Memo 203: The (Global) Grind Is Sold Separately

To: All

From: Me

Date: October 8, 2015

Subject: BTS Photos of the Global Grind Interview

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It costs you nothing to dream but it may cost you almost everything to pursue it. At some point, you will have to make the decision on how you're going to proceed with your life. Will you be just a dreamer or will you be a dream chaser? Choose wisely.

And while you're choosing, you may as well do it wearing a gold cape! I mean if you're going to go out into the world and be amazing, you may as well dress the part! When I showed up for this Global Grind Interview, the Senior Marketing Director of Interactive One made the comment that I showed up looking like a Super Woman. Well, I mean, dress for the job you want or nah?

Check out the full Global Grind interview here or on my You Tube Channel here.

Photography by: Tyson Adams

Website: www.newhydemedia.com

Instagram: @djtyadams

Check out the rest of the look and some behind the scenes action by clicking "More Werk!".

Before you proceed there's a special announcement:

Mixed Media: 3rd Blogiversary Celebration!

• The Werk! Place is turning three in a little over two weeks! Of course, there's a celebration. 
• Join me on Thursday, October 29, 2015 at the Roosevelt Lofts Rooftop Lounge starting at 6PM. You all know how I feel about a rooftop!
• RSVP at twpturns3.splashthat.com to reserve your spot. A minimum donation of $5 is required with your RSVP and 100% of the proceeds are going to Girls With Gifts, Inc., a community service organization geared towards empowering young women to develop and use their gifts to contribute to society. 
• Of course, a rooftop situation is not complete without some fresh beats, a little bubbly and some light refreshments. 
• For partnership opportunities, please contact tiffany@the-werk-place.com.

Memo 198: How to Get Away with Two Capes

To: All

From: Me

Date: September 23, 2015

Subject: NYFW: Look 3

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The question of the day when I wore this look during NYFW was "Is that one piece?"

Very similar to the way that I stack statement necklaces, it's important that the pieces complement each others. With the two capes featured in this look, the short cape version from Hugo Boss fits nicely over the longer H&M version and creates the illusion of just one piece.

The best thing about this kind of pairing is that you'll never run into yourself while strutting down your own concrete catwalk.

Photography by: Tyson Adams

Website: www.newhydemedia.com

Instagram: @djtyadams

Get the Look:

Hugo Boss Mini Capelet - No Longer Available

H&M Trench Cape - Similar here

H&M Top - Similar here

Finders Keepers Shorts - Sold here

YSL Platforms - Similar here and here

Kenneth Cole Clutch - Similar here

H&M Bracelet - Similar here

ASOS Midi Rings - Similar here

Melody Ehsani North Star Rings - Sold here

ASOS Spike Pinky Ring - Similar here and here

Nasty Gal "Bye" Ring - No Longer Available

Memo 191: Ruffle My Shorts

To: All

From: Me

Date: August 5, 2015

Subject: Peplum's at it Again

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Do you remember that season when it was all peplum everything?! OMG, I was SO completely over it. Like, I didn't want to see another ruffle around a waistline in my entire life. Then I saw these Cameo "It's Time" shorts and decided peplum was on again. Please don't wear it out like the last time. Pinky swear promise, ok?

Friendly reminder to get your ticket for the 'Romping Around' Brunch in Scottsdale, AZ

• Join the ladies of Well Dressed Event for 'Romping Around' on Sunday, August 30, 2015 at 5th & Wine in Scottsdale, AZ from 11:00AM - 2:00PM.
• Hosted by @thewerkplace (me!), Life Style/Natural Hair YouTube sensations Ambrosia Marlborough (@brosiaaa) and pRoy (@askProy)
• For event details and ticket information, please visit: rompingaround.eventbrite.com.
• Come show off your best romper!

Photography by: Paul Akinrinlola

Instagram: @paulcreativ

Website: www.pdesignsmedia.com

Get the Look:

H&M Trench Cape - Similar here

ASOS Crochet Top - Sold here

Cameo Shorts - Similar here and here

Zara Clear Clutch - Similar here and here

Pichulik Necklace - Sold here

Report Signature Sandals - Similar here, here and here

Memo 186: The Wild Wild West

To: All

From: Me

Date: June 4, 2015

Subject: Western Vibes

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Yup, I definitely live in the west in the middle of a desert. Real life story. If you would have told me 10 years ago that I would be living in Arizona, I may have cackled directly in your face! Literally, there's a saloon a few miles away from my house. A. Saloon. 

Isn't life and where it takes you absolutely absurd?! Yes, it is but on the look...

So, apparently, the 70s called and they wanted to make a reappearance in 2015. I answered and welcomed them back with open arms. Re-introducing 70's Desert Chic. 

HAPPENING THIS SUNDAY!!!!

Maxed Out! Event in Chandler, AZ

• Have you gotten your ticket for Maxed Out? For event details and ticket information, visit: welldressedphx.eventbrite.com.

• Join myself, Life Style and Natural Hair YouTube sensations Ambrosia Marlborough (@brosiaaa) and pRoy (@askProy) at "Maxed Out!" on Sunday, June 7th at The Living Room in Chandler, AZ. Come show off in your favorite maxi dresses!

Photography by: Dorrell Edwards

Website: Always Timeless Productions

Instagram: @alwaystimeless

Get the Look:

H&M Trench Cape - Similar here and here

H&M Top - Similar here

Zara Skirt - No Longer Available

Jeffrey Campbell Gladiator Sandals - Sold here and here

Indalo Sling Bag - Sold here

Ecote  Panama Hat - Similar here

Memo 136: A Seersucker for Fast Fashion

To: All

From: Me

Date: June 4, 2014

Subject: Five Things to Remember When Shopping Fast Fashion
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Deep in my spirit, I aim to shop at other retailers. I really do. But the way that my bank accounts are set up. See, I have this checking and this savings account… 

H&M (Zara and Topshop) just gets me and has respect for my wallet!

To be honest, I don't love everything in H&M BUT I have never once walked out empty handed. Never not once!

When shopping at fast fashion retailers, I like to keep a few things in mind:

1. Buy items made from natural fibers (i.e. Cotton, Silk, and Wool). Synthetic materials from lower end retailers tend to look really inexpensive (read: cheap). Just because it is inexpensive doesn't mean that it should look inexpensive!
2. Try on more than one size or a couple pieces of the same size. Don't pay attention to the number; just make sure that it fits! Also, if your size is sold out, grab the next size or two up and take it to your favorite tailor.
3. Inspect before you buy! I've seen holes, missing sequins and buttons, make-up stains, and more from the clothing hanging on the racks. Often times, you can negotiate a little discount based on the severity of the damage.
4. Go to the store either early in the morning, say like when they first open, or on a quiet Monday or Tuesday. You want to be able to take your time and see every piece in it's fully stocked and in place glory!
5. Lastly, Go often! The great pieces are the first to go, online and in the stores. So, if you can swing it, visit once a week or at least once a month so that you don't miss any awesome buys. After all, that's what it's all about. 

Before you go, two looks from The Werk! Place have been nominated for June 2014 Users' Choice Award in the Vanity Fair International Best Dressed Challenge. Please, vote for the looks here by clicking the hearts in the corner of the photos and spread the word!

Trench Cape: H&M, Shirt Dress: H&M, Harness: ASOS,  Bag: Louis Vuitton, Shoes: Max Studio, Sunglasses: H&M

Trench Cape: H&M, Shirt Dress: H&M, Harness: ASOS,  Bag: Louis Vuitton, Shoes: Max Studio, Sunglasses: H&M

Trench Cape: H&M, Shirt Dress: H&M, Harness: ASOS,  Bag: Louis Vuitton, Shoes: Max Studio, Sunglasses: H&M

Trench Cape: H&M, Shirt Dress: H&M, Harness: ASOS,  Bag: Louis Vuitton, Shoes: Max Studio

Trench Cape: H&M, Shirt Dress: H&M, Harness: ASOS, Sunglasses: H&M

Get the Look:

H&M Trench Cape - Similar here and here

H&M Shirt Dress - Available at H&M 

ASOS Harness - Similar here, here, here and here

Louis Vuitton Trevi Bag - Available at Louis Vuitton Retailers

Max Studio Shoes - No Longer Available

H&M Cat-Eye Sunglasses - Similar here and here

Memo 123: Patent Leather Skirt Lover

To: All

From: Me

Date: March 13, 2014

Subject: Keeping It Neutral
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I was at the flagship H&M store in London on Oxford Street when I first saw her. She was hanging out with the others just sitting there maxing and relaxing all cool. When I first laid eyes on her, I was a little bit apprehensive. See the way that my luggage was set up, I didn't know if there would be additional space. So, I left her there with the agreement with myself, that if I wanted her I would return.

I wanted her. So, I returned.

Get in my luggage you, sexy patent leather midi skirt, you. 

Hat: H&M, Trench Cape: H&M, Sweater: COS, Skirt: H&M

Turban: The MCB Shop, Sweater: COS, Skirt: H&M, Necklace: ASOS

Skirt: H&M, Clutch: Zara, Shoes: Stella McCartney

Hat: H&M, Trench Cape: H&M, Sweater: COS, Skirt: H&M

Get the Look:

H&M Hat - Similar here

H&M Trench Cape - Similar here and here

H&M Skirt - Similar here and here

COS Sweater - No Longer Available

The MCB Shop Turban - Sold here

Zara Clutch - No Longer Available

Stella McCartney Shoes - Similar here

ASOS Necklace - Similar here, here, and here

Memo 109: Why Don't You...

To: All

From: Me

Date: December 25, 2013

Subject: Lady in Red
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Give love on Christmas day?

Sure will! Sending a huge virtual hug to all of you on this Christmas day. I hope that you're spending good quality time with loved ones and eating yourself into the ultimate food coma. Have a second (or third) plate on me and we'll work it off tomorrow, okay? Cool.

It only felt right to bless the day with a little red. And by little, I mean a lot. I love the ease and flow of this dress. It almost looks like I was invited to a Christmas togo party. Hmmmm, someone definitely needs to try this next year and let me know how it turns out.

I finished off the look with some unexpected outwear (trench cape and feathers!) and a gold belt. I'm pretty sure I'm loving the cape on cape or collar on cape action. Spicy!

Merry Christmas to you all! Muah!

Dress: Maison Martin Margiela for H&M

Shoes: BCBG, Cuff: Mango, Clutch: ASOS

Dress: Maison Martin Margiela for H&M

Memo 107: Little Gold Riding Hood

To: All

From: Me

Date: December 19, 2013

Subject: Double Cape
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Gold all in my cape…

This Hugo Boss short cape has been hanging patiently in my closet for YEARS waiting for the chance to make an appearance. Well, doll, here's your chance! You know how you love a piece when you see it and it must come home with you but you haven't been able to find the right moment to debut it? Yeah, me either.

AND I absolutely love the whimsy that the t-shirt from Global Couture provides to this look. I'm pretty sure I'm in love with the red lips the most.

Also, I just joined Bloglovin' this morning. So, if you haven't already, Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Short Cape: Hugo Boss, Trench Cape: H&M, Pants: Zara

Bag: Coach

Short Cape: Hugo Boss, Trench Cape: H&M, T-shirt: Global Couture,  Pants: Zara

Bag: Coach, Shoes: Yves Saint Laurent, Double Cuff: Oregon Boutique

Memo 087: Allow Me To Re-Introduce My Top Knot!

To: All

From: Me

Date: October 1, 2013

Subject: Hello October!
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Ya'll know I couldn't let go of the top knot. So, I reinvented it for my short hair.

This is the first time I've worn my hair like this but if definitely won't be the last. I love having different hair options.

I've been continuing to shop my closet (*pats self on back*). The only new piece that I'm wearing in this look is the 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target dress. Next to the "Boom" sweatshirt, it was one of my favorite pieces from the collaboration. You'll definitely see this dress a couple of times in the future. 

Trench Cape: H&M, Dress: 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target, Turtleneck: Zara, Belt: BCBG

Dress: 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target, Turtleneck: Zara, Belt: BCBG

Clutch: BCBG, Boots: Sam Edelman, Double Cuffs

Memo 085: Trenched in Sweat

To: All

From: Me

Date: September 24, 2013

Subject: Trench Cape
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Hey fall, is that you?

You know what you all can have? Summer and winter. You can take it! Give me fall and spring ALL YEAR LONG! 

So, one of my favorite outerwear pieces is the trench cape by H&M. I love it. I do believe that I have seen a black version in stores this season. Go ahead and add it to your must have list for fall. 

Trench Cape: H&M, Top: Zara, Skirt: Zara
Photography: Rhonda Davis

Trench Cape: H&M, Top: Zara, Skirt: Zara
Photography: Rhonda Davis

Bag: Louis Vuitton, Shoes: Chanel, Bracelet: Marni for H&M
Photography: Rhonda Davis

Photography: Rhonda Davis

Memo 050: It's A Celebration!

To: All

From: Me

Date: March 28, 2013

Subject: 50th Post!

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My friends and I will celebrate anything. 

New Job? We're celebrating.
Bought a house? We're celebrating!
It's Thursday?! WE ARE CELEBRATING!

So, it's my 50th post. It took a lot of sacrifice, diligence, blood, sweat and tears to get here. So, in life, however big or small the accomplishment, we must celebrate!

In the words of the Honorable Juaquin "Whacka Flocka Flame" Malphurs, "It's a party, It's a party, It's a PAR-TAY!"

Trench Cape: H&M, Dress: Aqua

Shoes: Zara, Clutch: BCBG, Ring: YSL

Belt: Zara

Memo 042: A Few of My Favorite Things

To: All

From: Me

Date: February 22, 2013

Subject: I Clutched My Nude Shoes...

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In a recent interview, I was asked what are some of the items that I cannot live without. Besides necessary things like air, food, water and shelter, I absolutely don't know where I would be in life without my nude Maudissima Christian Louboutins and navy blue Kenneth Cole Clutch. 

I wear them with everything! The toe cleavage on the Louboutins is amazeballs.
The clutch was a classic example of ordinary purchase turned extraordinary. I can't imagine my life without these items.

What fashion items are an absolute necessity in your life?

B. T. Dubbs, this feather collar?! Ma'am. That is all...

Coat: H&M, Dress: Zara, Shoes: Christian Louboutin