As the end of the year approaches, it's only fitting that we look back at the fashion and beauty moments that made 2009 so interesting.

Black Voices compiled the top five beauty and fashion moments of the year:

Michelle Obama's Fashion

The first lady's conservative yet unique style has inspired blogs, books and online discussion groups. From her Isabel Toledo inauguration coat to the cardigan she wore to meet Queen Elizabeth, Mrs. O has everyone from Oscar de la Renta to Time correspondents discussing her toned arms and fashion choices. Though she patronizes American designers such as Michael Kors, Rachel Roy and Jason Wu, she also makes no bones about shopping at Target and J.Crew. In these recession-heavy times, it was refreshing to see a first lady with an equal balance of sophistication and sensibility.

Celebrities Cutting Off Their Hair

While hip-hop celebrities Cassie, Keyshia Cole and Lala Vasquez shocked the public by shaving the sides of their hair, they were all upstaged by Solange Knowles, who ditched her long hair for an inch-long cut. Her bold, courageous move, in the midst of status quo Hollywood weaves and hair extensions, caused much discussion in cyberspace and landed the singer on Oprah's couch.



Blackface in French Vogue

Lara Stone's blackface editorial in French Vogue was the fashion faux pas felt all around the world. CNN pundits and bloggers tore the trendsetting monthly to shreds while questioning it motives for using black skin paint instead of a real black model. But just as soon as the controversy ebbed, V Magazine and 'America's Next Top Model' tried their hands at it, too. Though the debate rages on, those first inflammable pictures made many question fashion and how far we've come since the days of Amos 'n Andy.


Lady Gaga

American singer Lady Gaga started trends and broke the fashionable mold for on-stage performers. From her strict anti-pants policy to her questionable makeup and feather- or bubble-covered frocks, she had fashion editors talking all year.


Beyonce's Leotards

Beyonce's video for her hit song 'Single Ladies' ignited a dance and fashion craze as women rushed to put on leotards, high heels pumps and mime putting a ring on it while in the club. Although the style can't work for most, many tried, making the look one of the most popular Halloween costumes of 2009.

Which trends stood out for you?