"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.

Mild to Wild: Animal Print! Oh My!

In case you haven’t noticed, Fall/Winter 2019 fashion is taking a walk on the wild side. From shoes to accessories to outwear to crazy (not really) outfits, animal print is hot right now. In my opinion, leopard and a few other prints will NEVER go out of style (so classic), but some animals have made a comeback, including cheetah print. A lot of animal skins (genuine and faux) have returned to runways and sidewalks.

I thought it would be fun to style a few animal print looks to give options for the mild to the wild lady so here we go:

Mild Lady

A midi dress and sweater, in Pantone’s Sugar Almond and Dark Cheddar colors (fall/winter color palette) is paired with Jessica Simpson leopard ankle boots and leopard earrings. This styling option is for the lady who is not necessarily into getting crazy with the trend but still wants to have some fun with accessories. I encourage my wardrobe clients who may be a bit on the milder side to have fun with accessories as opposed to going all out with a particular look. Remember, leopard is a nude! It can be worn with ANY color! Trust me on this! This styling option also explores pattern (dress is ribbed) and texture mixing (mohair), which is also a Fall/Winter hit!

Funky Lady

A vegan leather pencil skirt, graphic tee, denim choker, and faux fur cheetah print jacket = perfect funky little combo! This outfit is for the lady who likes to combine romance with grunge. Oh, and we can’t forget about those cutout booties! Yesssss! Here the animal print trend is sported with outerwear. This is also a good idea if you want an entirely different look once you enter your event. Jacket comes off and you’re a sexy, sweet lady. This styling option explores texture mixing (faux suede booties and vegan leather skirt).

Wild Lady

I mean, just do it! A midi, fitted snakeskin print dress is really ALL you need to take a walk on the wild side. This is for the lady who is not afraid of print! Snakeskin is one of my favorite trends right now! It comes in so many colors, so you can definitely get as wild as you wanna! You can’t tell, BUT I’m wearing vegan snakeskin leather earrings…because WHY NOT! This styling option explores CURVES. Almost 40 year old curves..because LOVE THE SKIN (or print) YOU’RE IN, right? Right!

Oh! Shout out to my “guest photographer,” my little sissy, Achaia Marie. All photos taken with my Galaxy S9.

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!!!

Fall Beauty Faves!

Fall is here!

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It’s one of my favorite seasons for sure, but with cooler temperatures come skin changes, duller looking skies, and a slower pace. I have some beauty faves that are part of my self-care routine that I’d like to share that are sure to provide a pick-me-up as well as other benefits. Thank me later when you fall in love with these little pretties also!

Facial Cleanser: Shea Moisture Clarifying Facial Wash & Scrub is wondrous! I use this twice weekly in place of my regular cleanser, followed by toner and moisturizer. I generally use it on Sunday and Wednesday. I discovered it from a Target Beauty Box this past Winter and have never parted. I have combination skin and it works perfectly with my existing skincare regime. The tea tree oil does the job to balance my skin and the tamarind extract provides gentle exfoliation to keep my skin smooth and glowy!

Moisturizer: I discovered Monie Naturals Skincare Green Tea & Vitamin E Facial Moisturizer through a friend on Instagram. This moisturizer is the truth! It doesn’t leave my skin oily like most moisturizers and provides the perfect canvas for makeup application.

Eye Cream: Listen, if you are over 25 and do not use an eye cream, please start! As early as 20s you can start to notice a few little creases, and as subtle as they may be, prevention is key! Now, I don’t believe in the term anti-aging (there is no such thing…), BUT I do believe in preservation! Most people don’t need a targeted eye cream (e.g. for dark circles), so a gentle and moisturizing one will do! My go to is Eve Organics Eye Cream. Due to the delicate skin under your eye, be sure to be gentle and apply with your your ring or baby finger. Secret: I use my eye cream as a lip moisturizer also!

Bright Matte Liquid: In the last few years, I’ve opted for a brighter lip in the fall. I still rock my deeper hues, but I’m not putting my bright lippies away! First of all, Boy Trouble by The Lip Bar is EVERYTHING!!! Secondly, it brightens my skin and my day! This is a brown girl’s dream lip color. TRUST. ME. You’ll also get a good laugh at their shade description.

Liquid Foundation: Clinique Even Better Broad Spectrum (Ginger) has worked for me for years. I had the hardest time color-matching a foundation that allowed my skin to breathe…because that’s important! It’s the perfect neutral brown girl shade and provides light-medium coverage. Clinique does it with this formula! It keeps my skin smooth and flawless without hiding ME. I wear this on Sundays and for occasions when I want a more even tone and a tad more coverage than a pressed powder.

Mineral Dual Foundation: Aveda did right by brown girls a few years ago by adding deeper hues. This is a pressed powder formula (Cream Caramel) but can be worn wet for lighter coverage. I wear this wet when I want a natural look that blurs imperfections. It also provides radiance on a gray, fall day. When I want a more dramatic look, I use this to provide a bit of contour to my liquid foundation.

BONUS: Drink. Your. Water. Babes.

These are just a few of my favorite Fall beauty jewels and as you can tell from the organic photos, I USE THEM generously! LOL. Of course I’m a product junkie, so I’ll probably share a few more for Winter! Stay tuned.

Please share some of your favorite beauty products! I’d love to hear from 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!

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things: Style My Way

Denitra Gregory, owner of Unforgettable YOU!

Photo by Rob Will at Sudden Utopia

Style is an outward expression of one’s personality. It can be ever-evolving or remain the same, but it is something that cannot be given or taken away. Style just is…

People always ask me where I get my style and my answer is two-fold: Everywhere and nowhere. I get inspiration from people, travel, nature, architecture, design, etc. One thing is for sure, my observant eye is always studying. Yet, the counselor in me can’t negate that we all have very distinct, innate characteristics and abilities, beyond explanation. Style is one of them. Everyone has style. How you make it your own is strictly up to you!

I’d like to share parts of mine. Style My Way. Perhaps you can incorporate a few for your “Year of Style!”

A few of my favorite things:

1. Minimalist Style: Over the years, I’ve come to love the look of simplicity. There is something just so chic about simple shapes and a focused color palette. It allows creativity (doing more with less) and is definitely a money and space saver. I can’t say that my primary style is minimalism, but I’ve adopted many “rules” from this lifestyle that I’d like to enhance in the days to come.

2. Let It Flow: I love fluidity! It’s just beautiful to me. For me this sometimes means buying varying shapes and sizes of clothing and creating desired shapes on my own. For instance, those One Size Fits Most pieces. They generally are too large, but it gives me the extra material I need to customize waist or hemlines. Tying knots on my clothes = My Jam!

3. Seasonless: Please don’t kill my vibe! I don’t organize my clothes according to season. Most of my wardrobe can be worn all year. Why? Layering!

4. Speaking of Layering: You’ve probably heard this 1,000 x’s from me by now. Layering can create an awesome texture-mix or an entirely different look each time.

5. Play on Color: I love nudes (tan, blush, mauve, etc), but sometimes, especially in the Winter, I use jewel tones to add vibrancy (I get pale in the Winter lol!).

6. Eyeglasses: I’m not in the prescription eyeglass club, but I do love a funky frame! On my “fresh-face” days, I wear frames to add a little spunk to my look.

7. Accessories: Big, unique earrings are my “thing!” I love handcrafted, unique pieces that start conversations. I think they compliment my pixie well. I also love a good infinity scarf!

8. Makeup: I’m a natural makeup lover for an everyday look. Occasionally, though, I pop on a deep or bright lipstick that adds just the right amount of sophistication. Listen, don’t let people convince you that makeup isn’t just as much part of your look as your clothes, ok?

9. Fabric Scissors: When I’m bored with an item or want to change its look, I get my scissors out! I’ve been known to create new necklines or cut off a sleeve or two.

10. Wardrobe Boxes: These have saved so many of my pieces! Sometimes depending on material and shape, hanging clothes can do more harm than good. It can permanently change the shape of delicate pieces.

11. Online Exclusives: I love shopping on my favorites sites in the exclusive section. This ensures a variety of brands that are only available online. They only offer a select few, so quantity can be limited. Chances are, you won’t see anyone else with your exclusive!

12. Rewards Programs: Yes, I’m a rewards member with most of my favorite retailers. I get notified of sample and private sales and I also build loyalty points for huge discounts. Further, if you aren’t a member of DOSH, you’re missing out on life! To date, I’ve earned hundreds of dollars (cash-back) just for shopping at my favorite stores! Click here to join to start earning your bucks!

13. Bonus! My Hair: My hair is a major part of my style. I’ve been in the #shorthairdontcare gang for almost 19 years! I’m forever a pixie girl!

What are a few of your favorite style things?

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

It's About That Time!

Hi!  Welcome to my brand spanking new website!  I am so happy to have another platform to connect with my clients, friends, and fellow creatives.  It's been some years since I had a website.  More than I care to admit!  I took my old one down all those years ago (LOL) because it needed an upgrade and I got busy! Years and years busy...BUT we're here now!  That's all that matters, right? (Please say YES)

Please know that this website is ever-evolving right along with my growth and exploration.  I also want to make very clear my convictions and intentions.  Yes, I love style, beauty and some trends.  However my heart is near and dear to some important and note-worthy issues and plagues. In all that I do, you'll always find meaning tucked deep down or you'll hear and see my scream, blatantly.  It just depends on what it is! You feel me?

You can expect new content from me regularly right here on this blog!  With that said, I'd like to hear from you what you wanna hear from me! I am open to questions and suggestions! 

Let's use this as our "shooting the breeze" platform where we share and inspire one another, ok? 

Here's to the start of a new relationship with a praying, coffee-sipping, art-loving, high-heel and duster wearing, pixie hair loving, introvert with extrovert tendencies gal!

...and then, I must publicly thank Larrissa Spears who is responsible for spear-heading and creating this website and managing it's content.  You are amazingly beautiful. Inside and out!

Love, Denitra