SIGNATURE

What's an outfit without a signature piece? I think every one own at least one signature piece in their closet. Signature pieces is your favorite brand;  a staple piece that will start a conversation or leave people talking. I love signature pieces because it adds a simple flare to an outfit which makes you stand out.  For me, signature pieces will be a purse, shoes, or a piece of jewelry from my favorite designer.

While I love shopping on a budget and finding great deals most of the times, I tend to splurge occasionally. My signature pieces tend to last me forever, so its definitely worth the investment. For example, I purchased a pair of Prada sneakers in 2008.  I paid a little over four hundred dollars for them, but I still have them till this day and they look brand new. This off course will look different for everyone (everyone budget is different).  Most signature pieces are made of better quality and typically last longer.  I'm not saying that's the case with every brand, because I've had my share of spending money on brands that did not deliver. I will suggest you do your research on the brand you love and get opinions from people who carry the brand.  My ultimate favorite is Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Burberry.  Those are brands that I know provide the same quality, every time.  Whatever you decide, make sure your signature piece create memorable stories.  Remember, behind every outfit is an interesting person which make these pieces particularly more special.

Red Purse: Furla  |  Jumpsuit: PinkClove |  Purse: Louis Vuitton |  Watch: Marc Jacobs |  Pumps: Giuseppe Zanotti |  Jacket: Forever21 | Shirt: H&M |  Pants: Forever21 |  Sneakers: Prada |  Purse: Burberry 

Photography By: Richard Woumn  |  Iphone 6

Lashes By: Vivian Henson

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

LYLAS

As you all know I have a special passion for women entrepreneurs. I'm always looking for ways to grow and learn new things, so what better way of doing that then to surround yourself with other bosses and who I like to call "Womenpreneurs."  This weeks entrepreneur highlight is none other than Shan Fall, owner and stylist of LYLAS Hair Extensions.  I had the pleasure of meeting her back in 2010, not to long after I moved to Atlanta. During that time she was co-owner and manager of a weave salon in Ellenwood. A friend had referred me to the salon and spoke very highly of it.  The salon had several stylist, but Shan was the stylist who did my hair and I have been going to her ever since. I instantly fell in love with her personality. She has an aurora about her that is indescribable. Aside from her persona, her story is what always captivated me. Her story is what keeps her alive as an entrepreneur. Her story is what keeps her clients eagerly coming back!

Early in her life, Shan developed a passion for hair.  "I started braiding my barbie dolls hair when I was a little girl.  I lived in a mirror creating different styles," she explained. Growing up having to overcome many obstacles, Shan became her own boss at the age of 23. She worked two jobs while pursing her own business.  Once her clientele grew, she no longer had to work strenuous hours; balancing two jobs.  She worked extremely hard building her business and has not looked back since.  "I will never say I wouldn't work for another company again, because if a great opportunity comes my way, I will gladly take it," she adds.  She has been in business for over 12 years. Aside from her own hustle and passion to win, her husband has been her biggest influence. He has always pushed her in the right direction and supported her through her biggest accomplishments and some of her failures.

Like most successful entrepreneurs, there will be some hiccups along the way.  She recalls having many marketing issues, as she handles her own marketing for her products and services.  That's one thing that I seem to admire about her is her ability to manage all facets of her business.  While that comes with challenges, Shan's aggressive and compassionate spirit allows her to get the job done. She is motivated by being able to take care of others in need.  Making her return back on her investment has been a satisfying moment in her career, but her biggest accomplishment has been providing the best customer service.  "I have always had an issue with people communicating in a rude or disrespectful way," she explains. "So I knew I always wanted to be my own boss to change that."  I like to call  LYLAS Hair Extensions the "Chick fil a" of hair salons. She pledges to ensure quality service each and every time.

Three pieces of advice that Shan offers for people who are looking to become an entrepreneur is to follow your passion and do what you love.  Do proper research in the field and be as knowledgeable as possible to gain the trust of your consumers. Be a "Go Getter" and be willing to put in the work.  "Owning your own business is not easy, as there are no set hours.  I'm always thinking and working, weather I'm at home or out with friends and family," she disclaims.

I am truly honored to call her my friend and mentor. Her keen mind and her ability to inspire others is what separate her and her salon from her peers.  The hair industry is very competitive, especially in Atlanta, but at LYLAS Hair Extensions you aren't just a number. The acronym LYLAS stands for "Love You Like A Sister," and she truly lives up to that.  Her charismatic energy, mixed with her strategic business plan has allowed her to create a safe haven for women of all color, to not only come get their hair done, but also feel loved like a sister.  An introvert by nature, but a butterfly by sight.  Her revolution from then to now, has been remarkable.  Ignoring opposition, she continues to strive to be better.  I truly love her like a sister and know that there is nothing but great things to come.  Stay tune..... 

Check out the video:  A sneak peak of her work!

LYLAS Hair Extensions

6301 Peachtree Industrail Blvd | Atlanta, GA 30360

GIVEAWAY

I'm so thrilled to be teaming up with LYLAS Hair Extension in a back to school makeover giveaway.  We are big on education so we wanted to bless one lucky lady with a makeover as she prepares for the upcoming school year.  With the pressure in schools today, we thought it was important to give back and show how much we care. This giveaway is limited to girls in Atlanta and the surrounding areas, between the ages of 14 to 18 years old.  Check the deets below. Good Luck! 

Sew-In Service witch include two 12” bundles of LYLAS Virgin Hair

Outfit and school supplies

RULES

·         Have to be between the ages of 14-18 years old.

·         Must submit an essay telling us why you deserve to be our 2015 BTS Winner            (Submission can be sent by student, parents, friends, etc.)

·         Submit essay to shesthoro@gmail.com

·         Submit a video on Instagram describing your future makeover (@lylashair and                @shethoro in caption)

·         Follow @lylashair and @shethoro on Instagram

·         If selected, must be able to provide proof of the school that you attend.

·         By submitting information you will be giving LYLAS HAIR and SheThoro permission to present you on videos and photos.

Deadline for Submission is Thursday, August 6 by 7:00pm

Winner will be announced on Friday, August 7 by 7:00pm

CROP

Crop tops are becoming more and more popular. I am really enjoying how much our culture have evolved, and clothes that would typically be worn by people with smaller figures, are now being embraced by people of all shapes and sizes.  While crop tops are cute, they can be a little tricky. It has to be worn properly, especially if you have a heavier midsection.  I'm all for the plus size revolution, but still consider myself to be very conservative. It took some time for me to feel comfortable in a crop top. Initially, I thought it was too revealing; partly because I didn't know how to wear it properly.  As I began to lose weight, the crop top started to look and feel better on me. I wanted to give a few tips on wearing the crop top and what helped me.  While, I've seen this worn right on so many people, I have also seen it worn wrong. My advice to you is don't get caught up with always following trends, as it may not work for you. Follow your inner style, and make a statement in whatever you wear!

Tips:

1.  Wear a supportive bra.

2.  Pair with a high waist bottom (Leggings, High Waist Jeans, Etc). This will accentuate your waist and give a curvier look.

3.  Show as little as possible (You want to remain tasteful and appealing).

4.  Pay attention to the material (Stay away from slinky material). 

Crop Top: Forever 21  |  Skirt: Forever 21 |  Necklace: Forever 21 |  Watch: Marc Jacobs

Photography By: Richard Woumn

Lashes By: Vivian Henson

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

LBD

Every women closet should consist of a "Little Black Dress," also known as LBD.  It's a necessity, a must have!  There should be a few things in your closet that you never get rid of- like a vintage purse, your favorite pair of jeans, and that LBD.  While the little black dress has been trending for some time now, it hasn't always been that way.  Before the 1920's, the wearing of black was reserved for times of mourning. Black was considered undesirable, as it was only symbolic for those grieving. All of that change in 1926 when a woman by the name of Coco Chanel published a simple black dress in Vogue magazine. Vogue considered this dress to be "a sort of uniform for all women of taste," as it was accessible to women of all social classes (Aol.com, 2013).

So here we are. Almost a century later, and that little black dress has remain popular and has maintain its stylistic meaning.  While there has been variations over the years- with the modern day mini dress, to the peplum, to the classic chic long sleeve black dress (my favorite), the concept of the dress has consistently remain the same. It continues to make you feel stunning, while being suitable for any occasion.

LBD Mini: Ross | LBD Long Sleeve: Forever 21 | Sandals: Traffic |  Purse: Furla | Studded Pumps: Giuseppe Zanotti 

Photography By: Richard Woumn

Lashes By: Vivian Henson

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

JUMPERS

This summer has truly been fun filled so far. I have done so much traveling and have enjoyed every bit of it. Summer just seems to be flying by, as magazines advertising fall lines are filling my mailbox daily. I could not let the summer go by without blogging about one of my summer favs; Jumpers. I have literally lived in a jumper all summer.  They are so comfortable and can be dressed up or down. My first love is sneakers, then heels, so I love the versatility of the jumper and how I can wear either.

My recent purchase was an Aladdin jumper. I have to be honest; I wasn't exactly thrilled when I first tried the jumper on.  I thought it looked better on smaller figures. While I love being plus size, I don't particularly like clothes that make me look bigger then I already am.  To all my plusies out there, you may want to go a size or two down, as the jumper can appear really huge.  I'm typically a large but had to get a medium to really get the look that I wanted.  After finding the right size, I tried on several different colors to find the one that was best suitable. It was extremely hard for me to shy away from the black jumper (my favorite color to wear). I tried on a red and royal blue one. While those colors were pretty on me, I wanted to go with a lighter color and also a color that I could pair with almost anything. I decided to go with the nude color. I was so proud of myself because trust me this is not a color that I would typically wear. Check out my how I rocked it! If you don't own a jumper, I highly recommend you get one.

Jumpers: PinkClove | Shoes: Madden Girl | Sneakers: Nike Huarache | Jacket: Ross | Watch: Marc Jacobs

Photography By: Richard Woumn

Lashes By: Vivian Henson

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

WEDGAIL

I have always had a soft spot for women entrepreneurs. Not discrediting my men by any means, but women have made significant strides, and often times not glorified enough. When I decided to start a blog, I knew I wanted to not only discuss fashion, but also create a platform where I can spotlight women entrepreneurs.  Why? Well, one because we deserve it. Two, how can I say I want my blog to inspire other women without telling the stories of the women who are industry leaders. As much as I like to think "I'm Every Woman" like my girl Chaka Khan, I honestly can't do it all, so why not share this with women whose hard work and dedication has lead them to create successful empires. 

I am so delighted to feature Gail Johnson better known on Instagram as WEDGAIL.  I had the pleasure interviewing this amazing soul and was truly blown away.  To give a little introduction, Gail is owner of Gail Johnson Weddings & Events, a full service bridal and event consultancy, based in Decatur G.A.  Gail is a graduate of Spelman College with a Bachelor of Arts degree.  She holds a Master of Science degree from Mercer University and a Certification in Wedding Coordination from Georgia Perimeter College. I first found out about Gail when she coordinated Kim Zolciak-Biermann baby shower on the Bravo's hit TV show Real Housewives of Atlanta.  While watching that episode, most people were probably drooling over the celebrity guest list or the actual shower itself.  All I could think of was, "Who is the mastermind behind such an amazing event." I never thought in a million years she would grant me an interview to pick her brain about her business and how she got started. 

Gail has always been a creative person and finding her artistic outlet is what ignited her spark.  She planned her first wedding at 18 years old, and after that she became the go to party planner for her family and friends. Who would have known she would go from planning events for family and friends to planning "Platinum" weddings, being an author, and featured in countless wedding publications across the world including Martha Stewart Weddings, Inside Weddings, The Knot, Life & Style, Ebony, Style Me Pretty, Glamour, and World News & Report, where they showcased her expertise as an industry leader.  Woooo!! The list goes on and on for Gail.  When asked who has been her biggest influencer, she said that meeting Susan L. Taylor, past chief editor of Essence magazine was a monumental life changer for her. "She shared her insights with me on ways to find fulfillment and success in life," Johnson stated.  When asked to describe in one word her life as an entrepreneur; “Driven” was the word she gave. She spends countless hours at work, in which she is still trying to create a work life balance.  Like many entrepreneurs, she has had some failures.  She recalls wasting valuable time in the early stage of her career and not having the confidence she needed to succeed.  She overcame that by working on those areas; believing more in herself and her work.

Gail is motivated by “The Dream.”  "Everyone has their own dreams and their goals for what they want to achieve in life.  If you don't go for it, no one else will. Life is short." she says.  Those words were so meek, yet so powerful.  That resonated with me and hit so close to home because as cliché as it may sound, "Life is short."  Gail wake up every morning with a humble attitude and a quest to learn and grow. She is not afraid to be pushed out of her comfort zone and continues to do so daily.

What more can you expect from Gail Johnson?  She is expecting to publish another book. She has been journaling for some time and has compiled all of her thoughts and ideas to create what I like to call a pot of "success" for her readers. Words can't express how much this interview meant to me. As women, it is so imperative that we surround ourselves with other influential woman. Women like Gail, who are genuine and are humble enough to share their success stories.  She is truly a "Genius" in her industry; Fierce by nature with a passion to succeed. If you are looking for someone to help you plan your next event, please contact Gail Johnson Weddings. #SheThoro

Dress: Diane von Furstenburg | Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Frames: Lenscrafter

Photography By: Janelle Chung

Tuxedo Blazer: Anthropologie | White Tulle Skirt: Anthropologie | Lace Top:H&M

Photography By: JHatter