LIFESTYLES OF THE AUTHENTIC & CREATIVE

Beauty is Strength! Nzingah Designs

2012-02-29T18:04:00.001-05:00

Imagine my surprise to open my mail and find these beautiful earrings and a hand-crafted greeting card from fellow artist/designer and sister-friend Nzingah. I barely remember her asking me for my address so the gift really caught me off guard. And the fact that she's just sharing her fly kindess and love just for the sake of doing so.....is just SO DOPE!
This is the kind of artist/brand you want to get behind and support. Someone who embodies love and kindness and spreads it with no expectations.
Her tagline is "Where strength is beauty and beauty is strength." Nzingah, a Florida native residing in NY, is the breathing manifestation of beauty and strength as an Activist, Painter, Writer, Musician, Dancer, Jeweler, Designer, Teaching Artist and so much more!

See more of Nzingah Designs:
Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/sankofaschild
Website: http://www.nzingahdesigns.com
Facebook fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/BeautyisStrength

"Everyday" Fragrance for Women

2012-02-28T12:54:00.000-05:00

Playwright, director, producer, Editor-In-Chief, on-air radio personality and Internet radio station owner are just some of the titles associated with Jermaine Jay "Everyday" Smith. Recently, this emerging mogul originally from Brooklyn, NY has added perfumer to his accomplishments.
So happy I was yesterday to find my sample of the fragrance in the day's mail. Packaged in an adorable pink mini spray bottle with a key ring to keep it readily available throughout the day, this guy seems to know exactly what we women like.
But how does it smell, Meca, you ask? If you enjoy smelling like you're sweet enough to eat, this is the fragrance for you.
And the girly girl bottle will enliven any surface in your boudoir.
The ads are all phenomenal, as you can see.
But don't take my word for it, get yours today!

$44.99 (1-25ML Bottle)

(Eau de Parfum)
"Everyday" for Women is a light woodsy feminine floral fragrance that shares a special Rose note with a distinctive Amber and other blended notes to set the sensual moment.
Look, Feel and Smell Great "Everyday"

**Order Your Bottle of "Everyday" for Women Now**
www.thejayeveryday.com

The Amsterdam Chainsaw Massacre by Victor & Rolf

2012-01-31T13:02:00.001-05:00

See more at Trendland.net

Press Release: UNDERWRAPS, First Global Modeling Agency Representing Muslim Female Fashion Models Launches During New York Fashion Week

2012-01-26T21:39:00.000-05:00

NEW YORK, NY-- January 24, 2012—Nailah Lymus, the Brooklyn-based fashion designer behind Amirah Creations , announced today that she will launching a modeling agency during New York Fashion Week. Known for breaking barriers as a Muslim female fashion designer, Lymus has decided to extend her brand and make history by launching UNDERWRAPS (http://underwrapsagency.carbonmade.com/), the first global agency representing Muslim female fashion models. UNDERWRAPS’ roster will debut in a fashion showcase presented by Amirah Creations on February 11^th.

“As a Muslim Women who has also worked in the Fashion Industry, I observe a heavy Muslim influence in all areas of fashion,” Nailah Lymus said. “Designers, photography, editorials all displaying inspirations from Muslim fashion. I feel there is a need to shine the light on Muslim women who have been some of the originators of trend setting modest fashion for years. I'm bringing Muslims to mainstream-- covered is the new couture.”

Islam has had a strong influence in the fashion industry for years with stylings gracing such coveted magazine covers as Vogue as well as providing inspiration for noteworthy collections including Victoria Beckham’s Fall/Winter 2012 line. Islamic models have also brought diversity to the catwalk including recent stars Hanaa Ben Abdesslem (Tunisian) and Hindi Sahlial (Moroccan). Representing a seasoned roster, each model brings a modest yet genuine professional attitude combined with an ethical sensibility that “works.” UNDERWRAPS is creating a fusion of inclusion—marrying the best of both the Muslim and non-Muslim worlds.

The Amirah Creations show featuring the models from UNDERWRAPS will take place on February 11^th beginning at 6:30pm at Rare by FS Charlie, 317 Church Street in Tribeca (New York city). To view the official invite, visit www.underwraps.eventbrite.com.

For press and VIP inquiries, please contact Tamara Walker at 347.827.1284 or via email at tamara@sienamediagrp.com.

ABOUT NAILAH LYMUS

Nailah Lymus, a clothing and accessory designer since 2004 has nourished her deep hunger for all things fashion at the youthful age of seven using her God given talent to accentuate the natural allure of the woman. Being a self taught designer equipped Ms. Lymus with all of the poise needed to showcase her gift amongst more seasoned designers. Recently showing at NYC Fashion Week 2011 and featured in Couture Fashion Week 2011 Lymus has established her name in the Fashion industry. Now combining both of her passions (modesty and fashion) Lymus is launching the FIRST Muslim Female Model Agency merging the best of both worlds.

ABOUT UNDERWRAPS

UNDERWRAPS is the FIRST global agency representing the Muslim Female Fashion Model. A seasoned roster, each model brings a modest, genuine, smart, savvy, professional attitude, combined with an ethical sensibility that makes "it work".

Influencing the fashion industry for years, Muslim fashion has graced the covers of coveted magazines such as Vogue and has been providing inspiration for noteworthy designers from early on. UNDERWRAPS is creating a fusion of Inclusion—creating the best of both worlds.

For more information, visit www.underwrapsagency.carbonmade.com

ABOUT RARE NYC

Originally founded in 2003 by celebrity stylist Ruth Roche, RARE is one of New York City’s premiere salons, catering to clients who dare to be bold. Today, the torch has been passed on to principal stylist and new owner Fatima Sheikh, who recently merged her brand, FS Charlie, with RARE. Located in the heart of Tribeca, RARE offers and extensive menu of hair and beauty services. In addition to their array of services, RARE works closely with the city’s creative community to produce distinct projects with fashion, music and lifestyle driven brands. For more information about RARE, visit www.rarenyc.com

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Pretty as a Poppy

2012-01-25T16:24:00.003-05:00

DKNY $225

I am loving the idea of floral printed pants for spring and the thought of taking it to the NEXT level with matching platform shoes is just spectacular.

Legs. Hair. Skin. #Magnificent!

2011-11-20T10:52:00.001-05:00

Brown Skin by Wade Rhoden, Photographer

DIY: Shoe Design Remix

2011-11-18T21:44:00.001-05:00

Project Accessory has me uber-inspired. Get YOUR accessory design on....make these! (It's super easy). They may not be my style, per se, but its still a fun, easy project that inspires me to use the same techniques in a way that works for me.

Here are the instructions

Inspiration from World-Renowned Choreographer, Fatima Robinson

2011-11-16T23:25:00.001-05:00

StyleLikeU Closet Interview With Fatima Robinson from StyleLikeU on Vimeo.

Jypsea Schedule of Events

2011-11-15T16:39:00.001-05:00

Come shop Jypsea and meet me in person during the 2011 Holiday Season!

November 25th--The Creative Grove in Jersey City, 2-8pm
November 26th--Private Jypsea Trunkshow
November 30th--Guest Speaker/Book signing at The Brooklyn Children's Museum
December 1st--Eat, Shop & Sip Annual Trunkshow and Fundraiser | Dress for Success Philadelphia at the Dress for Success Boutique 5 PM - 9 PM, $10 donation. Wine, food and fashion show included. RSVP
December 3rd--AK Couture Sip N' Shop, 4-8pm, The AK Couture Beauty Bar, email for secret location.
December 5th--Guest speaker at the Fashion Institute of Technology's Vintage Shopping Class
December 9th--The Creative Grove in Jersey City, 2-8pm
December 23rd--The Creative Grove in Jersey City, 2-8pm
OR shop online anytime at Jypsea.com!

Cirque Du Soleil: Quidam

2011-11-14T19:37:00.001-05:00

Last Thursday, my pumpkin and I saw Cirque Du Soleil: Quidam in Philly. It was truly spectacular. and the costume designs were spectacular. Check out my full review for EdgePhiladelphia.com and go see it, if you get the opportunity.

Watch the preview video.

Change Clothes

2011-11-14T19:19:00.001-05:00

"Throw on a suit and get it tapered up." ~Jay-Z, Change Clothes. He looks quite dapper as GQ's Man of the Year.

United Nude | Spring 2012 Preview

2011-11-09T23:27:00.000-05:00

A Japanese-inspired platform shoe to bring a sense of
heightened self-awareness to women of all nationalities.
http://www.unitednude.com/

The Life Lessons I've Learned from Heavy D

2011-11-09T00:25:00.001-05:00

Hearing that one of the most loved. adored and respected legends of Hip Hop, The Overweight Lova Heavy D, has passed away saddened and shocked me. He's only 9 years my senior. And we just recently saw him moving with the same agility and swiftness as the days long gone on the BET Awards. Listening to a medley of his classic joints on the radio made me reflect on what lesson I have personally learned from Heavy D that I may not have thought of until this tragic turn of events.

Heavy D taught me to turn my "so-called" flaws into attributes.

Until Heavy D got on the scene, being "heavy" or overweight was something to scorn and mock. But he made it clear that despite his big frame, he was smarter/swifter/smoother than the rest. I remember even hearing the Notorious BIG state that his larger-than-life persona was inspired by the self-confidence instilled by the example of Heavy. In my own life, working in Corp America as a designer, being a mother was a hinderance. It's important to appear as unattached as possible because you are expected to remain in the office burning the midnight oil often and be abe to be relocated or at the very least, travel to the factories in China at the drop of a dime. I even lost a job because my child, when she was 3, came down with a severe case of the flu and I was out of work for 2 days.
But as a self-employed designer, juggling business and motherhood gracefully is admired and respected, and I am proud to share motherhood adventures publicly. People know I'm not some flight-by-night business, I'm a mommy. I am sincere and earnest. My so-called "flaw" has become a huge attribute.

Heavy D taught me that one man has the power to change many.

Heavy did this song called "Don't Curse" to be an example that pure, good natured music could be cool and not in the least bit corny. He took the best MC's of the era, even Kool G Rap who was known for his raunchiness, and put them all on a single without the ability to use profanity. He could have been laughed at or called wack by these hardcore rappers but he took that chance. It was a BOLD move and not only did he get these MC's to see the importance of setting a good example for the children and showing solidarity, the song was widely accepted and became a huge hit. PS: On the same song, Heavy D graciously introduced the world to an unknown producer, his cousin Pete Rock, who went on the become a legend in his own right. #Support

Heavy D taught me to diversify and remain positive to remain relevant.

Rapper, dancer, reggae artist, producer and actor, this man did it all well, stretching and expanding. His career led him to make hits with both Micheal and Janet Jackson! He has a warm, inviting energy that was apparent in all that he did. He never "fell off", he simply changed lanes and kept moving forward. This a a lesson that I cherish the most. Heavy D, you will be missed. I wish you a "Peaceful Journey."

"I love my life only because I always have." ~Heavy D via Twitter (less then 24 hrs before his sudden death)

RIP Heavy D.

GIVEAWAY: Jypsea Fur and Snakeskin Cuff

2011-11-06T13:56:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: The winner is CLASSYCAREERGIRL.
Stay tuned for more fabulous giveaways! Become a member of this blog to be chosen.

Win this luxurious Jypsea fur cuff, lined in smooth chocolate leather and rimmed and exotic green snakeskin!
Rock this and you'll be in GREAT company, the R&B diva Ciara has one too!
Adjustable with a antique gold closure. One size fits MOST.

How to win:

Click on Google Connect on the right side of this blog and become a member. It's easy and free.

AND

"Like" Jypsea on Facebook.

For an additional entries, click the Twitter button below and TWEET this contest to your followers. Be sure to mention me @jypseadotcom so I can count your entry.

Winner will be announced on 11/14/11.

See more Jypsea Eclectic Handcrafted Leathergoods at Jypsea.com.

Cocktails, Cupcakes & Couture! Host a Jypsea Trunkshow

2011-11-06T11:46:00.000-05:00

Would you love the opportunity to get luxe leather handbags and accessories for yourself and gifts for fashionistas on your holiday shopping list for FREE? Looking for an excuse to have the girls over?
Host a Jypsea Trunk Show in the comfort of your home, boutique or community/work space. Your guest will enjoy shopping from Jypsea's selection of one-of-a-kind leather handbags and accessories, a fun impromptu fashion show, and ordering custom-designed pieces in an elegantly girly atmosphere of cocktails and cupcakes!
As the hostess, you will earn $25 of Jypsea credit for every $100 your guests spend, plus a FREE leather clutch and have first dibs on merchandise before your guests arrive.
It's a fabulously fun time!
Available in NJ, NYC, PA, MD, DC Must book 3 weeks in advance. Email NOW for holiday availability: Jypsealeathergoods@gmail.com

Africa-Meets-London Design: ReLoved Lounge @100 Design

2011-11-06T10:02:00.000-05:00

The Wonder of Shah Wonders!

2011-11-03T21:40:00.003-04:00

How do you go from being a "broke as a joke" janitor to working as the creative director at TLC’s label LaFace Records and creatively spearheaded the TLC “Waterfalls” concept then working his magic for an impressive roster of clients including the likes of industry heavy hitters such as Nike, Sony Records, Tyra Banks, LL Cool J, R. Kelly, Adidas, Marc Ecko, Russell Simmons and Jay-Z , to list of a few?

A lot of grinding, a dash of hustling, and non-stop, dedicated dream catching. Read and be inspired:
http://hycide.com/#2239690/PINKSICK

Now Casting: New Design Show & New Cooking Show

2011-10-30T14:28:00.003-04:00

NOW CASTING NEW DESIGN COMPETITION SHOW!

From High Hoon Entertainment, the company that brings you House Hunters, My First Place, Bang for Your Buck, HGTVʼd and Food Network Challenge.

A Major Cable Network specializing in home design is casting a new show that challenges designers to think outside the box to win a cash prize!

Interior Designers, Artists, Stylists, Graphic Designers, Event Designers, Sculptors, Product Designers and other Highly Skilled Creative Professionals

THE SHOW: Contestants will be challenged to transform a plain white space into a show-stopping room using outlandish and unorthodox elements.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

- Personality that pops

- People of all artistic and creative backgrounds that are at the top of their game and aren't afraid to push the boundaries to prove they have what it takes to win!

- Resourcefulness and innovation are a must!

HOW TO APPLY:

New York Applicants- Email designshowcastingny@gmail.com with:

- Application

- Resume

- Contact information

- 2 recent photos of yourself

- 6 photos of your design work

Deadline to Apply: 11/4/11

Los Angeles Applicants- Email designshowcastingla@gmail.com with:

- Application

- Resume

- Contact information

- 2 recent photos of yourself

- 6 photos of your design work

Deadline to Apply: 10/31/11

All Other Applicants- Email designshowcastingvideo@gmail.com with:

- Application

- Resume

- Contact information

- 2 recent photos of yourself

- 6 photos of your design work

- 3-minute home video

Deadline to Apply: 11/4/11

The application, home video instructions and further details on how to apply can be found on our website, www.DesignShowCasting.com.

For additional information about the show, please visit www.DesignShowCasting.com.

Food Network is Now Casting Season 2 of SWEET GENIUS!

We are in search of PASTRY CHEFS, BAKERS and those who have MASTERED THE ART OF SWEETS.

AMERICAʼS SWEETEST SHOW IS SEEKING CULINARY MASTERMINDS TO COMPETE FOR A $10,000 PRIZE!

If you or someone you know has the skills, personality and passion for pastry, we want to hear from you!

HOW TO APPLY- Email the following information to sweetgeniuscasting@gmail.com:

- Name

- Age

- Contact information

- Photo of yourself

- Culinary resume

- Paragraph describing yourself

For additional information about the show, visit www.sweetgeniuscasting.com.

For questions, please contact the casting team at sweetgeniuscasting@gmail.com.

Pink Friday, Did It On Them: Nail Colors from Nicki Minaj's O.P.I. Collection

2011-10-26T22:10:00.000-04:00

NylonMag.com

Nicki Minaj teams with O.P.I. to launch a collection of nail color, launching 2012. Read more here

Skin Color Politics

2011-10-26T21:24:00.000-04:00

UPDATE: This project is now fully funded. YAY!

The "Fashion Fades, Style is Timeless" Exhibit

2011-10-26T15:41:00.002-04:00

Many thanks all who came out to explore our exhibit for Newark Open Doors. It was so great to see old friends, finally meet online friends, and make new friends. The super awesome photography team, Luisa Pinzon and her honey Sandro Gomez of www.lfpinzon.com, took dope photos of the models just doing their own thing interacting with the set I created of vintage findings. Looking at the album of images, I grabbed a bunch of them and created this storybook of LOVE, HEARTBREAK and RIVALRY for fun. What do you think?

Open publication - Free publishing - More art

Open Doors has Begun!

2011-10-21T12:26:00.002-04:00

It's one of my favorite times of the year! Newark's Open Doors, an annual celebration of the art scene in Newark, NJ, encompassing the galleries, museums, artist studios and artists that comprise of Newark Art Scene. There will be a FREE SHUTTLE escorting you from and to each location!

Produced by the Newark Arts Council, this year's Open Doors Studio Tour began yesterday, October 20 and ends October 23, 2011. Celebrating its 10th Anniversary, Open Doors is a 4-day arts tour and community event that is the kick-off to a month long city-wide celebration of Newark, New Jersey's diverse and celebrated contribution to the arts and American culture. Participating each year are over 300 accomplished local, national, and international artists and all of the City's leading art galleries and cultural institutions. Featured attractions include both professionally curated and juried exhibitions, private artist studio visits, group exhibits, music, dance, and poetry performances, and social events.

The weekend's grand finale culminates when the larger than life "Animodules" take over the streets of Newark for the Newark Art Parade, a Newark original experience presented in partnership with the Barat Foundation of Newark, NJ.
For an extensive list of events, visit: http://newarkpulse.com/articles/Open-Doors-2011-Highlights.html

These are my personal selection of events NOT to missed:
My OWN exhibit Saturday 4pm-7pm at The Coffee Cave, 45 Halsey St, Newark, NJ

Sip signature cocktails, listen to live music and enjoy decadent desserts during the opening reception of an interactive 1950s-inspired live model & fashion photography exhibit" Fashion Fades, Style is Timeless." from designer Meca McKinney of Jypsea Eclectic Handcrafted Leathergoods, photographer Luisa F. Pinzon of LFPVision and guest designer Stacey Angela of STAY.

We invite you to join us Saturday October 22nd, 2011 at The Coffee Cave
For an evening of Art, Fashion and great Music. Enjoy Live music by Incomunicao - Percussion Based Dominican Anti Pop accompanied by classic 1950's Latin and American Music.
RSVP at https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=184936388247615

Tonight:

The Kedar Studio of Art presents

LUMINOUS ANGLE
New works by KATI VILIM
October 21st to November 19th, 2011
RECEPTION: Friday, October 21st 7-10pm

Kati Vilim is a geometric abstract painter addressing the discipline of Constructivist tradition incorporated with mathematical concepts. The elements of structure, ratio, color and rhythm, with their varied qualities, are organized into new forms which seem to suggest musical or architectural harmonies.

The Kedar Studio of Art 585 Broad Street, 2nd floor
Newark NJ 07102
Tel: 973-985-4284 www.kedarstudio.com
info@kedarstudio.com

HYCIDE MAGAZINE RELEASE PARTY: The 2nd Edition

10.21.11
HYCIDE MAGAZINE RELEASE PARTY
The 2nd Edition
6pm – 9pm
aljira, A Center for Contemporary Art
591 Broad Street, downtown Newark, NJ 07102
973.622.1600

On October 21st in conjunction with Aljira, A Center for Contemporary Art and the Newark Arts Council’s Open Doors Tour, photojournalist and filmmaker Akintola Hanif will introduce the 2nd print edition of HYCIDE, a photography magazine dedicated to subculture, art and conflict.

This issue features stories on the notorious Baxter Terrace housing projects, legendary Hip-Hop photographer Ernie Paniccioli, Grammy Award winning multi-media artist Shah Wonders, Legal Weed, Guns & Violence, a photo essay on the homeless, The(1)ne Drop Project and more.

“HYCIDE is about challenging elitist ideals and illustrating what's really going on in the minds, hearts and lives of some of America's finest yet forgotten people,'' Akintola Hanif explains. “Through stories of survival and freedom our goal is to create understanding and empathy for the misunderstood while providing a visual and literary voice for the voiceless.”

Guests can also enjoy a sneak peak at the latest exhibition on display at Aljira, Dandy Lion: Articulating A Re(de)fined Black Masculine Identity curated by Shantrelle P. Lewis. Dandy Lion celebrates an alternative representation of Black manhood, men of style and grace with an African sensibility.

RSVP:

https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=180773642001625

CELEBRATED NEWARK ARTIST
TO DISPLAY WORK AT PRUDENTIAL CENTER

Paintings to be featured in concourse display during
New Jersey Devils game on Oct. 21

Prudential Center, in working with the Newark Arts Council, will be featuring a gallery style showing of abstract impressionist and mixed media artist Anthony E. Boone's work during the Friday, October 21 New Jersey Devils game versus the San Jose Sharks.

The gallery display will be constructed on the main concourse near entrance to the PNC Tower. Boone, a self taught artist who was born in Newark, will have a number of unique pieces on exhibition including one especially created and inspired by the New Jersey Devils.

WHEN: Friday, October 21, 2011 at 3:30 p.m.

WHO: Artist Anthony E. Boone

WHERE: Prudential Center –Main Concourse
165 Mulberry Street
Newark, NJ

For more information & to RSVP, please contact
Kerry Graue: kgraue@prucenter.com, 973.757.6246

Sunday:

Creation Nation Parade

The Creation Nation Parade, October 23 11 am -1pm, is free and open to the public to march with art, a banner for your community, friends and family. This is a gathering of people, and we invite people! Please register to march or volunteer here: http://creationnation.info/

765 Broad Street 9-11am staging
March Down Broad Street 11-12 pm

Socialite's Closet

2011-10-14T20:33:00.000-04:00

Check out the wonderful things Socialite's Closet had to say about my line, Jypsea and specifically, a review of the fingerless leather gloves I sent her.

Read the full post here.

2011-10-11T23:41:00.000-04:00

The Album "T" NOW available on iTunes! Click HERE to cop yours.
Album Reviews:
...a polished work of art from a young MC on the rise.

Hot!! Hot!!! Hot!!

This album is crazy!! These are the best beats that I have heard in a long time..his flow is crazy..reminds of the 90s...

Amazing!

Kudos to Talonted for being a breath of fresh air in this terribly polluted climate that is hip hop.

My personal review: I LOVE the debut album and to find that this one manages to surpass it is astonishing. The beats are bananas, the lyrics continue to impress and the flow of the album is utter perfection. A+

Download from ITunes.

DIY Home: Make Your Own Zebra Print Rug

2011-10-11T22:54:00.001-04:00

I have always loved home decor, interior design and architecture and today I began my first day on a home staging job. I love it. Love it. Love it. Coincidentally, I just surfed onto this great site, Vintage Revivals, full of home decor tips using vintage/thift furniture, which is my specialty. So here's a dope diy project: Make your own zebra print rug. I particularly love it because in my first vintage boutique, PYT, I had red walls and a zebra rug I paid so much for (which made me feel soooo mature and sophisticated)...this was a decade ago and I now think spending too much $$ is just plain dumb but I digrest...Enjoy! xo

See the instructions here