The Art of Waiting...

I consider myself a pretty adventurous, bold person to say the least. I’ve moved to another state with no job before. I’ve jumped on a stage and talked in front of hundreds of people. I’ve quit an eight-year job to live out my passion. I’ve started businesses. I’ve even traveled to foreign places by myself. It’s funny that I had/have the courage to do all those things and more, but when it comes to WAITING - I sometimes fall short.

If there’s something in my life that I’m waiting on whether it be extra income, a business to jump off, a house, new this, new that - I find myself getting pretty impatient and trying everything to make sure it comes to pass. I sometimes feel like I’m not hustling hard enough or looking for opportunities in the right places. But as soon as I shake that feeling, step back, and let everything unfold on its own - I’m reminded that letting go of a situation is just as valuable as working hard for it. It’s the divine intervention aspect of the process….the part when you allow a higher power to intervene.

“With waiting, comes learning. ”

— Unknown

I often notice that when I’m NOT looking for something, I find it or it comes to me. And when I’m looking super hard for something, it’s nowhere to be found or if I keep looking hard enough, I end up finding the wrong thing. This is where the art of waiting comes in.

Once you’ve made your needs and wants clear and have done everything in your power to bring those needs and wants to fruition, the best thing to do after that is nothing. Surrender, trust that it will all work out, then move on to the next thing. Taking your hands off a situation that you can no longer control is saying that you trust the Universe/God to work everything out accordingly. Waiting not only builds faith, it sets you up to receive exactly what’s meant for you to have.

While everyone is telling you to turn your hustle up since it’s October and there are only 90 something days left in the year, I’m telling you that if you’ve done all you can do, then wait. What’s meant for you will come to you.

Being still,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Green Jumper // White Boots (Urban Outfitters…sold out) // Vintage Dooney & Burke Purse

Wrap Your Head With This Material...

The title of this post?  Oh, it came from an Erykah Badu song I was listening to while going through the pictures above.  The phrase goes perfectly with the beautiful jumpsuit I have on in the pics. 

In her song ...&On, Badu was speaking in terms of knowledge when she sings "wrap your head with this material."  I gave this post that phrase as a title because not only is the material I'm wearing beautiful, it also has some history and significance behind it.  This vibrant, soul-train inspired jumpsuit was crafted by two designers from the IBO tribe in Nigeria.  The people of this tribe are known for their creativity amongst other things.  It has been said that the history of some bold African prints stem from the mid-19th century when West Africans were sent to Indonesia for political purposes.  Wrap your head with this "material" and read more about it here. 

If you're feeling this Daveda Dot Jumpsuit, get yours here! 

Have a colorful weekend everyone! 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: Patrick Melon - info@melon.photos

From NOLA to LA: Cocktails with Claire x Ty Hunter LA

When I wrote down my goals for 2017, I specifically wrote that I wanted to write for a prominent fashion publication.  Well, to make a long story short and a short story medium - it happened.  I am now a fashion contributor for Fashion Bomb Daily!!  I am so honored to work with the #1 multicultural online fashion magazine.  It's really grind time now!

This past Saturday, Fashion Bomb Daily (FBD) hosted a jazzy event called Cocktails with Claire x Ty Hunter in Los Angeles (Claire is the founder and Editor-in-chief of FBD, and Ty Hunter is the Creative Director of FBD and a well-known stylist in the industry).  I, along with other staff members, attended this event, and it was fascinating to say the least.

I met so many creative souls.  I mixed and mingled with some ambitious people, and it felt good to be around like-minded individuals.  I learned a lot this weekend about the fashion industry and myself.  I learned that no matter what everyone else is doing, I should continue to run my own race and be myself.  Individuality and being true to who you are is dope.  I cannot stress this enough.  When you are truly who you are meant to be, you will attract good energy and genuine people.

Check out the short video I put together of my weekend (it will start after the 6 sec mark).  Hope you all enjoy! 

Outfit Details:

Jumper // Shoes // Sunglasses (available in stores at Urban Outfitters // Vintage Red Bag (seen on Instagram, @Shopvintagebowtique)

- 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

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