Immediately after Christmas just as we approach to the New Year, I love reflecting and creating goals that I wish to accomplish for the next year.
Whether you want to start that side hustle, eat more healthier or exercise more often, a Vision Board acts as a reminder of the direction where one want your goals to go to. It actually motivatesyou to go for what you want!
One thing that I have noticed is that having a Digital Vision Board specifically on your phone as a home screen wallpaper, can actually inspire you even more to achieve your goals because guess what, you tend to access your phone most of the time!
Today on my YouTube Channel, I’m going to teach you step by step on how to create a Digital Vision Board using your phone. It’s easy and fast.
Watch the full video below for a step by step guide on how to create a Digital Vision Board:
Your feedback will be highly appreciated.
Thank you so much for stopping by! Wish you nothing but a year full of nothing but success!
Why buy something if you can’t rock it in different fun ways??
Today I’m all about showing you how you can get the most out of your ponchos..yes you got me right….ponchos!
Hey everyone! I hope you are keeping warm and cozy during this cold season! I cannot believe that we are left with only a few days to elections here in Kenya! Your vote counts so remember to vote wisely!
Back to fashion,,,,,besides being fashionable, ponchos are cozy, versatile and absolutely chic. They come in different colors, prints and patterns. They are a season to season wardrobe essential. They actually come in handy during those chilly mornings/evenings and most especially during the cold season. Another mind blowing fact about ponchos, is that they pair really well with almost all body types.
I’m going to be showcasing a double layered poncho in mastered paired with heavy jeggings and a basic black body suit but…..dresses pair well….skinny jeans pair well……..skirts pair well…basically anything pairs well with ponchos. (This is just what I’m pairing it with today)
Soo…..here are a few glamorous ways in which you can wear your ponchos:
Look 1:Wear itopen
This is what I call easy peasy because it’s the most effortless way to rock a poncho.You basically layer it over your shoulders and voila you are good to GO!
Don’t you think it’s amazing how you can transform a look by just adding a layer.
Look 2:Adding the Brooch
You can give your poncho a different spin by accessorizing it with a brooch. You can either add a brooch at the center or on the side so as to drape your poncho over one shoulder.
Look 3: Belting it up
You can level up your poncho by belting it up. Anyone can pull it this look. You simply get your poncho and layer it over the shoulders. You then get your favorite belt and wrap it around your waist area but above the belly button for that chic look.
The belt can either be slim/wide depending on your silhouette and there you go! You just elevated your poncho! What you will love about this look is the fact that it cinches in your waist area elegantly giving it some definition.
Look 4:Scarf it up
Another way of rocking a poncho is by wearing it as a scarf. With this look you basically get the poncho and toss it around your neck. You can opt to let it drape beautifully or just layer it all around your shoulders.
You can actually rock your Ponchos in numerous other different ways. I just shared how I love rocking mine and I hope it inspired you to experiment with your poncho or to get one if you’ve not yet .
What’s your favorite way of wearing a poncho? I love mixing my styles but belting it up takes the lead! It’s actually my favorite way.
It’s great to invest in versatile wardrobe pieces where you have different approaches of rocking them. Ponchos are a true go to wardrobe piece and I feel the fact that you can wear them differently makes it a worthy addition to your closet! I think every fashionista should have this piece!Do you agree?
I will be uploading a YouTube video on “How to wear a Poncho” over this weekend. I feel like at times it’s easier to watch someone rock an outfit practically to get a better insight. So if you’d like to watch a video on this, Subscribe to my YouTube Channel so as to get notified once I upload the video.
I hope this post has encouraged you to rock one of the coolest wardrobe pieces for the Cold season.
If you enjoyed this post, you might love this video
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A great pair of jeans is a wardrobe staple. Raise your hand if you agree with this …lol. Raise your hand again if you agree that selecting a great pair of jeans can be challenging!
Jeans are one of the most preferred casual outfit by not only women but men as well. They come in different colors and designs and the beauty about them is that they can be paired with so many outfits . Unfortunately, with so many imitated jeans around which are susceptible to wear and degradation, it can be tough knowing what to look out for when selecting your jeans.
If you are one of the people who find it hard to differentiate between high quality jeans and low quality, worry no more because on today’s blog post, I’m summing up tips you can incorporate when shopping your jeans for that good quality pair. So without further ado, lets dive in:
1.Strong Durable DenimMaterial
You can tell a lot about the quality of jeans by the strength of material. While shopping for jeans, ensure that you feel the material diligently with your hands. High quality material should be strong to the touch. In case it feels loose, weak or otherwise cheap, they are probably low-quality jeans and, thus, should be ditched without much thought.
2. Non-plastic Buttons
Weather it’s one or several, most jeans have buttons. The quality of buttons is another thing to watch out for as they will also tell if the jeans is high quality or not. Good quality buttons are secure and not made of plastic or cheap aluminum which tends to fall apart or break easily. Good quality jeans features premium quality material such as steel, copper, alloy etc.
3.Good Quality Stitching
Don’t forget to check out the stitching at the edges of jeans while shopping. High-quality jeans should be durable to reduce chances of wear and tear when you put them on or wash them. Firm, uniform and even stitching is one sign of good quality jeans. You can always test the quality of stitches by gently stretching them at the seams. If the stitches are pulling apart hence loose and there is no uniformity, you are most likely looking at a poor quality pair of jeans and should ditch it instantly.
4. Strong Rivets
Ninety percent of the jeans we wear have rivets. Besides threading, rivets are small fasteners used to hold and reinforce seams together on your jeans. You will find them mostly around top of your pockets.
While shopping for good quality jeans, check them out too because you can easily differentiate between premium denim from low-quality denim by simply looking at the rivets. Premium denim has durable, heavy-duty rivets while low-quality denim while low quality ones, have cheaper weak rivets.
If you enjoyed this blog post, you might also love this video:
I know I know…..it’s been a minute since you last heard from this blog! Been figuring out how to strike a healthy balance between setting up Thrift n Style Collections (my new clothing thrift store) from scratch and many other things here and there. Having a shop comes with its fair share of challenges but I must say its absolutely fulfilling.
Well…that aside, I’m back and lets blog like never before!
Today I’m styling a navy blue kimono in three different fun ways.
Whether you are into prints, patterns or colors, kimonos look great on almost all body types. Their versatility makes them easy to dress up or down and you can wear them with absolutely anything that you want.
Look 1: Kimono +Denim Shorts
For the first look, I’ve paired the kimono with denim shorts. Totally love the height of the denim shorts as they balance my silhouette very well. I’m wearing a white basic long sleeved white top inside. I must say it’s super comfy. I’ve laid over a light blue necklace and rocked some cute floral flats to spruce up the entire look. This is a look I’d pull when meeting my friends for probably lunch.
Look 2: Kimono + Body Con Dress
Pairing a body-con dress with Kimono is one of my favorite styles. For look two, I’m rocking a floral body con dress to elevate the kimono since it’s a solid color. This is a style you can dress up or down. I’ve added my own flair by belting it up to synch in my waistline for that chic look. Completed the look with strappy heels which have a cushioned comfortable foot bed with adjustable buckles and i guess that’s why i keep recycling them in my closet like nobody’s business. If you’ve been following me on my socials, you might have spotted them quite often…lol
Look 3: Kimono + Denim Trouser
Denim Trousers plus kimonos is such an easy go-to look that always looks awesome. You can obviously rock it with a tee like I’ve done below. I went for an animal printed top which is from Thrift n Style Collection and some studded flats which i got from Toi Market to level up the entire look. Totally love this look as well.
Stay tuned for more fashion and style blog posts!
If you enjoyed this post, you might also love this video:
Kikois are one of the most versatile pieces of clothing which should not be left behind as you travel for your beach vacations!
On today’s blog post, I’m sharing with you 3 mind blowing reasons as to why you should always carry a Kikoi on a Beach Vacation.
Hey and welcome to Authentically Ritah!
Just incase you are new here, this is a Fashion and Style blog. I delight in sharing Fashion Tips, Try on hauls & basically Style inspiration.
First things first! What is a Kikoi?
A kikoi is a large piece of cloth usually cotton. It is actually considered a part of Swahili culture in Kenya. Kikois are usually rectangular in shape. I find bright colored or patterned pieces perfect for the beach.
One amazing thing about Kikois is that they do not take much space while packing so you can easily travel with them. I pack roughly 2 to 3 pieces while traveling. They are also easy to find and relatively affordable. You can easily get them at Maasai Market while in Nairobi.
To prove how versatile Kikois are, without futher adieu here are 3 reasons why you should always carry them for your beach vacays:
Perfect Beach Towels
Instead of those bulky towels to the beach, which take up much space, you can opt for a Kikoi! They dry quickly and perfect to lie on while on the beach bed.
2. They double as comfy picnic rugs
Sitting on the ground to enjoy lunch/drinks? Roll out your Kikoi and make the whole affair a bit more interesting!They are perfect as picnic blankets.
3. They are perfect Beach Cover Ups
Just incase you are wearing a bikini or bathing suit and want to go probably to the toilets or restaurant, you can cover up yourself with the Kikoi.
So there are 3 reasons why you should always take a Kikoy while travelling for a Beach Vacation! If you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to give it a thumbs up. Don’t also forget to subscribe for this and more!
Any more ideas?
Do let me know in the comments box below…
Sharing is caring 😉
If you liked this post, you might also like this video:
Besides a cute bikini, what outfits do you wear to the beach?
There are so many different beach outfit ideas that you can wear and style if you’re not into bikinis! In today’s post, I will focus on styling biker shorts for the beach. Can i get an AMEN..lol
Without further adieu lets get started;
Look 1
For that can’t-miss beach look, get a colorful biker short of any type then tone it down by adding a tank top in a solid color…… slightly tack it in to show off some skin for those tropical beach vibes!
Look 2
You can go for a plain biker short then jazz it alittle up with lacey cover up. Lace adds some texture This look is chic yet very modern at the same time in my opinion.
Look 3
You can also try styling the same plain biker shorts by throwing over a kimono. Don’t forget a bright hat because, well, look at it! Beach vibes: achieved.
Look 4
If you like a little extra coverage even at the beach, an umbrella dress is the move. Pair a colorful one with biker shorts then tuck it in on one side for a put-together look that’s still super comfortable.
Look 5
Another easy look is just investing in a few fun sarongs or light scarfs and you’re good to go. You can’t go wrong with a light blue as it will match the ocean. While at this, in case you want to see different fun ways of tying this blue sarong/scarf as Beach Cover ups check out this video which I recently did on my You Tube Channel.
What would you wear to the Beach apart from Bikinis? Feel free to share your thoughts blow!
If you liked this post you might also love the video below:
Hope you enjoyed today’s post and are looking forward to a fun filled Beach Escapade!
If you are planning to go for a game drive safari and are wondering what not to wear for that extra comfort, then this post is absolutely what you need!
I’m going to share with you a general guide on what not to wear for a game drive safari. You can adjust accordingly to fit your liking!I happened to visit Nairobi National Park afew days ago and that’s what actually inspired me to come up with this post.
There is something extremely magical about going for game drives in Kenya. Oh my! every time i go on a game drive safari, it feels like a brand new opportunity to explore the world. I can never get enough of this fun activity. This is the time you get to put everything down, live in the moment and reignite your enthusiasm. What a perfect outdoor adventure to disconnect from the busy lifestyle and fully embrace mother nature.
Before I break down my outfit, Nairobi National Park boasts a variety of wildlife. It’s one of Kenya’s most successful rhinoceroses’ sanctuaries. It’s roughly 7km away from Nairobi city. It is actually the only park that sits in the city worldwide.
The very first thing not to wear is high heeled shoes
I know six inched heels are a woman’s bestie but when it comes to game drives, you need practical shoes such as flat sandals, slip ons or sneakers. This will help you avoid risk falling when climbing on and off the safari cars whose steps can be abit high and slippery. So the first thing which you should not wear while on a game drive safari is heels. It’s more of a safety issue.
I opted for midi boots since it was abit chilly. Besides being comfy, I thought they kept my look interesting without being over the top.
The next thing not to wear is bright colors
When going for game drive safaris, it’s advisable to go for earth tone colors such as the khakis, greens, greys or brown to fit the surrounding. Apparently bright colors distract wild animals and who wants to go to a game drive and not see all the big five simply because their colorful outfit scared off the wildlife!
For this specific safari, I opted for a cap sleeve high low tented dress in grey tiger print. As a size 16UK, I found the comfort in a XL remarkably out of this world. You can still go a size down to L for that snug fit look. I threw a strappy belt on top for that extra sass.
Avoid anything white and choose your bags appropriately
The park is generally dusty. Whether it’s shoes, outfit, your hat or bag void anything white in color otherwise you will look dirty and I’m sure you don’t want that. Choosing lightweight medium sized bags is a great option when going for a game drive. Large handbags may not be necessary because you might need to carry few stuff to a game drive but again no standard rules. Adjust this to fit all your needs accordingly. Torte bags, cross bodies or medium sized back packs works perfectly fine in my opinion.
I carried my phone, sunglasses, wallet, lip balm, gum, hand sanitizer and soft tissues hence this brown black bag worked perfectly for me. It’s great for a quick access to smaller items such as your ID or passport, which is a must have at the entrance of the park. Sounds rather obvious but it’s of importance to ensure your bag is well sealed to avoid your things being thrown to the trunk or pushed under the seat as the car moves in the rough terrain of the park.
P.S: Whatever outfit you choose, don’t forget a second layer! You can consider wearing a warm long sleeved sweater, poncho, hoodie or jacket as a top layer. Good thing about layering is that if it gets warmer, you can always remove the extra layer. It’s better to be prepared for the weather dynamics.
There you go! That’s my list of what not to wear while visiting the park for that extra comfort. I hope this post has given you a general insight so that you can enjoy the scenery and still be comfortable besides looking fly.
Incas I forgot anything, let me have your opinion by commenting below. I would also be very humbled if you liked this posted and shared it will somebody who might need it.
Magical views of the park were captured in these video! Go watch and don’t forget to like, share & subscribe. Thank you!
As always thank you for visiting. Have a pleasant game drive on your next safari and remember to keep comfy.
Outfit Details
Safari Ayana Cap Sleeved High Low Dress – Vivo Woman
Fashion should be fun. Please turn up the volume 😉
I love experimenting and coming up with different looks and today we are having a color party right here. Can’t get enough of the fun bright colors and patterns on this dress.For me fashion is all about having fun with different styles and this look is just about that.The hues and patterns make it not just an ordinary dress in my opinion.
When it comes to fashion I firmly believe there is no blending in. After all it’s an art and actually a way of expressing who you truly are.These blend of colors called me by my two names the moment I saw them on a maneqquin at Belabsryles and I just had to carry it! Love how the colors complement each other tastefully.
Next time you want some cute fun dresses, before you start complaining the way you can’t find them as a plus sized woman, check out this store! Incorporating simple accessories would definitely complete the look since the dress is colorful and is popping well enough on its own.
As much as I’m excited about May, still can’t believe the year is almost halfway. For me a new month means new opportunities. At the beginning of every month, I find myself reviewing my resolutions and adjusting accordingly because life happens and plans don’t always go as envisioned. Who can relate?
That aside, as we begin May, I wish you a month filled with unlimited opportunities. May favor come your way as you pursue your purpose in life. Remember keep progressing each day even if it’s one percent improvement but just don’t settle. It may not always be easy but if you can’t run, just crawl. Don’t stop!
Back to fashion….shall we?
Going monochrome is one of my favorite ways of dressing. Monochromatic outfits have this way of effortlessly elevating your look. You can go monochrome with pretty much any color. What I love about this look is the fact that you can experiment with one color in different shades. I find that look to not only be chic but fascinating as well.
My initial plan was to pair this taupe waterfall with some palazzo pants but the moment i got a glimpse the brown dress I decided to pair them together and voila the outfit was complete. The dress is actually a dolman sleeved dress which actually looks good without an extra layer on top. Will definitely style it on it’s own. (Stay tuned for the look on instagram)
The different tones of brown coordinated very well. To finish off the look, i went for my favorite 4 inched pumps. I mean who wouldn’t love shoes with a suede lined foot bed for maximum comfort! I bet now you know why these shoes have been and will still be rotating in my wardrobe like crazy.
I’ve actually named this look‘hot chocolate‘. Hot chocolate anyone? Outfit details are as shown below:
Oh stripes, how they rock my world! I can do stripes back to back without getting tired. There are so many fun ways of playing around with them and incorporating this feature on a jumpsuit gives your outfit some depth.
As a plus sized woman I’m the kind that has always drifted away from jumpsuits awhile ago simply because I never used to find pieces which fit me without compromising on my style. If by chance I happened to find one, it just didn’t fit my silhouette perfectly. Can you resonate with this? Thanks to the fashion designers who are constantly coming up with amazing designs to fit plus sized body frames as well.
Let’s mention something about this black and white strappy jumpsuit. Shall we?
I’m totally fascinated by how this jumpsuit is flowy at the bottom. It gives some level of comfort without compromising on style. Not to mention, the pockets also add some fun to the overall look. Styling possibilities for this jumpsuit are endless. You can casually rock it with white sneakers, sandles or dress it up a little bit with heels. The outfit doesn’t come with a belt but you can accessorize it with a belt of your choice to bring out that waistline. I’ve completed the whole look with this amazing silver studded beret hat. This outfit can take you from having brunch with your friends, coffee dates, vacays and can be a Sunday best too. Just depends on how you rock it. For Church I’d put a layer inside.
Black and white strappy jumpsuit unbeltedBlack and white strappy jumpsuit
This jumpsuit and belt are from Vivo Woman. The beauty about this brand is that it’s Kenyan. I highly vouch for them. Enjoy!
Check out this other amazing jumpsuit from their collection right here.
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Lets talk about bras today but before that apologies for the late post. This post was supposed to be up yesterday but due to some issues, that did not see light at the end of the day.
Anyway lets do it like we’ve always done it……
It’s not just about how you look in your bra but also about how functional it is (you know the girls need lots of TLC *wink*). Besides oozing feminine energy, bras actually act as reminders that one is important and self care is key hence when selecting them, choose pieces which are comfy, supporting, easy to wear and soft to the touch
Generally the best types of bra are the ones which elevate your overall look and comfort.
With the numerous types of bras out there, one can be spoilt for choice but every woman needs these 3 types of bras! I will start with the most important to least but remember our purchase priorities differ so adjust accordingly to suit your preferences.
Everyday Wear Bra
This is the mother of all bras .This type needs to be carefully sourced because you get to wear it everyday. You need at least three of this type; one which you are wearing, second one which you get to wear when you’ve washed the other and an extra one…you can have more than that of course!
2. Strapless Bra
When you don’t want those bra straps to show, this is your go to bra. Since the band is the only source of support you get from this type of bra, it’s advisable to size down on the band and up in the cup. This gives you that snug fit and helps the girls stay up. Remember however not to go too much smaller!
3. Plunge Bra
These bras are low cut at the center. They work best on those days that you want to rock those low sleeved tops or dresses and don’t want your bra to show, a feature which you cannot achieve with an ordinary bra.
What 3 type of bras do you think every woman needs?
Which stores do you swear by when it comes to good quality bras?
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Suddenly you have a million and one responsibilities, hence need to operate on a tight budget, but still want to update your wardrobe once in a while. Does anything ring a bell!Lol..you are not alone darl! The big question is how do you strike a balance in all this!
Learning when to splurge and save can actually be of help!
At times if you spend a little more initially, you will actually save much more long term and still on the flip side there are certain pieces which you can easily get away with when you save on.
Hey and welcome to Authentically Ritah!
In today’s blog post I’m going to talk about what I think is worth being splurged on and what needs to be saved in the wardrobe. Before i delve into this please note that splurging and saving looks different for different people based on so many factors such as lifestyle, age and much more so adjust accordingly.
So where should you splurge?
First things first, splurging means allocating a little bit more of your budget on certain pieces.
Splurge worthy pieces are those which mostly act as your wardrobe basics and can easily elevate the simplest of outfits. These are pieces which you actually incorporate in most of your outfits and though not all most tend to be everyday wears. Definitely the more you wear anything, the more they get exposed on wear and tear so you need to spend a little more for quality on such pieces.
Here are a few things which i consider splurge worthy:
Classic jeans – It is definitely worth spending on that classic blue, black or white jeans which won’t wear easily. These three colors are timeless and complement with most wardrobe pieces.
Undergarments – Small but mighty, good quality undergarments make a whole world of difference. They act as foundations to your outfits and can make or break the overall look. They are totally worth the splurge.
An everyday bag – A good quality bag in a neutral color which can be carried almost everyday and doesn’t wear out quickly is definitely worth an extra effort.
That Little Black Dress – This is such a true classic and can be styled with so many pieces in your closet. I definitely would splurge on this for extra mileage.
Nude shoes – Nude shoes are classic wardrobe pieces which helps you get the most out of your wardrobe. Good quality sandles, heels or ballet shoes will complement your wardrobe effortlessly.
Gym/active wear – Since these are likely to be worn almost every other day, i feel they are worth that extra coin and could take you for years so you don’t have to keep replacing them every now and then.
Boots – Be it’s an ankle, midi or knee high boot i feel you deserve good quality ones which won’t wear as fast
Designer Sunglasses – Of course if you won’t break them. I would definitely splurge on designer sunglasses which have sun protector
Timeless accessories -I would spend abit more on a small selection of those timeless accessory pieces which don’t tarnish and I can go with to almost all events
Leather Jacket – a well made classic leather jacket cannot miss on this list. It is a piece which has actually stood the test of time as it is a very versatile wardrobe piece. Definitely worth a splurge
White sneakers – These are versatile casual essentials which can be rocked with most outfits in your closet. They are worth the splurge too.
and where do you save?
Saving can be done on pieces which you wear less frequently. These are pieces which may or may not be incorporated in your everyday outfits.They could also be seasonal pieces. They are generally not exposed to wear and tear that much.
Like I earlier said, these pieces again could vary for different people. Here are afew ones which I feel could be saved on:
Anything trendy – anything trendy is not worth a splurge in my opinion. Trends come and go and the most they could last if you are lucky is one year.I don’t recommend avoiding trends all together but just don’t blow a lot of moo la on them
Colored jeans – worn once in a while because not paired with most of the outfits. Not worth that extra coin
Basic Tees – I know these ones are worn almost everyday as layering pieces under your coats or blazers. I feel they are not worth a splurge because you can get inexpensive ones which will still serve you the most
Others areas you could save include:- Floral Shoes, Colored sneakers, Sweaters, Hoodies, stockings and sweat shirts
Final Thoughts!
When deciding on whether to splurge or save, the first thing is to make sure it’s something which sparks joy to you! You don’t want to put your hard earned money on just anything. Whatever you buy should be that one piece which elevates your overall look.
I hope you found this post helpful. Where do you spend? Where do you save? Feel free to share your thoughts down below!
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I never imagined I would ever rock jumpsuits, since the horrible experience which i’d had a while ago but I’m glad to have discovered some life changing tips of selecting jumpsuits for plus sized women. I actually shared them in a blog post sometimes last year. Feel free to check the tips out right here just incase you missed the post, ofcourse after reading this one..lol!
I have been a fan of Vivo Woman’s Clothing line since as long as i can remember. Besides being a local brand, I have appreciated how she carefully selects materials for her pieces plus the way they are diligently stitched.
Today I’m rocking one of her jumpsuits in a size L. What I particularly love about this jumpsuit is the fact that it has stretchy fabric which goes very well with a plus sized body frame. Although simple i love the ruffle details with a touch of red on the sleeves. It’s such a great detail which makes the outfit so chic and sophisticated. Not to mention, the material is thick and very soft to the feel. The round neck helps complement any plus sized silhouette effortlessly.
I paired the outfit with this lovely red flats from backyard shoes. Totally love the red shade as it makes the outfit pop beautifully.
Hey lovelies, had such a great brunch with a good friend called Caro a while ago and she kept on complaining the way her bag was heavy! A quick glance at her bag I was surprised because it not only had a lot of what I’d call random stuff but it was an official enormous bag which clearly didn’t fit the bill as a weekend bag.
I know we all have our tastes and preferences and there are no hard rules but after asking her why the official bag on a weekend she was like, ”I thought a bag is a bag and the one you carry to the office can still be a weekend bag ama?”
Do you wear different bags on the weekend versus during the week?
That incident got me inspired to come up with this blog post and today I’m going to share with you what i pack in my weekend bag plus where you can get such a lovely bag. Generally for the weekends, I like having my hands free so i gravitate more towards bags which can be worn as cross bags and over the shoulder on days when I’m trying to dress up and look glamorous and all. I love adjusting the bag straps to hit my hip area for that chic look and don’t like it higher than that.
I find smaller casual bags like the Jade Shoulder Bag above to work well for weekends. This shoulder bag is made of PU leather, which is durable and comfortable. It also has a polyester lining and zipper closure. Its geometric pattern and baguette shape makes it an ideal bag for the weekend. The material is anti-water which is a plus. It measures 21cm x 16cm x 5.5cm
No offense to bigger bags though but i find the larger the weekend bag, the more junk I’ll end up stuffing in there like different colored notebooks,about 4 different lip balms, 3 different scarfs and nail polish or anything else I can think of!
Here are ….things which i carry in my weekend bag:
The first time i started adding stuff to this bag, i was incredibly surprised by the fact that i could fit a ton in it. Besides being a weekend bag, this is also the bag that I can take with me on trips away because having hands free on weekends is just the best!
Phone
This one is not negotiable. You need to keep in touch with the world. The first thing that i throw in my bags and not just the weekend one is my cell phone. I don’t know about you but this is such a necessity in the world lately.
2. Some makeup and mirror for touch ups
You don’t need to pile your entire makeup collection in the bag. I feel one or two key makeup pieces will still help you in doing some touch ups when need arises. Some powder and lip gloss will help you touch up on your make up effortlessly.
This Mac powder does the job well. An added bonus is that i don’t need to buy a separate compact mirror since it comes with one inside. I also don’t need to carry a powder brush since it comes with a sponge for application which works well for touch ups.
Nobody loves dry chapped lips. Throw in a moisturizing lip gloss to help keep those lips happy.
3. Pocket Size Wet wipes
These are versatile hygiene products which come in handy when lets say you want to clean a surface before using it or maybe when something spills on you and you want to clean it up. Most wet wipes are inexpensive. I prefer individually packed ones because they help seal moisture very well compared to the ones which are not packed individually as they tend to dry up which beats the purpose at the end.
4. Pocket Size Sanitizer
Besides Covid – 19, there are so many germs around us that could still make us sick. When you have a million and one things to do, you don’t have time to get sick. Carry around a pocket friendly hand sanitizer to kill germs in situations when you can’t access running water and soap easily. Eliminate those germs before they get an opportunity to bring you down with diseases.
Love this Velvet 70% alcohol hand sanitizer. Always remember to check the expiry date and recommended percentage of alcohol.
5. Pocket Size Tissues
Have you ever felt like sneezing out of the blue or got an abrupt running nose? Pocket size tissues are a must. Always have pocket tissue in your bag for those surprise incidences. This Aryuv Pocket Tissues are super soft hence very handy.
6. Pocket Size Hand Lotion
It is very easy to get those dry hands with the constant sanitizing and washing hands you will need some moisturizer for hands to keep them soft and supple. Remember to carry your hand lotion.
Love this Apple & Honey Body Cream. It helps keep my hands moisturised. The smell is heavenly! Had to mention that..;)
7. Gum or mints
Fowl breath is not negotiable. Always have some mints or gum. Fresh breath is not negotiable.
8. Floss
There is nothing as awkward as giving someone a wide toothy smile only to be told that you have some piece of kale or sukumawiki as we call it in my country. I carry tooth floss in my bag to help prevent such awkward moments.
9. Sunglasses
10. Wallet
You definitely need a wallet with all your essentials in the bag. I know with the pandemic most of us prefer cashless but lets not talk about how annoying it is to swipe your card or try mobile banking only to realize there is a system upgrade (this has happened to me so many times and it’s the worst feeling ). It’s good to always have some cash in your wallet to avoid these and other kinds of disappointments.
Also remember to carry your ID and business cards in the wallet. You never know who you could rub shoulders with. A golden business opportunity could present itself anytime. (In case you need contacts to someone who makes perfectly polished business cards do not hesitate to reach us here)
Are you a pack rat in bigger tote bags or prefer smaller shoulder bags for the weekend!?
Do you think I’ve forgotten anything else that you need in your weekend bag? Feel free to share it down below!
You might love this video – 6 ways of styling WHITE SNEAKERS – Look 3
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There is nothing that speaks elegance than Hair Fascinators! Can i get an Amen??
Hair fascinators are accessories which are often worn as an alternative to hats but they can easily communicate ‘frumpy’ if not worn correctly. If you love it stylish when it comes to accessorizing then you might just be interested in this post because I will share some amazing tips on how to rock your fascinators without looking frumpy!
Hair fascinators are like a hidden treasure that needs to be utilised more often. They can be worn to functions such as Cocktail Parties, Christening, Bridal Showers or any other formal function just to mention but afew. The beauty about hair fascinators is that they can stand alone effortlessly.
There are no set rules on how you should rock your hair fascinators but here are a few general guidelines which you may wish to adhere to when choosing to wear your fascinators if you don’t want to look frumpy;
Choose the right shape of fascinator
Before I mention anything else, a fascinator double the size of your head is abit off queen! Get a fascinator which is proportional to your head. You might need to consider the shape of your head while choosing a fascinator. If you have a rounder face, you can opt for tall fascinators. If you have a longer thinner face, on the other hand a disc fascinator would work best.
Choose right color
If your outfit features more than one colour you could match the fascinator to accent colors within it. You could also match it to accessories you will be wearing such as your shoes, belt or bag. This could be done to create an amazing coordination of color and can really blend an outfit together.
If you don’t want to be matchy matchy, you could go for a fascinator in a contrasting color to your dress. For example, a jungle green dress would look beautiful with a contrasting fascinator in red, yellow or orange. Please note the contrasting colour does not have to be bright. Cool colors also do the magic!
How to wear fascinators
Generally, fascinators are usually worn on on the head slightly above the the eye brow. They can be secured on your head with either a clip or band. Choose what works for you depending on the hairstyle which you are wearing.
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In today’s post I’m going to share with you 5 tips to consider when shopping your outfits online. These tips are going to help you make more informed buying decisions the next time you shop online for an en joyful experience.
Hey welcome to Authentically Ritah 🙂
If you take a look at what has been happening in the past few months especially in 2020, you will notice online shopping is on the rise. Besides getting your items delivered at the comfort of your location, there are so many numerous benefits of online shopping. But unfortunately shopping online can be disastrous at times in so many ways.
The tips I’m sharing with you, are tips which I’ve learnt in the process of shopping online and been able to navigate through by making some really good purchases. So without further adieu lets get started:
Measurements
The first thing you need to consider before shopping your outfits online is having your measurements handy to enable you do an effective comparison with the size guide on the online store. There are two easy ways of getting your measurements;
The first one which most of us know is by using a tape measure. Get measurements of key areas such as your shoulders, bust, waist, hips. While at it ensure that the measurements are up to date. You don’t want to use measurements which you took 6 months ago since at times we gain or lose weight.
You can also check size recommendations from bloggers or you tubers who have probably done a try on haul or a friend who has tried an outfit from that store. This information can help you make great decisions.
2. Research about the store
Before you buy any outfit online do some research about the store which you are about to make a purchase from especially if you are unfamiliar about the store. Read reviews or ask for referrals. There are so many scammers who are creating copy cat clothing stores and so many unsuspecting people are buying from them only to find out that they have been conned when it’s too late.
Some of the features which you can check out are the URL. If it doesn’t match content of the store or has some spelling errors, then this should be a red alert. Scammers use similar but misspelled letters to mimic genuine sites. Another element to watch out for is if the URL starts with HTTPS and has a padlock. They both indicate the site is encrypted so you can comfortably use your personal details.
The website copyright should also be updated.
3. Get to know the Return Policy
A good clothing online store should have a reasonable return policy. Return policies are essential when shopping online because they indicate that what the retailer is selling is most likely guaranteed to be exactly what it is.
Get to know their return policies by checking details such as what can be returned, for what reasons and the time frame within which returns are accepted. This can really save you a big deal. The return policies are always indicated clearly on the website.
4. Pay attention to Fabric When buying outfits online, you don’t have the luxury of touching fabrics and getting to feel them. Some fabrics look good online but in reality they fall apart easily.
Avoid fabrics such as polyester. Go for natural fabrics which age well and don’t shrink as fast as synthetic fabrics.
5. Pay attention to your personal style
Always keep your personal style in check. Know your body type and what works for you.
Most retailers win online shoppers by color theory. It is very important to pay attention to which colors work best on your skin tone. This will help you know if the color looks good on just the model and not you.
Also know your body type. If you have unique features it’s better to be cautious about this and practice mindful buying. Like for example i know Im tall. If i see a model rocking an outfit i will check the length of the outfit. A dress might be a maxi on her but a midi on me.
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Great to have you here again. As always, it’s another fashion post!
I started a series on 6 ways of styling white sneakers and in this post, I’m serving you the second look!This time round, I’ll be styling white sneakers with a jumpsuit. The look which I’m showcasing in today’s post is not only chic but very comfy. So if you are the kind that loves style and comfort all at the same time, you are most likely going to love this outfit.
Hey welcome to Authentically Ritah!
If you are here for the first time, this blog is all about Fashion and Style Content. Feel free to check out my Fashion YouTube Channel for videos on fashion tips, try on hauls and much more around this theme. Just in case you missed the first look on 6 Ways of Styling White Sneakers, you can check the post here of cause after reading this one first.
Look 1: Strapy jumpsuit + white sneakers Look 2: Strapy Jumpsuit + White Sneakers
I talk a lot about versatility and cannot stop emphasizing on how white sneakers are one of the most versatile wardrobe pieces which you could ever think of. The sneakers being styled are Umbo ladies sneakers from Shop Zetu. They are very comfy & easy to clean. If you wanna shop them, the link is in the comments box.
I find this second style to be such a chilled out effortless look. Who ever imagined that one can actually wear sneakers with jumpsuits? Not this lady right here but the beauty about fashion is that it’s an art and you can explore! Wide legged jumpsuits work best on plus sized women. This particular jumpsuit has a lot of movement which makes it super comfy. The black and white stripes give it such an interesting look. Whether plain colored, floral or striped you can go for any wide legged Jumpsuits of your choice if you want to achieve this look. I threw in a belt to help define that waist area.
A while ago I shared Life ChangingTips to Consider When Buying Your Jumpsuits as a Plus Sized Woman. In case you missed the post, check it out right here. You can also add layers to your jumpsuit Incase it’s chilly. If going for a blazer, just be sure to pick one which is slightly above your hips for that chic look since the jumpsuit is a wide legged one.
Overally this is such a great look if you like your feet comfy and at the same time want to score high in terms fashion.
I have put links to all the stores where I got the outfits. You can check them out but Incase you miss you can always recreate your look with similar outfits of your choice.
Feel free to tag me on Instagram with your sneakers & jumpsuit look. We can have conversations as you wait for my next week’s blog post.
If you enjoyed the post, don’t forget to give it a thumbs up, comment & share.
Stay tuned for look 3, 4, 5 & 6!
Till next time, Have a lovely day. Cheers!
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It’s the month of February, Valentine’s Day is almost here and love is in the air!
But before the D-day, at some point you may ask yourself what to wear on that special day! The aim of this post is to help you reduce decision fatigue by sharing an idea on what you can consider wearing then!
Oh yes red is the most popular color on Valentine’s Day but why not try something different this 2021!
But first things first! In case you are new here, this is a Fashion Blog where you can expect Fashion tips, try on Hauls and basically style inspiration. You can also expect a post from me every week.
Sometimes less is more. I’m I correct?
Like I’ve always said, you can never go wrong with the little black dress! Even though i have a couple of “little black dresses”,my eyes keep landing on this specific one over and over. It’s simple yet elegant and for that reason alone, I think it can make such a cute date night outfit on 14th February! Of cause don’t forget to accessorize!
What do you think about this look? Feel free to share your thoughts and ideas in the comment box down below. Remember nobody has a monopoly of ideas when it comes to fashion. We all learn from each other.
I purchased the dress a while ago and it has continued being my go to “little black dress” The dress is incredibly comfortable and feels soft to the touch. I’m rocking it in a size 16.
Have you watched my Fashion YouTube Videos?
Enjoy you’re Valentine’s Day and remember to dress comfy and cute.
Outfit Detail:
Dress – Beauty Boutique, Reinsurance Plaza Shoes – Heal to Toe Kenya
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Today I’m starting a series on “6 ways of styling white sneakers”
One of the reasons why white sneakers are considered versatile is the ability to pull different looks with them. You can style them with so many different outfits for that effortless chic look.
The most obvious way to rock sneakers is with athleisure outfits but with a little tweaks here and there, you can rock them in numerous casual looks as well hence the inspiration behind this series.
The white sneakers which I’m going to style are Umbo Ladies Sneakers from Shop Zetu. What i love about these sneakers, is the fact that they are super comfy. The shoes are currently in stock so if you’d like to nab them in your size, I will put a link to the store in the comment box.
I find white sneakers to generally be perfect for days when you are traveling, have a lot of walking to do but still wanna pull a cute casual look.
To kick it off I’m starting by styling the white sneakers with a fancy dress.
Fashion Tip : It is very important to evaluate the fitting of the sneakers before buying them by first putting them on with the socks which you normally would wear them with then trying to walk around. This helps reveal discomfort if any. A good sneaker should feel secure around the heel without slippage.
The fancy dress has a decent amount of stretch which is very key when it comes to comfort for plus sized women. Love the white stripes going on. I feel the yellow adds some edge to the overall look. This is a look which you don’t have to spend a lot to achieve.
I find this look to be simple yet stylish. The most amazing thing about it is the fact that its super comfy. . You can recreate this look with any fancy dress which you already have. The goal is being frugal by not spending too much on shopping every now and then . The fancy dress is a find from Beauty Boutique. Not sure if they still have it in store since I bought it a while ago.
If you however want some options of where to get fancy dresses you can visit BelaBstyles or Lyl Fashions. The good thing about these stores is that they keep restocking so you can always find if not similar something even better.
Stay tuned for look 2,3,4,5 & 6. I post every Wednesdays. Consider subscribing for instant notifications once i upload.
Thanks alot for stopping by! Have a lovely day and remember to wear comfy outfits. Until next post.
The year is still young and I’m sure there is someone out there whose resolution is to start their own Fashion YouTube channel this 2021!
If this resonates with you, you don’t have to go through the extreme learning curve. You can actually learn from someone’s mistakes and that’s why in this blog post, I’m going to share with you some mistakes which you need to avoid when starting your own Fashion YouTube channel.
Heeey and welcome to Authentically Ritah!This is a Blog which is dedicated to sharing fashion tips, try on hauls, style inspo and much much more around this theme. You can checkout my latest post and if you like the content, don’t forget to subscribe to this blog! Consider connecting with me on Instagram for daily fashion conversations as you wait for the next weekly posts. I post every Wednesdays!
It’s been roughly 3 to 4 months since i launched my Fashion YouTube Channel and I’m actually on my 21st video!
It feels so unbelievable because i remember wanting to start this but never starting because of what I’d call baseless excuses! For so many weeks starting a Fashion YouTube Channel was something I really wanted and it was so demotivating not starting it week after week.
Since starting that Fashion YouTube Channel, Ive made my own mistakes here and there! These mistakes have costed me to some extent and i feel like its good to share with you so that you minimize your learning curve just in case you are making the same mistakes.
So without further adieu lets get started, here are Fashion YouTube mistakes which you need avoid when starting out your Fashion Channel:
1. Procrastination
How long have you wanted to start that Fashion YouTube Channel?
If you are the way i was a few months ago, then most likely you are that one person who is being crippled by procrastinating !
A while ago I used to say if I buy new outfits, look a certain way, get perfect lighting and a fancy backdrop, then I’ll be able to start my Fashion YouTube Channel! But several weeks later, I have been shooting from the bedroom with no fancy backdrop and using nothing but natural lighting from the window. 80% of the outfits which I’ve styled on my channel have been rotated in my closet for the last few months and some even years!
You just need to punch fear and perfection as Sean Cannell from Think Media on YouTube says and just press start! You will only learn once you start. The reason I’ve started with this point is because if i don’t start with it then the other points which I’m going to share won’t make that much sense!
Before i forget, I’m starting a Facebook group called YouTube Network where new you tubers or anybody aspiring to start one, can join and collaboratively work together to support each other. If interested join us right here.
2. Lack of consistency
The next mistake which you need to avoid is lack of consistency!How would you feel when you keep seeing an advert about this new boutique in town but anytime you go there, it’s always closed!
Vanessa Lau, amongst other successful you tubers, advocates on being consistent in uploading YouTube videos if at all you want it to grow. Clearly this has been tried and tested because she says once she started uploading consistently, she has grown very fast within a short span of time and this is evident on her channel. I will put a link to her channel if at all you want to check her out.
Taking a look at my own experience, when starting out my Fashion YouTube Channel, I was not that consistent it affected me negatively because I was stagnant at some point. I never seemed to get views and subscribers and thinking of it critically, It won’t make sense if you post videos so scantily! Your subscribers will have no reason to subscribe and even you as a YouTuber will loose the momentum of creating content. There is something special about being consistent in life. You always want to be better!
I’m currently working on uploading a video every week on my channel and I can say at least i’m getting more views and subscribers compared to when I was inconsistent! The views might not be that much yet but there is growth which is what counts in my opinion. So if you are starting out, just remember to focus more on consistency.
3. Concentrating too much on views
Mistake number 3 is concentrating too much on views!
When you are starting out, you might be tempted to concentrate on views and this can easily make you forget creating content especially if your previous video didn’t get lots of views.
Yes views are absolutely important but as you start your key focus should be on creating and constantly improving your content. Views will always come after you’ve created valuable content. I’ve seen some videos picking up immediately and some a month or even two later. Check out the analytics but don’t be wrapped up in them like crazy. At the bottom of it all enjoy the process.
I cannot end this before thanking you for supporting this blog this far! I hope this blog post has inspired you to start that YouTube channel! Wish you nothing but success!
Until next time have a lovely day! Bye
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Second hand shopping can be fun but frustrating at the same time! I know this because the struggle has been my reality in the past. I actually used to hate thrifting because besides being so cumbersome, I just seemed not to find good stuff.
Oh , incase you’re wondering secondhand outfits can also be refereed to as preloved outfits or thrifted outfits.
With time however, I’ve learnt few tricks and anytime I buy something which has been preloved, I get so many compliments. Some of my friends don’t even believe that what I’ve bought is secondhand.
This time round we are talking about how to thrift shop your outfits like a pro!
Heeeeey, glad to bring you another Fashion Blog! You can always expect a weekly Blog post from me every Wednesday.
Incase you are new, this Blog is all about Fashion & Style. Feel free to check out my Youtube Channel right here for more content. You can always connect with me on Instagram for daily Fashion Conversations as you wait for my next post. If you are a returning subsciber on the other hand, thanks alot for the massive support. I really appreciate it!
The tips I’m going to share with you will make your secondhand shopping easier. Lets face it..we are humans and have the tendency to forget so you can actually bookmark this blog post for later as your ULTIMATE THRIFT SHOPPING GUIDE. You can always go through it before you visit a thrift store.
Without further ado,here are the tips I use when buying secondhand outfits:
1. Being Open minded
Be open minded while shopping second hand! Some pieces can look a million dollar with a few tweaks here & there.
Sometimes we miss out on great pieces because we are not open minded. You might be surprised if you adjusted few elements on that secondhand outfit for example changing buttons, removing the inner lace and much more.
2. Time
Never go for second hand shopping when you are in a hurry expecting to get everything instantly. You will end up being frustrated. This is an activity which requires enough time if you are to benefit from it! At times you may even be required to go through several outfits for you to get something tangible.
3. Try everything on
Learn to literally try everything on even if it’s your size! This way you get a feel of how the outfit looks on you exactly. Sometimes an outfit on display may may not match your expectations once you try it on and fittings can be different too!
4. Inspect the garment
Ever bought an outfit thinking it’s a specific color then once you reach home you find the color is totally different? Or ever bought an outfit then the next day you notice it has so many holes and stains which you didn’t see while buying? Inspect for wear and tear that you know you might not want to put effort in repair.
Additionally, shop where there is enough light. With this you are able to see most detail on the outfit you’re buying.
5. Major Restocking
Most secondhand store replenish their stock almost daily but there is a day when they do a major restock.
If you really want to make the most out of your secondhand shopping, the best time to shop is after a major delivery hits the store. With this you get to pick the best pieces. You can inquire about the major restocking dates from those working in the store.
6. Wear what you can easily remove
When going for secondhand shopping you are basically going to spend most of the time trying on new different outfits. Always make your life easier by wearing something which you can easily remove and wear again as you try new stuff or something which you can easily try other outfits over. This means no jumpsuits or Lacey shoes. I find tights, a t-shirt and slip on sandles to be easier.
That’s all for today. Just incase you have more tips, feel free to share them down below. We can still learn from each other.
7. Shop with a list
Shopping with a list is usually more successful than heading out with none at all. Before going out for that secondhand outfit, always analyse your wardrobe and find out what is missing. This way you just don’t settle on the first deal that comes your way. A shopping list actually makes you enjoy a guilt free purposeful shopping.
Watch video version of this post on my YOUTUBE Channel!
There you go those are my secrets. Give this video a thumbs up if you learnt something new and don’t hesitate to share your tips. We can all learn from each other.
In case you missed my previous blog post, I shared 4 top benefits of shopping secondhand Outfits. You can check out the video below:
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You can call them pre loved or thrifted outfits! They all mean second hand.
There are so many benefits of buying second hand outfits but today i’m going to share with you only 4. These reasons will help you open up your mind to the idea of second hand shopping just incase you’ve not!If you are already shopping secondhand, it will help you embrace the concept even more!
Incase you are new to this blog hey and welcome. Here it’s all about Fashion and Style! I post weekly and in between posts, you can always connect with me on instagram for daily fashion conversations. Feel free to checkout my youtube channel too for more Fashion content.
So what are these 4 top benefits of buying second hand clothes???
Disclaimer: Before you get to know the benefits be careful it might even make you rush to the nearest thrift store😜
How do you go about shopping secondhand outfits?
Do you buy everything secondhand? Are there specific pieces which you buy secondhand? I personally do it 50/50. Half of my closet has brand new and the other half is thrifted. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment box below this post!
Lets dig right in:
Easier on your wallet
I’ve started with the most obvious of them all! I think the top reason most of the people shop second hand clothes is because they get to save some moola. Let’s agree, our budgets can be tight at times!
Ever wondered how much that second hand designer dress would cost when brand new? Second hand shopping is totally affordable especially if you love those high end pieces!
10$ for a dress and 5$ for a top, ain’t that just amazing! Explore the second hand stores in your area to see who has the best deals.
2. Unique pieces
It’s very unlikely to find someone with what you buy second hand!
Trends come and go but at times when a trend becomes a favorite to many, you are likely to see almost everyone wearing it!If you are the kind that hates entering a room and finding about 10 people wearing the same exact outfit as yours, then second hand clothing wont disappoint you.
3. You can easily win a “Jack Pot”
The most exciting part of shopping second hand, is that you just never know what you will find in the store! There are times you get stuff which are very gently used and still have tags on them.
There is a time i found a brand new dress which seemed like someone just wore it once for only $5.
There are lots of hidden goodies just waiting to be found.
4. Last longer
Second hand clothes last longer! Wait let me explain it!
Pre loved outfit have already been used and washed a couple if not a dozen times. That means they have already undergone all the possible shrinkages and fading if any.
On the flip side, how many times have you purchased a brand new which after just one washing was completely ruined? With second hand what you see is most likely what you will get
I’ve compiled some awesome SECONDHAND FINDS in this video + STORES where I got them:
If you are about achieving more with less then this post is yours! Today I’m going to show you different styling possibilities with just one little black dress. I’m going to style it in 5 different ways by just making afew significant adjustments here and there.
Besides being elegant, the little black dress is one versatile wardrobe basic which can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
You can never go wrong with the little black dress!
If you are new to this blog, heey. You can expect one blog post every week. Consider subscribing right here so that you don’t miss on any post. Feel free to also checkout my YouTube Channel for more fashion content.
The little black dress which I’m going to style today is a double layered bodycon dress from Vivo woman. Please note that you are not limited to a body con dress. Work with what you have. The fact that it’s double layered makes it not a see through unlike most bodycon dresses. The fabric stretch is so amazing making it super comfy. For me comfort is key. Im wearing a size L which feels perfect for me as a size 16 UK. I’ve actually worn it for over 3 years. Clearly the quality is amazing because the rounds which it has done on my body are countless.
Little Black Dress (LBD)
Look 1: white sneakers
The first way in which i’d dress the LBD is by going for sneakers. I love my sneakers white. I feel like white sneakers are slowly becoming a wardrobe staple for me because of the fact that you can also style them with so many outfits.
This is a dressed down look. I would wear over the weekend when running errands but still want to look stylish and above all comfortable.
Look 2: Scarf + Belt
The second way in which i’d rock that little black dress is by throwing over a scarf and securing it with a belt. Besides being an adorable accessory, a belt has the ability to define your waist area.
This is a very elegant look in my opinion. You don’t have to use an animal printed scarf. You can use any sheer scarf of your choice.
Did some nude sandles. If you can rock 6 inched good for you. The max I can do is 3 inches.
Quick tip – When choosing what belt to rock, this will depend on the height between yor bust and waist area. If the space is small then you need to go for slimmer belts but on the other hand if the space is more,you can work with wider belts.
Look 3: Boots + a Butterfly Top
The third look I would pull with the little black dress with boots.
In this case I’m wearing midi boots. Got them from Qash Kali like 3 years ago. The orange butterfly top has added a pop of color. This is a look i’d pull when transitioning from the cold to warm weather when you don’t want something too heavy and at the same time too light.
Look 4: Adding Kimono
Another way I’d rock the little black dress is by throwing in a kimono. I love kimonos. I would wear this all the time. It’s so easy. You can do a floral one, a lacey one, a textured one. It just depends on your taste.
Look 5: Fancy Top
The other way to style the little black dress is to go for a fancy top. In this case I went for this jungle green fancy top which is kind of a high low. Got it from Jade collections last year i think. I feel like it introduces some edge to the overall look.
Clearly there is a reason as to why the little black dress is considered a wardrobe basic. Let me know which was your favorite outfit.There are so many ways of styling it. Please remember you are not limited to a bodycon dress. I just worked with what I had. Work with what you have & feel free to tag me your little black dress look on INSTAGRAM.
Thanks for stopping by and see you next time. Lovely day!
To me a New Year feels like an New Opportunity to improve on myself. I see it as chance to reflect on the past and adjust accordingly.We all collect lessons as we go through different life experiences.
I’m so excited because on my very first blog in 2021, i get to share with you some really valuable fashion lessons which I’ve learnt over years. These are lessons which have generally improved the quality of my life.
The essence of sharing this is because I feel someone might learn if not all at least one or two things. So without further adieu let’s dive right in:
Fashion Lesson 1: You don’t have to invest in every fashion trend
A while ago, I’m the kind who used to invest in almost every trend that popped up. As long as i could afford it i got it. Lol,,how ridiculous was that!
You don’t need to invest in all fashion trends. By this i don’t mean that you must avoid all trends completely. Yes, fashion evolves and you are likely to look frumpy if you don’t pay attention. Check out fashion trends but don’t let them dictate your personal style in any way whatsoever. No! its never that serious! Invest only in what works for your body type.
Fashion Lesson 2: De cluttering is Key
This has been a major shift for me. I’m the kind of person who has been de cluttering my closet in such a shallow way. Thanks to Marie Kondo, an organisation expert from whom i’ve learnt some really awesome tips on de cluttering and ever since the quality of my life has greatly improved, trust you me!
Did you know that a cluttered closet actually places a lot of visual stress on your mind subconsciously? Through an effective closet de cluttering, not only I’m i able to trace my items easily, but I’m also able to reduce visual stress in my closet because i get to keep only what i truly love.
You can check out a video which i did a while ago on 4 easy steps of de cluttering right here.
Fashion Lesson 3: Comfort is King
When i was in my early twenties, I was the kind that sacrificed comfort for style. I would go to the extent of rocking short tight dresses that kept pulling up when walking to skinny jeans which I could hardly enjoy a square meal in without discomfort!
Never ever sacrifice your comfort for style. If those clothes aren’t comfortable, your body language will tell whether you like it or not.
A quick tip for you when shopping for your outfits, is fit them and walk around with them just to double check comfort. You can still look really good and embrace comfort at the same time.
Fashion Lesson 4: Investing in versatile pieces
Over the years, I’ve also learnt the importance of investing in true classic wardrobe pieces which can be styled with different outfits.
Versatility is all about getting more with less. For example investing in pieces such as denim whether blue or black gives you room for endless styling possibilities. Leather Jackets, the little black dress and white tees are other classic wardrobe pieces with which you can get more for less.
Feel free to check out a video where i styled one blue jeans in 5 different looks right here.
Fashion Lesson 5:Investing in quality
I’ve learnt to practice mindful buying. Cheap is always expensive. I know quality means different for different people. By quality here I mean pieces which are made while paying attention to details.
I’m no longer looking for the very cheapest deals in the market because I learnt the hard way that most compromise on quality. Instead of buying three outfits which are very cheap because quality has been compromised, i’d rather save and buy one piece which has been stitched to perfection with good quality material. Actually, i’d rather have afew quality pieces than a wardrobe full of junk outfits. Value for money here is the focus in other words.
Fashion Lesson 6:Accessories are Powerful
I’ve learned to play around with accessories because i noticed they are so powerful when it comes to elevating your look. Accessories could be scarfs, chains, bangles etc If you put a number of people wearing a basic outfit in a room the only person who has accessorized well, is the one who will stand out. Have fun with those accessories and thank me later.
I did a video of my favorite all time fashion accessories. I will put a link in the description box down below just incase you want to have a glimpse at them.
Fashion Lesson 7: You don’t have to show too much skin
When I was a little big younger I used to think showing too much skin was stylish n cool. But I’ve learnt this is actually not classy. A woman’s beauty shows when she is showing just alittle skin. There is a thin line between tasty & trashy.
Choose one part to show skin and don’t overdo it. Like for example if you show some skin on the upper part of your body, go slow on the lower part and vice versa.
VIDEO VERSION OF THIS POST
Final Thoughts!
I hope you enjoyed this video. If you have any fashion lessons that you’ve learnt so far, feel free to share below. See you in my next weekly post.
The count down to 2021 has begun! What an eventful year this has been! It started with locusts invading our crops then before we knew it Covid happened! We have all been affected negatively in one way or another at some point. If I could write about 2020, i’d finish after three decades! I kid you not!
This year hasn’t been easy but we could flip things alittle bit and look for some positivity as we end it. What were your highlight of the year?
Highlight of the year..
One of my biggest highlights of the year was when I launched my Fashion Blog on 23rd June, 2020. Can’t believe it’s already 6 months since I joined the blogging world! Feels like it’s just the other day when I decided to take a leap of faith and pursue my passion. How time flies!
Honestly, I never imagined I’d get all the love I’ve received so far! I’m so humbled. Whether directly or indirectly trust you me it counts and I totally appreciate your massive support.
I used to say I will start a Fashion Blog since the longest time I can remember. See how procrastination can really cripple you! Ofcause I’ve faced my own share of challenges here and there along this journey but I cannot ignore the fact that pursuing this passion has opened amazing opportunities for me. Summing it up in a nutshell,this is so fulfilling to me and it feels like I’ve tapped into my purpose.
Besides enjoying making Fashion and Style content, the essence of this blog is to positively contribute to the quality of your life. You have no idea how my heart melts when I get comments and messages that the fashion tips help you.
Taking a look back, I’ve not only created some really amazing networks in this journey but I’ve also learnt alot from the fashion gurus! I’m learning everyday as I share content with you.
As 2020 comes to an end, I thought of sharing some of my favorite outfits on the blog so far!
Another major highlight in 2020 was starting a youtube channel. For sure I didn’t see this coming. I knew I wanted to start a Fashion Blog way back but YOUTUBE was in those wildest dreams. I used to imagine it was meant for other people!
Clearly, you can be amazingly surprised when you push yourself out of your comfort zone. I pushed myself and I keep shocking myself every now and then.
I know I’m not yet there but I can confidently state that I’m not where I used to be 2 months ago when I started it.
So how have you pushed yourself out of your comfort zone in 2020?
As I wind up this blog post, let me encourage someone out there; you might have that dream which you want to pursue but you keep pushing it under the carpet probably because of self limiting thoughts.
Siz/Bro it’s a high time you punched fear and perfection in the face and pursued what you truly love. There is never a right time. Just start with what you have! You will learn along the way! Be sure to keeping reducing your learning curve by learning from people who have succeeded in what you want to do. While on the same breath, learn but don’t copy. Be the authentic you because there is no competition with authenticity.
Of cause you will meet negative people at some point. They never miss! Just learn to raise above negativity! As long as you have clarity in your vision, keep going!
Looking forward to creating more Fashion and Style Content just for you. Feel free to let me know what kind of topics you’d like to see on this Blog or rather where you feel I need to improve. As long as I resonate with it, you can always count on me. My joy is serving all your Fashion needs wholesomely.
Wish you a fabulous 2021. May God flood your pathway with nothing but blessings!…and if you want to start that fashion blog or any blog of your choice, please stop procrastination.
This calls for a glass of wine🍷!
Cheers to growth & prosperity!
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I believe we all love to look awesome but as much as the fashion world is flooded with so many trends, unfortunately most of them do fade!Today lets take a look at the Monochromatic Fashion. This is a trend which you most probably have rocked at some point.
But first things first;
What is a monochromatic outfit?
The word “monochrome” is actually a combination of two words. Mono means single. Chromatic on the other side means color. So simply said, a monochromatic outfit is one which consists of one color which dominates your overall look.
Model rocking a black monochromatic outfit
Black silver studded beret hat
Lets take a look at some of the benefits which you can reap from wearing a Monochromatic Outfit:
1. It’s Timeless
This trend has stood the test of time and will always remain ageless. You can never go wrong with this one. When you are not sure of what to wear, go monochrome. It’s here to stay not this year not next year or even the years afterwards.
2. It’s effortless
You don’t really have to overthink when putting together a monochromatic outfit. Since you are going for one dominating color, you save yourself the hussle of looking for complementing colors. It actually reduces decision fatigue! As long as you master afew basics, you are good to go!
3. Gives you a refined look
Going monochrome actually makes you look simple but not boring. It’s a distinctive way of dressing that makes you look smart, elegant, mature and sophisticated.
4. Works with any color
The joy of going monochromatic is that it works with practically any color. You can actually play with a color of your choice be it pink, purple, green, red…you name it.
The thing is going for colors which go well with your skin tone. You don’t want colors which wash out your face or make you look pasty.
Final Thoughts
I hope this post has helped you understand what a monochromatic outfit is…just incase you didn’t. Monochromatic outfits don’t have to be boring. In my next post i will be showing you HOW TO ELEVATE A MONOCHROMATIC OUTFIT FROM BASIC TO FUN.
On the flip side, fashion trends do come and go. It’s hence wise to invest in trends which are timeless. The Monochromatic Trend is one of a kind. You can consider experimenting and having fun with it. Find pieces which flatter your skin tone, figure and be sure to keep it elegant!
Feel free to tag me your monochromatic looks on Instagram and let’s keep the conversation going on as you wait for my next post.
If you want more inspiration on putting together a monochromatic outfit you can consider checking out a monochromatic board which i created on pintrest…just for you.
Watch this post on Youtube;
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Whether you like it cropped or not, jeans are one of the most versatile pieces of clothes which can elevate your look from fab to fabulous. In case this is your first time here, Authentically Ritah is a Style and Fashion Blog . You can consider subscribing right here to get instant notifications once i upload a blog post.
Today I’m going to share with you what no one tells you about jeans! Grab a cup of tea or what it is that you like and lets do this!
I don’t know about you but if I invest my money anywhere, i want to get value back. Whether its 2$ or 2000$, i want value for my money. My closet is not an exception either. If you want jeans which you’ve invested with your hard earned money to last you longer, you need to take good care of them.
Here are 5 closet mistakes that destroy your jeans:-
Jeans Mistake 1: Not pre washing your jeans in vinegar
Do you soak you jeans in vinegar when you first buy them?
It is always a good idea when you first buy your jeans, to pre wash them in vinegar. This step is very crucial because it helps prevent the dye from running off by locking in the color. What you need to do is simply add a cup of white vinegar into cold water then soak your jeans for one hour. Vinegar contains a mild acid called acetic acid which helps to lock in the dye hence preventing further bleeding.
If you find out that your jeans are still loosing color after doing this, you can give them an overnight vinegar soak. The beauty about this step is that white vinegar is easily available in your local store.
Jeans Mistake 2 : Not washing your jeans inside out
Washing your jeans without turning them inside out, directly exposes them to detergents and a lot of friction which makes the color fade so fast. Always ensure that you wash your denim inside out to prevent the color from fading.
Jeans Mistake 3: Washing your jeans too often
You don’t have to wash your jeans too often. Don’t get it twisted! This doesn’t mean that you don’t have to wash your jeans completely. The concept is if you wash your jeans too frequently, you wriggle them alot which causes unnecessary wear and tear.
You can probably consider washing your jeans after 3 to 4 wears but again this is very dependent on the kind of activities which you engage in. Some activities can expose you to a lot of dust and mud. Wash your jeans following the manufacturers special instructions.
Air drying, steaming your jeans, spritzing them with diluted vinegar or Spot cleaning stains where you use water and a piece of rug to clean your jeans are great alternatives to cleaning your jeans with water. The good thing about vinegar is that it helps neutralize any bacteria and it’s smell goes away so easily.
Jeans Mistake 4 : Hanging your jeans rather than folding them
Apparently, storage is another very important step if you want your jeans to last longer. Hanging your jeans actually destroys their elastin. When it comes to storage, you can consider folding your jeans instead of hanging them to help maintain their structure.
Jeans Mistake 5 : Washing your jeans in hot water
Heat destroys the elastin in your jeans, making them stretch out faster hence loosing shape. Using hot water is very common among st people who use washing machines with the wrong settings. Taking time to learn your machines specific settings is never a bad idea. Ensure that you use cold or lukewarm water and again remember to use mild detergents if you want your jeans to last longer.
Watch this post on YOUTUBE
Final thoughts
Jeans may seem like a very tough fabric but it actually need delicate care if you want them to serve you longer which in turn means getting value for your money. Incase you know any other hacks that help jeans last longer, i would be so humbled if you shared your thoughts in the comment box down below!
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Playing around with bright colors is one of the great things you can do when it comes to dressing. Whether it’s color blocking or going for complementing colors you can brighten you overall look with the simplest of outfits without necessarily breaking the bank. One thing I enjoy doing, is pulling out an outfit effortlessly.
There are so many interesting combinations that can arise from playing around with colors to make you unique. You can also add a pop of color by going for bright accessories and let the colors do the magic. The choice is absolutely upon you.
Today I’m rocking this crop top in tropical colors combined with a double layered mastard skirt. The combination creates such an interesting color palette for that edgy look. Besides that the Comfort is so amazing.
What are your favorite color combinations? Do you prefer color blocking or going for complementing colors?
Today’s post is a little bit different. We are approaching Valentines Day clearly and I thought why not share The Best Gift Ideas For Her! These are gifts you can give her not only during Valentine’s Day but also on her special days such as graduation, birthday, engagement, wedding, anniversary, promotion and basically any milestone which she achieves. The list is endless.
Video version of 15 Gift Ideas for Her
These gifts are geared to any woman in your life. This could be your daughter, sister, cousin, mum, wife, friend, colleague or even grandma..oh yes grandma! I know different people have varied budgets hence the gifts I’m sharing are a mixture of moderately priced, inexpensive and a little over the top ones in case you want to splurge on her.
I will put LINKS to the stores where applicable for ease of access just in case you wanna shop. Without further adieu lets dive into this:
Gift Idea 1: Spa Treatments
There is nothing more luxurious than a visit to the spa especially during that special day. Spa treatments are a luxury which many women occasionally love to indulge in. It’s such a great way to relax and distress.
Spa dreaming has a large collection with over 100 relaxing spa experiences in Nairobi to choose from! Their different packages include massages, manicure, pedicure, facials, body scrubs/polishes, body wraps and pre/post natal massages. You additionally get access to facilities such as swimming pools, steam rooms, sauna, Jacuzzi . There is even accommodation for specific Spa-cation Packages.
Prices range from 40$ to over 150$. I’ve actually been a beneficiary of their services courtesy of my friends Yvonne and Rebbeca (In case you are reading this thanks loves once again). I can hence vouch for Spa Dreaming.
Gift Idea 2: DIY Home Pampering Kits
You can also opt to bring the Spa home for her by getting a DIY Home Spa Kit. Sometimes after the exhaustion of a long day when she doesn’t have time to recharge from a Spa this kinds of kits give a little relaxation and TLC.
I’ve seen HomeSpaKe with really lovely hampers containing bath salts, body scrubs, bath bombs, cleansing soaps, lip scrubs and lip balms. The beauty about this store is that their products don’t have artificial additives or preservatives and it’s made in Kenya with nothing but lots of love.
Gift Idea 3: Exquisitely Crafted Jewellery
If she loves her jewellery, instead of just buying mass produced very common pieces, take it a notch higher on that special day by getting her some exquisitely crafted jewellery which is different from everyone else’s. Look for jewelers who diligently stock unique pieces. If they can customize that’s a PLUS. You can consider going for jewellery sets with several pieces. Sets are versatile because the pieces can be worn separately or together for that elegant look.
I’ve heard good reviews about Little Jewelers and Purpink. I will put a link to these stores but you can still explore various other jewelers and feel free to share recommendations in the comment box below this post.
Gift Idea 4: Jewellery Organiserwith Mirror
You can get her somewhere chic to organize her sentimental jewelry pieces. There is this lovely jewellery Organizer with a mirror at Purpink which features compartments with rings and watch divider sections. It’s actually a secure one and can be locked for extra security. An added bonus is that it doubles as home decor.
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Gift Idea 5: Personalized Jewelry Travel Case
If she travels frequently, you can also get her a personalized jewellery travel case. You want to save her from the hussle of traveling and finding her jewellery scattered all over as if there was a house party in her suit case lol. I’ve linked a cute piece from Purpink. You can actually personalize it by writing her name on it.
Gift Idea 6: Premium Quality Hair Extensions
You can spoil her with hair extensions too. At times a woman’s hair needs to get a break from constant combing hence hair extensions are the best option. You can opt to splurge by getting her Luscious Hair Extensions for that effortless glamour. The beauty about good quality hair extensions is that they last for over 5 years. Nywele Creative has the finest virgin hair extensions in town. They also customize the hair extensions into amazing wigs.
Gift Idea 7 :Hair Equipment and Luxurious Hair Care Products
If she already has good quality hair extensions, you can get her a hair tool or hair tools! This could be a curling iron, flat iron or drier amongst others. LilyHairline – International has world class user friendly hair equipment which she can comfortably use at home.
Additionally you can throw in amazing hair care products to help maintain the hair extensions and keep them bouncy and fresh. Nywele Creative again has great hair extension care products i.e hair leave in treatment, shampoos, argan oil etc
Gift Idea 8: Good Quality Makeup
If your girl loves makeup, you can get her a quality eyeshadow pallets, finishing spray or makeup brushes/sponges. Foundation is the only tricky thing to buy since you need to know her exact shade. You can alternatively opt to get her a makeup gift voucher. Mac Stores has gift vouchers from 2,500 onwards. Joana K Cosmetics has really good make up too.
Gift Idea 9: Makeup organizer
If you feel like she has enough makeup already, you can get her a house for her lipsticks, mascaras, eye shadows and foundation amongst others. Let her display her makeup in style. There is this lovely 16 compartment versatile make-up organiser at the Vituzote Website. Again if your budget is tight you can check Purpink for cheaper options. Like I said the links will be below this post.
Gift Idea 10: A classy bag
Women need different bags for different occasions. Whether it’s that weekend bag where she can throw in everything and go for that stay cation or an executive bag to carry her laptop to that business meeting, you can treat her with not only a stylish but classy bag and you will be remebered forever lol. Just get to know which type of bag she needs the most.
I know there are so many stores out there but Yallo, a Kenyan Brand has some really amazing statement pieces. If you are looking for genuine leather, they pride themselves with this! The beauty about investing in quality is that it lasts long and you don’t have to keep replacing which is value for money if you look at it from a wider perspective.
Gift Idea 11: Designer Sun Glasses
This is also a very thoughtful gift. You can choose to get her designer sunglasses with UV protection.There are so many sunglasses out there but sadly most don’t have protection.
Spoil her and take it further this festive season by getting ones with UV Protection. It’s such a perfect accessory and also helps keep off harmful sun rays which doubles up as an anti aging piece. You can check Optica’s Sun Glasses Section for variety.
Gift Idea 12 :Update her shoe game
Shoes are timeless. A great pair of shoes as a gift will never be out of place. Shoes have the ability to transform a woman’s looks even if she’s wearing the simplest outfit. You just simply need to change the shoes to transform the language of an outfit.
If you are absolutely sure about her size and color buy her directly but just in case you want to give her freedom to choose herself, get her a shoe gift voucher. Backyard shoes has gift vouchers plus I’ve seen a great collection in this store.
Gift Idea 13: Fragrances
I’m yet to know a woman who doesn’t love smelling good. Getting her good perfume is also another awesome gift idea.If you want to sludge, you can go for the designer perfumes. In case your budget is tight, you can consider Bath & Body Works. It has yummy fragrances as well. You can shop for fragrances at His&Hers Scents.
Gift Idea 14: HandBag Stand
Let your loved one manage her wardrobe by getting her an aesthetically easy to set up handbag stand. This will help her keep her bags and even hats neatly organized. The beauty about this gift is that it will save space too. You can find lovely stands at jumia or better still get one customized if you have a good carpenter. I’ve seen amazing ones displayed by carpenters along jogoo road and lenana, Ngong road.
Gift Idea 15: Clothes shopping voucher
You can elevate her wardrobe by getting her a Clothes Shopping Voucher. A voucher works best in these kinds of gifts. She gets to personally visit the store and select whatever outfit she wants in the correct color and size. Vivo Woman has gift vouchers which can be delivered online and are redeemable at any of their stores. Aint that convenient? Share your thoughts below this post.
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Good quality make up : Joanna K Cosmetics & Mac Stores – For this there is no specific link. You can visit any of their branches and ask for a gift voucher. They have branches at Hilton, Garden city, The Junction and The Hub amongst others
Vacation fashion is all about effortless style. The ability to easily wear an outfit within a moments notice and still look good is very key. Do you agree with this? While on a vacation all you want is nothing fussy in terms of fashion.
Light airy outfits which you can easily put on are essentials when going for a vacation to a warm place. Fashion trends will always come and go but the beauty about style is that you can play around with fabrics to your liking. All you need is few versatile pieces and the styling possibilities will be endless.
I was recently privileged to go for a heavenly vacation at the North coast. It was so luxurious and was all I needed to cool off my mind from the hectic Nairobi life. Alittle walk down memory lane; I was fortunate enough to stay at the Pride Inn Paradise, Shanzu. The service at this resort exceeded my expectations for sure. The Swahili decor in the rooms was so breathtaking. The moment you get a glimpse at of the panoramic view of the hotel, you will instantly get into vacation mode.
One fun fact about this hotel is that it is the largest aqua safari themed water park resort in the Coastal region of Kenya. You actually get to meet the big five! It’s equiped with the multi level slippery slides, water canons, climbing frames and a giant 500 litres bucket of water which empties after every few minutes over the guests below it in a big FUN SPLASH. This makes it such a perfect family vacation resort. Incase you are looking for a holiday destination I can tell you for free, with this resort, you will be over the moon the entire vacation time.
Anyway, I digress..back to Style and Fashion. I happened to rock cropped leggings in two different ways and thought why not share with you the looks. Probably this will give some style inspiration to someone out there. Leggings are cozy and comfy when wearing around the house but they can also form part of a cute vacation outfit.
Tip when buying cropped leggings: Opt for the slip free ones with a secure band to keep them in place.
When talking about versatility, leggings have the ability to be versatile. They have practically weathered the storm and are here to stay. The fact that they are lighter than jeggings makes them perfect for warm weather conditions. The cropped types are even better. So lets get into the two styles. Shall we? Links to the stores where i got the outfits will be put at the end of this post.
Style 1: Kaftan+ cropped leggings
For the first look, i rocked this crystal chiffon kaftan in blue print. Kaftans of any type are really flattering on plus sized body frames. They are such perfect pieces while on a vacation at the Coast. Not to mention, they are super light and comfortable to wear.
Whenever I’m going to a warm place they are one of my go to pieces. But besides vacays, kaftans make perfect casual outfits especially if you are breaking from the ordinary jeans.
This cute straw hat is a perfect vacay accessory. Not to forget these strappy sandals too. Straw hats not only add a chic element but protect you from the harmful sun rays. Just ensure you go for wide beamed types to reap maximum protection. For size details this particular hat is 57 cm.
Style 2: Green sheer long top+ cropped leggings
For my second look, i went for this green sheer long top. Like i said when i visit warm places, easy garments which i can quickly style are my go to. This green sheer top which was a find from BelaBstyles helped me achieve exactly that. It’s the kind of outfit which you can put on a moments notice and to crown it all its breathable hence perfect for the high coastal temperatures.
I love the vibrant green color. This top is super flattering for plus size body frames. An added bonus to this top is that you can style it with hot pants, jeggings or a cute denim skirt and still look cute. You can consider visiting my Instagram page. Besides styling this top with jeggings, i will showcase different ways of rocking it real soon.
I finished off the look with these cute white beaded sandals and a straw bag.The straw bag is so great for throwing in few of your necessities when moving around.
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Like i promised in the previous post, today I’m sharing with you some really simplified steps on how to purge your closet. I will also throw in few awesome tips for an effective closet purge that i don’t want you to miss.
The benefits of doing a closet purge are so tremendous. In case you missed my previous post on ‘‘6 amazing benefits of having a closet purge”, i suggest you pause first, go read it right here then come back and continue with this one. Trust me, it’s very key!
As i wind up each year, in anticipation for the next, i tend to feel the need to root out what’s no longer serving my life and this includes my closet as well. What a great time to write this blog now that 2020 is almost over. Closet purging may seem overwhelming but trust me the benefits are totally worth it.
I used to do my closet purges so shallowly before i got wisdom from Marie Kondo, a Japanese organizing consultant who has made life easier by sharing the art of de cluttering using the “KonMari” method. I totally resonate with her sentiments and I’m seriously continuously streamlining my closet with the aim of having few versatile pieces.
I strongly believe less is more. So without further ado, lets dive right into the exact simplified steps on How to purging your closet:
HOW TO PURGE YOUR CLOSET : 4 SIMPLIFIED STEPS
1.Take everything out of your closet
The first step is to completely empty your closet and collect everything in one big pile. By this i mean everything goes out. When you collect everything in a big pile, it helps you have a clear perspective of the magnitude of work ahead. In case you have clothes probably in another room, make sure you include them as well for complete results. This step is very crucial and should not be skipped.
At this stage, things will look messier but it will get better with time. Hang in right there.
2. Separate into batches
After everything has been collected centrally, it’s time to carefully analyze each piece. What truly sparks joy to you, is what goes back in your closet.
The essence here is quality and not quantity. What makes you truly happy is what will make it’s way back into your closet. You can actually end up with 6 out of 66 pieces This seems ambitious right! But honestly why keep something if it’s no longer serving you!
Extra tip: At this point, it’s advisable to try on what you’ve not worn for the longest time. This could probably be that dinner dress you’ve been keeping aside for over 1 year saying i’ll wear this as soon as i go to Dubai for holiday! Lol!
To make this step easier,separate the items in lets say dresses, trousers, jewellery etc then categorize in THREE DISTINCT BATCHES as follows:-
Batch 1: I love it
This will include what you truly love and would even want to wear instantly. This is what you return back to your closet.
Extra tip – As you return what you love back to your closet try to arrange your pieces vertically rather than horizontally. This way your closet looks neater and consumes less space. For those very sentimental pieces, find a special way to store them.
Batch 2: I probably love it
Does it fit you correctly? are you keeping it because you bought it so expensively and feel guilty giving it out?
This category of pieces can be gathered and put in a separate place. If you find yourself wanting it before 3 months, then get but on the other side, if you stay for a whole three months without feeling the need to have these items, then it’s time to eliminate them.
Batch 3: I dislike it
This are the pieces which you automatically remove from your closet without having a second thought.
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3. Evaluate whats left
This steps greatly help you have some style clarity. Everybody has their own style. What you need to do is find it. As you carefully evaluate what is left behind, you are able to clearly know what you truly love. While at this you also identify the gaps in your wardrobe. The trick is to pen them down for future shopping just in case you forget them.
Extra tip: Closet purging may generally take quite some time. The best thing is to undertake it when you have enough time because you might need to try on some pieces. Some people complete it within two hours some two days. Additionally this totally depends on what you have in your closet. If you have a lot you may need more time to analyze.
4. Shop strategically
The final step is to shop strategically for what you are missing and truly require. Since you’ll have identified your style clearly, let it be of help to you by make more intentional purchases.
This doesn’t have to be done immediately. Our lifestyles are different. Some people work from home, others have white collars jobs while others have blue collar jobs hence what you require now may vary. Ensure that you strike a balance between casual and official.
Final thoughts!
I cannot emphasize how closet purging is key. I don’t know about you but i find it to improve my overall quality of life. Do you do your close purge any easier? How often do you do it? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment box below!
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Air travel is definitely exciting but it can be extremely uncomfortable if you haven’t given good thought on what to wear.
Sounds rather obvious but some people actually don’t give the kind of outfits which they wear on a plane much thought. They just throw on clothes with little or no thought then regret later when the discomfort kicks in!
As much as it’s important to look good when you arrive your final destination, it’s equally very key to feel comfortable during your flight especially if it is a flight which lasts more than two hours.
Whether you are going for a business trip or vacation, the choice of your outfit really dictates your comfort level.
What should you wear for that extra comfort while traveling by flight?
Here are some tips on what kind of outfits to consider while traveling by flight. Again this is just a generalized guide. You can always customize it according to your preference.
1.Light Jacket
Everyone has their own cold tolerance levels but generally planes are abit cold. Based on this fact alone, it is wise to carry a warm layer for the cold even if you are traveling to a warmer place. A sweater, light jacket or hoodie would work. just make sure that whatever you carry can easily be removed and thrown in your backpack when need arises.
2. Darker colors
Bright colors are definitely the best but sometimes all you need to ruin your outfit, is a little turbulence and all your drink is all over your lap! Turbulence is something you cannot predict. Opt for outfits with materials that dry fast or don’t easily show stains in case of spills.
3. Go slow on jewellery
A simple look will work best while traveling via plane. Most of the time you will always be asked to remove your earrings, necklaces, bangles and chains at the airport security check. Save them for when you reach your destination.
As for hair keep it simple. Just in case you sleep and your hair ends up looking shabby. Probably opt for a ponytail which is easy to adjust when necessary.
4. Crease free pieces
Bearing in mind that you will be seated for several hours, choose pieces that don’t crease too easily. Avoid linen. Yes linen looks chic but by the time you arrive your destination, the amount of crease will be crazy.
Thanks to the athleisure trend which has made it acceptable to rock your gym outfit outside the gym. You can choose to rock your joggers or even yoga pants while traveling by flight. Good thing is that most of these athleisure outfits stretch really well for that extra comfort and are crease free. For more about athleisure outfits, feel free to visit this post.
Just in case you are not a fun of the athleisure trend, palazzo pants or maxis are great alternatives too.
5. Footwear
Lets face it you will be doing a lot of sitting hence your feet are likely to swell particularly on a long flight. You might also have to run to catch your flight or walk long distances in between terminals.
If you rock heels will you comfortably maneuver around?
Comfort is very key hence go for comfortable shoes.You can opt for comfy sneakers to complete your athleisure outfit. Nairobi sports house has a variety of really good ones. I’ve noticed puffy sneakers are trending lately but the choice is absolutely yours. Backyard shoes has really good ones.
Sandals are also another great option incase you rock your maxis or palazzo pants. Just remember to go for those ones with a comfortable foot bed.
Extratip: At times luggage gets misplaced in airports. Remember to carry a light hand luggage where you can pack your essentials so as to easily access them when need arises while on flight. You might need your pens to fill out questionnaires especially with this Covid 19 situation. Back packs are always easier in my opinion.
Welcome back to Authentically Ritah! Hope you are doing good wherever you are reading this post from.
Today I’m going to share with you some of my essentials when going for a vacation to Mombasa. Probably it will give you ideas on what to pack on your next vacation to this destination or any other coastal region.
Once you’ve secured your SGR, flight or whatever means of transportation which you’ve decided to go for and your beach hotel is reserved voila you are vacation ready! Yeeeeeey!
There is nothing which excites me like going to Mombasa especially if it is for a vacation. Known for it’s magical sandy beaches and world class hotels just to mention but a few, this is one of the most epic tourist destinations in the world today!
Well, I know the kind of leisure activities to do in Mombasa while on a vacation vary for each person due to several factors hence what you pack may not be exactly the same as mine. What I’m sharing is just a generalized overview of what to carry. You can definitely adjust accordingly.
Mombasa is one of the warmest regions in Kenya. This means packing light.
Here are some things to bring with you to Mombasa on a vacation:
1. Light airy outfits
I like starting off with my outfits then the rest of stuff can follow. Comfort is always key when selecting what to wear. In this case, light airy dresses will work very well since the temperatures in this region are abit elevated. You can opt for tropical colors to give you that holiday mood.
Maxis dresses – I’d go for maxi dresses to complement the holiday vibe. Cotton is always the best material. This stripped maxi dress and white floral will work for me when I’m exploring the Mombasa town during daytime.
Scatter dresses – I love how scatter dresses flow freely from the waist area downwards. Beside defining your waistline as a curvy woman, they are very comfortable and would be the best for this vacation. Scatter dresses work for me very well in the evenings when i decide to explore the nightlife in Mombasa.
Shorts and tunk top – I’d go for afew pairs of shorts and tunk tops for those days when I decide to lounge around the hotel. Make sure your tunk tops are made from cotton material and incase your shorts are denim remember comfort is key!
2. Footwear
Once I’ve secured my outfits, the next thing to pack would be my footwear.
Flat sandals : There is no need to be so extra when it comes to shoes while on a vacation in Mombasa. Again since the temperatures are abit high, open shoes are the best in my opinion. I will go for these two pairs. One neutral one and another colorful one.
Wedges: For those night outs, I’d put in a little effort and throw in a neutral pair of wedges. Who doesn’t want to look cute! This ones are so comfy. If you’ve been reading my blogs for a while,I’m sure you’ve seen me rocking them quite frequently.
Water shoes: Most likely you are going to be in the water at some point. It’s always good to have a pair of shoes which are waterproof. In my case I will go for these very simple ones. I feel they will get the job done.
3. Accessories
Accessories are always a gals bestie. While on a vacation in Mombasa I don’t think you need alot of accessories going on. Here is what I’d carry:
Floppy hat – Besides being a fashion statement, floppy hats always help keep those harmful sun rays away. I don’t know about you but my problematic skin reacts so badly to the sun. This wide brimmed floppy hat is a must have for me.
Straw bag – I feel a straw bag should not be left behind either. For those moments when you are exploring this magical town you can throw in your essentials such as a phone. This one will get me sorted.
Sun glasses – Never forget your sun glasses. They of course protect you from the sun but also add an element of sass to your look. Remember to put them in a case to avoid breaking them.
I did a MINI-TRY ON HAUL on some fabulous accessories. Check out the post right here.
4. Beachwear
A Mombasa vacation is never complete without you visiting the beach!
Swim gear – Don’t forget your swimming gear. Go for something that is not only comfy but complements your body frame as well. I will go for this one. Totally love the colors.
Cover ups – Remember to carry your cover ups. These ones will help you once you’ve changed into your swimming gear and are walking around the hotel.
Of cause don’t forget your sunscreen and toiletries!
If you are not traveling anytime soon, you can bookmark this post for your ultimate guide when packing for your next vacation to Mombasa.
Gone are the days when the only time to rock active wear was while going to the gym! Thanks to the athletic brands which are working tirelessly to incorporate fashion and style into their pieces.
Today’s article is going to give you a basic guide on how to select your athleisure outfit.
What is an athleisure outfit?
Just In case you aren’t aware, an athleisure outfit is a trend of wearing active wear outside the gym. This could probably be while traveling, catching up with friends, doing your day to day errands or just chillings at home. It is actually a fashion statement on its own.
If you love the the trend here is a basic guide on how to rock an athleisure outfit:
Active bottoms
When building an athleisure outfit, the first thing to consider is bottoms. Go for your favorite active wear bottoms. This could be yoga pants, joggers or leggings.
I went for these black joggers. They are very comfy and the stretch is super amazing which is very key for plus size women. If you are looking for a pair of go-to joggers, then check out Nairobi Sports House. I actually got these pair from them.
Besides the gym, this outfit is very quickly becoming a favorite while traveling or going about errands.
It is always good to have shopping options. If you know of a store which has good quality joggers, feel free to share that in the comment box below this post.
2. T-Shirts or Tank Top
The next thing to consider while pulling an athleisure outfit is adding a chic tee or tank top. A long-sleeved tee will work well on those chilly days.
I like this sleeveless top on warmer days. I love the fact that it is lightweight, very soft and comfortable. The quality is also very amazing.
3. Footwear
Don’t forget your feet. You can go for the classic sneakers. You could still rock sandals for that chic athleisure look. I’ve seen some rock heels with their outfits and they still look amazing. The choice is all yours.
I rocked my pink sneakers. These shoes are also from Nairobi Sports House. They are a total win in terms of comfort. They have amazing details such as a breathable upper mesh. The inner cushioning is out of this world.
4. Layering piece
You can consider adding a third layer to cater for weather dynamics such as cold. A cute denim jackets or any other of your choice would beautifully complete your athleisure look.
I went for this cute zip up jacket which i got from Vivo Woman a while ago. The jacket undeniably adds some element of sass to the whole look.
If you love accessories you can definitely throw them in.
We are already in October. Can you believe it? I don’t lol!
I hope this post was of help if you are trying to build an athleisure outfit.
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Some of you requested for a you tube channel and Authentically Ritah is glad to say that she is finally on YOUTUBE! Mad respect to all you tubers out there! It ain’t easy to make these videos. Will try my best regardless.
Check out Authentically Ritah’s first videos here:
My Instagram DM @authenticallyritah has been getting a little bit more of these questions lately:
“Are denim skirts still stylish in 2020?“
“Can we rock denim skirts and still look stylish today?“
Well, at this point i totally resonate with this famous quote from Lauren Hutton “Fashion is what we are offered four times in a year by designers. Style is what you choose”
When it comes to denim skirts, we have so many shades all the way from light to darker ones. You can never go wrong with the classic black or white washes in my opinion. The other colors can still be rocked with no issues at all. Just depends on how you style them ultimately.
The length of the skirt is also very crucial if you want to add an everlasting charm to the entire look. Knee length ones always do the magic.
Today I’m going to explore different ways in which you can style a denim skirt using this lovely skirt which i got from Jamia Mall. Love it because it really fits well and the quality is amazing, height and dark blue wash are to my liking. It hence fits the bill.
So without further ado, let’s explore the various styles which Authentically Ritah is showcasing today right below:-
Style 1 :Go for a Statement Top
Getting a stylish statement top will combine so well with your knee length denim skirt.
I went for this high low dress top. Okay i’m really sorry i cant link the exact shop where i got this top because it was a gift from a good friend. I have however seen such pieces at Sun Beam.
Front tucked tops would be another great alternative in this case to give the denim a whole new different spin from the ordinary designs.
Sandals will also pair very well with denim. I opted for these nude ones from heel to toe. These ones rotate in my wardrobe like nobody’s business lol!
In case you are wondering how this top would look at the back, check it out below:
I’m intrigued by the fact that from behind one would actually think it’s a dress but upon turning you notice the denim vibe.
You can always add a belt to these type of attire for that finesse. Which one do you prefer, the belted or unbelted style? Feel free to leave a comment in the reply box at the bottom of this post!
Style 2 :Go for a Brighter Top
For a second look, i’ve paid the denim skirt with this bright top from Lyl Fashions. I love the interesting pattern at the lower part of the floral top.
If you have been reading my blog for a while, you most probably know that i am a junkie of these white canvas. Got this ones from Bata Kenya. They pair perfectly with the denim skirt and are great when you are going about your errands.
You will notice the cute top was in the try-on haul which I did in the previous post. I also rocked this look before right here as well.
You can choose to tuck in the top or just leave it out. Still looks good in my opinion.
Combining the skirt with a colorful top makes the denim pop since it’s of a darker wash.
Style 3: Show a little bit of skin
I love this fancy light sweater top for several reasons . For starters it was relatively affordable, it’s flattering and shows a little bit of skin without revealing too much. The combi generally looks awesome on a plus sized body frame in my opinion.
Lets not talk about my squinty eyes in the pics below. The sun was a little bit too much but I believe you most importantly get the outfit grip lol!
I digress…. the look has been paired with these super comfy black and white sneakers. These ones are also from Bata Kenya.
Anyways, if you love casual shoes that can work perfect when you are on the move these sneakers will serve you really well. I’ve recently had this hat obsession and thought to add this adorable beret from forever Trendy.
You can find these kinds of fancy sweater tops from Toi Market.
What would you like to see in my future posts? It would be my pleasure to be of help to you in terms of fashion and style content!
Final verdict on whether denim skirts are out of style:
To respond to the question” Are denim skirts out of style?” I’d say nope. You can wear them forever and still look good. It just depends on how you style them. Combine them with what sparks joy to you and remember your comfort is key.
Okay trends will always be there but I don’t think being too much into them will make your life any easier. It’s so important to choose your own style and rock it without being so much into what’s in or what’s not in.The essence is to embrace the trends and not to obsess about them. Just strike a tasty balance by creating something unique to yourself.
I hope this post has inspired you to rock that denim skirt again just in case it’s taking a backseat in your wardrobe.
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Greetings friends, are scarves still stylish in 2021? This is one of the questions which i’ve seen some people ask lately on Instagram.To answer this I’m styling a scarf in 6 different ways!
Ranging from cashmere, sheer, silky, cotton to velvet there are so many types of scarves out there but today I will be using a sheer leopard printed scarf because this is what i could easily access in my closet. It is a rectangle medium sized scarf.
I easily gravitate towards prints because I find them edgy. While I happen to love prints, you could still recreate these looks with any rectangle medium sized scarf of your choice.The beauty about Style is that it’s not cast on stones. There are so many endless possibilities.
Style one: Scarf + Belt
For my first styling, i simply took the scarf and threw it over my shoulders. I then tied a belt to add some edge. See how the outfit transforms. You’d actually think that this is a brand new outfit! What do you think? Comment down below!
With this look just ensure the scarf drapes on the same level at the bottom.
Style two: Scarf + Floppy Hat
If you have a floppy hat, you can also add an element of interest by simply tying a scarf around it. I actually prefer buying floppy hats which don’t have a scarf sewn in permanently because i enjoy switching the scarves to fit my outfit.
Style three: Scarf Tied around waist area
The third style is taking the scarf and beautifully tying it slightly above my normal waistline. I think the scarf helps define your waist even more. You can throw over a kimono preferably a lacey one to add more texture.
Style four: Scarf wrapped around the head
This is an excellent option for those bad hair days or combating wind. Start by folding your scarf into half diagonally then take two opposite ends and tie a beautiful knot under your chin and voila! You can add stunners for that finesse look!
Style Five : Tying scarf around your bag
Scarves can also help elevate a plain bag. Just tie a scarf loosely onto your handbag and see how it elevates your overall look.
Style Six: Tying around neck
For style six, i simply tied the scarf around my neck area. This helps pop your outfit especially if it a monochromatic one.
When i think about elevating a look from basic to fab one of the pieces which comes in my mind is a scarf. Scarves are one of the wardrobe basics which can be worn year round with different outfits for that chic look.
So Sarves in other words, scarves can never go out of style. Just play around with them for that timeless look.
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Greetings friends! Hope you are doing good from wherever you are reading this blog from.
October is almost here again! Can you believe 2020 is winding up! If you are new here, welcome. This is a blog which talks about Style and Fashion for plus sized curvy women and if you are a returning follower thanks a lot for the massive support. I’m totally humbled!
Most of you guys have requested me to share vacation outfits. I will gladly be doing this very soon. If you’ve not subscribed consider doing it right here so as to get notified once I post.
Today I’m showcasing some assorted fun pieces from Lyl fashions.
Before I start, here is my Size Detail: I’m actually a size 16UK and 178cm tall.
Okay, without further ado, let’s dive right into to the haul:
1. Belle sleeved body con dress
The first piece is a navy blue body con dress. If you love body cons, then this gorgeous dress with a touch of belle sleeves will get your head spinning lol. I couldn’t afford to ignore it the moment I laid my eyes on it!
See how the arms add that everlasting charm. It’s not that ordinary basic body con dress. I’m actually wearing it in an XL size.
Good to note, is that layering with this piece might not work really good. The sleeves will bulge and not give you that smooth silhouette. That regardless the dress is a fashion statement.
If you are not comfortable with the height, you can look for cute sheer stockings. Since it’s a plain dress you can accessorise it with either bright shoes or bag.
2. Pink floral body con dress
Once you try this dress on, you will know the true definition of comfort! I’m very comfortable in it’s size 16. It fits true to my size. The material is soft to the touch.
Florals laid over a pink background is such a tasty spin. The colors are so adorable. This piece is very well designed i must admit. Totally love it. This is such a perfect dress for warmer weather.
The design on the arms actually allows you to layer it when it gets cold. You can definitely throw in a stylish cardigan or kimono for that extra warmth when need arises.
3. Sleek Grey Top
I’m always a fun of trying different designs. I’m thrilled with this sleek top. I somehow didn’t manage to iron it hence the little creases but I hope you get the grip. Will definitely be styling it better in future posts. It fits really good. It’s soft to the feel and is very comfortable.
The fancy designs on the arms have really elevated it tastefully.
What I love about this top is that you don’t need a lot of accessories. The fancy sleeves do the magic. You can actually pull it off with a skirt too like i’ve done below:
The skirt doesn’t necessarily have to be black. You can go for a darker shade of grey, beige, mustard, white or any color that you love. I just worked with what I had in my closet. Remember style is an art! For reference I’m wearing the top in an XXL size.
4. Fancy Floral Top Seems my obsession with floral is not ending anytime soon lol! This white and blue floral top is nothing but cuteness in the closet. I’m rocking it in a size M. The colors are amazing and have blended really well together.
This can be worn with both low and high rise jeans because it’s not cropped. How versatile! The black jeans is also from Lyl Fashions.
I used to have lots of challenges finding good quality denim but thanks to this store I’m forever sorted on this!
See how it beautifully covers the waist band of the black jeans. I actually rocked it before with a denim skirt . See the look here.
I love the detailing at the lower part of the top. It gives it an edge without being overboard.
5. White and black floral dress
Not all dresses are created same. Once you wear this one, you will tell the difference. This floral dress is pretty sweet. Material is a little bit thin but it’s not a see through. I love how it snag fits in the waist area and drapes down beautifully.
The floral patterns are soft and cosy. It takes a different twist. It doesn’t exactly show off your curves but I think it’s cute in a casual chilled out sort of look.
You can throw in a leather jacket incase you need extra warmth. The model is wearing a size PXL.
If you love trendy pieces for plus size curvy women then Lyl fashions is definitely a store worth visiting. They actually have new adorable piece trickling in at the moment.
We have the above post on YOUTUBE. Feel free to watch it here:
I’m always humbled when I get your thoughts on these posts. Which piece did you like the most?Feel free to comment below.
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Most of you have requested for casual alternatives to the classic jeans. I’m excited to let you know that today i’m going to be sharing with you a stylish option that will work perfectly well as a casual outfit.
I adore my classic jeans and jeggings but truth be told, there are certain occasions when dresses will work well compared to these pieces. Today i’m rocking this black stripped knee length dress. Its one of the perfect alternatives to jeans when dressing casual.
The material stretches so well which is very essential for me as a size 16. I love the fact that the material is not too clingy. The height works well for me and the comfort is superb. Of course i paired it with white canvas, my favorite for weekends when I’m up and down running my errands for that extra comfort.
When you are done with errands and want to elevate that casual look, you can swap the canvas with sandals. Just remember to get sandals which are comfy and easy to move around with. Throwing in a slim belt will also give you that sassy look.
I hope you are inspired by this casual alternative look to jeans.
Outfit details
Stripped black and white dress – Mr. Price
White Canvas – Bata Kenya
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The weekend is here again and it’s undoubtedly a favorite time of the week for many!
Who doesn’t loove weekends!The me time, unwinding, catching up with family and friends is among the little precious things that rock weekends. This is always the time to let your hair loose, dress down and just take a breather from the hussle n bussle of the week.
My go to weekend piece is denim. It’s such a chilled out timeless fabric which can give you that relaxed vibe. This denim skirt is so perfect for weekends. The darker wash is versatile and you can blend it with almost any colors of your choice. If you know me, you will know canvas are my staples for the weekend. I find this particular ones very comfy especially if you are going about your errands. There is something special about them in white!
I find that brighter tops pair really well with darker washed denim. This cute white floral top did just that. It brightened the denim beautifully.
In whichever way you rock that denim skirt, have a pleasant weekend.
Outfit details
Cute floral top – Lyl Fashions
Denim Skirt – Jamia Mall
White canvas – Bata Kenya
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I’ve heard quite a good number of people say that one needs lots of money to look classy.
You actually don’t need to spend lots of money when it comes to elevating your look!This is such a huge scam! Yes it is lol! Incase this is your school of thought, you need to have dropped off that band wagon like yesterday.
After learning from various fashion gurus, compiled below are quick tips which you can incorporate in your wardrobe and achieve that classy look without spending lots of money.
Tip 1: Lay your foundations correctly for that smooth silhouette
They say the kind of foundation you lay before building a house really impacts on the outcome. This applies to dressing as well. Most of us don’t give a second thought at times to this tiny winy pieces which can make a world of difference.
I happened to attend this wedding in Mombasa, sometimes late last year. The master of ceremony was wearing this very cute dress but unfortunately her entire look was ruined by this undergarments she was wearing. The outer shape of the entire undergarments could be seen anytime she turned. Yes she had the best outfit but wrong undergarments. What an injustice to her whole ensemble that was!
Invest in good quality undergarments that fit perfectly. This will not only give you that extra confidence boost but will make what you lay over look polished giving you that smooth silhouette.
Tip 2: Choose your colors tastefully
Colors play a huge impact in getting that classy look.
Well, i don’t know your personal style but if you choose to color block or be matchy matchy just remember to go for colors that are cohesive. Wearing well integrated colors which are definitely not extreme will elevate your look tremendously.
Tip 3: Pay attention on your fittings
Wearing pieces that match up to your body’s shape, enabling you move freely without adding extra weight, is what i’d define as a perfect fit. Well fitting garments displays some real elegance. Trust me!
Our bodies keep changing every now and then. At times you add few ponds and then loose some. It’s hence wise to have routine closet de-clattering to discard pieces that are too loose or clingy.
Tip 4: Accessorize well
Accessories give your look that overall interesting charm. Two different people can wear the same outfit but one might look very frumpy and the other extremely elegant.
Accessories are highly individualized. Choose tasty pieces. Less will always be more. Try not to exaggerate by for example wearing a necklace, watch and numerous bangles all at once. That will be too dramatic. You don’t need to have a huge pack of jewellery. Diligently opt for few master pieces that are timeless and hence can be worn for a while without looking off.
Don’t forget to pay attention to your handbags and sunglasses. They very well fall under accessories.
Tip 5: Avoid those huge branded logos
Going for stuff that has those big fake conspicuous designer logos is a turn off. Fakes can be spotted from afar. If you can’t afford to get those original designers, which is not a must anyway, go for quality pieces from other affordable designers. Life is not that complicated.
These tips are definately not exhaustive. Feel free to share your thoughts too by commenting below
Lets learn, unlearn and relearn.
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Evidently, the weather pattern has dramatically changed. I’ve heard so many people complaining that the cold wasn’t kind enough to warn them! Well to help you curb the cold, today I’m going to share with you three quick ways of rocking jeggings!
Heavy Jeggings are a great when it comes to keeping you warm and stylish especially when the weather is alittle bit gloomy. The essence is to find good quality ones with a great fit.
I will basically be styling black turkish Jeggings which I got from Unisex Midland Boutique, along Monrovia Street. They have been my besties for over 3 years. Oh yes! and i’m still sold out on them like 100%. They are one of my wardrobe staples because they have a remarkably comfortable amount of stretch which is very key for me as a plus sized woman.
Look 1: Jeggings with an orange mini butterfly waterfall
My very first look pairs the Jeggings with this cute mini butterfly waterfall. The pieces blend so well with these black midi boots which have served me for quite a while from Qash Kali. I’m really hoping they have them in stock just incase you want them. If they don’t have you can always recreate with similar or even better ones.Love this shade of orange. It tremendously brightens everything up.
This waterfall is one of my favorites from Vivo Woman. The black cowl tunk top I’m wearing inside is also from the same store.The last time I checked they had the waterfalls in turquoise, yellow, blue and pink amongst other colors.
I decided to go with these midi boots which introduced a whole new edgy touch to the entire look.
Look 2: Jeggings with an off white cardigan kimono
The same Jeggings and black cowl top, were paired with this off white long cardigan kimono for the second look. I love the way it beautifully drapes. Kimonos are always in my inner circle of essential wardrobe pieces. The texture is so lovely. Not only is it warm but the comfort is amazing too.
I wore these black and white sneakers. I think they add an element of casual interest to the look.
This look would definitely have looked more chic with cute sandals as well but since it was abit wet I opted for these sneakers.
Look 3: Jeggings with poncho
For my third look I rocked this warm grey poncho from Jade Collections. The material is so soft against the body. Love the interesting checked pattern going on.
I side tucked the poncho to add some sass. You definitely don’t have to tuck it in.
I finally crowned the look with these ankle boots from heel to toe for that polished look.
I probably should have gone abit bold with accessories but I opted for a chilled out look today. You can definitely elevate all these looks with accessories of your choice.
Let’s connect on my NEW INSTAGRAM page @authenticallyritah for more on Fashion and Style.
Video version of the post:
It’s a wrap! Thank you so much for reading.
See you next week. Will be back with a post on “Five ways of looking classy on any budget”
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Hey guys, im back again with another haul but this time round, a mini one. Let’s talk about accessories today. You don’t need loads of accessories to be stylish. Agree or disagree? Comment below!
One item that will help complete your look to the best is using accessories. Statement accessories are your bestie when it comes to dressing any plus sized body. Hats and bags are very amazing accessories which fit this bill. They can magically elevate your style in such an effortless way.
Who doesn’t want to look good! I came across these statement accessories at Forever Trendy and thought why not share them with you:
Accessory 1: Beret Hat
My first accessory, is this black beret hat. I’ve never had much luck in finding great hats. What i find out there is either too expensive, the quality is not that amazing or just doesn’t fit me really good.
There is something feminine about beret hats. I love the silver studded details on this particular one. I think they make it look edgy without being over the top.
Forever Trendy has berets in some seriously amazing colors.
The material is really soft to the touch glides easily when you wear it. This hat instantly transforms your outfit from basic to fab to be precise.
Style fact: The beret hat is such an icon in the French Fashion. Now you know what gift to give your French friends in case you have any lol.
Accessory 2. Floppy Straw Hat
Next is this floppy straw hat. I love the fit. It’s one hat which you don’t need to be worried about falling off your head when the wind blows. As long as you get the right size you are good to go.
However it can be abit limiting if you are rocking a bulky hairstyle like chunky braids or weaves. It just might not fit really well but to counter this, check out the other amazing options from this store.
What i love about this particular straw hat is that its large enough to protect one from the sun. For size details, it’s actually a 57cm.
This accessory would be a perfect accompaniment to the beach. On a sunny day, it would also pair very well with a cute floral dress for that subtle look.
Accessory 3: Round rattan straw Bag
The last but not least is this straw bag. I think this is one accessory you might love. The fact that its neutral means you can perfectly pair it with a range of outfits. It’s stylish, fun and timeless just to say the least.
Small but mighty, i must say am absolutely smitten by the round structure. You can throw in all your go – to easy to reach stuff when going out and about. How convenient!
Style tip: You can wrap a colorful scarf around the handle of your straw bag to add some sass. Just play around with different textures based on what you are wearing.
Its amazing how this straw bag has brightened this black monochromatic outfit. Totally love the look.
Oh.. still looks good when you combine the straw bag and hat together.
Did i get value for money? I would say yes! Definitely yeees because the materials are so high quality and these are designs that you don’t see all over.
Let’s connect on my NEW INSTAGRAM page @authenticallyritah for more on Fashion and Style.
Hello, hello! Yet another bright day and i’m absolutely grateful for this far. Hope you are doing great wherever you are reading this from.
Today i’m delighted to do my very first try on haul from Bela B Styles. I really wanted to do this last week but i had to travel to upcountry for a very special function that i couldn’t afford to miss. It’s all about dresses today yeepy! Let dive right below:
White polkadress
I like the way it flows freely on my body. It’s not too clingy. Just a perfect fit for me. I’m really fascinated by the polka dots and vibe going on at the bottom part. In terms of height, i think it would have looked much better if it was abit short. Any-WHO i’m still determined to persevere hahaha! I figured out i have very few polkadresses so this was a win.
2. Colorful Chic dress
Colors are so divine. I must say the drape is so nice. The design is so chic. I love the way it clings at the waist area then flows downwards. I wore it to upcountry and it was super comfy. The weather there is hot and humid so this was the ‘it’ dress!
3. Floral Edgy Dress
I normally don’t buy similar designs but this one was absolutely irresistible. Its similar to the Chic colorful dress. I find the patterns so edgy. The colors are so soft and tasty. I wasted no time with this dress. I rocked it to upcountry too. Super comfy is the overall verdict.
4. Striped Elegant dress
The fit is so perfect. Height is to my liking. I love the elegant design. Looks so chic as well. The v neck balances out my ensemble. Doesn’t pull up when you walk like some dresses I’ve bought before. A gem in the closet.
5. Stretchy Red dress
I’m happy to say im in love with it’s amazing comfort. Red is one of the lovely colors i adore. The material is thick and stretches so well. I like the way the white details neutralise the whole look.
6. Pleated Stylish dress
I never knew that i could rock this particular design but the moment i tried this one on, i knew its a have. This one swept me off my feet. The color palette on the pleats is so interesting. Comfort is out of this world. I however feel it looks much better with a belt.
That’s it for today! I’m excited with the dresses and the verdict for all is a win. As a plus sized woman i’m definitely very satisfied. However what i’d advice someone planning to shop online for these specific pieces, to consider visiting the store IF possible (At times it’s not practical) for a better experience because i noticed the dress fittings vary depending on the design.
Video version of the blog post:
For those who don’t know Bela B styles, its one of the best plus size stores in Nairobi. It’s definitely worth a visit. As always thanks for stopping by!
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Do you want to create an edgy look for the weekend?
Weekends should be fun and relaxing. After the long week of dressing in official clothes five days in a row, it’s time to pull out that classic blue jeans from your wardrobe. Blue jeans are one of the most versatile garments which one should consider as a wardrobe must have. The beauty about jeans in general is that they are super easy to style hence you don’t need to spend lots of hours getting that ensemble together.
If you want that edgy weekend look in blue jeans, swap your go to tshirts with a touch of ankara. You just need to wear a basic tank top then throw in a colorful ankara kimono to build boldness in such a fun relaxed way. The beauty about this outfit is that it doesn’t compromise on style and comfort especially if you are a plus size.
Here is a look that will make you stand out over the weekend.
There is nothing that gives you a whole new edge than adding a touch of ankra to your jeans. You can add some finesse by wearing stunners for that outdoor ensemble.
As always thanks for stopping by. Have a pleasant day!
Outfit details
Ankara Kimono – Carrefour The Hub
Jeans – Toi Market
Basic tank top – Vivo Woman
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