Illustrations That Inspire

Few things in life are really flattering. It's nice to get compliments on clothes we wear, the makeup we apply, the fly shoes we rock and even the food I cook.

But when an unknown [to me] artist sees an image of yourself and asks if they can do a sketch or illustration of it, for no reason other than because they thought the shot was awesome, the feeling is pretty darn good. It's humbling.

I met Leah Podurgiel through my friend and hairstylist. They're friends and were hanging out one day while I was getting my hair done, sitting with my laptop as my hair got colored. I happen to be showing my friend some images just taken by my right hand photographer, Dave P. and my former intern, Nikki. Leah immediately stopped me and pulled out her materials.

I was totally caught off guard and paid her little mind. I was watching my hair turn kinda blond. After about an hour or so, she handed these to me and said they were "rough drafts!"

I was speechless! You can imagine, right?!? Sketches of moi. The girl is talented. To have sketched 4 images (one not pictured) in an hour, was impressive but beyond that, her detail to attention was convincing that I may want her to look at other pictures... Truthfully, they're just fun, if nothing else. The colorful distortions in my legs and shoes are done in a weird way, but that's what art is all about --- interpretation. She captured a different smile than what I think I really portrayed, but I love it.

Art.

These illustrations were just rough sketches of something special she said she wants to do. In the meantime, I'm really enjoying them and the last one, which has a working title of 'Fro Girl' is my favorite. I actually think it's great as is. She captured the essence of my expression in the original image (below). And the fun part: it's not a fro, rather a vintage fur topper (as featured in Essence, Jan. 2012).

Following are the images that inspired her work, blogged about in these looks: 'Faux Me Got Not' and this 'Color Me Wild'. I'm looking forward to seeing her amazing artistry and skill come to life. I'm wondering if she'll add color or keep some of them black and white. Whatever she does, I'm tickled and honored to have original sketches made for me to frame and hang in my office.

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Flat is Fly! For the Unfortunate Situation

If you're a girl like me and don't wear flats unless you're chasing the dog or running to the mailbox, flat shoes don't really take up real estate in the closet. But, sometimes the most of unfortunate and untimely accidents happen that force us to consider perusing the flat section... and they must be on sale!

I sprained my ankle almost 4 weeks ago and have only worn heels twice... and those two fabulous times turned out to be a miserable aftermath. Shooting pain in my heel has taken over and I've now resigned to using crutches while I heal.

Yes, I'm on crutches. So while my Dr. sis has put me on foot rest and instructed me to stay off any kind of sexy stiletto, I've been pretending to want to own some flats. I did some virtual shopping and found some really cute options! I'd actually wear all of these... now.

After getting over the idea of having to wear flats for a few more weeks, I went to my closet and actually found a few pair...most of which hadn't seen my feet in more years than I can remember. These two are faves and not bad options for everyday styling.

If I was bold enough to spend $170 (on sale) on the fabulously chic leopard print Kate Spade one's, I might, just might get really excited about flats!

Flat can be Fly! 

How do you rock your flats? Share a link to your fave pair! I want to see what you like!

XO!

My own: 

Classic "All Star" Chuck Taylor's in blue c/o J.C. Penny
Zebra print flats with rhinestones, Yellow Box (<3 <3 <3)

Lusting: 

1. Miu Miu "Crystal Bow" ballet flat

2. Prada oxfords

3. Halogen "Haley" oxford

4. Patagonia "Addie" boot

5. Timberland "Wiltshire" knee boot

6. Valentino "Rockstud" pointy toe flat

7. Vera Wang Lavender "Lanie"

8. Missoni rubber ballet flat

9. House of Harlow "Maddison" moccasin

10. Kate Spade leopard pony hair flat

11. Jeffrey Campbell "Dauphine" studded flat

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CoverGirls' New Line & The Sexy Latina Sofia Vergara Rocks It!

Every new year should begin with a new repertoire of beauty products. At least ideally. Not sure how practical that is, but it sounds good, right! I actually started mine with testing out some new yumminess by the all American brand, Covergirl. I remember wearing the powder when I was in High School-- I think more because I really liked the way it smelled vs. a true need.

When I got to try a few products from the new 2012 lineup, now repp'd by the sassy and sexy Sofia Vergara, I went for the kill in channeling my inner accent. The one I've been practicing for years. While I applied the 24-hour mascara and Blast FlipStick lip color,  I spoke with thick accent and told myself how fabulous it was to try makeup before it was even out in the market.  I was in candy land. The mascara, like most I use did in fact last all day and night... good! I hate reapplying and admittedly, it's my one must have on when I walk out my door. And gloss too, but the duo lip color was lovely. The test color I tried worked perfectly with the hues in my fall/winter wardrobe. I can't wait to get my hands on all the other colors! I'm particularly lusting over the color mix of red and gold. Ooh wee. Speaks to me, I tell you. 

For the price point, you can't go wrong. Stick it in your clutch for night's out and worry not if a girlfriend accidentally walks away with yours... cuz yeah, she'll like that much.

I'm tickled a Latina, full of curves and phenom looks is gracing the ad campaigns of Covergirl. She just needs to leave room for us up and coming types! 

The 2012 collection is available now in stores and includes:

o   Tone Rehab 2-in-1 Foundation

o  Blast FlipStick LipColor

o   LashBlast 24 Hour Mascara

o   LineBlast 24 Hour Eyeliner

Check out what the lovely Sofia and other reps, like Taylor Swift are up to by visiting Covergirls' Facebook Page. 

In the meantime, tell me: What's your favorite lip color? 

Moi in CoverGirl 24-hr mascara and blast flip lipstick duo no.  810. Darker applied first, then lighter pink. Taken on my lovely iPhone so you know the quality is {NOT!}100%! ;)

*I received one mascara and one blast flipstick color as consideration for this post. No other monetary or product compensation was provided. All opinions are my very own. 

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Sparkles & Shoes for the New Year!

My Christmas was short of spectacular. My new year was no different. I won't go into detail but it emotionally took me off track and I was unable to really enjoy my holiday. But not for my parents and my pup Paris, I would have stayed in bed the entire time. In fact, I did that NYE. Pathetic, I know.

I've been told I need to work on my attitude when dealing with unfortunate situations. But, when you just don't see a silver lining in that dark cloud, how can you transfer those negative emotions into a happy, happy, joy, joy state of real existence?

It's now Jan. 2nd and I'm determined to make the best out of the most inconvenient, most painful and daunting occurrence that's had me in a royal funk for 9 days now. In that, I spent hours perusing designer deal websites that offer glitz and glam to make every girls nightmares go away.

For starters, anything bling-y makes you smile! Doesn't it do it for you, too? Chic for sure, but all those flashy sparkles always make me giddy. Then there's green. The color of grass and money. You can't go wrong with that. There are shoes and hats, of course, two accessories, which by I allow myself to fix all woes! And perfume, especially personalized ones. Those are a sure way to make you feel .

So for Christmas, I relished in the sweet (and some practical) gifts I received and those that remain on my wishlist... because there's always the hope of that Prince charming making his way to my heart by Valentines... or my birthday... or Christmas, again!

Here's to hoping you had a marvelous Christmas and lovely New Year's Eve celebration! May all of your wishes come true this 2012!

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T to B: 
Personalized Coco Chanel perfume
Missoni knit hat
"Zipper" crystal bracelets from J. Crew
"Lorna" studded pump by Sam Edelman




* all pictures except the Missoni hat were taken by my lovely iPhone and edited in Instagram, which by the way, I love! Follow me there at "BrenHerrera"

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Essence Magazine and Fabulous Fur Toppers!

There are those phone calls and emails I loathe receiving. It's either a client that can't afford my services but earnestly wants to work me down, or a last minute writing assignment in which case I have to drop everything I'm doing and make my deadline. 

But then there are those phone calls that are always welcome. No matter what time of day. And those special emails that are always welcome, too. No matter what time of day.

I get them quite a bit and every time I do, I find myself experiencing a new reaction. 

But, when a friend tweeted "Girl, I see you is January's Essence issue," I was confused. Essence had called me last month and requested a picture and some other information, but I didn't know that picture would take up 1/3 (or 1/4???) of of a page in the Style section.

BOOM! What a sweet and fashionable surprise. She tweeted a picture of Pg. 28. I hopped in my car and sped to the bookstore. Nada. A 2nd bookstore. Nada. Drats. Only subscribers were getting the mag. I had to wait for it to hit newsstands and finally, it did a few days ago and I couldn't resist but to take a picture of the cover and said page!

Queen Latifah and all her majesty graces the cover, while fashionistas get a lovely plug in the center. I think I can get used to this. I've seen my name in magazines, but as a writer and mostly about food. Seeing it as a feature in fashion is a whole other giddy feeling. So much, I'm framing it and plastering it everywhere in my place. That's until others come calling---b/c yes, I've put that out there! All the other mags we subscribe to.

So this is from a photo shoot I did last winter with my former photog intern, Nicki. I blogged about it at that time in a post appropriately called "Faux Get Me Not." Having the image snatched up by Essence is an honor. I never thought in a million years, any of my pics would get printed. And let me tell you, it feels goooooooooooood! It's even fancier that my fur hat got a mention in the story--happens to be one of my faves.

Thank you Essence! You've tickled me so and helped start the year on a fabulous note!

Here's to more fashion print features!

xo.

http://instagr.am/p/aGYaB/

Green & Orange & Turbans

Some things just happen naturally when getting dressed. Other ensembles and looks need inspiration. It's seldom the case that I call on someone else to help put an outfit together. But when it's an exclusive look for a online or print feature, I like two opinions better than just my own.

I recently shared two looks I love and would wear over and over again... they represent timeless chic to me. Plus, every piece has special significance. The  black super studded Minnie Mouse look and the fabulous DIY tutu skirt were both for a feature that's yet to be published in The Atlanta Journal Constitution--so yeah, I took liberty of publishing the pictures here.

They were just too fabulous to hold in my pictures folder. Curating them here would be almost as exciting as seeing them in the paper.

The entire shoot back in March was beyond exciting and the energy I got from the ever so flexible and patient Alison Church ( I kinda want to hire her to follow me around!) helped ease me into a place of sexiness and confidence.

Especially with the 3rd and final look we shot...This one didn't come as easy and so natural to me. Individually, the pieces are stunning and are mainstays in my wardrobe. I mean look at the emerald pleated skirt! Gorg. The turban is a vintage staple from the 70s, found in a whole in the wall, but one of the best "catch all" stores I've ever stepped foot into. And, the romper is just that--a lovely silk piece that flows and touches the body so romantically that wearing it to bead wouldn't be a bad idea. But it's too pretty not to be showcased in public.

This one came together as a result of prancing in my dressing room with 1/4 of my fashionable posse,  Melanie of Capitol d'Beaute, Vanessa of Bonen Bonnets and their diva friend Daniel of Heel My Soul. It was really Daniel's vision. Me... I just wanted to wear the turban and the uber fab coral necklace which my lovely mother made for me. This was a classic case of girls gone wild at 3 am in a room full of plumes, shoes, jewelry, hierlooms, hats, furs and crystals-- magic occurs. Obviously this is a spring look, but one that works in other parts of the world and inspired by travels to culturally rich places -- the patterns, textures, mix of fabrics, animalistic fetishes, etc...

Was it a bit convoluted and over the top? Yes! Do I love it? Yes! Would I wear it again in the same fashion? No.... though it all felt so right and looked amazing! And, that's what it's really all about.

WEARING:


Max Azria skirt
Haquen silk romper
Vintage silk turban
Aldo shoes
C.B. Herrera Jewelry coral necklace
Vintage glass and panther necklace
Vintage brooch worn on turban
ABS and leather cuffs; YSL bone cuff; ABS bee ring
Vintage crystal necklace as worn by SJP in SATC.

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Protect Yo Self Before You Wreck Yo Self.... BedSider Brings Sexy To Protection

I remember watching an episode of Rachel Zoe where she was debating getting pregnant. Blogs and tabloids rumored she didn't want to get pregnant because of fear of losing her "shape." I was stunned...shape??? That’s a whole other story, chicas as you can imagine. Regardless, true or not, I've always been floored at the notion of not wanting to get pregnant because that hard earned 4 or 6 pack would turn to a big pudgy bubble of love.

As I get older, still single and having recently lost some weight (initially by accident and now a concerted effort), I think I kind of understand wanting to keep my shape… I mean, if I had to cut out a lot of my go-to yumminess from my diet to shed 2” and flaunt my abs and toned legs, getting pregnant is not on my priority list right now… at least not on most days.

Though I’m old enough to be a mother, I’m conscious of all the responsibilities that are inherent in being one, too! For me, it has to be done right… you know, the perfect proposal, the fairytale wedding, at least 4 years of globetrotting with the hubs and then the big reveal of being preggers. I realized how important it is to do it right when my 17 year old niece got pregnant two years ago.

Talk about a shocker. I didn’t even know she was having sex.  She was so coy and seemed so shy. But I guess it just takes that one moment of emotional vulnerability and it’s a wrap. Aside from that, my niece had the perfect little body that should have stayed fit and super sexy until she was married and ready for all that comes with being a mommy… A single madre at that.

I was so disappointed and then concerned for her. Did she not know about birth control? Or that it was readily available to her? Was she afraid to let us know she was sexually active for fear of retribution? With all the options out there to avoid pregnancy, we were all floored. Had her older sister (a 23 y/o virgin), my sister and I not set a good example? I know I had openly talked about being on birth control and which ones I liked best; how I wanted to enjoy my life as a single woman without such a huge responsibility, no matter how beautiful a child is. 

Interestingly, when I was my niece’s age, the plethora of information and resources was just not out there. The Internet was not saturated with sites dishing out charts, schedules, tips, reminders, health centers, stories and real options for prevention. My best friend was my resource. She seemed to know it all. She’s the one that broke down the ovulation process to me. If I thought I had run the risk of being pregnant (you guessed it, irresponsible practice), she’d be on speed dial with that anxious question: “Girl, do you think I could I be pregnant?”

That’s changed. I’ve recently come across Bedsider.org, a sexy chic site offering all that information I wish my niece would have considered when deciding to have sex. I spent some time browsing the site and was impressed at the clean layout of different topics ranging from all those things that help us young (single) women navigate the options in birth control. Real gals share stories from their experiences with using birth control, having healthy sex and other topics stemming from being active. Vid pod casts are also great in demystifying untruths about contraception and pregnancy. Though a bit elementary, I liked best the pictorial chart of the different types of birth control with a roll over feature that briefly describes how each one works.

I’ll be coy and not disclose my preferred method of birth control, but having Bedsider as a tool is handy when I have questions. With an interactive site like that, there’s no reason why we should be left wondering about a missed period or even where to get free birth control! You’ll walk away knowing you can enjoy a healthy, sexy, intimate life once you have a place that answers all your questions and helps you make smart decisions.

You’ll be hooked and hopefully not be afraid to find out. It’s your life and body. Protect Yo' Self! 


Feel free to visit them on Facebook and Twitter for updates, info and tips on the go! 

*I was selected by Latina Bloggers Connect to support in bringing awareness to this effort.  All opinions and stories are my very own, always.

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Heart of Haiti Cuffs

I'm a lover of any thing relating to handmade art. Beyond appreciating the final piece, the skill, passion and talent that goes into making something unique by an artisan is dear to my heart. Often time, there's a story behind the art work.

With every new travel adventure, a corner in my home is occupied with a sculpture, a figurine, a painting, etc... representing the culture and life from that place. One of my favorite pieces happens to be a hand carved wood owl I picked up in Mexico, not too long ago. Prior to that trip, I did snatch up a lovely Murano glass ring made by local glass maker  in Monaco.

But, when I came to learn a bit about Heart of Haiti, I was more in love. While local art from other countries are attractive and a mainstay in my place, if the piece has a special purpose, I'm that more intent on supporting it.

Having done a culinary fundraiser for Haiti Relief in early 2010, shortly after the earthquake, I'm sensitive to efforts that bring cash and awareness to their suffering and restoration. Through Macy's, the Heart of Haiti initiative has scouted some of the island's most talented artists, sometimes young boys and girls, to create one-of-a-kind pieces that appeal to the American market. After having perused the extensive collection, I particularly loved these two horn cuffs that I found flexible enough to wear year-round and not just in summer. The "Warrior," on my left arm, is my fave and completely personifies my spirit!

Paired with my new ruana by Missoni (for Target) and a wood ring I picked up in St. Maarten and yellow jade chunky ring from Lohehmann's, I went for a 70s vibe that is comfy, attractive and ultimately serves a purpose!

No better shopping than that for me. Following is some neat information about Heart of Haiti and what the fashionable campaign is all about! Consider visiting Macy's website to see the entire Fall 2011 collection. You'll be inspired to pick up a piece or two this season.

I did not receive any monetary compensation for this post, but was given the two cuffs above. However, the feelings and sentiments expressed are authentically my own, always. 

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·        Heart of Haiti is a “Trade, Not Aid” initiative launched by artist and social entrepreneur, Willa Shalit, The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund and Macy’s. 

·        Each item is a one-of-a-kind design and handmade by a Haitian master artisan from raw materials such as recycled oil drums, wrought iron, papier-mâché and stone.

·        Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and despite the devastating earthquake, people there are filled with hope and a desire to improve their lives through employment. Options are very limited in this country.  The Heart of Haiti initiative is one that espouses “Trade, Not Aid.”  In other words, it provides artists with an opportunity to make a living feed their families and pay their children’s school fees. School in Haiti is not free.

·        Already, The Heart of Haiti collection has led to employment of 450 artists in Haiti providing financial benefits for an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 people in the country.

·        The collection features more than 40 home decor items including quilts, metalwork, ceramics, and paintings. Accessories include vases, candleholders, serving trays, picture frames, mirrors, coasters, necklaces, clutch purses and more! The craftsmanship and technique behind these works of art, ranging from papier-mâché vases to hand cut metal frames & wall hangings, is truly remarkable.  The collection is made almost entirely from recycled and sustainable items such as old cement bags, cardboard, oil drums & local gommier wood.  

Black Always Works. And So Does Gucci.

 

It's been a minute since I've posted, but I have a sad excuse. A dear loss in the family had me traveling and tending to priorities. I stayed dressed in ripped up jeans and a stripped tee for 3 days in the hospital and at home the look was my aunt's vintage pair of floral pjs 3x too big for me and an Old Navy ribbed tank. I was comfortable. 

Now that I'm slowly trying to find normalcy in my own life, I wish the weather were warmer and sunnier. It would take away some of the pain.  That's precisely what the day was like when I did this 2nd look for the AJC photo shoot. If you remember in my last post, the 1st look was a classic mix of Audrey, Marilyn with a slight dose of wannabe Chanel. I love that look, actually.

But this one is just as timeless and completely practical. It's only ironic I'd share an all black look considering how I started this post, but the universe is working like that these days.

There is vibrance and happiness in all that dark color, though! I didn't realize until after the shoot that the theme was animalistic. The shirt, the brooches, the rings, the earrings--- not sure what was on my subconscious, but I kinda like the vibe.

The sparkly tee has become one of my faves and was more recently worn here.... the hat is a vintage staple I picked up years ago in Old Town Alexandria and the shoes were a steal I could talk about forever. This is one the and only designer shoe I cook in. All others are reserved for more appropriate occasions. There's just something sexy special about the color, the strappiness and the super pique toe! I think they're from Spring '05.

And of course, on a sunny day like this one back in April, the sunnies are a must. Gucci never fails.

Smooches!


Harem pant: purchased in Monaco
Linen blazer: Ralph Lauren Black Label
Studded Minni Mouse shirt: H&M
Hat: vintage
Sunglasses: Gucci "Havana"
Shoes: Gucci
Swarovski cuff: Ann Taylor
Brooches: assortment of vintage and new
Black Murano glass rose ring:  purchased in Monaco
Silver octopus ring: Israeli designer
Gold wire web earrings: designed my moi and made my local designer



Photos by the amazing Alison Church of Alison Church Photography.

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TuTu's and Birthday's

It's my birthday today. A pretty significant one and I wasn't too keen on sharing, but when I got the "okay" to publish these series of pics, I thought there is no chicer way than to start the blessed day with  sharing one of my favorite "party" looks!

I was contacted by the AJC (Atlanta's newspaper) back in May to be featured in the "My Style" section. How fabulous is that?! Moi! Get dressed up in 3 looks and be photographed? Why, absolutely!

A few fab friends came over the night before the shoot and played for 5 hours in my most girlie dressing room.

As we pretended to be characters straight out of SATC, the movie, I ruffled through my prized pieces. I mostly gravitated toward vintage, my mom's pieces and hats. The shoes were a no brainer.  My fashionista friends helped me come up with 8 looks but I quickly turned anxious knowing I had to edit down to 3. No easy feat for a gal like me! With over 200 shoes, 250 hats and jewelry that could adorn 10 women for their lifetime, I had to turn on my Rachel Zoe.

I went with this look 1st first for one simple reason: I looooooove this skirt! I've made 3 for myself and every open opportunity to rock one of them, I pull them off my standing forms and wrap them around my waist. While it took forever to make, they're one of my absolute fave pieces in my wardrobe!

Needless to say, I had more fun than words can describe shooting this look! Alison did a fantastic job of capturing the essence of my emotions and all of my Latina personality... the obsession I have for fashion and the love affair I have with hats. She was patient and so accommodating.  If only I could dress like this more often, I'd be a super fly, sexy chic gal around town! And would enjoy the stares, honestly!

So for today, though I have no plans, I just may prance around my place in this fabulous piece. Only I'll throw on a comfy sweatshirt instead of the Scottie clad top! A girl is never too old to enjoy the small, happy things. Like this skirt!

Smooches!


Tulle skirt: Bren Herrera Collection
Top: Cacharel
Cocktail hat: Couture millinery made for me in Philly
Earrings: vintage
Beaded belt: vintage
Driving gloves: Banana Republic
Shoes: FENDI 

Photos by the amazing Alison Church of Alison Church Photography

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