Here and Now...

During the last two weeks, my focus has been on staying in the here and now.  I've been doing an exercise that involves me immediately shifting my mind back to the current moment when I catch myself thinking about what has happened or what could happen.

I've always been an in-the-moment kinda gal in most instances, but I never fully realized how important and peaceful staying in the moment actually was until I had an "ah ha" moment while reading an Erykah Badu article some months ago.

In an interview with Vulture.com, Miss Badu was asked what made her nervous.  Her answer went like this.....

“I’m over being scared. When I feel the heart rate going or the palms getting sweaty, I start looking for the silence. And when I’m calmed down, I realize I’ve been thinking about the past or the future, which is not even here. I just come back to the moment.”

— Erykah Badu

I almost did a holy dance after reading Erykah's response.  What she said really helped me pinpoint my stressful moments.  Whenever I begin agonizing or worrying, it's usually over something that has already happened or has yet to happen.  It's very seldom about what's going on in the moment. 

As my grandmother says quite often, "don't trouble trouble, until trouble troubles you."  Don't rob yourself of a moment because you're worried about what might happen next Friday or what someone said or did last Monday. Try to stay in the moment and deal with things as they come.  

Taking a deep breath, relaxing, and chanting the words here and now has truly helped me out during stressful moments.  I plan to continue on this path and remind myself daily that I can't get the past back and the future isn't guaranteed.  All I can control is what's happening here and now. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

P.S.  I got this jumper from Free People off the sale rack, therefore it's no longer available (sorry!).  It was more than 75% off because it was torn, but I purchased it anyway (don't sleep on buying defective merchandise for more than half off the price!).  Thank you Ms. Michelle for fixing and tailoring this jumpsuit to perfection! xoxo

When I'm Consistent, The Universe Responds

I'm often asked what my end game is.  When I'm introduced to people, and we discuss our passions/careers, they always end up asking me what I would like this blog to ultimately turn into.  About a month ago I linked up with some accomplished colleagues who enthusiastically discussed their future entrepreneurship "end game" plans while we ate lunch.  Everyone took turns revealing their blueprint to success, and when my turn came to discuss my "end game" I simply said, "I don't have one. I'm just doing what I love and floating."  Of course that wasn't the answer they were looking for, but it was my truth.  I didn't and still don't have an "end game."

After the lunch encounter, my mind became occupied with the whole "end game" situation.  I was thinking that maybe I should have some sort of plan for this blog and my fashion.  Yes I love writing/reading and wouldn't mind being an editor/content manager for a popular magazine one day.  I also love fashion and wouldn't mind becoming a buyer for a savvy clothing brand as well; however, I wouldn't consider the aforementioned aspirations my "end game" goals.  I called my loved one to discuss the "end game" plan thing, and as I was talking, it came to me....I said, "you know what, scratch this whole convo, I don't have to search for an "end game" goal, it'll be revealed sooner or later."  

“When I’m consistent, the universe responds.”

— Samjah Iman

The growth of this blog had a lot to do with me being consistent and having a true affinity for my work - and in turn, the universe opened up many doors.  When you do what you are passionate about doing just for the sake and love of doing it, good things will eventually come.  This theory is tied to the whole "you get out of it what you put in it" truism.  I truly believe that if you are continuously sowing good seeds, doing the work, and putting positive energy in the atmosphere....good things will come your way and your "end game" goal will eventually fall in your lap.  When you love and nurture something, it has no choice but to grow.   

“Everything I’ve done has grown simply from refining and cultivating it as opposed to aiming it in a particular direction. ”

— Nesby Phips

I'm discovering day by day that it's okay to not have an "end game" plan all the time.  I remember Oprah once saying to just do what you love and the money will come.  Those words have sat in my pysche and heart forever.  I live by them.  As long as I continue to put my soul into my work and be as consistent as possible, I won't have to chase the "end game," it will find me.  

Trusting the process and letting the universe do its thing,

-Samjah Iman

Side Note:  I got this dress for a Girl Boss Dinner in Nola.  I was in need of cocktail attire, and I didn't want the ordinary look.  I contacted Washington Ave because I knew they would have a funky, unique vintage ensemble that I would like, and they did!  Shoes available here.  

Don't Blame Them, Check Your Self-Love Meter + Just Fab/ShoeDazzle Summit

My girl Marsha from Introvert N The City came to Nola for a conference last week, and we had the chance to catch up and kick it.  Riding through the bumpy streets of the Crescent City while eating snowballs, we discussed our past and other things we've encountered during our years of living.  We got on the subject of our exes, and Marsh made this statement, “All of the things I put up with while dating my ex shows how much I DIDN’T love myself.”  The choir started signing because church was about to commence.  I praised Marsha for her self-awareness and for making that mature declaration.  I thought about how we often refer to the people who mistreated us in our past as “no good,” “trifling,” “disrespectful,” etc. and they may very well be all those things, but what we don’t talk about is the lack of love we had for ourselves which, in turn, allowed those people to operate in our space.  

I’m totally guilty of not valuing myself enough at times in the past.  I look back at certain situations and I simply ask myself, “Sam, how in the hell did you allow yourself to go through that??”  I know now that some of it was a lack of self-love, and as the saying goes - when you know better, you do better. 

Self-love is not only treating yourself with the utmost respect, it’s also not allowing yourself (when possible) to deal with anyone or anything that doesn’t.  Self-love is staying away from negative people, exercising your mind and body, spending time alone, spending time with loved ones, eating the right things, meditating, detoxing, laughing, being kind to yourself, being kind to others, being in healthy relationships, etc. 

Before we blame someone or something for mishaps that have happened in our adult lives, let's all check our self-love meter and make sure it's operating on high.  

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Bardot Bell Sleeve Top // Just Float On Flare Jeans

Oh and one more thing....I was invited to speak on the Just Fab and ShoeDazzle panel for their ambassador summit in New Orleans, and it was sooooo fun!  What's so cool about this opportunity is that earlier this year, I wrote in my journal that I wanted to begin empowering people using other platforms and share my knowledge and experiences as a fashion blogger and writer on panels - and look what happened!!! Manifestation is real ya'll!! Check out some of the pictures from the event below.  

Of course Ma Duke showed up and supported as always! 

Kelli Saulny of styleandtaste.com and Cymande D. Ford of shopplusisaplus.com

Thank you to Just Fab and ShoeDazzle and all of the extraordinary women I met at this event!!! 

Photos by - sharonpye.com

Journal Entry: Check My Gratitude

June 5, 2018

Today I opened my Instagram app, and the first picture I saw was of a blogger I had been following for years.  She is fighting cancer.  When I saw her picture and read her caption, my heart sank.  She posted a picture of how she used to look before chemo treatments, and in her caption she wrote about missing who she used to be.  All she dreams of doing now are the simple things she took for granted before the cancer.  She longs to just be able to eat, run errands, and go to the gym.  I complained earlier about going to the grocery store and working out.  I feel embarrassed and ashamed.  Here she is praying that she could eat and run errands, and here I am, healthy, and tripping about doing both.  I'm getting my mind right real quick, and vowing to be grateful even for the littliest things.  I'm checking myself.   

Sam

I Quit Part 2 - The Update

It’s been over a year since I threw in the towel at my job of eight years and started out on this faith journey.  I’ll wait a few more months to give you the entire spill because the story is still unfolding, but for now I’ll tell you this – leaving my secure job is one of the most gangster things I’ve ever done!!

Before this experience, I never really exercised faith to the fullest.  Now I have a deeper understanding of what it means to have nothing but faith in your corner; and because of this new understanding, I have matured tremendously.

“It’s easy to be independent when you’ve got money. But to be independent when you haven’t got a thing – that’s the Lord’s test.”

— Mahalia Jackson

Below is a quick summation of the things I’ve learned after quitting my job to pursue my own endeavors.   

1. Your journey will not look like everyone else’s – Before I decided to leave my job, I researched blog articles on what to expect after doing it and talked to others who had done it.  While they all gave out great advice, most of it didn’t apply to my situation.  My journey was not theirs, and I learned quickly that I had to set my own parameters and do what was best for me. 

2. You question your choice – The week or so after I quit my job, I was pumped and dancing all over the house….a few months later I asked myself, “what in the hell did I just do?”

3. It gets scary – Depending on your business, brand, or savings, it can get a little frightening at some point because you’re going from a steady paycheck to depending solely on yourself to make money moves and sometimes not knowing when you’ll get paid or where the next check will come from. 

4. You’ll see the light – If you hang in there and keep striving for what you set out to do, you’ll eventually see the light.  When your mindset is in the right place, when you consistently put in the work, and when you have faith that it will all work out – it will.  It may not look how you thought it would look, but it will work out.   

5. You’ll be proud – Despite the tribulations you experience after leaving your job to pursue another career or your personal endeavors, in the end you will always be proud of yourself for making that bold move.  Leaving my job to pursue a career in writing (and other things) was one of the best decisions I've ever made.  No matter how hard it gets while on this journey, the mere thought of me going back to a place that doesn't allow me to do what I love and what I've been formally educated to do makes me shiver in anguish.  And that thought alone keeps me on the path I am on.

Stay tuned for a more detailed story later….believe me when I say it’s a rollercoaster ride that I haven't gotten off of yet! 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Jumper // Slides 

5 Ways To Push Yourself to Do Absolutely Nothing

I know you read the title and was like, "huh".....but let me tell you, this here is serious business.  Doing absolutely nothing is an art that has been mastered by very few people.  It takes willpower to be a bum for a few hours.  I personally know this because whenever I get some free time, I have to talk myself into doing nothing, and then I find myself feeling guilty sometimes when I bum out.  But not anymore! 

We live in a time where messages like "hustle everyday," "no time off," "no sleep," or "sleep when I die" are constantly being planted in our psyche.  And my response to those messages is an elegant middle finger gesture.  Taking the time to rest our bodies and brains is imperative.  When we do so we preserve ourselves, we feel more energized, and are more productive when it is time to grind.  Currently I've been using my free time wisely, and I must say I'm getting good at doing diddly-squat.  If you want to join in on this movement, check out 5 Ways to Push Yourself to Do Absolutely Nothing below.    

1.  Get it in your mind that you deserve some time to just do nothing - Often times we feel guilty when it comes to being unproductive because society wants us to believe that we are always supposed to be on the go.  Get that out of your heads and remember this is your life.  You run your race at your own pace....and in order to run the race, you must rest. 

2.  Get your work done - I'm the type of person that likes to have everything done before I sit down....this way my list of "things to do" won't be on my mind while I am trying to rest.  Go hard during the week so that you can take a day on the weekend and do nothing.  Let "doing nothing" be your reward for a productive week.

3.  Pick a designated "me time" - Everyone in my circle knows when I am about to hibernate.  I call my loved ones to let them know I'm entering "Sam's world" and I'm about to shut my ringer off.  Pick out a time that you want to just do nothing and call those who usually ring your phone and let them know to take their crap elsewhere for the next hour or so....of course this excludes emergencies.    

4.  Get in the bed earlier - If I've had a long day with no personal time, I try to at least get in the bed earlier than my usual sleep time so that I can chill out and do nothing.  If I can't make myself sit on the couch for a few hours, surely I can make myself sit in the bed and do nothing before falling asleep.  

5.  Just do it - If all of the above fails, then just simply sit your butt down and do nothing!  You owe it to yourself!  The world will keep spinning if you don't cut the yard on a particular day, run that lap when you said you would, write that report, or wash those dishes.  Time is of the essence, and I wholeheartedly believe that we should do what we have to do to survive, but we should also do what we want to do as well.  

Bum out my friends, you deserve it.

- Samjah Iman

Happiness is a Choice

I used to think that reaching certain milestones in life like graduating, getting a good job, etc., equated happiness, and that I would automatically feel the happy emotion when I accomplished these things. And I did.... temporarily - and then after all the hoopla, I was back to searching for my next happy high. I was also once the girl who thought other people were responsible for making me happy, and some did, but when they disappointed me - I found myself searching for that happy high in another person. I was in an immature relationship in my late 20's, and I remember venting to my friend/mentor about it. I was going on and on about how the guy didn't make me happy all the time and blah, blah, blah.  And my friend casually said, "He's not supposed to make you happy, Sam.  You're supposed to come to the table being happy.  He's just supposed to add to that happiness." Click - the light in my brain came on. 

Happiness is a choice YOU make. It's an emotion that depends solely on what you've got going on internally.  It should not be circumstantial. No one thing or person can totally bring this emotion into your life or be able to take it away from you. Happiness/joy should be the home/kingdom of your heart. And you should prepare your home how YOU like it. Only you know how you like things to look in your home, how you like to feel when you're at home, etc. Yes, you can buy lovely new things for that home and people can come visit that home and add to its beauty, but if those things end up broken or those people decide not to extend their stay - your home doesn't go with them. Life may throw a curveball and your home could flood, the roof may come off, it may get broken into, or set on fire - but the foundation (i.e. happiness) should still be there.

No longer should we allow any person, circumstance, or thing to dictate our happiness. It's ours, and we have the power over it. So, let's choose this emotion as our foundation - the kingdom of our hearts, and everything else that comes along will be lagniappe.  

Choosing happiness,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:

Polka Dot Wrap Dress (sold out similar, here) // Red Heels (sold out similar, here // She Who Has Happiness Painting

Unpacking

I remember a meaningful encounter I had while standing in the baggage claim area of an airport. Waiting for my luggage, I observed a man and lady standing beside me doing the same. The man held a small, black bag as he vigorously talked to the attractive lady whom, judging by their conversation, he had just met on their flight. The baggage alert sound went off during their conversation causing us all to divert our attention to the luggage carousel. When I spotted my white suitcase come around, I placed my carry-on bag on the ground, threw my huge purse over my shoulder, and got down in a sturdy squat (my Momma always tells me to pick things up using my legs to avoid straining) in order to drag the obese luggage off the belt. The man who was chatting with the lady noticed my struggle and immediately stepped up to assist me. He pulled my suitcase off the belt, turned to me and jokingly said, “Girl, is there a body in here??”  I smirked and began to give him a sassy response, but our encounter was interrupted by the lady he was talking to who was now struggling with her luggage. She hovered over the belt desperately trying to pull her heavy suitcase off as the man assisted her as well. After lifting two large suitcases, he caught his breath and said, “Ladies, unpack some of this shit next time! Ya'll pack too much! I just came back from out of the country, and all I had was this small bag!” I looked up at him like he had lost his mind. Didn’t he know I needed options when traveling? I need my entire bathroom plus “just in-case stuff” for the unexpected. Boy bye! He went on to say that all he packed for his trip were two pairs of pants, two shirts, a few toiletries, and he wore the shoes he currently had on the entire trip. The lady and I went into defense mode by saying that he was a man, and he didn’t need as much as we did. He cut us off and said that wasn’t a good excuse. He then said, “The less you pack, the less you need.” I thought about what he said, then I vowed to him that I would try the “pack light” method on my next trip.      

“Bag lady, you gone hurt your back. Dragging all them bags like that.”

— Erykah Badu

Months after that trip, I went on another voyage taking just one small bag. In this bag, I packed a pair of jeans (in addition to the jeans I had on), three shirts, a hat, my toiletries, and a pair of shoes (in addition to the shoes I had on). I was nervous about having packed such a small bag, but I went with the plan and made it out just fine. I felt light with my one bag. I wasn’t stressed about what I would be wearing each day, and because I didn’t have a lot with me, I didn’t create a need for much.

“Bag lady you gon’ miss your bus. You can’t hurry up, ‘cause you got too much stuff.”

— Erykah Badu

I took my packing light experience and applied it to life. The more bags/burdens I carry, the more I will need, and as a result - the more stressed I’ll be. Imagine we’re going on a journey (aka life), and at every stop on this journey we pick something up and put it in our bag. While on this journey, we sometimes pick up things that aren’t for us (other people’s problems), but we place it in the bag anyway. Sooner or later our load gets heavier which makes the journey that much more difficult, and we begin to drag. Now we're bitter because we've carried so much crap we didn't have to carry. Then our health goes down due to the physical and emotional strain caused by the unnecessary crap we've carried along the journey.    

“One day all them bags gon’ get in your way.”

— Erykah Badu

Some of us are still holding on to things that happened to us decades ago. Some of us can't' let go of pain caused by a loved one, a promotion we didn't get, a breakup, something someone said to us, etc. Then we take all of that baggage we've collected over the years and haul it with us everywhere we go - and then have the nerve to wonder why we continuously feel heavy. 

“Bag lady, let it go let it go let it go let it go - oh girl you don’t need it.”

— Erykah Badu

I'm not sure what y’all are going to do with the bags y’all carry, but I'm going to continue to follow Mr. Airport man with the small, black bag's advice. I'm unpacking some of this shit. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: MFND Tank // Yellow Pumps

Dear Secure Women....

It's not us - it's them.

I was invited to a networking event a couple of weeks ago, and I happily accepted the invitation. I arrived at the event, and everything was smooth. The people were colorful, the drinks were flowing, and the music was fitting. While sitting at the bar chatting with a colleague, I got the feeling that I was being watched.  I turned my attention to the opposite side of the bar, and my assumption was confirmed. A cute, petite lady with beautiful tresses kept glancing my way. My first thought was, "maybe she's seen me before or knows the young lady I am talking to." I was wrong. She knew neither of us.

Later during the event I crossed paths with Miss Cute and Petite, and we introduced ourselves.  We engaged in small talk about our brands and future plans, then we turned our attention to the other people who were in our circle. At the end of the event, everyone bid their farewells. Miss Cute and Petite gave everyone in the circle warm goodbye hugs, and she affectionately rubbed their backs. When it came time for our hugging exchange, she did something close to an air hug, barely touching me at all. It was a bold yet weird declaration, and I was stunned.  

I played it off and kept it moving, but the wheels in my mind began turning. "Did I unknowingly offend her earlier or something? No that can't be it because I barely talked to her. Did her boyfriend hit on me before?  Well, if that was the case his attempts were blocked so that can't be it either." I couldn't wrap my mind around someone being that intentionally trifling, and I hadn't dealt with that level of pettiness since high school. I just knew there had to be a method to her absurdity. I went over the incident in my head a few more times and then eventually came to my senses. It wasn't me. It was her.

Dear secure women, if you've ever dealt with shade, hate, jealousy, or pettiness from another woman - don't take it personal. It's not you, it's them. Self-love is an antidote. And when people lack it, they do sick things. Mostly every negative thing a person has done to you had nothing to do with you, but everything to do with how they felt about themselves. 

“Some of them, oh, they stab you in your back ‘cause it’s love they lack.”

— Jill Scott

To my secure women - keep smiling, keep striving, keep kicking, and keep shining. Don't for one second question your character because of a nonsensical act from an insecure being. Be who you are to the fullest, and if that makes someone uncomfortable then so be it. That's not your issue - it's theirs.  

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Graffiti Clutch Purse

My Biggest Stress Reliever

The one thing I do that helps me tremendously when I feel anxiety or stress is reminisce.  I begin recalling the past times I've felt defeated and how I overcame each time.  

It seems like whenever a stressful problem arises, I initially began to act brand new like I hadn't made it through anything.  Then I stop myself and say, "Girl did you forget about that time when blah blah blah happened.....and you thought it was the end but things suddenly turned around?"  Reminding myself of how I knocked down hurdles in the past gives me the courage to face any present opposition with confidence. 

The one thing that usually stresses us out in situations is uncertainty.  Not knowing how things will pan out can literally make us crazy.  But we must remember there were times in the past when we didn't know how we were going to overcome a tough situation - but we did.  The next time you find yourself tripping over your current status, think back to the stressful times you made it through, and I guarantee you'll feel a glimmer of hope.

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Clutch // Vintage Blazer // Yellow Pumps

Slay Now, Reap Later

Listening to a Bishop TD Jakes sermon while cleaning the other day, I got some valuable information that resonated with me.  Jakes was emphasizing the importance of staying focused on your purpose when he made this statement, "What you slay in your 30s, you eat in your 50s."  It made perfect sense.  I am aware of the "reap what you sow" saying but for some reason this statement stood out.  I applied his words to almost every aspect of my life.  I thought about how what I eat now can affect my health down the line, how I groom myself and exercise now can determine my appearance for years to come, how working on my mindset can affect my peace and stress levels when I'm older, how achieving the bulk of my goals now can set me up for success later, and how investing and saving my money during these times can give me the financial stability I desire years from now.  

Sometimes we get so caught up in just living, and we don't realize we are making decisions we may carry with us for years to come.  Yes all we have is the moment and we mustn't worry about the future; however, preparing for it doesn't hurt us at all.  I've seen so many people who bear the results of not so good choices written all over them, and it's certainly not cute.  Yes some stuff like not resting, eating unhealthy foods, being wasteful with our funds, and skipping out on exercising seems harmless to do now, but how will that affect us in 20 years?  

Let's make sure we get it together today so the results are favorable tomorrow.  

Currently Slaying,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Polka Dot Off-the-Shoulder Top // Tiny Bow Pearl Necklace

You Don't Need New Clothes, Just New Ideas...

I was once the girl who would always claim she had nothing to wear when it came time to get dressed for an occasion.  I would often go out and buy a new clothing item every time I was invited to an event.  Then I got more creative when it came to putting together an outfit and my "I have nothing to wear" days became few and far between. 

Each piece in the outfit on this post is old.  I was looking for something to wear one day so I began piecing things together.  I found an oversize shirt that I made into an off-the-shoulder top by tying it up, a black and white skirt to offset the the top, and yellow pumps to make the entire look pop. 

Looking good doesn't have to be expensive.  All you need are a few staple pieces and a bit of creativity.  I'm sure there are many pieces in your closet that can be transformed or mixed and matched.  For instance, if you have long dress with a split or a short skater dress, wear it over some jeans and add some heels to jazz up the look.  If you have a huge t-shirt, tie it up to create an off-the-shoulder top or wear it alone as a dress with your favorite sneakers. 

These days almost anything goes with fashion.  So before you go shopping next time, see what you can dig up in your stash.  There's nothing that a few staple pieces and a little originality can't solve when it comes to style.   

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Oversize Top (old, similar here) // Black & White Skirt (old) // Yellow Pumps

Positive People Have Negative Moments

It happens.  Positive people aren't always optimistic.  We are humans, and all humans experience doubt at times.  I had an overwhelming moment the other day.  I tried my best to hide it, but it seeped through my pores and came bursting out through my emotions.  I couldn't hold it in any longer.  After my vulnerable episode, I thought about what my mother once said to me when I was young and in the middle of performing one of my Oscar-worthy, crying fits that I was infamous for.  There I was sprawled out on the floor like someone had attempted to take my last breath and my mother came in the room, casually leaned on the door and said, "I'm going to let you have your moment, but after the moment, get yourself together."  I was astonished.  I only have a moment to throw my fit???  Okay....so I got the fit out of my system, then went on like the day was never interrupted by my childish antics. And to this day, that is my method.  Throw the fit (privately), get it out of my system, then get myself together.  

Yes, we positive people get in our heads and feelings at times, but the difference between us and negative people is - WE DON'T WALLOW IN IT.  We have our moments and in the midst of our moments, something in us says, "wait a minute, this is not how we operate."  And then we immediately correct our thoughts and redirect energy.  Being a positive person doesn't mean life won't catch you off guard.  However, when positivity is your mode of operation,  you will always go back to that place.  Think about it, you can put clothes on a dog and he or she will wear them for a while, but at some point, most dogs begin to roll around in the clothing in an attempt to get out of them.  That's because their default setting is that of a dog.  This should be the same with a positive mindset.  Life can throw us things that will make us go absolutely crazy, but if positivity is our default setting then we will eventually bounce back into that mode. 

So whatever negative moment you are having or have had, let it be.  Just make sure you get yourself together after that moment.  Get back to your default setting. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Vintage Floral Jumper // Heels

Photo Credit: @brukavin.visuals

The Custom Floral Blazer

I've been fixated on vintage fashion and custom pieces.  Regular fashion is okay, but it hasn't been that exciting to me lately.  Everything is beginning to look the same when it comes to style.  Originality seems to be a thing of the past.  Clothing brands are creating the same looks and it's uninspiring. 

I had an event to attend this past Saturday, and the requested attire was something floral, pink, or white.  I went to a couple of stores to see what was popping and quickly discovered that nothing was actually popping.  I pondered for days over what my outfit would be then remembered I knew of an up and coming brand that possessed some lovely custom pieces.  I anxioulsy contacted the designer of Magnolia Silks, told her my situation, and within a week and a half this floral beauty was at my doorstep.  See below.

I fell hard for this blazer as soon as I tried it on.  It fits me perfectly!  The material was of high quality, and it even had real pockets on it.  Classic!  I styled this blazer with some white trouser and nude heels.  I kept my accessories to a minimum and let the blazer make the statement. 

After wearing this blazer, I now want everything custom made!! What are your thoughts on some of the fashion being offered these days? 

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details // Floral Blazer // White Trousers // Rose clutch

Still Kicking in My Casual Bodycon Dress + Red Leather Chucks

I was having a conversation with my 93 year old grandmother the other day, and I asked her how she was doing.  Her response was, "I'm still kicking....just not as high."  I giggled.  And I told her as long as she is kicking, then everything is flowing.  I then thought about how I've been feeling a little uninspired and mentally tired lately, but despite those feelings I still get up and do what I have to do.  Sometimes I get a little hard on myself when I feel like I haven't accomplished as much as I think I should.  But then I'm reminded that as long as I'm pushing myself to do something, even if it's small, then it's all good.  

The words my grandmother spoke resonated with me.  It reminded me that there will be times I won't be at my best - my kicks will be lower than usual, and that is totally okay.  As long as I am still kicking, then I am still in the game - and that is half the battle.  

Keep kicking my people...   

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Bodycon Casual Dress // Red Leather Converse Tennis

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

Trimming the Fat

Over the past few months I've lost a few of my blog subscribers.  Each time I got an email that read "sorry, you've lost a subscriber" I questioned my platform.  I would ask myself, "are they not feeling my fashion, my words, my delivery?"  It was aggravating and discouraging at times.  When I would get the "infamous email" I would actually talk back to the computer screen saying stuff like, "whatevvvvvveeeeeerrrrr" and "forget you too!" To say I was tripping is an understatement for sure. 

A couple of days ago a friend called to tell me how he enjoyed my last post, Peace Over Money + Spring Colors.  During our conversation he said, "your writing is definitely improving.  It's concise, to the point....you're trimming the fat."  BOOM!  He hit the head on the nail!  I thanked him for his compliments, but what I was really thinking about was the phrase "trimming the fat."  It stuck with me.  I thought about the subscribers I've lost in the past and the ones that will possibly fall off in the future.  I got encouraged.  I told myself that I am actually trimming the fat and getting rid of unnecessary weight.  I understand that everybody will not be moved by what I am doing and that's fine.  I'm focused on operating in an authentic realm in all aspects of my life, and I want to only associate myself with a community of people who are truly open to my style and what I have to say. 

Now when I receive the "sorry, you've lost a subscriber" email, I shrug it off.  Quality will always exceed quantity in my book.  And it's way more fulfilling to vibe with a few people I genuinely connect with instead of a thousand who could care less.  

“I’d rather ten lions than a hundred sheep.”

— Fabolous

Getting skinny - figuratively and appreciatively,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: allthingsdante.com

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