"And the award goes to..."

Thanks to my fellow BLM Girl Freda of Freda Fro for nominating me for The Versitile Blogger Award!   This is my first award as a new blogger and it feels great to have someone notice and like the work you do.  In order to accept the award, I do have to follow a few rules:

Thank the Blogger who gave me the award and include a link to their blog

 Select 15 blogs/bloggers that I recently discovered or follow

Nominate those 15 bloggers for the Versatile Blogger Award & let them know they are being nominated

 Share seven random facts about myself with you guys

Now for the randomness...

1. My favorite number is seven and it just so has it that my first, middle, and last name all have seven letters...now tell me that's not weird! LOL

2.  I got skills when it comes to gift wrapping. :)  I used to work at store called Kate's Paperie where I learned awesome gift wrapping techniques.  For example, I can make a gift box look like a purse, the front of a shirt, or a corset.  Of course I'm the one who gets called on at Xmas time.

3.  I'm a Martin Show fanatic!  I can watch any episode and recite it word for word.

Curvy Girl Spotlight: Rochelle

For those of you who don’t know, I am part of a blogging group called Bloggers Like Me.  The great thing about joining a group like this is the chance you get to meet new people with similar interest as you.  As someone who is new to the blogging world, it provides me with answers to any questions I may have, a chance to get new readers, and tons of inspiration.  I was excited to have fellow BLM girl Rochelle of “What Rose Redd Said” inquire about featuring her in the Curvy Girl Spotlight portion of my blog.  Check out my interview with her below and once your're done, click on over to to her blog and check Rochelle out!

Tajuana:  Before we get to the fashion questions, who/what inspired you to start a blog?

Rochelle: What inspired me to start my life style blog was three things. First, I felt like I had started dressing like I had a farm and fifteen kids! Taking photos of what I was wearing and sharing them holds me accountable for dressing more like myself, more like a 30 year old mom and wife making moves! Second, I wanted to share my passion and love for taking care of my family and our home. Third, I wanted to have a space where I felt I could be unabashedly me...witty, clever, funny, intelligent, creative, fly and modest of course! LOL!

Tajuana:  As we all know, curvy girl fashion has come a long way from what it used to be.  What are your thoughts on the evolution of fashionable clothing made just for us?

Rochelle:  Well, truth be told, since most of my adult life I've teetered between a 12 and a 14 (now size 14) I can say that I've never had trouble finding things that were quality, fashionable and in my size. However, now, I can appreciate having Forever 21 plus sizes, H&M plus sizes and trendy plus size stores like Fashion to Figure. It's a breath of fresh air to not have to shop in the "Misses" section at the major department stores.

Tajuana:  How would you describe your personal style?

Rochelle:  My personal style is classic eclectic. My fashion icons are Michelle Obama, Jackie Kennedy Onassis and June Ambrose. I love classic styles coupled with funky prints and pieces and colors that you wouldn't normally pair together.

Am I a Fashion Fraud?

I sometimes ask myself this question because I do not consider myself a fashionista in any shape or form.  I feel a fashionista is someone who is considered fashionable 24/7, lives and breathes fashion, and knows designers by first and last name...this is not me at all.  I'm not saying all women who are considered fashionistas are dressed in designer labels from head to to toe, but I'm pretty sure they can name top designers faster than I can...I'm just sayin LOL. 

When it comes to clothing, shoes, and accessories, I don't care whose name is on the label, just as long as I look great in it.  I don't always effortlessly put outfits together.  I have to actually think about it.

 Don't get me wrong, I love fashionable clothing that makes me feel and look great, but I'm the type of person who has to be in the mood to get "dressed up".  Sometimes, I'd rather throw on a pair of jeans, a t-shirt, and some sneakers and go. I know to some people, that combination can also result in a fashionable outfit, but that's not the way I'm thinking when I go to put it on.  As a blogger who's writing about curvy girl fashion, am I required to ALWAYS look fashionable?  I sometimes wonder...

What are your thoughts?

Curvy Girl Spotlight: Felicia

Photo Credit: In God's Image Photograpy

 I have known Felicia since 2004, and for as long as I can remember she has always been confident with the way she looks.  There are tons of stereotypes out there about how plus size women perceive themselves.  Well, we are both here to say “don’t believe the hype!” We are curvy and loving it!

 She is a confident woman with a great sense of style and has also inspired me throughout the years.  Check out my interview with Felicia!

Tajuana:  For as long as I’ve known you, you have always been a confident woman who does not let her size dictates what she can and cannot wear.  Where did this confidence come from?

Felicia: I would have to say it came from my mom and grandma. Size was never a topic growing up, so it was never an issue for me to consider. As long as your style was cute, it was ok.

Tajuana:  How would you describe your personal style?

Felicia:  I'm just me...I like items that catches the eye. I'd rather be the only one in the room with that dress, bag, or shoe than go with what is in.

Tajuana:  What changes have you noticed when it comes to shopping for plus size clothing?

Felicia:  The quality of clothing has gotten a lot better over the years. I don't need to replace an item because of a fast wear after a year.

Tajuana: Last but not least, what would you say to the curvy girls out there who may feel that they can’t rock the latest fashion trends because of their size?

Felicia:  Your size is measured by your personality and confidence. Without either, you'll be the smallest person in the room. Remember, you wear the clothes to reflect who you are as a DIVA!

Earrings: Jowelz, Inc
Wrap Skirt (pulled up to create dress): Moshood
Belt: Forever21 (similar here)
Shoes: Nine West (similar here)

Would you like to be featured in Curvy Girl Spotlight?
Join the site and send all inquiries to shytaj79@yahoo.com and I will reply as soon as possible.

Mini-Giveaway!!! [CLOSED]

Thought I'd do a mini-giveaway.  The winner will get a few of my fave hair products!

1. Click the "join this site" link.
2. Leave a comment under this post telling me your must have hair products.
3. Follow me on Twitter
4. Share this post with friends and/or retweet

Giveaway ends September 3, 2012 at 3:45pm and the winner will be chosen on September 4, 2012.
*** For US Residents only in the 48 contiguous states***


GOOD LUCK!

Step Into Autumn

Autumn is approaching fast and it is my favorite season of all time...not sure if that has anything to do with being born three days after it begins.   That is when it’s time to break out the tunics, funky tights, and my fave… the BOOTS!  I’m not a big fan of heels, mainly because I have trouble walking in them or I want to take them off an hour later after I put them on.  Therefore, my favorite boots to wear are flat calf boots or what I like to call, my “Jodeci” boots.  Most of the time, I give in and purchase boots with heels because they are so darn cute.  I have already purchased a pair and I can’t wait to rock them!  Below are a few of my favorites. 

What are your favorite style of boots to wear in the fall and have you started shopping yet?

Cognac Boots: Torrid.com
Brown Combat Boots: Avenue.com
Grey Boot: Lane Bryant.com
Booties:  Christian Siriano for Payless.com

Hot & Steamy

Two and a half weeks ago, I went to a natural hair salon for the first time since I’ve been natural.  I knew I was going to have to get 1-2 inches of hair cut off, since my last cut was a little over two years ago.  During that time I also colored my hair, so a salon visit was much needed.  As suspected, the stylist informed me that my hair was very dry and suggested a steam treatment.  This was the first time I’ve ever experienced this so I wasn’t sure what to expect.  After she detangled and applied some deep conditioner, she set me under the steamer for 25 minutes.  I must say, I was not prepared for the intense heat.  Once I asked her to put it on the lowest setting, I was ok.  When the treatment was done, I was amazed at how soft my hair felt!  I could definitely feel and see the difference.  I said to myself, this is a must have for my hair care regimen but I can’t afford weekly salon visits. Luckily for me my mommy (yes I’m 32 and still call her “Mommy”) bought me an early birthday gift, my very own at home steamer!

It was purchased from LCL Beauty and cost $88.77.  It weighs 12lbs and has wheels on it so you don’t have to worry about lugging it around.  It’s also very easy to assemble. I think the best feature is the fact that you do not have to use distilled water.  I noticed that a lot of the steamers on the market require you to use distilled water, which can be very pricey depending on how often you steam your hair.  You can use plain old tap water with this steamer, which I love.  So far I’ve used it three times with no problems so I don't have any "cons".

PROS                                             
Light weight                              
Adjustable height
Roomy Hood
Uses tap water
Easy to assemble
Steams up quickly
One year warranty
Adjustable steam release

If a steamer is not in your budget, there are ways to get the same results at home without breaking the bank.  One of my favorite natural hair sites, Curly Nikki, gives you step by step instructions.

Have you ladies steamed before? 

Ricky’s NYC- FREE Ship This Wkend!

Hey ladies, if you’re a fan of Ricky’s like I am, you will be happy to know that shipping is free with a subtotal minimum of just $20.00 this weekend!  So go ahead and order your natural hair products without worrying about the extra cost of shipping. (Side note: if you’re looking to purchase the new Pillow Soft Curls by Miss Jessie’s, it will be in stores and online next week.)

Also, don’t forget about the Mattese Elite blowout sale that is still going on.  This is your chance to stock up on your favorite nail colors and much more.  While you’re there, sign up to become a preferred customer and be the first to know about special promotions, new products, and more.

Don’t forget to stop by and let me know what you got during your Ricky’s haul!

Relaxed to Natural

When I decided to go natural two years ago, I was not doing it to be part of the movement as some may think. I’ve always been a fan of thick, naturally curly hair, whether the curl pattern was a 3a-4c. I just didn’t have the courage to do it because I was worried about what other people would think. I wondered how I would look…if it would look good on me. Before I did the big chop, I transitioned for a full year. I would wear wigs all the time so I didn’t have to style my hair. Even after I did by BC, I wore my wig for six months before I revealed my hair to the public. I was still getting use to the idea of having natural hair. I remember when I went to the salon; the woman asked why I wanted to cut my hair. “You have such pretty long hair”,she said. My response was, “I’m finally ready to go natural, like I’ve always wanted to. Besides, my hair grows fast lol.” I’m so happy I did it and I love the results and texture. 

YouTube and natural hair websites were and still are a BIG help during my journey. I love the direction the movement is going in. It seems that more images of African American women with natural hair are in the limelight. Hair care product lines are also taking notice. They are now creating products for us natural girls, which I love.

For anyone looking to go natural, I say do your research to see if it’s the right move for you. Some people don’t have the patience to deal with natural hair. I can’t front, when it’s time to wash my hair I sometimes dread it because the process from start to finish can take so long. There’s a lot that goes into maintaining healthy hair. I’m not trying to discourage you, I just want you to have an idea of what you will go through. So for all you transitioners out there, welcome to the club and I wish you well on your journey.

Check out a few of my favorite products and favorite natural hair websites below:

Dessert Essence Jojoba oil: The Vitamin Shoppe ($12)

Kinky Curly products: Target (poo-$11, cond.-$11, gel-$30)

Carol’s Daughter products: Store/Website (oil-$18, leave-in-$12)

Miss Jessie products: Target (meringue-$22, super sweetback-$48)

Cantu Shea Butter Leave in Conditioner: Beauty Supply store ($5-$6)

EVOO: Any supermarket (I bought this specific brand bc it was on sale)

Raw Shea Butter: 568 Atlantic Ave in Brooklyn, NY or www.madinaonline.com ($5)

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/

http://www.curlynikki.com/

http://www.naturallycurly.com/

A Day at the Gardens

I am fortunate enough to live close to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, so I took the opportunity to grab my girl Jess and head on over.  Every Tuesday you can visit the park for free and who doesn't love free!   Since we were heading to the gardens, I figured I'd wear something with a floral print.  I had Jessica grab my camera phone and snap some pics.

Side note:  I really need to invest in a camera!



Jeans: Avenue
Tank & Shrug: Target



Green Veranda Recycled Bag: UncommonGoods.com sample sale
Shoes: Payless
Jewelry: Avenue

To Be Continued...

Hi guys, I know I've been away for a while but I promise that I'll be back. What would life be without a few curve balls thrown your way...

"All Heart, No Regrets"-KJ Rose

I first came across independent artist KJ Rose at a natural hair event in April of 2011. She performed her first single, “A Better Way” from her debut album “All Heart, No Regrets” and she brought me to tears. The combination of her heartfelt words along with her stage presence was amazing. I thought to myself, “Why am I just finding out about this amazing talent?” Little did I know, her album dropped in spring of 2010. After receiving my autographed copy, I took it straight home to find out exactly what I was missing. She describes her music as containing “essential R&B elements with a Motown influence, a hint of Disco and an absolute appreciation for Hip Hop”, which I am in complete agreement!

Besides her amazing talent, she also has a great sense of style. From her signature statement earrings to shoes you would die for, this fashionista is someone you definitely want to keep your eye on. Below are a few of my favorite KJ Rose looks. If you have not had the opportunity to witness this amazing talent, you are in luck! On September 15^th, she will be performing as part of the Royalton Hotel's concert series Forty Four at 7:30pm. I have had the opportunity to meet her, and I can guarantee you that this is an event you do not want to miss! For more info on KJ Rose, please visit: http://www.facebook.com/KJ-Rose/43658661450

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/all-heart-no-regrets/id358524722

Calling All Fashionistas!

On September 8th, 2011 come out and mingle with celebrities and designers as they participate in one of the largest shopping events, Fashion's Night Out! This is not an event only for the rich and famous. There are a variety of stores that will be in participation...from Gucci to Lane Bryant. There will be giveaways, contest, and free drinks. So strap on your stilettos and come on out to one of the Fashion's Industry largest parties! For more info, please visit http://fashionsnightout.com/.

"Let Your Legs Do the Talking"

My favorite season has to be Autumn, and not because I was born in September. :)I love breaking out the sweaters, denim skirts, boots, and most of all... THE TIGHTS!!!

I love pairing a funky pair of tights with a denim skirt, a pair of booties or knee length boots. Here are a few of my faves...

American Apparel XL Model Search

A friend of mine has informed me that American Apparel is holding a model search for their plus size line of clothing. While looking at the other submissions, I felt a little intimidated. The women who have submitted photos are GORGEOUS and look as if they are professional models with professional photos. However, it does sound like a lot of fun, so I have decided to enter. You guys can vote for me by clicking the following link:
http://b.dim.ly/?e=10562