Styln N Profyln

Shutting Down

2012-01-09T00:23:00.002-05:00

I haven't updated this blog in a while and never did a formal post announcing that I have decided not to update it anymore. I will probably leave it up for a little while longer and then take it down. You can catch up with my creative pursuits and my style on my Tumblr and my creative blog. This isn't the end just a continuation in a different direction. Growth at its best. I appreciate everyone's love and support on here and hope to see you on my other spaces on the web. :D

Milan

Fabric & Yarn Wrapped Hoop Earrings

2011-05-23T22:55:00.000-04:00

The pair on the left I'm sure looks familiar because they originally were the pair I shared in the fabric wrapped hoops post. I felt they were too plain and needed some embellishing so I got the idea to wrap some yarn around them in parts to give them some more interest. Then I made another pair, the pair on the right, and I really like them. This summer, for me, is all about these types of earrings right here. I've got tons more ideas to play on this concept and yes, I'll be adding styles like these on the shop real soon. Stay tuned and stay creative.

Book Review: Envision by Meca McKinney

2011-05-22T23:47:00.000-04:00

I had a blast this past weekend in DUMBO Brooklyn at the Green Squared Trunk Show. One of my sistas in craft, Meca, was one of the headliners for the show and was selling some of her awesome accessories from her line Jypsea and her book. I stopped by to show my support (pics coming soon! It was an adventurous and spontaneous day.) and also picked up her book, Envision: The Young Accessory Designer's Guide to Collection Development.

I would recommend anyone interested in starting their own accessories line and are hungry for information on where to start, check out this book. It's a clear and concise beginners guide to the process and walks you through finding your inspiration for your collection all the way to producing and presenting it. Meca breaks down what you need to do to get started and flourishing in 5 steps and shares a lot of cool resources/websites to help you as well. The book is a quick and easy read (55 pages-it took me no longer than an hour to complete.) but packed with loads of information.

As you all know, I am an accessories designer also but I don't create collections. I more so create and sell but after reading this book, I'm inspired to create some collections and see what I come up with. :D I hope she'll write another book expanding on these principles she shared in this book and take us to the next level. Envision will leave you inspired, armed with the principles to get your collection started and hungry for more of Meca's industry savvy.

Meca McKinney
* Check out her awesome, handcrafted accessories: http://www.jypsea.com/
* Twitter: jypseadotcom
* Facebook: www.facebook.com/jypsealeathergoods
* Blog: Lifestyles of the Authentic & Creative

Inspiration: Beyonce - "Who Run the World"

2011-05-20T22:22:00.000-04:00

While I'm not crazy about the song itself, I'm diggin the visuals from the video. It's giving me so many awesome ideas. The dancing is tough! B was gettin it. My favorite dance part was the very beginning when she was tearin it up with those male dancers from Mozambique. That foot work is sick!

Styling wise, I luv the long dress look with the slits up the sides. Now the slits up mine wouldn't be that high but I get the picture. Pair them with some booties or bootie style sandals and you've got a winner. I also liked the royal looking headwear. Now I want to try my hand at making something similar. Another thing to add to the list. :D

If you're in the NYC area, you should check out an awesome trunk show going down tomorrow from 11a-7p, It's the eco-conscious, Green Squared Fashion Trunk Show in Dumbo Brooklyn. They'll be eco-fashions, refreshments, mineral makeup makeovers and more! CLICK HERE for more details if this caught your eye.

Inspiration to Create: Brooch Bouquets

2011-05-15T16:53:00.000-04:00

Who needs a fresh flower bouquet when you can make a brooch one that will last forever? These are great for weddings or even home decor. Stick them in a clear vase for added chic'ness to a room. If I end up having a wedding, I want one of these for sure and you know I will be making it myself! This is definitely getting added to my Crafts To-Do List. I want to try my hand at making one soon and of course I'll share my results.

{Image One Source}

{Image Two Source}

{Image Three Source}

Fabric Wrapped Hoop Earrings

2011-05-15T09:13:00.000-04:00

So I haven't shared anything I've created lately and I've gotta get back to that! This is my creative blog afterall, right? So here goes. You all know how much I love fabric and creating clothes, accessories, etc with it so my latest craft has been fabric wrapped hoop earrings. I'm obsessed with them this spring and am sure they will carry me into the summer.

I'm thinking of posting arts and crafts tutorials on here. What do you think? As I learn new things, I'll share them with you all. I'm always learning new crafts and have decided that I want to pursue a business, dare I say a CAREER, in creating various arts and crafting workshops kids, adults and everyone else in between. I want to be an arts and crafts teacher! It would give me a great amount of joy to inspire people to learn different ways to express themselves and release the stresses (and sometimes disappointments) of daily life in healthy and positive ways and get paid for it. Art is powerful. Sometimes I don't think people really realize that.

I'm starting to see who I am. I've always known I was creative but I'm really owning it now. This is who God created me to be. I need a career that I get to be creative. I'm a very passionate person. I'll do any job given to me providing nothing less than my best but I excel and truly soar to alarming heights when I'm passionate about what I'm doing.

So there it is. I'm putting it out there into the universe. My ultimate career will involve creativity in one way or the other. I'm most certain of that. My dream career would consist of two careers, actually: a make up artist and an arts and crafts teacher (and I plan to be wealthy from doing both!). I'm not saying life would be perfect but it would dope to have a career I truly love and enjoy; that almost didn't even feel like work. Your job doesn't define you but it makes a helluva difference when you genuinely like what you're doing for a living.

As I get back to the roots of this blog, be on the look out for more of my creations coming soon.

Be creative!

Everything About This

2011-05-10T22:12:00.001-04:00

picture is FIYAH. The hair. The outfit (which the "dress" looks to be 2 pieces actually). The color of the outfit. The clutch. The accessories. The shoes. I'm so inspired to make an outfit like this for the summer.

{Image from http://www.bellanaija.com/}

I've challenged myself this summer to sew my wardrobe. No buying anything from stores unless it's fabric to make something with.

Cross My Body

2011-05-01T19:28:00.000-04:00

{Image to the left from http://cheapchicas.com/}
Crossbody's are back. Wow. You know you're getting old when stuff you used to wear is back in style again. I rocked crossbodies hard back in the '90s. LOL. When you think about it, they're functional yet chic though and I'm jonesin for one for this spring/summer.
I've been eyeing the Stash Crossbody style, pictured below, by Lucky Brand. It looks to be reminiscent of the Marcie shoulder bag by Chloe. (Oh if money were more abundant! I absolutely adore Chloe bags!) I saw the Stash Crossbody on Macys: http://www.macys.com/ for $139. I don't want to pay that much for it so I'm keeping an eye out for a sale so I can get it at a lower price or find a cheaper alternative that has a similar shape. I love this color and saddle shape of the bag. I'll be able to wear it with a managerie of outfits and be able to go "hands free" on all of my adventures this summer. Plus I need a smaller bag anyway. The bag I have now is large and I find random things to fill it with. No bueno for my shoulders or back.

Summer is all about being light and carefree and what better way to embody that than with this style bag, no? Will you be rocking a crossbody this spring/summer?

I Want....

2011-03-03T11:18:00.001-05:00

Some oversized, cat eye glasses in the color mustard.

POOF!

Urban Oufitters Squared Off Cat Eye Sunglasses $14

Wow, that was easy. :D

My Latest Obsession: Bib Necklaces

2011-02-27T22:59:00.004-05:00

{Image from http://hi-imcurrentlyobsessed.tumblr.com/ }
Sneak Peak of Christie Brown's Summer 2011 Afromantic Daydream Collection

Wow. I wanna make something like this! Bib necklaces are my latest obsession.....

I'm Getting These!

2011-02-25T22:38:00.000-05:00

Saw these on the Payless: http://www.payless.com/ website recently and in lieu of spring coming soon, I'm getting these.

Pandora Wedge Sandal from www.Payless.com

They're on sale now for $19.99 (originally $26.99) They have tons of other wedge styles that I'm diggin. So glad wedges are back in because I luv them! They are my favorite shoe silhouette next to mary janes.

Wedding Mania

2011-02-23T07:21:00.000-05:00

{Image from Wedding Clipart}

My little sister is getting married and I'm trying to find ways to creatively fulfill my duties as the maid of honor with out spending a ton of money. If you want to learn the financial nuts and bolts about how I will do this, then check out my financial blog where I will chronicalling how I do this among other things in my financial life.

So, now I' m thinking of sharing a lot of my ideas for the bridal shower and my own bridal gifting ideas on here. I've been combing the internet for ideas. I've been a bridesmaid before but never the maid of honor so this is a learning experience for me but it will definitely push my creativity muscle.

On the list right now: finding a theme for the bridal shower. I'm thinking hearts and (wedding) bands? If you guys have any cool ideas, chime in!

Sofysticated Phunk Has Re-Opened

2011-02-08T21:32:00.002-05:00

With new styles and a fresh, new banner, I re-opened my esty shop, Sofysticated Phunk, this past weekend. :D I've been adding styles this week and will be the duration of the week. Please visit if you like and see what ya girl has up her sleeve. http://www.sofysticatedphunk.etsy.com/

One of the styles that I have up on the shop right now.

I have some more items that I'll be adding this weekend that I'm really excited about. I'll do a post rocking them so you can see.

My week is going well. Just so over the winter weather now. Bring on spring! Today, I found an awesome discount fabric store in the City not too far from where I work. They've got tons of $3 and $4 a yard fabrics that will be a part of my spring and summer wardrobe this year.

How's Your Saturday Going?

2011-01-29T13:44:00.000-05:00

Hey people. Trying to get better and updating on here more. I've been creating but wasn't really taking any pics to share with you all. Bad Milan! I know so that is why I am sharing some of my creative ventures with you today. Pictured above is what I've been at for most of the day. My Etsy shop will be re-opening late tonight, Sunday-ish. http://www.sofysticatedphunk.etsy.com/ Stop by and visit! I've got new items for sale and tons of new ideas to add in the future. I'm feeling super creative today. Still haven't made that case for my Nook. Maybe I will a lil later..... Hope you are enjoying your Saturday.

Some of my Xmas Gifts

2011-01-04T20:53:00.001-05:00

I'm usually pretty nice, save some of my naughty moments, all year so Santa, aka Mommy and Daddy (yes, at 27 years of age, I still call my parents Mommy and Daddy. What's it to ya? LOL.), hooks a sista up. I'm probably spoiled but I'm a good daughter and they'll probably be Santa till my husband comes along and can take over spoiling me rotten. :D

My mom got me this book b/c one, I pimped her into getting it for me when we were in Jo-Ann Fabrics Etc. on Christmas Eve and two, because she knew I was teaching myself to knit and that I dig neck cowls; they are the epitome of mixing effortless chic and functionality in my opinion. I'm excited to knit a cowl from this book when I get good enough. They have some great designs in there; all shown on the cover.

This book I had been Jonesin for for a while. I saw it back when I went home for Thanksgiving and was with my mom at Jo-Ann's. My mother and I spend a lot of time bonding at Jo-Ann's, Michael's, any craft related or fabric store, really when I'm home to visit. So imagine my surprise when I unwrapped this beauty under the Xmas tree. Can't wait to make some of the clothes in it. I've been inspired lately to bust out my sewing machine and do some thangs. Watch me work.

Off topic thought....... I'm thinking of adding some cool print aprons (full ones and short ones) to my shop: http://www.sofysticatedphunk.etsy.com/ (It's bare bones in there now b/c I'm working on new items to add). What do you all think? I think it's cute and dig aprons but maybe the general public thinks differently. Let me know! When I make mine, I'll share it and maybe even do a giveaway for it. Who knows!

Diggin my books I got? Check em out here:

Crafty Christmas

2011-01-02T10:33:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! I hope everyone was safe and enjoyed the season with family and friends. I know I did. I left the Big Apple to spend the holidays in Cincinnati with my family and had a blast as always. Here's some of the crafty things I was up to while I was there.

I got a Nook e-Reader for Christmas! :D I'm in like with Green Craft magazine http://www.greencraftmagazine.com/. They've inspired me to create some really cool things like make a cardboard pair of earrings and make a cloth case for my Nook from an old t-shirt. I'll show and share when I've completed it.

I started teaching myself how to knit. I got this I Taught Myself Knitting knitting kit from Walmart for $10 or so. YouTube is an awesome resource though. I've been watching vids to learn and am getting the hang of it. :D I've got the garter stitch down (pictured). Next up is learning how to purl so I can create the stockinette stitch.

And of course, I got my crochet on! The yarn pictured is gorgeous in real life. My mom took me to this cute yarn shop in Mason (OH). She wanted me to crochet her a neck cowl and chose this yarn. I'll have to have her take a picture of herself in it so I can share it with you guys.

I have another post coming with more pics. I got some cool craft books for Christmas too. My family knows me so well. :D

Colors and Bows with Milly

2010-12-26T23:26:00.000-05:00

Milly Fall 2010 RTW

Close family and friends call me Milly. Maybe that's part of why I really like the collections that Milly creates. Her styling and designs are right up my girlie girl, alley. These three looks from the Fall 2010 collection are in dire need of being interpreted and recreated by me!

Right now, I'm totally obsessed with blouses that you can tie a bow at the collar, any kind of pattern or textured tights like polka dots (my absolute fav!) and various color tights. I knew that I should have gotten some red tights from Forever 21 earlier today.......

Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season! I'm enjoying my time spent with my family. I got some day-after-Christmas finds. Can't wait to share them.

{All photos are from http://www.style.com/}

Any of You Remember Suede Magazine?

2010-12-11T08:55:00.000-05:00

{Image from Mahogany Cafe}

Oh how I still long for this magazine. It was one of my favorites. Honey magazine (back when it was still printed. Now it's online: Honeymag.com) was first but when Suede came out, it got bumped to second with the quickness. Lol. This mag inspired me so much in my teens and I loved that it was chock full of women of color rocking different styles besides the stereotypical, "urban" look. Suede was like a breath of fresh air b/c I didn't see anyone who looked like me in Teen Vogue or Cosmo Girl. In this mag I saw ladies that had the same eye and passion for style that I did and it opened my eyes to a plethora of new styling concepts. This mag was a visual orgasm for real......

Gianny L's Unique Wrap Dress

2010-12-11T08:11:00.000-05:00

Ooooooo I'm so gonna try this!

Double Stitch Twins

2010-12-04T16:44:00.000-05:00

{Image from DoubleStitchTwins.com}

Double Stitch Twins, Erika and Monika Simmons (shown above), have officially become my crochet icons. And what a catchy name, right? I learned of them when I was on Red Heart Yarns' website looking for crochet patterns to make gifts for this Holiday season. These hermanas are design and create some dope stuff. You can find patterns for many of their fab designs at Red Heart. I can make many of them now at my skill level. I'm still beginner to intermediate in my crochet skills but they give me something to aspire to.

Puff Sleeve Jacket designed by Double Stitch Twins. Click HERE for the pattern.

Style Files: What I've Been Up To

2010-11-13T14:52:00.000-05:00

I've been a busy busy bee with sacraficing the preservation of my flyness, of course. You all know how I do. ;)

So what's been going on with me?

A little bit of everything. God's been keeping me very active and I am so thankful for it. When I'm productive like this, I feel alive and my passion for life burns even brighter.

My job keeps me busy during the work day and I really like that; makes the days go by fast so I can recover on the weekends (well not really). Lol. The magazine I write for, EXUDE magazine, has been taking off and encountering awesome opportunities left and right. It's exciting and exhausting all at once. We, among other professionals in the writing and broadcasting spectrum, spoke with a journalism group from Howard University this past Thursday night and shared our words of wisdom and experiences with the students. It was dope and totally inspiring to share what we have learned along the way to provide encouragement and listen to these young adults' dreams and aspirations. My make up artistry business has been picking up and I'm planning on going into business with my girl, Kat from The Naturalista Files. We will be teaching affordable make up workshops in the greater NYC area starting in the new year. I've also been getting inspired and playing around with more accessory styles. I plan to add necklaces to my shop, Sofysticated Phunk, soon. :D

Now, I'm figuring out Christmas gifts! I want to make gifts for everyone, again, this year. It was fun and a lot of times way more thoughtful than when I've just went out and bought gifts in the past. Because many of my family members read this blog, I won't be able to divulge more information than that till after the Holidays. Lol.

Brown Style: June Ambrose

2010-10-17T14:22:00.000-04:00

Have I been living under a rock? June Ambrose has a YouTube channel that I didn't know about?! As someone who works behind the scenes in the fashion industry, besides the super models, we are scarce (and it's the behind the scences people that really have the power and influence over this industry). She's like our Anna Wintour. I can't get enough of June and her style sense and eye for creating a multitude of ingenious looks is inspiring. It makes me proud to see some brown faces workin it in this crazy industry.

This sista KNOW she betta WERK!

Only Girl [In the World]

2010-10-17T11:05:00.000-04:00

I'm not even a big Rihanna fan but I'm diggin this song and the video in a major way. They way she's spinning around at the end of the video; I consider myself a free spirit like this. Life amazes, saddens and shocks me all at once like I'm spinning around in an ethreal circle.....

Anywho, I dig the styling big time especially all the flowy skirts, her wild and loose hair, even the bright color of the hair; the carefree look of it all. She looks like a modern day, bohemian style Jem from Jem and the Holograms (for all you 80's babies and kids), no? It looks like she probably had a lot of fun shooting this vid.

While we as women are to feel confident, happy and secure within ourselves; it's almost euphoria when a man can elicit these feelings in us. It's the icing on the cake; the cherry on top. I'd be lying if I said it wasn't the icing for me. :D

I Want This Camera

2010-09-26T16:13:00.000-04:00

Hey guys. Long time no write, right? Well, I'm coming back. Hadn't been feeling inspired for a bit so I took a hiatus but my inspiration and creative spirit is starting to come back. I thought I'd share with you all this item that is inspiring me to hurry up and pay off the last of my [credit card] debt so that I can purchase this bad boy:

It's the Canon Power Shot G11 model camera. It's a point and shoot camera but takes BEAUTIFUL pictures that are close to [D]SLR camera quality worthy. I learned of it from Renae Bluitt of In Her Shoes Blog. I was talking to her at the We Only Blog with the Best event at Georgia NY boutique, in Soho, this past Thursday evening. A couple of us were asking about her camera and she was saying that she really liked that this model took great quality pictures and wasn't heavy like the usual DSLR cameras are. She throws it in her bag and is ready for a photo op whenever.

The Deets
Canon Power Shot G11
Cost: Amazon--> $458, Ebay (lowest price I saw)--> $448, Best Buy--> It's on sale right now for $429

The Law of Attraction WILL be finding a way for me to get this camera in the very near future! ;D

Upcoming posts: my review on the new sewing machine that I bought last month, what I've been wearing, what I've been creating as of late and more.

Indie Sewing Patterns: Colette Patterns

2010-08-20T20:47:00.001-04:00

I'm really fascinated by blouses with ruffles and those that have collars you tie into a bow for this fast approaching fall season. I couldn't find any patterns for these silhouettes by the usual suspects: McCalls, Butterick, yadda yadda... I ended up searching for indie brand patterns to see if they had anything like I had envisioned (this is why I just need to take some classes on how to draft my own patterns). While I didn't find what I was looking for (the search continues!), I came across this ill pattern on Sew Mama Sew:

Image from Sew Mama Sew

I must have it and make it! I can already see it now, in navy blue, on me. ;D

The Deets:

Brand: Colette Patterns
Style: Ceylon Shirt Dress
Price: $18
Where to Buy: http://www.sewmamasew.com/

McCall's Free Project Downloads

2010-08-15T09:01:00.000-04:00

To all my "sew" fly ladies, check the McCall's website. If you sign up for their e-newsletter, you can download some cute project patterns for free. I plan to make the memory board really soon and tons of the others. Many of them are great for gifts especially with the Holidays coming closer and closer.

Fall Crafts

2010-08-05T10:56:00.000-04:00

Image from Craft Ideas

Fall is on its way. It's crazy how fast this summer flew by but I did my best to enjoy it as much as possible. It's still with us for a little while longer so I plan to enjoy it till it's gone. I have a few more adventures left in me to capture before the summer's end. Bet.

Anywho, when the weather starts to cool down, I get in a different kind of crafty mode. I tend be drawn to more "cozy" crafts and projects if that makes any sense; maybe because in cooler weather you tend to want to be indoors instead. I'm moving, as we speak (and let me tell you, these are the times I wish I was a minimalist), and so I have a lot of different ideas on how I want to spruce up my new place. I know I want to sew some throw pillows for my futon/bed and maybe even if I'm ambitious enough, sew a new comforter for my bed too. That would be dope and curtains too maybe.

Image from AllWomenStalk

I also will be pulled back to my crochet projects. (I really want to learn to knit too.)

Image from F i E L D y

I just do more crafts in the cooler months since I'm indoors more and not out on adventures all the time. Lol. I also want to take a look at this magazine, Green Craft. They have great sustainable crafts and projects for your home, office and anything else.

Image from Green Craft

And after helping my aunt wrap prizes for her ministry's bus ride to Quebec, Canada (I so wish I could go!) last night, I've decided I want to get more creative with wrapping gifts. I do good wrapping now, but I want to get gooooooood. I luv crafts!

Image from Real Simple

Well, let me finish moving....... #Ugh

Adventures in Brooklyn

2010-08-03T15:57:00.001-04:00

Yesterday my girl, Kat, and I went out to lunch. We had our mind set out on dining in BK at Speakeasy...... till we got there and learned that they didn't open till 4p. So then we traipsed a few blocks down to another spot I like in the area called Rustic Tavern. They didn't open till 4 either! We got on a bus headed toward downtown BK and got off when we hit the Ft. Greene area, started walking around and stumbled upon this South African restaurant called Madiba.

We were hot, hungry and relieved we finally found somewhere that was open before 4 o' clock. The atmosphere was rustic chic with wood furniture, large windows and white linen curtains; chill out, lounge and world music playing. It had an eclectic, relaxed vibe that I liked and all the staff was warm and welcoming.

After splitting a pitcher of super tasty, red sangria and devouring the samoosa appetizers and our main courses, we left feeling satisfied and slightly buzzed. Now that's what I call a good meal/day. :D Everything was absolutely delicious, the prices are very affordable and we made it our business to get a card so we didn't forget where this gem was. (Kat put in a reservation to hold the NYC Naturals Meet Up there next weekend. Yippee!) We snapped some quick shots in the neighborhood before hopping on the train to our respective locations.

I made the top I have on. It's so simple but I luv it and that print; how can you not dig the print? It's one of my favorites now. It was a great day.

Madiba Restaurant
195 Dekalb Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11205
P 718*855*9190
http://www.madibarestaurant.com/

Brooklyn Flea Market

2010-08-02T08:22:00.002-04:00

I finally took myself to the Brooklyn Flea. So mad that this was my first time going. I. Luv'd. It. There were great vintage finds, excellent hand crafted accessories, hand crafted furniture, a mini bike shop and tons of yummy food vendors. One stand was even selling vinyl records for ridiculously low prices. I'll be going back before the summer's end. It was also inspiring style wise to see what people were wearing. I luv the Ft. Greene/College Hill part of Brooklyn. Everyone has such varying style that is unique to them. It's dope.

I didn't take too many pics because many of the vendors didn't welcome it. It's easy to spend even a little bit of money there; so much good stuff at a range of different prices. There was definitely something for everyone. I got a clutch dated back to the 1930's for $5.

I can't wait to wear it out somewhere. I also got a print, jersey knit head scarf from a brand called Mercato. It was hand crafted and she had tons of other pretty prints available. Funny, I didn't take a picture of it but you can see what it looked like on my latest vid I did about my flea market adventure HERE.

Before I left, I grabbed some delicious pork dumplings from The Good Fork's stand.

I shoulda bought two orders of them. They were so effin good.

I luv the look of brownstones. They are rich in so much history and are just absolutely beautiful to me. En route back to the train station, I stopped and took a pic of me sitting on the steps of one.

One day one of these babies will be mine if I still want one by then........

Yesterday was swell. Hope you all had a good weekend.

Brooklyn Flea
On Saturday: 176 Lafayette Ave. (between Clermont and Vanderbuilt Ave.)
On Sunday: 1 Hanson Place (at Flatbush Ave.)
Brooklyn, NY
http://www.brooklynflea.com/

Shopping Staple: Market Basket

2010-08-01T09:29:00.000-04:00

Pictured: Reisenthel Germany Collapsible Bag or Market Basket

Image Source: www.Amazon.com

I'm diggin the print of this. It's very "me". I like pretty, colorful and/or eye catching objects; things that excite and inspire me. These market baskets help you add more eco-chic to your lifestyle without sacraficing any fly points. I luv when the two are married like that. These baskets come in a wide range of colors and prints to suit whatever your personal style may be. With a 6 gallon volume and size comparable to a grocery store, plastic basket, you're in business. Who needs plastic bags again? They're not cheap, about $40 a pop, but from the reviews I've read on Amazon, they're very good quality and worth the investment. I'm very much into good quality vs quantity because I end up spending less money in the long run.

I don't want to order this online though. I don't really care for online shopping b/c I'm impatient and want the instant satisfaction of getting it right away when I see it and buy it. Lol. I'm going to find out if any stores sell this brand. I really like this print. There's got to be some store here in NY that sells them.

Interview Me

2010-08-01T00:35:00.001-04:00

I wore this look to an interview I had recently. I have an apparel/fashion background so this look is totally appropriate for the industry. I put this look together so last minute, it's not even funny. I originally had a completely different outfit in mind, but for some reason or another, it didn't work out and I ended up throwing this one together. I've had this dress for close to 4 years now and it's still one of my favorites. I've had those pumps for close to 5 years now and they are one of my favorite pairs of shoes to this day.

New Sewing Machine

2010-07-28T15:32:00.000-04:00

Image Source: www.Brother-USA.com

Yippee! I decided to invest in a better sewing machine. I bought the Brother XL-3125e model, pictured above, at Walmart for $80. That's cheap in the sewing world. It's cute, right? I also bought a ($20) sewing machine case to keep it stored when its not in use; this helps keep dust and debri from getting on and in it.

I currently have a lil Kenmore sewing machine (and a Singer (that wasn't one of their best models [but I was a teenager and wanted it b/c it looked cute. I know...] that needs repair but is "lost" in my aunt and uncle's basement in their other house-don't ask) and now I can add this one to the list. It's not the Porshces of sewing machines-I'm saving up for that one (You can see it HERE. That sucker I could do effin DAMAGE WITH.) still, but it definitely will outperform the little one. I'd say this one is like the Hondas or Toyotas of sewing machines: affordable, durable (from the reviews I've read) and perform well.

I missed having a sewing machine that does simple things like button holes, has a light when you need to see better, and faster sewing speed. It feels good to be back and I can get back to my "regularly scheduled" sewing projects. I had to stop dead in the middle of many of them b/c the little Kenmore just wasn't capable. You don't even want to know how many dangerous outfits I had planned for events that I had to forego.

A full review on this model coming soon. And now more projects to share with you all coming soon.

Shoe Obsession?

2010-07-26T16:17:00.000-04:00

FRYE Dara Campus Stitch Sandal

I've never been a shoes obsessed kinda gal (and I probably won't ever be) but as of recently, I've decided to invest more into shoes. Not that I bought poor quality shoes beforehand. I just didn't view shoes as something worthy to drop significant money on, BUT I've come to find out that THEY CAN BE WORTHWHILE. I've finally seen the light and am less begrudged to spend a little more on them b/c with proper care, they will last me for years. I have finally valued good quality shoes a style investment. Where have I been, right? :D

As fall is the next season up, I've got my shoe needs list and wish list started. (The shoe up top was on my wish list, but they no longer have my size so I can't even save up for them. I had so many ideas for them too..... Oh well.) Look out for both in upcoming posts. This fall, I plan on still wearing sandals, like this FRYE pair, and pairing them with tights of different colors, patterns and (embossed) designs.

Perfect Sunday

2010-07-19T21:31:00.000-04:00

I just luv this pic. I was getting my MopTop Maven and/or HisHersChicago on. Lol. This Sunday past, The Naturalist Files, dragged me out (on last notice) to the Loving Your Hair With Natural Care workshop in Brooklyn. I luv Brooklyn in the summertime. (For more details on the how the workshop was: I'll talk about it more on my hair blog. If you don't see it, it's b/c I haven't put it up yet.) BK just has a fly energy about it.

I luv that this romper looks like a dress. Dope, right?

Afro Barbie

2010-07-15T19:33:00.001-04:00

Before I get comments, NO, I didn't get a haircut. Lol. Shrinkage is a cool characteristic of afro textured hair. We have the ability to manipulate what length hair we want for the day. :D (Please reserve hair questions for my hair blog: AGrlCanMac.com cuz if you ask, I'm more than likely gonna refer you there anyway. Haha.) Back to the post at hand---->

I was feeling like "Afro Barbie" when my imagination drummed up this look. I did some evangelism work with my church that day. We were passing out flyers with a free granola bar at one of the popular train (it's really the subway but we still call it the train anyway. Hehe.) stops here. What New Yorker do you know that denies anything for free? It's a non assuming way to spread awareness about our casual, contemporary church and invite them to a service; no pressure.

I know you're thinking, "She wore those heels to stand outside and pass out granola bars at the train station?!?" Hecks no. I wore some cute tennis shoes that I "self vandalized". I'll do a post on them next time so you can see them.

Top: Danice $10/Vest: Conway/Leggings: Conway/Necklace: F21/Charm bracelet: Tiffany & Co./Earrings: Sofysticated Phunk/Sandals: Aldo

The Summer of Quadron

2010-07-10T11:44:00.003-04:00

I'm a super music junkie. Music is the soundtrack of my life. I have a song for every era, time period, season, year, ex, etc of my life. Different songs evoke different memories. Last summer, J*Davey's "Beauty in Distortion" album was my soundtrack. This summer, it's all about Quadron's "Quadron" album. I first learned of them from the lovely Andrea of Fly. (Her site is so fresh by the way. I have to meet her one day!) Ever since then, it's been pure adoration. Their sound can be described as electronic soul. It's got funk, another one of my favorite music genres, elements to it too. It's dope. Word: the Danish got something to add to the soul scene.

I've had "Average Fruit" on constant replay. Give it a listen and you'll see why:

Vid Credits: www.youtube.com/KerMa83

The violins are so sick at the end and I just adore Coco's voice. If you don't know about Quadron, now ya know. Some of my other favorite songs from them: "Simili Life", "Day", "Slippin", "Jeans" and "Pressure"; hell the whole album!

Visit them at their MySpace page: www.myspace.com/quadronquadron
They're on Twitter too: @quadron_quadron

What I've Been Wearing

2010-07-10T00:38:00.002-04:00

So much has been going on. Just sharing some outfits I've been rocking this summer so far

Cami: Energie/Belt: F21/Skirt: I made/Bag: Coach/Sandals: Strawberry/Bangles: You & I, various street vendors

Tank: Conway/Jeans: No Boundaries (Walmart)/Sandals: Payless/Necklaces: F21/Earrings: Sofysticated Phunk/Bangles: various street vendors

I've had these jeans forever. This summer, I cut them and cuffed them like so and I'm luvin them. They're uber comfortable, chic and I like that I can dress up or down a look with them.

This is what I wore for the 4th of July:

Tank: Conway/Skirt: thrifted/Hair flower: handmade/Sandals: Strawberry

I don't know what happened with my camera but it totally blurred a perfect shot! Eh, you get the idea of what I as wearing. I absolutely adore this skirt. It is one of my favorite thrifting finds to date. You may remember it from HERE when I wore it as a dress.

Cynthia Rowley for Simplicity

2010-06-24T10:14:00.000-04:00

Can we say true love?! I know for sure, I'm scoring this pattern: 2406 cuz it's dope. I can so see myself in a rich purple, yellow, or lime green version of the style modeled.

I'll be on the look out for when Simplicity patterns go on sale at Jo-Ann's. Check out the rest of Simplicity's Cynthia Rowley patterns HERE.

Summer 2010 Anthem

2010-06-23T20:11:00.001-04:00

Ne-Yo's "Champagne Life" is officially becoming one of my summer anthems/jams. It puts me in such a chill yet happy-go-lucky and carefree mood that merits what I feel summer is all about. Doesn't he sound a lot like MJ (Michael Jackson) in this song?

This song has also inspired me some. Got some new styles, as always, that I'll be adding to the shop.

PS (Ya girl found out how to make her own ballet flats. There will be a show n tell going on when I can get around to making a pair. So excited!)

Yummy Grilled Cheese

2010-06-17T19:31:00.000-04:00

This is not your standard grilled (American or cheddar) cheese sandwich. It's even better. I was playing around and came up with a yummier version.

Ingredients:

* 2 pieces of Bread
* 1 slice of Provolone cheese
* Trader Joe's 21 Seasoning Salute
* Butter

I'm going to play around with breads next. This time around, I just used wheat bread. Anyway, I buttered one sides of each piece with Soy Garden butter. Then I put a slice of provolone on the inside of one of the pieces, lightly sprinkled a lil of the seasoning on (I spread it out with my fingers so it wasn't all concentrated in the middle), put the other piece on top, and in the toaster oven it went. In less than five minutes, I had a DEEEEEEEEEEEE-LICIOUS grilled cheese sandwich ready to eat. Pair it with the traditional tomato soup or some salsa for something extra. I had mine with some apple sauce.

I don't think I shall ever desire a regular grilled cheese again.

Square Plates = Luv

2010-06-16T13:51:00.000-04:00

I'm in dire need of a co-hesive dinnerware set. Right now I have a mishmash of random plates and cups. I want to start slowly chic-ifying my apartment and have added this 16pc set by Corell ($49.54 at Walmart.com as of today) to my wish list. Square plates makes me happy. :D

I really like the simple design too. Makes your food look chic.

I'm So Inspired

2010-06-16T11:08:00.001-04:00

I have luv'd Kelis since she first came out. I have all her albums. Her style is unique to her. It doesn't feel contrived or packaged and I luv that b/c you get so few of that these days. Her originality inspires me and her latest vid for her song, 4th of July, (the album is due to drop July 6th and I will be purchasing!) doesn't fall short of inspiration. Man, I"m getting different earring ideas, outfit ideas, sewing project ideas..... Maybe Kelis is a bit of my muse. Hmm....

Saving for a Macbook

2010-06-15T15:05:00.000-04:00

I've been lusting after one for a while now but I'm going to start saving for one. If I were to secure a job soon, I could save for it in less time. Eh, I actually don't know about that being as how paying off my credit card debt is my first priority right now. Oh well, let the saving begin no matter how menial it might be for now. Or let me win the lottery. Lol.

I'm looking to purchase the 13-inch Macbook Pro model and looks like it will run me about $1200 (before tax). BUT, after customizing the sucker and selecting the 3 year warranty, it went up to about $1600 (before tax). Damn. I so want one (in yellow if that was possible lol) though. The hard drive among its other capabitlities dance CIRLCES around what I have now. The graphics are bananas and I could so use that in my line of work and creative interests with this. Who else wants one of these babies?

Luv Satchel Bags

2010-06-14T10:24:00.000-04:00

It's absolutely delicious. I want this bag! I can't remember where I found this picture so I don't remember who it's by. #shameonme Maybe b/c I knew I wouldn't be able to afford it. It screams summer and would fit perfectly into my wardrobe.

Hmm..... If I study it enough, maybe I could create a beige or tan colored, canvas version of it. I either have to find a knock off version or I'm creating my interpretation of it. Mine might have to be without some of the bell and whistles though. I don't mind, it's really the basic silhouette of the bag that I'm in lust with.

Pretty in the City

2010-06-12T15:52:00.001-04:00

Had some work and play in the city yesterday. It started off with a short meeting in Mid-Town then I visited with a girlfriend of mine in Harlem. We hadn't talked in a while so we spent the day catching up (was flapping my gums so much, I lost my voice!), drinking wine from New Zealand, and munching on cheese and crackers.

Vest: Conway/"Dress"-it's actually a long skirt that I'm wearing as a dress: Thrifted/Belt: F21/Sandals: Strawberry

Coming Up: A New Banner

2010-06-10T09:02:00.000-04:00

Working on a new banner for this place. I'm bored with the one I have up now. I plan to make it much simpler. That is all.

This no clothes shopping (not even if it's a dollar!) for this month is hard! I want to thrift so bad! Especially after having tons of ideas and inspiration for thrifted clothing. I won't play myself and even go in any stores at this point. That would be futile. Ugh. Pray for me. Lol.

I learned of this awesome style site. Maybe you all know of it: http://thestylesample.com/ I luv it. Check it out when you get a chance.

It's Not Summer Without

2010-06-09T19:45:00.002-04:00

Photo Credits: MyRepublica.com

why, a pair of huaraches, quite naturally. These were another summer staple in our wardrobe as children. Mommy always got us pairs in white and brown.

My latest obsession is with flirty, pleated, cotton print skirts (which I'll be doing some show and tell of the styles I've been creating.). I've been making them like crazy and I can envision them being worn with these. I'm on a carefree beauty/style tip this season. I'm luvin this multi-colored pair pictured.

I'm on the hunt for any places here in NY, that sell them. If any of you know, speak up! Lol.

July Project Ideas

2010-06-06T09:48:00.000-04:00

So I can't buy any clothes this month, click here, if you're nosey and wanna know why. But I have tons of project ideas swirling around in my head for next month and most of them involve thrift stores. Woo hoo! Here's a sneak peek at some that I have up my sleeves:

* Turning men's button down, dress shirts into Breezy Tunics that you can wear with "Keds" and shorts or capris

* Turning moomoos into Print, Ruffle Skirts: My latest kick is wearing them at my natural waist over basic camis or pretty blouses. I'm going to scour thrift stores for 2X size moomoos. They use a lot of fabric so I'll be making some skirts from them.

I probably will get a couple basic camis from Conway. They're $3 each. Luvs it!

I plan to start capturing more of my adventures b/c I have so many of them depending on who I'm reeking havoc with. I'm getting very much into photography. So it will be a way to capture more moments of my life, share some with you guys, and help me get more practice.

I Want Some Keds

2010-05-28T00:00:00.001-04:00

Keds were a summer staple for my sister and me when we were children. We used to just get the classic, white leather style. They scream effortlessly cool, summer style.
I'm digging their Champion Jute Linen style:

I think I "need" these in my life. Lol. I would get them in the color pictured and "graffiti-ize" them. You know, doodle on them. I think that would be so fresh. I wish they had them in the color of the jute or like a bamboo color. I'd rock these with various sun dresses, shorts or capris.

Check them out at the Keds website.

It's Been A While

2010-05-27T17:40:00.001-04:00

Hey guys. I've been neglecting this blog like crazy! I've been a busy, busy bee and paying more attention to my hair & beauty blog whenever I have time. I have tons of creative stuff that I've been doing. Just have to take the time to share everything with you all.

While I'm working on all of that, here are some pictures I snapped recently. I'm getting more and more into photography and have been practicing; taking pictures of any and everything. I went to the Midwest this past weekend to visit some of my family and one of my favorite subjects was my little cousin. He's so adorable yet so bad! Be back soon!

Salmon Croquettes

2010-03-18T11:58:00.000-04:00

I'm getting more into cooking these days. No, I'm not about to get married but I may just get married sooner b/c of it. "They" say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach after all. Lol. I consider it yet another way to express myself and make sure I don't starve in some instances. Hahaha.

I got on my favorite recipe site, RecipeZaar and found this simple recipe that got rave reviews.

Via RecipeZaar member Mary Scheffert:

Ingredients

1 can salmon
2 eggs
buttery crackers, crushed (I use Ritz)
parsley flakes
red pepper flakes (to taste)
salt & pepper (to taste)

Directions

1) Drain salmon well, and remove skin& bones.

2) Place into medium mixing bowl& mash up with fork.

3) Add all other ingredients& mix together (mixture should be stiff enough to form patties, but not too dry).

4) Form into patties& place in a pre-heated skillet, sprayed with a little non-stick spray.

5) Cook until golden brown on both sides.

HOW I MODIFIED IT:

I used bread crumbs (next time I'm going to try it with Panko!)
I seasoned with salt, pepper, and Trader Joes 21 Seasoning Salute (it's similar to Mrs. Dash)
Instead of using PAM in the pan, I used Soy Garden soy butter

They came out delish. They're great for breakfast with grits too. Yummmmm!

Army Green

2010-02-26T23:06:00.004-05:00

I got this cardigan as a Christmas present and was at first baffled what to wear it with. I don't own a lot of, scratch that-ANY, green items in this color and it wasn't a color that I thought really did anything for my skin tone. I just loved the shape of it and knew I would find a way to make it work and came up with this. Makes me think of fall more than winter but oh well.

What I've Been Up To

2010-02-14T19:16:00.004-05:00

I've been a lean mean creating machine. Since I re-launched my accessories line, Sofysticated Phunk, I've been busy being inspired, creating and adding new styles. The shop will be updated all this coming week with the new designs I've drummed up.

This pair pictured are in the shop for purchase now. Only one of this style will be available so if you like it, you'd better get it!

I've been getting better at crocheting and faster. It's so fulfilling to complete a project and notice your progression. Crocheting is also a huuuuge stress reliever. It's so therapeutic and keeps me centered and "in the present". I know that may sound crazy. I guess what I'm trying to say is that it's very relaxing. I busted out my first tam Saturday in a matter of a couple hours.

I quite fancy how it turned out. I love bright colors like this orange. I plan to make more tams like this in any color I desire! There's something so liberating about being able to create your own things if you want to. Once I get good at crocheting, I plan to learn to knit next. I'm such a glutton for learning more craftings of art. I would also luv to learn felting one of these days as well as a host of other things. I plan to be a jack of all/most creative trades by the end of it all.

Never lose your imagination. To keep us sane, we need to keep a tiny piece of that little kid in us.

Neck Warmer Chocker

2010-01-19T00:09:00.006-05:00

I finished my second crochet project. I wore this out on my way to church the other day. It was my first time debuting it out. I'm too lazy to make a scarf so I just keep making neck warmers. Hahah. Plus, this winter I'm into neck warmers. I love how they look and they really keep my neck warm. Lol.

PS: If you like the earrings, you can find them at my Etsy shop: http://www.sofysticatedphunk.etsy.com/.

PSS: If you like the hair, click here to learn how I achieved the look.

Vintage Leather Ties

2010-01-14T15:45:00.005-05:00

Check out these vintage, (late '70s, early '80s) leather, skinny ties my daddy gave me.

He got a head start on the "spring cleaning" and I couldn't have been happier. He had so many different colors! I luv it. I can't wait to rock them out. One look I have in mind is with a ribbed tank, bomber jacket and print, pencil skirt. You can play with tieing them different ways too.

Some I'm going to disect and use for my Sofysticated Phunk earring designs. The interim site will up and shoppable this Saturday! More details coming soon. :D

How would you rock these ties?

Cheap Chic

2010-01-13T11:34:00.003-05:00

I want these!

Style M90418

They are only $35 at Eye Buy Direct. They have tons of other great styles that you can get prescription or non-prescription but this pair spoke to me. I luv the color. They have the color described as orange but on my computer screen they look more like a mustard color. If they really are orange that's fine too but if they are mustard color, it will be luv. :D

Random

2010-01-09T17:58:00.006-05:00

Just feel like posting some random shots I snapped the other day.

I luv this apron b/c it was owned by my paternal grandmother, one of the stylistas in mi familia. I found it when I was rooting through my old things at my parents' house over the Holidays.

I've decided to take it back with me. I plan on using it any time of the year though; I don't care. ;D

That is all.

New Hobby

2010-01-04T12:53:00.001-05:00

I've added another creative hobby to my list. I've taken up crocheting. :D I started learning how over the Holiday.

My first project is a neck warmer. This is a pic from when I first started it. Ya gotta start somewhere, right? I'm excited to be learning how to do this and once I get the hang of this, will be on a ROLL ya hear? I'm almost done with it and will post pics when it's completed. I have so many ideas for other things I want to make next like a beanie.

On another cool creative note, my mom is a fiber artist and she taught me how to make my own fabric. Here's what I came up with on my first try.

I want to incorporate it into my earring designs some kind of way. I almost don't want to use it for anything though. Lol.

Holiday Shopping

2010-01-04T11:43:00.001-05:00

Happy Holidays! Hope everyone enjoyed their time spent with family and good friends and brought in the New Year right. I enjoyed myself like I normally do and the season is just another reminder to be thankful for your life and the people in it.

I wore this number the weekend before Christmas when my mother and I went out to do some of our Christmas shopping. I got this shirt from Rainbow earlier in the year and this is actually the back of the top. But I thought it was so pretty, I decided this day to wear it as the front instead. This tam is one of my absolute favorites. I luv the color. I dig when there are bad hair days, tams come to the rescue!

I didn't have my camera on me then so I had to use the good ol camera on my phone to snap these pics. Not bad quality for a phone camera.

Top (worn backwards): Rainbow, Cardigan: Old Navy, Belt and Jeans: F21, Boots: Nicole (by way of DSW), Tam: local BSS (beauty supply store)

Gladiator Sandals

2009-12-21T01:12:00.000-05:00

So I'm "home" for the Holidays choppin it up with my family in Ohio. :D I was in Gabriel's the other day doing some Xmas shopping with my mother and sister and came across these beauties. I couldn't pass them up and the price was so right. (I miss Gabriel's man. They don't have any in the NYC area and I wish they did. Stylistas, we can find tons of great deals there.)

I got them for $10. Doesn't get much better than that. While this shoe screams wear me with summer dresses, rompers and shorts, I also plan to rock them some this winter with tights, to keep my totsies warm, and skinny jeans. I learned about rocking fabulous summer sandals with tights from Diane's blog Africana Wardrobe Diary. Totally fabulous blog by the way. Her style is so utterly fly, original and inspirational.

Military Jackets

2009-12-17T00:38:00.006-05:00

I want to start a little collection of these. I would like to make/buy/thrift some in colors including but are not limited to: khaki, navy blue, a red-brown and peach. Military jackets are great because you can dress them up or down depending on the style and how you style them.

This red, wool one below I got a few years ago for Christmas from my parents. My silly self didn't appreciate it back then and it did a lot of hanging (pun intended) out in my closet. Boy am I glad that I didn't give it away! I finally appreciate it and luv wearing it plus it keeps me very warm in this cold weather.

Wool military coat: Eagle's Eye
Ribbed tank, Cardigan, & Jeans: F21
Boots: Nicole
Earrings: from my line Sofysticated Phunk

I like the style of this one Trina wore on Yo Gotti's "5 Star Chick" Remix video. I'd rock it with some skinny jeans and platform pumps.

I just luv Trina and you can't tell me these over the knee boots aren't hot. But that's a whole 'notha post!

Byron Lars Spring 2010

2009-12-16T13:20:00.001-05:00

Can we say super bad?! The man has done it again. Just like John Galliano, the man's an artistic genious. I luv his style concepts and that the model for this collection dons the big hair. =) I also luv the imagery. I've been bitten by the photography bug and luv the look and concept of these photos. All the elements: hair, fashions, make up, etc all scream ART. I luv and revel in it!

I want one of these hats. Where could I even begin to try to find one? I'm so diggin this pencil skirt below. I don't have Byron Lars money YET, so I will have to make something close to it or if I could find a similar thrifed skirt, I could add pockets like this myself. I'm really feelin the pockets. It gives it a chic, safari vibe to me. I could very much so see myself in this outfit.

Check out the rest of this sofysticated yet phunky collection at his website: www.ByronLarsBeautyMark.com.

Photos Credits: Byron Lars Beauty Mark

Mukluks

2009-12-15T17:32:00.003-05:00

I want a pair. These bad boys look like they will keep your feet warm. Plus I think they're fly. I'd rock them OUT. You have no idea.

Mukluk Store Brown Original Mukluk Boots

I also like these ones

North American Native Crafts Mukluks Item# M2

and these

North American Native Crafts Mukluks Item# M7

Would any of you rock a pair of mukluks?

Style Staples: Aviator Sunglasses

2009-12-15T00:33:00.004-05:00

Sunglass Warehouse Mirrored Aviator Style#: 1690 $12.71

I need to get a pair of these in my life by the time spring hits. First worn by American pilots in the 1930s, I now consider them a "style staple" in modern day wardrobes of men and women. I luv this classic and chic element of style they provide. It never goes out of style. You can dress these shades up or down depending on the outfit. I covet this versatility! I found this fly pair pictured on www.SunglassesWarehouse.com for under $20. Sa-weet.

I'm so hijacking this post when I say in the same breath that I also want a pair of these dope, oversized sunglasses so that I can get my '70s vibe on:

Big shades and big hair go hand in hand....

I also found this pair at Sunglass Warehouse for under $20. Fresh to def, I know, and so is the price. Details: Oversized Style#: 8836 $13.56

Sofysticated Phunk is at Eula Boutique

2009-12-14T11:10:00.010-05:00

I'm so excited! For any of you that live in greater Cincinnati, you now can find my Sofysticated Funk fabric earrings being sold in Eula Boutique! For Cincinnati (sorry I had to go there! Lol), this boutique is very eclectic and chic. They sell original pieces including art work, custom made bags, jewelry, knit wear, and other fly accessories for a wide range of prices. This boutique caters to a variety of price points so check them out when you're in town or if you live here.

My first batch dropped in the store yesterday and despite the rainy weather, some shoppers came out and I got my first sale. =)

My First Sale!

I luv'd this fabric which I don't have very much left of. =( I bought it a few years ago (for a top that I still haven't finished making. Haha.) and never thought I'd be making earrings out of it now. I wish there was a way that I could find more of it.

I have so many more ideas for these babies. I got a lot of great feedback and suggestions on how to further enhance them.

Yay!!!!

More Fabric Earrings

2009-12-11T01:41:00.004-05:00

I've been making these things like crazy. I can't get enough of them! These are another of many pairs I made recently. They have also now become one of my favorite pair of earrings. Don't you just love the vibrant colors? This is kente fabric I got from a fabric store on Jamaica Ave. It's one of my favorite stores on the Ave that I can get African inspired fabrics for dirt cheap, think $2-$3 a yard!

I have since come up with even more ideas to up the flyness of these babies. Stay tuned for what I'll churn out next. *rubs hands together mischievously*

Gobble Gobble Gear

2009-11-27T19:34:00.004-05:00

I wanted to wear something casual chic this year for Turkey Day and thought that this was the right 'fit. I had planned to rock my fro but I didn't like how it was looking (I'm sure it would have looked fine to everyone else but you know how it is...), so I pinned it up into this fun hairstyle.

Top- Danice $10
Belt- Forever21 $9.80
Leggings- Conway $5
Boots- Nicole (by way of DSW) Cost me around $100-$110
Earrings- made by me =)

Print Fabric Earrings

2009-11-27T10:42:00.006-05:00

I hope everyone enjoyed their Turkey Day! I'm pooped. Mine consisted of lots of eating, drinking, and dancing. Lol.

Check out these earrings that I made on the fly; whipped them up 10 mins before I left the house for Thanksgiving dinner at my cousin's. I luv standing out and wearing unique and original things. Everyone loved them and wanted a pair. This is just the prototype but I see that it received warm responses. =) So that energizes me even more to perfect the style so I can add them to the shop.

If you love natural hair, check out my kinky-kurly-koily beauty and style blog. I have a giveway going on over there till the end of next week for a chance to win one of my fabric flower clips.

Be creative!

Don't Sleep On K-Mart

2009-11-25T23:53:00.002-05:00

I was in K-Mart the other day looking for something completely different when I walked past the accessories section. Not only did this bag catch my eye, it stopped me dead in my tracks. The style of it was so me and it was marked 40% off. I snapped it up so fast, you would have thought I was engulfed in Black Friday madness.

I can't wait to wear it out.

I'm also on the fence about possibly changing the name of this blog. I dunno. I just feel like it needs a new name. Like Styln N Profyln isn't live enough anymore. It's too tame. We'll see.... The deliberation begins. Enjoy your Turkey Day!

Sofysticated Phunk Photo Shoot

2009-11-25T10:48:00.001-05:00

I've added some new fabric flower clips to my Etsy shop, Sofysticated Phunk, so I did a photo shoot to highlight them so you will want to buy and rock them!

Head on over. I'll be adding more items in the weeks to come. I plan to sell some denim earrings as well. I just have to perfect some things before I put them on the market. Making my lil prototypes taught me a lot and gave me ideas.

Sofysticated Phunk: maintain yours at www.SofysticatedPhunk.etsy.com

Stay tuned!

Upcoming Project: Asymmetrical Party Dress

2009-11-13T22:11:00.003-05:00

I def wanna make a party dress like this. Except I want to reconstruct a thrift store dress into this style. It'd be so dope if I could find a polka dot dress to do it to...... The hunt begins!

Denim Earrings

2009-11-13T14:29:00.001-05:00

Who's BAD?

Hahaha. I couldn't help myself. I just had to say it.

But aren't these denim earrings that I made bad?! I'm luvin them and how cheap and easy they were to make. I explained in my last post how I imagined they were made so check it out if you are interested in learning how.

Supplies I Used:
* Denim fabric-you could use canvas fabric as well (any stiff fabric is going to be good for this type of project)
* Iron-on appliques- mine were $1.99 ea at Michaels
* Earring hooks-I got a 60 pc pack for $2.99 at Michaels
* 6mm Jump rings-I got a 144 pc pack for $2.99 at Michaels
* Pair of jewelry making pliers-to twist open and close jump rings, I also used it to poke a hole into the fabric where the jump ring goes into

I learned that to make the fabric stiffer, you can try adding interfacing and another piece of denim onto the other side. I'm going to see if there's some kind of transparent paint or finish that you can apply to the denim to stiffen it that way.

If you want a tutorial, just let me know. I'd be more than happy to do one. Have fun with making these! I'm now going to be collecting appliques. Lol.

These def would make nice, RECESSION FRIENDLY, Christmas gifts. They don't break the bank and are full of your originality, creativity and thought. =)

Stay Chic and Creative!

Truly Inspired by CocoGyrl1da

2009-11-12T14:06:00.004-05:00

How creative she is! I luv'd every pair I saw. Check out her channel on YouTube to see more of her work.

The crafter in me got to thinking I can make earrings like those but with my own spin on them and you can too if you're crafty like me.

Ya wanna know how?

Well, it looks like most of the pairs she simply applied appliques onto pieces of denim and then cut the denim to whatever shape she desired. From there, she added the earring hook parts. That's it!

So, ya girl is going to try this out and be back with pics of my creations. Try it out with me. I plan to make a pair TODAY! Sooooo excited!

"Cao-Girl" Shirt

2009-11-10T17:29:00.000-05:00

Cao is pronounced like cow.......

So here's one of my latest projects that I completed. This was simple and took under an hour to complete. I luv how mine turned out. I used a (size LG) mens shirt that I bought from a Goodwill thrift shop for $5.

Below is the SecretLifeOfaBioNerd vid with instructions how to make it. I just luv her channel. Subscribe to her channel if you haven't already! Very fun and easy creation. Try it out!

One Piece Wearables

2009-10-22T01:58:00.002-04:00

This. Book. ROCKS. All the designs patterns in the book require no pattern or only ONE pattern piece. And the designs are fresh, uber chic and simple. It's great for beginners and advanced sewers as well.

I'm finishing up the "window shopping" dress from the book and when I'm finished will share it with you on here. So far it's looking great. I already plan to make another one.

Fall Patterns I Bought

2009-09-04T02:49:00.002-04:00

Hancock Fabrics had a sale last week for $0.99 for Butterick patterns. I was still in Cincinnati and had went with my mom so we were all over it! There was a 10 pattern limit so I ended up getting 8 that I really wanted. I had 2 other patterns I really wanted but my size was sold out. :( Oh well, I'll get them later.

So, here's the patterns that I got:

Going clockwise starting with the blouse pattern to the left:

B5284
B5388
B5394
B4985
B5224

I can't wait to create stuff with them.

Starting from the left:

B5329
B5278
B5318

I want more dress patterns (a lot of them with my size were sold out. boo!). I'm really diggin dresses these days. They're uber simple and the epitome of femininity.

I plan on rocking them out this fall and winter with stalkings and knee high boots.

T-Shirt Style

2009-08-28T16:36:00.003-04:00

I like making clothes from pre-existing clothing, especially t-shirts b/c they're cheap and you have easy access to them. My newest thing is copping old t-shirts from thrift stores where they're uber cheap. Like $0.25 a pop cheap.

I heard about this book from a YouTuber, Kimmyatube, and thought it looked interesting. So I think I will be buying this book in the near future to try out some of the designs. Some, she said, you don't even need a sewing machine for. I luv sewing but it's always nice when you can create something without it.

I'll be sure to do a review of course.

Sound like a book you might be interested in getting it? If you're local library doesn't have a copy, click below for more details.

Easy Baby Doll Style Tube Top

2009-08-24T13:37:00.002-04:00

This top was uber, uber easy and affordable to make.

All you need: fabric, 1/4" elastic (and a sewing machine of course!)

I didn't measure how much fabric I used. I will have to make note of it next time. I just followed the technique that Gianny L used in this vid

to figure out how much fabric I needed.

The only way my technique differed from her's is that I created casings to feed the elastics through instead of sewing it to the fabric like she did.

I wish I would have thought to make these months ago. Oh well, at least I'll make a bunch to wear for what's left of the summer and rock them hard next summer.

This is a great project for novices and experts alike.

Next up, my maxi dress. When you see how easy it is to make, you'll be asking me why I didn't think to make these suckers sooner!

Fall 2009 Style Creations List

2009-08-22T16:18:00.002-04:00

So, fall is near and I've started to pen my list of garments I want to create for the season. Here are some key pieces that I want to make for the upcoming season.

Microfleece Bomber Jacket

I want to make it in a dark chocolate color. I think I could adapt the The Green Pepper pattern style Blue Mountain Jacket to be what I have in mind and add a hood to it.

Modern Vest

Corduroy Blazers

I feel like making a few in colors like navy blue, camel, a golden yellow and/or a cherry red would look really nice.

I think I could take this pattern (McCalls 5814) and just create a long, fitted sleeve for it.

High Waist Palazzo/Elephant Pant

This pant is so ill. I need to find a pattern to make this style or fig out how to draft one of my own. My mom will know. I want to make it in a cream color like the picture or like the color of a brown paper bag.

Burda Style Junkie

2009-08-22T14:09:00.004-04:00

So I found an awesome, (free,) international, sewing community called , that has me seriously saying, "Where have you been all my life!" I've been LIVIN on there since I discovered it last month, yall! The members are soooo talented and uber creative. It's so contagious and inspiring.

I've been sewing like a mad woman lately and am diggin it.

They have loads of patterns, created by the site and by fabulous members, that you can download for free or for a small price (less than what you would pay for patterns at the fabric store). There are also tons of tutorials on different sewing techniques and such.

This week's featured tutorial is:

Necktie Feathers Pressing

Can we say HAUTE?!

You can share your projects that you've created with others, see what others have created (many have instructions for their creations), chat with the members or get tips in the various forums there.

My screen name is: StylnProfyln. Check me out if you're in the neighborhood.

Stay creative!

I'm So Making One!

2009-08-01T21:29:00.002-04:00

This is so cute!

This lil lady is so creative. Check out more of her creations and how to's on her YouTube channel: SecretLifeOfaBioNerd.

I WILL Have This

2009-07-31T23:58:00.003-04:00

Unless I learn of a better sewing machine.

Singer CG 550 Commercial Grade Sewing Machine

It has good reviews on it. I like the fact that the motor is very strong so that you can sew seams together faster and thicker layers together with ease . It's sturdy and described as a work horse sewing machine. I also like that it comes with a 25 year warranty/guarantee.

The only complaints that I kept reading repeatedly were that the faster you sew, the machine can start to vibrate. Which I can understand b/c this sucker can sew up 1,100 stitches per minute! It truly is a commercial grade sewing machine and is 60% faster than standard sewing machines.

I want it.

The price is reasonable, about $250, and when I'm able to, I'll get it. Until then, my lil Kenmore 385 will do.

Last Days of Summer To Sew List

2009-07-31T23:04:00.003-04:00

Here's some more patterns I plan to get and make something with before summer leaves us:

New Look 6900

I want to make this top the model's wearing. I would pair it with some skinny jeans, peep toe pumps, and clutch for a night out in the City. Can't wait to share this one with you guys when I make it which will be sometime next month.

I like that skirt too. I could easily transition it into the fall by simply pairing it with some knee high boots.

New Look 6871

Again, I like the top that the model's wearing. I want to make that one.

Simplicity It's So Easy 2638

I've been rockin maxi dresses all summer but have yet to make one of my own so I want to make at least one before summer's over. I wanna make one with a gauze fabric; a pretty print one. I also will be able to transition this into the fall by wearing it with a short or waist length, fitted cardigan.

Simplicity 2606: Style A

2009-07-24T01:27:00.003-04:00

I had a party to go to last Saturday night @ Chinatown Brasserie in the Village and wanted to wear something original. (Party was live as heezy by the way. It was poppin so hard, they shut the doors @ 1:30am!) So I remembered I had this pattern and busted out this skirt a few hours before the party.

I luved how it came out so much, I couldn't stop staring at myself in the mirror. LOL. I friggin luv this skirt!

This pattern is so easy, simple, and the direction are easy to follow. A beginner could def get down with this pattern.

I'm working on style F now so pics will be up when I finish.

Simplicity It's So Easy 2643 Tunic

2009-07-24T01:25:00.002-04:00

This dress really was “So Easy” to make and packs style for miles! As soon as I saw this pattern (Under $3 at Wal-Mart), I knew I wanted to make it with a print.

I chose to make the tunic style. I rocked it with a belt, peep toe pumps and partied with my girlfriends at Pop Lounge in the City.

Yes, I have on shorts underneath. No hoochie peep shows goin on. LOL. I will be making tunics and dresses with this pattern again. It was too easy and the results are too chic for me not to!

Viva Las Fabric Flowers!

2009-06-03T14:46:00.005-04:00

I’ve been making these things like you wouldn’t believe! I’ve been adding them to headbands and hair clips.

I’m really digging making them out of various print fabrics n mixin n matchin them up. I think they’re more interesting than the usual prints or colors, etc.

I luv how they have the power to splash up any hair type, style, length, worn up or down, etc. .

If you like what you see, check out my Etsy shop. I’ve had the account for a while but haven’t put anything up for sale until just recently. There are only a few items up now, but I will be continually adding more as I continue making them.

I am also taking custom orders for these. So if you have specific fabric or colors you want, I gotcha covered. Just be aware that depending on what you want, it may cost more.

Stay creative!

Narrative Apron for Aunt Tina

2009-06-03T08:05:00.001-04:00

Remember Aunt Tina?

Well, she is more than just a pretty face. She is also a bomb chef. I mean, she could throw DOWN way before she even hit culinary school. (I’m taking lessons from her as we speak/read/etc.!)

So, I decided to embellish something every kitchen-loving person uses: an apron. I got a plain apron from Micheal's and paints and fabric markers from Wal-Mart in the craft section and did my thang.

She loves all things cows so that inspired the cow spots. I call it a narrative apron because I also wrote all kinds of words that were associated with cooking or that are associated with her style of cooking and what's important to her.

She really liked it and I’m so glad because I like the way it turned out and had so much fun creating it.

(Click on any of the pics for a larger view) Let your imagination take over!

First Hand Crafted Fabric Flower Headband

2009-05-02T12:42:00.003-04:00

I crafted my own fabric flower and put it on a headband. I was inspired by the hair accessories on Just Liv's Etsy shop.

When I saw them, I immedietly knew I wanted to try to make my own. So I hit up Google and found a lovely website with step by step directions on how to craft a fabric flower.

From there, all I did was place a headband in between the flower and a piece of (the same as flower) fabric and use a hot glue gun to glue them together.

My mom's a fiber artist so she always has scrap fabric laying around so that's what I ended up using. I'm already working on another one with fabric that's way more dope than this one. This one was just practice, ya dig?

They're so easy and fun to make. The wheels are seriously in motion. I'm brainstorming different designs and fabrics I will use for future projects as we speak.

Kwik Sew 3624

2009-05-01T01:37:00.003-04:00

Can we say, hotness???? Soooo getting this pattern and making the sleeveless style for this spring season. I'm thinking an uber bright color too like hot pink, rubber ducky yellow or turquoise.

When I get back to Ny, it's on like Donkey Kong, man.

Aunt Tina

2009-04-30T16:13:00.002-04:00

I did my Aunt Tina's make up for casual, social event. She doesn't wear make up so it was really fun taking her on a walk to "the other side". LOL.

She wanted a light make up look and no liquid cosmetics involved so I contoured with bronzing powder to add dimension to her face and give her a soft and warm glow.

She has dark lids (like I do too) so I lightened them up with a light eye shadow and applied mascara. I also filled her very sparse brows in with brow powder and applied highlighter above the blush, blush, and a neutral color lig gloss. I think she looks fabulous all the time but it was fun to rev up her fabulousity even more.

More of my make up artistry work to come!

Work In Progress

2009-04-30T14:59:00.001-04:00

I'm working on making the flower headband I mentioned over at my beauty blog.

Results posted later on tonight!

Summer Dress Patterns

2009-04-27T12:07:00.004-04:00

So I've challenged myself this summer to make 95% of my dresses since that is all I will be wearing while it's warm. I was in Hancock Fabrics, in Springdale (Cincinnati area), the other day and was looking through the pattern books while my mom shopped for fabrics for her latest quilt she's been commissioned to do.

I'm really feelin some of these Kwik-Sew patterns for summer style dresses. Here are some patterns of theirs that I plan on using:

Style #: Kwik Sew 3414

This style I can churn out fast. I plan to make some and because they're so simple, go back and embellish them some by either writing on them with some small rhinestones added or maybe some embroidery of some type on them.

Style #: Kwik Sew 3395

I just luv simple sun dresses styles. You can rock them just as they are, belt them, accessorize.... The styling possibilities are virtually endless. I plan to make many dresses using this pattern and play with different embellishments and print fabrics like batiks and gauze fabrics.

So be on the lookout for how I will create and stylize these.

I also need to find a pattern for long dresses that are strapless. I plan to rock a lot of those this summer too.

She Works Hard for the..... Arts

2009-04-22T14:20:00.008-04:00

I've been so busy like you wouldn't believe. I've been helping my mother organize her business and getting her cyber world endeavors set up, like relaunching her Etsy shop and taking over basically overhauling and publishing her blog that showcases a lot of her work and gives you a peek into her creative realm.

I've also been helping make her unique and handcrafted bookmarks and creating and implementing an organized system for assigning style numbers to them and keeping stock of them.

It's been bananas but sooo much fun. I so can't wait till she blows up so I can be paid for all of this. LOl. I just luv being surrounded by creativity and the whole process as well as the business side. I enjoy both aspects but if I had to choose it would be the creative part hands down.

So, now ya girl is managing 3 blogs and maintaining her mom's Etsy shop. Not to mention, eventually, I plan to set up my own Etsy shop (whenever I get some time to make something. Haha.). It's a lot but it's invigorating.

Miva Marks Bookmarks

2009-04-16T13:02:00.000-04:00

My mother is a creative beast (!), gosh golly darn it. She makes original, non-traditional quilts; quilt block patterns, bookmarks, and other fiber arts. She's been in numerous art shows and won awards for her awesome work. She's the ish. You're the ish Mommy!

I've been helping her make her uber original and fabulous bookmarks. My favorite parts were coloring the make up on the faces and putting on the hair. I luv that I had the freedom to be creative with both of these and it was so much fun deciding how to do the hair and make up.

I luv that they come in various skin tones and with various hair. What's also unique about them, is that they are all handcrafted and no one bookmark has exactly the same make up, hair or dress as another. Pretty fresh, right?

Like these bookmarks? So many do, it's practically a full time job keeping up with the demand. Many buy them for their obvious functional use and many buy them as collector's items. You choose.

You can purchase them from her Etsy shop (will be available for purchase this weekend).

If you are located in the Cincinnati area, you can find them at Eula Lifestyle Boutique in Silverton or the Kennedy Heights Art Center also in Silverton.

The website: www.mivadesigns.com

You can also check out her blog.

Stay styln. ;o)

Undergarments Every Woman Should Have

2009-04-13T16:00:00.000-04:00

You know how back in the day grandma looked SHARP in like all of her pictures? She was KILLIN it in those dresses, right?

Grandma was workin it b/c she was wearing the right undergarments to create nice silhouettes. So here are some undergarment essentials I feel every woman should have in her closets and drawers:

Slip

A woman should have one in black and one in white. There are full length ones for dresses and skirt length ones for skirts. Slips help your dresses and skirts to fall nicely and not ride up or bunch up at certain places.

Bras That FIT

Most women are wearing the wrong bra size and don't even know it. Take a trip to the department store and have an associate in the lingerie department measure you. Victoria's Secret associates are also trained to measure customers. For those Do-It-Yourselfers, I found a cool website that helps you calculate your bra and cup size. (Note. You will need a tape measurer.)

There are certain indications that your bras do not fit properly. This article provides great insight on this topic. Check it out and take on the world with the new information that you have been armed with.

Pantyhose

You will want an opaque black pair and a pair that matches your skin tone. These are the basic 2 pair I feel every woman should have on hand. Any other you feel the need to add to the collection is up to you. I do not wear pantyhose in the summer months. It's simply too hot but any other season, I have on one of the 2 pair I listed when wearing a dress or skirt.

Body Shaper

Every size can benefit from these. I'm a size 4 and I own one. No one's shape has flawless curves but with a shaper, everyone has the opportunity to have them.

Body shapers help to smooth out your figure so your dresses fall nicely and glide effortlessly along your body. Your department stores carry a variety of them in a variety of price points to fit everyone's budgets. You can find Dr. Ray's, from E! Network's Doctor 90210, line of shape wear in Sears for very affordable prices.

Thong and/or Seamless Panties

Panty lines are not attractive and in some cases can be a distraction. Remember, we're going for effortless style. Especially with dresses of a more clingy material or dressy trousers (with no back pockets), it just looks that much more polished without viewing a pantyline. Thongs eliminate this. If you can't stand how a thong has the possibility of feeling like butt floss, then opt for seamless panties.

It's the little details that make you look flawless. More Style Bible posts to come. Stay fly and fabulous.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!!!

2009-04-02T13:02:00.000-04:00

I had abandoned this place for a while b/c I started paying more attention to my beauty blog. I lost sight of where I wanted to take this place and because of that, it got pretty much abandoned. But I figured out what direction I want to take it now.

I basically want to make this my "creative portfolio" where I will share the things that I like to create. So I have lots of things to talk about.

This site is under-going some major remodeling and reorganizing. So if the page looks one way now and if you check back at a later time, it looks different, now you know why.

Feel free to enjoy the posts already up and expect to see this place back on its toes by this summer. Stay tuned.

Thanks!

Fitting In?

2008-09-16T11:49:00.000-04:00

So, the older I get, the more obsessed I become with the “fit” of my clothing. Fit is very, very important and can make or break an outfit. Clothing that fits your body correctly will always make you and your figure look flyy than clothes that are say, “too TIGHT” or “snug”. If you are a size 8, I do not want to see you in a size 4 or 6. Those 2 types of fit I mentioned above put your imperfections on Front St. And you may be proud of and love yourself, but advertising them like the channel 9 news at 5 o'clock, is not a good look. And to me, doesn’t show that you take much pride in yourself. A wise person takes their flaws and imperfections and finds a way to make them better.

Some great shows that provide insight on fit and dressing to flatter your figure type are: What NOT To Wear (TLC network), Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style (Bravo network), and How To Look Good Naked. I don’t remember channels/what network all of them are on and times so Google them for more info. Next blog topic: the undergarment fundamentals; they also make or break the fit and flyness of an outfit.

Guess Who....

2008-09-15T22:05:00.000-04:00

got their hands on the Vogue Italia Black Issue reprint? ME! ME! ME! ME! ME! So excited. My feelings were so hurt when I first heard about this issue back in July and after running and knocking over small children and old people to get to the store, to my dismay they had sold out faster than hot cakes in Nyc and all over the country! I resigned to the fact that I would not have an issue of my own with out paying $15 million dollars for it on Ebay.... Then, a miraculous thing happened today. I was on my lunch and walked past this shop on 37th St. called Magazine Cafe. They have practically every magazine known to man, I was in Heaven! And then, I SAW IT!!!! Yes, by popular demand, they reprinted more copies! Yaaaaayyyyy!!!!! I snapped it up and happily paid my $15.75 for it.

All I can do is look at the pics since the whole mag is in Italian. Womp. Womp.... But this sucker is a collectors' item and a part of history. I'm glad the Italians recognize the beauty of black women and not just black women but of diversity in general. That is what fashion is all about anyways; the diversity of ideas, imagination, people, styles, locations, etc. America's behind the times, man. In 10 years if America aint on their ish, I'm moving to Italy! Love the issue though. There's even an article on Michelle Obama in there (too bad I can't read it! Anyone in here know Italian and wanna translate for a sista?). Makes my chest puff out with pride. Black is beautiful baby!

Interior Inspiration & Top Design

2008-09-11T23:43:00.001-04:00

Saw this pic on Diva Style's blog and got totally inspired. I am moving into a studio apartment next month and this pic had the chic, stylish, comfy, cozy feeling that I am going for. Check her out when you get a chance. Her blog is BANGIN. I will add her blog to my blog list on the right side as well. It's really inspired me to get more into interior decorating. My focus has always been fashion, hair and beauty so this is a new and exciting realm for me.

The show that comes on Bravo network, Top Design, is really inspiring too! I watched one episode last night where the contestants teamed up and had to design bomb shelter rooms. And the transformations were INCREDIBLE. I mean, they turned the originally drab looking and grey space into something so warm, cozy and colorful. I was luvin it. Needless to say, I'm hooked on the show now!!!!!

What's on Your Fall/Winter Wishlist?

2008-09-09T22:57:00.000-04:00

I'm all about dresses and jackets this fall/winter. Here are some looks that I'm diggin and mos def going to recreate with my spin on it of course.