My new inspiration...

Very rarely do I see women who look like me on the TV screen being recognized for the work that they do. So you can't even imagine how shocked and excited to learn about such an amazing woman like Sr. Ameena Matthews. Seeing empowered beautiful black Muslim women, who is dedicated to changing the world, one conflict at a time. And having such a strong and powerful black man by her side, who allows her to be her crazy self, I just love it. Ameena was recently presented an award at Black Girls Rock. Take a look at the things she endures on an everyday basis, but she keeps going.

While other girls have Beyonce and Rihanna up on their walls, women who are only known for their beautiful voices and flaunting their bodies. I am obsessing over strong, beautiful, empowered women who have dedicated their lives to making a difference in the world like Ameena Matthews, Janelle Monae, Lauryn Hill, Afena Shakur, and Nikki Giovanni. Women who want to be apart of the solution and not the problem.

While I have nothing against Rihanna and Beyonce, I just wish they used the influence and the platforms that they have to stand up for things that go on in the world. Beyonce does put out self empowering music, but when you back door and put music about your marital bed, or the lack there of, which message do you think young girls will listen to more? Standing up for what we believe in and who we are? Or pleasing a man, which is preached on every other media outlet. We all still have our humanly rights to make the world a better place. And I just don't value women who sit at home and don't contribute their voices in society. Just my opinion. You don't have to agree.

=)

Breathe...

I've noticed that I have felt so unmotivated, tired, stressed, and cranky lately. Today was simply not going my way at all. I just want to go back to bed and cry my eyes out, but I know that isn't an option. Then, some how I ended up on YouTube and I started watching this video that Tracee Ellis Ross made and it turned my entire day around.

I simply love her. First, her smile, crazy personality, and big hair made me cheer up a bit. Then when I started listening to her message, it turned my entire day around. So I thought I would share. Enjoy! (=

Kindergarten all over again...

We were all beautifully created, but sometimes completely different. I know there have been many situations where you and your friend purchased a similar item or outfit, but it looks amazing on one of you and like a prune in the other. That's because everyones uniquely beautiful figures that have to be catered to specifically. What might look very good on me, might look very bad on you. And vice versa. This is why it's very important to know how to dress for your body type. That way you can always look good ;)

I'll give a brief explanation of each shape, and 3 tips on how to dress for your body type.
Please note that there are slimmer and fuller versions of each shape.


1. Pear shape: If you your lower body measurements are generally larger than your upper body, then you have a pear shape. Generally, you'll have a smaller bust and narrow shoulders with bigger hips and thighs. You'll want to focus on your upper half, and tone down your bottom half.

• Show off your tiny waist with a thin belt across the smallest part.
• Wear skirts with front pleats. A-line skirts also work great as they make the waist look small, and takes the attention off your hips by skimming over them.
• Be wary of the length of your clothes. Choose jackets that cut off above the hip line for a flattering look.

Celebrities with this shape: Rihanna

2. Oval/Apple shape: Your body frame is generally heavy. You'll probably have an ample bust, rounded tummy, and slimmer hips. You'll want to put focus on creating a waist, and drawing attention to your lower half, and away from your upper body.

• Use structured, tailored jackets to give definition to your upper body and show off good shoulders. Look for single-breasted versions with one or two buttons.
• Use clothes to sculpt your midriff, so it looks less like an apple and more like an apple core.
• Opt for an A-line skirt - a full skirt will make the waist line look smaller.

Celebrities with this shape: Queen Latifah

3. Rectangle/Sporty shape: With this body shape, you have slight curves, but your waist is not clearly defined. Some like to compare this shape with that of a 13 year old boy, but I digress. You should put emphasis on creating a waist.

• Look for feminine details in your clothes to soften any hard lines. Ruffles on tops will work wonders.
• Give the illusion of a waistline - pull it in with a waist-cinching belt.
• Asymmetric necklines are great as they draw the eyeline away from the shoulders.

Celebrities with this shape: Gwyneth Paltrow

 4. Inverted Triangle shape: When your shoulders are wider than your hips. You may have a flat bottom, narrow hips, with broad shoulders. You should focus on your lower half in order to create a wider hip and waist.

• Use block colours on outer garments and avoid any details on the shoulders as this can make you look bulkier.
• Print can help add bulk and volume to your lower half, drawing the focus away from a broader upper body.
• Add width to the hip line with asymmetric garments or waistcoats to help balance out broader shoulders.

Celebrities with this shape: Demi Moore

5. Hourglass shape: Your body shape is basically an hourglass, hence the name. The measurements of your bust and hips are pretty much the same. If you've got an ample bust, curvy hips and a defined, slimmer waist, you are definately an hourglass.

• You can wear any shape skirt, but the pencil skirt is the most flattering on you.
• Straight-legged jeans that skim your thighs and are cropped at the ankle work well for you. Bootcut jeans will balance your curves - look for darker shades and ones with large pockets on the bum.
• Use draping to your advantage. Not only will it accentuate your curves - look for diagonal draping from the waist to hip area - but it will also disguise the tummy area.

Celebrities with this shape: Beyonce