Emijaa Jaaemil...

The Last Night

2013-04-25T12:04:00.002-04:00

The last night on vacation is always bittersweet - you're anxious to get home to what's familiar and comfortable {like your bed} but you're sad to leave those free spirited days of lounging by the beach, walking in the sand and swimming in the beach until the sun sets...

After cooking in the sun for what felt like an eternity {literally only 4 days}, I decided a classic white button-up shirt and denim cutoffs were the way to go. A few of us strolled around the resort after dinner and drinks to conclude our last night in Jamaica...

{Wearing: Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry, Old Navy Shirt, DIY Levi's Denim Shorts, Nina Shoes}

{White Jeans}

2013-04-24T10:33:00.001-04:00

White Jeans by emijaajaaemil featuring levi s

I've never been a fan of white OR more specifically WHITE JEANS but seeing them pop up all over has really got me to thinking - Can I pull these off? The color white has always been that NO color - gets dirty to fast, makes you look big, always unflattering - but I can't help but to be drawn to it. My closet mainly consist of DARK colors - like BLACK but I've started to add more whites to the mix... Especially since I've been loving the black and white combo. I've been wanting a pair of white jeans for a little while now - and although I have my insecurities about wearing them - I think I might cave and buy a pair just to say - I TRIED IT...

How do you feel about white jeans?

Escape to Jamaica

2013-04-22T16:04:00.000-04:00

After a busy start to the year, a few friends and I decided to vacation out in Ocho Rios, Jamaica... A long 3 hours from NY to Jamaica {in my opinion since I hate flying} and I was ready to unwind with a few drinks by the beach... This year happens to be pretty important - we all turn the big 30... so we decided to start with early celebrations!

{Wearing: F21 Scarf as Headwrap, Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry, Victoria Secret Bathing Suit, American Apparel Shorts}

Not Quite Spring

2013-04-09T16:45:00.001-04:00

The weather has been very unpredictable these days... Although the sun is shining, until you ACTUALLY step outside you aren't quite sure what you're going to get. This particular day, we had nice weather but it was still a little brisk... so I opted for my traditional ALL BLACK ENSEMBLE complimented by my favorite coat.

I'm sure you'll also notice, I've been seriously diving into the dress over pants look (seen here and here). It's been so fun trying new combinations... but since the weather seems to be breaking - I think I'm ready to bare more skin...

{Wearing: Aoyama Itchome Coat, Thrifted Dress, H&M Leatherlike Pants, Carlos Santana Shoes, Zara Bag, Emijaa Jaaemil Necklace and Earrings}

Pastel Pink

2013-04-02T10:28:00.000-04:00

I am so excited that Spring is here... I love winter but I've had enough of too many layers, dark colors and frigid temperatures. Over the weekend, we had some beautiful weather. I had no intentions on embracing it since I had a long list of things I wanted to get done but after a few calls, I couldn't resist getting outside. I've had this pastel pink cable knit Polo sweater in my closet FOREVER and finally decided it was the right time to wear it... paired with my new favorite Christian Siriano x Payless Pumps, Gap Denim Jacket and classic distressed boyfriend jeans... I'm definitely ready to step into Spring...

{Wearing: Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry, Gap Denim Jacket, Polo Sweater, F21 Jeans, Christian Siriano x Payless Pumps}

In Those Jeans

2013-03-22T15:10:00.000-04:00

"Dresses over pants" has been my new favorite go-to for too short dresses that aren't quite appropriate for my coporate life. I must say, it's been kind of fun pairing my dresses with my favorite pants and creating a whole new dynamic within my wardrobe... Of course with fashion, in my opinion, there are no "firsts"... someone, somewhere has done it, tried it, perfected it... And for me, I'm following that lead... I've tried it {first here} and so far I love it... Definitely a trend I plan on embracing a lil more often...

{Wearing: Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry, H&M Dress, Old Navy Rockstar Jeans, Nine West Pumps}

About That Designer Life...

2013-03-19T17:16:00.000-04:00

For the last month or so, I've been working really hard to bring together the SS2013 collection of Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry. I've been doing jewelry for several years now - which is in fact the VERY reason why I started this blog. The beginning stages {of the blog}, I posted pictures all the time of my creations but my blog has evolved and is now moreso about my personal style. With this new found enthusiasm I have for my jewelry and the evolution of my skill - I've decided it's time to incorporate my craft just a lil bit more here on the blog...

Here is a small glimpse of how my life has been the past month or so - beads, wire and my pliers have been my everything... I'm happy to say my preparations for my Emijaa Jaaemil Pop Up Shop at The Joint turned out to be a success - and I can't wait to share more details...

{my coffee table}

{on my bed}

Handling Business

2013-03-08T11:09:00.001-05:00

I've been preparing for my Pop Up Shop... (for those of you who are unaware - I design/handcraft jewelry). It has been a great but stressful experience. SO much to get done - make jewelry, event planning and maintain the blog... I snapped these photos while on a mission to find the perfect location to host my pop up shop. It was indeed a nasty day out - rainy and a lil cold - but I managed to handle my business and secure a location!! Super exciting, I must say... Things are getting more hectic as the time grows closer but I wouldn't have it any other way!!

{Wearing: H&M Jacket and Striped Sweater, Gap Denim Jacket, Thrifted DIY Levi Jeans, Boutique 9 Boots, Zara Bag}

Unexpected {Retro}

2013-03-06T10:42:00.000-05:00

Polka dots seem to be all over so I decided to pull out this oldie from the good ole stash... I bought this dress a few years back to wear for my company's holiday party. I love the huge polka dots and the fact that its roomy - so I can eat what I want without having to hold in my tummy... It's a little short for a regular work day so I always pair it with opague tights... and as always I could have simply wore a black boot/shoe but thats no fun so I paired it with some leopard mary janes...

{Wearing: Polka Dot Dress, Forever 21 Shoes, Emijaa Jaaemil Earrings}

Midtown

2013-03-04T09:58:00.000-05:00

As a fashion blogger working in Corporate America - it's often hard finding the time to take photos. Thankfully, one of my best friends - Makeup Artist, Kris Mari - works blocks away from me. It's been a while since we've hung out (our schedules just have been so hectic). This particular the day the weather happened to be nicer than normal so it was indeed the perfect opportunity to show some leg, meet with my bestie for lunch and of course squeeze in a few photos!

{Wearing: H&M Jacket, Gap Denim Jacket, Vintaged Thrifted Dress, Christian Siriano for Payless Shoes and Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry}

Black Cotton Apparel

2013-03-01T16:49:00.000-05:00

The natural hair community is growing rapidly and so are the clothing, accessories and hair products. I take pride in my hair and the journey I've traveled for the past 3 years so I thought it was totally awesome when Black Cotton Apparel reached out to me regarding their natural hair t-shirts. I love tshirts for kicking around, working out and running errands - this tshirt fits lovely into my collection. I paired my tee with black skinny jeans, black boots and camouflage jacket... Natural women are phenomenal... don't you agree?

Check out Black Cotton Apparel for other awesome tshirts like Natural Beauty, Natural Leader and Natural Talent...
Use the code NAT213 for 15% off!!! Happy Tshirt Shopping!!!

{Wearing: Gifted Black Cotton Apparel "Natural Phenomena" TShirt, Old Navy Jeans, Nine West Boots, Emijaa Jaaemil Earrings, Camouflage Jacket}

The Tshirt in this post was gifted/sponsored by Black Cotton Apparel.

Floral Dress

2013-02-28T15:04:00.000-05:00

This dress has always been a favorite of mine (has awesome detailing on the back) but it's best worn in the summer. I decided to wear it to the Anthropologie In-Store event - but to make it more weather appropriate, I paired it with black skinny pants and this awesome blazer!! I can honestly say - my wardrobe functions for me during all of the seasons... there's no fun in dressing up if you can't wear your favorites whenever you want...

{Wearing: Mossimo Blazer, UO Dress, Black Pants, Rachel Roy Boots, Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry}

Schmoozing

2013-02-26T12:35:00.001-05:00

I had the pleasure of visiting Anthropologie in Chelsea Market a few weeks ago. They had a little in-store soiree during Fashion Week. Here are a few photos I took while at the event!!

I love denim so these dresses were spot on.

I think the best part of the night was the "candy bar" they had set up with my favorite - CHOCOLATE!!

These paper mache "heads" are pretty awesome - might have to re-create these for my jewelry display!

With my fabulous blogger family!!

{From Left to Right with: Krystal of The Fiesty House, Candace of The Style Climber, Ely of Ripped-Nylon; Ms. K of African Print In Fashion}

With Candace and Liza

The F Words

2013-02-20T13:23:00.000-05:00

The Fro

Everyone who knows me know that my signature hairstyle is pretty much Lulu - my curly fro. It has been the one style that no matter what I put together {outfit wise} always makes me feel put together... There are days when Lulu decides to do her own thing... but for the most I can count on her to be my greatest accessory.

The Fur

This Vintage Fox Fur has been a major staple in my winter wardrobe. {Last see on the blog here.} Thrifted from one of my favorite thrift shops in VA, I can't seem to get enough of it. I'm not a fan of winter or freezing in traditional winter coats - so this fur has been the best option on those frigid days when I don't want to wear tons of layers.

{Wearing: Vintage Fox Fur, Gap Denim Jacket, Betsey Johnson Sweater, Thrifted Skirt, Christian Siriano for Payless Shoes, Emijaa Jaaemil Earrings}

My Hair {Currently Using}

2013-02-19T12:46:00.001-05:00

Being a fashion blogger, there are so many things that I can say are my favorites - but the one thing that stands out the most is my hair aka Lulu. I've been natural for about 2 1/2 years now and it has been the best thing I've done for myself and my style. Lulu is my biggest accessory. I get so many questions and compliments on my hair - I thought why not share a few tidbits! My go-to style has been the Wash and Go and below are some of the products I'm currently using...

{From Left to Right: Pureology Precious Oil Shampoo, Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy Ultra Shea Shampoo, Redken All Soft Shampoo}

I started using Pureology and Redkin thanks to a good friend/makeup artist - Joping Keo. She recommended that I try the products for my curly hair and I haven't looked back since. The Pureology Precious Oil Shampoo leaves my hair nicely moisturized with lots of shine. The Redkin All Soft Shampoo is awesome for when my hair doesn't feel quite as soft as it should.

I started using Clear Ultra Shea Shampoo as a sample I got from my best friend/makup artist, Kris Mari's friend before it hit the market. Since, it is my FAVORITE shampoo. I love that it allows me to detangle, moisturizes and cleanses my hair.

{From Left to Right: Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Conditioner. Pureology Precious Oil Conditioner, Herbal Essences Hello Hydration, Repairing Awapuhi Ginger Conditioner}

If there is anything I use a lot of, its conditioner. My favorite has always been Herbal Essences Hello Hydration. I've been using this conditioner since I first went natural and it's a must have in my hair arsenal. I use Pureology Precious Oil Conditioner when washing my hair with the shampoo - only makes sense to use them together!! But I love that I don't have to add any additional oils when using the Pureology line. As of lately, I've been using the Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Conditioner and Repairing Awapuhi Ginger Conditioner as leave-ins before applyng my styling products for my wash and go. I find that it helps with detangling (yes even after washing and conditioning) and also leaves my hair super soft...

{From Left to Right: Curls Unleashed Curl Refresher, Eco Styler Olive Oil Styling Gel, Kinky Curly Curling Custard, Redken Curvaceous Wind Up}

There are so many styling products out there for natural hair but I've found that my Eco Styler Olive Oil Styling Gel is the most economical and provides the best end result. I started using Eco Styler as an alternative to the more expensive curling products. You can mix essential oils with it and it still keeps its consistency - my ABSOLUTE FAVE!! Kinky Curly Curilng Custard has always been a go to. It has always been my first choice when I want to use something other than Eco Styler - I love that it doesn't make your hair hard or crunchy and its not sticky like other products. My only issue is I have a lot of hair and its a lil' pricey so I use it for SPECIAL occasions...

I use Curls Unleashed Curl Refresher or Redken Curvaceous Wind Up when I need to freshen up my curls before washing again. I love when my curls are FRESH (first 2 days of my wash and go) but sometimes I'm lazy and not in the mood to go through the process so these two products are my safe havens.

{From Left to Right: Pureology Precious Oil, Hollywood Beauty Coconut Oil, Castor Oil and Vitamin E Oil}

I'll have to admit, I'm not the best when it comes to applying oils to my hair but I do like to add these to my conditioners or Eco Styler Gel when styling my hair. They have major benefits like moisturizing, growth stimulation and protection against dandruff. The best thing is they don't leave my hair feeling greasy!

I have lots of hair products but right now these are my favorites. Part 2 of my Wash and Go coming soon with details on my homemade deep conditioner!!!

What are your favorite hair products?

What I Wore {IFBCon Day 1}

2013-02-13T13:40:00.000-05:00

Trying to find something to wear to a major event always seems harder than just going with your natural flow. For me, I put the best things together when I'm not thinking to hard... I tried on a few things before giving up and walking away when it came to me - why not mix your polka dot shirt with your printed pants? and VOILA!! As many of you probably know, mixing prints is my ultimate favorite thing when it comes to dressing... So putting this combo together was going to happen at some point!

{Wearing: H&M Blazer and printed pants, Old Navy Polka Dot Shirt Dress (as top), Nine West Shoes, Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry, Urban Outfitters Bag}

IFB Conference {Pt. 1}

2013-02-12T11:42:00.000-05:00

Last week, I attended the Independent Fashion Bloggers Conference (IFB Con) and as always, it is an experience that every blogger should have at least once. Compared to my first attendance, this time around was much more "rewarding"!! Being surrounded by creative minds and passionate souls gave me everything I needed to stay motivated with my own dreams and desires.

The day consisted of several panels discussing everything from the first year of blogging to social media to working with your favorite brands. The panelists shared their stories and tips and tricks on how they became successful at blogging. Some valuable lessons I learned were:

1.) Set Goals and invest your time into your blog, 2.) Be persistent and consistent, 3.) Be responsive and accessible, 4.) Create/build a relationship with your readers, 5.) Be You, focus on strengths and get creative!

As I mentioned before, this IFB Conference was much more rewarding for me than the first - my reason... Because I was able to listen and learn from jewelry designer, Lisa Salzer of Lulu Frost. As an upcoming jewelry designer, her words were inspirational. After listening to her speak, a few things remained with me:

1.) Who are you? - as a brand you should always be able to define who you are and stay true to that definition, 2.) Longevity - your voice should always have longevity and continued relevance, 3.)Interact with your audience - maintaining and sustaining a relationship with your audience is key. They are the reason why you continue to exist, 4.) Get opinions - don't be afraid to ask for opinions or thoughts on your brand.

As for me, I continued with my love of mixed prints in this black and white ensemble. Check back for details on my IFB Con look...

Corporate Camouflage

2013-02-11T00:00:00.000-05:00

Camouflage has always been a favorite of mine. I like to treat it as a neutral - sorta like leopard and stripe prints. I love that camouflage adds a certain amount of toughness to my look without being overbearing and ups my street creditability at the same time - not that, that matters much {but totally sounded good}!! I last wore this jacket here - paired with my other favorite print - Stripes!!

{Wearing: Gifted Camouflage Jacket from Dad, Old Navy Denim Shirt, Mossimo Dress, Emijaa Jaaemil Necklace, Nine West Pumps}

Keeping It Basic

2013-02-05T12:02:00.000-05:00

Sometimes the chicest outfits are those put together with the most basic of items - a blazer, tshirt, skinny jeans and your favorite pumps. This look happens to have all of my current favorite fashion staples and its my go-to when I've started my day a little late... this has been my "uniform" for a few weeks since I've been back at jewelry designing...

{Wearing: Thrifted Blazer // Old Navy V-Neck and Jeans // Nine West Leopard Pumps //
Emijaa Jaaemil Necklace... coming soon}

Shapeless

2013-01-29T13:54:00.000-05:00

As a fashion blogger, posting outfits that are flattering is a must... for me, that isn't always the case! I love wearing new things (shaped or shapeless) and I tend to fall in love with outfits that don't always necessarily "flatter" me. For example - I love shift dresses but they don't always work for a gal with a shapely bottom.

I thrifted this dress a while back while in VA and because its so comfortable, I find it to be my universal comfort piece. It has absolutely no shape and can be a lil "homely" but I feel so sexy everytime I wear it... I'm not a huge fan of overly tight, spandex everything dressing... so maybe my love for unshapely/unflattering clothing comes from the overly-saturated skin-tight dressing I constantly see... As unflattering as this outfit might be to some, I wouldn't have worn it any differently. But in case you want to see it on a less homely note -

I last wore it here - where it looks much more appealing - thanks to the cinched waist on my blazer.

{Wearing: Thrifted dress, Puma Beanie, H&M Striped Dress, Nine West Pumps, Emijaa Jaaemil Earrings}

Sneak Peek {The Coveteur // J. T. Ferguson & J. Mikita}

2013-01-22T10:49:00.000-05:00

Secretly, I've always been a fan of Men's Fashion... so there's no surprise that I'd be excited to see what The Coveteur has for us in their latest feature on actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson and his fiance Justin Mikita... Also a huge fan of bowties, it was cool to see that this awesome duo will be introducing a line of limited edition bowties called Tie The Knot. Set to wed sometime this year, it seems like these two have some pretty awesome style and a cute dog to match!

For more details - check out www.thecoveteur.com...

[A Maxi Skirt}

2013-01-15T10:44:00.000-05:00

I got this awesome lycra maxi skirt from my favorite thrift store but haven't worn it very much. I decided to take it for a spin, pairing it with my favorite v-neck sweater and biker jacket. I think its about time I put this skirt in full rotation... after reviewing the pictures for this post - I realized how many other amazing looks I can create around this one skirt... Time to put its versatility to the test!!

{Wearing: Zara Moto Jacket, Express Sweater, Thrifted Maxi Skirt, Nine West Pumps, Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry}

Sneak Peek {The Coveteur // Alaia Rose}

2013-01-14T09:55:00.001-05:00

Super exciting news... So thanks to the wonderful people over at The Coveteur - I will be paticipating in their Glambassador Program - giving an exclusive sneak peek into some of their upcoming posts. The Coveteur happens to be one of my favorite sites - taking an inside look into the homes and closets of fashion's elite! Take a look below!

*******

For some people - becoming a fashionista is something that is learned with time and by trial and error. I wish I could say the same thing for little Miss Alaia Rose - daughter of stylist, Monica Rose. It looks as if she has a few up on us seasoned fashion lovers. Cute curly hair, awesome shoes and a pretty impressive bag collection is all the ingredients for a fashion icon - in the making!!

Check out The Coveteur for more details and a deeper look at into the icon in the making Alaia Rose!

Love At First Sight

2013-01-10T14:07:00.000-05:00

As a jewelry designer, beads make my world go round... So it was love at first sight when I spotted this beauty at my favorite thrift spot in Virginia. I've had it in my closet for quite some time now but could never seem to find the right moment or even outfit to pair it with. Since all things glittery, embroidered, sequined and shiny are in - I decided it was time to take this beaded beauty out of hiding and into the spotlight!

What makes this jacket even more special is that it only cost me $9.96!! I can't help but to wonder what the original price of this jacket was considering the intricacy of the beading is to die for!

{Wearing: Thrifted Beaded Jacket, Express Sweataer, Old Navy Jeans, Nine West Pumps, Emijaa Jaaemil Jewelry}

A Fine Mix

2013-01-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

After much trial and error, I've come to realize that many prints are as neutral as black and white... {try: leopard with strips, florals with leopard or stripes and florals}. I've always had a secret love for camouflage and I absolutely adore stripes - so pairing these two was inevitable. I'm excited to see how else I'll incorporate my camouflage jacket into my wardrobe.

I'm thinking next up might be with my tulle skirt - seen here!!

What are your favorite prints to mix?

{Wearing: Thrifted Camouflage Jacket, H&M Striped Sweater, Old Navy Jeans, Target Pumps}