Currently Coveting...

The picture above shows the face I make when I see items I want.  I get mesmerized.  I guess it's safe to say that I am a functioning shopaholic.  I say functioning because I don't need to check into rehab just yet, and I pretty much have my shopping hobby under control (I think). 

Anyhow, summertime is approaching and there are a few items that I would like to have in order to make my 2016 summer super cute.  Peep the items I am coveting below. 

Picture courtesy of Urban Outfitters

These Birkenstock Arizona Mono Sandals would be perfect for the summer.  They are the ultimate relaxed sandals.  I actually owned a pair when I was younger, and what I remember most is how comfortable they were on my feet.  On any day I could throw on some distressed jean shorts, a ripped t-shirt, my Birkenstocks and boom - a chic summer outfit is born.  

Picture courtesy of ASOS

I love relaxed jumpsuits.  There are so many ways I can wear the ASOS Minimal Jumpsuit.  I can style it with a belt, a hat, some heels, or some sandals (the Birkenstocks above).  It's a perfect versatile piece. 

Picture courtesy of Steve Madden

What needs to be said about these bad babies?  I want them!!!

Picture courtesy of Shop Private Party

Summer means swimming, and hitting the beach in this Private Party swimsuit is a must.  I am into one-piece swimsuits because they can also be worn as bodysuits under jeans, skirts and shorts.  I live for multipurpose fashion. 

Picture courtesy of Urban Outfitters

I adore photography and how different pictures can tell a story.  I want to own several different types of cameras one day so why not continue my collection with a cute one?  The Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 camera has a vintage look and takes cool pictures depending on the film you use.  I must have one NOW!

PIcture courtesy of beachbikes.net

Last but not least....this is my ultimate wish.  I have loved bike riding since I was a child.  This bike would be perfect for me to cruise around town on while exploring and looking stylish.  I can't wait to get it!

Well there you have it...my small wish list (it grows daily).  Stay tuned to see if I purchase any of the items above soon. 

- Samjah Iman

Green Courage

It took some self-encouragement to do this shoot.  I was feeling a little uninspired due to the recent flooding that affected my hometown and caused havoc for my family and friends.  I felt helpless because I wasn't there to lend a helping hand.  Then I came to the conclusion that I needed to revive my positive energy and keep going so that my loved ones could sense my vibes and do the same.  

I found an old Urban Outfitters dress in my closet that I hadn't worn in a while.  I decided to pair it with a worn baseball cap, my Steve Madden combat boots and my Louis V bag.  In this outfit, I'm ready for whatever.  It's comfortable yet still stylish.   

Olive green (or military green) is a color that looks good on anyone.  It's not loud and it's not too subtle.  You can pair this shade of green with just about any other color.   

I love accenting most of my outfits with gold jewelry.  It just seems to stand out so well. 

Enjoy your holiday weekend sweeties and remember, no matter what, KEEP GOING!!!!!!

- Samjah Iman

Art, Dinner & Good Company

Art, dinner and good company: three things that are essential to a colorful life. 

I experienced all three this past weekend, and I must say my weekend was effective in a relaxing way.  I got word on Friday that Vitus Shell, an artist from my hometown (Monroe, LA), would be in New Orleans displaying his work.  He and I graduated from the same high school, and he and my brother were classmates so I was excited to go and show him a little hometown love.  When I got to The George & Leah McKenna Museum of African American Art in New Orleans, I became anxious.  I am a huge fan of art, and I couldn't wait to see what Vitus had up his sleeve.  When I walked into the museum, I was disappointed.  I was baffled for 2.2 seconds because I was wondering why no one ever told me that art shows were this dope???!!!!  Art shows can literally be the new club!

As soon as I stepped in the door the good energy hit me.  A diversified audience was scattered throughout the building and everyone seemed to be enjoying the creative vibe.  The deejay was blasting Electric Relaxation by A Tribe Called Quest (one of my favorite songs by that group in addition to Bonita Applebum and Award Tour - damn, music used to be on another level); a big smile was immediately plastered on my face.  Picture me at the sign-in table rocking side-to-side like I'm doing a subtle version of the Wop (an old school dance - YouTube it youngsters) while I'm smiling and writing down my email address - oh yea, I was over excited.  

The museum had a nice set up.  Exposed brick walls and antique furnishings filled the space.  I took a few more steps further in the building and boom, Vitus's art hit me.  It definitely caught my attention and the eye of my camera.  Check it out below.

Must Be Two Sides: The Dualities Of The Black Experience -  Vitus Shell

New Panther, 2016 - Vitus Shell

I love the colors and the representation of our culture in Vitus's paintings.  The relevant thing about this painting is that it references an organization that was started by Huey P. Newton who is also from Monroe, LA.    

Ghetto Heroes, 2016 - Vitus Shell

His paintings possess a since of familiarity. 

Approved, 2015 - Vitus Shell

A little background info on Vitus. 

Protect & Serve, 2013 - Vitus Shell

I love socially conscious art.  The fascinating thing about this painting and most of Vitus's paintings is there are two sides (hence, the art show name) to all of them.  Take a look at the background of the painting above - creative, huh? 

Class Act, 2013 - Vitus Shell

I think this adorable painting was one of my favorites. It tells so many different stories about the girl in the painting and the happenings behind her.  It says to me that she is the illest (outstanding) because of her ancestors who paved the way.  She is proud and resilient.  Her intelligence not only comes from education in the classroom but through being educated about her history.  She is more than her beauty; she is her heritage.  She is a "class act." 

I'm so glad I got to experience an art show like this one.  I hope to experience many more on this level.  Vitus did an excellent job and his talent is intriguing and worthy of praise.  Seeing his work and reflecting on other talented people from my hometown reassures me that Monroe, La is definitely on the map!!! #318

To check out more of Vitus's art or for information on his next show, visit www.theshellofvitus.com or follow him on Instagram - @theshellofvitus. 

After the art show, I had another engagement to attend (my social calendar is out of this world! - NOT).  A girlfriend of mine was being celebrated by her husband and close friends due to a recent promotion at her job.  You know I love a good dinner and celebration, so I was all for this event. 

The Honoree looking lovely. - Mrs. Elisha Bush

The diva was in the building! - Ms. Georgette Wallace

The food - broiled salmon and sauteed shrimp.   

Below is what I wore for the two events.  I decided to go with something casual and comfortable.  I'm in a"no fitted dresses" phase because I want to expand my fashion creativity.  We will see how long this phase will last. 

I wore a boyfriend blouse from H&M.  The tie I had on came from my mother's closet. It may look black in the pictures but it is actually a leather, burgundy tie.  My vintage Ralph Lauren jeans came from my father's closet - I love inheriting classic clothes!  My heels are Steve Madden.   

My weekend was great.....I have no complaints.  It was filled with two of the most important elements to me - Style & Energy.  

- Samjah Iman

Are you digging Vitus's art? Which painting is your favorite? 

Free Mind

"Free your mind and the rest will follow." - En Vogue

I believe a free mind is essential in order to live the best life you can possibly live.  Freeing my mind is something that I have been working on for a while.  I used to be caught up in certain standards and perceptions that I just couldn't let go, but the more I experience life, the more my mind opens up.   

My friend sent me a picture of some jeans that had chains attached to them.  I decided to try and create my own.  I hadn't worn these jeans in a minute because the cut on the thigh area was too wide.  So I decided to take my chain necklace and loop it through the holes in my jeans.  It worked out perfectly for me. 

This statement t-shirt was created by Chokolat Creme.  We aim to promote liberation, forward thinking, and openness; hence, the "Free Mind Tee."  

I told you guys that I would start adding some pop colors to my wardrobe....boom!

If you are a believer in having a free/open mind, check this t-shirt out by clicking the outfit details below or by clicking shop above.  Until next time....

- Samjah Iman

Is your mind free?

Photo Credit: Sailor Jackson Jr. (Facebook Page)

Outfit Details: Free Mind Tee // Shoes - Steve Madden (old) // BDG Jeans - Urban Outfitters (old) // Felicitat Sunglasses

Rejuvenation - Creole Style

When life gets busy and a little stressful, sometimes you have to let go, vibe out and adopt an "I don't give a damn" attitude like my friend in the picture above.  

On Thursday of this past week, I declared that I was going to do nothing this weekend but sleep in and rot my brain with reality television shows.  I was dead tired, and I felt that my body and mind needed a huge break.  However, Friday rolled around and the weather was perfect.  I then checked the weather report and discovered that Saturday would be beautiful as well.  I told myself that I would rest Friday evening and take advantage of Saturday.  I woke up Saturday morning and had that "do something" energy within me.  I needed to get out of the house and bask in the lovely weather that Louisiana was experiencing.  We do not get many pleasant, warm days here - so I wasn't letting this one slide.  

I decided to get dressed, pack my camera and head south to New Orleans, LA (NOLA).  NOLA holds a special place in my heart.  There is a vibrant spirit in that city, and I feel it each time I visit.  I love the culture, the cuisine, the free spirits, the art, and the music; it all envelops me.  

I walked miles around the downtown area just to see what I could see.  It was entertaining to say the least (as usual), and it was also refreshing and relaxing - just what my weekend needed.  Check out what I captured in NOLA below.  

I quickly gave this man a dollar....I was about to give him $5 but I remembered that I wanted to eat later on. 

Jazz art in the French Quarter.

Here vibe was peaceful. 

Window art on Royal Street.

I thought he was a cool subject to shoot. #fashionablyliberated

I love the architecture in NOLA.  The detailing and colors of the houses are so artsy.  

Art on the front of a building on Frenchmen Street.

A creepy bar that I won't be having a Bloody Mary at....ever.

People watching.

A simple wedding on Bourbon Street.

Somebody literally read my mind and put it on a shirt! Ha!!

A cool band taking a break in between sets. 

I am trying to take a picture while she is asking me to reveal my breast.  Obviously the party and ignorance never dies on Bourbon Street.   

I was tempted to sit next to her. 

My sentiments, exactly.  

After being flipped off by the silver man above, I felt is was time to dip into a cool restaurant, take a break from walking and feed my face.  I went into Bourbon House (a restaurant on Bourbon Street) that specializes in Creole cuisine.  Check out what I feasted on below. 

For starters, I had charbroiled oysters topped with crawfish.  It was dreamy and delicious. 

For my main course, I had Catfish Pecan served with sautéed shrimp, popcorn rice, Creole meunière, and seasonal vegetables.  God is good.

After dinner, I was back at it.  I recorded some live video of a jazz band playing on the street. The video came out blurry so I won't be sharing it; nonetheless, the music was jumping. 

Overall, my time in NOLA was an adventurous one.  I thoroughly enjoyed my weekend, and now I am rejuvenated and ready to tackle another week.  Until next time!

What do you like to do to rejuvenate your mind and spirit? 

- Samjah Iman

My Baton Rouge Fashion Week Vibe

My friend/business partner April and I participated in Baton Rouge Fashion Week via Chokolat Creme this past weekend.  It was exciting, exhausting and beneficial.  We had lots of fun and that is what really matters. 

The best part about the events this weekend, aside from getting more exposure for Chokolat Creme, was dressing up!  For these events, I wanted to do something a little more comfortable and different from the usual fitted dress I wear to events.  Check out my fashion week vibe below.  

For this night, I went for an all red look.  I'm digging wide leg pants this season, and it's a must that I incorporate them in my wardrobe from time to time.

Outfit Details: Red Riding Hood Jacket - Forever 21 (old) // Structured Crop Top // Wide Leg Red Pants - ASOS (sold out)

Cocktail attire was required for this night.  I opted for a tuxedo look.  Move over fellas - I got this.

My girl Coop (aka April) was in the building!

Here's a closer look at the bow tie.  I took a regular bow tie, adjusted it to my neck size and clipped it around my neck. 

Outfit Details: Tuxedo Blazer - H&M (old) // Black Jumper - bebe (old)

For the Big Night, we were asked to wear formal attire.  I couldn't see myself in a gown for this particular night since we had to work, so this skirt did the trick. 

And that's a wrap! 

Outfit Details: Hi Lo Skirt // Sequined Crop Top

To see more on the actual show visit www.thefashionlm.com. 

Which was your favorite look and why?

- Samjah Iman

Style Review

Every now and then I go through my previous fashion pictures to evaluate my style.  I look to see if and how my style has evolved and what I can do to dig deeper into my art.  This time, instead of going through my pictures by myself, I'm going to openly go through them using the S&E platform so that my readers can give their opinions as well.  So let's get to critiquing!

For those that will be critiquing me, "keep in mind that I'm an artist....and I'm sensitive about my shit!" - Erykah Badu

Simplicity - my overall style theme.  I like to keep it classic with a touch of pizzazz.   

As you continue to scroll you will notice that I love incorporating black in most of my ensembles. 

Some different color shoes besides black would have been funkier with the style above. 

Finally, some color!

I absolutely love my blue jean blouse!  I think this will be a staple in my wardrobe for a while. 

I can't get enough of black.  Don't judge me!

You got to love a good Carrie Bradshaw look!

I actually will not wear the skirt above again.  Don't ask me why....I'm just over it. 

Distressed jeans are at the top of my fashion list.  They go good with everything - especially my vintage mink!   

From looking through these pictures, I have come to the conclusion that I need to try adding more pop colors to my wardrobe.  Although black is my ultimate shade, it won't hurt to branch out and try other colors in the spectrum.  I will also tie in more prints.  Spring is approaching and this is the perfect season to play with shapes, flowers and loud colors. 

Any other suggestions on turning up my style?

- Samjah Iman

Be Authentic - Chokolat Creme

When my partner and I first started Chokolat Creme, we were focused on making a profit.  Yea, fashion was our heart, but we were caught up in what sold versus what was in our soul.  We sold garments that sometimes weren't exactly our style but were popular within the fashion industry.  We weren't true to our art.  It got to a point where we got sick of Chokolat Creme.  It was a carbon copy of every other online boutique in cyber space.  Our disappointment in Chokolat Creme forced us to back away from it and regroup.  After experiencing this reality with Chokolat Creme, I could truly empathize with music artists who felt they had to compromise their art in order to be marketable and make money - it's a disgusting feeling.

After we got the chance to take some time away, we came back to the drawing board with creative ideas that reflected us.  We wanted to leave our mark on the fashion industry.  We wanted our apparel to be commanding.  From then on we decided to create what was in our spirit.  We began creating t-shirts that had powerful images and messages on them.  We didn't care who liked them or who didn't.  As long as we were true to our sense of style and beliefs, nothing or no one else mattered.  

So here we are today being featured in magazines (see links to the articles below) and presenting a new line of t-shirts (The Conscious Collection) at Baton Rouge Fashion Week (Feb 22-27).  We are excited to show our audience what is really in our heads and hearts. 

No matter where Chokolat Creme leads us, we are already successful and accomplished because we are no longer bounded by earnings.  We are creating what we want and being authentically us - we ain't frontin!  

Ain't No Future In Yo Frontin - MC Breed  

https://digbr.com/this-week-in-dig-2-17/

https://digbr.com/behind-the-runway-digs-spotlight-on-the-designers-of-fashion-week/

https://digbr.com/fashion-statement-local-designer-brings-message-to-baton-rouge-fashion-week/

                                                                                                                                     - Samjah Iman

Black is the New Black

The color isn't the new black - the race is.  Being black is wonderful.  Recently fashion artists, music artists, and some community leaders are bringing national attention to our struggles and our magnitude.  Black people are trendsetters, creative souls, intelligent, talented, and resilient.  Although it has taken a while for some of us to understand just how beautiful and powerful we are as a people, it seems to be finally catching on.  

We have amazing ancestors who have paved the way for us.  We should not only honor them during Black History Month, but we should pay homage to them everyday by hustling harder, treating ourselves with more respect and by becoming more united as a culture. 

When I read quotes from leaders like Angela Davis or reflect on the accomplishments of Harriet Tubman, I get an urge to be great.  Their struggles and achievements inspire me to be unapologetic, authentic, and to inspire others to do the same.  My message to my people is let's continue to cultivate and embrace our roots.  Let's grow mentally, spiritually and financially and give our children the appropriate resources to do the same.  I truly believe what rapper Kendrick Lamar chants in his one of his songs on his recent album (which is actually my favorite song of 2015), "We gone be alright!"       

The Power Tee that I am wearing above is available at www.chokolatcreme.com.  Represent the ladies who made an impact on our society, and get yours today!

                                                                                                                                     - Samjah Iman

The Hat is the Reason

When I was younger, I didn't understand why my father wore so many hats and caps or why my mother often threw on wide brim hats to complete her wardrobe; but now I get it.  In most cases, hats make an outfit come alive.  I have learned that I can throw on a nice hat or cap with almost any outfit and make my look even more stylish.       

I would suggest that every fashion junkie own at least two stylish hats or caps.  They turn an ordinary outfit into an extraordinary one.  Hats not only make your outfit pop, they also camouflage your hair when you are not in the mood to comb it; and that is exactly what was happening on the day I took these pictures.       

The other staple in these photos, aside from my hat, are my Steve Madden Wantagh Booties.  These faithful booties have gotten a lot of wear.  They go with just about anything!  I wear them with skinny jeans, shorts, skirts, and of course dresses.  I consider these shoes a fashion investment.  When you purchase shoes that go with almost any outfit and can be worn all year round, you are definitely getting your money's worth. 

Outfit Details: Wantagh Booties // Ribbed Raceback Tank Dress // H&M Duster (old) // Wide Brim Hat (old) - Urban Outfitters

- Samjah Iman

A New Balance

How cool is it that I am now 34?!  This post is so appropriate because I am wearing New Balance tennis shoes, and I feel I have a new balance on life.  My new balance has nothing to do with success or anything like that, but it has everything to do with accepting and loving the woman I am becoming.  I feel extremely blessed, and I am excited to see what 34 has in store for me! 

Now if you know me, you know I love an eccentric/vintage looking spot.  Riding by the store (Atomic Pop) in the pictures, it caught my eye.  I parked my vehicle to explore it and immediately fell in lust because not only did it match my sneakers, it was a vintage record shop!!

The outfit I'm wearing in this picture is what I call a "laid back look."  I love dressing up; however, what I love more is dressing down.  Jeans, a tee, some cool kicks, and fresh sunglasses are all I need to make a fashion statement.  Less is truly more.  

Outfit Details: Skinny Jeans (old) - H&M // New Balance Tennis // Blue Jean Jacket (old) - H&M // Grey Tee (old) - Forever 21

- The Birthday Girl

Breakfast and a Magazine

A hearty breakfast and a good read is an excellent way to start your day - especially if the breakfast includes key nutrients, and the magazine features your brand! 

Chokolat Creme, a brand owned by me and my ace April, is featured in 225 Magazine!!!  April and I are excited to be presenting during Baton Rouge Fashion Week this year.  We plan to wow the crowd with statement tees, funk, style and individuality.  

Baton Rouge Fashion Week is February 22-27.  Visit www.batonrougefashionweek.com for a detailed schedule.  

Photo Credit. www225batonrouge.com.  Retrieved January 30, 2016. http://www.225batonrouge.com/style/baton-rouge-fashion-week-focuses-local-talent-art-community

Come watch Chokolat Creme murder the runway!! Click the shop button at the top to check out our pieces.

 - Samjah Iman

Respect the 70s

Although I am deeply in love with the era I was born in - the 80s - the 70s seemed so freaking cool.  I can picture myself kicking it in some dark, smokey club with this outfit on while men are swarming around the place talking jive, afro puffs are in full effect, and Al Green is blasting from the speakers.  The fashion from the 70s era intrigues me.  I love how the clothes were tailored to everyone's body during that era and how the outfits were simple but eye-catching. 

Flared jeans are pushing their way back on the scene.  The H&M jeans I'm wearing in these pictures have the right amount of stretch in them, therefore they hug the bottom perfectly - like a pair of 70s jeans should.  Tying my blue jean shirt up and adding some platform shoes to the mix definitely gave my outfit that 70s look.

Oh, check out my vintage Gucci purse!  This was an awesome Christmas present that was purchased from @Bells_Boutique_ (Instagram).  This boutique has all kinds of vintage designer bags (authentic) for excellent prices - my type of boutique.  

Outfit Details: Fitted Denim Shirt // Flared High Jeans // Aldo Booties (old) // Vintage Gucci Purse - @Bells_Boutique_

Are you digging 70s fashion?  Tell me your go-to 70s piece below. 

- Samjah Iman