Meet Celebrity Fashion Stylist Yaniece Piper Thomas

A few weeks ago, I attended a photo shoot with America’s favorite former top model and talk show host, Tyra Banks (for my regular 9 to 5 job). She was extremely down-to earth and friendly just like you’d expect her to be. Not only was she approachable and genuine, her glam squad was too; especially her wardrobe stylist, Yaniece Piper Thomas.

Immediately, I thought that Yaniece would be a perfect person to interview for BGG! Dressed in a funky pink snood cap, cute jacket and denim jeans, the former model-turned celebrity fashion stylist politely and excitedly accepted my interview offer.

An L.A native, who studied merchandising at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and once toured the world as a model, Yaniece now works in New York City as Tyra’s personal fashion stylist on her popular TV talk show, America’s Next Top Model , as well as for special events and appearances.

Check out my Q&A with the style guru:

BGG: How long have you been a fashion stylist?
Yaniece: I have been styling for about 5 years. I modeled for about 10 years and then started a clothing line called Liya Cynamone with a business partner. The line was sold to about 100 boutiques across the country and a couple of specialty stores which included Saks and Henri Bendels.

BGG:I know that you were a model before you became a fashion stylist, do you think that your experience as a model helps you in your career as a stylist?
Yaniece: I believe my experience as a modeling and designer has helped me tremendously with styling. Modeling allowed me to see the world, meet all types of people and experience different cultures. Not knowing at the time, I was making future business contacts. Designing helped me learn the structure of garments, learn about textiles and also taught me business skills.

BGG: Describe your personal style.
Yaniece: My personal style is vintage chic...I'm a little funky... I love flowy tops and a cute dresses. I'm 5' 10" but you rarely catch me without high heels. I guess it’s the LA in me.

BGG: Briefly tell me about a typical day as a celebrity/wardrobe stylist.
Yaniece: There isn't a typical day in celebrity styling. But a normal show day is pretty mellow. Morning phone calls to showrooms and designers. Setting up looks for the day and dressing my client for the show. I usually stay on set making sure my client looks perfect.

But some days are crazy...we can start as early as 3 or 4 am to go to publicity shoots then straight to the talk show, then to a special event. My day could end around 12 am. You have to keep in mind my one booking never starts on the day of the event. Typically one shoot takes two maybe even three days to prep then the day of the shoot and a wrap day. When I say wrap day I mean returning clothing and taking care of the budget.

BGG: I know the fashion industry is a tough business to break into, what was your big break?
Yaniece: My big break was working as an assistant with a stylist who happened to work for Tyra Banks and pretty much worked hard and ended up with her job. It's all about hard work and relationships.

BGG: As Tyra Banks' stylist, is there anything that she absolutely won't wear?
Yaniece: Tyra likes her clothing to accentuate her curves..she never wears shiny clothing.

BGG: What other celebrities have you worked with?
Yaniece: I've worked with a few other celebrities - Iman, Carly Wilson, Blu Cantrell, Eric Bennett and a couple of others.

BGG: Working with celebrities can be grueling because of their demanding schedules, what do you do for fun and relaxation?
Yaniece: When I'm not working I love to spend time with my daughter and find out what's going on in her world. She's a teenager so I get on her nerves. But when she's tired of me, I love to veg out, go to spas, hang out and have a few cocktails...you know!!!

BGG: I know that you’re from Los Angeles, how is the fashion here in New York City different from the City of Angels, if at all?
Yaniece: In my eyes, the only difference between LA and NY is - Cali is more laid back...we love flip flops 24/7...even when it rains!

BGG: Who are some of your favorite designers? Why?
Yaniece: I really don’t have a favorite designer. Unfortunately, I'm not a loyal customer. If I like It I buy or pull it.

BGG: If you could pick 3 fashion must-haves that every BG should own, what would they be?
Yaniece: Three fashion must-haves that every BG should own are a pair of big gold earrings, a cute black dress and sexy lingerie.

Gold hoops available at Macy's www.macys.com for $360 (I bought this same pair 2 years ago for less than half of that price so check them out when they go on sale)
Cute black Nicole Miller dress available at Nordstrom for $385. Again, you can find a cute black dress almost anywhere and at various prices.

Sexy embroidered babydoll nightie from Victoria's Secret www.victoriassecret.com for $26.99

BGG: What’s a great fashion tip that you can share with BGG readers?
Yaniece: My fashion tip is always dress to impress. Even If you're going to the grocery store put on a cute sweat suit. You never know who you'll see. First impressions are lasting impressions.

BGG: What advice would you give to other BGs who’d like to break into the business of celebrity/fashion styling?
Yaniece: The only advice I can give to someone who wants to be in this industry is to work hard and make contacts. And if you're already doing that keep it up your time will come.

Click here to see Yaniece on The Tyra Banks Show!

BGs and Guys Take Broadway by Storm

Earlier this week I had the opportunity to see a performance of the “Little Mermaid” on Broadway. I wasn’t exactly thrilled about seeing the show, which officially opens tonight, but since it was free and one of my friends who is a bonafide Broadway lover convinced me to go; I obliged. To my surprise, I actually enjoyed it!

Today I found out that the powerhouse R&B singer, Chaka Khan will be picking up where Fantasia left off in the Broadway version of the “Color Purple,” along with gospel singer Bebe Winans starting tonight.



There seems to be a crop of talented BGs and guys performing in upcoming live stage shows. It was also recently announced that Oscar-nominated Terrence Howard and Dreamgirls diva Anika Noni Rose would be acting in the popular play, “A Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” in March.


Hypocrisy, greed and secret passions threaten to tear apart a wealthy but dysfunctional Mississippi family in Tennessee Williams' stunning American masterpiece. CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF searingly portrays the larger-than-life characters of Maggie "the Cat," her alcoholic husband, Brick, and the dominating family patriarch, Big Daddy.

“Passing Strange,” is another Broadway show where the cast is predominately African-American.


From Los Angeles to Amsterdam to Berlin and Back, Passing Strange is the story of a young black bohemian, who abandons his bourgeois roots to journey to Europe searching for ‘the real’. Discovering a world of sex, drugs, rock and roll and art revolutionaries, our rebel-hero explores love, identity and the meaning of home.

I haven’t always been a Broadway fan (I’ve only seen “A Raisin in the Sun” and the “Color Purple”), but I just might check out some of these upcoming shows. If they’re as entertaining as the "Little Mermaid," I’ll definitely be back for more!

Pot O' Gloss

Yesterday, while walking in Midtown enjoying the beautiful, yet kinda weird mild weather, I quickly became enthralled by the SUPER SALE signs posted in the windows of The Body Shop. Taken by the sweet scents that consistently pour out of the bath & body store, I rushed in hoping to catch fabulous end-of-the-season sales and I did!

After looking through throngs of undesirable holiday scented lathers and lotions, I was overjoyed to find a cute jar of tinted lip gloss/balm for only $3.

Once I applied the cranberry-colored lacquer to my lips, I immediately began contemplating whether or not I should try other brands of potted glosses/balms. Prior to this purchase, I wasn't a fan of lip treatments that require using fingers or a brush to apply. Since I'm pleasantly surprised with my new gloss/balm I just might give a few other glosses/balms in a jar a try!

Check out some of these beauty finds:


Carol's Daughter lip balm available at www.carolsdaughter.com for $6


Lancome Juicy Gel...E available at Sephora for $18 www.sephora.com (various shades available)


Benefit tinted lip moisturizer available at Sephora for $20 www.sephora.com (various shades available)


Nars Lip Lacquer available at Sephora for $23 www.sephora.com (various shades available)


MAC tinted lip balm available at www.maccosmetics.com for $14.50 (various shades available)


Tinted lip balm available at The Body Shop for $8.50 www.thebodyshop.com (various shades available)


Su Uemura lip lacquer available at Sephora for $23 www.sephora.com

White Hot Fashions!

Nothing says, “sophistication,” or “style” like a timeless, white cotton shirt. Rocking a well-fitted white shirt can take you from meetings in the boardroom to a romantic dinner with your significant other. This always-fashionable staple comes in many variations and styles and can be worn throughout the seasons.

Tucked under a sleek, professional blazer or paired with wide-legged jeans, a white shirt has a unique way of always making you feel chic and pulled together.

Whether you favor a traditional crisp button-down or a sexy wrap-around style with ¾ length sleeves, you can never go wrong when wearing this classic article of clothing (especially if it has a little lycra or spandex blended with it).

Like our favorite Project Runway style guru, Tim Gunn, says, “A white shirt is a must-have for every woman’s wardrobe.”

Check out some of these fashionable styles:

Available at Nordstrom for $163 (for those of you who want to splurge) www.nordstrom.com


Available at Bebe for $69 www.bebe.com


Available at Macy's for $42 www.macys.com


Available at Macy's for $59 www.macys.com


Available at Target for $17.99 www.target.com


Available at the Gap for $42 www.gap.com


Available at Bloomingdale's for $79 www.bloomingdales.com

Ladies First

Honda/Getty Images

With presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama winning the Democratic caucus in Iowa last week and leading in New Hampshire so far, there’s a very great chance that our new First Lady will be the beautiful Michelle Obama.

I am a such a huge fan of Mrs. Obama because she exudes confidence, intelligence and appears to be a loving and devoted mother to her two daughters, Malia and Sasha. Not to mention, she’s a native Chicagoan just like me!

Her impeccably chic style is always polished and professional; making her an ideal fashion role model for professional women across the country.

Here are a few facts about Mrs. Obama that you might not know…yet.

1. She was born on January 17, 1964.

2. She majored in sociology at Princeton University.

3. She is a Harvard Law School graduate.

4. She met Barack Obama at a Chicago law firm in the late 1980s

5. She is a devoted supporter of the Women's Treatment Center located on the West Side of Chicago, which is a facility for the treatment and detox of women dealing with substance abuse.

6. She enjoys early morning workouts.

7. The Obama Family travels mostly every year to Hawaii to visit Senator Obama's grandmother and sister.

Additional Sources: BarackObama.com, Chicago Suntimes, Newsweek and Essence

A New Year, A New YOU!

Don't you just love the beginning of a new year? Despite the usual wickedly frigid air, the first week in January always makes me feel refreshed, optimistic and energized. I can't say that this eurphoric feeling lasts past the first 7 carefree days, but this year I'm going to try my best to keep my positive vibe buzzing as long as possible.

I'm not going to simply write or say what I want to accomplish this year, I'm going to put forth an infinite amount of effort into bringing my goals to fruition. I know that it's easier said than done, but like the cliche says, "if you put your mind to it, you can do anything." Failure is definitely not an option.

I have several personal, as well as professional goals that I need to make happen within the next 12 months. I realize that the only person who's stopping me from successfully achieving them is me.

I encourage you to stick to your resolutions this year and become a better you!! We're only on the third day of the year, so we have a long way to go!

Here are a few tips to help you stay on your resolutions' wagon:

1. Choose an obtainable goal
2. Get specific about what time, when and where you're going to carry out your goals (i.e exercising)
3. Don't choose a goal that you fail over and over again each year
4. Ask friends and family to help you stay on track
5. Keep a journal (if you missed my posting on cute journals, check out entry: "Take Note")

BeanpYe Served Fresh & Hot!!

I know that many of you had a merry holiday season with a fair share of good food and delicious drinks, but I hope you're not full just yet. There's always room for dessert and pie is always on point -- BeanpYe that is.



As I surfed the web a few weeks ago, I came across fellow BG Sabrina Thompson's jewelry line, BeanpYe (www.beanpye.com). I was immediately drawn to her beautiful and ornate bracelets, earrings and embellished blazers. The extremely unique name, BeanpYe, which was actually Sabrina's childhood nickname reflects her creative and cutting-edge designs.







With stylish, one-of-a-kind hand-made jewelry and custom-embellished blazers, BeanpYe is sure to satisfy your fashion appetite. Check out my Q&A with Sabrina:

Prior to officially launching BeanpYe in 2005, were you working in fashion?
Nope. I was a television producer working with several major networks in NYC.

BGG:What inspired/motivated you to start BeanpYe?
Sabrina: Several things…the fact that I knew I had a God given talent of crafting things with my hands and it was literally sitting there going to waste because I wasn’t using it. Also, the fact that I was tired of shopping and finding the same old generic looks. I don’t shop at the Gap or Banana Republic type of stores because they are ordinary. I feel that no one person is ordinary so why look ordinary? We all have a special spark or uniqueness about us. Why not create something for the people that express that?

BGG:What does the BeanpYe brand include?
Sabrina: Bold and ornate custom designed jewelry is what Beanpye is known for. Also, by special requests I will create custom designed blazers for men, women and children.

BGG:What three words best describe BeanpYe?
Sabrina: Fearless, funky and exclusive

BGG:Describe the BeanpYe customer.
Sabrina: A confident and unconventional person who approaches life with an avante garde, confident and multidimensional outlook on life. They range from industry executives to young college and high school students. My customers simply aren’t afraid to go against the grain and express themselves through the medium of art.

BGG:What gets your creative juices flowing when designing a piece?
Sabrina: A hot track with a dope baseline from any artist who doesn’t sound generic…some examples…Outkast, Erykah Badu, John Mayer, Nina Simone and more. Also, anything that is moving…the sounds or sight of water, a washing machine, subway, kids playing…

BGG:Has making clothes and jewelry always been your passion?
Sabrina: No. Actually it’s tied roughly about 4th or 5th on my list. First comes working with kids, 2nd writing/composing songs, 3rd is sports, 4th and 5th is creating eclectic social events and fashion.

BGG:Is all of your jewelry handmade? If so, what materials do you use? Sabrina: Yes it’s all either handmade or hand painted. I use everything ranging from acrylic paint, feathers, brass, turquoise, ivory, oak wood to indigenous stones from West Africa.

BGG:What fabrics do you use to create your blazers?
Sabrina: Wool, tweed, polyester & silk blends. However, let’s be clear…I only embellish blazers. I will take a blazer that has already been crafted and basically revamp it (changing the lining, buttons, outward appearance) to make it a one of a kind.

BGG: Is any of your merchandise sold in stores/boutiques? If so where? Also, do you foresee opening your own boutique in the near future?
Sabrina: Actually, as for now…it is an online boutique. I am looking into a few stores to showcase it in only for a limited time in 2008 in New York City; however, I have no visions of opening up a boutique. We are living in an age of major technology and many things are done in cyberspace. It’s all about keeping overhead low and keeping the product really exclusive. So far the online access and communication has been working out just great!

BGG:What celebrities have worn and/or requested your merchandise?
Sabrina: India.arie, Alicia Keys, Vivica Fox, Anthony Hamilton, Regina King, Nas, and new pop sensation Keri Hilson. Also, countless news anchors and entertainment correspondents on NBC, CBS, ABC, MSNBC, BET, FOX, E!, Court TV, CNN and HGTV.

BGG:What do you want your customers to feel when they buy your jewelry/blazers?
Sabrina: Energized, youthful and daring...like they are the best thing since sliced bread!

BGG:What advice would you give to a fellow BG who wants to start her own jewelry/fashion business?
Sabrina: Keep it simple and don’t over think it. Also, you don’t need a fortune to start your company. I started with roughly $350 and I learned out to be resourceful, yet creative! Don’t get bogged down with tons of business plans. I’ve never been one to write down my goals. I keep them in my head because while I’m busy writing it on paper…someone is busy physically making it happen. Keep your goals high yet obtainable and chip away at it week by week. Also, give yourself a break when you need it and remember if it’s YOUR business…the only pressure you put on yourself is the pressure you create. Be easy and have fun!

BGG:I noticed on your website that you travel to different cities across the country showcasing BeanpYe, do you have any upcoming events where BGs can find your merchandise?
Sabrina: As of now, I am finalizing my summer calendar. Being that I am an educator in the NYC school system, I leave my summers free to travel with BeanpYe. I am looking to do several festivals and private show-casings around the country in 08. I’ll keep you posted. Thanks for interviewing me!

No Favorite Fabulous Photos Today

Unfortunately, I am unable to post my favorite fabulous photos today. My computer is not getting an Internet connection for some reason. Therefore, I'm using my Blackberry to write this posting.

Anyway, I'll be back next week after the holidays. Who knows, if my computer is functioning properly this weekend I may post the photos of the week.

Happy Holidays!

BG: Mary J. Blige's New CD

If you haven't already bought the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige's new CD, Growing Pains, you should do so immediately if you enjoy good hip-hop/R&B music. One of the best R&B BG singers of our time, Blige doesn't disappoint with her latest project. Although it isn't her best work, the CD is still worthy of inclusion in your MJB collection.

Growing Pains, is her 8th CD (not including live or special albums), but it still manages to have a fresh sound. Of course it still has Blige's signature R&B flavor, but the CD definitely reflects her maturity and newfound confidence.

The uptempo intro track, "Work That," is a testatment to her positive self-image and she encourages women to find their own too. Her first single from the CD, "Just Fine," is by far the best song on the album. This infectious, feel-good song just makes you want to hit the dance floor.

Growing Pains is sprinkled with other sweet-sounding tunes, especially her smooth duet with Usher in "Shake Down." Staying true to her customary rap-infused/R&B roots, the CD includes features with hip-hop heavyweights Ludacris and Pharrell.

"Just Fine" Video:


The CD appropriately closes with the harmonious, "Come to Me (Peace)," which is akin to an uplifting choir-sung spiritual. This particular ballad will definitely be one of Blige's classic performance songs.

From What's the 411, to her latest installment, Blige will and always be the R&B voice of this generation. Her truthful, soulful and unique sound has often been imitated, but she'll always be an original.

P.S If you're in the NYC area, you can meet Mary J. Blige at the Carol's Daughter store in Harlem today (12/20) at 6pm. You can pick up her new CD along with some Carol's Daughter goodies too!

Take Note

Now that the new year is rapidly approaching, why not pick up a few journals for yourself and others this holiday season?

At the start of each year I try to write my personal thoughts and reflections in a journal. I credit my mom for instilling in me the importance of the written word. She's kept a journal throughout most of her life. Me on the otherhand, I'm not as consistent, but I do have several journals.

Actually, journal writing doesn't have to be consistent or contain certain thoughts. All that matters is that you write down exactly how you feel at that particular moment in time. From random thoughts to a rant about an annoying co-worker at your office, journals are your personal space to vent and reflect.

I recently read one of my journals from college and found it to be quite funny and entertaining. Although at the time, my circumstances were far from humorous. The affairs that were going on in my life during that time are totally irrelavant now, but it was fun and interesting to read years later.

So head to your nearest Papyrus or local stationery store to buy a journal. They make great stocking stuffers!

Here are a few pretty journals to check out **Please note that some of these journals are pricey, but you can find more affordable ones at Borders and Barnes and Noble bookstores**:



Leather Monogrammed Diaries & Journals Available at Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com from $40-98



12 Monthly Journals Available at www.redenvelope.com for $98



Seagrass Journal Available at Papyrus www.papyrusonline.com for $24.95




Leather Journals Available at Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com from $45-80



Pink Flowers Journal Available at Target www.target.com for $14.99



Cashmere Journal from Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com for $95



Allegra Leather Journal from Kate's Paperie www.katespaperie.com for $32



Copper and Teal Embossed Pattern - Journal from Papyrus www.papyrusonline for $19.95

Glove Love

For those BGs who live in warm climates and don't have to worry about the unfavorable cold, wintry weather, be thankful! It's December so it's freezing in both of my favorite cities -- Chicago and New York.

That means layering and keeping my body as warm as possible is essential to getting anything done outside of my cozy homes during these long, frigid months.

For me, the first thing on my body that gets cold are my hands; that's why I have several pairs of gloves to keep in the pockets of each of my winter coats.

A nicely lined pair of gloves can keep your fingers toasty and fashionable!

Check out some of these functional, yet fabulous pairs of gloves.



Coach Leather Gloves Available at www.coach.com for $298



Australian Ugg Sheepskin Gloves Available at www.nordstrom.com for $140



Isotoner Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves Available at www.isontoner.com for $40



Chain Leather Gloves Available at www.nordstrom.com for $88



Forzieri White Italian Leather Gloves Available at www.forzieri.com for $79



Isotoner Stretch Leather Fleece-Lined Gloves Available at www.isotoner.com for $35



Cashmere gloves available at www.walmart.com for $12

"Spa"ctacular!

What's the perfect holiday gift that you can give a BG or guy who is always on the go and always helping others, but never seems to find time for themselves? Oh yes, this includes YOU too -- a gift certificate to a spa!

A nice spa treatment will help the over-worked, tired and always busy loved one in your life take a break from his or her demanding schedule and escape the daily grind.

Spa treatments have been proven to be an effective way to alleviate stress and provide relaxation for your mind, body and spirit. Whether it's a facial, Swedish massage or a mani or pedi, giving one's self "me" time is essential to healthy living. When you feel good, you treat others well and are more productive.

Here are a few popular spas throughout the U.S:

Bliss Soho

One of their most popular treatments right now is the "Mistle Toes." This treatment gives your shopped out soles a lift with this hot milk, sweet orange oil and cinnamon stick soak plus paraffin wrap pedicure. Served with a cup of hot apple cider, and you'll get a FREE holiday Essie nail polish.
60 min $70

568 Broadway, 2nd Floor
NYC NY 10012
212 219 8970
www.blissworld.com

P.S There are several Bliss spas throughout the United States. Check the website for more locations.

Honey Child Salon & Spa

I once got my hair styled at this salon/spa and received more compliments on my hair than I've ever gotten in my life! Plus, the owner is a BG!

735 N. LaSalle
Chicago, IL
(312) 573-1300
www.honeychildsalonandspa.com

The Root of You Salon and Day Spa

They boast a great massage called the "Awakening." It's a 50 minute Swedish full body massage that releases muscle tension with slow strokes along with finger pressure applied both following and across the grain of muscles and tendons to promote relaxation and help improve circulation. $70

5190 Buffalo Speedway
Houston, Texas 77005
(off Highway 59 on Buffalo Speedway @ Westpark)
832-778-1225
www.therootofyou.com

Le Petite Retreat Day Spa

One of their best-sellers is the True Transformation Facial. This classic custom spa facial helps restore skin's dull, dried, damaged appearance. Aromatherapy and marine-based elements rich in trace minerals balance skin's ph level, replenishing lost nutrients for that healthy, youthful glow.
60 mins: $110

331 N. Larchmont Blvd.
Los Angeles CA, 90004
(323) 466-1028
www.lprdayspa.com

The "Perfect" Holiday Movie

I had the pleasure of seeing The Perfect Holiday the other night. Despite an extremely cold evening, I had to go support our BGs and guys who directed, produced and starred in this pioneering romantic holiday comedy.

Prior to the release of this film and This Christmas, which came out last month, there hadn’t been any holiday movies starring an all African-American cast. I know that’s hard to believe, but it’s true.

The movie is about a recent divorcee with 3 young children named, Nancy, portrayed by the beautiful BG Gabrielle Union who is anxious to start dating again. The adorable, Khail Bryant plays her daughter who makes a wish to a shopping mall’s Santa Claus for her mom to meet a nice man. She inadvertently sets her mom up with who Union’s character thinks is an ideal suitor, played by actor, Morris Chestnut, but finds out that he hasn’t been completely honest with her. During their courtship, her eldest child portrayed by Malik Hammond, isn’t exactly adjusting to his mother’s new boyfriend. He tries to sabotage their relationship by playing pranks on Chestnut's character a la Home Alone style.

In the midst of the romantic twists and turns, the film is sprinkled with magical and funny scenes acted by an unbelievably talented cast which includes: Queen Latifah (who actually produced the movie), Terrence Howard, Charlie Murphy, Faizon Love, Jill Marie Jones, Rachel True and Katt Williams.

It’s refreshing, relatable and simply entertaining which makes it the perfect movie to take your entire family to see this holiday season.

Iman Launches New Line

This seems like a busy week for our BG fashion entrepreneurs. First the Simmons sisters announce the expansion of their line, Pastry earlier this week and now supermodel and fashion icon, Iman, is launching Iman Global Chic, which will include handbags and accessories on Saturday (Dec. 15th) exclusively on the Home Shopping Network.

Her internationally inspired fashion style will definitely be reflected in this affordable line. As we BGs already know, Iman also has a wonderful cosmetic line which she created with us in mind.

Here are a few of her pieces from Global Chic:



Glamourous day planner $19.95



Vintage inspired handbag $54



Gold-toned cuff $49.95