Tag: fashion

Accessories /

From Alabama A&M to NYFW: Kim West Elevates Southern Voices in Fashion

Kim West, fashion influencer, dynamic speaker, and founder/publicist of The Kimberly West Agency, proudly attended New York Fashion Week as a media representative for her renowned digital platform, Style + Life + Fashion Blog.

In addition to covering the week’s most notable runway shows, presentations, and style moments, West represented her PR agency at exclusive fashion events, further cementing her role as a bridge between brand storytelling, fashion journalism, and public relations.

A proud graduate of Alabama A&M University’s Apparel Merchandising and Design Department—holding both undergraduate and graduate degrees—West has built a career at the intersection of style, culture, and communications. Her unique perspective as both a fashion professional and media strategist allows her to amplify designers, brands, and creative voices with authenticity and impact.

“Attending New York Fashion Week is always an inspiring experience. It’s an opportunity not only to highlight the artistry of global designers but also to represent the innovation and creativity coming from the South—especially from my alma mater, Alabama A&M University,” said West.

Through her work with Style + Life + Fashion Blog, West continues to deliver insider coverage of the latest industry trends while championing diversity, entrepreneurship, and accessible fashion. Meanwhile, as founder of The Kimberly West Agency, she leverages her expertise in PR and brand strategy to help lifestyle and fashion brands expand their reach and visibility.

About Kim West

Kim West is a fashion influencer, speaker, publicist, and founder of The Kimberly West Agency. She is also the creator of Style + Life + Fashion Blog, a leading digital platform for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle coverage. With academic training in apparel merchandising and design from Alabama A&M University, West has built a career at the forefront of fashion media and public relations. 

Follow Kim on social media:  Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and TikTok 

Accessories /

Event Recap: Celebs and Fashionistas Attend Paris Laundry x The Webster Event in Atlanta Last Week

Based in New York and created in 2021 by Guy Samuel, Paris Laundry is a menswear brand that focuses on creating bespoke pieces with most things being made in very limited quantities (many 1/1, 1/2 and 1/3 pieces). On Thursday, guests viewed a showcase of their Fall/Winter 2025 Collection: “Sole Prototypes,” a One of One Upcycled Capsule Exclusive to the Webster (which averages $850 to $7,000).

The brand imports fabrics and materials from Japan and Italy as well upcycle vintage garments, accessories and fabrics.  Everything is hand-made in their New York studio.

This is in including their focused retail partnerships – as the brand has successfully partnered with The Webster for five seasons. This event introduced them to Atlanta (the Webster opened in Atlanta in 2024).

The event was attended by: Kelli Ferrell (Real Housewives of Atlanta), social media influencer, Alonzo Arnold, R&B singer, Austin Rogers, WBS-TV reporter, Audrey Washington, actor Dennis White, and reality TV personality, Elsie K. 

Ferrell wore a diamond-encrusted denim jacket by Paris Laundry, pairing it with a Skims bodysuit, leggings by Naked Wardrobe, shoes from Tom Ford, and a Chanel bag.

Guests enjoyed complimentary cocktails by: Casamigos, Belaire, McQueen & The Violet Fog, and The Deacon – and grooved to the sounds of DJ Jordan Rock.

Accessories /

NYFW Packing Guide: How to Look Stylish Without Overpacking

New York Fashion Week isn’t just about what’s happening on the runway—it’s about how you show up. From the shows to the street style photographers waiting outside, every detail matters. But let’s be real: overpacking or throwing random outfits into your suitcase is a quick way to stress yourself out.

Here’s your complete guide to packing smart, staying comfortable, and serving looks all week long.

Featured Photo from E News

Start with a Packing Strategy

Think capsule wardrobe mode: a few statement pieces balanced with versatile basics. You want enough options to mix and match without dragging half your closet across state lines.

The Essentials to Pack

Statement Outfits (3–4 Looks)

These are your bold, eye-catching moments:

  • A strong blazer + tailored pants.
  • A chic modest dress with stand-out shoes.
  • A fashion-forward co-ord or skirt-and-blouse combo.
  • One “fun” or edgy look for street-style photos.

Basics for Mixing

  • A crisp white button-down.
  • A classic black turtleneck.
  • Neutral wide-leg trousers or jeans.
  • A versatile slip skirt.

Layering Essentials

  • Lightweight trench or leather jacket.
  • Oversized knit sweater (NYC nights can surprise you).

Shoes (Choose Wisely)

  • Comfortable block heels or ankle boots.
  • Chic sneakers for running between venues.
  • Dressy heels for evening events.

Accessories = Street Style Gold

  • A statement handbag (crossbody or top handle).
  • Minimalist jewelry that layers well.
  • Sunglasses + scarf for instant polish.

Beauty & Extras

  • A mini steamer (wrinkles are not invited).
  • Portable charger (because your phone will live in your hand).
  • Reusable water bottle (hydration = glow).

Faith-Friendly Touch

Want to stand out while honoring your values?

  • Add modest layering pieces to runway-inspired looks.
  • Pack scripture cards or a devotional—you’ll appreciate a quick moment of spiritual refreshment between shows.

Smart Packing Tips

  • Use packing cubes to separate “day,” “evening,” and “casual” looks.
  • Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.
  • Keep a show-day emergency kit: safety pins, blotting sheets, lip gloss, and mints.
Accessories /

Unique Ways to Accessorize Your Outfits in 2025

If you are keen to improve the way you look in 2025, there are so many things that you might want to think about. One of the elements to working on your style that is always important is accessorizing. If you are able to do this effectively, it’s the kind of thing that you are going to find really important to consider, and you’ll find that you are much more likely to be able to look your best. Here are some of the unique ways to accessorize your outfits in 2025 and beyond that you may want to consider.

Image – CCO License

Cowboy Chaps As A Statement Layer

No longer simply confined to ranch life, cowboy chaps are currently being reimagined in all sorts of ways: from suede pastels to vegan leather, and even the occasional holographic finish. Worn open over wide-leg trousers or a sleek jumpsuit, they can add a little drama and a lot of dimension to an otherwise two-dimensional look. You might even pair them with a blazer to keep things more polished, but it’s up to you. The key here is contrast, with a rugged Western vibe playing against some modern tailoring.

Smart Scarves

You may not have come across these just yet, but there are entire ranges of smart scarves out there now that double as tech hubs, and this is a particularly contemporary way to accessorize that you are certainly going to find worthwhile. Scarves with embedded micro-heating elements and Bluetooth earbuds are a great way to go, and will allow you to multitask with ease. What’s more, they look chic and they keep you warm and comfortable, also enabling you to take calls on the go. There is plenty to love about these scarves, and a lot of ways to use them in your look.

Image – CCO License

Holster Bags With Sculptural Design

For a while, the crossbody bag seemed to disappear, or at least diminish, but they now seem to be coming back up, and for the most part with something of a Western-meets-cyberpunk makeover. Think leather harness straps with minimal geometric pouches attached, and you’ve got a sense of how to frame your torso like wearable art. This also keeps your hands free, so it’s a great one for walking, drinking coffee and scrolling, should that be part of your aesthetic – and in 2025, it probably is.

Modular Boots

In 2025, footwear is largely about being adaptable. Boots with removable shafts, swappable heel shapes and toe caps that are customizable – these are no longer imaginings, but real everyday things. This gives you the freedom to switch from day to night without swapping shoes, and it means you can feel more ready for pretty much any situation you might find yourself in. All in all, making use of modular boots could be one of the most powerful and simplest ways to improve your look and accessorize more effectively in 2025 and beyond.

Accessories /

Bloom in Grace: 7 Budget Modest Outfits for Summer 2025

1.

Soft Pastel Maxi + Lightweight Cardigan

Layering is everything! Think flowy pastel maxi skirts or dresses paired with a breathable cardigan or denim jacket. This combo evokes cottage‑core charm (hello, summer florals!), stays comfy in church, and suits relaxed weekend plans. Add a woven straw tote, and you’re brunch-ready.

Featured Photo from Southern Living 

2.

High-Neck Blouse + Barrel Jeans

High neckline tops (ruffle or silk-look) are trending in quiet‑luxury modest fashion. Elevate comfort by tucking into barrel-leg or wide-leg jeans — budget versions available everywhere, under $40–$60.

3.

Tailored Trousers + Breezy Button‑Up

Comfort meets chic: flowy, marine‑inspired wide-leg trousers with a crisp button‑up or linen shirt. Minimalist flip-flops or simple loafers complete the look.

4.

Cape Dress (Modern Modest Staple)

The cape dress offers coverage and drama. Try budget-friendly dupes in cotton or linen. It’s church-appropriate, versatile for dressing up or down, and perfect for layering since spring evenings can still feel crisp.

5.

Sheer Overlay Skirt + Slip

Sheer fabrics are having a spring moment—layer a chiffon or voile overlay skirt over a midi slip. You stay covered yet stylish with a feminine touch. Pair with a tucked-in tee or fitted knit.

6.

Modest Jumpsuit + Blazer

A wide-leg, high-neck jumpsuit is modest and on trend. Top it with an oversized blazer for a smart, quiet‑luxury-style ensemble. Knit flats or mules add feminine polish without breaking the bank.

7.

Statement Necklaces & Pastel Accessories

Big necklaces and pastel boho touches (gingham, pastel hues, floral belts) are in style. Even simple outfits feel intentional and on-trend with budget-friendly accessories that reflect your faith and personality.

Accessories /

How to Build a Modest Capsule Wardrobe on a Budget (Without Losing Your Style)

Let’s be real — staying stylish and modest without breaking the bank can feel like a whole mission. But the truth is, you don’t need a walk-in closet or a designer budget to dress well and honor your values. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to build a chic, timeless capsule wardrobe that keeps you looking polished, put-together, and true to your modest style — all while keeping it budget-conscious.

Featured Photo from InStyle Magazine

Why a Capsule Wardrobe?

  • Less stress. Fewer pieces, more clarity.
  • More intentionality. You’ll know your “yes” and confidently say “no” to impulse buys.
  • Stewardship. Honoring your resources and getting the most out of what you have.

Step 1: Define Your Modest Style Staples

Start by writing down 5–7 pieces you wear weekly that reflect your values and energy. Think:

  • Long skirts or wide-leg trousers
  • High-neck blouses or layering tops
  • Midi/maxi dresses
  • Lightweight layering pieces (blazers, denim jackets)
  • Simple but chic shoes (ankle boots, flats, sneakers)

Pro tip: Choose neutrals and earth tones as your base, then layer in pops of color or print.

Step 2: Shop Secondhand + Sales First

Your modest capsule wardrobe does not have to come from a mall.

  • Thrift stores like Goodwill or local boutiques
  • Online secondhand apps: Poshmark, Mercari, thredUP
  • End-of-season sales: Walmart, H&M Conscious, Old Navy, Mango Outlet

Set a monthly “style budget” — a small, guilt-free budget for wardrobe needs (like $25–50/month).

Step 3: Mix, Match, Layer

One long-sleeve top can be styled 4 ways. One maxi dress can go from church to a coffee date with a belt and blazer.

  • Layering is your superpower.
  • Accessories change the vibe.
  • Repeat outfits confidently. It’s not “outfit repeating” — it’s “wardrobe mastery.”

Faith + Fashion Can Coexist

You can be covered and cute. Modesty isn’t about restriction — it’s about intention. God made you creative. Use your wardrobe as an act of worship and stewardship.

“Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31

Final Checklist for a Budget-Friendly Modest Capsule:

  • Neutral-toned layering top (x2–3)
  • Statement modest dress (x2)
  • Versatile skirt or culottes (x2)
  • Blazer or cardigan (x1–2)
  • Simple flats or sneakers
  • Favorite modest accessory (wide-brim hat, tote bag, or dainty jewelry)

Have you built your capsule yet? Drop a comment with your must-have modest piece, or tag me in your outfits on IG — I love seeing how you style faith + fashion with grace.

 

Accessories /

Chic & Budget-Friendly: 7 Summer 2025 Fashion Trends

Summer is here, and if you’re like me, you’re ready to glow up without going breaking the bank. But staying stylish and modest in this economy? Whew! It’s a challenge — but not impossible. Whether you’re curating your Sunday best or keeping it casual for weekend brunch, I’ve rounded up seven hot summer trends for 2025 that’ll keep your look fresh, modest, and wallet-friendly.

Featured Photo from Marie Claire

1. Linen Everything (Yes, Even Sets)
Linen is the fabric of the season — breezy, breathable, and perfect for modest layering. Two-piece linen sets are all over Pinterest and TikTok.
Budget Tip: Grab neutral-toned sets from H&M, Old Navy, or Amazon. Pair with a wide belt and strappy flats to elevate the look.

2. Flowy Maxi Dresses with Sleeves
Dramatic but demure — these dresses scream elegance. Look for tiered or ruffled maxis in bold florals or soft pastels.

3. Bow & Tie Details
Bows are everywhere this year — on collars, sleeves, waistlines. Feminine and playful but still grown-woman appropriate.
Style Hack: DIY a bow belt using an old scarf or ribbon to transform a plain dress.

4. Wide-Leg & Cargo-Style Pants
Say goodbye to skinny jeans — it’s all about flow and function now. High-waisted, wide-leg pants give modest coverage and keep things airy.
Budget Buy: Thrift them! These styles are a goldmine in secondhand shops.

5. Modest Swimwear That’s Cute (For Real)
Think longline tops, high-waist bottoms, and even skirted options that don’t look frumpy.
Where to Shop: Cupshe, ASOS modest section, and Amazon.

6. Sheer Layering (Done Right)
The trick is to use sheer pieces for layering without compromising coverage. Think mesh dusters, sheer button-ups over tank dresses.
Modest Tip: Always layer with a solid base like a ribbed midi dress or bodysuit for coverage.

7. Statement Accessories (Because We’re on a Budget)
This is how you level up basic outfits. Think oversized sunnies, beaded bags, or stacked bangles.
Budget Hack: Hit up local markets or Etsy for handmade pieces under $20.

Final Thoughts:

You don’t need a $500 Shein haul to slay this summer. Just a little creativity, a few smart buys, and a heart grounded in grace. Dressing modestly is a blessing, not a burden — it’s about honoring your body and still feeling confident, feminine, and free.

Accessories /

Blenders Eyewear: Cool Mom Era

Blenders Eyewear, a long-standing celebrity-favorite eyewear brand created by the legend Chase Fisher, has shades for hitting the beach in your 1989 era, shimmering gold in your Fearless era, or falling in love in your Speak Now era.

Running mom errands in Rimini Crystal Hot Pink Sunglasses

 

Blenders shades are perfect as the weather heats up!

Accessories /

Why Second-Hand Boutiques Are The Future of Fashion

Fashion has always been a form of self-expression, but today, it’s also a call to action. The environmental toll of fast fashion is impossible to ignore, contributing to an estimated 10% of global carbon emissions. As awareness grows, so does the appeal of second-hand fashion. These boutiques are carving out a unique space that blends sustainability with style, giving preloved clothing a new life while challenging outdated ideas of what fashion should look like.

Photo by Vladimir Yelizarov on Unsplash

Waste Reduction Starts With the R’s

Fast fashion churns out cheap, disposable garments that often end up in landfill within months. But second-hand boutiques are built on the exact opposite principle. They encourage mindful consumption through the 5 R’s of sustainable fashion: Reduce, Repair, Recycle, Repurpose, and Reinvent. Every time a customer buys a second-hand item, they reduce demand for new resources and extend the life of a garment.

These boutiques also create opportunities for upcycling, giving fashion a creative twist. A pair of vintage jeans can be reimagined as a high-waisted staple, while an old blazer might become the cornerstone of a bold new look. When done thoughtfully, second-hand fashion helps reduce waste in fashion and sends a clear message that style doesn’t need to cost the Earth.

Opening a Boutique That Makes a Difference

Second-hand fashion is no longer a niche—it’s booming. The global second-hand market is expected to reach $367 billion by 2029. Shoppers are turning to pre-loved items not just for budget reasons, but for environmental and ethical motivations too.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, this is the perfect time to turn a passion for fashion into a purpose-driven business. A second-hand boutique allows you to source inventory affordably, often from community donations, estate sales, or curated thrift finds. Unlike traditional retail, you don’t need to order large quantities of stock, which keeps your overheads low and your offerings fresh.

It’s not charity—it’s a smart business model. And like any serious business, you need the right tools to succeed. A dependable clothing store POS system can help you manage your inventory, track sales, and offer a seamless checkout experience for your customers. It’s the kind of investment that turns your boutique into a retail destination.

Branding the “New” Old

Running a second-hand boutique isn’t just about racks of clothing—it’s about creating a brand that resonates. Shoppers want a story, a vibe, and a reason to return. That’s where your boutique’s personality comes in. Whether you’re going for retro glam, minimalist chic, or boho cool, your brand should shine through everything you do—from your window displays to your social media feeds.

Leverage platforms like Instagram and TikTok to share daily outfit inspiration, host live thrift hauls, or run styling challenges with your followers. Customers love seeing how you wear your finds, and it gives them ideas for how they might wear them too.

Don’t shy away from bold branding. Reframing second-hand fashion as desirable, curated, and expressive helps break the stigma and attract a new wave of shoppers who care about both style and sustainability. This isn’t just about selling clothes—it’s about shifting mindsets.


Second-hand boutiques are more than just an alternative to fast fashion—they’re a movement towards conscious, impactful style. By merging sustainable values with business savvy, they offer an inspiring model for fashion’s future. Whether you’re planning to open your own boutique or simply seeking to shop more responsibly, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Style, after all, should feel good—and nothing feels better than knowing your wardrobe reflects your values as much as your taste.

Accessories /

Stay on Trend this Spring with SHEIN | Double Denim, Camo Print & more!

SHEIN is all set for Spring, offering the trendiest pieces that make staying fashionable effortless this season!

Denim-on-denim is a timeless Spring staple, and with SHEIN, it’s never been easier to pull off. The DAZY Women’s Denim Waistcoat & Wide Leg Pants Set is a chic, no-fuss outfit you can throw on in seconds. Just add your favorite sneakers, and you’re all set.

For those chilly Spring mornings, the SHEIN EZwear Vintage New York Sweatshirt is your go-to. Whether dressed up with jeans and accessories or paired down with sweatpants, this cozy crewneck is the perfect mix of style and comfort for the season.