Clutches & Cocktails

NEW Blog. Consistently Inconsistent :)

2016-03-17T09:31:00.003-04:00

Greetings to all that still follow and visit this blog!!!

I'm surprise and happy at the same time.

I've been out and about living life. I've gone through multiple work changes, bought a home, sold a home, and moved more times than I can count.

This month I launched a new website representative to where I am now. A visual foray of food, sights, and adventure of all kinds. I hope you enjoy :)

Please visit me at www.KaylaShanai.com

Trend Alert Repost!

2014-01-15T22:50:00.003-05:00

As some of you may have seen, chunky gold necklaces should be a staple in your accessory arsenal. I love the look of a chunky gold chain with crop sweaters, leather (or pleather) outfits, even casual items like sweats. It effortlessly takes a somewhat plain outfit to the next level.

Find my version HERE $22

Check out a few stars that are loving this trend:

Blac Chyna. Instagram

PS: Disney themed items are also a new trend. Find inexpensive options at Forever 21

Kim Kardashian

Be sure to check out my accessories blog at http://kashboutique.blogspot.com/

18 Seaboard

2013-04-21T22:11:00.001-04:00

Last night I got the chance to celebrate the 36th birthday of a dear and fabulous friend. Dinner was at 18 Seaboard, a contemporary America Grill here in Raleigh. A classy but not pretentious atmosphere makes it a perfect date/fancy dinner gathering for regular and high end folks alike. My culinary delight was the Atlantic Salmon filet cooked to perfection in a champagne tarragon butter sauce with sautéed spinach, asparagus, and honey glazed onions. It's was absolutely delicious, plus the bartender makes a mean vodka gimlet! I was thoroughly full and thoroughly satisfied with my meal. Definitely will come here again.

It's Finally Here!

2013-04-10T00:03:00.003-04:00

Here's a project that has been in the works literally for YEARS. I've always had an affinity for accessories. I enjoy fashion, but those that know me, know that I don't feel the need to spend exorbitant amounts of money on clothing. I like clean, simple looks, so it's nothing for me to wear a white v-neck with jeans. I turn this plain outfit into a fab outfit by pairing it with some great accessories. Statement necklaces, rings, multiple bracelets, a cool watch, great shoes, you name it, I'll accessorize with it. I pick out pieces for myself that speak to me and I'm often complimented on them, so I thought, 'Why not buy the stuff I like, and sell it?'. So I have.

I present, KASH Online Boutique. Enjoy!

Ebony.com Features NC's own Kooley High

2012-05-17T15:47:00.001-04:00

Kooley High is Classic Music

Kooley High is once again showing the world that NC is where it's at. Great job representing NC with great music.

CBS Special

2012-01-25T17:18:00.001-05:00

Naimah Jabali-Nash is a freelance writer who specializes in producing creative, original content for various audiences. As the Senior Staff Writer for The Green Magazine: Golf Beyond the Links, Ms. Jabali-Nash created new segments within the publication to help broaden its Web and subscription readership. Ms. Jabali-Nash’s growing portfolio includes investigative pieces, in-depth features, and profiles of luminaries of the sport, entertainment and art industries. More importantly she is one of my BEST friends and is the epitomy of Fabulous! This Saturday debut's her first televised production. Please watch!!

Black American Women during WW2

2011-12-30T12:27:00.000-05:00

Great post by one of my favorite Bloggers:

Black American Women during WW2

Happy holidays everyone! I'm enjoying my days off so much, I have to make myself come online!

One of the things I don't have many memories of is old photographs of Black Americans from the 30s, 40s 50s (outside of my own family album that is!). Back when I was a kid (oh my, I sound old!) we didn't have the internet and it was rare that Black kids saw photos of Black people in books and magazines...let alone from the Roaring 20s or the 30s - 50s. You'd have to spend some time in the library and that wasn't likely because you had to be there for homework projects - who wanted to stay after that was all said and done? So, as an adult, I like seeing searching for photos of Black Americans from time to time checking out what was goin' on way back when. I stumbled upon these photos and was amazed that such great photographs of Black women in the military were archived. I see men all time time but hardly any women. Nice job archives.gov!

These really made me smile. Hope they make you smile as well!

Photo Credit: www.archives.gov

~The Retro Natural

Repost from The Retro Natural

New Restaurant Alert!!!!!!!

2011-11-22T17:28:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but this place sounds DELICIOUS. Raleigh native Sean Fowler is opening a Contemporary Southern Cuisine restaurant in the Five Points area sometime around Thanksgiving. His menu boasts such delights as a Cane Creek Farm burger and macaroni and cheese with duck confit ($12 and $13 respectively). With menu items under $30 and a robust wine selection, this place is sure to be a hit.

Reservations can be made at http://www.mandolinraleigh.com/

Flaming Amy's

2011-11-03T23:28:00.000-04:00

Whenever I'm in Wilmington, NC I have to make a pit stop at Flaming Amy's Burrito Bar. Now, be warned; when you first pull up to the small shack looking building, you may think, "Well this can't be sanitary". Their sanitation grade met my personal requirement so they're cool.

Walking in you are introduced to their hilarious list of Rules and cool specials like Tattoo Tuesday (show your tat and get a 10% discount). More importantly, the food is delicious, filling, and inexpensive. The delectable dish below is the 2 taco platter: 1 shrimp taco, 1 tuna taco, beans and rice $5.95. The best part is their Salsa bar (fresh salsa made in house). Go get some good eats.

Bravo Brio

2011-10-31T15:39:00.000-04:00

This deliciously scrumptious meal was created courtesy of Brio Tuscan Grille. It's their Lobster and Shrimp Ravioli with Crab Insalata. Usually served with a lemon vinaigrette, I always ask for it with pomodoro instead. Paired with a cool glass of Pinot Grigio, this dish is perfection.

LET'S RUN!!!

2011-09-14T11:17:00.000-04:00

Hello All!

For those of you in the Raleigh, NC area please click on the link below to participate in ACS 5K Run/Walk.

If you cannot participate in the event PLEASE PLEASE donate to my team Pink Panthers. Donations start at $25 and we can make a HUGE difference in the fight against breast cancer.
Thank you :)
SAVE THE BOOBIES! DONATE!

Yea I have a girl crush :)

2011-07-15T10:59:00.000-04:00

Trend Alert!

2011-07-06T12:04:00.001-04:00

For those of you that haven't noticed: Feathers are IN. Personally, I think Ke$sha is one hot hell of a mess, but I will admit she was on to something when she rocked feathers in her hair and ears when she first came onto the music scene. Now they are the new IT thing.

Feather Earrings: Whether your hair is long or short, they are a great accessory. It adds a bit of rocker sex appeal to any ensemble. Your local mall is sure to be full of different styles, lengths, colors, and price points.

Hair Extensions: This is a much more involved process than earrings, but just as great looking. The extensions will run you anywhere from $10-$50 per feather depending on the salon. For those of you in the Raleigh-Durham area, Funky Monkey Hair Studio in Durham, NC can do them for you.

City View

2011-07-02T23:45:00.001-04:00

Saw this pic while I was perusing photo images for a blog I'm working on. Makes me want to resurrect my thought of a photography hobby. Enjoy.

First Lady Fashions

2011-05-27T10:37:00.001-04:00

On a recent trip to Europe, Michelle Obama proves she can fashionably keep up (and exceed) with the likes of Kate Middleton (newly minted Duchess of Cambridge) and even the Queen herself.

Fabulous First Lady

Yum Yum Yum. Summer Drinks

2011-05-03T16:56:00.000-04:00

DelightNLife: Booze is the Answer. I don't remember the Question...: "I am really digging the 'farm-to-market' approach a lot of restaurants are taking these days. I am a huge advocate of supporting local farme..."

Showing My Honey Love :)

2011-05-02T10:07:00.000-04:00

Kooley High

2011-03-28T15:42:00.000-04:00

Great portrayal of Raleigh; from some really great artists.

Kooley High - All Day from David Hambridge on Vimeo.

By Popular Demand!

2011-03-23T09:16:00.000-04:00

Not only is she fabulous, she's my most popular post. I have finally gotten all of Senadzi's wedding pictures from my phone onto the web. For those looking for more pics from the fabulous affair, please click on the link below.

Kpeglo Halley Wedding January 1st, 2011

I heart Spring

2011-03-16T17:45:00.002-04:00

I went to the nail salon the other day to do something about the two caterpillars on my face (eyebrows were in need of a SERIOUS waxing); and as I was waiting I perused the latest Harper's Bazaar. While flipping through scores and scores of fashion ads, I acquainted myself with the latest trends and styles for the upcoming spring season.

What I like most about winter is when it's over. Once spring has sprung its sunshine, warm weather, and fun clothes. It's a time to finally shed the layers that winter piles on; whether it's layers of clothing or layers of snow. Spring is a rebirth; a rebirth of color, light, and possibilities.

So be on the lookout for these looks when updating your wardrobe. Happy Shopping!

Brights:

Studded Pumps (my particular favorite):

Prints: Loose Pants:

Ahhh Charleston.

2011-02-21T11:08:00.005-05:00

Love at first bite.You had me at hello. And all the other cliche sayings I can incorporate with food. I went to the Bahamas last week and the trip wasn't as fun filled and self indulgent as I planned. I'm convinced it was because of the delectable victuals (step your vocabulary up) to be had in Charleston, SC. Quite simply; the food is AMAZING. At least for those of us that are REALLY into seafood. Not into seafood? I'm sure the city has a good steak or two to appease the masses.

Crab legs, Scallops, Shrimp, oh my. Their grits are great. Their collards are great. I did not have one bad meal while there. Can't say the same for Nassau however (ugh Conch Fritters). One place in particular that was plentiful in food and great service was Charleston Crab House.

Located at 41 S. Market St., in the middle of downtown Charleston, Charleston Crab House offers great food and scenery. Their downstairs bar seating offers views of the comings and goings of the people of 'Chucktown' that is sure to be amusing. My experience there was so great I came back the following Sunday to get a second helping. My dish of choice? The seafood platter with shrimp, scallops, and flounder blackened with grits (Thanks Daniel) and red rice as my sides.

If you're ever in Charleston give your tummy and taste buds a treat by stopping into Charleston Crab House. Have a seat at the bar, let Daniel take care of you (an awesome import from down under, who is also a great conversationalist), have a Sangria, and sample some of the best seafood in the south.

Happy Eating,
~K~

Odd, But Tasty

2011-01-28T14:33:00.001-05:00

Last Friday night and I'm home from work and I want to unwind. Not wanting to go out on the town, and Definitely not wanting to spend money, I scoured the fridge for something alcoholic (of course), tasty, but not my usual wine and a movie.

I have Ginger Ale, Limes, Red and White wine, and vodka. Today was not the kind of day that would warrant a strong drink, so I disregard the Vodka and grab the White Wine. And a tasty treat was born:

Ingredients:
1 Lime
1 Bottle of White Wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
1 Can of Ginger Ale

Mix:
2 Parts White Wine
1 part Ginger Ale
2 Quarters of fresh squeezed lime

What do you get? Something easy and delicious. Try it and let me know what you think.

Enjoy!

Wedded Bliss

2011-01-04T06:42:00.001-05:00

Congratulations are in order for my dear friend Senadzi Kafui Kpeglo. She was married New Year's Eve to the handsome Evan Halley.

When I created this Blog I wanted to focus on all things fun and fabulous, and there are few people that I know that are more Fun and Fabulous than my girl Senadzi (peep the utterly FABULOUS wedding gown).

On her wedding day she bloomed right before my eyes into a beautiful woman that I am proud to call my friend. We've had many trips and countless laughs together and I was truly honored to be a part of her special day.

Be happy and love each other always.

~K~

"The sum which two married people owe to one another defies calculation. It is an infinite debt, which can only be discharged through eternity." ~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Start 2011 Fashionable and Fabulous

2010-12-29T18:23:00.004-05:00

Just when I said I needed a hot red dress to add to my collection of cocktail attire, my hunny bought me a hot red dress for Christmas.The chiffon ruching and criss-cross design is flattering on most body types as it fits in ALL the right places; it'll make your waist look small and your booty look round J.This year, instead of opting for my typical black pumps, I thoroughly plan on wearing leopard print heels instead.

With NYE being less than 24 hours away I was inspired to look for some New Year's Eve options for guys and girls. Now, as I'm always looking for a good deal, I suggest most go to Express or H&M. I have always been able to run in to either store on the fly and find a great outfit for a low price. They have tons of sexy party dresses, but beware; you do run the risk of a major fashion faux pas: another girl wearing your dress. So try to add different items to make you stand out from the crowd.

For girls, instead of the typical cocktail dress go for something a little different. Throw a tuxedo jacket over a corset and tweed shorts. If walking around bare legged during the winter isn't appealing to you, wear sheer or textured tights under your shorts, and of course a fabulous shoe. Layer some great accessories and you're ready for a night of drinks and dancing.

For guys: A nice pair of slim fit jeans (baggy is whack) and a skinny tie in a festive Red or Bright blue will make you a fashionable compliment to your date.Wanting to look very dapper and stylish? Throw in a black vest as well. Oh la la.

I wish you all a safe and happy New Year's! Remember: Over the Limit, Under Arrest and Friends Don't Let Friends Dress Drunk :)
Blessings in 2011 to you all :)
Love,
~K~

Went To SoHo and Fell in Love.....

2010-12-16T11:15:00.003-05:00

$55.00 Soho Shoes

While frantically running through Crabtree Valley Mall looking for the perfect statement necklace for my office Christmas party, I ran across this fabulous piece at SoHo Shoes. Now the $55.00 price tag most certainly turned me off (not really), but the fine craftsmanship and detailing made my heart flutter. It features beautiful polished stones, faux pearls, and a strip of velvet interspersed on a thick chain.

This type of accessory is making its way into magazines and on celebrity bodies this winter and upcoming 2011 fashion season. According to Suite101.com, edgy motif pieces will be "all the rage" in the upcoming season. So with New York Fashion Week just around the corner, be on the look out for snakes, feathers, birds, etc in the most unlikeliness of fashion accessories.

What do you wear a necklace like this with you say? Keep it simple. Let the jewelry speak for itself. Pair bold items with a plain t-shirt and jeans. Also, keep other jewelry simple. Instead of hoop earrings, opt for a pair of nice studs instead. Bold pieces can make an ordinary outfit extraordinary.

$1.50 Forever21.com

Though I didn't break the bank and purchase this necklace (not saying I won't in the future), I did find some cute items at much friendlier prices. Forever21 is a great place to find trendy items at great prices (can you say $1.50 section!). Another favorite of mine is Francesca's Collections.


$24.00 Francesca's Collections

The last trend I find myself drawn to are large face watches. I really like bold nature and femininity making an unlikely pair to come together beautifully. If you don't like the newer designs, I would look through your dad or granddad's watch collection and wear it slightly above the wrist. Take something old and give it a new twist!