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- Disco Couture
I am horrible about sharing on the whim...well...I mean I do share it but to plug in the extra deets n review-horrible!! Typically by the time u read this...it's SOLD OUT! That's what I mean when I say I'm horrible with sharing. Yall know I am in Nordstrom bout every week. Whether I am perusing (window shopping), picking up an order or just there for the Nordstrom Cafe menu, yall know my infinity love I have for this department store. Becuz a lot of times yall ask me where I shop, I'll make post on my fashion finds. I am spontaneous. I allow garments to find me. This particular dress from Farm Rio randomly caught me off guard. I love this brand for its quality n style of dresses. I've been collecting em for a few summers n majority of the times...I get em on sale. I tried it on n let it fall on my body to where magic happened n I fell in love BUT I didn't wanna make a hasty decision at the time n left it behind. After a week or so later, I went back n it was waiting on me. I tried it on again to recreate the magic n it was still there so I knew it was meant to be. The maker or breaker for me is how I feel when I wear it n can I see myself wearing it more than a few times. I don't wait for special occasions to get dressed up. My #SipTrip was the perfect Saturday to try this out. It's metallic design reminded me of a Disco era so I wanted to bring out the silver lines instead of emphasizing the black. I found a belt here n already had some shoes in the closet (classic slingback pumps). My quirky bag (vintage Betsy Johnson) kept the look-fun! Note: This dress was suppose to come WITH a belt. Mines did NOT n even after exchanging, my replacement didn't either. My initial dress was a size L which did fit but was tighter in the bust area. I only exchanged it for an XL after seeing it was avail n to see if it could come w/a belt. The sizes aren't too far off n still fell on my body just the same. The only difference was longer sleeves n more room in the bust-there's not much stretch in the dress itself. My favorite feature on this dress is the dramatic sleeves. The dress alone is MEH n to be honest, I don't miss the original belt becuz it's best to add ur own for shape. It's long enuff to where u can still show off ur shoes n versatile to go from dressy to casual. Don't let the shimmer scare u to think it's only meant to be dressed up! To make it office appropriate or as I like to call it "Werk Couture" I'd swap out silver accessories for black to "tone it down". Nevermind this dress is currently SOLD OUT on Nordies (U can find it on Farm Rio site but it's NOT at Nordies lowest price-I don't feel it's worth it paying higher than $180). The best part of this story is...while I did get it at $180, it went on even more of a sale (I call it sale-er lol) for $120 so YES...I am THAT GIRL who will stalk a sale even AFTER it's on sale to price adjust n match to save a coin! So what do u think? What makes u take the plunge on a dress n how do u determine if it's worth the price? Let me know in the comments!!
- My Style Story
To know me is to know when u see me...I am a confirmation of my mama's existence. I take great pride in honoring Nee-Nee becuz when I was younger she always preached to "take pride in ur appearance before u leave the house". While I've never left the house looking homeless n don't condone bummy couture; I was not always this snazzy. It took me a lot of growth, healing n tiiiiiime to get to where I am now n go the "extra" mile. It's chuckle-able when I look back at old pics to see my style evolution. It's truly evolved based on life experience n operating in different social circles with a dash of being ME. To find ur style personality, u have to truly know urself n draw inspiration from somewhere or someone. You need a motivating factor! What makes u comfortable? For me, I prefer loose fit becuz I'm don't wanna be self-conscious n steady tugging n pulling throughout the duration on wear. I like the mystique of leaving something to the imagination. Beyond asking urself what's ur favorite color n what's flattering to ur body type; the most important question to start is asking urself when looking for ur style is: What story do I wanna tell presenting myself to the world? I keep this question in my mind as I am putting LEWKS together. It's a good formula to use when u purge as well. Typically, ur style changes every 5 years or so. If u fall into the trendy section, ur style changes quicker becuz trends don't last long. Surely ur not still wearing those infamous heel-less Lady GaGa shoes lol but it's easy to fall prey with "fast fashion" stores (i.e Zara n nem). While my flair does change by default, I have a style story. In general, when u see me, I want u to think regal, retro, nostalgic. This is why I love shopping in thrifting spots n vintage boutique's. I've always been fascinated by how women of the old days dressed. My fashion muse's growing up was anyone from Marilyn Monroe, Dominique Deveraux to Willona from Good Times becuz they embodied sexy n sassy. When I am being colorful, I wanna display my playful, flirty n approachable side. I enjoyed the decade of the 90's with a vibrant couture. Remember Cross Colours, lol. That's where I transition to Whitley Gilbert n Left Eye from TLC. I shift my muses n pay homage when I tell my style story. I can shop anywhere when I have a mental guide n balance the fashion n style of it all. I can be vintage with a modern twist. Putting together outfits have become therapy! Yes, isn't that crazy lol. Getting dressed is therapeutic becuz I can take my time to see how one piece comes together with additions or changing off a whim. If I'm in confident mode, I don't think too much into it n toss on "anything" but it still works becuz my ME is enuff to carry any look. It's why my dressed down is still dressed up ;) Overall I am extension of what it looks like to honor my mother (motivation) who was a woman of sophistication n grace in the sense of poise. She was my first style icon to whom I've admired n represented everything of being a virtuous woman. Becuz she is no longer here, this is where I carry her legacy on (inspiration). She is my style story n what I want to present to the world. Once you've narrowed down ur own u can use their image as a guide n add ur own personality for finishing touches. Recreating looks or bringing an old look current is always refreshing. You can do it. Whether ur getting ready for an event or running errands, u are a billboard. Keep in mind what or who u wanna represent with how u present urself to the world n you can't go wrong in life.
- The Art of Affirming Urself
Affirmations are what u tell urself for motivation with positive patterns of thinking. To affirm is to assert. To affirm urself is increasing ur confidence n raising self-esteem. The misuse of affirmations is the lack of action. U can tell urself ur superman all day but if ur not putting in the superman work-ur back at square one. There's no magic pill or I AM t-shirt that can make u BECOME any faster without allotting urself patience n due diligence of making affirming urself apart of ur lifestyle. So while we know affirmations to say, I'll focus on some u can do. These practices turned into a habit for me: Honor Yourself : Be as consistent with urself as u want for a partner to be with u. Do u have a routine? I am an early riser. I have a morning n bedtime routine. My most consistent routine is making my bed every morning n finding pockets of peace throughout the day where I pause n show gratitude. Therapy : For the Love of Ray J, seek professional help. Also, not having an echo chamber of friends who don't feel like they can tug on ur coat tails to wheel u back in. Real friends don't enable foolishness n offer listening ears. Note: Surprise-no surprise, I am not a doctor nor certified psychologists in nothing outside of my own life experiences. Keep in mind low-self esteem n negative thought patterns can stem from depression n anxiety. Professional help can give coping strategies my crazy azz cannot. Love Urself fully even the flaws : cultivate urself by getting to know urself. Date urself, if u don't even like hanging wit urself, why would anyone else want to. I've always loved going to the movies n having a table for one on an off day. Goin solo has a lot of benefits. You're more likely to be approached by suitors n if ya lucky...treated to free meals. Give Grace : I do not dwell on the past I can't change. I've forgiven folks without having talkin to them for "closure" becuz while we love to have a grand finale convo to close the door...the closure is for YOU not them. Get a phkn LIFE : in the words of my BD Rickey, "getchu some business". U need busy work as in a hobby. Finding joy in life for me has been my Sip Trip Saturday's, random walks in the neighborhood or even window shopping. As a homebody, I am content wit being IN the house. When u are bored ur mind wonders in places n puts urself in business u aint got no bidness. What's the old folks sayin "idle minds/hands are the devil's workshop". These tips have worked for me n there are many other ways to incorporate as well. The dedication I've made to myself has kept me honest becuz I stand tall in myself. I can enter rooms with a pronounced presence n I've reaped many benefits of showing kindness. The journey of self-improvement isn't easy. Be patient with urself. Don't look at urself as a failure if some strategies don't work for u. It just means u may need to find a different route. I love seeing folks affirm themselves. It unlocks a level of self-love that offends others who can't fathom n I loooove it. How do u choose to affirm urself? Share tips for us all in the comments below.
- Gift Guide: Black Men Deserve-VDay Edition
If there's one thing I love to do is shopping. Whether window shopping or snatching an order from Nordies, I can always find solace in the racks. It gives me a glimpse of trends n I've built such a rapport as a regular, the associate's hip me to what's to come n VIP privileges behind the velvet rope. I even get asked if I work there n the pick up section grabs my order before I even make it to the counter cuz they see me coming. So of course, I couldn't resist updating my infamous Men's Gift Guide for Valentines Day next week. Granted I should've dropped it sooner for budgeting purposes but this was spontaneous. The last one from Father's Day 2021 needed an update for sure. Make note I have suggestions for all ages. Teens to Sugar Daddies. They are simple creatures who need us to give em an extra nudge in things they don't think about...Lets goooo.... If u have teens, then you'd know it takes an act of basically hiding their overly worn n more than likely grown out of clothes. Apparently, high waters are in style now n tattered t-shirts n faded hoodies are COOL :7 Every few months I get him fresh t-shirts n draws tho cuz although I do NOT wash his clothes...undergarments need to be replaced every so often. Jeans stay in rotation of course: Keep in mind, Nordstrom offers styling sessions and they link u with a stylist to find ur signature look. It's so much fun. I tend to do them once a year n it's perfect if ur looking for a makeover session or to update ur look forecasting trends. You'll LOVE the experience. These Converse Comme de Garçons ($150) are classics for teens/adults n elevates a simple t-shirt n jeans look. If ever u wanna introduce yo manssss n em to the designer side, we've gotchu covered. I'll reserve my comments on them Balenziaga's to the right. They look like tires to me n I be thinking designers spoofing us to show how crazy we are to spend money on parody's of a shoe! But again...I'll reserve my comments lol. I'm an advocate for fancy undergarments. If ever u wanna tip toe into the luxury brands or introduce HIM to a brand outside of Hanes- START HERE !! One might think this is a silly splurge but I can only equate how a guy would feel in designer draws in how we women feel with matching bra n panties. Next level for sure. Same with socks. Kids are into crazy socks but I once gift'd guys in my office crazy socks n they FLIPPED!! It was totally outside of the regular black n blue solid sock routine. Let's just say..I left an everlasting impression behind ;) Jack Black Line will ALWAYS be my recommendation for the male species-PERIOD!! Young to old, Jack is clutch. If ur introducing kids into grooming skills-this is it. If ur man travels-this is it. If he's a simple man-this is it. Jack is affordable, comes in sets n not overbearing. The Lip Balm set ($25) is actually what is goin in my cart becuz I go thru the tubes all year round. I often buy the balms in sets to break em up into single Bae Bags too. Can't rave enuff about JB. Ok so this is where we slide into the grown folks section. Phk them kids n put em to bed. These are the gifts only folks of age can appreciate. When it comes to cologne, u gotta take ur time when shopping to test it out n let it marinate to see how well it blends. For the kids, I suggest the EDT (toilette) but for grown folks...u need the ED (parfum) n UP! There is a slight price difference in the T n P yet it's worth it: Burberry Hero ($95 T/$110 P) I sniffed it n let it linger...dried down to a clean everyday scent. It's a romantic woody spritz n u can smell the cedar wood too. It can easily be a new signature scent. Typically my go-to's are Chanel Bleu n Dior Sauvage. Even I stepped out my comfort zone to smell something different. L' Homme Prada EDT set ($140) kinda surprised me. I almost want this to be unisex in my head (sorta like TF Ombre Leather) becuz for a T, I really liked this. This gives a distinctive scent that doesn't feel like a bear growling in ur ear (lol, aggressive right haha) but it's a sensual patchouli as the base but I'm sure it's the neroli that draws me. I'm actually gonna go back for this one. Ralph's Club Perfume ($105) I totally grabbed this on a whim to try out. Of all the other options, this chose me! Now while I would say go for the gusto n do the P, u can easily back it down to the EP (the set for $135 has a better value to include the after shave n deodorant). There's something classic about Ralph that I love. This scent captures it perfectly. Cedar wood must be my new fave cuz it's in here with some sage. This will transition him into Spring n another grab to add to his collection. A man who walks pass me smelling GEWD is divine. Whether he's dressed up in a suit or dressed down in a button up n jeans, random accessories are always a good look for him. Upgrade his wallet, grab a new hat, a belt polishes a look n it ain't gotta be designer. Even sunglasses are underrated gifts for men. Help these men out. Give em a nudge n tell 'em without verbalizing it. The hint is the gift. Now I know I know...these guides come in a range for all budgets n still cheaper than a Chanel bag lol. Tailor it to YO man. I'm a high n low lover so I mix a lot. High end with a hint of remembering where I came from lol. Men love the gesture of u taking the time to think of them. Laydeez are typically HORRIBLE at gifting cuz they don't pay attention enuff but this is where iiiiiii come in **cue Cassandra 227 voice** And whether ur gifting yo man, A man, new man, old man....any man @nordstrom has an array of options. They even got a section for ex-lovers n baby daddy's who u co-parent with cuz let's not leave them out lol. That is still a good man Savannah esp if he's active in ur child's life. Gift em a little something to show some appreciation: I hope u all enjoyed my updated 2023 version of the Men's Gift Guide. These posts be pic heavy n that's just on the low end if I really dive into it. I am open to styling sessions for men, I need to add that to my resume cuz it's a creative flow to bring me joy. I am ALWAYS in Nordies so I keep my eyes open for tips n tricks to share. Speaking of sharing...I have a full Bae Bag section at my Amazon Storefront as well with recommendations. Good Luck n Happy Shopping :D n let me know what u got or even if u wanna add to the recommendations...leave a comment below.
- How to Clean Your Mirror: Making Peace
Wow, it's been almost a year since I've done one of these. How to Clean Your Mirror is a series of vulnerability for me. It's my highest trafficked post and I don't mind sharing my flaws becuz it's apart of my healing n I'm able to express through writing it out. After every post of cleaning my mirror it's a sigh of relief. Weight lifted off my shoulder. I'm sure I've put time n space in between dropping these becuz to be honest...I be nervous leaving this intimate footprint on the innanet. Here we go **rips off band aide** Yall know I love being observant. I see the struggles of how we are aging n hardening with lack of trust in others without acknowledging we don't trust ourselves. The gender war chatters still thriving n running rampant becuz everyone wanna just be heard without listening for understanding. We seek validation n spaces of illusion n when it doesn't work in our favor we have to look for someone to blame. Echo chambers be overwhelming. We hate to acknowledge privileges we have over others until our privilege has run dry n shyt don't work in our favor. There's so much disconnection in the atmosphere these days n folks are sad n miserable. There's a lot of internal struggle we deal with n hide from the surface level. We toss on this happy face n suffer in silence. Moving it off speaking in general...I'll make this personal to ME. Over the last few years, I've been honing my confidence. I can feel how awakened my spirit has gotten n often feel like an alien amongst chaos becuz there's struggles I can't relate to. I've had bad experiences in life whether it's been a miserable job, missed opportunities, poor judgement in men, mismanaged time, falling out with friends, whore-able decisions, financial losses, family trauma's, losing my mother, babies n the scroll of notes can go on longer than a CVS receipt. The hardest thing I've done is letting go to let gawd. Holding on to bad experiences in any category above will keep u stagnant in life. Holding on to heartbreak will pause u from thriving in the love u deserve. U will not be allowed to move forward to enjoy fruits of labor without making peace with past indiscretions. Acceptance, start there. Once I started taking accountability for my actions (or lack thereof), doors starting opening for me in ways I couldn't imagine. The moment I started shifting my mindset n seeing the good in what life has to offer it was like a whole new world of grand opportunities revealed. I began to transform how I treated myself. I'm aware of how I talk to myself. I am patient with myself. I hate being in a rush so I give myself ample time n wiggle room to take my time. While I do love me some fried chicken n will NEVER go vegan, I am aware health is wealth n I've incorporated plant based foods within my diet n feel better with brain power. Ooooh my love life...ok so whew...hear me out. I've always been a free bird n one foot in n out kinda gal. It's so hard to find a balance of what I want annnnd I attracted JUST that. I've had convo's with exes as apart of my self-discovery n learn where we went wrong. U gotta be open to constructive criticism. It's no different than getting an evaluation at work right? I ain't gonna lie...it stung a little bit n the sting was necessary to learn my struggles n where I can improve. I've since learned not everything needs to be said n I ain't gotta always be right. To be honest...it's actually better to STFU n finding silent ways to "make a point". Becuz I don't half azz with myself, I don't allow anyone else to short me. After making peace with mistakes made in the past, I don't dwell on it. I've even had a breakthrough convo wit my dad that has improved our relationship! Effective communication definitely includes LISTENING. Everyone moving forward starts off with a clean slate with me.I have no trust issues becuz I trust myself FIRST in knowing I've sharpened my skills of discernment. I'm not into online dating becuz I'm so much better in person. U can't piss in my ear n tell me it's raining (as my dad says lol). The dating world now is funny, finicky, scary n the thing that will set u apart is how hopeful u are before u enter. We tip in the dating pool with too many expectations. The woman u see before u today stands tall in her shyt becuz she didn't allow life to beat her up n make her bitter **turns off 3rd person** I value my time n don't take advantage of others for gain. I need nothing from anyone so there's no hidden agenda wit me. I am where I am today becuz of decisions made in my earlier years-No Regerts lol. U gotta reconcile things u can't change. When u make peace u are reflecting God's likeness **cue church organs** and THEN **preacher finger** people will see the reflection of his glory. Peace is now apart of my lifestyle. I often practice mindfulness, gratitude, optimism, resilience n integrity cuz what u see online is merely a glimpse of me-no cap! If ever ur near me, u will feel the magic from the benefits of making peace.
- The Golden Ticket for Beyonce's Tour
Well dmn...if ever u want feathers ruffled, excitement to anticipate, bank accounts emptied n chaos to ensue...mention an upcoming drop for a concert of THE Beyonce and u got a tit-ta-lay-ted timeline on ur socials that are sure to keep u entertained. The memes are forever my highlights but the main chatter was the cost to see the boss. This leads me to the subject of my post...what has Beyonce taught us... Lawd Yeezus if ever the comment sections of post was in shambles it was definitely when Bey dropped the announcement of a world tour n then the dates. Ticketmaster already KNOW this will be bigger than any Taylor Swift-gate n the process to even GET a ticket has already turned me off (I signed up anyway). My max budget for concerts are $400 n while I don't count nobody else pockets, what YOU deem is "too much" is on ur lifestyle. It was hilarious seeing the made up ticket prices that soared WELL over my budget n knowing the exuberant prices aren't confirmed. The foot tap wait of WHO will get the golden ticket n WHERE the winner will see the show is nail biting like ur waiting on a lottery win. What has the Renaissance frenzy taught us? Well eggs must not be so expensive after all, lol. Folks was acting like eggs was the new caviar a few weeks ago yet ready to dip into they kids college funds for a glimpse of The Queen. You can learn a thing or 2 from this n apply it to life in general...first n foremost...let's acknowledge how big the IMPACT Bey has. Anything she drops has us in a chokehold. She's a RISK TAKER . Like it or love it, she isn't afraid to take the chance. The legacy of her work is EMPOWERING . I remember folks felt some kind of way when she told us to Bow Down yet couldn't escape the reminder to be That Girl last summer. I'm here for the cocky tawk either way cuz I can relate **pops collar** If you've ever seen her in person or even a concert at home, that shyt is phenomenal. U can FEEL the work n know exactly why she can tawk her shyt. Whether ur a content creator, business owner or neither; we could all take a page to strive for the greatness she possesses. I love the MYSTERY of Muva Carter to where she pops out to shake the world as needed n goes back into her cave. In a world where everyone wants to be seen n heard or looking for clout, when u got substance n build ur community with the quality of ur work, it speaks for itself. I hope everyone has fun n gets the golden tkt to the Renaissance Tour if they desire. It's a great experience to check off the bucket list n to share that with ur girls is even better. The camaraderie of concert goers is unmatched n shows the togetherness amongst strangers. And while we get it, not everyone is press to attend or can afford to sell a kidney to go-keep it respectful. This is the year of concerts fully returning after a covid hiatus. NOTHING is cheap n yes....u gotta pick n choose what artists u sacrificing brunch for. Whew...living is such a luxury these days sheesh. Welp...good luck n see yall there **cue single ladies hand wave**
- Sip Trip: Tatte Bakery & Cafe
This was a spontaneous Sip Trip after partying the night away with New Orle-ians at a ball hosted by Krewe of Pyros and we had a tiiiiiiime that night. Sunday waking up, of course I was on the hunt for the nearest cafe for coffee. VOILA...Tatte Bakery & Cafe was within walking distance near City Center DC. From her website, Tzurit Or, founder, pastry chef, and the creative force behind the cafe started Tatte Bakery fifteen years ago in her home kitchen, selling her creations at the Copley Square farmers market in Boston. Inspired by Tzurit’s legacy and vision, a passionate and diverse team of chefs, pastry chefs, bakers, cooks, baristas, and café staff brings Tatte to life in locations throughout Greater Boston and Washington D.C. Even as we grow, our commitment to each other is to own the smallest details, maintain the highest standards, and hold fast to our shared mission: To Inspire, Care for, and Nurture life. Every Day. Upon entering the cafe it was refreshing. Even tho, the weather was gloomy, the natural light and the decor brightened the room. I felt at ease and welcomed into a new space n the staff was more than willing to assist me with picking a drink. I chose the Turmeric & Honey Latte. There was also a ham n cheese on croissant...so nice we got it TWICE!!! I wanna go back for one just thinkin bout it. The croissant was buttery n it was some special sauce n special cheese made from unicorns that tickled my fancy. Everything was so good n I appreciated the professional staff n cleanliness of the cafe. They offer an extensive menu with seasonal dishes n gluten-free meals that will tease u to be a fave. I would definitely seek Tatte out if I am exploring downtown, it's worth the stop!!
- National Wear Red Day
Yall know...well maybe ya don't lol...red is one of my favorite colors. Anyone remember last year for Feb, I did a series " Red Lips of Love " ?? Anyhoo...in support of the awareness of heart disease; today we wear red. It's one of the leading cause of death for women and 1 in every 5 of us can be affected. The risks of high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol and family history can be determining factors. As we age, u truly understand how health is wealth and to start taking diet into consideration. I know I do with previously having had the gastric sleeve (wls), my horrible eating habits had to die hard. Now that I'm in my 40's, acid reflux n heartburn plague me when I'm hard headed (dmn u spicy foods). Wearing red on this day is a reminder for me to get my azz back on an exercise regimen. I am effective n at my best in bootcamp cuz I hate the treadmill or relying on myself. Between obesity n anticipating menopause **cue cringe** the decline in estrogen after menopause can increase the risk of heart disease. Let this day be a wake up call... Take action and Take care of urself.
- 01 Feb: Daily Diligence
Welcome to February. Wow, January didn't seem to take so long this year. I like using those 31 days of the month as a grace period before kickstarting the year with a new attitude in Feb. This is where I get off my azz n put my resolutions or them into gear. Becuz self-awareness is sexy, I can admit...I lack structure becuz I be winging it at times. Over the years, I have gotten better tho becuz I've been improving in the discipline department. Self-discipline is a learned behavior n to master the skill u need to dmn near be habitual in the practice with repetition so it can eventually become a lifestyle. The highest form of discipline is of the mind. When I create a habit n challenge myself to build discipline I notice I am full of energy n makes life easier. I have a morning routine. EVERY morning I make my bed up. I know if nothing else-THAT is accomplished. I then proceed to start my grooming regimen before I hit the living room. After what may seem like a full production of waking up, I am refreshed n ready to start the day. I have jazz music in the background while watching Fox 5 DC News n the aroma of air mist lingers throughout until the candle burned takes over. I peek in Mason's room n close the door in typical mom disgust becuz boys are just...ugh...n make my way to my coffee area. My morning routine is completed with making my rounds to my plants as I mists them n check for watering. Does that seem like a lot? LOL! It's no different than someone with an exercise regimen or meditation routine and when people carve out time to read a book. This type of discipline is what relaxes me. I get up EXTRA early to allot for the time to do so. It also teaches me patience. The most beautiful thing within my disciplined habit is experiencing the grace of a sunrise. OMG!! I love a good sunrise. I've committed to myself to put in the work to achieve goals n adhere to my theme of the year: execution . 01 Feb: What are your goals for the month? What have u learned from last month? I am starting to challenge myself to get up at 0530a to extend my day with production. This production could be exercise, blogging, reading but I look for this time to cultivate more self-discipline in lacking areas of my life. Pushing myself out the comfort zone throughout the week and making strategies a habit will take me to the next level of a fulfilling life.
- 2023: Year of Execution
Happy New Year!! I know, I know...we almost in Feb lol. The fresh start of the new year is where resolutions are born n we all want do overs n clean slates. Tis the season for vision boards right?! While I do love the ambition in the air for the pledge of **insert goal** I find it easier for me to have a theme for the year. In my Birthday Post, Ooooh Forty Tew , I've listed previous themes to kick off my new year. Whenever I veer off from the theme, I can go back to it to get back on track. Referring back to the why puts me back in my purpose to see it through. This is tough to ponder before Jan so I reflect on previous years to see how far I've come. I am proud of myself. I have seen n felt so much growth within these past few years. I can tell by the decisions I now make which would've been the opposite before or hasty decisions which would've costed me in the latter years aka present. 2023 will be my year of execution. I chose it becuz previous years have led me to this point. I've built up enuff confidence through overcoming fears to where I can now use that ability to put the plan in motion n implement a way to completion. We sit on so many talents n end up with regrets later in life. I no longer want to operate in a place of fear n scarcity becuz when u move out of love there's nothing u can't achieve. Even a failure is success becuz it's simply another chance to get up n do it better. Ain't that why Glorilla love tomorrow, lol. I can look through my camera roll n see unreleased material n broken promises from myself to share content n I don't want them to live in storage of iclouds. Hard work goes into bringing an idea into fruition. I love snapping pics n sharing my shopping finds along with engaging with the audience. I've really seen how my platforms have grown n that's not even working my full potential. I don't want to conform to the pressures of keeping up wit the social media head honchos n know it's not my lane to splurge on the latest trends. How am I gonna stay on theme for 2023? I have no clue. I am building this as we fly n coming out of my shell to not be stingy. My notes be filled with blog post ideas n I've totally dropped the ball on my #WerkCouture whew...that was a lot to keep up with. I still have no idea with how Tik Tok works haha but I am present ( @daintylaydee ). It's still a beautiful morning EVERY Saturday on IG with my Sip Trips . There will be repeat posts...in case u missed it the first time. There will be unseen pics from the repeat posts cuz I'd hate to bombard yall on one post wit too many pics lol and plenty of follow up to styles. I get requests on where'd I get **insert outfit** and every outfit tells a story. Thank yall for helping me find my voice...I think I'll utilize it more n honing my communication skills to expand past saying hmmm n ummm when speaking. I am still quite shy n it's hard for me to articulate a point when I wanna be mindful n think before I speak in the moment. I've had a great time behind the mic when invited to be apart of shows...like wow...yall think that highly of me to think I'm not just special but entertaining haha. Yall have been amazing taking chances on lil' ol' me. Execution means I will need to incorporate some structure n discipline...this is where I usually fall apart **cue cookie crumbles** becuz I've been such a free bird. I hate forcing anything becuz I don't wanna jeopardize the integrity of my name n brand. I take pride in myself too much to serve yall half azz-ness! This is why my theme will be such a challenge. Its gonna take some focus n sacrifices on the ladder to execute. It's gonna be uncomfy along the way. I wanna keep the thrill of doin it scared. I feed off the mystery of not knowing what's next yet trusting what's behind the door isn't a ZONK...or even if it is...I'll make the best of it n keep trying. I'm looking forward to more opportunities to be a brand ambassador of brands n businesses that align with my motto: Inspire, Motivate, Elevate. Wheeew 2023...Let's gooo. What are you looking forward to this year? Resolutions u may have? Themes u may adhere to for the year? I love the accountability so by all means...stay on my azz n keep fire to foot. It's appreciated becuz iron sharpens iron!!
- Shapermint Crew
The unsung hero to pulling a look together...shapewear. How can u live without it? I know for me-I cannot. Shape wear is the cherry on top to making an outfit look pulled together before stepping out the door. From head to toe whether it's a cami top, shorts or full on shaper...trust me...u NEED these in ur life. I've been testing these out since last holiday season. I wanted to make sure before sharing my findings, they'd be durable but more importantly-COMFORTABLE!! That is extremely important becuz what I'm not gonna do is walk around trying to be cute n feeling like I'm holding my breathe or gasping for air when seated. I am happy to report... Shapermint doesn't disappoint. The key to the perfect fit has been to order true to size. During hibernation season this winter, these high waisted leggings have kept me cozy n the best part is how movable they can be. Whether ur lounging at home or doing an errand run, these leggings are a treat. I love how this keeps me sucked in. Ok so if u notice a pattern, I am all in favor of ANYTHING high-waisted. It just gives me security to keep things nipped n tucked from the stomach down. My favorite of the bunch is no doubt the Everyday Empower Mesh Shaper Shorts . I've gotten mine in 2X and these haven't let me down. The star of the show isn't how well they smooth u out with compression but this is the FIRST TIME I've been able to find shaper shorts that don't roll up on me AND the top band for the waist doesn't budge! I am VERY impressed. If you're still here...thanks!! You're in for a treat...SURPRISE!!! You too can celebrate your shape with my code KISHACREW20 when u order Shapermint.
- OooH Forty Tew
This is officially my New Year as I add +1 to my age. I am all over the place with emotions and don't take these 365 days for granted. Last year, I stopped to think how I was the age of my mom when she died n realized how young it is even in ur 40's. My parents are only 20 yrs older than me n my grandma is +18 from that. I can't imagine not being here when I am finally hitting my stride n actually LIVING!! Every year instead of resolutions, I like to do themes. I will reveal my theme on the next post. I just wanna focus on my birthday in this one. Previous themes to check out: 2018: Year of Elevation 2019: Year of Inspiration 2020: Pregnant After 35 2021: Year of No Expectations 2022: Year of Humble for What What do I have planned for my birthday??? Not sure if yall notice but when Aquarius season hits, we don't need to do all that parades of reminders n "its our season" meme's becuz we ain't press for the fanfare. That's them other zodiacs that be press to wave the flag-we could care LESS!! I'm not a party gal, I'm not celebrating all month or all weekend-JUST TODAY! I celebrate with a spa day n lunch/dinner. It's pretty much a tradition at this point. I'm low-key! Today is a day where I take a breather n give glory n praises for another year. There's a reason I'm still around cuz Gawd ain't done wit me yet. Just seeing how I can challenge myself for the year n add structure around aspects of my life to achieve some goals. Step by step, day by day is all I can do. I'm enjoying the aging process where I have sureness of myself n no obligation to please others. I feel no pressure to prove nothing to nobody! Thank you all for the birthday messages n wishes-most importantly, the love! ooooh yall I'm Forty Tew-EEEK!! I appreciate chall taking the time to acknowledge lil' ol' meeeee...











