Christian Siriano

May 11, 2016 by Jami Jaye

Hello lovers!!

I was invited this past Monday to the United Nations (yes....the U.N.) for a fashion show featuring the new collection from Christian Siriano and Lane Bryant. I have been told about how LB throws a good event, so I was super stoked to see the show. Not only were our fav models Precious, Denise, and Ashley walked, but some awesome bloggers (Gabi, Rhea, and Beck), and the super talented Danielle Brooks (aka Taystee). Enough chatter, here are some pics. (Shoutout to Georgette who took these because I was in a middle seat)

I definitely wanted to represent, so I went with the mesh moto (because we all know I love a good moto) which worked out great because it got really hot while we were out on the terrace. Looking good while feeling good, a win win for me!! Back in the S16 LB preview, I was in love with this zip pencil skirt, and I will tell you why. It's high waisted, so you can wear a crop top (like I did), and you are still covered while feeling sexy. The zig zag print makes an impact and the material is soft and stretchy. I wanted a pop of color, so I wore my Christian Siriano shades, and tribal necklace. I wore my favorite sandals from Report Signature, and these are definitely a must have ladies. The heel is completely easy to walk in (they are not even 3 inches) and the fringe and t-strap make them super sexy.

After the fashion show, there was the Empowering Women NYC Luncheon. Susan Moses created this event to celebrate body inclusivity and diversity. As she, Linda Heasly (CEO of Lane Bryant), Cindi Leive (Glamour Editor in Chief) talked about where we were versus where we are headed when it comes to body diversity (there has been a shift in the pendulum, but I know there can be so much more). I completely lost it, when I saw Ms Jill Scott walk into the room and sat at the table next to us. She has been that "friend in my head" since 1999 when I found out she wrote the hook to "You Got Me". If you never heard her live, you need to get your life and go see here this summer (trust me I will be in the building this summer in Brooklyn. Ms Jlill graced us with a poem, and you can check it out on my IG. Mikki Taylor who I grew up to while reading Essence magazine since about the age of 5 or so, gave a moving speech about diversification and her mission to bring us to the forefront. I did get a chance to chat with Christian about some of pieces that went down the runway (Danielle's yellow dress for one), and he said that there will be a vote and those that have the highest vote will be turned into a capsule collection that we can buy. So ladies, definitely make sure you vote!!! There was a panel with Christian Siriano, Danielle Brooks, Liz Black, Philomena Kwao, and Mark FIna. Emme & Ashley Graham spoke, and so many more. It was an amazing day, and it was great to see my fellow boo's and meet new ones!! Thank you Susan Moses, Christian Siriano and Lane Bryant for an amazing event!!

Safari

May 04, 2016 by Jami Jaye

When it comes to my style, I always go for classics with a bit of a twist. While stuck in the house due to crappy weather, I do what I do best- online surfing and shopping. While browsing Tar-jay, I came across this cute shift dress from the Who What Wear Collection. Olive green is a seasonless color and I love wearing it in the Spring because it makes me feel like I'm off on a safari, when I am basically just walking around the Bronx. Back to the dress- first off it's only $35! It's a mid-weight material with a little stretch, so it skims your curves. I am wearing the 2X. I wanted it to fit, but I did not want it to be tight (especially on my hips). It does wrinkle, so I suggest a good steaming prior to throwing it on. This is one of those dresses you can wear anywhere. I can wear this to work with a long line vest, running errands with a pair of sneakers, or after work cocktails.

Olive green is what I like to call an enhancing color, you can pair it with a lot neutrals and it brings out the richness of whatever else you are wearing. The sepia color of the jacket looks richer due to muted color of the dress. This jacket was bought last Fall, but I still wear it with all my denim looks and other neutrals. Mines is from Eloquii and it's sold out, but I did find an alternative. My Lili ankle wrap heels are still in heavy rotation...they are currently 40% off so definitely check them out. What do you think lovers? Is this outfit fit for the urban jungle lol?

Introducing Boutique+

May 02, 2016 by Jami Jaye

Boutique+ is a new concept from JC Penney, providing curated trendy pieces for the plus size woman. I had the pleasure of attending the fashion show at their flagship on 34th street hosted by Season 14 Winner Ashley Nell Tipton. Tipton is the brand ambassador for this new concept as well as the emcee for the show. She looked amazing in her sequined jacket (hopefully from her upcoming collection) and skirt. Enough chatting, let's get to the pictures of the lovely ladies rocking the latest.

My favorites from the show were the jacket & skirts. I am in love with the neon pink moto, the mesh bomber, and all the skirts. I am a big fan of color, so seeing all the neon made my day. I can definitely see myself wearing these to work and then meeting up with the boo's for some afterwork drinks. I did get a chance to try some of the items, and the fit is definitely generous in the skirts. I'm able to size down to a 14 or 0X in most. I did order some items, so stay tuned lovers!

Marimekko

April 27, 2016 by Jami Jaye

Hello lovers!! The latest & greatest Target Style collaboration was with the Finnish textile company Marimekko. Their attention grabbing prints are perfect now that we are finally in Spring. Most of the collection consisted of swimsuits, and cover ups, and since I have enough swimsuits (yes there is such a thing), I decided to go with the Appelsiini top. I like that is a loose fit. Boxy tops are becoming a staple in my wardrobe. I can easily wear this with a skirt or ankle pants and wear them to work, or with a pair of skinnies. Since this didn't have any stretch, I went with a 2X.

I have been giving a lot of different denim brands a try over the past couple of months. One brand that I stayed away from was Levi. Years back, I tried on a pair of their plus size jeans, and they did not fit great. There is nothing worse than having a pair of jeans that fit in the thighs and butt to only have the waist so big that you see nothing but your underwear is no bueno. Macy's was having a Levi event asking women to try on their new fits in plus size. I figured, what's the worse thing that can happen- and I went ahead and tried on their relaxed fit, jeggings, and shaping denim. The shaping skinny could have come up a bit higher on my waist, but they did look great on. The relaxed fit jeans come up higher on your waist, but they only come in bootcut and straight leg. The jegging was my favorite. The waistband is comfortable on my waist, and the jeans are stretchy but did not stretch out. They were nice and snug all day.

Last week, I wrote about my visit to the Tanger Outlet. When I was there I picked up this cute little crossbody from Kate Spade. I am big fan of the brand, especially their accessories. I can always find something awesome in pink, and this bag was the perfect size. It holds everything without all the bulk. The bag is only available in the outlet stores (sorry!!!). I am completely obsessed with lace up shoes, and these flats were perfect. I love cobalt blue - you can wear it with everything. These flats will be in heavy rotation trust me. Have you tried Marimekko? If so, tell me what you think?

Bzzzzzz

April 25, 2016 by Jami Jaye

Another gorgeous weekend in NYC calls for shorter hems. My love for one and done dressing goes into overdrive once the temps warm up. First I was all about dresses, then jumpsuits, now I love me a good romper. It's definitely an item that reads sweet, but it can be sexy. I saw this romper a while ago online and the geometric pattern caught my eye.

When it comes to fit, I tend to go up a size in rompers. When it comes to my jumpsuits and rompers, the fit in my legs are what's most important to me. I do not want my legs to look trapped or what I like to call "sausage casing legs". There is nothing worse than super tight shorts. As soon as you walk they hike up and you just look uncomfortable. The romper gave off a cute but sexy vibe, great for date night. I paired the romper with my favorite moto from Who What Wear. I love this moto. It's faux leather and lightweight. It's keeps when warm when it's breezy, but still keeps me cool. My sandals are my new favorite from Vince Camuto. Strappy heels like the Kathin are statements makers. I love the tassels and the bold color. These heels are only two inches, so it makes them perfect for a night out. If you are looking for a good strappy sandal definitely give these a try. They also come in coral, black, and nude. Only thing left is a great statement necklace and you are ready to go. Enjoy lovers!!