When thinking of summer vacation most people dream of palm trees, white sandy beaches and endless pina coladas.  But one city that can be sure of plenty of tourist action regardless of the season is Manhattan.  New York City is filled with historical landmarks, shopping, great hotels and a nightlife that can surpass

KTB: My name is Karen Taylor Bass from Kingston Jamaica and I came to the United states when I was six years old and I’ve been here since then but I go home at least once a year

P: How did you get your start in media?

KTB: I started out in public relations over 10 years ago, and I did PR for corporations, entertainment, and sports that was my niche specialty.  I was part of the Patra Mad Cobra Shabba

Vida Mahimbo of Tanzania began her experience with fabrics while playing at the feet of her designer mother while she worked. Her father was an engineer working in the textile industry. She was already on the path to fashion at an early age, and eventually was able to travel and persue this path. Vida was one of the 24 designers that presented collections at the first ever Africa Fashion Week NY this past July. Since then she has continued to mission to make Kanga Jeans a brand known world wide. We’re proud to present an interview with this designing African lady.

CP: So where does the name 54 Kingdoms come from?

Nana: Well there are 54 nations in Africa and Kingdoms is a reference to the the whole Pan African movement.  It’s not just about Africa it’s our brothers and sisters overseas, the West Indies the Americas, anyone that believes in their African Ancestry and the African bloodline that is the Kingdom.

CP: Tell me about the tag line I’ve seen on your website “Identity through Fashion”

Kwaku:  Identity through fashion, that means when you are wearing 54 Kingdoms clothing you know exactly what you’re wearing. You know you are inspired,you are proud, you’re educated and motivated. They say if you educate one man you educate a million ...and that's what we’re trying to do.

Best places to Shop Online for Fashion

Ladies love to shop but sometimes we just don’t have the time.  That’s why online shopping has become essential in our lives.  You can shop at any hour of the day when it is convenient for you.  Online shopping has become more popular than old fashion shopping because you save time, gas money and are able to visit dozens of stores online in less time than it would take you to visit one store normally.  There are thousands of great styles available online and you can shop around for prices.  Instead of flying to the United Kingdom for European fashion, you can order clothes and accessories online from