Flowers Bloom in Winter

Hello All!

Cold weather is definitely upon us right now.  Even though it's not quite winter yet, these temperatures will have you feeling "the hawk." Dressing in layers is one of the perks for this time of year.  You can pull out your cutest sweaters, coats, and of course, jackets.

The jacket featured in this blog post is one of my favorites.  It was a gift from my Ma when their local JC Penney closed. It's from the Ashley Nell Tipton for Boutique line. When she gave it to me, I got really excited.  Then, I quickly got confused because I didn't know how I was going to wear it.  Have you ever come across something that you knew was going to be a showstopper, but you didn't have a clue as to how you'd incorporate it into your wardrobe? That's exactly how I felt after the high of excitement came down.  

Then, I remembered:  K.I.S.S. This acronym, keep it simple, stupid, applies to a plethora of life's many issues.  So it can definitely be applied to your style as well.  Instead of wracking my brain as to what I could wear this jacket with, I decided that keeping it simple is almost always best.

I finally settled on wearing it with a gray turtleneck, faded black ankle length jeans, and my black and gray boots.  It kind of gave a monochromatic look under the jacket which allows the jacket to be the center of the outfit.

Don't mind my frown.  It was extremely cold and windy this morning. We wanted to get these shots and run back to the warm car ASAP.  

These jeans came from Old Navy, one of my die hard places to get clothes.  They are from the plus sized line that recently came back to the stores.  But, from what I've been told (and I hope this isn't true), they may be leaving as quickly as they came.  I bought 2 pair and they cost me a measly $9.99 each.  Now that's a deal when you can get 2 pair of jeans for a little over $20. I'm planning on going back to get more, and at that price, you can afford to splurge.

My boots I've had FOREVER.  They came from Target and I've been rocking them for at least 7 years or longer.  All these pieces together are the perfect combination of K.I.S.S and came together well.  I'm looking like a biker chick with a sensitive side.  Lol!!

And check out the details of this jacket...

This jacket is a perfect blend of hard with the zippers and studs; soft with the floral print and off white/beige color.  It's surely a standout piece that doesn't need any help whatsoever.

So, what's a standout piece in your closet you just love? Let's chat it up in the comments section.

Until next time...

Hoop Earrings:  Lane Bryant; Jacket:  JC Penney; Turtleneck:  JC Penney; Jeans:  Old Navy; Boots:  Target

And Now For Something Completely Different

Hello All!!

Have you ever seen your favorite blogger/vlogger wear something and been like, I could never pull that off.  Or, that looks awesome on her/him, but I could never see than on me.  That's how I am when it comes to the socks and heels trend.  I love to see it on other people, but never for myself.  It just looks so effortless and cool.  Not to say I don't think I'm cool, 'cause I definitely am.  It's just I didn't think I could pull it off and not look self-conscious while doing it.  Until now.  

Before I decided to take the plunge, I consulted my friend on how she felt about the trend.  She basically felt the same way about it that I did.  Which is, it's cute, but some people try too hard to make something look or seem cool.  And that's DEFINITELY NOT the look or feel I'm going for...EVER!!  So, finally I just decided, f#@& it and wore it, and no one died in the process.  

These socks I borrowed from my son courtesy of my local TJ Maxx.  I thought these would give my outfit a whimsical punch since this dress is really simple.  My fuzzy heels I've had since last year and they're one of my all time favorite pair of shoes.  They are cute, comfortable, and inexpensive:  3 of my requirements for high heel shoes.

  

My dress is from a thrift store close to my hometown. When we walked in it was hanging on the end of a random rack. It was a whopping $2.99; a no-brainer if you ask me and one of my best purchases to date.

For my accessories, I decided to keep it simple with a ring my sister got me for Christmas years ago and these really cute yet fancy earrings from Target. You'd never believe these were only $7.99. They add a hint of sparkle. I'm trying to revamp my jewelry collection with more sophisticated pieces and these will take my looks in the direction I want them to go.

Morale of the story:  don't be afraid to try something that's completely foreign to you.  Don't let how you think or feel about yourself keep you from trying different things you're curious about.  It may not be something as simple or trivial as socks and heels; give yourself a chance to experience it for yourself.  You don't want your life to be filled with what-ifs, or wonder what could've happened if I'd done______________.

Be like Nike and "just do it."  Besides, if it turns out you don't like it, at least you can say you did it.  You'll be glad you did 😃😃

Until next time...

Dress:  Thrifted; Earrings:  Target; Ring:  Gift; Socks:  TJ Maxx; Shoes:  TJ Maxx

Jungle Love: How I Wear Leopard Print

For the final installment of this series, I decided to pull out one of the favorite pieces from my closet.  I've had this blazer for at least 4 years now.  It's a favorite because I feel it dresses up whatever I pair with it and gives it an edge.  

My sister bought it for me while she was working at Dillard's.  It was supposed to be an "interview" blazer, but I felt as though it was a bit too much to be used as such. You know that old saying:  "old habits die hard." I may be creative when it comes to my style, but I still dress "old school" when it comes to job interviews.  Nonetheless, it's been in heavy rotation ever since it's been in my closet.  

I decided to wear it with my fuchsia blouse and faux leather culottes I bought from Eloquii. I paired it with fuchsia because most people wear leopard print with red (which I do also.) But, I wanted to do something slightly different this time around. These culottes are another favorite of mine that stay in heavy rotation as well.  Every chance I get I'm wearing them.   Since the blazer is so bold and in your face, I decided to keep everything else simple and understated.  (If you consider faux leather culottes simple, which I do 😉)

My jewelry is all very inexpensive and came from Old Navy and Target (you should know by now the love I have for Old Navy and Target.)   Actually, the most expensive piece I have on is this blazer.  I'm all about taking inexpensive items and putting them together to create something wonderful. Not to sound like a broken record, but you don't have to spend a lot to look like you did.  It's all in how you put those items together.  

Until next time...

Earrings:  Old Navy; Necklace:  Target; Blouse:  Eloquii; Blazer:  Dillard's; Faux Leather Culottes:  Eloquii:  Clutch:  TJ Maxx; Shoes:  Cato Fashions

Jungle Love: How I Wear Leopard Print

For this installment of Jungle Love, I found the perfect item to showcase.  These leopard print wide leg pants are simply to die for!! They can basically be worn any season, with a little modification depending on the weather.  Not to mention they were on clearance for, get this, $6.99!! Yup, you read that right.  

They were another find courtesy of the clearance section at my local Belk store.  If you have one near you GO. NOW. Anyway, when I found them I knew they would be perfect for this series and to add to my closet. 

As I stated previously, you can't go wrong with leopard print AND it goes with a lot of things.  If you're taking baby steps, start with a pair of shoes or a handbag.  Once you get used to it, you can take the leap to an item of clothing.  Since animal print is something that never goes out of style, you don't have to worry about being too trendy when you wear it.

To give the outfit some color interest, I decided to add this orange Jessica Simpson clutch from TJ Maxx.  

I'm planning on wearing these pants as much as I can for as long as I can.  Not to mention how comfortable they are, which is a big plus.  There's nothing more miserable than wearing something you can't wait to throw in the corner once you get home.  If it ain't comfy, I ain't putting it on.

So, how do you like to wear leopard print? Or just animal print in general? Let me know in the comments.  Until next time...

Top:  Eloquii; Pants:  Belk;  Shoes:  Cato Fashions; Clutch:  Jessica Simpson; Earrings:  Claire's 

Jungle Love: How I Wear Leopard Print

One of my absolute favorite prints, hands down, is leopard print.  I can't get enough of it.  However I can wear it, I will (within reason.)  I've loved it for as long as I can remember.  It's a versatile neutral that can be worn with just about everything you could possibly think of.  I guess that's why I love it so much. 

 For today's post, I decided to wear it as an accessory.  What better way to sport this "trend" especially if you're afraid of it's boldness.  I put trend in quotation marks because every year when the new trends come out, animal print always makes the list.  But, it's been on this list for so long, it shouldn't be called a trend any longer.  

I bought this pretty scarf from Old Navy last year.  I couldn't resist it for two reasons:  1.  because it was leopard print and 2. it was on sale.  So, of course when I saw it I had to get it.  I didn't even have an idea as to how I was going to wear it.  I knew eventually once I got it home I would find something to wear it with.  I decided to pair it with my black dress, black heels, and red moto jacket.  

I added a touch of brown with this skinny belt to pick up the brown in my scarf. The red jacket adds a pop of color and helps keep me warm on this chilly day.  

Stay tuned to the blog as I bring you looks on how I rock leopard print.  Until next time...

Scarf:  Old Navy; Jacket:  Cato Fashions; Dress:  Eloquii; Belt:  Target; Shoes:  Jessica Simpson

Sparkle in Your Eyes

Do you ever have one of those days where you want be cute and dress up, but you still want be kind of casual?  Well, today was one of those days for me.  I wanted to be cute, of course, but I also didn't want to overdo it either.  So, I decided to pull an oldie but goodie out of my closet and give it a whirl.  

I've only worn this sequin skirt one other time; don't ask me why because it's absolutely fabulous.  Now, you may be wondering, how is wearing anything with sequins casual?  Well sequins have now become more than just a special occasion/after 5 garment.  They can be paired with just about anything and can be worn any time of the day. 

  

About a year ago, I was cruising the Women's section of my local Target and saw this skirt.  The regular price of it was $34.99, which some would say isn't bad for a sequin skirt.  But, the cheapskate in me mixed with Mommy guilt wouldn't allow me to spend this much on a skirt no matter how awesome it was.  So, I didn't buy it that day.  Fast forward about a month later, this same skirt was on clearance for $10.99.  Now, THAT is a great deal!! I brought it home that day and didn't look back.  

This first time I wore it I paired it with a black tank, denim jacket and another pair of black heels.  I could've worn it like that again, but I like to see how may different ways I can wear the same items in my closet.  In my mind, that gives me more styling options and I get my cost per wear money's worth.

This time around, I wanted to still keep it casual, but not too casual for church.  I pulled out a simple black tee shirt, my black peep toe heels, and bracelet.  I wasn't sure which earrings I wanted to wear with the outfit.  I didn't want to wear the same ones I wore with it the first time.  So, I decided on my ankh earrings I got from Vinti Couture (@vinticouture).  I bought them a couple years ago as a birthday gift to myself (treat yo'self!!!) I get compliments on them every time I wear them and they're definitely a conversation starter.  

I think this simple outfit came together nicely.  What do you think? Until next time....💋💋

Earrings:  Vinti Couture; Black Tee:  Old Navy; Bracelet:  Cato Fashions; Skirt:  Target Ava & Viv; Clutch:  TJ Maxx Nine West; Shoes:  Cato Fashions

P.S. My son/photographer getting his zen by the fountain 💓💓💓

Always Bet on Black

When it comes to looking stylish and well put together, nothing can make you feel this way like wearing the color black.  Really, you can't go wrong with wearing this powerful color.  Some people look at black as boring, morbid, or basic.  But, when you need something that can fit just about any occasion, black is a color that many people gravitate towards.  

Last weekend, I was out shopping with my Ma and sister and came across a black pleated skirt.  But, this skirt was more than just a pleated skirt; it was also a high low pleated skirt.  I've always wanted a pleated skirt, but the way my bottom half is set up, we've never been friends.  So, getting this skirt was extremely out of my comfort zone.  I'm really making more of an effort to try things I normally wouldn't even take off the rack and look at.  Long story short, I tried it on and basically talked myself into getting it.  I'm so glad I did; but now onto the task of figuring out what to wear with it.

I'd been going back and forth with myself trying to figure out how I wanted to style the skirt.  Finally, I decided to pull out my Biggie tee I've had for a while to give it a more casual feel.  I added some red suede slides for comfort and my black belt.  I kept my jewelry simple with my dark gray hoop earrings.

I think it turned out really cute because I didn't know how it would turn out.  The majority of my looks I come up in my head and don't try them out together ahead of time. 

.  

The most expensive part of my outfit is the skirt, which was $14.99 on clearance.  I know you get tired of hearing me say this, but you don't have to spend a lot to look nice. This skirt will be worn year round with tights and booties in fall/winter and with sandals in the spring/summer.  It's those versatile pieces that can extend your wardrobe, budges, and give you more options.   I can't wait to show you all how I will style this skirt next.  

Until next time...


Earrings:  Lane Bryant; Biggie Tee:  TJ Maxx; Belt:  Target; Skirt:  Belk; Shoes:  Target

Style Inspiration

Hey all!

Today's style inspiration comes from a photo I came across on Pinterest.  As you may already know, Pinterest is one of my favorite places to "get inspired".  Everything you could possibly ever be interested in from food, fashion, makeup, home ideas, etc. can be found there.  At last count, I have over 12 thousand pins spread across my different boards.  If you haven't tried Pinterest yet, you need to GET.  INTO. IT. 

So, as I was searching through various fashion pins, I came across one that really spoke to me:

Something as simple as olive green pants and a white button down can get your creative juices flowing.  This may be anything to you, but to me, it really made me giddy.  As I sat and stared at this photo, I began to realize I have similar pieces already in my closet.  Which made me even more excited because I didn't have to go out and buy anything to recreate this look.  Saving money is definitely a plus when it comes to looking stylish.

This is my recreation of the style inspiration look:

At first, I was not going to wear my black hat because I thought it would throw the entire look off.  But, since I paired the outfit with my leopard cross body clutch, the hat got to stay as part of the look.  I'm definitely on the hunt for a sharp tan/brown hat because hats are my jam! 

And to think I already had all of these items in my closet, wearing them separately.  You would think as simple as these pieces are, putting them together in an outfit would naturally be a no-brainer.   Oftentimes, you need to see how someone else puts an outfit together to get inspired and see how it can work for you and what's in your closet. 

You are probably like most people:  reaching for those same handful of items/outfits in your closet day after day because they're comfortable and they seem to be working for you.  That, my friends, is how you get into a style rut and it can be difficult to get out of.  But, if you're ready for a change and are tired of the same old thing.  My suggestion to you is get on Pinterest and create a board of the outfits you like.  Even if you don't ever see yourself wearing what the person is wearing, it can help spark your creativity and take you out of your comfort zone.  You can even put your own spin on how you'd wear what you see.  That's the great thing about style:  it's what YOU make it.  Not what fashion designers, celebrities, or fashion magazines say it is.  

Inspiration can be found in lots of places; some you may not even realize.  But it's up to you to get inspired by what you see.  Until next time...

Hat:  J.C.Penney; Button down shirt:  Lane Bryant; Olive green pants:  Lane Bryant; Shoes:  Guess; Cross body clutch:  The Crow's Nest; Gold necklace:  Target

Easy Like Sunday

Hello everyone!:

So, I had a birthday a couple weeks ago, and I came to a realization.  As I get older, I'm leaning more toward simple things.  And the way I dress is no exception to this.  Now, this doesn't mean I don't like to go all out or get fancy.  But, what it does mean is that getting dressed doesn't have to be a big production of sorts.  I've always believed you can look really put together with a good mix of simple, inexpensive clothing pieces and accessories.  It's all in how you put your spin on them that puts the icing on the cake. 

Take for example my outfit of the day.  I'm basically wearing a black tank and jeans with black heels.  But what makes it more than just a tank, jeans, and heels are my accessories and this fabulous kimono.  

This kimono was a birthday gift from my sister and it was less than $20.  I spotted this beauty while we were shopping a couple weeks ago.  I didn't have any plans for it once I got it home but I knew it could be worked into my wardrobe.  Outfit ideas come to me in various ways.  The main way my looks come together are through visualization (don't judge me.) Most of the time they look great; other times, I need a do over.  

But that's the great thing about style.  It's all about how you can take something and make it work for you.  And you don't have to spend a fortune to look like one.  I'm a single mom and I can't afford to spend goo gobs of money on clothes and shoes (for myself or my son).  I love shopping at discount stores and any where else I can get a great deal.  

Social media will have you feeling like a failure if you can't buy the latest in designer goods.  The majority of those people you see wearing that stuff didn't actually buy it in the first place.  They're basically walking advertising for those companies and it either given or lended to them.  But, I digress...

You have to keep your budget in mind when it comes to shopping.  You may even have to resort to online shopping if you can't find anything on the ground where you live.  Shopping for great clothes, shoes, and accessories should definitely be an easy and carefree experience. Over extending your budget should be the last thing for you to worry about.  The most expensive items in this look are the shoes and the jeans.  There's nothing wrong with splurging on certain items if you can afford to do it.

  
Look for a blog post in the near future about where I go to find great deals.  Until next time...



Turban:  Local BSS; Gold Necklace:  Funky Shoes Boutique;  Kimono:  Cotton Plant Boutique;  Black tank:  Old Navy; Jeans:  Lane Bryant; Clutch:  TJ Maxx; Shoes:  TJ Maxx;  Gold Ring:  Lane Bryant; Black belt:  Target

Thinking Outside the Box

Hello all!

Today's outfit inspiration centers around this cute black dress I got from my local Belk store.  I believe Belk stores are mostly located in the South, so there may not be one in your area.  My Ma, sister, and I ventured into the clearance section which has items priced up to 80% off their retail price.  So, it's really hard not to find something you like.  If you don't find something, just wasn't meant to be.

After looking through several racks of goodies, and trying on a handful of items, I was able to settle on this black sleeveless dress.  Usually, I try to stay away from ruffles, especially from the waist down. Now don't me wrong, I really like ruffles; mostly on other people, though.  The dress is really simple and can be paired with different accessories which can give you a different look every time you wear it. It just really depends on how you're feeling on a particular day. That's mostly the reason why I was drawn to it.  My sister referred to it as "not saying anything", but I feel you can let your accessories do the talking for you.

It took me a while to finally decide on what to wear with the dress.  After a lot of back and forth with myself, I decided to pair it with my leopard print clutch and red fuzzy heels.  To keep from freezing to death at church, my denim jacket made the perfect cover up.  The dress is kinda flowy, so I belted it to show my shape.  

For my jewelry I wore 2 gold rings, my black bracelet, and my black and gold ear cuff with matching stud.  Once I finally made my mind up, I think this look came together perfectly.  I can't wait to see how many different ways I can style this dress.  Would you believe the dress cost a whopping $14.95 with a regular price of $110? Just goes to show you don't have to have a lot of money to look like you spent a lot money.  

Dress:  Belk, Shoes:  TJ Maxx, Clutch:  The Crow's Nest, Bracelet:  Cato Fashions, Rings:  Old Navy and Lane Bryant, Earrings:  Claire's

Until next time...

Everybody Loves the Sunshine

Hello all!!

I hope you all had a really great and fun-filled weekend.  Mine had nothing out of the ordinary happen.  I'm just grateful to be able to see another one come and go; especially with my birthday coming up this week (yay!!) 

Anyway, Sunday was just like any other:  we got up and attended church.  Just like any other Sunday, I try to put my best foot forward when it comes to what I wear.  I feel as though I don't really have a set style when it comes to getting dressed.  It really depends on how I'm feeling when I get up.  Sometimes I already know what to put on before I even go into my closet.  Other days, I'm definitely playing it by ear (so to speak.)

So, I decided to break out my yellow pants from Eloquii that I got on sale last year.  Yellow is one of those colors that definitely allows you to stand out when you put it on.  I've always been a fan of bright colors, but since I'm pear shaped, it's kinda frowned upon to wear them on the bottom half of your body.  If you're feeling self-conscious, you can wear something like a kimono to lessen the emphasis on your bottom half and provide some coverage.

This kimono is one of my absolute favorite pieces.  I actually wore this same one as a model in a local fashion show and it's been in heavy rotation ever since. True style comes when you can wear your favorite pieces with several different items you already own.  Plus, you get your money's worth because you're not just wearing it once and sticking it in the back of your closet.  No one wants to waste money on one-and-done clothes.

Off shoulder tops are still on trend and don't look as though they're going anywhere any time soon.  That's great for me because I love them so much! They can be dressed up or down and fit numerous occasions.  But, since I'm not bold enough to wear one to church, the kimono serves as the perfect cover up. 

As I get older, I get a little more bold with my style.  Once you reach a certain point in your life, you become more about self and what will make you happy at the end of the day.  Break out of that shell you've been enclosed in for so long! And that's what life is about.  As long as you're not hurting others in the process. Oh, and just in case you were interested, here's a close-up of the necklace I'm wearing. 

It's an early birthday present to myself (which I'm starting to do more for myself.) Take time for yourself, and remember to enjoy the sunshine whenever you can.  Cause you just never know...

Kimono:  Cato Fashions, Top:  Old Navy, Belt:  Target, Pants:  Eloquii,
Shoes:  Cato Fashions, Necklace:  Funky Shoes Boutique, Rings:  Lane Bryant

Style Inspiration: Finding New Life in Old Pieces

Hello Everyone!!

It's been a while since I posted an outfit of the day.  Mostly because I'd lost my motivation to actually post anything. Plus, I haven't bought anything new lately, which added to my lost motivation.  

So, as I was scrolling Instagram recently, I came across one of my newly favorite bloggers, The Style Klazit (www.thestyleklazit.com).  She  had posted 3 different looks with a white and black Adidas tank top.  I really love her eclectic style with a mix of casual and dressy pieces that give an overall polished look.   Seeing what she did with that tank got my creative wheels turning and I remembered I had something similar.  I came up with this snazzy ensemble that I'd been wearing separately for the longest time; not even thinking about putting them together at all.

I'm not sure why I never put this together earlier, but it just goes to show that you can find inspiration anywhere.  Especially in other people you admire.  So, if  you're in a style rut of sorts, just pull out Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, or your favorite blog and let your creative juices start flowing.  You never know what you may come up with when you do. 

I think this actually came out really cute. Once I got the basic pieces together in my head, the rest just came together on its own.  The next time I'm in a style rut, I will definitely pull my phone out and get inspired.  Outfit details:  Top:  RUN DMC Brand, Target, Skirt: Loramendi, Target, Shoes:  Sam Edelman, TJ Maxx, Bracelet:  Cato, Earrings:  Thrifted

Until next time...

What I'm Digging Right Now

Hello Everyone!! It's time for this month's installment of the things I'm currently digging on.  So, let's get started!

Sunlit Isle Eau De Parfume--$12.99 TJ Maxx

As my son and I were in our local TJ Maxx a couple weeks ago, I stumbled upon this sweet smelling fragrance I'd never heard of.  There are actually about 5 different fragrances that are associated with this one, but Sunlit Isle was my favorite our of all of them.  They even had a gift set with all the fragrances included for a really cheap price.  The only thing about shopping at TJ Maxx is if you find something you really like, you may never see it there again. 😔😔

Shea Moisture African Black Soap Clarifying Facial Wipes--$5.99 Target

Initially I bought these for my son who's coming of age and is having issues with breakouts (sigh...) Since I'd run out of my makeup remover wipes, I decided to use one of these.  (Insert Memphis voice) MAYNE!!! these are some awesome wipes!! They clean really well and even remove stubborn waterproof mascara.  And we all know how hard it is to remove waterproof mascara.  Needless to say, we're on our second pouch of these and I will continue to buy these.  

Shea Moisture Mongongo & Hemp Seed Oils High Porosity Moisture Seal Co-Wash--$11.99 Sally Beauty ($11.89 for members)

The final product I'm digging for March is this co-wash by Shea Moisture.  Since I've started back working out, shampooing my hair every day isn't an option for me.  So, this co-wash is the next best thing.  Now I don't consider my hair to be high porosity, but this co-wash cleans my hair and scalp really well, and leaves it really soft and conditioned.  I've tried other co-washes during my 10 year natural journey, and I like this one the most.  

Well, that's all I've got for this month.  Let's meet back here next month for another installment of What I'm Digging Right Now.  See you then!!!

Beauty Is Art Natural Hair Expo

There's only a few things I love (outside of my family and friends) that are worth talking about; this upcoming event happens to be one of them.  If you're a natural hair lover like me, or are newly natural, this event is for you!

This is the second year for the Beauty Is Art Natural Hair Expo and it continues to gain momentum.  It will be taking place on March 17th at the Cameron Center, located at 710 N 10th Ave., Laurel, MS 39440.  So, if you're interested in supporting this great event, make sure you get your ticket today.  You won't be disappointed!

The creator of Beauty Is Art, Debbie Jackson, has been a hair stylist for 20 years and is very passionate about natural hair.  Not just about styling natural hair, but informing people about the health and beauty of it. She also designs her own jewelry which will be sold at the event as well.  

There will be a hair show displaying styles and techniques from local stylists, vendors selling their prized creations, a beauty pageant, local entertainment, and refreshments for event patrons.  And you get ALL of this for the low, low price of just $10! When was the last time you were able to spend $10 for a day's worth of entertainment? 

And, yours truly will be participating as a speaker at the event as well. If you'd like to come and meet me face to face, now's your chance to do it. You really don't want to miss out on all the excitement!

For more information on the event itself, vending opportunities, or tickets, contact Debbie Jackson at 601-344-8747.  I hope to see you there!!