REVIVAL

It’s been a very up and down birthday month for me. It started off rocky, with the loss of an extraordinary human spirit, that I didn’t think would hit me hard but it did. I already questioned the world as we know it, but recent events had truly left me dazed. Time waits for no man. So you have to live your truth while you still have breath in you. Whatever that truth means to you. We all have layers of truth that encompass us and make us who we are. So be kind and be just. What you give this world is what you'll get back. My birthday is always my official “new year” and the perfect time to reflect. It’s a reminder of the ticking clock and how much time you’ve already spent here. And the daunting question crosses your mind: What did you give back? I realize I’ve been living in fear. Fear of not truly finding my purpose, fear of loss and fear of the unknown. However, you can’t stress about things you can’t control, but you always have control of yourself. “Energy is time, and time is everything.” And while I’m still breathing I’m going to truly live, while also reviving my spirit one outfit at a time.

COVERGIRL

Inspired by the many recent magazine covers that have been graced with the faces of beautiful Black women, I decided to do my own version. Who doesn't want to feel beautiful? I am still building my confidence in front of the camera especially without makeup, but I wanted to show me being comfortable in my own skin. One is so vulnerable in front of a camera, essentially baring a piece of your soul. Models deserve a little more credit. There is a certain type of patience and assurance in one's self to take photos in front of a camera, without knowing the results. I didn't want my cover version to be glamorous (even though I love the glitz), but at the end of the day I am an easy-going gal, so I wanted my photos to showcase that: effortless with a touch of drama. The drama came from my electric blue eyeliner and ruffled top; however, the eyeliner stole the show in my opinion! My smizing game is not on auntie Tyra's level yet, so the eyeliner saved my eyes from looking completely flat. My cover story would be about self-love, confidence, style and a young woman still finding herself in this world.

GARDEN PARTY

Although it is not as formal or as bright as typical garden party attire, this is my interpretation of a serene "garden party" look. Even in its simplicity, it still exudes elegance. Earth-tone pieces are a favorite of mine, especially when detailed designs are added to highlight the piece in order to keep it from looking dull or flat. This tie-knot dress was no exception; it's an item that looks just as good on the hanger as it does on the female form. Bringing subtle shapes and curves to my slim frame, the knot gives the illusion of a smaller waist. To spice up my look I added these dazzling, geometric earrings, which are a statement piece in and of themselves, and my blood orange mules. This look was inspired by my experience in this garden space, as well as gardens throughout my life. Serenity. Safety. Solitude. I've always loved gardens. Their vibrancy. Their tranquility. Everyone that I have ever observed tend to their garden, did it with such love and care. A subtle lesson of how we should treat ourselves and others. Since turning 25 a couple of months ago, I've been experiencing consistent inner peace more than ever; these captured moments are an external reflection of my current inner being.

MEADOW

The concept was "Little House on the Prairie" meets fashion campaign. My vision for this look were woodsy fields, wild hair, bold eyes and a setting sun. Before my idea developed, I found this sheer polka dot dress in Zara a couple of months ago. Sheer clothing isn't what I usually gravitate to, but I was really drawn to this piece for its frilly shape toward the bottom an the red polka dots. At first I wasn't quite sure how I was going to style it, but I wanted it in my closet. To keep the red polka dots the main focus, I added a nude dress that closely matched with the material for a seamless look. For a bit of edge my leather boots were the perfect fit, which added to the balance between hard and soft in this shoot. Overall, I feel my vision came out better than I imagined.