Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Man of the Hour: Common

::At the Dirty Awards, yesterday in Atlanta::

Common is an American rapper and actor.

Common whose real name is Lonnie Rashid Lynn, Jr. was born March 13, 1972 on the South Side of Chicago. The two time Grammy award winner (once in 2003 and again in 2008) started his career in 1992 with the release of his first album, Can I Borrow A Dollar? In 2004, he signed onto Kanye West's G.O.O.D. (Getting Out Our Dreams) label and released (arguably) his best album to date, Be.

The rapper then got into acting on shows like Scrubs and Girlfriends, then starring in movies like Smokin' Aces, Wanted and American Gangster. Be sure to check him out in upcoming films like Terminator Salvation and Justice League of America.

His new album, Universal Mind Control, drops December 9.

Kodak Moment: Columbus Short and Beyonce


This picture cracks me up. Here actor Columbus Short is ecstatic to be taking a pic with the singer at the Hollywood premiere of "Cadillac Records". It's as if he's like, "Look, Mom! It's Beyonce!"

I think it's cute.


And I know I already posted this on Monday in the AMA post but you've got to admit, this is a pretty fierce picture.

Yes, pun intended.


::
I promise this is the last Beyonce post of the day::

Miley Cyrus' Sweet 16


Now, I must admit. I'm not a Miley Cyrus fan per se. I honestly hadn't even listened to the girl's music until Sunday night when she performed at the American Music Awards. And I must say I was beyond impressed.

I was mind boggled a few months ago when I learned that this teenager's franchise would be worth a billion dollars by the end of the year. That's crazy. (She can't touch it until she's 18, but that's still insane.) I knew little girls were obsessed with her and went crazy for her 'Hannah Montana' character but I just thought it was the magic formula of Disney marketing.

But wouldn't you know it...the girl is actually pretty good. Let me stop - she's great. Aside from Beyonce, she had the best performance of the night. She even had me bopping my head to "Fly on the Wall".

Miley celebrated her 16th birthday on Sunday at the AMA's. Fellow Disney star Ashley Tisdale, singer Taylor Swift and American Idol Jordin Sparks along with Miley's mom all gathered round to sing the star 'Happy Birthday' and present her with a massive cake.

So what does a mega rich teenage superstar get for her born day?

Her father, country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, bought her a recording studio.

Yes, Suri!


I'm usually not a fan of paparazzi getting celebrity babies because I worry about their safety but these pics were too cute to not share. Suri Cruise is one fabulous tot. Peep her dress and her shoes...Katie Holmes is a mother. Crazy. I could have sworn she would have been Joey from "Dawson's Creek" forever. Apparently not. She looks kind of old in these flicks - of course I am comparing her to her 2-year-old daughter.

I digress.

The fiance swears I want a baby, but I just keep on running into really cute babies. What's the harm in that?

So maybe I do want a baby. Sue me...

Look of the Day: Sarah Jessica Parker


So one of my favorite people in the world, Sarah Jessica Parker, had the look of the day last night at the New York City Ballet 2008-2009 season opening night. She was fabulous in a mini dress donned with black tights and metallic shoes.

She seldom disappoints me.

And dare I say it: There is a good chance that there will be a 'Sex and the City' sequel. SJP confirms that they're currently in talks about a sequel that would shoot 2009 and hit theatres 2010.

So. Happy. I have no words.

I Am King by Diddy


Yesterday in NYC, Diddy celebrated his new Times Square billboard for his new frangrance, "I Am King". This marks the mogul's second Times Square billboard and third fragrance by Sean John. (The first two were "Unforgivable" for men and "Unforgivable Black" for women.) His billboard will also appear on LA's Sunset Boulevard as well as "marquis billboard locations in New York, Los Angeles and Miami."

The billboard features Diddy in a white dinner tuxedo sporting a very Bond-esque look. He believes that it's time for a Black bond. Apparently, Jamie Foxx believes the same.

Check out Diddy's latest video blog and the movie (commercial) for "I Am King".

Out and About: Beyonce and Jay-Z


Mr. and Mrs. Carter were out and about yesterday at the Cavs vs. Knicks game in NYC. The couple looked great and happy as usual. It seems as though it was a pretty popular game as Q-Tip, Chloe Sevigny and mayor Michael Bloomberg were all in attendance as well.


Beyonce who dropped her third solo effort last week also performed on the Today Show this morning. She performed hits like "Single Ladies", Surprisingly, she sold 483,000 copies of I Am...Sasha Fierce in comparison to the 541,000 copies she sold of B'Day.

She was also on 'Ellen' yesterday, speaking very candidly of her relationship and explaining her Thanksgiving plans - which includes cooking Thanksgiving dinner for the very first time and spending time with family.

Pastry Footwear and Clothing Line UK Launch


Vanessa and Angela Simmons launched and promoted their Pastry footwear and clothing line in London yesterday at Footwear Oxford Street.

The girls have been working hard and will finally be launching their online store two days from now on Black Friday.

For more info on Pastry, their blogs and the girls themselves be sure to check out the Pastry website.

CNN Heroes


For the second year now, CNN searches for extraordinary people the world considers heroes. And out of thousands of nominees, they've finally narrowed it down to ten.

This year the ten include a Louisiana native who has rebuilt the homes of 120 families affected by Katrina, a Detroit native helping hundreds of Senegalese girls in school and business and a formerly incarcerated woman who keeps children connected with their imprisoned parents through video.

After reading their stories, I've realized that not only are these people really "heroes" but also that they are truly remarkable. As a reward each finalist will receive $25,000. The public then decides (voting is now closed) who the 'Hero of the Year' is. The winner wins an additional $100,000.

The show was this past Saturday with celebrity guests including CNN's own Anderson Cooper, Taylor Swift, Jessica Biel, Rachel Zoe, Terrence Howard and performances by John Legend and Alicia Keys.

Be sure to catch the show and see who the big winner is when it airs on Thanksgiving Day at 9PM on CNN.

To find out more about this year's nominees, check out CNN.

Reality TV Rears Its Ugly Head


This is completely and totally unacceptable. I'm all for mindless television myself sometimes ('Real Housewives of Atlanta') but there comes a time where you have to draw a line.

This is where it's drawn.

I'm pissed that MTV cancelled TRL to put on more nonsense like this. No, really. I am mortified!

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Q-Tip, Janelle Monae and The Cool Kids


So last night, I checked out the Q-Tip, Janelle Monae and The Cool Kids show at the Loft here in Atlanta. Absotootlelutely fantabulous! (It was so good I had make up some words - so what? I like it, I'm running with it...)


Janelle Monae's voice is CRAZY. It's so beautiful and she's so small but do not get it twisted. She's a little ball of energy. She threw water on us and jumped into the crowd. She even came into crowd and was grooving. (She made this one kid's night.) But I have been anticipating seeing her live for quite some time now and I was IMPRESSED to say the least.


I really enjoyed The Cool Kids as well. Out of the three acts I probably listened to them the least but they have now made me a bonafide fan. They're probably the reason why my ears were ringing...their music has lots of 808 in it - which I LOVE! And they arguably have one of the hottest hooks in music right now (I'm Mikey...I rock) but I'm anxiously waiting for their album to drop now.


Of course, Q-tip was a delight. He just gives you everything he has when's on stage. I swear he wasn't even on the second yet and he was dripping in sweat. His stage performance is on point. He took me back with "Bonita Applebaum" and I swear I lost it when he performed "We Fight, We Love" and "Vivrant Thing" along with everyone else.


I was exhausted by the end of the show but it was so worth it! Here are my two fave moments (and pics) of the night). When Janelle (she's the little one in the middle) danced in the crowd and when Q-tip first hit the stage with mad energy (his face is priceless).

Janelle Monae Live


Mattieologie: Janelle Monae Live from Mattie Elious on Vimeo.


Janelle Monae performing "Smile" last night at the Q-Tip show. Her voice is breathtaking.

Monday, November 24, 2008

The American Music Awards


Last night was the American Music Awards and surprisingly they were pretty decent. Rihanna, Chris Brown and Alicia Keys were all big winners. I didn't see Beyonce but Sasha Fierce ripped the stage and hands down had the best performance of the evening. My favorite look of the evening would have to go to Rihanna...even though it wasn't camera friendly. (I swear I saw up her dress...) I also really enjoyed Miley Cyrus' performance as well as Alicia Keys, Kanye and Annie Lenox. Jimmy Kimmel was moderately funny as a host and the show as a whole kept me awake and relatively interested.

Well done, AMA's, well done.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Hillary Clinton is Secretary of State


I'm not sure if I'm happy about this at all, but Obama is the one making the choices here so it's probably in our best interests. FOX News is the source confirming it so Lord knows if this is even true or not. However, Hillary and president elect Barack Obama did meet last week to discuss some things. I guess this is what they were talking about.

The official announcement will be made Thanksgiving Day.

For more on this story...here you go.

The Little Black Dress


I've been meaning to write a post about this. But after watching 'Tim Gunn's Guide to Style' and seeing Khloe's picture I thought I'd finally take the opportunity.

Ladies, we must recognize how important the little black dress is. According to Wikipedia, the dress was made popular in the 1920's by designer Coco Chanel. Before that, black was really only used for funerals to mourn. But as time went on black became classic was ideal when technicolor movies were popular. Black was the only color that was not distorted when on camera.

80 years later, the LBD is still undeniable. If you don't have one I THOROUGHLY suggest that you get one. I have a couple LBDs and I think it's safe to say that it's an essential staple to have in your closet.

I suggest you get different styles. I have an A line silhouette, a pencil and mini version of the LBD. ALl three of these can be used to go out and of course certain cuts for certain occasions. It's nice because you can throw a cardigan or blazer on top and make the look more conservative maybe for church or a work function perhaps. Or you can wear a shorter style with a shrunken jacket for a night on the town with the girl.

Seriously there is so much you can do with an LBD. But be sure that when you do find one it's strong enough to be worn by itself. (I prefer to stay from spaghetti strap styles.)

If you're small like me a strapless version or even a sleeveless number with narrow straps is ideal. If you're gonna do sleeves keep it short or 3/4. (Long sleeves get overbearing when you're small) You also want to make sure that your dress fits you tight enough that you look like a woman but loose enough that you look like a lady. That rule is for everyone but especially for petite women. Loose clothes on a small frame is a big faux pas. Pencil dresses are great especially if you have a boyish figure because it creates the illusion of hips. For my fellow short ladies out there, make sure that you dress is cut right at the knees or right above the knee. Anything past your knee will make you seem shorter and stubby.

For my curvy ladies, if you're gonna go strapless think A line. The A line silhouette is great because it creates the illusion of the narrow waist. When it comes to sleeveless keep a wider strap so your shoulders don't look bulky. (I hate that.) When it comes to a pencil number, I say go with short sleeves or 3/4 lenght sleeves. But don't forget about the turtleneck look. Looks great on any figure and goes great with a blazer or sweater over it, but most importantly it makes a statement by itself like the one Khloe has on.

Pair your LBD up with some basic black open toe sandals, colorful pumps or metallic booties and it looks awesome!

That's thing about a little black dress. It goes with everything.

Video: Keri Hilson feat. Lil Wayne - "Turning Me On"



I must say that I'm disappointed that Keri's album won't be dropping until 2009. I swear they keep pushing her album back just when it's about to drop.

Also, is it me or does this song and video (the dancing in particular) remind you of Aaliyah?

Be sure to check out the new Coldplay/Jay-Z video on Kanye's blog.

FAB: Leighton Meester


So, here on Mattieologie I have decided to start FAB Fridays!

(cue applause) Thank you. What is a FAB?

FAB: (fabulous ass B!#&%) One who is uberfabulous via clothing, swag and ways. A FAB also possesses effortless style.

Now, I don't even watch 'Gossip Girl' but I know that Leighton Meester is one FAB chick. I always see her in magazines, at the hottest parties and front row during fashion week. She's always well put together and stands out. I had to show her some love and make her the Mattieologie FAB of the Week. (Last week's winner would've gone to Alicia Keys.)

If I ever decided to jump on the bandwagon and start watching GG it would honestly have a lot to do with Leighton. As far as I'm concerned, she's the show. (From the looks of it anyways. Correct me if I'm wrong.)

Be sure to catch Leighton on 'Gossip Girl' Mondays at 8pm on the CW.

Kodak Moment: Solange, Marc Jacobs and more



I absolutely love this picture! Here, you have Solange performing at the relaunch of the MANGO Soho flagship store party and fashion designer Marc Jacobs is grooving.

Priceless.


Then you have comedian Alex Thomas giving his best Jordan impression at the 5th Edition of Jordan Melo’s Signature Shoe Line Debut party in LA. He was so animated...I had to share.

Interesting.

Look of the Day: Solange and Kristin


In today's edition of LOD, we have a two way tie.

First, there's Solange in a fabulous, black feathered number with some fantastic blue pumps at the relaunch of the MANGO Soho flagship store in NYC last night. (MANGO is a clothing by Penelope and Monica Cruz.) Very well put together. That's why I like Solange's style. She'll give you an over the top ensemble with unpredictable shoes. Bonafide fashionista!

Then we have Kristin Chenoweth in a gorgeous purple dress at the Hollywood premiere of "Four Christmases" in which she stars in with Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn. Such a great dress. And the light turquoise bow belt complimented it perfectly! I had to show it some love.

Review: Kanye West's New Album



::Just a heads up, in case you care, you can listen to Kanye West's entire new album on his myspace page.::

So Kanye's latest album 808's and Heartbreak, drops Monday, November 24 but I caught a preview of it today.

I'm not gonna lie. Overall, Kanye was pretty dark and somber with his writing. But it's still genius. I think it's a smart album. He's very authentic and even though he uses autotune throughout the album I still like it. (He's not offensive like T-Pain per se.)

If you're like me and think about it too much, you definitely think that he's personally sending out some messages to his ex-fiance, Alexis. He's not using "heartbreak" metaphorically as far I'm concerned. I would say 10 out of the 12 tracks say he's heartbroken for sure. Take tracks like "Heartless", "Love Lockdown", "Bad News" and "Coldest Winter" for instance. Examples of his heart being broken for sure.

But there's tracks like "Amazing" and "Paranoid" that aren't completely in the pits. "Paranoid" is the most 80's influenced song on the album. The hook, the electro pop track...it's safe to say that it's one of my faves of 808's and Heartbreak.

"Say You Will" is a great opener for the album. It definitely sets the tone. I think right now Kanye's in a place where he's coping (the loss of his mother, his breakup with Alexis) and growing as artist. A lot of the time that tends to make folks very honest. 'Ye has never had a problem telling folks how he feels, but he takes it to another level with this album.

"See You in My Nightmares" is hands down my favorite song on the album. (I'm cold, I'm cold..I got the right to put a fight, but not quite...) Now, I know it's featuring Lil Wayne but that has nothing to do with it. It's the raw emotion of the song. He was really trying to tell us [Alexis] something.

"Pinocchio Story" is absolutely genius. It's songs like this that don't make Kanye just a rapper, but a true artist. Something like a genius. The lyrics are very real, he's very emotional and he's singing. I appreciate that.

808's and Heartbreak
is completely left field but for that reason I really like it. I give it an A- and that's only because he used autotune in every song. That doesn't mean it's anything short of genius though.

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show


It's that time of year again!

Yep, the most anticipated runway show by straight men is back. The Victoria's Secret runway was last week in Miami. The show was at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach Hotel where supermodels Heidi Klum, Selita Ebanks, Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio and many more beauties hit the runway. Usher was this year's performer and folks like Diddy (and his mother, Janice), Terrence Howard and other celebrities were in front row to see the breathtaking fashion show.

I absolutely love the VS Fashion Show. I know it's lingerie and all but the looks they put together are gorgeous. The themes are so cute and let's face it - the women are BEAUTIFUL.

And it lets me know that Christmas isn't too far away :)

Be sure to catch the show when it airs on CBS December at 10pm.

Kodak Moment: Family Potrait

::Daddy, me, Maya and Mom::

So on Sunday my parents and sister were in town. While my mom was at a meeting for my aunt's wedding, Daddy and Maya (my sis) came over. It was my dad's first visit to my apartment, so naturally I was a little nervous.

All went well...in fact he (my dad) invited the rest of the family over. Which was fine, except we live in a one bedroom apartment. Anyways, per usual my dad couldn't resist the photo op of family being together and he started snapping away. Here, the fiance captured the four of us (which at the time seemed corny because it was so staged) but now that I look at it, this is one of those pictures I'll cherish forever.

Thanks, Daddy.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Allure Magazine Cover Party



Allure Magazine celebrated Eva Longoria Parker’s cover earlier this week in Hollywood at Beso. Hayden Panettierre, Victoria Beckham, Heidi Klum, Rosario Dawson, Mario Lopez and others all came out to celebrate the occasion.

Heidi who is on the cover of this month’s issue of InStyle discusses being a supermodel mogul, her family and how she went from the runway to creating an empire.


Mrs. Longoria-Parker was caught out and about looking cute (per usual) in Hollywood yesterday. Loving that bag and jacket!

Hello Lover: Jumpsuits!


Juliette Lewis sported a fabulous jumpsuit at the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund in NYC this week.

I must say that after checking out a few collections, I’m really starting to like the return of the jumpsuit. The look is a little more relaxed, with the fit being loose yet still glamorous like the sparkly number Juliette has on. (I must admit though I’m not a fan of the shoes with this number.) But if you think about it, this is an ensemble that Carrie would wear….definitely!

Seventeen Magazine Style Star of the Year



Beyonce was named Seventeen Magazine’s Style Star of the Year. Perfect timing! The singer who is on the cover of this month's Seventeen also dropped her third solo album on Tuesday…

The Real Housewives of Atlanta Reunion Show



I’m so pumped for the Real Housewives of Atlanta reunion show. Nene and Kim get into it, Lisa and Kim get into and so it looks like it’s going to be a beatdown for Kim.

Yes!

Catch a preview of the reunion show here.

Also, the original housewives of Bravo – the ladies of Orange County – are back next Tuesday as well. Even though I’m here in the A I have to admit that I really do enjoy watching the OC wives. They’re fabulous!

And in this month's InStyle Heidi Klum reveals that they are gearing up for the sixth season of Project Runway! (For whatever reason I thought that last season was their last.) But I'm obsessed, so thankfully I was wrong. Season 4 winner, Christian Siriano, celebrated his birthday yesterday in NYC with fellow Bravo reality stars.

Audrina Accuses Lauren...Next Week on 'The Hills'



Ok, did anybody catch the Hills on Monday? Of course, Heidi still hasn’t gotten rid of Spencer yet which she should but she did manage to get another chance at her job. Hopefully, she doesn’t eff it up. But what’s up with Audrina accusing Lauren hooking up with Justin Bobby?

Audrina…please.

Nobody wants him. And even if they did, it wouldn’t be one of your closest friends. Think about how many times Justin has screwed you over and how times Lauren has been there for you. Are you diluted?! Be sure to ctach next week’s episode when all the usual drama ensues.

Even though, I think she’s temporarily delusional (love will do that to you sometimes) I must thank Audrina for making the Hills interesting again. Just when I thought it was getting a little dry, she brings some BS to the table and starts making it juicy again.

Look of the Day: Rihanna, Charlize and Monique


So in today's look of the day we have a three way tie. I mean why should only one person be named the most fabulous of day?

(Besides I know I've slipped this week and forgotten to post the LOD. My bad loves!)

First, we've got Charlize Theron who was to die for in a white Grecian number at the opening of Atlantis, The Palm Resort in Dubai last night. She looked like a Greek goddess. But most importantly her look was complete.


Then there was Rihanna with two looks at the Gucci/UNICEF Tattoo Heart Collection Launch in NYC. I loved her in this red. I felt like it was really her. Very rock, but still chic. But I love how she donned a gown for the reception part of the evening which was really appropriate.


Monique Lhuillier at Eva Longoria Parker’s Allure Magazine Cover Party in a fabulous green dress. Love that color on her.

Now, I know I said it was a three way tie but who do you think had the ULTIMATE look of the day today?

Video: Rihanna - "Rehab" (feat. Justin Timberlake)

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Video: At the 'Brides About Town' Event


'Brides About Town' Trunk Show from Mattie Elious on Vimeo.


Earlier tonight at Aiko for the 'Brides About Town' event hosted by Brides magazine.

'Brides About Town' Trunk Show

::[Dress] Gap [Tights] Target [Shoes] Nine West "Gordon"::

So I just got back from the 'Brides About Town' Trunk hosted by Brides magazine. It was at the chic Aiko Restaurant and Lounge here in Atlanta (Buckhead). As I said earlier, I wasn't quite in the full bride mode yet but tonight help me get there.

First of all, what I love about events like this is that everything is FREE. (That doesn't make me cheap, just human.) Anyways, the event was also sponsored by Waterford Crystal and Anne Barge Atelier.


::My second favorite dress of the evening. Isn't it gorgeous?::

::Gown from the Anne Barge collection::

::Anne Barge and Mischka Badgley collaboration for Anne Barge Atelier::

Let me just say that the Anne Barge collection is absolutely beautiful. I may be over exaggerating but I think I may have found my hero dress. It was, white, sparkly, A line silhouette (not poofy) and AWESOME. The designer herself was there showing pieces from her line. She's seriously the cutest little thing.

I don't have a house yet, but Waterford Crystal (and the fine china) is remarkable. I'll have to remember that once I'm Susie Homemaker.

Technology: Will Everything be Touch Screen by 2010?

::HP Touch Smart PC::


With a new cell phone dropping every month, I'm noticing that the last few new ones have been touch screen (Apple iPhone, Samsung Behold, Sprint Instinct, Blackberry Storm). And of course HP was the first to release the touch screen PC.

Now, why haven't we done this a minute ago you ask? Well, the thing about touch screen is that it's very particular. It's sensitive to touch and the way it's designed...a crack in the foundation can't really be fixed. Also, the haptic feedback on a touch screen has to be meticulously designed to respond to a certain touch. (Can't be too sensitive or hard to respond)

Believe it or not, touch screen has been around since the seventies but the technology has advanced up to now and ways to make it better are still being developed.

With that being said, I believe that most mobile devices, laptops and desktops will be touch screens. With concepts being developed by companies like Nokia and Microsoft and actual product to be released in the next couple of years, it's only a matter of time that touch screen technology will go from being a privilege to a daily necessity.

And will look back laugh at how ridiculously unadvanced the Apple iPhone was in comparison to our shiny new advanced phone.

Do you believe that technology will advanced to predominantly touch screen products? In a couple years or so?

I Am...Sasha Fierce vs. Sol-Angel and the Hadley Street Dreams


As you know, Beyonce’s album dropped yesterday and I’m a fan so I definitely went and got it. I also have Solange’s album. I must admit I wasn’t planning on getting it but the fiancĂ© bought it and I’ve been hooked on it ever since. So I’m going to give you a review…my take on both albums.


Of course, Beyonce has saturated the media lately building up to the release of I Am…Sasha Fierce. Now, it is a double CD album. The first being Beyonce and the second disc is all Sasha Fierce (Bey’s alter ego). I’m not going to lie. I was kind of skeptical of the idea after the whole Tip vs. T.I scenario. (I still get confused on who is who.) But I must say that it was beautifully done. Beyonce is your softer, more vulnerable side. All ballads and sets the tone. “Ave Maria” is my favorite track from this side with “Halo” as a close second. “Ave Maria” was unexpected for me but she sounds great. Very opera. That’s what I like about Bey. She always takes it to the next level.

Of course, Sasha’s CD was all club bangers, but what I like about it is that it was very electro-pop, 80’s friendly. Many artists are doing that now, but let’s face it Bey’s been in the game for a while so she had the best producers and great executions. Whether you love her or hate her…you’ve got to admit the girl is good. I must say that I thought I was going to enjoy Sasha more than Beyonce but it was the other way around. I feel like Sasha is giving the people what they want while pleasing record execs. Which is fine. But Beyonce has grown up and it shows in the songs she’s singing. She has a couple songs that’ll stay with folks without having to do the “uh-oh” dance or “replacing” some man.


Now, Solange on the other hand is on another level. She’s very inspired by classics and old girl groups which shows through her music. She’s not the strongest vocalist but her execution makes up for skill she lacks. You believe what she’s singing and that’s important. “I Decided” was a great way to reintroduce herself to the world. (Her first album Solo Star was released in 2003.) Her first album wasn’t a reflection of her and after you hear Sol-Angel and the Hadley Street Dreams you’ll see why. I believe that tracks like “Cosmic Journey” (feat. Bilal) and “Would’ve Been the One” are genius. It has that old school, yet original feeling. Contrary to public belief, the album, like Solange isn’t trying too hard. She has her own identity and voice – it isn’t something she made up to stand out from her sister. It is what it is and that’s what makes this album special. I think it’s what took her from being “Beyonce’s sister” to Solange.

Overall, I’d say that Solange and Beyonce are eye to eye as far as music is concerned. They very different artists. Vocally, Bey is stronger but Sasha surprisingly comes in third place to me. So there you have it.

1. Solange (Sol-Angel and the Hadley Street Dreams) and Beyonce (I Am…)
2. Beyonce (Sasha Fierce)

But that’s just what I think. How do you guys feel about both albums? Do you agree with me?

I Wonder...

Ok, world. Question of the day:

After being asked how you are, is telling your ex's mother that you're engaged too much information?

Comment. GO!

Monday, November 17, 2008

TRL Finale


Last night, marked the last episode of TRL. After ten years, the show bowed out gracefully with a three hour finale. TRL favorites and regulars like Beyonce, Diddy, 50 Cent, Hilary Diff, Justin Timberlake and Kid Rock all came out for the celebration. The original host and once upon a time producer of the show, Carson Daly, paid his respect to the show as well.

I missed the show but this is sad. I mean I wasn't the biggest TRL fan but this show molded a part of 21st century pop culture.

Next up for MTV? More reality shows I'm sure...

Friday, November 14, 2008

Look of the Day: Alicia Keys (and Jessica Alba)

::Alicia Keys has the 'Look of the Day' for the second time this week::

The 5th Annual Keep A Child Alive Black Ball was held at the Hammerstein Ballroom in NYC last night. Justin Timberlake, Iman, Queen Latifah, Jessica Alba, Alicia Keys and others all came out for the event. I don’t know if Kanye and Justin Timberlake are trying to start a new fad, but I really need them both to shave. I promise you Kanye hasn’t shaved since the “Glow In The Dark” tour and I’m pretty sure Justin hasn’t shaved since he broke up with Cameron Diaz.

I’m just saying.

I love them both as artists, but something’s got give. Hopefully it’s facial hair.

::Jessica Alba's red carpet look at last night's 'Keep A Child Alive' event in NYC::

In Look of the Day news, I’m sorry folks but I’ve gotta give it to Alicia yet again. She’s just been killing it this week. The dress put with the blazer…sooooo appropriate. Not trying too hard and just giving us what we want. I love it…the hair, make up – she’s officially the Mattieologie style star of the week. I had to give it to her. Aside from her though, Jessica Alba wasn’t bad on the eyes either. She comes in as (a close) second. I’m loving the bangs and the dress is stunning.

And her rouge pout? Genius.

Kanye West Arrested in England


Kanye West was arrested and released late last night in England after an incident with a photographer.

The story goes that Kanye was leaving the Tup Tup club (isn’t that name awesome?!) in Newcastle and wasn’t amused by the paparazzo snapping flicks of him. He pushed the camera in the photographer’s face – who claims he suffered from a cut and bruising because of the “assault”. This is the second incident Kanye has had with paparazzi…remember the incident at LAX with his bodyguard ad another photographer?

I’m glad everything is okay and he was released. Be sure to catch 808’s and Heartbreak from Kanye dropping on rare day for album releases – November 24 (Monday).

For more info on the story check out MTV.

Kodak Moment: Jet Li and Donatella Versace

::Last night at the Versace for One Foundation fashion show in Beijing::

This may be petty and unimportant to you but I never really thought I'd see the day that these two were in a photo together. Like on the list of the "last people I ever thought would take a picture together" they after the last person.

Versace held a fashion show for One Foundation in Beijing last night. Jet Li and many other Chinese celebrities and models attended the show as well as Donatella Versace and her daughter, Allegra.

Man of the Day: Pharrell Williams

::Pharrell at The Ice Cream Store 3rd Anniversary Party in Tokyo::

Pharrell is sexy. And apparently hosted the third anniversary of the Ice Cream store in Tokyo today. But more importantly, he’s sexy.

That’s all.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Mattie: The Grown Up

Pearls always make an outfit more feminine, whether you're in a skirt or pants.

Shoes can make or break an outfit. T-straps are a classic style that works for almost any season.

I had a talk with one of my good friends from back home in Pittsburgh about clothes and make up.
She explained to me how she didn't really wear make up and how she's become pretty casual because of the kids. Now, she's moved to a new city and starting a new chapter in her life. First, she plans to revamp her wardrobe.

I explained to her that I was transitioning myself. It dawned on me that I'm 24 and that I'm, um, a grown up. In a year, I'll be somebody's wife and who knows in two years I may be someone's mother as well.

We continued the conversation discussing our dreams and aspirations. I explained to her that I had changed up my wardrobe and daily routine to stay on the track of accomplishment. If you're in sweats or sneakers, no matter how good a game you talk and how smart you are, it will be overlooked because of your appearance. Especially as a woman.

These past few months I've been dressing up (more conservatively) - meaning my hair, makeup and clothes are good enough to have a respectable conversation or meeting with someone important. Someone once told me, "you've got to dress for the part you want."

I may not be that millionaire CEO yet, but I sure am going to dress like I am. Now, don't get me wrong...I rather throw on some denim and a graphic tee any day, but there are times for that. When I'm on my day to day routine, out in the world, I represent Mattie, Inc. and I'm the CEO. When you dress to impress and take yourself seriously, people have no choice but to take you seriously also.

I then learned something about my friend that many women deal with: she didn't really wear make up because she didn't really know how to put it on. It's seriously a 5 minute process. You don't have prepare stage make up for your day to day life. I gave her some tips...which I'll share soon and she was shocked that it was so easy.

All in all, I've learned that not only am I dressing like a grown up I actually am one.