Category: Fashion & Style

  • If You’re All About The Sleeves, You Have to Check out These Looks!

    If You’re All About The Sleeves, You Have to Check out These Looks!

    As a fashion designer, I always try to make something that will give the piece its own statement. Something as small as a button or seam placement can take an outfit from “okay” to “okaaaaay” .

    There is nothing like making a statement with your sleeves. I mean, no shade to the traditional short sleeve or long sleeved with buttons but a dramatic sleeve really turns it up some notches! When you walk into the room with a strong sleeve game; heads will turn.

    Check out these outfits featuring a dramatic sleeve, the you will fall head over heels for!

    From puffy to oversized, to ruffled and cutout…these prove the point that sleeves alone make a powerful fashion statement. By the way, all of these pieces are available at Blue Labels Boutique. Click the links to shop them! Which are your faves?? Drop them in the comment…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • 7 Ways I Styled This Simple Top Over The Years (Now There Are Only A Few Left!)

    7 Ways I Styled This Simple Top Over The Years (Now There Are Only A Few Left!)

    You can’t spell FASHION without VERSATILITY. I mean, you can but you shouldn’t. If you can only wear something one way, what’s the point?

    Who wouldnt want to make the most of a ‘fit?! Here are 7 ways I’ve styled this simple top.

    handmade floral top and sheer undertow
    With the Floral Top
    Burgundy sheer top Burgundy buckle trousers
    Sheer It Up Top | Buckle Me Up Pants
    sheer top with vest dress and jeans
    Sheer It Up Top | Tangerine Dream Dress | Puff Accessory
    sheer top with tank and skirt
    Sheer It Up Top | Hello Merlot Tank
    womens sheer top denim dress blue labels boutique
    With the On The Fray Dress
    womens sheer top denim blue labels boutique
    Sheer It Up Top | Warrior Belt
    sheer burgundy top, black leather skirt
    Sheer It Up Top | Wrap It Up Skirt

    Thoughts on the Sheer It Up Top? Drop them in the comments… Then, cop your top while you still can! By the way, the coordinating pieces are also available at Blue Labels Boutique.

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • 10 BS Facts About Fashion Everyone thinks is true

    Remember the game, Telephone?  One person tells someone a story, then it is passed on to the next person.  By the time it gets to the last person, the story has completely changed.  It is kind of like that with fashion. A stylist says something about fashion or makes some “style rule” and before you know it, everyone has adopted it like its true tea. Truth is…there are no rules in fashion. You make your own. But that doesn’t stop the fashion b.s. from running rampant. Thank God you have FNF to help you to decipher the goodies from the phony.

    Here are 10 bullshit fashion “rules that are completely untrue.

    untitled-design
    1.  You can’t wear white after Labor Day. After, before, on Labor Day…it doesn’t matter.  I’m not sure where this rumor got started but there is no fashion faux pas in wearing white after Labor Day.
    Burgundy Printed Boho Dress Blue Labels Boutique

    2.  Maxi dresses & skirts are for tall women only.  That certainly isn’t true!  It is important to make sure that it isn’t too big where it looks like you’re being swallowed up.  So something slim-fitting or adjustable in the back is a small detail to compliment your silhouette.  But anyone can wear it. I’m under 5ft tall and ummmm. 🤷🏽‍♀️

    wearing white socks with pumps

    3. Socks are for tennis shoes only.  Socks actually stylish with high heels and other shoes. Not just gym time.

    sheer burgundy top, black leather skirt
    Sheer It Up Top | Wrap It Up Skirt

    4.  Sheer is for night and evenings. Not true! Rock sheer whenever the mood hits you. Day or night!

    Photo by Godisable Jacob on Pexels.com

    5. Your shoes have to match your bag. Your bag actually doesn’t have to match anything. Carry what you like with whatever shoes you’re feeling at the time.

    Photo by Kaboompics .com on Pexels.com

    6. Certain colors are in or out of style. Just because Pantone picks their color of the year or you see alot of one color on the runway doesn’t mean the other colors are out of style.

    Photo by Victoria Borodinova on Pexels.com

    7. Your closet has to be one style…boho, classic, grunge.  Your closet should be full of all of those styles and more. Most people dress how they feel that day not because they have to always go with a certain style. Experiment away!

    Photo by Godisable Jacob on Pexels.com

    8. Beauty is pain. It shouldn’t be, That overtly tight dress, or shoes that are a size too small is worth the pain. Plus, clothes that fit properly look better on you.

    Photo by EVG Culture on Pexels.com

    9. Clothes have to be expensive to be “nice” or good quality. Pricey or brand name pieces doesn’t mean the item is in style or that it gonna hold up for a long time. What matters is the fabric used is sturdy, good stitching, strong zippers, etc.

    Photo by Breston Kenya on Pexels.com

    10. You cant mix bright colors. Feel free to go color crazy!

    There are so many “fashion rules” to be debunked but we would be here all day if all of them are addressed, Hope these help you to make fashion; fun and fearless! Remember, you make your own rules!

    What’s the craziest rule you’ve heard?? Drop them in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • Virtual Try on: 4 Tips On How To Order Online & Curbside When you can’t try anything on

    Virtual Try on: 4 Tips On How To Order Online & Curbside When you can’t try anything on

    We are ordering online now more than ever. Personally, I’ve made purchases at places that I would’ve never shopped from before. From curbside pickups to free shipping, it is so easy and convenient. It is kind of hard to turn it down.

    But how do you know you’re picking the right size, color, or even if it will look good on you when you get it home??? Here are some tips that can make virtual shopping easier…

    know your colors when shopping for clothes online
    Photo by Dids on Pexels.com

    Picking The Right Color

    I have never been one to say whether or not a color looks good on someone based on their skin, hair, or eye color. I don’t really believe in that theory. Although, I do feel like certain colors can make your hair, eye, and skin color pop! I don’t think a color looks bad on anyone. My only rule of thumb is to not wear a top or dress that is the same color as your hair. That is if you are rocking a bold hair color like purple, blue, pink, etc. Your outfit doesn’t need to match your hair. It really shouldn’t.

    Picking The Right Length

    If you’re looking for a new skirt or dress, read the specifics of the item you’re thinking about buying. Check the length and measurements of the top, skirt, or dress. Or check the inseam if you’re shopping for pants. Don’t forget a tape measurer!

    how to shop for clothes online, skirt lengths
    how to shop online for cloyhrd - tops measurements

    Picking the Right Size

    Taking your proper measurements will ensure that you make the right size selection when you have the “add to the cart” moment.

    How To Take Your Measurements :

    BUST: Measure under the arms at the fullest point of your bra cup. Make sure to go underneath your arms.

    BRA: Measure underneath the bust area.

    WAIST: Measure your natural waistline (the smallest part of your waist.)

    HIPS: Standing with your legs and feet together, measure around the fullest part of your hips.

    know your fabric when buying clothes online - pink fabric
    Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Pexels.com

    Know Your Fabrics

    Understanding even a little bit of fabric will help you tons. For instance, fabrics like silk, satin, and leather are not forgiving. They have no stretch so you must order your true size. However, any textile mixed with spandex will definitely give you some stretch so look for pieces like cotton mixed with spandex, rayon, polyester, etc.

    Hope these tips help you to navigate to your carts easier! What tips would you add? What stores are you shopping from right now? Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • A Practical Guide To Shopping During The Pandemic

    A Practical Guide To Shopping During The Pandemic

    If you were to take look at some of your favorite stores online, you will find that they all have one thing in common. Their sales are POPPING!!! I’m talking deep discounts. It is easy to find sales with an additional 30% or more off clearance prices. That’s sounds insanely inexpensive…no matter what the original price was.

    Store owners recognize that people aren’t going out shopping as much before due to the pandemic. They know that the majority of us are sitting at home scrolling online much more than ever before. The truth is that this is the perfect time to pick up some new pieces. Why not take advantage of the fact that the stores need our sales now more than ever. But with so many stores trying to draw in customers to spend money, how can a girl be sure that she’s not wasting her bread during the pandemic?

    This practical guide will help you in making good (not wasteful) decisions when you’re having an add to the cart moment.

    Buy Pieces That Can Be Dressed Up And Down

    Some areas are allowing 50% or more capacity in restaurants, movie theaters, etc. Although, I’m not ready for all of that yet. I know that some of you have been ready. No matter where you are in the “going out” part of pandemic life, make sure that you are buying something to wear that will work in any situation. Invest in pieces that will look good with heels, sneakers, or while you are barefoot at home.

    Stay Within A Budget

    Let’s not forget that we are in a pandemic. So, with things being so up in the air it is super important to make sure that you have money set aside for bills and any emergencies for a few months. Then decide what you can comfortably spend on things like clothes, shoes, and accessories. Word of advice: It can be a very small amount. Not only are the sales just that good. But also, it is nice to receive a lil’ pick me up in the mail every now and then.

    Stack Up On The Discounts When You Can

    I’d like to think that I’m allergic to paying shipping fees. I refuse! Before completing your purchase, do a search on Google for free shipping and discount codes. Or check your email to see if any have been sent to you. Save every penny that you can.

    Buy Your True Size

    COVID 15 is a real thing! Putting on 15 to 20 lbs in the 6 months we have been holed up in the house is more common than you might think. If you have fallen victim to it, don’t worry, just be real. Shop for your current size to make sure that you are comfortable while you are lounging.

    Comparison Shop

    Check other stores before you enter your credit card number to complete your purchase. If you’re buying some thing basic like leggings, tees, or undergarments. Those same items are found in several other stores. It’s a possibility that another store could be offering the same item for a lower price.

    Shop Small, Shop Black

    Support your local and black owned stores that give back to your local area and community. Plus, shop for pieces where a portion of the sale is donated to charity

    Shop Early For Holidays

    The holidays will be here before you know it. Buy gifts you see on sale now, if you have the extra money. If copping your mom a cashmere sweater for Christmas is on holiday list, now is the time to get it.

    Stock Up On Essential Styles When You Can

    Masks, hand sanitizer, Lysol…are all essentials these days. But when it comes to fashion, stretch pants, lounge dresses, t-shirt dresses, flowing skirts, tees, cute socks are all examples of fashion essentials. Can you imagine sitting around the house all day in a sequin dress or a leather mini. Although, there is a time and place for that too. Right now, it’s all about being cute and comfy. That’s why you should stock up on casual, commutable pieces when you can. They will most certainly be used. Trust me!

    Happy Shopping and Stay Fearless

  • Making The Unabashed Dress

    A few days ago, it was announced that a new dress was about to drop in the Fashion Not Fear Collection.

    A rough sketch was released to give you an idea on what the dress will look like. And I do mean rough because I am no artist!

    Fashion illustration of dress

    Creating these days are completely different from before becoming a mother. My son doesn’t care that I have to cut fabric, how much sewing I need to do, or that I need to keep the Fashion Not Fear readers updated on the progress. All he knows is that he wants his Mama and I better pick him up now! Soooo, creating looks completely different these days.

    I had to take it to the floor when it came to cutting the fabric. For some reason, that was the only place he was comfortable. Thank God all pieces are laundered after completed.

    The material for the Unabashed Dress is everything! It’s soft, silky, and very stretchy. In other words, this piece is super comfortable.

    Looks like your stay at home days are about to get more stylish! 😚

    Feast your eyes on the Unabashed Dress!

    Thoughts on the Unabashed Dress?? I’d love to get your honest opinion on the comments…

    (P.S…if you’re feeling it, you can cop it on the site for just $40!)

    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 💋

  • 5 Ways You Could Be Wasting Your Money On Fashion

    5 Ways You Could Be Wasting Your Money On Fashion

    No one likes wasting money. Especially when it comes to fashion. With so many IG boutiques and stores that you can shop from, how can you make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck? Well, you can’t be absolutely sure but here some ways that you can be wasting you money on fashion.

    shopping for clothes
    Photo by Artem Beliaikin on Pexels.com

    Buying clothes that you HOPE to be able to fit later. Although, that KETO diet you’re on may be working wonders, don’t go out and buy a bunch of clothes you plan on wearing after you reach your goal weight. That is a waste. Simply because even if it does fit your new size, that doesn’t mean that it will look good on your new silhouette or body type. Just wait until you reach your goal weight. That way, you will be able to try it on to make sure it looks good on you.

    on sale
    Photo by Artem Beliaikin on Pexels.com

    Buying something just because it’s cheap. Just because something is on sale or dramatically marked down, doesn’t mean that you should buy it. Most times, these items, end up in the back of your closet with the tags still hanging on them months from now. Whether the price is reduced or not…make sure it is something that you will want to wear.

    buying trends
    Photo by Ogo on Pexels.com

    Buying something that is too trendy. Super trendy items will be in style for a very short period of time. You’re lucky to be able to wear it twice while it is still in style. Pieces that are super trendy are fun to look at it, but I wouldn’t waste my money on them.

    Fearless Women Tee

    Buying t-shirts with sayings that aren’t timeless. Who doesn’t a love a good tee?? There is no waste in buying a tee shirt with a timeless saying like, Fearless Women. But buying a tee that has a saying like, Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself, well, that saying won’t be timeless. It indicates a certain period of time and will end up being a sleep shirt or something you use to dust off your furniture. When it comes to graphic tees, keep it timeless.

    Photo by Shamia Casiano from Pexels

    Buying thin leggings. Leggings are a must have. Now, I don’t agree with them being worn as pants (because they are not pants). However, they are perfect for working out, laying around the house, or running to the grocery store with an oversized tee. When you buy those leggings that are so thin that they show your panties and everything else you have under them are a complete waste of money. The more you wash them, the thinner they will become. Not to mention the holes that will appear. Have you ever been behind someone wearing a pair like this and thought, “Does she know they are completely see through??” Don’t be that person. Make sure they are at least thick enough to camouflage your goodies.

    Spend your money on pieces that will stand that test of time, that you will want to wear over and over again. Otherwise, you’re throwing money down the drain. Plain and simple. Invest in your fashion choices. Don’t waste your money on fashion. Especially at a time like now when you need to be making the best choices with our money. Thoughts on this list? Drop them in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • 7 Fashion-Related Movies You Can Netflix Binge On While You're Stuck In The House

    7 Fashion-Related Movies You Can Netflix Binge On While You're Stuck In The House

    Since we are all pretty much stuck in the house. This seems like such a great time to count our blessings for family, health, having a roof over our head and….Netflix. Netflix has been a lifesaver this past week. Although, I have been taking this time to catch up on creating new designs and other business-related tasks, it hasn’t taken me away from turning off the tv.

    I don’t know about you but I definitely need a break from what’s going on around us right now. It’s being discussed on every television channel and I can’t even tell you the amount of times, one of my shows have been interrupted for yet another COVD-19 update. No doubt, we do need to know the latest but it can be overload sometimes. Which is why Netflix has been so necessary.

    Here are 7 fashion-related shows on Netflix that you can binge on during your time of quarantine.

    sewing
    Photo by Nguyen Nguyen on Pexels.com

    #1: True CostThis movie is about the true cost of fast fashion.

    runway
    Photo by sk on Pexels.com

    #2: Dior and IGet an intense behind the scene looks on a fashion runway show.

    runway show
    Photo by nappy on Pexels.com

    #3: House ZIt’s all about the rise and fall of fashion designer, Zac Posen.

    fashion designer
    Photo by Camargo Anthony on Pexels.com

    #4: Driesgives a detailed into the life of the renowned fashion designer, Dries Van Noten.

    super model
    Photo by Breston Kenya on Pexels.com

    #5: SupermodelThis movie is about a woman who was born in Brooklyn and transformed into one of the most sought after models in the fashion industry.  But is wasn’t easy.

    high heels
    Photo by Skitterphoto on Pexels.com

    #6: Manolo: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards This is about a young boy, Manolo Blahnik, in Spain’s Canary Islands who made shoes for lizards out of foil candy wrappers. He took that talent and started making show for people, which made him one of the most popular shoe makes in the world.

    fashion photographer
    Photo by Fujifilm North America on Pexels.com

    #7: Bill Cunningham – This movie give insight to this hugely popular photographer’s daily life shooting street style for the New York Times. His street style images made an impact Cunningham has on the fashion industry.

    I haven’t even seen some of these yet. So, let’s binge together and catch back up to talk about the movies. Have you already seen any of these?? 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 💋