wear to work

Big hair and breezy wear

My hair is curly, kinky and wild. It's delicate and strong. It reminds me that there is nothing more freeing than allowing what is most natural about myself to simply BE. I stopped straightening my hair because I had enough. Ugh, it seems so cliche but the real talk is that I got to this point where I noticed that I no longer felt the need to edit who I was, which included my mane. It wasn't an overnight or lightbulb moment but this progression of experiences that made me acknowledge that  "yah, I'm ok with me AS IS". For the most part, straightening my hair was an extension of figuring out the uncertainties about myself. I didn't really know what I wanted and it took getting through my f-ups, learning, listening, challenging myself and meeting good eggs along the way, you know...LIFE. The process is a journey. 

My hubby always asked me why I straightened my hair and would beg me to leave it natural. I thought he was crazy! Although I loved his support and encouragement, no one can make you act on those moments. They can influence but you're the one that's paving your path. As a black woman, the struggle to accept what is naturally you, especially when it comes to our hair is such a difficult journey. It's not the norm. I rarely see anyone with hair like mine but I also live in Boise, Idaho. I love that I was able to fuel who I am in a state where, let's be real, there's not many people of color.  What I experienced from those around me, strangers and friends, was this fantastic celebration of my natural hair. It really stunned me. People would come up to me and tell me how much they loved my curly hair. In my head, I was saying "really, you think my natural hair is pretty....who knew." It was as if I was able to experience acceptance of "me" moreso than I ever accepted myself.  

The more I dived into learning about my curly hair and how to care for it, I saw this common thread amongst so many women of different races and backgrounds who had a familiar story to share about untaming their mane. We hear the mantra that "you're free to be you" but we don't see it. So it takes these individual movements where each of us declare who we are, naturally. That's not to say I will never straighten my hair, I will when I feel like mixing it up. However, the decision is driven by me and not some cultural/ social demand. The relief of no longer having to protest why your "imperfections" are pretty darn perfect for you. It's an exclamation that normal is diverse, unique and feeds tolerance, its soul food. 

Laura, what about your outfit girllll?!! I know I got a bit deep on y'all so here are the yummy details. I love these breezy tops but they can look a little frumpy ( no thank you frump McGee). I look for styles that either gathers at the waist like this one or has an open neckline like this style (so cuteee, right!) I paired it with these boyfriend denim shorts that are a little more fitted as not to compete with the looser fit of the top. 

Top: Rebecca Taylor, Shorts: Rag and Bone ( Fancy Pants)    Shoes: Madewell

"What makes the desert beautiful is that somewhere it hides a well"  Antoine de Saint-Exupery

I want to hear from you!! What's your hair story? Share, comment and click on the little heart below (it's adorable). We can tackle this journey together :)

WORK and play, PLAY and work

Wake up, get things done but first, coffee!

Wake up, get things done but first, coffee!

I had this moment in my life where I had to wear a uniform...I was in it 5 days a week, 8-10 hours a day. Each time I removed it from my body, I told myself that whatever it was I was planning on doing with my life...I WILL NOT WEAR A (insert expletive of choice) UNIFORM. I wanted to choose what I wore everyday, own it and feel good in it. That's a big part of why I'm a fashion stylist and my never ending obsession with fashion ( we are in a long term relationship and he put a ring on it).  I get the chance to make my clients feel great about what they wear...all the time.

Let's talk work wear. Looking professional means reflecting your confidence, competence and compassion on the outside. It presents itself before you even open your mouth to speak. Your professional attire should be the armor that allows you to speak confidently and go after your career goals like a champ. I am incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to style some amazing women who are at the top of their field. This commands looking polished, professional and respectful. My job is to tie in all those layers, make it stylish, womanly and of course with an element of fun!!

I'm going to get bossy so brace yourself.  There are two main styles that everyone should have have in their closets. The first, is a great fitting suit, like this one, that MUST BE tailored to your curves, NOT TIGHT, tailored. What makes an outfit look professional and stylish?? It comes down to FIT (amen).  The second must have is a classic blazer that can anchor any outfit. I'm a fan of this style and this one.  These styles are professional but injected with style and for the love of Carrie Bradshaw, some fun. I adore the soft pink blazer, so chic. If you can splurge and get that amazing goodness like this one (OMG, I WANT TO MARRY THIS BLAZER), #purchase.  If that doesn't vibe with your just out of college need to pinch your pennies but want to look great budget, then consider this one or this style... both have a great look that is classic and won't break your bank. Let me chime in again on fit...if the shoulder pad sits off your shoulder, it's too big or the lapel gaps outward or you must remove your blazer before driving your car (yep, yep...guilty), it's too small. It should feel comfortable but not to the point where you want to lounge on the sofa with your Cheetos and Netflix in it.

Wearing JCrew grey toothpicks denim, JCrew silk Carrie cami top and anchored with this cool as hell blazer by Maison Scotch.

Wearing JCrew grey toothpicks denim, JCrew silk Carrie cami top and anchored with this cool as hell blazer by Maison Scotch.

This particular look can be worn in so many different ways. Each piece can be styled casually or dressed up to create another layer, so that I utilize what I have in my closet. It's a big part of what my style service provides. Mama does not like to see good clothing go unused...it makes me sad and I will not allow it.  Trust me, your wallet will thank me.

2016 will be here in 2 weeks!!! Seriously....are you excited and if not why the hell NOT?!!  WOW...I'm head over heels excited and ready to dive in. Come in with me, the water is great!! I'll continue bringing all things fashionable directly to you with some fun surprises in store. There's a party going down and you're invited. Not sure what to wear...let's just say I have you covered!!

I am loving HARD on all the great comments, texts and emails! It feels like the biggest and best HUG EVER!! Continue sharing and if your friends, friend, cousin, sister doesn't know...tell her to visit me, comment below and click the heart ( it's so pretty).