The
worlds of Hip-Hop and fashion collided this week in New York during two annual
events presented by television network BET and New York radio station Hot 97.
Last
night (Mar. 8), Hot 97 presented the fourth annual Full Frontal Fashion Show at
New York’s Manhattan Center that included performances from
rappers Rich Boy and Unk, reggae newcomer Collie Buddz, and R&B pop entertainers
Lloyd and Omarion.On-air
personality Angie Martinez hosted the fashion show as Rocawear, Sean John and
Baby Phat showcased Winter and Spring styles.Fans
were treated to surprise on-stage appearances from Juelz Santana and Bow Wow,
who was celebrating his 20th birthday.Celebrities
including Usher, Julito McCullum of The Wire, The Inc’s Irv Gotti, Hip-Hop legend
Kool Herc and others opted for a low-key presence in the crowded Hammerstein Ballroom.Dozens
of models walked the runway amongst the paparazzi, and performances highlighted
hits like Rich Boy’s "Throw Some D’s," Omarion’s "Ice Box,"
Lloyd’s "You," and Unk’s "Walk It Out.""This
is a lifestyle event we put together four years ago to bring some fashion and
Hip-Hop together," Ebro, Hot 97 Program Director,told AllHipHop.com. "[People]
get to see some ill fashions from the hottest Hip-Hop lines, we bring out the
hottest acts. It’s a cool chillout, it’s not a bunch of beef. When we promote
a show, it’salways thorough."On
Wednesday (Mar. 7), R&B singers Chris Brown and Ciara hosted BET’s Rip The
Runway Fashion show at the same venue. Celebrities
like Mims, Angela and Vanessa Simmons, Paul Wall, Brooke Hogan, Deelishis, Musiq
Soulchild, Lloyd, model Melyssa Ford were on hand during Rip The Runway, which
united various celebrities with the world’s top designers to showcase new
fashions. Brand
Jordan’s fashion line accentuated models’ curves as Rich Boy and Polow The
Don performed “Throw Some D’s” to the backdrop of Jordan imagery.Other
fashion lines featured were Nelly’s Apple Bottoms, 50 Cent’s G-Unit
Clothing, The Steve Harvey Collection, plus-size line Monif C, LRG, a line designed
by Project Runway’s Mychael Knight, The Andesew and Amaya Swimwears. The
evening featured performances by Mims, Chris Brown and others. Bet’s Rip The Runway
Fashion will air on March 14 at 10/9c on BET.