What a year!

“Always keep your eyes open.  Keep watching.  Because whatever you see can inspire you.”

                                        --Grace Coddington

Like all things everything must come to an end and the year 2016 is on its way out the door.  What a year this has been! Here's a review:  I became a homeowner and found out that decorating my home is so similar to fashion.  Choosing the perfect wall color or creating an accent wall that will make a statement is like choosing the proper accessories for an outfit.  Next, I noticed fashion definitely repeats itself.  Never would I have thought that I would see a “choker” again.  Ladies, please put the choker away.  It should have stayed in the 90s where it belonged.  Fashion fades for a reason and some trends should not repeat itself. Please don’t blame the designer because every designer no matter how famous tend to make mistakes.  Finally, this year took PoshMeke through some changes.  We no longer have our original manufacturer company but everything happens for a reason. This journey has not been a boring ride by far.  After numerous meetings, Morgen E. found a new manufacturer company that will execute the garments to pure perfection!  Posh MeKe launched their website, look book and celebrated their 1 year anniversary this year.  Sketches are in the works for 2017 so look forward to seeing PoshMeke’s garments in a boutique near you.

The year 2016 was filled with celebrations, obstacles, fashion dos and don’ts but one thing’s for certain is 2017 will be Posh MeKe’s year!  Happy Holidays from the Posh MeKe team and thank you again for accompanying us on our journey.

L.C. 2016

Being the Right Hand

"Never forget that what becomes timeless was once truly new" 

                                --Nicholas Ghesquiere

The sound of my alarm awakens me at 4am. The hustle began as I get myself together to meet my sis, the founder of Posh Me’Ke, LLC . Every minute counts as we travel to NYC for our first meeting with our new manufacturing company. We live by the motto, “on time is late, early is on time.” If you have been following Posh Me’Ke’s journey you know we have been through this before, but this time we are little more seasoned in our understanding of the concepts and the methods. Not knowing what to expect, we are ready for anything. We use fear as a motivation to keep pressing forward.

Our timing could not have been any better.  As soon as we entered the factory we saw our garments on the rack, our team Stateless NY working and organizing all the necessary information for our review. It was time to make crucial decisions regarding the fit, the color, the material, and the style.  Posh Me’Ke 2017 Fall/Winter collection will energize the fashion world and give every fashionista a statement piece. As my sis would say, “You’re looking fabulous Dollface.” Until then, check out our website www.PoshMeKe.com and stay tune to Posh Me’Ke’s journey.

Signed,

Kimberly E.

Versace Inspiration

“Fashion is about dreaming & making other people dream.”

--Donatella Versace

As I am seated and waiting for the Versace Spring/Summer 2017 show to start, the lights dim and the music starts: “Take the leap, if we do nothing, we get nothing. Take the leap because living is better than dreaming. We all have it deep down inside. Strength is there behind our fear.”

Amazing fashion was showcased, but it was more than just exclusive garments to die for, it was the inspirational message behind show that captivated Morgen E.  Its shows like this that drives her creativity and pushes her through the journey of building the brand Posh Me’Ke. We all know that being persistent and consistent wins the race, however sometimes a little reiteration is needed. It is similar to a beating drum, beating the concept in our brains that we can do anything.  Watching the show and absorbing the fashion, Morgen E. looks at the runway representing the travel to the overall destination, Posh Me’Ke.

Stay tuned getting to know Morgen E. and hopefully you will find the show inspiring as well.

YouTube: Versace Spring/Summer 2017

Out with the old, in with the new!

“Giving back is the right thing to do, whether it’s donating clothing or even just a smile to someone who needs it.”

--Becky G

Lately, I have been going through my clothes, shoes and accessories and making piles of what I want to keep and what I want to get rid of.  Saying goodbye to clothes and shoes is not an easy task for us women to do.  Each article of clothing holds some type of sentimental value. My all-time favorite outfit is my plaid corset with leather trim, trouser pants and black thigh high boots. I wore this outfit when I saw Janet Jackson.  I am keeping the boots, but the corset and pants goes in my thrift pile.

When deciding that you no longer want items in your closet and you are ready to let go, you have so many options to choose. I understand this will be hard, but think of it as you are making room for new clothes.  Option 1: Drop off items to Goodwill or a Thrift Store, get a tax receipt and go.  Everything is sold at a serious discounted price.  Great if you are on a budget and into “thrifty shopping”. Option 2: Pass them along to a friend or relative.  You know your items will be in good hands but do not get mad if they look better wearing your clothes than you do, lol. Option 3:  Make money through consignment stores.  You walk in and a sales clerk will work one-on-one with you going through each piece of clothing/accessory and let you know how much it is worth in their store.  Some consignment shops will give you a percentage of what your item sell for and others will give you cash on the spot for your things.  It won’t be the retail price you paid for but something is better than nothing.  The best thing about consignment shops to me is that you can find some really nice name brand items in great condition.  Option 4: Last but certainly not least, donating your items to those that are less fortunate than you are. There are so many people in need and anything helps.

As I am sorting through my piles of clothing that I do not want, I think to myself, “I hope the next fashionista has just as much fun wearing this as I did.” Good Luck!

 

 

L.C. 2016

8 years of fashion

“Your success will be determined by your own confidence and fortitude.”

                                                              --Michelle Obama

 

With the presidential election being only weeks away, I want to take this time to pay homage to the first African-American First Lady Michelle Obama.

 

First Lady Obama gained the fashionista’s vote with her style.  She is not your typical First Lady to grace her presence in the White House wearing pants suits, blouses and skirts.  First Lady Michelle likes to switch things up a bit with her fabric choices, colors and prints.  Wearing designers such as Brandon Maxwell, Naeem Kham, Christian Siriano (my Project Runway favorite), Gucci and more.  One of my personal favorites is when First Lady Obama graced everyone at the White House Correspondent’s dinner wearing a champagne colored sleek, body-hugging dress and a crystal-embellished sheath layered on top, all from Givenchy couture.  She was glammed from head-to-toe if you ask me!

 

This blog could go on and on about First Lady Michelle Obama and the 8 years of fashion that she has been serving us. Not only is she intelligent, elegant, a role model but she is also a fashion icon.  Fashion has not graced the White House since former First Lady Jackie O. in the 1960s.

  

First Lady Michelle Obama said, “If I can have any impact, I want women to feel good about themselves and have fun with fashion.”

 

 

L.C. 2016

 

Fall is in the air!

"Hot fashion will keep me warm."

                              --Unknown

 

 

As I enjoy the breeze through my bedroom window, I can't help but to think how summer was good to me. Bright colors, light and airy fabrics, dressing for the summer was so effortless.  Being a week into fall, I start to get excited. Choosing which dark color lipstick I will wear for the day has become my new obsession.  As I make room in my closet for my leather jackets, fur vests, scarfs, and boots, my mind started to race.  Today, I think I will wear my deep v-cut dress that has a high split with my socks and sandals. This is the time of the year to mix match your favorite spring/summer pieces with your fall/winter statement pieces.  Although we won't be able to enjoy summer rooftop nights sipping cocktails, we can now sip Irish coffee by the fire pit. 

 

Goodbye Summer...Hello Fall Fashion!

 

 

Mark your Calendar!

"By the end of Fashion Week my apartment is covered with makeup and clothes and shoes.  Everything you can think of."

--Karrie Kloss

 

 

Labor Day has come and gone, so what else does September have to offer?  A month full of fashion of course!  Mark your calendar because its fashion week and each week is filled with shows taking place in New York, London and Milan. The month will showcase both legendary and upcoming designers showcasing their fashions for the upcoming year.

I recently came across a website called Fashionweekonline.com. It's absolutely amazing! For the fashionista's that didn't get a chance to travel and experience fashion week first hand, this site is your one stop shop for anything fashion week related. Videos, live footage, and interviews. You name it, they got it!

 

I know this weekend I plan to open up my laptop, pour a glass of wine and indulge in fashion.

 

 

 

It's Like A Layered Cake

                   "Always have fun with fashion. Dress to entertain yourself"
                                                             Betsey Johnson

   
     This past week we had a glimpse of fall and I had this overwhelming feeling of excitement. I am not rushing summer, but the reality is summer is on its way out and fall is knocking on the door. When I stepped outside, there was a light breeze and the temperature was around 64 degrees. It was not cold, but it was chilly.  My excitement was due to my love of layering. Yes!! You read the previous statement right. All I wanted to do was to go back inside my house to my closet and grab my sequin bomber jacket, but I was running late for my scheduled appointment so I continued to my car. 

     Layering is my wardrobe game.  There is only two rules- each garment has to be seen and how many layers can you pile on to present the perfect outfit. Layering can consist of a various textures, patterns, styles, and colors. It’s open to men and women; professional or casual. Please join me in welcoming fall and add a layer.  

Note to Self: It’s the simple things in life that make us happy. 

Market Flow...

“Start each day with your favorite lipstick and a beautiful smile.”

                                                                       --Unknown

Cut off shorts, tank top, flip flops, a fedora hat and aviator shades was my market attire for Saturday morning.  When I get a free weekend, I like to take at least one of the days and head up Capitol Hill to Eastern Market.  On Saturdays and Sundays, the street is blocked off and vendors fill the area.  They are selling everything from farm grown vegetables, homemade desserts, clothing, jewelry, paintings and more.  You may even catch some live performances from local musicians.   I love seeing how so many talented people are sharing their craft with everyone.   As I am walking around the market, I notice how everyone around me is dressed effortless on this Saturday morning taking in the sights and seeing what the market has to offer.

L.C. 2016

Life of a Thrifter

“…I want to wear whatever looks good on me, no matter where it comes from.”

                                                                 --Unknown

Just when you think going to a clearance sale at your favorite place to shop is amazing think again, August 17^th was National Thrift Store Day!  I had the chance to sit down with a friend, Amber, who considers herself a ‘Thrift Boss’ and here is what she had to say about the life of a thrifter: 

 

“I have been thrifting all my life. My father used to take me to upscale thrift stores in PA. From there I learned that I could get tons of quality pieces for a fraction of the price than regular stores.  I definitely prefer thrift stores to regular stores. It is the thrill of finding a one of a kind piece vs. dressing like everyone else.  I will say that thrifting is a learned skill. You have to give the time and energy to sometimes drive out of your way for a diamond in the rough.  I do still frequent regular stores for the certain articles of clothing (i.e. socks or underwear) that I would not purchase at a thrift store.  On average, I spend about $30 per shopping venture at thrift stores. Each trip is a hit or miss, so be prepared to have shopping bags full of finds or walk out empty handed.”

 

Shopping at thrift stores doesn’t mean that the clothing is low quality and unfashionable, you just get them at a lower cost.  What is one person’s old shirt is a treasure to another.  Keep calm and thrift on!

Denim type of Girl

“I believe that life is too short for compromises…and bad fitting jeans!”

                                                                  --Unknown 

Denim is one of my guilty pleasures, next to birthday cake.  Whether it’s distressed, fitted, and skinny, a jean shirt or a boyfriend jean, I must have them all! 

This past week, BET aired How to Rock: Denim, a fashion show with live performances all about denim.  What an amazing event. Curators like Young Thug, Dej Loaf, and Desiigner showcased how they wear their denim; from denim ponchos, to perforated denim tops and skirts, blinged out denim, denim bomber jackets and more.  Who would have known you could do so much with denim?

A personal favorite of mine is denim on denim because I wear it with both heels and sneakers. The beauty of denim is its versatility; you can feel comfortable and sexy.  How do you rock your denim?

 

 

L.C. 2016

Day to Night

“Maxi dresses are also my best friend.  They take me from my morning coffee, to the beach, to nighttime.”

                                                                                                                                  --Hilary Rhoda

One of the most worn items by a woman during the summer is a maxi dress.  They are long, stop at the ankle or even come down to the floor.  Maxi dresses are form fitting up top and designed to flow over the body.  It is perfect for any body type and can be worn with heels or flat sandals.  In my opinion, these dresses are one of the best things ever designed.  When you don’t have time to shave your legs in the morning you can just slip on a maxi dress and head out the door! If I had to describe the maxi dress in a few words, it would be effortless, delicate, light and airy. 

Imagine this scenario, you are going on a trip to the islands with friends and need to know what to pack.  The trip will consist of relaxing at the resort, dinner, shopping and a day on the yacht.  Of course you know to pack bathing suits and cover ups but what about something that can be worn from day to night?  It’s the maxi dress!!!

 

 

Monday Motivation

“Monday is a fresh start.  It’s never too late to dig in and begin a new journey of success.”                     

                                                                                             --Unknown 

Happy Sunday Posh Me’Ke readers!  It’s the end of the weekend and the beginning of a new week.  We are going to take this Sunday and prepare for Monday.  I’m not talking about doing laundry, going grocery shopping or finding what you are going to wear to work the next day.  When I say prepare, I mean get motivated.  I want you get some paper and write down notes on things that motivate you.  It could be something that you see on television, a song you heard or by reading this blog to get you motivated.

My motivation stems from my son and my friends.  You want to surround yourself with people that inspire and motivate you to do better.  There is always room for growth.  Stop waiting for things to happen.  Go out and make them happen.

I want to know what motivates you.  Leave a comment on the blog or on our Instagram page about what your "Monday Motivation" will be.

 

 

 

 

Wedding Bliss

“…Yes you can wear whatever you want…it is your day.  You set the rules…”

                                                         --Unknown

It's wedding season. My cousin got married yesterday and it was simply beautiful!  Prior to the wedding, I could not think of what to wear.  The invitation indicated that the wedding will take place outdoors in the evening and did I mention its 95 degrees outside.  This is where my dilemma came in.  I needed an outfit that was cool, comfortable and of course cute.  I am used to attending weddings in a church.  I definitely had to do some research and figure out the “proper attire”.

I decided to wear a black and white mixed print fit and flare dress with my blue fringe heeled sandals to add that pop of color.  During the pre-ceremony, I took a look around and noticed a variety of outfits ranging from florals, prints, maxi dresses, A-line skirts and jumpsuits.  Overall, everyone looked chic and elegant.

The sun is starting to set, music is playing and we take our seats overlooking the water.  Here comes the bride.

Easy like Sunday Morning

“This is your Sunday evening reminder that you can handle whatever this week throws at you.”

                                                                          --Unknown

Today's blog is about enjoying Sunday’s.  Some people dread Sundays because they know the weekend is over.  Today, I refuse too. I woke up this morning to the sun beaming into my room and thought about this past week. It was a rough one. It seemed like everything that could have went wrong did. I just want to take this Sunday to relax and enjoy the day. The weather is hot so I'm going to throw on my maxi dress, flip flops and shades.  Getting in my car, I decide to listen to Maroon5, Sunday Morning song.  It’s setting the tone for my day.  I’m going to head to brunch with a friend, have some good conversation, good food and you can't forget the bottomless mimosas!  I just want to erase the previous week and prepare for the one to come.  With all the tragedies occurring, I want the readers to take this Sunday and make it the best one yet.  Find your happy place, enjoy the moment.