Thursday, May 30, 2013

Scandalous


If you don't know, I am an avid watcher of the best drama on Television to - date, SCANDAL. In lieu of the Scandal hiatus that we as Gladiators have been forced to take by Shondaland I decided to do a post highlighting the style and (dis)grace of our favorite fixer Ms. Olivia Pope (OP)! The quick speaking, passionate, gorgeous workaholic is amazing at delivering results to her array of customers, but fixing her own personal life is another story!

Check out the Ali Fashion Sense spin on channeling your inner OP.

SCANDALOUS
I know the fabrics shown below aren't Spring/Summer friendly but just put on your creative caps for just a minute. Travel with me to Olivia Pope & Associates and you could definitely see Olivia show up to fight injustice in an ensemble as such! She gravitates to very sleek silhouettes with simple lines.


Olivia Pope Fashion



RED Valentino crepe pants
$640 - theoutnet.com


Whistles black stiletto heels
$190 - johnlewis.com



Pearl stud earrings
$21 - oliverbonas.com


H M bracelet jewelry
$9.05 - hm.com


Bare escentuals lip gloss
bareescentuals.com


Opi
$24 - nelly.com





DRESS UP THE SCANDAL
Olivia is usually power walking and fast talking into her office in a sleek suit, or caped coat. But she showed her softer, vulnerable side when she attended some classy affairs during Season Two. You can steal the looks by studying the look book below!


Scandal Withdraws


Alice Olivia embellished dress
$885 - harveynichols.com


ALDO platform high heels
aldoshoes.com


Love Moschino sequin handbag
couture.zappos.com



Accessorize drop earrings
accessorize.com


Banana Republic cz stud earrings
bananarepublic.gap.com






UNWINDING WITH SCANDAL
After fighting injustice around the beltway Olivia comes home to unwind with a glass of wine, some popcorn, and a late night conversation with her boo, Fitz! While unwinding OP never drops the ball on what she looks like. Even in her lounge - wear she still is killing it!


Unwinding with Liv



If you are out shopping for items that Liv would have in her closet, you should look for sheaths, capes, structured blazers, trousers, cashmere tops, gloves, long lean gowns, chunky knit sweaters, soft nail polish colors etc., that will help compliment your inner  Olivia Pope! If you are still having Scandal withdraws check out Seasons 1 and 2 on Netflix or Hulu Plus. And to all my real dedicated Scandal fans... this is for you!!!




Keep strong my friends. Fall will be here before you know it. Until then...be the "Gladiators in a Suit" that you have been charged to be! *Happy Thursday Luvs*

-Ali


Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Ask Ali - Floral Jumpsuit

For those of you that still watch The Game on BET (which just wrapped it's Season Finale until it's return in July) you know that this season they removed the beloved main characters Melanie Barnes (played by Tia Mowry - Hardict) and Derwin "Ding - Dong" Davis (played by Pooch Hall) and replaced them with newbies Keira Walker (played by Lauren London) and Bryce "Blue" Westbrook (played by Jay Ellis). Enough about the characters and lets jump into the fashion.

So a dear friend of mine, whom I consider more like a sister...Nina called and asked me after watching a show this season:

"Where did Keira aka Lauren London get her floral jumpsuit?" "Where can I find one like that?"
 - Nina O.

Well Nina, I have some good news and bad news! The good news is after extensive research I finally stumbled upon this much sought out jumpsuit. However, all good things must come to an end. The bad news is the jumpsuit is sold out :( But I have found some other alternatives to this cute jumpsuit so stay tuned.

FLORAL JUMPSUIT
The floral jumpsuit/romper that Keira was rocking at the Sun Beams meeting can be located at many locations revolveclothing.com, lulus.com, pacsun.com and many other avenues. However as I mentioned before this is a popular clothing item so all of the places I checked for the jumpsuit it was out of stock. Wanna see what all the fuss was about? Here's what the jumpsuit looks like.




As you can see there are many ways to pull off this loose fitting, easy - going floral romper! It's super cute but super sold out! So here are the runner ups I found.


Designer: Obey
Name: Joplin Overall Jumper
Color: Rinse, Floral
Price: $107.00
Website: revolveclothing.com





Designer: Flynn Skye
Name: The Jumper
Color: Black, Floral
Price: $165.00
Website: revolveclothing.com




Designer: Lovers + Friends
Name: Caliente Jumpsuit
Color: Abstract Pastel
Price: $215.00
Website: revolveclothing.com



Designer: Suboo
Name: Printed Jumpsuit
Color: Sun Kissed Nirvana
Price: $290.00
Website: revolveclothing.com





For all my ballers check out this sleek nautical jumpsuit.

Designer: By Malene Birger
Name: Sailor Chic Etalia Silk Print Jumpsuit
Color: Atlantic
Price: $635.00
Website: revolveclothing.com






So as you can see if you do some searching there are plenty of jumpsuits to go around. Check out revolveclothing.com for more sexy, chic jumpsuits and rompers as well as other items (dresses, jeans, blouses etc.). The best thing about jumpsuits such as these is that they can translate from day to night with simple tweaks to the outfits. You can swap out a jean jacket for a blazer to spice up the look. Or trade a pair of cork wedges with some sexy stilettos. 

Monday, May 27, 2013

Happy Memorial Day

I just wanted to come on Ali's Fashion Sense today to say Happy Memorial Day to all those military men and women who fight for us as American's on a daily basis!  We salute you for putting yourself in harms ways daily to protect these United States of America, as well as the sacrifice that you along with your families go through for us to be free. Like I've heard before "FREEDOM ISN'T FREE" which is totally true. I'd also like to send out my condolences to those families who have lost loved ones in the line of battle. We appreciate the sacrifice that you endured for our safety!


MEMORIAL DAY!!!


I'd also like to give a special shout out to my own Godmother, Cassandra White who served in the United States Air Force countless years (at least 1/3 of my life). She is the true example of sacrifice, class, and loyalty. I just want her to know, "I truly appreciate your service for me and all Americans." Love ya!!!

GODMOTHER

This collage montage is of me and my godmother. Photos from l to r: Top left: My Godmother and I at her bday party celebration last summer decked out in our all white! Top Right: Vintage pic of my Godmother during her Air Force days. Bottom: Myself, my Godmother, and my Mom at a family get together...all smile!

Lastly, since this is a fashion blog I just wanted to give you a quick OOTD for this Memorial Day. I'm gonna start cooking in a couple hours, but today will just be pretty chill. Me and the hubby will chillax around the house, enjoying each others company and my awesome food (Mac & Cheese, Baked Beans, and Grilled Hotdogs) :) But check out our patriot outfits below!

ROMPERS, STRIPES, AND BLUE
I told you all previously that I love rompers and jumpsuits because they are just so easy to slide on and make an outfit. I chose to pick my red and navy blue striped romper for my Memorial Day getup. I was able to finally get my hair done again on Friday, so I feel like a new man lol. I ordered two bundles of 18" off black brazilian hair from hairextensionbuy.com for $73.98 per bundle (plus free shipping)! I love the hair because it's thick and it doesn't shed. But back to the outfit. I paired this patriotic romper with gold accessories (gold watch and gold BBW inspired earrings). I also paired it with my chocolate gladiators with gold detailing to complete the look. I told the hubby to throw on his red and navy striped button up so he could match my swag lol! He then chose to pair it with his khaki cargo shorts, and dark brown Sperry Top Siders. I think we make a good unit! What do you think?



TEAM US!!!



Again I just want to say thank you to all the military personnel that protect us and our freedom. Your service is truly appreciated! As you go to cookouts, pull out the grill, and enjoy time with family and friends be sure to take a moment to remember all the fallen soldiers and say thanks to those who actively serve as well as those who served at one point in time. We owe our freedom and liberty to them!

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY luvs!!!

-Ali

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Instagram Roundup

I have a confession to make! My name is Alishia, and I'm addicted to Social Media! They say the first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem lol. My husband says that I am a Social Media Addict because every time I'm on my phone I have Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram on display. Since I'm an avid Instagram scroller (I scroll and look at the people I'm followings pictures) I  thought it would be a good idea to give you a sneak peek into my Instagram world!

Check out my Instagram Roundup below from my past couple of months of fun.


This collage represents who I am in a nutshell. Some of the pictures in the collage you've seen before and some you haven't so I will give you a brief synopsis of what you are viewing! Starting from left to right, row by row.

1. The top left picture is a photo montage from my blog post "Ali Trend Alert: Ankle Cuffs." I have yet to purchase some but they are on my shopping "must have" list.

2. This picture is from another blog post "Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better: Forever 21 Inspiration Lookbook." This was my favorite outfit I came up with from the challenge.

3. This past weekend (May 18th to be exact), I was asked by a really close friend from college, Trumaine aka Trumaine Lamar to sing background vocals for him at the Atlanta Funk Fest. For those of my Ali Fashion Sense followers who don't know, my second love beyond fashion is singing!!! This picture shows a glimpse of the stage along with my "Artist" armband which gave myself along with the other artists/background singers/band members etc. backstage access.

4. The top right picture is a picture of one of my favorite old school throwbacks, "Before I Let Go" by Frankie Beverly and Maze. I was using this song as motivation for my workout at the gym last week. FYI: This song also holds special meaning to me because I used it for the "Father - Daughter Dance" at my wedding : ) Me and my dad were getting down! Don't believe me...just watch:



5. On Sunday, May 19th I was asked to do the "Call - To - Worship" at my church! The Call - To - Worship just gets the audience in the mind frame of worship. I was given the task to read Psalm 8: 1 - 9. So before reading it, I recited the lyrics to one of my favorite worship songs called "Indescribable" by Kierra Sheard (the daughter of Karen Clark - Sheard). This picture showcases the lyrics from the chorus of that song, which I used as a status on Facebook. I like the picture so much I later decided to make it an Instagram photo as well! If you get a chance read the lyrics...they are truly powerful!!!

6. The next picture is probably my favorite from this Instagram Roundup. It was my first time attempting to rock a turban! I was channeling my inner "June Ambrose" my fairy - fashion godmother (at least in my head lol). I used my cheetah print scarf (which you've seen on Ali's Fashion Sense a time or two) to create the turban. The earrings I picked up from beauty supply store in Maryland for under $5 (what a steal)!

7. I'm gonna call the next picture..."New York State of Mind" because I was rocking my husband's New York Yankees all black fitted. I chose to rep the picture in black and white to give it a different effect. Its the same picture 4x's (just in case you were wondering).

8. The next picture is a pic of another old school jam "Square Biz" by Teena Marie that I used during my hour long bike ride to keep me hype! SN: Lady T killed the rap in that song :)

9. You've seen this next picture from one of my more recent blog posts "African Prints." I loved the Africa earrings from this outfit which I found on Etsy.com for less than $20 ( I might have to put those on my shopping must have list also)!

10. The bottom left picture is of me along with the two other background singers (Jerome, in the glasses & Jenn) with my super duper talented brother Trumaine (pictured in the fedora hat). Check out one of his singles "Still" below. It is a masterpiece!!!


11. The next picture is a mash up that I used for Mother's Day to honor my fabulous mom. All the pics are from my wedding day! The top left is one of my favorites where the photographer caught a sentimental moment between my mom and I. The top right of her is a picture I took one day after church. She was looking too cute! The bottom is a picture of my two awesome parents, who are so supportive of me...and I'm forever grateful for the two of them. They've shaped me to be the woman I am today!

12. So, on May 1st I started a 30 Day Fitness Challenge to try to get right for the summer :) and I'm proud to say 20 days later I'm still going strong with the challenge. This picture is a picture of pride after completing the 1st day of the challenge. I'm a sweaty mess but I felt victorious.

13. Last but not least, the picture on the bottom right is a montage of me when I first got my hair done with the "Nicki Minaj" hairstyle (straight bang, and long straight tresses). I was feeling myself after leaving the shop, which prompted this mini photoshoot in the car lol.

Hopefully, you've enjoyed what you've seen! If you are not already...follow me on my Social Media outlets:
Twitter: @Afashionfanatic
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AlisFashionSense
Instagram: @AlisFashionSense













Have an awesome day luvs!

-Ali

Monday, May 20, 2013

Hippie Chic

The hippie culture was first introduced during the mid 1960's according to Wikipedia.com. Like most movements of old, fashion always seems to come around full circle and the hippie influence is NO different. Hippies explored with clothing such as bell bottoms, dashikis, peasant shirts, full skirts, sandals, vests, tie - dye, and other bright "psychedelic" colors! Today's post will explore how to look take a modernized approach to dressing hippie chic!


GET THE LOOK
Vanessa Hudgens looks like a modern day hippie in her crochet vest, floral headband, and cropped floral shirt. I recreated the look to show you that simple pieces (like a vest, cutoffs, cowboy booties, sunglasses etc.) can pull an entire concept together to help you obtain a hippie chic vibe.



Hippie Chic


Mango fringe vest
mango.com




Charlotte Russe cowboy boots
charlotterusse.com


Gold jewelry
etsy.com


Geena Wong gold jewelry
$54 - theiconic.com.au


Alice olivia
aliceandolivia.com


Round sunglasses
shopzerouv.com


Flower hair accessory
windsorstore.com





BELL BOTTOM FLOW
Grab your favorite boot cut/bell - bottom jeans, peasant blouse, Lita's (or gladiators) to create this hippie chic look! Top it off with some heart shaped sunnies and gold accessories to balance out this bohemian look!


Hippe Chic 2.0


Isabel Marant silk blouse
lagarconne.com


Old navy jeans
oldnavy.gap.com




R J Graziano stacking bangle
bloomingdales.com


Hoop earrings
$4.86 - diva.net.au


Wide brim hat
swell.com


Almost Famous heart sunglasses
swell.com



HIPPIE FLOW
Grab your cutest maxi to channel your inner Nicole Richie to create an effortless hippie flow! Add your cutest golden accessories like arm cuffs, bangles, layered necklaces, and intricate headpieces to pull your look together. Bonus: wear a soft face using golden illuminators, nude gloss, and pink blush to give you a "sun - kissed" look. 


Hippie Flow


Summer maxi dress
aura-b.com


Ghost crepe dress
$185 - johnlewis.com




Gucci gold bangle
1stdibs.com



Trish mcevoy
$34 - liberty.co.uk


Dream Girl Bridal Headband
ettika.com



Overall, after writing this post, I've gathered hippies were wild and free, and their clothing reflected their attitude. So if you want to channel your inner hippie remember flow-y fabrics, florals, headbands, soft tresses etc. and you will pull off the look flawlessly!