BBS Muse: OE

Straight up Old English may quench one’s thirst in a New York heat wave, but I’m not referring to the bland malt beverage when I say OE.  Oroma Elewa is far from your average beer, this woman is on some top shelf liquor’ status.  The incandescent Elewa is a hustler at heart, and I ain’t mad it.  She’s a model, photographer, stylist, director and most recently, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of the deliciously stylish Pop’ Africana magazine.  Did I mention she’s Nigerian – BONUS!  This woman continues to blow my mind, and I love how she’s representing for my home country Nigeria. 

Pop’ Africana magazine, based in New York, showcases the riche fashion and art culture flowing throughout the continent of Africa.  The magazines esthetic is so alluring and dynamic – there’s nothing like it.  Africa is brimming with riveting high fashion and art, but the western world has been unaware of its power and beauty, until now.  Words can’t express how ecstatic I am to see a movement such as Pop’ Africana, I only hope that I’ll be able to contribute to its magic.  Can I get a hell yeah for the Vogue of Africa!  For more information about Pop' Africana or Oroma Elewa click HERE.

This woman is definitely a BBS Muse, how could she not be and she hasn't even reached her peak...can you say inspiration.

Vs of the Day - Matthew 11:28

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Photo Credit: anotherafica.net, cocoacreme.com, popafricana.com, streetpeeper.com, vogueit.com, bfaync.com, sartorialme.com, thegoodgoodblog.blogspot.com, pourpoter.com

Road Less Traveled By

Knit Sweater: Urban Outfitters, Wife Beater tank: old, Gray Sweats: Target, Floral Print Wedges: GoJane

Photographer: Jamie Morel

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by,” literally!  The wild outdoors might as well be my first home.  I love the open air, overwhelming brush and trees, just the freedom of it all, (and with all the greenery Seattle has to offer I'm in woodland heaven) so when my friend told me about the new wood she discovered I was more than down to go explore.  Not the most appropriate outfit for outdoor explorations, but so sue me – to anxious to change! 

I like being comfy, but chic.  The first thing I think of when prodding through my wardrobe is “what can I wear that will feel as if I’m wearing nothing at all?”  So naturally I gravitate towards pieces with a relaxed fit and I love these harem like sweats for that very reason.  I’m pretty sure they’re workout sweats; they’re extra baggy on me because I purposely got them in a bigger size to achieve the harem appeal.  I’ve worn them a number of ways and still have more styling tricks up my sleeve.  I paired the sweats with another favorite: boy’s wife beater tank (never understood why they call it that).  I like that it’s fitted without being too tight, and I love the cut.  

Take one of your most comfy pieces and style it up, whether it be a t-shirt, tights, your favorite flannel whatever, personal style starts with individuality, so be bold and unique with your look – don’t be scurred!

Eye Opium

SOUND NEEDED/PUMP UP THE VOLUME

I’d like to share this phenomenal video featuring one my new favorite bands: Tame Impala.  This video isn’t originally for the song, but it might as well be because it’s bloody brilliant!  The gentleman who made this video is a master mind: every cord of the song matches up perfectly with the visual picture and the emotion it emits, it drifts you somewhere else – I kid you not I felt like I was floating while watching it.  Of course the video wouldn’t be half of what it is without the band. 

Tame Impala is... I guess you could call it psychedelic rock, composed by 3 very talented gentlemen.  Reminiscent of a new age Beatles with their “beat poetry,” their music almost lulls you into a parallel universe, at least it does for me and I ain’t mad it!  There composition as a whole is so beautiful it’s almost ingenious – says the hippie at heart.  The video is icing on the bands poppy filled cake; it is rather long, about 7 minutes but worth every single millisecond.  Try and watch it all the way through undisturbed, you’ll thank me later.

Remember art births fashion, fashion nurtures style. Have a lovely Sunday. xox


Verse of the Day - Ecclesiastes 7:20
"There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins."

Life Aquatic

Vintage Suede Coat: Punctuation

Fall is right around the corner (particularly for those of us in Seattle where it feels as if fall has already interrupted our not so sunny summer), meaning it’s time to prepare for the season to come.  I recently uncovered this vintage suede trench style coat at Punctuation art gallery/vintage pop-up shop on Capitol Hill.  The blinding turquoise color of this jacket had me at first sight.  As soon as I put it on I was under its beautiful spell – fit like a charm. 

An exceptionally tailored coat is a fall essential.  It’ll become one of your go to pieces due to the weather, and can be incorporated into various looks.  It’s one thing to have several mediocre fall jackets, it’s another thing to have one impeccably fitted coat that not only looks sleek and stylish, but is ultra flattering because the fit is proportionate to your shape.  I got a little lucky with this particular coat: I wasn’t necessarily looking for it, and based on the size you'd swear it was made for me.  The price was a bit steep, but it’s time I start investing in big girl coats.  If vintage isn’t your thing start at local dept stores like Burlington Coat Factory, they have fabulous coats all year around, or TJMaxx and Marshalls.

Happy hunting and have a lovely Friday. xox

Woodland Wrangler

T-shirt: Target, Jeans: DIY cutoff, Vintage Crocodile Skin Cowboy Boots & Polka Dot scarf: The Vutique, Moto Vest: Wetseal, Leather Belt: Aeropostale, Jewelry: gifted/random

Photographer: Jamie Morel

Who says a wrangler can’t be a dread headed woodland creature lassoing up squirrels and other miniature sized wild animals.  At least that’s what I felt like while in this gorgeous wood rocking these ultra vintage cowboy boots.  I was hoping the scene would emulate a midsummer night’s dream, but how can it when I look as if I belong in a new age western classic.  Anyways, I’m enjoying the ambiguity of it all, so I’m going to go with it.

I can’t get enough of these vintage crocodile skin cowboy boots.  I love throwing them on with just about everything.  I’ve discovered that’s the beauty about them, they don’t fit one look and who says they have to.  If you want to sport your cowboy boots with a sequined gown be my guest, just be confident in it, I’ll probably think it’s the chicest look ever.  Anywho, I rocked the boots with a pair of DIY cutoff Bermuda shorts, which you can easily do at home with a pair of scissors and a seam ripper.  Just take a pair of old jeans decide their new length and cut, or use a seam ripper to rip the seams of an old pair of Bermuda shorts to make them longer and give them a “Pirates of the Caribbean” makeover.  I threw on an old Rolling Stones tee and biker vest and I was ready to go – effortless summer look utilizing some of my favorite pieces (aka: my boots).

I’m off till next time, gotta saddle up the 4x4!  Xox

Vs of the Day – 2 Corinthians 4:7 

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.  We are hard pressed on every side but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed...”

Sugar & Art

 

 

The LA based production: Sugar and Art Fashion Show, recently premiered here in Seattle and great googly moogly was it a night full of artistic mayhem.  I had the opportunity of covering the event and was asked to make an appearance as a model for 2 of the featured LA designers.  Now I’m no model, but the catwalk of life is my playground so I willingly obliged. 

The Sugar and Art Fashion Show is a communion of some of the most talented underground artists: fashion designers, jewelry designers, photographers, painters, performers – you name it, they’re there and I ain’t mad at it!  Being that this was its first appearance in Seattle, the show went well minus minor complications.  The show took place at Seattle’s premier Volume lounge and was decked out, LA style.  The energy surging through the room was intense; artists and creative types alike paying homage to the hustle that is fashion and art, and I was loving every minute of it. 

The show featured a total of 11 designers and brands from Seattle and LA, as well as visual artists and musical performances. 

DIVA STRIPES

If you’re in pursuit of diva-licious evening wear than Diva Stripes is your meal ticket.  These lycra creations decorated with multicolored stripes, shapes and rhinestones put your average club wear to shame.  The line features pieces for both men and women looking to make a statement.  View more of their designs HERE.

SHAMELESS GLAMOUR

Shameless is the ideal word to describe these pin up-esque creations with an edge.  The collection of be-jeweled bustiers is each hand crafted and the ultimate party accessory.  The flowing tulle skirts in candy coated colors add to the allure of Shameless Glamour.  Make an entrance at any occasion in one of these glammed out designs.  For more information visit shamelessglamour.com.

TWO IN THE SHIRT

Two in the Shirt was in tow.  The t-shirt company popularized the “eye candy on the t-shirt” look and continues to create designs emulating pop culture.  I wore one HERE.

DW FASHION

Deyonte' Weather of DW Fashion is the new kid in town, but he is far from an overnight success.  The Chi-town designer is aware of a woman’s shape and how to dress it.  His collection makes a bold statement with its use of prints and varied fabrics.  These new age urban designs are for the jet setter in search of impeccably tailored, one-of-a-kind creations with a fierce edge.  Look out for the newest Pacific Northwest addition, DW Fashion, this designer is on the prowl.


RENE ROPAS

The lovely Rene Ropas graced us with pieces from its S/S collection, as well as some of its newer vintage inspired pieces.  Staying true to her esthetic, the designer premiered her rendition of lady like summer flare utilizing classics with a twist, such as the bandeau top, high-waisted shorts, billowy baby doll dresses and more.  If you would like to view more of the Rene Ropas collection visit their new shop on Western Avenue in downtown Seattle.  For more information visit reneropas.com.




NAKATE PROJECT

 

The Nakate Project is one of hope.  These 100% recycled Ugandan beads are strung together to make some of the most beautiful jewelry that has ever graced your body.  The proceeds benefit woman in need in Uganda, helping to rebuild and strengthen lives for women who desperately need it.  Click here to learn more about the Nakate Project.

DA BIDNEZ

The LA based brand Da Bidnez is a collaborative effort featuring El Salvadorian designer Linda Tovar and many more.  There creations embody the element of sustainability, taking something old and molding it into something new and unique.  These one-of-a-kind designs may start with an old hooded sweatshirt or jeans, but with an artistic vision, are turned into new school cool street style.  They’ve got something for anyone bold enough to break the trend barriers, and ride the new wave of fashion.  For more information click HERE. 

The show was an unforgettable experience.  I enjoyed networking with everyone, meeting new friends and learning and growing from all the artists that were representing that night!  Much love and thanks to Timmery Turner (gotta respect this woman's hustle) and Madeliene Hernandez for having me.

Shameless Glamour design sketches

Designs by Diva Stripes

DW Fashion designer prepping model wearing one of his designs

DW Fashion designer with Model Ashley Gaines wearing one of his designs & earrings

Nakate Project necklaces...I was sportin’ a golden fro

Da Bidnez design

DW Fashion designs

DW Fashion designer, Deyonte' Weather, Da Bidnez designer, Linda Tovar and I wearing Da Bidnez designs

Backstage pandemonium

Congratulations to all the designers and other creative artists who were in attendance.  Thanks again to the Sugar and Art Fashion show production team for having me, I look forward to being a part of such a thriving production for all things creative again, hopefully in LA.

New School Nautical

Blazer: F21, Vintage Blouse: The Vutique, Shorts: Express, Shoes: Chinese Laundry, Vintage Sunglasses: Versace

Photographer: Jamie Morel

There’s nothing like classic nautical inspired pieces with a twist.  I recently spotted this vintage multicolored blouse by the German brand Mondi and instantly fell in love with its resort like essence and mandarin collar.  I love the new age nautical look the blouse gives against the classic navy blue and white striped blazer.  If you’re thinking there’s a lot going on in this ensemble, you’re right, there is a lot going on, and I ain’t mad at it!  Playing with prints and colors has become one of my all time favorite styling past times, (in addition to man repelling) and I plan to go full throttle with it. 

Don’t feel limited when it comes to your style.  What you’re wearing exemplifies who you are, so unless your personality is modest or reserved you should be rocking Josephine Baker inspired Prada prints – dancing bananas – and hypnotic Gucci colors.  Have fun with your style, and as Will Smith says “get jiggy wit’ it, nah nah nah nah na nah na” (corny phrase of the day).

xox

Vs of the Day - Galatians 6:9

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people..."