The Museum at F.I.T. is hosting the Black Fashion Designers exhibition until May 16, 2017. 

Significant pieces show the skill of black designers from around the world and their journey in the fashion world throughout the years. 

It features pieces by designers worn by public figures including Diana Ross, Michelle Obama, Tina Turner, Rihanna, Kim Kardashian and more.

The exhibition also demonstrates the history of blacks in the fashion industry and the controversial issues they faced, even the supermodels. Some designers used their clothes to make a statement on social issues.

They didn't forget about the menswear. 

This exhibition is a must-see, especially for Blacks currently or prospected to be in the fashion industry. You get a chance to look at how far Blacks have come, learn about the significant roles these designers played and the challenges they've overcome.

For more information, check out the Museum at F.I.T.'s website. 

I WENT TO HOGWARTS FOR MY BIRTHDAY!!! :D

Yes! I'm a "Potterhead" and I'm not sorry! That being said, the opportunity presented itself to take a last minute trip to Universal Orlando Resort for my birthday and I LEAPED. 

To experience the entire Harry Potter World, including riding the Hogwarts Express, you need to visit both parks. I started in the Universal Studios Florida park, which hosts "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter- Diagon Alley."

Diagon Alley is everything you could imagine it would be: Gringott's Bank, Weasley's Wizard Wheezes, The Leaky Cauldron and so much more. I was in heaven, okay!

I headed over to Ollivander's for my (interactive) wand; they have the wands of all the main characters throughout the series. I chose Hermoine's wand then ran across to Madam Malkin's Robes for all occassions where I realized, although I chose Gryffindor, I belong in Slytherin house.

After casting a few spells around Diagon Alley, I grabbed a Butterbeer, then headed to Kings Cross Station to ride the Hogwarts Express. "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter- Hogsmeade" is in the Universal Studios Islands of Adventures park. 

Using your park-to-park ticket, you ride the train and have the same experience as those students traveling in "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban", even the dementors. It's so cool!

A few minutes later, we were at Hogsmeade Station. 

I was truly amazed at how much everything looked so much like the movies! 

I walked through Hogsmeade, casted more spells, went through the shops (chocolate frog anyone?) and even stopped by to hear the Frog Choir. 

Then, there she was. 

GLORY!! I was home and complete. 

After all that oogling, it was time to have fun! Since Hogsmeade is in the Islands of Adventure park, it makes sense that it's where they actually have the rides and rollercoasters for Harry Potter World. The attraction is still fairly new so expect crowds and a wait but it is well worth it. I would suggest to go as early as possible because I saw as the afternoon turned to evening, the crowds increased substantially. 

After leaving Harry Potter World, I went through Islands of Adventure for a few more rides, back through the front to the main entrance and over to Universal Studios Florida to catch the parade.

This was a great experience that I encourage all "Potterheads" to try to make it to. I actually overheard someone saying this one is better than the one in California and the UK so I think made the right choice. However, I wouldn't mind visiting the others to see for myself. ;)

Til next time,

xo.

We all go through obstacles, whether we're vocal about them or not. Learn to look for the silver lining & stay positive. 

Here's how if you need help: 

1. Accountability. This is YOUR life. You chose (to accept) whatever happened in the past. More importantly, even if your past situation was out of your immediate control, you have the power to control your future and your mindset.

2. Solutions >>> Complaints. I'm an ex spoiled brat so I know all about this game. Eventually I had to realize, complaining just wastes time and that's the only thing in life you can't get back or count how much more you'll get. Treasure your time and focus on finding a solution!!! 

3. Keep an attitude of gratitude, even for the smallest of things (fingers, feet, food, LIFE, etc forget material!! ). Remember, life could always be much worse, even on the hell days. 

xo.

I attended Simply Stylist's NY fashion and beauty conference yesterday. 

Fashion and beauty lovers were greeted with complimentary manicures by the Glam app, complimentary massages by Soothe and the French Connection pop-up shop/photobooth. 

Next to the massages, fashion illustrator, Holly Nichols was there to give a few selected girls a sketch of their outfit while servers walked around with delicious hors d'oeuvres. (The tuna tartare was amazing!)

After mingling, I sat in on a few talks because I was there business and pleasure. I listened to Kayln Chandler of Effie's Paper

Bloglovin's Morgan Kaye

Erin Armstrong of Enlightened Accounting.

Fabulous lifestyle blogger, Emily Men

and last but not least James Nord, CEO of Fohr Card. 

I learned so much helpful information from the speakers and other guests alike.  I love that everyone was so open and honest when answering questions. We even got a cute Effie's Paper mug to take home. All in all, I had a great time and met great people I hope to keep in touch with.

I'm absolutely looking forward to the next one,

xo.