Category:

Fashion /

Bra Fitting: How To Guide

If you’re in the market for a new piece of lingerie, be it out of necessity or just a pure want, there are some things you need to know before offering up your credit card. As any woman who has ever bought a bra knows, they’re one of the most difficult items to properly size yourself. It is possible though, if you abide by a few guidelines. Below are a few tips that can ensure that you’re know the best bra fitting possible before that trip to the store.

Print

The Cup

Your bra cups should be big enough to ensure there’s not any spillage at the bottom, over the bra strap, or on the sides. However, your breasts shouldn’t be swimming inside the cups either.

You can get a general idea of what size you should be looking for by following the fruit method. As explained by Adam and Eve, the letter of your lingerie is your cup size: A, B, C, D, and so on. Check below to find what piece of fruit your breast mirror most to find out which cup size you should be looking for.

Plum—AA or smaller

Lemon—A

Orange—B

Grapefruit—C

Melons—D

The Straps

Your bra straps are just as crucial to the integrity of your lingerie as anything else. In addition to the band and underwire, the straps help keep your chest supported and, more importantly, your bra in place.

Probably the most tell-tale sign that your bra isn’t fitting right is that your straps are sliding off your shoulders. The solution could be as simple as shortening them, but if they’re as tight as they go, you might need a replacement.

There isn’t an exact strap size you should look for in your next bra. But according to Cosmopolitan, as a rule of thumb, the larger the breasts the wider your straps should be. You also should make sure they’re not cutting into your shoulders. If they are, it means your underwire and band aren’t taking on the amount of support they should be.

8374556_fpx

The Band

Finally, your band needs to be tight, but not uncomfortably.  Fresh Pair states that 90 percent of your bra’s support should be achieved from a snug, well-fitting band. You should be able to fit one to two fingers underneath it, and it should sit level around your body from front to pack. As Fresh Pair notes: “If it rides up your back, it’s too big. If your straps are falling, it’s too loose.”

Finding a properly fitting piece of lingerie can make you feel beautiful, confident, and fully supported whether you’re hanging out at home or painting the town red. Just follow these tips before hitting the shops.

Guest Post

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Summer 2015 Survival Kit: Skin care, Drink Options, and BBQ Set

Summer is around the corner and we’ve compiled your SUMMER 2015 SURVIVAL KIT!

From the latest in skin care to refreshing drink options, milkshake machines and more, below are summer-perfect items to get you through every last sun shining day.

Coconut Oil For Beauty: While most people associate coconut oil with cooking, Extra Virgin Coconut oil actually has a variety of beauty uses and this trendy item can multipurpose as a moisturizer, hair conditioner, teeth whitener, shaving cream, and natural sunscreen. Moreover, most folks would agree that the right facial mask is one that contains coconut oil. Pure, unrefined, and cold pressed, this Extra Virgin Coconut Oil from Carrington Farms coconut oil comes in convenient, portable Paks, so it’s great for toting to the beach or a pool. As an added bonus, coconut oil has been shown to help prevent breakouts, so you won’t have to worry about unwanted blemishes. Priced at $9.99/8- 0.5 oz packets per box at select retailers and online at www.CarringtonFarms.com

unnamed (59)

Organic Beach Towels: In Turkey, where bathing has been raised to an art, khadi is the traditional choice for toweling. Coyuchi’s Mediterranean Beach Towels are traditional lightweight Turkish bath towels with a high/low weave for excellent absorption. Woven from yarn dyed organic cotton and edged in hand-knotted fringe. Cotton is 100% organic, and sourced and woven in Turkey. Priced at $68 at coyuchi.com

unnamed (60)

Travel Friendly Wine: VOGA Italia’s Baby Sparkling is a mini sized sparkling wine- perfectly portioned for one! With a unique screw top cap, you can easily open and reseal while enjoying a summer picnic lunch or day at the beach! For extra cute enjoyment, pop in a straw and enjoy. No glass needed. Priced at $5.99 at select retailers nationwide.

unnamed (66)

Hydrating Coconut Water: Coco Joy is naturally rich in nutrients and hydrating electrolytes and full of sweet flavor from all natural, pure coconut water made from 100% pure green coconuts that contain no added sugar and no preservatives. It’s gluten, lactose and dairy free and is the perfect cool companion to rejuvenate after a day spent under the sun. It delivers antioxidants, calcium and magnesium and has fewer calories, less sodium and more potassium than sports drinks. Coco Joy is brand new to the US and is available on Amazon.com. Priced at $1.90 for 8.40 fl. oz cans and $3.90 for 42 fl. oz. bottles.

unnamed (62)

Portable BBQ Set: You’ve got the beverages, now what about the eats? Prepare a serious BBQ at your local park or favorite outdoor spot with All-Clad Stainless Steel BBQ Set. The set includes 4 grilling tools in a sturdy, metal carrying case for easy transport of tools to the grilling area. Priced at $119 at www.macys.com.

unnamed (63)

Milkshake Machine: Nothing’s better on a hot summer day than a creamy milkshake! Now with Omega’s milkshake makers you can bring the fun home! The extra-large Stainless Steel blending cup clicks on and off for ease-of-use and serving. The powerful motor and detachable spindle aerates mixtures into frothy, smooth textures for superior whipping results. Priced at $179.95- 399.95 at www.OmegaJuicers.com

unnamed (64)

Hot-Weather Ready Pillow: Get your beauty sleep…even on a hot summer night. JuveRest’s The Sleep Wrinkle Pillow’s contoured shape provides comfortable support and improved air circulation around your head keeping you cooler at night. Plus, its patented design minimizes facial wrinkles by promoting back sleeping and compression-free side sleeping. Priced at $179 at www.juverest.com

unnamed (65)

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

MeMoi Shapewear: Look 10 Pounds Lighter This Summer Season

Look trim, toned and 10 pounds lighter–INSTANTLY!– with MeMoi’s state-of –the-art SlimMe shapewear!

How is it that a mere inch or two around the midriff and hips can mean the difference between fitting into that slinky dress comfortably or having to “suck it in” all night, regretting those late night visits to the fridge?    Life is too short for regrets!  Especially when it is possible to fit into that dress and immediately look 10 pounds slimmer—no self-deprivation required!  MeMoi’s SlimMe Full Control Slip does the work for you.  This light compression shape wear flattens your middle and smoothes the lower body, holding in the areas that need it the most while still showing off those killer curves— it reshapes, tucks and tones instantly!   Gone are the days of uncomfortable, restrictive shape wear.  MeMoi’s Shapewear state-of-the-art design and fabrics mean looking fabulous and feeling carefree and confident CAN be a reality—for only $30.00!

MSM_118_black

 SlimMe’s Full Control Slip is:

  • Made from 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex
  • Tagless and seamless for maximum comfort
  • Available in four sizes: small, medium, large and extra large
  • Available in black or nude
  • Machine washable in cold water
  • 100% satisfaction guaranteed

    •  

In business for over 20 years, MeMoi was founded on the principle that every woman is beautiful and deserves impeccable products.  Developed by top industry experts, MeMoi understands what a woman is looking for when it comes to shape wear, lingerie and undergarments, using only high quality fabrics and cutting edge techniques in the fabrication of their products.  It is their desire that women will fall in love with their ultramodern shape wear which provides dramatic results at reasonable prices.

Memoi-MSM125-black_large

Accessories /

Stevenson University hosted Fourth Annual Student Fashion Show: A Common Thread

Stevenson University hosted their Fourth Annual Student Fashion Show on Saturday, May 9, 2015.  The theme of this year’s show was A Common Thread.

IMG_3167 IMG_3166

There were five scenes for the fashion show: Garment Construction Studio Class: Children’s Wear and Casual Looks, Flat Pattern II Class: Tailored Styles, Draping II Class: We are One In Fashion, and Senior Studio I and II Classes: Senior Collections.  Designers for the Senior Collection exhibited their year long project.

I am excited to share that my Sorority Mentee Jocelyn Williams assisted with the production of the fashion show.  Jocelyn is a senior student that has been accepted into The Savannah College of Art and Design; with an internship at Lee Anderson Apparel Company and Under Armour.  Jocelyn also designed her own collection titled: Bitsy Botanicals.

IMG_3110

Additional supporters for the event where Baltimore Magazine, Baltimore Fashion Alliance, Gerber Technology, Mode Couture, Nordstrom, Under Armour, PLITZ Fashion Marketing, and The Baltimore Sun.  Overall, I enjoyed watching the show and seeing the eye-catching creativity and workmanship of the students!

IMG_3174 IMG_3173 IMG_3172 IMG_3109 IMG_3108

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Organic Food Options at BJs Wholesale: Lifestyle Tip

Did you know that BJs carries more than 150 organic options in-club and their assortment is growing? Well-known brands from Back to Nature, Betterbody, Stonyfield, and Horizon can be found at BJs. In fact, BJs is expanding its own brand, Wellsley Farms, in this category, too. Twenty-five percent of Wellsley Farms items that are unveiled this year will be organic. Currently, BJs also carries organic dairy, bakery, produce, prepared foods and more.

pf7691_HL_RotissBag_w1-ee-2

PERDUE® HARVESTLAND® is the first organic whole bird, boneless breasts, and boneless thighs now offered. In true blogger fashion I decided to venture into BJs and take a look at the new product line.  I’m always pleased to visit the store because they have great prices and the products are in line with my family’s needs.  It’s also very clean and well organized; all of the components that any busy mom values when shopping wholesale.

IMG_3089 FullSizeRender (48) FullSizeRender (47)

I purchased a few items of my own and created a recipe with Perdue Harvestland Whole Chicken.  The meal was delicious and the quality of the chicken was undeniable because there were fewer hormones.  If you’re looking to jumpstart a healthier meal option for your family and consume meats with no animal by-products, visit BJs and shop their (new) organic food options.

PanRoastChicken
Photo Example from Iowagirleats.com

Can in The Rear Chicken Ingredients:

     

  • 1 4-pound whole chicken
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 opened, half-full can of pepsi, room temperature
  • 1 Tbsp sea salt
  • 2 Tbsp Mrs Dash
  • 1 Tbsp black pepper

    •  

Method:

 

1 Prepare your oven at 350 degrees for indirect heat

2 Remove neck and giblets from cavity of chicken.  Rub olive oil all over the chicken. Mix the salt, pepper, and Mrs Dash in a little bowl, then sprinkle or spread over the chicken.

3 Make sure the can is open and lower the chicken on the open can, so that the chicken is sitting upright and the can in its cavity.

4 Place the chicken in the oven; and don’t check on it for at least an hour. After an hour, check on the chicken and keep checking the chicken every 15 minutes until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 160°F – 165°F. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your chicken.  If you don’t have a meat thermometer, poke the chicken with a knife to see if there’s no red juices or if the meat is done.

5 Carefully transfer the chicken to a tray or pan and use tongs to hold the top of the chicken. Lift the chicken and ease the can from inside of the chicken.  Let it cool for 15 minutes. Carefully lift the chicken off of the can.

 

I revised this recipe to my liking but to learn more click here: Simply Recipes.  If you like this post click here: http://stylelifefashion.com/holiday-event-bjs-wholesale-club/

 

sponsored post
Beauty /

DIY Floral Hairstyles from Boston Salon Owner

Fact: nothing screams summer beauty more than flowers in the hair! So, how do you rock this look even if you’re not at a musical festival? Boston salon owner and 30-year industry veteran Mario Russo of Salon Mario Russo has provided some “hair-spiration” for ladies who would love to sport blooms, but aren’t sure of the best way. We love a good flower crown, too, but in the office…? Not so much!

 Below, please find two DIY hairstyles with just the right amount of summer fun!  Incorporate small and simple flower accessories that are perfect for any day and event.

image001 (5)

image002 (1)

 Side Fishtail Braid

  1. Start with hair parted to the side. Take a front section of hair and Dutch braid hair along the hairline. Repeat with a smaller section of hair on the opposite side of your part. Tie off both braids with clear elastics.
  2. Gently pull apart each Dutch braid for added thickness and “messiness” and spritz with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to help with texture.
  3. Keeping the Dutch braids off to the sides, gather the top section of the rest of your hair (as if creating a half-up, half-down style), twist once and pin to condense hair and add volume before completing the full braid.
  4. At the nape of your neck, gather all hair to the side, with the exception of the side braids, and create a fishtail braid.
  5. Gently pull apart the braid for a full and messy look, and spritz this braid with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray.
  6. Pull the side Dutch braids back to meet the fishtail braid and pin in place. Hide the ends of your Dutch braids by tucking them under the fishtail braid at the base of your neck. Continue pinning until all braids feel secure and complete the look with a spritz of Bumble and bumble Does it all.
  7. Insert flower pins throughout the braids. Keep it simple yet elegant by adding 4-5 small flowers. No need to overdo it!

image007

image005 (2)

Bohemian Braid Crown

  1. Start with hair parted in the center. Take two small sections of hair at the front and braid loosely on each side. Secure with clear elastics.
  2. Pull apart braids for added thickness and “messiness” and spritz with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to help with texture.
  3. Placing these braids to the side, gather the top section of the rest of your hair as if creating a half-up, half-down look. Split this section of hair into three parts in preparation for a third larger braid.
  4. Add the two side braids to the two outside sections of hair and begin one large braid at the back of head. Braid all the way down to the ends of hair and tie off with an elastic. Gently pull apart this braid and spray with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray.

Tip: For an even more care-free bohemian style, get rid of the elastic altogether and backcomb hair at the end of the braid while spritzing with a strong-hold hair spray. The look will stay all day!

  1. Use a 1” curling wand to loosely curl the rest of your hair.
  2. Pin side braids down to your head to keep them from sticking out, then insert your flower pins sporadically throughout the style. Once again, don’t overdo it! A few flowers go a long way.
Beauty /

ESSENCE MAGAZINE NAMES BLACK OPAL WINNER OF 2015 BEST IN BLACK BEAUTY AWARDS

Black Opal, the cosmetics and skincare line that offers limitless possibilities to enhance the diverse beauty and address the unique needs of skin color, is excited to announce that their Flawless Perfecting Concealer has been named a winner of the 2015 Essence Magazine “Best in Black Beauty Awards”.  In the May issue of Essence, on stands now, celebrity makeup artist Porsche Cooper says, “it provides excellent coverage in a wide range of warm and cool colors”.

Black Opal’s Flawless Perfecting Concealer is a hypoallergenic, full coverage crème concealer that easily blends away dark circles and other complexion imperfections. Vitamins A, C & E help protect skin while the crease-resistant formula is designed to give you natural-looking results without caking. Flawless Perfecting Concealer is available in 5 shades and has been developed for all complexions and skin types. The product can be purchased at retailers including Wal-Mart, CVS/Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Duane Reade, and OTC Stores nationwide, or online at www.blackopalbeauty.com ($5.25)

unnamed (52)

About BLACK OPAL

BLACK OPAL offers limitless possibilities in cosmetics and skincare to enhance the diverse beauty and address the unique needs of skin of color. With this targeted focus, BLACK OPAL has solidified its position as the most trusted beauty brand for women of color.  BLACK OPAL is a global brand available in 30 countries worldwide.

 

BLACK OPAL products are available by visiting www.blackopalbeauty.com, Walmart, CVS/Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Duane Reade, and OTC Stores nationwide.

 

Accessories /

Met Gala 2015 Glamorous Recap and Photos

Fashion lovers everywhere witnessed the glamour, creativity, and art of The Met Gala 2015 or formally known as the Costume Institute Gala.  Celebrities showed up wearing intricate designs and show stopping hats while music artists were seen wearing sheer gowns.

This year’s theme was China: Through The Looking Glass which was based upon a document.  The annual fundraising event attracted entertainers and fashion industry professionals; purchasing a ticket to support the Metropolitian Museum of Art Costume Institute.  Although this night was amazing in it’s own right, there’s always a memorable moment!

FullSizeRender (45)

My favorite costume of the night goes to the lovely and talented Beyonce.  Her dress was show stopping, appropriate according to the theme (loving her high ponytail) and it was detailed couture.  My least favorite selection came from Gabrielle Union.  Unfortunately, her dress did not exemplify the theme of the event and appeared to be a winter gown.  I love Gabby (and hubby) but I’m hoping they will do better next year.  She has a fabulous body and would like to have a designer create a gown for her figure.

FullSizeRender (43) FullSizeRender (42)

Honorable mention goes to Blake Lively, Solange Knowles, Rihanna, Kim Kardashian West, and Jennifer Lopez.  The ladies listed did it just right and added a special touch of whimsy to the evening!

FullSizeRender (44)

FullSizeRender (41)

FullSizeRender (39)

FullSizeRender (38)

FullSizeRender (46)

FullSizeRender (34)

Photos are from Instagram