KristieRebuilds

Tag: inspiration

  • 10 Fearless Fashion Mantras That Will Break You Out Of Your Routine and Speak To Your Soul

    Most of us have the same morning routine throughout the week. Wake up, eat, put on whatever is the easiest, go to work/school, come home and get ready to do it all over again the next day.

    So, how does a girl find ways to throw in some fun with all of this routine going on?? Especially, when there’s no getting out of work or school?? Fashion, of course! Fashion and your style is the one thing that makes separated you from everyone else at your job or school. Yes, we are all different. But your style is what makes people take note of your individuality and personality without knowing a thing about you. Why ruin this by wearing what everyone else is wearing. Or actually caring about what people have to say about it for that matter?? Don’t waste your time.

    Here are 10 fearless fashion quotes that will inspire you to break up your routine, encourage you to wear whatever you want to wear all while throwing a finger to the haters!

    Fearless fashion mantraFearless fashion mantraFearless fashion mantraFearless fashion mantraFearless fashion mantraFearless fashion mantraFearless fashion mantra Fearless fashion mantra

    Which are your favorites?? Feel free to share them on social media and tag me @bluelabelsboutique!

    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 💋

  • Fearless Woman: CJ Scarlet

    CJ Scarlet knows first-hand how violence can destroy lives.   As a survivor of sexual assault, CJ spent years dealing with the emotional aftermath. After taking her power back, she became an advocate for others who had been victimized, running a child advocacy center and serving as Director of Victims Issues for the NC Attorney General’s Office.

    CJ decided to use her hard-won experience and knowledge to pen The Badass Girl’s Guide: Uncommon Strategies to Outwit Predators, the definitive guide on self-empowerment and self-defense for women and girls. From tips on how to “fail” the predator interview and avoid being targeted, to instructions on using your personal bodily “weapons” to defend yourself in a confrontation, this edgy book offers everything you need to know to stay safe, fight if you must and navigate the criminal justice process if the worst happens.

    CJ decided to take her experience and wrote a book entitled, The Badass Girl’s Guide: Uncommon Strategies To Outwit Predators.  Which tackles the main reason women and girls are so vulnerable to assault—their life-long socialization to “make nice” and their fear of appearing rude, which make them a perfect target for predators.

    This award-winning writer and motivational speaker has given speeches and workshops at national and international events,  appeared on numerous radio and television programs, including MSNBC and NPR. She has been named one of the “Happy 100” people on the planet, and her personal story of how she triumphed over her victimizations and a terminal medical diagnosis is featured in the bestselling books, Happy for No Reason and Be Invincible.

    You absolutely must heat CJs fearless story…

    Click here to check out her story!

    https://youtu.be/_bTyg_jf_NY

     

     

     

  • Fearless Woman: Renee Lopez

    Fearless Woman: Renee Lopez

    Happy Fearless Woman Friday!

    I am excited to introduce you to this weeks’ fearless woman.  Renee Lopez was a college soccer coach for over 14 years.  She is an entrepreneur who created a business where she does leadership development and coaching education programs.  As a certified speaker, trainer, and coach; she has worked with the John Maxwell Team and Jon Gordon companies to name a few.   Renee also has done leadership training programs for State Farm Insurance and various companies.  You might have heard her recent interview on an ESPN radio interview where she discusses mindset, confidence, and the college recruiting process.  She has put all of this experience in her book, Looking For A Full Ride?

     

    Thoughts on Renees’ fearless journey?!  Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

     

  • 11 Tips To Finding Your Happy, Fearless Place

    11 Tips To Finding Your Happy, Fearless Place

    “Happiness is not a destination, its a state of mind.”

    I’m sure you’ve heard that one before!  It resonates with me.  I’ve always wanted to be happy.  Who doesn’t?!  But what does it take to be in that state of mind?

    I’ve been working on this whole fearless lifestyle thing for a few years now. One thing is  for sure; it’s not easy.  I guess if it was, everyone would be doing it.  I’m a work in progress.  I’ll happily admit that.  Hell, I will still curse you out if you cut me off on the highway.  I just choose not to let those small things define my day.  I’m no therapist, life coach, or guru of all things.  Just a 30-something fashion entrepreneur who wants life to be as full as possible.  Here are 11 things that help keep me on the track to being my happiest self.

     

    #1. Exercise

    That whole endorphin thing is true! Exercise has a way of helping you shake off the stress. It doesn’t have to be a full hour sweat session. Try taking a walk around your block.

    #2. Not Giving A Fuck

    Bothering yourself with others think about you, your actions, your outfit, etc; is nothing but a waste of time. And a way to fit your head with negativity.  It might sound easier said then done, but you will find yourself alot happier when you stop giving a fuck about others opinions.

    #3. Unplug From Social Media

    Social media is time consuming!  Spend less time looking at what others want you to think their life is like and spend more time focusing on the things in your life that make you happy.

    #4. Set Boundaries 

    This is a hard one and one that I’m constantly battling with.  Text messages, calls, and emails, DMs, pings…can be overwhelming . Not to mention those that text to followup on the text that they sent 3 minutes before.  Or that person who always needs you to run an errand for them or look something up online, etc.  It’s enough to drive you insane! Set a scheduled time to check & respond to emails every day.  Let everyone know your “rules” and leave it at that. If they don’t get it, ignore them and follow the rules you have set for yourself.  They will get the picture eventually.

    #5. Keep A Journal 

    Have you ever had a million things on your brain. But things become instantly clear having a conversation with mom or bae? The same works with a journal. Writing down your innermost thoughts is freeing…trust me on this one!

    #6. Laugh Instead of Crying

    Life is unpredictable and there isn’t anything you can do about it. When you find yourself at a breaking point…instead of crying, burst out into a loud boisterous laugh. It will help to lighten your mood and hopefully change your perspective of the situation.

    #7. Enjoy A Tall Glass 

    When all else fails, pour up a nice glass of your favorite cocktail and chill.

    #8. Helping Someone Else 

    It is easy to sulk in your own mess until you meet someone who is worse. Sometimes its all about perspective. If you stopped and took a look around, you might find that things aren’t as bad as you think. Volunteer at a homeless shelter, help the Red Cross with the Hurricane Harvey victims, be a mentor to kids. You might notice that life isn’t so bad after all. Plus, it will give you a greater sense of gratitude.

    #9. Let Others Fight Their Own Battle

    I can’t tell you the amount of times I have found myself in the middle of a disagreement that had absolutely nothing to do with me!  Before you know it; both parties are mad at you.  When your intention was only to help mediate the situation.  Be it friends or family, let people fight their own battles.  Stay out of it!

    #10. Put Yourself First 

    Mom, wife, business owner, daughter; it doesn’t matter how many hats you wear.  You must be most important person in your life in order to be your best at any of them. Rather it’s enjoying quiet time on the porch with a cup of coffee or getting a manicure; be sure to do something for yourself.

    #11. Make The Choice

    Being happy is a choice, it’s not automatic.  You have to CHOOSE to be happy each day; it requires real effort.  Getting an attitude about traffic, rude people, receiving the wrong food is irritating.  But a mood changer it is not.  Throw them the finger (literally or figuratively) and keep it moving!  Once you get used to choosing to have a good day, you will be in your fearless, happy place in no time.

    Which tips will you use? Are there any you would add?  Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

     

  • What The Dictionary Won’t Tell You About Being Fearless

    What The Dictionary Won’t Tell You About Being Fearless

    If you look up the word, fearless, in the dictionary, then you will see the following:

    1. Without fear.

    Synonyms

     frightless

    Derived Terms

    fearlessness

    fearlessy 

    See Also

    unafraid

    interred

    courageous

    Not to say this isn’t accurate.  The definition is super accurate but there should be some sort of warning label.  Or maybe a See Also Fearless Living section.  The section could basically prepare you for whats’ to come should you choose that route.  I never looked up the actual definition of the word prior to my fearless journey not that it would’ve changed my decision.  But now that I’m well into it, curiosity led me to look up how it’s defined in the dictionary.  But instead of appreciating the information it gave, I found myself analyzing what was missing.  Which is why I recommend a warning label.  Something along the lines of:

    See Also

    Fearless Living

    image of two women holding living the fearless life signs fashion not fear

    After clicking on Fearless Living, you can see some of the potential side effects of living fearlessy…

    See Side Effects

    Sleepless nights

    Tearful days & nights

    Constant doubt

    Continuous worry

    May negatively impact income

    May lead to loss of family & friends

    Stress-related issues such as grinding teeth, loss of hair, headaches, weight loss, weight gain, etc

    Take it from a former corporate rat who abruptly left a high paying job to pursue her passion….I know about the side effects of living fearlessy.  Nevertheless, it is one helluva ride and I wouldn’t change a thing!

     

    Do you agree with the need of a Warning Label?  What word would you add a warning label to and what would it be?  Leave your thoughts in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • Fearless Woman: Hayley Carr

    Fearless Woman: Hayley Carr

    Happy Fearless Woman Friday 💙

    When looking for someone to be featured in this series, I like to ask a few questions to help determine if they are actually fearless.  Some make me feel like I’m not doing enough and others make me say, “girl please”.  Holding down a 9to5 for 2 years isn’t my idea of fearless, it’s called feeding yourself.  Or is it just me?  🤔 But I  really do appreciate every single response.  So, please keep them coming!

    When I was contacted by Hayley Carr, I knew she was fearless before I read her full story.   Check out the first question that I asked and her response.

    What made you want to live fearlessy?  Her response was…
    I don’t believe in the absence of fear – never once when I was doing something brave did I feel brave at the time – I felt scared. But I wanted to be the type of woman that never lets my fear dictate my life. I believe that every woman deserves to feel free. And when we can live act and in the presence of, and despite fear, we become fierce, and unstoppable.

    If that doesn’t make you want to know more, I don’t know what to tell you!  But I’ll let her tell her finish her own story.

    Told ya so!  Leave your thoughts in the comments.

                                                                        Stay Fearless 💋

  • Fearless Women: Judith Treanor

    Fearless Women: Judith Treanor

    Happy Fearless Woman Friday 💙
    This fearless lady has conquered what most couldn’t imagine including the fear of failure and breast cancer. When we asked her one thing that she has learned about herself throughout her journey, she answered, “I’ve learned that I will never tread the path others tread unless that is the right path for me.”
    Find out more about Judith Treanor on this weeks’ episode of Fearless Woman.

    Want to keep up with Judith? 👉🏽👉🏽 http://www.templesandmarkets.com.au or you can follow her on FB & IG @templesandmarkets

    Stay Fearless 💋

     

  • 9 Tips To Being Fearless In Fashion For 2017

    9 Tips To Being Fearless In Fashion For 2017

     

    “Live in fashion not fear”
    “Fear holds you back, fashion takes you places.”

    One of the goals at Fashion Not Fear, is to fuel the fearlessness in you.  Being fearlessness makes you feel like you can do anything in the world.  And who wouldn’t want to feeling?!

    FNF believes one of the best ways to present your fearlessness is through the most universal language, fashion. Being fearless in fashion doesn’t mean that you just throw on anything and walk out of the door. It is more like a state of mind. You wear what makes YOU feel good, styled how YOU like, without a thought of what anyone else thinks about it.  Plus, you do it with so much confidence that no one can tell you anything and they won’t even try!  Sound like a plan?

    Well then check out these 9 tips that will keep you fearless in fashion in 2017:

    black woman holding money up at vendor show

    Fearless Tip #1 – Think twice before buying, if it costs more than $100

    No matter the budget, $100 is a nice piece of change. Don’t waste it on something that you’re not completely in love with! Super trendy items won’t be in style next season, possibly next month so don’t waste the money.

    thigh high boots with black dress

    Fearless Tip #2 – Thigh high boots make everything look good.

    Thigh high boots makes anything look sexy.  And sexiness in fashion is definitely for the fearless.  Over jeans, with a short skirt, with a maxi skirt…you can’t go wrong.  Keep a good pair of thigh highs in your closet.

    hand wearing gold stack rings

    Fearless Tip #3 – Give your nails the big O

    Oval shaped nails are fashion forward and fearless. A manicure is one of the easiest ways to bring on the fearlessness.

    Ellie putting on bold lip color

    Fearless Tip #4 – When in doubt, wear a bold lip color.

    Ever had those times when you feel under-dressed or like your outfit is missing something? Slide on some bold lipstick and you will instantly see a difference. Red lips, for instance, take you from casual to glam. It’s the perfect accessory!

    black women kissing herself in the mirror

    Fearless Tip #5 – Remind yourself who you are, so you won’t be waiting for someone else to do it.

    Confidence is key to being fearless. But the confidence has to come within and not from others.  Look in the mirror to remind yourself, write out daily affirmations…whatever it takes.  Value yourself so that others around you will too!

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    Fearless Tip #6 – Know Your “It” Piece

    Find that one garment that always makes you feel and look good.  It doesn’t matter what time of month or event. Once you find it (if you haven’t already) put it on whenever you need a bit of a pick me up.   There’s nothing like a great outfit to do that trick.  For me, it a slinky black jumper. What’s yours?

    ballinhalftimerunwayshow2

    Fearless Tip #7 – Focus On Your Uniqueness

    We were all created to be different. So, why do some people spend so much time trying to be like someone else?  Focus on what is unique about you and learn to love it!

    black women is burgundy top and trousers

    Fearless Tip #8 – Wear a bra that makes everything sit in the right place

    One of my favorite style tips to share is to wear a good bra. It makes your clothes fit and hang on you better. Plus, nice looking cleavage never hurt anyone.

    blue labels boutique on social media

    Fearless Tip #9 – You are more than how many likes or follows you receive.

    Social media is a powerful tool that let’s you connect with people all over the world. It is super fun and what was life like without it? But don’t let it be TOO powerful in your life. The amount of likes or follows should not give value or take away any value from your life.

    Remember, being fearless doesn’t mean that there aren’t times when you are afraid or feeling less confident.  It just means that you are feeling the fear, but doing it anyway!  Which tips would you follow in 2017?

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • Fearless Woman: Tegan Matthews

    Happy Fearless Woman Friday 💙

    I am so excited to introduce you to Tegan Matthews.  She has been through homelessness, going without food and things that most of us couldn’t imagine.  But through it all, she has become a successful author, speaker, and created the Fearless Female Podcast.  You must hear her fearless, inspirational story.

    Feeling the fearlessness?  Leave a comment and let us know.

    Stay Fearless 💋