10 Fashion Commandments for 2009
Alright ladies and gents, it’s that time again – the New Year. Oh, how it brings hope for change and infinite new possibilities to come! Now most of you have probably begun to compile your list of resolutions, from losing weight and saving more money, to getting more organized and cutting back on the cigarettes. We commend you on making that first step, and wish you the best of luck in achieving your goals. But one thing we don’t ever want you to forget about is the power of a great wardrobe. That’s right, we said it. During these times of political change, economic hardship, and uncertainty about what’s next to come, fashion will set you free. This year, starting now, resolve to be FLY!
To get you all headed on the path to becoming the most stylish Cluchettes you can be, we’ve compiled a list of do’s/don’ts related to fashion and style – “The Fashion Commandments”. I’m sure we’ve all slipped up a couple times and stepped out the house looking, well, let’s just say “not our very best”. But it’s our hope that by following these few simple tips, you’ll be just a step closer to becoming the most classy, budget-savvy, unique, and confident fashionistas out there! Are you up for the challenge?
Now while we’ve already got a list of ten started, it definitely doesn’t stop here. Why is that, you ask? Well, because we still want to hear your input of course! Leave a comment, letting us know what rules/tips you think should be added to the list. Maybe we’ll end up with fifteen commandments, instead. Perhaps even twenty, if you’ve witnessed half the fashion sins we’ve seen this past year… Go ahead, and send them all in. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Commandment #1 Thou shalt not wear leggings as pants, baring your backsides for the whole world to see! Instead, pair leggings with casual dresses, or tunic-length shirts and sweaters. Enjoy the trend, but tastefully and in moderation.
Commandment #2 Thou shalt not show panty line, thongs, bra straps, or any other undergarments for that matter. Be a lady, and keep such personal information to yourself.
Commandment #3 Thou shalt not buy clothing that is too small, under the pretense of losing weight to fit into it. Money spent today should be able to be used today. Besides, it’s not about the number or size on the garment, but rather the way it fits your body and makes you feel. A comfy 14 beats a too-tight 10 any day!
Commandment #4 Thou shalt not spend beyond your fashionable means. Purchasing the hottest new “it” bag means nothing if you can’t afford to go out and be seen in it, or if it will make the rent or car note past due. A Birkin bag may be fly, but you sure can’t live in it!
Commandment #5 Thou shalt experiment fearlessly with bright colors and bold accessories. Spice up a simple black ensemble with a pair of turquoise flats, for example, or a stack of beaded bangles.
Commandment #6 Thou shalt not fall victim to the trends, allowing the magazines and designers to dictate everything you wear and every piece you buy. Be yourself and wear what makes you feel most comfortable. Embrace your individuality!
Commandment #7 Thou shalt not wear shoes and boots with leaned heels. Walking sideways is not sexy!
Commandment #8 Thou shalt not assume that we all are “Sasha Fierce.” Yes we all have fierce alter egos within us, but that doesn’t mean that we should show up at the club in a leotard or one piece with some pumps on!
Commandment #9 Thou shalt understand the importance of appearance and how everything from your hair, makeup and the wrong accessories can destroy a great look. Make sure everything ties together PLEASE!
Commandment #10 Thou shalt always take one good look at themselves in the mirror from head to toe before heading out the door. Whether it’s off to work, a date with a boobie, the club, school, etc., for the next 365 days make sure it’s a look that isn’t going to garner you those side-eye stares. The goal is to be you!





















Aesthetically, the purest translation of American aristocracy and refinement. The style embodiment of western nobility and sophistication. Surviving three decades of challenge, change and competition, lifestyle brand Ralph Lauren has artlessly become one of the fashion world’s most iconic style houses.
But, while the brand’s most apparent competition gained aggressive momentum during the 1990’s, today Ralph Lauren has victoriously remained at the forefront of traditional American fashion and conversely within the urban community. “I think Tommy Hilfiger exploited its popularity during its height and didn’t stay true to its core fan base.” says popular Hip Hop journalist and declared Polo loyalist Brian “B-Dot Miller. “Polo, to me represents a level of sophistication.” he adds. “Polo is an upper crust sport originated in the east and for some reason this guy from the Bronx encapsulated that lifestyle into his brand better than any other designer.” continued “B-Dot”. And while further research yielded similar praises, it becomes overwhelmingly apparent how the Ralph Lauren brand has managed to maintain his devoted customer base. 







Super Hero - We all have our alter egos, the fearless and resilient version of us that emerges in a time of need with no inhibition, very much like our beloved comic book characters. Clark Kent had Superman; Peter Parker had Spider Man; and Diana had Wonder Woman. We all live by-curiously through these alpha characters because lets face it he/she typically has most of the fun and excitement and without a doubt makes a bolder fashion statement and holds the better wardrobe. Fashion is a direct product of our environment tied closely with our innate instincts and artistic expressions. So, it’s not a surprise that the world’s best-known designers are tapping into their alter egos to explore new avenues for their craft. Bold, sculpted and architectural silhouettes much like our comic characters costumes can be spotted in their latest collections. The art to wearing this look is in translating from couture to ready-to-wear fashions. Go for coats and jackets with a sculpted feel (padded shoulders, trapeze a-lines, belted and half sleeves) and match it up with jeans, trousers or leather pants to achieve this look. 




“Imagine an era where individuality is celebrated. Where fashion is written with a loose and casual fare. Where convention is revamped to reveal its more eclectic, fierce alter ego.” Well according to the ladies of Aquaponi, that era is here and the moment is now. The Aquaponi clothing line was founded in 2006 by Los Angeles natives Kelli Marie and Theresa Michelle, who sought to provide something new and exciting for those who were tired of adhering to the norm and dressing like all the rest. The line is a fresh blend of rare vintage and repurposed clothing, ethnic-inspired jewelry, and boho-chic accessories. Each handcrafted piece is a fusion of bright colors and unlikely fabrics - undeniably unique. The brand has been able to attract a loyal clientele in the Los Angeles and Atlanta regions, and has even gained the attention of celebrities such as Common, Project Runway’s Michael Knight, Janelle Monae, and Keri Hilson – just to name a few. We recently caught up with co-owner Kelli White, who gave us the inside scoop.
Clutch: The name of the brand is very unique and distinctive. What does it mean?







When Hollywood starlet Sienna Miller and sister Savannah Miller announced the launch of their collection Twenty8Twelve in late 2006, an apprehensive and unimpressed fashion world scoffed silently at yet another celebrity fueled label. The sisters, famed as one of Hollywood’s most quirky yet charmingly chic duos would be facing criticism from some of the industry’s harshest naysayers. And in July of 2007, as a crowd of over 600 specially invited guests attended the anticipated premiere, the girls had surprisingly and effectively pleased their critics. 

Intimate and fashionable, the 


One of the main reasons we look forward to fall/winter weather is that it gives us an excuse to pull out our beloved boots, swanky scarves, and most importantly-coats. We don’t mind facing the throes of winter as long as we’re armed with a fly top layer! Enter Mackage, a designer outwear collection that’s full of sharp designs that will take you effortlessly through the chilly seasons to come. 


Every week we are firmly planted in front of our tv sets to catch the crazy challenges that await the remaining designers of Project Runway’s 5th season. There are only a few episodes left and we’ve got our eye on Korto Momolu to make it to the top! With quiet determination and a penchant for designing modern, tribal infused classics that real women can wear she has established a true ‘one to watch’ presence on the show. We caught up with Korto to talk fashion, work/life balance, and embracing her curves. 


PEACE & LOVE TO ALL SAUL WILLIAMS IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PERSON...