Archives for 2018

The All Pink Outfit

May 7, 2018 · Leave a Comment

Hey guys!! Hope you all had a great weekend either celebrating the Kentucky Derby or indulging in Tons of tacos for Cinco De Mayo. Sadly I didn’t engage in either of the weekends events. Which is kinda sad because I’m a HUGE Mexican food lover. If anyone mentions a word about Tacos or Elotes I’m asking where and when? All that means is this week I need to make sure to get some tacos in my belly to make up for lost time.

It’s a new week and MAY is here! I absolutely love May because it’s my Birthday month and we can you start losing the layers of clothing and bringing colorful clothing back into our lives. May brings flowers, pastels, and nice warm weather. Since my Birthday is in May, I indulged in some light shopping in case I make birthday plans. Now yall know I had to venture to my favorite store TARGET. I purchased the cutest all pink outfit by A New Day, and I just had to share it with my readers because it was totally out of my element.

An all pink get up is not something I normally would buy. I must admit though, ever since I seen J.LO do an all pink Monochrome outfit, I always kept the idea in the back of my mind to try it someday. I guess the fashion gawds must have remembered because I finally found the perfect outfit. I purchased a pair of pink pants and a pink blazer that could be paired as separates or together. As soon as I laid eyes on it I immediately thought of the J.Lo outfit. I put my own little spin on the look to really customize it to my style. I paired my pink pants and jacket with a pink suede crop top from Society Plus and some comfy block heels. The pants are super stretchy and easy to move in. I love that the jacket can be either styled with the pink pants or with jeans. I was just so excited. I got a cute pants suit for half the money of an actual suit. The colors all flow together so it’s not too overpowering, nobody wants to look like walking cotton candy lol. I think A New Day really hit this one out the park with these pieces.

What do yall think of my Monochrome outfit? Would you wear an all pink outfit or is that just to much color for one look. Let me know in the comments. As Owls ways thanks for stopping by and Owl see ya Soon.

How To Live A More Eco Friendly Life

April 30, 2018 · 1 Comment

Happy Monday everyone!!!! April is coming to an end and what better way to celebrate Earth month than living a more Eco friendly life. This year I been focused on finding sustainable alternatives to be more Eco friendly in different aspects of my life. I’ve seriously have learned so much since deciding to take a leap to a more Eco conscious lifestyle; One thing I will say is being more eco-conscious is not a change that happens overnight, It is a journey where you will always learn something new.

I know most are probably like how does one even become more Eco friendly? Well, that’s why I’m here to help today. I want to give 5 tips to live a more Eco friendly life .

Use Paper Less And Recycle More. The world we live in today is reliant on technology. It is easy to go a day without using a notebook or even paper. The less paper you use, the less paper needs to be produced and we get to have more trees that fill our forests.

Use Canvas Bags Instead Of Plastic. Most stores offer canvas bag alternatives to the generic plastic and paper bags. Although a canvas bag might cost a a little more, they actually are much more useful than you might think. A canvas bag canvas bag can also be used to store lunch or pack items when moving – making it useful in more ways than one.

Start Buying Second Hand. Fast fashion is one of the most polluting industries in the world with Americans throwing out 13 million textiles a year. Companies like thredUP offer amazing second hand clothes. Shopping second-hand is a great way to reuse and reduce textile waste that otherwise ends up in landfill. The shirt I’m wearing in this post is made from 100% recycled material how amazing is that!!!

Bring your own Coffee Cup. you know how you stop for that coffee every morning. Instead of taking the usual plastic or paper cup. Bring in your own for them to use. That means less paper and plastic being wasted in our trash bin. Some shops like even give a discount for simply helping mama Earth by using your own cup.

Educate Others: Educate others about the importance of living an Ecofriendly life. The more people who share awareness of the importance of the environment, the more we can do together to conserve it.

Hope this little guide helped you all in becoming more eco friendly. With these little improvements you’ll be well on your way to a more sustainable future! Make sure to check out thredUPs project RE:Made where they commissioned 12 artists to create artworks in response to the statement “Climate Change is Not Real”. thredUP screen-printed the works onto secondhand white tees from there inventory and are selling them. All net proceeds benefit carbon offset non-profit Cool Effect. Check out all the cool things they are doing over at thredUP for this campaign. As Owls ways thanks for stopping by!!!!

Love

Stavana

Polka Dots Are Back On The Scene

April 17, 2018 · 1 Comment

Hey, Guys hope all is well out there in the world for everyone. I wanted to tell ya about a fashion trend that seems to be coming back on the rise. Can anyone guess what it is?….anyone?…it’s POLKA DOTS! Honestly, I have always loved polka dots since I was a kid. So I guess for me the trend never really left my closet ha ha. I know for many, polka dots became a print of their childhood and therefore a fashion HELL NO. Now that Spring is making her way into the world, well she’s trying I should say. I have been noticing black and white polka dots all over the stores and my Instagram feed. My heart is so overjoyed to find polka dots making come back. Usually, the only place I really could find polka dots was thrifting or in my grannies closet. Now polka dots are trendy all over again and taking over the fashion scene, so without any more of me babbling let’s get into my fab outfit.

My polka dot shirt is from my fav store Rainbow Shops. The Shirt is made of chiffon material and has a ruffled sleeve detailing which really gave the top a stylish edge.The Pants which are also from Rainbow were a perfect combo making the whole outfit look high quality and trendy. The pants featured a cute tie waist belt and some ruffling at the top of the hemline. Last but not least the shoes. I’m so over the days of wearing high heels ( my knees aren’t built like they use to be lol) So I threw on these cute little block heels from Amazon which are SUPER COMFY. Block heels are all the rave right now, I suggest you put down the five inches and switch to a block heel girlfriend. I was so excited for less then than $50 bucks I purchased a fun classy outfit. I think this fab combo will be a hit for the workplace or even a simple night on the town.

I’m so happy that designers are making clothing fun again. Fashion is now showcasing prints such as polka dots, florals, bold lines, and funky patterns. I’m so over everyone living the past few years in minimalist trends and boring ensembles. Its like life has been breathed back into the fashion world finally. Do ya’ll think you will partake in the polka dot fashion trend? I know I surely will because life is always better with fun prints to brighten up any day. Let me know below if this trend is a hit or miss for you. As always Thanks for stopping by and Owl See ya Later!

Outfit Details:Shirt~Pants~Shoes

Love

Vana

4 ways to practice self-love on Valentine’s Day

February 14, 2018 · 1 Comment

Valentine’s Day is here, which means you’ll see happy couples exchanging gifts for there significant other, or those last minute folks trying to set up a last-minute date so there not alone on this day of love.

People tend to feel resentment towards spending this day alone, but what many people forget is that your relationship with yourself is way more important than any other in life, which is why Valentine’s is the best day to prioritize your own needs and show yourself some compassion and love. Learning to be comfortable alone isn’t easy, but once you’ve mastered the skill of loving yourself, getting away from life’s demands can be pretty relaxing and blissful. Self-care is really important for emotional health and living a life. Studies have show that it can help you manage the symptoms of anxiety, depression and more.

So sit back relax and block out the world and follow these self-care rules to have your best Valentine’s Day yet.

1. Step away from social media

One of the worst things about Valentine’s Day – whether you’re single or in a relationship – is the endless materialistic displays of affection on social media. The whole day seems like a big competition; if you’re single, you feel unloved and down, and if you’re in a relationship, you start to compare your relationship to everybody else’s. Instead of spending the evening scrolling, shut down the app for the day. Your brain will thank you

2.Cook Yourself a Meal

Cooking for others is one of the biggest ways many show how much they care and appreciate others. But, what about doing it for ourselves? Sometimes we get so busy in life we are quick to get take out or skip the meal in general. Not today, Not on V-Day. Today, you’re going to cook yourself a meal of love. Grab a glass of wine (or cup of h20) and get creative in the kitchen. Make some yummy lobster mac and cheese or indulge in that steak, whatever it may be enjoy making it for you.

3. Treat Yourself

There are so many little things we neglect just because we don’t think we deserve them. Do you enjoy flowers? Go pick up some colorful buds just for you! Have you been eyeing a bag at store? Go buy that bag girl! Have you been wanting a massage but no time? Book it Hunny. The time is now

4.Write A Love Note

Focusing on our flaws is a bad habit we are all guilty of. ( I do it a lot) instead of nitpicking, write down a letter to yourself outlining all the good things you see in yourself. The positive thoughts will help raise your confidence. Look in the mirror, and see what it is you love about yourself and embrace it.

Ideally, we should be practicing these rituals all year long, but Valentine’s month is always a good place to start! Hope you all have a great day full of love and happiness.

Black Boston Creatives & Businesses Killing The Game.

February 8, 2018 · Leave a Comment

Hey, Y’all so I’m super late but HAPPY 2018…..I know I have been super MIA for while I’ll get into why another time. In other news its FEBRUARY which means it’s Black History Month. So today on the blog I wanted to highlight black creatives and businesses who are killing the game.

Seeing that I was born and raised in Boston I wanted to focus on the greatness that comes out of my own hometown. So in no particular order here’s my list of creatives and business who out lighting up the city. Also can I just say this was very hard. I had like 50 names, so I may just make another list. Why should we hide all the talent this city possesses.

Bel Monique– Digital Magazine

BÈL is the only digital magazine where Everyday black women are the celebrities! The founder and CEO Berlhey Narcisse has helped women reconnect with both their internal and external beauty. The magazine has over 800 monthly website visitors and over 1,000 email subscribers, BÈL gives women a way to connect with one another on beauty, fashion, business, and lifestyle.

Dee The Artist and Damn Rotten Kid– Graphic Designer/Artist

If your ever on the internet I’m sure you have come across this sister duos art work. Both girls make artistic comics and visual art that relates to black men and women in todays society. Both women are truly talented when it comes to putting feelings and emotions into the pictures they portray for all to see. I love that all the art is relatable and always has a message or meaning behind it.

Kitchen Table Talk-Podcast

Kitchen Table talk is a podcast that airs Saturdays @ 5 pm live on Facebook and Youtube featuring Ms.Bea, Comedian Chris Footman, and Chef It’s All Gravy Baby. This dynamic trio comes together to discuss a variety of topic with no limitations. While topics are being discussed Ms. Bea’s Husband (Chef It’s All Gravy) can be seen and heard in the background cooking up a meal each show. What’s better than chatting about different topics all while learning how to make a tasty meal.

Omar Parkman– Model/ Influencer

Omar Parkman is an influencer/model who has really made a name for himself within the last year. As we all know beards are pretty trendy and Omar makes no mistakes rocking his beard so well. Omar’s stylish fashion senses and modeling photos have featured him in such publications such as Essence Magazine and Fashionbomb daily. At the rate, Omar is going he for sure will be in a Gucci ad in the near Future.

Genevieve Bien-Aime– Blogger/Writer/Radio Personality

Genevieve is the definition of a true Boss lady. She’s a radio personality on Boston Come through that airs Weds @ 9 pm on Boston Free Radio. A blogger who documents her life and travels On her own personal blog. And she’s also a contributing writer for BÈL magazine. Genevieve posses true major Black Girl Magic.

Anita Marshall– Model

Anita Marshall is a 5’11” beauty who is a top international plus model. Anita has worked for many brands such as Forever 21, Target, Elloquii, NY&CO, Asos, and Nike just to name a few. She has been featured in PAPER magazine and on the cover of PLUS Model Magazine multiple times. Anita continues to break barriers her mark on this industry proving that curves are taking over.

Alex Joachim– Creative Director

Alex Joachim is a photographer, videographer, graphic illustrator, designer and more. He’s a one-man show who’s photography and artistic skills are unlike no other. His artistic mindset and abilities bring anything he touches to life. Alex also has been the creative mastermind behind a few start-up companies marketing ideas. Some of his photography has also been featured on Buzzfeed, Plusmodel Mag, It’s Lit Boston and many more. I can see him being the Next Hype Williams of the new

Envieux-Fashion Designer

Envieux is a ready-to-wear custom clothing line for women of all sizes. The owner Kerley Bernard really brings fashion to another level with her elegant one of kind pieces. Envieux has displayed her pieces on many runways and really pushes the envelope in making beautiful garments for women to feel classy and confident.

Bred Gourmet -Restaurant

Is a burger bar right in the heart of lower mills. Bred serves gourmet-style burgers, smoothies, salads and more. The choices at Bred are great for health conscious individuals since all meat is grass fed, and they also offer vegetarian options as well.

Zaz Resturant– Restaurant

is a Contemporary restaurant ran by owner Chef Olrie Roberts where he incorporates a variety of culture-based flavors such as Caribbean, Asian, Italian and Spanish. With choices like Lobster mac and cheese, Thai fried rice, creole wraps and coconut dream smoothies there is something for all taste buds to enjoy under one roof.

Slades Bar and Grill– Restaurant

Slades Bar & Grill serves soul food to patrons and hosts a number of events, such as Comedy shows on Wednesdays and Old school throwback Thursday. Slades is well known for the Fried Chicken and friendly loving staff that makes you feel like family while visiting.

Hair Me Out-Hair Salon

Hair Me Out is a hair salon owned by Aisha Lambert that specializes in natural hair care, especially Locs! The salon takes pride in being able to not only treat all hair types but give clients the knowledge to do so as well! Services include roll and sets, lineups, Braids, loc styles and an in-house Massage therapist.

Nastahja’s Hair Bar-Hair Salon

Nastahjas Hair Bar is another great hair salon ran and owned but Nastahja Cazeau where they specialize in sew ins, feed in method braids, permanent lock extensions and other hair care needs. The Hair Bar was voted best hair salon of 2017. The Hair Bar even offers there own custom line of virgin premium hair and wig making services.

Pink Shoe Lounge– Clothing and Apparel

Pink Shoe Lounge is a one-stop shop for women of all sizes. Pink Shoe Lounge puts their customers needs first by targeting the fashionista who is a trendsetter and loves to be unique. Pink Show Lounge sells shoes and apparel for women ranging from a size small to 3x. You can find something for any women in your life young and old.

Black Market-Pop Up Shop

Black Market is a Black-Owned, cooperative-style retail business that operates within a Pan-African pop-up paradigm. Currently operating two-weekend pop-ups per month, Black Market transforms its Retail Space into a bustling marketplace where dozens of local artists, vendors and entrepreneurs showcase and sell products to patrons who visit.

Honorable Mentions

Bethany Richards-Model

Magnificent Flowers & Design – Event planner

Glamou rUp Cosmetics -Cosmetic Line

Not Your Momma’s Jars- Homemade Desserts

Event Envy– Event planner

Tenders- Mobile Bartending Service

Darryl’s Corner Bar –Restaurant

The Fit Pit– Personal Training and Gym

Make sure to follow, visit and support everyone above. I hope this encourages you all to check out your local black businesses and support our creative brothers and sisters. Until next time Owl see ya Later.