Month: January 2016

Can We Talk About Laverne Cox?

Laverne Cox is SLAYING the fashion game. Just look at her at yesterday’s SAG. Awards! I didn’t even have to look at any of the other dresses before concluding she was the best-dressed. How?? Just Perfection. There’s no way I could pull this off. So flawless. Is there any color that doesn’t look good on her? Maybe one day I can get to this level. Until then, I’ll just keep dreaming. #TransIsBeautiful

Top FAQ’s I Get About Modeling

I’ve been modeling professionally since I was 16 and have had some great opportunities including being on the cover of a magazine. I really enjoy being in front of the camera, and I love fashion, so I’m always doing photo shoots. Due to this, many of my friends, classmates, and just random people from the internet/social media will ask me for tips on modeling. Below are the top 10 questions I get asked. If you’re interested in modeling maybe this will help you! If not, feel free to share this with anyone you may know who is. I’m 5’1″ can I still model? Yes. There’s lots of different types of modeling. While runway may not be a practical option for you, print modeling is more lax on height requirements. Same goes with modeling for commercials, or even promo modeling. What do I wear to a casting call? A fitted t-shirt or tank top (preferably in black, white, or grey), skinny jeans, little-to-no makeup, and a pair of heels you’re comfortable walking in. Your hair should …

Layering Tricks to Ditch the Winter Slump

When deciding what to wear when the weather turns chilly, my first thoughts usually go straight to oversized sweaters. While an oversized sweater or two is great, wearing them for a whole season can get boring, and there are so many other options. The key to getting through chilly winters is often layering, so instead of throwing on your usual slouchy cardigan, try out some of these winter layering tips to freshen up your cold-weather look. Layer your Vest Over your Jacket Show off a fun and fluffy faux fur vest by layering it over your regular jacket. Match up your hemlines lengths  to keep it looking chic. Winter Midi Skirts Pull out your favorite spring midi skirt and pair it with tights and some knee-high boots for winter. If it’s especially cold, you even layer leggings under the skirt. Throw a simple sweater on top like Victoria Beckham to finish up the look. 3/4 Length Sleeves Keep all of your 3/4 sleeve jackets in rotation by layering a long sleeve shirt underneath. It also provides a great …

The Look For Less// Gigi Hadid

Gigi Hadid is only 20 years old and already rocking the limelight. You may recognize her from Taylor Swift’s Bad Blood girl squad or as Kendall Jenner’s BFF. You may even recognize her from the new Calvin Harris music video, ‘How Deep Is Your Love’. She is a full-time model and has a unique style that has landed her on many pages and covers of popular magazines. Her career is taking off and many are taking notice of her “model off-duty” style. Here are a few of my favorite looks from Gigi Hadid and how to get them for less: On October 1st, 2015 Gigi wore this casual but stylish look to a Chanel fitting in Paris. Although she wore a $25 dress (which sold out the same day she wore it), to buy her ENTIRE outfit, it would cost you around $927.66. Here is how to get her look for $134!   Find the Forever 21 Dress Here! Cotton On Dress no longer available.   Get ASOS Sunglasses Here! Get St.Louis Sunglasses Here! Get Forever 21 Bag Here! Get Rag&Bone Bag Here! Get Tony Bianco Boots Here! Get Steve …

Common “Bra-plems” and Their Solutions

HOW TO PUT ON A BRA   What?! Don’t be crazy, we all know how to put on a bra — or do we? Here are some tips to help you get to bra bliss! FIT ISSUES and EASY SOLUTIONS SLIPPING STRAPS When pesky straps are giving you the slip, follow these quick and easy tips. 1. Tighten the straps. Seems obvious, but as we wear a bra, the straps start to stretch out. We recommend tightening your straps about once a month. 2. If that doesn’t work, it might be time to explore a different bra style. Usually Full Coverage, Semi and Convertible bras have the narrowest set straps which help keep them on your shoulders. Balconet and Plunge bras tend to have wider set straps, so if you have narrow or sloping shoulders, the strap issue can be exaggerated with these styles. BAND RIDING UP Is your band creeping up in the back? We’ve got your fix. 1. Just say no to creepers! It’s time to buy a smaller band size so that …

Pre-Fall ’16 Review: Mary Kantrantzou, Erdem, Rochas, Christopher Kane, and Valentino

Looking through the Pre-Fall shows this year there was one thing missing–really missing–MINIMALISM. While it has been a huge influence on fashion for the past few years, my favorite shows were all about maximalism. They embrace individuality and creativity with unique looks that are going to make you crave more. Click on the show title to see more of the show, all pictures via Vogue. Mary Katrantzou       This season Katrantzou added a sophisticated twist to her typically intricate and bold statement pieces. I have always admired her skill with print, but this collection seemed particularly wearable, with many pieces that could be incorporated into typical workwear or evening wear. And while I have lately come accustomed to wearing mostly black, these looks make me want to bring some color back into my life! Erdem       Erdem took his usual florals in a refreshingly moody direction. An Edwardian inspiration led to a few expectedly covered up looks, but in a very modern way. Some of my favorite looks feature romantic and delicate ruffles along with …

Kuamka Ball 2016

This past week was a busy one for me, but it was fun. My boyfriend, Tim, ran for Mr. Kuamka, a pageant-like competition for the crown of Mr. and Miss Kuamka, who are representatives of the AACRC (African American Cultural Resource Center) on campus. Seven girls ran for Miss Kuamka, and five guys ran for Mr. Kuamka. Every candidate had a platform that they would need to implement if they won (for example, Tim’s platform was to get more black mentors and teachers in the lives of young, black, men who need role models to succeed). Everyday of the week there was some sort of competition or program. Each candidate had to write an essay, meet with judges for a one-on-one interview, participate in 4 rounds of questions and answers, and perform in a talent show. At the end of the week, is the main event everyone looks most forward to: the Kuamka, Red, Black, Green and Gold Ball. It’s at this ball that people dress to the nines, have a nice dinner, enjoy performances, …

I Don’t Usually Make a New Year’s Resolution But…

  I stopped making New Year’s resolutions a while ago, and wasn’t planning on doing one this year. I feel like making goals is necessary, but in the past the idea of sticking to them for a whole year was a challenge too big to chew. What I realized this time around is, the goals you make aren’t just fun challenges… they’re supposed to be lifestyle changes. They’re not supposed to last for one year, they’re supposed to stick around for several. With this new mindset, I knew there were some lifestyle changes I wanted to make, and what better time to start than in the New Year? I want to be fit. Spiritually fit. Physically fit. Mentally fit. Financially fit. My goal this year is to increase my fitness in these areas, and work towards making them a lifetime practice. Spiritual Fitness I am a Christian. I believe in God, I have a relationship with him, and I try my best to live my life as Jesus would. BUT I could do better. I …

Pantone 2016 Color of the Year + How to Wear It

The year 2016 is off to a good start with the announcement of this year’s color from Pantone. For the first time, the company is blending two shades to stand for the color of the year: Rose Quartz and Serenity. These choices evoke a sense of a tranquility and order which was far from our reality in 2015. Here’s hoping to a more positive and peaceful 2016. How to Wear The Colors Of the Year//     Click to Shop Pair with rustic neutrals such as russet and semolina to enhance the pastel colors. A great way to wear serenity is by going for a pair of light wash denim.   Click to Shop You could also pair the pastels with other pastels for a fresh take on spring. To keep from looking like a crayon box, balance with greys and off whites.   Click to Shop   Lastly, mix a balance of warm and cool colors as rose quartz falls in line with oranges and pinks, while serenity is a cool shade like purple …

5 Fashion Trends to Look Forward to in 2016

1. X Marks the Spot Halter necks, cold shoulders, whatever you want to call it, for spring it’s all about drawing the attention at the decolletage. 2. Remix of the White Button Down The basic white button down gets an upgrade. This classic was seen revamped on several runways. I am always down for a new twist. 3. Paper Bag Waists Cinch your waist with style and grace. 4. Romanticism Gauzy dresses with an ornate rococco vibe will make you fall in love with fashion all over again. 5. Light Weight Denim Denim never goes out of style. I am looking forward to this trend sticking around a little longer in the new year.