Coffee: The Fashionable Bean

Photo by Navy B. Rae Photography

“COFFEE MAKES ME HAPPY. IT SURROUNDS MY CONVERSATIONS, EVENTS AND EVEN INFLUENCES MY STYLE.

”

— Denitra

If you know me just a little, you know that I LOVE coffee! I started drinking coffee regularly in 2010 when I was working (in the Human Services field) full time and going to cosmetology school (full time) in the evenings. Blame it on my classmates (or my inner “experience seeker”), but there was something about it…the way they held the cup…the way it seemed to make them feel…the way it smelled…the conversations that took place while drinking it…IT ALL DID SOMETHING to me.

You may be thinking, “Girl, it ain’t that serious!”

…Oh, but it is!

Cosmetology school introduced me to the game. From there, I began to learn about coffee and to really appreciate the gift that it is.

Neutral palette inspired by, you guessed it…COFFEE

For the record: I AM NOT ADDICTED. I choose it mostly everyday. I like the ritual that it provides, however, I can go without it. Really, I can. I just don’t want to! Coffee has become a welcomed part of my life. Just like style.

Coffee and Style; they go together real bad!

In case you didn’t know or never paid it any mind, coffee influences fashion trends.

Say what, Denitra?

Yes, coffee can inspire your style choices! In fact, the intersection of coffee and style is more substantial than you may think. Your style choices usually are the result of other things you like. For instance, if you’re naturally drawn to a neutral palette, your home’s decor probably reflects that and so do the places you frequent (think restaurants or retailers). And so do the coffee shops that you visit.

Coffee-inspired colors are fashion staples. It’s no secret that these colors evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and are soothing, even. And that’s what I feel when I drink coffee. I feel calm, warm and cozy. Talk about a love language! Whew!

When you think of coffee, think of it as inspiration for your wardrobe.

After reading this, I hope that you NEVER think about coffee the same. Again: IT’S JUST THAT SERIOUS! From this day forward, think of coffee as your personal stylist. Well, maybe a styling assistant (cause it can’t take my job! LOL).

Don’t give coffee MY job!!!

Work with me here ;-)

Photo by Calvin McDaniel

Think of coffee as your guide to style. From the shape & texture of the beans, to the colors before roasting, to the colors of roasted beans, to the way it makes you feel, to the aesthetic of each coffee house (dress for where you’re going - remember, we’re all about intentional style). Coffee houses are fashionable places for people to meet and coffee is historically known to be the common ground (pun intended) to great conversations (including dates *wink).

Coffee has even influenced fashion designers in unique ways. Many articles of clothing and accessories are made from coffee grounds (which have several benefits, including UV protection and odor resistant). Hello Blue Economy! Hello sustainable, functional fashion!

You didn’t think coffee was that layered and deep, did ‘cha?

Tuh! I haven’t even scratched the surface…

If you follow me on social media, you’ll notice that I’ve combined coffee and style and I’ve launched a style themed social series surrounding these two things. My first Coffee & Style Social is this Saturday! Stay tuned for the next one, December 14, and if you’re in Metro Detroit, you can join us! Be sure to turn on your notifications for my posts so you’ll be the first to know all the deets!

Just think, this is only the beginning to an amazing journey of my coffee endeavors (spoiler alert)…

SOLD OUT! >

Stay tuned for the December 14 location announcement!

Sultry Lip Season

Me in Rebel by the LipBar

It’s that time of year again! That’s right…it’s Sultry Lip Season and I’m here for it!

Let’s get a few things straight before we dive into some of my favorite shades:

1.) Deeper hues aren’t exclusively for the cooler months! You can wear them whenever you feel like it, because that’s your business *in my Tabitha Brown voice*! However, you gotta admit that richer shades add a hint of chicness, mystery, sophistication, and sexiness to your Fall/Winter looks.

2.) Keeping your lips exfoliated and moisturized during the cooler months is essential! Darker shades tend to show everything, including a chapped lip. WAYOR = Wear At Your Own Risk! Keep it cute and smooth! *wink wink*

3.) Confidence is key! Own the looks you’re giving. Period.

Now, let’s get into some of my favorite Fall Lippies! Of course they are by the LipBar! Duh.

Rebel

It’s giving bougie burgundy vibes with a side of unapologetic confidence. Great paired with an all black outfit from your capsule wardrobe. *Click here to get yours!

Bawse Lady

The red for all! The “I do this with no effort” red lippie that pulls everything together, including that black and white dress you’ve been eyeballing. * Click to get yours!

Merlot

The grown woman lipstick. A sweet grown woman, nonetheless. A bit vampy, but still life-giving! * Click to get yours!

These 3 shades are in my top 3! I’ll be sure to share more of my favorite Fall/Winter lip choices soon!

*I am a LipBar Affiliate and receive a monetary reward from your sale/support. So, thank you in advance for not only supporting a great company, but supporting me.

Fashion Remedy for Winter "Blues!"

Pantone.com

Pantone announced Classic Blue as the Color of the Year for 2020.  It’s said that this color instills calm, confidence and connection.

If you are like me, you’ve created themes that you want to see manifest instead of new year resolutions. One theme I’m working on this year is Expansion in every area of my life.

What does all of this have to do with fashion, you ask?

Take a walk on the wild side ‘wit it! Add a print (or two) with the Color of the Year!

P.S. Send a selfie to Bae ;-)

Incorporate the Color of the Year with a new lippy or mascara! I dare you!

Lipstick: Zoya in Tommy Mascara: NYX Color Mascara in Blue

Well according to top psychologists, wearing COLOR can evoke certain responses or aid in the promotion of positive affects.  It’s no wonder that I was drawn to blues since before the beginning of 2020. I’ve also made a decree to up my level of confidence and meaningful connections, which are also themes that the color of the year are associated with.

“…Classic Blue (Pantone 19-4052) encourages us to look beyond the obvious to expand our thinking; challenging us to think more deeply, increase our perspective and open the flow of communication.”

-Leatrice Eisenman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute

Use of color, planned or not, is quite intentional and can be practiced in fashion, makeup, interior design…you name it! Ever wonder why Target is such a thirst trap? Target knows that Red is a very energetic color! It’s said that it increases respiration rate and raises blood pressure. Guess what? Even if you’re tired and lack energy, you’ll “mysteriously” get sucked into the Target trance. If you don’t want to get caught up, stay away! Y’all know I ain’t lying!

This week, I’d like for you to monitor the affect that your color choices have!

Do you have a big presentation to rock out? Try wearing red! A red dress, blouse, scarf, lipstick, polish or accessories can give you a jolt of confidence, power and victory!  

Want to brighten up your mood or a heavy environment? Try a form of orange. Orange is said to aid in clinical depression. It is associated with joy and encouragement!

Want to get that charming, flirty feeling back? You guessed right! Try a form of the color pink! This color represents self-love. It’s also a color that represents kindness, (just in case you need a little help with that, *wink wink).

These are just a few colors to explore. I guarantee that the results of utilizing color daily to promote confidence, peace, harmony, balance, and other positivity will prove to be quite impactful.

20 MUST HAVES for 2020

GOD. There is absolutely NO way that I can make it without HIM. No shame or no apologies. Believe what you want but I’m a Jesus girl. Period. Try Him or ask me more. I’m just saying.

FAMILY. Last year was a year! From the death of my grandfather, to health issues, to settling into marriage (and yet still settling lol), to another transitional leap…I don’t know what I would’ve done without my family (and this includes friends who are like family).

LEGGINGS. Listen, no leggings aren’t pants (they are if you want them to be obviously), but I’ve now established categories of leggings: House Leggings (the ones that may or may not have a hole in the thigh), Workout Leggings (the one’s strong enough to endure friction) and Public Leggings (the ones you wear with a longer sweatshirt or tshirt or under a dress/skirt or however you choose to!). Be careful though. Due to the stretch, it may be a little difficult to monitor weight gain (if that’s your concern). Did I say THANK GOD for leggings?

FAMILY FEUD. This is my favorite game show. Besides the news and a little ratchet tv and Netflix, Family Feud is really the only TV I watch. I actually wouldn’t mind being a guest on the show. Holla at your girl with the plug.

PLANNER. My tried and true. Y’all can have those fancy organizational apps or even the calendars on phones. Give me two planners for the year. One mini leather one for my purse and one fun one with stickers and all the fixings for home. It’s the only way I’ll remember things and since its been a habit for a long time, I generally refer to it daily to honor time commitments or client appointments.

Handmade Tassels by Girly Girl Glamour

WET ‘N WILD LIPSTICK. Megalast. Bare It All. #902C. Alright so it’s not the most sophisticated brand, neither is it vegan, or organic, but it does the job for my everyday, neutral lip. I’m definitely open to suggestions (but only from you who actually KNOW how great it looks on me and can give me a pretty close replica).

TASSEL EARRINGS. Besides my wood earrings that I wear almost everyday, I love tassel earrings. They are fun and can be worn casually or formally. They also work well with my pixie. Speaking of pixie, make sure you grab your collectors “Pixie Babe” mugs or sweatshirts here.

MY INFAMOUS WOOD EARRINGS. These have been with me for a while and I don’t see them going anywhere soon. There was a point when I’d wear them everyday. Now, I wear them about 4 times a week…so they are still up there! LOL

META PHYSICA WELLNESS CENTER. I visit them monthly for an hour long Sauna treatment. Their saunas are infrared and extremely beneficial. They aid in detoxing the body, purifying the skin, injury healing, weight loss, improved circulation, etc. Plus, it just feels good!

Infrared Sauna

Sweat it Out!

At Cairo Coffee in Eastern Market

COFFEE. I quit cold turkey in July. I had to for health reasons. In the last few months, I’ve reintroduced it into my life, but with restrictions. I’d say that I enjoy it twice a week now (if that). Also, I used to drink it black. Now I have to dilute it with oat or almond milk…but all is well. It’s the culture of coffee that I’ll never give up. Those of you who know, KNOW. I’ve recently discovered a few new spots that I love for their coffee AND aesthetics. I have a little surprise coming up for my fellow coffee lovers. Stay tuned. *insert wink*

MOISTURIZER. This includes eye cream! The difference between a dull face and one that is glowing (prior to makeup) is the proper moisturizer (and cleansing and exfoliating…but we’re just talking about moisturizer right now LOL). Obviously this is an important part of skincare, which every woman should be very serious about. I’ll be doing a skincare post very soon because I’ve encountered women who could benefit from the information.

UNLIT CANDLES. I’m not a fan of candles, synthetic scents at that, but I do find them useful (when they aren’t lit). I use them as closet scents and they are refreshing that way. Depending on the scent and the temperature in the house they provide a pleasant scent that isn’t as potent as when lit.

FUNKY EYEGLASS FRAMES. I don’t have a prescription (except for computer use) so I love trying funky frames. I wear them mostly when I don’t wear makeup or to add a little personality to my wardrobe.

FORGIVENESS. Y’all sometimes forgiveness is not taking things personally (depending on the situation). Read. That. Again. Also, forgiveness destroys the root of bitterness and revenge. I’m sure you’ve heard that forgiveness is more for you than the other party. ‘Tis true.

ME. Last year taught me the true meaning of self care. I know that term is used loosely these days, but true self care is giving yourself what you NEED and DESERVE. This means getting to know YOURSELF beyond the surface. This means spending QUALITY time with yourself and doing the work needed to be the best you so that you’re the best to and for the ones you love and encounter daily.

MONIE NATURALS LLC. I absolutely love their Silky Shea Butter soap. It’s extremely healing and comforting, especially for my Winter skin.

VISION. Having vision keeps me focused and my eyes on my goals. I love the idea of a vision board (hey, be our guest this Sunday at the best Vision Board Party this side of Detroit!) because it’s a visual of things that WILL manifest in my life. Having vision is seeing a thing before it happens so when it happens you’re prepared.

Write the Vision

I always keep my prior year planners. I refer to them often to measure goals, accomplishments, and areas to improve.

WRAP DRESSES. For always and forever. Period.

UNSUBSCRIBE BUTTON. Literally and Figuratively. This started in 2019, but I’m completing the work in 2020! I unsubscribed to a few magazine subscriptions, food delivery, channels, etc. Because…NO! I wasn’t reading fast enough before the next one came in and let’s face it, the 100 recipes from Blue Apron can be put to use by me paying a visit to the grocery store. Hello!

This can also apply to any practice, event, or expectation that no longer serves you. UNSUBSCRIBE honey!

AFFIRMATIONS. The Bible has many that I recite aloud daily. You are what you SAY. I am very careful these days to only speak LIFE into me and my peeps. I am Healthy. I am Whole. I am Enough. I
Can Do Anything. I am Loved. These are just a few. Some seasons, I have Post-Its in my bathroom (thank God for separate bathrooms, by the way lol), Being Mary Jane style, so that I am affirmed first thing in the morning and first thing before bed.

What are you holding near and dear in 2020? Let’s talk!

"Girlfriending" the Boyfriend Blazer

Major runways have re-featured “menswear” fashion (women sporting menswear was popular starting in the 1920s via Coco Chanel and then took a dip in the 1950s and then back up again in 2010 and has been popular consistently since) world-wide. The Boyfriend Blazer, or an oversized take on the classic blazer, is on the top of the mens-inspired fashion list for women. Due to its exaggerated and loose fit, I like to add some girly sass to balance the look.

Note: A boyfriend is not necessary to achieve featured looks, ok?

…but if you have one (or a husband who is your forever boyfriend *insert sexy wink*), try borrowing from his closet, if possible, to show him how to rock a blazer…your way!

If you want your own Boyfriend Blazer (like I would LOL)…FINE! I’m assuming that most of you fashionistas already own one, but if you don’t I’d suggest checking out stores that expanded the Boyfriend Blazer trend: Gap, Nordstrom, Urban Outfitters or Forever 21. If you want to support the sustainable fashion movement (slow fashion), check out Salvation Army, Value World or other local thrift/consignment spots (in the men’s section).

Here’s how I put a girly spin on the popular menswear-inspired piece:

Fitted Leather

I love the juxtaposition of this look. The fitted vegan leather ensemble balances the boyfriend blazer so well. Add the knee-high boots and faux fur stole and va-va-boom!

CanadianTuxedo

Jean-on-Jean…Yes, please! Again, this fitted outfit balances the oversized blazer. The shorts and chunky pearls add “girly” spunk to an otherwise traditional look.

Trench

The structure of this classic, yet sexy trench dress lends just enough sass for the Boyfriend Blazer to harmonize effortlessly. The contrast between the color of the dress (Pantone calls it Dark Cheddar) and black blazer adds the “pop” this outfit deserves.

Hoodie

This look is for the “girlfriend” who is into the sport-luxe look. A hoodie under a blazer is a trend that’s not for everyone, but it’s not going anywhere soon! Give it a try. Oh! Don’t forget your lace socks and open-toe heels!

Simply Swanky: 3 Date Night Looks He'll Love

“Getting ready for date night has become a fun theater pop-up in my head! I get so much pleasure with the details of creating a look!”

I get it! Every date is not all about a production. I also get that not everyone even cares. For those who do, this is for you. For those who don’t, you just may want to save this one in file #2 (the “I’ll come back to it later” drawer)…I’m just saying!

I LOVE getting dressed to go out with my husband. He seems to think that I have a rendering of theater going on in my head about the entire date (that’s another story for another post). Ha! I do! I love the anticipation of a date. I love the details. I love the thought put into it. I love playing it out in my head before it happens. Am I going too far? LOL. Am I the only one? I think at least my fellow creatives can attest to some part of the process. Yes? Maybe? *fingers crossed*

Below, I’ve featured THREE date night ensembles (or for solo endeavors or “I just want to do me” endeavors) that I’ve worn on dates with my love. For the record, again, if you could care less about a date night, fine! Wear these outfits or a variation wherever you please, whenever for yourself by yourself! It’s all good.

Maxi dresses aren’t just for the summer! Neither is a good off the shoulder number! This outfits screams sexy, chic, and effortless. I am a girl who loves to layer, so by all means never mind the sweater if you want to show off those curves! I encourage that too! I also love a good color combo of (MY) colors! From a swank coffee cafe,’ to a mod museum visit, this ensemble offers simplicity, movement, texture and a brightness to a Fall day. Pair with a nice boot/bootie or with a funky sneaker.

A jumpsuit will always be one of my favorites! Especially if it fits like this one does (I’m shorter but have long legs so the fit is not always easy). Some of you are probably saying, “But it’s cold and this doesn’t have sleeves.” Two options for ya: 1.) Outerwear! With cooler temps, you’re going to have some form of coat on anyway, right? Right. Check your coat and be fabulous. 2.) Try layering a sheer, mesh, or lace long sleeve top underneath. You can also pair your jumpsuit with a duster or shawl. This look is great for an evening dinner or performance. Or go dancing with your date and watch how he gazes at you (please report your findings LOL). Jumpsuits are so versatile and flirty all at once!

Ah, shoulder action! I LOVE my shoulders and I love to bare them often! LOL. It gives just enough sexy coupled with a sweetness that’s undeniable! I’m a distressed jeans gal too! Sorry. Not sorry. If you’re not, the look is just as good with skinnies or fitted jeans. I like the great balance of this funky peplum sweater that I scored from a Resale Pop Up and the slim fit of my jeans. Whatever you do, please be sure that your outfit displays harmony (a mix of fitted and chunky or flowy). Variations of this outfit include an oversized, off the shoulder sweater and jeans or a cute tunic sweater and liquid leggings. Destination: Casual dinner or a relaxed, but still dashing event. The last thing I’ll mention is the miracle of a well-made peplum top! For those who have mid-section concerns, this top is on the “miracle worker” list. Period.

The Wrap Dress + 3 ways to style it!

“Wrap dresses for me are like the ultimate display of femininity. There’s nothing more sexy, sweet or confident than a woman in a wrap dress. Period. ”

Wrap dresses are my favorite for several reasons. At the top of my list: they look good on everyBODY! Really! Below, I show three additional ways to rock the wrap dress besides the traditional way.

• Rock your wrap dress as a DUSTER! This is such a great way to add print, movement, texture, or color to a basic outfit. You can also pair your “wrap dress duster” with another dress (sheath or another straight style).

• Rock your wrap dress as a two-piece with a moto vest or jacket. Another way is to piece with a distressed denim jacket to add some funk.

• I’ve even paired my wrap dresses with graphic tees (below), leggings and jeans (I love dresses with jeans!) to add interest to the classic dress!

Come on! Get creative with your classic items in your closet! I dare YOU!!!

Ravishing Red + Resale Find

Last month, we decided that we would go with the color Red for our next venture’s photoshoot. Initially I was a bit against it because I’m a neutral girl. ;-) I don’t own a lot of any color (LOL) and I thought it would be a task to find just the perfect color for me. However, I obliged and started browsing looks.

At one of my favorite coffee spots: New Order ;-)

Photo by: Kalayha Bailey for Allen B Williams Photography

Jumpsuit: Regeneration

Earrings: Rouge Couture Company

Lipstick: The LipBar (City Girl)

It was a day away and I still hadn’t found ANYTHING! I had to make some quick moves otherwise I was in trouble! I knew that I didn’t want to spend a lot of money for something I didn’t think I would wear often so my immediate solution was to head to Regeneration to see what I could see…

I peeked and poked around until I found this Free People fitted jumpsuit. The only problem was it was a size…Small…and there’s nothing small on me but my waist, hands and feet. LOL. I was brave and tried it on and guess what? It was a bit snug BUT I was going to make it work. Can you say ANGLES? LOL…it was worth every bit of my $14 hard earned bucks! CHA-CHING!

Regeneration has been a love of mine for quite some time. Great style and great finds don’t have to be expensive! You just need some patience and a keen eye. Regeneration is not the only resale or slow fashion spot I frequent, but it is on the top of my list for Slow Fashion! If you’ve never considered resale, consignment, or thrift shopping, I encourage you to do so. Not only will it accomplish your shopping fix (for less), you’ll be contributing to a more ethical way of consumerism. I know. I just got real deep…that’s another post for a different day!

Anyway, let’s talk about this RED jumpsuit. I love the color Red. I don’t wear it often, oh, but when I do…

I’ve often said that I’m actually an introvert. So, you other introverts: LISTEN UP! I’m a huge fan of color psychology and I often teach my wardrobe consulting clients about the affects of color. Well, the color RED actually boosts the confidence level of those who are shy or lack a power-packed personality. Wearing RED can actually translate as outgoing and affect the mood of others who set their eyes on your outfit! Beware, it does attract attention, but that can be a good thing! Especially if you need people to take action on an idea or presentation. Here are some other affects or emotions wearing RED can produce:

-Energy -Passion -Love -Comfort -Excitement -Intensity

The next time you need a push for a date, presentation, or a fun shoot, try wearing RED. Even if it’s a lip color! Watch how your mood quickly switches from a mild belle into a MAVEN…

MEOW!

The Crime I Committed While Wearing A Yellow Lace Dress

Kimberly Simmons and Nina Gordon.

I had weeks.

No.

I had months to prepare for my twenty-year high school reunion Honors Gala (King Crusader).  I didn't prepare. You know why don't you? You're right. I didn't because I had months! Don't act like you don't know how that is! You say, day after day, "I got time." Then,you really don't!

It was seven days before the big day. Still nothing. I hadn't even thought about it until I ran into a classmate of mine who began talking about her attire for that evening.  It wasn't that I didn't think it was important. It's just, well, my schedule! No excuse, right?  That's mine and I'm sticking to it. Well, she shared a few pictures of her dress and I loved it! I asked where she found it and her next words made my stomach drop! FASHION NOVA!

I was completely shocked! Shocked for many reasons.  The first being that I'd been hearing about this company a lot lately (and seeing celebrities on the gram advertising their wears) and recently decided to give their infamous jeans a try. Guess what? They fit like nobody's business! Anyone who is shaped like me, knows exactly why this is a win-win situation.  Anyway.  The other reason why I was shocked was because the dress that she showed me looked AMAZING. 

Now before all of you name loving, couture wearing, high fashion loving peeps start judging, know that  I am on a journey to transition my entire wardrobe from fast fashion to slow fashion (I'll talk about these terms in another blog), BUT I - AM - NOT  - THERE - (YET)! Also, check your entire closet stock to be sure that everything was made in organic materials and that the making involved fair employment practices, it's made locally, and that it's not mass produced. Need I go on? If you can answer yes to at least these, then congratulations! If you can't, hush chile!

Jessica LeMelle. We've been friends since 9th grade. Oh the stories!

Now about the crime I committed: I SLAYED IN A FASHION NOVA DRESS! Yes, I slayed the dress honey! I murdered. I killed it. I put to death all the critics (there aren't any of those in real life, right?).  I'll say so myself! LOL. Like I said in my promo of this post, no one was hurt. As a matter of fact, all who encountered this yellow, lace FASHION NOVA DRESS were quite pleased! Ok? Well, at least I was. I enjoyed the color (you'll be hearing more about color in future posts), I enjoyed the ease and comfort and I loved how it hugged my curves just right.  I was worried that my 49.99 dress would unravel as soon as I pulled it out of the box.  IT. DID. NOT.

Latisha Hawkins and Tiffany Cobb.

I created beautiful memories with my high school classmates from twenty years ago in a FASHION NOVA DRESS! We reminisced about the "good ole days" and caught up with each other like we'd never missed a beat. We danced, sang, cried (yes, my eyes started to water a few times), laughed out loud (not the fake "lol" that we text people) and we took millions of pictures!

Jabari Long. "He's the Boss" and "She's the Boss" awardees.

Allen B Williams Photography

Then something happened that was a complete surprise to me. My name was called. My name was called to get out of my seat to receive an award. My name was called to get out of my seat to receive the "She's the Boss" Award. My name was called to get out of my seat to receive the "She's the Boss" Award in front of about 120 of my lovely peers in MY FASHION NOVA DRESS! Take that.

Here's to creating beautiful, meaningful memories that you shall keep close to you forever, as you wear WHATEVER YOU WANT!

NOW, excuse me while I go take another peek at my yellow, lace dress. IT. JUST. MAKES. ME HAPPY.

Until next time,

Denitra

*Thumbnail Photo Credit: Fancy Flash Photo Booth