Pawned

If I could give the Republican Party a bit of advice it'd be to never bring a knife to a gun fight. Check and mate. 

Reflections: A Different World

So, my brother hit me on the text a couple weeks ago and said that reruns of the 80s/90s sitcom "A Different World" would begin coming on TV ONE every night. My reactions? FINALLY!!! Somewhere out there in the land of TV programming loves me! I immediately searched through my TV guide that my cable provider offers and set up a reminder and set my DVR to record the show! A little overboard? If you knew me, you would understand. LOL!

"A Different World" is easily one of my favorite TV sitcoms of all time. The Cosby Show spin-off was the first show of any kind to focus on blacks at an institute of higher education. And as the title so blatantly stated - it was a different world.

The show was revolutionary for its time and even when compared to sitcoms of today, still covers a more wide range of relevant subject matter. Episode topics ranged from domestic abuse, sexual harassment, and hazing among Greek fraternities and sororities on college campuses, to date rape, apartheid, affirmative action and even tackling the HIV epidemic when the topis was still considered taboo. The only thing more intriguing than the episode topics was the list of guest stars and the talented cast that gave life to the amazing characters that called Hillman College Home. The show's guest stars included everyone from Lena Horne, Patti Labelle, and Kris Kross to Billy Dee Williams, Envogue, Tupac and Diane Carroll. The show is credited for starting the careers of stars such as Jada Pinkett Smith, Sinbad, and launching the directorial career of the multi-talented Debbie Allen.

Another element that added to the authenticity of the show was the detail that went into maintaining the image of each individual character. There was Freddie - the free-spirited, earth-saver, who was most often wearing her hair natural and dressed in full hippie gear. Then there was the always high-maintenance Whitley Gilbert, the daughter of a judge and Neimann Marcus card-holder, most often sporting a fur coat and a travel size Louis Vuitton logo carry on bag before the logo was even recognizable by most modern day fashionistas. And who could forgot those basketball shorts and flip up glasses worn by Dwayne Wayne?

"A Different World" managed to do what few tv shows have the ability to do - it inspired viewers to have an interest in education past high school years. I was so in love with this show that I rarely wanted to admit that Whitley and Dwayne weren't a real couple and part of me still pictures them living together today with their 2.5 kids and a dog. I know, I know. A little delusional, but for young people growing up who may not know anyone who went to college, the show gave them the opportunity to learn more about college through the cast's experiences at Hillman. Okay, I will admit it - when I moved into my college dorm for the first time, I semi expected the cast to be there to welcome me! LOL! Needless to say they weren't there, but the rest of my college experience did not disappoint. But it could have been better if Whitley had let me borrow that Louie bag! ;-)

Who's That Lady?

“There are loads of black models working and the idea that there's only a few of us, or four of us, to let in as top models at any one time is just bullshit.”

Name: Jourdan Dunn

Age: 19

Hometown: London, England

Occupation: Model

Claim to Fame:

• Named "Model of the Year" at the 2008 British Fashion Awards

• Became the first black model to walk for Prada in over 10 years.

• Graced the cover of Italian vogue in an iconic issue devoted entirely to black models.

Dream B.I.G.

"Ultimately a genuine leader is not of consensus but a molder of consensus."
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

If you've never had the pleasure of hearing Dr. King's infamous "I Have A Dream" speech in it's entirety, please do me a favor and slap the HELL out of yourself. If done properly you should lose consciousness. So after you've come to, take a minute to get yourself together. Have a glass of water. Take a walk. Whatever it is you may need to do to get your mind right. Then after you've learned your lesson, scroll down and witness 17 minutes and 29 seconds of life altering greatness. I guarantee you will never be the same again.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.” I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slaveowners will be able to sit down together at a table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a desert state, sweltering with the heat of injustice and oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice. I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. I have a dream today.

We may have not reached the promised land yet but we've definitely made some tremendous strides...

Style of A King

Do the clothes make the man? The obvious answer to this question is no - of course not! But one's wardrobe choices does, in fact, heavily influence the way we are perceived by others. And when you have a dream as grand as Dr. King's dream, everything matters - even the way you dress. After all, clothing is a representation of who you are as a person.

Long before the March on Washington and his famous "I Have Dream" speech, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led a grass roots civil rights movement, founded in the principles of non-violent resistance. On the surface level, Dr. King and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference lead a highly effective effort of civil disobedience - they broke the laws in an orderly and civilized manner, but only for the purpose of bringing attention to the unfairness of the law itself. But underneath, the operation had an even more ingenious plan that may not have been realized by the opposition at the time.

Almost every move Dr. King and other group leaders made was calculated - from using children to stage sit ins at restaurant counters, to the garnering highly publicized media attention to cover the attacks protesters endured during marches, and even, some say, deliberately selecting Rosa Parks, NAACP secretary at the time, to disobey the laws of the bus system, triggering the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Even his fashion sense added to the image of the bible-toting, young Christian minister who practiced turning the other cheek in the face of oppression and hate.

Dr. King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, were a sharp couple from the south. Their clothing chooses were often classic and non-threatening, unlike their more radical counterparts -most noteworthy, Malcolm X, The Black Panther Party and Angie Davis. Dr. King was always clean-shaven, wearing a crisp and fitted suit or shirt and tie. Mrs. King often wore lady-like dresses and her hair long and tamed. It's not difficult to see why their following often times included members of mainstream America - King was charming and his appearance was inviting. Many have often compared the likeness of the Kings to that of the First Family.

There was a world of difference between him and the textured fro sported by Brother Malcolm or the berets, leather jackets and rifle-holding Panthers. And King did an excellent job of exploiting his southern charm and Christian values. It was hard for America and the world abroad not to acknowledge the reality of the situation in this country after viewing images of people who were being strategically non- violent toward their aggressors, and yet, still being attacked in the streets. Dr. King brought the reality of life in the south to the living rooms and front pages of newspapers across the country. And even before the days of stylists and image consultants, he managed to use his personal styling choices to help further his cause.

I am forever indebted to ALL of our civil rights and historical leaders for the dedication, sacrifices and struggles they endured yesterday to allow my generation to live in better world today. I would like to end this with my favorite Dr. King quote - I hope it inspires you as much as it has inspired me.

"If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well."

Dr. King, today we salute you for your works, your contributions and your vision.

Project Runway Season 7: Back to New York

So, was anyone else as excited as I was for the Project Runway Season Premiere? I've been a fan of this show since the first season and - unlike most other reality tv shows several seasons in - Project Runway never fails to disappoint. Each season brings a new group of talented designers, even more impressive than the last.

The 7th season brings back some old favorites - all 3 judges have returned - Heidi Klum (post pregnancy), Michael Kors (always witty and charming), Nina Garcia (helpful, yet firm), and - best of all - the show is back in New York! The guest judge for this episode was Nicole Ritchie - socialite and holder of the title for best make over ever (Thanks, Rachel Zoe)!

There are also some new updates, including the new touch screen electronics the designers will be using to complete their sketches. All in all, the season offered exactly what I was expecting - high-paced fashion designers, comedic one-liners from Tim Gunn, and Heidi Klum's catch phrase final words to the eliminated contestant. As for the results of the first show, I would have to agree with the judges decisions. Winner Emilio Sosa showcased an elaborate design, even going the extra distance by creating his own weaving pattern onto the fabric of the dress.

Surprisingly, I was very impressed with runner-up, Ping Wu's design. In the initial stages of her design, it was difficult to envision the final result, however, in the end, her outfit delivered and definitely showed her unique perspective. I was glad to see designer Anthony Williams survive the bottom three to sew another week. His over-the-top commentary would have been missed. But more importantly, he gets another opportunity to show why he was chosen to be apart of the show. Keep him on your radar for a comeback!

For those of you who have yet to see the show and are planning on catching the rerun, I won't spoil it by revealing who went home. Until next week, in the words of Heidi, Auf Wiedersehen!

If You Can't Beat 'Em...

It's no secret that Timberlands have pretty much been non-existent as of late. The brand once synonymous with urban wear and a major staple on the New York Hip Hop scene is now being replaced with a more polished look. Instead of 6" inch constructs with the laces undone, heads are opting for a more classic but casual boot from brands such as Red Wing and Polo.

Despite a slight re-emergence with the help of fashionably influential artist such as Kanye West and Jay-Z, the brand still hasn't managed to recapture the popularity of it's glory days. But all of that is about to change. The company has recently added a new extension to the brand called Timberland Boot Company and the 2010 fall collection is kind of a big deal. Going in a more refined direction Timberland is placing itself in a position to properly compete with the higher end labels.

Of course with that comes a raise in price and a move to more befitting stores such as Saks, Bloomingdale's and Fred Segal. So if you're looking for a way to add some variety to your closet or just want to go to the club without being turned away at the door this is it. Word to Michael Jackson.

Who Is London Monet?

For 23 years London Monet has been one of the most important people in my life. Through the good, the bad and the ugly we've always been side by side. She's my friend but first and foremost my big sister. A strong-minded individual who is incredibly lighthearted. Intelligent but not pretentious. Astonishing yet still so down to earth.

Her style is a mix between a Hollywood "it" girl and a fashion model on her way to a go-see. So message to ALL potential suitors: be on your best behavior. Or I'll be forced to give the goons the greenlight. Dead ass. She says I'm mean, l say I'm just a tad bit over protective. But that's another story...

Q: Why did you decide to start a blog?

London Monet: My brother made me! No, but seriously, a blog is the perfect way to share your point of view with the world and receive honest feedback. So, for people who have a lot to say, it's a good way to release all those inner thoughts.

Q: Name five songs that best describe you.

London Monet: Let me check my iPod! LOL!

Alicia Keys - Try Sleeping With a Broken Heart

J. Reed - My Eyes Are Open

Michael Jackson - Man In The Mirror

Jay -Z - Already Home

John Mayer - Daughters

Q: If you could raid anyone's closet who would it be and why?

London Monet: It would actually be a TV character's closet! LOL! Joan - Tracee Ellis Ross's character on Girlfriends. Her character's wardobe had a great mix of professional and dressy/casual wear. And she always had just the right amount of sex appeal in every outfit! Plus she was up on Louboutin's WAY before the hype! LOL! Oh, and I couldn't pass up raiding Rihanna and Blake Lively's closet either. Both know how to do sexy with a classy edge.

Q: What fashion trends do you think will be big this year for men and women?

LondonMonet: I think fashion in general is going into a more dressy casual direction, which i am happy about! I think we will see women in a lot more day dresses and skirt for evening. When we do see denim, it will be a more polished, dressed up denim. I think we will see a lot of accessorizing this season too - clutch bags, statement necklaces, scarfs. And strappy heels dress up any outfit! For the men, I think we will see clean, classic outfits - crisp tees and jeans - with funky kicks. And don't be fooled - men accessorize too! Shades, hats, jackets - the staple male accessorizes!

Who Is J. Reed?

Known simply as Jay to those of us who know him personally. But to me, he's just my little brother. People always give me the side eye when I call him my "little brother," and then they see this 6'3, slim guy walk up. There's really nothing little about him, from his stature, to his musical talent and creativity, fashion sense and intellect - my "little" brother is really a grown @$$ man with big visions and even bigger plans.

If I had to describe his personal style, I would say he's a collaborative mix of Ralph Lauren and Gucci with a fitted cap. His lyrically ability is even more versatile - if you want thought-provoking verses, party anthems, or a real story telling look into the lives of young, urban sophisticates, he has it all. So, if you mess with any of that come mess with us! We have a lot to say, so listen up!

Q: Why did you decide to start a blog?

J. Reed: It's something I've wanted to do for a while. Way before it became so trendy. Unfortunately those plans never materialized. So now it looks as if we're jumping on the bandwagon. But the more people get to know the faces behind the site they'll see the undeniable passion we have for what it is we do. That's what The Heir Up There is all about. Shooting for the stars and having the courage to chase your dreams. It's more than a blog. It's a way of life.

Q: What movie or tv character style/fashion sense is most closest to that of your own?

J. Reed: Hmmmmm....good question. There aren't many shows I watch that have characters with a similar style as mine. But if I had to choose I'd say I'm probably somewhere in between Will Smith on the earlier seasons of The Fresh Prince of Bel Air and Pete Campbell on AMC's Mad Men. I like to dress up Jordans. Sue me. Although HBO has this new series called How To Make It In America premiering next month and I saw quite a few candidates in the preview, lol.

Q: What era of music most influences your own artistic creativity?

J. Reed: It's hard to pin-point one specific era. When I listen to The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill I get goosebumps. Literally. It just does something to my soul. I get that same exact feeling whenever I hear The Chronic or Thriller. It would be hard for me to narrow it down to a certain time period.

I love the Motown era. I love the music that was created during the 80's. From Pat Benetar to Journey to Cyndi Lauper to Prince to New Edition and of course Michael Jackson. Sometimes I watch movies from that period just to hear the scores. A lot of good music came out of the grunge era as well. Kurt Cobain, anyone? Sonic Youth?

All these different artist left their mark on music. That's what inspires me. To create something that people will still care about years from now. I want someone to hear a J. Reed song and feel the same way I feel when I hear "N.Y. State of Mind."

Q: Give the readers three song lyrics that give some insight into who you are - one that represents your past, present and future.

J. Reed: Past: "Though back at the time I never thought I'd see her face/Aint a woman alive that can take my momma's place/Suspended from school, scared to go home I was a fool/With the big boys breaking all the rules" - 2Pac

Present: "Done with being complacent, gotta get out and chase it/Nothing in life's worse than talent that gets wasted" - ME

Future: "So with or without any of yall involvement/We coming for all of this, respect my conglomerate"- Jay-Z