the wardrobe for that specific “it girl” – NIC*FISH is all about creating super chic, timeless, transitional pieces in great fabrics that can take a woman from day to night, seamlessly.

Clutch: Have you always known you wanted to be a designer?
Nicole Fisher: Yes, before I could spell the word, “designer”, I knew I wanted to be a designer. But that was mainly because of my upbringing. I come from a fashion family. My great-aunt, Mary Upshaw, was a designer and producer of several fashion shows and pageants in the 1980s and my uncle, Aaron Pender, who mentored under Aunt Mary, still produces fashion shows today with his company, Premiere Productions. I’ve always been surrounded by designers, models, fashion shows and pageants. The beauty of the fashion world was very exciting to me as a child – I knew I wanted to become a part of it!

In my childhood and teenage years, I also worked as a runway model, and I was mentored by an amazing fashion designer Sayidah Hafiz who designed for Patti Labelle during the 1980s. Ms. Sayidah taught me so much professionally about design as well as personally about being a wonderful human being. Many of the concepts she taught me back then, I still apply to both NIC*FISH and to my life.

Clutch: What in your personal life has influenced your creations?
Nicole Fisher: I enjoy all things easy-breezy! I find great peace in the non-fussy. Personally, I like to dress very quickly and very easily in exceptionally stylish, comfortable pieces that will never go out of style.

Also, I’m now 32 years old, and many of my peers are now young mothers, who still enjoy looking exceptionally stylish with baby in tow. As these personal evolutions occur, the more the NIC*FISH collection evolves.

Clutch: In the day of fast fashion, what’s the style philosophy for NIC*FISH?
Nicole Fisher: I’m not really into “fast fashion” – I’m into “practical fashion”. I don’t really go for overt trends – I like pieces that I can mix and match throughout the season, in great fabrics and beautiful, timeless silhouettes. Also, I’m quite frugal, but I will spend money on items that I know will last forever. This was one of the main influences in the development of the convertible pieces in the collection. When designing I’m always thinking, “how many ways can this be worn so it’s more unique?”

The Original Convertible Jumpsuit is a piece that a woman can wear in a multitude of ways, by simply tying the bodice sashes differently. This jumpsuit also comes in a variety of fun bottom silhouettes.

Clutch: Having been in business for almost a decade, what obstacles have you faced? And how did you overcome them?
Nicole Fisher: The main obstacle was believing in myself and my creative ability. My childhood mentor would always tell me, “everything you need to be successful is already within you – it’s up to you to walk in your path”. It wasn’t until the birthing of NIC*FISH that I truly began to believe in myself and what I could bring to the industry, understanding that no one else can do what I do. I became fearless and tenacious – qualities that are very necessary as an independent designer. Especially without major financing.

Clutch: If you had to state one key mantra you’ve developed over time, what would it be?
Nicole Fisher: Believe in yourself, and your unique set of talents. We’ve all been gifted with certain abilities and it’s up to us to allow those gifts to manifest themselves. Confidence is key.

Clutch: What can we expect from NIC*FISH in the future?
Nicole Fisher: You can expect to see NIC*FISH in more online boutiques & high-end retail locations, nationally & internationally. You can also expect to see the development of a showroom/ boutique space for NIC*FISH for overseeing wholesale/retail accounts, and direct collection sales. You can also expect to see me involved in more fun creative projects, relating to costume design, fashion styling, creative consulting and youth mentoring on artistic careers.

Clutch: Do you have any tips or advice you would give to a fellow upcoming designer?
Nicole Fisher: First & foremost, believe in your creative talents. Be diligent – Understand that following your dream, whatever it is, is a process, and does not happen overnight – enjoy the ride. Also, I recommend obtaining a formal education, interning with creative firms for hands-on experience, finding a professional mentor, researching the industry thoroughly, linking with a network of like-minded individuals, aligning with the very best professional opportunities, and remaining very kind, humble, & decisive of your goals. And never forget to celebrate your amazing accomplishments! An exercise I use regularly is writing down everything I wish to accomplish, believing in the reality of my written goals, and over time, I watch my goals manifest into reality.

[Photo Credit: Seher]

Visit NIC*FISH online at www.nicfish.com and shop the collection at Etsy www.nicfish.etsy.com

THE EDIT
Having loads and loads of clothes doesn’t make you stylish, it makes you confused. Girl, you’re about as wrong as wearing vinyl leggings into the New Year wrong if you think that saving that size 2 dress you wore to your high school homecoming is going to bring you closer to your true self! “Edit” should become a critical term to any stylish girl’s ever-growing vocabulary. Your wardrobe should be an up-to-date illustration of the items you are currently wearing. CLUTCH TIP: If you haven’t given a garment a mere thought in the past year, donate it! Having an excess of unworn clothing not only crowds our limited closet space, it even clutters our thoughts. Strive to stand before a clear picking of garments that are in-season and that are ready to be rocked today!

Editing should be extended to our clothing, shoes and even accessories. If you don’t wear it, get rid of it.

THE TOOLS: Hangers + Cedar Blocks + Garment Bags + Baskets

The investment in the maintenance of our closets is a worthy one. Take the money you’ve been saving for those shoes you don’t need and use it for these must-have tools.

The 1950’s Mommy Dearest screamed, “NO MORE WIRE HANGERS!” Clutchettes, We’re telling you in 2009, NO MORE PLASTIC HANGERS! Yes, you know, those red, pink and blue plastic hangers you have: negative! We’re suggesting the recession-friendly investment of cherry-wooden and felt-hangers. The garments you have deserve the best treatment and storage possible. Wire hangers leave staining creases in our trousers and blouses, while those wretched plastic hangers are too clumsy and frail to hold any quality garment. Wooden hangers however, are strong and wide enough to maintain any garment. Felt-hangers are space saving, slim and sleek. CLUTCH TIP: Use wooden hangers for your coats, jackets and blazers. Felt hangers for your blouses and denim. Use clamp hangers for your trousers or skirts.

Kindly leave the vile smell of mothballs at your Grandmother’s house. Cedar blocks and cedar block hangers are an organic, fresh and garment-protecting alternative that you can use in your storage containers or hang in your closets. CLUTCH TIP: Use your cedar block hangers as a divider between your garments. Place in between your clothing to separate by style and length. Lavender cedar blocks can renew your clothing and purge out the various fragrances we spray on them. Depending on the size of your closet, you’ll need at least one hanging cedar block for every five to seven garments. Restore your cedar blocks by scrubbing them against sand paper monthly, they’ll last you a lifetime!

Known strictly for travel, garments bags protect our clothing and keeps clothing wrinkle-free. Expand on this practice by hanging your cocktail and evening dresses in plastic and/or canvas garment bags.

Basket bins are perfect for storing sweaters or can even work as a space-saving tool for your bags and clutches. Place at the base of your closet or at the top of the closet shelving. It’s super cute and adds a neat aesthetic to any wardrobe space.

THE PRESENTATION: Organization + Goodbye Shoes Boxes + Hat, Handbag & Accessory Storage Options

Your garments should be arranged according to style, length and color. From wall to wall, place all items in this order: jackets, blazers, blouses, trousers, denim and skirts. Hang all dresses at the opposite end.

From here, garments should be hung according to length and color-coded from lights to darks. Remember to use your hanging cedar blocks as closet-dividers. Always fold your sweaters and place in your cedar-lined drawer or neatly into your basket bins. CLUTCH TIP: Your closet tools should be color-coordinated (e.g., all cherry-wood hangers or all black felt-hangers).

In our effort to save space, there is no need to keep shoeboxes. Take your new shoes out of the box and recycle the cardboard. Consider using hanging or shelved shoe racks. Neatly place your shoes according to brand and style along your shelves.

If you are a hat fanatic like me well, then you know that hats can create a world of their own. Invest in cutesy hatboxes. Place your foldable hats in a reserved outerwear drawer.

Maintain a clean line of your handbags currently in rotation. Place on the top shelving in your closet. Store all other handbags in your basket bins. CLUTCH TIP: If you invest in designer bags or shoes, always keep the duster bag that comes with it. After each wear of your bag or shoes, place inside of your duster bag and store them accordingly.

Accessories are our coveted and at times priceless treasures that warrant careful storage. There are options galore for jewelry storage, from hanging storage bags, cubes to small drawers and stands. Use felt hangers to store your belts. Fold your silk scarves and gloves, place in your outerwear drawer.

Tools & Costs:
Set of wooden shirt, trouser and coat hangers: $25.00 at Bed, Bath & Beyond
Felt Soft-grip Hangers (set of 10) Natural by Richards Homewares: $10.99 at Organize.com
Cedar hang-up block (pack of 4): $7.99 at Bed, Bath & Beyond
Canvas garment bags: $11.99 each at Target
Crochet Baskets Bins: $19.99 each at The Container Store
Classic Hat Box Set: $39.99 at The Container Store
Expandable Shoe Rack: $19.99 at Bed, Bath & Beyond
Mirrored jewelry box (with 3 drawers): $24.99 at Target

Research more neat and space saving options that works for you and your wardrobe. Share your findings with us.

Remember, make your closet work for you, you shouldn’t work for it!