As the year 2011 comes to a close, it’s only natural to look back and reflect upon the decisions that were made…by celebrities, that is! Focusing on the lives and (best of all) the fashion choices made by people we will probably never meet is soooo much more fun than trying to remember how many times you’ve cheated on your diet this year!
We’ve gathered our top 12 female style stars – one for each month – that have embraced this years’ trends, but still managed to stay true to their personal style. Be aware, it’s quite a diverse group! Style-wise, the only thing all these ladies have in common is their love of a bold red lip. You may be surprised by who made the list and who didn’t! In no particular order, let’s take a stroll down memory lane…
Tracee Ellis Ross plays Dr. Carla Reed on BET’s new sitcom, Reed between the Lines. Her character is a very intelligent and fashion-forward woman. We think Ms. Ross has a lot in common with her character when it comes to making great fashion choices! We love that Tracee is very body-conscious when picking out her outfits and shows off her curves. She rocks bold colors, crazy prints – sometimes all at once! Her curly afro – courtesy of mother, Diana Ross – often completes her look. A-mazing style!
Solange Knowles has really come into her own this year. She belts out her own tunes, DJs on occasion and flaunts her eclectic wardrobe like no other. She is a risk taker when is comes to fashion! Mixed prints (often African-inspired), modern silhouettes, and loads of separates litter her closet. Although, she doesn’t get it right every time – who does?! – risks are necessary to be deemed a fashionista! Solange’s mane also keeps us guessing. One day she sports a fade, a fierce afro the next and then next week, long braids are hanging down her back. She’s not afraid of change and we love her for it!
Kerry Washington, star of ABC’s upcoming television show, Scandal, is consistently well-put-together. She’s another gal who just makes it look easy. From the BET Awards to a Vanity Fair soiree, the siren always puts her best fashionable foot forward! She spices up elegant pieces with glitter, a pretty print or bold color. Plus, she’s mastered the art of flaunting ones body without appearing vulgar. She just oozes class!
La La Anthony has shown us the style and grace that a real basketball wife is supposed to possess. She shuts it down on her show, La La’s Full Court Life and in person on red carpets for both appearances and correspondant gigs. She doesn’t step out of the house looking anything less than gorgeous! This has been a good year for La La!
Kelly Rowland has shown some serious ‘motivation’ this year when it comes to becoming a fashion force to be reckoned with! She keeps hemlines and Louboutin’s high to show off her mile long legs. She doesn’t shy away from color either! We love her in bright fuchsias, yellows, greens, blues – you name it, she’s worn it! The ultimate girly-girl, Kelly stays with the newest gear!
Angela Simmons, aka the Twit-Pic Queen, constantly gives her fans glimpses of her fashionable life. She and sister Vanessa always look great – especially promoting their Pastry shoe line – but Angela’s fashionable star shines just a tad bit brighter. You have to appreciate her zest for life that is illustrated in her fashion choices. Blue leather jackets, sky-high booties, and cool bags are just a few ways this fashionista has kept our attention this year. She’s such a fresh Princess!
First Lady Michelle Obama is a fashion icon and several books have been authored about her signature style (including one by Mikki Taylor). Her style is classic with a twist and never boring. Even her casual outfits look awesome on her! What we truly love about the First Lady is that everything she wears – from gowns to jeans – looks effortless. Known to sport J. Crew and Target digs, Mrs. Obama knows how to connect to the people. Her style and grace is unflappable!
Shala Monroque covers the January 2012 issue of Town and Country and the magazine says is best, “You may not know Shala Monroque, but you should.” She is a socialite, unofficial muse of Prada and creative director of Garage Magazine. Sophisticated, urban and elegeant are a few words to describe her style. The St. Lucian-born beauty glides from event to event and is always photographed looking stellar. Her great style choices deservingly snagged her a spot on our list. Find out more about her by visting her blog. She’s one to watch!
Rihanna, specifically during her red-headed days, never looked better! This year, musically and fashionably, she has been fearless! Who else looks amazing whether she’s showing off her daisy dukes or a menswear-inspired suit? Rihanna, that’s who! She makes cutoffs look chic. Rih-Rih is the ultimate risk taker and has a playful take on fashion, which is a good GREAT thing. Rihanna will definitely keep you on your toes!
Tika Sumpter is a talented actress whom will appear in the upcoming film, Think Like a Man. It’s refreshing to see someone that appears to actually have fun with their wardrobe. No boring LBD’s for Tika! Every red carpet event she attends she looks breathtaking! It’s a bonus that her makeup stays flawless. Dresses must be a favorite of hers because she wears them often and we love to see her in them! We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again: She’s definitely a style star!
Jennifer Hudson’s new figure is responsible for the confidence boost we’ve seen this year. She has become more daring and loves playing around with her look. She’ll wear a feminine, edgy, and a Hot look in the same week! It’s all about experimentation with Jen. She can get away with a multiple looks because her clothes are tailored to perfection. J. Hud sets red carpets on fire! We can’t wait to see what she’ll be rocking next year.
Taraji P. Henson, star of Person of Interest and another star in the upcoming film Think Like a Man, easily keeps our interest when it comes to her fashion choices! Taraji will wear just about anything and we love a woman who is open to change! Her smile is infectious and her amazing body and fun personality keep the clothes from wearing her. Plus, both short and long lengths look great on her. Her option are endless! We’re starting to think Ms. Henson can pull anything off!
Which fashionista do you think deserves the number one spot on our ‘best dressed list’? Would you add anyone?
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*Special thanks to Joseph Lee
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