Serenade To The Supremes

"When the bold branches/
Bid farewell to rainbow leaves/
Welcome wool sweaters." -B.Cybrill

We're in the midst of fall and that calls for knitted sweaters, leggings and my favorite ― cardigans!

As I flip through this month's issue of Essence, I must applaud beauty and cover director, Mikki Taylor for setting the tone for the season. The cover's sultry green hues infused with warm earth tones truly rekindle the spirit of fall, the most exciting time for fashion.
Speaking of fashion, I'm uber excited about the issue's fabulous style picks that include no other singing group than The Supremes. Since, I'm known for exalting exuberance and excellence myself, [hence the blog's description] it's only fitting that I pay homage to the1960s Motown divas. After all, three young girls with big dreams rose from Detroit's housing projects and ascended to iconic heights with a string of number one hits, becoming one of the most successful female groups of all time. I think that's pretty commendable. 
So, here's my ode to them:

The fashion industry has electrified since Michelle O. became the first African-American first lady. The fitted belts, string of pearls, brooches and wool skirts seem to blend her signature style while adding distinction from her drab predecessors. But whoever Michelle's stylist is ― I'm sure she/he draws constantly from the old-school, doo-wop style The Supremes popularized nearly fifty years ago.

Known for their classic music and even classier style picks, the trio's eye-popping and glitzy costumes inspired legions of black girls and women across the country ― they too, could look sophisticated, elegant and chic. I'm sure my mother and her friends giddily strutted across their living rooms when The Supremes swirled around in shimmering and lavish gowns on "The Ed Sullivan Show."

Unfortunately, I was denied that coveted experience as a young girl growing up. Being a product of Generation Y, trends change ever millisecond and it's hard to stay abreast of the latest style when the high-waisted jeans you bought two seasons ago are now a no-go and you're off to scoop the next big thing. I just can't keep up, so I don't.

Meanwhile, I would've loved to peek into Diana's fitting room to observe the elaborate styling process that took place before each performance. Since I can't hop in a time machine, I've decided to channel my inner Diana Ross and company's fall fashion pieces, which will make timeless staples in my wardrobe. Here's to oldies, but goodies...

Suited and Booted

I absolutely love the bold-colored trench coats the trio popularized. With brisk winds and rainy days during fall, a professional woman needs a tailored coat to take her from the boardroom to church. As for footwear, I can't go wrong with black suede boots.

 Mix it Up 

Washington, D.C. gets cold, but not like the chilly weather in The Supremes' hometown of Detroit, Michigan. With that said, I think I'm going to opt for standard leather gloves instead of the elbow-high ones from my grandmother's prom. But I can give my sweaters a little pizzazz with one or two crystal brooches and I'll layer up with a cashmere checkered scarf.

Shady Weather

Black and bold shades are fall essentials that instantly add mystique and edge to any outfit. It doesn't matter if there's a monsoon outside, I always want to be taken seriously or at least, look like it. 

Big Hair and Bigger Earrings

I like sleek, straight hair during the summer. When fall arrives it's time for my glamorous "Dream Girl hair" ― affectionately coined by my friends and family. For this look you don't need a wig, but streams of big, dazzling curls. And with BIG hair, you need oversized jeweled earrings to exaggerate the look.

I always have fun remixing my doo-wop look, what do you think?