R&B siren Keyshia Cole is wearing a sheer tunic, and see-through clothing is one of the spring’s hottest trends.   Just because it’s a trend, however, doesn’t make it attractive.  No one wants to see your underwear through your dress, so I’d leave sheer clothing where it belongs.  Back in the ’80s.

Actress Paula Patton is married to singer Robin Thicke and they seem like a loving couple (then again I thought Rihanna and Chris Brown were a perfect match, so my couple-dar may be a bit off).  And pretty Paula seems like a real sweetheart.  That said, I have to go for the fashion jugular here.  In this matronly dress, she looks like she’s either auditioning for a new version of “Hee Haw” or going to her senior prom circa 1988. 

When I saw Natalie Cole on TV last night, I thought she looked amazing.  When I look at her cleavage-baring dress up close in this photo, however, I’m not so sure.  While Cole’s hair and makeup are flawless and the dress incorporates several spring trends– one-shouldered, bohemian chic, vibrant yellow color, chunky chain jewelry — it sort of looks like she’s been restrained in a gown that someone spilled mustard on.

Maybe I’m just being a mean girl.  What do you think of these Grammy outfits?  Are they hot or hot messes?

Photo credits:  Bauer Griffin

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Isn’t she lovely?  American Idol Jordin Sparks‘ star shone bright at the Grammy Awards.  I love this flowing, bohemian print gown.  It’s a fresh and hip take on a formal frock.

I wish I could sing such high praise for Brit songbird Leona Lewis‘ red carpet look.  The usually flawless fashionista faltered in this dated, nude sequined gown that too closely matched her bronze skin tone.  And is it me, or does this dress make her hips look wide?

Beyonce’s baby sis Solange loves to show off her long legs.  I suppose if you got it, why not flaunt it?  Although the yellow mini-dress is current and youthful, it’s a tad too mini and not dressy enough for the Grammy red carpet. 

I don’t love it or hate it, however, at least Jennifer Hudson’s Grammy dress is contemporary and edgy.  On a critical note, I do adore the blue suede pumps, but I’m not sure they work with the dress. Fashion commentary aside, I’m happy that Jennifer — who as we know tragically lost her mother, brother and nephew last year — won the Grammy for Best R&B Album.

What do you think of these Grammy fashions?  Which looks are hot and which looks are not?

Photo credits: Newscom

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(Fantasia now)

Move over Oprah, there’s a new celebrity weight loss story in town.  While searching for pre-Grammy award photos, I found one of Season 3 American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino and did a double-take.  The last time I saw Fantasia, she had a hideous hairdo and was chunkier than usual. Well, look at the recording and Broadway star now!  

Fantasia has made headlines in recent months for nearly losing her home due to an unpaid debt, but was all smiles at Clive Davis’ Pre-Grammy Gala.  She looked slim, trim and glamorous, and her hair and makeup was fresh and modern.

The American Idol star told another blog she lost 20 pounds and she’s planning to wear a vintage dress to tonight’s Grammy awards.  I’ll be watching for her on the red carpet.  Congrats Fantasia!  Inquiring minds want to know your weight loss secrets.  I bet Oprah does too.

(Fantasia in 2007)

Photo credits: Newscom

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Wayna’s name (short for Waynab) means “the wine of God or communion,” and her music’s positive vibe will bring soul seekers together.  The singer’s path to Sunday’s 51st Grammy Awards ceremony, however, had an unlikely detour.  After graduating from the University of Maryland at College Park, where she studied English and speech communications, Wayna landed a plumb job as a writer in the White House for the Clinton administration.

Via telephone, Wayna described President Clinton as “gracious and humble.”

The natural beauty always knew, however, that music was her calling.  The record store she passed every day on her way to the White House was a constant reminder.

“I knew from the time I was young that I wanted to be an artist,” she said.  ”When I left [my writer job], I never looked back.”

I chatted with the lovely singer prior to the Grammy awards.  Hot Mama Daily readers, meet Wayna (www.myspace.com/waynamusic).

Hot Mama Daily: Where were you when you found out about your Grammy nomination?

Wayna: I was in South Africa for a wedding in a remote area of Capetown, so I wasn’t able to watch TV.  The day after her wedding my friend and I went online and [then] celebrated in the lobby in a nice hotel.

HMD: Did you ever think you’d receive a Grammy nomination?

Wayna: I’m an underdog.  The fact I’m [nominated] with artists who have major labels, it’s a miracle.  It’s proof that if you [hope] for the best, God can make anything happen.

HMD: “Lovin’ U (Music)” is a cover of a Minnie Riperton song.  Are you a fan of her music?

Wayna: [Minnie] shaped my sound and my writing.  I love the purity in her voice and her lyrical content.

HMD:  The song “Billy Club” stands out.  What inspired that song?

Wayna: With “Billy Club,” I’ve heard so many stories from my friends. I also had a bad experience with local police.  I was listening to Billie Holiday’s “Strange Fruit” and wanted to make a modern day statement [but] against police brutality. 

HMD: You’re such a natural beauty.  What are your favorite products?

Wayna: I recently discovered a completely raw honey skin cream that takes away scars.  I also love all of Carol’s Daughter products.  But the best way to stay healthy is to  eat lots of fruits and veggies and drink plenty of water.

HMD: What are your favorite places to shop?

Wayna: Pink November is a shop in DC that sells vintage and designer clothes.  I usually shop with a budget in mind, but every now and then I see something and have to have it. Mustard Seed in Bethesda, Maryland is [another] vintage shop that’s eclectic and affordably priced.

HMD: What do you miss most about Ethiopia?

Wayna: I think it’s the pace of life.  People are connected in a more meaningful way.  There’s a real quality of life there.

Photo credit: The Bloom Effect/Wayna

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To be honest, I’m not a huge fan of Grammy nominee Leona Lewis’ voice.  It’s a pretty voice (”Bleeding Love” was a catchy song) and the natural beauty has all of the makings of a star, yet unlike vintage Whitney and Mariah, I’m just not feeling “The X Factor.”  What I am feeling, however, is Leona’s flair for fashion.  The Brit sure knows how to pull a casual yet chic outfit together.

The above photo captures her on a recent shopping trip in New York City and I love the riding boots, leggings, and black cap.  I’ve never considered a white coat, and I like the fit of Leona’s jacket.  And I know it’s a big trend, but I’m on the fence when it comes to the black fringe hobo bag. What do you think?

After a couple months of searching, I found the perfect pair of black riding boots for a nice price at Nine West.  I plan to break them in over the weekend.  So I have at least one component of Leona’s ensemble.  Here’s how you can assemble all of her look:

Boots from Nine West, $130 (plus an additional 30% off online and at most Nine West stores)

Coat from Victoria’s Secret, $94.99

Wool fitted cap from Amazon.com, $24.00

Fringe hobo bag by Melie Bianco, $67.50

Photo credits: Newscom, Victoria’s Secret, Amazon.com, Silvia’s Shop, Nine West

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To say that 2008 has been a turbulent year for Jennifer Hudson would be a gross understatement. First there was the good news that she and former “I Love New York 2″ contestant David Otunga were engaged after a whirlwind romance. Then the unthinkable news of the senseless murders of Jennifer’s mother, younger brother, and 7-year-old nephew in October. Now that Jennifer’s estranged brother-in-law has been formally charged with the murders, it appears that justice will prevail. But the pain must still be unbearable.

I wasn’t sure when or if I would address Jennifer’s family tragedy here on Hot Mama Daily, however, during the holiday season spending time with family and loved ones is a blessing. So I want to extend my prayers and well wishes that the New Year give this talented singer and actress the strength to heal.  And may her family sleep in heavenly peace.

Ironically, “Spotlight” was the feel-good single of the year, and Jennifer’s self-titled debut recently received a Grammy award nomination for “Best R&B Album.”

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American Idol Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks is adorable and she has the voice of an angel. Her hair and makeup are always flawless, and the black patent leather pumps with a hint of red in the heel are killer.

But what do you think of the leopard print dress she recently wore to Clive Davis’ pre-Grammy party?

Is she a Hot Mama or “Jane of the Jungle” fashion victim?

Photo credit: Newscom 

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