Brilliance Of B

50,000+ Hits Giveaway: Thank you!

2013-05-13T20:59:00.002-05:00

Blouse: H&M (seen here) (similar)(similar) | Jeans: Zara | Bag: Gucci (WANT!) | Lipstick: MAC Ravishing (here)

While starting this blog, it was just my intention to be a HOBBY. To have something to get my creative juices out after my 9 to 5. To free my mind of the countless reports and the revolving C++ code circling in my brain. But when I hit 50,000+ visits last month, I was in total shock! Thank you again, for all of your support! I really hope that you find this website helpful, whether it's me reviewing a company/product, or helping you with your outfit ideas. Since this is a milestone for me, I want to celebrate!

For my supports, I'll be giving away TWO Designer iPhone 4/4S cases!

Here's how to enter:
1. Follow this blog by signing up HERE ==> BrillianceOfB
(I'll be checking thoroughly!)
2. In the pictures above, there are TWO things that are not the same. Can you find them? LOOK CLOSELY! Leave the answers in the comments below with your email address.
CONTEST ENDS May 26, 2013

Please use the same email address as you used to sign up for the blog! They must match to win! :)

Kate Spade Pardon My French iPhone 4/4S Case

Marc Jacobs StarDust Logo iPhone 4/4S Case

I'm so happy to be celebrating this milestone! Thanks again for your support and don't forget that this is an interactive blog. I want to hear your thoughts and recommendations!

Spring eShakti Dress: Blue Riding Hood

2013-05-03T08:33:00.000-05:00

Dress: c/o eShakti (similar) | Shoes: Aldo (want!) | Eye glasses: Gucci (love these!)

Some times you have to just enjoy a dress for what it is. Fit, texture, and comfort. I could have made this dress some elaborate overdone getup, but I decided to let the dress speak for it self. This A-lined flare dress gives me a 1960's vibe which is actually my favorite style era. It's also very flattering for the waist. It helps bring you a natural curve shape without looking so

I really love the fact that eShakti's dress are perfect the way they are. I'm not trying to be boost your head, but I find their dresses are feminine enough to where there's no need for all the extra dressings.

any eShakti's dress + fun shoe = feminine perfection.

Check out eShakti's website for more colorful spring and summer looks!

Meet the Author: Christine Avanti of "Skinny Chicks Eat Real Food"

2013-04-30T10:31:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone! Since the new year, I have been trying my best to start becoming knowledgable about what's going into my body. I have been learning in depth about organic and superfoods and how I can continue to incorporate them into my diet. I've also been paying attention to my portion control and even though sometimes I fall short, I try my best to get back on track. I've been researching tips on how to eat better and finding resources to help me continue those life changing tips!

Christine Avanti, Celebrity Nutritionist, will be hosting a "Sipping Skinny"event, at Haven Outdoor Patio in Houston, TX on May 1, 2013.
She will be at the event sharing her summer slim-down tips, which focus on simple wasys to builder better eating habits and debunking diet myths. She will be showcasing some of her new low-cal recipes along with low-calorie Skinny Vine wine. The guests will have a chance to meet with Christine one-on-one to learn more about how simple swaps can lead to better eating habits, which has helped her celeb clients like Chelsea Handler, Audrina Patridge, and Giuliana Rancic get their binkini bodies.

Christine's philosophy centers on what she calls "real food" which are ingredients that are not artificially created or modified. She's also a firm believer that it's ok to indulge on treats like chocolate or wine. The key is keeping those indulges in moderation.

I'm so excited to read her book and can't wait to tell you about the Skinny Vine wine. Of course I'm excited for that. A wine without all the calories? YES PLEASE! :)

What are some resources you are using to get more information about healthy eating? Have you read any of Christine's books? Tell me down below in the comments!

Neon Shoes

2013-04-25T13:50:00.003-05:00

Silk Blouse: Wish Warehouse (similar) | Denim: Armani Exchange | Shoes: Prabal Gurung x Target (Want these!) | Bag: F21 (similar)

I found this shirt a at $10 sale at Wish Warehouse was having. There is nothing like passing by a store and seeing racks of clothes with a sign that says "$10 sale!" I couldn't pass it up! The shirt reminds me of the "pajama like clothing" that was popular last season. Rihanna and a few other celebs tried this trend and I never was sure if I liked it or not. But this shirt is very Spring appropriate. The softness of the shirt adds a cool but chic layer without being to stuffy. But my favorite of this outfit is definitely the unexpected pop of neon on my feet. You don't necessarily need pounds of clothes to make a statement. Just wear a neon shoe and you will definitely be noticed!

Rocking Yellow

2013-04-18T10:54:00.001-05:00

Eyelet Dress: Old Navy (here) | Shoes: Prabal Gurung X Target (here) | Leather jacket: BB Dakota (similar)

Are you glad to finally see me? LOL

Yes I know it's been while! I'm excited to be back. Sometimes you just have to take a break and regroup. Anywho, I bought this dress for Old Navy when they were featuring a sale on all their spring dresses. As I told you before, I always neglect my pants or jeans during the spring as I am very hot natured. This bright yellow dress is an instant statement for any shopping day or lunch date. I've been slowing adding colorful dresses to my wardrobe as I realized the other day that usually buy black dresses. To turn down the "girly-ness" of this dress, I added a leather jacket to toughen the look. Since it was a bit cool this day, it was a nice addition for the weather.

I am so happy that spring is here! I'm ready for more leg showing! LOL

Do you like this look? Let me know in the comment section!

Beautiful Textures Dinner #TeamTextured

2013-04-16T15:45:00.003-05:00

Beautiful Textures invited top beauty bloggers in Houston, TX for dinner to discuss new products to it's hair collection. Our three course dinner was served at The Restaurant at Royal Sonesta Hotel as new products from Beautiful Textures were displayed on our tables.

As this was a more intimate setting, we were really able to discuss topics that were more open and also to ask more questions about the new products and how they can be used and styled with our hair textures.

Beauty Expert Kimberly Walker styled the models hair and also showed different ways you could use Curl Definer Mousse which is a product that can be used to define curls as well as a product that can be used to refresh your curls. The other featured new product was the Edges to Ends Silkener used smooth out edges and temples when wearing buns or ponytails. The Curl Definer Styling Custard is also a new product that can help with styling your curls and elongating your curls eliminating frizzy ends.

I really enjoyed the dinner and met some wonderful hair enthusiasts. I will be trying out these products as well and will let you know how my experience will be.

Thank you to Beautiful Textures for this opportunity!

Special thanks to The Garner Circle PR.

Have you tried any Beautiful Textures products? Let me know your experience!

African Pride Hair Care National Tour #UltimateBeautySocial

2013-04-15T13:33:00.001-05:00

I was so delighted to have been invited (didn't mean to rhyme!) to attend the African Pride Hair Care #UltimateBeautySocial National Tour as they stopped here in Houston, TX on April 6 at the Royal Sonesta Hotel. The guests at the event were treated with a nice brunch with mimosas that was hosted by HFB Founder and Blogger Shalanda of Live Life In Style, Natural Hair Blogger Tamara Floyd of Natural Hair Rules and Author Audrey Sivasothy of The Science Of Black Hair.

African Pride's Content Director Camila Crews started the event with showcasing the African Pride products and how they can be used for your relaxed or natural. The models featured different hair styles using the products as well.

Since I have been wearing braids, I have always had my African Pride Braid Spray but never thought about trying the other products for my natural hair. Here's what grabbed my attention about the brand: The Olive Miracle and Shea Butter Miracle products. These African Pride products helps keep your hair strong by dramatically reducing breakage and dryness. African Shea butter, olive oil, and herbal oil extracts are some of the ingredients that highlighted for breakage and dryness.

Now that I am starting to take better care of my hair and trying to get to know exactly what my hair likes, I have realized there are so many products out there and these types of events helps the customer to become aware of these products and how they are beneficial. I am so excited to try these products! I will come back and let you all know how these products affect my hair.

This event was so helpful and it was informative hearing point of views about individual hair stories and encouragement to strive for HEALTHY hair!

Click here to see Contributor Krista's beautiful natural hair.

Special thanks to Nicole Garner, CEO of The Garner Circle PR.

If you would like to purchase products, click here.

Have you tried any of African Pride's products? Will you purchase again? Let me know!

Stacey Bendet of alice + olivia Saks Event

2013-04-14T04:14:00.001-05:00

Last month, I had the pleasure of meeting Stacey Bendet, creator of Alice + Olivia! Alice + Olivia is such a fun, bright, and youthful brand that symbolizes quirkiness yet cute style. Stacey started this brand with her love for the perfect pair of bell bottom pants and decided to make her own line that would highlight her style.

DJ Mia Moretti and Electric Violinist Caitlin Moe played some modern tunes while guests at the event dazzled with martinis and sweet bites as Stacey Bendet had small talk with the fashionable guests.

Guests also had the pleasure of singing some tunes with a feature Karoke area!

Below I have gathered some of my favorite pieces from alice + olivia!

Have you heard of the brand? Tell me know your opinions!

How to Wear Florals To The Office

2013-04-11T17:15:00.000-05:00

It's officially Spring! Warm weather, sunny bright days, and pollen like no other. LOL

Florals are yet again popular this Spring. There are tons of ways to wearing them, but I'm going to let you know the easiest way to incorporate them while going to work.

As we know, some companies and industries expect you to be professional and dress professional. They expect business attire or business casual. With the tips I'm going to share, this will only fit into the business casual environment. Here's some examples for you:

Blouses

Want to add a little color and character to a normally boring work attire? Try pairing a sheer, colorful blouse to a black suit. This look will still read professionalism and also add a bit of your personality while staying on trend. This is also a great option for happy hour with your friends after the work day. To transform this look to a night out with friends, lose the blazer and a colored shoe that coordinates with the blouse.

Dresses

Although this may seem a bit out there, dresses can be translated into your work attire. It all depends on the color and size of the floral print on you the dress. In this case, go for a dress with a small floral print pattern in a darker hue such as royal blue or burgundy. A black blazer would go perfectly with the dress and a black pump or nude pump.

Scarves

Afraid to go full on with a floral piece of clothing? Try wearing a floral scarf. To add sophistication, try tying a small scarf around your neck and placing the knot on the side as if the scarf was a necklace. The end pieces should hang to the side of your neck. Also, try tying the small scarf around the collar of your button up shirt. Adding the floral scarf as an accessory will bring this trend to your work attire in a subtle way. Try finding these at a more affordable price at your local thrift shop or consignment.

There's no reason why you can't add the new spring trends into your work attire. Bring this ideas carefully into your wardrobe and have fun!

Which one of these will you try?

Krista Says, I Am NOT My Hair!

2013-04-02T10:21:00.000-06:00

"If I wanna shave it close or if I wanna rock locks that dont take a bit away from this soul that I got!"

-India Arie

Hey Loves! I am so inspiried by the quote that opened up this post today! I just love India Arie. I woke up from a nap last week and decided to take my hair extensions down. There I stood in the mirror with the scissors in my hand. *mouth drops* Reality struck me! I'm natural and I have to now deal with this TWA (teenie weenie afro). Grr!

I wanted to slap myself for taking my extensions out. I swallowed my pride I washed, treated and tied down my TWA. As I laid in the bed, I told myself I'm getting braids or something. I cant deal! It seems like some people play with their hair and style it then it grows. On the other hand, some people wear weaves or braids and it grows. I just dont know, my little fro doesn't seem to grow! It is true I wouldn't give my little hair a chance to flourish. I must admit that I didn't want to see myself with this kinky, curly TWA. So Sunday, I played with it. I put it in a puff; I twisted it; I dyed it. I actually enjoyed myself.

I watched a few YouTube tutorials and began to see how much joy was brought to other natural sisters! I saw the opportunity to make my hair a new hobby. An opportunity to step out of my box. I can do this!

I did my first twist out Monday and it was perfect! Since then, I've been watching more tutorials and getting ideas. I'm motivated! With all this being said, I've decided to face my fro (with babysteps, of course!) For the month of April, I vow not to wear a sew-in or braids. I think this is something very liberating for me.

So ask yourself, are you afraid to step out of the box? It doesn't have to deal with hair. This is just my personal choice. However, I'm sure everyone has something they want to try. Do it! Break Loose!

Comment and let me know what liberating change YOU want to make this month!

Good Luck!

eShakti Presents: What Women Want Contest

2013-03-13T15:33:00.001-06:00

In honor of March celebrating International Woman's Day and Women's History Month, eShakti is presenting a contest for women, like you, to express what women really want.

With this eShakti contest, I thought, "What do women really want?". I want more hours in a day. 33 hours to be exact. Those extra 8 hours would be great. "TIME" is what I want. This would solve a lot of my problems I deal with due to the sun not shining long enough. Here's the list:

1. I'll spend more time on things I enjoy doing, instead of spending half of my day at work.(I feel like I get prepared for work for 12 hours of my day, which leaves another half to do other things. And that's not enough for me.)

2. The mall would stay open longer. (Ok, you can disregard this one, but I had to say it.)

3. I could be a mother full-time and full-time worker (By full-time worker I mean regarding to still only 40 hours. Although I don't have any children at this moment, I will in the future. But who wishes they could spend more hours with babies?)

4. I would have time to sit and enjoy the day. (Take a longer lunch break. Sit at home and read for a couple of hours. Sit outside and actually feel (and see) the sun. Actually enjoy the "me" time. Leaving work and the sun going down sucks.)

5. Do all the special projects I have stored in my head. (I have so man projects I want to complete, but I never have "TIME".)

That's just the cusp of my "TIME" dilemma. I feel like wanting more "TIME" would really solve all my problems. Since I'm a root type of person (meaning I analyze what bases or causes certain situations to happen), this is how I came up with my logic. And although, it will never be 33 hours in a day, I'd probably use that extra 8 hours to sleep properly. Because I can imagine how TIRED I would be after doing everything I need to do!

So, what do women really want?

Tell me in the comments and send your responses to contest@eshakti.com for a special surprise and if you are up for shopping use "BRLLNCEFB" at checkout to receive 20% off of your order!

Top 3 Spring Bottom Trends 2013

2013-03-08T10:20:00.002-06:00

Spring is almost here! I must admit, I neglect my pants and jeans during this season. For those days I don't feel like shaving my legs (lol), here are a few options I'll be incorporating to stay comfortable this Spring.

Tights/Knee High Socks
Tights and socks are a great way to add warmth to the legs in those chilly Spring days. Opaque, sheer, and designed tights are the very popular and can be found at your local Walmart or Target for an affordable price. Tights can be paired with skirts and dresses which also adds layering into your wardrobe. Also, Beyonce and her backup dancers as well as her former band mates, Destiny's Child, wore knee-high socks during her Super Bowl Half-Time performance. Check out Miu Miu's Fall 2013 Ready-To-Wear models wearing the tights/socks trend.

Slouch/Sweatpants
It's easy to think you may want to wear these around the house or to workout, but fashionistas have been reinventing casual chic. If you are not into skirts, dresses, or anti- showing your legs, slouch pants are the way to go. These are comfortable at the waist and are great for the Spring weather. It gives you a loose relaxed and lounge feel. These type of pants usually are made of less material than regular trousers which opens the door to wear during the Spring and Summer months. Now I know this may not be flattering for every body shape but, try pairing your slouch pants with a bright colored T-shirt and leather moto jacket or fitted blazer and your are instantly chic.

Cigarette/Matchstick Pants

If you must wear pants, the Cigarette pants look great on any body shape. These pants can be transitioned from day to night in an instant pairing them with loafer type shoes as well as a patent pump for the office. This look will give you a more tailored fit. I believe this style of pants will be in style for a while due to the skinny jean phase that we are currently in.

Which one of these trends do you see yourself trying for Spring?

Weekend Wear

2013-03-04T13:00:00.001-06:00

Blouse: Macy's (love this one.) | Jeans: F21 | Shoes: Aldo (love these for Spring.) | Bag: H&M (on my wishlist.) | Necklace: Aldo

I wore this last Sunday to church which I hesitantly put on due to me NEVER wearing pants to church. I've actually worn pants to church before, but as I got older and my faith grew stronger, I always felt the need to wear a dress or skirt to church. Don't get me wrong, I don't think anything is wrong with wearing pants to church and I see women do it all the time and I don't think anything of it.

Anyway, this past Friday I went to Rodeo Houston and it was so much fun! I love animals and of course I'm a country girl as you know, so this was right up my alley. Mary J. Blige performed and did an excellent job!

(LOL @ the hair flip in the first photo!)

Did you do anything exciting this weekend? I'd love to know!

Krista Says, It's Time to Spring Clean!

2013-03-01T11:56:00.001-06:00

The Initial thought of spring automatically comes with the thought of *cues horror music* Spring Cleaning! However, don’t fret. Spring is the season between the harsh winter wind and the blistering summer heat. With that being said, spring will require the comeback of short shorts, bikinis, tanks and sandals. On the other hand, the breezy days call for a plethora of appropriate winter items that fit the season. Remember you want to “Dress for the season, and not the weather!” So before you start storing, here are a few swanky tips for spring:

Lightly Layer- Store away those heavy coats! Spring will call for linen blazers, denim jackets, and cotton cardigans. Pair these thin tanks and tees.
Fade the Black- Black may make you look thin, but replace it with soft colors and completing prints this season. Personally, I will be wearing plenty of corals and teal greens. That’s just my preference! White, pink, beige, canary, amethyst, sea green and peach are all options to add to your wardrobe.
Accessorize with Scarves - Big thanks to the thick scarves that kept us from harsh colds this season, however, put those away! This season thin, linen, and sheer should come to mind when choosing a scarf. Drape or loosely wrap for styling.
Make a Comeback- Boots are a girl’s best friend! They can be paired with your favorite pair of short shorts, flirty skirts, or a fabulous pair of tights. You most definitely do not want to store away your comeback boots. They are especially called for unpolished toes and breezy nights.

So doesn’t this make you a little more excited about spring cleaning? Ha! I’m sure it doesn’t, because we all dread it! Nevertheless, these tips will assist with your storing and also direction for spring styling! Spring is around the corner so, get ready and good luck!

Check out Krista's bio here.

Contributor for BoB: Meet Krista D!

2013-02-28T20:40:00.001-06:00

Hey guys! So, I have a new contributor to that is going to give you her take on all things fashion, style, and entertainment. Say hello to Krista D.!

Check out her bio here.

I'm so glad Krista will be contributing to Brilliance Of B. She has great style and is always positive!

Be on the look for her post on tomorrow.

My Oscar Red Carpet 2013 Picks

2013-02-28T13:11:00.001-06:00

Hey guys! I'm late, but I enjoyed watching the 85th Oscars Red Carpet last Sunday! Everyone looked amazing but I wanted to share my top favorites. It was all about the hair for me for most celebrities. Here are my favorite celebs that were on the red carpet and grasped my full attention.

Jessica Chastain wearing Armani Prive dress, Christian Louboutin heels, and Harry Winston jewels. She looks great rocking the old Glamour look with the bright red lip.

Jennifer Lawerance looked great in her second gown by Calvin Klein Collection. This is how metallic is to be worn. LOVE the shape and bodice of the dress.

And to my most favorite, Charlize Theron wearing Christian Dior Haute Couture dress, Roger Vivier shoes, and Harry Winston jewelry. I can't tell you enough how I ADORE this haircut on her. Pixi cuts have been taking celebrities by storm, yet I could never do it myself. I have also been loving white clothing lately. This beaded peplum dress looks amazing for her shape and height.

You know I love jewelry, so I had to let you all know who wore the best jewelry in my opinion. I adored Jennifer Garner in this bibbed statement necklace. The detail of the necklace by Neil Lane jewelry is so intricate and regal.

So how do you feel about these picks? Who did I forget to mention?

Beanie and Bright Shoes

2013-02-27T12:06:00.001-06:00

Blouse: JCP (similar) | Pants: Armani Exchange (love these.) | Shoes: Prabal Gurung by Target (similar) | Beanie: Zara (similar) (similar)

I am definitely bringing out my love for Amiee Song here. She always looks so put together when wearing the pieces that just might not go together to any other person. The pop of color to a bland outfit is SO easy to do with accessories and shoes. This outfit was out of the box for me but made me realize ways to bring a casual feel to a pair of great heels.

Also, if you liked my eShakti customization dress, I've received a coupon code for my readers to benefit with the already affordable prices. Enter "BRLLNCEFB" at checkout to receive 20% off!

Work It Out

2013-02-21T11:59:00.000-06:00

Blazer: H&M (similar) | Blouse: Zara | Skirt: F21 (similar) | Shoes: F21 (I love these.)

Hey LOVES! Hope you all had a wonderful Valentine's Day!
Now that NYFW is over everyone is into the Spring takeover. Bright hues are making their way back (even though they never left) to styles and I'm excited. Since I have been working lately, I wanted to give a burst of color to my black and white work outfit. This blue blazer is shocking but it balances with the how the blazer is constructed.
To make sure I stay professional, since I will be face-to-face with clients, I decided not to wear a lot of jewelry. You don't want to cause a distraction when doing business. I paired with this outfit with only my diamond stud earrings. To add a bit more color, I mixed pretty shades from the Wet-N-Wild collection to make this coral pink shade.

How would you spice up your work attire for Spring?

Some Kinda Cool

2013-02-12T17:16:00.001-06:00

Houndstooth Dress: H&M (similar, similar, similar, similar) | Leather Jacket: BB Dakota (similar) | Sunnies: F21 (similar) | Beanie: Cotton On | Lip Combo: Wet N Wild (here & here)

The sky has finally shown itself after it being overcast, rainy, and cold. It's still rather wet and cold outside which calls for boots and long sleeves. I'm still trying to gather all the clothes I want to sell to clear out the old before the Spring comes. Trying to figure out how I'm going to display the clothes. I really want a dress form! That would make things so much easier.

In a couple of days, the country will be filled with love! If you are Anti-Valentine's Day or excited about the holiday, I have the perfect outfit ideas for you here.

Sophisticated

2013-02-08T13:25:00.003-06:00

Faux fur vest: Cotton On (similar) | T-shirt: StyleMint (similar) | Pants: Zara | Shoes: Pour La Victorie (here) | Bag: Thrifted | Bracelet: Aldo

Happy Friday everyone!
So excited to see the weekend! I plan to clean my makeup brushes and possibly sale some of my lightly worn clothes and shoes. I need to get rid of things! If you are interested in purchasing, please let me know.

I'm also loving the photos and peaks of the runway shows at NYFW! I can't wait to see the other shows. What collections have you like so far?

If you need ideas for any occasion for Valentine's Day, I have a post (here) that will tell you what to do and what to wear!

What are your plans for the weekend?

Valentine's Day Occasion & Outfit Ideas

2013-02-05T09:29:00.001-06:00

Most of you are excited about the national love day and some of you aren't. Some see this an opportunity to get close to a new friend. Others get a reminder of them being without someone, but don't let this day determine the way you feel. Here are some tips on what to do and how to look doing it.

Self Love

You are single and all of your friends are going out with their significant others, but you are not the type to fret. You deserve the most even when you don't have a guy to do things for you. Pamper yourself! Make an appointment to your local spa for a pamper me session. Since it's a bit warm these days, choose a bright colored jean with a stripped shirt. Wear a basic black or nude flat shoe to compliment you comfortable preppy style. Enjoy yourself and show yourself some love.

Girl's Night Out

Who needs a guy when you have your girls right?! They've been there threw breakups and always had your back. Get your BFFs and hit the town! Choose a LBD (Little Black Dress) that highlights your silhouette. For a pop of color, add a blue or yellow blazer or cardigan for interest because who wants to be in pink or red.

With Your Honey

Typically, couples always make dinner reservations to celebrate Valentine's Day.

You want to look sleek and sexy for your special someone for this occasion. Try a strapless mini-dress or halter dress and platform shoes with should-dusting sparkle earrings. If it gets chilly, grab a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders. You are for sure to have a good time and He'll definitely see the beauty in you!

What you wear, make sure you are comfortable and feel good about you are wearing. Which of these do you plan to partake in? What do you plan to wear? I'd love to know!

Be yourself and have fun! Have a Happy Valentine's Day!
Article Written for TheHoustonSocialSource.

Black on Black

2013-01-31T10:50:00.000-06:00

Head to Toe: H&M (similar Metallic Shirt) (similar Leather Leggings) (similar Wedged Leather Boots) | Bag: Zara | Lips: Ruby Woo by MAC

Yesterday, I spent quality time with myself to go shopping. LOL Not clothes shopping (which I'm very proud of myself), but beauty product shopping. One of my goals for this year is to focus on the health of my skin. I want to get rid of dark spots and blemishes on my face and body. I've been researching products that will even out my complexion as well as fight my dry skin. I found a lot of things and I also stumbled upon a local company that makes bath essentials as well. Once I try their products, I'll give you an update on how I liked them.

I'm so excited for the Superbowl this Sunday! I'm not really going for any team. Of course, the highlight is going to be seeing Beyonce perform which I know will be memorable.
January has gone by so fast! Let's encourage each other to stick to the goals we set to do in 2013!
Any who, I hope everyone is having a good week so far. Have a good weekend!

BTW: There is a survey on the right of the screen! Please put in your input! :)

Brilliant Brand: eShakti

2013-01-29T11:57:00.000-06:00

I live for clothes that are meant just for my body. My measurements. Down to the T. You've never really experienced a great dress if it wasn't made just for you. It would be ideal if every major clothing company could have the option to size your own garment that hits your best features. Fit is important and I always here myself say "oh, I wish this were a bit loose" or "I wish this was a bit more fitted".

If you haven't heard of eShakti, I'll give you the scoop on why it's amazing:

eShakti is a fresh concept in custom clothing. This website offers basic cottons and modestly embellished clothing and can be designed and fit for customization for women size 0 through 36. (Great, right?!) eShakti features a 3-step design and fit page where you can increase the size of a bust, shorten the length and modify or a neckline.

So before purchasing, invest in measuring tape. This is ideal or you will be doing a lot of guessing. Also, it's important to have this tool in your wardrobe anyway. Before ordering any clothes off of an online site, it should be imperative that know your measurements before purchasing.

This website is PERFECT for bridesmaids dress or special event dresses as well. Just think... you can transform one style, into MANY options!

Custom Dress: c/o eShakti | Pumps: Zara (similar) | Peacoat: F21 (similar) | Faux Fur: Cotton On | Earrings: Aldo (love these!)

Check out eShakti's Facebook and Pinterest sites for more designs!

Pick Me Up Pink

2013-01-24T09:42:00.000-06:00

Blazer: H&M | Blouse: F21 (similar) | Jeans: TopShop (here) | Wedges: F21 | Bag: H&M (I'm drooling over this one.) | Spiked Necklace: Bakers (Love this!) | Bracelet: c/o Madison Boutique, Givenchy

I was feeling down yesterday but this blazer uplifted my spirits a bit. I'm going through one of those phases again where I worry more than I pray which is not good for any soul. Worrying about the future mostly. Where will I be in five years? What job will I have? How will I utilize my talents?
But today I was reminded that my worry is not helping. There is already a plan set out for me. The best I can do is trust that fact and have faith that it will be there. But I have to do my part.

I read this article last week about how to find your passion. Put things in perspective and allowed me to evaluate myself in ways I didn't think before. Click here to check it out.

Have you found your passion? Are you fulfilling that passion? If you could change your life right now, what would you be doing for a living?

Can't wait to read your responses! :)

Plaid & Fur

2013-01-21T14:16:00.002-06:00

Shirt: Old Navy (similar) (Love these pants!) | Faux Fur Vest: Cotton On (similar) | Jeans: Levi's | Pumps: Zara | Bag: Zara (love this one!) | Watch: Guess (Adore this one.) | Lipstick: Revlon's True Red (similar)

The Mister has been on the go lately for work so I had to take matters into my remote control to finally get some outfit photos. Hope you all don't mind! lol
I'm LOVING plaid and gingham lately. I snatched this button down blue beauty from Old Navy! Definitely a deal I couldn't pass. They have all sorts of color palettes in this plaid shirt as well. Check them out here.

This past weekend I finally experienced H-Mart! I was super excited and begged the Mister to come along with me. I finally got my chopsticks and couple of goodies I've been wanting to try, plus some hefty ingredients for my home made Pho dish.

BTW: Congrats to President Barack Obama's Second Inauguration!

There's a poll on the right hand side of the site. Please take the poll and let me know what you would like to see more on the blog for this year!