FASHION’S NIGHT OUT Comes to DC!

Here’s another DMV event every Diva should attend!!!

Fashion’s Night Out (FNO) is a global event created to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence, boost the industry’s economy, and put the fun back in shopping.  For one night each year in September in New York City and twelve other cities around the world, designers, celebrities, models, and fashion editors staged exciting, one-of-a-kind events in stores open after-hours to the public.

FNO is a huge in NYC and this year the event will take place Friday, September 10 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. If you are fortunate enough to make it to NYC for this amazing event, head over to Georgetown! That’s right, Georgetown, DC is hosting its own Fashion’s Night Out event of fashion and entertainment featuring events at 60 Georgetown stores, restaurant and salons in DC. If you’re a fashionista in the city, this is one event you don’t want to miss!

So what exactly goes on during Fashion’s Night Out? A number of retailers will offer special discounts and in-store events from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. that include champagne soirees, gifts and discounts.  Not only is this a great event for shoppers, but FNO is also raising money for charity, so you know I’m a fan!! If you purchase a signature Georgetown eco-friendly tote bag for $10, 100% of proceeds benefit Labels of Love, a nonprofit that stages fashionable events to raise funds and bring awareness for women and children organizations throughout DC.

To stay cool and energized for the 5 hour shopping event, Dean & Deluca will host the Fashion’s Night Out Lounge by vitaminwater on 3267 M Street where customers can relax, listen to a DJ and grab a vitaminwater. Shoppers can also enjoy free pedicab rides when they show a receipt from a participating Georgetown merchant and the Georgetown Blue Bus will operate free of charge from 6-11 p.m. through Georgetown as well.

For a complete list of all participating stores and events, click HERE:

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Young Benefactors Group Launch Reception

The Young Benefactors Group (YBG) is a philanthropic organization for service-minded young professionals who are emerging leaders in the public and private section.  YBG is dedicated to supporting a great DC-based non-profit called The Institute for Responsible Citizenship (I4RC).  Each month the YBG hosts events ranging from private receptions with distinguished leaders to signature soirees.

The Institute for Responsible Citizenship prepares high-achieving African American men for successful careers in business, law, government, public service, education, journalism, the sciences, medicine, ministry, and the arts.

Students are required to complete rigorous academic coursework in Government and Economics, work at high-level internships, and participate in lectures, seminars, and roundtable discussions with some of the nation’s most prominent public and private sector leaders.  An integral part of the program includes intensive mentoring by the Institute’s founder, professors, alumni and friends.

The goal of the organization is not only to help talented African American men achieve career success, but it is also to train these young leaders to be men of great character who will make significant contributions to their communities, their country, and the world.

The YBG is hosting a Launch Reception on Wednesday, September 8th at One Lounge (1606 20th Street NW DC) to bring recognition to its organization, mission and the The Institute for Responsible Citizenship.  This is not only a great opportunity to attend another happy hour in DC; you’ll also network and meet some amazing young professionals.

PLEASE RSVP to ybg@i4rc.org by September 7th. You already know I’ll be there, so I hope you’ll join me! ;-)

Take the time to learn more about The Institute for Responsible Citizenships at www.i4rc.org and YBG http://www.i4rc.org/ybg/

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Victoria’s Secret Meets Football Season!

This is the best of both worlds: Victoria’s Secret and football gear!! To all of the ladies who are HUGE football fans, there is now a Victoria’s Secret PINK NFL Collection just for us!!

FINALLY a collection of football attire for women that isn’t pink!! I never understood why teams made their jerseys in pink. All women don’t want to wear pink jerseys. Some of us want to wear the team’s colors in women sizes. But I digress…

The Victoria’s Secret PINK NFL Collection features 13 NFL teams.  The collection includes 3 for $24.99 panties, sweatshirts/pants and t-shirts. Although I have no problem rocking my oversized Santana Moss jersey (GO SKINS), I’ll definitely have to invest in some PINK football gear for the season!

 

Check out the full PINK NFL Collection at http://www.victoriassecret.com/pink/shop-by-team

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NEW MUSIC: Jazmine Sullivan – “Holding You Down”

Jazmine Sullivan is FINALLY back!! She took over the R&B charts in 2008 with her debut album Fearless  and she has teamed up with Missy Elliott again to return to the music scene.

Her new video “Holding You Down” is a 80′s/early 90′s theme video with a few special appearances from rap artist of the 80′s/90′s. (What’s ironic is that I’m writing this post at the same time Brown Sugar is playing on BET, a movie based on the music of the 80′s and 90′s). The video is cute, vibrant, highlights some fall trends (metallics and military styles) and features blatant product placement of Nuvo. 

It looks like R&B is making it’s way back to the airways this fall.  Jazmine Sullivan is another artist we can look forward too!

What do you think of Jazmine’s new single?

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Diva Spotlight: Kendra Jenkins – The New Pittsburgh ChangeMaker

After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Political Science, Ms. Kendra Jenkins worked with Public Allies in Pittsburgh.  Public Allies is a national movement grounded in the conviction that everyone leads with a focus on advancing leadership to strengthen communities, nonprofit and civic organizations.

Through Public Allies, Kendra was placed with Schenley Heights Community Development Program (SHCDP) as an Executive Assistant.  She was responsible for writing grants and proposals, seeking partnerships throughout the community, recruiting volunteers and assisting site coordinators.  SHCDP is a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing, supporting and developing the community through wholesome programs that address the academic, moral, cultural, health and recreational needs of children and their families. 

Her hard work didn’t go unrecognized; SHCDP hired Kendra to continue working with the organization after she completed the 2008-2009 Public Allies program.  She is not only continuing her work at SHCDP; she will begin her Masters Program this fall in Social Work, Community Organization and Social Administration at the University of Pittsburgh. 

She’s a rising star is social services and a fashionista too! She currently works part-time at United Colors of Benetton in Shadyside and volunteers with various organizations throughout the city of Pittsburgh.

I’ve always known how hard Kendra works and the difference she wants to make in her community.  Others have recognized her passion as well.  She has been nominated for the Public Allies Pittsburgh Alumni 2010 ChangeMaker Award.  She’s humbled by the nomination so she won’t admit it, but I know she’d love to win this award.  I’m asking all of you to help me recognize this Diva,  a Pittsburgh changemaker now and a global changemaker in the future.  Please click on the link below to vote for Kendra Jenkins to win the Public Allies Pittsburgh Alumni 2010 ChangeMaker Award.  Voting closes September 3, 2010, so please share this Diva Spotlight and the voting link with friends! Let’s recognize those who are making a significant impact in our communities!!!

Voting once per day is allowed using the same email adderss. So yes, I’ll be voting everyday until Friday and so should you!!!  TO VOTE, CLICK HERE!!!

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Are Men REALLY Ready To Settle Down?

Picture courtesy of Black Book Club

There are a lot of guys out there who are avoiding relationships and living the life as the ultimate bachelor. Living in apartments or houses with multiple roommates, running the streets with the boys and doing whatever they feel like without having to answer to anyone.
 
But surprisingly, there are A LOT of guys out there who are ready to settle down! Yes ladies, you read that last statement correctly.  I can think of at least four male friends who are ready to be in a relationhip (and some even go as far as saying they’re ready to get married).  And because I know them and some of their friends, I find this quite surprising.
 
Is this a new phenomenon? Where have I been? Last time I checked, guys werent’ looking for anything serious. To be perfectly honest, a lot of women aren’t looking for anything serious either, contrary to all of this why are {black} women single talk.  Just the other day a friend of mine told me she thinks she needs to a break from dating.
 
In a society where every young adult in their twenties is “working on themselves” and enjoying life without a significant other, where did this need to want to be in a relationship come from? Is this the “it’s almost winter, I need to find a cuddle buddy” mentally?   Maybe it has something do with age or lifestyle. One of my friends is turning 29 this year so he’s looking for someone who will eventually be his wife, although if you heard his stories you would NEVER think he was ready to settle down! Another friend works as a promoter, which means he parties almost 7 days a week, yet he’s seeking the companionship of a female as well. Is he looking to balance the party lifestyle with some tranquility at home?
 
Ladies, something must be in the water to allow this turn of events to take place! As much as society would like us to believe there aren’t any eligible {black} men out there who are serious about dating and relationships, I beg to differ.  Maybe women are looking in the wrong places because I could point you to four men in my circle who are serious about settling down. 
 
For those of you ladies looking for men to seriously date, they’re out there. And as I’ve learned, they may be right in front of you, you’ve just been too blind to notice.  Ladies let’s admit it; we often get in our own way allowing for great opportunities to pass by for a number of reasons, half of which are because of our own stupidity.  Well if you’re serious about dating and settling down, get out of your own way because the guys are out there waiting for you!!

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GAP Is Inspiring The Girl Who’s Ready For Anything

I was shopping online at Banana Republic last week trying to rack up on work attire (I’ve been making the transition from retail to the office for the past 8 months, so the wardrobe needs a makeover) and I clicked on gap.com; I was surprised by the Fall 2010 Lookbook!  A few years ago, GAP’s appeal among shoppers decreased and the company had failed at finding it’s true brand identity.  But ever since Patrick Robinson was brought on board in 2007 as the Head Designer to revamp the brand, GAP’s fashion has definitely improved!

Of course my only intention was to only look at the website and Fall 2010 Lookbook, but I ended up buying the grey ruffle tank (which I wore to Saturday to the Street Glam Fashion Show).  I can’t wait to pair that with my leggings, boots and a cardigan this Fall.

Check out the GAP Fall 2010 Lookbook: Inspired by the girl who is ready for anything.

Tie-Back Vest & Slim Crop Pant Chambray Shirt & Sweater Dress

Long Anorak & Really Skinny Pant

Band Blazer & Tuxedo Khaki

Cascade Blouse & Zip Legging

Denim Jacket & Always Skinny Jean

Shawl Cardigan & Pleated Skirt

Leather Jacket and Legging Jean

Visit www.gap.com to see more fashions!! Check out Banana Republic and GAP frequently. Both online sites seem to have a special promotion going on at least once a week!

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THE BLOG SPOT Happy Hour Co-Hosted By A Diva State of Mind

I want to say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to all of you who read the blog. There are an overwhelming number of blogs out there on the internet for your reading pleasure and you have chosen to read this one, so thank you!!!
 
To show our appreciation, myself along with seven other bloggers are co-hosting THE BLOG SPOT Happy Hour this Thursday at The Park on 14th in DC from 5pm to 10pm. Drinks specials include $5 Premium Drinks from 5-7pm and dinner until 10pm.
 
I would love to meet all of you that read the blog and I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting yet.  If you see me, please don’t hesitate to stop me and introduce yourself. I love meeting new people!
 
Please RSVP at theparkthursday@usualsuspectz.com
 
I look forward to seeing you all this Thursday! :-)

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NEW MUSIC: Miguel Feat. J. Cole “All I Want Is You”

In the DMV, “All I Want Is You” is considered new music, although the song has been out in other markets for awhile now.  I heard this song the other day on my way home and all I can say is that I absolultely LOVE it! I was sitting in the car thinking to myself, “who is this? This is nice!” 

Between “Unthinkable” being played 500 times in one hour to every song off of Usher’s most recent album being played, it’s about time we hear new R&B on mainstream radio.  Along with this song by Miguel feat J. Cole, a lot of R&B singles have been released.  I’m looking forward to hearing what’s in store this fall!

What do you think of the song and video? Which R&B artist are you looking forward to hearing this fall??

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Fancy Little Things Fall Fashion Show

Sisarina and Polished Image Consultants have joined forces again to bring you the Fancy Little Things Fall Fashion Show and Happy Hour on August 25, 2010 at Relic in Bethesda.

The event begins at 5pm and includes happy hour, jewelry vendors VioletBloom Accessories, Andra D’Ambrosia and Klewism Jewelry, and a fabulous fashion show featuring four local designers:  

  • Natalie Sanz Collection – Chic.Modern. Sleek. Inspired by architecture, geometry and texture, Natalia creates classic systems with a modern touch. All pieces are expertly crafted for the avant-garde woman to fit exquisitely.
  • Zophia Collection – Marrying the classic with the contemporary, Betsy Garcete embraces the female form and is inspired by effortless silhouettes worn by the most powerful women in her life. The Zophia woman is an adventurous yet mysterious fashionista that thrives for something fresh and unique at any age.
  • Sangaree – Sangaree has a mix of vibrant designers joined together to create a one of a kind experience.  They have introduced fresh new designers from all over the world including France, Krygstan, Canada, and Israel. Creating an intimate boutique environment that has allowed a flawless attention to detail for an effortless shopping experience, Sangaree ensures exceptional treatment from our staff.
  • Red Sprinkle - Merging vintage goods along with contemporary pieces on a budget, Rebecca Margeo invites you all to top your wardrobe with Red Sprinkle!

Cost of the event is free, however but guests are encouraged to donate $5 to benefit New Endeavors by Women (NEW).  NEW helps homeless women and children transform their lives through transitional and permanent housing programs.  This year’s goal is to raise $1000 to benefit NEW.

I attended the event in March and it was a great! There are food and drink specials all night and I was first introduced to VioletBloom Accessories. I purchased a few items including a gorgeous turquoise and silver cross. I can’t wait to go back and purchase more pieces! Not only is this a fashion event, but it will provide great networking opportunities as well so bring your business cards!

I hope you’ll join me on Wednesday, August 25th at Relic. RSVP at http://fltfallfashion.eventbrite.com/

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