OOTD: Featuring my little fashionista

If you are a blogger mommy like myself sometimes it is hard to explain to your loved ones just how time consuming blogging can be. Today I decided to bring my 7 year old fashionista  in the making along for the ride.

 

She knows that mommy is a fashion blogger, but sometimes she doesn't understand why mommy has to go to events, take lots of pictures or be in front of her computer for hours at a time. When I told her she would be on the blog with me today she was beyond excited. She has modeling experience and loves being in front of a camera so she was more than happy to assist in todays blog post.

 

 

 

We had so much fun, we are already a goofy pair so that made the experience even sweeter. I find that involving your kids in some of the things you do gives them a better understanding of what it is that you do. She even helped me with some poses & helped decide which pictures actually made it on the blog.

 

 

Now let's get to the fashion!

 

 

As you guys know I love vintage anything and todays outfit is dripping with vintage flare. I purchased my beautiful top from flyandfierce.com for $24.99. I absolutely adore anything that has color in it, for me you can never feel down if your life is full of color. The made my Bermuda shorts out of a old pair of Levi jeans. ( I bleached them myself) The shoes are from the thrift store for only $4.98 & my clutch is also thrifted $.99.

 

 

 

 

 

Amaya's entire outfit came from Jcpenney, which is one of my favorite places to shop for her they always have some of the cutest things. Not to mention the prices aren't to bad. I can't give you the exact pricing on this look because this was a gift for her birthday.

 

 

 

 

It's safe to assume Amaya enjoyed herself & I think this is just the first of many more appearances to come!

 

xoxoStayFabulousxoxo

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Style Stalking: Chavonshree

This week I came across a talented designer who rocks her own line {quite well I might add} and I thought it would be so dope to stalk the person behind the style. Chavonshree line is very colorful, its what I like to call feel good wear.

 

1. When did you fall in love with fashion?

I would have to say at an early age fashion was in my blood. I can think back when I was in elementary and my clothes and bows had to match. Also my hair had to be perfect. I remember calling my mom at her job one time to come fix my hair because my curls had drooped (because of humidity). So the fashion wheel was turning then, but that light bulb moment came when I took my first home economics class in the 6th grade. It was amazing to me to see us make creations out of just fabric and pattern pieces. From there the love of fashion became real.

2. What/Who are your fashion inspirations?

I would have to say Betsey Johnson, Andy Warhol, Roberto Cavalli, Solange, Marilyn Monroe, Alice and Olivia, Mara Hoffman are just a few of the people/brands that inspire me. As far as the "what" for my inspirations I would have to say leopard print and I'm very attracted to tropical stuff and nature. I absolutely love a good sunset or sunrise. It's like witnessing a freehand painting from God. What better inspiration than that!

3. How would you describe your style?

My own personal style is very street-wear chic mixed with a little vintage. A typical outfit for me is a button up shirt (tied at the bottom) or graphic tee with skinny jeans and a great pair of loafers. I also like arm accessories. I like a bunch of bracelets with a watch. That's my typical style, kind of different from what I design but I also mix in some of my own designs with my personal style.

4. What is the inspiration behind your line?

Just being able to do what I love. In the beginning of starting my own line I was very hesitant to get this thing going. I had the thoughts of what if I can't do this...what if people don't like my stuff...what if I fail but after I graduated and started working as a textile specialist (more of the corporate part of fashion), I knew then that part of the fashion world was not for me. So I literally would work my 7:30-4pm job and come home and work on my craft and personal orders for people until about 3 or 4 in the morning and repeat. I knew something had to change and quick because I knew being a designer was what I wanted to do and there was no doubt in my mind. I mean this is what I went to college for (apparel design), so with the encouragement of some amazing friends and the support of my awesome boyfriend now fiancé I'm doing Chavon Shree™ full time and couldn't be more happy!

5. Who is the target market for your line?

20-25 is the target market for my line but of course I've had a range of different age groups either interested in my pieces or purchasing an item.

6. What is the goal for your business/line?

I really want to get Chavon Shree™ into mass production so it doesn't have to be a one woman show forever and I would love to get a showroom set up in the west coast (Los Angeles) in the near future. I still would love to do custom orders but just with a dream team of people with the same dream as me to make it happen.

7. Are there any upcoming events that people can find your collection?

Yes if they are in Arkansas they can see my line featured in the Little Rock Rip the Runway show August 10th. If they are from Tampa Bay, FL or surrounding areas they can find my line featured in Tampa Bay Fashion Week September 17-20th. Also I'll be debuting Chavon Shree™ Bridesmaid dresses in the Bridal Savoir Faire September 28th at the Cypress Meadows Plantation in Howell, AR.

 

 

 

 

Do you feel inspired yet? Be sure to follow @chavonshree on instagram & check out her website www.chavonshree.com

 

xoxoStayfabulousxoxo

 

 

 

5 reasons why you should collaborate!!

No matter what your niche is at some point it will be pivotal for your brand, blog or business to collaborate!

 

I want to share with you 5 important reason why you should collaborate.

 

1. Everyone needs help.

 

We would all like to believe that we can handle it, that we can make all of our dreams come true all by ourselves. Truth of the matter is at some point we will need to reach out to some one and ask for their help. No matter what your niche is, you will not have all of the answers. Bringing someone in with more expertise will give your brand, blog or business just the boost it needs to take it to the next level. Don't be afraid to ask for help. I am not saying that it is not possible to do everything yourself, but it would make things a lot easier to reach out and ask for help.

 

2. There is power in numbers.

 

We have all heard that old saying a time or two. There is something about the meeting of the minds, it can be so eye opening. You are able to bounce ideas off of each other and think of things that will not only help you individually, it can also help you grow together. I myself am currently working on a couple of collaborations and I can honestly say that I have never felt more creatively in tune with my passion.  I am currently working with the super talented Arielle Ash better known as @rollinwithstone she is a super talented makeup artist from Houston, Tx.

 

 

She recently relocated to Virginia & is starting all over after leaving a very successful career as a makeup artist.

Arielle wanted to show a different side to her makeup, which is included styling the look. That is where I came in. We are able to use each others talents to build our individual brands.

 

 

 

 

3. Build a strong network.

 

What would business be without networking? It just may be one of the most important tools to building a successful brand, blog or business. Word of mouth has and will always be the most effective form of advertising. What people say about you or your business can impact it in a major way. Get the people talking! The best way to do that is through collaboration! Networking is a tool used to get you in touch with the right people, and if you are good hopefully keep you in touch. You want to be the person other people recommend. So what are you waiting for, there is a whole world that awaits you. {Check out a article I read on blogging101.thenaturalfashionista.com regarding the importance of networking, click here.}

 

4. Grow your following.

 

Since this post pertains to everyone I used the word following, because no matter if you are a brand, blog or business, if the people like what you have to offer they will follow. Now it takes more than a strong following to make your brand, blog or business successful. You have to be willing to put in the hard work, people don't want to be sold a dream. Make sure that whatever you are doing it is quality, take your time and it will show in your work. This may mean earlier mornings or later evenings, but it will all pay off in the end.

 

5. Less stress.

 

When you are overwhelmed with all of things it takes to be success you may add unnecessary stress on yourself. If you are anything like me you want to take your OOTD pictures yourself because you know the vision. That kind of attitude may not be so good for your brand, blog or business in the long run. When you are stressed out you cannot perform to the best of your abilities and you may waste time by trying to take on everything yourself. Remember Rome was not built in a day so be a little easier on yourself.

 

I hope that you found these tips helpful. I love to share things with you guys as I continue to build my brand.

 

 

xoxoStayFabulousxoxo



 

 

 

 

 

Divas, Inc. : Be the change you want to see!

This weekend I had the pleasure of speaking at the Divas, Inc. event Pink Lemonade Stand. Divas, Inc. is a non-profit founded by Kimber Lee, MA who has dedicated over 10 years towards women empowerment, youth development and life enhancement. The organization's mission is to improve the lives of women & girls through the power of philanthropy, education, advocacy, and collaboration to lead social change and empowerment.

 

It is time that we take the initiative to make our young women future leaders. Divas, Inc. is dedicated to helping women & girls understand the power that lives within them. There were so many beautiful spirits with dreams as high as the sky in attendance on Saturday.

 

We live in times were our communities are falling short of what they need because no one wants to get involved. Kimber Lee, MA understands the important of sewing seeds and that is exactly what this event did. We spoke to young women about entrepreneurship and following your passions.

 

 

Freelance makeup artist & entrepreneur Shannel Barnes shared her story of how hard work & determination has grown her business to where it is today. Find her work here.

 

 

The girls enjoyed light bites while they did fun and interactive exercises to get their entrepreneurship juices flowing.

 

 

 

The lady of the hour Kimber Lee, MA educating the ladies on the tools necessary to build a

successful business.

 

 

Divas Inc. Divine Intervention Victorious Afterwards Sisterhood.

 

Organization like Divas, Inc. gives our communities the element that is often missing, a chance at greatness. To learn about other events or how you can help visit www.divasinc.org

 

 

xoxoStayFabulousxoxo

 

 

 

Style Stalking: Barbara A

This week I am excited to shake up this style stalk Friday with some culture. Fellow blogger & fashionista Barbara A. lets her Ghanaian heritage shine through with her use of bold African prints. She takes us into her world, if only for a moment using fashion as her gateway. African print has always had a strong presence in the fashion world, but with a growing number of fashion lovers of African decent it is here in a major way. Barbara is no different, check out her instagram for more inspiration @akuaqueen_b

 

 

It's hard to escape the influence of African print. There is no other culture that captures the essence of a nation quite like African print. You can even catch the sultry Queen B rocking amazing African prints.

Source: airvibez.com

 

 

 

1. When did you fall in love with fashion?

 

 I fell in love with fashion watching my mom dress. My background is Ghanaian. My mother always had the latest lace and kente attire. As a child I loved prints, statement tops, skirts and unique patterns. 

2. Who/What are your fashion inspirations?

 

 My fashion inspiration I would say has a lot to do with my culture. African breed mixed with New York love. I adore Ankara print, peplum and statement pieces. 

 

3. How would you describe your style?

 

I would describe my style as diverse. When I shop, I think more so of the quality over quantity. I play around with different items to see what would look good. No matter what I wear, I wear it with Confidence. You also don't have spend thousands of dollars in order  to look like a million bucks. That's a true fashionista! Inspire others by being yourself :-).

 

 

 

Make sure that you follow Barbara's blog to continue to be inspired foodnistab.BlogSpot.com

 

xoxoStayFabulousxoxo

 

 



Allure Creations: Purple Rain!!

Happy Thursday my loves! It has been quite awhile since I have posted one of my outfit creations. I have been totally obsessed with purple lately, which was the inspiration for this outfit. This look is fun and can be worn for a night out with the girls or a fashion event. Don't be afraid of white, Labor day is still far enough away that you can wear white and not feel like you are breaking any fashion rules. Don't forget to have fun with your style. Play around and step outside of your comfort zone you never know what feels right until you try it!

xoxoStayFabulousxoxo

Purple Rain!! by naturalallure featuring a crop top

OOTD: Cute & Casual

Today I spent the day with my daughter making our rounds to visit family. I decided to keep it cute & casual, whenever you are hanging out with a 6 year old you never know where the day might take you. Like I have said in my previous post, you don't have to have a ton of clothes, you just have to know what to do with the ones you already have. I found this cute cotton stretch bodycon dress that is perfect for just about any occasion at H&M.

 

 

I paired it with this cute vest from JCP, which happens to be one of my favorite pieces. I can rock this piece during any season. When you are shopping make sure that you can see versatility in a piece, if you can't see it being worn multiple ways, you don't need it!

 

 

 

 

 

Sperry's are from Shoe Carnival, which is becoming my new favorite store. I used to sleep on them, but I am awake, they really have some cute shoes! Not to mention they are gold, and you guys know I love me some ALL GOLD ERR THANG!!!!! Bag is from justfab, you can never go wrong with an oversized black bag.

 

 

I wish I could tell you guys where my glasses came from, but I bought them from a vendor while at an event and unfortunately the vendor did not have a website. BUT THEY CUTE THO!!

 

In the coming weeks I plan on showing you guys how to maximize what you already have in your closet. AND please do not be afraid to style & repeat, there is nothing wrong with rocking a fabulous look more than once, who made that stupid rule anyway??

 

Are you styling your closet to it's full potential?

 

 

xoxoStayFabulousxoxo

 

 

 

 

 

 

Style Stalking: Sharonda

Todays style stalk beauty is a sassy air force veteran with a whole lot of style. Sharonda knows how to have fun with fashion & she does not take it too seriously. Fashion should be an expression of who you are as a person & Sharonda's style screams fun, daring and bold. Your style should be limitless & should definitely give you a sense of freedom. It is important to stay on trend, but at the same time not allowing the trends to control your own personal style.

 

I love this look. It is cute & casual. You can never go wrong with making red your statement color!

 

 

 

 

 

Fabulous. Do you feel inspired yet? Make sure you follow Sharonda on instagram @I_radiate_beauty

 

1. When did you fall in love with fashion?

 

  I fell in love with fashion about 4 years ago. I was in the Air Force for 8 years and was always small, once I got out the military I gained about 20 lbs.  I hated the way I looked and it reflected in my appearance. I started wearing baggy clothes to cover my body. I decided to loose the weight, once I did I really got into fashion. 

2. Who/What are your fashion inspirations?

 

 My Mom and my Grandmom would be my fashion inspirations, they both are girly girls! I also love the fashion community on Instagram. Celebrity wise I would have to say Aaliyah, she dressed with a tomboy kind of swag but was still pretty until she matured into a beautiful young woman.

3. How would you describe your style?

 

 I would describe my style as casual dopeness mixed with classy sexiness depending on my mood. I don't feel like you have to be half naked to be sexy. I love to dress down as well as I love to dress up.

 

 

 

xoxoStayFabulousxoxo