You’ve checked out the sexiest single ladies in Hollywood, now take a look at some of those who are off the market.

When it comes to signing “Happy Birthday,” no one did a better job of belting out the tune than the late Marilyn Monroe. The rendition of the song she sang to John F. Kennedy not only piqued his interests, but also the interests of everyone watching the broadcast.

With President Barack Obama turning 48-years-old today, August 4, 2009,  GIANT makes its selections as to who should serenade the Commander-In-Chief at his birthday party.

Beyonce

Obama’s already a fan of her music, and Mrs. Carter could channel Sasha Fierce for this performance and make her Presidential version the new standard.

Alicia Keys

There’s no doubt that A.Keys could deliver a splendid rendition of the song. Only we think that Michelle Obama would be in arms reach just to prevent Alicia from (possibly) wrecking the most famous home in America.

Scarlett Johansson

Say what you want about her acting skills, but we’d definitely  DVR a sultry, pouty Scar-Jo purring “Happy Birthday”  to El Presidente.

Lauryn Hill

Lauryn’s long overdue for a comeback and what better way to positively re-enter the public’s eye then by bringing her acoustic guitar to play for the President?

Michelle Obama

She could easily segue from “Happy Birthday” into “Birthday Sex.”

Here’s a collection of GIANT Magazine’s most memorable snapshots of the iconic Obamas.  

Elements Of Style: Funky Neckwear

Hardware is the perfect way to dress up a casual look or dazzle in your evening gear. Nowadays,necklines are getting an extreme makeover by designers. They are becoming more creative using a variety of materials, colors and shapes to create interesting pieces. Celebrities like Amerie, Adrienne Bailon, Serena Williams, and even our First Lady Michelle Obama can be seen sporting this look. Check out these hardcore divas in gallery below. -Malyia McNaughton

Hollywood’s finest brought glamour to the annual White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner. Many looks turned heads (not all in a good way), however, there were five ladies in particular that stole the red carpet. Check out this weekends fab five.

We all love Trya, but sometimes she’s a little over the top with her fashion sense. Thumps up for mastering subdues glamour!

Demi’s one shoulder goddess-like gown is a vision of beauty.

Kerry makes black not so basic with this stunning gown that flawlessly shows off her curves.

Natalie’s, sweetheart neckline gown by Balenciaga reminds me of my hometown, Washington D.C. The perfect blend of glam, sex, and conservativeness.

I had to dedicate an entire gallery to our First Lady, Michelle. She has every right to bare arms!  Her sleeveless fushia Micheal Kors sheath dress with piping details and jeweled pink flower necklace was a dynamic combo. Great look for the season.

It’s official. I heart Michelle Obama. Mind you, this is not a new emotion for me. Everyday, I feel more and more inspired by the new First Lady. Each morning as I watch the news and peruse the Internet, I follow Michelle Obama’s daily schedule, latest appearances and public display of generosity of spirit. What is intriguing about Ms. Obama is that she is forcing us to look at ourselves, our lives and others in a new way. Michelle Obama is encouraging us to do community service, spend time with our families, consider going green, suggesting we eat healthy and, by example, teaching us to be better human beings.

Not only is she redefining the role of the First Lady, but she is also transforming the vision of a strong woman and upping the ante about what it means to be a role model. As Michelle Obama’s “public approval” and “popularity” increases, we become more optimistic and empowered. Right before Ms. Obama took the stage at the Time 100 celebration, John Legend Twittered how exciting it was that she was about to speak. “I stand here today because of people who loved me, pushed me and believed in me,” she said at the Time event. Now Michelle Obama is doing the same to us.

Yesterday, our President attended a tree-planting ceremony in Washington in which I’m sure he’s regretting his choice of wearing dress shoes.  He should have taken a queue from the First Lady, Michelle who was dressed in her rubber galoshes.  However, he came through, made an effort and I still admire him all the same!

Michelle Obama brought students from D.C.’s  Bancroft Elementary over for the new White House Garden work and play time. The garden only cost $200 to develop and it will be used to cultivate food for White House events and for soup kitchens around the city.  First Lady also says the garden was the #1 issue she was questioned and praised about on her Euro-trip by other international First families.  They loved the idea of the U.S. First Family setting an example of fresh foods.  Many other countries use personal gardens as staple foods in their homes.

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama met with Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip at Buckingham Palace yesterday. The President was in in town for the G20 Economic Summit, but had the opportunity to spend several hours with the Queen overlooking the palace gardens.

For the customary gift exchange between the world leaders, Obama gave the Queen an iPod featuring footage of her 2007 visit to Richmond, Jamestown and Williamsburg, Virginia. In return, she offered the President her official portrait with the Prince.

It may seem a bit odd to give an 82-year-old dignitary an iPod, but according to The Christian Science Monitor, the Queen also owns a Wii. The gift exchange was highly anticipated after President Obama gave British Prime Minister Gordon Brown an assortment of improperly formatted DVDs in exchange for a pen holder carved from the timbers of an 1800s anti-slave ship.

While President Obama was talking economics with other world leaders, the First Lady got to rub shoulders with Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling and the queen of the runways Naomi Campbell, along with the spouses of other dignitaries.

The First Lady is reported to have hit it off with the Queen, as they were seen arm-in-arm at the reception.

-Lukas Brekke-Miesner

It’s often that my Market Editor, Kenyatta and I visit fashion showrooms to check out their collection.  Yet, when it’s Market week, which happens a couple times a year (and really lasts three weeks) our schedules are packed.  From men’s and women’s runway apparel, to shoes, jewelry and even lingerie, we view it all.  It’s the best way to see exactly what we want to run in our issue.  Sometimes you find yourself falling in love with a collection (yes, it is possible), and other times you’re just not impressed ‘umm, thanks.’  However, the point is, you know what’s in store for the next season.

We were invited by the cool Lance Lin (PR Manager of  J.Crew) to observe the Fall line, and they definitely get a thumbs up!  The contrast of fabrics, patterns and style have been tweaked a bit since my preppy high school days of ordering J.Crew cable knit sweaters, henleys and oxfords.  Not to worry, you can still get all of that and more with an updated twist in the details.  With the First Lady and President reminding us you can look fabulous for less than the luxury price, it’s worth checking out.

First Lady Michelle Obama is the new it girl and hot magazine cover subject. From Vogue to People, O the Oprah Winfrey Magazine to Newsweek, move over Nicole Kidman, Sarah Jessica Parker and Beyonce, Michelle O is coming to a newsstand near you and gaining celebrity status. Here is a look at some of the magazine covers (present and recent) featuring Michelle O. Could GIANT be next?

The Council of Fashion Designers of America will honor First Lady Michelle Obama with a Board of Directors Special Tribute for her personal style, mixing high-low and supporting avant-garde talent. Obama has been compared to Jackie O and Nancy Reagan for her interest in fashion. Ms. Obama was even featured on the March cover of Vogue. She has also taken risks by wearing clothing by young or virtually unknown designers like Jason Wu, Thakoon Panichgul and Maria Pinot. “We wanted to acknowledge her in a serious way for her commitment to American fashion,” said Steven Kolb, CFDA President. “A grant will be established in her name a young fashion company.” Work it out Michelle O.

Beyonce is on the April cover of Vogue magazine. Michelle O was on the March cover. Last year, Italian Vogue published a whole issue dedicated to black women. Then Barack Obama became President of the United States — change is in the air. In the Obama era, black (it seems) is beautiful again. Is black the new Vogue? Check out the other black women who have graced the cover of the “fashion bible” over the years.

Who do you think should be on the cover of Vogue? Tyra Banks, Chanel Iman or Kerry Washington?

For more Beyonce, click here to see her Italian Vogue spread!

Chicagoland is the birthplace of some of the most talented and powerful singers, rappers, actors, athletes and cultural influencers of our time. Sure President Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Michael Jordan have settled there and kept The Windy City on the map, but Chicago is the birthplace of some of the hottest stars and celebs on the scene. Check out a few of the Who’s Who from the biggest city in Illinois and the third largest city in the United States. Chi-town!

CAN SHE GET AN ENCORE?  YES, WE WANT MORE…

Our First Lady, Michelle Obama has been such a wow factor lately.  I mean, we’ve all realized how remarkable and classy she is of a woman, but let’s face it, when it comes to style she’s been giving us looks.

***CALLING ALL THE SINGLE LADIES…a-hem, AND GENTLEMEN….***

Beyonce is holding a  ‘Single Ladies’ dance video contest!!!   With such an alarming response of those of you, and yes I do mean YOU, who have been diligently practicing the routine and ready to perform anytime the song plays in the club, this is your opportunity to let the world see.

The grand prize winner of the contest will win $2500 and the video will be shown during Beyonce’s “I Am…” World Tour 2009.

Contestants must be 18yrs and older.  Send your performance clip with the following, full name(s), address and phone number to:

“Single Ladies”

8033 Sunset Blvd. #948

Los Angeles, CA 90046

Submissions must be postmarked no later than MARCH 6, 2009

TONIGHT!!

BET is premiering a new reality show, Harlem Heights @ 10pm/EST.  Check out the young, black and fabulous!

WOW (Word of the Week)

Abase (v): behave in a way so as to belittle or degrade someone

Let’s take this one back to when Jay-Z completely abased Mobb Deep in the Takeover.  We all went crazy!

“I’ve got money stacks bigger than you

When I was pushin’ weight, back in eighty-eight

you was a ballerina I got your pictures I seen ya”

Celebrities are making fashion (and political) statements with military inspired jackets and coats. Think of George Washington, the French or Russian Revolutions, Little Drummer Boy or Circus Boy styled jackets and you get the idea. From Beyonce to Cold Play, Michelle Obama to Kanye West, celebs are paying attention to military details. Check out some of style soldiers.

The Smithsonian Institute, purveyors of American history and pop culture, wants Aretha Franklin’s grey studded church lady hat for it’s permanent collection.

The Queen of Soul wore the custom-made hat when she performed “My Country ‘Tis Of Thee” at President Barack Obama’s Inauguration on January 20, 2009. Apparently, hat designer Luke Song has been swamped with orders of the bling-bowed hat which cost over $500. Song has been selling knock-off versions en mass for about $179 a lid since that historic day. Franklin has not decided if she will donate the hat to repository. Michelle Obama has given her Jason Wu Inaugural Ball Gown to The Smithsonian and it will go on display this Summer.

First J. Crew, now Michelle Obama is teaming up with L.A.-based interior designer Michael Smith bringing affordable aesthetics to the new pad.  Some of Smith’s clients include Steven Spielberg, Dustin Hoffman and Michelle Pfeiffer.  Yet, this time his focus is on the rooms of ten-year-old Malia and seven-year-old Sasha, while searching for items from reasonably priced Pottery Barn and Anthropologie.

Smith plans to take the Obamas’ “casual style” while “utilizing affordable brands.”

The family has also brought their African and Asian art collection from their $1.65 million house in Chicago Hyde Park.

Michelle Obama will join her husband, President Barack Obama in the house of wax.

Madame Tussauds in Washington, D.C. announced that it will be adding a Michelle O. likeness to their famous wax collection in March. Obama is only the third First Lady to be immortalized in the museum joining Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Tussauds has created likeness of everyone from Elvis to Angelina Jolie, Tyra Banks to Will Smith, Justin Timberlake to Johnny Depp.

Michelle Obama’s style is a notable departure from the conservative Mrs. President’s of yore. Rather than suit up in a Boxy Saint John suit, she opts to striking statements.

People Love to hate things they don’t understand, but after this weekend all arguments most end. First Lady, Michelle Obama IS a style icon! Don’t agree? Here are three reasons why.

Reason #1: Statement Piece

During the Obama’s campaign trail to the White House she complimented Barack’s traditional navy and black suits with bold colored dresses. This is a sign of confidence. Which is one of the main ingredients in the making of an Icon.

Reason #2: She keeps it real

For the first time in a very long time, our new First Lady has a strong, real life fashion sense. Mrs. Obama does not have a calculated image. Her fashion sense includes putting together looks from mainstream clothing stores like J.crew and White House Black Market.

Reason #3: Inauguration 2009

Her bold and unusual Inaugural looks were right on point with her wardrobe choices throughout the campaign. She does classic and conservative with a modern edge, which is a reflection of many women in this country today. Not since Jackie Kennedy entered the White House has so much attention been paid to a potential first lady’s fashions. Michelle Obama’s style sense is garnering much attention.

America’s little princesses are too adorable for words. Here are seven of their cutest moment from the Inaugural events.

I’m still buzzed from all the excitment our world just witnessed! While celebrating in DC it was certainly the energy of the people that kept me hyped. By yesterday evening I was glued to the TV wondering what Michelle Obama was going to wear to the Inaugural Ball. Over the past few days our First Lady really turned it up a notch with classic looks, hollywood glamour and elegant style. Some of the designers worn were Narciso Rodriguez, J. Crew, Isabel Toledo and 26-year-old Jason Wu who was responsible for Michelle’s pale yellow, ruffled, full-length gown.

At “We are One” in Narciso Rodriguez

Kid’s Inaugural Concert wearing J. Crew

Inauguration Parade wearing dress and coat by Isabel Toledo, gloves and shoes by J. Crew

Neighborhood ball wearing Jason Wu

Beyonce serenades our new President and First Lady with Etta James’ classic love song, the appropriately titled, “At Last.” The couple has eyes only for each other, sharing laughs and quiet conversation during their First Dance, as attendees of the Neighborhood Ball (including Vanessa Williams, Kerry Washington, Mary J. Blige, Denzel Washington, Diddy, and will.i.am) watch on, some being brought to tears.

Barack Obama, from his second book, The Audacity of Hope, describing the first time he kissed Michelle:

“I asked if I could kiss her. It tasted of chocolate.”

Read more quotes here.

Today is Michelle Obama’s 45th Birthday. The First Couple Elect celebrated Thursday night with dinner at Equinox restaurant. Barack Obama was quoted as saying: “Everything came off without a hitch.” He took a piece of jewelry to the waiter and had him bring the gift with some champagne. “The gift came out, the champagne, Michelle loved it,” Obama said.

* It’s also Muhammad Ali’s birthday. Happy Birthday Champ!

Here’s to you both.

Beyonce is going to be singing the Etta James 1961 classic “At Last” for Barack and Michelle Obama’s first Inaugural dance. The superstar says it’s a “dream come true.” Peep Bey’s performance of “At Last” at Fashion Rocks!

Barack Obama is a Renaissance man. He served as the first black president of the Harvard Law Review and won two Grammys for the audio versions of his memoirs. He’s a former civil rights attorney and a skillful left-handed basketball player who references Jay-Z and Lil Wayne.

This is the man who Hollywood resoundingly supports and to whom Oprah Winfrey gives her blessing. Ads for his Republican opponent, Arizona Senator John McCain, even referred to him as “The Biggest Celebrity in the World.”

As the first African-American president in US history, this biracial scholar, family man and community organizer is revolutionizing politics. Armed with and unafraid to use social-networking tools such as Facebook and Black Planet, Obama boldly marketed his “Change” campaign through e-mail blasts and text messages. Obama gives weight to all things pop: music, art, fashion, film, the Internet and fame.

We celebrate the power and profound influence of a leader. When Obama accepted the nomination at the Democratic National Convention, on the 45th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legendary “March on Washington” speech, CNN political analyst Donna Brazile said, “Tonight is a giant night for this country.” No truer words have been spoken. President-elect Obama has made politics and government sexy and compelling again and motivated the youth vote along the way. Obama is the man standing up for change, and for that, GIANT salutes him. – EMIL WILBEKIN

Click here to see GIANT’s entire Barack Obama Special Report: “Leader Of The New School”!

Over the past few months there has been a lot of talk about Barack and Michelle’s fashion sense. Fashion designers have even submitted sketches to see who will dress our First couple for inaugural events. But what about our First girls Malia, 10, and Sasha, 7? These black princesses cannot be underestimated. They have given America  some of its best moments. Whether they were falling asleep on their father’s speeches or asking if his infomercial would interfere with their own television shows, daddy’s little girls have kept America tuned in.

Check out a few looks that will be perfect for the parade, ball, and school.

INAUGURATION PARADE
Malia Obama

Sasha Obama

INAUGURAL BALL

Malia Obama

Sasha Obama

SCHOOL DAYS

Malia Obama

Sasha Obama

It’s a brand new day in America. As we kick-off the New Year, it’s clear that we need a resolution: Change. Between the economic crisis, the war, global warming and the HIV/AIDS pandemic, we have no choice but to switch it up. Fortunately, we have a leader. Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, is here to navigate, direct and support us. It’s incredible that he is an African American and breaking down racial and cultural barriers along the way. But most importantly, he is a visionary. From January 14 to January 22, GIANTmag.com will be covering the “celebrity + style + culture” surrounding this man and this occasion. In honor of Obama’s Presidential Inauguration, a historical event of seismic proportions, we present: A New Day. — Emil Wilbekin, Editor-in-Chief

Celebrity:
Usher’s “New Day”
Chris Paul’s “New Day”
Akon’s “New Day”
Bow Wow’s “New Day”
Mary Mary’s “A New Day”
Carmelo Anthony’s “A New Day”
Keri Hilson’s “A New Day”
La La Vazquez’s “A New Day”
D’Angelo’s “A New Day”
Obama Hip Hop Tracks
A New Day: Inaugural Playlist
In the Key of B
Inauguration Performances
Singing for the Prez
Hip-Hop Is Not Invited!
Inaugural Concerts
Fantasy Playlist: The Obama Inauguration
GALLERY: Celebs Say, “Yes, We Can!”
Musicians Celebrate Obama’s Victory
The Obamas’ First Dance
Malia and Sasha’s Cutest Inauguration Moments
Inaugural Affection
Obama’s Entertainment Cabinet
Celeb Blog: Nicola Vassell’s “On the Move in D.C.”
Celeb Blog: Joy Bryant’s “Together at the Inauguration”
Young Jeezy Kicks It for Obama

Style:
First Kids Style
Inaugural Looks for Lady Obama
The First Tailor
The Obama Streetwear Phenomenon
Belles of the Balls
Michelle Gets Birthday Bling
Looks For Less: Inauguration Style
Red, White & Blue: Corny or Cute?
Inaugural Greatest Pix
Michelle O. Rocks Wu Wear
Love It or Hate It: Michelle Obama is a Style Icon

Culture:
Obama’s New Ride
Call to Service
Spider-Man Swings with Obama
Inaugural Balls and Galas
Quilts for Obama
Presidential Portrait
Obama Quote of the Day Jan. 14
Obama Quote of the Day Jan. 15
Obama Quote of the Day Jan. 16
Obama Quote of the Day Jan. 17
Obama Quote of the Day Jan. 18
Obama Quote of the Day Jan. 19
Obama Quote of the Day Jan. 20
It’s Official
Our Inauguration
Hi, Hater
The Obama Podcasts
Leader of the New School
The Ultimate Inauguration Survival Guide
GIANT Joins Celebrate 44
Obama Water?
The Paparazzi President
The Soul Train
100 Days… 100 Movies
Tatted Up for Obama
Presidential Palate
Role Call
The Sickest Obama Artists
Listen Up, Chief
Ladies First in Obama Staff
The Complete 2009 Inauguration Schedule
Obama on the Streets
The Prez Visits Legoland
The Superhero President
A Ball for the People
Remembering Martin Luther King Jr.
Special Edition: MLK Playlist
Obama: The Coffee Table Books
A Poem For “A New Day”
DVD Round-Up: Obama Y’all! Edition
Hail To The New Chief
Elizabeth Alexander’s Praise Song for the Day
The People Celebrate “A New Day”
An Awesomeness Occasion
It’s A Desecration, Bitches!
The Obamas Make Me Emo
Obama Headlines from Around The World
Obama is the New Measure of Time
Inauguration 2009 (Or, How I Went Entirely Too Hard for Obama)
Eat ‘Em Up
The Art of the Inauguration
Can’t Is Not An Option

8. Rihanna

Not only did the Bajan beauty have her fair share of chart toppers, but her relentless touring, jaw dropping outfits and non-stop appearances in the press kept everyone’s eyes and ears locked on her.

7. Beyonce

Sure, we’re partial, but there are very few stars that shine brighter than our Dec/Jan 2009 cover-girl Beyonce. From her monster album I Am Sasha Fierce… to her performance in  Cadillac Records as Etta James, the incomparable star proves that no matter which personality she’s channelling, she’s always fierce.

6. Chanel Iman

For Spring/Summer 2008, these were just some of the shows for which the Atlanta born/Los Angeles bred model ripped the runway:

Alexander McQueen, Alexander Wang,  Badgley Mischka, Behnaz Sarafpour, Bottega Veneta, Christian Dior, Christian Lacroix, D&G, DKNY, Diane von Furstenberg, Dolce & Gabbana, Donna Karan, Doo.Ri, Erin Fetherston, Hermès, Jean Paul Gaultier, John Galliano, L.A.M.B., La Perla, Louis Vuitton,Marc by Marc Jacobs, Marchesa, MaxMara, Michael Kors, Moschino, Oscar de la Renta, Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo, Vera Wang, Yves Saint Lauren.

Need we say  more?

4. Scarlett Johansson

When it’s reported that you’re Blackberry buds with President-Elect Obama before he even secured the office, you know you’re kind of a big deal.

3. Kerry Washington

Lakeview Terrace may not have been the box office smash that Kerry & co. were hoping for, but given that she’s got a reported five movies in the works, we’re pretty sure that she did something right in ’08.

And yes, we’re talking specifically, about this

2. Eva Mendes

If you things really come to those who wait, then you’d want to check out Eva’s femme-fatale appearance in The Spirit to see why she wouldn’t let 2008 go without a bang!

1. Michelle Obama

“Behind every strong man”…ah, you already know how it goes.

One thing’s for sure: the future First Lady proved that the old adage is true.

Throughout the historic 2008 election, Mrs. Obama kept her composure under fire and helped to rally support for her husband. Comparisons have been drawn to Jackie O., but we’re sure that Michelle Obama will make her own mark during her stay at the White House.

Those were our pick. What about yours?