Fashion's Night Out: @ Bloomingdales Recap

I recently attended Fashion's Night Out at Bloomingdales on September 8, 2011. This was my second year attending the event. In case some of you don't know, Fashion's Night Out is an event where stores across the United States are open late for consumers of all walks of life to shop, party, mingle with Fashion Industry icons, and see/meet celebrities. This year I really wanted to attend the Betsey Johnson event at her store however, I settled with Bloomingdales. This year I found that there was less excitement compared to last year. I wish there were more celebrities, Fashion Industry leaders, and models at this event. There was a lot of alcohol on the premisis this year which is something I did not like. It was hard to get through crowds of people. There were mini bar stands on every floor or section. I did not get a chance to see the Bloomingdales Runway show this year because it was taking too long to start. I was able to take a couple of pictures of the models while they were waiting to walk down the runway. Rachel Zoe was one of the celebrity guests that showed up that night. I must say she is GORGEOUS! She looks trendy chic in person as she does on television. I was loving her choice of shoes for the evening.

AM New York Fashion Week edition newspaper

Erin Wasson at the Zadig and Volatire meet and greet

Stylist Rachel Zoe at Fashion's Night Out at Bloomingdales NYC September 2011

The only facial shot I was able to get of the legendary, Rachel Zoe

Rachel Zoe signing copies of her book for her fans

Outside of Bloomingdales. Peep the big Rockport high heel shoe

Sneaking pictures of Rachel Zoe being interviewed

Zadig & Voltare mini trunk show (it was crowded) 

Bloomingdale's runway show

Disclaimer: All photographs featured in this post were personally taken by the author. I claim full ownership of these images. Please do not reproduce/alter/repost/ these images in anyway, or anywhere else on the web.

Reading Muse: Company Magazine

Source:

I'm always on the hunt for new fashion magazines to read. This afternoon, I was lurking around in the magazine section in a bookstore, when I came across Company magazine. I was actually looking for ID-Magazine. I didn't see it on the shelve however, Company was glowing with attention. Lately, I've been intrigued with European fashion publications. I purchased another magazine called Oyster few months ago. Since then, I there's a new territory to explore with European fashion magazines. I was flipping through Company at work, and I was impressed at the content in the magazine. This magazine is published in the UK and the content is more high fashion, which many of the magazines I read/subscribe to lack. Jessie J is on the cover, and I absolutely adore her style and music.

I find that a lot of the publications we have here in the US, don't give enough fashion and style articles. This magazine, is very comparable to NYLON. I am in love with the eclectic vibe of Company. I can't rave enough about this magazine, I love it! If there's a way I can subscribe to this I will. This magazine is perfect if you're an avid magazine junkie. I'm not aware if this is published monthly and if they sell it at all newsstands/booksellers. Definitely a great magazine to read while your in a cafe or outdoors. There's a lot of fashion you can take away from this publication.

My copy

Parsons X Teen Vogue

I never thought I would enroll myself in 'school' again once I completed grad school. Essentially, we all are students at life. A few weeks ago, I received an e-mail from Teen Vogue informing me about their Fashion Industry Essentials Certification program, partnered with Parsons | The New School for Design. Anyone that personally knows me, knows that it's always been my dream to attend fashion school. Originally I wanted to obtain a MA in Fashion Studies from Parsons however, at the time it would have been a costly expense.

 

The program offered by Parsons/Teen Vogue is very cost friendly in my book, with a price tag of $549, and affordable payment plans for students. This program is a non-credit course and you do not need to have a formal degree to apply/enroll. This course is hands-on and can be completed in 10-weeks however, you are given a year to complete the entire course. I am in my third week of the program and what I love about it the most, is that I can study and complete assignments at my own pace. The required textbook, The Teen Vogue Handbook has been on my bookshelf since 2009! So far, I have completed one optional assignment and I'm almost finished with the "Unlocking Visual Style" section. This program offers video content and written content, that is easy to follow, and instructors are industry experts from Teen Vogue and Parsons . I believe this program is great for anyone seeking to build a career in fashion, whether it is in marketing, public relations, designing, or journalism.

 

Details about the Fashion Industry Essentials program, can be found on the Parsons X Teen Vogue  website. 



Power of the Frock

Source

Marc Jacobs is an international fashion designer and a common household name. He's one of my favorite designers, and never ceases to amaze me. I was reading Glamour Magazine's September 2012 fashion issue. Marc Marc Jacobs is an international fashion designer and a common household name. He's one of my favorite designers, and never ceases to amaze me.

Marc Jacobs is an international fashion designer and a common household name. He's one of my favorite designers, and never ceases to amaze me. I was reading Glamour Magazine's September 2012 fashion issue. Marc Marc Jacobs is an international fashion designer and a common household name. He's one of my favorite designers, and never ceases to amaze me. 

Blogging Tips & Tricks

In case you haven't noticed this blog has underwent a bit of a revamping. I have been away from this platform for a long time, and quite frankly I missed writing! I began blogging when I was a undergraduate student. I was heavily focused on fashion and beauty, and scouted social media daily to learn what was new in the industry. I always wanted to pursue a career in fashion, and never thought it could be possible without majoring in fashion or having connections. During college, fashion blogs were popular, and there were two types of girls: those who wrote the blogs and the girls featured on those blogs. I wanted to be one of those girls with a cool blog, that everyone visited daily.   I always blogged as a hobby and never really cared about blogging as a full-time job, or as a source of income. All bloggers do not start blogs to get rich or to be famous on social media. Sometimes, we are just great at writing and creating content worth reading. In 2017, blogs are still popular, and women are one of the biggest self-employed contributors to social media.

Tips

I want to share a few blogging tips and tricks, I learned and new experiences I will like to channel on this platform, this coming year. Finding a topic you'll like to write about is important, and helps keep your blog organized. Identifying your audience helps you understand, who you are writing for and the visitors of your blog/website. Every blogger must learn basic coding and web designing skills. It may be costly hiring a graphic design to help build your platform. Setting up a blogging schedule outlines your plans for the week or month. Once you gain a following, your readers will be looking forward to uploads from you. Staying active on social media helps you network with other bloggers, companies, and potential followers. Over the years, I learned that you do not need to be an expert or work in the field you are blogging about.

The Middleton Sisters are Changing the Bridal Fashion Game

 

 

 This past weekend, Saturday May 20, 2017 to be exact, Pippa Middleton said her I dos to her fiancé (now husband) James Matthews. Kate and Pippa are truly royalty in their own right, and are big contributors to bridal fashion. What Pippa and Kate both have in common, when it comes to wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses, are modest and lady-like styles. These Royal ladies embody the notion of less is more! Pippa's  jaw-dropping wedding dress was designed by British fashion designer, Giles Deacon. The lace bodice dress gently hugged Pippa's upper body, leaving a long gorgeous trail of lace following behind her. What I love about these sisters, is that they let the DRESS become the star of the big day. Hair, makeup, and accessories are to a minimum, while sporting a barely there manicure. There are no whistles and bells on this bride, to distract the crowd or the future hubby-to-be!

 

Image Credit: Elle  via Getty Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage

Dior's Haute Couture Tokyo Fashion Show

 Maria Grazia Chiuri is killing it with her leadership, as the new Creative Director at Christian Dior. I am in complete awe at the new collections and runway shows the brand has cultivated. I wish I could afford Dior, because I truly believe this a classy and creative brand that is timeless! The Dior Haute Couture Tokyo Fashion Show has completely blown me away with the bright pastels and floral accents. Models are dressed in silk Japanese inspired ensembles, with faux Japanese Cherry Blossom patterns stealing the show on the garments. I presented some of my favorite looks from the runway show that really inspired me. Dior is a beautiful brand that has the power to make women feel feminine and confident, in all aspects of life. 

            

Photo Credit: Women's Wear Daily WWD

Teyana Taylor Reinvents Janet Jackson's Topless Rolling Stone Cover

Image Source:

Teyana Taylor is known for her famous back-in-the-day appearance on MTV's My Super Sweet 16 series. Back then, Teyana was the prodigy of Pharrell Williams, and was signed to his label. The Harlem princess teamed up with photographer/actor Lance Gross, to recreate Janet Jackson's 1993 Rolling Stone magazine cover. Ms. Taylor dons nothing but denim cut-off shorts, lacy thigh high stockings, and a black garter. A mysterious man's hands covers her breasts. Teyana opts for soft natural looking curls draping over one eye. Many may argue that this photo, is a bit too racy.

In my opinion, fashion and art, go hand-and-hand. Both are meant to stir up controversy and the element of surprise. Art is considered art based on the artist's perception. This is considered art according to the people involved in this photo shoot. Teyana steps the bar up in mainstream music and fashion with this photo shoot. Teyana is not the first, nor will she be the last to do a photo shoot like this.  Although, this is a recreate of Janet Jackson's (Miss Jackson if ya nasty)'s 1993 Rolling Stone cover, this photo represents Teyana to the fullest.



Image Source:

Janet Jackson's 1993 Rolling Stone Cover

Rihanna Honored at Parsons The New School for Design Benefit

 

 

The World's favorite Bad Gal was nominated and honored, again for another phenomenal award. Rihanna is not only passionate about being a fashion icon and a musician, she is a philanthropic visionary and humanitarian. Yesterday, on  Monday May 22, 2017, Rihanna was honored at the Parsons School of Design benefit for philanthropy and contributions to fashion. In Rihanna's speech, she expressed the importance of investing in young millennials by stating "We often tear down our youth, when we should be building them up. At the end of the day the future is in their hands."

 - Rihanna, Parsons School of Design Benefit.

 

Rihanna is absolutely correct! I agree that today's youth and young people, do not receive enough recognition for the hard work they put forth, in things they are passionate about. If you have the ambition and credentials for a new job opportunity or a promotion, you should not be snubbed out of it because of age. There are so many young people that are just as talented as their older counterparts.  Rihanna speaks rawness and truth in any speech she delivers, specifically targeted to the younger generation. Rihanna frequently references her Caribbean upbringing, and growing up in Barbados, shaping her into becoming the woman she is today! #GIRLBOSS.

 

Image Credit & Quote Source: Harpers Bazaar

October Favorites: Recap ♡

Happy November everyone,

I am having a wonderful time enjoying the Autumn/Winter season. I love the cooler months because I have more options with experimenting with fashion. I have a few favorite items I have been loving during the month of October. As always, I was not paid to feature/review these items. Nor am I affiliated with the companies mentioned below. Thanks.  Let's get started!

Miley Cyrus Goes For A New Short Cropped 'Do

Former Disney Channel Hannah Montana starlet, Miley Cyrus debuts a new short cropped 'do on Sunday August 12, 2012. She shows the world her new short blonde cut, via her Twitter page. Miley tweets "feeling so happy in my skin". The look is very different and bold. Miley has worn that 'famous' long blonde Hannah Montana wig, but looks ravishing in a short platinum blonde cut. The look may come across as very gothic, but I'm sure it can be transformed into something high fashion, on the red carpet and at a photo shoot. Miley, resembles a very young Agyness Deyn, Kate Moss, and former super model Twiggy. This new look for Miley, can potentially lead her into more movie roles and magazine cover features. Miley can defiently take the fashion world by storm! All images featured, were taken from Miley's Twitter page. 

My Favorite Looks - Chloé RTW Fall 2017

Chloé has become one of my favorite fashion brands, that lives up to the Parisian aesthetics of style. French Women are effortlessly dressed, and are never overly done-up or dressed-down. When I think of Chloé, I think of bohemian chic mixed with classic sophistication. The Fall 2017 Runway Show is intriguily inspiring. There are over 40 looks, which all incorporate each model carrying a new bag from the collection. Many garments are strategically bold and bright, and can be worn to the office, or during a night out on the town.

  

Image Credit:  INDIGITAL | Business of Fashion

Sweet Digs at the Nordstrom Rack

Hola Dolls,

A few months ago, a Nordstrom Rack opened up in my area and I felt like I found a fashion heaven made on Earth! I usually loathe surfing through racks of clothing touched by multiple people however, I decided to see what all the hype was about. I know many stylists and photographers purchase clothing for high-end 'shoots at stores like the Nordstrom Rack. I purchased 3 airy knit cardigans from the junior's section for about $9.99, which is a steal (no pun intended!).

I recently found out you can now shop the Nordstrom Rack online. I think e-commerce is such a asset to those "obsessed" with fashion. I highly encourage my fellow fashionistas to check out the Nordstrom Rack in person or online at: https://www.nordstromrack.com. I absolutely love these light-knitted cardigans, that are flawless. I love pairing the cardigans with stretchy t-shirts, leggings/jeggings, and girly boots. Check out my purchases below.

Thanks for reading!

Welcome To My Blog

This is where I post my things that mean the most to me. I'm very fond of fashion, art, culture, and music. I'm a "One Girl Show". I  have  many aspirations and talents. Writing is one  of my favorite hobbies. I'm dedication  to  fashion,  and I take all aspects of  style very seriously. I  plan on starting my own line of  T-Shirts/Clothing very soon. It  takes a lot of time and effort in building up a brand. I'm prepared to explore the challenge. I hope through this blog, I can build up enough courage to continue to pursue  my goals and  all things that keep  me driven  toward success.

BCBGMAXARZIA & Porter Magazine

I treated myself this week to a BCBGMAXARZIA lace peplum top, which was on sale at Bloomingdales. This top comes in a very beautiful blush rose color, with intricate detailing all throughout the material. This was my first piece from this brand and I am absolutely in love! The size of this blouse is in an X-Small, which fits my small frame very well. I picture myself pairing this top with black pants/leggings or a pencil skirt. This was my monthly splurge and it was totally worth it!

The next item, purchased this week was Porter Magazine (Spring 2017) by Net-a-Porter fashion company. This magazine is truly amazing, it's all fashion, models, lifestyle topics, and beauty, without being cluttered by pop culture. This magazine is very upscale like it's parent company. Net-a-Porter is a fantastic clothing website, with amazing personalized delivery service. I made a purchase from this website last year, and felt like Carrie Bradshaw for the day! You can purchase current single issues on their website or subscribe to the magazine. 

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Items Mentioned:

BCBGMAXARZIA Michelle Lace Peplum Top - Bloomingdales $74.00 (50%) off

Porter Magazine - Net-a-Porter - $9.99 USD (also found at Target)

#GirlBoss --The Best Book I've Read in 2014 (Book Review) + Thoughts

Image source: Refinery29

Growing up as a young girl, I did not like being told what I could and could not achieve. Gender roles did not exist in my household. My mother made it clear to me, that I should aspire to be smarter than my peers, regardless of gender (male or female). Should girls and women aspire to become leaders?  What does it mean to be a #GirlBoss? In Sophia Amoruso's founder and creator of Nasty Gal online boutique (now with a flagship store) iconic "hashtag" titled self-help book #GirlBoss. She preaches to women everywhere, with ambitions and goals. Amoruso defines a #GirlBoss as "someone who's in charge her own life" (Amoruso, 2014). Like most typical young teens and young adults, Amoruso was broke and the first thing she sold online, wasn't fashion, it was actually stolen books.

Jean Paul Gaultier Exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum

Hello everyone,

I'm back to blogging this month for the holiday season. My schedule as usual is somewhat hectic and I apologize for the lack of posts. Back in November, I attended the Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum. The exhibit was breath-taking and absolutely fabulous! Gaultier is one of my favorite fashion designers, who's work really inspires my own personal style and strength. This exhibit takes fashion beyond its artistic value. Enjoy the rest of the *pictures from my museum visit below.

My BeautyCon NYC Experience

I attended my first BeautyCon event on Saturday May, 20th, 2017 in NYC.  The event was like no other event, I've attended in the past. There was lots of beauty, fashion, and lifestyle brands tied into one event. I had the luxury of seeing and meeting some of my favorite YouTube Content Creators and Celebrities. I definitely enjoyed the vibes of BeautyCon and everyone there was very friendly and welcoming.

BeautyCon has the best packaging for their tickets! I did not expect to receive a tiny package of love in the mail. I received a BeautyCon X ColorPop lipstick and a iron-on nail polish, with lipstick BeautyCon patch, in my box.  

The L'Oreal Paris booth was literally like  being in the city of love! There was a floral bouquet, replica of the Eiffel Tower and pink and purple Macaroons.  

      

The Soap & Glory booth was pretty amazing, each guest at the booth received their new Sexy Mother Pucker lip gloss.

The BeautyCon shopping cart inside the booth area. I purchased a BeautyCon tote bag for $80, which was filled with beauty products. I thought the bag wasn't really worth it in my opinion.  I like using products with more natural and organic ingredients. I did receive a tons of free products from a lot of different booths like Shea Moisture (no shade). 

There was also free food and drinks at some of the booths like Califia Farms. Just a little FYI there were outside food vendors and food sold inside the venue. I purchased a Matcha bubble tea drink from this booth right here, it tasted like green tea. 

The powerful and inspirational Gabrielle Union, was on the Main Stage discussing what beauty means to her and why she created her new hair care line Flawless.

My absolute favorite part of BeautyCon was meeting the lovely MahoganyCurls at the As I Am booth. MahoganyCurls was very sweet and friendly, we had a small chat and took a few pictures together. She is one of my favorite Natural Hair YouTube Gurus. I also met Bryshere Gray aka Yazz the Great from Empire. I took a picture of him however, due to the crowd it did not come out that well. Other Influencers and Content Creators, I had the luxury of seeing were Kandee Johnson, Shannon Boodram (Remember Those Girls Are Wild?), and the gorgeous Alba Ramos also known as SunKissAlba. 

Overall, I have a wonderful time at BeautyCon New York City, and I cannot wait to attend again next year. I really loved receiving a free t-shirt from the Pretty Little Thing clothing company, and what a coincidence the t-shirt was in my size! I found that with a General Admission pass, I still had access to a lot of things versus having the Social/Hauler package.  The overload of pink, unicorns, and confetti was surreal. BeautyCon is truly a magical place to visit!!! To learn more about BeautyCon, you can visit their website here. Stay tuned for a follow up post on the makeup and different products I received at BeautyCon. 

           

           


                       




This post was edited on May 21, 2017 for accuracy and clarity.