Accessories / February 10, 2020

RCGD x TENCEL™Luxe Partner Kaitlyn Dever Arrives at Oscars Wearing Custom-Made Ethical Louis Vuitton Gown

Golden Globe and BAFTA nominee Kaitlyn Dever (Unbelievable, Booksmart) took a stand for sustainable fashion when she arrived at the Oscars® wearing a breathtaking custom-made ethical gown by Louis Vuitton as an ambassador for Suzy Amis Cameron’s Red Carpet Green Dress™ (RCGD) in collaboration with TENCEL™ Luxe. The Louis Vuitton custom-made gown is made of ethical and eco-responsible certified silk satin, embroidered with Swarovski crystals and glass beads. This is the second consecutive year Louis Vuitton has partnered with the global change-making organization.

It is with partners like Vuitton and TENCEL™ Luxe, RCGD is able to create red carpet “moments” and make them “movements” bringing sustainable designs to the forefront of conversation and action within the fashion industry. RCGD is a women-led global change-making organization creating red carpet “moments” to “movements” bringing sustainable designs to the forefront of conversation and action within the fashion industry. It was conceived in 2009 by Suzy Amis Cameron during the press tour for her husband, James Cameron’s film “Avatar”. In partnership with The Academy Awards®, RCGD challenges designers from around the world to deliver eco-friendly garments through a no-waste, circular economy approach, social impact consideration, fair and humane treatment of manufacturers, a clear supply chain and, importantly, materials which use a high proportion of eco-friendly and recycled materials.

Turning red carpet moments into sustainable design movements in 2020 and beyond, the organization will continue its sustainable collaborations with impact brands, educational initiatives for emerging talent, in addition to the creation of groundbreaking digital content. Leading fashion houses Louis Vuitton, Vivienne Westwood, Armani, Elie Saab, Swarovski, Christian Siriano, Bulgari, Dunhill, and Reformation have joined the campaign to create sustainable gowns for the biggest award show in the world, The Academy Awards®. Established campaign representatives have included Naomie Harris, Olga Kurylenko, Kellan Lutz, Gina Rodriguez, Sophie Turner, Emma Roberts, Priyanka Bose, Lakeith Stanfield, Zoey Deutch, Camila Alves, Danielle Macdonald and Laura Harrier.

To qualify as a RCGD eco-conscious garment, each piece must either be made from sustainable materials, including organic, recycled or repurposed fibers. Other features include using hand-made detailing or incorporating natural dye processing, with a dedicated focus on minimal negative impact on the environment, and environmentally and socially responsible design.   The sustainable criteria is overseen by Good On You, a partner of RCGD. Good On You is the world’s leading rating system on ethical and sustainable fashion to assist people in making positive shopping choices–all delivered through an accessible app.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 09: Kaitlyn Dever arrives at the 92nd Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood and Highland on February 09, 2020 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage)

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 09: Kaitlyn Dever attends the 92nd Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood and Highland on February 09, 2020 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images)

Celebrity / February 24, 2019

BLACKKKLANSMAN’S LAURA HARRIER WOWS IN BESPOKE ETHICAL LOUIS VUITTON GOWN AT THE 91ST ACADEMY AWARDS® REPRESENTING SUZY AMIS CAMERON’S RED CARPET GREEN DRESS INITIATIVE

As a partner with Suzy Amis Cameron’s celebrated Red Carpet Green Dress (RCGD) campaign, BlacKkKlansman lead actress Laura Harrier, wowed the crowd as she arrived at the 91st Academy Awards ® wearing bespoke ethical gown made by Louis Vuitton.

Harrier’s gown was created in the Louis Vuitton’s Paris atelier with an ethical and eco-responsible approach established with long-time verified suppliers. The gown is made of TARONI SPA blue crepe silk certified by the Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS), which is the worldwide leading textile processing standard for organic fibres, including ecological and social criteria.

The handmade embroidery by Vermont Paris required more than 450 hours of work and is made of glass beads, Swarovski crystal shards and sequins respecting the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®, an international quality label for harmless textiles.

To qualify as a RCGD eco-conscious garment, each piece must either be made from sustainable materials, including organic, recycled or repurposed fibers. Other features include using hand-made detailing or incorporating natural dye processing, with a dedicated focus on the minimal negative impact on the environment, and environmentally and socially responsible design.

This year makes the 10th anniversary of RCGD, and in honor of this, the sustainable criteria will be overseen by Good On You, a new partner of RCGD. Good On You is the world’s leading rating system on ethical and sustainable fashion to assist people in making positive shopping choices–all delivered through an accessible app.

Amis Cameron launched RCGD back in 2009, with the intention to create awareness for the importance of sustainable practices in fashion. Each year, RCGD works with international designers to create sustainable eveningwear to showcase during the Academy Awards®.

Also supporting the sustainable lifestyle are RCGD 2019 partners TESLA, Absolut Elyx, and AKA luxury serviced residences, a vibrant destination featuring exquisite residences designed for stays of 31 days or longer. It is because of their help along with annual contests that financial security can be provided to MUSE School CA. MUSE School CA is an environmental non-profit educational organization Amis Cameron founded in Calabasas, Calif. with her sister Rebecca Amis. This assistance enables students to access a transformative educational experience. MUSE School CA ensures smaller class sizes, personalized instruction and learning practices; all set within an inspiring and beautiful campus. Through these key elements, MUSE School CA paves the way in creating leaders of the future. For more information, go to www.museschool.org.

For more information please visit http://www.redcarpetgreendress.com.

Celebrity / August 15, 2016

Responsible Spending Guide – Travel and Investments

Whether you have won the lottery, earned a huge bonus or left with some money, what to do with it could be the hardest question to answer. A substantial amount of money can have a huge impact on your life. It can make things easier; allowing you to explore things you never thought was possible. You may enter into a more luxurious way of life which is exciting. While all of that can be amazing, what you don’t want to do is waste the opportunity. This reason alone is why I thought it would be nice to share some of the ways to make the most of an injection into your finances.

Travel the world

It’s obvious. We have a huge passion for traveling. So if money wasn’t so much of an issue (anymore) I have no doubt that we would take advantage of this and see as many countries and parts of the world as possible. Having already seen over 65 countries money would make it possible to increase this list. So it’s no surprise that traveling would be the first thing we would advise you to consider.

The money would mean that you could expand on your culture and experiences. It will allow you to visit different places and see many different sites. Perhaps you will want to take in the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia. Or eat pasta in Rome. Maybe you want to check out the Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles. The chances are there will be places you have always wanted to see, and experiences you will have always wanted to do. Investing money into travel is not a waste. What you receive is the chance to make some amazing memories.

Invest in property at home and abroad

When it comes to having money, you can either spend it on things that depreciate. Or invest it in something that will be longstanding and worthwhile. Perhaps even make you money. Property is one of those things. Of course, the first thing you could consider is investing in a property at home. Buying a house that will then become a home. This is where you want to put your roots down. For many people in this day and age, buying a property can seem like a distant dream. It’s hard to save up for a deposit, especially when mortgage companies are wanting as much as 10% of the purchase price. It means many people are priced out of property. So buying something could be a worthy investment.

On top of that, a more luxurious way of doing thing would be to invest in a property abroad. When buying property there are many different types you could consider. Maybe an apartment in a bustling city like Paris. Or a villa with a blue swimming pool somewhere warm like Spain. This is something every traveller would dream about. Except they would possibly want a few different options dotted all over. Having a home abroad is an amazing opportunity. It gives you the chance to holiday often, in a place that is luxurious and your own. What more could you want?

Consider where you put your money

Coming into money can leave you with a lot of questions. Many people don’t want to waste this golden opportunity. The chance to have a more luxurious lifestyle. But don’t rush and make any rash decisions. This is when considering financial options could be a great move. Perhaps investing in overseas accounts, or even in long term savings accounts.

Do something spontaneous

Money makes things a little easier on you. Which means that you may get the chance to check off some of those things on your bucket list that you hadn’t ever thought possible. Are you one of those people who want to turn up at the airport and just get on the next flight? Not knowing where it is going to take you? Being spontaneous isn’t always possible without having a financial backup. While it may feel like you are just spending the cash, what you are actually doing is buying the experience. Which is priceless.

Indulge in all the fine luxuries

Those finer luxuries in life are more in reach now. Which means you could invest in the best jewelry and fine clothing. Perhaps kit out your new homes, the one at home and abroad with the best interior design and furniture. It’s buying the finest ingredients and not worrying. It’s booking the best places.

Eat in the best restaurants

Travelling abroad, or even just staying at home, allows you to seek out some of the best eateries the country has to offer. Having the money to indulge in those fine dining experiences is amazing. It means that when you go to some of those amazing places the world has to offer, that you can experience all the food delight that can come with it. Imagine having a place you desperately want to go. Then imagine going and knowing that you don’t have to worry about where to eat and sticking to a budget. It’s the stuff of dreams.

Take action with your bucket list

Finally, coming into money means you can take some action with your bucket list. Everyone will have some sort of list of places they want to go, things to experience and what they want to do in life. We all have hopes and dreams after all. Now is the time to put those dreams into action. Tackling your bucket list could be a real revelation. I know I still have many places and things on mine that I would like to see and do. It’s about investing in you and your life going forward. For many people you work hard and save. Coming into money means you have been given an opportunity to do something amazing with it. How you choose to spend it, is down to you.

I hope this has inspired you to make the most of any money you come into. Whatever the situation make sure that travel and good investments are at the top of your list.

Collaborative Post

Fashion / May 19, 2016

Tampa Beach Dining and Shopping – Mini Vacation Recap

A wise woman once said, “Don’t wear your real studs to the beach.” This wise woman’s my super feisty mother! (smile)

Last weekend, I took a mini “mommy” vacation and flew to Tampa, Florida. The trip was long overdue because aside from this website my life has been pretty hectic. Due to this perspective alone, I grabbed a flight and my cute bags for some pre-summer fun.

I grew up visiting Florida and knew what to expect in terms of the beautiful scenery and coastal breeze. My mind was swirling because this trip gave me the opportunity to put a lot of things into perspective and relax near the ocean.

Aside from the meditation, I enjoyed delicious seafood from Oceancatchers Restaurant at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. Leading up to the restaurant was a walk-way of Palm trees (that light up at night) and customers can dine inside or sit near the coast.

The next day we ventured to Clearwater Beach. I grew up taking family trips to Pensacola, so this brought back several memories. The sky was crystal clear and the ocean was radiate! I’m not the one to shy away from the sun because I love a bronzed complexion.

I decided to wear a high-waist bikini which was totally out of my element. I wanted to show moms that you can be attractive and fashionable on the beach.

The reality is that giving birth is a beautiful process. It’s also an opportunity for self-love and personal growth. You may not look the exact same but internally you have been renewed in strength.

FullSizeRender-122 — Swimsuit from AMICLUBWEAR

The trip concluded with a visit to International Plaza; walking around to view the local stores. I’m always fascinated with how people dress in different regions. Overall, I enjoyed my visit and looking forward to the next summer adventure!

Accessories / October 29, 2015

Harbor East Welcomes Bmore Betty – Reseller of Authentic Designer Accessories

Harbor East Management Group is pleased to announce retailer B’more Betty is set to open at Harbor East. B’more Betty, Maryland’s premier buyer and seller of new and pre-owned designer handbags, shoes and accessories for men and women, will make its new home at 1500 Thames Street, Suite B. The store will span approximately 1,200 SF and is projected to open for the 2015 holiday shopping season.

Betty, an acronym for “Bringing Exclusive Trends To You,” keeps true to its name by carrying respected high-end designers at affordable price points, including labels such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Valentino, Michael Kors, Christian Louboutin, Salvatore Ferragamo, YSL and many more. The store design is curated to resemble a luxurious closet, complete with a chandelier and glamorous furnishings. It will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 11AM-7PM.

This is B’more Betty’s second location – owner Camille Edwards opened a store at National Harbor Maryland in May of 2015. B’more Betty originally opened in Baltimore’s Federal Hill neighborhood in 2012 and closed in the spring of this year.

“It is with tremendous excitement and anticipation that we reopen B’more Betty in its hometown of Baltimore,” Edwards said. “We have so many loyal customers who believe in the store and who have supported us throughout the years and we can’t wait to show them the new space. We look forward to being a part of the vibrant retail scene at Harbor East.”

About Harbor East

Harbor East is home to some of Baltimore’s best shopping, dining, entertainment, hotels and residences. Among its many eclectic attractions are renowned restaurants, vibrant and unique shops, a world-class fitness center, seven-screen art house theatre, and the luxury Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore. Harbor East is also an inspiring place for business, providing a contemporary setting for world-class offices. Welcome to Harbor East – 12 square blocks of restaurants, boutiques, hotels, and harbor-side amazing. www.harboreast.com

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta / April 8, 2015

Easter Sunday 2015 Recap: Inner Harbor, Blue Crab Omelette, and National Aquarium

FullSizeRender (24) — Standing near the Inner Harbor

Necklace | Stella & Dot | Handbag | Louis Vuitton

FullSizeRender (25) — Brunch and Mimosas at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

Accessories / February 5, 2015

Caring for Your Handbags: 10 Easy Tips for Fashionistas

We own them, we love them, and we spend a great deal of money on them….handbags! There’s so many stylish bags for our personal collection such as tote bags, satchels, clutches, hobo bags, and weekender bags.

for more handbag photos visit my instagram: kwest1908

I have an obsession with handbags because they’re a great organizational tool. When my handbag’s properly sorted I feel like I can conquer the world. Although we may own several handbags (in various shapes and colors) are we caring for them properly?

As fashionistas, we stick our handbags in a closet once the seasons change. We forget to handle the outer leather, straps, and interior with care.

Tips to properly care for your handbag collection:

1. Know the material of your handbag prior to using chemicals or solutions.

2. Always store your handbag in a pillow case or protective cloth.

3. Don’t forget to zip or fasten the bag; and put the straps together.

4. Purchase a leather or suede protector for your handbags.

5. Repairs can be done by your local seamstress or purse repair shop.

6. Handbags should be moisturized with a leather conditioner.

7. Insert bubble wrap or tissue paper to help your bag keep it’s shape and form.

8. Use a spray protector for weatherproofing handbags against environmental debris.

9. Let spills dry naturally inside of the bag.

10. Remember to also care for the hardware on your handbag.

If you switch handbags often, consider purchasing a handbag organizer to keep important items in tack. You never have to worry about packing your favorite lipstick or nail file ever again.

click here: https://stylelifefashion.com/handbag-accessories-tips/

Accessories / June 27, 2014

Fashion Awards MD 2014 – Style + Life + Fashion Media Category Recap

Fashion Awards MD is considered to be one of the premiere fashion events in the Baltimore area. This year’s theme was “Traveling Circus” and sponsors for the event included: Harbor East, Linell Ellis, Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey, Christopher Schafer Clothing, About Faces Day Spa and Salon, Lana Rae, South Moon Under, Open Fly Magazine, Hide N Seek Entertainment, Maryland Renaissance Festival, Baltimore Fashion Alliance, The Fly Wire, Yelp, and DeBois Textiles.

Style + Life + Fashion had the opportunity to attend the event being nominated for the Fashion Media Category. I was surprised to be placed on the ballot (for a second consecutive year) because I only had plans to attend as a media source. Once I received the email confirmation I was very excited to be amongst such a talented list of bloggers.

Kimberly West FAMD — Style + Life + Fashion attending the Fashion Awards MD

Dress: Romeo & Juliet {Saks Fifth Avenue} | Handbag: Louis Vuitton | Beauty Products: Fake Bake, OPI, and Cutex One Step Wipes

Jaslene Gonzalez from America’s Top Model served as the host for this year’s event. She was seen wearing a beautiful red asymmetrical gown, created by local fashion designer B. Descai with an additional black, sequin, and green dress selected by fashion stylist Thea Washington. Jaslene looked stunning and did a wonderful job of engaging the audience.

Jaslene Gonzalez and Lana Rae — Posing on the Red Carpet

What I love the most about attending any fashion event is the creativity and talent that’s circulating in the room. From face masks to custom design apparel, everyone came out to be seen and noticed. The evening continued with a variety of performances between the nominee categories and recognition was given to those with a flair for beauty, fashion, and the arts. In the honorary words of the Fashion Awards MD, we should strive to “Inspire and Be Inspired.”

For additional photos and winner’s list visit: FashionAwardsMD.com

Accessories / October 31, 2013

Handbag Accessories: Take Your Purse from Drab to Fab {VIDEO}

Handbags are one of my favorite accessories. I like having my items organized and in one place when it’s time head out.

But aside from having a beautiful designer purse, I also enjoy adding my personal style to bags with a few accessories. It’s great to own several handbags (whether they’re designer, vintage, or just a good deal) but here’s a question, “are they enhancing your overall look or simply blending in with your trousers?”

The video below talks more about how we can add a special touch to our handbags while looking fabulous. I hope it encourages everyone to place a charm, scarf, or have their initials stamped on their bag.

[youtube height=”” width=””]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyEdmE7YC1M[/youtube]

Beauty / August 29, 2013

From the Office to Happy Hour: Transitioning to a Professional Wardrobe Tips

Building a professional wardrobe that’s affordable and timeless can be a difficult task but purchasing the right pieces can also be an investment.

Very often, your career will dictate a variety of social affairs such as attending an office meeting, company picnic, or even a happy hour.

To help us transition from the desk to a night out with our colleagues, I’ve provided a few dress options below for inspiration. The options shown take into consideration an individual’s personal style, figure type, and office setting.

Most importantly, one suggestion that I always recommend (to those seeking to build a professional wardrobe) is to shop a variety of brands that will help pull together the right professional wardrobe.