Timeless Style

October 13, 2016 by Samjah Iman in Style, Style Review

There are three things I do not leave home without because if I do, I will feel naked: clothes (well duh), moisturizer (thou shall not be ashy), and most importantly, a watch.

“Man I promise, I’m so self conscious. That’s why you always see me with at least one of my watches.”

— Kanye West

I am a fan of unique watches, and when it comes to choosing watches I like mine to be simple, classy, and timeless. Therefore when I was presented with the JORD Wood Watch (CORA series) I am wearing in these pictures, there was an immediate attraction. I fell hard for the natural wood band that matches my skin tone perfectly and the stunning turquoise face, featuring swarovski crystal markers, which glisten in the sun. I couldn't stop staring at the cool watch, and I couldn't wait to sport it.

I decided to debut my watch to the world this past Sunday at brunch. I was going for a relaxed look for this occasion so to complement my watch, I wore a gold cardigan, blue jean shorts, and tan booties. The watch actually took my outfit to a higher level and gave it some pizazz. This watch is the perfect staple and one of its kind.

Check out more pictures of my JORD Wood Watch below.

Most watches you see in the stores can only be worn with one type of look whether it's a dressy look or sporty look. Not JORD Wood Watches. One of my favorite things about this watch is that it can fit any type of lifestyle. Whether you are the business type, adventurous type, classy type or sporty type, this watch (or other JORD Wood Watches) will suit you.

JORD Wood Watches represent more than just timepieces. They represent stylish moments and a lifestyle. I love pieces that have meaning behind them, and I'm always looking for unique, thoughtful gifts for my family and friends. JORD Wood Watches will definitely be on my holiday shopping list. As a matter of fact, I'm going to enter the contest on the JORD website to win a $75 e-gift code in hopes of putting it towards the next JORD Wood Watch I buy!

If you are looking for a unique watch to add to your collection or to buy for a loved one, click here to enter the contest for a $75 e-gift code. Just by entering the contest you will automatically receive a $20 e-gift code! Hurry up and enter, the contest ends 11/6/16 at 11:59 p.m.!

Have a good weekend everyone. May it be filled with good times and stylish moments!

- Samjah Iman

This Post Was Sponsored By JORD WOOD WATCHES. My opinions are my own.

Design Essentials Natural - Curls and Conversations

Essence Festival 2016 - Day 1 (Curls and Conversations)

July 01, 2016 by Samjah Iman in Style, Style Review

It's that time of the year when tons of beautiful people meet up in the Big Easy for some good music, fierce fashion, empowering conversations, and delicious food. It's Essence Festival Time!

I'm so excited to be able to participate in the Essence Festival festivities as a blogger. It's different from the other thousands of times I have attended the event because now I'm looking at everything and everyone with a more artistic, keen eye. I'm constantly turning my head and checking out styles, hair-dos, and different cultures. Just seeing all of the beautiful people in one place is amazing. The Essence Festival is one of those places where everything about our culture is accepted, and this is one of the main reason why I love this event.

On yesterday, I got the opportunity to attend an exclusive event (Curls and Conversations) for the hair company, Design Essentials. The purpose of this event was to promote their natural hair product line, Design Essentials Natural, which aims to conquer dryness in natural hair. Celebrities such as singer Chrisette Michele, actor and author Hill Harper, and Saints and Sinners star Christian Keyes, to name a few, were in attendance and enjoying the atmosphere like everyone else. The event included cocktails, h'orderves, beauty tips and giveaways, massages, and a live deejay. Let's get into the event below.

Pictured above is the Design Essentials Coconut & Monoi Nourishing Shampoo. This product cleans and conditions you hair while locking in the necessary moisture. You can find this product in Sally's Beauty Supply stores along with other Design Essential Natural products.

Above is what I wore to the event. You will get a better look at the outfit further down. It is a very old romper that I pulled out of the back of my closet (couldn't find any similar ones for your guys, sorry!) and my shoes were from Steve Madden. Also, as you can see, the humidity attacked my hair before I could make it through the door of the event (Louisiana problems). That didn't kill my swag at all - the bigger...the better!

Design Essentials Natural - Curls and Conversations (Christian Keyes and Chrisette Michele)

Actor Christian Keyes and singer Chrisette Michele. Chrisette recently dropped a new album, Milestone. Check it out...her music is usually on point.

The company above (Jones and Rose) specializes in natural bath and body products. I received a sample of their Body Custard that is made with shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oils. This stuff made my skin instantly more softer! And it actually smells good enough to eat! Visit their website for more products and information.

Hey makeup lovers, don't you get mad when you make your face up all pretty and then you have to pull a piece of clothing over your head only to mess up your fab creation? Well fret no more! The Glam Face Savers, pictured above, will allow you to pull your garment over your head without getting a smidgen of makeup out of place...clever huh?

I was crushing on the beautiful dress above by Funky Flair Boutique. It had a kind of vintage vibe to it.

Delicious roasted chicken on a stick.

Design Essentials Natural - Curls and Conversations - www.chicnaturalistas.com

As you can see from the pictures, the ladies were not playing with their natural hair-dos....they came to slay. And slay, they did.

If you know anything about the streets and sidewalks in New Orleans, you know that your feet, in heels, on that concrete is blasphemy. Knowing this, I packed a pair of comfortable shoes to accommodate my look and feet. There is nothing like an outfit that can go from dressy to casual in a minute - multi-functional fashion at its best!

Stay tuned for the second part of my Essence Festival adventures.....I'll be back soon. Laters!

- Samjah Iman

Fashion or Style?

June 29, 2016 by Samjah Iman in Style, Style Review

I once read a quote that went something like this, “Fashion is what’s presented in the stores; style is what you do with the fashion.” I couldn’t agree more with this! It’s not about expensive threads or fancy labels; it’s how you rock them. Now don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with splurging on pricey items and quality materials but if you’re style isn’t correct, then you’re wasting money. It’s about being able to make both an expensive and inexpensive outfit look good. This, sweethearts, is called style.

“My dress ain’t cost nothin’ but seven dollars - but I made it fly.” – Erykah Badu

For example, below are a few outfits I have worn that were all under $100. Check them out.

Style in a nutshell is your energy and personality. When you are wearing a trend, let your personality come through so that you own the trend. Trying to be or dress like someone else is a sure way to fail in the style department. Be as authentic as possible. Get tips from other fashion enthusiasts, pick out the looks that best suit you, and tailor those looks to fit your style.

Which team are you on?

- Samjah Iman

11 Wardrobe Must-Haves!

June 09, 2016 by Samjah Iman in Must-haves, Style, Style Review

Let’s be real style pimps, buying loads of clothing, shoes, and accessories on a regular basis is freakin’ expensive! Once you get a chance to buy one trend, another one is already out which makes it hard to keep up *insert tired face here*! Don’t trip, I’m here to alleviate as much fashion stress as possible.

Listed below are 11 wardrobe must-haves that I believe will have your closet set for decades. By having these fashion staples you will be ready for almost any event, and you will be able to continually build your wardrobe around these core items. With that being written…...let’s get our wardrobes in check!

1. Leather or Patent Leather Pumps – If you don’t have any other shoe, get you some neutral colored pumps! These shoes will go with just about anything, and they are timeless! (Pictured below, PROTO Steve Madden Pumps)

2. A Quality Purse – It’s fun to buy little dainty purses here and there for different occasions but investing in a sturdy, leather handbag is smart. This bag will ride with you forever and if it happens to break, a shoe or leather shop can quickly get it back right. (Pictured below, Reversible Vegan Leather Tote Bag)

3. A Good Pair of Jeans – Most of us have those favorite pair of jeans that fit us just right and bring all the boys to the yard. If you don’t, what are you doing??? Find those perfect jeans and rock them as often as you like! I personally like Urban Oufitters' BDG jeans because they are quality and have just the right amount of stretch. When looking for jeans, make sure it has at least 2-3 % spandex for comfort and stretch. (Pictured below, BDG Twig High-Rise Skinny Jeans)

4. Blazer – A nice fitting blazer (any color) is a major staple for your closet. You can wear a blazer with so many different looks (work, play, church, etc.), and it’s a piece that will never go out of style. (Pictured below, HM Blazer)

5. LBD – Every woman should have at least one “little black dress” in her closet. Throw this on for a date or outing with your friends, pair it with your pumps and maybe your blazer, and you are good to go! (Pictured below, Scoop Neck Bodycon Dress)

6. Stylish Flats – Ladies, our feet can definitely use a break at times. Stylish flats allow your feet to rest while keeping you fashionable at the same time. (Pictured below, WHITNEE Steve Madden Flats)

7. Tennis Shoes – Purchase at least one pair of fly tennis shoes for sporty outfits and for activities that call for lots of walking/exercising or traveling. (Pictured below, A didas Original Superstar Sneaker)

8. A Dressy Watch – Watches add a little pizazz to your outfits. A dressy watch will not only help you keep up with the time, but it will also add some flair to your look. (Pictured below, ASOS Minimal Mesh Large Face Watch)

9. Blue Jean Jacket/Bomber Jacket/Trench Coat – Personally I think you need all three, but depending on what climate you are in, at least one of these jackets will suit you. Neither will ever go out of style, and they allow you to be warm in the most chic way. (Pictured below, Bomber Jacket, Blue Jean Jacket, Trench Coat)

Bomber Jacket, Trench Coat, Blue Jean Jacket

10. White Blouse – A boyfriend blouse or a tailored blouse can be worn with EVERYTHING!!!!!!! (Pictured below, ASOS Oversized Boyfriend White Shirt)

11. Pencil Skirt/Trousers – The pencil skirt or trousers can be worn to church or work with your white blouse or to an evening event with a crop top. (Pictured below, HM Pencil Skirt, ASOS Wide Leg Pleat Pants)

HM Pencil Skirt, ASOS Wide Leg Pleat Pants

So there you have it, 11 things that can provide you with the blueprint for a fabulous wardrobe. At least 6 outfits can be created from the list above. After accumulating some of these staples, you are well on your way to style success!

- Samjah Iman

Currently Coveting...

March 31, 2016 by Samjah Iman in Must-haves, Style Review

The picture above shows the face I make when I see items I want. I get mesmerized. I guess it's safe to say that I am a functioning shopaholic. I say functioning because I don't need to check into rehab just yet, and I pretty much have my shopping hobby under control (I think).

Anyhow, summertime is approaching and there are a few items that I would like to have in order to make my 2016 summer super cute. Peep the items I am coveting below.

These Birkenstock Arizona Mono Sandals would be perfect for the summer. They are the ultimate relaxed sandals. I actually owned a pair when I was younger, and what I remember most is how comfortable they were on my feet. On any day I could throw on some distressed jean shorts, a ripped t-shirt, my Birkenstocks and boom - a chic summer outfit is born.

I love relaxed jumpsuits. There are so many ways I can wear the ASOS Minimal Jumpsuit. I can style it with a belt, a hat, some heels, or some sandals (the Birkenstocks above). It's a perfect versatile piece.

What needs to be said about these bad babies? I want them!!!

Summer means swimming, and hitting the beach in this Private Party swimsuit is a must. I am into one-piece swimsuits because they can also be worn as bodysuits under jeans, skirts and shorts. I live for multipurpose fashion.

I adore photography and how different pictures can tell a story. I want to own several different types of cameras one day so why not continue my collection with a cute one? The Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 camera has a vintage look and takes cool pictures depending on the film you use. I must have one NOW!

Last but not least....this is my ultimate wish. I have loved bike riding since I was a child. This bike would be perfect for me to cruise around town on while exploring and looking stylish. I can't wait to get it!

Well there you have it...my small wish list (it grows daily). Stay tuned to see if I purchase any of the items above soon.

- Samjah Iman

Green Courage

March 23, 2016 by Samjah Iman in Hats, Style Review

It took some self-encouragement to do this shoot. I was feeling a little uninspired due to the recent flooding that affected my hometown and caused havoc for my family and friends. I felt helpless because I wasn't there to lend a helping hand. Then I came to the conclusion that I needed to revive my positive energy and keep going so that my loved ones could sense my vibes and do the same.

I found an old Urban Outfitters dress in my closet that I hadn't worn in a while. I decided to pair it with a worn baseball cap, my Steve Madden combat boots and my Louis V bag. In this outfit, I'm ready for whatever. It's comfortable yet still stylish.

Olive green (or military green) is a color that looks good on anyone. It's not loud and it's not too subtle. You can pair this shade of green with just about any other color.

I love accenting most of my outfits with gold jewelry. It just seems to stand out so well.

Enjoy your holiday weekend sweeties and remember, no matter what, KEEP GOING!!!!!!

- Samjah Iman

Free Mind

March 10, 2016 by Samjah Iman in Chokolat Creme, Style Review

"Free your mind and the rest will follow." - En Vogue

I believe a free mind is essential in order to live the best life you can possibly live. Freeing my mind is something that I have been working on for a while. I used to be caught up in certain standards and perceptions that I just couldn't let go, but the more I experience life, the more my mind opens up.

My friend sent me a picture of some jeans that had chains attached to them. I decided to try and create my own. I hadn't worn these jeans in a minute because the cut on the thigh area was too wide. So I decided to take my chain necklace and loop it through the holes in my jeans. It worked out perfectly for me.

This statement t-shirt was created by Chokolat Creme. We aim to promote liberation, forward thinking, and openness; hence, the "Free Mind Tee."

I told you guys that I would start adding some pop colors to my wardrobe....boom!

If you are a believer in having a free/open mind, check this t-shirt out by clicking the outfit details below or by clicking shop above. Until next time....

- Samjah Iman

Is your mind free?

Photo Credit: Sailor Jackson Jr. (Facebook Page)

Outfit Details: Free Mind Tee // Shoes - Steve Madden (old) // BDG Jeans - Urban Outfitters (old) // Felicitat Sunglasses

Style Review

February 23, 2016 by Samjah Iman in Style Review

Every now and then I go through my previous fashion pictures to evaluate my style. I look to see if and how my style has evolved and what I can do to dig deeper into my art. This time, instead of going through my pictures by myself, I'm going to openly go through them using the S&E platform so that my readers can give their opinions as well. So let's get to critiquing!

For those that will be critiquing me, "keep in mind that I'm an artist....and I'm sensitive about my shit!" - Erykah Badu

Simplicity - my overall style theme. I like to keep it classic with a touch of pizzazz.

As you continue to scroll you will notice that I love incorporating black in most of my ensembles.

Some different color shoes besides black would have been funkier with the style above.

Finally, some color!

I absolutely love my blue jean blouse! I think this will be a staple in my wardrobe for a while.

I can't get enough of black. Don't judge me!

You got to love a good Carrie Bradshaw look!

I actually will not wear the skirt above again. Don't ask me why....I'm just over it.

Distressed jeans are at the top of my fashion list. They go good with everything - especially my vintage mink!

From looking through these pictures, I have come to the conclusion that I need to try adding more pop colors to my wardrobe. Although black is my ultimate shade, it won't hurt to branch out and try other colors in the spectrum. I will also tie in more prints. Spring is approaching and this is the perfect season to play with shapes, flowers and loud colors.

Any other suggestions on turning up my style?

- Samjah Iman