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

Just Do You

The media has a clever way of persuading us to be like someone else other than ourselves.  When you turn on your television, there is someone telling you to grow longer hair like the models or drive a certain car that most celebrities drive.  When you scroll on social media someone is bragging about their vacation in Bali causing you to think that your vacation to Destin, Florida was below average.  The concept of "not being or not having enough" is everywhere.  You need to be bigger, skinnier, wear more elaborate clothes, eat this type of food, rent a private jet, work for a Fortune 500 company, start 20 businesses, grind all day, etc.  All of this madness will drive you absolutely crazy if you let it.  That's why it's important to know who you really are and what motivates you.               

It's okay to not want to aspire to be what society tells us we should be.  In my opinion living a good life is not about how much material wealth you can gain, it's about finding YOUR purpose and carrying it out.   

Let's all take some time this week and dig deep into our souls to discover what really moves us.  Let's define what success looks like to us and live up to it.  This is our life, no one else should be able to dictate how it unfolds.  JUST DO YOU!

“You’re only effective when you’re authentic. ”

— Bishop TD Jakes

Outfit Details: Pants (Similar) // Reversible Top // Shoes // Purse

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

P.S. - Happy Birthday to the coolest, best father ever!!! Happy Birthday Daddy!

Rest, Child...

I read somewhere that resting is one of the most spiritual things we can do.  I totally agree with this proverb, but lately I haven't been practicing it.  Since I resigned from my job, it's been non-stop.  I've been hustling for the other website I work for, meeting new people, hanging out into the wee hours of the night then waking up at 6:50 a.m. to do it all over again.  I'm trying to respond to everyone's call, text message and email, be the perfect friend, listen and give the most profound advice, keep my crib clean, grow my blog, exercise, eat right, groom myself, and nurture my creative juices - but I haven't had time to stop and just breathe.  My body is nagging me for rest, and my spirit craves solitude.  It's important that I listen to these two elements and take heed because my creativity depends on my body and spirit being balanced.  

“When you’re in spirit, you’re inspired. ”

— Unknown

It's hard for me not to lend my energy to others, but I'm learning that lending all of my energy to others leaves me drained.  I have to protect my energy and make sure Sam is 100% so that I can give my happiest, most alert self to my loved ones.  I want to be the best blogger, the best friend, the best daughter/granddaughter, the best companion, the best sister, the best auntie, the best niece, etc.  And the only way I can achieve this is by rest and seclusion every now and then.  Sometimes I get irritated when people continue to ask me for things and request my presence or ear regarding their circumstances like they should know and understand that I'm worn out.  However, I'm learning that most people are only concerned with their wants/needs, and it's not them that I'm irritated with - it's me.  I'm the one who needs to refrain from being a people-pleaser and learn how to say no or just not answer the call.

We can't be the best versions of ourselves and keep going if we don't recharge our batteries.  So here's to a weekend of protecting our energy, resting, saying no when we feel like it, and doing whatever the hell makes us happy.  Cheers!

Photos - bylauraturner.com. 

Outfit Details: Vintage Floral Dress

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman  

Essence Festival 2017 Street Style

Essence Festival has come and gone and I took full advantage of it! I got to see some great performers, I covered some cool events, and met some creative individuals.  In addition to attending all the events, I also hit the streets to capture some style.  Check out what my camera caught below.  Enjoy and be inspired!  

I got a chance to meet and take a picture of Solange in her store!! She's definitely a dope individual!

Have a wonderful week!  Talk to you all soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

The Dual-Purpose Swimsuit

Hello my beautiful people! I took a quick trip to the beach this past weekend, and I enjoyed myself.  The water was pleasant, the waves were high, and the sun was beaming.  I wore the cutest swimsuit ever by a company named Bare Swim.  This swimsuit will definitely be serving a dual purpose in my wardrobe.  I will wear it on the beach again and as a bodysuit underneath some shorts or jeans.

This swimsuit is a total eye-catcher with its high cuts and low back.  To give it some extra pizazz, I added a belt around my waist.  Shop this swimsuit and more cute swimsuits here! 

On another quick note, a friend shared an insightful YouTube video with me titled 101 Ways to Transform Your Life by Wayne Dyer.  I thoroughly enjoy listening to it, and I want to pass it on in hopes that you will share the same sentiment.  Take some time and listen to it as often as you can.  It is really helping me on my current journey, and I'm sure it will do the same for you.  Listen here. 

Have an awesome week everyone!

- Samjah Iman

Experiences over Things

Lately I've been indulging in experiences rather than material things.  I want to concentrate more on experiencing things that are good for my soul and spirit.  Material possessions come and go.  Experiences stay in the heart forever.        

These days I want to ride my bike more.  Pick fresh flowers for my place weekly.  Take up new hobbies that exercise my mind.  Read good books on my porch.  Try exotic restaurants.  Watch people who are enjoying life.  Go to more concerts.  I want to be more present, and I'm working towards that each and everyday.         

A lot of people equate money/status with success and happiness.  I used to be one of those people.  However, I quickly realized that I can't account for all the money I have made in the past.  But what I can tell you about is the time my mother and I laughed uncontrollably in the bed one night or about a good conversation my father and I had while riding in his pickup truck - or about how my friend and I sat for hours on the beach in silence just listening to the water - or about how a certain song I hear makes me feel - or about some delectable fish tacos I tasted in this swanky, quaint little spot one weekend. 

Yes we do need money to make sure some of our needs are met, but life shouldn't be just about making money.  It should be about making experiences.  That is what will last.     

“The happiest people don’t have the best of everything. They make the best of everything they have. ”

— Unknown

Create some memorable experiences this week, no matter how big or small.  It will be good for your soul. 

- Samjah Iman

Jumper available, here. 

Photography by www.kwesi.co

Collarbone Love

Some women really love showing off their legs, others love showing their midriffs, chest, backsides, or even front private areas (if they are on an Amber Rose journey lol).  While I take part in showcasing some of those physical attributes as well, my favorite thing to display is actually my collarbone lol.  Truthfully!  I think visible collarbones and elongated necks are very attractive...maybe it's the Nefertiti in me - who knows?!  But what better way to show your neck and collarbone than by rocking an off-the-shoulder top?  Check out the cutest summer top ever below from Styledbyrish.com.     

This top was definitely a delight to wear.  The colors stood out, and it flowed so pleasantly with my jean shorts and nude heels.  I put it on during the beginning of the day and didn't want to take it off!  During the evening, I switched up my vibe and threw some jeans and Chuck Taylors on with the top.  I must say, it transitioned to a casual look very well.   

If you haven't gotten down with the off-the-shoulder trend then what are you waiting on??  It's seriously one of the most sexiest trends this year!  Click here to purchase your own. 

Thank you all for supporting my blog!  I truly appreciate it more than you know.  Now - let's make the rest of this week great my people.  I'll get at you all super soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Oueening...

I'm working on stillness and listening to my inner voice at the moment. I believe all the answers and guidance I seek come from within because the Almighty lives inside of me.  All I have to do is be still and listen.  

Does stillness have anything to do with this Queen t-shirt that I am wearing, you ask.  It does.  I chose this Queen tee because it's a representation of what I try to embody.  Queens are confident, fearless, and in tuned with their spirits.  It takes those three things and more to be still.  Stillness requires an unshakable faith - and that's what this Queen is working towards achieving.  Check out my Queen t-shirt from HYPEBLVD below.  

Shout out to all of my Queens reading this post.  Let's nurture our spirits and listen to what's within.  Salute!   

Queen t-shirt available here. 

Have a beautiful weekend my loves.  Protect your energy!

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Laced

I just love it when my fashion matches my persona - classy but sassy lol.  This Style and Lace Crop Top from Tobi.com fits right into that category.  It has a Victorian kind of vibe that I am digging and a sexiness to it as well.  I was immediately intrigued when I saw it. 

Check out how I sported it below. 

I love mixing dainty with street so I paired this cute little crop top with my custom, distressed Wrangler jeans.  Styling the top with my jeans added a little hipness to it and gave it that extra swag. 

This Style and Lace Crop Top is another piece that I will keep in heavy rotation this summer.  I love the details of the top and how it fits.  Check out this top and more cute finds at Tobi.com! 

Thanks for rocking with Style & Energy everyone.  You don't know how much I appreciate your support.  I am truly humbled and grateful!  Many blessings to you all!

xo

- Samjah Iman

The Raine Bodysuit

These days, I'm contemplating my next move. While I'm contemplating, planning, pondering, going back and forth, praying, and meditating - I still have to look fly right?  Exactly!  So check out this sexy bodysuit by Elle Reaux - it's definitely my type of swag.   

This side boob bodysuit has that street style vibe that I like.  It can be paired with jeans, shorts, or whatever you feel like pairing it with.  For this look, I styled the suede bodysuit with my high waist H&M khaki pants and some red heels.

After frolicking around in heels for an hour or so, I decided to switch to my Stan Smith Adidas to be comfortable and show the versatility of this look.  Check it out below. 

This bodysuit is a valuable addition to my wardrobe.  It can be worn with so many different things.  It will definitely be in rotation this summer. 

If you aren't afraid of showing a little side boob, get your Raine Bodysuit here. 

As I stated earlier, I've been over here contemplating, plotting and planning.  With that being written, I will have an experience to share with you all real soon.  Talk to you later!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: hello@kwesi.co

*This post was sponsored by Elle Reaux.  All opinions are my own.* 

The Simone Romper

Can I get two snaps and a circle for this cute brown romper from Elle Reaux??  

I am absolutely digging this comfortable romper!  The pleated shorts are what got my attention.  It can easily fool someone into thinking that it's a dress instead of a romper. 

What I also love about this romper is that I can wear it in so many different environments and pair it with heels, tennis shoes or flats.  In the pictures above, I paired it with my red Steve Madden sandals and my suede cap from Intuition.  

Check this romper out and other cute styles from Elle Reaux here! 

Have a great weekend everyone!  Get some rest!  Talk to you soon!

- Samjah Iman

*This post was sponsored by Elle Reaux.  All opinions are my own.* 

Jazz Festing Part Deux

Yup!  Another weekend of festival fun.  This weekend, however, topped the other weekend because I got to see the legendary Stevie Wonder with my lovely mother!!  To call it an awesome experience does not do it any justice!  It was epic! 

For this festival, I wore my neon yellow swimsuit coverup, a Victoria Secret's sports bra that I actually work out in (lol), some leisure shorts, and my old faithful combat boots.  Get into my look below. 

You know my festival style rules, cover your feet and be as comfortable as possible.  If you're outfit isn't accomodating, then you won't have the best time.  Simple as that.   

I hope you all enjoyed your weekends, ate good, got some rest, kissed or hugged a loved one.  Now it's back to the grind we go.  I'm not sure what the week holds but whatever comes our way, let's knock it out the park!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Jazz Festing

In case ya'll didn't know, I am a festival freak!  I will go to any and every festival if there is food, awesome energy, and good music.  This past weekend I attended the Jazz Festival in New Orleans.  I got to see Usher featuring The Roots perform live.  It was wonderful to say the least.  I was in awe the entire time! 

For this festival I chose to wear a swimsuit, a swimsuit cover up, and some combat boots.  I wanted to keep it simple, yet free.  Check out my outfit below. 

For festivals, the style rule is to always make sure you are comfortable.  You will be doing a lot of moving around so your outfit should accommodate your surroundings.  My go-to outfits for festivals are as follows:

• Short dresses and combat boots
• cut off shorts, crop tops/bodysuits
• Rompers/combat boots 

I rock my combat boots or tennis shoes to festivals because I don't like my feet to get dirty or touch the ground.  Filthy feet are definitely illegal in my book!

I hope you all enjoy this wonderful week that is ahead of us.  I'm looking forward to a productive week and another weekend full of festivals, music, food and fun!  Talk to you all soon!

Happy Jazz Fest!!

- Samjah Iman

The World is Mine

Yup, you guessed it, I painted the words on this jacket too.  I may need to have an intervention real soon before I begin painting on every piece of clothing I have.  It's just that fun and addictive!  With this outfit, I kept it real 1990s-like and threw on a tennis skirt I got from American Apparel some time ago (similar here).  My shoes are some old Nike Dunks I had laying around (available here), and my cute little camera phone case came from a flea market in LA (similar one here).     

On another note, I was grooving to some Erykah Badu jams the other night and a line in her song, Certainly, hit me.  In the song she sings, "The world is mine when I wake up.  I don't need nobody telling me the time."  I've sang this song so many times but never really paid too much attention to that line.  However, when I sang it this time, I was like yessssss Erykah!    

I'm not sure what Erykah was thinking when she spat this line out, but when I heard it this particular time I immediately thought, "this universe CAN and WILL respond to my vibrations because that is how God designed it."  We don't have to wait for anyone to give us permission to be great.  The power of God is within us, therefore greatness is also within us. We can make anything happen in our favor.  All we have to do is believe and act on it.  

With that being said, believe and act on your greatness today and everyday.  The world is yours. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: twoclipz@gmail.com

Sliding...

When I was first introduced to the slipper/slide trend, I was like "no thanks."  I couldn't see myself wearing some plain slides and feeling stylish.  I like athletic slides and the furry ones are even cute, but to me they were just shoes I would throw on to complete a casual look.  Then one day the mailman left a box on my porch that I wasn't expecting.  After opening the box and seeing the cutest slides staring back at me - my opinion changed. 

I am really feeling my Pearl Slides from Intuition - like really really.  Since receiving them, I have paired them with a couple of simple outfits like jeans and a tee or shorts and a bodysuit, and they added flair to both looks.  One day I put them on to go eat crawfish, and it began raining before I left the house.  I instantly frowned when I realized my slides would not be suitable in rainy weather.  The fact that my mood slightly changed for a second when I discovered I couldn't wear my pearl slides shows you how much I am digging them.  I have found my comfortable, go-to shoes for spring.   

On another note, it's Friday everyone!  We did the best we could with what we were dealt this past week.  Now it's time to kick back and enjoy the fruits of our labor.  Let's all do something, at least one thing, that makes us smile this weekend.  It's good for our soul.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman 

Outfit Details: Velvet Bodysuit // Pearl Slides // Shorts (old, American Apparel - no longer available)

Photo Credit: twoclipz@gmail.com

In My Element

I'm at a place right now in my life where I am moving towards being who I am truly meant to be, and it feels wonderful.  There's nothing like living in your element and not giving a damn about what anyone or society thinks.  I have struggled with (and still do sometimes) pleasing people and doing what's expected of me versus what I want to do.  I'm getting over that phase in my life because it brings nothing but stress.  I will be the Sam I want to be, and if it doesn't fit a certain person's or society's standards then so be it.  My new way of living has me feeling so liberated, loved, and empowered - so I wrote it on my dress.  Check it out below.

When you are living in your element/truth - everything seems to line up.  You will attract the people and opportunities that are supposed to be in your life.  You'll be healthier and happier.  You'll feel at home in your soul.       

So about this dress.....my friend April and I were on the phone one evening discussing clothes that we could make ourselves.  I mentioned a dress I saw that had paint on it and cost about $250.  I wasn't paying that for the dress so I decided to make my own.  April encouraged my creative thoughts as she usually does so I went to Michael's, purchased acrylic paint and boom - my little dress was created. 

I hope you all have an amazing week.  I also hope you all find your element/truth and live in it.  

“COURAGE is being yourself everyday in a world that tells you to be someone else. ”

— Unkown

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: kwesi.co

The Robe

Yup, I wore my robe to the French Quarter Festival in New Orleans this past weekend.  A lot of people thought is was a kimono.  It's not.  It's my robe that I lounge around the house in, and it's cute enough to wear outside the house every now and then.  Check it out. 

A dot manicure inspired by Sonique Saturday - a cool LA blogger

I paired my house robe (lol) with a unitard, my All Star tennis and my choker from Intuition.  I wanted to be as comfy as possible at this festival.  I had a lot of moving around and eating to do, therefore my outfit had to be accommodating. 

On another note, I've been really heavy into saying "yes" to myself these past few days.  It feels soooo good!  Why haven't I been doing this all along??  I had a talk with my home girl this past weekend about how short life is and how trivial stuff shouldn't even matter when our days are numbered.  It reminded me that I needed to treat myself as good as possible and also do my best to enjoy life. 

I'm only up to bat once, why not knock it out the park - or at least go down trying.  

Live!!!

- Samjah Iman

Picture credit: Kineatra @ naturallynex.com 

The Pink Clutch

First of all, this entire outfit I have on (shorts and shirt) was about $30 total from American Apparel.  They are going out of business, and if there's a store near you then I suggest you go and rack up on basics.  Everything in the store is half off! 

I paired this cool Pink Clutch with my simple outfit for a little spark. Fun pieces like this can bring any outfit to life.  If you don't have any pop clutches, get one.  They are spontaneous and flexible in terms of styling.

I hope everyone enjoyed their week and did at least one thing for themselves.  I took a bike ride in the French Quarter the other day and listened to a man play the saxophone.  It was mesmerizing.  I needed that me-time.  It made me realize that I have to get back to doing my me-time more often.  I need to learn how to say "no" more to people and "yes" more to me.  I am the one that has to live with myself, so why not make me happy - right?  And when I'm happy, the people in my circle will benefit. 

Have an awesome weekend everyone.  Put yourself first a few times this weekend and watch how good it feels.  

Peace and blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: majstudios@yahoo.com

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

The Victorian Blouse

It's no secret that I want mostly all vintage clothes in my closet.  I can't get enough of them!  I got this vintage blouse from @Shopvintagebowtique (Instagram) for about $20.  It reminded me of fashion from the 19th century.  I had to have it!  My rose clutch from Intuition resembles a vintage piece as well so I made it my main accessory for this ensemble.

I hope you all are having an awesome, productive week thus far.  Let's all do what we can to keep the week positive and not let anyone or anything interrupt that positivity.  No person or thing deserves that kind of power over our feelings anyway. 

Until next time...

Peace and Blessings!

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: majstudios@yahoo.com