Tag: fashion not fear collection

  • 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 💋

  • 15 FNF Pieces Released (By Sketch)

    15 FNF Pieces Released (By Sketch)

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    The Brassy Set
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    Don’t Cheat Cha’ Girl Dress
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    Unflinting Blazer Dress
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    The Sanguine Dress
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    The Gallant Dress
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    The Dashing Top
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    Tangerine Dream Top
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    The Lipstick Top
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    The Valorous Skirt
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    The Heroic Set
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    Art Strokes Wrap Top
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    Right On The Spot Skirt
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    Oh Sunny Day Dress
    No Clue Hoodie Set

     

    Which ones are your favorite? Let me know in your comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • Have You Heard?? The Gutsy Top and Skirt Set is here!

    Have You Heard?? The Gutsy Top and Skirt Set is here!

    Simple, sleek, and sexy are the best words to describe the latest pieces released in the Fashion Not Fear Collection.

    Simple because the construction isn’t fussy or complicated.  Which means you can go crazy with styling options!

    Sleek because the material is so soft and silky against your skin.

    Sexy because a wrap skirt is just that.  It hugs your body perfectly and gives you a sexy look with every step you take.

    Check out the Gutsy Top and Skirt set.

    Olive green top and wrap skirt1E601666-BC28-46BD-BC40-6EE9732CC3FCB873D597-A377-4282-9E03-B9533F6A162826C87493-3D02-4ADA-BF7E-0D6F47652C8F40FB9A14-0DA9-4422-8244-1A207DF9BC3396A037D3-87F2-4779-8855-F0AB051562ADProcessed with VSCO with c1 presetProcessed with VSCO with c1 preset

    Now, here’s the thing.  As you know, FNF pieces are limited. Size large only. I actually prefer it that way. I mean, in my opinion, there’s nothing like wearing something that you know everyone and their mama won’t be in. I know we are on the social media world where it seems like everyone wants to look like everyone else. But I’ll admit that I don’t play by those fashion rules. This girl right here, likes to be unique and authentic.  What about you?

    Let me know your thoughts on the comments.

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • When A Sketch Comes To Life: Meet The Valorous Skirt

    When A Sketch Comes To Life: Meet The Valorous Skirt

    Happy Monday to you!! I hope this past weekend gave you everything you needed to make this a great week.

    I’ve been hinting about new releases from the Fashion Not Fear Collection for the past few weeks on the blog and social media. Well, the wait is finally over!

    The Valorous Skirt is here.

    This textured beauty turned out exactly how I imagined it. Although, it took much more time than it usually takes to produce a skirt. But there is a reason for that.

    The reason? Two words…couture details. I’ve been doing lots of research on techniques that can take a skirt from good to amazing. Each time, couture details has come to the forefront. They are seemingly small sewing techniques but they pack a major style punch when it comes to fitting, stability, and improves the overall construction, for sure.

    Some of the couture details the Valorous Skirt has been lucky to receive is ribbon hemming and hand-stitched zipper. Both of which make that garment look good from the inside out.

    The texture of the skirt sticks out, literally. The print is so unique.

    The oversized pockets stick out just enough to create a structured skirt that is everything. Yes, it has pockets!!!

    It comes in sizes small to extra large. As you know, Fashion Not Fear pieces are limited. So don’t hesitate to cop yours.

    Thoughts on the Valorous Skirt? Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • When & Where You Can See A Fashion Not Fear Dress In A Museum

    When & Where You Can See A Fashion Not Fear Dress In A Museum

    As I previously shared, I was asked to submit a dress into a museum!! I know it sounds crazy, right?! Lol. It did to me anyway. It was such an honor, I can’t even tell you.

    You want to know what will make it even more amazing?? YOU, Of course! I’d LOVE for each and everyone of you to come check out the black designers that will have designs on display for this museum installation.

    Here is everything you need to know about it.

    I will be there. Will you?? Let me know if you can make it in the comments….

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • Classics vs Trends: Which Side Are You On?

    Classics vs Trends: Which Side Are You On?

    Certain events occur that create a trend in fashion. Most of the time; it’s one of two ways.

    Fashion not fear on the runway

    One way; usually happens at the beginning of a season. This is when the “big designers” are doing runway shows to premiere their new designs. When multiple designers put similar styles on the runway, a trend ensues. It only takes a select few designers to put a dress with a big ass, furry dog attached to the front. Next thing you know, they are everywhere!

    Michelle Obama in Austin
    Michelle Obama (Becoming Tour in Austin, Tx)

    Celebrities are the second way a trend usually pops up.  Once a couple of celebrities are caught wearing something; it’s over.   Trendsetter articles and pictures start popping up everything demanding that we all know that this certain trendis the next big thing.  Problem is, trends are here today.  Gone tomorrow or maybe a few days later but you get it.

    Red tank top for women
    The Lipstick Top

    Then, there are classics.  Classics are style staples.  They don’t need the help of a runway show or reality star.  Unfortunately, they don’t get all of the praise.

    Polka dot skirt
    Right On The Dot Skirt

    A classic has been in the game much longer than a trend and they will be around long after the trend fades out.  Examples of classics are pencil skirts; button up collared tops, cigarette pants, shift dresses, and leather skirts.  They never go out of style. Classic tend to have more of a tailored fit and are complimentary to all body types.  These are pieces that your Grandma, your Grandmamas mama, and even her Mama wore!

    Sewing handmade skirt

    Can I incorporate both in the new pieces being worked on right now?

    Some of the pieces released in the Fashion Not Fear Collection are slightlyon the trend side.  For instance, the Serious Business Top and Skirt set, is slightly on the trend side.  I say slightlybecause the straight skirt that is included in the set is classic, all day long!  Also, you can wear the top with a classic pair of jeans and you’re good to go.

    Just Cooling Set

    The Just Cooling Set is a classic style but with trendy details like the split cut sleeve on the blazer.

    The question is; “What side are you on?”  When I went to answer that question for myself, I started to replay some of my best fashion moments.  That time I wore a fringe back mini dress during my first runway show. The monochromatic sheer outfit I wore to a Irun Kiko show. Then there’s every single look I wear when my fiancé says; “Get dressed, i’m taking you out.”  Or whenever a text saying; “Want to go do something tonight?”  pops up on my phone. These are fashion moments. All of them are, for sure.  Reliving those fashion moments helped me to see that I’ve always had a love for classics!  But I’d throw in a trend here and there to keep it updated and interesting.  Admittedly, there have been times when I knew the look wouldn’t last through the season. But it was so cute, I didn’t even care. Seems like I’ve been straddling the fashion fence. 🤷🏽‍♀️That’s okay, isn’t it??

    Gold black fringe dress
    Goldie Dress

    What about you?? Classics or trends?? Or do you tend to straddle the fashion fence.  Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • A Blazer Dress With Gym Shoes 🤔

    A Blazer Dress With Gym Shoes 🤔

    Self proclaimed dress fanatic here! Which means; you will find me in a dress almost every time you see me.

    It doesn’t matter what I’m supposed to do that day either. I can be moving a piece of furniture or sewing up a dress. It’s what I love and what is most comfortable (to me.)

    Yesterday, I came home from the gym. As soon as I hit the door, I was asked, “You wore that to the gym?”

    “No, I put it on after.” I answered.

    Handmade blazer dressHandmade blazer dress

    Thoughts on my blazer dress and gym shoes look?? Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • Two City Fabric Tour + What Do You Look For In A Dress?

    Two City Fabric Tour + What Do You Look For In A Dress?

    A new collection from Fashion Not Fear is in the making. I am currently in the planning stage, so nothing has actually been made yet. As a matter of fact, the only things done is deciding on a color scheme and simple sketches of some ideas.

    Fashion not fear sketch

    With these two pieces in mind, it was time to get some fabric ideas. My love of travel means I would do anything to do a road trip. Austin and Houston would be good placing to source fabric. Sounded like it was time for a fabric road trip!

    Austin was first up. Although, I’ve spent many days and nights in Austin, this would be my first time looking for fabric. It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to get there from my home. So, it is the perfect distance to do ANYTHING and come back the same day. Honestly, my fiancé and I are good for hitting up happy hour or taking our bikes to ride around downtown.

    Even though this was my first time looking, I knew exactly which store I wanted to go to. I follow this store on IG. They seemed to offer unique options. Let’s go!

    We hit the road early, ate at our favorite poke restaurant and headed out. My Google search and Maps apps both said the store was closed but I prayed it was a mistake.

    It wasn’t.

    After checking out a few more stores; it was time to move around.

    Next up…Houston. As soon as I entered H-town, I found some hot spots.

    Luckily, I was successful in finding fabric, trimmings, and fabric basics so the Houston trip was definitely a success.

    The collection is something I’m already proud of. I am aiming for each piece to have the feminine details that make us feel pretty that we all love.

    Everyone likes something different when it comes to girly, dresses. What are some feminine details you like to see in a dress?? Is it lace, chiffon, floral patterns, shoulders out, a certain fit or front split?? What is it?

    Let’s talk. Let me know in the comments what you look for in a dress??

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • The Hard Times Of Pop Ups + Why You Should Come Shop At One!

    The Hard Times Of Pop Ups + Why You Should Come Shop At One!

    Participating in pop up shops is one of the hardest and most rewarding things about having this company. Don’t get me wrong, it’s fun, too. But it isn’t easy. The goal is to make it LOOK easy!

    You might be wondering what’s so hard about it?? Lets see…packing everything from clothes, clothing racks, tables, a canopy (sometimes), accessories, boxes, and more. It can be a lot just getting it from point A to point B. I struggled with moving things in the beginning but thank God I changed it up. I was surprised what difference a clothes rack and a cart on wheels will do.

    Boutique owner pushing a cart for pop up

    Another challenge is the audience. I’ve found that I can plan things down to every little detail and it means nothing. It doesn’t mean there will be someone there to shop or care about it at all. Will anyone actually show up? And if they do show up, will they like what they see??It is the worst!

    Shopping at pop up shops

    It is a constant concern. Actually it WAS a constant concern. Now, I set up and MAKE it a good day, no matter what. It is less stress on me. It’s not easy working at pop ups if I’m worried about is the amount of sales that I make the entire time. I’ve learned that all I can do is put forth the effort. I can only do my part and hope that it works out. “Less stress more fun” is my motto these days.

    Owner at pop up shops

    Okay, that’s enough of my complaining. 🤭.

    Here is why you should come shop with me at the next one!

    • Special deals available
    • You get to get out of the house and be social
    • Great photo ops for your IG page!
    • Your chance to touch and feel all of the stuff you see on bluelabelsboutique.com
    • Pop ups are always a good vibe with great shopping, good food & cocktails at most events.
    • We get a chance to meet eachother!

    Owner at pop up shop

    Stay up with on our site, social media and everything else to know when the next event is happening!

    Are you a pop up shopper? Let me know your favorite things about shopping at a pop up? Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • I Almost Passed Out When I Was Asked To Participate In This.

    I Almost Passed Out When I Was Asked To Participate In This.

    A few months back, I received an email that left me stunned…

    It read (in part)

    “I am curating an exhibit at the Institute of Texan Cultures (A Smithsonian Affiliate museum) to feature Black designers. I am looking for original designs that can be put on display. That can be clothing, shoes, accessories doesn’t matter just as long as it is an original design by a Black designer from or in Texas.”

    YES!!!!! Was my answer before I got to the part where she asked if I was interested.

    She went on to say it will be on display in September. She also said a sketch of the item will be needed for approval.

    I couldn’t believe she asked me. It was such a big deal. I had to knock it out of the park.

    I knew exactly what fabric I wanted to use for the dress. It had a unique pleated design that I’d been eyeing for a very, long time. Plus, it came in the PERFECT shade of blue.

    I whipped up a sketch of my dress idea and sent it to her by email. Providing all of the fabric details (of course!)

    Fashion not fear blue dress illustration

    She loved the idea!

    “What will the dress be made of?” – she asked.

    “Pleated chiffon.” I proudly answered.

    So, it was set! I would be making a dress to be displayed in a museum for all to see. Plus, I was asked in May, the display wasn’t until September so I had plenty of time! Right??

    Wrong!

    I received a follow up email in June asking about the status of the dress. I had the sketch and knew where I going to buy the fabric from. That was about it.

    Why is she asking so early was my first thought. Instead, I told her about my progress or lack of.

    “Can you have it don’t by July 20th?” was her reply.

    “Sure!” I answered. But I was sweating bullets. Then, I felt puke at the back of my throat.I thought I had a good 4 weeks!

    The weeklong family vacation that was already planned and paid for left me with only 1 week to make this dress!!!

    Could I do it?? I knew I work good under pressure but this type of pressure was too much! It is too soon in my sewing career to think making this dress was going to be a piece of cake. Something ALWAYS goes wrong. Always.

    And it did! First up, I found out that the fabric couldn’t get to me in time. I needed this fabric!! What was I going to do??

    Make it happen! That’s what. And that what I did.

    After a week of sleepless nights filled with looking for new fabric and sewing; the dress was safely dropped off to a coordinator at the Texas Cultures Institute in San Antonio, Tx.

    The design is a bit different from the sketch. Especially since I had to change the fabric. But I love it so much! Stay tuned to find out how the dress turned out and how you can go check it out in person.

    Thoughts?? Let me know something special you have going on right now in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋