Black Girls Blog!

Writing has always been therapeutic for me.  I developed a strong interest in the art at a very young age.  As a child, I wrote every chance I got.  I wrote in diaries, notebooks, on random pieces of paper, on clothes, and even on my bedroom door and walls (my mother still complains about that).  As an adult I still do the same thing (minus the doors and walls).  Writing allows me to clear my mind and transform my thoughts into things.  Seeing words formulate into paragraphs and then into full stories excites me.  I'm such a nerd huh?  Oh well!  

I began blogging about two years ago for a local publication in Baton Rouge titled The Rouge Collection where I wrote about fashion and social issues.  This particular platform gave me a chance to develop my voice and put my perspective in the atmosphere.  Once I started doing this, I knew I wanted to continue.  I then began writing for a national publication, Everything Girls Love, while at the same time keeping up with a blog for Chokolat Creme titled The Fashion Liberation Movement.  It wasn't until January of 2016 that someone encouraged me to start my own blog.  I gave it some thought and then decided to pursue it.  Why not combine two things I love (writing and fashion), share my point of view on life, and inspire people along the way?  Six months later - here I am.              

BGB Tee by Chokolat Creme

I recently attended a blogging conference in Washington, DC called Blogging While Brown.  It was so wonderful connecting with like-minded individuals and sharing our aspirations and challenges.  I loved seeing so many black women come together for the art of writing.  I was giddy the whole weekend.  I met some talented ladies at this conference that I will keep in touch with for as long as possible.  I want to share their blogs with you and some other blogs by black girls and guys who weren't at the conference but definitely have blogs you can and will enjoy.  Check them out below.  

1.  Trenched In Style (I was featured on this one!)

2.  Chela Mitchell   

3. Marsh Bars Closet

4.  Moments n Melanin

5.  Styled to a Tea

6.  Fashion Was Here

7.  Jonnita Condra

8.  Circa 88 (dope, plus size cutie who rocks!)

9.  Power 2 the Pen

10.  Hazel Eyes Bombshell

11.  Guerreisms (men's fashion)

12.  Street Etiquette (men's fashion)

13.  The Beauty Beau

14.  The Wire Hanger By Winnie

15.  Locks & Trinkets

16.  Sonique Saturday

The blogs above feature fashion for all, life experiences, faith, inspiration, food, etc.  This list is by no means exhaustive.  As I continue to find new blogs I will definitely share them with you all. 

To all my black girls (and men) blogging, represent your craft and keep going.  We never know who we are inspiring. 

BGB Tee by Chokolat Creme

To purchase your BGB tee click here. 

Keep the blogging movement alive!

- Samjah Iman

Army Antique + DIY Chain Jeans

I'm taking a short break from protesting and getting back to the fashion.  I'm still in an activist mind-frame though...hence the threads below. 

For this look, I pulled my daddy's army jacket out of my closet that he wore when he was about 19 yrs old (yes I have stolen most of his clothes).  This jacket originally had sleeves and was much longer - I like the sleeveless, cropped version better.  The special thing about this jacket, besides the fact that my daddy wore it, is that his last name - our last name - is stitched in the jacket.  I thought that was kind of cool. 

To bring the look together, I threw on my DIY (do it yourself) jeans that I created with a chain necklace (details here).  For the shoes, I chose my black booties to play along with the military vibe I was feeling.

I will be going out of town at the end of this week, but hopefully I will be able to talk to you guys again before I hit the air.  Until then...keep the hope!

xoxo

- 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

I Get it from My MAMA!

Some of my fondest memories as a little girl include watching my mother get dressed up for events.  While she prepared for her outings, I would sit at the edge of her bed and study her.  I asked several questions about what she was wearing and where she was going.  Her outfits were always classy with a touch of sass, and her jewelry consisted of gold, diamonds and pearls every now and then.  She kept her makeup to a minimum, she always had a small, dainty purse to accommodate each look, and she completed every outfit with a spray of White Diamonds or Chanel No. 5 perfume. 

On occasions my mother would get me all dressed up as well, comb my hair into an elegant bun or French roll, give me a little dainty purse of my own to carry, and take me to the Ebony Fashion Fair runway shows.  This was my first exposure to high-end fashion.  I was in awe.  Attending these shows and observing my mother's love for fashion ignited a style beast inside of me.  I knew at a young age that fashion would definitely be my outlet through which I express my art.

 As a result of my style exposure, I started feeding my fashion addiction very early.  Emulating my mother’s style, I would dress up in her slips, nightgowns, socks and heels.  I chose her slips and nightgowns because they seemed easier to tailor to my little body (great fashion sense for a style amateur huh?!).  I would add a belt around my waist to make sure the outfit would fit as perfect as possible, and then I would politely pose for pictures.

Style plays a huge role in my family.  My mother and her sisters are the first people I have ever seen turn up the collars on their shirts and jackets.  I took this style technique from them and incorporated it in my looks that include jackets with collars.  Check my mother, aunts, and grandmother out below.  My mother is in the black and white, my grandmother is in the front with her head turned to the side, and my aunts are surrounding them.  Excuse my brother and his photo bombing antics.  

I love that my mother understands the need to have several pairs of shoes and a few different closets full of clothes.  This, among many reasons, is why we connect!  When I call her about an outfit or a pair shoes I want that I know I don't need, her usual response is "Buy it Sam."  Man...isn't my mother the bomb?!! 

Check out some more stylish pictures of my mother below to see why I get it from my Mama!

Above my mother is pictured with one of her favorite poets, Dr. Maya Angelou.  In this picture she is wrapped in her fur coat looking very "Manhattan 5th Avenue."  I need that coat Ma!

Here she is pictured with my grandmother in her silk suit. My mother loves silk, rayon and leather.  Her style advice to me is to always purchase quality fabrics that will last.

Above is my favorite cocktail dress that my mother owns.  Reasons being, it's my go-to color combination (black and white) and it's timeless.  She has had it for double digit years, and it steals the show ‘til this day.  

 I love my mother dearly for encouraging me to express myself through style.  She taught me that carrying yourself in a positive way makes you even more stylish.  I thank God I have great women in my life like my mother, aunts, and grandmother influencing not only my style but my character as well.  I will definitely take a lot of things they taught me on my journey in life, and I will keep our style legacy alive!

 I love you Big P!  Happy Mother's Day!!

Happy Mother's Day to all of the mothers out there! 

 What type of style/fashion advice did your mother give you? 

- Samjah Iman

The Maturation of Samjah Iman

We made it through another week! 

Last week got kind of challenging for me, but I gave it my all.  I didn't complain though because it's all about becoming the fearless woman I am meant to be. I welcome challenges because they equip me for this journey I am on.  Below are three things I took from last week that I will share in hopes to inspire you as well:

1. Let it go - This is a lesson I am constantly learning everyday of my life.  I once read a quote that said "The world is won by those who let it go." - Lao Tzu.  Now to me this quote doesn't mean do nothing.  It simply means give it your best then give it to God.  This upcoming week I will give each task and situation my all, then set it free for the universe to work its magic.  

2.  Embrace growth - Growth can be uncomfortable at times but necessary.  The only constant thing in the world is change, and if you don't change you don't grow.  When you grow as a person, your art (or passion) is broaden.  You see the world differently.  We must read more, explore new things, socialize and hear new perspectives.  It helps us to sprout mentally.  I am making a vow to embrace change and growth which will inevitably expand my art. 

3.  Stay true - Make sure you can look yourself in the mirror every day and be comfortable with the person you are staring at.  I will embody authenticity in everything I do, think and feel.  This strengthens my sense of self and clears my conscious.  "The key to failure is trying to please everybody." - Bill Cosby.  Please yourself!  This makes you happy and everyone around you happy as well. 

Have an awesome week everyone!  Enjoy the journey, let it go, embrace growth, stay true and keep the faith! 

- 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

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  

Currently Coveting...

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. 

Picture courtesy of Urban Outfitters

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.  

Picture courtesy of ASOS

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. 

Picture courtesy of Steve Madden

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

Picture courtesy of Shop Private Party

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. 

Picture courtesy of Urban Outfitters

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!

PIcture courtesy of beachbikes.net

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

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