It's the Little Things....Like a Subway Salad

Last week I had the honor of meeting a kind man who was recently released from prison after being locked up for 45 years (of course his sentence was too harsh for the crime he committed). He offered to share his story with me and a few other people, and I really couldn’t believe my ears as he laid out the awful details of his turbulent journey. “I believed I was going to die in prison. , he said. I lost most of my family while I was in there so when I was released, I had no choice but to sleep under the bridge for a while.” He went on to talk about how he eventually got back on his feet with the help of a local agency, and that he is blessed and optimistic that things will continue to get better for him. After he finished sharing his story, one of the listeners decided to ask the kind man what he wanted for Christmas. I just knew the kind man was going to say something like a bike, maybe a watch, a gift card, or something that would contribute to his new life outside of prison. Hell, if they asked me I would have surely asked for a vintage purse. But to my surprise, he asked for something that I would have never thought to ask for if I was in his position. “I’m extremely blessed, and I really don’t need anything. , he said. But if you would like to get me something….this may make you laugh…but….I’ve always wanted a Subway salad.” I felt humbled, sad, and extremely grateful all at the same time.

Just when you think you don’t have enough, someone somewhere else is wishing for the bare minimum. I sometimes find myself getting caught up in social programming which causes me to think that I need more….more money, more subscribers, more followers, more space, more clothes, more time, more this, more that. When in actuality, I have everything I need and then some.

“Needing nothing attracts everything.”

— Unknown

The conversation with the kind man reminded me to just be content. Peace comes from contentment, less stress comes from contentment, and more blessings come from contentment. As we go into this Thanksgiving holiday, let’s remember to appreciate what we already have. And if you find yourself being greedy or not satisfied with what’s going on in your life, remember those who would give anything to be in your shoes. Happy Thanksgiving my people!

Content,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Blouse (Zara, in store only) // Jeans (American Eagle) // Mules (Steve Madden no longer available)

Walking Like I'm Talking...

I’m in this weird/cool space where I’d rather be taking steps instead of talking about taking steps. I love to motivate people and be motivated, but at some point…we all have to trust in our abilities and walk it like we talk it. It’s beneficial to read all the self-help books, to repeat and write down affirmations, and to share and screenshot the inspirational memes from social media - but when are we going to actually show up? I’m not talking about the showing up that requires us to remain in our comfort zones. I’m referring to the showing up that forces us to go beyond our limits.

I proudly watched Kamala Harris stride across that stage last Saturday evening (to the sounds of Mary J. Blige!) as the US Vice President-elect. I was smiling from ear to ear as I sat in awe of the moment (black people, I am so damn proud of us!). I’ve been contemplating my next creative/career move for months now, and watching Kamala stand boldly before millions, donning a classic white pantsuit, got me amped. I didn’t get an “ah-ha” moment during her speech, and I’m still unclear about the exact direction I want to go in…but what her speech and presence did do was push me to want to take off. I’m going to just start walking towards my new season (whatever it shall be)…boldly and blindly. I have no idea where I will end up, I just know it’s time to move. It’s time to show my face and let fate do the rest. And the one thing I have a substantial amount of faith in is when I take the first step, the Universe will make way for the second.

Not living up to our full potential is a total disgrace to this current era we are in. We have more accessibility to the world and opportunities than we have ever had before; all we have to do is genuinely put ourselves out there and keep pushing. The other day I was scrolling on Instagram, and I saw someone promoting a book of Instagram captions that people can use under their pictures. AND IT WAS SELLING!!!!!!!!!!!!! I stared at the advertisement in amazement. If that didn’t push me to make some kind of move, I’m not sure what else will.

I think we (really talking to myself) have listened to enough podcasts, read enough “How To” books, and wrote down and posted enough affirmations. Of course it’s always good to soak up as much knowledge as you can, but now it’s time to implement that knowledge.

Let’s trust ourselves. Let’s walk the walk.

Strutting,

- Samjah Iman

In Case You Missed It - I took a little break from S&E to do some research (i.e. basically live life). Below is what I have been wearing while I was away. I included links to the looks that are still available. Talk to you all soon!

Outfit Details: Top (Zara - in store) // Boots

Outfit Details: Everything in this pic is old. :-/

Outfit Details: Dress (Zara - in store) // Boots

Outfit Details: Sweatshirt // Joggers (old) // Sneakers

Just Be Sure to Have Fun

I never cease to amaze myself.  Not because I'm some supernatural human being who gets it right all the time, but because I am always jumping out there and doing stuff that I'd never thought I'd do.  So last week, I acted in a pilot for a summer love series.  I'm laughing right now as I type this because I still can't believe I did it.  Acting has never been on my goal list, but when the opportunity came, I sized it up, contemplated, consulted wise counsel, then said f**k it...why not?.  

When I got the email from the director of the film, my first reaction was, "nah, that's not me....I'm good."  So I respectfully decline.  But the director (getshotbyagirl) was persistent.  So I looked at her previous work and was impressed.  I contacted my advisory board (my people lol), and they all said go for it.  One of my board members particularly said, "just do your best and have fun."  And I took that simple advice to heart.  I showed up to the set all chipper and unprepared with no lines memorized and absolutely no knowledge about acting whatsoever.  When my turn came, I channeled my inner Angela Bassett, gave my all, and made sure I enjoyed every moment of it - even the bloopers.  Almost six hours and 900 acting attempts later, the film was a wrap....and I had once again tried faith and won.   

I went home that night (or morning) feeling good not because I gave an Oscar-worthy performance, but because I enjoyed myself.  Going into new territory always makes me a little uneasy and this time was no different.  But what really helped me conquer this experience was my attitude about just having fun.  Life is but a blink of an eye, why not enjoy ourselves as much as possible while we live it?  

I'm not sure when the series will be released, and I'm actually not tripping either.  I'm just enjoying the different roads life is placing in my pathway.  Acting surely wasn't a road I asked for, and I have no idea where it will lead.  My goal is just to trust the One who does and have fun while doing so.  

Currently smelling the roses,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Black Dress // Heels (Steve Madden, very old lol)

Vintage Ralph Lauren Blazer

You know what has been getting on my nerves lately?  BRAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I know I know I know....I need a bra (sometimes), but I just haven't been feeling like one lately (please don't tell my grandmother).  It's such a restriction, and at this point in my life I (they) refused to be held down!  So I let them go free, and I've discovered that I like them free under blazers.  Blazers are now my new shirts...sans bras. 

I want to wear every tailored blazer as a shirt now.  I feel it's such a cool look.  Even if I do pick up the habit of restricting my valuables again (i.e. wearing a bra), I will just wear the bra under a tailored blazer instead of a shirt.  And if the blazer is long enough, I will wear it without a shirt underneath and as a dress.  Blazers are life right now! 

If you've been following S&E, then you know I've been obsessing over vintage clothing lately.  I found this plaid, classic Ralph Lauren blazer on @shopvintagebowtique's Instagram page. I paid little to nothing for it.  It was literally a steal.  The purse I am carrying in the pictures also came from @shopvintagebowtique.  It was just $14 people!!!

I'm wishing everyone a beautiful and peaceful weekend.  It would be so nice if I could sleep all weekend and wake up just to eat crawfish then go back to sleep again, but I can't *sad face*.  I got people to see and things to do - everyday I'm hustling.   

Say no to restrictions and yes to freedom!

- Samjah Iman

NYFW 2017

When I was 16 years old, I got the chance to travel with my 10th grade history class to New York City, New York.  Before then, the only thing I knew about NYC was what I saw on television, and I was excited to go based on my partial perception.  I didn't know what NYC totally had in store, and I didn't know that I was about to experience a love affair that would never end.  When I got to the city, my heart melted.  I felt like I was home.  

Ever since that summer of '98, all I did was talk about NYC.  I began listening to every New York rapper I could find.  I watched tons of movies that were based in NYC.  My brother thought I had gone crazy; he was correct.  I was obsessed.  I went so far as to declare my first child's name would be Brooklyn (yes, New York was that serious to me).  A lot of people go to NYC and fall in love with the tourist attractions and aesthetics.  Those things didn't move me at all.  The tall buildings didn't excite me nor did the bright lights make me beam.  What got me was the hustling vibe I felt.  I was amazed at the fact that everyone was on the move, and they were laser focused on their journeys.  Worrying about what other people were doing didn't seem to be on New Yorkers' agendas at all.  They concentrated on getting where they had to go to handle what they had to handle - this was definitely my type of place.          

Fast forward years later, and I have visited NYC several times.  I've sat in small cafes in Brooklyn, brunched with some fly girls in Harlem, partied at the 40/40 club in Manhattan, and walked aimlessly through the Bronx.  However, my recent visit tops all of the other ones because I GOT THE CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE NEW YORK FASHION WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  

“Every year the women of New York leave the past behind and look forward to the future...this is known as Fashion Week.”

— Carrie Bradshaw, Sex And The City

Fashion Week in NYC was just like I imagined it to be; full of fashion.  I landed Friday morning, saw my girl walk in a show Friday evening, caught some sleep, and did it all over again the next day. 

On that Saturday, I was invited to attend a presentation by fashion designer M. Diggs titled The Mahogany Collection.  The ensembles that were featured had a 70's-inspired, glamorous aesthetic.  I was intrigued as I viewed the looks.  See below. 

Pictured above is Malcolm Diggs, the designer of the collection featured.  He stated that his inspiration for this collection actually came from the movie Mahogany, starring his favorite entertainer Diana Ross.  Malcolm's past designs have been seen on celebrities like Lauryn Hill and Fantasia Barrino.  His latest endeavor includes designing looks for the The "Colored" Girl Campaign which highlighted African American women and denounced the sterotype of blatant colorism portrayed by the media. 

To shop this collection, visit www.malcolmscloset.com.  Also, you can follow the brand on Instagram - @mdiggsnyc. 

Above is a better look of what I wore to the event.  I kept it sleek and simple in an all black ensemble with gold accessories.  

Overall my trip to NYC was bomb.  I always miss the city when I'm gone, but I was excited to get back to NOLA for some upcoming activities....I'll update you all soon!!

Outfit Details: Imitation Leather Skirt // Black Turtle Neck // Tamar Necklace // Booties with all black look (Steve Madden outlet store, not available online) //  Booties with vintage fur

xo

- Samjah Iman

Girls Bite Back

“Well-behaved Women Seldom Make History.”

— Laurel Thatcher Ulrich

I saw this t-shirt on a Friday night in H&M while I was under the influence of a lemon drop martini (shopping is even better this way).  I had to have it.  It has so many different meanings, and is relevant on some many different levels. 

At one point in time (still today as well), women were thought of as objects that were only to be seen and admired, but not heard.  We we were given our place in the world, and we were expected to stay in that place at all times.  And most of us did...but then came women like Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Winnie Mandela, Fannie Lou Hamer, Katherine Johnson, Angela Davis, Assata Shakur, Maya Angelou, Oprah Winfrey, Michelle Obama, Mary Tyler Moore, etc...and as a result, that "seen not heard" crap became history.

Being a strong woman means that you love yourself enough to be treated fairly.  It means that you not only want to create an environment that is loving for you and your family, you also want to create that type of environment for the world.  If you being strong makes another person feel some type of way, then that person has some insecurities that he or she needs to deal with - and that's not your problem.      

“Strong Women Intimidate Boys and Excite Men.”

— Unknown

Bite Back Ladies...

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: T-shirt with Motif // Slacks (Will be available soon) // Vintage Purse (@shopvintagebowtique - Instagram)

Photo Credit:  majstudios@yahoo.com

Nostalgic 90's

Watching the New Edition movie on BET had me all in my feelings.  I super miss the 90's!  Their music brought back so many childhood memories.  Can you believe that my friends and I crafted a whole dance routine to the song Poison?!  We practiced it everyday, and perfected the moves.  Every time we performed the dance, the entire neighborhood would gather around to watch.  It was just that dope!  We just knew we were headed for Video Soul (google it youngsters) lol.  Those were the days!   

Seeing the New Edition story inspired me to do a 90's look.  I had to pay homage (as I always do) to my favorite era.  Check out my look below.    

Unfortunately I do not have all the outfit details for this look because these are old threads I found in the back of my closet.  I can tell you, however, that the crop shirt came from American Apparel , the choker came from Intuition, the purse is from Urban Outfitters, and the vintage Levi jacket came from Etsy.  

Thank you to everyone for the birthday wishes....I truly enjoyed my day.  Hope you all have a banging week! 

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: @twoclipz (Instagram)

The Peach Dress

I am really into this little number I'm wearing in the pictures above.  It's a convenient piece that can go with a lot of different looks.  I decided to pair it with some Steve Madden heels (old) and a classy, vintage purse from @shopvintagebowtique (Instagram boutique).  This is the perfect outfit for a dinner date or even an art gallery event.  It's comfortable and doesn't require much styling.  I received this dress from Tags Boutique.  Tags has some fly clothes for small and curvy women.  The clothes range from casual to dressy, and the prices are moderate.  There are definitely a few items on their site that I will be adding to my wardrobe.  So if you're looking for your next fly outfit or maybe even a Valentine's Day look, head over to their site asap.  If you find something you like (which you definitely will), use the code SAMJAHIMAN for 15% off! 

Happy shopping loves and have an awesome week!

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: Clipz (@twoclipz)

A Year Later

A year ago, I began my Style & Energy journey.  I was seeing someone at the time who suggested I start a personal blog to share my perspective on style and all things inspiring.  I gave the suggestion deep thought.  Then I picked up one of my favorite notebooks and jotted down my blog blueprint.  Twelve months later, and here I am.

I have a deep passion for creativity, style, inspiration and writing.  I eat, sleep, and dream this blog, and it has definitely been a challenging, learning experience - but nonetheless, rewarding.  What I've learn on this year-long journey is that blessings and hard work are one in the same.  The bigger the blessing, the harder the work, and truth be told - most people want the blessings without the work.  You get a new car, then you have to put gas in it and maintain it.  Just had a beautiful baby? Got to feed, change, and clothe him or her.  New house?  Got to cut the grass and clean it.  The more you get, the more responsibility you have.  The more you grow, the harder you have to work.  Having over 100 people reading S&E doesn't mean I've made it....it simply means I have to continue to work hard to keep it going.  Is it tiring and stressful at times?  Yup!  Do I trip?  Yup!  Will I stop?  NOPE!  I asked for this blessing.  Therefore, it's my responsibility to maintain what I was blessed with. 

Bishop TD Jakes once said that sowing is hard and reaping is even harder.  Some people think that after they sow a seed and it grows, all they have to do is sit back and reap the harvest.  Wrong!  When your seeds harvest, that's when the real work comes in.  You have to nurture that harvest and make sure it continues to sprout.  In discovering this truth, I look at blessings in a whole different light.  I make sure I'm ready for the harvest before I even begin sowing, and with that newfound understanding - I'm more ready now than I was a year ago for the hard work that Style & Energy requires.     

So here's to one year down and another one to go.  I'm in it to win it.

P.S. - I want to send a special birthday wish to the most wonderful woman I know - my Mommy.  Celebrate your beautiful life Big P...and as you always tell me - Dance girl...Dance!!! 

Outfit Details: Dress (sold out, similar here) // Boots // Choker

Peace,

- Samjah Iman

Flannel and Vizuals

Above and below is the outfit I sported to a pop up shop I was invited to this past weekend for Vizuals Clothing.  I threw on my Walmart Men's Flannel Shirt ($8!!), some cut-off shorts, my vintage purse (only $14!) from @shopvintagebowtique (Instagram Boutique), my Yankee cap, some fishnets, and my Steve Madden booties for this laid back event. 

Vizuals Clothing is a urban/streetwear men's line that women can also rock.  The line consists of denim jackets, long t-shirts, distressed jeans, etc.  The event was super cool.  The deejay was good, the chicken wings were even better, and the clothes were stylish.  See a few of my favorite looks from Vizuals below.        

The Xanx - $130.00

Sherpa Lined Denim Trucker Jacket - $135.00

Regime Suede Trucker Jacket- $70.00

For more information or to see more Vizuals Clothing click here. 

Have an awesome week everyone!  Hustle Hard!!!

- Samjah Iman

The Pink Tee

Style has everything to do with how you rock your attire, not with what your attire consists of.  I like having expensive threads, but I don't need them to feel stylish.  Most of my wardrobe is made up of t-shirts and distressed jeans.  I can wear a t-shirt with almost any look whether it be dressy, casual, sporty, or business.  The Cuffed Slub Knit Tee I'm wearing in this post only costs $8.90!  This shirt fits really good, and it will go with tons of looks.  Check it out below.     

I paired the tee with my H&M shorts that I cut myself, my Vague Steve Madden booties (found them at an outlet store), and of course one of my chokers from Intuition.  This entire outfit was under $100!  Fashion is even better when it's reasonably priced; don't you agree? 

Have a great weekend everyone.....tune out all of the negativity and concentrate on the positive! 

Peace,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: Clipz (@twoclipz)

Broadway Swag

I went to see the Lion King Broadway Play in New Orleans.  It was beyond amazing!  I love theater and watching people perform.  I was in awe during the entire production.  Art is just absoultely beautiful. 

For the event, I decided to dress comfortable, yet nice.  I wanted to be simple with a touch of glam.  Check out my outfit choice below. 

I wore a crisp, white top from American Apparel and wide leg ASOS trousers (I purchased the tall fitting pants).  To fancy the look up, I added my vintage blazer from @shopvintagebowtique (Instagram Boutique), some rust colored chandelier earrings (old, similar pair here), and my gold clutch (old, similar one here). 

Lately I've been crazy busy, and I don't know if I'm coming or going!!  There was a time when my couch would be my excitement for the evening and weekend....boy have times changed.  My social calendar is out of this world these days, but I'm not complaining.  I always try to appreciate each phase of my life, because eventually - it will change. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

The Generational Leather Pants

I got some leather pants for free.  I got them right out of my mother's closet.  Believe it or not, she purchased these leather pants when she was about 28 years old.  She tells the story of how she purchased them every time she sees me wearing them.  Momma was strolling through the mall one day and saw the leather pants displayed in a window.  She initially thought they were too expensive to purchase.  She went back again another day to find the pants still sitting pretty on display, waiting to go home with her.  So she swooped them up and kept on kicking.  Little did Momma know, those pants would be passed down to a daughter she didn't even have at the time: a daughter who would cherish those pants and rock the hell out of them too.

Y'all know I love to rock simple, but classic pieces.  So with this look, I wore my Not Your Dad's Hat from Intuition, my Fuzzy Cropped Sweater, and some classic black pumps.  When it comes to style, my motto is keep it simple and fierce.  

When you shop for quality threads you get your money's worth, and you'll have what you've purchased for years to come.  I can't wait to pass these pants on to my unborn daughter and tell her the story of how her grandmother purchased these pants and rocked the hell out of them - as did her mother.      

P.S. - Make sure you serve someone this weekend in honor of Dr. King.  You don't have to participate in some big MLK program or volunteer with a notorious non-profit organization. All you have to do is perform an act of kindness in his honor.  Happy King Holiday! 

- Samjah Iman

Untie Me

I will be checking into rehab soon.  I have come to the realization that I have a problem.  I am a true shopaholic.  When I'm shopping, I get some type of adrenaline rush.  My stomach starts to turn, and I feel overwhelmed.  This is how I know I have a problem.  Pray for me. 

Now that I've gotten all that out of the way, peep the cool anklets I got!  

I used to love ankle bracelets, but I haven't owned any in years.  From time to time I wrap a necklace around my ankle to create an anklet, but those days of making bootleg anklets are officially gone.  Now I have my Untie Me Anklets that I simply adore! 

When I don't have the perfect ankle-strap heels to go with my outfit, these anklets definitely do the trick.  They make my simple pumps look more jazzy. 

Thank you all so much for rocking with me on this journey.  I appreciate all of you more than you know!  When you get the chance, please share my blog with your friends and family so that they can get in on some of this!  Thank you!!

xoxoxo

Outfit Details: Corduroy Bodycon Skirt // Crop Turtle Neck Sweater // Black Pumps (old) similar here

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

The Red Dress

I'm starting 2017 off with hope and a vintage, red dress!  

Everyone meet my vintage, red dress from Do The Right Vintage, and my mother's dog - Denver Collins Malcolm X Obama Saulsberry.  Yup, I named him.  Denver was the perfect accessory to my ensemble.  He tried to upstage my dress a few times, but I wasn't having that.  Check Denver and the dress out below!   

I plan on purchasing more vintage pieces in 2017.  Vintage clothing assures you that your outfit will be unique and not duplicated in most cases.  I want to build my style resume, and vintage pieces push me to enhance my fashion knowledge.  I paired my African Print Clutch with this dress, a simple black belt, and my Steve Madden leopard pumps to play on the red. 

I hope you all had the best holiday ever.  I hope you rested your minds and bodies.  I hope you laughed a lot and ate good.  Now it's time to get our minds right for another prosperous year.  A new year is like a blank canvas, and we are the artists.  We can paint whatever we want on it.  So let's paint some Picasso-type stuff!!! 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

P.S. - Check out an interview I did at luxemodus.com.  It actually turned out to be a cool interview if I do say so myself.  Lol

Trenched

Y'all can keep sleeping on thrift shopping, but I'm not.  I'm almost addicted to it.  It's exciting to see what one of my favorite thrift boutiques will find next.  I literally stalk the boutique everyday, and my stalking efforts have been rewarded.  Check out the trench coat I got for under $100 below!         

I am in love with this coat!  Some days I open up my coat closet just to stare at it (don't judge me, I'm just admiring art). 

This coat is heavy, warm, and can be worn with multiple looks.  On this day, I paired my trench coat with a black turtle neck, my cut-off/homemade Wrangler shorts, some opaque/leopard tights, and my Steve Madden Pumps (similar pair here).       

I purchased this coat from Shop Vintage Bowtique which can only be found on Instagram.  This boutique has everything from affordable Ralph Lauren Blazers to leather handbags!  I'm super obsessed with this boutique!   

Thank you all for tuning in weekly and supporting me.  I appreciate you more than you know.  My goal is to be the best version of me and to encourage you all to do the same.  Let's rock this journey called life and stylish clothes together!  

Talk to you soon!

- Samjah Iman

Sweaters and Situations

I read a quote the other day that simply stated, "Stop focusing on dumb shit."  This quote resonated with me.  I needed to be reminded of this.  After reading the quote, I quickly decided to really work hard on not over-thinking and giving my attention to stuff that won't even matter the next day.  I'm in the process of truly freeing myself (we will talk about this later), and I don't have time to sweat the small stuff or use much needed brain power on unimportant crap.  I'm on a certain type of journey right now, and this journey requires that I surround myself with peace, positive people, good energy, good food, and good outfits.  With that being written, check out my oversized sweater look below.             

I got this oversized sweater off the sale rack at Gap for $25 (sold out, similar here).  I usually don't shop in Gap that much anymore, but something told me to go in there and see what they had.  I walked in and went straight to the sale section, and this sweater was hanging up waiting to go home with me - so, I adopted it. 

I paired it with my over-the-knee boots from H&M, my Berkshire fishnet stockings, Urban Outfitters bag, two-toned leather gloves (sold out, similar here), my beanie, and my Slim Thick Black choker from Intuition.  I've learned over the past several months that chokers make any outfit edgy. I can put on a simple shirt, add my choker and boom - my outfit is elevated.  Chokers were definitely one of the best comeback trends in 2016. 

Check out more looks of my outfit below.   

FYI - I took all of these pictures in my new neighborhood ya'll!  (Yup, I'm overexcited).  The photos above and below were taken on my front porch.  I live in an historical New Orleans neighborhood, and I'm just in awe every time I pull up to my place.  There's so much inspiration right outside my front door, and it's exciting!  I've grown to appreciate antique houses/buildings, graffiti/street art, and quaint coffee shops/bars - and this area has a lot of all that.  I'm in love!   

I'm still getting settled in my new world, so forgive me for not blogging as much as I usually do.  I've been super busy learning my new area, rearranging stuff, laughing hard, eating everything in sight, and being lazy. :-)  However, it's time to get back to the business - I got people to see, moves to make, and things to do.  See you all again on here soon! 

Don't focus on dumb shit!

- Samjah Iman

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

The Lingerie that Transitions

Remember the movie House Party 2? The big pajama bash they threw?  Yea, someone needs to throw something like that now because I have the perfect lingerie to wear.        

I'm usually the type that likes as less clothes on as possible when I'm in my home, but this piece (the Roar Chemise) from Saxy's can be fun to relax in.  It allows me to keep it cute while at the same time keeping it comfortable.  

I've had lingerie pieces before, and trust me the only place I could wear them was in my home which was a waste of money to me.  So imagine my excitement when I discovered this lingerie from Saxy's that can transition into a daytime look.  I thought I'd hit the jackpot!  Check out the transition below.

This piece gave me a whole new perspective on lingerie.  If I can wear it in the home and outside the home, it's a win-win for me.

Check this lingerie out and more pieces like this here. 

Have a peaceful weekend everyone.  Be safe!

- Samjah Iman

Laying it Out in Leopard

This past week I experienced about 972 emotions pertaining to the recent debacle.  I went from scared to mad to perplexed to negative to sad to indifferent then back to mad.  While experiencing all of my emotions, I engaged in conversations with family members and friends to dissect the recent events.  After all of the conversations and my different emotions, I came to a conclusion.  It's time get our s@$% together.  

Life is hard.  It has been hard and will continue to be hard.  We need to stop looking for a break because we've never had one and possibly will never get one. We've been fighting to survive since the year of 1619, and the fight will not stop in 2017.  We are either going to complain about how we were, are, and will be treated, wait for God to drop something out of the sky, or pray and then jump in the fight by educating ourselves and our children more, loving ourselves more, eating healthier, exercising, handling our finances better, and creating opportunities for our successors.  We can continue to depend on them to help us...or help ourselves.  I choose to help myself. 

To be continued......   

Outfit Details:  Leopard Tights // Blue Jean Shirt // Stan Smith Adidas

- Samjah Iman