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The Perfect Trench

2/5/2016

{Trench Coat (Forever 21); Handbag (DFL); Ankle Booties (BCBG Max Azria)}

ofThe perfect trench is a must have for every professional woman. Furthermore, you don’t have to stick to the traditional gray and camel colored trench coats to maintain professionalism. In quite the opposite manner, you can use a trench to accent any traditional look – from a simple white top and black pencil skirt to jeans and hightop sneakers. Of course, I believe a camel or gray trench is a wardrobe staple but I also believe owning a trench coat in an unconventional color can contribute to your outfit possibility spectrum.

I adore this vibrant one from Forever 21 because it is lightweight, which helps a lady maintain her cool despite the warmer Texas climate, and it is very versatile. For instance, I wore this trench during my fall travels to New York and other East Coast cities and now I find myself sporting it through the late winter/early spring. Continuing on the idea of versatility, a trench coat can also take you from day to night seamlessly! Trade in the nude lip for a pop of color like this one from Chanel in “Rouge Coco” and swop out the basic pumps for ankle booties like these from BCBG Max Azria (which are on MAJOR sale right now!!!).

Also, I always opt for a trench with a belt or any means to close the front as I like the additional outfit protection/coverage in case the weather calls for rain/hail/snow – you never know these days – or in case you spill coffee on yourself during a busy day and need to maintain a professional look. You fill in the blank as we all need some additional coverage on occasion… can I get an amen?! I could go on all day/night about my love for trench coats but instead I’ll post a couple of other looks from some leading ladies that I adore. Enjoy :-)

XXX,
Ashia

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Seasonal Fluidity & My Approach to Styling

1/21/2016

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{Forever 21 Hat; Francessca's Earrings & Braided Belt; Marc by Marc Jacobs clutch (past season); BCBG Max Azria Sweater Dress; Zara Dress; Jimmy Choo Strappy Heels}

Living in Houston has its many advantages as well as disadvantages…like any other metropolitan hub. However, being from the Midwest, I particularly enjoy the versatility in dress that the weather in Houston allows for especially during the winter (it’s currently 66 degrees!).

However, due to some seasonal fluidity, I like being able to remove layers throughout the day depending on what I have scheduled and what the weather calls for that day (...or that hour...or that minute...whatever!). In this look, I’m blending different styles including an open sweater dress, a winter hat and open-toed strappy heels. I believe you can play with textures and layers in order to make your wardrobe work for you from season to season especially if you live in an environment where the difference from one to the other is often undistinguishable or differentiated by a few degrees. I also strongly believe that the color palette of your look can really help to differentiate winter from summer looks and everything in between. For example, I chose darker hues to compliment the sweater dress and accented the style with different pieces from the braided belt to the natural-toned clutch to pull the look together.

On another note, some people struggle with the idea of wearing different prints, textures and colors in fear of not achieving an acceptable look so we can quickly become conformist. Since we as humans are creatures of habit, we tend to stick to what’s worked in the past and rarely go beyond the ordinary even within our own personal closets. It’s often an uncomfortable feeling to “step out,” but I enjoy discovering different ways to style my wardrobe. I get a lot of inspiration from those around me especially those I consider style artisans (aka my mommaJ) so don’t be afraid to trial and error!

Here’s my application of logic and my approach to styling different prints, textures and colors:

Identify a common theme with select pieces (e.g. polka dots )
Work within the color palette depending on the common theme (e.g. red +blue/green+yellow)
Leverage accessories to pull the look together
Have fun and take risks as you see fit!

Happy Styling!

XXX,

Ashia

4 Comments

Soul Carrier - Conscious Intentions

6/17/2015

3 Comments

Integrity Tote

Buying “local” isn’t a trend that will one day wither away like many other elements of fashion; buying “local” is apart of living a sustainable lifestyle.

I love supporting passionate designers who are making a “conscious” effort to build a business in the communities in which they live while also making a point to give back to these same communities.

One of my favorite local designers and true inspirations is Jennifer Paige Boonlorn. She is the curator behind the Soul Carrier handbag and accessory brand and calls Phoenix, Arizona home.

Jennifer’s life story is truly contagious and encouraging as she took a leap of faith and dove into fashion headfirst after realizing what drives her and what will allow her to bring to fruition her passion for design. Jennifer wanted to be true to herself while also realizing that self-discovery is a “journey.”

In her latest project, Jennifer is launching a Kickstarter campaign to debut her third collection of handbags called “Conscious Intentions” that will be featured on Kickstarter. The “Conscious Intentions” collection is made up of five styles, and the bags are made from genuine leather and cowhide fur handcrafted in Leon, Mexico. This handbag collision was designed for a muse that values simplicity and functionality and also thinks about the sustainability of everyday living both internal and external to oneself.

A portion of all proceeds generated from the campaign will go to the children’s shelter - Crisis Nursery, Inc.- in Phoenix, Arizona. Soul Carrier will be sponsoring disadvantaged children and providing uniforms, backpacks and school supplies for the coming year.

“I’m on a journey to advance conscious fashion, spark rich collisions and powerful conversations when people stop to inquire what a Soul Carrier Bag is!”
– Jennifer Paige Boonlorn

Contribute to the cause here!

Illumination Clutch

"Soul Carrier
is a
pioneer
within the conscious fashion movement
that aims
to delight
people with the opportunity
to look
stylish
while
supporting
the
well
being of others.
We
design impeccable leather handbags
for
individuals living
bold
lives of
possibility,
accomplishment
and
contribution."

#SoulCarrier
#ConsciousIntentions
#kickstarter

3 Comments

Project Sister Act: Bringing Back the 70s

4/3/2015

10 Comments

Fashion is timeless and a fellow Houston Fashion Blogger and style icon has developed a project to showcase just that. Sheela Goh is the curator behind “Project Sister Act,” and her philosophy behind the project is to provide woman of all ages an opportunity to showcase personal style and interpretation based on one common theme. For the month of March, the theme is “That 70s Show” and what perfect timing with spring blooming each and every day (platforms and pops of color anyone?!)

To encapsulate how much this project and overall female movement means to me would take pages and pages of content to illustrate, but I do want to insert some personal insight within this post. With that said, I think every woman is challenged with self-awareness at each and every age. This relates to how we wear our makeup to how our hair is styled to what threads we consciously wear. I am a firm believer that woman should not try to age themselves prematurely because as my mom has always told me, “You are old for a while and young for a short while” (a wise woman indeed!).

Largely influenced by evolutions within the beauty and fashion worlds, woman may find themselves becoming hoarders since history has shown to repeat itself. Well, I believe that a woman should embrace what works for her from head to toe. I tend to embrace pieces that are deemed “timeless,” but I also love indulging in a few trendy pieces that I feel align with my natural style tastes. Fashion and largely identification should never be forced, and to be honest, it should be the most honest and transparent element about yourself. Embrace your bodily changes, but stay true to yourself as no one else knows you better.

Here are some of the looks and styles that influenced my look:

I chose to rock a pattern on top with a neutral bottom paired with distinct vintage-esque jewelry pieces. I admire what great effort woman during that time put into accentuating their waists, and this high-waisted skirt provided a similar appeal in the look I created. In general, woman appeared less processed in regards to hair and makeup so I worked to make my look just as effortless.

{Zara Patterned Collared Shirt & Skirt; Seiko Vintage Watch; Francesca’s Earrings; SMETS Necklace}

Here are some of the other lovely fashionistas & their interpretations:

Eve, Teen Category

Rachel, 30s Category

Sheela, 40s Category

Shelley, 50s Category

10 Comments

The Curve: From Day to Night

1/4/2015

1 Comment

Don’t opt for a traditional happy hour experience; let the Curve take your appetite for frolic and an afterhours pick-me-up to the next level of satisfaction.

The Westheimer Curve is an area in Montrose on the outskirts of the thriving Midtown scene heading west on Westheimer towards uptown. This is a drag of Houston’s most sought after indulgences including culinary hotspots and art influenced kickbacks. Home to known hangouts such as Anvil Bar and Refuge and Vinoteca Poscol the Curve includes an eclectic mixbag of pallete enticing food and drink menus.

The Curve is a city-centric and chic hotspot ideal for date night, mingling with work peers or gathering with friends for a night of bar hopping. With so much variety and appeal, you won’t have to work hard to make a night out for all – venture down the color-filled boulevard of endless entertainment and fun-filled opportunity.

If you are trying to take it from day to night, you can pair a LBD with a blazer and some simple heels for a look that provides you the perfect appeal of chief executive and night gladiator.

Get The Look: LBD {H&M}, Blazer {BCBG Maz Azria}, Heels {Zara}, Bracelet {Zayver Jewels}, Handbag {Louis Vuitton}

Here are a couple personal picks of influential looks:

All Original Pictures Shot By Riaz K

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Curtain Call: Fashion Houston #FH5

11/23/2014

10 Comments

Rubin Singer

Fashion Houston, the long waited event of the year, took place from Tuesday November 18th through Friday November 21st. I covered Wednesday evening’s affair and what a memorable showing it was!

Downtown lit up like a Christmas tree as lights beamed into the sky drawing the most fashionable crowds in Houston to Wortham Theater Center. The red carpet (which was complimented by picture worthy sports cars – thanks Audi!) was laid out leading all to the doors of the theater and within existed a world of impeccable design and showcase.

Inside rows and rows of seats hovered around the runway, and big screens captivated your attention as media flashed across the screen. While socialites and other who’s who of Houston engaged in conversation and shared a few glasses of Pinot, behind the scenes, designers (up and coming and iconic of the like), models, makeup artists and stylists worked every last minute to make every future moment in the show as memorable as possible.

Twenty minutes turned into ten and then ten minutes quickly turned into seconds before the runway would be flooded with spring fever! First up, the Art Institute of Houston Fashion Designers took the runway with fresh collections displaying the unique style of Houston from street wear to contemporary to formal wear. Then, the list of iconic designers took the runway pulling emotion from all from the full and flowing skirts of Rubin Singer to the elegantly intricate gowns of Rene Ruiz to the statement pieces of Matthew Campbell Laurenza to the perfectly detailed looks of Naeem Khan (the red bottoms were a pleasant surprise!).

Wednesday evening was a taste of fashion heaven, and I cannot wait to indulge in all things Fashion Houston now and for years to come (5 years in…many more to come!).

The details of my look included a faux fur cropped jacket from Forever 21 that provided a perfect touch to the BCBG Max Azria lace jumpsuit (also provided adequate warmth in the air-conditioned interiors of the theater!). Checkout some similar jumpsuits -> Here! I enjoyed wearing the jumpsuit because it was a break from the usual and might I add very comfortable. I also wore a statement necklace to complete the glamorous look. I was definitely red carpet ready. Lights, Camera, Work!

Rene Ruiz

Naeem Khan Final Walk

With designer Matthew Campbell Laurenza

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A Few of My Favorite Things

11/10/2014

6 Comments

Get My Look: Skirt {H&M}, Top {Forever XXI}, Hat {Forever XXI}, Belt (BCBG Max Azria}, Necklace {Nordstrom}

A few of my favorite things include:

1.     Anything Black (literally)

Black, black and more black. What other color does a girl need in life?! I’m like many girls when I say that half of my closet is a wave of black that crashes into me every time I step into my closet. It’s too easy to become a victim of this fashion tide.

I love this black lace top because it adds just enough boldness to compliment the ease of the long neutral skirt. I synched it at the waist by adding a leather belt to provide a shape and a visual reference point for the overall look. I also accessorized with a black hat to complete my fall look.

2.     Anything Breathable

When it comes to fashion, I like mine breathable on most occasions (…we all have at least one offender that pinches us in every way possible…). As a woman, I like my wardrobe to work with my body and with my fit. Especially on a casual weekend, I prefer the luxury of a more relaxed fit.

This skirt from H&M is perfect with the double layered sheer that lays perfectly on the body allowing for great movement.
Here are a few similar sheer maxi skirts in different colors and prints to help you achieve this look.

3.     Sundays

Oh, how I love Sundays! It may be the fact that I’m on the cusp of another work week, and I can’t wait to take in the last dosage of the weekend cure all. Whatever it is, it keeps me going. I’m grateful for each Sunday morning I get to relish in my state of euphoric bliss.

Hello Monday...Until next time Sunday…

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Fashion Houston 2014 ROWCALL KICKOFF: The Start of a Commemoration

10/27/2014

4 Comments

The calm before the fashion storm.

Fashion Houston is commemorating a five-year milestone in 2014 - five years of development and achievement that has catapulted fashion to new heights of appreciation and ultimately respect. Largely dominated by energy enthusiasts, Houston has become a hub of fashion architects that has fueled this city’s creative capacity.

To commence Fashion Houston (slated for November 18th – 21st at the Wortham Theater Center - mark your calendars!) and to raise proceeds for Dress for Success Houston, the RollCALL FH5 KICKOFF event took place on October 24th at the JW Marriott.

The JW Marriot is nestled in the heart of downtown Houston. With valet service greeting you at the foot of the entrance, you simply know that you’ve come to the right place – the right place for the commencement of the city’s most coveted fashion event.

Inside, smiling faces greeted attendees as they arrived allowing for time to take a few photos (professional and personal) then guided them to a descending staircase leading the way to the scene.

Before long, a scene once characterizable by the open space and stillness was transformed to a dense scene filled with rich conversation and profound fashion statements.

Many stunned in couture with ornate and beautiful details while some ravished in classic black and white evening attire. The attention to detail was identifiable from head to toe for most of the fashion aficionados.

Contemporary in style and execution, the kickoff event began with a private session for VIPs including sushi sampling and drink crafting. LIQS Cocktail Shots provided ready to consume drinks for those not so willing to fight the bar crowd and those enthralled in conversation. Can you think of a better opportunity to chat about the next best thing in the industry than in a room filled with influencers, cultivators and masterminds?!

Such masterminds included designers Chloe of DAO Chloe DAO and Breccia Demartini of Demartini Fashion. These designers showcased pieces from their collections throughout the show and had the room gawking as models posed and engaged the room using subtle movements bringing life to the tactful designs.

Proceeding the fashion show, local talents took the stage and provided live music including renditions of radio hits like Adele to a band cranking out originals using a variety of instrumentals to accompany the leads. Attendees soon began to convene in the center of the room creating a makeshift dance floor enticing many to wear-in their red bottoms and to become lax as Friday night set-in. Before long, the lights dimmed and in clear view was the social media board that showcased tweets and posts using #FH5 and #ROLLCALL – a spectacularly trending moment!

If the world does not know of Fashion Houston by now, it will soon know it is a force to be reckoned with not only because of the noise being made in social media but also because of the fervor that is at the basis of its foundation.

Get The Look: Faux Fur Vest (Wayf) ; Leather Dress (MinkPink) ; Boots (Vince)

You can achieve this fall look simply and easily, and you can do so with an array of colors! For the essentials of my outfit, including the fur vest, leather dress, fur boots and leather clutch, I bought exclusively from Nordstrom.

I loved playing with textures for this outfit, and it provided a sleek yet comfortable look for a busy night filled with capturing every moment as well as living in the moment.

4 Comments

Zayver Jewels: A Traditional Foundation But Not So Conventional Influence

10/22/2014

4 Comments

Get The Look: Necklace {Indra Necklace - Zayver Jewels - zayverjewels.com} ; Print Top [Michael Kors] ; Skirt {Rebecca Taylor} ; Shoes {Chanel} ; Tights {Kunert}

Get The Look: Necklace {Indra Necklace - Zayver Jewels - zayverjewels.com} ; Print Top [Michael Kors]

The moment I saw Zayver Jewels I knew I found a collection all my own. Provided the opportunity to model a few pieces during the “Connect and Cultivate” show at the JW Marriott in early October, I found that these pieces take the defining role of an outfit – they become the centerpiece.

At first glance, my eyes widened at the mere brilliance of each piece individualized from the semi-precious stones (globally sourced!) to the meticulously crafted finishing. The manufacturing process is transatlantic but leaves a heavy footprint right here in the US.

Inspired by the traditional Indian culture, in which jewelry is elaborate and boasting with vivid color, Jayver Jewels epitomizes the pure sophistication of a classic piece but does not forgo the lure of contemporary chic in the design and execution of each piece.

The curator of Zayver Jewels is Bela Thacker. While traditionally rooted in a career within academia, Bela was always drawn to the craftsmanship of jewelry and decided in 2011 to embark on a journey like nothing she had experienced before.

I idolize Bela not only because of the masterful stewardship she has at the base of her company from theory to production but also because of her tenacity and spirited will. Although living with a debilitating illness, Bela does not let an opportunity to connect with others pass her by.

The Sunday morning I got the opportunity to meet with her she was sitting lax in a chair on the patio of a Starbucks in Rice Village. The sun hit her face that morning and its rays couldn’t compete with the aura she gave off. I was so drawn to her the moment I saw her, similarly to the first time we had met at the “Connect and Cultivate” show, and a few short hours and a few cups of coffee later our minds were synched. Despite the physical pain, it would hurt her more to lose the opportunity to touch a soul as she did mine that day not only through her jewelry and the compassion behind the collection but more impactfully through her willfulness to proliferate a culture of influencers.

You can see and purchase the collection online at zayverjewels.com. Subscribers to The Color Fashion can receive an exclusive discount offer upon checkout. SImply subscribe and not only will you receive the discount code straight to your inbox but you can receive blog updates as well. Consider it a 2 for 1 deal... Happy Shopping!

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The View From Lady Liberty

9/14/2014

2 Comments

Get The Look : Peplum Top {BCBG Max Azria}, Leather Pants {BCBG Max Azria}, Boots {Apepazza}

I was in New York for a long weekend the first week in September for magnificent Fashion Week. I attended a couple events including the emerging trends and couture fashion shows, and took to the streets with my partner in crime (aka my mom). Despite the hustle and bustle commonly associated with short weekend trips, the schedule permitted for an escape to the Statue of Liberty. Looking out to Manhattan from the island where Lady Liberty stood, I began to reflect on the city life, and from where I stood I could see and imagine it all.

When you are in the city that never sleeps, the fashion capitol of the world, concrete jungle or as commonly known as NYC, you tend to stand a little bit taller and hold yourself a little bit stronger because you have to in order to make it. Let’s be honest – New York is no joke. It’s filled with dreamers, believers, and hopefuls, and the only way to transpire those dreams, beliefs and hopes into something concrete is to hit the concrete, literally.

When you are walking through avenues and streets, you may find yourself feeling small as you are surrounded by skyscrapers, office buildings, residencies all while standing on top of an underground people moving system. The city can feel like a maze – when you start traveling down one way you realize you need another way out once you reach a roadblock.

In this mouse and maze game, there is always a prize at the end that exists as the primary motivation. You have to find what motivates you – it’s an introspective game itself but warranted. Then, take a step back and find yourself at a place in which you can see it all right before your eyes; eventually you will be standing in front of the roadblock staring down the path ahead.

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<<Previous

The Perfect Trench

Seasonal Fluidity & My Approach to Styling

Soul Carrier - Conscious Intentions

Project Sister Act: Bringing Back the 70s

The Curve: From Day to Night

Curtain Call: Fashion Houston #FH5

A Few of My Favorite Things

Fashion Houston 2014 ROWCALL KICKOFF: The Start of a Commemoration

Zayver Jewels: A Traditional Foundation But Not So Conventional Influence

The View From Lady Liberty

ASHIA SYDNEY JOHNSON

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