Author: Shakira

Gold High-Low Dress

After wearing headwraps every day for two weeks I felt the need to switch it up… and do the most. This new “Game Changer” lace wig from the Sensationnel Curls Kinks & Co line is just that, a game changer!! The texture is bomb but the volume is what won me over. I’m in a big hair mood and this is as big as it gets. Its synthetic and can easily be washed and air dried. What do you wear with a wig like this? A dress that’s equally as eye catching; something like this gold pleated swing dress.

For as long as I can remember I was opposed to wearing anything high-low. Being a 5’3 petite woman I’ve never liked the way I look in that style of dress. However, when you find a metallic gold dress that’s lightweight and perfectly pleated, all bets are off. While this dress is at least four years old, it’s still one of my go-to’s for a steamy summer day.

It was 100 degrees during this shoot so I kept my accessories simple by pairing this dress with a matching metallic mule. These high heel mules are by Zara, but I found them at Marshall’s for only $13. Yes hunny, THIRTEEN BUCKS!! I chose a simple black tassel earring and black clutch to complete the look. It’s not my normal practice to play down my accessories but this year I’m trying to vary my approach.

Get used to this wig because you’ll be seeing it all summer. It’s the perfect no fuss protective style for my every day. I make sure I keep my hair moisturized and braided underneath. How about you? What’s your go-to protective style for summer?

Dress//H&M , Shoes//Zara , Purse//H&M

Green Maxi + Headwrap

“Summer time and the living is easy…” Ella Fitzgerald had it right with this classic opening verse. Summer is in full swing right now and Philly is in the midst of our third heatwave. You already know I have wigs on deck until summer leaves. I’m not a summer baby at all. I prefer the fall when I’m not sweating my life away! To combat the humidity I’ve been adding more headwraps and turbans to my every day ensembles. Today’s look features this cotton green maxi dress and colorful headwrap.

A while back I ordered quite a few dresses from Boohoo. Cotton, sleeveless, brightly colored, and down to the floor – these dresses were perfect for those smoldering summer days when you just need to be comfy. I was pleasantly surprised when they arrived and were super soft and fit like a glove. However, this was two years ago. Before my weight gain and my myomectomy surgery (I’ll go into more detail about this in a future post). I’ve been apprehensive about wearing them now.

In recent weeks I’ve become more comfortable with where I am physically, so the maxi dresses have come out of retirement. Now I will be needing some spanx of course but I’m no longer apprehensive about wearing them. I grabbed this one for a recent photoshoot. Looking at the finished work, biker shorts were not the best choice underneath. A body shaper would’ve been best, but such is life. I’m allowed to make fashion mistakes.

The printed headwrap is actually apart of a skirt set. It can be worn as a bandeau top as well. I love garments that have multiple use, so this is right up my alley. I shot six looks in one day in 90+ degree weather. This was one of them and wearing a headwrap was a great decision lol. I finished the look with a small bucket bag and black wedges. Silver accessories make the colors pop and an orange lip adds some fun. I’m all about keeping cool in these high temps. What do you wear during a Heatwave? Let me know in the comments below!

Dress//Boohoo, Headwrap//Cici’s Boutique, Shoes//Aldo, Bag//Forever 21

Crop Top + Black Palazzo

Fashion has always been one of the ways I connect with other women. It often allows me to encourage, uplift, and even gives me an opportunity to share my faith. Quite frankly, it’s the reason behind this blog. Recently another dope blogger Rebecca Shakespeare-Armstrong reached out to and D. F. Cameron and myself about collaborating. As bloggers of faith, none of us are surprised when people assume our beliefs limit our style. We decided a summer fashion series on Dope Modesty was in order. To kick things off I’ve chosen a true summer staple: the crop top.

Right now you’re thinking one of two things: “Sis, it’s just a shirt. Live ya life!” OR “Sis, it’s not a good look!” Would you believe neither one of thise are wrong. The whole point of modesty, is to allow the Holy Spirit to first dress your character. There are items I’ve worn in the past that I never intended to appear sexy. However, another sister in Christ may find skinny jeans with no duster a little too tight. Or a sheer top with a spaghetti strap tank too revealing. Each of us must discern when we are seeking fleshly validation. There is always intent behind an outfit, but interpretation will vary. My rule is that an outfit is to be appropriate for the venue, moveable, and properly sized.

Most crop tops come in a short (below bra), mid (below ribs), and full length (at/above navel). Making any of these work is a matter of either layering or proportions. This floral crop top is mid length. By pairing it with a high waist pant less skin is shown, which makes it more “modest” by most standards. This is perfect since this look was for a brunch date. These black wide legged palazzo pants are soft, just like the top. Each piece is loose and feminine. The photos don’t totally capture the pleats in the pants, but they add texture to the look.

While there are some things I will never wear, very few trends do I consider completely off limits. I never claim to wear modest fashion. I sumply dress and let others decide for themselves. Ladies, you don’t have to be afraid of expressing your style. Instead of stifling it, simply ask yourself “Does this contradict who I am?” I sincerely hope this was helpful. If so, let me know in the comments below. Also, be sure to look out for the other posts in this series from Rebecca Shakespeare-Armstrong and D. F. Cameron .

Top/Clutch//H&M , Pants//Thrifted , Shoes//K&G , Sunglasses//CVS

How to move forward when you’re stuck!

In case you haven’t noticed, we are halfway through the year. Seems like yesterday we were making vision boards and writing goals. Our adrenaline fueled the first quarter but many lost steam in second, only to come to a hault by summer. Right now you may be asking yourself “Where did the time go” or “Why haven’t I completed more goals”? If so, don’t worry, you’re not alone or out of time. Today, I’ll show you how to move forward when you’re stuck!

Make the Decision

Before we can do anything we must first make a decision. You and I need to decide that we’re serious about the goals we have for this year. I know six months ago you were on fire with excitement but there have been some challenges. Since then things have gotten rocky and you’re questioning whether you even want what you professed. Decide if you really want what you claim. Then you can move to the next phase…

Make necessary Adjustments

Now that you’re sure this is what you want, you can analyze your plans and make adjustments if needed. The goal is not changing in this step, but you may need to rethink your strategy. If your goal is to lose weight and you’ve been drinking smoothies only to crash by dinner – it’s time for a change. Perhaps making time to sit and eat a healthy breakfast is a better way to jumpstart your metabolism? The end goal can still be achieved, but the plan of operation may need tweeking.

Identify Time Stealers

All of us are inundated with daily texts, emails, phone calls, etc that need our attention. However, there are certain people, apps, shows that we can afford to hold off engaging. Either because they waste our time or they’re not a priority. Do you really need to take a call from that complaining relative? The one that shifts your mood and causes you to waste 2 hours. Should you really scroll IG first thing in the morning instead of praying? Don’t allow these things to steal precious time.

Keep your Word

Now this is where I am truly guilty, but I know herein lies my greatest success… If you set a date or a timeline for a project, stick to it. So many tumes I find myself moving a deadline up because I didn’t manage my time. In the end, I failed to keep my word – to myself! It’s never about anyone else. Comparison will have us so wrapped up in another’s movements that we end up standing still. Let’s master being consistent by keeping our own promises!

Celebrate every Win

Finally, as we navigate these last six months, let’s take time to actually enjoy the process. Do so by celebrating every success, no matter how “small”. Did you drink eight glasses of water today? Hooray! Made it to the gym as scheduled? Get it girl! Finished your projects ahead of schedule? You rock! Ironed the kids uniforms for the week or meal prepped so you can free up time? That’s awesome! Whatever it is, give it the attention it deserves and watch your motivation increase.

I hope these tips have been helpful. I truly believe we can finish this year strong and satisfied. Leave me a comment below with one goal you’re most excited about achieving this year!

Top//H&M , Skirt//Smak Parlour , Shoes//K&G , Purse//Forever 21

Yellow Flares

It’s been two whole weeks and your girl is still feeling some kinda way about the Game of Thrones series finale. I have so many questions for the writers of the show. What was the point of the crop circles from the Army if the Dead? Were there no scenes with both Cersei and Daenerys in the same frame? Y’all really gone play my girl Brienne like that? Bran the Broken though, REALLY?? Let me switch topics before the anger returns. Can we get into these comfy yellow flares?

You may recall seeing these pants before in a rust color here in a previous post. Stretch lycra fabric makes them super soft on your skin. The ribbed detail not only adds dimension, but also gives the illusion of length. To top it all off they are high waisted making them crop top friendly. This is right up my alley right now because my summer body is on layaway.

To compliment the ribbing on these yellow flares I chose a striped top. The chevron pattern and ruffled hem add some more movement to the look. The top is slightly cropped and goes perfectly with the high waistline. These pants are the perfect bottoms for me as I work off this belly weight gain and scar tissue from my surgery last fall. Pesky buttons and itchy zippers are no longer an option.

Being petite at a cool 5’3 I never waste an opportunity to appear taller, so I opted for a platform wedge heel. These white slingbacks are nearly 115 years old. All leather with a cork sole from Aldo shoes. If you’ve followed me for a while you know I LOVE their shoes. A simple white envelope bag and gold jewelry complete the look. These round sunnies were a last minute purchase from CVS because the sun was practically blinding during my shoot.

Hope you all have a dope weekend. Summer is here so let’s get out, off our phones, and enjoy ourselves!

Top//Marshall’s , Pants//Boohoo , Shoes/Purse//Aldo , Jewelry//Kmart , Glasses//CVS

Black Floral Short Set

So you mean to tell me that after 8 seasons of diabolical treachery Cersei dies due to structural damage at Casterly Rock?! A freaking building collapse… really? I’m convinced Game of Thrones writers are trying to make fans livid (if so, it’s working). *Deep sigh* I could go on but refuse to go down the rabbit hole. Instead let’s lighten the mood and focus on fashion. Spring is such a hodge podge of temperatures (because global warming), it seems the only consistent theme are the flowers my wardrobe. Ones like this black floral short set for instance.

Last year my mother took me shopping for Mother’s Day and we spotted this outfit at Mandee’s in Springfield. If you’ve never been to Mandee, every item in the store is priced at $10 or less. It’s insane, I know, which is why I can’t believe I don’t shop there more often. This floral short set came in three variations: pink, black, and white. White was my first choice but I couldn’t find my size. Nevertheless, the black proved to be a great pick because I can wear this in the fall as well.

Both pieces were $10 each, sold separately. Something that stood out to me was the long vest. Had it been shorter, the set may have appeared cheasy. A long vest adds a level of sophistication to an otherwise trendy ensemble. I also love the contrast of a dark background against bold flowers. Having never worn shorts with over the knee boots I knew that’s exactly how I wanted to style this outfit. I’m aware that some find the pairing a little too risque, especially for a Christian blogger. However, I honestly believe that it’s how you wear your clothes that makes the difference.

The plan was to layer a classic white button up underneath the vest. Would you believe I couldn’t find a single one in my closet? Epic styling fail an hour before my shoot. This pastel pink button up is plan B. I still don’t think it works but hey, the show must go on. Black fringe earrings and a quilted chain handle purse complete this look. Have you ever worn boots with shorts? What do you think of this combo? Let me know in the comments and lets make this a great Monday!

Short Set//Mandee , Boots//Go Jane , Shirt//H&M

Bubblegum Pink Pantsuit

As long as I can remember women have been told never to mix pink and red together. This combination has always been a fashion mistake until now. Old school fashion rules are permanently gone by the wayside. Women are no longer coloring inside the “fashion” lines and I’m here for it all. As I’ve mentioned before, one of my personal goals is to return to the fun I had with fashion in my 20s. I was as extra as I wanted to be with no regard for opinions. While some things were never personally appropriate, I enjoyed being free and creative. This feeling is exactly what emerged while shooting this oversize bubblegum pink pantsuit!

Oversize menswear is very much in trend and I couldn’t be happier. Women have a way of making menswear extremely fluid and feminine, even if it’s loose. Browsing online I spotted this Boohoo suit and immediately added to cart. My size was outbof stock but I felt a baggier fit could be dope – and I was right! A few sleeve pushes and a tightly cinched belt camouflaged the fact that this suit is 2 sizes too big.

The bubblegum pink color is eye catching and perfect for spring. Adding a red blouse and pump didn’t feel wrong at all. I love how they look together. As if these colors don’t make a big enough statement, I decided to go big or go home. I found my color block clutch and paired it with white sunnies. This elevated the look to another level. I have to say I felt more like myself while doing so. I’m excited about reclaiming my style. What a great way to begin May!!

How do you feel about the pink and red trend? Let me know in the comments below.

Suit//Boohoo , Shirt//H&M , Shoes//Zara , Bag//Aldo

Green Floral Midi Dress

Hello beautiful people! I hope your holiday weekend was wonderful, I’m still buzzing from my church’s Resurrection Sunday service. Pastor delivered the story of Calvary from Judas’ perspective (chile… amazing). Hubs and I attended a christening and became proud God Parents; then we ended the night with episode two of Game of Thrones season 8. You guys, I’m truly not ready for this show to be over, it’s one of my favorites. Instead of crying over G.O.T, I’ll just focus on the fashion. Now we’ve all heard the old saying “April showers bring May flowers” right? Today I’m bringing the flowers a little early with this green floral midi dress.

Let me start by letting all my fellow fashionistas know, YES this is an H&M dress sis. In early fall of 2017 I purchased this dress on clearance for $20 (right before the whole monkey debacle). I keep releasing a disclaimer whenever I wear this brand because I know many of my favs have been quite problematic recently. Am I purchasing new items from H&M? Honestly, haven’t given them my coins in over a year and the jury is still out (shoulder shrug). For now, wearing everything I have while they still fit is the move for this season. A resale is in the near future because… weight gain lol.

Rather than style this dress predictably, I decided to give y’all a little drama. Adding green opaque tights immediately makes it more interesting and also highlights the floral design. The soft pinks and creams stand out against the abundance of hunter green. For the first time in SPS history, I wore sandals with my tights – something I’ve been trying to do forever. This was the right outfit for the job, so to speak. These blush sandals hurt like crazy but darn it if they don’t slay!

Minimal accessories and a bold green lip are all I need. My trusty trench coat was the icing on the cake, perfect for this spring weather. This may be my favorite shoot of the season thus far. What say you? Will you be wearing tights with sandals this season? Let me know in the comments below!

Dress//H&M , Jacket//DKNY , Shoes//Anne Michelle , Tights//Target

Colorful Striped Sweater

Every now and then an unplanned visit to the thrift store will lead me to a must have item. A funky necklace, perfectly worn denim, or designer vintage – all items I’ve found unexpectedly. This colorful sweater was purchased on a similar trip. It’s no secret that I am in serious need of new clothes since I can hardly fit anything in my closet. While I need to go shopping, the need to stay on budget is greater. Luckily thrift stores and re-sale shops offer great clothes at half the price!

Whether it’s denim, outerwear, or a pant suit, right now – women’s clothing is all about a loose fit. The fit of this sweater is just right, loose enough to be comfy but not appear sloppy. I was drawn to the sweater because of it’s bright colorful stripes; something I don’t have much of in my wardrobe. Soft velour ribbing means it feels absolutely amazing! All of this for the low price of $7 makes this a win win.

As for the rest of the look, I kept it simple. Black denim and black heels allow the sweater to stand alone. My quilted red cross-body is small enough not to clash with everything else. I added an extra pop of color with orange lipstick because, why not? Truth be told, I can’t wait to pair this with some leather in the fall. Here’s to warm spring weather and colorful clothes all season long!

Sweater//Forever 21 , Jeans//Forever 21 , Shoes// Donald J. Pliner , Purse//Aldo

Pink Tulle Skirt

“Come through Jesus” First Quarter 2019 is over. The tests kept coming the entire quarter but if there’s anything I know, it’s that God is able. The passing of rapper/businessman/community leader Nipsey Hussle over the weekend has shaken hip hop and black culture to it’s core. Nipsey was a widely respected pillar of the southern L.A. community. Sending prayers go out to Lauren London and her children.Tragedies like this are often a reminder to squeeze my own black man a little tighter at night. Living life to its fullest and loving like there’s no tomorrow are priorities this year. So is dressing like every street is a catwalk. Speaking of catwalks, I finally took this big girly pink tulle skirt for a spin!

In case you haven’t noticed, pink is quickly becoming a closet staple in my wardrobe. Twenty years ago that statement would be laughable. I purchased the skirt on a random trip to Old City’s Smak Parlour and fell in love. The long length and the tiers really caught my eye because it features a true waist which lends itself to crop tops in the summer. Styling this with various jackets and accessories will be loads of fun.

This time I chose to pair the pink tulle with an 80s Cosby sweater (is that reference tacky or nah). Removing the stiff shoulder pads from this $3 sweater was a good idea. When my first choice of blouse didn’t fit I decided to do a Denise Huxtable and opt for a baggier top. The loose, comfy fit adds just the right amount of chill to this pink tulle and its metallic design throughout made accessorizing a breeze. My trusty Zara t-straps with matching envelope bag did the trick.

We shot this look on the coldest day of the week with winds blowing like crazy. Needless to say my feet were freezing but we go the shot LOL. I’m pleased with the finished product and I hope you are too. So how was your first quarter? What was your favorite part? Leave me a comment below!

Sweater//Thrifted , Skirt//Smak Parlour , Shoes/Bag//Zara , Glasses//Forever 21



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