The Cool Sweater Dress

The pictures above were taken a couple of hours after standing by my dear friend/sister's side as she buried her father. During the funeral service, I was paying close attention to what everyone was saying about her father.  I noticed that not many people mentioned his accolades.  I was expecting people to say he was a successful lawyer and honorable judge.....he gave thousands of dollars to charities....he was a faithful member of his fraternity for over 40 years....etc.  However, hardly anyone discussed his accomplishments - but what they did discuss was how Mr. Lain (my friend's father) made them feel.  This made me think.  

Having a positive impact on people is far more important than making all the money you can make or being the best at whatever it is you're trying to be.  Those things are admirable, but how you treat others is the golden ticket.  After listening to Mr. Lain's family and friends speak about how he made them laugh or how he encouraged them, I made a small vow that from now on I would make sure that I encourage someone as often as I can, speak more kind words, make someone smile daily, and push someone in a positive direction.  Join me?          

Now about the cool sweater dress I'm wearing.  I scored this dress from Boohoo for only $20!   It is perfect for the fall weather because the material is thick enough to block out a slight breeze, yet light enough to keep you cool.  Depending on your whereabouts on the globe, you can wear it with a jacket or without a jacket.  I prefer wearing it with a jacket because it adds to the dress.  To complement my dress, I threw on my choker from Intuition and some black booties from Aldo (old).  My vintage Levi jacket came from Etsy.   

Have an awesome, productive week everyone and remember to have a positive impact on someone.

P.S. - Keep your head up Jewel....I got cha.  

- Samjah Iman 

The Purple Shorts

Oh ya'll thought I would let this week end without hollering at ya'll one more time?  Wrong!  I had to show you these cool shorts I got by A Bathing Ape.  I wore them in Cali, and they were perfect for that West Coast vibe.  Not only can I wear these with swimsuits, I can also wear them to lounge around and work out in.  I can see myself sporting these shorts this fall with some over-the-knee boots, a black long sleeve body suit, and a biker jacket.

Also, check out my Wrap Around Black thin choker in the pictures above as well.  I am in love with it!  I think I have gone choker crazy!  They are so stylish....I can wear one everyday.    

P.S. - If you are in the market for new music, check out that new album by Solange - A Seat at the Table.  It is very creative, socially conscious, and has depth. My favorite song so far is F.U.B.U.   

Okay now I can let you guys enjoy your weekend. 

Be good,

- Samjah Iman

California Dreaming

When I was young, I watched the movie White Men Can't Jump (google it youngsters), and the main thing that fascinated me about that movie was Rosie Perez skating on Venice Beach in California.  Her style (denim shorts, a tank top, hoop earrings, and thick socks), and the California vibe captured my attention.  I had to skate on Venice Beach just like Rosie and wear a similar outfit.  Sitting on my parents' couch at the age of 10, I vowed to someday go to Venice Beach and do just that.  Twenty-four years later, and guess what I did......SKATED ON VENICE BEACH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

American Apparel Swimsuit

I needed a quick get away and if you have been following my blog, you all know that I have been trying to get to the beach for months!  Well I got there, and I enjoyed every second of it.  I skated, ate, rode a bike almost everywhere I went, ate again, I talked to strangers, I laughed, I slept, I picked California oranges from a tree, and ate again.  I laid on the beach for hours, I drank green tea at a small cafe in Beverly Hills, I listened to music, I reminisced, I thanked God, I toured, and most of all - I got a peace of mind.  Check out some experiences from my trip below and the styles I chose to rock while on the West Coast.   

Breakfast overlooking the beach was dreamy. 

As you can see above, I got the chance to wear my Bel-Air Bodysuit as a swimsuit on the beach.  I paired it with my Retro Jordans for a sporty vibe. 

Each morning I ate a fresh orange from the orange tree and drank some green tea.  The oranges were the best I've ever had!

In the picture above, I wore an old H&M top, some cut-off shorts that I made from some Wrangler jeans purchased at Walmart, my Stan Smith Adidas, and my By the Layers Choker from Intuition.  This outfit kept me stylish and comfortable as I paraded through LA all day. 

I've been to LA before, but not the beach.  This trip was a whole new experience because I got the chance to relax and just freestyle.  I had nothing plan and just went with the flow.  It was one of the best vacations I have had in a while. 

I am now revitalized.  I recommend taking time to do stuff you love in order to keep your sanity and to renew your spirit.  When you take care of yourself, you are able to give more abundantly to others.  So be good to yourself as much as possible, the world benefits when your vibes are positive.

Peace and Blessings,

 - Samjah Iman

In Living Color

I was in Walmart the other day shopping for groceries.  I passed by the men's section and spotted some Wrangler jeans.  I've never had a second thought about Wrangler jeans, but they caught my eye this particular time.  I decided to buy a pair and transform them into a unique pair of jeans.  I did just that, and let me tell ya'll this.....I think I found my second favorite pair of loose-fitting jeans. Check them out below.  

I purchased the jeans then went right to the paint section to purchase some spray paint.  When I got home, I sliced and cut the jeans to my liking, spray painted them in certain areas, and lightly poured bleach on them in certain spots.  I then washed them to make them shred, and then BOOM - my second favorite pair of loose-fitting jeans were born.   

What I like about these Wrangler jeans, besides the fact that they were only $17.00, is that they are high on the waist and fit comfortably.  Since buying this pair, I have purchased another pair to create shorts.  I'm addicted.

I paired my Wrangler jeans with an old Forever 21 graphic top, my old neon green Steve Madden pumps, and my Ring Around the Choker Necklace from Intuition.  Minus the shoes, this entire outfit was less than $50.00.  I love fashion when it's cute and cost efficient - a win-win situation. 

Have an awesome weekend everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I definitely will!

- Samjah Iman

The Minimalist Look

A lot of people think that fashion is style.  It's not. Style is what you create from the fashion that is presented to you in the stores.  Style represents who you are and what you like.  Style is authentic when it comes from the soul.

The outfit I have on in these pictures represents my style - simple, yet classic.  Throughout my years experimenting with fashion, I've learn that I look and feel my best when I keep it simple.  Every now and then I may experiment with a far-out look, but I always bring it back to minimalism.  It works for me.  Check out my simple t-shirt and wide-leg pants outfit below.      

This outfit allows me to be on-trend and stylish, and most importantly - it's me.  Style is not about pleasing others, trying to fit in, or keeping up with the latest.  It's about being comfortable and being you.  I encourage all of you to venture out every now and then, try some new looks for fun, but find your authentic style and stay true to it.  It doesn't have to be the best style or get the most attention, it just has to be you.  

Have a peaceful day.  Be good to someone.

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  T-shirt // Wide-leg Pants // Choker // Sunglasses - my aunt's lol // Sandals

Styling the Eccentric Blazer

Keeping it simple is the best way to go when styling eccentric pieces in my opinion.  I like to let the piece that is meant to be the focal point of the outfit stand out on its own without any distractions.  Check out how I styled my colorful, vintage blazer below.   

To pull this look together, I simply paired my blazer with a white tank top, high waist shorts, my Cuban Link Choker, and Stan Smith Adidas.  Keeping the rest of my ensemble toned down allowed the blazer to take center stage.  This blazer is another vintage goodie I purchased from @shopvintagebowtique (Instagram).  It is 100% silk and was only $36! 

When in doubt, always keep it simple. Now that's some style advice that can be used in life as well. 

Have the best weekend ever!! Please share my blog with a loved one when you get a chance. 

xoxoxo

- Samjah Iman

The Costume Designer/Stylist You Need to Know

“Screw fashion. Find your style. Rock the hell outta that. ”

— Janelle Carothers

When you are watching television shows, have you ever thought about who comes up with the wardrobe concepts?  Ever thought about where entertainers get outfit ideas for their music videos and tours from?  Actors and actresses don't just appear on the set styled and ready to film, and entertainers don't pack their own clothes for their music video shoots and tours.  All of these artists require costume designers and stylists - someone who can bring their story to life through fashion. Allow me to introduce you to a young lady who is doing just that and then some.

Janelle Nicole Carothers, born and raised in Southern California, is a dynamic Costume Designer and Stylist who is no stranger to hard work and ingenuity.  She's designed costumes for television shows like Being Mary Jane and The Game and for movies like The Perfect Match staring Cassie and Terrance J.  Janelle has also styled singers and rap artists such as Neyo, Chris Brown, David Banner, and Juelz Santana for music videos and tours.  Her dynamic work has been featured in Rolling Stone, Ebony Magazine, and Essence to name a few publications, and this is only the beginning!  I got the chance to interview Janelle and get the inside scoop on her career, new jewelry line collaboration, and hustler mentality.  She's not your ordinary costume designer/stylist, and she's not one to sugarcoat anything.  Get into my talk with Janelle below and learn about her style views and why she compares herself to a doctor.  Be prepared to smile, be inspired, and informed all at the same time.    

THE JANELLE NICOLE CAROTHERS INTERVIEW

Me:  What inspired you to pursue a career in fashion? 

Janelle:  I'm not sure when or why I wanted to get into fashion - but once I got into it I realized it wasn't so much the fashion that excited me. Don't get me wrong I LOVE FASHION but that's not what drives my particular passion for Costume Design. What inspired me was story telling through clothes. I love to people watch - people inspired my pursuit. I love watching folks just living. So many walks of life, so many stories behind so many looks. 

Me:  How did you get your foot in the door?

Janelle:  In order to get my foot in the door, I just started moving my feet. When I started moving towards it, God started moving my goals closer to me. It's not a straight line though. The road is very twisty and confusing and filled with catch 22's and contradictions. I just kept saying to myself "there are people who are successful at doing what I want to do. Which means someone has figured this shit out - and I will too". Whenever the glimpse of an opportunity presented itself - I was on it. I ASSISTED my ass off! I was/am soooo grateful to those that saw enough of something in me and gave me a chance. I have literally left my heart in every single project I have ever worked. I just made sure people felt me ... I made people know that I cared the most.

Me:  What inspires your creativity? 

Janelle:  People, fashion, fresh air, current events, kids- so many things to pull from. But, honestly, I am not really the pre-game inspired type of person. My inspiration comes from the work itself. I like to just be thrown in. Once I start moving in it - things start flowing. I have to do A LOT of presentations. I am a perfectionist and a natural over achiever so I do really great presentations for work - people think they are effortless - THEY ARE NOT FOR ME. If I had my way I wouldn't present anything. I would love to just get to work and let everything I show up with just be a surprise. 

Me:  What is your go-to look? 

Janelle:  Great fitting jeans, really thin, slightly sheer t-shirts on the longer side, leather jacket - add sneakers. 

Me:  What fashion item will you not leave home without?

Janelle:  JANELLE CAROTHERS X SLATE :: One Tribe Collection 'Greatness Medallion' in size savage. 

Me:  Who is your style icon? 

Janelle:  Can't name just one, so here's my top 5 (no particular order) ... Tracee Ellis Ross, Nicole Richie, Olsen Twins, GIGI Hadid and Rihanna. 

Me:  What's your favorite style era and why? 

Janelle:  Now - because everyone just does what they want -green light go!

Me:  What prompted you to start One Tribe Collection? What's the meaning behind it? 

Janelle:  SLATE was already a jewelry line that I adored so when the idea of a collaboration on a fine jewelry collection came about it was a no-brainer. But the magic happened when trying to create something bigger than just ourselves. We wanted an outward vision - something that could possibly benefit others first. If the world would stop for a second  and love everything that makes someone different. Love the things about each other that are meant to tear us apart - if we operated as ONE TRIBE just think how far ahead we would be. So from that place we birthed Gold and Diamond symbols of hope and promise. Its the fusion of art, ancient symbolism and modern minimalism. The pieces are designed to inspire and transform.  Each piece embodies delicate design, finesse and technical virtuosity. One voice. One Vibe. One Tribe. 

Me:  What are your future fashion plans? 

Janelle:  I'm still in the trenches of my career. So the future (tomorrow) I have a 6AM call time - so I gotta go to work and continue to fight this good fight. Costume Designing. Just recently added "author" to the resume as I have a book being released towards the end of the year. 

Me:  Do you prefer Rihanna's street style or Bey's? 

Janelle:  Rih in my head.  Bey in real life.

Me:  Adidas, Reeboks, or Nikes? 

Janelle:  Nikes

Me:  Expound on "I Cure Nudity". How did that concept come about? 

Janelle:  Ha! It's started as a little joke. I am to talent what doctors are to patients.  One day someone said to me jokingly "well it's not like your curing cancer" ... My response "agreed, but I'm still curing nudity and without me this movie would be a porn" ... 

Janelle is pictured above sporting the Mother of Mankind necklace ($325) from the JANELLE CAROTHERS X SLATE :: One Tribe Collection.

Me:  What's it like being a celebrity stylist and costume designer? Are you able to have complete creative control over most projects you're involved in? 

Janelle:  THE NON-glamourous part: Carrying, schlepping, loading, unloading, running, pushing, pulling, packing. Steamer burns. Needle pricks. Parking tickets. Missed breakfast. Notes. Meetings. Hurry up. No wait. Be here. You're in the way. Broken nails. Broken phones. Missed friend's baby shower. Favorite sunglasses - now broken. 

THE Glamorous part: The end result - I wouldn't trade it for any other job.

MOST projects are a collaboration. Basically you are executing a vision given to you by writers, directors, artists, record labels etc -  but my job is to insert my ideas that help fill in the blanks and push them past what they were even thinking into something greater. Most of the time the director gives a general idea/feeling but the Costume Designers/Stylist genius is in the details. 

Me:  Any advice for inspiring stylist or entrepreneurs? 

Janelle:  Well first you have to decide which direction you are going in because celebrity styling is totally different then costume designing. Once you've figured that out you should seek mentors and people in your desired occupation to show you the ropes. Suck them dry for information but more importantly pour into them. Be valuable. Be teachable. Once you do that and make yourself invaluable to a stylist or costume designer, the universe starts lining up its own path for you.  Don’t compare your race to anyone else's. Just get in there and commit to doing good work and every single thing else will unfold how it’s supposed to unfold.

Me:  What mantra or words of wisdom do you live by? 

Janelle:  Corny but go big or go home.

Me:  If you can give someone one word of advice pertaining to fashion what would it be? 

Janelle:  Screw fashion. Find your style. Rock the hell outta that. 

For more information on Janelle Nicole Carothers, visit her website at www.JanelleCarothers.com or follow her on social media @icurenudity.  To view her jewelry line, One Tribe Collection, click here.  I am coveting the Reign Cuff piece right now!!

- Samjah Iman

Studio BE NOLA

The older I get the more I crave substance - nourishment in all aspects of my life.  My body needs water, spinach, mushrooms, sleep, bike rides, and long walks.  My mind looks forward to being enhanced by in depth conversations every now and then.  My soul thrives off of culture, prayer and stillness, positive energy, travel, books, time with close friends and family members, a good Jill Scott, Erykah Badu or Kendrick Lamar CD, spiritual teachings, and art.  I'm no longer that young girl who could survive on junk food only.  I am now a grown woman whose existence and prosperity is dependent upon soul food.         

With that being written, my soul was fed this past Saturday in New Orleans, LA.  A friend invited me to view an art display titled Studio BE.  Before arriving to the art studio, I didn't have any expectations.  When I pulled my Jeep onto the broken gravel which sat in front of the building that housed the art, my eyes grew big and my mouth hung open.  My first thought was, "man, my people are so amazing."  I was in love.  Studio BE had me at hello.  

Studio BE, birthed by visual artist and filmmaker Brandan Odums, is an art transformation of a 35,000 square foot warehouse in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, LA.  Studio BE includes paintings and spray paintings of civil rights leaders, activists, social issues, pop culture, New Orleans history and culture, musicians, writers, and famous sayings.  While observing all of the beautiful colors and images, I felt like a kid all over again.  I couldn't contain my curiosity and joy.  This studio is a must-see if you are ever in New Orleans any time soon.  However, just in case you can't get this way in the near future, I looked out for you and captured some photos of the art.  Live the Studio BE experience through my eyes below.          

The purple in the painting below represents the water line in a house that was flooded by Hurricane Katrina. 

My appetite for art was fed this past weekend.  Upon leaving Studio BE, I felt inspired and proud.  The talent and knowledge my people possess is out of this world.  I will never forget my Studio BE experience.  Thank you friend for inviting me....I owe you one.  

For more information on the artist, visit Brandanodums.com or follow his work on social media @studio_be_ and @bmike2c.  

Feed your soul.

- Samjah Iman

Bel-Air Bodysuit

My brother and I are the biggest fans of the classic TV show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.  We can recite almost any episode word for word.  The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air brings back so many memories.  It was cool to see a black family living good in a ritzy suburb of Los Angeles while raising their rebellious nephew from the hood.  I couldn't wait to tune in each week to see what scheme Carlton and Will had up their sleeves or what Hillary would be wearing (her clothes were on point).  Remember the episode where Will's dad came back into his life for one day only to leave him again?  My heart ached for years after that episode. His father could have at least told him bye......I still haven't recovered from that episode.  What about the episode where Aunt Viv goes to the dance tryouts and upstages all of those young girls with her dance moves?  My people make me do that dance often when we are all together because I can mimic Aunt Viv's dance moves from that episode to a tee!  Don't make me put on my unitard and show ya'll one day!!

Okay okay...enough of the reminiscing.  The Bel-Air, throwback bodysuit that I am wearing in the pictures (available at Private Stock BR) gives me that 90's feel.  The cool thing about this bodysuit is that it can be worn as a swimsuit too!  To accessorize the bodysuit, I added my Cuban Link Choker from Intuition.  This choker added the right amount of flare without overpowering my whole look.  My heels are from Steve Madden. 

That's all for today sweethearts.  Once again thank you all so much for tuning in throughout the week.  I am so grateful!  Talk to you all soon!

P.S. - Be a little selfish and do something for yourself this weekend......you deserve it.

- Samjah Iman 

Flower Child

“You a flower child, beautiful child, I’m in your zone. Looking like you came from the 70’s on your own.”

— Drake

The outfit above is what I would have wore to Beyonce's Soul Train-Themed birthday bash if my invitation wouldn't have gotten lost in the mail.  As most of you know I love the 70's fashion era; therefore, when I saw this shirt on Styled By Rish - I immediately felt connected to it. 

This top (or dress) fits right into a Bohemian/70's category.  It's perfect for a festival or those laid back, fall days when you are trying to achieve a "free spirit" look.  To complement my top, I threw on my old, knee-high boots because #1. I'm so ready for boot season, and #2. My boots make the top work as a dress and adds to the Bohemian/70's vibe.         

If you love flowing, comfortable tops - this one is for you.  Trust me when I say this shirt will get plenty of wear because it is so easy to style and versatile.  Get yours before they are all gone!

Love, Peace, and Soul!

- Samjah Iman

Distressed Tee + Combat Boots

I'm ready to start this weekend! I've been all over the place this week. I've eaten almost everything in sight, only exercised once, overslept twice, and lost out on some good shoes at a thrift shop.  Talk about a long week huh?  It's all good because I got a "bounce back" plan in place to renew my vigor.  It's called REST. 

Before I begin my hibernation for this holiday weekend, let me direct you guys to some dope, distressed sweatshirts and tees like the one I'm wearing above.  Monica's Thrift On A Budget has the cutest distressed tees and sweatshirts.  They have different themes on the shirts, and she even has NFL ones!  What better way to be cute during football season than in a trendy, distressed sweatshirt or tee?  Check out her website to snag you one before they're all gone.     

Have an awesome holiday weekend everyone!  Please share my blog posts with anyone needing fashion inspiration when you get a chance. 

Outfit Details: Distressed Tee // Combat Boots // Similar Purse // Necklace

Peace and Blessings

- Samjah Iman

Faith or Fronting?

The only differences between me, you and most extremely successful people is that they have faith, they believe in themselves, and they take action. 

Some of us love quoting faith scriptures because it's embedded in us to do so or because we actually like the way they sound.  We are quick to say "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" but won't act upon what we profess to believe.  There are people that have the whole Book of James plastered all over their cubicle wall at work, but won't start that baking company they've been dreaming about for the last 10 years.  Where they do that at??  If you feel you can do all things and if you believe He lives in you then why haven't you acted on your beliefs?  Are you waiting for some magical, successful dust to be sprinkled on you?  Well here's some news, there is none.  He helps those who help themselves.  

“But even when you pray, the next day you gotta try. Can’t wait for nobody to come down out the sky.”

— CeeLo Green

Believing in yourself is believing in God.  Believing in you means that you believe you were wonderfully made by Him and that you can truly do all things because He lives you.  That's some real power people - let's ACT ON IT!  

We have four months left in this year,  let's take a leap of faith, put in the work and see where it leads us.  If it doesn't work out as planned, at least we will have gained strength, courage, and wisdom.

Boss up!

- Samjah Iman

The Museum and His Shirt

I had an impromptu visit to the Louisiana State Museum this weekend.  I never had any desire to visit that particular museum because I didn't think the history displayed would be something I was interested in seeing.  I was right.  However, they did have a few things about our jazz culture and slavery that caught my attention. 

In order to make good use of my trip to the museum, I did a photo shoot (lesson: when in boring places, take pictures of your outfit).  I wore a Polo Ralph Lauren button down shirt from the big and tall men's section in Dillard's and my Aldo sandals (similar pair here).  There are a few ways to wear this shirt (I will be showing other ways in the future).  This time, I decided to wear it as a dress.  Check it out below.  

There's something sexy about rocking oversized clothing to me.  This is one reason why I am a huge fan of the late singer/actress Aaliyah's style.  She made oversized clothing look so fly.  The oversized look proves that sexiness is not just about showing skin and accenting your curves, it's about your style and attitude.  

Keep it real this week everyone. Hustle hard!

Peace

- Samjah Iman

54-11's

“Fifty-four, eleven - size 7 in girls. Baby face, would look like she was 11 with curls. ”

— DMX

A sexy/cool outfit accented with gold jewelry, classic sneakers, red lips, a pony tail, and sassy attitude is my mode of operation!!!  I can rock this look any day of the week and feel right at home in the style realm.  When I'm wearing a look like this, my swagger is different.  I feel like I'm fresh out of LL Cool J's "Around The Way Girl" video.  The only thing missing is my lollipop. 

My mother purchased this outfit (available on sale here and here) for me during one of her shopping trips because it was black and white (she knows how I operate).  I decided to dress it down so I paired it with my Reebok Freestyle tennis shoes which are known on the New York streets as 54-11's.  This nickname was coined in the late 80's, and it came from the full price of the tennis shoes which was $54.11. Of course the price has jumped since then but the nickname will forever be.  

Enjoy the weekend everyone.  Get some rest and clear your minds.  I will definitely try to do the same thing.

xoxo

- The Around the Way Girl

How to Face Failure, Obstacles and Detours With Grace by Chela Mitchell

Life will have its challenges, and there's nothing we can do to prevent them.  However, we can decide how we approach and deal with those challenges.  I was reading my girl's blog (chelamitchell.com), and I came across an article she wrote on how to face failure in a more positive way.  Click here to check the article out and take heed.

“Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.”

— Charles R. Swindoll

Happy Hump Day!

- Samjah Iman

The Silk Blazer

I do not know who decided to give this blazer away to a thrift store, but I am grateful for their insanity.  When I first laid eyes on this blazer, I did a double take and thanked God for small blessings.  It was love at first sight.  

I found this blazer on Instagram from a thrift store called @shopvintagebowtique.  I couldn't believe someone had not purchased it yet (which means it was meant for me).  This blazer is 100% silk, and it cost $36.00!  I was drawn to the print because it reminded me of Versace.  I paired the blazer with a white bodysuit, white cutoff shorts, black Steve Madden heels, a small coin purse (similar one here), and my favorite necklace of the moment which brought the gold colors out in the blazer.

I believe thrift shopping is becoming the new way to shop.  You can find a lot of treasures shopping online or in stores that offer previously owned clothing, and you can save a great deal of money.  If you don't want to take the time to thrift shop on your own, try @shopvintagebowtique or @monicasthriftonabudget on Instagram and let them do the shopping for you.

Have a prosperous week everyone!  Keep the faith!

P.S. - Thank you to everyone that helped me with assisting the family in Baton Rouge who lost all of their belongings due to the flood.  They are overwhelmed with gratefulness.

Peace and Blessings

- Samjah Iman

Flowers on Concrete

Sometimes I have to step away from my all-black ensembles, fresh sneakers, and high heels to let the vulnerable, girly side of my style and persona show.  Wearing any flower pattern portrays this side of me. 

I have this delicate, sweet, and soft nature that is much like a flower.  A flower, however, that is surviving on concrete (i.e. the world).  The world isn't always kind to flowers, but it appreciates their aesthetics.

To all of my flowers who are surviving on concrete, keep blooming.  For our delicate nature and bright colors can make any hard surface gentle.

“Don’t be a hard rock when you really are a gem.”

— Lauryn Hill

Outfit Details:  Flower Dress (old, similar one here) // Tamar Necklace // Steve Madden Sandals

Enjoy the Journey

Sometimes in life, we get so preoccupied with our ultimate goals and success that we forget to enjoy the process that leads us to achieving these goals and success.  Think about it like this. Say you and your loved ones are taking a road trip somewhere. On the way to the destination you pass a lot of great scenery, restaurants, and popular landmarks, but you don't take the time to stop and enjoy these things because you are so focused on getting to your destination.  Yes you eventually make it to your destination, but you've also missed a lot of potentially fun, everlasting memories along the way because you were only concentrating on one part of the trip, not the trip as a whole.

“Life is a journey, not a destination.”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

Oftentimes we treat life and our goals just like the trip described above.  We don't take the time to enjoy other things that are happening around us because we are only concentrating on the bigger picture.  We are so busy running through life trying to make something happen that we are missing precious moments. 

I hear people talk all the time about what they are going to do when they finally accomplish a goal or reach a certain status.  My question to them is, "What are you doing in the meantime?"  Life shouldn't be on hold until you reach a desired point.  Life is a road that is meant to be traveled and lived at all stages because you never know when that road will change or end. 

Don't wait for the perfect moment to live.  Enjoy the scenery on the way to that perfect moment.  Living on the way to your perfect moment will make your perfect moment that much better.

On another note, I am helping out a family that lost everything during the flood in Baton Rouge.  The family consists of a mother and a daughter who is in the 9th grade.  If you would like to join me in assisting this family, please email me at samjahiman@styleandenergy.com for more information.  Your help and prayers are greatly appreciated.   

I'm enjoying the journey.  Are you?

- Samjah Iman

Fancy (and Comfy) in Adidas

I'm really learning how to make this fashion thing work to accommodate me and not the other way around.  I remember a few years ago, I wasn't too concerned about being comfortable; just cute.  Fast forward to now, and I almost always make sure I accomplish both in everything I wear and do.

I recently attended White Linen Night in New Orleans.  This is a cultural event that involves art, food, all-white fashion, and music.  For this event, I made sure I complied with the all-white fashion request (BeBe Dress (old) and white choker).  I also made sure I was cool (hence the fan I got from the Dollar Store) and comfortable (my Adidas).

It seems the more comfortable I am, the more my style flows.  Fashion is not only about how you look, it's also about how you feel.  Keep it cute and comfy!

P.S. - Please keep the residents of Baton Rouge and surrounding areas in your prayers everyone.  A lot of people here are in desperate need of some love, peace, and blessings.

xoxoxo

- Samjah Iman

Walmart Men's Tee + African Print Purse

Who knew a Walmart men's t-shirt and African print purse would go so well together? 

I purchased a pack of v-neck, men's t-shirts from Walmart a while ago to use for a mentoring project I was overseeing.  I gave each mentee a shirt, and kept one for myself because I'm a borderline, t-shirt hoarder.  Recently, I bought an African print purse from Monica's Thrift On A Budget, and I was anxious to carry it.  I was looking for something to throw on with the purse, and I came across this t-shirt in my dresser.  I wanted the purse to be the focal point of the outfit so I kept it simple and went with my favorite color combination; black and white.  As a result of my outfit choice, the purse definitely got the attention it deserved.

This is the pose you strike when you thought your hair was a bug crawling on you. Lol.

Outfit Details: Walmart Men's V-neck Tee // Steve Madden Shoes // Old Navy Rockstar Jeans // African Print Clutch Purse //

Don't sleep on Walmart men's t-shirts as fashion!  They come in handy! 

Have an exceptionally, cool weekend everyone!  Thank you so much for checking in with me weekly.  Don't forget to share my blog with your friends and family.  I appreciate you all!  xoxoxoxo      

Any specific weekend plans?  I'm nosy lol.

- Samjah Iman