I had another blog that I dedicated solely to virtually styling (in other words: concocting fabulous outfits) ladies who wanted to shop without doing any legwork. I was three months into that blog before (in a genius move) I locked myself out by screwing with my password. It’s unfortunate that I couldn’t carry on this labor of love, but you can click here to check it out. The bright side of it all is that I’ll continue virtually styling on Dipped Diamond for those who want great ideas for the appropriate wardrobe for various occasions.

In the future, I’ll virtually style readers who want to see what I think their perfect look would be. All I’ll need is a budget and one word to describe your personal style, and you could be the one chosen for the chance to shine on Dipped Diamond . . . but that’s all in due time. For now, check out this look for Spring. It’s never too early to start shopping . . .

GET THE LOOK: Geren Ford Pleated Sleeve Dress $155 Xhilaration Gold Ring with Large Pink Stone $9.99 Barbie by Patricia Field Signature Necklace $28 Platform Slingback w/ Signature Bow by Missoni $330 Alexis Bittar Lucite Stretch Bracelet $225 Makeup Forever Professional Eyeshadow $18 Retro Flash Bag $66 NARS Lip Lacquer $23 HAIR CUE: Let your luscious curls blow in the wind. If your tresses are full and lengthy, grab a curling iron (or go for a straw set) and create the perfect coils. Is your hair on the short side? No need to fret – extensions do the trick every time. A few tracks and you can be on your way to glorious curly fun. (Hair photo courtesy of Essence)

Just one look at the picture above and instantly a dozen vivid words spring into your head. Stylish, sexy, bold, feminine, beautiful, and strong, to name a few.

It’s the one and only Lola Falana (Loletha Elaine Falana if you want to get real familiar). Born on September 11, 1942 in Camden, New Jersey, this bombshell grew up to become one of the most famous dancers/actresses/singers of all time. And in between all of that, she had the nerve to bring grace and classic style into the mix. Sure she’s been widely imitated, but I doubt she’ll ever be duplicated. Here’s a style reflection of the woman known as Black Venus . . .

LEFT: little electric-blue never hurt anybody. It’s a more covered-up look with elegant beading cascading down the front to add sizzle. RIGHT: Clean and chic. Lola dresses in a look that’s a popular trend in 2008. She shows how to wear a wide leg pant the right way.

LEFT: Never too far from a v-neck, Black Venus keeps it chic and bold in clean, white jacket and white scarf tied around her head. RIGHT: Cuts and slits and glitter everywhere. Lola is the originial J-Lo in this body-baring ensemble.

L-R:
BCBG Mori Pump $110
Tracey Reese Tulip Stripe Belted Dress $310
Rhinestone Earrings $4.80

L-R:
Sheri Bodell Snake Trimmed Tunic $800
Ring Handle Tote $58
Hill Top Leather Pump $175

Blame it on her jheri curl (always fabulously activated), the monster shoulder pads, and candy apple-red lips . . . with the black lip liner to match.

Yes, I was an 80′s baby. And my momma was the epitome of the stylish 80′s woman. I looked, I took notes, I learned. And today she’s turned out a woman who loves all things fashion.

For a long time, I’ve yearned to mix my love of writing with my crave for fashion. DIPPED DIAMOND is it. I feel it necessary to share wonderful fashion finds you might want to add to your wardrobe as well. Black women are stylish by nature. Whether it’s rockin’ lace gloves and a petite hat cocked just so, bamboo earrings and a spandex body suit, or a chic pair of denim jeans with a cropped metallic jacket – we know how to light up a room with our own unique sense of style. You can look forward to DIPPED DIAMOND fashion highlights of the past and present – a celebration of what we bring to the fashion game.

I came out of the womb, a fashionista in training, and have come into my own. I’d love all of my fellow nistas to take this ride with me. I’ll show you how a diamond stays dipped from head-to-toe . . .