M.I.A. Talks Freedom, Family and the Future with Complex

Wow you guys-How absolutely breathtaking and stunning is M.I.A. in the latest issue of Complex?!? And even more importantly, how proud are we of Complex for not insisting that our girl shed her clothes and wriggle on the floor for relevancy? So proud! Then again, if you know jack about M.I.A. (real name Mathangi "Maya" Arulpragasam) you know that this chick ain't no fool. And she certainly isn't going to be suckered into flashing her crotch ala LiLo for fame. In fact, her latest single, "Born Free" is perhaps her most political, proving that her concerns are with struggle and injustice-Subjects that lies close to her heart considering her former Sri Lankan refuge status. In the June/July issue of Complex, M.I.A. discusses her fight for freedom, a better future for her son Ikyhd and how her perception of America has changed over the years. And just to give you an idea of just how far this chick's range has reached, I proudly announce that we studied M.I.A.'s career and message in my last International Media class. My professor considered her not only a pioneer of international hip hop, but one hell of an interresting lady. And although she probably would object to me adding this last part, she's one drop dead gorgeous woman, too.
Anyway here is the photoshoot from Mathangi's spread, as well as some excerpts from the interview. I didn't include any of the political stuff because I find that to be of greater importance and don't want to paraphrase or word jumble. However to read the interview in it's entirety, mosey on over to Complex.com
Complex: Has your idea of America changed as you've grown up?
M.I.A.: When I first came in the mid-'90s, I was listening to loads of hip-hop, and the gangsta-rap era completely engulfed me. There's where I spent my time. Those were the clubs I went to, and those were the people I was hanging out with, so I had a weird understanding of it. But now I get to see a bigger picture of America. It's different.
Complex: What's changed?
M.I.A.: The thing that I enjoyed about it when I came to L.A. was that it was just people doing whatever they liked. It was your life and you could do things and you were in charge. There were barbecues all the time in every park, house parties. Just so much more joy. And now it doesn't seem like that. And it's because it's so expensive there. By the time you've got to doing your house, insurance, your car, and paid a bill for your baby, it's just too hard for you to have any fun, you know?
Complex: What do you like about hip-hop today?
M.I.A.: I think Kanye is trying to take it into a new realm and he's sort of putting the artistry back into it and sort of taking it in that direction. I was having a conversation about Jay-Z and Nas and how it was really crazy how they were having this Nas vs. Jay-Z moment 10 years ago and no one really talks about it now.
Complex: Do you have a process (to your work), or do you create when you feel like it?
M.I.A.: I'm really into some sort of digital ruckus and that's kind of what it is in the sound and imagery. I don't wanna say it's chaotic, but if we're being given certain tools, it's rediscovering and reassembling, I suppose. The bottom line is: Sometimes my work is really uncomfortable and doesn't sit well, but that's the point. It's OK to push it out this far—someone's gonna be like, "But I like it over here." But at least the door's open and you've pushed it that far, so the possibility of a range can exist.

Scarlett Johansson is Berry Beautiful in V Magazine

I may be Scarlett Johansson's self proclaimed biggest fan, but even I'm disappointed in the actress photospread for the Summer issue of V Magazine. Sure Scarlett looks incredible, but doesn't she always? I suppose I'm just not a fan of the whole Alexis Carrington Colby hair the stylist decided to torture her with. Scarlett is a natural beauty and doesn't need to be made up like one of those busted ass Barbie heads that little Texan girls practice hairstyling on. All you need is a little blush, a super spring dress and BAM! Instant perfection. But enough about how beautiful Scarlett is. Here are some kick ass excerpts from the Gorgeous One's interview with V. To read the full article, mosey on over to VMagazine.com
Iron Man director Jon Favreau on Scarlett's superior work ethic: “She’s a very intelligent actor. She asks the right questions and is cooperative and collaborative. It was wonderful watching her apply the work ethic and attention to detail, which no doubt comes from an independent film background, to a summer superhero movie.”
Scarlett on her Iron Man character, The Black Widow: "[She's a] no bulls--t character. It's not that she's non-feeling, she just gets the job done. She's part of something bigger, and she knows it. She's this crazy badass, and she has no time for f---ing around."
Girl, You'll be a woman soon: "I'm 25, and for some time I've played these characters who are kind of figuring it out, transforming from young girls to young women, " said Scarlett. "I don't feel like a girl anymore. And I feel like my life and career are on a different path than they had been."
Pete Yorn on his bandmate's sheer awesomeness “She is great across the board, as an actress and a person, and she has a good sense of herself. She is tied into the world on a spiritual level, like an old soul.”

Look of the Day: Sienna MIller, Bricks, Bags, and Black Leather

What can I even say about the fabulousnessnessness of Sienna Miller's black leather look? I love the jacket, LOVE the pants-hell, I even love the graininess of the photograph. Although I may not have felt that strongly about Jude Law's lady love in the past, she's slowly but surely winning me over with her smokin' style!

Christina Aguilera Goes Goth Glam for Out Magazine

Ah Christina Aguilera. I can barely mention her these days without hearing some sort of comparison to Lady GaGa. Sure the bombshells both may be blonde, but I starkly believe the likeness ends there. And although she has spoken slightly ill about the singer in the past, Christina is now insisting that the feud is nothing more than Hollywood hype. In her recent interview with Out magazine (photos pictured above), The Dirty One opened her trapper keeper calling GaGa a "newcomer" among other things. Insisting that her comments were misconstrued, Christina released a statement to her website claiming that she ain't got nothing but love for GaGa. Here's what the tiny crooner had to say:
"Dear Fans,
I would like to take a moment to clarify something that has been brought to my attention this morning. It is very easy for comments to be taken out of context and create unnecessary drama-especially between us women. So I would like to tell you all directly so my words can not be misconstrued to sell someone else’s story…I have absolutely nothing against Lady Gaga or any other female artist in this business. I think she is great, and I appreciate any woman fearless enough to go against the norm. She has earned her success with hard work and a clear focus and I have nothing but respect for that.
There is room for all of us on everyone’s iPods.

This is not the first time I have been unfairly pitted against another female artist but it will be the last time I comment on the matter.

“Can’t hold us down….”

With love,
C/X

Although I admit to doubting her sincerity, it's always nice to see women stick up for one another. Too often we are pitted against each other, often for little to no reason at all. Just like Christina said, there's room on my IPod for everybody with talent. Besides, this is the first time in a long time we've had such a wide range of women running the music scene. Beyonce, Christina, GaGa, Rihanna-hell, even Miley Cyrus. I'm proud of all those chicks for blazing the trails and climbing their stylish ways to the top!
But enough fist pounding and bra burning. Let's check out these new photos from Xtina's spread in Out including some never before seen outtakes. Bonus fun fact-the spread was shot mby my favorite photographer of all time, Ellen Von Unwerth, another incredible lady with an unbelievable vision!

Go Hard with Military Inspired Looks for Less

Since I started my new job doing analytics for the clothing company Bradley’s Military Surplus, I will admit that I have neglected you precious little lambs and have not given you the undying attention you deserve. The fashion has faltered but my love has not and you know that I cannot go very long without posting something I find cool or engaging or worthy of your time. Oddly enough, I recently found inspiration for a post at work after I noticed how prevalent military clothing is in celebrity fashion. In fact, a number of items we either sell in our store at Bradley’s or offer a similar product for a mere fraction of the price. Therefore I thought it would be cool to show you guys how you can get some of these looks for less, and where to find some of the actual items worn by our favorite celebs.
Jackets

Military-style field jacket, similar to the one seen on January Jones. At $54.95,this jacket is priced significantly lower than January’s $230 Charlotte Ronson making it an absolute steal. Shop HERE


Vintage-style Olive Drab “Death Spade” M-65 Jacket, similar to the one seen on Lady GaGa, $60.95. Shop HERE


Hats

For just $4.95, you can rock the same Propper Caps as seen on Eliza Dushku in "Dollhouse". Shop HERE


Ultra Force Olive Drab Poly/Cotton Marine Corps Cap w/Emblem $5.95, Similar to the one seen on Lady GaGa. Shop HERE


Sunglasses

Air Force Sunglasses as seen in Rihanna’s “Hard” video, only $5.95. Shop HERE



Bags

Check out our Tanker Tool Bag as seen on Kristen Stewart. At $19.95 this mini duffle makes for the perfect travel bag. Shop HERE


Classic Army Messenger Bag, as seen on Emile de Ravin & Robert Pattinson in "Remember Me". Only $17.95-Shop HERE



Boots

Black Rothco Jungle Boots, as seen on Kristen Stewart. Shop HERE


Olive Drab Rothco GI Boots, as seen on Ellen Page in “Whip It”, Only $21.95. Shop HERE

Corporal Rihanna thanks you for your time in peeping this post. Wonders what military inspired items you'd be tempted to try.

Beyonce Premieres New Video "Why Don't You Love Me"

"Why Don't You Love Me" - Beyoncé from Beyoncé on Vimeo.

I almost can't discuss the level with which I am in love with this video, it's just that awesome. Basically Bey's newest hit, "Why Don't You Love Me" is giving me multiple fashion orgasms for which I am eternally grateful. And don't even get me started on how flawlessly they totally nailed that Mad Men era. Babygirl looks like the dopest cross between Betty Draper, Bettie Page and my fly grandmother ala 1962 that I've ever damn seen. In fact, I'm thinking about getting a finger transplant, just so I can give this three thumbs up.

Scarlett Johansson is Just Peachy at the White House

Here are some pretty new pics of my favorite girl ever, Scarlett Johansson and her twin brother Hunter attending the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner over the weekend. For the event, Scarlett paired a peach Miu Miu dress and clutch with some champagne shaded Prada shoes. Although this is not my favorite look the actress has ever sported, the fact remains that she is still the goddess of my heart, and it would be sheer blashphemy to speak ill of my lady. Therefore I will simply say that despite her unfortunate fitting dress, Scarlett is still hotter than a gay bar on fire and smarter than Stephen Hawkins on a Sunday. Hollywood hotties, eat your damn hearts out. Even on their best day, no other starlet could come close to Scarlett on her worst.

Emma Stone Brings the Ginger Goodness to May's Nylon Magazine

In keeping with the ginger theme of yesteryore, today I present to you another ravishing raven haired beauty, Emma Stone. The "Zombieland" actress can currently be seen gorging up the pages of the latest Nylon magazine where she dons romantic, whimsical fashions for spring and discusses her latest film "Easy A". Here are a few excerpts from the issue which is currently on newstands across the country:
On just recently piercing her ears: “Most people go through this when they’re like, 14. I’m like, ‘Hey, what’s up everybody? I moved to New York and got fiive piercings!”
On not waffling: “The greatest one [improv skill] that I apply to my life is not waffling. Say you’re on stage with someone and they say, ‘Oh, remember last week when we went to Las Vegas?’ Never say no. Take what they’re saying and go with it. And that’s a good lesson in life.”
On her new flick, Easy A: “The original script was much carzier than it ended up being. The role was a little brasher and darked — usually, in comedy, it’s the riskier the funnier. But I enjoy what the did — it kind of went from R to PG-13. The demographic changed in the process of shooting it.”

Slacker Chic of the Week: Lily Cole

Who She Is: Raven haired Ginger Goddess Supreme, Actress, Model, Official B.A.B.
Age: 21
Hometown: Torquay, England
As Seen In: Hello? Only every major catwalk from here to Pluto! You name 'em, homegirl has modeled for 'em. McQueen, Chanel and Versace are just some of the fashion houses she's walked for, while big brands such as Rimmel, Hermes and Anna Sui have booked her to be the faces of their products. Lily can also currently be seen in Terry Gilliam's latest movie, "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus.
Fun Fact: Lily isn't just beautiful-she's brilliant too. The HGIC (Head Ginger in Charge) is currently in her second year at the University of Cambridge where she is majoring in Art History.
Why She's Slacker Chic of the Week: Ever since Lily burst onto the scene I have admired the fellow faired haired beauty, and honestly consider her to be one of the three most ethereal, gorgeous women of all time. Her face and look are completely unique and peculiar (in an amazing way!) and I find her to be fascinating. In fact, I finally saw "The Imaginarium" this weekend and was absolutely captivated by her. For me she stole the film, and I really look forward to seeing what is next on the horizon for this rising star. Long live Lily!