Velvet 1s

I have never really been the Air Jordan type.  I used to dig some of the shoes but not enough to purchase them.  However, these last two pair of retro Jordan's have touched my fashion heart.  How dare the Jordan franchise come out with some velvet sneaks???? These are by far the baddest Jordan's I've seen! Check them out below.

Since the Jordan's were so funky, I wanted to keep that groove going so I paired them with my Bill Cosby inspired sweater I received from Shop Vintage Bowtique (Instagram), my DIY (do it yourself) chain jeans, my Cuban Link Choker from Intuition, and my vintage Fendi bag I got from Bells Boutique (Instagram). 

These Jordan's definitely add to my "around the way girl" persona.  I will be keeping these babies in rotation weekly.

I hope everyone enjoys their Thanksgiving Holiday. We all have a lot to be thankful for and reflect on.  I'm going to take some time to slow down and get some things in order over the next week or two. I will be taking a short break from Style & Energy but will be back soon.  If I see or hear anything inspiring while on my break, I'll definitely shoot it to you guys.  In the meantime.....

Be blessed and be peaceful,

- Samjah Iman

Happy Birthday Big Brother! 

Outfit Details: Air Jordan 1 Velvet Night Maroon// Cuban Link Choker // Bill Cosby Vintage Sweater - IG - @shopvintagebowtique // Vintage Fendi Bag - IG - @bells_vintage_boutique // DIY Chain Jeans

Photo Credit: Todd Sterling - toddlsterling@aol.com

Distressed Tee + Combat Boots

I'm ready to start this weekend! I've been all over the place this week. I've eaten almost everything in sight, only exercised once, overslept twice, and lost out on some good shoes at a thrift shop.  Talk about a long week huh?  It's all good because I got a "bounce back" plan in place to renew my vigor.  It's called REST. 

Before I begin my hibernation for this holiday weekend, let me direct you guys to some dope, distressed sweatshirts and tees like the one I'm wearing above.  Monica's Thrift On A Budget has the cutest distressed tees and sweatshirts.  They have different themes on the shirts, and she even has NFL ones!  What better way to be cute during football season than in a trendy, distressed sweatshirt or tee?  Check out her website to snag you one before they're all gone.     

Have an awesome holiday weekend everyone!  Please share my blog posts with anyone needing fashion inspiration when you get a chance. 

Outfit Details: Distressed Tee // Combat Boots // Similar Purse // Necklace

Peace and Blessings

- Samjah Iman

The Dress with Faces

Hey my people!  I'm back from visiting my family in Denver, and I thoroughly enjoyed my loved ones.  My time was well spent with my 92 year-old grandmother, my mother, and aunts.  I really needed that time with people whom I love unconditionally and who love me the same.  Now I'm refreshed and back at it. 

So I'm sure you all know by now that I'm a t-shirt junkie.  A t-shirt is the best way to be fashionable and comfortable at the same.  Whether it's a regular t-shirt or a t-shirt dress, I'm always down.  Check out the cool t-shirt dress I scored from a vintage shop below.  It's simple, yet artsy - just like I like my clothes (and life!).  

While I was putting the finishing touches on this outfit, my aunt came into the room and offered me a style tip.  She suggested I tuck my belt buckle in and turn the belt to the side.  She reminisced and told me stories of how her and my other twin aunt sported belts over dresses and jeans during their college years.  I immediately liked the look, and I rocked it like that for the rest of the day. 

To complete this dress from Monica's Thrift on a Budget, I added my Steve Madden sandals and Urban Outfitters backpack (sold out, similar one here).  I originally wore some other sunshades with this outfit until I saw my other twin aunt pull out the ones I have on in these photos.  I had to jack her for them....these sunshades totally completed my look! 

Thank you all for opening your minds and hearts to my art and thoughts.  I'm so grateful and blessed.  When you get a chance, share my blogs with your friends and family and on social media please.  Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Have a beautiful weekend everyone and remember to spread love! 

- Samjah Iman

Essence Festival 2016 - Day 1 (Curls and Conversations)

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.   

Design Essentials Natural - Curls and Conversations

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. 

Design Essentials Natural - Curls and Conversations

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. 

Jones and Rose Bath and Body Products

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. 

Glam Face Savers

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?

Funky Flair Boutique

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

Design Essentials Natural - Curls and Conversations

Delicious roasted chicken on a stick.

Design Essentials Natural - Curls and Conversations

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

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. 

Essence Style 2016 - Essence Festival

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?

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!

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) 

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)

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) 

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)  

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)

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)

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, Adidas Original Superstar Sneaker)  

Adidas 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)

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)

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

Any Given Sunday

Brunch and fashion?  Don't mind if I do!

I had a peaceful Sunday that included church, fashion and food.  I live for the weekends, and I try to spend my time doing what I love because it relaxes my mind and prepares me for tackling another week. 

Keep scrolling to see more of my weekend activities. 

P.S. - My dress was only $17.50!  Check it out below.

Outfit Details:  Boohoo Hanky Hem T-shirt Dress // Steve Madden Booties (old)

May your week be filled with lots of love, good food, and laughter!!

- Samjah Iman

One Outfit, Two Ways - The ASOS Minimal Jumpsuit

I finally purchased the Minimal Jumpsuit from ASOS (which was on my wishlist), and boy am I glad I did!  This loose-fitting jumpsuit is so comfortable and versatile.  It will be getting plenty of wear throughout the year. 

After taking these pictures, I met my girls for lunch.  We had a lot of catching up to do and me and this jumpsuit were both ready for some good conversation.   

I'm definitely digging the pockets on the jumpsuit.  Having pockets on clothes gives me comfort for some reason.  During those awkward moments when I'm talking to people or just walking and I don't know what to do with my hands, I place them in my pockets and feel safe lol. 

My Adidas really match up well with this jumpsuit.  It gives my effortless look some edge.  This is a perfect look for daytime events, festivals or even concerts.  However, if you have a dinner date, art show, or evening soiree to attend, simply throw the Adidas to the side and jazz it up with some heels.  It transforms very well. 

To take my jumpsuit to an evening look, I added some eye-catching heels, a small purse and a belt. 

This jumpsuit is a great purchase.  Clothing pieces that can be worn many different ways allow you to save money and express your creativity.  I can't wait to wear this jumpsuit with some flat sandals, a blazer or my oversized blue jean jacket.   

Before I sign off, guess what?  I found the bike that was on my wishlist as well!  The best part about finding the bike was that I got it for an excellent price!  I was on a road trip, and while driving and singing along to some Jill Scott, I spotted an antique shop on the side of the highway.  I did a double take when I saw her (my bike) sitting out in the front saying, "Sam!! Let me roll girl!"  I politely did a u-turn and went to go get my bike.  When I made it back to the antique shop I was elated to discover that the bike was only $60!  I purchased that bike quick and went on about my business.  Ladies and gents, meet Priscilla. 

I gave her the name Priscilla because that is the first name that came to my mind upon meeting her (I have no idea how my mind works).   Now Prissy (her nickname) needs some work done, but nonetheless she is still a doll.  My father is currently fixing her up to my liking.  Once she is done, I will show her off to you guys. 

Enjoy the rest of your week sweethearts and remember to count it all joy!

Outfit Details: ASOS Minimal Jumpsuit // Adidas Tennis Shoes // Heels (old www.shopakira.com) // Purse (old) // H&M Belt (old)

- Samjah Iman

A Skirt with a Side of Timbs...

“Wipe the sweat off my dome, spit the phlegm on the streets / Suede Timbs on my feet makes my cipher complete.” - NAS

Timberland Boots (Timbs) represent a cool but rugged look.  They are a classic, multi-purpose boot that will remain popular for years to come.  Whenever I see a man or lady rocking a pair of Timbs, my heart tells me that they may know a little something about styling.

My Timbs were a great investment.  They are timeless, comfortable, fly and can be worn with many different looks like a skirt.      

This simple look I put together was very cost-efficient (minus the Timbs).  The shirt was $9.99, and the skirt was on sale for $4.99 (regular price was $49.99)!  I love finding quality items for low prices.  It makes shopping that much more enjoyable. 

With this outfit, I mixed-and-matched stripes.  I took a black and white striped shirt and paired it with a navy blue and light blue striped skirt.  I threw my red purse in the mix to add a little color.

This outfit is a perfect pick for a concert or event that you want to be cute but comfortable at.  It will allow you to concentrate on having a good time instead of concentrating on your aching feet in those high heels! 

I hope this post gave you some outfit inspiration for future occasions.  Have a peaceful week, and remember to remain authentic and grateful! 

 P.S. – Fly high, Prince…your beautiful art will forever live in our minds and souls!

Outfit Details: Urban Outfitters Midi Skirt (In stores only)  // Jersey Top // Timberland Boots // Ray Ban Sunglasses // Purse (old)

- Samjah Iman

In Love with the Cocoa

I got a chance to check out the movie Barbershop: The Next Cut this past Saturday; I was pleased.  I enjoyed the cast, the message behind the film, and I especially enjoyed the barbershop talk.  The discussions in this movie were real, unfiltered and essential.  They were about men, women, politics, race, social media and a whole other slew of things that peaked my interest.  However, there was one particular discussion, touched on briefly by the cast, that stuck out to me - black women, their weave shenanigans and black men's love for women who resemble Kim Kardashian.  One sister in the shop raised a good point and made a few comments pointing out that some of our men don't appreciate our natural attributes.  The discussion then turned to actress/model Lupita Nyong'o, her hair and how most men wouldn't want their woman rocking that hair style because it doesn't represent the typical standard of beauty in America.  Some of the men disagreed and implied that they could appreciate a woman with Lupita's characteristics.  This made me think.  Do some of our men suddenly have a strong affinity for the cocoa and our kinky locks? Are they finally waking up?  This discussion reminded me of an article I wrote a couple years ago.  See an excerpt below.

According to social media, quite a few men are in love with Lupita's looks.  Coming from SOME men, I find this hard to believe because we live in a society where her attributes (dark skin and a short natural hair-do) are not the criteria for beauty.  Most of our men are suckers for long hair and light skin.  I'm not blaming the brothers for their inflexible interests because we all have been socially constructed by music, television, social media, and some magazines to believe that lighter skin and long hair equate beauty.  As kids, the media shaped our views of beauty and had us believing that long flowing hair and slightly tanned skin were the things to like.  If you didn't have a parent reinforcing and praising other images of beauty like afros and coffee-colored skin, you were not conditioned to appreciate the type of beauty Lupita brings to the table.  

There is an abundance of Lupitas working in Wal-Mart, pumping gas at the gas station, in the hood, riding the bus, etc.  Therefore, if men are really into Lupita and her features like they claim to be, then they would date someone who resembles her.       

I wrote the piece above because at the time I felt some of our brothers weren't keeping it real.  I knew of a few men personally who wouldn't look twice at most of the girls who possessed dark skin and kinky hair but claimed that they were Lupita's #1 fan probably because she was trending at the time.  Fast forward two years later, and a lot of people seem to be amazed by these African characteristics.  The world seems to be catching on and celebrating different hair types and all the shades of our people.  Is the appreciation for our culture real or are some people still on the pro-black bandwagon because it's popular now?  I truly believe that some of this new found love is due to having more brown skin women portrayed in the mainstream media.  These days commercials feature black women with natural hair and dark skin tones.  Seeing more images of ourselves constantly can influence our views in a positive way, and it gives other brown skin women the courage and confidence to celebrate their beauty proudly.

Nowadays, there are several blogs dedicated to just black women and natural hair and paraphernalia being created that celebrates our beauty and uniqueness.  Hell, now the hair stores even sell kinky weave and faux dreadlocks!  I am truly amazed by it all. 

Photo Credit: Instagram - @djeclazz. Retrieved April 17, 2017

Photo Credit: Instagram - @brandanjzachery. Retrieved April 17,2017

Ya'll know I need that swimsuit above, right?!! It comes from Bareswim.com, and it's available for pre-order now!

Photo Credit. Zazzle.com. Retrieved April 17, 2017. http://www.zazzle.com/natural+hair+coffee+mugs

I am loving the era that we are are currently in, and I pray it continues.  I am so glad that our little girls have women in the media like Lupita Nyong'o and others to make them feel beautiful and give them hope.  Black people come in all shades of brown, and we have many different hair textures; this is what makes us beautiful.  We are diversity at its finest!      

P.S. - Shout out to the women who don't need the media's permission to love themselves, and shout out to the men who have been down with the sisters before it was cool! 

Photo Credit: Etsy.com. Retrieved April 17, 2016. https://www.etsy.com/market/black_power

Thoughts?

- One chocolate girl - Samjah Iman

Colorful Evolution

There was a time in my life when I was hiding.  I didn't want my light to shine too bright or to overpower another person's light for fear of being judged.  When I was younger, I was unaware of the realities of this world.  I was truly liberated.  I would do me no matter what anyone would say.  As I got older, I got a dose of how cruel the world could be and how some girls/women project their own insecurities on other girls/women which in turn breeds jealousy.  I slowly began to retreat into a secluded space that was comfortable for me.  To avoid any scrutiny or hate, I tried my best to stay behind the scenes for a while but it eventually became difficult to do because my light just wouldn't stay hidden.     

"If you haven't got it, you can't show it.  If you have got it, you can't hide it."  - Zora Neale Hurston

Since then I have awakened and evolved colorfully.  I am actualizing my potential.  I no longer try to suppress what God gave me, and I don't fear the consequences of becoming who I am truly meant to be.  I realized that it's about being the best Sam possible and inspiring others to be their best.

So there you have it ladies and gents - my colorful evolution.  I plan to continue evolving and rocking this life I have, and if that offends anyone then CHECK YO SELF!

  "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.  Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.  It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.  We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?  Actually, who are you NOT to be?  You are a child of God.  Your playing small does not serve the world.  There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.  We are all meant to shine, as children do.  We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.  It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone.  And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.  As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."  - Marianne Williamson  

Why are you holding back?  Evolve!

In this post I'm wearing a ASOS crop top, a vintage Levis men's jacket that I found on etsy.com, the New Balance 410 sneakers (currently working on my collection) and some BDG Urban Outfitter jeans.  I'm sort of a minimalist when it comes to fashion.  I truly believe that less is more in most style situations.  The woman definitely makes the clothes, the clothes do not make the woman.  When in doubt, keep it simple. 

- Samjah Iman  

French Quarter Festival 2016

Allow yourself to daydream for a minute and picture this scene - it's slightly windy, around 79 degrees, cumulus clouds fill the sky, brass bands are blowing, people are smiling, children are dancing, colorful clothes decorate the streets, fried fish and shrimp aromas float in the air and a thick, joyous spirit hovers around the atmosphere and covers you like a blanket.  Ladies and Gents, welcome to the French Quarter Festival in New Orleans, LA.

The French Quarter Festival (FQF) always gives me the art I fiend for, and this year was no different.  I got to witness an array of fashion, taste my favorite foods, and observe different vibes.  Check out the FQF through my curious eyes and camera lens.

Mardi Gras Indian.

That's right sweetie, stay camera ready!

The dashiki was in full effect at the fest.  I saw this look a few times on both men and women. 

The hat crew.

This dish is called "Crawfish Louise."  It consists of crawfish (my fav!), green onions, breadcrumbs, tomatoes, mushrooms, and cheese.  Delicious! 

Squad love.

Chicken and sausage jambalaya.

Crawfish pies!

Plum Street snoball with a shot of rum!

Rompers are popular this summer.  They go with festivals like red beans go with rice (yes, I'm currently hungry, hence the food analogy). 

Shorts are always a festival staple.  They keep you cool and cute at the same time.  

I wore a tee created by Chokolat Creme (available here), some BDG cut-off shorts (Urban Outfitters) and Steve Madden combat boots.  I try to be as comfortable as possible when I'm at these festivals. An uncomfortable outfit literally ruins an event for me.  I'm an advocate for functional fashion!   

The FQF 2016 did not disappoint me at all.  There is no other festival that has a similar vibe.

Until next time - Laissez les bons temps rouler!!! (French for let the good times roll.)

What's your favorite festival to attend?

- Samjah Iman

Partying with a Purpose

This past weekend was a busy one, but purposeful.  I got the chance to party with my friends and family for a worthy cause - to bring awareness to Sickle Cell Anemia.  

The Northeast Louisiana Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation (NELA SCAF) held its annual "Evening with Sickle Cell" event on Friday, May 8, 2016 in Monroe, LA.  The reason behind this event was to encourage individuals to educate themselves about this disease that plagues our community and to know their sickle cell status.  My father, brother, nephews, a friend and I all have the sickle cell trait, so I was glad to be able to participate in this meaningful event and give back.       

Check out my coverage of the event below. 

Pictured above is my mother conversing with her colleagues from the University of Louisiana at Monroe.

My brother Brad and his wife Tonya.

My friends and former classmates. 

Above is what I wore to the event.  Black and white are my go-to colors for most events because these colors stand out and look sophisticated.  I had on an Urban Outfitters top and skirt, and my shoes (pictured below) were from Aldo. 

The event was entertaining and lively. I thoroughly enjoyed myself!

For more information on this disease, visit www.sicklecelldisease.org.

Do you KNOW YOUR SICKLE CELL STATUS?! 

- Samjah Iman

Green Courage

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

My Baton Rouge Fashion Week Vibe

My friend/business partner April and I participated in Baton Rouge Fashion Week via Chokolat Creme this past weekend.  It was exciting, exhausting and beneficial.  We had lots of fun and that is what really matters. 

The best part about the events this weekend, aside from getting more exposure for Chokolat Creme, was dressing up!  For these events, I wanted to do something a little more comfortable and different from the usual fitted dress I wear to events.  Check out my fashion week vibe below.  

For this night, I went for an all red look.  I'm digging wide leg pants this season, and it's a must that I incorporate them in my wardrobe from time to time.

Outfit Details: Red Riding Hood Jacket - Forever 21 (old) // Structured Crop Top // Wide Leg Red Pants - ASOS (sold out)

Cocktail attire was required for this night.  I opted for a tuxedo look.  Move over fellas - I got this.

My girl Coop (aka April) was in the building!

Here's a closer look at the bow tie.  I took a regular bow tie, adjusted it to my neck size and clipped it around my neck. 

Outfit Details: Tuxedo Blazer - H&M (old) // Black Jumper - bebe (old)

For the Big Night, we were asked to wear formal attire.  I couldn't see myself in a gown for this particular night since we had to work, so this skirt did the trick. 

And that's a wrap! 

Outfit Details: Hi Lo Skirt // Sequined Crop Top

To see more on the actual show visit www.thefashionlm.com. 

Which was your favorite look and why?

- Samjah Iman

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

The Hat is the Reason

When I was younger, I didn't understand why my father wore so many hats and caps or why my mother often threw on wide brim hats to complete her wardrobe; but now I get it.  In most cases, hats make an outfit come alive.  I have learned that I can throw on a nice hat or cap with almost any outfit and make my look even more stylish.       

I would suggest that every fashion junkie own at least two stylish hats or caps.  They turn an ordinary outfit into an extraordinary one.  Hats not only make your outfit pop, they also camouflage your hair when you are not in the mood to comb it; and that is exactly what was happening on the day I took these pictures.       

The other staple in these photos, aside from my hat, are my Steve Madden Wantagh Booties.  These faithful booties have gotten a lot of wear.  They go with just about anything!  I wear them with skinny jeans, shorts, skirts, and of course dresses.  I consider these shoes a fashion investment.  When you purchase shoes that go with almost any outfit and can be worn all year round, you are definitely getting your money's worth. 

Outfit Details: Wantagh Booties // Ribbed Raceback Tank Dress // H&M Duster (old) // Wide Brim Hat (old) - Urban Outfitters

- Samjah Iman

A New Balance

How cool is it that I am now 34?!  This post is so appropriate because I am wearing New Balance tennis shoes, and I feel I have a new balance on life.  My new balance has nothing to do with success or anything like that, but it has everything to do with accepting and loving the woman I am becoming.  I feel extremely blessed, and I am excited to see what 34 has in store for me! 

Now if you know me, you know I love an eccentric/vintage looking spot.  Riding by the store (Atomic Pop) in the pictures, it caught my eye.  I parked my vehicle to explore it and immediately fell in lust because not only did it match my sneakers, it was a vintage record shop!!

The outfit I'm wearing in this picture is what I call a "laid back look."  I love dressing up; however, what I love more is dressing down.  Jeans, a tee, some cool kicks, and fresh sunglasses are all I need to make a fashion statement.  Less is truly more.  

Outfit Details: Skinny Jeans (old) - H&M // New Balance Tennis // Blue Jean Jacket (old) - H&M // Grey Tee (old) - Forever 21

- The Birthday Girl

Breakfast and a Magazine

A hearty breakfast and a good read is an excellent way to start your day - especially if the breakfast includes key nutrients, and the magazine features your brand! 

Chokolat Creme, a brand owned by me and my ace April, is featured in 225 Magazine!!!  April and I are excited to be presenting during Baton Rouge Fashion Week this year.  We plan to wow the crowd with statement tees, funk, style and individuality.  

Baton Rouge Fashion Week is February 22-27.  Visit www.batonrougefashionweek.com for a detailed schedule.  

Photo Credit. www225batonrouge.com.  Retrieved January 30, 2016. http://www.225batonrouge.com/style/baton-rouge-fashion-week-focuses-local-talent-art-community

Come watch Chokolat Creme murder the runway!! Click the shop button at the top to check out our pieces.

 - Samjah Iman