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Vana Black

Lifestyle, Fashion, Travel, Food

Polka Dots Are Back On The Scene

April 17, 2018 · 1 Comment

Polka dot fashion

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.

Polka dot fashion

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.

Polka dot fashionpolka dot fashionPolka dot fashion Polka dot fashion

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!

Polka dot fashion

Outfit Details:Shirt~Pants~Shoes

Love

Vana

1 Comment
Filed Under: Beauty, Personal StyleTagged: boston, Boston Blogger, fashion, Plus Size, PLUS SIZE FASHION, Polka dots

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

February 14, 2018 · 1 Comment

Self Love

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.

1 Comment
Filed Under: Health, Lifestyle, Personal StyleTagged: LOVE, self love, valentines day

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

GlamourUp 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.

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Filed Under: LifestyleTagged: art, artist, black, blogger, boston, Boston Blogger, creatives, food, hair, model, photographer, podcast, resturants

Emerald Green Is This Seasons Hottest Color

December 4, 2017 · 1 Comment

Emerald Green Dress

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…….Can you believe that December is upon us already? I swear this year flew by in the blink of an eye right before me. I enjoy December a lot because it means food, family and most of all FASHION. This is the one time of year to bring out the faux fur, velvet, and sequins for those holiday parties and NYE events. One of the hottest colors this season is EMERALD GREEN.

 Now when I say emerald green, I don’t want you thinking everyone is walking around looking like the cast for the WIZ lol. I personally think emerald green works well with any skin tone and matches a whole bunch of different colors when it comes to styling. Emerald green also happens to represent the universe, nature, and life, And of course, it’s my birthstone. So let us get into these looks below.

 The first dress is from Xehear Curvy. Xehear sells a full line of outfits and styles for straight and plus size women. I love that the brand is very diverse when it comes to sizing, and wants all women to look and feel good. The Maya Floral Sheath dress is perfect for those office parties or parties that don’t require to much. I love that the dress accentuates your curves but also keeps the look very flawless. The black flower detail also gives it that feminine touch of elegance.

Emerald Green Dress

Emerald Green Dress

Emerald Green Dress

The second dress is from Windors. Windsor just introduced there new plus size section a few months ago. I really love that Windsor now offers more sizes so everyone can indulge in the beautiful clothing they sell. The dress I am wearing is the Emerald Twisted Body Con dress. This dress is a little more form fitting and may be better for a night with the girls or  a NYE party. The green really stands out and has a hint of silver glitters for a sparkly effect. I love that the dress is super lightweight and the V-cut detail shows just enough to not give away all my secrets lol.

Emerald Green Dress

Emerald Green Dress

Emerald Green Dress

Last but not least was a lovely dress by Rachel Roy which I got from Gwynnie Bee. Gwynnie Bee is an online subscription-based clothing rental service for women sizes 10-32. Members pay a flat monthly subscription fee and are able to rent a collection of clothing to rent and return. The Ribbed Knit Faux wrap dress made me fall in love the moment I saw it. I just knew I had to have it and add it to my green collection. I love that the dress looks black in color but has a hint of the glittery emerald green in the material. This dress is perfect when you want to be the show stopper and really turn some heads.

Emerald Green Dress

 

Emerald Green Dress

 

Emerald Green Dress

Emerald Green Dress

So what do you y’all think of the Emerald green trend? If you don’t have anything emerald green then now is the best time to go and stalk up. I think Emerald will always be a timeless color in my eyes. As always thanks for stopping by and Owl see ya soon.

Love Vana

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Filed Under: Fashion, Personal StyleTagged: Boston Blogger, curvy, emerald green, Holiday collection, holiday look, Plus Size, Plus size Blogger, PLUS SIZE FASHION

Tracee Ellis Ross for JCPenney

November 16, 2017 · Leave a Comment

Hey guys I know it’s been a minute since I’ve posted….I promise I am going to be better at being more consistent with my blogging and providing new exciting content for you. Make sure to stay tuned for that.

traces Ellis Ross for JCPenney

Anyway, lets get into the good stuff that you came here for. If you haven’t heard the wonderful news Tracee Ellis Ross dropped a limited edition Holiday collection this past Saturday at JCPenney and it’s BOMB! I have always been a huge lover of Tracee not only because she’s the legendary Diana Ross‘s daughter but her fashion and personality is AMAZING. Being able to have a little piece of her fashion magic in my closet is something I knew I didn’t want to miss.

TERJCP

I came home to a package a week ago and to my surprise it was the new TER4JCP collection. I was so excited because all the pieces they sent over fit my personality so well. I was sent 2 blazer jackets and a jogger set. The 45-piece collection includes a range of clothing —from pajamas, athlesiure, long dresses with lots of sparkle and fancy suiting designed with a feminine twist. Tracee really put a lot of effort into this collection catering to women of all body types with a size range of small-3x.  In addition, everything is affordable with all pieces being no more than $100.  Young to old can find something to wear in this collection with it affordability and chicness.

TERJCP

TERJCP

TERJCP

trace Ellis Ross For JCPenney

One of my favorites from the collection is the Jogger set which I am wearing in my pictures. The jogger set is super comfy and casual. It’s also pretty warm for those chilly fall/winter days New England is known for.  trace Ellis Ross For JCPenneyThe pants and top is made of a heavier cotton material to give it a more dressed up up feel than normal sweats. I also love the slogan on the sweatshirt “Everyday Joy”.  The TER4JCP collection is all about getting women to embrace their joyful spirit which we all know Tracee always projects with anything she is involved in.

I also can’t forget the added little ladybug detail on my top which you can find throughout the collection. You can dress up the joggers with heels like I did, or throw on some tennis shoes to combat the weekend. I felt great being able to rock such a simple classy outfit without too much effort.  Tracee is the queen of keeping it fun and classy.

TERJCPMake sure to check out your local JCPenney for the Tracee Elliss Ross Collection before it’s all gone. If you don’t have a JCPenney in your area you can always go online but act fast because it won’t be around long. If you’ve already brought something from her fabulous collection let me know in the comments below.  Until next time thanks for dropping in and owl see ya later!!!

Love

Vana

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Filed Under: FashionTagged: Holiday collection, JCPenney, Plus Size, TERFJCP, Tracee Ellis Ross

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