Memo 166: Party On, Party People

To: All

From: Me

Date: December 29, 2014

Subject: Tag Team
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Happy almost New Year's Eve!

It's about that time to get ready to pop a little bubbly and sparkle into the New Year.  I've partnered with my blogger boo, Ambrosia Marlbrough of the lifestyle blog, xoxo-Brosia, to give you a little NYE inspiration.

Of course, there were sequins, faux fur and baroque involved with some gold and silver metallics thrown into the mix. Ambrosia styled her entire look around her Calypso St. Barth silver sequin dress and I went into gold jacquard, baroque, and faux fur overdrive. NYE is definitely the time to go a little over the top. 

Let's go into 2015 with a BANG!

Get Tiffany's Look:

H&M Blazer - No Longer Available

Massimo Dutti Faux Fur Vest - Similar here and here

Gryphon Top - Similar here

H&M Shorts - Similar here

YSL Platforms - No Longer Available

                       

Get Ambrosia's Look:

Calypso St. Barth Dress - Similar here

BCBG Max Azria Jacket -  Similar here

Brosia Love Necklace - Sold here

Nine West Shoes - Similar here

Keep up with Ambrosia on Youtube, @brosiaaa on Instagram and Twitter 

and her online jewelry boutique Brosia Love.

TWP Approved! - Net-A-Porter Shoe Sale Top Picks

Tis' the season to shop your little heart out! 

Need gift ideas? There is nothing better than a sale to assist in your decision making. Whether you're purchasing gifts for someone else or yourself, you can always always always find something worth having at Net-A-Porter.

I'm a huge believer in a great shoe and an even bigger believer in a great shoe on sale. So, here are my top picks from the Net-A-Porter sale:

(Click through the image for purchasing details):

Memo 165: Bandeau in the Fall

To: All

From: Me

Date: December 15, 2014

Subject: Bandeau Top + Sequins + Faux Fur
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Well, I've been up all night. How about you?

D'Angelo took a page right out of the Secret Marketing Tools for Keeping People up at Ungodly Hours of the Night Downloading and Listening to an Album written and mastered by Beyonce and released Black Messiah at midnight last night. It's definitely a "press play" like most of his albums are for me. 

D'Angelo, I've missed you. Thank you for last night. It was mad real.

On to the look… 

Yes, you sure can wear a bandeau top in the fall/winter. Of course, the weather is really mild (read: It's in the 70s) in Arizona. I'm bragging a little but if you're in cities where you're maneuvering through the polar vortex, just layer up and big reveal when you arrive or wait until it warms up.

Yeah, wait until it warms up or move. 

Get the look:

Zara Faux Fur Cardigan - Similar here and here

Forever 21 Bandeau - Similar here and here

Zara Sequin Harem Pants - Similar here and here

Charlotte Olympia Dolly Slingbacks - Similar here

Nneka Saran Handbag - No Longer Available

Jamie Pony Hair Pendant - No Longer Available

Tribal Necklace - Similar here and here

Jeweled Bracelet - Similar here

Consignment Bracelet - Similar here

Pony Hair Cuff - Similar here

Memo 164: Friend or Faux

To: All

From: Me

Date: December 12, 2014

Subject: Faux Fur Realness

_____________________________________________________________________________________

'Tis the season for faux fur!

Amen and Amen!

Creating this list of faux fur favorites (say that three times in a row) gave me the heebie-jeebies. Like, I tingled on the inside. Adding faux fur is one of the best ways to compliment and elevate even the most casual of looks. The faux fur clutches are a quick and effortless way to add a little more depth to any look this season. 

Pretty please with sugar on top, incorporate some faux fur into your wardrobe. 

Check out a few of my top picks here (click the links below for more information):

First Row (l. to r.): Finds + Rejina Pyo Coat, Ainea Beige Coat, River Island Coat, Ted Baker Coat

Second Row (l. to r.): ASOS Roll Top Clutch, Oui, Odile! Coat, Shrimps Pablo Clutch, Urban Code Stole

Third Row (l. to r.): Michael Kors Houndstooth Coat, Shrimps Daisy Clutch, Diesel Vest, River Island Clutch

Memo 163: Pretty in Pink

To: All

From: Me

Date: December 10, 2014

Subject: Pink Faux Fur
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Lets talk about this pink faux fur coat from Zara. It's pink and it's fabulous. First of all, Zara does a good faux fur. When I opened the box, I gasped. Real life gasped. Of course, I had a little hesitation with wearing this baby powder blush pink and moreover wearing it during the fall. I didn't think that this was a trend that I would get into but who can pass up something this good. I mean really.

Get the Look:

Zara Fur and Wool Coat - Sold here

Mara Hoffman Printed Dress - Sold here and Similar here

Valentino RockStud Platforms - Similar here

Kenneth Cole Snakeskin Clutch - Similar here

Cara Couture Cuff - No Longer Available

BCBG Belt - No Longer Available

Memo 162: Seeing Red

To: All

From: Me

Date: November 20, 2014

 Subject: Red November

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Red, red and more red! 

One of this season's hottest trends is all about monochromatic reds. I'm talking red on red on red on red. Perfect for the holidays!

I've taken this H&M tassel skirt through all of the seasons. This time I paired it with a fall/winter appropriate hand knit sweater from The Limited and my shiny new YANA belt bag courtesy of Olive Ewe Boutique.

So, how do you feel about this trend? Seeing red or nah…

Get the look:

The Limited Sweater - Similar here in Electric Red

H&M Tassel Skirt - Similar here

YANA Belt Bag c/o Olive Ewe Boutique - Sold here and here

Valentino Rockstud Platform Heels - Similar here in Nude

Memo 161: Sky High, Thigh Highs

To: All

From: Me

Date: November 18, 2014

Subject: Over-The-Knee Boots
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Looks like it's about that time for me to pull out my trusty Sam Edelman over-the-knee boots. 

I am a huge fan of the over-the-knee situation. If done right, they give just the right amount of sexiness. Often times, showing a little peak of something is even sexier than showing a whole lot of everything.

However, it all depends on where you're going and what you're going to do when you get there. This look is good for cooler weather and just about any situation; shopping, dinner, drinks….dessert ;)

And the backpack is good for conveniently carrying everything that you think you'll ever need to be successful in life; shoes, books, water bottles, make-up, and even overnight clothes. Everything. 

Look Ma, No Hands!

Get the look:

Zara Coat - Similar here

Zara Turtleneck - Similar here

Chelsea Flower Dress - Similar here

Sam Edelman Boots - Similar here

Sak Fifth Avenue Backpack - Sold here

Leather Gloves - Similar here

Memo 160: Fringe Benefits!

To: All

From: Me

Date: November 13, 2014

Subject: Tassel Fringed Sexiness
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Ever since I spotted (and then successfully purchased) the Cara Fringe Statement Necklace from Nordstrom a couple of days ago, fringe and tassels have been all that's on my mind.

It's just something about the movement and texture that they provide that just tickles my fancy. Whether you're dressing it up or going for casual sexiness, you are sure to make a statement. 

Get into a few of my favorite fringe and tassel pieces of the moment!

First Row (l. to r.): Joe Jean's Ness Bootie, Cara Tassel Statement Necklace, Anya Hindmarch Tassel Keychain

Second Row (l. to r.): Black Five Loafers, Black Five Tassel Jumper, J. Crew Chevron Tassel Necklace, Sophia Webster Kendall Boots

Third Row (l. to r.): Giorgio Armani Fringed Coat, Alexander McQueen Tassel Skull Clutch, Nylon Magazine Tassel Earrings, Ivy Kirzhner Fringe Wedge Boots, ASOS Suede Fringe Backpack

Memo 159: The Stalk is Real!

To: All

From: Me

Date: November 11, 2014

Subject: Zara Faux Fur Vest 
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I don't normally consider myself a stalker but when I do I stalk, I stalk clothes, shoes, handbags and accessories!

A few seasons ago, Zara presented this faux fur vest online and the stalking commenced. See, I know Zara and I know Zara has seasonal sales. Much like BCBG, the items that you love have an 85% chance of going on sale. Fact! Well, kind of fact based on a fictitious statistic…

That's neither here nor there, the point is to get what you want and to get it on sale! When I'm in stalk mode, I like to periodically check the availability of the item (read: stalk by the minute).

If it looks like it's about to sell out, I may have to fork over the money to pay full price but I, also, know about the possibility of the restock. That's where a little risk taking comes into play. I've often lost out on an item that I couldn't live without that wasn't restocked and nothing haunts us like the things we didn't buy!

So, cheers to a little fashion risk taking!

Photography by: Amir Lowery

Website: amirlowery.com

Instagram: @princelowery

Get the look:

Zara Faux Fur Vest - Similar here and here

Sachin + Babi Fringed Blouse - Similar here

H&M Pants - Similar here

BCBG Harness - Similar here and here

Charlotte Olympia Dolly Slingbacks - Similar here

Kenneth Cole Clutch - Similar here

Memo 158: Backpacking Through U Street

To: All

From: Me

Date: November 7, 2014

Subject: DC Street Art 
_____________________________________________________________________________________

So, about this backpack trend. Yeah, I'm definitely a fan. 

When I saw this Jefferson Faux Leather backpack at Saks Off Fifth, I was instantly drawn to her. She didn't look immature like some of the others. She was very grown up; sexy, even.

Although, I mostly carried this backpack like it was a hand bag, the OPTION to strap it on was there! In life, you've got to appreciate having options.

Photography by: Amir Lowery

Website: amirlowery.com

Instagram: @princelowery

Get the look:

3.1 Phillip Lim Blazer - Sold on eBay here or similar here

Fraiche by J Crop Top - Similar here

Zara Trousers - Similar here

 ASOS Turban - Similar here 

Pour La Victoire Oxfords - Similar here

Saks Fifth Avenue Backpack - Sold here

Marc Jacobs Sunglasses - Similar here

Memo 157: Look, Ma! No Hands

To: All

From: Me

Date: November 5, 2014

Subject: Hands Free
_____________________________________________________________________________________

OB. Sessed! 

Ok, I know this is taking it back like side pony tails and slouch socks but this hands free movement is giving my spirit life. I'm talking belt bags and backpacks. No seriously. Just imagine being able to literally throw BOTH hands in the air like you don't care at Coachella next year when Pharrell decides to invite his twelve closest entertainer friends to come out and perform again.

A few weeks ago, I was sporting my Michael Kors belt bag at Howard University Homecoming's tailgate and I just felt so free. I wasn't fumbling around when I went to make myself a plate of the finest of southern cooking or when pouring myself a very adult beverage.

Listen, Linda. Get into this hands free movement. It may change your life…

I'm more of a sleek and sexy belt bag/backpack kind of girl. These are just a few options that I have found and loved. 

1. Chloe Stanyon 

2. Zara 

3. Nasty Gal

4. Boticca

5. Newbark

6. Elizabeth & James

7. ONE by Erin Dana

8. Chloe Stanyon

9. Clare V. 

10. New Look Xhatch

Memo 156: Nip Tuck

To: All

From: Me

Date: November 3, 2014

Subject: A Visit to the Dress Surgeon
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Let's talk about this dress.

It's an H&M Snake Print Wrap Dress that I purchased for approximately $14.99 plus tax about two years ago. Click "More Werk" to see the original dress.

So, I sent it to the dress surgeon (read: tailor) to make a few adjustments. First, I had them take in the bottom so that it fit like a pencil skirt. I added shoulder pads and cinched the waste with the obi belt from ASOS.

And Voila! You have this remixed snake print dress.

Photography by: Amir Lowery

Website: amirlowery.com

Instagram: @princelowery

Get the look:

H&M Dress - Similar here and here

ASOS Belt - Similar here and here

French Connection Necklace - Similar here

Double Cuffs - Similar here

BCBG Sandals - Similar here 

ASOS Minaudière - Similar here and here

Memo 155: Sip & See: Fashion Edition

To: All

From: Me

Date: October 30, 2014

Subject: 2nd Blogiversary Photo Diary
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Welp! Two years on the books as of today! How crazy is that?! It gets better, busier and more amazing with each year. All two of them!

This year I took my talents to DC to highlight an amazing U Street boutique, Lettie Gooch, and meet my DC followers.

#LettieLoves2Werk
Photography by: Amir Lowery

Of course, a small photo shoot took place at the beginning of the event. Who could resist taking a few snaps in front of these dope gold "WERK" balloons. I mean, really?!

The Werk! Place Turns Two!
Photography by: Amir Lowery

Later on in the evening, I begged and pleaded with two guests to let me werk them out in Lettie Gooch attire. They were honestly so happy to do it and werked these outfits!

Surprise! You have just been werked!
iPhotography by: LaTanya Casillas

I was so thrilled to see the ladies from the DMW come out to get inspired, toast to the weekend and spend a little pocket change all in the name of fashion.

iPhotography by: LaTanya Casillas

Photography by: Amir Lowery

Website: amirlowery.com

Instagram: @princelowery

Lettie Gooch

1517 U Street, NW

Washington, DC 20009

http://www.lettiegooch.com

Memo 154: Server Simplicity

To: All

From: Me

Date: October 8, 2014

Subject: NYFW Look 5
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Little known fact about me: I was in the restaurant service industry for roughly three years while I was in college and a year after I graduated. So, I have a great appreciation for the dining experience and amazing service. I was pretty good if I may toot my own horn. Toot Toot!

This look is a nod to my serving days. 

Special Note: The B. Fab Blogger Awards are THIS Sunday, October 12th at the Westside Cultural Arts Center. I have 20 tickets available at 50% off! Please use the discount code: myfabfriends.  

On behalf of Breast Cancer Awareness month, Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine is donating a portion of the B. FAB Award ticket sales to the #GetWellMeechy campaign fund. Help a fellow blogger who has a rare cancer diagnosis. For more information, please visit: http://bfabawards.com 

Get the Look:

ASOS Shirt Pencil Dress - Sold here

Sophia Webster Mila Sandals - Sold here

H&M Necklace - Similar here

BCBG Belt - Similar here

ASOS Clutch - Similar here

Armani Exchange Pony Hair Cuff - No Longer Available