I Ain't Tripping On 2018

It's that time of the year again.  That time when all you hear is people discussing their resolutions or the things they are going to do better in the coming year.  I get it...it's encouraging and inspiring to make resolutions for the new year.  Sometimes I even find myself saying what I will do better in the new year, but then I remind myself - I can start doing better today.  I don't need the calendar to read 01/01/18 for me to work out more, eat better, hustle harder, etc.  Because although I am anxiously awaiting the positives things that the new year will bring, all I really have is now. 

“Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.”

— Ben Franklin

I understand the importance of making plans and setting goals for the new year.  However, I also think that what can be done today should be handled today if possible.   Everyday is a blessing, and I should be working on becoming a better person every moment of my life.  Each day I wake up is a chance for me to correct any wrongs that are in my power to correct and work towards what I didn't accomplish the previous day.  I don't need a day on the calendar to remind me to do better and be better.  I'm reminded of that every time I get another opportunity to see the light of day.  

So here's to not tripping on 2018 and handling what you need to handle today.  Remember, the next year isn't promised - but right now is.  Start doing better this moment.

Happy Holidays my people and thanks for riding with me during 2017.  It was fun, informative, challenging, and eye-opening - and the crazy thing is, it's only the beginning.  It's about to get good for all of us! 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: OTK Red Boots // Vintage Trench // Red Beret

Photo Credit: Keithshoots.com

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

Enjoy Each Phase

I was sitting at an empty bar one day holding a casual conversation with the bartender.  In the middle of our conversation the bartender said, "Man it's slow in here today...damn!"  I sipped my martini then politely asked him what was wrong with that.  He responded, "I want that money!"  I nodded my head in understanding.  I then finished my drink, paid my tab, and said my goodbyes.  A day later I passed by that same bar and saw that it was jumping with inebriated, seemingly impatient people.  The bartender was all over the place juggling several things at once.  I paused at the open door of the bar to wave at him, but he didn't have a second to look up.  I thought to myself, "I bet he wishes he would have enjoyed that down time he had the other day."   

I remember as a child wanting to be grown in a hurry.  And now that I've reached adult status, I sometimes find myself wishing I would have enjoyed every childhood moment that I didn't have any bills to pay.  I hear parents sometimes say, "I can't wait until my toddler begins walking or eating on their own."  Next thing you know the child is driving themselves to the prom, and the parent is wondering where the time went.   

As humans, we have the tendency to complain about our current situations especially if they aren't progressing like we want them to.  Whenever I start to do this, I remind myself to find the blessing in that current situation and enjoy it until change comes.  I used to get antsy when I didn't have any work to do because I felt the need to stay busy.  Now days when I get free time I cherish it, because I know my schedule will flip to full within hours.    

No matter what is going on in your life (good or bad) know that it will change.  Nothing will be the same way always.  Therefore, enjoy each moment of downtime, each phase of busyness, and each second of solitude - because you never know when the bar will get chaotic again. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: keithshoots.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

I Flowed, Kept An Open Mind, Relaxed and Breathed in Barbados....

I was sitting in my office last week, jotting down some notes and wondering what the rest of the week would bring, then out of the blue I received a text from my editor.  The text went something like this, "Hi! Are you willing to represent the brand in Barbados for their Fashion Week this Thursday?"  I thought, "Barbados!?"  I didn't know anyone in Barbados and had no clue who I'd be working with when I got there.  I looked at my calendar.  Thursday was a couple of days away.  My brain began to race.  I had a full schedule planned out for the rest of the week.  I had some photo shoots coming up, a dentist appointment I desperately needed to make, a monthly panel I sit on, plus dirty hair.  I sank back in my chair and did what any responsible adult would do in my position.  I texted my editor back and said, "why not?!"

Pants available here.

Barbados was everything I thought it would be and more.  The people were interesting, the seafood was fresh, the colors were vibrant, and the fashion exuded Caribbean culture.  Although I was working with only 8-10 hours of sleep the entire trip, I was so grateful to breathe the fresh air of that island.  God is amazing!  

During the trip, I had the chance to experience snorkeling in the Atlantic Ocean.  At first I was hesitant because I didn't bring the necessary products to wash  my hair.  But after some convincing from my travel mates, I gave in.  When I put the snorkeling mask on, I immediately felt trapped.  I am very claustrophobic and this mask did not help my condition at all.  I took the mask right off and began to complain.  One of the people on the trip witnessed my mini panic attack, and quickly swam over to me and said, "relax and breathe."  He repeated himself, "whenever you feel anxiety, just relax and breathe."  I was consumed by his words.  I began to think about how relaxing and breathing could apply to other areas of my life.  Although I've heard relax and breathe several times prior to this trip, it made the most since right there in the middle of the Caribbean Sea.  I took heed.  I relaxed, took a deep breath, put the snorkeling mask back on, and down under I went. And boy was it a sight to see.        

I met some amazing entrepreneurs (libertyfairs.com, thebkcircus.com), a talented artist (Sheena Rose), models, a super cool fashion influencer (Ron Oppong), and an interesting blogger (Danielle Cooper) while in Barbados.  I'm so glad I jumped at the opportunity to experience that journey.  That spontaneous trip definitely proved to me that you never know what path life has in store.  With that in mind, it's best to flow, keep an open mind, relax and breathe. 

Check out a few more photos from the trip below.  Enjoy! 

Relaxing and Breathing,

- Samjah Iman

Picture Credit - @photosbyakira/@komacphotography/ @trevon_went

Fashion Designers - African print dress by @kimmysticclo,  Swimwear by @legenderesort ,  Bridal Exhibition by @kimmysticclo , Plaid Collection by @haus_rvr

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

When You Gone Get Up?

Jamming to my neo soul playlist the other day, I came across an admired song by Amel Larrieux titled Get Up.  In this particular song, she sings, "I know you're down, when you gone get up?"  That chorus alone sparked a much needed fire in me.  I instantly got inspiration from those words.    

A lot of us are not in the positions we want to be in and haven't been for quite some time.  Although everyone wants to accomplish something, not everyone wants to put in the work.  But as my intelligent friend so eloquently communicated to me last week, how do we expect to have a seat at the table when we haven't made reservations? In other words, how do we expect anything to change in our lives when we haven't made the effort to change them?

Some people wallow in being down.  They make 356 excuses as to why they can't get up and do what they've been meaning to do for years.  They love to tell any and everyone that will listen about how life has dealt them an unfortunate hand and blah, blah, blah, blah.  All that is cool or whatever, but when are you going to get up? 

I'm learning more and more on this journey called life that it only works when we work it, and what we can't handle is left up to the Higher Power. We have the ingredients in us we need to succeed.  All we have to do is tap into that greatness.  Complaining about being down is just like panicking when you've fallen in shallow water.  Sometimes you're in a situation you feel is too deep and could possibly drown you.  However, if you just calm down and stand up, you'll find that you're actually in shallow water and getting out and back on your feet is easier than you know. 

When you gone get up?

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

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.*

Take Care Of Yourself

Ever since I was a little girl, my grandmother would always tell me, "take care of yourself, hear me?"  Till this day, when I call her on the phone, she ends each conversation with, "take care of YOURSELF, hear me?" Back then, I used to say to myself, "duh Granny, I'm taking a bath, eating, brushing my teeth, etc."  It wasn't until my late 20s, early 30s when I realized that my grandmother's directive had nothing to do with hygiene.  It had everything to do with taking care of my mind, well being, and soul.

Everyday I try to make sure I do something for me.  Whether it's exercise, reading, listening to music, eating some type of food I like, or simply doing nothing - I make sure that I'm fed spiritually.  I've learn that I can't put my all into anything until I have taken care of myself first.  When we give too much of ourselves to other people/things without paying attention to our needs, we become bitter and frustrated easily.  But when we do pay attention to our needs, we have better energy, more creativity, and the people around us benefit as well.

In one of Wayne Dyer's YouTube videos, "101 Ways to Change Your Life," he says to give yourself a moment of silence each and everyday.  He goes on to say that a moment of silence is the highest respect we pay to those who are deceased.  So why not give ourselves (the living) the same thing?  Let that sink in.

About my look - don't you just love these pants?  Me too!! I got them from this boutique named Hanifa.  I paired them with one of my vintage blouses from Shop Vintage Bowtique.  I'm currently in a "take risks but keep it classic" style phase.  Meaning I'm not afraid to branch out and try new styles or patterns, but I will always pair my risky threads with a classic piece.  Classic never goes out of style.    

I wish everyone a beautiful weekend.  Whatever you engage in, don't forget to take care of YOURSELVES, you hear me?

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

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.*

Exaltation

A photographer and I went to what used to be a confederate monument to take the pictures you see above for his "Enthroned" project. When we got to the location which is in the middle of a busy New Orleans intersection, I got nervous.  The stone is as tall as it looks in the pictures above.  Plus I was cognitive of the recent protests and threats surrounding the removal of the statue that once sat on the stone.  The photographer looked at me and asked, "are you down to do this?"  I looked back at him and simply said, "you got the right one today."  However, my inner Sam was saying, "Ummm, no he doesn't!"  He grabbed a chair and ladder out of his car and off to the tall stone we went. 

In an ankle length skirt, I proceeded to climb all the way to the top of the stone.  People began honking, some recording me on their cell phones, some were yelling "go girl!", others were frowning and possibly yelling expletive language.  But here I was, perched on top of the tall stone, drowning out the noise and posing every time the camera flashed. 

While up there sweating with my legs shaking, I thought to myself...."this is exactly how it feels when I'm reaching new heights and growing." - uncomfortable, unsure at times, constant noise, go girl shouts, voyeurism, shady judgment, and sweat.  But I stayed up there and kept shooting, because I knew that with exaltation comes hard work and awkward feelings.  When I finally came down and saw the pictures, I was grateful for the entire experience. 

Welcome any challenge or chance to be exalted in your life.  Rise to the occasion, sit firmly in your position, handle your business, drown out the noise and wait for the beautiful picture to unfold - it will be all worth it.  

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Cross Choker by www.intuition.la. 

Photo Credit: www.visualalchemyphoto.com

The Real - 15+ Things You Don't Know About Me

I was nominated by my fellow blogger Taliah (Fashion Was Here) to share 10 things about myself.  At first I was like, "nope!" But then I thought about it and decided to open up to you all a little.  So here it goes....

1.  I once had a job as a lifeguard (thank God no one drowned).

2.  I wasn't born in a hospital room.  I couldn't wait.  I came out in the hospital hallway (I had things to do). 

3.  I'm claustrophobic.

4.  I have a smart mouth (thanks Daddy).

5.  I get uncomfortable and shy when I'm taking pictures and people stop and stare. 

6.  I can rap the entire 2pac song So Many Tears.  I wrote the words down when it first came out (I literally kept stopping and rewinding the tape lol) and it's been stuck in my head forever (oh the power of writing things down!). 

7.  I am taking guitar lessons.

8.  I have 9 tattoos and counting. 

9.  I can't figure men out.

10.  I can sit on the porch, listen to music and read for hours.

11.  Even though I have a few good girlfriends, I prefer male friendships. 

12.  I have random spurts of twerk sessions when I'm at home alone or around my family/friends (just had one in the kitchen).

13.  I ran away from home as a child....several times.  Luckily for my parents I only went down the street from our house, and the neighbors would rat me out each time (haters).

14.  I was in a dance/rap group called Flava when I was younger.  We performed in recreation centers and front yards.  People would actually crowd around to see us perform lol.     

15.  I don't like running unless I'm being chased by something. 

16.  I played the piano for 13 years, and I despised it then but miss it now. 

17.  I'm addicted to sour pickles and olives.

18.  My grandmother named me Samjah.  My mother gave me my middle name because she admired the model Iman.  She heard her speak and was fond of her humble attitude and grace.  

19.  I call my mother and sing to her when I get the urge.  My daddy won't tolerate it.  And nope, I can't sing worth a lick so I understand his sentiments lol.   

There you have it folks.....raw and uncut lol.  Your turn!

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Denim Dress (sold out, similar here) // Vintage Levis Jeans // Neon Yellow Heels

Photographer - shotbyclipz@gmail.com

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

Free Yourself

I had a guy friend once tell me that his success rate with getting the women he approached was high because his rejection rate was even higher.  He said once he renounced his fright of being rejected, he had no problem going for the gold because the fear of being turned down wasn't holding him captive any longer.  Failure didn't scare him, it actually freed him. 

One of my favorite former players of the NBA was Allen Iverson.  He obviously was an exceptional basketball player, but that was just one of the many reasons I admired him.  He was partly my favorite player because he displayed this dogmatic, no fear kind of attitude on the court.  He would try any move or shoot a shot from anywhere because he wasn't afraid to miss.  The result?  A Hall of Famer.  Same with Babe Ruth, he had the most home run hits during his time because his strikeout record was even higher.

My mother once said to me, "when you're not afraid to fail, it frees you."  And I'm saying to you all today, free yourself.  Jump out there and swing.  If you strikeout 30 times, I guarantee you will hit it at least once.       

“A mistake is evidence of effort.”

— Unknown

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

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

Drive Slow Homie

I was recently approached by someone who wanted to assist me (for a fee of course) in growing my brand at a rapid pace.  I was tempted.  I started thinking, "man I could come up quick and things would really start popping off like I want them to."  Fast success seemed enticing at the moment; however, something about the proposition didn't sit right with me.  So I obeyed my intuition and took a few days to ponder.  During those days, I decided to do my weekly pampering which consists of washing my hair, doing my nails, a facial, etc.  While engaging in this routine, I usually turn on some music and vibe out.  This time I turned on some Kanye West b.k. (before Kim), and when I hit his name one of my old jams Drive Slow came blasting through my speakers.  I immediately went into concert mode and began rapping to the mirror.  

After my performance, I started thinking as I went back to combing my hair.  Kanye b.k. was right.  What's the rush?  I thought about Style & Energy and how it took me a while to birth it.  It may not be the biggest blog out there yet, and I'm totally fine with that because it's authentic.  It's a byproduct of hard work, consistency, trial and error.  And in my opinion success, much like your favorite dish, just taste better when it's been marinating for some time.  The flavor is more distinct.   

Always remember that your race is just that - YOUR RACE.  Do everything at a pace that makes you comfortable.  When you start rushing because you are influenced by how fast other people are moving, that's when you began making unauthentic moves that aren't aligned with your passion.  Remember the story of The tortoise and The Hare?  The Hare just knew he was going to win the race because he was faster than the Tortoise.  So the Hare took the competition lightly and even boastfully rested during the race because he was so far ahead.  But while the Hare was sleeping, the Tortoise was working.  The Hare ended up resting a little too long, which resulted in a victory for the Tortoise.  From then on, the Hare told himself-  "Don't brag about your lightning pace, for Slow and Steady won the race!"

“The race is not always to the swift … but to those who keep running.”
”

— Unknown

Drive slow homies....

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: keithshoots.com

If You're Comfortable, You're Mediocre

I had dinner with a friend the other night and a motivating discussion came about as a result of our meetup.  While devouring some fried green tomatoes smothered in remoulade sauce, I vaguely listened to my friend as he discussed his life experiences.  I was so busy concentrating on my delicious tomatoes (I was super hungry by the way) that I could hardly hear anything he was saying until he spoke this, "If the house note you are paying makes you feel comfortable, then you need to search for a house with a note that makes you a little uncomfortable." I quickly lifted my face out of my plate and kindly asked him to repeat himself.  He explained further.  He said if you're in a comfortable position, you are not being stretched.  He stated that humans should seek some interests that make them feel uncomfortable for growth purposes.  He went on to say that a lot of people are in relationships that don't require them to grow or they go back to relationships that they once left because it's "comfortable."  Same with jobs or business ventures - people won't leave a particular job or start a business or get that degree because it will take them out of their comfort zone and require them to make some moves that they have never made before.  Therefore they settle and do what's easy.  

“If it scares you, it might be a good thing to try. ”

— Unknown

I took his words in for a second and was reminded of how I live my life.  I thought about when I committed to attending Howard University in D.C.  My parents were puzzled and asked me what was wrong with going to the local university in which I could attend for free.  I told them that was too easy to do, and I wanted to do something bigger.  So at 22 years old, my friend and I jumped in the car and drove 18 hours from Monroe, LA to Washington, D.C.  I got to that new city, got my school situation straight, got a place to stay, met some interesting people, and landed a few hustles.  This D.C. adventure set the tone for my fearless attitude towards my adult life.  From then on, I jumped at any and every opportunity to do something that made me feel a little uneasy and I still do.  It's a scary thing to do sometimes and I have doubts, but in the end I find that it always works out, I learn something, and I discover that I am even more powerful and resilient than I ever knew.     

Stepping outside of our comfort zone can be applied to every aspect in our lives.  For instance, if you do 10 squats in the gym everyday, bump it up to 12 squats and so forth and so on.  Challenge yourself to eat differently.  Take a different route to work than the usual one.  Read a new type of book other than your usual reads.  We weren't made to be mediocre and only do what's easy.  We were made to be dynamic. 

We are all powerful and brilliant.  There is magic inside of each and everyone of us waiting to be unlocked.  All we have to do is take some different routes, and we will discover our limitless abilities. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: @87photography87 (Instagram)