~Presentation is Everything~

It's that time of the year again!
The holiday season is vastly approaching and I am excited!! Two reasons: First, I love love love Christmas music. Not really sure why, it's just something about hearing Mariah Carey (or Kelly Clarkson :-) sing "All I want for Christmas is you..." That's been a my jam since I saw Love Actually, my favorite holiday movie. Second, I go crazy about gift wrapping! I truly believe presentation is everything. After taking time to find the perfect heartfelt gift there is no reason to just throw it in an useless gift bag! Dreadful just dreadful... Take your gift giving this year a step further with some wonderfully decorated gift wrapping and accessories.

1) Stocking Stuffer

A Christmas Stocking is an idea "gift bag" for a bottle of wine or an embellished wine glass. Neatly double wrap the gift in paper then stuff additional paper inside the stocking for filling. Pull a few coordinating sheets of tissue paper from the top as with any other gift bag. You could also use ribbon to make a fluffy yet simple bow. Lands' End $20

2) Ornaments

For those of you who are bow-challenged try using ornaments to finish off the gift. When you've completed the task of wrapping the gift, use one long piece of ribbon to tie around the center in a knot. Then use one end to loop through the ornament and tie a regular bow. The ornament will take the attention away from your challenged bow and give character to the gift.

Great ornament for a teacher or professor. K-Mart $2.99

3) The Paper

Last but not least get creative with the wrapping paper. In a world of recycling why waste money on buying paper when you can use items from around the house. Newspaper, maps, or a magazine cover will work. For the business minded guy in your life try using an old Forbes magazine cover. Another option is to choose an inspiring scripture or a cute dictionary definition, like love or family. Then photocopy the page onto a 11 x 7 inch sheet of paper at the highest magnification, repeat as needed to increase the word size and squeeze in the choice part of the passage.
But if you must go out a buy paper... Kick it up a notch with a new design. The Container Store has a huge assortment of holiday paper & tools starting from $4.99

So let's get started. Feel free to post pics of your fabulous works of art when finished.

'Til the next time...
~Ciao

Full Moon

A full moon must be in the horizon... I'm blogging again! Realizing that I've taken too much time off (the entire summer:-) figured I should pick this back up. I had a good run this summer but fall is here and winter's approaching... Time to get back to reality. Some positive changes are occurring in my life that I would love to share with my faithful few. In the next year I plan on starting a new business, quitting my job, growing my hair natural, and running a half-marathon. I want you all there for the good, the bad, and the discovery! To top all those things off I have new boyfriend!! Are you all ready for this roller coaster ride called MY LIFE?? Stay tuned...

Just to leave you all in good spirits I'll share my new favorite quote...

"May the best of your today's be the worst of your tomorrows..." ~Shawn C. Carter aka Jay-z

'til the next time
Happy Halloween

Oh My Sweet Jimmy!

*****I think I've lived... died... and gone to shoe heaven.*****

Hot off the press... Jimmy Choo has signed a deal with H&M!! Now if you're anything like me, thus far you've been adoring these beautiful shoes and handbags from afar. Not anymore!! Just think - "red carpet" style meets "I can still pay my rent after this purchase" prices.




Jimmy Choo will be debuting at 250 H&M stores nationwide and abroad on November 14th. Well just my luck we don't' have and H& M here... The closest is Atlanta, GA. Anyone up for a road trip? : ) I think I'll go ahead and request the 13th off so I will be there in time to spend the night in line! Am I the only one who's this excited?!?!

'til the next time

KD

Britches, Trousers or Pants... Wear them right or Don't wear them at all!

I've recently embarked on a new career as a Personal Stylist. Since that time I've been working with a few of my friends to build my portfolio and hone my skills. After interviewing one of my girlfriends, she admitted to not knowing how to wear pants. The actual sentence threw me off guard, but then I realized many women feel the same way. So I scoured the net to find a simple user-friendly guide to wearing pants. Here is what I found...

The Limited (which I love) always has great style tips on their website and I encourage you to check them out. Now I understand that it's the middle of summer, but these techniques are classic and will transcend through the seasons. Just be mindful of the fabric the pants are made of. Well I hope this helps you ladies...

'til the next time

KD

Perfect Example

This is an update to the post Color Me Hot... The style tips I gave are displayed here by the always uber fab Jada Pinkett Smith.

* Bright dress + matching belt + nude/flesh colored heels = FABULOUS!



Photo courtesy of The YBF

What's Happening Wednesday... Oh I'm sorry Thursday

Tisk tisk... I know. But honestly it's been a busy week. So if you'll forgive me, I have some happenings for this weekend.



Thursday June 11th

* Poolside Party @ Ballantyne Resort - I just got wind of this event minutes ago... But I think it's gonna be hot. It's a weekly event from June 11 - Sept 3 - Music featuring DJ Lotta Noize. No admission fee - 21 and up. This will be a refreshing change from Alive After 5.



~Friday June 12th~

Movies in the Park @ Freedom Park 7pm- Second Friday of every month. I told you I'm a sucker for the kids ; ) This event is fun for the whole family... No kids?? Bring your new boo! Better yet give your single mom friend a night off. Free popcorn, free admission, and door prizes. Just bring your lawn chairs or a blanket.



Saturday June 13th

Amel Larrieux @ Neighborhood Theatre- I know I'm not the only one who loved Groove Theory! Well the leading lady will be performing her soulful hits in Noda this Saturday. Show starts at 9, but arrive early for good seats. Tix are $35. Ladies... Let's bring our sexy back for this one. I'm sure it'll be packed with cute fellas!



Summer Soiree @ Ruth Chris Steakhouse - I haven't heard many adverts for this, but I live and die (wink Zandile Blay) for Ruth Chris! Power 98 fm will be on location and ladies are free b4 10:30. For more info check the website.



Sunday June 14th

Marshall Park Jazz Fest- Uptown Park hosts live jazz from June 7-28 from 1:00 - 6:00 pm. Sounds like a nice event!



Well my good people.. It's gonna be a long weekend for me. Hopefully I'll see you guys out!



'Til the next time... Peace and Love

~ What's Happening Wednesday ~

So this will be a new feature to my blog... Wednesday is usually the day I start to think about partying and hanging out. And since I know great minds think a like ;-), I figured you ladies would be wondering what's there to do this weekend.
Before I start let me clarify 1 thing. In an effort to become a more well-rounded individual, I will focus on an array of different activities. Not just the typical club parties. That scene gets old...quickly! And anyway you don't need me to help you find those spots... Just turn on your radio. So here we go:



Wed June 3rd -

• Piedmont Town Center (located adjacent to South Park Mall) is now offering an after work party called to PTC After 5. Admission is free and it starts from 5:00 pm until 9. Check out some of the photos on Charlotteobserver.com


• Villa Antonio is hosting a wine tasting every other Wednesday. Admission is $20 and includes 5 different wines, free appetizers, live music and dancing. * Nice restaurant... Great service*

Thurs June 4th -

• Kings Kitchen Fundraiser - This charity event hosted by Nobles Restaurant will feature 6(confirmed) Carolina Panther players as waiters for the evening. **HOTT** Limited seating is available and tickets are $250. Benefits will help aid Charlotte area residents.

Friday June 5th

• Night of Notes - Charlotte Children's Choir are celebrating 23 years of Creating Music and Joy! Okay... I'm a sucker for the kids : ) Event will be held at the Mint Museum of Art from 6-9:00 pm. Tickets are $25 which includes a performance from the choir, door prizes, raffle drawing, silent auction, heavy hors d'oeuvres, desserts and cash bar. Proceeds from the event support Neighborhood Choirs after school program.

Saturday June 6th

• Taste of Charlotte - Need I say more! I love...love...love Taste of Charlotte. Okay let it be known I'm a food junkie. So put me in the middle of Uptown with the best restaurants in the city - I'm a happy girl! This event is held every year and never disappoints (even when it rains : ) Fill up on tokens and Enjoy!

~So that's all I have for this week. If you know of any other events worth posting please feel free to email me: bronzebarbie08@gmail.com

'til the next time...

Color Me Hot!!

This will be short and sweet ladies...

I was online looking for the perfect date dress. Yes I've been hanging out with a new "special friend" and I like to keep cute dresses stashed just in case. Today I came across this oh so hot & sexy teal dress from Banana Republic $130. This summer is all about bright colors and soft flowing fabrics. Like the model, I would also opt for a nude or flesh colored shoe and matching belt. That should give the dress all the attention it needs while making your legs look super sexy. *Note - nude or flesh colored heels make your legs appear longer b/c there's no break in color.

If you're feeling adventurous then add color with a clutch or bangles (please don't do both). Also keep in mind a dress of this type exudes light airy feel, so don't settle with black shoes & accessories. It will kill the mood ;)

'Til the next time...

The Time is Now to Reinvent Yourself

I've been toying with the idea of reinvention for a while now. But not until recently has it becoming the fore running thought in my mind. A few weeks ago The Black Socialite blogged about The Age of The Connoisseur, then I watched the season finale of Desperate Housewives (the part where husband decides to go back to school for Chinese to become marketable in global finance) and that just did it for me! The time is now! We are well equipped with everything we need to achieve the success we desire.

Don't get me wrong ladies... If you are happy or better yet content with where you are in life, then this post isn't for you. But for the rest of who sometimes can't drag ourselves outta bed 'cause we hate our jobs. Or those who are sitting in the cubicle daydreaming about being a PR guru, a socialite, or a billionaire entrepreneur it's time we do something different.

I've always believed that you have to surround yourself with like-minded people. So if you can't share your dreams and desires with your inner circle(and they be supportive) then it may be time to part ways. After that's done, then it's time to foster some new relationships. In Real Estate school I learned when investing in real estate it's always best to buy the worst house in the best neighborhood - the property value goes up just from b/c of the zip code. The same thing applies in making connections. Here are a few tips to help increase your value ;-):

1. Start hanging out in places where the crowd already has what you want. Leave those club "networking" parties behind. The only thing you'll be accomplishing is paying the promoters salary.

2. If you're naturally shy, pick up a book on the art of small talk/networking. Hopefully you'll feel empowered before you even enter the room.

3. Use the web for more than just online shopping. All the info you've ever needed is right there.
4. Time for a makeover. Look, smell, and walk like you've already arrived. This will also help with your confidence. You want people to be thinking "I wonder who that is..."

5. Don't be afraid to voice your dreams. How can someone advise you if they don't know you need it?

6. Learn a new sport. Golf and tennis are good adult sports and you never know who you may meet while playing.

I've started to work on this task myself. The first event I attend got me landed on the front of Charlotteobserver.com!

- Derby Day at The Mint Museum of Art 5/2/09

'Til the next time...

Love, Where Are You??

Relationships... Hmm... Not my cup of tea. While I'm good at helping women become more in tune with their inner style diva, I am the worst at relationships. I have never been in a long term relationship. Let me be clear - My longest committed relationship was 7 months. Sigh... And it was doomed from the start. I was just lonely at the time. Now, I've been "seeing" the same person for almost 2 yrs now, but we are not (and probably won't ever be) in a committed relationship. I know... I know... I should just cut him loose. But what fabuloulista wants to be alone? Certainly not me! He's my movie buddy, my recipe taster/critic, and my knight in shining armor when Duchess(my car;-) breaks down on me. He has told me numerous times that he's gotta "get himself together" first before he is ready to commit. I truly had no idea what that really meant. But after reading Steve Harvey's Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man, I now understand his need to define himself in 3 ways; Who he is, What he does, and How much he makes. But now that I know... I'm over it! Even though I've never told him - I love him dearly. But like Tina says " What's Love Got To Do With It?".


'Til the next time,
I will be happily single until Mr. Big comes along...

Video of the Day! T.O.N.Y.

This too is a bit random, but in preparing for the Essence festival this 4th of July weekend, I was thinking about which performances are a must see. From reading the 3 day line-up, I actually think Solange is the person I'm most looking forward to seeing. Her sound is soulful and unique. None of that "I need to feature a rapper to be hot" foolishness. Personally I think her singles should have gotten way more air play, but we all know tweens rule the airwaves.

~And in keeping with All Things Fabulous, I must say her style is Hot!! She has really done a great job of stepping out of her sister's shadow. I'm guessing Mama Knowles is not making her outfits!

I am loving the cross body clutch she's wearing here. If you haven't already heard the crossbody is the hottest things since... since the clutch ;-)

I will be rocking one this weekend!
They can be found everywhere from Saks to Forever 21. So thinking about adding a new accessory to your collection this month.

Betsy Johnson $98

Okay gals that's all for today!!

'Til the next time...

~Love Letters: A Lost Art Form~

While I would love to just blog about Fashion and Beauty all day everyday, I feel the need to truly make this blog about "All Things Fabulous". I was out at Target last night (for batteries ;-) and I came across the cutest stationary. It really made me want to send letters to my loved ones. As I sat back and thought about it I can't even remember the last time I actually sent a hand written letter. That's just sad... There used to be a time when writing letters was the only way to communicate with your special someone or pen pal. Now that we've become this fast paced twitter/online bill pay society, we barely even check our mailbox.

Let's add a little nostalgia to our day-to-day routines...

If asked to describe my style I would call it "Classic Sexy". So in keeping with this style I decided to get some stationary that reflected just that. And for the next few days I'm going to spend some time hand writing notes to those I care about. **I couldn't find a pic of the set I bought but here are a few examples:If you like this idea, but feel like you don't know what to say, just look around you. There are always cute sayings or funny ecards that you can use for inspiration. It could be a 2 page heartfelt poem, a short quote, a bible scripture or just something funny to cheer up a co-worker. You can never go wrong when letting someone know their special and they mean a lot to you.

Since Mother's Day is right around the corner what better way to show her you love her! Trust me she'll appreciate your card over a Hallmark card anyday...

Example:

"Mama you know I love you. Mama you’re the queen of my heart; your love is like tears from the stars. Mama I just want you to know, lovin’ you is like food to my soul.” — BoyzIIMen

Okay that's all my ranting for today ;-)

'Til the next time...

Island Travel Part Two: 5 Beach Must-Haves

~~~So now that you've secured your passport let's get you ready to become an international jet-setter! Here are the 5 things you must have for a day at the beach. Let's just call it our "Survival Kit"...


#1 Fabulous Bathing Suit -
Ladies the most important thing about the beach is having fun in the sun. If your suit is too tight, too loose, or has to be tied so tight behind your neck it's causing a headache - you need a new suit. One that properly fits your body. Now this may require the most time to find so that's why it's first on the list. A few things to remember... 1) One size does not fit all! 2) Go for mix and match pieces that are funky and stylish. It's perfectly okay to buy a Small top and a Medium bottom if that's what fits. 3) A flattering one-piece will always be in style. 4) Try to stay fashion forward. No need to look like a grandma while on the sunny beaches of St. Tropez. Pictured is my own personal suit which can be found at Target for $30
The suit pictured left works great for a fuller figure. The rouching on the side can be adjusted for a higher or lower bottom. The bra strap also adjusts to support a fuller bust. Available @ Victorias Secret for $69





****** UPDATE*****

Here are a few options available in Sizes 16W-24W...

#1) Newport News Swimdress (love, love, love the color!) $44

#2) Delta Burke Swimdress JCPenney- adjustable sides for higher or lower bottom $64.99

#3) Obxsunwear - Christina Tank Top with side Rouching $55

#4) Torrid - Black Ruched Swim Short $34
#2 Canvas Travel/Day Bag -
Something large enough to carry all the miscellaneous/can't live without items for your day. I prefer a lined canvas material in case it gets wet. Make sure it has zipper pockets for your wallet & sunglasses. Keep it light and simple. Nothing feels worse than carrying around an over-filled tote bag while trying to sight see. LL Bean has plenty of cute options for under $35.



#3 Comfortable/Cute Sandals -
I know I know... Old Navy sells flip flops 2/$5 but must we really be seen walking the streets of Ochos Rios in those cheap shower shoes? If you're looking for a cute money saving option check out K-Mart. I recently bought 2 pair of the cutest sandals for only $15 each!!! I walked several hours in both pair while on my recent vacay to Grand Cayman Island and I have no complaints. I even got a few compliments from other tourists.



#4 Hat - Yes, ladies, you must combat the sun in every way possible (that includes sunscreen). The sun can not only do major damage to your skin, but your hair also. And even more important than that... Straw floppy hats are extremely chic. Yes!!! It is essential to look cute while having fun. I can't stress that enough :-)

I searched and searched and searched some more for the cutest, biggest & most affordable floppy straw hat I could find on eBay! I found this Tan/White 8" Wide Large Brim Floppy Beach Straw Hat. This hat was lightweight & airy, easy to pack into my suitcase and looked amazing on the beach. Only $24+ shipping at Luxury Divas. It gets a Fab 5 stars***** in my book.


#5 Waterproof Mascara -
I'm just saying~ You must be fabulous at all times. Even after snorkeling... Is there a woman alive who doesn't look and feel prettier after applying mascara? Really?! So I tried a few different brands and Maybelline was the winner. I'm sure you could find a more expensive brand that works well too (not sure why you would want to), but when traveling (especially internationally) never take your most expensive possessions. Bags get lost- things get broken. So for the quality and price this mascara wins.


*** A few other small things you may not want to forget:***
* quart size ziplock bags - for wet suits and what-nots
* travel size baby wipes
* 100% UVP sunglasses
* lots of sunscreen - yes even for women of color!!
* bronzer - 'cause nothing looks better than a wonderful glow in warm weather
* cute beach cover-up

Any other suggestions?? Feel free to leave a comment.
Till the next time...

Island Travel Part 1: Book a Vacation!

Want to make the most out of this recession? Take a vacation!! No seriously... With the economy in the pits, travel costs are at an all-time low. If you're a mileage rewards member with any of the major airline carriers, sign up for email alerts. You will be the first to know of any upcoming flight deals. That's how I found my birthday vacation deal. US Airways offered flights for the month of April round trip from Charlotte to the Grand Cayman Islands for $160+ taxes/fees!! I'm a frequent flyer with US Airways b/c the company's largest hub is in Charlotte. Which means most likely I will have multiple flight choices to/from my destination for a reasonable price. This also comes in handy when you miss your flight ;-) FYI... Delta's largest hub is in Atlanta, American Airlines' hub in Dallas/Ft Worth, and the major Northwest hub is in Detroit. If you like to do price comparisons I would suggest Farecast. They have a tracking tool that estimates the flight prices over a set amount of time. Maybe you were planning to travel in August, but if you use the fare tracker you may find that September is cheaper.

So after telling everyone and their grandma about my flight deal, I came across another vacation money saver. Do you know anyone who works for a major hotel chain? Discounts can sometimes be offered to friends and family members of hotel employees. Using the F&F discount I saved almost 50% off my hotel costs! Also think about becoming a rewards member with a hotel chain like Hilton or Marriott. Emails are usually sent on a monthly basis that contain great hotel deals and discounts.

And it never hurts to check out a vacation club or your local travel agency. US Airways vacations club (according to my email;-) is currently running a special with Holiday Inn Sunspree in Aruba and Montego Bay for less than $500 pp. Holiday Inn Sunspree in Montego Bay is all-inclusive and is well worth the money spent. I visited in 2003 for the 1st Annual Jump off-n-Jamaica, and I highly recommend this hotel. The food was delicious!! According to the website they have undergone a multi-million dollar renovation so I'm sure you'll be pleased.

Condo rentals are a great option when taking the whole fam or 4 or more people. They offer more space and usually come equipped with full kitchens, a money saver when considering 3 meals a day.

Call your girls and start making plans today!! Stay tuned for Part Two: Island Travel Survival Kit

Till the next time... Check out these fly travelistas!

Happy BirthdayTo Me!!

Party Time... Oh it's Party Time... We're having a Party! C'mon!

This year I'll be spending my beloved birthday in the unseasonably cold Queen City. Usually I make the long awaited trek back to sunny South Florida and spend the week chillaxin' with the fam. So since I'm here let's explore what Charlotte has to offer this Easter weekend...


Wednesday April 8th
Since today is Wednesday and we all need to take the edge off... why don't we check out Wine Down Weekdays @ Morton's The Steakhouse. Every Mon-Fri from 5-6:30 pm & 9:30 - 11 pm. Now I know you all are thinking "Morton's?? I can barely afford Applebees..." Well instead of reserving a table, pull up a seat at Morton's signature Bar 12.21 for their $5 bar bites and daily wine specials. Ladies make sure you're looking fabulous...You never know who you may run into ;-0



Thursday April 9th
For those who really want to party... Thursday night Pitbull will be live in concert @ The Forum in uptown Charlotte. Reduced priced regular & VIP tickets are being offered on Groove Tickets. What a cutie!!

Friday April 10th
Party for a purpose this Friday at the White Chocolate All White Affair sponsored by Godiva @ Big Chill. Proceeds from the party will go towards Cancer Research. For more information contact Rick Mogul.


Saturday April 11th
Then last but not least... The long awaited, highly anticipated Inner Circle Fifth Anniversary party @ Blue Restaurant. Inner Circle has been known to host the hottest Yuppie parties in the Queen City. Tickets for these parties tend to sell out quickly so either checkout groovetickets.com now or be sure to arrive extra early. As for attire... ladies I would do my best to be as stylish, yet sophisticated as possible. This crowd will stand for nothing less. And just for kicks here's my red carpet photo from the Inner Circle NYE party @ Ballantyne Resort.
Good times...


Know of any other hot spots this weekend?? Be sure to leave a comment.

Till the next time...

Kim Kardashian as Your Personal Shoe Stylist

Have a big event coming up this month? Well whether you're looking for a hot shoe for your cousins wedding or the monthly girls night out, Kim Kardashian is here to help!

After spending entirely too much of my day on the net, I came across ShoeDazzle an online "Premier Shoe Society". After taking a short online assessment, Kim (let's remember Kardashian was hired to revamp Brandy's image back in the early 2000's) and her team of stylist will pick 5 shoes each month that fit your style. From those 5 shoes you have the option to pick the one you want for the month. Best of all... their yours to keep! Unlike Bag, Borrow or Steal, (which I love too) each membership includes one pair of shoes a month. If you choose not to make a selection that month you will not be charged. Just simply opt to "Skip this month". Membership cost are only $39/month and includes free shipping.

Okay so seeing that I'm a sucker for just about anything new and shiny I decided to sign up. It took about 3 days before I received my shoe choices for the month.

Which one should I choose??

After I receive and wear my new shoes, I'll be sure to update you guys about the quality and fit of the shoe.

Till the next time...

Welcome to All Things Fabulous!

I would like to welcome everyone to my new blog. My name is K.D. I'm a 25 y/o (almost 26... counting the days:-) young professional living in the South. My decision to create this blog was soley to share my perspective of fashion, beauty, style and finance with the rest of the world. With everyone concerned about the economy, it's essential to make sure we're spending every dollar wisely. There is nothing more fab than an educated and informed consumer. I'll scour the streets, shelves, and the web weekly to find things that make me stop in my tracks and say "Now That's Fab". Feel free to make any comments or suggestions - I welcome all positive criticism. Thank you for reading and Enjoy!!