Spring/Summer 2017

THREE QUICK TIPS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL SHOPPING

Back to school time is here and you should have some type of strategy before shopping! These three quick tips can be applied, whether you are shopping for an elementary school student or college student. Click the link to learn more about capsule wardrobe, mixing prints, and transitional pieces.

HBCU BACK TO SCHOOL NECESSITIES

August 8, 2017 by Tyla Amanda

If you have attended a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), you'll know as well as I do that one does not simply "roll out of bed" and go to class. Why? Because fashion is the most important aspect of the HBCU experience (next to halftime shows, admin building terrors, and our educations, of course!). But, if you're entering your HBCU as a new student, you may not be prepared for just how serious the fashion situation is. So, from one HBCU student to another (shout out to Howard University, the real HU), here are some tips on the must haves for your closet this school year.

#1. A tailored business suit

I cannot stress enough the importance of having a nice tailored suit when you get to campus. Not only will you look and feel amazing in one (because everyone looks good in a suit), but you'll also be prepared for whatever campus throws at you. You'll need it for career fairs, interviews with on campus organizations, job interviews, in-class presentations, and more. I promise, if you've never needed a suit yet, you'll need one eventually. I can't tell you how many times I've attended an event on campus where the dress code has been "Business Attire". That means you'll need a two piece suit that's either navy blue, black, or sometimes gray. If you wear a suit skirt, be sure to wear skin tone stockings underneath (with no runs), and black or skin tone heals that are not too high (traditionally 2 inches). A well-made suit can be pricey, but it'll last you a while, and never go out of style. So, it is definitely an investment worth making!

#2. An all white outfit

I think it is a universal truth that if you go to an HBCU you will attend an all white event at least once during your matriculation. Why? Because black people look AMAZING in white. I'm not sure why, but something about that crisp white on our chocolate skin is really just mesmerizing. So whether it is an all white dress, or white pants and a top, make sure you have at least one good all white outfit in your closet. I would suggest one that you can dress up or down with your accessories, depending on the occasion, because there WILL be an occasion!

#3. School Apparel

Really, the only acceptable way to take a casual day on an HBCU campus is to show off your school spirit. So, your first stop when you get to campus should be to your bookstore. You'll want to acquire a baseball cap, a t-shirt, and/or a sweatshirt for those days when dressing up for class just isn't going to happen for you. Pair them with your favorite leggings and some Adidas Superstar sneakers and no one will ever know you just pulled an all nighter. Not only will you be extra comfy, you'll also be super cute and put together.

#4. Your own personal touch

When you get to campus, you'll realize that there is so much freedom to explore your own personal style. Your look can be Afro-centric, trendy, hipster, fashion forward, classic, 90's vibes, none of the above, or all of the above. The truth is, college is the perfect time to try on new looks and express yourself. So, don't be afraid to do something a little daring with your clothing. But also, don't be afraid to stay true to yourself. Because the greatest part of going to an HBCU is that you're given the tools and freedom to be completely confident in who you are!

SIMPLIFY THE PROCESS: FIVE KEY COMPONENTS TO BRIDAL GOWN SHOPPING

July 31, 2017 by Tyla Hairston and Fathia Savory

Arrion and Eddie joined together as one at their beautiful blush and rustic steal outdoor wedding on a lovely Saturday morning last June. The romantic rustic theme reappeared in every decorative detail of the occasion, from the heartfelt ceremony to the brunch reception, coordinated by Warm Touches interior design company. And, every special moment was captured by Bliss Culture Photography, bringing to life the pages of this fairytale.

Some of the major plans for the wedding came together months before the wedding. Which gave them plenty of preparation before both saying “I do”. One of those majors details was the selection of Arrion’s elegant bridal gown. Most bridal gowns are ordered months in advance for two reasons. The first is that they are made to order, and the second is that they need time for fittings and alterations to take place. Searching for a gown can be an overwhelming venture. But, there are five key components for a bride to consider to simplify the process. Those components are the silhouette, the fabric, the neckline, the waist, and the embellishments.

For Arrion, she already knew that her dream silhouette was a classic ball gown, but there are tons of other silhouettes brides can choose from. Some of the popular styles include a-line, sheath, mermaid, and trumpet. When selecting the fabric for her dress, it was important to consider not only Arrion’s body type, but also the weather, the venue, and the movement of the gown. Most wedding dresses are made out of silk or polyester woven into satin. But, there are also many gowns made of tule, charmeuse, chiffon, organza, mikado, taffeta, georgette, crepe, and more. Arrion choose a full tulle skirt for her dress, and it fit the occasion perfectly. The neckline of the gown is something that often gets over looked by brides, but it plays a key role in helping to accentuate and frame the shoulders, neck, and face. Brides can choose between sweetheart, high neck, halter, v-neck, scoop, bateau, off the shoulder, one shoulder, and square necklines. Or, they can go strapless sweetheart like our blushing bride choose to do. Each option can give a gown a completely unique look. The waistline is essential to accentuating a bride’s figure in all of the right places. Styles range anywhere from princess, to dropped waist, or natural waist, and more. Lastly, the embellishments of the gown can add just the right touch to complete the wedding look. Details like crystals, appliqués, edging, or sequins can always spice up a gown. Arrion choose to go with a delicate ribbon and a jeweled brooch rapped around her waist to polish off her bridal look with a bang!

Like Arrion, those five key components are all a lady needs to find the wedding gown of her dreams. Styling a bride for her wedding day is always and honor and an incredible responsibility! No body knows this better than Fathia Savory, who is always up to the challenge. Luckily, she has the right eye to help you find the perfect gown and accessories to add an extra dose of awe to your already momentous occasion.

Bridal gown: Morilee by Madeline Gardner

(Asymmetrically draped bodice with sweetheart neckline, satin and organza tie sash with diamante beaded lace appliqué

natural waistline, floor length, chapel train, tulle fabric

button detail on the back)

Shoes: Steve Madden

Necklace: Swarovski

Cathedral Veil: Lazaro

Bridesmaids dresses: asos.com

Groom and Groomsmen: Men's Warehouse

PHOTOGRAPHY: BLISS CULTURE PHOTOGRAPHY

VENUE: MESSIAH COMMUNITY CHURCH

FASHION TRENDS

WHAT STYLE WORKS BEST FOR YOUR BODY?

QUICKS TIPS TO TRANSITION A FEW KEY WINTER ITEMS TO SPRING

When spring starts, you don't want to put away all your winter clothes, the weather can be so up and down. There are some items that can transition along with the unpredictable season. Leather pants can be warmed up with a light weight blouse, take a neutral sweater and add a floral light weight scarf. Here are two more examples.

Soften your leather jacket with a printed flowy dress

Pair your knit sweater with femine short skirt

WHAT'S SPRING WITHOUT A TRENCH COAT?

A trench coat is a classic/staple for your closet, especially a nice light weight fabric in the spring. Trench coats have moved beyond the traditional colors of khaki and black, and even the style (design) of coat. There are so many ways to wear, you can create a causal or dressy look... from jeans to dresses. Check out a few SAVORY PICKS to the right.