Category: fashion not fear

  • Here’s What’s Next For The Fashion Not Fear Collection

    Here’s What’s Next For The Fashion Not Fear Collection

    New pieces are set to be released in the Fashion Not Fear Collection! Usually, each piece is dropped one at a time but I’ve decided to do things a bit different this time around.

    This time the entire collection will be dropped at once. Pieces have been completed, some are in the works, and others have yet to be made. But I’m definitely getting them done.

    When the new collection drops, they will be featured in a virtual trunk show! So, stay tuned for the upcoming announcements on these new pieces that you’re closet will be dying for!

    Here is a rough draft of a piece that I’m finishing up, right now.

    Illustration of green fearless top and black skirt

    Can’t wait to share the rest of the collection! Would you watch the virtual trunk show?? Thoughts on the sketch?? Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • Making The Fashion Not Fear Dress That Was In An Art Exhibit

    Making The Fashion Not Fear Dress That Was In An Art Exhibit

    Last year, I told you about an invite I received to make a dress that will be put in an art exhibit from October 2019 through February 2020.

    Destined By Design: A Celebration Of African American Fashion was the name of the exhibit. How could I say no? It was one of my first times making a dress that was for special occasions. And it was definitely the first time I ever had something that I created in an art display. It was such an honor!

    If you didn’t get a chance to visit, you truly missed out. The talent made by other black dress and jewelry designers was amazing. Here is a look back at the process of making the dress and how it turned out.

    Sourcing the fabric

    Picking fabric for a dress

    First time making a corset, so had to use part of a pattern for help!

    Making a corset dressMaking a corset dress

    Making a corset

    Dropping off the dress at the Texan Cultures Institute

    Family coming out to show support!

    Fashion not fear dress on display

    The dress on display

    Fashion Not Fear Dress exhibit Handmade fashion not fear dress Black designers

    My name on display!

    Black fashion designer

    Black dress designer art exhibit

    Thanks to the curator who invited me to put a dress on display along with family, friends, and everyone who came out to check it out! It means the world!!

    I was thinking about having a contest to give the dress away to one lucky winner. What are your thoughts on that and the dress?? Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • 4 Pieces You Can Cop When You Want To Wear The Fashion Not Fear Logo

    4 Pieces You Can Cop When You Want To Wear The Fashion Not Fear Logo

    The Fashion Not Fear logo is about showing the world just how fearless women can be. It’s about being strong, confident, and fashionable enough to feel like you can take over the world. Accomplishing your dreams and pushing through boundaries (even in heels).

    The logo means even more to me nowadays with everything that’s going on in the world. Choosing fear at a time like this will drive you damn near crazy! Fear has no place when you have to battle something.

    Here are 4 pieces available right now, that have the FNF logo.

    Fearless Women Tee

    Fearless Women Phone Case

    Fearless Women Hat

    Fearless Woman Socks

  • 10 Things You Can Do With Your Love While On Lockdown (So You Wont Kill Eachother)

    10 Things You Can Do With Your Love While On Lockdown (So You Wont Kill Eachother)

    This quarantine isn’t easy for anybody. For me, I haven’t gone stir crazy. I mean not yet anyway. I guess because I worry about my family so much. (Not that no one else does.). But I’m the type of person who talks to my fiancé his entire ride as he heads to work, because I like knowing he arrived in one piece. I pray for his safety while he’s gone. Then we check on eachother by text or phone throughout the day. After work, we talk the entire ride home. Honestly, we are like this anytime we leave eachother. Sooo, knowing that he’s safe and secure at home with me is just the way I like things. He likes it too. (I think. Lol)

    With the stay-at-home order in place, I’ve had more down time on my hands. To say the least. I’ve found myself doing much more social media scrolling and interview watching than ever before. One common topic has been how hard the quarantine has been on couples relationships. It’s kind of sad when you think about. We haven’t been on quarantine but a few weeks, at most. And if you’re bout to kill eachother in this small amount of time, what’s to happen when it gets extended? (Because I’m sure it will.)

    I’m no professional or anything but here are some things we’ve done as a couple to keep the love during lockup.

    #1 Break out the Board Games – Monopoly or Scrabble might have sounded like wack childs play before quarantine but try it now. Loads of fun! No seriously.

    #2 Watch Concert & DJ Live-streams On IG – There are so many artists right now doing music competitions and concerts. This past weekend we watched a battle between T-Pain and Lil’ Jon. It was amazing! We turned it up loud, my fiancé had some drinks, and we danced like we were in the club. Don’t sleep on them. It’s a good time!

    #3 Trying new recipes to make together. Cooking is always a good way to bond. Who doesn’t like to eat. There are tons of places online to get food inspiration and new recipes. Finding new ones should be easy. As a matter of fact, my timeline is full of them. 🤦🏾‍♀️.

    #4 Have a Spa-day! Give eachother a mani/pedi or a massage. Break out those face masks you’ve had under the bathroom cabinet forever. He may have said “no” to a mask before. But it should be easy to convince him now. What else is he doing?

    #5 Play video games…together. You might be used to him doing his own thing when it comes to gaming. I know I am. But change it up and play with him. Try upping the ante by betting a dollar on the game, or maybe the winner has to strip?! He’ll love playing with you after that. Guaranteed!

    #6 Get your alone time. No matter how much you love and adore eachother. We all need a break at some point. When you feel the need to get away, do that! Go to a different room and do your hobbies, watch your “girly” show he doesn’t like, or read a book. Whatever you like to do on your alone time is up to you. This will give him time to do his, too.

    #7 Take a night stroll – Sure, you can certainly go out and take a walk during the day. But I’ve found there to be lots of people out at that time doing the same thing. There’s something romantic about going out at night and taking a nice stroll around your neighborhood.

    #8 Netflix, Hulu, Prime & Chill – I’m sure this is not a new one on your list, by any means. But now you have more time than ever to binge on a a new show or a classic you’ve always wanted to watch. Gather some snacks and enjoy!

    #9 Become An Artist – Creating a piece of art on canvas is simple and super inexpensive. All you need is canvas, paint, brushes and your creativity. Plus, you can online shop at several places, Michaels.com, for instance, and they will bring it out and put it in your trunk for you. You don’t even have to get dressed!

    #10 Make It A Karaoke Night – You can go on YouTube and find lyrics to almost any song. If you don’t have a microphone, use a brush, or anything you can get your hands on. Then sing the night away!

    These ideas should keep the two of you occupied for a while. Another tip is to be patient, this won’t last forever. And when you feel him getting on your last nerve, remember why you fell in love in the first place.

    Which are your favorite tips?? What would you add?? Drop them in the comments…

    Stay Safe & Fearless 💋

  • Sooo…The Show Was Cancelled But The Fashion Continues! Here Is A Look At Upcoming Designs For New Fashion Not Fear.

    Sooo…The Show Was Cancelled But The Fashion Continues! Here Is A Look At Upcoming Designs For New Fashion Not Fear.

    A few weeks ago, I started working on a new collection for the annual SPIRIT Fashion Show that I’ve been showcasing at for the past few years.

    Fashion show
    SPIRIT Fashion Show 2019

    Unfortunately, this years’ show was cancelled due to the pandemic. But it is on for next year, so no worries.

    I had already sketched out the 8 looks that I was going to be making for the show. One style was completely finished and I was putting the final touches on the second look when I got the notice about it being cancelled.

    Dress fashion illustration Dress fashion illustration

    No biggie, it was time to make a pivot to my designs! Not really so much the styles but the fabrics. It was no longer going to necessary for me to create 8 looks that had fabrics that coordinated.

    The new handmade pieces being added to the collection have the feminine details FNF is known for but I wanted to add some dramatic sleeves in there too. I just love a good sleeve, I can’t help myself.

    Here are some of the details you will see in the first two pieces set to be released this week!

    Striped cotton dress

    Green wrap dressGreen wrap dress flutter sleeves

    Dresses on a rack

    This rack will be full of new designs soon. Stay tuned for these two new releases that will be coming out this week.

    What do you think of what you’ve seen so far?? Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • Since You’ve Already Been Eyeing Swimsuits; Here Are Some Coverup Ideas For You

    Since You’ve Already Been Eyeing Swimsuits; Here Are Some Coverup Ideas For You

    Swimsuit season is right around the corner. Although, in some areas, it is here. The last few days have been in the high 80s and low 90s here in Texas so some of you have already jumped in the pool. Or at least dipped your toe in.

    If you are looking for a swimsuit, we all know that a coverup is needed at some point. Here are some perfect ideas at BLB that will work double duty as a cover up.

    To The Courts Mini Dress
    Oh Sunny Day Dress
    Red Lace Duster
    Art Strokes Top
    Don’t Plaid Me Dress

    Let these styles take these straight from the pool or beach to run an errand or to lunch in style!

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • A Sneak Peek At One Of The New Looks In This Years Upcoming Runway Show

    A Sneak Peek At One Of The New Looks In This Years Upcoming Runway Show

    If you are new to FNF, then you might not know that each year for the past 4 years, we have participated in the SPIRIT Fashion Show.  It is held each year at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh and it the longest running runway show EVER!! The show is run by the students of the college and they always make the event amazing.

    This year, I will be presenting 8 new looks from the Fashion Not Fear Collection!  Unfortunately, I’m starting kind of late since I just started the first design last week.  With 7 designs to go and only two weeks to do it….it is safe to say that your girl is STRESSED!  But, I seem to work pretty good under pressure, so don’t worry about me.

    Anyway, this year, the designs are screaming SPRING!!!! From the colors, prints, designs , and fabrics.  Don’t worry, you will be able to do more than just watch them walk down the runway.  The styles will also be available for you to shop from and rock yourself!

    I can’t show you the full look, because that will spoil the surprise.  But here are a few snippets of the first dress that has been completed.

    green dress sewinggreen dress sleevesgreen dress with tulle

    Can’t wait for you to check out the final product.  Still working on the length and wondering whether or not to go with the tulle on the bottom.  Tulle or no?? Let me know your thoughts in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • 7 Habits That Can Transform You Into Being Fearless

    7 Habits That Can Transform You Into Being Fearless

    If you were to look up fearless, in the dictionary, you will see that it’s defined as an adjective that means to be without fear; to be bold or brave; intrepid.  When it comes to fearlessness, I find that there are usually two kinds of people.  Those that are perfectly happy following rules and paths that were set by someone else.  They go with the flow in every aspect of their life ensuring that they don’t “rock the boat” in anyway to have a calm, predictable yet fulfilling life.  
    The other group of people will flip the boat all the way over in order to find their true happiness even though it’s the “road less traveled” and has unknown results.  
    Fear is probably one of the most powerful feelings we possess.  Think about this…What keeps you at a job for 10 years when you knew that you despised it after 2??  It was the fear of not being able to find another job that will actually make you happy while paying the bills.
    What keeps people in a longterm relationship despite the fact that they hate coming home because they have to see him or her?  I’ll tell you…it’s the fear that you won’t find anyone else.  You are afraid to be alone, miserable, and sex-less for the rest of your life.
    Fear controls so much of what because the fear of the unknown is too much to bear.  Especially if what you have been doing is working.  But the truth is…everything is unknown.  Nothing in life is guaranteed.  Even if you are one that plays by the rules.
    Most of my life was spent living in fear.  Sitting in a cubicle at the same job for over 13 years knowing that it would lead to nothing but a steady paycheck.  Afraid to apply for a nicer car than the one that I was driving because I was afraid to be declined by the bank.  Fearful of submitting an application to be a fitness trainer because I was afraid they wouldn’t think I was “fit enough”  (even though I spend hours weekly exercising).  Staying in a unhealthy, miserable relationship because I was too afraid of what would happen after breaking up with him.  Yep, fear controlled every single part of my life.  Until one day, out of the blue, I sat for a long while pondering, “what the hell am I so afraid of?”.  And just like that, I threw fear right out the window and started making moves.
    Being fearless doesn’t mean you’re not scared of anything.  It just means that you are putting the fear to the side and doing it anyway.  If you truly want to live the life you’ve always dreamed of?  Why not try?  Hell, I’m still trying to get there!  But this journey is much more fun and exciting that what I had going on before taking the leap.
    If you are ready to take a leap into “the fearless life”, take a look at these 7 tips that can help you get there:

    no haters allowed
    Photo by Shamia Casiano on Pexels.com

    Tip 1: Shake The Haters Off 

    Haters will hate and there’s nothing that you can do about it.  You have to learn to not let others criticism of your choices, affect your path.  Remain confident that you will accomplish the goals you’ve set, no matter what others think.  Need help coming up with responses?  Try these: “It’s nice of you to offer advice but I’m good. Thanks for offering!”
    “Yes, I’m sure this is what I want to do”
    “I’ve done my research and I’m on the path to fixing the issue”
    “Thanks for the referral! I’ll be sure to contact him/her if I need help”

    smiling beautiful woman
    Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

    Tip 2: Keep Your Business To Yourself

    Learning when to keep your business to yourself can be really hard but really effective.  A new business ideas can be so exciting that you can’t wait to share with others.  But think before you speak.  Unfortunately, telling everyone about your next move will only lead to increasing your fear.  People love giving unsolicited advice.  Keep your new ideas, plans, or goals to yourself until you have gotten to a point where they can see it happening.  Let your actions do the talking.

    woman standing on a cliff
    Photo by David Bartus on Pexels.com

     

    Tip 3:  If At First You Don’t Succeed, Dust Yourself Off And Try Again

    Trial and error will happen more than you might expect in your new fearless life.Somethings work out the first time and some don’t.  That’s okay.  It isn’t about how many times you fall down.  It is about how many times you get back up.  Overcoming challenges is part of the game.  Learn from it and keep it moving.

    woman living her fearless life
    Photo by Renato Abati on Pexels.com

     

    Tip 4:  Remember, you aren’t Beyonce, Chile!

    Social media has its benefits and drawbacks, for sure.  Who doesn’t enjoy scrolling through IG pics of Bey shopping at the finest stores and opening successful businesses with her seemingly perfect family in tow.  Remember, everyone is different and we all have different paths.  Comparing yourself to others won’t do anything but hurt in the end.  You will never find your own path.  The only difference between successful people and you is their drive and determination.  YOU are YOU…be confident in that.  Find your own path to follow and let it take you wherever YOU want to go.

    just do you
    Photo by Anny Patterson on Pexels.com

     

    Tip 5:  There Are No Do-Overs

    Life isn’t a dress rehearsal.  As far as we know, its’ one and done.   Make the most of every opportunity that presents itself and say “yes” more than you say no.  You never know what can happen!

    smiling woman in red
    Photo by Adrienne Andersen on Pexels.com

    Tip 6:  Remind Yourself, “What’s The Worst That Can Happen?” 

    Taking risks for a bigger reward is definitely scary but what’s the worst that can happen?  You may be told, “no” and you may even have to try something else.  Last I checked, no one died from hearing the word “no” or from failing at something.

    visions board
    Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com

    Tip 7:  Vision Board

    I’m a true believer that if you see it, it will come.  There are things that I have put up on my vision board that seemed so far fetched.  But they have happened.  So get to cutting and pinning, girl!  There is no vision that is too big.

    Always remember that confidence is key, set small goals that will lead to bigger ones and don’t look back!  Good luck on your road to fearless living!

    Do these tips sound reasonable?  What would you add if anything??  Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • A New Spring-Approved Dress Was Released In The Floreal Collection And You MUST See it!!

    A New Spring-Approved Dress Was Released In The Floreal Collection And You MUST See it!!

    The Garden party dress is the latest drop in the Floreal Collection from Fashion Not Fear Collection  As you know, things a bit different from other designers.  

    There is no planning involved when we start a collection.  The way I usually do it is like this.    

    I go out and shop for textiles that grab my attention or that I will are different and will grab YOUR attention.  More than likely, I already have some ideas in mind of what styles I would like to make.  Then, I buy the desired fabric.  The amount of fabric purchased depends on the budget is set that particular shopping trip.  I tend to lean towards the limited stock.  The more unique, the better!  Which is why I always tell people to buy it if you like it because you might never see it again.  But we every single portion of fabric until it is all gone.   Doing our part in sustainability!  💁🏽‍♀️

    That is no different with the Floreal Garden Party Dress that we just released.  This dress is one of my personal favorites because it is just so girly.  From the Spring-ready print, how the middle accentuates the waist, to the way the dress falls gracefully above the ankle.  

    Floral Garden Party Dress $46.99

    floral printed women's dress

    This Garden Party Dress dress goes right in line with all of the other feminine pieces created with the Floreal fabric.

           Short Sleeve Floreal Top $19.99 & Floreal Skirt $63

    floral printed short sleeve top and matching skirt

    Floreal Crop Top $25

    floral retro crop top and matching skirt

    Short Sleeve Floreal Top $19.99 

    1ec99466-7309-4818-b4ea-e64bf20ed167

    All pieces are limited!  So, don’t miss your chance to to wear one of these pieces.  Which ones could you see yourself rocking??  Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋