OOTD: Rain Drops & Color POP!

Hey There!


Today I planned to run a few errands on my day off, but the rain came down in sunny Nassau, Bahamas.

Well... a girl has to do, what she has to do! So I pulled a few vintage pieces out of my closet and headed out in the rain!

Here's what I wore...

Sequined Graphic T-Shirt - GERI C.  New York 

Faux Leather Piped Jeans Jacket - Avenue XXI (local clothing store)

#trendalert! Blazers and Jackets are perfect for the season, not only do they keep you warm but they easily transition a summer outfit into a fall/winter outfit.

Purple Straight-Leg Jeans 

#trendalert! Colored jeans add a subtle pop of color to an outfit whiles keeping the outfit on trend for Fall/Winter. These jeans are high waisted which gives the pants a little more style and I cuffed the legs which creates a little more personality!

#trendalert! Black Studded Oxford Flats - Urbanog.com

Check out my YouTube video featuring these flats ==> FALL/WINTER SHOE HAUL 2012 

Please RATE. COMMENT. and SUBSCRIBE. :)

Oversize Stud Bangles - Girls will be Girls (local accessories store)

Lime Green Clutch - Got it from My Momma! (S/O to my Mother for having GOOD taste!)

I completed my outfit with this green clutch to set off my purple pants, as purple and green are complementary colors (two colors which are directly opposite each other on the color wheel).

Full Outfit:

The shirt and jacket I wore in this OOTD are both about a year old and today was my first time wearing them! I always felt I needed something new to wear with the tee or the jacket... when all along I had the "somethings" right in my closet! 

This look is all about layering and color play! Don't be afraid to mix your pieces and colors when it comes to Fashion!

I hope this look inspires your next outfit! Remember, "always dress to express yourself."

-242BlqRze

SPLURGE? or STEAL!

Hey Beautiful!

Are you like me, in LOVE with designer handbags, shoes, and clothes... but HATE the larger than life price tag?! #problem!

Well luckily for us there is such a blessing called "designer inspired"! Noo, not the knock off or bootleg version, but a totally different designer, brand, make and model that looks exactly like or very similar to that designer piece you and I both desire!

Here's my first post on SPLURGE? or STEAL!!

One of my favorite FASHIONISTAS is pop star Rihanna, and I fell in love with these simple open toe sandals she wore a few times this year. So I did a little Fashion investigation... and found out the sandals wore Manolo Blahnik's - Chaos.

Rihanna in Manolo Blahnik Chaos at the GQ Men of the Year Party 2012

Through my research, I also found out that these sandals retail for $695!!!!!!! Whoa!

Manolo Blahnik Chaos $695 sold at BARNEYS NEW YORK

Luckily for You and I, I found a "designer inspired" replica of the Chaos...

Anne Michelle Enzo - 01 Open Toe Ankle Strap Sandals

WaLa!!! These open toe ankle strap sandals retail for $22.70 on Urbanog.com! How about that for a STEAL OF A DEAL?!

Next...

So I'm sure we're all aware of the heel-less wedge trend that bust out onto the fashion scene this year and totally dominated!! Thank Lady Ga-Ga for making that strange looking shoe popular!

For instance, check out these heels that I use to call the Mary Jane heel-less wedges, and later found out they're the Jeffrey Campbell - Night Walk.

Jeffrey Campbell Night Walk in Black Pebble $168.00

These babies can be found online for a price to the tune of $168.00! Mmm hmm $168.00! I love these shoes, but I don't know if I'm "ABOUT THAT PRICE". So I was VERY happy when I found a "designer inspired" replica to the Night Walks...

Goddess-02 Leatherette Heel Less Mary Jane Curved Wedge

Once again... these heel-less wedges retails for $35. 50 on Urbanog.com! So.... splurge? or STEAL?

I got both "designer inspired" heels for the STEAL price and I'm very happy with my purchases!

I hope this post will save you a few pennies too!!

OOTD: Cardigans, Cappuccino & Consultation...

Hello...   :)

Last week I met with an internationally known Marketing and Image consultant, Sharell Carroll of SageEden International Media Group. I was anxious to meet with her about ways to develop and promote my fashion and beauty blog/business.

We met at a local Starbucks and discussed creative ideas and the 4 P's of Marketing over cappuccino and pastries!

Here's what I wore...

Olive Green Boxed Dress - United Colors of Benetton 

Red Light Weight Cardigan - Avenue 21 (local clothing store)

Cognac Brown Belt

Anne Michelle Safari Open Toe Heels (bought locally)

Brown Gold Studded Bracelet - Nassau Glamour Girls (local accessories store)

Dimpled Gold Stud Earrings - Nassau Glamour Girls (local accessories store)

Full Outfit:

This outfit is an example of how summer pieces can easily transition into fall outfits. This dress is very light and can be worn alone with a big belt and sandals for a boho chic look in the summer, or I could have added stalkings or leggings to this outfit with flats to be warmer in the winter.

I hope this look inspires your next outfit! Remember, "always dress to express yourself."

-242BlqRze

OOTN: Stripes, Studs & TWILIGHT -:+:-

Hey Beautiful!

Last night (21/11/12) I finally got to watch the most anticipated movie of the year, Twilight: Breaking Dawn 2 and it was GGGOOOOODDD!!

Here's what I wore...

Black Stripe Oversize Button Down Blouse - (Bought Locally)

#confession: When I bought this top, I thought it would be a one time wear. Now i'm finding more and more ways to style this simple blouse.

Colored Jeans/Pants: Green - Swap Shop (2004)

#trendalert! Black Studded Oxford Flats - Urbanog.com

These shoes are a MUST HAVE this Fall/ Winter! Nothing beats comfort and style!

Multi Silver and Black Chain Necklace - Nassau Glamour Girls

Spike Pewter Ring

So there you have it! My 30 minute or less little "get up" last night. I was comfortable but still stylish and casual...not too dressed up for a mid week afternoon movie.
For a more sophisticated look, you could cinch in the blouse at the waist with a black pencil belt and pair the look with black pumps.

I hope this look inspires your next outfit! Remember, "always dress to express yourself."

-242BlqRze

OOTN: Business Mixer

Last night I attended a networking mixer for female entrepreneurs and I wanted to look stylish, cute... but definitely professional!

So here's what I wore:

Cream Sheer Button Down Blouse - Charolette Russe

Purple Corduroy Blazer - Lorene's (Local Clothing Store in the Bahamas)

I cuffed my sleeves because it was a bit too long... but it doesn't take away from the sophistication of the look!

#trendalert! Distressed Jeans - Forever 21

I cuffed my jeans at the bottom for a tailored but yet casual look.

#trendalert! Black Pumps - Shoe Creation ( Local Shoe Store in the Bahamas)

Pearl and Black Jeweled Statement Necklace 

2 Strand Pearl Bracelet

Pearl Cocktail Ring - Bijoux Terner ( Local Accessories Store in the Bahamas)

So there's the makings of my look last night. Pretty simple but still chic and sophisticated! For a more relaxed look, you could also compliment this outfit with leopard flats.

I hope this look inspires your next outfit! Remember, "always dress to express yourself."

-242BlqRze

HOW TO: Build a Hair Regimen

The first and most important step to building a structured hair regimen is knowing what your own hair needs and can tolerate. Everyone's hair is beautifully different! What works for me may not work for you and vice versa. Therefore it is important that you build your hair regimen around your hair needs and the time you have available to dedicate to your hair.

However, there are some BASICS that apply to ALL hair regimens, the difference is in the strength of the product and how much your own hair needs.

YOU WILL NEED:

1. A Moisturizing Shampoo

Usage: 1-2x Weekly

2. A Clarifying Shampoo

Usage: 1-2x Monthly

3. A Moisturizing Conditioner

Usage: 1-2x Weekly

4. A Moisturizing Deep Conditioner (Treatment)

Usage: After every wash, depending on what your hair needs.

5. A Protein Conditioner (Treatment)

Usage: After every wash, depending on what your hair needs.

6. A Leave-In Conditioner

Usage: After every wash, and/or daily for moisture.

7. Moisturizer(s): Moisturizing or Protein

Usage 1-2x Daily

8. Natural Oils

Usage: 1-2x Daily

9. A Wide Teeth Comb

10. Satin/Silk Scarf or Bonnet or Pillow Case

Based on the list below and the recommended usage, you can now form a schedule for your shampoo washes, co-washes, treatments,  and relaxes (if you have relaxed hair).

Always examine your hair after introducing it to products and methods. This way you know what is working and what is not (shedding, breakage, dryness). Remember, only through trial and error you'll know what REALLY works for your hair!

I hope this post was beneficial for you and made it easy for you to start your hair journey! 

If you have any questions please comment below!! #hhj! :)

HOW TO: Build A Hair Regimen

The first and most important step to building a structured hair regimen is knowing what your own hair needs and can tolerate. Everyone's hair is beautifully different! What works for me may not work for you and vice versa. Therefore it is important that you build your hair regimen around your hair needs and the time you have available to dedicate to your hair.

However, there are some BASICS that apply to ALL hair regimens, the difference is in the strength of the product and how much your own hair needs.


YOU WILL NEED:

1. A Moisturizing Shampoo
Usage: 1-2x Weekly

2. A Clarifying Shampoo
Usage: 1-2x Monthly

3. A Moisturizing Conditioner
Usage: 1-2x Weekly

4. A Moisturizing Deep Conditioner (Treatment)
Usage: After every wash, depending on what your hair needs.

5. A Protein Conditioner (Treatment)
Usage: After every wash, depending on what your hair needs.

6. A Leave-In Conditioner
Usage: After every wash, and/or daily for moisture.

7. Moisturizer(s): Moisturizing or Protein
Usage 1-2x Daily

8. Natural Oils
Usage: 1-2x Daily

9. A Wide Teeth Comb

10. Satin/Silk Scarf or Bonnett or Pillow Case


Based on the list below and the recommended usage, you can now form a schedule for your shampoo washes, co-washes, treatments,  and relaxes (if you have relaxed hair).

Always examine your hair after introducing it to products and methods. This way you know what is working and what is not (shedding, breakage, dryness). Remember, only through trial and error you'll know what REALLY works for your hair!

I hope this post was beneficial for you and made it easy for you to start your hair journey!

If you have any questions please comment below!! #hhj! :)

SKIN is IN!

During the winter season the sexiest, most affordable trend that You can wear is your own healthy, moisturized skin!!

Even though here in the Bahamas, we're usually blessed with a hot, sunny climate, we have been experiencing some cooler nights and mornings recently. Hopefully this is an indication of the change in our weather... and finally we can have a cold winter.

However, winter weather can be a bit harsh on your skin. Cold air and gushes of wind can result in excessive dryness in your skin. So it is important to keep your skin moisturized!

Here are a few tips to beautiful, smooth, and moist skin:

1) Don't take hot showers or baths!! (I'm Guilty)
 Instead opt for a lukewarm shower. How water removes natural oils from your skin, causing dryness.

2) Avoid using soap which can leave the skin dry.
Instead opt for a moisture body wash, which contains up to 10 times more moisturizer than a soap.

3) After a bath or shower, gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing.

4) Apply a moisturizer (or lotion) to your skin while it is still damp to lock in the water.

5) Drink at least 8 glasses of water to keep your skin and body hydrated throughout the day.

Add these helpful easy tips to your skin regimen today!!

So maybe you're not sure which moisturizer to use? Or maybe your summer lotion isn't keeping you as moist in the winter?

Well... here are 5 of the Top Best Moisturizers:


1.

Buy It to Try It!

Vaseline may have been a brand you overlooked, but now they have stepped their game up! 

Perks: Its lightweight, and doesn't make your skin feel heavy and greasy.

2.

My Personal Fave <3

Usually a prescribed lotion for eczema patients, Cetaphil really gives the skin a hydrating dose of moisture! 

Perks: A little goes a long way! You'll surely get your monies worth!

#Tip: Try the Facial Wash & Bar Soap!

3.

Old Folks Tale...

You've probably heard about Palmer's from your grand-mother or mother! Take their advice! Palmer's is an excellent moisture infused with Vitamin E which is filled with benefits for the skin!!

Perks: It smooths and tones bruises, dark spots and stretch marks on the skin.

4.

Ooo La La!

What more can I say?! Its Olay and it delivers on its promise of silky soft skin! You'll see and feel the moisture!

Perks: Its products are anti-aging to keep your skin looking youthful.

5.

The Secret.

Keri lotion has been overlooked! You may have not even heard of it. Well let me reveal this silent soother! With its thick rich combination of 5 moisturizers, this is one lotion you'll want to use daily for a deep penetration of moisture into your skin!

Perks: It'll last long for an all day feel of soft and smooth skin.

So there You have it! 5 tips and 5 recommended moisturizers to keep Your skin on trend for the winter!!

If you have any other suggestions or personal faves feel free to share! I want to hear from You!

*|FALL/WINTER 2012 FASHION TRENDS|*

After stalking Vogue and Elle's online magazines and keeping a close eye on the season's Fashion Weeks, I chose a few of the Fall and Winter fashion trends that can be easily worn and suits all my beautiful people!!

Check my trend picks for the season...

"And the WINNER is..."

The Metallic choice of the season is Gold!

Whether its a sequined dress, or glitter shoes, the gold color, once worn right, adds a warm sophistication to an outfit and will definitely put your look in First Place!

|GET IN LINE|: Military

Would this Fad ever Fade?! Doubt it!
Designers have revamped this never-dying trend of buttons, strips and collars.

When the months get cooler, hand for a military inspired jacket or boot!

Beat it (((BLACK))) and (((BLUE))

This season's ideal color collab is Black and Blue. And I love it!

This allows for easy color blocking, safe mix and matching and here is two colors that can flatter any skin tone!

I think this was a smart color combo by the designers because black and blue can lend itself to a sexy or sophisticated look!

The New Black... BURGUNDY!

A color that has been overshadowed and possibly described as bland is making a statement this season.

Rich like the taste of some red wines, Burgundy in its multiple shades gives a certain sophistication to any piece of clothing, whether its shorts, a blouse or shoes.

Hence, I'd always wear this color on my "i-mean-business" days or date nights. It's not quite a color for casual.

"The WILD One..."

Out of all the Animal Prints, REPTILE SKIN is the chosen one of the season!

Snake, Aligator, Crocodile skin should be your preference over leopard, cheetah, or zebra print this season. Remember, animal prints can substitute as a neutral, so don't be afraid to rock reptile print with various outfits!!

TOP IT ALL OFF!!

The accessory trend of the season is the Fedora hat! Get into it!

Becoming so popular, you can now find fedoras in basic colors, neons or even animal print!

So find one that fits your head and compliments your Fall outfit to add a classic finishing touch!