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New York Fashion Week 2012 is approaching and everyone has their radar on for whats hot in these streets. For this reason I was honored when Billuko, “The Working Socialite”, of Hanging Out with Bill.com reached out to interview me. HangingOutWithBill.com is a commentary on life, pop culture & fashion seen through the experiences of the author. Please click the link to check out my interview & more photos. LUXE! >>> People of Style Interview
What a busy 2012 this has been so far. A few interviews, a couple photo shoots & a very special guest spot invite to a respectable radio morning show. New Jersey’s WRCC 107.7 fm The Bronc aka Team iLLz Medical Militia invited me out to their show to discuss the Single Malt & Cigars Luxe lifestyle. Radio personality & fellow female cigar smoker ILLuZionz O’Grandeur, a.k.a iLLz & her team cover topics from entertainment, sports, current events, film & very importantly health issues.
ILLz, Major Hickz & I (Serious Bok) covered the segment of “Single Malt & Cigars”. We discussed the lifestyle, how we began cigar smoking & choosing personal preferences. Even had cigars in the studio so this was official. This Broad&Luxe and SingleMalt&Cigars lifestyle is to much to cover in one session. So I was invited back! And I’m going back! LUXE in the building and on the radio. Tune in to the Medical Militia radio show Sundays 9:30am- 10:30am on 107.7fm or stream online here >>> 1077thebronc.com
**Pics coming up soon**
Greetings everyone I hope 2012 is beginning on a good note. I would like to thank everyone for all the continued support. Thanks to everyone who bought my Winter B&L shirts they sold out quick fast. More Luxe things to come this year. More posts,more fashion,more LUXE, more love, more hate, more positive energy & more surprises. I do a lot and I am as busy as all of you are,but I make time. I know how it is out here.
In the mean time when you are in the mood for some LUXE style please check out my Tumblr. I update as much as possible with quality visuals of luxuriousness & sexy images for your viewing pleasure. >>>>> Serious Bok Luxe Museum
Happy New Year everyone! Enjoy this short film by Mr. Ciroc Ultra Premium himself, Diddy. Directed by Anthony Mandler feat. Michael K. Williams, Eva Marcille and others filmed in Las Vegas.
This what I’m talking about. This is Luxe. Adults having a good time. The evening is so much more enjoyable when everyone in the room can pull their own weight. Enjoy 2012 people & your Ciroc.
Christmas is in 7 days & most likely we have that major thing thing our loved ones want, but how about that little extra. That other unexpected thing that says,”I take the extra step.” Here are a few do-able item gift ideas for the ladies that go beyond the norm. Fellas listen if you want. Ladies drop hints and they will have to.
Bond #9 High Line is described as ,”The scent of wildflowers, green grasses & urban renewal.” Listen it smells fresh and no one will smell like her. She may be a Beyonce fan and I know its easy to go to CVS and get that Beyonce Heat… but don’t. Available at Saks Fifth Avenue stores. 100ml $220
Alexander McQueen Skull Scarf. Why because it’s tough and the skulls are mean, but she will smell all feminine and intimidate. Also at Saks or online $295
Balenciaga Shades. I like shades so if I’m fly she fly. These are popular not not common. Very fly. Find these at Solstice Sunglasses. $375
A camera upgrade is always nice. I know most phones especially iphones have great cameras. Nothing better than an official camera during vacation time or especially at concerts. Disposable cameras are useless at concerts.
Neiman Marcus Jewelry Box. Her jewelry box should be just as Luxe as your humidor. If your cigars are in imported Spanish cedar with golden handles her diamonds and baubles should be just as comfortable. $285
Speaking of cigars get her some. If your lucky and she smokes cigars hit up your local Cigar Shop like Barrister Cigars for some Drew Estate Acid Blondies or whatever she likes.
The only thing better than happy hour prices is a free happy hour. Throw some gift cards to her & her girls friends favorite watering hole in a stocking. Fridays, Cheesecake Factory, Legal Seafood , Nobu..etc,.The place she likes not you! Remember it’s the thought not how much the gift cost..usually. Merry Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa all that from Serious Bok!
This week I attended the opening reception for the, “Dandy Lion: Articulating a Re(de)fined Black Masculine Identity” exhibit at the Aljira Center for Contemporary Art in Newark, N.J. The Dandy Lion exhibition is, “a collection of photography by 10 artists exploring the phenomenon of Black Dandyism throughout the African Diaspora.” If you’re unaware of the Dandy Movement check the video & brief description by curator Shantrelle P. Lewis.
“A refreshing exhibition, guest curated by Shantrelle P. Lewis, Dandy Lion: Articulating a Re(de)fined Black Masculine Identity takes a glance at urban Black Dandies who like their continental African counterparts, Le Sapeur of Brazzaville, Congo, embody style, sophistication and a commitment to culture via dramatized masculinity. This exhibition is an examination and approbation of the contemporary dandy in Diasporan settings. Dandy Lion is an homage to the fashionable urban gentleman – an African Diasporan man of style, an urban connoisseur of sophistication and a contemporary man of extraordinary swagger.”
Dandy Lion Exhibit Video Flyer – Opening Reception 10.27.11 from Shantrelle Lewis on Vimeo.
I had a good time here at this exhibition. Good to meet the photographers/artists & Curator of this great work. If you missed the opening ceremony event with live D.J., meet and greet,white wine & refeshments don’t worry.The exhibit will be on display until December 22nd, 2011. I did not take any pics of the artists work because this is something that you should go out, support & see for yourself. LUXE.
For more info and all artist participants visit http://www.aljira.org/
Aljira Gallery
591 Broad Street
Newark, N.J. 07102
Sometimes Super Models are not so super. Besides a photo in a high fashion ad, very little is often known about their personality. A few up and comers actually have a beautiful personality along with a great look and are utilizing social networks to broaden their exposure. The Lovely Chanel is one of the latest models who is following this path to fame. I’m always on the look out for a new restaurant, hip hop act and yes even new models. Hopefully my interview with Lovely Chanel will offer you some insight on the life of an aspiring model.
Serious Bok: Tell us about yourself. Where are you from how did you get started modeling? How long have you been doing this?
Lovely Chanel: WELL I’M 24YRS OLD FROM DALLAS TEXAS. I GOT INTO MODELING AROUND 2006 AFTER MY MOM STARTED TAKING ME TO CASTING CALLS. MY CAREER DIDN’T START HITTING HARD UNTIL 2009. I’VE BEEN IN SOME OF THE DALLAS LOCAL ARTIST VIDEOS SUCH AS YOUNG BLACK- BALLING ALL WEEK DIRECTED BY KANG BEAR, D.A. SQUAD-TROUBLE, (VIDEO SHOULD BE RELEASE SOME TIME NEXT WEEK), G-SQUAD-STUPID FLY, BUSTDOWN CLICC- PARTY HARD, GUAP -THROWING SINGLES & LAST BUT NOT LEAST MR. WIDE FRAME-PULL OUT THE MAGNUM. I’M STILL WORKING HARD TO REACH THE TOP. I ENJOY MODELING BUT FAMILY & MY COLLEGE DEGREE COMES FIRST. I LIVE EVERY DAY AS IF IT’S MY LAST I CHERISH EVERYTHING I LEARN IN THIS INDUSTRY.
Seems like everyone who takes pictures is calling themselves a model. What separates you from the pack?
MODELING IS NOT ABOUT HAIR & MAKEUP IT’S AN ART. IT TELLS A BOOK & EACH POSE HAS A CHAPTER THAT’S YOUR STORY. IT’S ABOUT HARD WORK & IF YOU CAN REALLY STAND OUT FROM BEING JUST “A MODEL”. YOU WANT PEOPLE TO SEE YOUR WORK & SAY OK I WANT HER EVERY TIME. PEOPLE SEE MY TWEETS I’M AT PHOTO SHOOTS, NETWORKING OR CONNECTING WITH MY FANS KNOWING WHAT DIRECTION YOUR GOING IN SUCH AS FASHION,VIDEOS,PROMO ETC,. MOST IMPORTANTLY CAN YOU TAKE GOOD/BAD CRITICISM? NOT EVERYONE IS GOING TO THINK YOUR SO BEAUTIFUL. WHEN YOU DECIDED TO PURSUE THAT MODELING INDUSTRY YOU HAVE TO WATCH WHAT YOU DO, SAY AND CARRY YOURSELF BECAUSE PEOPLE ARE WAITING FOR YOU TO MESS UP SO THEY CAN PUT YOU DOWN.
The photos I have seen of you have been of high quality,sexy, but not trashy booty pics. What keeps you from portraying a scandalous image for attention?
WELL MY PHOTOGRAPHER IS DERRICK D. BROWN. HIS PHOTOS ARE IMAGES OF WHAT IS SEXY,NUDE ART,BASICALLY HOW A WOMAN STARTS & END HER DAY ETC BUT IT’S DONE TASTEFULLY. I’M A MOM SO AT THE END OF DAY I HAVE TO REMEMBER THAT ONE DAY MY KIDS WILL SEE THOSE PHOTOS. I JUST FEEL LIKE I DON’T HAVE TO SHOW MY ASS OFF TO SELL MY PHOTOS. TO BE HONEST I’M VERY DIFFERENT I’M 6’0 & I GET SO MANY DM’S & COMMENTS ON HOW MEN LOVE MY HEIGHT & MY LONG LEGS JUST TO SEE ME IN SEXY HEELS MAKES THEIR DAY. I EVEN HAVE FEMALES THAT GIVE ME COMPLIMENTS AS WELL. SO YEAH SEX MAY SELL BUT MY WHOLE BODY IS MY PACKAGE THAT’S SELLING. YES I’M TALL BUT I’M CURVED IN THE RIGHT PLACES THAT GIVES MY BODY THAT ACKNOWLEDGMENT.
If you could do a photo shoot on location anywhere in the world where would that be?
I WOULD HAVE TO SAY DISNEY WORLD BECAUSE I HAVE ALWAYS TOLD MY KIDS THAT IF I ACCOMPLISH MY GOALS THAT’S MY DREAM VACATION FOR ME & MY FAMILY. I WOULD WANT THAT SHOOT TO CAPTURE ME FOR WHO I AM AS A MOM,DAUGHTER,SISTER,MODEL. A WOMAN WHO LIKES TO LIVE LIFE TO FULLEST.
Besides modeling what is on the agenda?
BEING A MOTHER,NURSING SCHOOL FOR MEDICAL ASSISTANT
I see your not all tattooed up. No judging I don’t have any either. Not my thing. Why no ink?
ACTUALLY I HAVE ONE ON MY LOWER BACK BUT IT’S MY MIDDLE NAME. IT’S NOT HUGE AT ALL I DID THAT TO GET OVER THE FEAR OF GETTING INKED BUT I DON’T HAVE ANY PLANS FOR MORE.
When people think cigars they usually think old republican in a expensive suit. What do you think when you see a modern young cigar smoking wine sipping gentleman?
I NEVER BEEN A BIG FAN OF THAT BUT IF HE DOES IT I JUST WANT HIM TO RESPECT ME & NOT SMOKE AROUND ME. NOW WHILE I’M NOT AROUND THEN WE ARE OKAY BECAUSE HE IS IN HIS FREE TIME. THE WINE DOESN’T BOTHER ME LONG AS HE’S NOT A HEAVY WINE DRINKER LOL
In your bio on OneShotPromo.com you describe yourself as relaxed,upscale & 1stclass. I sum that up as Luxe. So I’m going to ask some Luxe questions to see how you handle a few situations. This is not a test. LoL
OKAY I’M READY LET’S GO 
You and friends plan to book a vacation 3 months from now. When the day arrives some people are not ready to book. What do you do?
I WOULD UNDERSTAND EVERYONE’S MONEY ISSUES & I WOULD JUST MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ME,MY KIDS,& FAMILY TO TRAVEL. I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED TO TRAVEL & A FAMILY VACATION IS ALWAYS AWESOME IN MY BOOK.
Your allergic to seafood but a guy takes you to a seafood restaurant anyway.
I WOULD JUST TELL HIM WE COULD DO DESSERT & DRINKS NO BIG DEAL. I’M REAL LAID BACK NOT PICKY & IF HE PAYING I’M NOT COMPLAINING. THAT’S A GENTLEMEN. BUT I DO LOVE SEAFOOD. LOL
A world famous photographer promises fame ,but asks you to pose nude. How do you handle that?
WELL I HAVE BEEN WORKING WITH ONE OF THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHER BASED IN DALLAS TEXAS “DERRICK D. BROWN SINCE JANUARY 2011 AND I HAVE POSE NUDE BEFORE. AT FIRST IT WAS A BIRTHDAY PIC FOR MYSELF I WAS JUST HAVING FUN BUT THEN I BECAME VERY COMFORTABLE IN MY OWN SKIN & EVERY SINCE THEN I HAVE BEEN OK.
Your going to dinner you come out the house dressed to go to Nobu & the guy pulls up to Applebees. Now what?
WELL LIKE I STATED BEFORE I’M NOT PICKY. SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO RESPECT A MAN’S BUDGET. THAT DOESN’T MEAN HE CHEAP AT ALL I JUST WANT HIM TO RESPECTFUL & SHOW ME A GOOD TIME. TO BE HONEST I NEVER BEEN TO APPLEBEE’S, BUT I LOVE CHEDDARS FOOD PLACE.
Would you prefer one pair of Red Bottoms or 15 pair of Payless shoes?
WOW NOW THAT’S A TRICK QUESTION LOL I WOULD HAVE TO SAY RED BOTTOMS BECAUSE I WOULD HAVE THEM DESIGNED IN A WAY THAT DESCRIBES ME VERY FUN SPIRIT.
Quality over quantity! It appears you are upscale and 1st class. You are a lot nicer than I. You’re such a lady. I feel mean now. Thank you for making time for Broad and Luxe. Any words for your fans?”
I JUST WANT TO SAY THANKS TO ALL OF MY FANS & SUPPORTERS I READ ALL YOUR COMMENTS,EMAILS, ETC,. ALL OF THAT IS MY MOTIVATION. I LOVE EACH & EVERY ONE. CONTINUE TO FOLLOW ME ON MY JOURNEY & A SPECIAL SHOUT OUT TO MOKIE (D.A.SQUAD) HE PUSHES ME TO STAY FOCUS WHEN EVER I HAVE BEEN OFF TRACK HE CONTACTS ME FOR THAT SERIOUS TALK & I LOVE HIM FOR THAT!!!!!!
-SIGNED WITH LOVE MISS LOVELY CHANEL-
Follow Lovely Chanel on Twitter at @Chanel_LoveSyOu She doesn’t like cigars, but she wont embarrass you when you pull up to the drive through. Still Broad&Luxe.
Also follow Photographer @DBrownphotos and see more at Whatissexydbrown.com
Safe travels to my people out there in London, Caribbean and on Cruise Ships. Here is some Luxe music to play while you get ready to hit the pool, beach,cigar lounges or clubs. Enjoy those cigars and keep your wallet in your front pocket! Check out these new vids by Pusha-T of the Clipse. Follow Pusha on twitter at @Pusha_T LUXE!
***Bonus*** Swedish House Mafia feat. Tinie Tempah “Miami 2 Ibiza”
David Guetta feat. Akon “Sexy Chic”
Summer isnt over when you fly some place warm. We still buying swim trunks and bathing suits. LUXE!
Recently on a excursion through NYC I was a little tired from walking and throwing it in the bag. It was hot outside and I was cigar-less. Then I look up and see the Montecristo Cigars establishment on 5th Ave. They have cigars & ac to save me.
I walk inside and there are plenty of cigars, but the air conditioner wasn’t the only thing cold. The looks I received were colder. Not one hello, may I help you or what do you usually smoke? If you don’t wish to assist me smile and walk away. Don’t look at me like, wtf are you doing here?
I know I know we go into cigar lounges for cigars not to be smacked on the butt & high fived. I am aware that this is a major tourist area and large places like this usually lack personality. That’s no excuse. Holt’s treated me great. Even J&R did when I used to go. There was one young man with twists in his hair who seemed to be lively and energetic about his role in the cigar industry. He was happily assisting another customer with a lighter. The rest of the staff appeared to be sizing me up for my burial suit. Not Luxe…
I took my money elsewhere. Instead I spent my almost $100 on pastries at Dean & Deluca for the women I love & got my cigars when I got back to Jersey. LUXE!
H&M (Hennes&Mauritz) the affordable designer retail chain department store has got together with Versace to create basically a cheaper line for more sales. And I’m not mad. The recession is real and even producers of the highest high end luxury items feel it. Donatella Versace certainly isn’t doing us a favor.
The Versace H&M line with be for sale November 2011 and January 2012 for spring. A Women’s and men’s selection will be available, but that’s not why I care. I doubt any of these clothes besides a vintage Notorious B.I.G. button up can fit me. There will also be a Versace Home Collection available. This is what I want to see. The gaudy pillow cases, bed sets, linens, towels & hopefully tableware.
The Versace Home Collection is Luxe. I am positive the H&M home collection will be not as bold & royal family-ish as the original collection by Versace, but hope its a tiny bit inspired from it. I’m just not in the right frame of mind or pocket to pay $300 per dinner plate or $277 for a pillow. Maybe that means I don’t need Versace. Maybe it means I was smart enough to buy in a recession.
Here are some items from the original Versace Home Collection not H&M.
Designer clothes are nice. Designer home is nicer.
