Black Nerds Network

AACDD Call For Entries

2011-07-22T15:01:00.003+01:00

AACDD is calling for
further entries from UK designers and artists from various disciplines,
to exhibit their work at the AACDD Festival at the Bargehouse,
Southbank.

Disciplines

Design: Product and Industrial Design, Furniture, lighting, home
textiles, carpets and interior design accessories, Surface and textile
design, Fashion (men- and womenswear, children, fashion accessories),
Graphic design and illustrations, Packaging design, Communications
design, Multimedia

Art: Fine Art, Photography, Mixed Media, Printmaking, Film making

African & African-Caribbean Design Diaspora (AACDD)
The Printhouse
18 Ashwin Street
London E8 3DL
T: +44 (0)20 3051 3817
E: info@aacdd.org

www.aacdd.org

Pelicans, Parrots and Flamingos

2011-07-22T14:24:00.005+01:00

Inspiration

more about this picture here

Realisation Pelicans & Parrots shop window

Hello Sailor

2011-06-10T18:31:00.003+01:00

70s Vintage flares
White Gloves
80s T Shirt
80s red Leather bag

All from Pelicans & Parrots

Dorie Miller Hero of Pearl Harbor

Pelicans & Parrots V The Illusionist

2011-06-09T16:06:00.011+01:00

The Archduke Franz Ferdinand was a hunter. During his reign over the Austro-Hungarian Empire, he filled Konopiste Castle, with countless stuffed trophies and antlers

A selection of trophies and antlers from Pelicans & Parrots prices from £29.99

RIP GIL The Godfather of rap.

2011-05-29T11:38:00.005+01:00

Hard to put into words just what Gil has meant to many of us. Black political activist, poet, singer, musician and author. Through his honesty both in his work and his private life I am truly humbled and changed.

Gil will be sorley missed in this realm. RIP Mr Heron.

Bacchanalia Presents Alter-Ego for Notting Hill Carnival

2011-04-18T17:12:00.007+01:00

Saturday saw the launch of new mas band Bacchanalia, this new addition to Notting Hill Carnival presents Alter-Ego Through the looking glass. A theme which encourages you to delve into your Alter-Ego.

Bacchanalia was formed in 2005 as a fun mas band, we then saw them re-enter into Notting hill carnival alongside Bachanal Mas. Kelly and Andrew Rajpaulsingh are dedicated to keeping carnival culture alive here in the UK.

"We want to raise the profile of carnival and all the elements associated with it- from what carnival is to making the mas, the history of carnival and the true mas men of our generation, costumes and more"

We arrived at the venue after 11 and was please to see that the show had not started yet, the crowd was friendly and not clicky. The 4 front line sections had us in ore from the moment we stepped in. The oversize feather head pieces, back packs and jewelled bikini lived up to the teases they had been feeding us through Facebook.

The show started with a poetic introduction dissecting the historical elements and creativity to carnival which was a nice personal touch.

This band captured a new vibe and energy which we had not felt in a while, this is essential to creating a great carnival road experience. As long time Notting Hill masqueraders for over 14 years we liked that the band is medium with a capacity of 200, and focuses on good customer service.

On a negative side we felt that the costumes did not have any literal relation to the theme and therefore we could not make any connection to costume and section name (however this is true off so many carnival bands). The biggest deal breaker for us is the price, with Premium Leaders coming in at £295 and £350, Premium section Female £225.00 and males £195.00, which so far makes this band the most expensive for Notting Hill Carnival.

Overall the band gives you stunning costumes and looks very promising for the coming years.

We would like to say thank you to Kelly and Andrew for making us feel welcome.

Check out their Facebook and website for more pics and hype.

"What does a woman want?"

2011-02-22T17:05:00.004Z

The great question that has never been answered, and which I have not yet been able to answer, despite my thirty years of research into the feminine soul, is "What does a woman want?"
Sigmund Freud

Freud rediscovered by Lucy Freeman
80s Sculpted Jacket
70s Floral swimsuit
80s High waisted leather shorts
Reworked vintage military necklace

All from Pelicans & Parrots

Brown Skin Lady

2011-02-22T15:45:00.005Z

We just got news that Black Star's Mos Def and Talib Kweli reunite in the UK for the first time since 1999 and we can't wait. Blackstar is on current rotation in Pelicans & Parrots.

Here is our tribute gig outfit

80s crop top
High wasted leather shorts
80s Yellow shoes

All from Pelicans & Parrots

URBAN GAUCHO Duro Olowu A/W 2011

2011-02-16T10:09:00.008Z

Sunday saw London designer Duro Olowu debut his A/W 2011 collection for the first time in New York. The collection is inspired by South American gauchos and Harlem photographer James Van Der Zee.

Tweed Suit

2011-02-04T17:32:00.003Z

Via Pelicans & Parrots

We are making a concerted effort to cater for our ever growing male customer base. Today we welcomed this stunning three piece tweed suit from Sweden. Gilbert & George eat your heart out!

NKWO HAPPY LIVES HERE

2011-02-04T17:13:00.006Z

Last year we were invited to take some behind the scene shots for the new NKWO 2011 look book.

Here are some images from the look book

The NKWO collection has something for every girl. We love the use of colour, column shapes, African prints and braided textiles, which accompanies the intricate hair sculpture from Angela M Plummer.

Model Symara Templeman
Make up Valerie Saint Amand
Hair Angela M Plummer
Stylist: Angela Plummer and Nkwo
Photography 2shooters

Black Barbie

2011-02-02T23:00:00.003Z

Barkley L. Hendricks

2011-01-26T19:58:00.004Z

We were given this Barkley L. Hendricks program by Duro Olowu. This is an original program from Hendricks solo exhibition at The Studio Museum in Harlem, which ran from January 20-March, 30 1980.

His work was also featured here in London as part of the Back to Black exhibition at the Whitechaple Gallery in 2005. The exhibition featured Black Arts Movement in the US, Jamaica and Britain in the 1960s and 70s. Read more

The Duro Olowu Scarf

2011-01-25T16:03:00.011Z

A couple of weeks ago we were invited to the Gilbert and George exhibition at The White Cube gallery, before we went, we popped in on our old neighbour Duro Olowu.

We instantly fell in love with this geometric cashmere scarf in golden yellow from his A/W 2010 collection which was featured in vogue. With a little styling from Duro and a little deliberation over colour I knew I had to have it.

The three colours sit nicely next to an immaculate Hermès handbag that you would just die for.

Now a staple in my Dalston Pelicans & Parrots shop wardrobe

Skirt 60s suit Pelicans & Parrots
80s purple blouse Pelicans & Parrots

To read a more on the Duro Olowu shop click here

Inventive Braids

2011-01-13T14:02:00.002Z

Braids by CuldeSac and Studio Marisol

via yatzer

Birdseye

2011-01-13T13:45:00.005Z

via Pelicans & Parrots

Happy 2011

2010-12-31T16:44:00.007Z

Once again Happy 2011 from Fred Butler Style, this year she has collaborated with Rosy Nicholas for the pick, make up by Megumi Matsuno and Seema Chopra for this sharp angular fro. She was also kind enough to write this review of our shop Pelicans & Parrots. Click Here

Last years 2010 and behind the scenes pictures.

Charlie Allen

2010-12-21T09:01:00.002Z

Last week we had the pleasure of having dinner with Charlie Allen Tailor to the stars at the Paradise in West London. Never will you meet a more humble and sartorial elegant fellow.

Via Pelicans & Parrots

Black Pineapple

2010-12-14T12:17:00.002Z

We love the work of Facebook Friend Adee Roberson Black Pineapple.

EXPLODE INTO COLORS

TWINS

LION SPIRIT

ROOTS

HORSES

Alexandra Catiere

2010-12-10T10:29:00.010Z

Gentlewomen shot by Russian Photographer Alexandra Catiere for Please Magazine.

Tough & Beautiful

2010-11-23T11:05:00.003Z

(wasted on a car advert!) via Pelicans & Parrots

Elec..elects to sign with Jay z!

2010-11-18T10:44:00.007Z

Never have I been so happy and sad, excited and disappointed, brave and scared you get the picture!..

Ps. If this track is anything to go by..scrap all the negatives...DEEP!

Nubian Events Celebrates 50 Years of Iconic Black Hair

2010-11-15T12:40:00.028Z

So Friday saw BnnGirls attend Nubian Events Dinner and Show depicting iconic afro hairstyles from the last 50 years. Hosted by Henry Bonsu who talked us through braids and beads to fros and puffs. Naming influential and political black men and woman such as Angela Davis, to today's Lauren Hill and Janelle Monáe.

The models with event organiser Mimi Traore

The creatives From Left to right, fashion designer Nkwo, Hair stylist Morris Roots who specialises in locks and natural hair and show producer and hair stylist Angela Plummer

We were served an amazing 4 course dinner of Sashimi, beef in peppercorn sauce and finished off with a delicious coconut sorbet, passion fruit cream, and chocolate spring rolls.

We would like to thank Mimi Traore from Nubian Eventsfor throwing such an inspirational event with amazing people.

Nubian Events

2010-10-22T14:49:00.008+01:00

We were emailed about this amazing event by Nubian Events that is happening on Nov 12 at the Michelin Star restaurant Nobu.

It is an excellent opportunity for professionals connected with Africa to meet and engage with other influential and successful professionals coming from a wide range of disciplines - legal, arts, finance, culture, investment, media, fashion - to develop business opportunities, forge ties and find new clients in a convivial atmosphere in an inspiring venue.

You will be welcomed with Champagne and canapés and regaled with a lavish four course dinner to the accompaniment of an Afro-Jazz band followed by the evening's highlight: a 20 minute cat-walk show celebrating natural Afro-Hair and its social and political impact over 60 years!

Fashion by Nkwo and hair by the amazing Angela Plummer and Morris Roots.

Tickets are priced at £75 for this fine dining and amazing creative cultural experience.

For more info and tickets contact Nubian Events

Woven hair accessories by Angela Plummer

Write a Bike

2010-10-22T14:22:00.006+01:00

We love the idea of these bikes by Juri Zaech

Jessica Dance Jewellery

2010-10-22T13:56:00.006+01:00

We saw these in Selfridges

by Jessica Dance

Monkey Rides Goat

2010-10-22T13:40:00.005+01:00

More posts from Pelicans & Parrots take over

Monkey Skull avaliable from Pelicans & Parrots

Roots manuva Vs Pelicans & Parrots

2010-10-22T09:28:00.003+01:00

On the 6th October we were lucky enough to host Roots Manuva's Pop Up Store in our shop Pelicans & Parrots!

The Table of Curiosities

2010-10-22T09:19:00.002+01:00

So if you are a regular visitor to our shop Pelicans & Parrots you will notice that our table changes from week to week. However this week we feel we've taken it to new heights!

Monkey Skull in Victorian dome

Kingfisher in Victorians dome

Vintage Parrot lamp cica 1920s

Customised Victorian dome with bird skulls, butterflies and moths

A4 Duplicate Anatomical Torso print

Magnifying glass with script on handle

Black manual wooden Calendar

Chrome coaster Playing Cards

The Epauleted Bat

Salt and Pepper ceramic pots

Silver finish giant Grasshopper

All available from Shop Pelicans & Parrots

Re-Spectable Duro Olowu S\S 2011

2010-10-12T14:51:00.010+01:00

Re-Spectable

More of the collection

Pelicans & Parrots

2010-09-27T14:17:00.020+01:00

We have have been busy

Let us introduce you to our new baby

Pelicans &Parrots

Vintage and Contemporary Fashion, Interiors and Curio

Pelicans & Parrots
40 Stoke Newington Road,
Dalston,
London,
N16 7XJ

Like Us on Facebook Pelicans & Parrots
Follow Us on Twitter @PelicansParrots

Kelechi Amadi Obi vs Keziah Jones

2010-08-08T07:51:00.003+01:00

We love this beautiful film made by oel 'Kachi' Benson using a Canon 7D.

Kelechi Amadi Obi vs Keziah Jones from Joel Benson on Vimeo.

Panton at 50

2010-07-20T09:18:00.010+01:00

“A chair must be dynamic – one should sit on it comfortably.” Verner Panton

Fifty years ago, Danish designer Verner Panton (1926-1998) designed the first single mold plastic chair with a curvaceous profile called the Panton chair. It was Panton who first realised the potential for moulded plastic design.

Verner Panton (third from the left) photo source

Though Panton first had the idea for his chair as early as 1960, it wasn’t until the latter end of the decade that its American manufacturer, Herman Miller, found the means to mass produce it. When finally introduced to the mass market in 1967, the chair was often cited as the foremost example of the new vanguard of Modernist design. This original Herman Miller Panton Chair – also commonly referred to as the Stacking chair and the “S” chair – was rendered using a single piece of “S” shaped cantilevered plastic which was later fitted-out with a reinforced lacquered integument.

To celebrate 50 years of the Panton chair Vitra UK had a competition for architects and designers. They were given a white Panton chair to customise in any way they liked. The only rule was that it must still be moveable.

First place Jump Studios

Second Ben Adams Architects

Third Maris Interior

Photo source Vitra

Verner Panton and I

Sweet Design Studio

2010-07-19T22:50:00.007+01:00

We love these beautiful cards from Sweet Design Studio

Celebrating woman of color, style and individuality.
Creating eye-catching bespoke fashion greeting
cards, sweetdesignstudio captures the essence of
femininity, and fun.

All the designs are handmade using a variety of
mixed media such as sequenes, paper collages and
cotton strings.

Candy Girl Sets Sail

2010-07-19T16:11:00.011+01:00

Picture from Such Pretty Things

Pastel Flamingo top Blanco

Footless mesh polka dot tights Tk Maxx
Wedge sandles Xti via Tk Maxx

Vintage anchor brooch from Found on Folksy

Knitted anchor top Stella McCartney for Gap Kids on sale
Stone wash leggings H&M kids

Necklace with gold charms Black Pearl

.............and still hearting the ink

Black Nerds Network... Explained!

2010-07-12T22:08:00.021+01:00

This is the first time a member of the Black Nerds team has appeared in a video interview!! Thanks to Spine TV

More from Spine TV

Stretch Chairs by Jessica Carnevale

2010-07-05T14:05:00.005+01:00

Found these on Another blog

Strech chairs by Jessica Carnevale

Re-Spec BnnGirls

2010-07-05T12:58:00.009+01:00

We went to our very first Brent Respect Festival yesterday and bumped into Ivy Munro this is what we wore.

Mens black vest
blue cardigan Portobello market
Skirt Tk maxx
Belt charity shop
Bracelets Mimco
Pineapple necklace Blanco
Name chain Tatty Devine
Sandals Blanco

T shirt from Singapore
Vintage skirt Constructive Lives
Belt Charity shop
Bag with tassel Dalston car boot sale
Muji flip flops

African print skirts for BnnBaby

2010-07-05T12:08:00.006+01:00

The extended Bnn Family's twin girls celebrated their 2nd birthday a few months ago and we decided to make them these draw string African print skirts. The skirts were based on the adult one we designed and made last year.

For us

For them

A Parrot Party

2010-07-05T11:35:00.008+01:00

We have always had a thing for parrot's as St Vincent and the Grenadines national bird is the Amazona Guildingii. Plague through our childhood with lots of souvenirs depicting the parrot it is now firmly etched into our ascetics.

So we were very to please to see 'A Parrot party' by Lladro who have created these homeware pieces.

Lladro shop window parrot candle holders

Lamp

Framed parrot prints at Constructive Lives

BnnGirls Gets Beautifully Inked

2010-07-01T11:26:00.012+01:00

So I have been back and forth about what to get for my very first tattoo. I was very much inspired by BlackNerds forearm sleeve, done by Claudia Sabe. I decided to get a humming bird relating to our Caribbean roots with art deco inspired flowers, and once again Claudia did not disappoint.

Before

The hand drawn transfer

The t shirt said it all

Outline being done

After the pain my beautiful tattoo is complete

Dancehall Danceoff

2010-06-24T11:50:00.006+01:00

We were over at Au Courant Daily and we found this bad piece of animation from Sarah Doyle. Loving how each water coloured frame emphasizes each movement.

So far we have spotted the Dutty Wine, Willie Bounce and Hott Wuk

Dancehall Danceoff from Sarah Doyle on Vimeo.

Pub Grub on the Way

2010-05-29T10:03:00.010+01:00

There's nothing Black Nerds like more than good fish and chips washed down with a pint of cold Guinness at The Spurstowe Arms near Wilton way. The food is sometimes hit and miss and quite expensive but we love the laid back feel and the beer garden.

Man size fish

......someone pass him a Yorkie lol

Yorkie. "It's not for girls".

Violet Cakes on Wilton Way

2010-05-29T08:49:00.010+01:00

We can't get enough of Wilton Way right now, and as its just a stones throw from Bnn HQ it has everything we need.

We have a pub which has good food and good people. Wilton's Cafe which is home to London Fields Radio, has an art space and makes a yummy chorizo sandwich. Then just when we thought it couldn't' get any better Violet Cakes who makes the most delicious cupcakes from Broadway Market has recently opened up on the Way.

We found these beautiful pictures taken by Tommy from This Is Naive blog

We love popping out to Violet's for a lunch time treat while working from home.

Lemon butter cream

Mango butter cream

Spine TV's Studio Sessions

2010-05-25T22:52:00.020+01:00

Last saturday saw us at Spine Tv's Studio Sessions, and with out doubt it was the best atmosphere...party...show of the year so far!!!
It started with the funky "analog renaissance" who were a group of 20 somethings that had been flashed back "LOST" stylee to the mid 70's and raised on a diet of FAT FUNK!!

Then concluded with the incredible United Vibrations who were a cross between Fela Kuti and Sun Ra with beats as fat as Pretty Purdy!

United Vibrations-Ra!

Got us some Ra!

Spine TV

PoisonUK Season Launch 2010 Zero Degrees

2010-05-24T23:04:00.023+01:00

Last Friday saw Poison uk kick off the start of their season events for Notting Hill Carnival. Starting at Zero degrees the band launch at the The Cobden Club in the heart of the Carnival route

We headed down to the band launch not sure what to expect but as the models skank there way on stage we were very impressed at the standard of the costumes. We have played mas with Puk before but wasn't really feeling the imported costumes. But this year we can tell you the costumes are 100% made and designed in the UK.

The theme for this year is That's Amore with sections such as Jungle Fever, Tempest, Desire, Erotica, Black Magic, and as always their fun mas section 'The Gondoliers'. Also Dynasty entertainment presented Tribal Love to go along side the theme.

Jungle Fever
This is the wilder side of Amore...Love. This costume depicts sensuality in the open jungle – feel at home with nature. The lovely headpiece represents the outdoors in Love’s natural surroundings.

This has to be our favorite section and the one we would probably go for. We love the different shades of lime and emerald green which complements the gold.

Tempest
Tempest portrays the thin division between happiness and tragedy, and uses fantasy and magic to explore love and hatred… The temptation is wrong but feels so right!

Another hott section, love that the belt is made up of rhinestones.

Desire
This section was designed to show rawness and carnality. That under-lying sexual instinct that we all possess.

This is our least favorite, the head piece is really basic but the bra is well balanced and loving the use of tassels

Erotica
This creative piece has been designed to represent European erotic desire. Erotica was created to transcend the areas of style, fashion and carnival.

We really like the corset on this costume and the fact that it gives you more coverage. However with a name like Erotica a darker, stronger colour could of been considered.

Black Magic
As we all know all’s fair in love and war and what better way to execute this than in the form of Black Magic. The hands on the bra reach for the star. Black is beautiful, black is magic

Over all a very nice costume but would of liked to see more black for maxim presence.

The Gondoliers
Is the fun mas section for the guys and girls who would like an alternative to beads and feathers.

Tribal Love by Dynasty entertainment
This year's theme was chosen to highlight the similarities in the richness of the culture of Caribbean people and Native American Indians. Our diverse and colourful cultures are both influenced by music, dance, rhythm and a love for nature and life.

We really like the colour combination of this costume but it was a bit too much beads for us. But we love the one shoulder and the deep purple design.

Poison UK present 'Togetherness' for the kiddy mas and we have always love the creativity and freedom they put into the kids costumes. No miniature adult costumes instead they give you sculptural forms with hand painted fabric.

Poison UK have definitely stepped up their game with these costumes. Although not groundbreaking they are contributing to the creativity and craftsmanship of mas in the UK. We look forward to hopefully playing mas with PUK this year. Much thanks and ReSpecs to Catharine and the other Puk girls who made us most welcome.

All 2 piece costumes packages are from 125.00 make sure to sign up for a Puk card this will entitle you to a 10% discount. click here for more details.

All pictures are from Trini Jungle Juice and BNN

Duro Olowu's New Shop

2010-05-21T21:56:00.019+01:00

We finally made a trip to visit our old Portobello Road neighbour Duro Olowu at his new shop on 14 Masons Yard. Surrounded by fine arts big names in The White Cube Gallery. Duro offers pattern print to his stark white surroundings.

The Space

Vintage furniture house the payment area

Curio objects alongside fashion

Reupholstered vintage chairs in Doro's prints and carved wood lamp base creates a front room.

A little inspiration

The inspiration for his S/S collection was the colours of Picasso’s ‘Mosqueteros’ paintings and the vibrant goings on of 125th Street in Harlem, New York.

Amazing shoes by Charlotte Dellal which provide a simplicity to the head rush of pattern print.

Duro Olowu S/S 2009

Fine Dining and Impeccable Service

2010-05-19T19:33:00.019+01:00

More birthdays meant we were invited to dinner at Gordon Ramsay's Murano Restaurant yummy.

We were treated to a 3 course meal with excellent wine and attentive service. The deserts were a let down but the cheese board made up for it.

First a selection of breads

Starters

Potato mousseline, deep-fried frog’s legs, parsley velouté, garlic crisps

Ceviche of sea scallops, apple and cucumber salsa, lime vinaigrette, avocado and sesame crisps

Warm new season white asparagus, poached hen’s egg, pickled morels, grated hazelnuts

Carpaccio of yellow fin tuna, glazed pork belly

Mains

Whole Dover sole, watercress and lemon risotto, brown butter, capers and anchovies (for two) filleted at your table

Monkfish tail, buttered baby gem, smoked aubergine purée, deep-fried anchovy

Poached and roasted corn-fed baby chicken

Cleanse the palette

Desserts
Warm apple terrine, salted caramel sauce, prune purée

Mango parfait, pineapple carpaccio, pineapple and Pernod sorbet

Almond moelleux, rhubarb and orange, tonka bean anglaise

The Cake

2010-05-19T17:55:00.007+01:00

So it was Black Nerds Birthday a couple of weeks ago and it has now become a tradition that BnnGirls bake him a cake. Last year we were inspired by Tatty Devine and all things musical.

This year we were inspired by Afrikanism our Fela tribute and Chris Ofili's exhibition at the Tate

yummy 8)

Its A Jafrican Ting

2010-05-13T11:56:00.006+01:00

Currently loving Jafrican Ting by Busy Signal

Afrikanism Animation

2010-04-30T14:41:00.009+01:00

That is Obeah

2010-04-29T15:45:00.011+01:00

Our friend popped in for a visit and she was wearing this creepy, yet beautiful piece from Alexander McQueen's Voodoo range

And if you were after more chicken feet we love these from Swedish designers David and Martin

The "Chicken feet" collection was created after seeing a very pretty girl on a Shanghai subway munching deep fried chicken feet and simultaneously flicking through French Vogue

Two feet necklace gold

Brooch with black pearl gold

Also loving this Bone brooch

A piece from their 2010 collection

VERY GOOD & PROPER Canteen Utility Chair

2010-04-29T15:35:00.001+01:00

Measure twice, cut once

We came across this chair by Ed Carpenter of Very Good and Proper when it was first introduced to the Canteen restaurant In Spitialfelds.

Popup Canteen Resturant at 100% Design show

The simple chair goes hand in hand with the simple British food philosophy of the Canteen Restaurant. Now 4 restaurants later Canteen has brought out a book called Great British Food where you can recreate some British classics .

Last year we were pleased to see that the canteen chair and table was launched at The Dock during London Design Festival.

Inspired by the ubiquitous post war school chair. Powder coated steel frame married to a pressed beech plywood seat and back. Light weight, stack able, with our without seat pad.

The Canteen Utility Chair at The Dock

Hooray the chair is now availble to buy at Liberty

East London mugs by Sara not sarah

2010-04-29T15:28:00.004+01:00

We were strolling down Broadway market and spotted these East London landmarks mugs designed in hackney by architect and designer Sara not Sarah. We were already familiar with People will always need plates Trellick Tower range, but never in our wildest imagination did we think our hometown Dalston was ready for such an accolade!LOL!

The designer popped in to see us and now we are a very proud owner of the Dalston Rio mug.

Now available at In Spitalfields shop on Lamb St E1

The Dalston mug depicts The Rio Cinema

Other east London landmarks in the range are Bethnal Green Gas Towers, Hackney Empire and The Museum of Childhood

Hexagons and Oversized Beads

2010-04-29T15:19:00.001+01:00

Currently matching all our outfits around these pieces from French Connection via Tk Maxx

Banksy's Exit Through The Gift Shop (Exclusive 5 min Extended Sneak Peek)

2010-04-25T17:31:00.004+01:00

Supermarket Sarah Royale with Cheese

2010-04-22T16:02:00.004+01:00

On Saturday we were happy to stumble on Supermarket Sarah Royale with Cheese at Selfridges Concept Store.

El Camino

2010-04-21T21:44:00.006+01:00

There is nothing Bnn loves more after a hard days work at the shop but to have a Mexican at El Camino on Portobello Road.

Owned by Ned Conran, Terence Conran's son, El Camino has achieved a simple mix of authentic Mexican and simple design. The burritos, tacos and nachos are filled with delicious fillings such as battered fish, black beans and beef. Also sample there generous Margaritas and Root beer.

Loving the no frills presentation and quirky floral PVC tablecloths.

and we are so happy to hear that there is now one in SOHO with a full bar and mixologist.

50 Years Of Dr Martens

2010-04-12T12:19:00.016+01:00

Dr Martens turns 50 this year and to celebrate they have collaborated with 10 artists

"To celebrate our 50th Anniversary, we asked 10 artists to record their version of a cult classic track which represents the spirit of the people who've worn DM's over the past 50 years. We also asked 10 directors to make videos for each of the tracks."

One of our favorites is the Noisettes cover of Ever Fallen In Love With Someone You Shouldn't by the Buzzcocks. Video directed by Rankin and Chris

Shingai Shoniwa sporting her DM's

Bnn remembers when DM's were the only boots to be wearing in the 90s. You would team them up with your Trends suit from Dalston, or customised studded jeans rudegal style. Now we've fallen back in love with them especially the Darcie patent black ones.

Mos Def in New Orleans

2010-04-11T10:39:00.011+01:00

Studio Malick

2010-03-11T16:20:00.007Z

In the West people have to have all this stuff to be happy, but we don’t have this system. But physical poverty doesn’t mean moral poverty. In Africa we have moral riches and happiness in our hearts. Malick Sidibé

Private view of some of Malick Sidibé unseen work at the Lichfield Studios.

For more info WWW.TRISTANHOARE.COM

Braids and Fros

2010-03-11T15:14:00.002Z

Totally in love with natural hair stylist Angela M Plummer

Interesting use of hair and over sized bows

See more of her work here

MALICK SIDIBÉ Exhibition

2010-03-06T10:18:00.004Z

A small collection of some of Malick Sidibé unseen work opens at the Lichfield Studios

Sidibé, who became the first photographer to be awarded the Lion d'Or for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Biennale in 2007, is now internationally respected for his black and white photographs that capture the transformation and energy of post-colonial Bamako, Mali’s capital city. Press release

The Guardian also has an in depth article on Malick Sidibé photographs

See more of his work in our previous post here and also see how Chris Ofili was influenced in his work Douen's Dance

The exhibition opens from the 11 March and runs to the 16 April at the Lichfield Studios 133 Oxford Gardens
London
W10 6NE

Big Hair

2010-03-06T10:03:00.009Z

We love Fiona Woodcock Big Hair cards.

Cards available from Constructive Lives

Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child

2010-03-04T16:30:00.012Z

Photo by James Van der Zee

Directed by Tamra Davis, the documentary features never-before seen footage of the prolific artist painting, talking about his art, and existing in the two years prior to his death in 1988.

The OST features music from Mike D and Ad Rock.

Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child was released on Feb 21st.

Ghostpoet

2010-03-02T09:34:00.006Z

The other day I was listening to Gilles Peterson's show on my Iphone when this eery half sung, half slurred, half emceed song came on. It was like a cross between Arab Strap's "Here we go" and Tricky. It was also rather GOOD!

Ghostpoet is doing a FREE show at Momo's at the end of this month. BE THERE!!!!!

Cash and Carry Me Home By Ghostpoet

www.myspace.com/ghostpoet

1♥♥ % Moschino

2010-02-22T12:32:00.005Z

Now that the 90s have officially become vintage, we came across these vintage Moschino tights from Wrights in Harlesden.

TK Maxx / Sport Relief T-shirt Fashion Challenge

2010-02-22T08:48:00.011Z

For few years TK Maxx and Sport relief have been paring up to release limited edition design T shirts with a donation from every sale going to Sport Relief. This year they have teamed up with the Beckham's to create these exclusive designs for the whole family.

Bnn and other bloggers were challenged to style an outfit around the Sport relief T Shirt.

Here are the results:

Get yours here

As this is a competition we need your votes, simply go to the Tk Maxx fan page on Facebook and GIVE US YOUR LIKES

Afrikanism

2010-02-19T16:49:00.014Z

We've been feverishly acquiring new skills at our HQ in Dalston! We've been piecing together this old Fela footage and learning how to do animation to bring you this rather nice vid with original music by Ogheno( http://www.myspace.com/ogheno.)

The music and Video are called Afrikanism.

We hope you like.

Afrikanism

Stills from the video

Cibelle in 'Lightworks'

2010-02-12T15:23:00.007Z

I love this take on Raymond Scott's "Lightworks" and video by Cibelle.The singer's name is Sonja Khalecallon, and her band are Los Stroboscopious Luminous."Sonja Khalecallon is in fact one of the alter egos of Cibelle, the London-based tropical punkster.."

"Lightworks" is known to most of us by way of Jay Dilla sampling it for his track "Lightworks" which was on his seminal album "Donuts".

"Las Venus Resort Palace Hotel" will be out in the Spring 2010

http://www.cibelle.net

Viviane Sassen

2010-02-10T13:51:00.013Z

We came across Dutch photographer Viviane Sassen through her fashion photography for Adidas. In these pictures she revistis her childhood home of Kenya to come up with these beautiful images.

Viviane Sassen grew up in Kenya, where her father practised as a doctor. Her earliest memories of her youth stretch back to this time. She remembers the beauty of the landscape and the children with whom she used to play. She also recollects the poverty of the shanty towns and her father's terminally ill patients.

Sassen first revisited Africa in 2002. Since then, the continent has formed the subject of her photography, as reflected in the series ‘Flamboya’, in her ‘Ultra Violet’ sketchbook and the ‘Ultra Violet’ series. ‘Sassen knows how to go beyond the confines of her subject. The photographs do not just portray death, loss and urban life in Africa. They show genuine humanity, cultural clichés, Sassen's personal life story and aesthetics.’ words from DSM

Afrodizzia Tate Late

2010-02-03T16:05:00.009Z

This Friday head to the Tate Britain

Enter a micro-world of music, performance and debate inspired by Chris Ofili. Blacktronica's Charlie Dark presents School of Dark with Andreya Triana and The Speaker's Corner Quartet. Also Bonnie Greer, Cleveland Watkiss, Larry Achiampong, Zak Ové, a fashion show and a panel discussion.
Friday, 05 February 2010

18:00 - 21:30
Tate Britain
Millbank
London

Chris Ofili Afrodizzia

Larry Achiampong

Gil Scott Heron new ALBUM

2010-02-02T11:23:00.004Z

As a longterm Gil Scott Heron fan, I cant wait for "I'm New Here" released by XL whose boss apparently "tracked him down at Rikers island prison and offered to produce a new LP".

Just listened to the track "Im new here"..STUNNING acoustic country blues reality!!

I'm Here Now is released 8th February 2010

preview all tracks below.

Analogue Photo's

2010-01-29T14:16:00.011Z

These are some Photo's that we've taken over the past 2 weeks or so on our travels...

Chris Ofili at theTate

2010-01-28T22:35:00.066Z

We were kindly invited to the Chris Ofili exhibition at the Tate Britain by Charlie Dark.

Showing for the first time in Britain the Tate brings you an in depth catalogue of over 45 pieces of work spanning from the mid 90s to present day.
Ofili quickly rose to fame early in his career as an artist who is most famous for his Elephant Dung paintings and being the first black painter to win the Turner price.
Now residing in Trinidad the exhibition takes you from a young black artist screaming for attention forged under the back drop of "cool Britannia" through an introspective blue period, then finally out the other side arriving at a cornucopia of colour and passion which is heavily influenced by his residence in Trinidad, the rhythm of the carnival is definitely in his most recent works!

PS. The after party was AMAZING, free cocktails, good tunes.....much fun and mischief was had by all!! LOL!!

Afro 2000

Chris Ofili’s The Upper Room which was especially designed by the architect David Adjaye in 2002 at the Victoria Miro Gallery

Iscariot Blues 2006

Douen's Dance 2007 inspired by Malick Sidibé 1963 photo Nuit de Noel

Good People

The man him self Chris Ofili

Charlie Dark

Caroline Issa Editor of Tank magazine and fashion designer Duro olowu

Artist Yinka Shonibare

Artist Lemi Ghariokwu view our blog on his exhibition of Fela Album artwork

David Adjaye Architect and Okwui Enwezor Curator and writer

Nicola and Roger Robinson. Check his new music King Midas Sound

Studio Pixie Grafic Designer and Twitter Family

Chris Ofili bootleg merchandise

Chris Ofili official

Black Nurse Network................. lol

After the show was the after party

Cocktails, Soca and Sweet mother kept Bnn Happy

Prince Nico Mbarga Sweet Mother

Red Plastic Bag Volcano

Take me back

2010-01-18T16:33:00.003Z

BA is making me want to book my passage

The Distinguished Gentleman

2010-01-09T12:11:00.014Z

Love the window of Murdock Barbers

Diary of a Victorian Dandy, 1998 Yinka Shonibare

Jocks & Nerds Men's Style in the Twentieth Century

Peter Ibruegger Mustache Mugs

Cosh Gallery

2010-01-09T11:57:00.003Z

While doing a tidy we forgot we had this art work given to us from Cosh Gallery we so need to get a frame to do it justice.

Other art work from Cosh Gallery we like:

Tatsuya Taniguchi (Buggy)

Michael Gillette

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania + Melissa

2010-01-09T11:42:00.004Z

So I was a very good girl this Christmas and I got these Vivienne Westwood + Melissa jelly shoes. I've been lusting after these every time I pop by our neighbours Kokon To Zai and now they are finally mine.

Now I'm loving these which will be ideal for this weather

Stitch and Bitch

2010-01-08T16:56:00.020Z

Recently there's been a revival for cross stitch and all sorts of embroidery. Channel 4 Kirstie's Homemade Homereignited the nations love for all things crafty and homemade.

Found these books in a charity shop

Our handiwork

Transfer from Blik

Melamine plate by Jennifer Rose

Lagos Town by Afrikan boy

2010-01-08T11:44:00.010Z

Thanks to the Bnn Fam for the heads up on this new video from African Boy which also features Vincy Girl Cherry B from De Tropix.

Brand new Debut music video from Afrikan Boy. The single will be released in March 2010 Lagos Town is taken off Debut Album "1444 Musik"

Stills from the video

Cherry B and Afrikan Boy

Watch the Video here

HAPPY 2010

2010-01-07T11:13:00.009Z

From Fred Butler Style

Beautiful use of colour and shape also loving the nails from Wah Nails

Kelis

2009-12-13T23:08:00.002Z

An interview with Kelis for Popbytes.

Popbytes.com interviews Kelis! from Popbytes on Vimeo.

Ski BeatZ & Mos Def

2009-12-06T10:19:00.001Z

constant Rotation!

When Le Coil came to London

2009-11-24T13:11:00.004Z

Jamala from Le Coil was recently in London spotting some London Coils and we were happy to see some familiar faces.............

The lovely creative Gabrielle from the Nu Black and designer of G*ology Tees

and the lovely singer songwriter Madame Pepper

I Love My Hair

2009-11-23T15:44:00.004Z

and we love these by Fly Girl Andrea

Get them here

Noisettes Every Now And Then

2009-11-23T15:17:00.004Z

Love, Love this video from the Noisettes and can we get a round of applause to see a beautiful black couple in a Uk music video.

Constructive Buying

2009-11-07T10:29:00.012Z

On Monday we spent the day buying stock for Constructive Lives

Jet Set Masala at the EK pop up shop

S/S 2010

We got distracted and peep these beauties
Christopher Kane Shoes

Dominic Jones Jewellery

Ladurée London

2009-11-05T08:17:00.010Z

Soon to rival our cupcake addiction is the delicate Ladurée Macaroons. BnnGirls popped into their Burlington Arcade shop and was easily transported to a Parisian tea salon with their French staff and ostentatious decor. Our favorite flavors were Pistachio and Praline can't wait to try them all.

A Clean Cut

2009-10-31T10:50:00.006Z

We were horrified when we saw this chopped in half fox as we waited for the train at Dalston Kingsland Station.

8(

CALYPSO The Mighty Sparrow Tee

2009-10-28T16:58:00.006Z

Loving these Mens T Shirt of the The Mighty Sparrow from A child of the jago 10 Great Eastern Street, London .

The Affordable Vintage Fashion Fair

2009-10-26T16:57:00.013Z

The Affordable Vintage Fashion Fair hit London yesterday and we were there bright and early to get those bargains. The best value for money was £15 a kilo where you could get shirts, dresses and skirts which were then weighed.

Here is some of our favorite finds

These ring combs were the best, this was all we used when we were younger and still do now!

These are a bit rusty but I think we were mostly seduced by the packaging

Love these small brooches which were a £1 each

b.vikki vintage

2009-10-24T12:13:00.012+01:00

We got a very lovely email from b.vikki vintage who immediately caught our eye with her take on vintage fashion from a black perspective.

The b.vikki vintage blog features:

Vintage advertising campaigns and fashion editorials from Black/African-American publications in the 1950s & 1960s!

Vintage video clips and found photographs featuring people of color!
Product descriptions and pictures of vintage pieces for sale at the b.vikki vintage etsy.com shop!

About b.vikki vintage
Rebecca Victoria O'Neal is a 22-year-old, African-American young woman from Chicago with gigantic curly hair, and an affinity for books, knitting, and antique malls. Her love for vintage silhouettes, Mad Men, traditional pop music and standards, and Doris Day movies led her to create b.vikki vintage - in the hopes of sharing her love for decades past.

Vintage Greyhound ads

Coco Cola

Avon Calling

Loving these styes from her shop
Pastel color-block shirt dress/day dress with full skirt

Ketchup and mustard house dress / play dress $12.00

Grove

2009-10-15T21:17:00.006+01:00

This is a picture of a beautiful sunset in Ladbroke Grove taken on Monday

Simply Eartha

2009-10-15T09:02:00.007+01:00

Hamburg, 1950 via facebook friend André S. Belcher-El

Gordon Parks

Gordon Parks

♥ Paris ♥

2009-10-14T14:58:00.015+01:00

We spent a lovely day in Paris yesterday with family thanks to the £59 return and engrossed ourselves in being a typical tourist and doing all the sights. We took the Eurostar from the brand new St Pancras Station, and arrived in Paris in no time at all.

Pockets won't strech to LV then head to Tati

The Eiffel Tower in all its glory

little break big difference

PPQ Black Girls Rock

2009-10-09T17:43:00.012+01:00

at the PPQ S/S fashion show

Following on from ID Pretty Young Things issue PPQ bring an all black models line up at their recent show for London Fashion Week.

Chanel Iman, Jourdan Dunn, Arlenis Sosa & Sessilee Lopez

Percy Parker of PPQ "It’s not something we really considered. We just wanted to find the most beautiful models and those were the best ones."

Cornrow head wrap Nubian style

Socks and sandals

The Show

Backstage at PPQ: hair and make up

Beyond The Chintz Eley Kishimoto S/S 10

2009-10-09T11:23:00.010+01:00

We went to the Eley Kishimoto S/S 10 collection Beyond The Chintz.

A clashing of visual references in the home environment; a predilection for old value co-exists with modern commodity. The quiet madness of this chaotic affection surrounds the inhabitants, observed but not questioned the closed door.

The catwalk came alive with their signature bold prints which always reflect their textile background.
Our pictures were really rubbish so here are pictures from London Fashion Week website

This print reminds us of the embroidery piece which we saw at The Spitialfields City Farm last year

Loving the slouchy socks chunky strappy sandals

Clash of angles and chintz

Also checkout their pop up shop at 8 Kingly St Soho, which holds their current collection, flash pieces and sample sale downstairs.

Appliqué

2009-10-09T10:29:00.018+01:00

Appliqué
Ornamented with a pattern (which has been cut out of another color or stuff) applied or transferred to a foundation; as, appliqué lace; appliqué work.

So following on from Do you like my Angles in print I decided to experiment in appliquéd leather. Here are the results which can be worn as a statement necklace or attached to a vest.

BNN does London Fashion Week

2009-10-08T18:16:00.008+01:00

So we went to London Fashion Week to buy stock for the shop.

........ok we did quite a bit of drinking but it helps us get through the stands.