KONTROL MAG

What better way to bring in the fall then honoring someone who has excelled in the industry of fashion and music.  Last night Kontrol Magazine hosted their annual Women of Style Dinner at Suite Lounge celebrating legendary Chilli from TLC. The dinner included industry notables such as comedian Chris Tucker, former member of Destiny Child Latavia Roberson, TV Personality Traci Steele, SWV member Leanne "Lelee" Lyons and Kameelah Williams from the group 702.  The night concluded with a presentation to Chilli for not only her contribution to fashion, but her diligent work in the community; immediately followed by a two course meal and drinks sponsored by Effen vodka. Check out some of the highlights from the event.

Leanne "Lelee" Lyons of SWV

Latavia Roberson, former Destiny Child Member
Kameelah Williams of  group 702
Traci Steele, TV Personality 

Jumpsuit: Fashion To Figure
Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti
Bag: Old Navy 

FOCUS

What better way to bring in THROWBACK THURSDAY then with a man who has captured some of hip hops best throwback pictures.  I had the pleasure of meeting celebrity photographer Jonathan Mannion last weekend during the BET Hip Hop Awards. He is known for capturing some of hip hops biggest artist such as Notorious BIG, Missy Elliot, and Jay-Z; just to name a few. His energy was electrifying as he danced throughout the entire exhibition; the entire night.  He mingled with everyone and even had time to do a quick interview with me.  When asked, "Do you know you are a legend?"  He chuckled and responded with, "Yes."  We could do nothing but laugh.  He has worked so hard with some of the best in the industry and has established a name for himself.  Not only because he is good at what he does, but because of his enthusiasm and love for his passion. He is truly living his purpose and setting a great example for other young photographers.  Follow him HERE and enjoy a recap of his exhibition displaying some of his most notable pieces. Stay FOCUS!

David Banner Stopped By 

 Shirt: Fallas |  Denim: It's Fahion | Shoes: UrbanOG

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

BET HIP HOP AWARDS

This past Saturday I attended the BET Hip Hop Awards here in Atlanta. The show featured the new generation of hip hop with rappers and entertainers such as Desiigner, Dae Dae, Lil Yachty and 21 Savage.  O.T. Genasis had the crowd going crazy with his hit single, "Cut It."  I thoroughly enjoyed the show, especially the Cypher.  Some of Phillies most underrated artist reunited for one of the best cypher performances I've ever seen.  

The fashion on the green carpet this year was creative and bold.  Denim was trending amongst the guys and black was definitely the color of the evening for the females. Rapper Remy Ma looked stunning in her all black studded jumpsuit.  Cardi B even pushed through in her all black jumpsuit by designer Adam Selman. I love how so many new designers and stylist work are being displayed more.  I too rocked an all black jumpsuit by celebrity stylist Phoenyx Reign.  She designs the best pieces for plus women.  I love how comfortable and versatile her pieces are. Brooklyn rapper Fabolous turned heads in his denim jacket with floral patch work by Duckie Confetti.  Loved! Here's a sneak peek at highlights from the show.  It airs on October 4 at 8P/7C.  Be sure to tune in.

Rapper Big Krit and lovely girlfriend

Rapper Fat Joe and Remy Ma

Rapper Fabolous

Reality Star Cardi-B

Linnell Burton, CEO of Blue Print Camp 

My Jumpsuit: Phoenyx Reign | Linnell Jumpsuit: Fashion To Figure | Shoes: UrbanOG 

Photo Cred: On Demand VIP Driver

Makeup By: Uploadingbeauty

Hair By: LYLAS HAIR

SYLEENA JOHNSON 70'S BASH

In celebration of R&B diva Syleena Johnson's 40th birthday, guests poured into Backstage Lounge on Saturday in their 70's attire for her disco theme bash.  This party was truly the event of the year.  We not only celebrated the life of this legendary singer, songwriter and actress, but we celebrated and era where fashion was visually stunning and music was soulfully liberating.

It came as no surprise that Syleena would have a disco party being the thematic artist that she is.  The "Chapters" in her life has not only been her true testament of evolution, but has cultivated her renewed outlook on life.  Dripped in glitter and gold, she graced us in a timeless two piece outfit designed by celebrity designer Phoenyx Reign.  Her electric bell bottoms and crop top gave us total sexy 70's. We danced the night away to  music by Dj Hershey and Unknownlyric.  Syleena hit the stage with an electrifying performance of some of her greatest hits, including hit single with Kanye West, "All Fall Down." I was in complete awe most of the night; not only by her energetic performance, but how much it felt like I stepped off a time capsule and into a real 70's party.  From the big afros, to the variety of colors that reflected throughout the room, this party was nothing short of amazing. My flared glittery top and bell bottoms with geometric motifs had me feeling myself a bit. I loved this era and grew up on 70's music, so I felt right at home. I couldn't think of a more perfect way for this sensational diva to bring in her 40th birthday.

Syleena true identity shines forth in everything she does.  She embodies how having a relentless passion will allow you to conquer anything.  Syleena is entering into her 40's with so many amazing projects on the way.  Her endless creativity is remarkable and she is a true inspiration to us all.  Luxe is exactly the word I was use to describe this event and I'm so happy I had an opportunity to be a part of it. Happy 40th Birthday Syleena.

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