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$2 Sale at Goodwill Revived My Love for Jeans  My History with Jeans I’ve had a love/hate relationship with jeans over the years. It’s been quite difficult to find the right style and fit for me. Now, if I were shopping during the 80s, I’d probably find something just right. Now, jeans are cut to fit a variety of women’s sizes. Which is a great thing for the fashion choices for the everyday woman. But, I need my jeans to fit just right too! It had gotten so difficult to where I rotated three pairs of jeans for years. I even cut up old pairs I didn’t wear anymore into shorts and even tried to make my own version of ripped jeans…big FAIL. Growing tired of my denim search coming up empty-handed, I abandoned these garments. To my rescue, the rise of jeggings and stretch pants gave the right fit I wanted along with a variety of styles. Years passed, and I didn’t give those things a second glance.  Bargain Shopper I LOVE a good bargain. Wherever I shop, I’m filtering “Price Low to High” and clicking on Sale tabs. I also have an extension on my browser which helps me to find coupon codes and cashback savings. When I see an item for the original price, I will stalk it online until there’s a good sale. It’s like a sport for me. Continuing my love of bargaining, I frequent my local Goodwill store. There, I find all types of trinkets for the apartment and clothes to add to my closet. From vintage vinyl records to Fall coats. I will spend an entire day until I find what I need.  A Spark Reignited It wasn’t until I started thrifting at my local Goodwill store when I discovered a haven for jeans that were just for me. AND at a bargain. Browsing the isles one day, I decided to give the denim rack a chance. Priced at $9.99, I was confident I’d find something with the “Color of the Day” tag. (For those unfamiliar with shopping at Goodwill, you pick a clothing item that is tagged with the color of the day, automatic 40% off.) To my surprise, there were a great variety of jeans just my size, with the right fit. Now, what’s my “fit”? I’m a skin-tight jean wearer (yea, I’m sure that’s not in the fashion category). The lost love for jeans was hidden throughout those racks. Some with the 40% color tag. And these weren’t generic brands. The racks held jeans from great stores and brands such as Zara, Hollister, Bullhead Denim Co., and Top shop (just to name a few). Who would have thought that my denim fit treasure was within someone else’s “fashion trash”? Thank God they decided to give them away to provide me with a chance to wear jeans again.  An Even Better Surprise Taking a break from a laundry day, I decided to pop into Goodwill while my clothes were in the dryer. The first thing I looked for was the Color of the Day, but this time something different was posted. A $2 sign. Squinting my eyes to make sure I read it right, I imagined in my head what that could mean. It was too good to be true to think if whatever I find with the matching color tag would be $2 once I reach the register. The associate got on the loudspeaker and confirmed the “Too good to be true” luck that I stumbled upon. Rushing to the rack, the haven didn’t disappoint. Jeans, in my size, with the color of the day tag. Not one, not two, but three good pairs (which included a pair of ripped jeans…no more experiments). I also found a Ralph Lauren dress shirt for my nephew. A whopping total of $8 and some change, which would have cost eight to ten times more had I’d gone to the regular stores. It gets better. Thinking that it was a one-time deal for the holidays. I relished in my good finds and brushed it off as one fortunate shopping day. But on another random day, I walked in and found my $2 flyer friend posted on the wall. Since I had more time, I swept the racks for more jeans. Found another four pairs, and two stylish Fall jackets.
Many may find thrifting as getting “hand me downs” which can be a huge “no-no” for some. But thrifting is a relaxing activity that yields cost-effective results. (I live in NYC, even breathing is costly!) And if you’re as lucky as I am, you just might reignite a love of a garment that you swore off years ago. Me and jeans shall never part again.  The Blakk Dahlia (E. Alexcina Brown) is a New York City author/blogger from Macon, GA. Recently, she released the book series, the Heartbreak Diaries outlining different perspectives of heartbreak. The Dahlia Diaries is a lifestyle blog penned by The Blakk Dahlia, sharing her story in NYC along with life lessons and tips she's learned in her journey.
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Just me and my iPhone, and a new Tripod toy!  Back at it again with just me and my iPhone. Keeping my modeling chops going during this pandemic, creating visuals that I like on MY terms. I found a tripod with a LED light, online to help with my auditions and found where I can also use them with my personal iPhone Photography projects. Just because, I love it! Late at night (with my fav show Paternity Court with Lauren Lake in the background), I created an intimate portrait session. For me, its about loving myself and not being ashamed of my body. If people like it, GREAT! If they don’t, they have the option to click away ;) Check out the photo session below. All credits belong to ME:  The Blakk Dahlia (E. Alexcina Brown) is a New York City author/blogger from Macon, GA. Recently, she released the book series, the Heartbreak Diaries outlining different perspectives of heartbreak. The Dahlia Diaries is a lifestyle blog penned by The Blakk Dahlia, sharing her story in NYC along with life lessons and tips she's learned in her journey.  May is here and of course New York didn’t get the memo that the season has changed. I still have to pull out my big coat on some days, but I’ve enjoyed about a week of warm weather. Nothing wrong with a little tease for what’s to come. As I organize this apartment to put up these big sweaters…hoping one day for good, I’m finding more favs that are a must have for me to get into the Spring Season, while we wait for the weather to catch up. So, here’s my list to continue the #mood of Spring! Perfume Paint (Tease). You can’t pass up on beauty products. Especially the ones that make you feel…SEXXY! That’s where my first item comes in. Strolling through Victoria’s Secret, I run across this brush on perfume. I’ve never seen a product like this before so I HAD to get it (AND it was on sale!). Getting it home and giving it a try, I was immediately impressed with the soft brush painting on this smooth, sensual fragrance by the name of Tease. A few pumps, then painting on those sacred areas, and I’m ready to own the night!
A Memorable Vacation. Spring season means its time to cash in on those flyer miles or collect a stamp or two on the passport. A good vacay can ease you into a new season by purging the woes of winter. To kick of spring, me and my girls took a trip to Cuba! YES, Cuba! We spent three days in Havana enjoying back to back sight-seeing and activities like horseback riding, salsa lesson, a tour through a tobacco and coffee farm. Even got a history lesson by visiting a coffee plantation. The restaurants had great menu choices with free fish and tasty pleasures that can only be found in Cuba.
The last leg of the trip was spent at Varadero Beach, soaking up the sun, and taking in views of gorgeous blue water. So many good memories and a great disconnect from the daily routine of work, train commutes, and social media. I returned with new inspiration and a relaxed mind. Thank you Cuba!
Chocolate Beer. In the bar scene, I love trying new things. Venturing in midtown, I ran into a bar (The Ginger Man) and found a unique treat on the menu. Chocolate Beer! Otherwise known as Boulevard Chocolate Ale. Two of my favorite things mixed into one. Who knew chocolate could serve many purposes?  Boulevard Chocolate Ale from The Ginger Man Spring is still in full effect and I’m ready to take on the new adventures of this season. Be sure to share YOUR favorite things to get you through Springtime!  The Blakk Dahlia (E. Alexcina Brown) is a New York City author/blogger from Macon, GA. Recently, she released the book series, the Heartbreak Diaries outlining different perspectives of heartbreak. The Dahlia Diaries is a lifestyle blog penned by The Blakk Dahlia, sharing her story in NYC along with life lessons and tips she's learned in her journey.  I want to share a few gifts. Sharing is caring right? Everyone has their own list of “must haves”, new discoveries, and trinkets for sentimental reasons. I’d like to expose a few of mine :). Hopefully these will give you new ideas, inspos, or even a confirmation that there’s another addict in your section ;). Ready? Here goes…  Photo Credit: Chris Bowdrie (STAR45) Anything That Sparkles. I LOVE to shimmer! Who doesn’t. Whether it’s glitter or sequins, I NEED IT!. Clothes, shoes, and accessories with sparkle is automatically on my list (usually ending up in my shopping cart). Any and every occasion requires a hint of shine. A regular day strolling through the city or a night out in Manhattan, looking for Sex and the City vibes. I have my fav pair of sparkle boots. Found them on sale at Forever 21. They were the last pair, just my size and when I took them to the register, they were half off of the sale price! I knew it was meant to be! More sparkles in my collection includes an iridescent sparkle purse I mix with a cute outfit along with my go to black sequin purse I throw on with casual wear OR date night. For New Years 2019 Celebration, I found another gem at Forever 21, these gold sequin pants. (I like to call them my disco pants). Bringing in the New Year with a sassy shine, hitting the town in ATL. Give me sparkle; give me a shine and I know I’m in for a great time!
Faux Fur. Something cute that goes great with my sparkle-fits or a warm greeting to my feet in the mornings as I get out of bed...Faux fur makes the list. I look forward to cold weather as I get to pull out my coats to strut around in the low temperatures of NYC. Cozying up to my stylish faux fur, while hitting the town only adds to the excitement of taking on the night. At home, my faux fur serves me well. Decorating my floors with an accent rug to keep my feet warm, along with adding a little spice to the New York living.
Body Suits. Got body?...Suits I mean. Leaving my legs to put on a show, body suits are a sensual given when wanting to look cute around the house, or add to your fav pants or skirt. Photo shoot time and can’t figure out what to wear, my first “go-to” is a body suit and a pair of thigh high socks, then the “fit” comes together around that. I like a variety of body suits that includes lace, sheer material, patterns, or just a plain cotton solid color to give a pop to a pair of fitted jeans. This gem is a good alternative to wearing shirts that you’d like to tuck in. No worries of it coming un-tucked of spending time in the mirror, tucking and un-tucking for that perfect look. Just put on the go! Being lazy around the house and I wanna feel cute? I go to my stash of body suits to have a Friday night chill time with wine and catching up on my shows. Who says you have to look “bummy” for a solo evening at home!?!
 Chrome Book (Beasley). My old laptop houses all of my creative works, books, other writing work, pictures, and everything else that I need to save for business and personal. With the years of wear and tear, my poor laptop decided to show its age and slowly fall apart. In addition, it's a bit big and too much to carry around with me. As a birthday day gift to myself, I bought an HP Chrome Book. All white, touch screen, with the capabilities to turn into a tablet should I choose to use it that way. This Chrome Book was such a life saver, I decided to name him “Beasely”. (And he’s also my temp boyfriend since we spend a lot of time together). It’s small, convenient and I can do everything on this contraption as I did with my laptop. Now I can grab my “boo” and spend time at a coffee shop, laundry mat, plane ride, or anywhere to create and stay up to date with my projects.  Manhattan Martini. We all have our “regular” drinks when we can’t think of anything else on the menu. Mine is the usual Rum and Coke. However, some nights I want to sip sexy. That’s when the Manhattan Martini comes into play. One of my fav martinis 🍸 the “Manhattan”. Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Rye whiskey is my fav with this drink. This special one is from STK Midtown in NYC, “Not Your Daddy’s Manhattan” (George sickle rye, zinfandel port, carpano antics sweet vermouth and bitters.) very tasty and a nice complement to a Sex and the City style dinner with your girl! You’re welcome! 😉.  Lemon Water. To detox the libations, and to cool down, I LOVE making lemon water. It helps me to cut back on sodas and sugary drinks. This refreshing beverage also helps with clearing up your skin, acts as a good source of Vitamin C to protect your immune system, AND it’s a great digestive agent. Quick and easy to make so it is always available to go with a good meal or a parched moment. ;) So there you go, a few of my favorite things. Of course there's more to the list but I won't bore you with my long list of "can't go withouts". Tell me, what are YOUR favorite things and why? Let me know in the comments below!  Updated: December 10, 2020 The Blakk Dahlia (E. Alexcina Brown) is a New York City author/blogger from Macon, GA. Recently, she released the book series, the Heartbreak Diaries outlining different perspectives of heartbreak. The Dahlia Diaries is a lifestyle blog penned by The Blakk Dahlia, sharing her story in NYC along with life lessons and tips she's learned in her journey.  Photo Credit: Chris Bowdrie (STAR45 Media) The Blakk Dahlia’s Weekend at NYFW Anyone who knows me, knows that I LOVE NYFW. Living in GA I tried to make it up here but since I’m a resident, EVEN BETTER. Using my pull as a media rep for my magazine BRASH! Magazine, I was able to gain access to this season’s hottest shows put on by grand production companies and notable designers. Although I couldn’t make it out to a few shows as planned, I was able to spend the weekend traveling all the way from Canarsie to Manhattan to be in the building for some good fashions! Style Fashion Week, never disappoints as they line up show, after show, after show of great designers topping themselves with new/one-of-a-kind designs. Just when you think it couldn’t get any better, IT DOES! This year, the venue was PACKED with fashion lovers, media, and celebrities. All to see Draya Michelle’s Mint Swimwear line. The show was amazing and worth the wait in the long line getting pushed and dealing with the club-like atmosphere of “oh yes you can come in”, “wait a minute”, “oh no the line for you is over here!” But, hey it happens. But once inside, all of that went away as I stood stage side getting the first peek of the beautiful models sashaying down the runway in sexy, classy, and unique swimwear! Now let’s talk about Saturday. Woke up early to preparing to be in #modelmode to participate in a Love Yourself Campaign Shoot, and then another shoot on the streets of Manhattan, I had to jump into media mode for Stevie Boi’s show.
 This fashion show was very chic and exclusive giving me the reason why NYFW is worth running around New York making it from show to show. From eyeballing legends like Whoopi Goldberg and my fav VH1 stars to witnessing PINK fashions in stylish variations coming down the runway. And these models WERKED IT!         I’m so looking forward to next season of NYFW. It won’t be as cold and I know these designers are getting busy at wowing the crowds in their shows. Now let me get on this networking, so I can get more invites!  HAPPY FASHION!The Blakk Dahlia (E. Alexcina Brown) is a New York City author/blogger from Macon, GA. Recently, she released the book series, the Heartbreak Diaries outlining different perspectives of heartbreak. The Dahlia Diaries is a lifestyle blog penned by The Blakk Dahlia, sharing her story in NYC along with life lessons and tips she's learned in her journey. |
"I just like to write and create stuff. These are the diaries of how I'm living in NYC with sprinkles of life lessons I've learned along the way!"
- The Blakk Dahlia Latest book from the Heartbreak Diaries Book Series
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