LOVE IS BLIND

What is the real meaning of LOVE?  There are so many definitions that describe this four letter word.  LOVE, is a word that we seek, we cherish, we share, and we fall into.  It's an intense emotion that is a part of us whether we choose to act on it or not.  Moreover, love is a choice to be at your very best and look past the flaw of others, even when they're not at their very best.  So, is LOVE really blind?

As we continue our countdown to Valentine's Day, understanding the word LOVE is truly important. Although it sounds cliche', LOVE is blind. Often times we allow our wants to supersede that of others, focusing only on ourselves. Is that why some are single, while others are in healthy relationships or married?  Is there really an answer to a word that has so many definitions and means something different to each individual?  However you look at it, LOVE obviously runs deeper than just one day and should be celebrated everyday. While we all have our "blind" moments when dealing with LOVE, are we truly searching within ourselves to explore something so deep; or merely basking in a desired dream.

While LOVE taste different to all of us, whatever it means to you, I challenge you to continuously explore it.  We often try to conceal the pain and hurt that this word has brought us in the past, but just deal with it.  If you truly LOVE someone, your wants sometimes is not important.  Live without fear and embrace those "blind" moments and allow it to grow you. Accept love on "blind" faith and allow it to show you.  Besides, the best LOVE often comes from the ones we do not see. 

Just My Thoughts...

Dress: Giti

Photography By: Rhayna C Photography

Make-up By: Ari

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

RED(Y) OR NOT

I can't begin to tell you how excited I am about Valentine's Day this year.  Not because of the flowers or going out on a date, but because I have an opportunity to celebrate LOVE. What greater feeling is it to be able to love and be loved.  So, REDy or not here it comes!

To prepare for the day of love, RED continues to be the color of choice.  This year I've even painted my nails and feet red, and of course have my classic red dresses.  If you've been following my countdown to Valentine's Day, you know that we are currently on day 3.  We are literally 4 days away from one of the most anticipated days of the year.  I scored this super affordable zipper dress from Fashion to Figure for like $15 bucks.  I love how it accentuate my curves and the gold zipper accents the dress perfectly. I love how the rouche detail camouflage my mid section.  When it come to dresses, I'm always looking for something stylish, but comfortable. 

Love is in the air, and I hope you guys are REDy.  I hope you have started looking for that perfect outfit to celebrate in. Remember, the color red always turn heads as long as it is worn correctly.  If you need more tips, continue my countdown to V-Day.  In the words of Lauren Hill, "You can run away; from these styles I got, oh baby."

DIPPED IN RED

Just like a strawberry, who doesn’t LOVE anything dipped.  Whether at work or on a date, it is important to have the perfect transitional piece.  Red will always be a classic color; so what better way to keep the traditional theme going for Valentine's Day than in a sultry red pencil dress.

Since Valentine's Day is on a weekday this year, finding the perfect dress is essential.  Most of us will be working on that day, so I wanted a dress that could be worn from the office straight on a date with that special someone. The pencil dress always gives a professional feel. You can tone it down at the office by pairing it with a cute sweater or blazer. When you're ready to hit the city with your valentine, just take the jacket off and throw on a bold necklace and you're ready to go! Fashion To Figure is always my first stop because they tend to carry pieces that are multi-functional; which I love.  This look is perfect for someone who is going for more of a sophisticated and sexy look on Valentine’s Day.  So, what are you wearing?

As they say, "When in doubt, wear red." There are so many ways you can dress it up or down for the day of LOVE; depending on what your plans are.  As we continue our countdown in celebration of LOVE, remember to feel sexy in whatever you decide to wear.  In the words of Sophia Loren, “A woman’s dress should be like a barbed wire fence; serving its purpose without obstructing the view.”

Dress: Fashion To Figure

Photography By: Rhayna C Photography

Make-up By: Ari

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

I Love You

I decided to take a different approach to Valentine’s Day this year and dress it up!  Sometimes we down play “man made” holidays, but I think it’s always fun and exciting to have a reason to get dressed up and go out.  Each year, Valentine's Day is always that holiday that becomes stressful to some.  If you’re married or in a relationship, you may be wondering if your man would coincidentally act up right before this day to avoid getting a gift.  If you're single, your stressing or wondering if you would have a date for the night or if someone will at least think enough of you to surprise you with some chocolates and roses.  Trust me, I've been there and I am here to say; don't do it to yourself this year.

LOVE has always been that sensitive word or should I say feeling. It's something that we yearn for and desire as humans.  Valentine's Day seem to add even more pressure to the word for some ironic reason.  Are we really that vulnerable?  This year, I decided to do something that has carried over from previous years.  Loving me more and more each day has become a priority! While I appreciate these "man made" holidays, Valentine's Day is one that I decided to have a little fun with. Instead of focusing on a date or who would buy me some supermarket roses (just to say I have a Valentine), I decided to get sexy for the only person who could love me unconditionally; ME.  As vain or egotistical as that may sound, self-love is truly the best love.  Relationships have become way too stressful, and well finding love isn't always as easy as it may seem.  For me, I'm loved daily by family, friends, and even my followers and I count my blessings for that.  I decided to be unselfish and instead of worrying about what I could get on Valentine's Day, I wanted to continue to be thankful for the love that I already receive.  

So, for the next 7 days, let us celebrate L O V E.  Not the kind that is displayed just on one day, but the kind of love that is shown daily; on a consistent basis.  Let us cherish those who love us, instead of focusing on what someone does for you on one day. Besides, the chance to love and be loved exists no matter where you are.  Some people search their whole lives to find what you already have around you or in you.  I mean, being someone's love may be great, but being your own is beyond perfect.  

P.S. I  L O V E  Y O U.......

Dress: Giti

Photography By: Rhayna C Photography

Make-up By: Ari

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

NuSoul Revival Tour

It's no secret that these artists are bringing the SOUL back in music.  Musiq Soulchild, Lyfe Jennings, Avery Sunshine, and Kindred The Family Soul kick off their NuSoul Revival tour in Raleigh, N.C. on February 3rd.  I had the pleasure of speaking with Musiq on the anticipated tour and he had a lot to say.

Latoya:  Who are some of your biggest musical influences?

Musiq:  Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway.

Latoya:  Do you see yourself taking this tour to other countries?

Musiq:  I would love to but obviously that depends on how this tour goes.  We can't do a show in other countries if we only have ten people to show up in the states. (We both laugh)

Latoya: This tour is also for a great cause; Alzheimer’s.  How do you feel about the cause and have you personally dealt with this issue in your life?

Musiq:  I didn't know it was for a cause initially.  When I found out, it was a bigger deal.  I am grateful. I don't have someone who is directly affected by this, but I can still relate to it.

Latoya:  We are our biggest critic at times.  It has been 17 years since you release the hit single, "Love."  How do you challenge yourself musically to compete with such a beautiful song?

Musiq:  I honestly didn't know "Love" would be a hit. I just made it.  That's kind of what we do as artist; we creatively put things out there not knowing what the reaction would be. It's just a part of the process. I am always driving myself to do better.

Latoya:  If there was one piece of advice you can give, what would it be?

Musiq:  Don't be afraid.

I truly enjoyed being amongst other media outlets and interviewing Musiq Sould Child. It really felt like talking to one of your successful homeboys.  He was totally honest throughout the call; sharing some of his deepest thoughts.  Look below to check out tour dates coming to a city near you.  Follow him @musiqsoulchild and his publicist @moccastyles for more updates. 

Tour Dates:

2/3, Raleigh, NC, Duke Energy Center
2/4, Charleston, SC, North Charleston Performing Arts Center                                 

2/10, Nashville, TN, Nashville Municipal Auditorium
2/11, Chicago, IL, Arie Crown Theater
2/12, Louisville, KY, Whitney Hall

2/14, Philadelphia, PA, Liacouras Center 

2/17, Washington, D.C., Constitution Hall
2/18, NYC, Beacon Theater 

2/24, Charlotte, NC, Ovens Auditorium
2/25, Detroit, MI, Fox Theatre                                                                
3/3, Norfolk, VA, Chrysler Hall
3/4, Dallas, TX, Verizon Theater                                                        
3/10, Atlanta, GA, Fox Theatre
3/11, St. Petersburg, VA, Virginia State Multipurpose Center                                 
3/17, Columbus, OH, Palace Theater
3/18, Cleveland, OH, State Theater                                                          
3/24, Kansas City, MO, Midland Theater
3/25, St. Louis, MO, Peabody Opera House                                            
3/31, South Haven, MS   Landers Center
4/1, Houston, TX, NRG Arena                                                                
4/7, New Orleans, LA, Lakefront Arena                                                       
4/8, Jacksonville, FL, Times Union Center

Impact Magazine 10th Anniversary

This past Sunday I had the pleasure of attending Impact Magazine 10 year Anniversary Honorary Dinner of which 50 most influential women was honored. Karen Civil, the self-made impress and branding guru behind some of today’s hottest artists and brands graced the cover of the magazine and was the featured lady of the evening. I had the pleasure of interviewing some of the honorees such as Yandy Smith, Toya Wright, Egypt Sherrod, Marlo Hampton, Kachelle Kelly and Robin Dyke to name a few. 

The evening was filled with great food and guest performances. I can't tell you how amazing it felt to be amongst a room full of African American women who are truly making an IMPACT in their respected industries.  If you had an opportunity to watch the Golden Globes a few weeks ago, you will see that our exposure has expanded.  It's evident that no longer will we allow our circumstances to dictate the life we live. In the words of Toya Wright, "Turn the bad into good."  Click below to get a recap of an amazing night; with some amazing people.

 

MATTE

Looking for the perfect New Year lippie?  Well, Nicka K has an amazing line of matte lipsticks for an affordable price.  I fell in love with the dark lip trend and have wanted to try it for some time now. I purchase most of my makeup from Mac Cosmetics and we know that they are not cheap.  Before spending 25 bucks on Mac lipstick, I stumbled across Nicka K cosmetic line in the beauty supply store and boy did I fall in love!

The wine berry color matte lipstick is phenomenal.  For a whopping 2 bucks, this lipstick goes on like a lip gloss and turns into a matte.  It literally last all day and don't crumble like some of my Mac lipsticks do.  Sometimes we feel just because we spend a lot of money on something, it's going to give us outstanding results.  Although I love Mac products, finding quality alternatives, makes me happy. 

Nicka K lipstick is for sure a beauty must have. You can find them in your local beauty supply store or online at Nicka K.  The prices online are a little higher than it is in the stores.  I'm super excited about trying some of the other colors and products from their line.  Stay tune for more reviews on them and other affordable cosmetic finds. 

SUEDE

I hope everyone is enjoying the holidays.  I've been having way to much fun trying new things and purchasing items that I typically wouldn't buy.  If you've been following my blog for the past few months, you know I have completely stepped out of my comfort zone. It's about that time to jump into the New Year with a new attitude and a new look.

What better way to kick off a new look then with SUEDE booties.  I found the cutest navy booties and fell in love.  This is the first time I've own a blue shoe and so glad that I decided to go with them. There have been so many misconceptions about suede shoes over the years, which leave people terrified to purchase them.  One that I hear seldom is that it's hard to keep clean or if you get caught in the rain with them; they are destroyed.  That is not always the case. Like anything, if you use proper repellent or shoe care products you can avoid destroying your perfect pair of shoes.  

There is something about suede that adds a sexy appeal to any outfit.  Whether you pair it with jeans or a skirt, suede is a great alternative from your typically casual shoe.  If pairing with jeans, booties with a lower shaft looks better with jeans that are untucked or cuffed.  When you have a boot with a higher shaft, definitely tuck your pants in (preferably skinny jeans). Let's start the New Year off thinking broader and expanding our wardrobe a bit.  Don't be afraid to try new colors, material, etc. Remember, there's no shade in rocking, SUEDE!  

Blouse: H&M | Skirt: Macys | Shoes: Shoeland

Photography By: Richard Woumn

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

BORDEAUX?

Gotcha! Bordeaux are often referred to as a classic pair of Jordan's that we oh so love. In this case, I am referring to another favorite shoe of mines; thigh boots.  If you know anything about fashion then you know that the bordeaux color thigh boots are in. I have been searching for some for quite some time now and finally came across a pair for an affordable price. I have what they refer to as "big calf" so finding boots that come up my leg can be challenging at times.  Nonetheless, I finally found the perfect pair.  I can't begin to tell you how comfortable and warm they are.  I personally prefer rocking my thigh boots with skirts, but they are really cute with jeans as well.  This color is super versatile and looks really good when paired with the color gray.  I decided to pair mines with a faux leather skirt that I purchased from forever21.com like 2 years ago and a turtle neck sweater.  If you're looking to add a little sophistication to your wardrobe for the holidays; let these be your first choice. You'll be fine as wine. HA!

Jacket & Skirt: Forever21 | Turtle Neck Sweater: Ross | Shoes: Shoeland

Photography By: Richard Woumn

Hair Styled By: LYLAS HAIR

NO TURNING BACK

As I continue to reflect on how amazing this year has been, I am starting to prepare myself for the New Year.  Each year around this time we set goals for ourselves. Some we keep, and some, well you know.  Nonetheless, it is always important to plan ahead.  This year I wanted to share how I will be preparing for the upcoming year and have no plans on turning back.

I decided to go into the New Year with a BANG, and do something I've wanted to do for some time now.  I've been natural for over three years and decided to go back to that "creamy crack" (perm) and cut my hair.  As you know I turned the big 30 this year and wanted a more mature look. After going through some pictures on Facebook, I realized that I have been wearing the same styles in rotation over the past six years, and wanted something different.  I must say that I am IN LOVE with how it turned out.  The process took approximately five hours.  My stylist over at lylashairextensions and I had so much fun during the process.  Like me,  she is always looking to try something new and fun on her clients.  She had helped me transition from perm to natural a few years back; and has now transitioned me right back to a perm.  Crazy, huh?

So here we are.  I am no longer considered a "natural girl", but hey I'm cool with that.  I look at it as just hair and I can always transition back.  For now, I love my short cut.  It's super easy to manage and I am excited about being able to rock cute hats and stuff.  Check out that pics below of my process.  Don't mind my silly faces; I was having way too much fun (until the perm started to tingle).  If you are looking to jump into the New Year, try changing you hair (it was a lot easier than losing weight).  Do something drastic or different sometimes. Like they always say, "don't knock it until you try it."  Self-confidence is something that I will never lack; my hair is now permed and short and there's no turning back!  

Based up with that good ole Petroleum Jelly

Creaming Crack Settling

Jet Black Rinse Settling

TADDA

All Smiles

HOLIDAY CHEER

I know everyone is gearing up for the holidays and looking forward to spending time with love ones. This is my absolute favorite time of the year and I am ecstatic to see what the New Year will bring. This year has been full of so many blessings.  While, there were some ups and downs (more ups then downs), I can say that I met so many wonderful people, built solid relationships, and implemented my visions and goals that I set at the beginning of the year.

Since tis the season to give, I wanted to celebrate all of you!  If it wasn't for you, my readers, I would not have had such a successful blog; reaching over fourteen thousand readers this year alone. I count every inch and every blessing and it bring me so much joy to know that I have people who love and support me.  I could not have done this without you.  Since we are only 5 days away from Christmas, I will be giving away prizes leading up to Christmas day.  Prizes will consist of gift cards, hair products, and who knows maybe some cash! Check the deets below to enter into the drawing.

Cheers!

Holiday Giveaway 

• Follow me on instagram @shethoro and facebook @shethoro.
• Answer this question (What are you thankful for this holiday season?) under this post.
• Each name will be entered into a drawing to win a prize.

 

WINTERFEST

Saturday I attended the 2nd annual Winterfest put on by the peoples station V-103.  The concert included performances by Jeezy, Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, The Dream, and Young Thug just to name a few.  I had an amazing time at the concert and was so excited by all of the surprise performances. Jeezy brought out legendary Usher during his performance.  He performed one of his hit single, "Bad Girl," from platinum album, "Confessions." I literally lost it! Ironically, I had never seen Usher in concert so this was an experience in itself when he came on stage.  Wale even dropped by and performed his new hit single, "PYT."  It was just a night full of excitement and entertainment. I love how each artist performed some of their old hits for the crowd to sing along too.  If you ever been to HOT 97 Summer Jam in New Jersey; Winterfest was an Atlanta version of that.  Awesome!

Here are some highlights from the concert. If they bring this concert back next year, you have to check it out.  It is definitely be worth the money!

Me and my homegirl Linnell 

V-103 

2 Chainz

Wale

Young Thug

Jeezy

Usher

Usher

Dream

BOMBER

My absolute favorite things to wear are jackets.  I can't get enough of this flower bomber that I scored for $30 bucks.  Bomber jackets have made its way back as a fall must have.  With the changing weather, bomber jackets are perfect and serve as a lightweight coat that's not only stylish but warm. It can practically be worn with anything; dressed up or down.  I decided to pair mines with a skater skirt and some jeans for a simpler look.  I wanted the bomber jacket to stand out.  The flower accent throughout the jacket screams sexy and fun!

Remember to incorporate pieces that stand out to your wardrobe this fall.  If you looking for the perfect jacket that will make you feel BOMB; pick up your bomber jacket today.  Thank me later.

Bomber: Its Fashion Metro | Shoes: UrbanOG | Jeans & Skirt: Forever21

Photography By: Richard Woumn

Lashes By: Vivian Henson

Hair Styled By: LYLAS HAIR

CUT IT

I don't know about you, but I'm so ready for the temperature to drop so I can dive into my fall wardrobe.  The weather in Atlanta has been in the high 80's and it's making it challenging for me to rock my cute sweaters and coats.  Nonetheless, I'm always prepared and figured I'll take advantage of the weather and show a little skin.

The cut out shoulder trend has been a hit this fall.  From dresses to sweaters, this chic look has been on runways everywhere.  Initially I thought my shoulders would be a little too broad for the look. After trying it on, I instantly feel in love with it.  It screams sexy, while being bossy all at the same time.  I decided to pair my dress with some open toe sandals and my new Gucci bag.  Off course I had to have the matching fuzzy ball to match the dress. Simple!

For all my fall lovers out there, don't let this weather frustrate you.  Instead, find a simple look that will make you feel sexy and confident.  Burgundy is also the color for the season, so don't forget to grab a few pieces for your wardrobe. Let us prepare to bring in the holidays N'STYLE; being mediocre will not cut it! 

Shop more cut out looks at: urbanog.com

Dress: Its Fashion Metro | Shoes: UrbanOG

Photography By: Richard Woumn

Lashes By: Vivian Henson

Hair Styled By: LYLAS HAIR

DONT LET THE FAUX SCARE YOU

While some of you are out trick or treating with the kiddies or dressing up in your creative costumes, I decided to sit out on Halloween festivities this year to reflect and recreate some looks that; well can be a bit scary for some.  I receive a ton of emails from my curvy women who are simply afraid of faux material.  While it can be tricky, if worn properly it can turn into one of your most favorite materials to wear this fall.

Faux leather is simply a synthetic material that gives the illusion of real leather.  I love it because it is very lightweight and perfect for fall weather.  I'm a fan of anything comfortable, and while leggings are in my top five favorite things to wear, it can get a bit boring.  Faux leggings are perfect for taking things up a notch and creating a more elegant look.  I paired mines with a pipa tie neck blouse and some booties. This look was super easy and perfect for a holiday party or a night out on the town. 

Never be scared to experiment with different fabrics and materials. You can always play it safe with the color black to camouflage any imperfections if the material is clingy.  Faux leather is the best alternative if you are looking for that edgy chic look this season.  

Don't be spooked; Stay cute!

Blouse: Its Fashion Metro | Faux Leggings & Booties: Macys

Photography By: Richard Woumn

Lashes By: Vivian Henson

Hair Styled By: LYLAS HAIR