Kimberly West of Style + Life + Fashion

Author: Kimberly West

Style+Life+Fashion is the brainchild of Kimberly West, a consultant, and on-air lifestyle expert. Although Kim started blogging as a hobby due to her love for Fashion, she quickly gained a loyal following as a respected industry expert and contributor for numerous fashion websites. She seeks to provide the latest trends as well as educate consumers about all aspects of fashion. Kim has hosted television segments as a fashion and lifestyle expert with ABC 33/40, WBRC Fox6, ABC2 News, Fox 45 WBFF, The List Baltimore, and WBAL News. Her fashion interviews include well-known industry experts such as Tai Beauchamp, Tomima Edmark, Julie Weiss, Clinton Kelly, Gianni Rich, Darius Gibbs, Dean Banowetz, and Lilliana Vazquez. In addition, she’s interviewed reality star Queensly Felix and R&B Artist, Keyshia Cole. She has also collaborated with online features for Glamour Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, and Macy’s, and worked to stream digital content and video for New York Fashion Week 2010.

Entertainment / September 3, 2015

How To Throw A Labor Day Party – Limor Suss

Lifestyle and Entertaining Expert, Limor Suss shares tips for the perfect Labor Day Party –

LABOR DAY PARTY TIPS

How do you select a theme for your Labor Day Party?

Pick a theme that’s simple to put together and utilizes items you have in your house already so you’re not going out and buying a bunch of stuff.

The theme all depends on what type of party you want to throw. If you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue, then the theme should be just as simple, but if you want to throw a lavish cocktail affair, then it’s fun to be a little more creative.

What’s the best location to celebrate with family and friends?

An outdoor location is definitely best, especially if the weather is nice. Labor Day is one of your last chances to celebrate the summer with friends and family, so having a party in a park or someone’s backyard is preferable.

In your opinion, should the menu be potluck meal or grilled delights?

It really depends on the size of your party. If you’re having a small, intimate gathering, it’s nice to give your guests a home grilled meal, but for larger parties, I like to do a combination of potluck and day-of grilling.

What are some popular activities to help create a fun environment?

Setting up different games and sports for the kids is always fun. You want to make sure they are having fun while the adults are socializing. I also love a good grill-off – it’s fun to have the self-proclaimed “best grillers” show off their skills and the results are delicious.

Should there be a dress code or come as you are?

You don’t have to have a dress code because you want everyone to be comfortable, but one thing I like to do is create a custom t-shirt for my friends and family to wear – I like to use CustomInk.com because they make the design process really easy. Having a custom t-shirt that everyone can wear is a great way to bring everyone together as one big family, and it makes a nice surprise gift. Your group selfies will also look really cool if you’re all wearing the same t-shirt.

Where can we go to learn more tips?

Head over to my blog TrendsGirl.com, I’m always sharing great tips for planning family gatherings.

About Limor Suss:

Lifestyle and Entertaining Expert, Limor Suss. Limor has appeared on TODAY Show, FOX and Friends, Good Morning America, Dr. Oz, PIX11, New York Live & many others talking about entertaining tips, DIY crafts, the hottest tech gadgets, gift ideas and the latest beauty trends.

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta / September 2, 2015

National Coffee Month Lifestyle Segment – WBAL TV Baltimore

August was National Coffee Month and people everywhere celebrated this delicious beverage. I’m an avid coffee drinker and brew a pot daily. Some people like to enjoy a cup of tea but there’s a few tricks to brewing coffee at home.

I like to use filtered water for the best results; add hazelnut (or vanilla) syrup along with creamer and sugar. If you’re monitoring your sugar intake, substitute with a sweetener. Take your coffee up a notch by adding whipped cream and cinnamon. As a hobby, my mom and I like to purchase flavored coffee beans such French Roast, Pumpkin, or Caramel Pecan. It’s fun to taste the various spices and scents!

Also, the best place to store a bag of coffee is in a cool, airtight container to ensure the flavor’s not lost. Last Sunday, I had the chance to share coffee, espresso, and tea brewing products on WBAL TV Baltimore. I am always enthusiastic about discussing fashion, parent, or home products.

IMUSA Electric Espresso Maker | IMUSA Espresso Set | KRUPS Savoy Machine

Krups Burr Grinder | Ten Thousand Villages Mugs | T-Fal Electric Kettle

Chatting with Jennifer Franciotti

Smiling with Miri Marshall, Meteorologist

I had a great time visiting WBAL – TV Baltimore and hope the items (shown) will encourage my audience to enjoy brewing products at home.

Beauty / September 2, 2015

NYC New York Color Lacquered Lips for Fall

With their new Expert Last Lip Lacquer, NYC New York Color has the perfect shades to make your lips stand out this fall. From beautiful reds, to bright pinks, there is a shade for every outfit.

NYC NEW YORK COLOR EXPERT LAST LIP LACQUER

THINK: Lipstick-worthy color with a luscious glossy feel.

WHAT IT IS: The intense color of a lipstick with the shine of a gloss. Color this bold should be outlawed. The glamorous look of NYC New York Color’s fan-favorite Expert Last Lip Color now has all the ease of a gloss in new Expert Last Lip Lacquer. Infused with intense color, the precision applicator hugs lips tight while the rich formula glides on smooth and never feathers or bleeds. Lips stay hydrated, soft, and supple, and the never-sticky lacquer offers all-day comfort. With a lightweight texture and ultimate creamy color, this lacquer defies the laws of lipstick.

WHAT IT COSTS: $3.99

AVAILABLE SHADES: Bare Brooklyn, Riverside Romance, Chelsea Cherry Blossoms, Lincoln Square Love Affair, Coney Island Candy, Fidi Fuchsia, Central Park Passion, Madison Square Mauve, Big City Berry, Rockaway Ruby, Turtle Bay Toffee, Tribeca Mocha

Accessories / September 1, 2015

Arundel Mills Labor Day Super Sale

Labor Day Weekend signals the end of summer and the start of the fall fashion season with blow-out deals on top of everyday discounts of up to 70 percent during the Arundel Mills Labor Day Super Sale, September 4 through 7. Arundel Mills Super Sales are not-to-be-missed opportunities for unsurpassed savings. Savvy shoppers can enjoy an extra day of bargains on Monday, September 7.

Bargain hunters and fashion lovers alike will find incredible Super Sale savings at almost all of Arundel Mills’ 200+ brand-name retailers, including Neiman Marcus Last Call, NIKE Factory Store, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th, Cole Haan, Tommy Hilfiger Company Store, Oakley Vault, Kenneth Cole, Charlotte Russe Outlet, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Guess Factory Store, and The Limited Outlet, as stores deeply discount summer merchandise and show off new fall arrivals.

For more information, call (410) 540-5100, visit http://www.simon.com/mall/arundel-mills, or follow Arundel Mills’ Super Sale Weekend on Facebook.

About Arundel Mills
Arundel Mills is Maryland’s largest outlet and value retail shopping destination with more than 200 stores, including Coach, Coach Mens, J.Crew Factory, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Michael Kors Outlet and Nike Factory Store. Shoppers can enjoy quality dining and entertainment at Buffalo Wild Wings, DuClaw Brewing Company, Dave & Buster’s, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and Cinemark Egyptian 24 Theatres. Arundel Mills is also home to Maryland Live! Casino, one of the largest commercial casinos in the country with 189 live action table games, more than 4,200 of the latest slot machines and two High Limit rooms, as well as a lineup of nationally-acclaimed restaurant brands, live entertainment at Rams Head Center Stage and the unique, interactive R Bar.

Arundel Mills is located at the intersection of the Baltimore Washington Parkway and Route 100. It is 10 miles south of Baltimore and 20 miles north of Washington, D.C. and just 2 miles west of the Baltimore-Washington International Airport. Regular hours are 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Sunday. For more information on Arundel Mills, please call (410) 540-5100 or visit www.arundelmills.com. Like Arundel Mills on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ArundelMills and follow us on Twitter @ArundelMills and on Instagram @ArundelMills.

About The Mills, A Simon Company
The Mills^®, one of Simon Property Group’s five real estate platforms, offers a unique brand of shopping with a mix of popular name brand outlets, value retailers and full-price stores, plus family-oriented dining and entertainment concepts. The Mills are well-located in major metropolitan markets and many are recognized as leading tourism destinations. Notable properties include Arundel Mills (Baltimore), Gurnee Mills (Chicago), Grapevine Mills (Dallas), Ontario Mills (Los Angeles), Opry Mills (Nashville), Potomac Mills (Washington, DC) and Sawgrass Mills (Ft. Lauderdale/Miami).

Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE: SPG) is a S&P 100 company and a global leader in the retail real estate industry. Simon currently owns or has an interest in more than 325 retail real estate properties in North America, Asia and Europe comprising approximately 243 million square feet. Simon is headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., and employs approximately 5,500 people in the United States. For more information, visit the Simon Property Group website at www.simon.com.

Accessories / September 1, 2015

Ann Taylor Limited Edition BCRF Jewelry

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Ann Taylor will donate 50 percent of the purchase price of each item sold from its limited edition jewelry collection from September 18, 2015 through December 31, 2015 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).

The collection features a pendant necklace ($49.50) and charm bracelet ($59.50) with a variation of different emblems that tells a story with motivational, heartfelt meaning. From a delicate rose that represents love and honor, to the BCRF logo that represents an iconic symbol of strength, these emblems are sure to touch the hearts of all who wear them. Please see below for additional emblem meanings.

The Emblems

Rose- Love and Honor

Rose Quartz- Healing

Feather- Hope and Courage

Pansy- Remembrance

Swallow- Hope and Renewal

Circle- Unity and Union

Heart- Love in All Its Forms

BCRF-An Iconic Symbol of Strength

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, founded by Evelyn H. Lauder in 1993, is an independent not-for-profit organization committed to funding scientific research to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer in our lifetime.

Beauty / August 31, 2015

Beauty Products: Sustain Your Summer Glow

Take a look at the beauty products shown to help us maintain a healthy summer glow. Although the season’s coming to an end, that doesn’t mean our beauty regimen should stop! Our goal is to look fabulous year round.

· Teeth—Extend the appearance of a summer tan with a bright, white smile! Luster Premium White, innovators in teeth whitening, offer whitening solutions proven to remove the toughest stains while maintaining zero tooth and gum sensitivity. Options include the new Smile Illuminator Instant Whitening Kit and Pro Light Dental Whitening System.

· Scent—Give off those summer vibes with just a simple spray – Bella Vince Camuto possesses sweet notes of Peach Nectar, Pear and cooling Lemon Ice, providing any girl with a sensual boost of confidence.

· Skin—Keep skin looking healthy and radiant long after the sun sets on days spent at the beach. Rejuvenate and replenish your post-summer glow with Retinol Anti-Aging Facial Oil. Utilizing nine right essential oils plus vitamins, this facial oil hydrates and protects skin combating wrinkles and dryness!

· Bling—Beat that end of summertime sadness with a bang! Rock metallic bling with Lulu DK’scollections of jewelry inspired temporary tattoos that give new meaning to fashionable beach chic. Lulu DK makes it easy to accessorize in trendy and fun ways so that you can leave the heavy bangles and tangled necklaces at home!

· Lips – Seal the summer with a fabulous kiss using Moodmatcher Luxe Twist Sticks. The Twist Sticks are smudge-proof, fade-proof and kiss-proof, allowing you to show off that bold lip from the pool party to the after party!

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta / August 30, 2015

BJs Wholesale Club: Fun Sandwich Solutions

Get creative with sandwich ideas and take a break from your “normal” turkey club! Below, I’ve shared a video to provide some fun lunch solutions.

unnamed — Photo from BJs Member Services Ad

Start your lunch prep (today) whether for yourself or family in a matter of minutes. Of course, all ingredients can be found at your local BJs Wholesale Club.

[youtube height=”720″ width=”1280″]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6um5L_V7wA&cm_mmc=Cheetah-_-Email-_-08%2F28%2F2015-_-Get%20creative%20with%20back-to-school%20sandwich%20ideas!&cm_em=kimwest1908@gmail.com[/youtube]

Accessories / August 28, 2015

SOGAA Youth Fashion Show and Designer Interviews

SOGAA Presents

A Youth Empowerment Fashion Event

When: Saturday, August 29, 2015

Time: 6 pm – 8 pm

Visit: SOGAA.org for tickets and information

Producers: Jacob Pierce, Ken Moore and Caprese Garrett Jackson, owner of Bonneau Incorporated.

How: Students learning how to produce a fashion show. Baltimore youth ages 15-19 – there will be workshops and shadowing of related areas in the fashion industry.

The Featured Designer Interviews:

Stylehouse Accessories

* How long have you been in the fashion industry and how did you get started? I started working in fashion in 2011 and launched my company in 2013.

* Describe your collection and inspiration for your designs – My collection is very playful and chic, its has many influences from African/Indian cultures as well as inspiration from notorious designer Alexander McQueen.

* What is the best piece of advice you can give to Baltimore City youth? Have a plan, focus, get a mentor, and never give up.

* How can people contact you? www.stylehouseaccessories.com

Siobahn Peay

* How long have you been in the fashion industry and how did you get started? I am an Emerging Designer and starting in May 2016 will be considered my sophomore year in this industry! So far, so good!

* Describe your collection and inspiration for your designs – My collection is ready-to-wear, very fun and vibrant. I love color, and try to incorporate it in my designs. I find my inspiration from everyday life; for example a girl at the mall or local store. I like to create items that women can wear in their everyday lives. Women of all sizes, preferably curvy!

* What is the best piece of advice you can give to Baltimore City youth? I’d like for the youth of Baltimore City to stop waiting for validation, I want them to be their own inspiration! I want them to live life and know how awesome they are.

* How can people contact you? My social media outlets, siobahnpeay/Instagram, siobahnpeay/facebook, siobahnpeay.com or siobahnpeay@yahoo.com

Original Crackage

* How long have you been in the fashion industry and how did you get started? I have been in the fashion industry since October of 2012. I went school at North Carolina Central University in the Fall of 2010 to pursue my degree in fashion. As a student, I starting thinking of ways to start my clothing line; as far as developing a name, concept, theme, ect. By October of 2012, I had everything ready to start selling my clothes on campus and other areas, and in March of 2014 I officially launched my brand website, www.originalcrackage.com.

* Describe your collection and inspiration for your designs – Original Crackage is a high-end, urban, fashion brand specializing in uniquely exclusive designs which include black&white, stripes, lines, abstract shapes, and hints of color blocking. All the designs are original and come from my imagination which stays consistent to the brands concept/theme. This goes along with the brand message, which is to be you, be original, and embrace whatever it is about yourself that people might not understand. This is the origin of the inspiration for the brand.

* What is the best piece of advice you can give to Baltimore City youth? To be yourself and don’t worry about what the crowd is doing. If you stay true to yourself, you will never have to question who you are. We all have different motives and aspirations. Just stay consistent with whatever you love and go all out. You only live once, and with this one shot would you rather be someone who made something of themselves, or some one who didn’t? Live your life with no regrets!

* How can people contact you? weswoods.originalcrackage@gmail.com / 3017413847

gamakache Black

* How long have you been in the fashion industry and how did you get started? Since 2000 but I got serious about designing in 2012 I started sewing as a kid by watching my grand mother

* Describe your collection and inspiration for your designs – My designs are based around the color black. I wear this color daily, so I decided to create a collection that centered around black clothing.

* What is the best piece of advice you can give to Baltimore City youth? Stay focus on what you want to achieve because with hard work you will make it. Never take NO for an answer. IG Gamakache_black Facebook Gamakache Black www.gamakacheBlack.com Twitter and mpersaud2013@gmail.com

Khemistry by Trease

* How long have you been in the fashion industry and how did you get started? In my mind, I’ve always had a passion for fashion. However I actually established my line in February 2014. God guided me in the right direction and from there I learned to sew.

* Describe your collection and inspiration for your designs – This current collection is glamorous and for the more risqué chic who doesn’t care what people say and wants to stand out in the crowd. She is confident and sexy. I was inspired by our (upcoming) senior prom girls, seeking to stand out and leave their legacy with younger peers.

* What is the best piece of advice you can give to Baltimore City youth? My advice to our Baltimore City youth today is to take full advantage of free education. These are the years that mold our way of thinking and future.

* How can people contact you? Contact me on instagram @ k_khemistry88 or Facebook trease chemistry. Business line is 443-885-9696.

Yvonne Fields

* How long have you been in the fashion industry and how did you get started? I have been designing since I was in middle school but I officially started my design company in 2013. I started by making clothes for my family and friends.

* Describe your collection and inspiration for your designs – This collection (and other collections) was inspired by everyday women. Those who want to find the perfect outfit to turns heads. They want to transition from work to happy hour. Also, women that love colors in bold print no matter what season it is.

* What is the best piece of advice you can give to Baltimore City youth? You’re never too young to start working towards your dream.

* How can people contact you? Email: Yfandimi@gmail.com | Number: 301.433.1279 | Instagram/facebook: YvonneFieldsDesigns

Interview conducted by Jacob Pierce

Beauty / August 28, 2015

Vince Camuto and Tommy Bahama – Summer Fragrances

End of summer is quickly approaching and we know every girl is looking to feel and smell their best as they celebrate the close of the season. Whether its drinks with friends on a chic rooftop, date night with that special someone or a beach side Labor Day party, Tommy Bahama and Vince Camuto have the perfect fragrances to give off those summer vibes with a simple spray.

Bella Vince Camuto captures the seduction of the summer, with floral and feminine notes while Tommy Bahama Island Life for Her offers an aromatic summer retreat infusing fresh fruit and floral notes.

Bella Vince Camuto (3.4 oz – SRP $78.00)

Bella Vince Camuto possesses sweet top notes of Italian Bergamor, succulent Peach Nectar, Pear and cooling Lemon Ice combined with vibrant mid notes of Strawberry Flower, Nectarine Blossoms, and Jasmine Water and is rounded out by a woody base palette of Solar Musk, White Amber, Sandalwood, Blonde Woods andCaramelized Woods.

Bella Vince Camuto is currently available at major retailers nationwide

Tommy Bahama Island Life for Her (3.4oz – $78.00)

Tommy Bahama Island Life for Her possesses luscious notes of Juicy Pear and sparkling Mandarin, blended playfully with the warmth ofStar Anise on top of a fresh bouquet of White Rose, Peony and Peach Blossom blooms, while the scent is rounded out by Vanilla Bean,Sandalwood and Musk.

Tommy Bahama Island Life for Her is available online and in-store at Macy’s

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta / August 28, 2015

Michael Kors Faux Wrap Dress – Classic Style

Last week I shared my personal shopping experience at Macys in Annapolis Mall. Let me start by saying, everyone should explore this service! It’s easy to book and makes your shopping experience a little more pleasant. After chit chatting with Teresa and discussing upcoming fall trends (I’m still thinking about those pumps) I entered into the dressing room with several delightful items. She selected a range of garments to suit my lifestyle from jeans, handbags, sunglasses, skirts, and suits.

The one item that captured my heart was a gorgeous wrap dress designed from The MICHAEL, Michael Kors Collection. I didn’t select the dress because of the brand; but the style was more important. This High and Low, Faux Wrap Dress complimented my figure and curves. One thing I’ve shared on this site is that I’m petite and curvy (like the other Kim West) so I’m very meticulous about my style needs.

The fabric texture also felt great on my skin and silhouette’s classy (and sexy.) Ultimately, I was very pleased with the garment. I also have the perfect pair of pumps to wear with this dress for definition, height, and movement.

In addition to selecting the dress, I also picked up a pair of rose gold earrings and skin care products from the Lancome counter. Overall, it was a great day to be a girl and play around in fashion!

To book an appointment with Teresa Borradaile, see her contact information:

Email – teresa.borradaile@macys.com

Telephone – 410-224-4758 ext. 235#