Prepare for the Fight

In continuing my message I posted on Monday, I thought I'd share some insight that I received from Bishop TD Jakes about two or three weeks ago.  During one of his sermons I caught on YouTube, Jakes preached that life is a fight, and God is our sparring partner which means He is training and equipping us to win the fight.  I thought about what Jakes was saying and a light bulb popped on in my head.  Instead of wishing that I won't have to fight life all the time, I'll go into it ready for the fight.

I'm not looking for a break anymore.  I'm prepared to work hard for whatever I want.  I was talking to my friend Fish Plate (funny story how he got this nickname) about the recent events and the message I received from Bishop Jakes, and he said something that was real.  He said, "Everybody wants to be Oprah and have Oprah's money, but no one wants to experience and live through the struggles Oprah dealt with before she became Oprah."  This is so true because we often look up to millionaires and stars and wish we had their lives, but we never know what their fight was to get where they are. And you better believe that each person we look up to has had or is having some type of fight - that's just life.  

“Don’t want to do the dishes, just want to eat the food. ”

— Unknown

There is always going to be challenges in life.  Traffic will be heavy, our bank account will be missing some zeros, people will be mean and bias, unqualified people will become presidents of countries, the hot water heater will stop working, it will cost a lot to start a business or go back to school, our gas tanks will be low, girlfriends and boyfriends will leave, husbands and wives will disappoint, the brakes will go out, the car will stop running, the computer will freeze up (this is a sure way to make me run up and down the street screaming), the boss will ignore our accomplishments, blah, blah, blah, blah. Shit happens.  Many people will experience all these things and feel like God has not favored them.  This is the furthest thing from the truth.  God is actually training us for bigger fights to come because it doesn't get easier my loves, it gets harder.  The more successful we become the more responsibility we will have - and that's when we'll really have to scuffle. 

“Mo money, Mo problems. ”

— Notorius B.I.G

I stopped complaining about every little thing that was holding me back and started mentally preparing for the hurdles.  In the past, I knew they were coming but was hoping that God would spare me.  Now I know they are coming, and I use the strength that God has equipped me with to knock them all down.  Do I get tired of fighting?  Yup.  Do I feel like I have lost at times? Of course.  But I will not be defeated because I've got things I want to accomplish.  I will not let life get in the way and have me waking up one morning with regrets.   

Life won't let up - so we can't either.  The more we fight, the stronger we will be.   

So here's to life - Moma said knock you out.

- Samjah Iman

P.S. - I've been jamming to a Tribe Called Quest's latest album.  It feels good to have some music with depth to listen to.  So far I'm digging We The People, Kids, and Melatonin.  I will continue listening to discover more songs. 

Laying it Out in Leopard

This past week I experienced about 972 emotions pertaining to the recent debacle.  I went from scared to mad to perplexed to negative to sad to indifferent then back to mad.  While experiencing all of my emotions, I engaged in conversations with family members and friends to dissect the recent events.  After all of the conversations and my different emotions, I came to a conclusion.  It's time get our s@$% together.  

Life is hard.  It has been hard and will continue to be hard.  We need to stop looking for a break because we've never had one and possibly will never get one. We've been fighting to survive since the year of 1619, and the fight will not stop in 2017.  We are either going to complain about how we were, are, and will be treated, wait for God to drop something out of the sky, or pray and then jump in the fight by educating ourselves and our children more, loving ourselves more, eating healthier, exercising, handling our finances better, and creating opportunities for our successors.  We can continue to depend on them to help us...or help ourselves.  I choose to help myself. 

To be continued......   

Outfit Details:  Leopard Tights // Blue Jean Shirt // Stan Smith Adidas

- Samjah Iman

Being Single During Cuffing Season is Lit!

“I’m known to walk alone but I’m alone for a reason. ”

— Beyoncé

I got the chance to do some guest blogging on my girl's website - Moments N Melanin.  In this article, I discuss why being single is a good thing and why my single point of view is currently the best point of view. 😀  Check out the article here.

P.S. - America is scary right now, but God has our back.  He works in mysterious ways, so let's let Him work.  We've survived worse. 

Am I disappointment? Yes. Defeated? HELL NO!!  I'm about to jump in my Jeep, blast my Kendrick Lamar CD "cause we gon' be alright!"  

Keep the faith...

- Samjah Iman

Stay Woke - Be Heard - Be Stylish

The most stylish thing I can do is not wear the perfect jeans, or flex in the baddest shoes, sport the jazziest coat, or pose in the perfect sunglasses - the most stylish thing I can do is VOTE. 

Photo Credit:Presidential Gender Watch. 11/6/16 http://presidentialgenderwatch.org/gender-matters-status-check-gender-gap-presidential-primaries/

I encourage you all to get out there on November 8, 2016, and exercise your right.  I don't need to blog on the history of voting in our country because you all already know what it is.  I just came through to say, "don't sleep - show up."

Let's represent on Tuesday. 

Photo Credit: PSD Graphics. 11/6./16. http://www.psdgraphics.com/psd/photoshop-empty-and-vote-buttons/

Stay Woke, Be heard, Be Stylish - VOTE!

- Samjah Iman

What is That in Your Hand?

Some time ago I heard the story of Moses and the Burning Bush (Exodus 3-4) from the bible being told in a way that relates to everyday life.  It had been about a couple of years ago since I've heard the interpretation of that story, therefore I had pushed it to the back of my mind, but this past weekend I was reminded of it.

Briefly, the story is about God calling Moses to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt and from under Pharaoh's control.  When God called upon Moses, Moses gave God a bunch of reasons as to why he couldn't complete the task that God had given him.  This has been me for the past month. 

I've been on that Moses tip reeeeeaaaaal hard.  I have been faced with an opportunity to grow, and up until this past weekend I have come up with 127 reasons why I couldn't.  I've said everything from "I don't have the type of money I would like to have right now to complete the task" to "I need to get some things situated first before I do it." Then as I was sitting in solitude this past weekend trying to get my mind right, it hit me.  I was reminded of what God asked Moses. "What is that in your hand?"

You see, Moses was giving God reasons as to why he couldn't execute the plan that was assigned to him and then God said, "Dude, what is that in your hand?" Okay he didn't say it quite like that but you see where I'm going.  Moses then answered him and said it was a shepherd's staff.  God then asked him to throw it down and Moses did, and it immediately turned into a snake. God was basically showing Moses that he already possessed the skills and resources needed to complete the task - all he had to do was use them.  God was basically saying , "Bruh, quit tripping and do what I asked you to do. You got everything you need already.  Just do it.  I got you!"

When I thought about this particular story in the bible I immediately got motivated.  I felt like this story came to me because God was telling me to stop worrying about what I don't have because I already have everything I need - and to move forward with the opportunity presented, and He'll do the rest. 

We may not ever have everything we want to have in place to complete a task given to us or to go after a goal we've set.  There will always be a reason to make excuses about what we do not have, but I'm learning that it's not about what we don't have.  It's all about now, and what we do have. 

Stop procrastinating and do what you have to do with what you have now.  He'll provide what you're lacking.

What is that in your hand?

- Samjah Iman

The Dress from the Unknown

Vintage fashion peaks my imagination.  When I get a vintage piece, I imagine who owned it first, what they did for a living, where they wore the particular piece to, and why they gave it up.  Vintage fashion is more than just fashion to me, it's a story.  A story that keeps being retold over and over....and when I get the pieces, I make sure that my story in these clothes will be interesting, authentic, and most of all full of style.  Get into my story below featuring The Dress from the Unknown. 

View fullsize

When I received this dress from Do The Right Vintage, I slipped it on and was immediately reminded of the dresses my paternal grandmother used to wear; therefore, I'm guessing this dress dates back to the 1970s or so.  My grandmother's dresses always fit her in the waist and flared at the bottom.  I love fit and flare dresses because they hug my frame just enough to accent my waist, but flare out to keep it conservative.

What is old becomes new in fashion, and this is why I always welcome classic pieces into my closet. When you collect classic pieces, you will definitely get your money's worth and be able to sport those classic items for years to come. 

When you receive new items, take care of them.  Be grateful and mindful when sporting them; put some good energy on those pieces, and then pass them on with grace.  You never know who will inherit them next.

One person's hand me downs is another person's treasure.  

Outfit Details:  Green Vintage Dress // Booties (old) similar pair here // Black Clutch Purse (old) // Gold Belt (old)

For those of you who are on Instagram, you can find Do The Right Vintage at - @dotherightvinatge.  Happy Shopping!

Photography Credit: Todd Sterling (toddlsterling@aol.com)

- Samjah Iman

Booted

There are three reasons why I love fall: no humidity, the clocks go back an hour, and I get to wear over-the-knee boots.  Nothing excites me more than cute purses, spicy (free) food, and a pair of bad boots. 

Great boots allow you to dress down but still make a fashion statement.  The right pair of boots can take your outfit to another level.  If your shoe game is on point and your accessories pop, you can get away with wearing a plain, simple outfit.     

I paired my H&M boots with some cut-off shorts, a white boyfriend shirt, gold jewelry, and my cute animal print bag from Intuition.  The bag and the boots both brought this outfit to life.  

The best thing about these boots is that they were under $100!  Due to the low price, the gray pair have already sold out but the black pair is still available.  Get you a pair soon!  

Outfit Details:  Thigh-high Boots // Purse // Shirt

Have an awesome day everyone!  Stop making excuses and handle your business.  Change your mindset and hustle hard.  I'll do the same. 

Peace!

- The Boot Bandit

Photo Credit: Todd Sterling (toddlsterling@aol.com)

Be Your Own Kind of Fly

The world we live in will try to tell us how to dress, how much to weigh, how to do our hair, when to fall in love, what type of person to fall in love with, when to have kids, what music to listen to, what type of job to get, and a whole slew of other things.  If we're not careful, we will began to conform to society's standards.

It's easier to follow a crowd, but it's more rewarding to do your own thing.  We have to live our lives according to our own rules.  When it's all said and done, we will be the ones who will have to live with our decisions, not society.  Trying to please everyone is the quickest way to insanity.  

One of the main reasons I love fashion so much is because it represents individuality.  I can dress according to my classy side one day or throw on some sneakers to accommodate my cool side the next.  The outfit I'm wearing in these pictures represents my "I'm chilling today" side.  Sometimes I like to rock a low key look with a classic pair of sneakers and stylish cap.  Truth be told, a low key look is one of my favorite looks to rock.  It stands out in any setting.    

I'm praying that every one has the best weekend they have had in a long time!  I'm gearing up for a new chapter in my life so I will be grinding as usual (stay tuned). 

Remember to ditch the rules and rock to your own beat.  Wear what you want, love who you want, go where you want - be your own kind of fly.

God bless you all.....even if ya'll didn't sneeze (lol). 

Peace,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details: Black Vegan Leather Hat // Puma Careaux // Full of Color Faux Fur Bag

Scary Sexy

Somebody asked me what I was going to be for Halloween, and I simply said "Chic." 

I'm not with the whole dressing up in costumes thing like I used to be.....well I do dress up but not as a character.  I like to dress up in outfits that I would ordinarily wear even if it wasn't Halloween.  For instance, one year I was an 80's flash dancer, and I would totally wear a flash dance costume to the grocery store.  This year, I decided to dress up as me - chic. ;-)

The outfit I'm wearing in these pictures put me in the mind frame of a modern day Harlem Nights ensemble.  It's cocktail-ish, and can be worn to after-five events.  I purchased the dress I'm wearing years ago from ASOS, and what makes the sexy in this dress really pop are my Berkshire Sheer to Waist Fishnet Tights.  Nothing says sexy more than fishnet tights!  Just ask Morris Day; he sang a whole song about fishnet pantyhose!....(google him youngsters).   

Fishnets are not to be worn only under dresses.  They can also be worn under cut off shorts, distressed jeans, and cute mini skirts (I'll give you an example of this in the future).  

I have had plenty of fishnet tights in the past, and they all rip involuntarily before I can really enjoy them ( I actually like to rip them myself).  However, these Berkshire Sheer to Waist Fishnet Tights are quality and fit me to a tee.  They are perfect for all sizes, comfortable enough for all day wear, and only $11.00!  

If you are looking for the perfect fishnet stockings to make your Halloween outfit come to life, or if you just need some fishnets to add to your wardrobe - look no further.  Berkshire is your fishnet haven!  Get your fishnets before 10/31/16 and receive 15% off along with free shipping!  To take advantage of this offer, use code blogger15 at checkout.  Happy Shopping!!    

Outfit Details:  Dress (old) similar here // Fishnet Tights // Heels // Choker // Veil Headpiece (old) similar here     

Timeless Style

There are three things I do not leave home without because if I do, I will feel naked: clothes (well duh), moisturizer (thou shall not be ashy), and most importantly, a watch.

“Man I promise, I’m so self conscious. That’s why you always see me with at least one of my watches.”

— Kanye West

I am a fan of unique watches, and when it comes to choosing watches I like mine to be simple, classy, and timeless.  Therefore when I was presented with the JORD Wood Watch (CORA series) I am wearing in these pictures, there was an immediate attraction.  I fell hard for the natural wood band that matches my skin tone perfectly and the stunning turquoise face, featuring swarovski crystal markers, which glisten in the sun.  I couldn't stop staring at the cool watch, and I couldn't wait to sport it. 

I decided to debut my watch to the world this past Sunday at brunch.  I was going for a relaxed look for this occasion so to complement my watch, I wore a gold cardigan, blue jean shorts, and tan booties.  The watch actually took my outfit to a higher level and gave it some pizazz.  This watch is the perfect staple and one of its kind.     

Check out more pictures of my JORD Wood Watch below.

Most watches you see in the stores can only be worn with one type of look whether it's a dressy look or sporty look.  Not JORD Wood Watches.  One of my favorite things about this watch is that it can fit any type of lifestyle.  Whether you are the business type, adventurous type, classy type or sporty type, this watch (or other JORD Wood Watches) will suit you. 

JORD Wood Watches represent more than just timepieces.  They represent stylish moments and a lifestyle.  I love pieces that have meaning behind them, and I'm always looking for unique, thoughtful gifts for my family and friends.  JORD Wood Watches will definitely be on my holiday shopping list.  As a matter of fact, I'm going to enter the contest on the JORD website to win a $75 e-gift code in hopes of putting it towards the next JORD Wood Watch I buy!

If you are looking for a unique watch to add to your collection or to buy for a loved one, click here to enter the contest for a $75 e-gift code.  Just by entering the contest you will automatically receive a $20 e-gift code!  Hurry up and enter, the contest ends 11/6/16 at 11:59 p.m.!

Have a good weekend everyone.  May it be filled with good times and stylish moments! 

- Samjah Iman

This Post Was Sponsored By JORD WOOD WATCHES.  My opinions are my own.

Shut Up

Have you ever had a wonderful idea, exciting news, or new companion that you were super stoked about and as a result you decided to share your enthusiasm with someone, and they killed your vibe on the spot?  Yup, that has happened to me too - a number of times, and then I finally decided to apply some advice my grandmother gave me several years ago....shut up.   

“Don’t tell the dishwasher what you did with ya dishes.”

— Jeezy

My grandmother once told me that you can't tell everyone what you're doing.  Boy was she so right.  You see....everyone has an opinion.  Everyone will tell you what they would do if they were you, but the key factor is - THEY ARE NOT YOU!  I've learned over the years that it's okay to talk to a chosen few but not everyone because some people only want you to live a certain way that makes THEM feel comfortable.  They don't want you to do too much, go too far, or be too great because it makes them feel bad about their circumstances.  Everyone doesn't need to know your every move or your next move because not everyone has your best interest at heart, not everyone is satisfied with themselves so they project their negative vibes on you (misery loves company) and, most importantly, not everyone understands YOUR destiny/journey. 

“Never let ‘em know your next move - don’t you know bad boys move in silence? ”

— Notorious B.I.G. (Ten Crack Commandments)

I once heard Bishop TD Jakes say that we need to stop receiving counsel (from people) that doesn't line up with our purpose.   You could have a brilliant idea or new interest, but you let your idea die or interest fall by the wayside because of how someone reacted when you told them about it. And now that person who reacted negatively to your idea is living his or her life while you are stuck not pursuing your goals or living your life.  Just SHUT UP!  Bring to fruition whatever feels good in your soul and then share it with the world.  Just remember to guard some of your passions and goals before you birth them because not everyone needs to put their energy on your dreams, and not everyone can see your vision like you can see it.

Get your purpose, keep it to yourself, and carry it out.    

- Samjah Iman

The Jersey with Meaning

I have been looking for a baseball jersey for quite some time now.  I was having lunch with a friend who owns a store, and he informed me that he actually had Negro Baseball League Jerseys in stock. My eyes lit up, and I got very anxious.  I had to have one.  My mother talked about the Negro Baseball League all the time when I was younger, and representing the history of my people through fashion is a huge honor that I try to take advantage of often.  If I was going to buy a baseball jersey, it was going to be a Negro Baseball League jersey.  It didn't take me any time to get to that store and cop that jersey.  I didn't care what size it was; I was going to make it work.  Check it out below.   

I feel like baseball jerseys represent the ultimate 90's style.  Wearing clothes like this takes me back to those days when fashion and music intermingled.  This outfit brought back memories of girl groups of the 90's like Jade, SWV, and Xscape.  Oh how I miss those days!! 

I could have worn some sneakers with this look but I wanted to give it some extra fly so I chose to wear my combat boots.  I threw my Intuition choker on, some gold jewelry, my unitard, gold H&M belt, and my book bag purse, and a 90's look was born.....again.       

Before I go, let me quickly brief you all on the Negro Baseball League.  African Americans begin to play baseball in the 1800s in the military and college, and eventually they were recruited to play on professional baseball teams.  Shorty after that, racism and laws like Jim Crow prohibited them from continuing to play on professional teams.  As a result, African Americans formed a league of their own. 

What this jersey represents is deep.  I not only purchased this jersey for the history, I also purchased it for the message which simply says to me, "when one team rejects you, form your own." 

Be a beast this week,

 - A girl who's in a league of her own

Outfit Details:  NBL Jersey // Gold Belt (H&M, old) // Unitard // Combat Boots // Purse // Choker

Just Do It

A lot of us are waiting for the perfect moment to begin working towards our dreams and goals.  I got some news for you, THERE IS NO PERFECT MOMENT!  One of the best slogans/advice comes from Nike - JUST DO IT.  It's simple as that.  Just jump in there and do what you have to do to accomplish what you need to accomplish.  I'm not going to preach today or go on and on about this subject.  I just wanted to drop this quick message in your space and tell you to Get up, Get out, and Get something!  

The saying goes " a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."  I encourage you all to take that first step today.  Whether it's a major step or very small step - just do it.  It won't be easy, but I'm sure it will be worth it, because you never know where that first step will lead you.        

Make something happen on this hump day. 

Hustle hard,

- Samjah Iman

The Cool Sweater Dress

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

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

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

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

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

- Samjah Iman 

The Purple Shorts

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

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

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

Okay now I can let you guys enjoy your weekend. 

Be good,

- Samjah Iman

California Dreaming

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

American Apparel Swimsuit

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

Breakfast overlooking the beach was dreamy. 

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

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

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

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

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

Peace and Blessings,

 - Samjah Iman

In Living Color

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

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

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

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

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

- Samjah Iman

The Minimalist Look

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

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

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

Have a peaceful day.  Be good to someone.

- Samjah Iman

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

Styling the Eccentric Blazer

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

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

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

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

xoxoxo

- Samjah Iman

The Costume Designer/Stylist You Need to Know

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

— Janelle Carothers

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

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

THE JANELLE NICOLE CAROTHERS INTERVIEW

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

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

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

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

Me:  What inspires your creativity? 

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

Me:  What is your go-to look? 

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

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

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

Me:  Who is your style icon? 

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

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

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

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

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

Me:  What are your future fashion plans? 

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

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

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

Me:  Adidas, Reeboks, or Nikes? 

Janelle:  Nikes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Me:  Any advice for inspiring stylist or entrepreneurs? 

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

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

Janelle:  Corny but go big or go home.

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

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

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

- Samjah Iman