So, Katie Couric InterviewsWeezy as part of a Grammy Coverage Special

I love Weezy and all, but for real Katie?

Run DC: I LOVE this shirt

Let me express myself again: I LOVE this shirt. I've seen some pretty great Barack shirts, but this one right here is bananas. Maybe I'm partial to it because of the DC aspect, but regardless you have to admit it's really creative!


Pair this "skirt" with some black or patterned leggings, some fierce heels, and chunky jewelry! I can't wait to get one.

Purchase the shirt here: http://www.rundc08.com/SHOP.html

Baracks In; Scrubs Out

Attention all men out there, myself and several of my girlfriends have a new motto for 2009: " Baracks In; Scrubs Out." Yes, that's right, due to the election of our first African-American president, we are asking you to step your game up.





Notice how is looking at Michelle, now that's love and admiration!


Barack Obama is smart, funny, ambitious, loving, charismatic, charming, and good looking. We will no longer put up with your foolish games because you think you're, "as good as they come, and we can't find any better brothers out there." Do not copy everything Barack has done, develop your own swagger and please take note to the following expectations:

Oh no, just having a job will not cut it. You better have some goals and aspirations to go along with that job

Treat us with the utmost respect, like the queens we really are

Dress the part, it's not fair that we have to look good 24/7 and you can walk around in basketball shorts all the time

To add on to that. PULL your pants up! No one wants to see your unmentionables

Do not call us out of our names

A big ego is unattractive, but confidence is sexy

A good sense of humor goes a long way, especially when we're having a bad day

Be kind and caring; it's that simple. Nice guys don't always finish last and we like all around good guys. However, being nice doesn't mean you don't have a back bone, so don't be afraid to disagree and challenge us(but over-do it...).

Sean H. Mykals Video "Rollercoaster"

Here is a video I did makeup for, I think the music sounds amazing, this was such a fun video to shoot! The models were so friendly and lovely. The artist, Sean H. Mykals is such a beautiful person with a beautiful voice. Tell me what you think:



Shaun Mykals' "Rolla coaster" Radio edit from UrbanMouse Productions on Vimeo.

More Inaugural Weekend Festivities

So while everyone else was downloading their inauguration pictures from google.com, Suite Suede were on the front lines of some of the official inaugural events. Find video clippings below of the keynote addresses by Doris Kearns Goodwin, author of Team of Rivals..., the #1 New York Times Best Seller. We also heard from, Colin Powell, Desmond Tutu, Erik Weihenmayer, Lisa Ling, and Al Gore. The speeches from each of these individuals were phenomenal and definitely ignited a flame to move forward and become the trail blazer within the field of preventive medicine and public health.
Above is a photo from the opening of Doris Kearn Goodwin's keynote address. She spoke in depth on the Abraham Lincoln Presidency and the methodology behind his cabinet member selection. I sat in awe as I listen to her speak and observed the parallels between Lincoln's methodology and Obama's methodology in electing their cabinet members. It brought a whole new meaning to the phrase "keep your friends close, and your enemies closer." The one revelation that stunned me the most was Lincoln's choice to select William H. Seward to the top position of Secretary of State. Seward was Lincoln's #1 rival at the time of his election and definitely was defiant against the election of Lincoln as American's 16th President. The parallel? Obama's choice to select Hillary Clinton in the top position of his cabinet as Secretary of State. As some of you may recall, Clinton ran a nasty campaign against Obama during their run for the Democratic Nomination for the President of the United States. I highly recommend that those of you interested in the political philosophy of Obama purchase Team of Rivals here and educate yourself!


We also had the opportunity to hear from Lisa Ling. A short video clip of her keynote address is posted above. Some of you may remember Lisa Ling from her brief stint as a co-host on ABC's The View. She currently is working for Oprah, conducting international documentaries on residents of developing nations facing social injustice. She shared her experiences as an international journalist and discussed her "rise" to such a critically acclaimed position. Her efforts to inform global society on humanitarian injustices is a constant reminder than an injustice anywhere is an injustice everywhere.


General Colin Powell also paid us a visit:

Now, I have to be honest with you all, Colin Powell surprised me with his speech. For those of you who've ever heard General Powell speak, you would know that he is very conservative and an avid "stay behind the podium" type of speaker. He was very free and loose during his address. What was more moving is his willingness to open up in pride about his decision to vote for President Obama and how his election as the First Black President of the United States means to him as a black man.

Yes, Colin Powell recognizes he is black! Now, before I get a large number of aggressive emails, I do acknowledge his biracial or mixed race ethnicity. However, I am tired of people, Black and White, colored and non-colored, acting like Obama's half white side discounts the fact that he is black! It's like people forget the historical significance of the one-drop blood rule and the man's societal experiences. As a matter of fact, I think Obama made it a point to make sure society recognizes that he acknowledges he is black. After all, he married a black woman with a curvy figure and badonkadonk; and gave his two children ethnically-biased names: Malia and Natasha (bka Sasha). Let's stop the front.

But yeah, Colin was on point!

Archbishop Desmond Tutu was also in the building:

He spoke on the issue of self esteem and spoke on religion. Very moving indeed.

Oh and how can I forget? Former Vice President Al Gore came by and stopped through. Ya'll already know Al was speaking on his climate change and renewable energy issues. Basically shifting from oil to other sources of energy such as solar, wind, and hydro! I have my reservations about his whole sales pitch on "renewable energy." Now, I'm all for renewable energy, but the idea that the human species are 100% responsible for the climate change shift is an absurd and ridiculous philosophy. However, I digress. Thank you, Mr. Gore!



This inauguration has been such a historical experience! As I stood two blocks from the Capitol lawn, I was moved spiritually and emotionally by the progress that we, as a Nation, have achieved thus far. I stood amongst the crowds of women, children, dads, friends, and family members who flooded the National Mall to celebrate the inauguration of our First Black President. Here are more pictures from this weekend's events:

The 2nd most anticipated moment of Jan. 20th

So, the wait is finally over, we saw Michelle Obama's dress! Literally an hour after she appeared at the "Neighborhood Ball", the Internet was in a frenzy over that dress. According to People online, the designer is Jason Wu, and I'm pretty sure his life will change forever.

I think the dress is WONDERFUL!!! But, she threw me for a loop. I definitely thought she would wear a color, but I knew she would have her shoulders and arms out because she has a well toned upper body. However, this dress was a great choice. The one shoulder strap and the flower detailing looked great; however, people watching on TV might think the detailing was too much but I have a feeling the dress is more stunning in person. The only problem was the length and how she kept having to adjust the train while she was dancing. But overall, I think she looked stunning. Lastly, give the woman a break it's her night, she's not worried about anyone but her and husband and remembering this night for the rest of her life.

photo from People online

This is surreal

I usually don't like to write about religion, but after watching what took place in Washington DC today, you can't help but believe that God is real and God is good. Can you imagine? Did you ever imagine? A day when an African American male would be sworn in as President of the United States of America? Could you even fathom the idea, the concept, of a an America with an united front? A place where white, black, gay, straight, and disabled would come together with so much passion, unity, and hope for a better America?



Less than 40 years ago, the Civil Rights Act was passed, less than 50 years ago black and white people protested and marched for freedom. Less than 40 years ago, the nation's most influential black leaders were assassinated in hatred and fear. But on this day, January 20th, 2009; an African American male spoke before millions of people about the progress of this great nation. An African American male brought our nation together like never before.



I still can't get my head around this; it's surreal. I couldn't really believe the announcer when he introduced President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. I really can't describe how I'm feeling right now, but I know I feel better about America's future.



All photos from Time
http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1872698,00.html

Change has come to America: Concert at the Lincoln Memorial

Sunday, January 18 2 p.m. in Washington DC at the national mall will be a experience I will never forget. I truly feel that I have an idea of how those people felt when watching MLK deliver his "I have a dream" speech. This was a moving moment to be amongst 500,000 people of all shades, races, and backgrounds. It was also hilarious that this big celebration was occuring miles away from George W. Bush bedroom in the White House. This big celebration was happening because we are so excited to have a new face, new administration, and change for the better. It is monumentous that this star studded event was free and the most celebratory event of the weekend. Every big name in music and acting was there, Beyonce, Queen Latifah, Usher, Stevie Wonder, Tom Hanks, Jon Bon Jovi, U2, and more. Most importantly, the beautiful Obama family was in attendance rockin to every artist that performed, they know their music and are very soulful.

I absolutely loved Jamie Foxx impersonation of Obama, he hit it straight on and its great to know that our president has an awesome sense of humour.

Beyonce ended the show on a superior high. She sung so beautifully. I can't lie though, me and glamazon coutura was hoping she would bust out performing Single Ladies. How hot would that have been?! I know, I know, that would not be the best way we want black women to be portrayed.

Stevie Wonder and Usher gave the best performance in my opinion! They rocked the mall and when Stevie started dancing, What?! It was not a game folks started screaming and yelling out of joy!

I just can’t get enough of this family! Stay tuned for more coverage on DC Inauguration-Suite Suede Style.

Wouldn't you have liked to have been on that train ride?

Yesterday, Barack, Michelle, Joe, Jill, and several other very lucky people traveled by train from Philadelphia to Washington DC. During this historic trip, Barack Obama retraced President Lincoln's train route during his journey to the White House in 1861. Obama and Biden gave speeches in Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore. CNN.com has great coverage of the story: http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2009/44.president/inauguration/



When I was watching Barack's speech in Baltimore on CNN, I just couldn't help but think that Obama and his camp have to be crazy to schedule all these events. He seems so unconcerned about his safety and more concerned about involving every American in this part of history. After his speech, he and Michelle went down to greet the crowd. I could see the concern and intensity on his Secret Service's faces, as the Obamas shook hands and hugged the on-lookers. But I think his Secret Service knows Obama pretty well by now and knows he believes in achieving the impossible. He truely has plans to make this an Inauguaration for the people to remember.

King Day of Service Tomorrow

Tomorrow is MLK National Day of service and Barack Obama is calling on all Americans to make this a "day on" instead of a "day off." It's not too late to sign up, there are so many places and organizations that need help tomorrow. Search for opportunities here:

www.volunteermatch.org

http://usaservice.org/page/content/calltoservice/

Remember the Dream

MLK Day is officially observed on Monday the 19th, but today is Dr. King's birthday. So today, remember his dream and be thankful for all he did.



Monday is also MLK National Day of Service and even if your school or work place doesn't observe the day (they should be fined for not observing!) you should try to volunteer. You can search for events in your city on The Presidential Inaugural Committee website:
http://www.pic2009.org/page/event/search_simple

Barack-a-phernalia

This 2008 presidential campaign was the first time in my generation that campaign merchandise became a fashion statement. People were and are still buying anything with Barack Obama's face on it. Barack-a-phernalia as I like to call it, became the hottest fashion trend and you just couldn't escape it! I hope everyone has a great time during inauguration. I also hope you look fly because there will be so much media around and you might end up on TV; you don't want to look bad on TV, do you?


Runway to Change, designed by Zac Posen: $45

This shirt is a bit pricey, but it would look great with a pair of white or grey skinny jeans, black pump, and some huge silver earrings. Definitely wear this to one of the hundreds of parties going on this weekend
http://store.barackobama.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=TS29713





F.I.L.M, "To the Moon Michelle": $20

Jereme Scott took one of his paintings and print screened it onto a t-shirt. I have this shirt and LOVE it! Look at Barack holding that team USA jersey and with the DC fitted! Come on, it's doesn't get much better than the DC fitted!
Contact Jereme: jermzybaby@gmail.com




Urban Outfitters, "Yes We Did": $34

Urban Outfitters in Uptown still has some Obama shirts, but if you want to see more go to www.urbanoutfitters.com




Coup, "Inauguration 1.20.09": $33

Check out this website, her t-shirts are some of the best prints I have seen when it comes to Obama shirts. Wear them with bright colored skinny jeans or leggings. Madonna has been seen wearing these designer's shirts and hurry because the 14th is the last day to order a shirt.
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5180291

Pop Champagne for Barack Campaign

Get ready for inauguration! It may be a recession, but people will be popping champagne for Barack Campaign starting tomorrrow until Janurary 20th!

Inaugural Events-- 2009

Oh man! The event of the year is almost here, what a great way to start off 2009 with the Inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th president of the United States of America. We plan on keeping you up to date on all the events!
Click here for a listing of all the Inaugural Events taking place.

Below are links to some of Suite Suede's favorite events:
More information on this event here:
http://unionstationfriday.eventbrite.com/

For more information on the Jay-Z Inaugural Gala, click here.


When: Monday, January 19, 2009 9Pm -til
Where: Selam Bar and Restaurant
1524 U Street NW
Washington, DC 20009
Cost: FREE
Drink Specials: 2$ bud and miller light ( 9pm-11pm)
Dress Code: Be yourself
The Emancipation: hosted by the Talented Tenth Society & The Movemakers
More info: http://theemancipation.eventbrite.com/

Riots in Oakland

On Wednesday night, the Bay area experienced some of the worst rioting in recent history. People were protesting the shooting of a 22 year-old African American male by a police officer. The young man, Oscar Grant, was shot in public, at a subway station while lying face down on his back. The shooting was captured on video and is now circling the Internet. Sadly, Grant died from his wound. Protesters began the rioting out of frustration in the development of the case against the officer that shot him. The shooting happened on New Year's day, but there hasn't been significant steps towards convicting the officer.

I don't endorse riots, but I do believe this would have been another story that mainstream media wouldn't have reported if the riots hadn't taken place. Oscar Grant would have been just another American American man killed by a bullet.

CNN reported the rioting that took place afer Grant's funeral:

This Faternity of Presidents is Real Exclusive

President Obama, Bush Jr, Clinton, Bush Sr, and Carter all had lunch together in DC today. Crazy right? They had lunch like it was normal to have lunch with all the former living Presidents of the United States. This President business is definitely the most exclusive fraternity and I would like to know how they initiated Barack. Obama called it an "extraordinary gathering." I agree; I wonder what they ate and what they talked about. I bet George W was cracking jokes the whole time, look at that mischievous look on his face in the pic.



both photos from the AP

What will Michelle wear?

The inauguration is 2 weeks away and DC is getting ready for the event of year. People are all a buzz about what Michelle will wear to the Official Inaugural Ball and the entire week of events. CNN and Access Hollywood did a stories on this and Youtube is even having a contest for people to submit videos about what they think she will wear. I can't even imagine the pressure she might be feeling right now, but it must be kind of great to have everyone want to dress you in amazing clothes.



During the campaign, her fashion statements became top news as she was often compared to a very fab former First Lady. In fact, the media has already crowned Michelle the next Jackie O. She's worn some great ensembles in the past, and everyone is on pins and needles to see what she'll dazzle us with during the inauguration events.

Get In Shape in the New Year

One of the most popular New Year's Resolutions is "To Lose Weight." In fact, gym membership go through the roof during the first week of January. But people's pockets are tighter and we all don't have gym membership money, also eating healthily can get pricey. Try some of these less expensive ways to get in shape



Buy a DVD and exercise with it 3 times a week. Pilates is great for getting you stomach flat and ready for the that bikini in the summer time. You can get this MTV Pilates DVD for $5.45 on wwww.amazon.com. Also, community colleges offer great prices on exercise course. You could take 6 yoga or dance class for about $50. If you're like me and don't like working out, just dance! Turn on some music and get down for 30 minutes.



Don't drink your calories. Jamba Juice, Starbucks, Caribou Coffee; it doesn't matter where you go, all offer very high calorie drinks. A Starbucks large Iced Caffe Mocha has 320 calories, but a regular Shaken Green Tea has 80 calories. You can even purchase a box of Tazo Tea for $2.55 at Target this week. Green Tea tastes good and helps you burn more calories throughout the day.



Eat your veggies! Mama didn't lie eating veggies, especially green leafy veggies will help improve your digestive system. If you think veggies aren't very tasty, there are plenty of ways to make them taste good. This website offers plenty of options: http://www.justvegetablerecipes.com/index.html, try the recipe for broccoli made with red wine and garlic! If this still doesn't work for you, then eat a salad. But try avoid salads with egg yolk, ham, bacon bits, breaded chicken, and too much cheese.

You don't have to "Whole Foods" or "Trader Joe's" and buy expensive organic foods. Regular vegatbles and fruits are prefectly fine. You don't have to give up any of your favorite foods either, just remember portion control. Don't eat food just because it's there.