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Growing up buying a home seemed to be the American Dream. The ideal lifestyle included...you grow up, have a family n get the modeled house with a white picket fence equipped with the wagging tail of a dog. Today, not sure what the American Dream looks like but I can tell u...if ur in the market for homeownership that won't cost u signing away ur life or needing u to dropping a college fund...keep reading: I'm a lover of quirky bags becuz they are fun to take for a spin over the weekend n add life into a simple outfit whether errand running, grocery shopping or brunch with the gals. It adds pizzazz to ur wardrobe and luckily for us in this economy...u won't need a downpayment to own this home. You can find this Dollhouse Shaped Crossbody Bag --> here I love unusual bags to challenge myself to step out the box when I'm lacking inspo or adding a pep to my step figuring out how to style them. Life is enuff of a struggle so I wanna take a break from the seriousness n loosen up with fun bags! They are definitely conversation starters so grab one n enjoy changing the address without the headache of packing and don't worry about my finder's fee...this one's on the house ;)

During my random scrolls in Nordstrom, I came across this maxi t-shirt dress. The concept of how I shop is strategic. I go for the style FIRST, cost per wear, how it falls into lifestyle n then cost. I do not shop based on brands unless it's trusted through a relationship (basically I've repurchased many times) becuz I'm not a label whore YET the quality is mandatory. This is where Fear of God Essentials has entered the chat. It's not often I blindly order off a whim. I've never heard of them but figured...u can't go too wrong wit a t-shirt dress right, lol. I sat on this sitting in the cart for a solid week to do research which meant scouring reviews on YouTube n TT. I didn't find much n honestly didn't see anyone style it in a way that made me HAVE TO have it so I just took my own chance. I did see reviews say how much it was overly sized n I got a Med n Large to compare. While I will agree...u can definitely size DOWN w/the dress, I opted to go w/the large for a looser fit n longer length. When I see maxi, I tend to expect tall girl friendly maxi meaning it drags the floor. I am also surprised I was even drawn to this dress becuz the monochrome aesthetics of beige, grey n black hues are totally outside of my comfort zone. Essentials Cotton Blend T-shirt dress ($65) I must say...I am thoroughly impressed with Fear of God for this to be my intro into the brand. The price is affordable n on par with the quality. This ain't ur typical Hanes sweetie. As casual as it is, I was actually surprised to get compliments upon taking it out for a spin. The color is a weird khaki-ish neutral so I sided with gold accents as accessories. A lot of reviews complained on it fitting too loose which is HELLO CAFTAN LOVERS-perfect for me. I love how it's not wrinkly as some t-shirts can be n it's hefty enuff to where it's not see through. I layered w/a sleeveless dress to avoid a coat and was quite comfortable. I definitely have another one in my cart (Size XL) and I'll need to go to their storefront for the dress in black . These WILL be summer samples cuz I don't have to think hard. I love how they flow without being clingy and the cotton blend feels good. The versatility to wear it sporty chic w/sneakers (or chucks) or errand run ready w/flats and even dressy w/kittens. This dress is a winner found inside Nordies!! I didn't think such a relaxed n subtle look could make me take such a chance but here we are. Extra love to Jerry Lorenzo, founder of the label in 2013 who wanted to inspire us with redefining streetwear in an upscale manner combined with his faith. I love a good back story!! Definitely check this brand out or leave me some reviews n recommendations if its already in ur closet.

As fast as life is moving these days, the weekend comes n goes to where u blink and it's MonYAY!! I've always used Sunday for my day of rest but this weekend was different. I had a HARD week n knew I needed to regroup in peace. I anticipated Toot's arrival so I could soak up his joy n innocence as he's a ball of sunshine with no clue to the real world. Well those plans changed as my boys KNEW I needed to recharge with no distractions so they relieved me of my motherly duties n took both boys. It hit me Saturday evening as I sat in these four walls ALONE...this time to self was something I never knew I needed until I got it. I have a flexible n spontaneous lifestyle most can't fathom with juggling family, jobs n other avenues to prevent them from living off the cuff. For that...I'm grateful. Whether I have one or both kids; it's rare I truly get ALONE time to where I can sit in peace. Nobody asking me NOTHING. Even more perfect...Saturday was a rainy n gloomy day so my car stayed in park. I made coffee at home, did a blog post that'll drop this week n enjoyed company by way of my plants n luxury scents of candles n incense swirling in the air. PURE BLISS!!! I was able to decompress from a bad week n let go to let gawd. A weight was lifted off my shoulders n I became lighter on my feet. I say all this to say..WE NEED to find a piece of time to rejuvenate n sit in silence to allow a higher being show us how to show up for ourselves n others. I am most creative in thoughts in the morning. I love how I'm not in a rush to allow my spirit to rise in a way to whimsically move in a daily morning routine. If I've accomplished anything...I know THAT has been completed. I do not wanna convince u guys to be here...u gotta want it for urself. When I say be here; I mean to be in a place to move in slower pace. To be in a place of peace. To be in a place of no worries or at the least...less worries becuz life gonna be what it's gonna be. Relinquish the control of trying to BE in control over what u have no control over. I have adopted the way of life of no expectations n live by nobody owing me shyt. The adage has allowed me to look at things objectively n removing the emotional n personal side of responding. Aaaah the growth in understanding!! I love it here. I cannot stress enuff the importance of sitting yo azz down. Finding a quiet space. We tend to keep moving thinkin a ball will drop or the world will crumble without us hovering to keep things afloat. I can also see how busy u wanna stay in order to avoid what we don't want to acknowledge (that's up to you to identify)-I understand. When I hit these walls, I remove myself from noise to brainstorm with my frog jumping concep t. So h ow do I start from the lily pad n leap to the next n while I'm taking these leaps; what will await me at the finish line. If u got the vision, that's half the battle **cue I believe I can fly** As I sat happily home alone, I was able to exhale a horrible week with optimism of moving forward with an open heart. Not all was bad, I randomly bumped into jazz night at a spot to where I dined in vs carryout. I have no problem being a Table of ONE but due to the event, they put me at a table of 2 strangers. I'll share that story later to refrain from a longer post, lol. What's something u last received u didn't know u needed til u got it? It could be the gift of time...favorite food...phone call...date...coffee break...visit or similar to my weekend where u got cozy on the couch n sat in ur thoughts in a Quiet Place.

Hellooooo March! Winter blues are slowly fading and hibernation season is almost over. I get antsy around seasonal changes becuz i love welcoming new beginnings.  As Spring approaches...so does allergy season ** blows nose** and between wonky weather n new variants of diseases...I can't tell if it's a cold...flu...RSV...MTV...BBD!!  Who knows. I still have a dry cough that's been lingering since I was sick in Jan.  Anyhoo...going into the Spring season, I also delight in daylight savings. Spring FORWARD meaning we lose an hour of sleep! Yall know I'm an early bird so whether we lose or gain an hour makes me no nevermind lol. I do appreciate the extended sun time so I can go for my evening walks after work.  What is on the board to accomplish this month? I am still goin strong with LOW BUY and simplicity for the year. It's given me the chance to do a full inventory on what I have n to shop the closet. I also realize how wasteful I've been becuz to see outfits I've yet to wear ** le sigh** Mason will be traveling for an HBCU College Tour ** cue increased heart rate** so shyt is getting REAL!! Contemplating the downsizing of my lifestyle n living is making true ADULTING decisions these days. All is well...so far. This is my brief monthly check in wit chall as we freshly start a new month. Coming up on the blog this month: Cherry Blossom Season Spring 2024 Trends Amazon Finds Clean Your Mirror Post (or 2...who knows) Black Girls in Nordstrom: The Origin I appreciate you ALL for messages/comments left here or my social media accounts and those who send a quick txt cuz we are beyooooond the screen, lol. I'm navigating a way to revamp my role within the social space while balancing less screen time so...if I fall off the grid; yall know where to find me.

Darlings Darlings..viens, viens ! Partons en France et savourons des croissants mais faisons-en la mode!! Ooooh look at me utilizing the English to French translator on u heaux, lol. I wanted to pop in during breakfast time to share these adorable finds n statement pieces to zhuzh (zoosh) up any outfit. Remember...this is the Year of Simplicity n these recommendations fall right in the line of "minimal effort with maximum effect" es-tu prêt? Allons-y... YALL...stay with me right fast. After the holiday's I randomly came across these earrings in Nordstrom n said...oh these are oddly cute. I didn't think anything of them but to admire them from afar ESP since they came wit a whopping price tag of $335!!! But it kept nudging me and now I'm contemplating emptying out my Nordies gift cards n fasting in order to take a bite outta these beauties. I left it alone for weeks! As my bday was coming up n these were STILL on my mind which means...lock in n GET EM!! Bein the fiscally responsible shopper I am TRYING to be, I became a private eye to research for a gentler price cuz after Xmas...my bank account be looking flaky, lol. In between watching vids n lookin for reviews, I peek back into Nordies n it says "ONE LEFT" Oh Mon Dieu (OMG)!!! Is someone clocking my keystrokes...O_o ok ok ok....I pay the 5 Gina n now a sigh of relief. But then I get the infamous ORDER CANCELLED notification: (or Look at Gawd) I did all that visualizing n fantasizing only to be knocked down n left doing a dramatic wall slide. But fret not...cuz remember I was looking for dupes...and don't bother...they ain't hit Amazon yet cuz that's where I started n to no avail lol. Although I missed out on the Jacques's ...I saved a whopping Three Hundred n Twelve Dollars becuz these dupes set me back $23!! Oui Oui Oui and while I am no gatekeeper n totally ready to share...unfortunately...the Etsy store (order from Portugal) is no longer available!! **cue same horror scream from my cancelled order news** It saddens me becuz these are bout the closest dupes you will find at the moment (the tips will tell it all) n they hold some weight to em enuff to give the designers a run for the money! While I was ready to pay the 5...who don't love the WIN of a save!! BUT...n'ayez pas peur mes chéris!! I got the next best puff pastry to satisfy the hunger n u can also add butter baby!! Now these ARE available and I'm able to gladly share the options. To be honest...I was more excited for these than the bigger ones becuz I am a studs kinda gal n I knew I'd wear these more than not. I also came across a cute set to partner with my baby croissants since I have 2nd holes in my ears to utilize. Aren't they soooo adorbs!! Kudos to moiiii for the idea to pair em up in such a way where we can wear croissants but make em fashion and VOILA...Pastry Couture!! The croissant studs are from Viner Jewelry (based in UK) n also come in silver (I just prefer gold) and the butter studs from Blooblee Jewelry (based in ATL). So let's head back home.... To those who made it to the end of the trip...Merciiiiii. I hope u all enjoyed my finds in which apparently I'm a tad late to the party, lol. The croissant trend was so last summer or so but nonetheless...I don't follow trends **shrugs** n u will surely see these draping my ears. If the Jacquemus dupe plug becomes available, I will let chall know n update the post accordingly. I've had great experiences with the vendors from my Etsy orders n they've been responsive in communications so 5 stars for sure. Let me know if u grab em...wear em n tag me!! Bonne pâtisserie et bonne journée!!

Today is the Holiday of Love! Hundreds of dollars will be spent on chocolates n candies, marked up roses, teddy bears n cards in celebration of St. Valentine. I know a lot of guys roll they eyes to hit us wit the "I love u everyday" n all of the excuses to convince us not to play into the day-WE DO NOT CARE!!! Ask me to be ur Valentine n gimme gifts!! I will spare yall the blurb of the history but u can read at ur leisure here . While we LOVE some love...I wanted to bring to ur attention there's space for everyone...even the ANTI-VDay-ers called Vinegar Valentines . I came across this article last year n was cracking up. Apparently...in the Victorian Era imagine u getting mail on this day excited to see the note read "From Secret Admirer" n proceed to read the love note which reads: "Roses are red Skies are blue Poo is brown U smell like it too" Vinegar Valentines are nasty grams from ur secret haters lmaoooo!!! Now of course in today's fluffier times nobody would make a market for these "love notes" to send the message you've been silently sayin (we also have enuff of the trolling done online now) but the post cards of vinegar started out as lightweight jokes and meant to be playful n sarcastic. These messages of love faded during the 70's and often times not delivered becuz the post office found them too offensive. We've since grown to focus more on what it's blossomed to today with fancy dinners n gifts. But I just can't not share some of my faves: Disclaimer: Here at Balls of Beauty we don't promote bullying or pushing folks over the edge. Learn how to read the room n know ur audience before passing on such "kind" gestures. Thank you!! Don't mind my dark humor, I hope everyone enjoys a beautiful Valentines Day. I love giving tiny gestures of thoughtfulness in celebration of the holiday. There's no need to overthink it or feel the pressures to out do or go overboard caving into the abundance of advertisements just to show ur love n admiration. Relaaaax, we're just recouping from Xmas.

Ever since I've ditched New Year Resolutions n come into having a yearly theme...my life has become more organized. Having a subject holds me accountable and keeps me on track to not entertain anything outside of the matter. I ponder my yearly theme near the holiday season as a forward thinker to figure out what do I want my year to look like. Looking back on losses n gains gives me an idea on a concept but also just paying attention to my evolution to see where I can adjust as needed. I am a lover of CHANGE!! It gives growth the ability to flourish within my life. Previous Themes: 2021: Year of No Expectations 2022: Year of Humble for What 2023: Year of Execution Personal development is absolutely important to me. Now that I've got a grip on being consistent n disciplined to the point of them becoming apart of my lifestyle; I'm always open to additions of bettering life. That could include incorporating a plant based diet into my servings, stepping UP Pilates from once to twice a week, never missing a daily walk, carving time to read vs social media/TV and investing more time into family n friends. These have been treasures I consider adding to my 2024 which brings me to the theme.... The Year of Simplicity Yall...I do NOT wanna continue working hard. When I say this, it's not in the sense of just being lazy but moreso working smarter to not be overwhelmed becuz let's make no mistake here...u can't cheat the grind. Becoming simple this year will be across many avenues of 'esse' (essential nature or essence) aka existence. I am one who's accumulated "all of the things" and now that I've been in purge mode, it's like...for what. I have nothing to prove to these heaux when I hit the streets n ur not gonna catch me outside lookin below the standards I uphold myself on. I wanna focus on quality vs quantity as I revamp my wardrobe cuz I'm a repeat offender lol. How can I achieve my theme for the year will change as I go through the process. I've decided to do a LOW BUY so wish me luck cuz I gotta balance Nordstrom splurges n Mason heading into his Senior Year **cue horror scream** Aside from fashion; I'm also trying to figure out what simplicity looks like within my career n pondering if schooling will be involved for personal growth or professional gains.   So in conclusion....at this big age I am certain of who I am-truly n I don't need to parade it for attention nor seek validation to stamp what I already know about myself. My style will reflect this, my attitude will reflect this and the overall engagement will solidify this. I don't wanna overthink or wait for the perfect moment. I wanna take advantage of opportunities that meet preparation. THIS is the moment. THIS is the year!! Simple yet effective is what 2024 shall bring for me-where rhythm is life and life is rhythm -Warren G reference

Hellooooo February, the month of LOVE!! January always feels like it takes forever and it did JY LIKE drag cuz some days felt like a repeat and the ATL episode when they were trying to find their way out of the mall lol. So now that we've gotten pass January 41st; we get a fresh start with the first of the moooooooonth. I am fascinated with #LeapYear and I think it's so cool for those born on February 29th cuz u technically age every 5 yrs and u get to pick a day or 2 to celebrate in lieu of the 29th on those off years-I would totally feel like a unicorn. We get a whole freebie of 24 hrs...what do u plan to do with it? I must say...I've been kicking seasonal depressions azz! I mainly think it's becuz I've been staying busy with being productive with my time. I've been cranking out content, doin pilates and uppin' my game at work, emphasizing Black Girls In Nordstrom , better sleeping habits and spending time with loved ones. The laughing n love I've been receiving has been quite helpful. The weather was wonky for January where we went from a snow "storm" to a preview of Spring within a week. Nonetheless, I've been taking it day by day n giving space n grace for those days of gloom n not sitting in my woes. So what are your plans for the month? These past two months have been expensive for me so starting this month I am on a low to NO BUY!! I need to pay off some small lingering bills n prepare for college tours this Spring. What I'd like to do is budget my monthly Nordies spenditures into a pot to splurge on #Nsale in July. I don't know....can I go 5 months without a pickup at Nordies...EEEK!! I can definitely get my itch scratched with window shopping but the true test is leaving with ONLY my Lavender Chai Latte O_o My January was amazing! I mean aside from it being me turning Forty ThWeee n Toot's Disney Adventures, I can honestly say I enjoyed the fresh start of 2024. I have no idea what's to come n I'm anticipating getting better as long as the good lord allows getting through these next ten months. Stepping away from the phone n more into OUTSIDE while creatively flowing more into my blog space is what I'm excited to do...I've even been on Tik Tok's more than I expected n getting in the groove n my numbers been goin UP **calls Lebron's manager for representation** and I feel this spirit of greatness as I catch random angel numbers n get confirmations of my thoughts through chats with friends that lets me know I'm headed in the right direction. So keep me in ur prayers as I continue to navigate cuz I'm ready n open to figuring this thing called LIFE out n since this IS the month of love...I'll gawn head n unlock the door to go on some dates...ooooh la la!! I actually had a good one last month but err uuuh yea...that was clearly practice lol. Anyhoo...Happy February <3

I wanted to pop in during the lunch break to share my #StyleStory for my Birthday Suit. I wanna start sharing the story behind how I put together a LEWK!! A few weeks ago for Toot's bday, we celebrated his FIF at Disney in FL. I was able to see how much it changed besides the inflation after not having been there since Mason's FIF. I solely focused on NOT overly spending on anything outside of a good time. Well...we walked around Downtown Disney and I was minding my badness when this beauty came across my eyes. I wasn't being impulsive but took note in the details...it was HEAVY which means it's of good quality and the design had already sold me but I wanted it to marinate. After sleeping on it....I woke up n KNEW I couldn't come back home without it n started trying to figure out HOW to wear it. I was gonna search it for yall but don't feel like it at the moment lol but the design goes all around which I love becuz rarely do u see a continuation beyond the front. The colorful story makes me soooo happy wearing this piece. Becuz its such a FUN piece, I wanted to emphasize the story n keep it cheeky with polka dots as an added finisher. When u have a standout statement, u don't have to do much. I kept it relaxed in jeans (from clearance at GAP) yet elevated the casual with my shoes. The object of my Birthday Suit was to represent the Forty ThWeeeee and play up the fun but also keep it within my age, lol. My accessories came together in my head to contrast around the sweatshirt. My Polka Dot opera gloves, sunglasses n felt laptop book case (used as clutches) are from Amazon n my bracelets are vintage. If ever u don't know what shoes to wear with a colorful statement top, default to black n white and even better with STRIPES!! Have fun n let the outfit come together as u see FIT! Don't overthink it n let it naturally collect itself. Now of course I'm just extra n used a vintage hatbox n red sunglasses from Timeless Tina's for the aesthetics of it all. Thanx for sharing yall lunch break with lil' ol' meeee n let me know what u think when u see THIS! I absolutely LOVE this Disney find n will absolutely be incorporated into being worn ALOT!! I feel young at heart with Mickey n this sweatshirt instantly brightens my day :D

I am now at the age where I gotta break out the calculator n carry the one to figure out how old I really am which boggles my mind becuz in another ten years...Imma have to carry my papers round aka birth certificate to whip out to verify for my own good, lol. I don't care what nobody say though...time be skippin! Cuz like how did I go to sleep Forty n wake up Forty Three!! How Sway? How!! What in the time traveling matrix is goin on becuz this decade is flying!! Forty Won .. Forty Tew ..I am actually enjoying my 40's more than I anticipated hence why I've labeled this year Forty Thweeee cuz it's been a helluva ride and I've been getting a kick out of this decade thus far. There's such a certainty of womanhood in this era n it absolutely shows in my demeanor as I walk in my power. I don't allow my past to define me while recognizing they've shaped who I am today. I am happy to share my failures n experiences that haven't been bright sunshines n rainbows becuz it removes the power to be weaponized against me.  I've lived past my mother's age n time she's walked the earth. Becuz I lost her so young, it's made me move in the direction of being fearless (not in a reckless way) since...what more do I have to lose. With life's experiences, I've grown to live in the space of gratitude n I'm appreciative of every lesson learned throughout this life inasmuch as time being valuable! Aging gracefully has given me such peace n the ability to enjoy sunrises as much as I love sunsets. If u understood how short of a life we have, you'd stretch em as much as possible n being a morning person has afforded me this luxury.  So what are my plans for the Big 4-3??? Doin what any baddie would do...jetset off to the magical lands of getting my hair done, lunch with self and my yearly massage at my favorite spa in Old Town Alexandria. I don't need to extend the day by celebrating for a weekend or a month, lol. Yall know my bday's always been lowkey-typical if ur the elder of siblings anyways. I'm chill...no fan fares needed.  Aquarians don't need to make a fuss cuz we have a louder presence with silence ;) Happy Birfdaaaay to meeee with turning Forty Thweeeee!!

Normally, I'd keep my Nordies Finds a secret until I wore them with an outfit but who knows how long that could be so let me not deprive yall, lol. These can also go in the category of TREND ALERTS!!! Mary Jane's tend to come n go throughout the seasons but these are truly classics. Jeffrey Campbell Jitterbug Cap Toe Mary Jane Pumps ($175, Size 8.5) I snatched these becuz of the details. The color block heel would challenge me to coordinate the outfit which means I'd need to put more thought into it. The minor details make big splash's. I also loved the jitterbug which is the "visual intrigue" to the dainty-ness of this classic style. The overall style of the Mary Jane's allow u do to let the shoes do the #Werk so I already know what I'll wear with these: Werk Couture: Anything outside of work (casual): Now yall KNOW the best part for me is the heel height. I'm not investing into anything more than 3 inches at my big age becuz I want to wear my finds more often than not. The block heel keeps u balanced and allows me to dress down n still be dressed up. The cap toe always reminds me of a Chanel. As a pointy toe gal, the boxy shape is why I'd keep it more casual than not. These JC's will allow u to be youthful n I'll be wearing these little darlings sooner than later...well...after the snow, lol. What do u think about these J. Campbell finds at Nordstrom and what would u wear them with...I'm open for suggestions!!

I don't mean to sound like a parrot but if ever u need to trap me ensure u are armed with anything pointy toe'd and mule'd-start there!! Now add a metallic finish and u got a statement piece added to ur wardrobe. When I first seen these last year from Bottega , I knew I'd have to sacrifice an appetite n a left nut in order to wear these. But alas...a sale! I had to purposely blow this pic up so u can get the full fledge gasp of the price!! While there are things I'd pay the 5 for Gina...I can't justify a comma on shoes when I barely-if ever-do it for a purse! I have boundaries...and also RENT!! While I've not seen the gold on sale, I've contemplated the black/gold ones for as low as $650 at the end of last summer but couldn't bring myself to complete the order. Now yall know dmnnnnn wellllll...I am pretty resourceful and also patient. These days there's nothing Amazon can't come through with to satisfy my designer needs ** cue evil laugh** and so here I am...minding my business when these came across my feed. I said...oh wow...I remember I wanted these...could it be? the answer to my dreams? and more importantly...my wallet!! I tend to toss findings in my Amazon Storefront all the time without sharing as my wishlist. You can find anything from Bae Bag ideas to Home Decor and my main ones are Styles n Accessories. Check em out if ur looking for inspo n findings of things u didn't know u needed. You can find these Bottega V Rocket Mule Dupes---> here . I didn't pay for shipping but not sure if it was a glitch or cuz I got a size 9. Nonetheless, these were under $60 after coupons were applied which is a whopping savings of well over the cost with or without taxes, lol. The style of the sculpted mules is what caught my eye. The fact its a LOW HEEL, yall know I'm sold but I also wanted to challenge myself with metallics. Going silver would be too cliche given the Renaissance high we've been on n since the investment wasn't expensive, figured I could play around with going bold with gold. This is also why if I'm paying the 5 Gina, it can't be a trendy/seasonal type purchase. Go for the DUPES !! it'll allow u to play with it before taking the full leap and ensure you'll get the cost per wear of it all. I plan to let these babies do the talkin n keep my outfits simple. You will see me in a white blouse, jeans (or trousers for work) or even some joggers w/a blazer to elevate a casual on the go look. After all...these are walkable for the long haul. Anything wide legs will set these AWF!!! No worries...u know I'll keep yall posted whenever I wear em ;)