B Trendy: Carnal Desires - Animal Print Shoes

Eve wearing leopard platform heels

No matter where you look, fierce animal prints, furs, and embellishments (faux or real) are creeping their way onto the best-heeled ladies in the industry. Oddly enough, animal-print shoes can be worn as a "neutral", but also add that special touch to basic black, or any monochromatic outfit. Find your perfect pair this Fall, and make a roaring statement! Take a look at a few of our favorites below. B-Tip: Don't go extra bargain basement on these. Cheapo animal prints look like gremlins in the daylight.

Manolo Blahnik Pepe - Leopard - $745

Giuseppe Zanotti Leopard Peep Toe Pumps - $357

Givenchy Open Toe Bootie - $676

L.A.M.B. Leslie Sandal - $356

Balmain Crystal Animal Print Boot - $2,990

Beverly Feldman Firefly Mule - $210

B Reviewed: Nice Matin

Nice Matin
201 West 79th St., New York, NY

The hunt for the best brunch spot in NYC is still on...Pre-basketball "Keep It Simple" revelations (see previous post), we made a stop at Nice Matin on the Upper West Side. Just steps from the famous Sarabeth's - known for it's ALWAYS perfect brunch, and 45 minute wait times, Nice Matin is visually appetizing, and promises a French Mediterranean fare that should be able to hold it's own. So did it?

The outdoor dining experience was superb! Rather than throwing bows with neighbors on the left and right, the tables were well-spaced, and the awning providing just the right amount to shade without taking over the sun rays. As for the food - the preparation was truly French with rich flavors shining through. Most importantly, the options were completely authentic to the region and spiced with fresh herbs (think: lamb sausage scrambled eggs, and orange buttermilk french toast). Plus, the coffee was on point! Definitely check it out the next time you want to get away with a simply prepared, but elegant brunch that pays homage to the French Riviera.

B In the Know: Vibe Magazine - Making a comeback...

Read more at wsj.com

B-Noted: Keep It Simple

This weekend I had a profound experience in the most basic setting. A basketball court on the Upper West Side in New York City. After a leisurely brunch, I walked over to a nearby court on 76th St. where a few of my guys were playing their usual weekend pick-up games.

My friends aren't slouches, so physical fitness is no stranger, but to see my boys get together, sweat it out, and talk shit, was simply beautiful. By day, they are media executives, bankers, video directors, and beyond, and they spend their "9-5" doing things they love...for the most part. They don't, however, get to choose who they do it with. Somehow, the notion of these men taking 3 hours for themselves to come together, let out some physical aggression and bond over a ball, is what life is all about. Choices.

Like many cities, NYC has a way of pulling you in a million directions - brunch, sale in Soho, gym, pop into the office to catch up on a proposal, hit the Yankees game, then a comedy show with your cousin who came into town, and then, oh yea, let me see if this chick wants to meet up for a drink? All in one day!

But getting it all in and "chasing" a day just isn't that satisfying when you have nothing to savor. As a personal offender of making weekend lists, and double/triple booking, I learned a great lesson this weekend. Find a happy place. Be selfish with my time and choices. And, most importantly keep it simple.

B Inspired: Usher - Modern Rat Pack

Usher at his Vegas Magazine (July/August '09) cover party at the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas

I think we can all agree that a single Usher, is a much sexier Usher. Now that our favorite R&B crooner officially has his swag back, let's pay tribute to his impeccable styling, just right accessories, and classic lines. Usher manages to keep it fresh without straying too far from his signature look in masculine flannel, with a sophisticated fit. You have to admire this artist for not succumbing to the need for constant re-invention, just to stay relevant. That goes for his music, and his style.

Simmons Jewelry Co. Green Bracelet - $125; Urban Outfitters Aubaine Boxing Gloves Necklace; Kohl's Relic Bottle-Opener Leather Belt - $25; American Eagle Herringbone Vest - $30; Gap Lightweight Flannel - $45; Timex Sport Luxury Chronograph - $150; Bailey Barr Fedora - $88; Heritage 1981 Lewis Straight Jean - $35

B quoted...

"Who gon' check me, boo?"
~ Sheree Whitfield, Bravo's The Real Housewives of Atlanta


Get yours and do you. Who gon' check you boo?

B Lovd: Katana - Robata & Sushi Bar (L.A.)

KATANA
8439 W Sunset Blvd
West Hollywood, CA
(323) 650-8585

It's time for the West Coast to get a little more loving, and I have a lot to give. Katana gets an easy A+ on food, service, ambiance, and proximity to anywhere you would want to be in West Hollywood on a Friday night.

This Japanese Robata and Sushi Bar offers small plates for the diner who wants to keep it light with sashimi or a few rolls, but it also caters to someone who wants something a little heartier. (Robata is a method of cooking on a Bincho charcoal grill, which apparently leads to perfectly seared meats - love!) I recommend the Rock Shrimp Tempura, and the Short Ribs.

This is L.A., so Katana did not disappoint when it comes to the "pretty people". The crowd was good-looking, in-shape, and the model/actresses were definitely in effect at the hostess stand. And of course, a celeb and ball player or two were in the house.

The icing on the Molten Chocolate Cake our superb server comped for us, was the view. Katana has a sizable open dining terrace with a view of Sunset Blvd. and the comings and goings at the Mondrian across the street. So charming. So L.A.

B In the Know: Bob Herbert on Race Relations

New York Times Op-Ed columnist Bob Herbert has been more than expressive about his views regarding the case of "mistaken identity" with Harvard professor, Henry Louis Gates. Take a peek at a few excerpts from his recent columns to see what he has to say about the where the responsibility lies in this situation where "cooler heads" should have had a bit more sensitivity training.

"Anger Has Its Place" (7/31/09) Excerpt:

You can yell at a cop in America. This is not Iran.  And if some people don’t like what you’re saying, too bad...Black people are constantly being stopped, searched, harassed, publicly humiliated, assaulted, arrested and sometimes killed by police officers in this country for no good reason. Read more...

"Innocence Is No Defense" (8/3/09) Excerpt:

The arrest last month of Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. did not occur in a vacuum...it was the latest in a series of troubling incidents that have left law-abiding members of the Harvard community feeling as though they were unfairly targeted and humiliated because of their race. Read more...

B Trendy: Pyramid Studs

Mandy Moore wearing Pyramid stud earrings

Every girl has an inner "rocker chick" she's dying to unleash, and this popular fashion trend makes it ultra-easy to get that edge you want, without crossing the line. Pyramid studs are popping up everywhere, and you can get in on the action at a price point that won't bust the bank. Go for strong look or opt for contrast and toughen up a soft floral like Mandy. Warning: Too many studs in too many places will end up looking more "biker babe" than "rocker chic".

Girl Props Sunglasses w/ Pyramid Studs - $10.00

Betsey Johnson Deborah Wedge - $163.00

Rare Black Wrap Dress - $118

Rachel Leigh Pyramid Stud Dangles - $42.00


Bebe Pyramid Studded Belt - $49.00

Arden B Studded Cropped Moto Jacket - $68.00


Silence & Noise Studded Skirt - $30.00

Tory Burch Studded Messenger Bag - $575

Brette Sandler "Jackie" - $85.00

Charlotte Russe Pyramid Stud Bracelet - $4.oo

Blank Skinny Jean - $72.00

B quoted...

“I've gone through a lot of trial and error to find what works and what doesn't, ... With that comes an understanding of how to offer the same opportunities to other artists.” ~ Usher Raymond IV

Mentorship.

10 Signs He's Just Not That Into You...

1. His sister is getting married, and he decides to go "stag"

2. You're sick, and he wants to wait a few days to see you, just in case you're contagious

3. You look forward to meeting his friends, and when you finally do, they accidentally call you the wrong name

4. He thinks it's "unprofessional" to take a girlfriend to his company picnic, even though he has +1

5. Every time you have plans to go to dinner, he gets caught up at work, and your date turns into a late night drink (a.k.a. a glorified pre-booty call)

6. He goes to sleep before you get yours - enough said

7. The only time he answers your text messages is when you put "911" on the end

8. The last gift he got you from him was 1) a gym membership or 2) a cook book

9. He has no interest in meeting your mom when she comes in town, even though you've been dating for 2+ years


10. He changes the sheets every time you get out of bed...and asks you to help

B Inspired: Kim Kardashian - Animal Lover

Kim Kardashian hosting the Three-O Vodka party at Greenhouse in NYC

Kim K continues to be our fashion muse, and this animal-friendly look is no exception. Edge-up basic black & white with a pop of color, texture, and a fierce shoe. With a few choice picks, you can put together a wildly stylish outfit without upsetting PETA.

DVF - Bianca Jacket - $129.50

Forever 21 - Vintage Stripe Ring - $3.80

D&G - Satin Zebra Dress - $502 (Still a splurge, but 50% off)

Jalda - Anaconda Brief Clutch - $255

DV by Dolce Vita - Carter Sandal - $99.95

B Trendy: Buzz Cuts?

What's the real deal with the new buzz cut trend? Is it a cry for help, attention, a way to stay cool in the summer, or just simply the new hot ish? There's a strong possibility the buzz will be to '09, what the asymmetrical cut was to '08. Let's the buzz begin...

All buzz cuts aren't created equal, so let's see how everyone is shaping up?

Solange

In-shape?
We applaud her courage to do the "buzz" her own way and embrace a natural look. Is it flattering? Not sure, but it lends to maximum versatility when it's time to toss on a wig on it.

LaLa Vasquez

In-shape?
Cassie copy-cat? Maybe, but this is actually kinda fly. Good luck on the grow out LaLa.

Rihanna

In-shape?
A natural evolution of the movement she created. We'll wait patiently to see what's next.

Angel (from Bravo's "The Fashion Show")

In-shape?
This designer's edgy style matched her edgy cut. It's a perfect fit.

Amber Rose

In-shape?
The first inclination is to find fault. But at the end of the day, this chick gives good face.


Cassie

In-shape?
There's a lot to be admired about this beauty, but we fear her cut was an attempt to stay relevant. She was, however, a pioneer of the "fashion buzz"...

Original Inspiration?

B Warned: Facebook Ads Starring...YOU

WARNING:

Here's the word on the virtual street - Facebook has agreed to let third party advertisers use your posted pictures without your permission. Click on SETTINGS up where you see the log out link. Select PRIVACY SETTINGS, then select PRIVACY. Select NEWS FEEDS AND WALL. Select the tab that reads FACE BOOK ADS. There is a drop down box, select NO ONE. Save your changes.

How do you feel about Facebook's default to allow a 3rd party access to your pictures?