Larry Your Days!

Some friends and I accompanied a friend to his music performance the other weekend.  When we got there the scene was cool.  It was a traditional New Orleans music venue complete with antique decor, drunk and happy patrons, and intense sounds coming from the speakers.  Before our friend went on stage, we all sat down and watched the crowd enjoy the vibe.  There was this one particular guy who stood by himself close to the stage seeming to be eagerly awaiting the next performance.  He had his hands in his pockets, and he would bounce up and down every so often indicating that he was excited for what was to come.  He captured me and my friends' attention.  As soon as my friend went on stage and the band dropped the first sound, Larry (as we endearingly named him at the end of the night) excitedly jumped in the air holding his hands out as if he held a guitar, hit the ground, and started wildly dancing all over the floor like he was the only one in the room!  He performed uncontrollable moves to every song my friend rapped and the band played.  It was amazing!  He acted as if no one was watching, and I was so stunned that I began splitting my attention between my friend on the stage and my new friend Larry!  

While the crowd was obviously entertained by Larry,  I was both entertained and in awe.  I admired his confidence and courage. No matter who was watching or what they were saying, Larry did his thing and didn't stop.  Little did Larry know, his jumping up and down all over the dance floor motivated me to be even more free.  If I take on life with a Larry attitude, nothing can stand in my way.  And if something does, I'll just dance around it. 

So here's to dancing like no is watching and if they are watching - not giving a flip.  May we all Larry our days.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Trashed Sweater // Lombard Floral Booties

Peace Over Money + Spring Colors

I've learned some valuable lessons this past month that have forced me to appreciate and value my peace and to gravely understand that it (my peace) trumps everything - including money. 

Never in the past would I have thought about turning down opportunities to maintain my peace, but at the age of 36 - that's exactly what I am doing.  I'm discovering that I don't have to jump at every offer because not every offer aligns with the peaceful life I'm trying to live.  I've put myself in stressful situations in the name of making money, and at the end of the day I definitely got the money and the stress that came along with it.   

Of course all stressful situations aren't avoidable, but if and when I have the power to control the situations that are - I do just that.  One thing that has contributed to me being more in control of my world is the decision I've made to lighten my material load.  The fewer things I need, the less resources I need - and that gives me more power over the direction my life is going in.  When I had tons of unnecessary, material things - I had no choice but to jump at mostly all opportunities to keep that lifestyle up because the more I accumulated, the more money I needed......not any more.     

At this point in my life I'm reveling in the pure fact that less is more peaceful.  When it's all said and done, my mental stability and well-being reign supreme.  And anyone, anything, or any opportunity that threatens that cannot operate in the same space as I do.

Peace over EVERYTHING,

            - Samjah Iman

P.S. - This spring, it's all about bright colors for fashion.  Even though black is my go-to hue, I'm looking forward to participating in this fad because I do believe that bright colors have a positive effect on our vibe and bring out the hidden colors in our skin tone.  If you're interested in learning about more trends that will  be popping this spring, check out my article on Fashionbombdaily.com. 

I Got The Power

The other day I met a friend for some good conversation and tasty food. When ordering our menu selections, I asked the cashier a question and her response was short and condescending. My friend and I looked at each other in disbelief. To make sure I wasn't in the twilight zone, I asked another question....and received another nasty response. I chuckled...not because anything was funny, but because I was losing my patience and the neck rolling was about to commence. I looked at my friend. He shrugged his shoulders and laughed. I then shook my head and let it go.

We sat down at our table and discussed what just happened. My friend said, "that was an opportunity for us to look inward, not outward." I thought about his statement. He was right.  

“Feeling played is a choice.”

— Nesby Phips

People will always act how they want to act and none of us can change that. However, what we can change is how we feel about their actions and respond to them. We have a choice in that matter. I'm learning that most of the confrontations we tend to encounter have a lot to do with our ego. Once we believe our ego has been bruised, we react. The only reason I was about to give the cashier a piece of my mind was because I felt like, "how dare she talk to me like that!" Ego....that's all it was. Then I thought, "why would I let this young girl determine my actions and how my evening with my friend is going to go?" So instead of stooping to the cashier's level, I chose to take control of my feelings and let her have whatever moment she was having.   

I'm trying this new thing in life where I don't blame other people for my actions or feelings. I am taking full responsibility for how I allow myself to feel and react to situations. A rude cashier at a restaurant shouldn't control my mood, a lunatic driving crazy in traffic shouldn't make me yell obscenities out my car window, nor should a frustrated customer service rep push me to lose my patience. Now of course I won't allow anyone to mistreat or harm me. Sometimes you do have to let some people know where you stand.  However, I will try not to allow any person to dictate my mood or make me react in a way I will regret later.  I am in control of my world.....and absolutely no one will have the power to shake it up. No one!

In the maturing process,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Long t-shirt // Vintage Levis (old) // Daisie Pumps

P.S. - If you haven't checked out the movie Black Panther please do so ASAP!! It's exhilarating! The characters were beautiful and talented, the fashion was exceptional and dynamic, and above all the message was powerful. I'm still in awe of that film!  Go see it!

Be Still

The other day while in yoga class, the instructor gave us a set of poses to do.  After we completed the poses, she directed us to stand still.  During the standstill pose, I started fidgeting, looking around, I scratched my nose, wiped sweat from my forehead, etc.  Observing me and my other class members' constant movement, the instructor reiterated to the class, "stand still."  I scratched my nose again.  She went on to say to the class, "the hardest, yet most beneficial pose in yoga is standing still."  The light in my brain turned on. 

I've always had a problem with being still.  I have to constantly be doing something in order to feel like things are moving.  However, I'm in the process of learning that sometimes I have to possess enough faith and patience to just be still.  Practicing stillness allows me to calm my mind and spirit, lower my stress levels, be more present, appreciate the moment, and it also recharges my batteries. 

I read somewhere that resting is one of the most spiritual things a person can do.  I wholeheartedly agree with that statement.  Resting or being still is a way to let go and let God, honor ourselves, the precious moments we are given, and the hard work we do.  When we are constantly on the move, stress tends to creep up on us which in turn causes us to overlook chances to be grateful and to be in awe of the beautiful things happening around us.  Therefore it's healthy for us to step back for a second, breath, and just be still. 

Enjoy the rest of the week and Happy Mardi Gras and Valentine's Day to those who celebrate it.  I hope you all will add being still to your list of things to do this week.  We all work hard and deal with so much; therefore, we must take a minute to honor ourselves and be still.

Peace and Blessings,

    - Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Dad's Cap // Patent Leather Booties // Distressed Jeans (designed by me) // T-shirt (old) // Leather Bag

Keep It Classic

I purchased the Reeboks aka 54-11s I have on in the pictures above about four or so years ago.  I always admired these 80s staples.  My mother used to own a pair that she exercised in.  I remember them vividly.  They were black and possessed a slightly worn look.  So when I grew up and was able to locate and purchase my own pair, I was overjoyed.  I first wore them around my friend and her ex-boyfriend, and I distinctly remember him laughing at my bright yellow kicks.  He was a sneaker head at that time, and I totally respected his collection.  So when he began to make fun of my classic kicks, I immediately questioned my decision to buy them even though I had a lasting, deep love affair for the shoes.  A few days after the laughing episode, my friend called me and asked where I got them from because her boyfriend wanted to purchase her some.  Well look at that!

“Some say hating is confused admiration.”

— Nas

I told myself from then on that I would never question my style again because it's just that.....MY STYLE! 

Remaining true to who you are and your style aesthetic is the best way to keep it classic.  No matter what the crowd is doing or even if they are laughing, do what's in your soul.  Your confidence in your fashion choices will make your outfit stand out that much more.  

Stay true to your choices and who you are.....keep it classic.   

- Samjah Iman

P.S. - Sorry I have no outfit details guys!  Everything I have on in the picture is super old or from a consignment shop. 

Don't Watch The Pot + Think Outside The Box Hoodie

I woke up the other morning feeling like "what the hell am I doing?!"  I felt like my hustling efforts were at a stand still; like I was doing a lot of seed planting but nothing was sprouting fast enough.  I was unmotivated.  Then I took a deep breath and told myself that I could either lay here and wallow in my bull, get up and go harder, or get up and go grocery shopping.  I chose the latter.

Sometimes when you've done all you can do, you just have to step back and trust that God will do the rest.  When I agonize over things and try to force them, it seems to push them further from my reach and it takes forever for them to come to fruition.  But when I do my part, let stuff flow freely, then leave it be - things start happening.

My grandmother always says, "a watched pot never boils." And she is right.  Ever threw some water in the pot and stood there to watch it boil....it takes a minute huh?  But when you throw the water in the pot then walk off and come back, it's cooking time.  Let that sit in your brain for a second.

In other news, you all know I love a good statement tee or sweatshirt.  This particular one caught my eye not because of the popping fuchsia color but because of the message.  It represents how I try to live my life daily - outside the box.  Feeling it?  Cop your hoodie here. 

Here's to being unconventional and not watching the pot boil.  

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman    

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Stay Nourished

When I'm hungry I must admit, I am not the most pleasant person.  I get weak, I start to shake, and I'm short with whomever is around me.  As soon as I get some food inside of me, I'm back to being the chill Sam that I am.  In the past couple of years or so I've noticed that the symptoms I get when I haven't fed myself physically are the same symptoms I get when I haven't fed myself spiritually and mentally.  If I go days without spending time with myself, helping someone, reading, listening to music, taking a bike ride, or talking to my loved ones - I get irritated easily and my flow is completely thrown off.       

I can't do ANYTHING when I'm deprived of food physically, mentally, and spiritually.  If anyone has been around me when I'm full, they will probably attest to the fact that it's nothing but love and laughter.  I prefer that Sam.  Therefore, my new focus has been on making sure that I am full in all ways, ALWAYS. I want to constantly replenish myself so that I can give dynamically to everyone around me. 

If I have an empty refrigerator, I cannot feed others.  

Stay stocked, stay full, stay nourished.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

   Outfit Details:  H&M Stripe Blouse (in stores only) // ASOS Red Trousers (sold out) // Vintage Eel Skin Purse // H&M PeaCoat (sold out)

The Other Side Of The Game

I met a young lady who told me she wishes she had my life and that it seems I have it easy doing what I do.  My response to her was, "Girl I make it look easy, because it damn sure ain't." 

Everyone has a backstory to tell - and it ain't always pretty.  You see me posing effortlessly in a picture sporting a fly outfit and you may think "she's got it all."  But what you don't see is the intricate process involved in putting everything together just to be able to take that picture.  Or what you don't know is right before I took those fierce pictures, I probably just got through checking my bank account in hopes that a brand exhibited professionalism and paid an invoice on time only to find out that they hadn't.  You have no idea what is going on behind the scenes because all you see is the finished picture, and all you know is what you've presumed.  

A fun thing I like to do is watch documentaries/interviews or read autobiographies/biographies on celebrities.  It's interesting learning about their history.  Almost all of these wealthy, successful people that I read or watch a documentary/interview about have dealt with some type of traumatic experience that I would not EVER want to encounter.  For instance - I've learned that Oprah was raped when she was younger, comedian/actress Tiffany Haddish was a product of foster care and dealt with an abusive mother and husband, comedian Monique was living out of her car for a while, and soul legend Bobby Womack (google him youngsters) lost one son to a suicide, another infant son to suffocation and his brother was killed by a jealous girlfriend.  Crazy huh?! 

I write all of this to drive my point home about being grateful for your life.  Yes someone else's life can seem so enticing on the surface, but you never know what experiences constitute the person you see or what downfalls may have motivated the art they create.                

“If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back.”

— Regina Brett

Before you wish your life was like someone else's, remember that there is ALWAYS the other side of the game.

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Vintage Leather Trench Coat - My aunt's closet // Vintage Fendi Bag // Nike Tennis

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Legacy > Likes

One of the most difficult things to do in today's society is to stay true to yourself and your passion when it seems the majority of the world is only worshiping that which is on the surface.  I witness so many people compromise their art or who they are just for the thrill of temporary popularity.  It works for now, but will it sustain?

I made a vow to myself a while ago to create art that has meaning behind it and to do what I am doing because it's authentically me - not for the money or approval of others.  I want to be able to wake up everyday and feel good about who I see in the mirror and the energy I am putting into the world because I know it aligns with my true self and purpose.  Twenty years from now I want to read my words or look at my fashion choices and feel good knowing that I didn't sell out to please others.  What I'm putting out may not always be right, stylish, or exciting to read, but what it is is my truth and my legacy.  And that's worth way more to me than being validated by this world.   

I chose the crop t-shirt I am wearing above because it speaks to what I preach on this blog often.  Creating a legacy and staying true to yourself is always greater than being liked and accepted.  To check this t-shirt out and more t-shirts like this, visit KandiceGuiceCollection.com. Also, see how other stylish bloggers rock their statement tees from the Kandice Guice Collection below! 

“You’re not supposed to give people what they want, you’re supposed to give them what they don’t know they want yet.”

— Diana Vreeland

Create a legacy....screw likes!

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Crop t-shirt // Floral Booties // Black Denim Skirt // Mustard Cardigan (similar here) // Leather Tote

Jazz of thejdseries.com

Destiney of www.joyinmysoles.com

Kimberly of www.kimbeauxstyles.polyvore.com

Keep Pushing

Hey everyone!  I'm jumping in your inbox today to give you a little outfit inspiration and to remind you all to keep pushing toward your goals.  I had to tell myself this the other day, and I thought it was only appropriate that I tell you all as well.  Working towards goals gets frustrating at times especially when you haven't seen the fruits of your labor.  You begin to question your abilities and even contemplate throwing in the towel.  I too feel like this at times, but then I'm reminded to take a break, breathe, and then keep pushing. 

I heard a speaker once compare reaching your goals to labor pains and it made so much sense.  He said that when a woman is in her last stages of pregnancy, she feels the most pressure and pain.  That's because she's about to give birth.  This is the same with people who have been planting seeds for their goals for what seems like forever.  The minute the hustle becomes unbearable and the weight of succeeding is too heavy to carry, don't give up.  This may be the last stages of your pregnancy and a beautiful birth could be about to take place.  Just keep pushing.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Shirt (old) and Jacket (designed by me) // Vintage green leather skirt //  Cream Booties // Suede+Cow Hide Bag (sold out)

Playing My Game

I was listening to Oprah the other day, and she relayed some profound insight that coincides with my previous post Authenticity.  I wanted to share it with you all in order to drive home my point of staying true to yourself. 

The morning after I wrote the Authenticity post, I turned on my meditation app to hear Oprah speak of staying focused while in your zone and being in a state of elevated awareness.  She spoke about a past interview she had with NBA player Lebron James, whom she referred to as one of the most focused competitors to ever play the game.  During this interview, she asked him what could cause a MVP like him to loose his rhythm on the court.  He responded, "I get off my game when I start playing for others rather than myself."  Oprah then said, "this is true for all of us.  We fall off course the minute our intention shifts from following our heart to responding to what we think others believe." 

Let's block out the all the noise and play our own games.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Aquarius T-shirt // Red OTK Boots // Vintage Levi Jacket

Photo Credit:  shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Authenticity

Do you know what's one of the most freeing things you can ever do in my opinion?  Not give a damn about what the outside world (people outside of your close circle) thinks and to not let this outside world influence your moves.  Out of all the goals I've accomplished this year thus far, living the true life I want to live regardless of what any person thinks or has to say about it has been the most gratifying thing I've done.  This action alone has boosted my confidence, lifted my spirits, and reduced stress.

Trying to constantly live up to society's or other people's standards is a heavy burden that I will no longer carry.  The true Sam is emerging and in most cases I'm having to reintroduce myself to people who thought they once knew me.  A lot of my peers are looking at me like I'm doing something spectacular that's out of their reach.  This is far from the truth.  All I'm doing is living the life I want to live, planting the seeds I want to grow, and reaping the benefits I want to reap.  The results of my choice to make authentic moves have been a free mind, a healthier spirit, a brighter smile, and a lighter mood which in turns affects how I look on the outside.  It all coincides.   

I can't stress enough how fulfilling living your true life without the influence of society or your peers is.  This type of authentic living has nothing to do with being the most noble person.  Instead, it has everything to do with staying true to your desires, your goals, your likes, dislikes, allowing yourself to just be, and, as I said earlier, not letting others or society influence your decisions.  Money and opportunities are one thing, living out what's truly in your spirit is a whole other ball game.  It's the greatest success one can accomplish in my opinion.  It's what allows you to sleep peacefully at night.  In everything you do, always stay true to who you are.  It's the most respectful and honorable thing you can do.  Oh, and plus it keeps you looking younger longer lol. 

While we are on the subject of authenticity, let me introduce you to a vibrant, bona fide brand that currently has my attention.  Ladies and Gents, behold Odaomo -  "a fashion company that is based on the principle of “giving back” and supports improved social and economic conditions in Kenya."  Get into some eye-catching accessories from this brand below.                    

All of these radiant accessories you see me rocking in the pictures above are authentic, handmade items from Kenya.  I'm falling in love more and more with quality pieces made out of sturdy materials.  These types of pieces will be in your closet forever and can be passed down to forthcoming generations.  

For more information on Odaomo and to peruse their collection, click here.  If you're ever in New Orleans, visit their eclectic store on 839 Chartres Street. 

I hope you all enjoy the rest of your week.  Whatever you choose to do in the next few days, remember to make sure it's your choice and it's in your spirit.  No one else's opinion matters but yours. 

Stay true,

- Samjah Iman

Just Be...

As soon as you log into your email each morning or on your social media accounts, you see messages popping up telling you to get money, hustle hard, stay on the grind, hurry up and succeed, etc.  I totally get those messages, am sometimes motivated by those messages, and have even emailed/posted those types of messages in the past as well.  However, I woke up the other morning and said that on that day (and the days to come) I will just be.  I won't be hard on myself, I won't try to overachieve, I won't let the world or internet rush me or tell me what success should look like. I will just simply be present, do the work my way, and let the chips fall where they may.  Sometimes we need to take all of that stress off of our shoulders from the world, get a clear picture in our heads about how success looks to us, and just be.  Be in the moment, be in spirit, be appreciative, be reflective, be content, be patient and everything will come together. Let the pressure of succeeding and the world go sometimes.  This is your own race, no one else's.  Just be.   

Oh and aren't you feeling my vintage peplum blazer? It's 100% silk and was only $22!! I'm in love with it!   Talk to you soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Jeans // Purse & Blouse // Shoes // Choker    

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

In My Bag And Cleaning It Out...

I'm currently on a soul cleansing journey which is causing me to reevaluate a few things.  One of my first cleansing steps was to get rid of excess clothing.  This presented a challenge at first but proved to be a key step upon completion because a light material load allows me to concentrate more on things that really matter.  In addition to cleaning out my closet and drawers, I am also in the process of getting rid of social norms that I've adopted in the past to either fit in with a "crowd" or conform to expectations others placed on me.  This purging process alone has me digging deeper than ever.  I refer to it as "clearing my palette." 

The other day I turned on Lauryn Hill's MTV Unplugged No. 2.0 album (the absolute gospel by the way), and she was saying things that spoke to my current state of mind.  She spoke about how an infinite God who created every one different ON PURPOSE did not intend for us to all fit in one box and be alike.  Even though I've listened to the album before, her words hit me like it was my first time hearing them.  I began to think of the things I do that really speak to who I am versus the things I do that are shaped by society's standards.  Let's just say I got some work to do ya'll.  

While I get my whole entire life together over here, check out the fly clutches/fanny packs below by Unikfad.  The Naturally Dope clutch came right on time.  It reminds me that there's no standard I need to fit into - I am naturally dope already.  

Naturally Dope Bag

Black Venom Chain Clutch Bag

Zebra Print Bag

Red Crocodile Fanny Pack

Afrocentric Triangle Crossbody Bag

Remember who you are is who you are supposed to be.  You were not made to dance to the same song everyone else is dancing to whether it be in relationships, careers, creating etc.  You were made to rock to the beat of your own tune. 

Peace and Blessings,

- A Work in Progress

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

*This post was sponsored by Unikfad.  However, my opinions and thoughts are my own.*

Don't Sweat It - Focus Shift

Have you ever noticed sometimes when you are looking for a particular thing it doesn't show up, but when you stop looking for it or thinking about it, it pops up?  The other day I lost an earring back that I desperately needed for my current favorite earrings.  As soon as it fell in my shag rug, I dropped down to my knees and begin patting every inch of that rug to no avail.  After an extensive search, I concluded that the earring back had gone to earring back heaven.  I let it go and gave it to the earring back gods.  Weeks later I was mindlessly sweeping while listening to some neo-soul music and guess what popped up?? My earring back!!! 

It seems like the universe works when we are not obsessing over everything.  Think about it....don't you get more job offers when you finally get a job?  Or when you're in a relationship, doesn't it seem like everybody and their mother or daddy is trying to date you?  I believe that's because when you aren't looking for something it comes, but when you're constantly obsessing over what you don't have, then that which you don't have expands.

This week, let's all shift our focus on what we do have and try not to concentrate on what we don't have or what we've lost.  I believe once we do this, our desires will pop up when we least expect them to.  Don't sweat it. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Focus Cap // Mesh Top // Boots (similar here) // Vintage Desert Storm Army jacket (uncle's)

Photo Credit: Visual Alchemy

  *This post was sponsored by Fortunate Clothing Company.  All opinions are my own.*

New York Fashion Week 2017 - I'm Over It!

Photo Credit: Patrick Melon

Heeeeeyyyyy my people!  I'm back from attending New York Fashion week 2017 (just for the opening weekend), and let me just say - I"M OVER IT!  It's always cool to meet up with my fellow bloggers and get a sneak peek of forthcoming fashion trends, but for me it's always good to leave that craziness behind as well.  Fashion week is super duper fun for sure, but it's also mentally exhausting and crazy competitive.  Everyone is battling for the spotlight or some quick come up, and you can either jump in the mix or get rolled over.  I totally understand the hustle, but this weekend definitely showed me that my intentions are not to have the spotlight or get famous quick - my purpose is to create art, share my experiences, and write words that resonate with people.  Fashion has a place in my heart for sure. It's how I adorn my canvas (my body), but it's not the be all and end all.  It's totally about how I use my style and creative abilities to inspire others.  I asked myself on the plane ride home from New York how I could use my art to propel and exhilarate people.  What did I come up with?  Nothing....yet.  But eventually I will come up with something. Until then, I will continue to follow my heart and let the rest flow. 

Until next time.....

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Yellow Cardigan (sold out, similar here) //  Neon Yellow Pumps // Knee High Boots // Floral T-shirt Dress // Vintage Japanese Kimono

Her Tee + Music You Must Hear

You know I'm good for keeping my people up-to-date on the most exclusive threads, right?  With that being written, I've come across a cool website that has some unique fashion I believe my S&E men and women will enjoy.  When I received this shirt from the clothing brand, I couldn't wait to sport it because not only was it dope, it also made a statement (you know how I do).  

Stuzo Clothing is a unisex, gender-less brand that was created to evoke thought and emotion.  Their inventory includes forthright tees and artsy styles that will get the attention of any passerby.  When I sported this tee, at least four people asked me where I copped it from.  It definitely is an eye-catching piece. 

Check out their inventory here.  Trust you will want or buy at least one thing from their site. 

Speaking of thought-provoking art, I have some music you ABSOLUTELY have to check out!  A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of going to a listening party here in New Orleans.  I had no expectations upon attending this function - my mind was open.  When I got there I was feeling the vibe and the people who crowded the room.  The artist, Nesby Phips , came in all cool and collected, greeting everyone with that notoriously adored southern hospitality us southerners possess.  He sat down with the moderator and began to speak about his work along with the issues our culture faces.  The deejay then played the intro off his latest album titled Black Man 4 $ale, and my head began to move back and forth on its own.  Nesby's New Orleans's tone flowed over a jazz-like piano beat.  His words were clear and blunt, "This is black man for sale, and if everything must go then I am for sale......"  I was sold.  Very seldom do I hear music that has substance and is reminiscent of the rap I grew up on - the rap that actually made you think beyond the music.  This is one of those albums.  

Check out the intro referenced above here.  I bet you begin bobbing your head when the beat drops.  Get the rest of his album on iTunes. 

Brad, Fish Plate, and Sean - I know you all will dig it.  Listen!!   

Until next time.....

Peace and Blessings  

- Samjah Iman

Oufitdetails:  Her T-shirt //  Vintage Denim Skirt // Steve Madden Booties (old, similar here) // Vintage Eel skin purse

Photography by: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Dodger Cap + Yellow Pumps

When it comes to fashion, my motto is definitely, "do more with less."  To spice up what would be considered to most just an ordinary outfit,  I simply added some eye-catching pumps and boom - a cool look was born. 

It doesn't take much to create a swanky look.  In certain style situations, all you need is one item to elevate your ensemble.  Trying to do too much will almost always lead to a style faux pas. 

Continue tuning into Style & Energy, and I'll dish out more tips you can use to create simple yet bomb looks.       

Outfit Details: Wrangler Jeans // Steve Madden Daisie Yellow Pumps // Markie Seamless Muscle Bra // Dodgers Cap       

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

It's Golden...

Hey my people!  I am currently in Denver enjoying my surroundings (and this free WiFi thanks to Starbucks lol).  As I type and gaze off in space, I'm reminded of how absolutely golden life is.  What makes it beautiful is that we can really control which direction it goes in by controlling how we think.  It truly is all about perception.  Everything definitely works mentally.  It's really amazing how strong our minds are.  Let's remember that.   

On a fashion note, in these photos I am sporting a super cool top by Dusse Boutique.  When I first received it I was going to dress it up all girlie.  But then I started getting dressed, and the rugged look felt so much more comfortable and fitting to me.  So I went with what felt right.  Check it out below. 

I paired this jazzy top with my combat boots and some H&M jeans I found for $20.  Ya'll already know I had to recreate the jeans to fit my swag. I literally cut every pair of jeans I have these days!      

Oh and check out my friend I met while shooting below.  He stopped and asked to be apart of the photo shoot, and I was like what the heck - let's do this.  So we posed. 

Don't forget that your thoughts create your life!  So let's all think BIG!  See you soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

The Top Is Perfect, I'm Not...

I am not perfect.  I am not perfect.  I am not perfect.  I have to repeat this statement almost daily to myself because I'm currently in the process of renouncing my perfectionist mindset that I have suffered from for years.  I used to expect the very best from myself and when I didn't achieve what I thought I should in the past, I was super hard on myself.  These days I'm learning to just flow.  Yes I still give 100% in anything I do, but now days I allow myself to be just what I am - a human.  If I don't hit the mark, say the right thing, or make the right moves - I say F%^$ it and move the hell on. It is what it is.   

Now about the perfect top in these pictures.  Isn't it just gorgeous?!  I am obsessed with of-the-shoulder tops these days and colorful prints and this one definitely fits my style aesthetic.  I paired my new favorite top with a pair of vintage Ralph Lauren jeans I got from my daddy's closet (I cut them myself), my red Steve Madden heels, and a vintage leather purse (links provided below).  

Before I sign off, I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who takes time out of their busy schedules to read my posts.  It means the world to me, and If I am impacting someone's life through my style and words then I am doing my job.  Thank you all! 

On another note,  I'm headed to Denver this week to see my beautiful family and wish my lovely grandmother a happy 93rd birthday!!!  I will try to give you guys one more post before I leave, if I don't then oh well.....I'm Not Perfect (lol).  Have a good one....SMILE!    

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Ralph Lauren Jeans //  Aafin Off-the-Shoulder Top // Tierney Heels // Purse