Truthful Thursdays: My style is just that - Mine!

Alas, Truthful Thursdays have returned! My hubby thought that my last segment (expressing my opinions on natural hair) came off a tad ‘strong’. Since then I’ve shied away from speaking my peace. Until now…
I’m a private person by nature (who just so happens to blog) and I often struggle with how much of the authentic “me” I’d like to reveal for public scrutiny. As I’ve mentioned before, one of the reasons that I started blogging was because I personally didn’t feel that there were enough style/fashion images of women who looked like me (those whom I could readily identify with) when seeking style inspiration on various social media platforms. In my opinion, the present up and coming generation of women need to see images of regular/ordinary women, yes of my color, yes of my size, and yes of my taste/style. Today’s society promotes an unattainable idea, one of physical perfection- an ideal that every woman should seek to “attain”. This notion is utterly ridiculous in my opinion; I promote body positivity and have made the personal choice to love every inch of my physically imperfect plus-sized body. Ah, I digressed…

Moving on to today’s topic: This week I was featured on FashionBombDaily.com as Bombshell of the Day! I was extremely excited to be featured!!! Yet, along with any recognition also comes additional exposure to negativity and unsolicited/backhanded suggestions allegedly given in a complimentary manner.

I am so appreciative for the many positive comments received and I sincerely thank those contributors!

However, I want to take a few minutes to address several comments that appeared derogatory and purposed to shame me by making references to one of my all time favorite movies, The Color Purple.

First off, the movies The Color Purple and The Help (also referenced) represent a part of my cultural history and heritage. I am an African American woman. I am not ashamed to be told that some of my style choices bring those movies to someone’s mind. If you’ve been reading my blog for any length of time, you know that vintage pieces truly resonate with me, and that some of my pieces could very well be from the same eras that both aforementioned films represent.

Secondly, there were a few comments about my selection of shoe choices in the looks that were featured in the write-up, over at FashionBombDaily.com. Not that it’s anyone’s business, but I actually suffered from a broken toe not too long ago (which is still sensitive BTW) and my shoe choices were based not only on what matched what I was wearing, but also on which would provide comfort and stability for my broken toe. In any event, I wear the types of shoes that I want to wear, and that are practical for my lifestyle. 

For the record: “My style is just that- Mine!” I wear and style items in the manner that I personally choose, not according to the preference and or satisfaction of “the public” or even others who may be in the blogging community. 

Don’t get me wrong, I am more than happy to inspire women in any way that I possibly can. Yet, I recognize that some women may not be “inspired”, or may not appreciate every single one of my style choices. The thing is, despite possessing strong opinions, when I’m not particularly fond of someone’s style choices, I never see or feel a need nor desire to publicly share specious feedback on social media about how they should change a look to suit MY personal preferences.  I guess I truly am an old soul, I was raised with the concept: If you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all =)

I do not value unsolicited negative feedback, and I tend to doubt the sincerity of anyone who makes the conscious decision to publicly present suggestions on how I could and or should re-style a look according to their personal preference. I often benefit from constructive criticism, however I do not allow room for insincere feedback laced with negativity.

Basically, just like anyone else,  I wear what I WANT to wear. I am not in the market for field suggestions on how I can change my personal style to suit anyone else’s preference(s). 

Thanks for stopping by today Beauties! Please do share: 
How do you feel when someone offers negative feedback on how and why you should change an outfit that you’ve styled?

Until next time!
XO

Dress Like a Canvas

Hello Style Lovers! 
This dress reminds me of a canvas painting! I simply fell head over heels for the print and the combination of colors.This gorgeous dress is such an easy wear; It's instantly dressy and suitable for the office as well as nightlife. 

Today I'm showing how easily I transition it from day to night/evening wear-ability.

For work attire I paired it with flats and a roomy tote. I do quite a bit of walking and my tote easily carries all of my essentials.

For evening/night attire, I crave more 'fun' and less 'practical'. Can you tell what I did to transition to fun, after-work attire?

That's right! I changed up not one, but all of my accessories ;) Bring out the gold and stilettos!

A change of sunnies, jewelry, shoes, and a small clutch easily fit inside my roomy tote; I just love a large bag! If you don't carry large bags, you can always leave your change-up in the car.

Please do tell: Which look do you prefer, 'Day' or 'Night'?

Sunnies: Betsey Johnson & Nordstrom

Dress:Donna Ricco Jewelry: Assorted

Tote: Kate SpadeClutch: Vintage

Thong bow sandals: Ross

Gold sandals: BCBG

Thinking of Fall with eShakti

Every year as the month of August rolls in, the return of the perfectly mild temperatures that accompany Fall invade the mind. This design from eShakti provides a wonderfully smooth transition from Summer to Fall. 

Not only is this dress cotton, but it's also fully lined, and boasts a fun tribal print.

eShakti allows you to customize their designs to your specifications. I chose the neckline of this dress, added sleeves, requested pockets, and opted for midi-length versus knee-length.

I am thrilled by the custom fit of this dress! It cinches in at my waist fabulously, and the full skirt is a delight to wear. Ordering tip: When you provide your measurements to eShakti, give an extra inch or so if you'd like more room to work with ;)

Keeping the tribal print in mind, I added simple gold hoop earrings, and an assortment of gold bangles.

Sangria colored lipstick, a pair of my vintage sunnies, and embellished sandals from Nordstrom finished off the look.

Have you tried eShakti? If so, how did you like their custom pieces and customization options? 
I'd love to read your feedback below =)
*This post includes gifted item(s) from eShakti. All shared viewpoints are 100% authentically mine.

www.eShakti.com

Remembering Marigolds

Marigolds used to be one of my favorite flowers to plant during Spring. When I lived in Michigan, for years I had a ‘green thumb’, and I excitedly anticipated the yearly day in May when it was time for me to plant all of my annuals. 

Marigolds became a fast favorite because they bloom for months, don’t require a lot of TLC, can survive full sun, and the unpredictable summers that make Michigan, well Michigan!

The background of the bodice of this dress boasts a beautiful golden hue, quite similar to the marigolds that I used to plant.

I’m particularly fond of the generously sized bow around the neckline and classic pleat skirt.

It’s really perfect attire for work, and is easily paired with sandals and a clutch for after work ease.

Gold sunnies: Nordstrom
Dress: Vintage
Bag: Vintage
Sandals: Market

Thank you for stopping by Style Lover, until next time!
Xx

30PlusStyle: Celebrity Inspired, Plus Edition

Hello Style Lovers! Can you believe that today marks the first day of August?! Where, oh where, has the time gone? Summer is just about up, as if, in the blink of an eye! Never fear, #30PlusStyle has returned, and we are taking full advantage of the fleeting days of the season! We welcome you to the "Celebrity Inspired, Plus Edition":

DID YOU KNOW? #30PlusStyle was featured THIS WEEK on Ebony.com (click here)?!!! Follow us on Facebook, and join us on our exciting journey to inspire women everyone: Style is never limited by age or size!
www.facebook.com/30plusstyle

On to today's post: This was one of the most difficult #30PlusStyle challenges for me to work with thus far! 

I sat down and thought about why. There were a number of reasons, but basically they all can be summed up as follows:

• I don't really follow celebrity fashion and or trends so it was hard to pick a person and a style. (I do watch the runways, select designers, and style icons - they are in another ballgame in my opinion!)
• It's been a rough week, I struggled with multiple deadlines and an indecisive attitude. For every one idea I came up with, there seemed to be multiple reasons as to why it didn't truly resonate with me.
• I simply did not feel like taking pictures, i.e, posing, passerbys staring at me, etc.,.(Being photographed is usually a personal struggle for me.)

Nonetheless, as the saying goes: 'The show must go on'. Yes, because of my personal belief in the immense value that the plus-size blogging community has on women (young and old alike), I pulled myself together and got to work. My loyal supporter, my husband was completely on board as Motivational Speaker and Creative Director, thank you Honey!!!

Whenever I feel doubtful and or indecisive with choosing a look, I go with classic and timeless pieces.

Every woman needs a classic dress, that can be dressed up, or dressed down.

This classic tube style dress was purchased in 1999 for my one year anniversary. Does that make it a vintage number? LOL!

Which celebrity exactly, inspired this look?

The answer is here: www.pinterest.com/inmyjoi/im-inspired/

See how the #30PlusStyle Dolls were Celebrity Inspired today:
www.prettypluspep.blogspot.com
www.pumpsandstudz.blogspot.com
www.mode-plus.com
www.thejenesaisquoi.blogspot.com
www.grownandcurvywoman.com

FYI: We are looking for guest bloggers to join us for a future #30plusstyle post. If you're interested, contact us at 30plusstylecollab@gmail.com. Please be sure to include your blog's URL!

Dress: Express
Gloves: Vintage
Scarf: Liz Claiborne
Handbag: Vintage
Shoes: Nine West & Sam Edelman (worn here too)

Until next time! Thank you very much for stopping by and commenting below =)

Thrift Store Score: About Blue

Hi there Style Lovers! I feel like I've been MIA; coming back from vacation can make it difficult to get back on schedule. Nonetheless as I make efforts to return to what is my normalcy, here's a new #ThriftStoreScore !

I've divulged exactly how I feel about the color blue. It is my favorite color.

The ease and flow of this vintage number was right up my alley. You do know that I bat for Team Vintage 90% of the time right?! LOL! 

I like the detail on the caps of the sleeves and the subtle print throughout.
This is a #ThriftStoreScore at $1.60! Being stylish can truly be affordable and practical.

Now this dress leans toward the traditional side of the fence, so for personality and flair I added a statement necklace and silver oxfords.

Also, fun sunnies never hurt, right? Here's my philosophy: When in doubt = add shades! (I posted a confession on my Instagram account about my 'Shade' collection...)

Notice I added a blue clutch, mainly because I tend to like for my clothes and accessories to match. Oh, and blinged bangles! Ah yes, the little details.

Unfortunately it's time to say 'Until next time' beauties! If you'd like to see more #ThriftStoreScores click here or you may click the tab near the header of this page.

Thanks for stopping by & and I look forward to reading your comments below!
Joi

Sunnies: Betsey Johnson, worn here

Statement necklace: Natasha, Nordstrom

Clutch: MMS, worn here

Oxfords: Tildon, also worn here

So Fresh & So Clean: White on White

Wouldn't you agree that nothing says "Summertime" quite like an all white ensemble?!

The crisp and clean feel that exudes from wearing all white is unmatched in my opinion.

I felt wonderfully cool and comfortable in this two piece set made of viscose with a hint of elasticity. It was a perfect compliment to an evening with friends.

To maintain a crisp look yet introduce an added touch of glam, I added jeweled accessories via a statement necklace and embellished jelly sandals.

This look elicited a surprising number of compliments. The dress and leggings are currently available for purchase online at eurostyleplus.com. See here and  here.

I first discovered EuroStyle+ on Twitter, and was intrigued by their unique selection of European styled clothing.

Shipping was hassle free, and both items arrived promptly. I was instantly impressed as I removed the dress from it's wrapping with the luxurious softness of the fabric and the intricate lace detail that lines the bottom hem.

While wearing it I discovered effortless drape and essential breathable attributes amidst soaring summer temperatures.

I'm head over heels for this look, and so look forward to wearing it again ;) Please do tell, are you a fan of white on white ensembles?

Have a wonderful weekend lovelies!

Sunnies: Betsey Johnson

Statement necklace: Nordstrom

Rimini dress: EuroStyle+ (gifted), available here

Rimini leggings: EuroStyle+ (gifted), available here

Embellished sandals: Impo

Clutch: Kate Spade

*This post includes gifted item(s) from EuroStyle+. All shared viewpoints are 100% authentically mine.