Keep Going

Hey loves.  I'm back from Denver, and I would be lying to you all if I said I'm ready to rock and roll.  I'm actually mentally drained.  I feel like laying in the middle of the floor on my back and staring blankly at the ceiling.  These days it seems like life is a pitching machine and someone turned the speed dial all the way up.  As soon as I catch one ball, another one is coming - fast.  

While in Denver, I got the chance to see my 97 year old great aunt Thelma who lives by herself and still drives daily.  While conversing with Thelma, my mother asked her to bestow some words of wisdom upon us.  Thelma hesitated then spoke in her loud, thunderous voice, "Well Pam, I would have to say....keep going.  No matter what comes your way, keep going.  Get up in the morning, toast the toast, turn the coffee pot on and keep going."   

Even though my mind is weary and the floor is calling my name, I will keep going.  I will rest when I need to then get back up and keep it moving.  Now if you all would excuse me, my tea pot is whistling and my toast is done.  I got things to do and people to see.  

Good day folks!

- Samjah Iman

It's Golden...

Hey my people!  I am currently in Denver enjoying my surroundings (and this free WiFi thanks to Starbucks lol).  As I type and gaze off in space, I'm reminded of how absolutely golden life is.  What makes it beautiful is that we can really control which direction it goes in by controlling how we think.  It truly is all about perception.  Everything definitely works mentally.  It's really amazing how strong our minds are.  Let's remember that.   

On a fashion note, in these photos I am sporting a super cool top by Dusse Boutique.  When I first received it I was going to dress it up all girlie.  But then I started getting dressed, and the rugged look felt so much more comfortable and fitting to me.  So I went with what felt right.  Check it out below. 

I paired this jazzy top with my combat boots and some H&M jeans I found for $20.  Ya'll already know I had to recreate the jeans to fit my swag. I literally cut every pair of jeans I have these days!      

Oh and check out my friend I met while shooting below.  He stopped and asked to be apart of the photo shoot, and I was like what the heck - let's do this.  So we posed. 

Don't forget that your thoughts create your life!  So let's all think BIG!  See you soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

The Top Is Perfect, I'm Not...

I am not perfect.  I am not perfect.  I am not perfect.  I have to repeat this statement almost daily to myself because I'm currently in the process of renouncing my perfectionist mindset that I have suffered from for years.  I used to expect the very best from myself and when I didn't achieve what I thought I should in the past, I was super hard on myself.  These days I'm learning to just flow.  Yes I still give 100% in anything I do, but now days I allow myself to be just what I am - a human.  If I don't hit the mark, say the right thing, or make the right moves - I say F%^$ it and move the hell on. It is what it is.   

Now about the perfect top in these pictures.  Isn't it just gorgeous?!  I am obsessed with of-the-shoulder tops these days and colorful prints and this one definitely fits my style aesthetic.  I paired my new favorite top with a pair of vintage Ralph Lauren jeans I got from my daddy's closet (I cut them myself), my red Steve Madden heels, and a vintage leather purse (links provided below).  

Before I sign off, I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who takes time out of their busy schedules to read my posts.  It means the world to me, and If I am impacting someone's life through my style and words then I am doing my job.  Thank you all! 

On another note,  I'm headed to Denver this week to see my beautiful family and wish my lovely grandmother a happy 93rd birthday!!!  I will try to give you guys one more post before I leave, if I don't then oh well.....I'm Not Perfect (lol).  Have a good one....SMILE!    

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Ralph Lauren Jeans //  Aafin Off-the-Shoulder Top // Tierney Heels // Purse

Wrap Your Head With This Material...

The title of this post?  Oh, it came from an Erykah Badu song I was listening to while going through the pictures above.  The phrase goes perfectly with the beautiful jumpsuit I have on in the pics. 

In her song ...&On, Badu was speaking in terms of knowledge when she sings "wrap your head with this material."  I gave this post that phrase as a title because not only is the material I'm wearing beautiful, it also has some history and significance behind it.  This vibrant, soul-train inspired jumpsuit was crafted by two designers from the IBO tribe in Nigeria.  The people of this tribe are known for their creativity amongst other things.  It has been said that the history of some bold African prints stem from the mid-19th century when West Africans were sent to Indonesia for political purposes.  Wrap your head with this "material" and read more about it here. 

If you're feeling this Daveda Dot Jumpsuit, get yours here! 

Have a colorful weekend everyone! 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: Patrick Melon - info@melon.photos

Just Do You

The media has a clever way of persuading us to be like someone else other than ourselves.  When you turn on your television, there is someone telling you to grow longer hair like the models or drive a certain car that most celebrities drive.  When you scroll on social media someone is bragging about their vacation in Bali causing you to think that your vacation to Destin, Florida was below average.  The concept of "not being or not having enough" is everywhere.  You need to be bigger, skinnier, wear more elaborate clothes, eat this type of food, rent a private jet, work for a Fortune 500 company, start 20 businesses, grind all day, etc.  All of this madness will drive you absolutely crazy if you let it.  That's why it's important to know who you really are and what motivates you.               

It's okay to not want to aspire to be what society tells us we should be.  In my opinion living a good life is not about how much material wealth you can gain, it's about finding YOUR purpose and carrying it out.   

Let's all take some time this week and dig deep into our souls to discover what really moves us.  Let's define what success looks like to us and live up to it.  This is our life, no one else should be able to dictate how it unfolds.  JUST DO YOU!

“You’re only effective when you’re authentic. ”

— Bishop TD Jakes

Outfit Details: Pants (Similar) // Reversible Top // Shoes // Purse

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

P.S. - Happy Birthday to the coolest, best father ever!!! Happy Birthday Daddy!

Rest, Child...

I read somewhere that resting is one of the most spiritual things we can do.  I totally agree with this proverb, but lately I haven't been practicing it.  Since I resigned from my job, it's been non-stop.  I've been hustling for the other website I work for, meeting new people, hanging out into the wee hours of the night then waking up at 6:50 a.m. to do it all over again.  I'm trying to respond to everyone's call, text message and email, be the perfect friend, listen and give the most profound advice, keep my crib clean, grow my blog, exercise, eat right, groom myself, and nurture my creative juices - but I haven't had time to stop and just breathe.  My body is nagging me for rest, and my spirit craves solitude.  It's important that I listen to these two elements and take heed because my creativity depends on my body and spirit being balanced.  

“When you’re in spirit, you’re inspired. ”

— Unknown

It's hard for me not to lend my energy to others, but I'm learning that lending all of my energy to others leaves me drained.  I have to protect my energy and make sure Sam is 100% so that I can give my happiest, most alert self to my loved ones.  I want to be the best blogger, the best friend, the best daughter/granddaughter, the best companion, the best sister, the best auntie, the best niece, etc.  And the only way I can achieve this is by rest and seclusion every now and then.  Sometimes I get irritated when people continue to ask me for things and request my presence or ear regarding their circumstances like they should know and understand that I'm worn out.  However, I'm learning that most people are only concerned with their wants/needs, and it's not them that I'm irritated with - it's me.  I'm the one who needs to refrain from being a people-pleaser and learn how to say no or just not answer the call.

We can't be the best versions of ourselves and keep going if we don't recharge our batteries.  So here's to a weekend of protecting our energy, resting, saying no when we feel like it, and doing whatever the hell makes us happy.  Cheers!

Photos - bylauraturner.com. 

Outfit Details: Vintage Floral Dress

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman  

Essence Festival 2017 Street Style

Essence Festival has come and gone and I took full advantage of it! I got to see some great performers, I covered some cool events, and met some creative individuals.  In addition to attending all the events, I also hit the streets to capture some style.  Check out what my camera caught below.  Enjoy and be inspired!  

I got a chance to meet and take a picture of Solange in her store!! She's definitely a dope individual!

Have a wonderful week!  Talk to you all soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

The Dual-Purpose Swimsuit

Hello my beautiful people! I took a quick trip to the beach this past weekend, and I enjoyed myself.  The water was pleasant, the waves were high, and the sun was beaming.  I wore the cutest swimsuit ever by a company named Bare Swim.  This swimsuit will definitely be serving a dual purpose in my wardrobe.  I will wear it on the beach again and as a bodysuit underneath some shorts or jeans.

This swimsuit is a total eye-catcher with its high cuts and low back.  To give it some extra pizazz, I added a belt around my waist.  Shop this swimsuit and more cute swimsuits here! 

On another quick note, a friend shared an insightful YouTube video with me titled 101 Ways to Transform Your Life by Wayne Dyer.  I thoroughly enjoy listening to it, and I want to pass it on in hopes that you will share the same sentiment.  Take some time and listen to it as often as you can.  It is really helping me on my current journey, and I'm sure it will do the same for you.  Listen here. 

Have an awesome week everyone!

- Samjah Iman

With A Child's Heart

When I got my first apartment sans roommates, my friend and godson (who was about 3 years old at the time) came to visit me.  They slept on an air mattress in my living room because I didn't have all the necessary decor/furniture to fill my new space.  I had one couch, a small table, some kitchen equipment, and no curtains.  It didn't bother me that I only had enough furniture for a college dorm room, but what did irk me was that I had no way of blocking the glaring sun in the morning.  Although I am a person who loves natural light, I am also a person who likes to sleep late from time to time and having no curtains prevented this daily.  When my friend came to visit, I apologized profusely for not having curtains because I knew her morning rest would be cut short as soon as the sun peeked its head over the horizon.

When the inevitable morning came, as usual, I rose with the sun.  While furiously pulling the cover over my eyes to block the harsh rays, I heard a small eager voice yell - "Mommy, somebody turned the light on outside!"  I couldn't contain the huge smile that swept across my face.  That was about 11 years ago, and I have never forgotten that profound observation made by my godson.  While I was dreading the morning because I had no curtains to block its contents, my godson had a different perspective.  From that day on, I made peace with my no-curtain situation because I allowed myself to view it as my godson had.  The sun coming up didn't mean less sleep, it simply meant somebody (God) had turned the light on outside.  

Every now and then I feel that it's best to take on some of life's matters with a child's heart.  Children are uninhibited, imaginative, and carefree.  They view the world through the most simplistic, yet philosophical lens.  They don't care what anyone thinks of them as they dance their little hearts out in public.  They don't limit their thinking - they imagine themselves being anything they want to be in this world.  They see and appreciate the beauty in everything around them.  This, my friends, is how adults should handle life as well. 

Let's get back to taking on this world with a child's heart.  Let's dance like no one is watching, use our wildest imaginations, and be grateful when God turns the light on outside.  

Have an awesome weekend love bugs!  Talk to you soon!

- Samjah Iman              

Experiences over Things

Lately I've been indulging in experiences rather than material things.  I want to concentrate more on experiencing things that are good for my soul and spirit.  Material possessions come and go.  Experiences stay in the heart forever.        

These days I want to ride my bike more.  Pick fresh flowers for my place weekly.  Take up new hobbies that exercise my mind.  Read good books on my porch.  Try exotic restaurants.  Watch people who are enjoying life.  Go to more concerts.  I want to be more present, and I'm working towards that each and everyday.         

A lot of people equate money/status with success and happiness.  I used to be one of those people.  However, I quickly realized that I can't account for all the money I have made in the past.  But what I can tell you about is the time my mother and I laughed uncontrollably in the bed one night or about a good conversation my father and I had while riding in his pickup truck - or about how my friend and I sat for hours on the beach in silence just listening to the water - or about how a certain song I hear makes me feel - or about some delectable fish tacos I tasted in this swanky, quaint little spot one weekend. 

Yes we do need money to make sure some of our needs are met, but life shouldn't be just about making money.  It should be about making experiences.  That is what will last.     

“The happiest people don’t have the best of everything. They make the best of everything they have. ”

— Unknown

Create some memorable experiences this week, no matter how big or small.  It will be good for your soul. 

- Samjah Iman

Jumper available, here. 

Photography by www.kwesi.co

Collarbone Love

Some women really love showing off their legs, others love showing their midriffs, chest, backsides, or even front private areas (if they are on an Amber Rose journey lol).  While I take part in showcasing some of those physical attributes as well, my favorite thing to display is actually my collarbone lol.  Truthfully!  I think visible collarbones and elongated necks are very attractive...maybe it's the Nefertiti in me - who knows?!  But what better way to show your neck and collarbone than by rocking an off-the-shoulder top?  Check out the cutest summer top ever below from Styledbyrish.com.     

This top was definitely a delight to wear.  The colors stood out, and it flowed so pleasantly with my jean shorts and nude heels.  I put it on during the beginning of the day and didn't want to take it off!  During the evening, I switched up my vibe and threw some jeans and Chuck Taylors on with the top.  I must say, it transitioned to a casual look very well.   

If you haven't gotten down with the off-the-shoulder trend then what are you waiting on??  It's seriously one of the most sexiest trends this year!  Click here to purchase your own. 

Thank you all for supporting my blog!  I truly appreciate it more than you know.  Now - let's make the rest of this week great my people.  I'll get at you all super soon!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

I Quit

I walked in my house and slammed the door behind me.  My shoulders immediately dropped from exhaustion, yet relief.  I was finally done with another lengthy day of drawn out meetings, chatty co-workers, and repetitive emails.  After eight tedious years of being employed at this place and finding my passion within that time frame, work was starting to feel severely unfamiliar.  It felt like I had been invited to a sophisticated all white soiree, and I showed up late - clad in black from head to toe.  I was out of place.  I didn't belong.  Although the work day was behind me, I cringed at the thought of returning to the same old routine the next day.  Something had to shake.  I began drawing the blueprint to my escape plan from my job.  I eventually settled on a six month strategy that would give me enough time to seek out employment elsewhere.  Unbeknownst to me, while I was sketching my plan out, the Universe had its own plan already set in stone.  I was gone from my job two weeks later. 

Before leaving my job, my mother and I fasted and prayed for guidance.  Towards the end of our fasting and praying journey, I received some insight from my spirit.  It felt like a pound of courage had been strategically placed in my gut.  I experienced an "ah-ha" moment.  I thought to myself, "If I'm miserable, no one else can change that but me.  I am in control of my life." On that following work day - with no full-time job to go to, a part time writing gig, unshakable faith and a little money in my savings to hold me down - I walked into my job with my head held high and gracefully submitted my two weeks notice.  If I've never felt proud of myself before, I was damn sure bursting with pride on this day.  For I had my big girl panties on, and I was twirling my destiny in my hand ever so stylishly.  It was a day I will never forget.  

It's been two weeks since I've turned the page to my next journey, and I'm admiring my new found bravery.  I've been writing more for my other gig and exploring other promising opportunities as well.  I'm not sure if this will be my full entrepreneurial sprint, but if I do get another job it will definitely be one that encourages and enhances my talents.  I will no longer work a job just to get a paycheck.  Life is too short for mediocrity.  

By no means am I telling any of you to quit your jobs and follow your passions.  This is my faith walk.  You have to run your own race and do what is in your spirit.  However, what I am telling you is to act like you know and understand that you are in control of your destiny.  You have the power to change any situation in your life that isn't nourishing.  The ball is in your court.  What's your next play?

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Dress by Candiedgirlboutique.com

Oueening...

I'm working on stillness and listening to my inner voice at the moment. I believe all the answers and guidance I seek come from within because the Almighty lives inside of me.  All I have to do is be still and listen.  

Does stillness have anything to do with this Queen t-shirt that I am wearing, you ask.  It does.  I chose this Queen tee because it's a representation of what I try to embody.  Queens are confident, fearless, and in tuned with their spirits.  It takes those three things and more to be still.  Stillness requires an unshakable faith - and that's what this Queen is working towards achieving.  Check out my Queen t-shirt from HYPEBLVD below.  

Shout out to all of my Queens reading this post.  Let's nurture our spirits and listen to what's within.  Salute!   

Queen t-shirt available here. 

Have a beautiful weekend my loves.  Protect your energy!

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

UnikFAD

Heeeyyyy my people!  I'm back with the coolest clutch purses on the market right now!!  These painted hand bags from Unikfad are definitely conversation starters.  Check a few of them out below.      

If you love eye-catching, statement accessories then these babies are right up your alley. 

Don't sleep on these clutches!  They are fun pieces that would spice up any outfit!  Get one for yourself here! 

Enjoy the rest of your week love bugs!  I'll be back on here to chat with you beautiful people real soon. 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Outfit Details:  Black No Chaser Clutch Bag // Pardon My Dopeness Clutch Bag //  Croc Triangle Clutch Bag //  Mandy Black Knitted Jumpsuit // Switch The Scene Grey Tank Dress // Landen Heels // Stan Smith Adidas //

Photo Credit: shotbyclipz@gmail.com

Laced

I just love it when my fashion matches my persona - classy but sassy lol.  This Style and Lace Crop Top from Tobi.com fits right into that category.  It has a Victorian kind of vibe that I am digging and a sexiness to it as well.  I was immediately intrigued when I saw it. 

Check out how I sported it below. 

I love mixing dainty with street so I paired this cute little crop top with my custom, distressed Wrangler jeans.  Styling the top with my jeans added a little hipness to it and gave it that extra swag. 

This Style and Lace Crop Top is another piece that I will keep in heavy rotation this summer.  I love the details of the top and how it fits.  Check out this top and more cute finds at Tobi.com! 

Thanks for rocking with Style & Energy everyone.  You don't know how much I appreciate your support.  I am truly humbled and grateful!  Many blessings to you all!

xo

- Samjah Iman

The Raine Bodysuit

These days, I'm contemplating my next move. While I'm contemplating, planning, pondering, going back and forth, praying, and meditating - I still have to look fly right?  Exactly!  So check out this sexy bodysuit by Elle Reaux - it's definitely my type of swag.   

This side boob bodysuit has that street style vibe that I like.  It can be paired with jeans, shorts, or whatever you feel like pairing it with.  For this look, I styled the suede bodysuit with my high waist H&M khaki pants and some red heels.

After frolicking around in heels for an hour or so, I decided to switch to my Stan Smith Adidas to be comfortable and show the versatility of this look.  Check it out below. 

This bodysuit is a valuable addition to my wardrobe.  It can be worn with so many different things.  It will definitely be in rotation this summer. 

If you aren't afraid of showing a little side boob, get your Raine Bodysuit here. 

As I stated earlier, I've been over here contemplating, plotting and planning.  With that being written, I will have an experience to share with you all real soon.  Talk to you later!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Photo Credit: hello@kwesi.co

*This post was sponsored by Elle Reaux.  All opinions are my own.* 

The Simone Romper

Can I get two snaps and a circle for this cute brown romper from Elle Reaux??  

I am absolutely digging this comfortable romper!  The pleated shorts are what got my attention.  It can easily fool someone into thinking that it's a dress instead of a romper. 

What I also love about this romper is that I can wear it in so many different environments and pair it with heels, tennis shoes or flats.  In the pictures above, I paired it with my red Steve Madden sandals and my suede cap from Intuition.  

Check this romper out and other cute styles from Elle Reaux here! 

Have a great weekend everyone!  Get some rest!  Talk to you soon!

- Samjah Iman

*This post was sponsored by Elle Reaux.  All opinions are my own.* 

DNA

Right now in my life, I'm somewhere in between thinking positive and cussing someone out lol.  I'm currently crossing some major hurdles and it gets hard occasionally.  At times I feel like throwing in the towel, but I know I have to keep moving.  I've learned in the past that when I gave up too early, what I had been working so hard for was right around the corner - and if I would have kept going just a little while longer, I would have received my blessing. 

I was feeling a little overwhelmed the other day so I went for a bike ride to clear my mind.  I turned on that new Kendrick Lamar album and listened to the song DNA.  It had me thinking about what my bloodline was made up of.  I come from a long line of strong people that persevered through some harsh times, and I have every ounce of their blood running through my veins.  I sat on that thought for a minute and immediately began to feel some strength.  I came to the conclusion that whatever happens, I will come out on the other side.  

When adversity comes your way, stop for a minute and recall what your bloodline is made up of.  Pull from that and keep it moving. 

What's in your DNA? 

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman   

Jazz Festing Part Deux

Yup!  Another weekend of festival fun.  This weekend, however, topped the other weekend because I got to see the legendary Stevie Wonder with my lovely mother!!  To call it an awesome experience does not do it any justice!  It was epic! 

For this festival, I wore my neon yellow swimsuit coverup, a Victoria Secret's sports bra that I actually work out in (lol), some leisure shorts, and my old faithful combat boots.  Get into my look below. 

You know my festival style rules, cover your feet and be as comfortable as possible.  If you're outfit isn't accomodating, then you won't have the best time.  Simple as that.   

I hope you all enjoyed your weekends, ate good, got some rest, kissed or hugged a loved one.  Now it's back to the grind we go.  I'm not sure what the week holds but whatever comes our way, let's knock it out the park!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman

Stay Out of Your Head!

Have you ever feared something then decided to go ahead and face that fear only to find out it wasn't as bad as you thought?  That's because you were tripping off of what was in your head versus what was reality.  A lot of our stress comes from the "what ifs" we have swimming around in our brains.  What if I can't pay the bill, what if he/she doesn't like me, what if it doesn't work, what if I mess up....etc.  We think ourselves into failure and then act accordingly.

I'm willing to bet that 90% of the things we are currently stressing over right now are in our heads only and haven't even occurred yet.  The mind is super powerful.  Thoughts become feelings.  We have to be careful what we think and feed our mind because it definitely absorbs what we give it.  So let's release the "what ifs" that are in our minds and focus on what is and the positive visions that we want to come to pass.  If we change our mindset, we change our worlds.

 Side Note:  Before I jump back into my day, let me give a quick review on the organic mask I introduced here - three words, IT IS FANTASTIC!  It consists of bentonite clay and everlasting essential oil, and it works (see benefits of bentonite clay here)!  It is good for oily, acne prone skin.  You can also do it as many times as you need to without over processing your skin.  I'm in love with it!  Check it out here.

Have a wonderful rest of the week my loves, and let's stay out of our heads!

Peace and Blessings,

- Samjah Iman