It's been a while, so I figured I'd share a little update about Charm...

Charm is a true fashionista and all around girly girl. She has now been dancing for 6 years [competitively for 3]. She's a stellar student who has always been at the top of her class. She will be skipping 7th grade math next year and taking 8th grade math instead. She dreams of attending Princeton University, studying architecture and some day designing her own dance studio. In addition, due to her affinity for languages, she taught herself ASL and would also like to work as an interpreter while she's in college. A true gem to her family, Charms shines brilliantly inside and out of the classroom.

Multiple Ways to Wear One Simple Dress.

One of the most important things for me in discovering to work my wardrobe has been learning to wear the pieces in my closet multiple ways... or how to revamp my looks.  I always tended to get stuck on something that I really love and forget about other pieces I have, or simply wear something one way.  Figuring out how to find multiple uses for certain pieces helps me get more use out of my wardrobe without having to constantly buy clothes (not that I mind shopping).  But lets face it... I love to shop, but I also LOVE to save!

Before fashion blogging, I lacked the versatility that I now have.  I found something I loved, put it in my closet as an outfit, and that's how I typically wore it.  However, I've discovered that I can take one piece and transform it in a number of ways most of the time by simply pairing it with something I already have at home.  Discovering that I can take one piece in my closet (say a simple dress, a vest, or even a graphic tee) and turn it into something I can wear for almost any occasion is so exciting.

So if you're like I was, I hope that I can inspire you to also be more versatile when it comes to fashion.  Don't be afraid to step [or bungee jump] out of the box!  You won't regret it!  And your pockets will thank you!

  

About this dress:  I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this dress by Vince.  The simplicity and comfort of this dress.  It's perfect for any occasion and the quality is superb.
http://www.vince.com/shoulder-pleated-shirt-dress-with-tie/invt/vnvncyg0959&color=Blue%20Marine&bklist=icat,5,,kids,girls714,g714newarrivals 

Add Some Pizzazz to Your School Uniform!

I've gotten a  lot of questions lately about how to add a little pizzazz to school uniforms.  I've compiled a list of simple ideas you can use to spruce of those plain, drab pieces and add a little creativity to your classroom attire.

#1.  The first one is simple.  Backpack!

#2.  Bags.  Shop for purses that express your personality, bring in some color, add a little flair.

#3.  Hair.  The one thing that we're all aware of is how much our hairstyles reflect mood and our personality.  Show your sense of style by the style of your hair!  Whether you prefer a neat frizz and flyaway-free bun, a messy bun, a french braid, a ponytail, an updo, color, or to just let your tresses hang... The way you rock your hair will definitely add some pizzazz to your look!  Don't be afraid to switch it up every day!

#4.  Sunglasses.  Cute, big, bold, colorful, fun shapes... Options are endless!  Have fun!

#5.  Jewelry.  Adding a little bling to your look is always a fun way to spruce things up.  Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rhinestones, iron-ons and pins are great ways to accessorize.

#6.  Accessories.  Jewelry isn't the only way to accessorize.  Adding a headband, bow, hat, scarf, tie, or bow tie can do wonders!

                                         
#5.  Socks or leggings.  If your school uniform consists of wearing a skirt and you're allowed to wear socks or leggings of your choice, you have the perfect opportunity to throw in some fun colors and patterns.

#6.  Layer.  If possible, add layers to your look.  If you're allowed to wear a cardigan, sweater or jacket, use that as an opportunity to showcase your style.  I've even worn t-shirts over my button up tops for a thin layer on cool days and just to add a little flavor to my look.

#7.  Belts.  If your school doesn't stress that you have to wear the standard black or brown belt, keep those pants up on your waist while also making a statement!  Belts will allow you to flaunt your favorite colors, prints and even brands.  They can have bling, cowgirl buckles or flowers.  Again, options are endless!

#8.  Shoes.  Shoes are a no-brainer!  Even the most basic color shoes can be stylish and fun!  If possible, add a cuff to your pants to show off your footwear.

#9.  Nail Polish.  Can you say COLOR???  Nails are always a fun way to add life to your look!  Polish, design, & bling until your heart is content!

#10.  Be You.  The most important thing when getting ready everyday is to be YOU!  Wear what makes you happy and sets the tone for your day.  Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through and never feel obligated to blend in.

While having to wear a uniform to school every day may seem like torture for those of you are are born fashionistas.  The bright side is that you aren't faced with the daily struggle to find the perfect outfit and keep up with all the latest fashion trends at school.  You're probably less distracted and not worried about the challenges of fitting in or being accepted despite your desire to do so like many kids nowadays.

I hope these tips have shown you that your wardrobe doesn't have to be so blah.  Of course, these tips must coincide with your school's policy on dress code.  However, there are options listed for even the most conservative institutions.  If your school has a more relaxed dress code, then by all means... Bling it On!!!  :)

Meeting Misty Copeland

This weekend I had the pleasure and honor of meeting THEE Misty Copeland at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture.
Saying that I was excited would be an understatement!

Hearing Misty's story gave me more hope than I could have ever imagined.  Seeing that she came from such a low place in life and used that as her motivation to soar to heights even beyond her wildest dreams was so amazingly profound.  For a person like myself who dreams so big, it was wonderful hearing a story of how someone who's dreams who were as big as my own came to reality through hard work and dedication.

  

Did I mention how down to earth she was???

The most amazing part of the day was when I was able to meet Misty personally and have my second book signed by her.  (My first one was signed by her and sent to me from one of my best friends in Japan.)  She was so friendly and down to earth.  Though I was completely star-struck I was able to express my admiration for her.  She seemed so grateful as though my words meant so much.  THAT meant a lot to me.

What's more???  SHE REMEMBERED ME FROM INSTAGRAM!!!!!  I think it's official.  I'm her love child!  HAHA...

I can't say enough how happy I am to have had a chance to meet and chat with Ms. Copeland.  I hope to someday reach the level she has as a dancer and maybe even grace the stage with her.  

Special thanks to the Reginald F. Lewis Museum for hosting such an amazing event; the beautiful Adrienne Lofton of Under Armour for acknowledging Ms. Copeland as the true athlete that she is and giving her a new platform at which to be seen, and Eric Hill of DCTV for helping my mom to make one of my dreams come true!  You all totally rock!!!

Happy Birthday to ME!!!

My 10th birthday was nothing short of amazing!  My mom always plans the best parties and this year was no exception.  She planned a beautiful vintage Parisian affair with all of my closest friends.  I couldn't have asked for a better party.  AND I was able to get all fancy!!!  Oh and I can't forget that my Daddy (who happens to be the absolute best in the entire world) wore a tuxedo per my request and greeted all my guests as they arrived!  :)  What more could a girl ask for?!?

I picked out my outfit [a cream gold trimmed party skirt and gold sequin tank] from +RUUM American Kid's Wear and accessories from +Target and couldn't have been happier with how it all came together.  The party skirt was sooo cute and the shirt was dazzling!  At first I had no idea what I wanted to wear, but saw these pieces and immediately fell in love with both of them!  I can hardly wait to wear it to school.  Stay tuned to see how I change it up for the cold winter weather!  :)

A special thanks to the best parents EVER, the best friends and the most amazing fans!  Love you all!!!

Here's a cute parody of one of my my favorite songs for all you moms that need a little space by MyLifeSuckers. Enjoy your weekend!

Beauty is More Than Skin Deep.

I saw this video as an ad on YouTube and just had to share it.  It deals with something that means so much more than fashion.  It deals with self love.  It was so touching to me because I cannot count the number of times I have heard a little girl say to Charm "you're so lucky to be skinny" or "I wish I was small like you".  It breaks my heart to think of what conversations must be taking place at home for a child to feel as though she isn't perfect just the way she is.

I had one parent to tell me that she didn't think little girls should be too confident.  I was in shock, because I can't imagine anyone (regardless of their age) having too much confidence and self worth... as long as they aren't looking down on others, of course.  The line between confidence and conceit isn't very thin at all.  There is a huge difference.

Not only do I encourage both of my children to love their bodies and take care of them because they only have one, but I also remind them daily of how beautiful/handsome they are.  In addition, I'm always conscious about the things I say about my own body when they are around because I know that they are always listening.  Self love is inherited.

The way a girl feels about her beauty starts with how you feel about yours.  -Dove



If you enjoyed the video as much as I did, please share it and share our blog as well!  :)