Celebrate Good Times

In this fast-paced and on-the-go life, we often forget to acknowledge some important moments. I can be very guilty of this. Recently, She's So Me reached 10,000 views (something I am very happy about) and one of my good friends persuaded me to celebrate this accomplishment. I am so glad she encouraged me to do this because it was just the burst of energy that I needed. 

Sometimes in life we get blindsided by all the things -- both negative and positive -- that we have going on. Again, this is definitely something I am guilty of. My family and friends are constantly telling me "Joanna, don't forget about all these awesome things happening" or "Joanna, you don't give yourself enough credit" and they are totally right. When certain things are going askew in your life, don't forget to still celebrate good times!

So, in celebration of She's So Me's 10,000th view, me and a couple of my friends enjoyed a ravishing night of dinner, drinks, and live jazz at Atlanta's own Churchill Grounds. If you are into jazz, I totally recommend this restaurant. The ambience was so romantic! To all my lovebirds out there, this place is the PERFECT spot for your next date night! However, I must say, I was a little disappointed with the service. With that being said, it wasn't enough to overshadow how beautiful this restaurant/jazz club is.

So, I know what you are all thinking right now! "Blah Blah Blah Joanna, tell us where you got that skirt!" Lol! This fabulous skirt was handcrafted by up-and-coming indie designer Chinyere Nwokah! Her amazing collection of designs will soon be available for purchase through the online store! The collection will be an authentic fusion of West African aesthetics and Western fashion trends. Don't worry, I won't let you all miss out! You will definitely hear it from me once the store is up and running so STAY TUNED! You can also keep up with the designer herself by following her on Instagram @chichiwonder and follow the clothing line also @OKOclothiere

That Ugly Sweater

Take a look at this yellow and ivory sweater that I am wearing in this post. What do you think of it? Do you like it? Do you hate it? Well, I got this sweater from Ann Taylor Loft-- at a VERY amazing price by the way. It didn't hurt that I worked there and got an awesome discount (wink wink). Anywhoo, this sweater sat in the store all by its lonesome for a while. I witnessed so many people pick it up and throw it back down in the fitting rooms. People really hated the way it looked. They would pick it up, make a disgusted face, pick it back up, make a snide comment and throw it back down lol.

Well, one day I came into work and -- low and behold -- this sweater was STILL there. For some reason though, I saw it differently than the customers. I loved that "ugly" sweater and so I decided to try it on (while I was on the clock hehe) in the fitting room. Guess what happened? I loved it even more and the funny thing is the customers in the fitting rooms were coming out and asking me where they could find it! Unfortunately, it was the only one lol. 

The moral of this post is this. When you go shopping, don't completely shy away from those items that look a little off at first glance. Pick it up and try it on. If you still don't like it, then walk away from it. Some of my fave pieces are some weird items that people often look at with a side eye in the stores. I guess the same message would apply to every day life. I am sure you all have heard the phrase "don't judge a book by its cover." Well, its the truth - DON'T! You just never know peeps...you just never know! Don't make the mistake of losing out on a treasure like people did with that ugly sweater!

all photos by Arielle Simmons 

Winter Wardrobe Tips From A REAL Stylist

Hey Everyone! Do you remember Stylist Dane Browne? Well, she was my November 2013 Woman Of The Month in the "Who Is She" segment of the blog. If you missed my interview with Dane, you can check it out right HERE!

Anyway...guess what? I am so excited to share this with you all! Below is an awesome video (created by the stylist herself) offering all the advice you need to assemble the perfect winter wardrobe. If you are currently struggling with the Fall to winter transition -- or even the spring to winter transition -- Dane is here to rescue you.

I hear a lot of people complain about the winter season because they feel like it offers no room for creativity when it comes to fashion. People often feel like winter is nothing but hoodies and bubble jackets for four long and cold months; however, Stylist Dane Browne teaches us that this is not the case. This video educates on how to get creative with your winter wardrobe as it is full of styling tips and wardrobe ideas! She even tells you EXACTLY where to purchase each piece!

Keep up with Stylist Dane Browne

Blog Link: http://www.theadventuresofdanebrowne.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DaneBStylist

Facebook: www.facebook.com/dane.brownestylist