Good Morning! And Happy Friday! 

I hope you have had a good week! My week has been pretty good! I have been staying busy. I feel so inspired lately! I feel like my mind has been flooded with new ideas for posts, new styling ideas, and upcoming events that I am really excited about. I feel like I want to share it all now, but that would be a long post! And my ADD mind would end up taking you down endless and meandering thought processes which make sense to me but may not for you! So, I'll spare you! I'll post as they happen! 

Today though I will share my thought process behind this casual-chic fall look. I'll start off by saying how much I love this look! I wear different variations of this look all fall and winter long. Its so effortless and easy to pull off. Its comfortable. And most important -once it gets really cold outside- it is warm! Layers are always important during colder months. This particular look is perfect for the temps we are experiencing now. Both the blazer and hoodie are light weight and not overly warm, so I won't sweat to death. And if I do get too warm, I can always take the blazer off. 

The blazer is one that I found at Target and once I found it I never looked back. It has been styled many times on the blog and in my real life. I've paired it with distressed jeans, midi skirts, shorts, leggings, flats, heels.... I could go on. Blazers have always struck me as very chic and sophisticated. This one is no exception. You will probably be seeing more of it this fall!

The hoodie, while not new, it is newer than the blazer. It is another piece that I didn't hesitate when I found it. It is so simple and yet so cute! 

You could also pair this with flats or tennis shoes for an even more casual look, which I am actually planning on for one of my upcoming events! But you will have to stay tuned for that...  ;)

Happy Friday, thank you for reading! And have a great weekend! 

XOXO

Blazer:: Target
Hoodie:: LOFT
Leggings:: Versona
Bag:: Target
Shoes:: Aunt Sherry! (I love you!)

Happy Wednesday my friends! 

I have another special post to share with you today, continuing on in my Spotlight Series. Today, I'm sharing the story of Reasons Brown. I met Reasons back in August -I believe. He hosted Lootswaay Fest, which at the time I had no idea what to expect. As it turns out, it was concert featuring local artists and rappers. I ended up having such a good time! We will come back to this in a bit, but first I want to share with you his story. 

His journey has not been the easiest. Robert Charles Anthony Brown, was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. He moved to NC to go to college. He attended NC Central for a while, but it ultimately did not work out and and one point he found himself homeless. Though he struggled, Reasons made sure to continue to stay in shape and focus on himself. "Staying in shape gave me clarity and purpose," he explained. In doing so, he found he was bettering himself and learned to create from scratch -which became a vital tool later in his journey. 

That is how Lootswaay -Reason's clothing brand- came to be. Reasons would piece together looks for his friends. But ultimately it was an interest in fashion as well as the all too real aspect of having limited funds. I can relate! Fashion can be expensive, but it does not have to be. Reasons recognized this and made it his goal for Lootswaay. In fact on Instagram that is the description of the company; "The Bridge between Fashion and Finance." "I want to make clothes that are affordable," he told me, "as well as create a platform to talk about the financial aspect of it -including financial freedom. I want to see this go as far as it possibly can." I could not help but be excited for him. I mean, this is a man who pours his heart into his work and his energy is contagious! And he loves that! "For me, I want to inspire others to be dope daily," he said, "to be determined and be persistent every day." You can tell he means that. I recall at the last show, he was so excited. The energy was palpable. Every artist that showed up, he excitedly greeted them. When Vikee and I showed up, we both got hugs. He was all over the place making sure everyone was having a good time. That is someone with excitement, pride, and joy. 

So, what inspires a man that inspires so many other people? There are several! Son, Jay-Z, and J Cole just to name a few. What? All musicians? Yes, well, Reasons wears many different hats. While there is the fashion aspect, he is also a very talented rapper. He raps about his experiences; feelings, emotions, and perspectives. He makes himself "vulnerable" and is able to better communicate feelings through his music than he may otherwise. Everything he does he puts his heart and soul into. Including raising his two-year-old son. "That is my biggest accomplishment," he grinned. 

So what is next for Reasons? If you're asking me, I'd say the sky is the limit! He was recently in Baltimore for schooling for his clothing line. He learned different types of sewing and is already planning for a line of new coats in time for Christmas.

At 27, Robert, Reasons Brown has overcome so much. Not just overcome, but excelled. He is a huge inspiration to me. Mainly because of his mind set. Don't get me wrong, he is extremely talented and I am in awe of that as well, but I love how he loves to include others and bring others up with him. I know that sometimes industries like fashion and music can be intense and competition can be fierce. Not for Reasons. "There is no hate in my spirit, lets be successful together," he said. And why not? 

That is why I will support him wherever he goes! 

Next up is another concert event. It is this coming Saturday. If you want to come out and support we would love to see you! $5 online and $10 at the door. But you will leave feeling excited and inspired! 

Special thanks to Reasons Brown for talking with me for this post! 

I cannot wait to see what comes next! 

​XOXO

Hello and Happy Monday to you all!

Today and most of the weekend we enjoyed much cooler temps! Almost like fall has arrived finally! Well, we will see I fully expect at least one more heat wave to descend upon us before fall sets in for good. 

Today I'm sharing a fun look with you. A look that is playful, silly, and yet is still stylish and practical. It clings to the final days of summer while also embraces  the cooler months ahead. I finally was able to break out some of my favorite fall pieces without sweating to death. This striped Target dress makes me think of summer nights, the colors you might see in the sky as the sun is setting. Subtle and relatively neutral, styling it is very easy. 

Almost any scarf would have worked with this look, and I have several to choose from. But I wanted something spooky! Something October-ish! So naturally I tried pairing the dress with this skull printed scarf. Personally I love it. It is just different enough to work. The simplicity of the dress is probably the key thing in this look.

Mixing prints has always been one of my favorite styling techniques. It is the kind of thing that takes a look from being just so-so or safe to being completely and uniquely you! 

Not every pairing is going to work, but just keep trying until something catches your eye and go with it! 

Thanks for reading and have a great week!

XOXO

Dress:: Target (Wild Fable)
Shoes:: Francesca's
Scarf:: Goodwill (I think)
Bag:: Versona
Shades:: Hashtag Sunglasses
Jacket:: LOFT

Hello and Happy Friday!

What a week it has been! My love for fashion and blogging has been so invigorating and refreshing! I want to be honest with you guys. I love blogging and sharing outfit of the day looks with you. I am just trying to switch things up a bit. I meet a lot of fascinating people on my blogging journey -hell on my life journey! Everyone has a story to tell and I am eager to hear it and excited to share it. All week I was ready to get off of work to start or continue work on a project. I have just felt so inspired lately! 

This particular look I'm sharing with you today has me sweating! This pleather top from Target is lovely! From the simple design to the burnt orange color, I have worn it several times already. You've seen it once before on here, paired with one of my favorite skirts. Today I paired it with distressed jeans and nude heels. I wore this same look earlier this week when I met with designer, Humble Connor (for a future post). 

The only thing about the top is that it is lined underneath, I'm not sure of the material but I can tell you it is HOT! I sweated my butt off during this shoot -and it didn't even take that long! >D 

I love how easy it is to style though. Especially when you pair it with distressed denim I wasn't expecting to like it so much! Its a very easy, comfortable, and stylish look. It can work for a number of different events. A lunch date, running errands, coffee dates, night out with the girls, catching a movie... many different things! 

Thank you so much for reading and I hope you have a wonderful weekend! 

XOXO

Top: Target
Jeans: K LA Boutique
Shoes: Versona
Bag: Versona
Shades: Hashtag Sunglasses

Noel explained how model calls can be intense. "The whole atmosphere of nervous models can be constricting, which can make you anxious," she said. Although she did mention that once the models begin to interact with one another and share experiences that they can all relate to there is a drastic shift in energy. However, there is a completely different intensity once you are in front of the judges. "I have been in front of some judges who are after a particular look and could immediately send you away," she explained, "while others are more diverse. It really just depends. 

Hearing no is never easy! As a blogger, I have heard 'no' many times. But typically, it is over e-mail or inboxes. It is rare that it is to my face. But Noel has not let that stop her. In fact she has had some milestone moments in her career as a model! She walked for Humble Connor, as I mentioned earlier, during Charlotte Fashion Week in mid September. Then she was part of a sixteen member team that packed up and walked in New York Fashion Week just a few weeks later! 

As a fashion lover and blogger, NYFW is certainly on my bucket list! What I would give to attend! So, I always relish in others' experiences. Thankfully, Noel indulged me! ;)

The overall experience was great! She had a great time. Interestingly enough, she said that commuting was a great experience. "I was able to meet a lot of interesting people, and they were very kind," she laughed. 

But it is NYFW, and it is highly regarded. People flying in from all over to see these shows. There must be some nerves going on, right? To a certain extent, yes. Generally speaking, while she still gets nervous before any show, it is more an excited anticipation. Noel explained that as soon as she hits the runway her heart begins beating faster and adrenaline races. To keep her cool, she recites positive affirmations in her head. Whatever she recited when I saw her worked for sure! She looked focused and fierce as hell! 

After shows, can be a different story. Sometimes, she explained, she just feels tired and ready to go. Other times, she feels energized and excited, it all just depends on the night. I can certainly relate to that. ​

One story that Noel told me, I almost did not even need to write down -I did but I didn't have to because it stuck with me. It resonated with me a personal level. Noel started out so shy. So shy in fact she was thought of as special needs. She was afraid to ask for help. Yet none of that stopped her. And there was a story she shared about NYFW that was so simple, yet so beautiful. She was coming home after the show. She was on a bus from Brooklyn going to Queens. "I just felt a sense of accomplishment," she said, "like I had overcome any and all limitations. It was euphoric! I felt like I could do anything!"

You can, Noel! 

And I for one, cannot wait to see you soar! 




Special thanks to... 

Noel Tapper for the time and energy in talking to me! 
Natasha Anderson (located in Chapel Hill) the photographer behind these gorgeous photos!
And also the Creative Director, Corey Wilson (Located in Charlotte). 

Hello and Happy Monday. 

I'll be honest, I'm excited for today, and for what the week holds blog wise. But work has not been fun lately. Granted the weekend was great! But thoughts, prayers, and good wishes are very much welcomed this week! 

Anyway onto this post! I found this lovely dress at Loft and loved it! I love the pastel color, I love the ruffles on the hem and sleeves. I love that is very simple in style and yet so easy to style. 

This circle bag from Target has become one of my favorites! To think I almost thought of returning it!? Its so lovely! 

I'm going to keep this post short, because I have a lot to prepare for! 

I'm hoping to have a special feature post to share with you later this week. But we will see how this week goes! ;D 

Thank you guys for everything! And Stay Tuned..... 

XOXO


Dress:: LOFT
Necklaces: LOFT
Shoes: Versona
Bag: Target

Like this look or don't! 

I don't care.

I love it! 

The cargo pants were a hit last time so.... I'm styling them again today and I like it!

I'm a bit tired of caring what others think. 

People will always cut you down, don't let them get the best of you. I had an amazing week. I have amazing future plans. I'm not going to let people take that from me. 

I hope you enjoy this post!

​There is a lot more coming up! Stay Tuned!




Pants: Target
Top: Forever21
Booties: Versona
Shades: Hashtag Sunglasses
​Bag: Target (similar)

Hello and Happy Monday! 

What a week it was last week! Full of ups and downs and surprises. It was not a bad week honestly, and I appreciated the moments I had during it. I was not unhappy for a fresh new week to begin! Each new week is a fresh start, and this one is proving to be a busy one! 

A lot of good things are coming up and my schedule is getting filled quickly! I love it! Once I can say for sure some upcoming ventures I will tell you everything! 

For today I'm sharing a classic kind of look, all black and white, with dramatic pearls! I LOVE layering pearls! I think because I have a few pearl necklaces and they all vary slightly, so the layered look can really make an impact. They are so delicate but also so elegant. I will never stop layering or loving pearls! 

The top is new, it is a find from Target! From the Who What Wear collection. The sleeves were what grabbed my attention! I love the detailed sleeves. You can't tell from this picture, but the shirt itself is more of a cotton fabric while the sleeves are another fabric altogether. They are exaggerated, which I love. I LOVE exaggerated features. I love that they can stand alone, or be paired with other elegant piecces *cough, cough Pearl!* This top would also look stunning with distressed jeans, or flared jeans. Shorts or a skirt -like I did for this post!

The skirt should be familiar if you have been following the blog for a bit now, I use it quite a bit! I love it! It is one of my all time favorite pieces It never fails me! 

Thank you so much for reading! And I am excited to share more with you in future posts! 

Stay tuned! 

XOXO

Shirt: Target
Skirt: Forever21
Bag: Versona 
Shoes: Charles David
Necklaces: 1 is from Burlington, the other I'm not sure! D:

Hello! Happy Friday! 

No, your not having de ja vu! I've used this look before! I typically do not reuse the exact same look -though I have for different events and switched up the styles. But today is a Palmpe kind of day! And I wanted to show off this beautiful jewelry! This seemed like an appropriate cover picture! 

I became a brand ambassador for Palmpe Jewelry and have been loving it so far! I love their jewelry and I love the way they do business. They've been in touch with me every step of the way That's a huge thing when it comes to working for or even buying from a company, espeicaly online.
The jewelry was gorgeous! Extremely delicate and beautiful! I received two necklaces and a bracelet. All the items were packaged carefully and included lovely cards welcoming me to the team. 

The second necklace is a choker with a small pendant. This one shows up even better than the longer necklace! The choker part of it just shimmers away! I wore it to the Charlotte Seen Charlotte Fashion Week Appreciation Party earlier this week and it was a hit! It is also delicate but it doesn't tangle as easily as the first. 

The final piece is a very simple but so lovely bracelet! I had one very similar to it before but lost it sadly. I have been searching for something every since and finally, FINALLY found it! Its very light and feminine. I love it paired with this watch Its a perfet combination! It can be a versatile piece; dressy when you need it or laid back if you just need! 

Stay tuned my friends! I have more from Palmpe coming up! As well as other good things! Thank you for your support and following me on this journey! I love you! 

XOXO

Bracelet: Palmpe
Necklace 1: Palmpe
Necklace 2: Palmpe

I wasn't sure of these cargo pants when I first got them. 

Then I got them hone and LOVED them! There is a very real Rachel Green vibe to them that I love! Tomboy-ish and very comfy! 

I have plans for these pants and I think you will love them too! Crop tops, booties, sweaters, and coats are involved.... 

Just saying...     stay tuned! 

XOXO 

Pants: Target
Necklace: Palme
Shoes: Off Broadway
Bag: Francescas 
​