Hello Lovelies!!!

It's been a little while! Apologies. I've been doing a lot of behind the scenes work and I just needed to take a break from blogging/social media for a bit due to the recent chain of events happening in America. I am deeply saddened and hurt at the state of our country and the amount of senseless violence, racism, and hatred that still runs so rampant through some people's veins. I truly struggled with whether to resume blogging so soon or give things a break for awhile because my heart wasn't completely in it 100%. I never want to be forced to plaster on a fake smile and pretend to be loving life in pictures when our community is hurting and going through such a trying time.

I'm not one of those bloggers that will ever be afraid to use my platform to speak up, say what's on my mind and bring awareness to real issues, especially social injustice. I know some people are worried about messing up their pretty little instagram feed or possibly losing sponsors/collaborations and such but honestly that will never be my concern. My authenticity and what's going on in our community means a lot more to me than all of the other foo foo blogger things. There's more to life than our pretty little dresses or amazing shoes we found on sale.

What's currently happening in America truly affects the way we live, our freedom, safety, and our communities. Humanity and equal respect/justice for all is so worth standing up for and fighting for. However, we choose to do so. Whether it's marching/protesting, getting more involved in our communities, signing petitions to force change regarding the way our police officers are policed. The killing of police officers IS NOT the answer. This method will only make matters worse. You can't heal hate with hate. And I want to be very clear, ALL COPS ARE NOT BAD!!! However, the bad cops need to be held accountable for their actions. Police officers should not be above the law. They should be held to the same guidelines, laws, and standards, as all U.S. citizens. There needs to possibly be some type of multi-cultural training, so they understand all black men aren't violent and a threat. This poisonous mindset continues to rear it's ugly and racist head in our communities and it's time for a CHANGE. How many lives have to be lost at the hands of bad/racist policing? When is enough, enough?!

I have a husband, father, brothers, cousins, etc. and it scares me to think that they too can easily fall victim to police terror. Unfortunately, we need to educate our black sons and men on how to interact with police officers. Comply, even if in your heart you know the officer is utilizing their power as an intimidation tactic...just be polite as possible and diffuse the situation as much as possible. Do not make any sudden movements, keep your hands visible at all times and if you're going to reach for your registration, license, etc. make sure you are very clear in communicating this to the officer, so there are no misconceptions. This obviously isn't fool proof, hence, Philando Castile. However, I am still hopeful that we can come together and turn things back around. I believe that the healing and breaking of chains and barriers starts with love and unity. One of the two most important factors in healing and of course, God! Can't do it or get through it without his grace and mercy.  Hoping you all have a blessed week! XOXO

The Styling:

I wore the above look to an outdoor concert. It's pretty reminiscent of the 90's era. Although, I'm not 100% midriff ready, I decided to show a slither of skin as this crop top is loose and flowy. Actually flowy, cool, and comfortable were all of the things I had in mind when putting this look together. I knew I would be outside and possibly doing a lot of standing/dancing, so I wanted to create a look that worked in that setting. 

Ensemble Deets:

Pants-T.J. Maxx(purchased a couple of years ago)

Top-Boohoo(purchased last summer)

Sandals-Aldo

Fringe Purse-Aldo

Choker-F21

Bangles-Thrifted

Hoop Earrings-Aldo

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