Muted Florals

My interest in this dress changes from hour to hour. Looking at it right now as I type this post, I can see its' potential. But wearing it at work and then afterwards to the Worn Magazine Summer Mixer, I was having so many doubts. There wasn't much I could do since I didn't bring a backup outfit, so I was 'stuck'. 

Purse - Aldo, Belt - ASOS, Bracelets - Avenue

I like how muted...almost dull-ish...the flower print is on the dress. Pairing it with the ASOS Curve gold metal belt was a nice touch because it brought out the yellow/gold tone of the print even more.

Necklace - vintage

Since I was going for gold accents throughout this look, I accessorized with this vintage gold, bronze and silver circle metal necklace that was only $3.99. iWin. It looks heavy but it's so not. At all. Next time, to give the dress a bit more oomph, I will wear a bright necklace that has either yellow or green or BOTH in the design.

Don't forget to watch the Olympics! Speaking of the Olympics, what did you think of the opening ceremony on Friday? It was okay for me. At some point, I was truly bored. I did enjoy the children's literature section. Seeing JK Rowling and Voldemort made me smile. Parade of Nations was fun to watch...kinda. Unfortunately, I watched the NBC's telecast (which was time delayed). Not a fan of their commentary and the way the channel chose to skim over some countries. I was like, they better show Nigeria or something is about to happen! lolol. Luckily for them, Nigeria had their shine. And I also screamed for USA, of course. I wanted a Melo sighting but I didn't get a Melo sighting. *sad face* I did learn, however, about countries I never knew existed like Tajikistan, Suriname, and Kiribati, just to name a few. Very interesting. I'm enjoying the games, so far. Been invested in gymnastics, swimming, and men's basketball. But I've been watching some others, too, like table tennis. Yo, that game is vicious! 

What games are you excited to watch?

Worn Magazine Summer Mixer

Wednesday evening was reserved for the Worn Magazine first industry Summer Mixer at the ever exclusive (and discreet) The Gibson. When I tell ya that I was expecting to see a big neon sign that read "THE GIBSON" on 14th street...but that was so not the case. It's pretty well hidden.

Exactly.

It was great to mingle with new folks and set my eyes around the gorgeous decor of the place. The hosts were nice, the bartenders awesome and the drinks...*two thumbs up*. Worn Magazine is a DC-born publication intended to bring greater awareness of local fashion and art to the District and to the nation. I talked briefly with some of the Worn Magazine team and not only are they fashionable, they were very cool, too. 

Nicole Aguirre
Editor-in-Chief

Eric Brewer
Men's Creative Director
Also co-founder of WornAbroad.com

Worn Magazine will be having their launch party for their Issue 4 in September. I'll be there for that.

Tammy and I
It just dawned on me recently how much I heart Tammy's blog, A Loyal Love.
One of my favorite blogs right now. Easily. Check it out!

Great combo.

To purchase past issues of Worn Magazine click here.

Next Stop...Frank Ocean

Thank sweet baby Jesus that Cee and I bought our Frank Ocean tickets almost two months ago. And immediately after we bought it, it was sold out. And now he is more popular than ever these past few weeks. Mr. Ocean performed at the 9:30 to promote his new album, channel ORANGE. I called up the club earlier that day to ask some general questions and the lady on the other line informed me that there was already a line outside. I looked down at my watch...it was 1:05pm. Doors open at 7pm. I asked her to repeat herself, she did. It was the same information. I was speechless. Talk about some dedicated fans! 9:30 is a standing room only club (with a couple of bar stools up on the balcony). So, the folks who stood in line that early was determined to get a spot near the stage. I hope they did cause that would suck if they did all of that for nothing. Anywho, close to 7pm, Cee and I got to the venue to see a line wrapped around the whole block. We both looked at each other and decided this would be the perfect time to go get something to eat and drink. No point standing in the line, under the sweltering heat with our stomachs growling. Settled upon this new place called The Brixton. It's like an English-style pub. Very nice atmosphere and the food was good, too. 

Once done, we walked back to 9:30, entered, waited for about an hour and finally the show started.

Christopher Breaux aka Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean was amazing! He played songs from his mixtape, Nostalgia, Ultra, and a lot of his new songs including my favorite song from the new album, Super Rich Kids (knowing me, that may change). Dude has a great voice and what I loved the most was how passionate he was with his music. That energy really filled up the whole room. A very diverse (age and race) crowd. Such a great sight to see.

Cee

Ran into our friend, Adaku.
Love her jumpsuit and necklace!
Fun fact: She is a fantastic musician. Check out her page here.

Lace Open Jacket/Bag: Forever 21, Top/Pants/Bracelets: Avenue, Shoes: via Clothing Swap

I gotta say, Avenue is stepping their game up majorly. There was a period when I refused to shop there. But then I started off with their shoes...then jewelry...then finally clothes. Anywho, Cee saw a female wearing this same printed pants at the concert. That has never happened to me before; someone showing up wearing the same thing as myself. I didn't know what to do. lolol. But it was cool. She wore hers as cropped pants with sky-high heels. I chose to wear it more casual with a looser fit (went up a size to achieve the fit) and perforated flats with a slight wedge heel.

Hal Rubenstein's Book Signing at Alton Lane

Last Thursday after work, I went to the book signing event for Fashion Director of InStyle (which is pretty much my favorite fashion magazine), Hal Rubenstein. He was there to sign his two published books: The Gentry Man: A Guide for the Civilized Male and 100 Unforgettable Dresses. Hal is not only a good-looking guy but very nice and personable, too. Also, he was dressed impeccably well. Alton Lane was the perfect setting for this event. The luxurious apparel store for men sells suits, blazers, shirts and tuxedos and also allows its' customers to design their very own custom-made clothing with the help of Alton Lane's groundbreaking technology.

I had a wonderful time.

Favorite drink at the event? Iced Tea Vodka.

Pink Coalition
Noticed they were all wearing some shade of pink and forced asked them to take a picture together.

After the event, Elle, Oby, Brea and I walked around the block to grab something to eat. Along the way we came upon a street performer. Dancing ensued.

Walked a bit more and made our stop at Gazuza Lounge...

...for some sushi and hookah.

Top: Walmart, Skirt/Earrings: thrifted, Shoes: Payless
I got this top last year and this was my first time wearing it. Why? I don't know.
Minus the watch and the bracelets (not seen), this outfit is less than $35.

OAA 3rd Annual DC Africa Festival

If you have a couple of hours to spare this Saturday, swing by to the DC Africa Festival. There will be vendors selling their unique African creations, cultural dances, a fashion show and other activities for folks of all ages!

Where: Banneker Community Center
Time: 12-6pm

To get a better understanding of what to expect at the festival, click here to read my post about last year's turnout.

See you there!