KristieRebuilds

Tag: style

  • 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 💋

  • Tips On How To Find Your Signature Style

    Tips On How To Find Your Signature Style

    There are some serious benefits to finding your signature style. To name a few:

    • Online shopping is much easier.
    • It helps to build one hell of a capsule collection! (Because all of your pieces can be styled together.)
    • Saves you time on planning outfits for events (Because you know what works.)

    Now, that the surface has been scratched on the benefits. Let’s take a look at how to harness your signature style.

    Unleashing the beast is much easier than you might think and can be broken into 4 main categories: Fit, Fabric, Feelings, and Accentuation.

    FIT

    If the fit is off; you might as well stay at home. Being real about your size is important in obtaining your signature style. You can buy a size 8 but if you wear a 12; then the fit on the 8 just won’t do. And that’s okay! Size doesn’t matter, fit does.

    Georgia Peach Dress – Drusilla Shay

    There seems to be a misconception that wearing something really tight with make you look smaller. But that’s completely wrong! The opposite happens. The only thing wearing something too small does is push what was supposed to fit comfortably in that skirt somewhere else. You end up with a belly roll you didn’t have before. Get measured, try on, purchase made-to-measure pieces…do whatever necessary to ensure a proper fit. Wearing your signature style should not feel uncomfortable.

    Fabric

    This is probably one of the most underrated elements in garments for shoppers. See it, like it, buy it…is usually how it goes. But taking an extra minute to analyze the fabric will help you tremendously.

    Black floral printed handmade dress for women
    Gallant Dress

    Touch the fabric…

    Does it stretch? Is it transparent (when it shouldn’t be)? Are the seams falling apart? Does it feel cheap? When buying online; how does the store describe the fabric? Will it feel comfortable on your skin?

    You won’t regret taking the time to check out the fabric. Think about wearing a pair of white pants that are made from fabric so thin that you can your underwear? Not cute. 🤷🏽‍♀️

    Feelings

    How does the look make you feel? It’s that simple. Wearing something that makes you feel good changes your walk, talk, pushes your shoulders back, and your head up.

    Blue skirt with front split
    Always Royal Skirt

    I always feel better about life when I’m wearing something that I love. How about you?

    Accentuation

    What’s your favorite part of your body? Hips, butt, tummy, legs, maybe your cleavage is amazing…whatever it is; this is the area you should accentuate.

    Red handmade tank top for women
    Lipstick Top

    As a matter of fact, all of your styles should accentuate that area. Here are some styling tips to help highlight your hotspots.

    Best ways to accentuate cleavage: v-necks, scoop necks, leaving some buttons open on a top, and sheer tops.

    Best ways to accentuate your waist: fit n’ flare silhouettes, peplums; accessorizing with a belt, tucking in the front hem of a shirt, tie back tops, and cropped styles.

    Best ways to accentuate your legs: short dresses and skirts, wearing high heels, fishnets, skirts/dresses with splits, and high low hems.

    Best ways to accentuate shoulders & arms: tanks, strapless, and off the shoulder styles.

    Best ways to accentuate butt: bodycon dresses & skirts and belts to pull in waist.

    Smiley face handbag
    Smiley Face Bag

    Bonus tip: Confidence and a Smile. They make everything look better!

    Thoughts on these tips or want to add your own?? Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • So, the dress is called Sanguine…what does that mean???

    So, the dress is called Sanguine…what does that mean???

    New pieces from the handcrafted collection, Fashion Not Fear is steadily being released on BlueLabelsBoutique.com.  As a matter of fact, there is probably a new drop every two weeks or so, which means you should be checking often!  😀  If you happen to forget, no worries…you will be sure to get an update right here at FNF.

    The Sanguine Dress is next up.  Sanguine??… you might be thinking.

    The word means being optimistic or positive, especially in an difficult situation.  Optimism is an absolute requirement in being fearless.  The name didn’t occur to me at when I started.  It wasn’t until after looking at the finished product.

    First of all, it’s deep v-neckline is hella sexy.  If you look good, you feel good aka optimistic.  Plus, it is also a maxi.  There is something abut a long dress that always makes me feel good when I’m wearing it.  Maybe it is how the material feels brushes against my legs.  Or perhaps it is because my height (4′ 11″) requires me to hold it up one the sides when walking so that it doesn’t drag on the floor.  So girly is that!! 💕 I can’t put my finger on it but maxi dresses are my jam!

    There are a few things that need to be done before it comes out.

    Seams to finish.

    Thread to remove.

    removing thread from purple and pink maxi dress

    Almost at the finish line!  For now, you can feast your eyes on a sketch of the dress.

    fashion sketch of purple and pink maxi dress

    Stay tuned this week so you can get yours when it drops.  Who’s feeling the Sanguine dress??  Let me know in the comments..

    Stay Fearless 💋

     

  • Keepin’ It Stylish & Hoodie In A New Set From The FNF Collection

    Keepin’ It Stylish & Hoodie In A New Set From The FNF Collection

    The No Clue Top and No Clue Skirt was just released at BlueLabelsBoutique.com and she’s a beauty.

    Blue hoodie top and skirt for women blue Labels Boutique

    Last week, a rough sketch of the set was revealed.  A sneak peak was also posted on IG.  Obviously, keeping it hidden until it is released isn’t the easiest thing to do!

    Blue top and skirt blue Labels BoutiqueIMG_7958

    This handcrafted set is made from a beautiful bold blue material that feels so soft and silky.  But my favorite part of the entire look???  The hood, of course!

    IMG_7960

    blue hooded top with skirt blue labels boutique

     

     

    Are you feeling the No Clue Set?  Are you a fan of wearing a hoodie?  By the way, pieces of the Fashion Not Fear Collection is steadily being dropped.  Have you gotten a chance to check them out?  Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

     

    to shop this post at blue labels boutique

     

  • Let’s Talk: Do You Care About The Story Behind The Brand You Are Wearing?

    Let’s Talk: Do You Care About The Story Behind The Brand You Are Wearing?

    Brands have been a “thing” for me ever since I fell in love with fashion.  I guess it really started when I was a teenager.  When I was younger and still working off my moms budget,  I didn’t make a issue of what brand of jeans or shoes I was wearing.  I was just grateful to have clothes on my back and shoes on my feet.  It wasn’t until I started making my own money that I started to really get into designer brands.  My first job was packing groceries and taking them out to the car for people.  I worked off tips only.  And although I only made about $75 on a good Saturday, it didn’t stop me from dropping $60 of it on jeans.  Rocawear, DKNY, True Religion, FUBU… you name it, it was in my closet.
    sequin skirt, do you care about the background about the brand
    As I became an adult, it got to the point where it had to be designer or I wouldn’t wear it.  $500 designer bags, $200 sunglasses…all of which I couldn’t afford but I didn’t care.  Wearing designer brands meant I was important, right?! Or so I thought.  I never took the time to research the designers background, where the clothes were made, the inspiration behind it or anything.  All I knew is that my favorite hip hop artist or actress was wearing it and I HAD to be a part of the cool crowd.
    brown leather bag; do you care about a designers background
    Things started to change after my first $500 bag started to peel.  I instantly panicked!  Not only because half of my paycheck was spent on the bag.  It had me thinking, “What possessed me to spend this kind of money on a bag?”, “What do you know about this company that gives good reason for spending this kind of money?”  This lead to me actually doing brand research and lets just say that I wasn’t impressed.  I won’t mention the brand but after finding out some of their beliefs and association with shadiness,  I felt like a dumbo for breaking off that type of cash.
    IMG_5621.JPG
    Since becoming a business owner/designer, I have found that people have a certain expectations from me and my business, too.  Meeting customers with lots of questions confirms it.  Questions like, “Would you wear this style of dress to work”, “Where do your clothes come from?”, “What is the ethnic background of the people that make that clothes?” (That was a real question)  But I welcome the questions.  They don’t know anything about BLB or FNF and they want to feel safe about who you give your money to.  I get it.
    Death_to_stock_photography_Vibrant (2 of 10)
    I guess that’s also why nowadays, my view of rocking designer brands is so different.  Don’t get me wrong, ya’ girl still loves a good designer.  I just want to make sure my hard earned money goes towards a company/brand that I feel “deserves” it.  By my standards.  For instance, would you buy products from a company who have views you don’t agree with, a brand that has been associated with harming someone, or a company that has proven to be racist towards a particular group?   Does the “more information” about a brand, company or person behind the brand matter to you?    Or is it more about how the clothes make you feel?  Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
    Stay Fearless 💋
  • How To Pick A Dress (Based On What You Want To Show Off)

    How To Pick A Dress (Based On What You Want To Show Off)

    Wearing a dress you love is important.  Knowing the style you’re looking for can be even more important.  Here is the style of dress you are looking for.  Based on what you want to accentuate.

    Guide to picking the dress

    What style of dress is your favorite?  Off the shoulder, mini, etc…let me know in the comments.

     

    Stay Fearless 💋

  • Celebrating The Return Of The Skort

    Celebrating The Return Of The Skort

    We asked one of our favorite people on IG (and beyond) Sade A. Spence to style the Boss Lady Suit that was newly released at Blue Labels Boutique.  Here is how she styled the two piece blazer and skort set.

    SadeSpenceBlackWhiteStripeSetSadeSpenceBlackWhiteStripeSet10SadeSpenceBlackWhiteStripeSet5SadeSpenceBlackWhiteStripeSet6SadeSpenceBlackWhiteStripeSet12

    📸 All images by Dante Corbett

    Special thanks to Sade for joining us in the celebration in the return of the skort!  Let me know your thoughts in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

    to shop this post at blue labels boutique

    Blazer $35                                                                Skort $31

  • Don’t Risk Spoiling A Good Outfit On A Wack Event With These Tips

    Don’t Risk Spoiling A Good Outfit On A Wack Event With These Tips

    We have all been there.  You find a dress that you REALLY like but you don’t wear it right away.  You tuck it away safely in your closet (tags and all).  This outfit can’t be worn any ol’ time.  No ma’am, you want to save it for the perfect event.   Date night in a different city, perhaps.  Maybe your monthly night out with the girls?!  Or the networking event when you want to make a good impression?  You can’t put your finger on it;  but you will know when the time arrives.
    The invite you have been looking for FINALLY comes; “I know exactly what I’m going to wear”  you think after happily sending an “I will be there” text.  The day of the event arrives.  You spend countless hours doing your nails, makeup, and making sure every piece of hair is in its’ proper place.  Hell, you even shaved!   Only to arrive at such anticipated event to find that its’ completely wack.  It’s in a bad location, no one is there, it’s raining like cats n’ dogs and the company you came with makes you want to go to sleep.  All of that outfit saving, primping and prepping for absolutely nothing!  You could’ve stayed at home, curled up on the couch watching Netflix.  Who the wants to go through that?!
    Well now, you no longer have to.  Use these tips to never have to waste a good outfit on a bad event again!
    Ask Questions –  Where will the event be?  What time?  Inside or Outside?  Your morning look will be different from what you would wear in the evening.  Walking around outside in the dirt versus inside of a building would determine what shoes you will wear, etc.  Ask questions that will help you decide what type of style to go with.
    fashion not fear on iPad
    Check Social Media – Find them on social media.  Search the location/name of the event.  Their feed will give you clues on their vibe and what type of crowds might be in attendance.  Good clues on narrowing down an outfit.  Would you agree?
    Ask The Person Who Invited You & Consider Their Interests – It will help you tell you alot about whats’ about to go down.
    Do a Weather Check – Suede in the rain is a nightmare.  Sheer when its cold out is a train-wreck.  Ask Siri on the day.
    Don’t Wear It On A First Date – A dress is only new once.  You can only pop the tag one time.  Don’t waste that new feeling on someone who hasn’t ever seen it or you.  They don’t know if your outfit is new or not.  It could be the first date from hell.  Wear it on the second date or once you determine that they are worth it. 😉
    blue labels boutique shopping bag
    Shop Small – Big chain stores offer a big selection for everyone and that’s cool.  But if you aim to be unique, you are increasing your chance of running into your fashion twin.  Small boutiques are the best places to shop for pieces you won’t see everywhere else.
    Take note of these tips and you won’t ever, ever, ever waste another outfit on a wack event again!  Is this a fear of yours??  Let me know in the comments.
    Stay Fearless 💋

  • This Cardigan Is Dreamy

    This Cardigan Is Dreamy

    Colorblock shades of blue, soft material, billowy sleeves, slightly cropped in the front, vintage inspired wooden buttons…the Block Me Cardigan is so dreamy.

    Processed with VSCO with hb1 presetProcessed with VSCO with hb2 presetProcessed with VSCO with a5 presetProcessed with VSCO with hb1 presetProcessed with VSCO with a5 presetProcessed with VSCO with a5 presetblue color block cardigan blue labels boutique

    blue colorblocking Cardigan

    P.S…it’s so lightweight that it can be worn through the Spring and Summer too!  Thoughts on the Block Me Cardigan??  Let me know in the comments…

    Stay Fearless 💋

    to shop this post at blue labels boutique

    Processed with VSCO with a5 preset

    Block Me Cardigan $25

  • Fancy Digits! Here’s The Latest In Rings

    Accessories are such a great, affordable way to update your look.  Take a look at five of the latest in ring trends.

    Brass Knuckle Set $ 19.99

    dope ring set blue labels boutique

    DOPE Ring Set, $25

    trunk show 5 pieces set blue labels boutiqueTrunk Show 5 Piece Ring Set $15

    Butterfly Ring, $17.99

    Crystal Ball Ring, $17.99

    More styles are available at BLB.  Which is your fave?

    Stay Fearless 💋