Make Everyday Your Runway

Full Figured Fashion Week was last week, and I was able to attend the Make Everyday Your Runway sponsored by Fit For Me. The invitation only event was hosted by stylist Denise Caldwell. She hosted a mini fashion show showing off the latest from Fit For Me. She took different pieces from Fit For Me to show us how you can incorporate them into your everyday life. Granted when you think of Fit For Me you only think of underwear, but now they have added activewear, and the styles are super cute. 

Our lovely models for the evening.

Our first model in the blue dress wore the new seamless undies to show off a smooth silhouette. The second model wore a sheer dress, but had on their new seamless cami & undies to provide nice coverage. The third model wore pieces from their active line, to show how you can go from the gym to drinks for a fun athleisuire vibe. Our next model, took the ever so soft tee and paired it with a cute metallic skirt. Finally, the last model wore Fit For Me's new joggers and dressed them up with a cute off the shoulder top and a gingham kimono. I definitely will be checking out the tops and joggers. I love taking athleisuire pieces and dressing them up. 

Taking pics with Fit For Me Ambassador Essie Golden.

While at the event, I got a chance to check out all of their latest product. Their seamless panty collection as well as their breathable line. I have both and I have no complaints. In the warmer months, I wear the breathable underwear more because no one and I mean no one wants to be hot and bothered. 

I definitely made sure to take pictures of their new athletic line. Granted the colors are what attracted me to the collection, but the fabrics feel so amazing against the skin. The tee's are currently in my cart because when I find a super soft tee, it must be mine. (Confessions of a shopaholic, but hey, it's all good)

The event was held at the Loft Studios in Lower Manhattan. The space has access to the rooftop with a bar. I enjoyed the signature cocktail while catching up with my blogger boo's. The signature cocktail (I so forgot the name) was delicious, it was  made of sorbet and champagne.  It was a hot day in NYC, but evening events allow for a great breeze so sitting outside made this gal happy. 

It's always good to get out and socialize and meet bloggers from out of town that come to enjoy NYC for FFF Week. Seeing all the lovely ladies always brightens up my spirits. Definitely stay tuned to the blog because now that summer is in full swing this blogger will be out and about enjoy what the city has to offer!

Vinateria

Brunch, the most important meal of the day. This is first of many outings with fellow blogger Gasparillo Junction. If you have not heard of Leigh- Ann, she is an amazing food blogger. Her recipes are for those that are cooking for one, and they are always soo pretty. Her presentation skills are on 1000. Looking at her photography, you would think these recipes are not for mere mortals, but they are. For the longest, we wanted to collaborate, and what way than to feature black owned or women owned restaurants in NYC. We are definitely looking forward to sharing all the great spots across the city, as well as show off our best brunch attire. 

First up is Vinateria in Harlem. This cozy restaurant is located on 119th and Frederick Douglass aka Harlem Restaurant Row. The area has boomed with great places to eat, and Vinateria is one of them. Once I arrived we were greeted by the owner Yvette Leeper- Bueno. Ever the gracious host, she seated us herself and made sure we were taken care of. She is an amazing person, and her restaurant is a reflection of such. 

Vinateria Brunch Menu

APPETIZERS

We started off with the Crispy Calamari and Bacalao Croquettes. The Calamari was served with a Romesco Sauce (which is a nut & pepper sauce from Northern Spain which is best with fish). This was the best calamari I had in a while. It had the perfect crunch, and the with the sauce it gave it the right amount of kick. 

Calamari with the Romesco Sauce from Vinateria. 

Now this appetizer surprised me. I'm usually about my whiting, flounder, and salmon, but the Bacalao Croquettes were yummy. The Lemon Aioli sauce that is drizzled over them, made them too pretty to eat. To be honest, it only took us about 1 minute of admiring how pretty they were before we dove in. This blogger has been trying new things, and I must say it is paying off. I would have never thought to order this dish (Thanks Leigh-Ann) and it was soo good. 

Bacalao Croquettes

Bacalao Croquettes

ENTREE

The restaurant is known for their Italian & Spanish culinary dishes, and the Black Spaghetti is a cult favorite. Now I know what you are thinking, spaghetti on a Brunch menu? It has been such a hit of the restaurant, it was requested to be added as a brunch item. It was recommended and so she tried it, and she was not disappointed. The portion was just right, and once again gorgeous presentation. The Black Spaghetti is served with octopus and breadcrumbs. The Spaghetti is made in house with squid ink. Even though pasta is always viewed as a heavy meal, Leigh-Ann was not stuffed to the point of explosion. The pasta was cooked to perfection and it was just the right size to have her belly full and happy.

Black Spaghetti with Octopuss & Breadcrumbs

I went with the Steak & Eggs. Now anyone that knows me, I am all about pancakes for brunch, but I was in the mood for a good ole steak. My steak came with eggs, potatoes, and mixed greens. Everything was cooked to my liking, and I chowed down. When it comes to my eggs, I in no way shape or form like my eggs runny and these were done just the way I like them- well & fluffy. The potatoes were soo good, I definitely would just order a side of them when I come and visit. My steak was flavorful and the sauce it came with really brought out all the flavor in the steak. I definitely recommend the steak and eggs for anyone looking for a great, traditional brunch meal.

Steak & Eggs with Pimenton Potatoes

All the brunch items have an option of a mimosa, bloody mary, juice or coffee/tea. I went with the mimosa- like come on is it really considered brunch without one? They have a great wine and cocktail list. Once the weather gets better, I definitely want to come back to their Happy Hour and try some spirits. 

The restaurant had a great atmosphere, and best of all they take reservations. It's busy, but not like most restaurants on a Sunday where you have to wait over an hour for a table, then when you sit down they are rushing you out for the next patron. We were able to sit, chat, people watch, and just enjoy the nice Spring weather. If you are in the mood for a great meal for $35 a person, then definitely head to Vinateria. They also have an amazing bar filled with great Tequila options. Leigh-Ann was able to get an interview with the General Manager, so definitely head to Gasparillo Junction to read all about the restaurant. 

So if you are in Harlem, please, please, please stop into this great restaurant! Support!

Black Fashion Designers

Hey there!!!

A hobby of mine is attending museums. I love a good exhibit, and the latest from Fashion Institute of Technology is a must see. Their latest exhibit: Black Fashion Designers features some known and unknown Black Designers over the years. Don't let the size of the space fool you, there is a lot of inspiration, culture, and plenty of "I did not know that". What's cool about the exhibit is that it is fully interactive with an online tour/listening tour narrated by Andre Leon Talley (Vogue's Contributing Editor) and it features pieces from Tracey Reece, Sean John, Cross Colours, and Mimi Plange. 

Here are some of the cool facts from the exhibit, because sharing is caring

  • Jackie Kennedy's wedding dress was created by Ann Lowe
  • The iconic Playboy Bunny outfit was designed by Zelda Wynn Valdes
  • Sean John won the CFDA Men's Designer of the Year Award in 2004

Black History Month is in full effect and getting a chance to see our contributions in the fashion industry was definitely needed. With the state of country, and just all the craziness we are witnessing, this exhibit took my mind off the negative to celebrate all that we have accomplished. The accomplishments and contributions we have made in fashion and endless. The way we can intertwine our culture, surroundings, and our unique style into a garment is purely fascinating to me. If you are in NYC go check out the exhibit. If you are visiting NYC, DEFINITELY check out the exhibit. Black Fashion Designers from the Fashion Institute of Technology is available until May 16th. Enjoy lovers!!!!