Are You Your Bag?

I had to ask myself this question today. This weekend I went to North Carolina and Georgia to see my girls and when I was packing opted to leave my Fendi Mama Baguette that I got a couple of years ago and took two other bags instead. This morning while looking in my garage for goodies (my mothers clothing from the 80's) my father told me that my sisters car got broken into because she left her bag on the seat. For whatever reason my Fendi Bag popped into my head. 

Being that this occurred yesterday morning, I was almost confident that it couldn't be my bag as she would have told me. After searching my room like a manic then hers and finding no bag, a deep yet bitter despair came over me that my beloved bag was indeed gone. I called my sister at work to find out if she had my bag and she said yes, I then asked was it stolen she replied yes. I just hung up the phone.

I was pissed as I know how I scored the bag on sale for almost 60% off it's retail price, and used my hard earned money to purchase it. I was also pissed because she did not ask me, she was careless for leaving a bag in the car for 10-15 mins in plain sight, and did not inform me when it was stolen.

So as I sit here pissed looking for a Fendi outlet or online on Yoox for a replacement because it's several seasons old; I'm asking myself if I am my bag. And the sad answer at this moment is yes. I loved that bag, and I honestly now know that I need to not become too attached to material things and the value I give them. I'm upset as my bag collection really is lacking and instead of getting a new bag this season, I'll be searching for a replacement of the exact bag hopefully I'll find one (say Amen)... 

In the meantime, the store 'My Sister's Closet' is closed!

So are you your bag? or you shoes? or your clothes? If so, try to not place such big attachments to material possessions because it'll end up making you angry if you loose them or something happens to them. When you in the end can do nothing about it. Besides when we die none of these worldly things will follow us into heaven. Say RIP to my Fendi Mama Baguette Bag.

3's a Charm

Good Morning everyone!! I hope you had a fabulous weekend! I just want to take the time out to thank everyone who came for my blogger sale this weekend! It was great seeing many old and new faces in the DMV! Didn't get in on the mix. I'll be continuing the sale this upcoming week. Yes and everything is still only $5.00 (shoes excluded). 

Now, I have been blogging for 3 years! I cannot tell you how much fun I've had blogging, how much I've grown in regards to what I wear, how I shop, the fabulous people I've met and how I save money on getting items I covet. It seems my style really hasn't changed much over the years...I am still very much simple and classic with a tomboy twist every now and again. Hey if something isn't broken don't fix it right?

 OLDER OUTFIT POSTS:

POSTS FROM THE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS:

So there you have it; some photos of my style over the last three years!! Thank you to everyone that has supported the blog since then! Cheers to many more fabulous post and successful years of blogging!! Toodles!

Custom Update: Jewelry Steals

I have loved Jewelry since I was a teenager and I don't think that will ever change. I love it even more when I find Amazing pieces for a steal. Here a some lovely pieces that will spruce up any outfit and are also pocket friendly...all items are £25/ $50 or less!

New Look Gold Lion Head Necklace (here), River Island Black Fabric Backed Statement Necklace (here), ASOS Gold Emblem Earrings on sale (here), ASOS Frog Drop Earrings on sale (here), ASOS REVIVE Doublepack Mismatch Hero Rings on sale (here), ASOS Jewel Geo Dangle Tribal Earrings (here), Hive and Honey Multi-Layer Chain Necklace (here), River Island Gold Tone Tiger Head Statement Necklace (here). 

Topshop Treasures

I remember when I was a student at Howard, I absolutely LOVED shopping in London during holidays or spring breaks! Yes I didn't always go somewhere hot during my Spring Breaks sometimes I went to London, weird I know. One shop I made sure I always went to was Topshop! Years later, I now live in the UK nothing has changed. I still love Topshops' quirky, eccentric, trendy and very British statement pieces.

Celebrities also can't get enough of Topshop! Everyone from Beyonce, Ciara, Kelis, Keyshia Cole, The Satruday's, Solange, Kate Moss, Kelly Rowland, Serena Williams just to name a few, wear Topshop as well! As I have gotten older, I love the Boutique and Unique Brands of Topshop, and their jewelry continues to be nothing short of AMAZING! 

Here are some current Topshop Treasures that have caught my eye:

Knitted Croc Front Sweater (here),  Heavy Crepe Biker Jacket (here), Cut-Out Triangle Collar Necklace (here), Dutchess Satin Skater Dress (here),  Gatsby Snake Shoe Ghilles Shoes (here), Metallic Foil Tee (here), Navy Blue Vinyl Pencil Skirt (here), Warrior Clutch (here). 

Purple Reign

Topshop has a vast variety of lovely colorful coats to feed this seasons color coat trend. I have been trying to find a nice purple vintage coat, but this coat is icing on the cake and I see me purchasing it... as soon as it goes on sale, you know I'm planning a wedding...

Topshop Purple Wool Coat (here), Mango Striped Dress (here), Purple GunMetal Necklace (here), Suede Alexandre Birman Boots (here) alternative (here), Oliver Bonas Blue Alesksei T-Shaped Bag (here), Noir Jewelry Earrings (here).

If you live in the DMV area don't forget about tomorrow's Closet Clearout it's an event you won't want to miss!!!

Closet Clearout Yard Sale

Hello everyone, I spent the weekend going through my clothing in the States, my sisters as well, and we're going to have a closet clear out. I have a variety of sizes form size 4 to size 14 and 16 (US sizing), shoes and accessories as well. It will be from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at my house in Bowie Maryland. 

All items will be $5.00 and below (with the exception of a variety of designer items for example Fendi bags and Gucci Vintage heels.). I also have for sale, past SouL BoutiQue tee shirt designs, Ankara Clutches, Vintage Blouses,Dresses as well and Ankara Dresses. Yes All for only $5.00!!!!

So come this Saturday to my Closet Clear Out Stateside and grab yourself many fabulous bargains from my closet with all items being $5.00 and below!  Because once it's gone it's gone!

Note: I'll be posting items in clear-out on Instagram throughout the week!

Don't Sweat Me

Finding unique items that go with trends is invigorating. This sweatshirt right here, is beyond amazing and the price tag is unreal (under $50.00)!! I also love how it encompasses so many current trends and looks astounding; giving a Micheal Van Der Ham vibe. Here's how I'd wear it!

Boutique Bella Feather Knit Sweatshirt (here), New Look Pyramid Stud Grab Clutch (here), Gogo Phillip Classic Chunky Chain Bracelet (here), ASOS XL Chain Link Necklace (here), Zara Legging Styled Trousers (here), Gianvito Rossi Pumps (here). 

So are you feeling this sweatshirt or is it too much?

P.s. I want to sincerely say THANK YOU! To everyone that has reached out to me and your kind words of encouragement. It has really helped me during this past week. I am nothing short of grateful and I pray God blesses you in any and every way possible to taking the time out to say words of encouragement to me!
~Aghogho

Faith and Fear

Today I got some news that broke my spirit and made me wonder why God allows what's happening in my life to occur. I don't often speak about what's going on in my life, but when things happen two or three times against your hard work and will it can be very depressing and spirit shattering. No matter what happens in my life I know God has my back, as hard as it is for me to believe that at the present moment, it's all I have to lean on. So keep me in your prayers and everyone have a fantastic weekend.

I got these lovely Gap checkered pants a couple of weeks ago on sale and with free shipping. You know I love a bargain and they fit like a glove and feel amazing. I hope printed trousers never go out of style!

I don't think I'll ever get tired of this ZFSowho Vintage CZech Necklace. You can purchase them (here).

Outfit Details: Cos Navy Long Sleeved Tee similar (here), Gap Checkered Trousers (here) and Love these (here), Fendi Mamma Bag Similar on sale (here), Christian Louboutin Pigalles (here) + (here). 

Adam's Brunch

My Ace came into town this weekend and we went for Brunch in Adam's Morgan on Sunday, it's amazing how gentrification has changed the District so much. Adam's Morgan looks so different from what I remember when I was at Howard. Nonetheless, I had an amazing time catching up with her and informing her on my wedding plans and the process. I must say I have missed American food, but the weight it seems I've put on has to go!!! Gotta snap back soon!

Outfit Details: Zara Top (here), Cos Trousers (here), Mother's Vintage Scarf similar (here), Vintage Foster Grant Shades, Vintage ZFSowho Earrings shop (here), Fendi Bag similar on sale (here) and Salvatore Ferragamo Varina's similar (here) + (here).

Sorry for the lack of photos since I've arrived in the States. I have been trying vigorously to secure a new venue and it has been nothing short of time consuming and stressful, trying to stick to my budget and liaising with family. In the end, it'll all work out! I hope you're having a great week thus far!

Now Playing: TLC - 'Baby Baby Baby' 

Color me Green

My favorite color is green and I love the trend of colorful coats this season. I personally want a purple coat but I can't seem to find one of my choice anywhere. In the meantime, I think Green coats are a fantastic addition to your winter coat collection. Yes you should have a winter coat + jacket collection, changing your coat every other day allows you to consistently wear basics and look amazing without any fuss.

So Color me Green with these lovely coats. 

Karen Miller Compact Tweed Fitted Pod Coat (here), Topshop Wool Boyfriend Coat (here), Aspesi Green Coat (here), Ted Baker Mohair Coat (here), Ganni Woman's Coat (here), Roberto Collina Women Coat (here), + Day Birger et Mikkelsen (here). 

Now Playing: Drake - 'Own It'

Blue Distractions

I am currently visiting my family in the DMV, I landed yesterday evening (jetlag is something else!). It feels weird saying I'm visiting the States, as years before this was all I knew and all I thought I ever wanted to know. However, after purchasing a house with the fiance, and living in the UK for the last several years, I've come to terms that the UK will now be called home. Nonetheless, when I was packing, I opted to pack less prints and more simple/monochrome pieces that will be easy to mix, as I will be in the DMV for almost two months. 

Simple outfits are my forte lately, thus adding accessories that are the same color add a different feel to an overall outfits mood. I love blue items lately and purchased a plain Navy Blue Long sleeve blouse and trousers from COS before taking off (the COS sale at the moment is amazing!) and know I'll wear them with a simple coat with a loud statement necklace! I love this Nicole Romano Statement necklace, it is everything!!!

Topshop Boyfriend Checkered Light Coat (here), Zara High Neck Blouse (here), Topshop Modern Tailoring Trousers (here), Topshop Khan2 Loafers (here), Nicole Romano Crystal Wrapped Aurora Borealis Glass Drop Necklace (here), Bright Bit Patent Leather Gucci Shoulder Bag (here), ASOS Earrrings Gorjana TearDrop Studs (here). 

P.s. I am thinking of having a fall clear out at my house next weekend as I have so many nice items that I sadly need to get rid of in the States. I am thinking of selling everything for $5.00-$10.00 and nothing over, I am thinking of having it with another blogger or two, thus details will be given by Monday.

Now Playing - The Foreign Exchange - 'Call it Home' 

Next Step

I have been residing in London for about a year and a half now after graduation and as much as I am not a fan of London. Don't get me wrong I love the fashion and night life; however, I despise: the crowded tubes during rush hour, how the central line seems to always randomly shut down on my way to work, the unruly children and tweens (which is why I avoid taking the bus on school days no matter how beautiful the weather), people are generally rude (we Americans are so much more forthcoming and nicer) and I spend way too much money on Oxford Street. Living 15 mins from Oxford Street is not a good thing...thus my bank account will breathe a sigh of relief!

Yesterday, I went for a walk with my friend to catch up. As she left I realized as much I may not love London like I used to, but I will miss it and I know I will be coming to visit often when I move to Edinburgh finally in a couple of months. I am starting to Love Edinburgh more (now if only they opened an & Other Stories and COS I'd be super happy).

For the moment, I am done with higher education, working on completing my two year milestones before I have kids and my wedding. We may be back in London in a couple of years who knows; however, for now I am happy to be taking this next step... and thankful to God for his many blessings even when I didn't realize some short comings were indeed blessings in disguise. 

Now to start packing....sigh. 

P.s. I have no foundation on in these pics, I just contoured my eyebrows. I was lazy this Sunday before Church.

Now Listening: The Foreign Exchange ft. Shana Tucker and Eric Roberson - 'Better' 

How to buy Designer for Less Online

A lot of people always wonder how I score designer items at great prices. The there are three main methods I use to buy designer items for up to 50% off the original price online.

Method One:
Ebay. As you now know I've bought a pair of Miu Miu heels for about 80 pounds (90 with shipping). They were brand new, in the box price tags still in tack and I was as over the moon. I have patience to find bargains, on Ebay and have become a pro when it comes to searching. If you don't have patience to search Ebay for cheap items then this method is not for you. The key to looking on Ebay for designer items is knowing what to search and to always make sure receipts or authenticity cards are in photos. If not then you risk buying a fake item. Sometimes sellers can be lazy. So ask them if they have the original box, shoe bags, purse bags and etc... ask to see additional photographs and always check their returns policy. Most people selling real items will allow you to return the item, as they know it's real.

Another way to find items on Ebay is to save searches to your email address. I don't recommend using this for popular designers like Gucci, Miu Miu or Prada because your email will be flooded constantly (also Gucci and Louis Vuitton have the most fake items on Ebay, it's quite annoying). Personally, my saved searches are Carven and an Italian Boot designer Migliorini. I get emails once a week and have bought two pairs of shoes via this method.

Method Two:
Discount Designer Websites. TheOutnet, Yoox.com, Gilt Group, MyHabit and many more. All these websites offer designer items for a fraction of the price. I get emails from all of the above and love that I can buy items here cheaper, these are most times  merchandise from past seasons.

Method Three:
Sale Season. I've mentioned this before. I search online for items I like and bookmark the pages, then during the Spring and January Sales I check to see if they are still in stock and purchase the items immediately. I am currently wanting a pair of high top Lanvin Sneakers, but I can't bring myself to spend another 400 pounds on a pair of sneakers so I'm waiting for sale season.

Although all the methods above will help you get designer items on sale remember to only buy the item if you are actually going to wear it, not because it's a bargain or 80% off. I've seen Camilla Skovgaard and Rubert Sanderson shoes go for 30 pounds on Ebay but I didn't buy them because they weren't my style and I knew I probably wouldn't wear them, but most importantly I didn't need them.

Spend your money on what you want. Decide if you have the patience to wait for sale season. However, if you were a size that sells out fast, maybe it's best to buy the item full price, as it may not make it into the sale. The key is to be smarter with your money. So as I always say never buy an item full price, if you don't have too...because most designer items go on sale...and if they don't there are always other outlets available to buy them cheaper.

Discount Designer Items that I am Loving at the moment:

P.s. Yoox.com is currently giving an extra 20% off purchases until October 6th. If only those Carven's were available in my size!!!

Now Playing - Drake - 'Too Much' 

Best of Bestival

Best of Bestival: top looks

The UK’s festival season was brought to a suitably stylish close with the tenth birthday celebrations of wacky fancy dress fest Bestival. This year’s musical highlights included a set from festival favourite DJ Fatboy Slim, Snoop Dogg/Lion performing hits from his debut album Doggystyle and Elton John’s epic finale. Set in the Robin Hill Country Park on the Isle of Wight, Bestival attracts thousands of music lovers every year, all dressed to the nines according to the set theme. This year saw visitors embrace nautical notions in stripes, tropical prints, sailor dresses and captain outfits. Relive the fun and check out our pick of the trends that took the crowd by storm.

Got stripes

Given the theme, it was no surprise that every other person incorporated some form of stripes into their outfit. There was no shortage of Breton tops and jumpers, which look amazing on pretty much everyone and are an easy way to put together sailor chic without going overboard. However, I preferred the fashionistas who saluted the nautical look in a more inventive way, on shorts, bags and dresses. 

Sparkle magic

Inspired by headliner Elton John, the flamboyant members of the crowd took the maritime theme to a more glamorous level with sparkles and sequins galore. While some used them to glam up a simple outfit, I also saw lots of revellers rocking a mermaid look, teaming trusty wellies with fish-scale tops, skirts and dresses for a fun and glitzy twist on the theme. 

Printed paradise

This popular trend was a big hit with the fancy dress lovers at Bestival, who embraced the rule that the brighter and more garish the better. From vintage polka dot pin-ups to animal patterns, Aztecs and tie-dye, the looks on offer were wild, weird and varied. Bring this summer style into the autumn with a stylish addition to your wardrobe - check out this season’s stylish maxi dresses for bold and beautiful printed designs.

Here are some more chic items that can be added to your fall wardrobe:

Awear Stripped Dress on sale (here), Rope and Stone Short Necklace (here), Love these Keds Glitter Sneakers (here), Planet Occasion Necklace (here), and Dorothy Perkins Stripped Dress (here).

Natural Sport

I get disgusted when black women make it a point to try (yes try) to speak down on me or other natural haired women. If your perm isn't straight and you're wearing a curly weave, that doesn't match your hair texture please stop. I was born natural and I love my hair, while you unfortunately chose to look like that.

I think many need to understand that we as naturals do not think we are better (more politically aware, or etc...) than you, or at least I don't, because we wear our hair naturally. And we find it funny and quite ignorant when you call us nappy headed. Nappy is a word Jill Scott so perfectly stated that infinitesimally minded people use to describe to the natural hair state of people of color. Once I hear someone call me nappy headed I laugh because I find it humorous, especially if you have a horrible weave. 

We as black women can rock so many styles, so whether it's natural, relaxed, texturized, cornrolled, braided or in a weave, make sure it looks nice. As women let's celebrate our hair and the avid variety that we are blessed with. (I love rocking weaves and wigs as protective styles!!) For those that aren't natural please, please, do not embarrass yourself by calling us nappy headed. We know what our hair looks like and are okay wearing it in it's natural state. Calling us derogatory words reveals more about you than it does about our hair texture. Besides I am not my hair...although I must admit I think my Afro is my best accessory. 

 Outfit Grand Total:

Zara Mustard Tank on sale: £3.99

 Zara Trousers on sale £15.00

Zara Bag: £30.00 similar (here) + (here)

Gold Bangles Tie Rack on sale: £8.00 similar (here) and (here)

Ebay Vintage Elephant Belt worn as a necklace: £60.00 similar (here) and (here)

Christian Louboutin Pigalles 100: £395.00 (here) + (here)

Total: £511.99

Yup, I love my hair!

Everyone stay blessed and have a fantastic weekend, my brother is doing his white wedding in the DMV tomorrow so sad I can't make it, but I am so totally estatic!!!

Now Playing: Tank ft. Drake - 'Celebration'

Adire Junkie

Adire prints are so unique and are made in Nigeria. My mother and aunts used to tell me of how they had classes in tie-n-dye in making Adire during Secondary School, I wish they would teach me! I am very forward thinking in supporting Nigerian textile makers and those that make clothes with Adire material by supporting them we are keeping our culture alive (those of you who are Nigerian and if you aren't you're keeping African culture alive). Besides being made at home, love the stiffness of the material; I can use them for bags and accessories much more easily than Ankara. 

 When I found this particular print I was with my mother-in-law in Balogun market this Summer and I fell in love immediately. We debated about whether I should buy the material for almost 5 minutes. she said it looked old I said that's what gives it character, she shrugged and knew I'd purchase it. I was worth every kobo: ₦2,500 to be exact (did I get cheated?). I now wished I'd bought the two.

I wore this dress to a friends wedding last week (the most fun I've had at a wedding in a very long time) and it was nothing short of great. I got compliments on the dress all night. My tailor and I went back and forth with the design, it wasn't what I really wanted...however it turned out okay in the end. 

Outfit Grand Total:

Adire Dress + Tailoring: £30.00

Vintage Earrings: £12.00

Vintage Shoulder Bag w/gold detailing: £5.00

Assorted Bangles: £20.00

Miu Miu Ankle Strap Heels: Regular price £1,800 I scored them for £80.00 on sale.

Total: £147.00

Now Playing: D'Angelo - 'Cruisin'

Jewelry Designer: Jennifer Loiselle

As a Jewelry Designer and Buyer it is great to discover other jewelry designers that have marvelous designs. I ran across Jennifer Loiselle while searching online for a rope necklace (I have a current obsession with rope necklaces). Nonetheless, Jennifer is: 'an Australian born, UK based handmade accessories designer with a penchant for statement pieces incorporating unexpected combinations of materials and techniques.' (boticca) Her rope necklaces are uniquely gorgeous.

How to wear it:

Zara Biker Jacket (here), Whistles Esme Pima Tee (here) short sleeve version on sale (here), J.Crew Satin Trousers (here) + similar (here), Zara City Bag (here), Jennifer Lioselle Necklace (link below), Christian Louboutin Ron Ron 100 (here), 

Purchase her collection (here)

Now Playing: Janelle Monae ft. BigBoi - 'Tightope'