FALL IN LOVE

As we transition into the fall, I reflect on some of my memorable pieces from the summer.  This year has been whimsical thus far, and I am looking forward to what the fall has to bring.  If you're an avid reader of my blog, then you would know we are entering my most favorite time of the year.  Let us fall in love this season with some of this season hottest pieces and transition effortlessly into the FALL.

I can't begin to express my love for the cooler weather.  Being reared in New York, I appreciate layers and darker colors.  I had to bring olive back this fall as an essential color for your fall wardrobe.  Olive for me serves as black; it accentuates you and gives a slimmer effect. I am modeling my olive denims from Fashion To Figure denim collection.  These jeans are not only comfortable, but very slimming.  I paired it with a white blouse also by FTF with accented gold buttons.  You've seen this blouse before earlier this summer when I blogged about their all white collection.  The cool thing about fall is that you can transition some of your summer pieces, and pair it with fall essentials.  This will not only save you a ton of money, but also give a fresh new look.  I truly believe in being resourceful; utilizing clothes that I already have and playing mix match with new pieces. 

Lets us fall into the new season with love.  Love for ourselves most importantly.  Remember that some of your summer favorites make for perfect transitional pieces. Add fall colors into rotation like olive, and you will be on your way to a wonderful season.  LOVE!

 Denim & Shirt: Fashion To Figure | Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti

Photography & Video By: Winston Omar Mcfarlane

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

MISS DIVA KURVES POOL PARTY

Saturday I was invited to the exclusive pool party for Miss Diva Kurves, plus size model and designer of the Diva Kurves Collection.  This was definitely the place to be and experience "Kurvyness" at its finest.  I was so amazed by the love among the plus community; women sharing their passions and celebrating their success.

We mingled over cocktails and hors d'oeuvre, while they showcased the new Diva Kurves Collection swimwear line.  I had an opportunity to meet so many of the plus size women whom I admire, including Miss Diva Kurves herself.  Her spirit was so welcoming and her staff made the party impeccable.  The party also included special guest Travis Cure, model and brand ambassador for Uncle Jimmy's.  I had such a great time at this event.  Check out the Diva Kurves Collection HERE and enjoy a few pics from the event.

Model, Chrisy

Model, Travis Cure

Miss Diva Kurves

Sponsor

My Friend, YSL & Giorgio Armani Key Make Up Artist

 Crop Top: Forever21 | Bag: Burberry | Sandels: Burberry

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

ARE YOU READY?

Fashion to Figure has once again delivered with their new denim collection.  I was so excited when I received my package in the mail and could not wait to do a review on them for my readers. What I like most about this company is there consistency in providing trendy, yet affordable clothing to the plus size community. They have evolved and have become my top five favorite places to shop. 

I recently won the Fashion to Figure Instagram "Denim Challenge" and I have to say that these jeans are to die for.  The fit is true to size and they are super comfortable.  I received four pair of denims; a black, rust, red, and olive green pair.  My favorite part is how much stretch they have in them and how they accentuate my curves.  There is nothing like a good pair of denim, especially if you're a legging girl like me. I look for comfort in my clothes, so I can appreciate a good pair of denim. These jeans can be paired with practically anything, which is always a plus.  I will not continue to write about how amazing these jeans are. I decided to do a short video so you can feel what I feel when I rock my FTF Denims. CLICK HERE to see for yourself and ask yourself; are you ready?  

*This post is sponsored by Fashion To Figure. All words are my own*

 Denim: Fashion To Figure | Shoes: UrbanOG

Photography & Video By: Winston Omar Mcfarlane

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

MEXICO

My 30th birthday was nothing short of amazing.  I recently traveled to Riviera Maya for my 30th celebration with my family and friends and had so much fun. I visited the Tulum Ruins, went zip lining, partied at some of the hottest nightclubs, and most importantly spent quality time with the people I love.  This trip was exactly what I needed to kickoff a new chapter of my life; my thirties.

We stayed at the Gran Porto Play Resort and the staff was amazing.  We received around the clock service and they even provided me with an exclusive VIP dinner at the Brazilian restaurant for my meet and greet birthday dinner.  I can't put into words how much fun this trip was.  Here's just a recap of the celebration as I enter into my thirties.  #SheThoro

White Dress : GITI | Dress II & Swimsuit: Forever 21 | Shoes: UrbanOG | 

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

SEW PHOENYX

My photo shoot would not have been possible without celebrity designer and seamstress Phoenyx Reign.  I had the pleasure of modeling one of her fabulous pieces and could not be more satisfied.  Designing is just one of the many hats she wears.  Phoenyx is an Apparel Sewing Instructor, Editor for Luxe Kurves Magazine, and Chief Executive Officer for 630 Convention & Event Center here in Atlanta.  When I reached out to Phoenyx to be fitted for some of her pieces, I instantly fell in love with her personality.  Her love for fashion and color is written all over her.  With her bright red locs, her style is impeccable.  She too is a curvy girl and understands the struggles we face on finding clothes that are fashionable and sexy to fit our body types.  So she decided to change the game and "Return the days when fashion and fit were married." ~ Phoenyx

Her custom pieces are simply a reflection of her bold and free spirited attitude. The colors, the flow; are a designers dream. The two piece design that I'm modeling is a chiffon high low skirt with a reversible crop top.  It was super comfortable and cool; perfect for the hot weather.  What I love most about her designs is that it's adjustable and can fit all body types.  Check out some of her custom pieces HERE and book her for your next event! #SheThoro

Shirt & Skirt: Phoenyx Reign Custom

Photography By: RhaynaC Photography

Accessories By: Vivian Henson

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

ALCASSO

In the past month, I have met so many talented and creative individuals.  From artist to dancers; each individual has impacted my life in a special way. I am truly delighted to feature Alvin "Alcasso" Washington on the blog.  He is a young artist who has a passion for art.  He started painting in high school where he received the name Alcasso.  Much like the "Art" post I did a few months ago; Alcasso pieces are truly unique.  He has an array of paintings including his signature piece of rapper J Cole. Super DOPE! 

I couldn't be more thrilled when Alcasso decided to gift me with a painting for my 30th birthday.  All of his pictures display his love for music and his colorful sense of imagery.  He is a poet, and each one of his paintings tells a story.  When asked what ignited his passion and love for art, he replied, “I wanted art to be a thing again.  To me, art is following my heart. Art is freedom.  I want the world to be free again!”  I am truly thankful to have met Alcasso and look forward to the many other projects we will be working on.  Check out my amazing birthday gift he gave me.  You can find some of his amazing pieces HERE! 

THIRTY

The day has finally come! What a BEAUTIFUL day this is! I can't believe that I'm no longer in my twenties. Needless to say, I feel AMAZING! I've ACCOMPLISHED so many things in my twenties. I purchased my first home at 23, I birthed an amazing little girl, and most recently, I decided to follow my dreams and pursue my passion in journalism.  The road has not been an easy one. This life you see isn't always so GLAMOUROUS.  My twenties was filled with many late nights up praying to GOD on what my next move would be, and how I would pick up the pieces from what I thought was the end at the time.  I fell in love, I fell out of love; but I still managed to remain STEADFAST and RESILIENT.

See, I've always had the DETERMINATION and DRIVE to do practically anything.  Not because I felt like I was super TALENTED like a singer or an artist, but because I was AUTHENTIC. Authentic in the sense that I never wanted to be like anybody else but me.  We all have our INFLUENCERS; you know that person who INSPIRES us to be better.  Being myself just always seemed to work for me. Being the smallest or the cutest was never my fear.  Was I the COOLEST and the ILLEST (pardon my grammar); hell yeah.  

So I walk into this new chapter and embrace this BEAUTIFUL thing called life and so DELIGHTED to see what God has in store for me.  My AMBITION is fueled by the AWESOME people I have around me.  I called them the three "F's"; my friends, my family, and my followers. You all are INTELLIGENT, SWEET, and super SUPPORTIVE. I wrote a post on Facebook that said describe me in one word. The words that are in bold are some of the words mentioned.  Ironically, these are the same thirty words that I see in each and every one of you. I couldn't go a day without you guys and know that you are truly IRREPLACEABLE.  I often think back and laugh about the nickname OREO I was given by one of my mentors in my early twenties.  I learned so much from her.  She was so RELIABLE and RESOURCEFUL and always took care of the people around her.  When I would show up to work late, she would always pull me to the side and correct me.  When I felt like my work was OUTSTANDING, she would always encourage me to do better.  These are the type of people I've always been blessed to have around me. I will always remember Kim.  White girl Kim!

This journey that I'm on is only the beginning.  As I put one foot forward and embark on this mission to becoming something great, I'm constantly challenged.  While some may think I'm CAREFREE, I'm aware that this comes with a greater responsibility. This is not about me, but about those around me who I can inspire and help along the way.  How can I call myself a QUEEN, but not have other Queens around me?  My BRAND, my vision is simple and will forever be my ignition. It's to be THORO and never abort the mission! 

Dress: GITI | Shoes: UrbanOG

Photography By: RhaynaC Photography

Accessories By: Vivian Henson

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

COVER UP

As my countdown come to a close, I'm truly feeling myself.  I'm realizing that turning 30 isn't so bad after all.  Besides, I haven't felt more confident and sexier in my life.  The saying, "age is just a number," sounds so cliche' but it's the truth!  The things that I have experience this past year and the blessings that God has presented me is nothing short of amazing. With age comes wisdom and beauty; and I am ready for whatever it has to bring.

Saturday I did a shoot with the amazing Rhayna C.  I can't tell you how much fun it was to work with her.  She captured each moment that I had described perfectly and professionally.  Not to mention she was patient with me and my two year old daughter Marlei who wanted to jump in every picture.  HA! I had to share this cover-up that was thrifted by the Goodwill Queen Fonda.  I am preparing for my 30th birthday getaway to Rivera Maya this week and was looking for a sexy cover-up to take with me. I saw a few online, but they were way too overpriced.  One of Fonda's visits to Atlanta a month ago turned into a teaching session at one of her favorite places; Goodwill.  There happen to be one across the street from my house where I only visit to drop off old clothes. She dragged me into the store and showed me how to thrift and what to look for.  She stumbled across this beautiful cover-up and I was sold.  I couldn't believe she had found exactly what I was looking for, but for a fraction of the price.  This cover-up was a whopping $3 BUCKS compared to $50-$100 I had seen online.  The older I get, the more I realize that lavish spending isn't necessary all the time.  There is always a cheaper alternative out there somewhere; you just have to look for it.

This shoot was very special because it not only conveys my transition to the next stage of my life, but I found the look I wanted for a very low price. If you are looking for a sexy look for the water, a sheer cover- up will do the trick. Ladies embrace your beauty no matter what size you are. Besides,   self-love is the best love, and I am loving me each and every day.

If you are in need of anything and not looking to spend your life savings on it, please hit up the Goodwill Queen Fonda.  I promise you, she can turn what was once someone's trash into your newest treasure. Also, check out the amazing Rhayna C Photography. #SHETHORO

Crop top: Forever 21 | Cover-Up: Goodwill

Photography By: Rhayna C Photography

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

COCKTAILS WITH CLAIRE

Last night Nstyle Atlanta and SheThoro attended Cocktails with Claire at the B Loft in Atlanta. This event was truly a night to remember.  We mixed and mingled over cocktails and hours d'oeuvre and shopped at some of Atlanta's hottest vendors. One of the vendors was A Daily Diva, a luxury online consignment boutique.  Claire Sulmers, creator of Fashionbombdaily has been hosting these events in cities all over the world.  She recently joined forces with Hennessy Key Account Manager and LA Promoter Miss Diddy, and together they have created a space for fashionistas to come together and network.

I cannot begin to tell you how thrilled I was to be around so many entrepreneurs. This event included Music Executive Shanti Das, Stylists Shun Melsona and Tameka Foster, Style Expert and Atlanta Housewives star Marlo Hampton. The event was moderated by celebrity hair stylist Derek J. Special guest included songstress and Grammy award winner Keri Hilson. What I enjoyed most about the event was the panel discussion.  Derek J went down the line and asked a series of questions, including how they started their career in fashion and what was their leap of faith moment. I loved how each person on the panel was so transparent.  Each question told their personal testimony and emphasized the struggles they endured to get where they are today.  It was so refreshing to be in a space where women of color can encourage other women striving to set a name for themselves, in such a competitive industry.

I wish you guys could of experience this event with me, but you can check out exclusive interviews at Nstyle Atlanta

                                              Check out some highlights from the event:

Celebrity Stylist Derek J

Claire Sulmers, Creator Of Fashion Bomb Daily

Red Pant Suit By: Calvin Klein

Sylist Tameka Foster

Hennessy Account Manager & LA Promoter

Marlo Hampton & Keri Hilson

Celebrity Panel

R&B Artist Rae

Swag Bag

iROCK

I've received a ton of emails on the dresses I wore over the weekend for my blog events. I decided to do a quick post to give you guys the REAL.  My life is very fast paced, so I'm always looking for looks that are fashionable and can easily be dressed up with some heels and moderate accessories.  I discussed in a previous post my love/hate relationship with an iron.  It's something that I don't care to do, but I do understand it's necessary at time.  For me, I love materials that require minimal ironing.  I simply want to grab and GO! 

These are the two simple looks that I rocked over the weekend.  The coral dress appears to be a wrap dress, but it isn't.  However, it fit like one; camouflaging my mid section. This material required no ironing and was super comfortable.  

I scored this red slip on dress for $7.  I loved its versatility and how it fell on me.  It was the perfect dress for a summer event! 

Dress I: GITI | Dress II: Rainbow | Shoes: UrbanOG

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

POUND

I told you guys I had the ultimate weekend. It was filled with so many new and exciting things. For me, experiencing new things gives me a rush.  What better way to maximize that rush then with; POUND!

Pound is the new workout experience inspired by drumming. My best friend invited me to a Saturday session hosted by certified pound instructor Terrah Witcher.  This amazing instructor gave us the ultimate workout as she led us through each pound routine. Pound is a workout that incorporates Pilates and Yoga inspired moves.  During each movement, you are required to use lightly weighted drumsticks; all while dancing to a beat. I was happy to finally be introduced to a workout that didn't feel like a chore.  I was so thrilled by the amazing people I met.  The instructor was phenomenal. During the workout, she would encourage us with quotes like, "Sweep out the negativity and bad food."  Her free spirit and positive attitude poured out throughout the entire class.  She is truly a jewel! 

If you are interested in joining the POUND experience, join us each and every Saturday at 10am at Rose Circle Park Pavilion in Atlanta.  The cost is only $5 and is worth every penny.  I'm a firm believer of supporting small businesses.  Every dollar that is donated to her class is used to purchase more equipment. So come out and POUND with us, as we work together to a healthier lifestyle.

Follow Her on Instagram: @MS.WITCHER

Pound Squad

Pounding Away

Amazing Instructor

One Time For SnapChat

LUXE KURVES

As I mentioned in my last post, my weekend was filled with so much fun and excitement. I was nonstop doing interviews and attending events.  I had the opportunity to attend a private media event hosted by Luxe Kurves.  This event featured fashionista Brandee "Kurvy J' and her business partner Phoenyx Reign, celebrity stylist and womanpreneur. This event was at the new 630 Event Center downtown Atlanta.  The event space was filled with other notable designers, artist, and media outlets; introducing us to what they called, "Atlanta's Best Kept Secret."  

This event space will host an array of events; from fashion shows, to networking events. The evening was filled with laughter and entertainment. We mingled over cocktails and hour d'oeuvres; all while networking with some of Atlanta's hottest musicians and designers. Check out 630 Event Center on instagram for more exciting information and event dates.  

Kurvy J in the middle of an interview

Celebrity Designer Phoenyx Reign

The Bestee 

Dress: Rainbow | Shoes: UrbanOG

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR