ComplexSimplicity

R.I.P. Whitney Houston

2012-02-11T20:02:00.000-06:00

You will be missed, but never forgotten! May you Rest In Peace!

Save the Date :: Rock Red Pumps!

2012-02-09T19:37:00.000-06:00

Ugh, I am soooo NOT a fan of red...

However, I promise, I will give in, find, buy AND wear red pumps on March 10th! Yay Me!

Full Circle // D'Angelo in Paris

2012-02-06T03:05:00.001-06:00

Oh my sweet gerkins!!!!! One of my fav neo-soul singers is back!

D'ANGELO!!!!! *faints*

I found this jewel on World Star Hip Hop & was instantly revived and rejuvenated! He sounds (and looks, MMM!) good as ever performing his staple LP "How Does It Feel". I'm really hoping he puts out some new music for 2012 cause I think he would have an awesome slot to fill. PLEASE come back to us D!

Top 5 // Influential Films from African American Men

2012-02-03T22:50:00.002-06:00

There are those films that make you change your whole concept of thinking. Films that are so influential, that they become staples and forever leave an imprint on the very core of you. CS took the time to inquire a few black men on some of those said films that made an impact on their lives. The group polled ranged of a diverse mix of ages, backgrounds and careers, yet there was definitely a crossover of cinema all felt were important...

*in no particular order*

Spike Lee films
(minus Girl 6 & Tales From The Hood *side eye*)

This gentleman's work appeared the most out of all that responded. The common undercurrent from why his films are so monumental is the perspective & insight he lends to his viewers. With "School Daze", he revealed the joys & struggle of HBCU to a generation that didn't even know existed. "Malcolm X" showcased one of the "pioneers in the struggle for equality". Spike Lee's films reflected & star black men in positive, powerful roles.

Baby Boy

"Jody, my Jody"...This film also showed up a few times in our poll as the quintessential movie that depicted the real struggles of a growing man. The negro was the epitome of a hard-headed azz boy. But as the story progressed, you saw Jody grow from a frontin' hoodlum to seeing the error of his ways.

Glory

A POWERFUL account of the struggle, determination and strength that the 1st established all-black Army unit had to endure during the Civil War. The men who selected this film were astounded of the story's rich and forthcoming depiction in Edward Zwick's work. One of our men proclaimed,"I never felt so proud, so honored to know these brothers paved the way for me to have a successful military career."

Boyz In The Hood

This movie tells a tale of what really goes on in society and the mean streets of LA. Everyone that has ever lived in the “hood” can attest to the different events that go on in this movie. Men from our poll unanimously viewed the film as an accurate recount on how where your from does not dictate your outcome & how you can be the master of your own destiny. That despite your upbringing, you still have choices, but its up to you how to focus your decisions. Yet, the streets abide by a code...

Higher Learning

John Singlton and his successful debut also rated high on the list from our men. An exposition of TRUTHFUL accounts of obstacles all endured from attending learning institutes. Some of our men stated that other than Hillman, he'd never seen how real collegiate life could be. With a superb multifarious cast and the range of different issues set as its antagonist and shows how college life gets real...

So CS fellas, what are some films you all feel are influential to you or inspired you to make changes or become more aware of your history/destiny?

...Sorry for the wait!

2012-02-03T21:19:00.000-06:00

I'm sure you've noticed...we was gone! LOL! But now renewed and empowered by solo ventures, Complex Simplicity is back on the map! Hopefully you guys perused and keep busy, but we have some new & exciting events, showcases and not to mention CS's own Cash's debut of her vintage blog! *squeal*

So stay tuned folks for the return of greatness and well...CS!!!

"I was standing and you were there, 2 worlds colliding, but they could never tear us apart"

Top 5 // Movie Soundtracks

2011-10-13T05:27:00.004-05:00

I love all things music, and I love movies. So naturally, listening to a movie's soundtrack is a given. I think these days, a lot of movies don't focus on the strength of a quality album associated with their features. So, I decided to list my favs for you guys. Please feel free to add your fav soundtracks or comment. Click that itty bitty "Read More" to see the list!

Purple Rain

I literally just got finished listening to this! Prince...he can do no wrong. Each song on this soundtrack perfectly accompanied the movie & was friggin awesome! Love "Darling Nikki" & of course "When Doves Cry". "I Would Die For You" is still the jam!!! I need to buy the movie!

Waiting to Exhale

Chaka, Faith, May J, TLC, CeCe Winans, Brandy & of course Miss Whitney herself. With all those greats on one CD, you know its audio goodness! I can vividly recall when each song plays in each scene & they were paired perfectly. I can still listen to that CD and NOT have to skip songs.

Boomerang

*swoons* I think just because I so adore the movie is why this soundtrack is dear to me. LOL. This whole CD was an L.A. Reid production, so all the good stuff was on! I also remember Toni Braxton being introduced as an artist with "Give You My Heart". Good 90s music!

The Bodyguard

Ok, another album chocked full of Whitney. HUSH! lol. This is the cassette tape that made me wanna be a singer. "Run to You" still gives me a feeling when I listen to it. I know the standout song is the one everyone remembers, but I recall radios & TV playing the HAIL outta "I Will Always love You", to the point where it made me detest it.

School Dayz

Ahhh, a Spike Lee joint & a musical, pure heaven. Now that I think about it, the directing was really like a modern day Tyler Perry play with the songs in to drive home points....LOL. But this album is sooo solid. The track that stands out for me is the Stevie Wonder tinged " I Can Only Be Me" & the gorgeous Phillis Hyman with "Be One". Only Spike could combine those legends and then add in E.U. with "Da Butt" LOL.

Complex Couture ::: Shoegasms!!

2011-10-05T05:05:00.000-05:00

Guess who's coming back to the US soon!! Me, Me!! In preparation of my return, I did a little online window shopping to get an idea of what needs to magically appear in my closet!

We all know, boots are an absolute must for the fall season.. which is my favorite season! Neiman Marcus hosted my fantasy shopping spree and I had the "opportunity of a lifetime" to pick out my favorite boots of the season *giggles* :-)

Booties:

Stuart Weitzman Sequin Lace Up Booties - $525

Ankle:

Nicholas Kirkwood Fringed Wedge Bootie - $1540

Mid-Calf:

Herve Leger Buckle-Shaft Platform Boots - $1595

Knee:

Maison Martin Margiela Fishnet Knee Boot - $1690

Over-the-Knee:

Manolo Blahnik Lace-Up Cutout Over the Knee - $1995

All Weather:

Ralph Lauren Odette Rubber Rain Boot - $395
(Actually, these are pretty affordable.. too bad I don't live in Chicago)

Let me know what you think of my picks by leaving a comment below!

Soulful Sunday // Kirk Franklin

2011-10-03T04:17:00.001-05:00

Man! I forgot how much I adore this song! My youth choir back at home used to tear this song UP & OUT! We would rock baby! The upbeat tempo, the powerful words & of course, the Fred/Kirk combo. HORNS!!! LOL, LOVE IT! That whole CD was awesome. But the simplicity & beauty in the words I feel get a bit passed up over the beat, but just saying the words are a blessing.

"I give you my life, take me in your arms & hold me Jesus

I give you my heart, I know that you can mend these broken pieces

I'm totally, I'm TOTALLY, totally committed to You"

CS Disscussion // Computer Love

2011-10-01T01:42:00.001-05:00

Soooo, recently, I had joined a an online dating service...

Pretty lame huh? LOL. To my defense, I was honestly curious on what the big hoopla was about. You see all the eHarmony & match.com commercials, everyone been in e-love for years and marry, live happily ever after. Hell, even ~~D-rated~~ actress Essence Atkins met her husband on there! Really for me the driving point was realizing that almost 3 years after my divorce, I had not dated. I don't think I'm not attractive or anything, but me being a single parent of 3, full-time working and don't really get to go out and meet folks, my time is pretty limited. So I hopped on the site and did some research to see how to make it work.

Honey! I was instantly turned off by the PRICE, I ain't gonna lie. LOL! But I guess you can't put a "price" on happiness, so I bit the bullet. Next hurdle: the questionnaire. When I tell you that thang was thorough, man! I see why I haven't been dating, I didn't know I needed to ask all them questions! Finally after I press through literally 100+ questions, I get to the good stuff, them mens!!!...Or so I thought. LMAO. I could go and see and "flirt" with guys, but I wanted to see what type of guys I would attract. And just what I thought, the next day I had an inbox filled with dorks. Really, old local dorks. *le sigh*

To make an already long story short, I only perused the site for a good 2 days. I just didn't put the necessary energy into and didn't like the fact that I felt like I was stalking folks profiles or they were preying on me. I see what the appeal of dating sites are, but it was definitely not for me. I need the physical interaction. And I especially don't want to be matched up with some database that decides what's "good" for me.

Online dating: I'll pass.

What do you all think about online dating?

The Time Has Come..

2011-09-17T18:53:00.000-05:00

Ran across this on one of my favorite blogs, O.M.O. Writes! Hearts it!

Simply Business // Greenhouse Effects

2011-09-16T00:46:00.000-05:00

I've seriously been dedicated to makeup for about 2 years now. I've always fancied playing in it and loved how with a single application of color of liner I could alter my looks. Now that I'm beginning to fully embrace my calling, I'm slowly but surely on my way to where I wanna be in my business.

As my passion, even with it starting as a hobby, it grew into me wanting more and that desire to create on others soon came after. For me, it's a rush to create art using the face as a canvas, and the reward is the initial gasp or tears of joy a client sheds after they look at themselves in the mirror...

The short (kinda long) term goal: doing a partnership with a legitimate beauty company as a Creative Director! (think NARS, Revlon) Hopefully after retiring from the military and getting to a more established area will assist with that.

The long term goal: Blossoming Greenhouse Effects into a full-fledged corporation. Excited! I'm absolutely claiming great things with this and expect for me to fully invest in what God gave me to do!

With all that said, please click HERE & visit my Facebook page (and like it!) and also check out my YouTube channel!!

Artist Spotlight: LOT80 | Late Bloomer: The Message in the Music

2011-09-13T13:53:00.000-05:00

LOT80: Miche (left) and Yanick (right)

You can call it a blast from the past or a new wave of the future, but these “Ladies of the ‘80s,” better known as pop duo LOT 80, have come to kick down music’s barricades and are eager to become a household name! Inspired by legendary female powerhouse Salt-n-Pepa and the other great female music pioneers of the ‘80s, their blueprint for success has already been set; to deliver message music that people will actually enjoy.

LOT 80 (composed of Miche the lyricist and Yanick the songstress) recently completed their “LateBloomer” EP and ComplexSimplicity caught up with twosome after the EP Release showcase at the Apache Café in downtown Atlanta. We spoke with the ladies about their musical past, their unique style and received a few words of wisdom.

LOT80 performing and chilling with fans!

ComplexSimplicity: You all just completed your EP release showcase. How was that? To have people come to a place to see just you?

Miche: It was exciting for us to be able to showcase our music, our way. Yanick: And to let everyone know that we want to be more than just a hit single. We want to give great performances.

CS: For those who may not know the story, tell us how you all became LOT 80.

Yanick: We're best friends. We met in a summer basketball camp when we were teens. They had a talent show one year, we performed individually.

Miche: We both lost!

CS: Did you all join forces immediately thereafter?

Miche: Well, we're competitors, just because of our sports background, so when we lost that talent show we felt like we had to come back 10 xs harder.

Yanick: Yes, we did, but that's when we decided to create LOT 80. As time went on, we realized we shared a lot of the same ideas, as far as the role we want to play in the music industry.

CS: How would you describe LOT 80?

Yanick: LOT 80 stands for "ladies of the eighties." It is our way of paying homage to the women of that decade and what they represented.

Miche: They were fearless! It is because of those ladies that we were able to witness the "independent woman of the 90s" and so on. Rappers like Salt-n-Pepa, Yo-Yo, MC Lyte and Queen Latifah lit the torch for us.

CS: What advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue a career in music?

Miche: To remain true to yourself and create the music that you want to hear.

Yanick: That's so true because at the end of the day you may not make music for everyone, but there will be someone who identifies with it.

It's a Girl Thang: LOT80 Style!

CS: Okay, let’s talk about your fashion! You all have such an adorable style! I love how your personality comes out through your outfits. What fashion icons do you admire?

Yanick: Well just like the name of our EP, we were Late Bloomers.

Miche: And tomboys!

Yanick: Right! So we like to wear whatever makes us feel good from sweat pants and t-shirts to the Halle Berry cat-woman suit, just depends on the day.

CS: Do you follow current fashion trends or do stick to your own path when it comes to your style?

Miche: We really just do our own thing... whatever we feel.

Yanick: We like to look nice like every other girl, but we have our days when we'll put on jeans and a tank and will still work it!

CS: How would you both describe your personal style?

Miche: I'm “T-Boz” cool.

Yanick: Yeah, T-Boz was sooo fly! We always argued over who “was T-Boz” when the TLC videos came on. She was everything - fly, sexy, cool. We both love her.

CS: Describe your style in 5 words.

Miche: Honestly, I don't know. I don't think style is defined by what you wear but how you wear it. But, I would definitely have to say confident, classy, funky, and weird sometimes.

Yanick: Girly, tom boyish… a little bit of everything.

CS: Ok, we got 6 words between the two of you! *giggles*

CS: You two recently teamed up with Girls Inc. of Atlanta for their 5 week summer program; through your interaction, you've inspired young girls with your life lessons and experiences, which is the goal of your music. So, to offer your advice to others, how does LOT 80 feel about the following:

Tough Love:

Miche: It’s necessary. Tough love means you really care.

Body Image:

Yanick: Be comfortable in your own skin. Don't base your beauty on what others say.

Putting Yourself First:

Yanick: You have to love yourself before you can truly love someone else.

Miche: Take the time to learn about yourself: What makes you happy? What makes you cry?

Lessons Learned:

Miche: We've learned over the years to be who we are without an apology. Coming to a place where you accept yourself completely, flaws and all. Sometimes we can be our own worst critique.

Empowering Women:

Yanick: We feel so strongly about being an influence to women the way the "ladies of the '80s" influenced us!

Miche: We honestly feel obligated to carry the torch that Queen Latifah, Salt n Pepa, Madonna and so many others lit.

As you can see, these women are both determined and passionate about what they do. Their drive behind their music is so powerful and the fact that they are lending a hand to young girls shows the philanthropy that they both possess. LOT 80 vows to be inspirational to all, promote positive images for women of all ages and encourage self-love and confidence. I definitely see these two women teaming up with the likes of Beyonce and Michelle Obama in the near future. Whether their moment comes from being on stage performing songs that you can lyrically relate to and physically move to or during one of their many volunteer efforts, the world is going to celebrate once these ladies get a hold of the spotlight.

For more information on LOT80:

Visit: LOT80world.com

Become a fan on Facebook

Follow on Twitter @LOT80

Random, Random, Random

2011-09-10T02:37:00.001-05:00

I just had a very, very bleh of a week...so I did what I always do when feel unstimulated on a Friday night: Face paint! Ooh, & glitter, YES!!
My kids had a field day when I was on the sink taking pics. I have a feeling I started something terrible. LOL!

YahZarah // Love Come Save the Day

2011-09-07T17:42:00.000-05:00

Remember how geeked I was when I posted YahZarah's video for Cry Over You? Whelp, guess what, I'm super excited about Love Come Save the Day, too!! Purple St. James has done it again, creating a simple and beautiful video that expresses the love of her unborn child! She looks stunning preggers! (And let me just say that her hair cut makes me want to pull out the scissors!)

Congrats on the love of your life, YahZarah!

Good Evening, Heartache..

2011-09-07T12:03:00.000-05:00

*sigh* Last night, I was in a horrible mood. It hit me like a ton of bricks, and I realized that I finally needed to release some tears; tears that I've been holding back for a long time now!

In my pursuit of unhappiness, I started watching various YouTube videos of Jill Scott performing "Hear My Call" (which started the tears btw) to her performing "Good Morning, Heartache." Eventually, I ran across Lady Day to assist in the flow of my tears.

Today, I couldn't get the jazz legend out of my mind, so I figured I'd share a few of her dopest pics with you....

The Classic: Lady Sings the Blues

I had a Billie Holiday Greatest Hits album.... will definitely need to find that for more "rainy days"

If I had a pack of cigarettes last night, I probably would have lit a few of 'em.

And finally, a smirk.. looks like she buried the pain for the day to press forward. :-)

This wasn't intended to be a discussion post, but I'd like to know, when you realize it's that time to cry, what do you do to get the tears flowing?

Lip Service..

2011-09-05T12:37:00.001-05:00

Sigh.. I can't wait to get home to wear some lipstick.... (chapstick, just doesn't cut it)!!

Pink Ice

Split Personalities *giggles*

Ruby

Hot P!nk

Candy Apple

That Purple Drank *giggles*

Effortless Vogue: Could Be You!

2011-09-04T08:19:00.002-05:00

ComplexSimplicity would like spotlight our readers that set themselves apart from others by walking down your own runways! We are excited to see what clothes and accessories our readers are wearing to distinguish themselves from others. Effortless Vogue is a forum to inspire our readers to always look their best; highlighting complex style and simple individuality!

Take a look back at our past Effortless Vogue features: Tara, Rita, and Rhonda! Each one has their own unique styles: from the love of vintage, to bold and colorful pieces, to chic and minimalistic fashions! These three ladies led the way! Be sure to click on each picture to jump to their individual interviews!

Will our next Effortless Vogue feature be you?

If you are truly one of a kind and have what it takes to be showcased in Effortless Vogue, let us know! Send us a few good pics, and a short description of yourself and style inspirations to cmplxsimplicity@yahoo.com! Also, please include your name, age, and location in the body of the email. Can't wait to hear from you! Smooches!

Nicki & Glamour

2011-09-02T11:45:00.001-05:00

#POW!

CS, (or should I say Cash fave), Nicki Minaj is featured in the October issue of Glamour Magazine with Cover Girls Jennifer Aniston, Demi Moore and Alicia Keys.

Ms. Minaj wears "Complex Couture" designs from YSL, Dolce & Gabbana, Tom Ford, Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti and more in the editorial, in which they give her kudos for her bold and fearless fashion sense! She explains her love of colors and accessories, which Nicki stated “really make an outfit” and makes her feel “made up.” Much like any girl should feel!

I love Nicki when she's not donning her unusual red carpet costumes! She's really a gorgeous woman and I love her personality! However, I saw pics of that 'bubble gum, space suit' and was highly disappointed. But whatevs! She still rocks in my heart!

Double Dose: Soulful Sunday // Lil' Mo - Dotted I (I'm Not Perfect)

2011-08-28T08:34:00.003-05:00

This past week, a close friend thanked me (along with a few others) on being his influences to giving his life to Christ. It actually shocked me because, even though I know my relationship with God, I didn't realize that "my light shined" that much. After he explained his reasons to me, I couldn't help but still feel less than the compliments he'd given me. I guess it's because I know that I am nowhere near close to perfect. I know that there's still alot that God is working on in me.

Everytime I hear Lil' Mo saang this here song, it brings me back to reality, reminding me that I will never be able to "dot every I and cross every T" but God is still in control and He's helping me every step of the way. Now, can I get an amen!

From her, Pain and Paper Album, Lil Mo sang this here song! Man I love her, anywho.. enjoy! And have a blessed week CS!

Soulful Sunday // The Blood Still Has Miraculous Power

2011-08-28T05:45:00.000-05:00

This just blessed me immensely!!! I stumbled upon this video in my search for old school, and found that this talented lil girl PLEASE check out her YouTube page HERE) did an ASL (American Sign Language) to this song. For her to be only TEN years old, you can feel the anointing she has performing this. I was moved to tears by watching this, hopefully you are just as blessed!!

Hear My Call // Jill Scott

2011-08-26T01:12:00.000-05:00

If you can't feel what Jill is emoting from her raw emotions in this video...I don't even know what to say. This song is so humbling and echos my own sentiment about opening up to love. One cannot help but get emotional upon hearing and seeing her earnest cry. And the simplicity of the video drives makes it all so cohesive. Hands down my fav on the new "The Light of the Sun".

What are your thoughts on Jill's new release?

Target Flash Mob!!!

2011-08-25T00:14:00.001-05:00

I just watched this amazing vid by Todrick Hall and I friggin loved it! He choreographed and coordinated the whole thing in its entirety! I just love the whole positivity that a flash mob can do. I know they've received a bad rap lately due to them being used for fear & violence, but this gets back to its original meaning! And Beyonce' also gave him the seal of approval with a video thanking him.

Check it out at his YouTube channel! He can sang too!

Hajji Mart Shopping: Aghany Purses!

2011-08-24T10:21:00.000-05:00

Okay, so you all know I like different things, right? During one of my Hajji Mart outtings, I found a new store that I had never shopped in before, which I now refer to as "the purse store" for obvious reasons. Most of these purses will be gifts to some of the my teenagers at church, but a couple of these will be staying with me! (stay tuned for my future What I Wore's).

Just wanted to share a few of my finds with you! If you notice below, I tagged this post as a "Vintage Finds", and even though these aren't "vintage" they are some once in a lifetime finds for moi! Also, just to let you all know, I did some great bargaining on these and can't wait to actually wear the ones I'm keeping for myself! Yay!

I tried to capture the stitching, patterns and details of the different designs, but it was kind of hard with my bedspread as a backdrop and very poor lighting. Lol, but you kind of get the picture, right?

So, what do you think of my Afghany Purses? Leave a comment below!

5 Years later....

2011-08-23T17:49:00.003-05:00

No, we didn't have this big lavish million dollar wedding. As a matter a fact, I had on a fancy dress but got married at the courthouse. we had a nice reception with family and friends but I often wish I had the BIG wedding that every girl dreams of. BUT, its 5 years later and we're still together..now that's more than I can say for some superstars who are married for no more than a year. Yes that makes me feel better. :)....

My Husband and I have been through some CRAZY times, and a lot of times I wanted to cut him in his sleep....but all and all everything has made us stronger, and although it's not easy everyday, we make our love work. We have that 'Crazy, Stupid, Love' but at the end of the day we're still holding on. Happy 5 year anniversary (to us) :)

*****Pic taken 8-23-06******

~CHELLEI~

Liv's B-Day Wishlist!!!!

2011-08-22T03:16:00.000-05:00

*throws glitter & confetti in the air*

Oh mai GAWSH! I can't believe this is my 2nd b-day with you guys! What more could a gal ask for??? *grins big* Well let me enlighten you again so we can celebrate my 20...*mumbles* birthday extravaganza list!!!

*IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER*

F*ck it, Got My Orders

Yes, you are seeing correctly: Orders off this expensive island. Its a shame when the beautiful Oahu is reduced down to feeling like Chilligan's island. Its just NOT meant for military to live in a vacay spot IMO. That coupled with being so far from fam & friends makes me not be able to enjoy Hawai'i the way I should. But orders right to Georgia would be great to start building my home and getting settled for my retirement!

Personal stylist is a MUST! I have no fashion sense, so I need a professional to help make it happen. UGH, they cost an arm and a leg though! The stylists on this show were so nice with it. I'd let anyone of em dress me!

I'm not even a big tech savvy person, but I love the sheek & slim design of the iPhone 5. According to the Apple website, this processor is crazy fast! It would take me a while to learn the apps and thangs, but sooo worth it!

I may need a stylist, but ANYTHING HERVE LEGER!! Need I say more?!!?

A simple yet earnest wish...it's been over 2 years since my lips have grazed the cup of a Sonic beverage. That flavor, the wonderful cherry and that Sonic ice would make life sweeter...especially at between 2-4 for Happy Hour!

And to make the day complete, satisfying my weakness for baked goods! I love cute cupcakes! Eating a few of them just feels better than cutting a big ole piece of cake!