Tag: fashion

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Wardrobe Basic – The Little Black Dress

authenticallyritah

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!

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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!

blog, Fashion and Style, Uncategorized

Best of 2020 – Authentically Ritah

authenticallyritah

Are you doing resolutions?

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!

Outfit 8. How to select an athleisure outfit

Outfit 7. Try on Haul: BelaBstyles

Outfit 6. Three ways of styling Jeggings during cold season

Outfit 5. A fun way to kickstart the week – Official Vibes

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?

Outfit 4. Four Top Tips of selecting your Jumpsuits – Plus size Fashion Hacks

Outfit 3. Easy Wedding Guest Outfit – Ankara Fashion

Outfit 2. How to style leggings – Vacation Fashion

Outfit 1. Welcome to my Fashion Blog

Encouragement to someone out there!

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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DENIM, Fashion and Style, FASHION TIPS

What no one tells you about JEANS – 5 closet mistakes

authenticallyritah

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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Alternatives to Jeans, casual

What can i wear instead of JEANS?

authenticallyritah

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

EXPECT A WEEKLY POST FROM ME

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casual, DENIM, Uncategorized

The weekend denim vibe

authenticallyritah

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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chiffon freshness, Uncategorized

Chiffon vibes: Styling Midi boots with Jeggings

authenticallyritah

Last Sunday, as i was having a conversation with my friend Leila, I couldn’t help but notice how she kept telling me the way she’d already given up on year 2020! She expressed her frustrations about how she had so many plans and couldn’t believe none had gone through due to the current pandemic. For sure life is not always smooth. Today you can be overflowing with happiness but the next minute its the exact opposite. Miss Rona has caused a lot of anxiety not only nationwide but globally. I’m yet to know someone who hasn’t been affected whether directly or indirectly! I strongly believe that no matter what you are going through maintaining a positive attitude is what will propel you forward.

Well…that aside. Chiffon has this way of capturing the eye especially when the weather is smiling widely. Its such a fresh and loyal piece always waiting in the wardrobe, ready to have a chit chat with you right where you left it. The beauty about chiffon is that it pairs so well with most of the garments.

Today i’m rocking a long chiffon top, jeggings and midi boots.

I easily gravitate towards jeggings when wearing long chiffon tops. Acting as a building block, you can create endless looks with jeggings.They are such staples which can be worn this year, next year and the year after if you invest in good quality ones of course. What you will love most about the jeggings i’m wearing is that they are made of thick material and stretch so well.

Combining jeggings with long chiffon tops gives such a relaxed subtle look. You can crown this look with shoes of your choice but i appreciate this look with midi boots.

Outfit details

Long chiffon top – Vivo Woman

Midi boots – Qash Kali

Thick Jeggings – Midland Boutique at Monrovia Street, Nairobi

Thank you for reading today’s article. Choose to keep a positive attitude by focusing on what you can control and rejecting pity parties. You will be pleasantly surprised by how much you can achieve despite the situation at hand.

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Fashion and Style

Kimono love affair : Stylish scarf idea

authenticallyritah

It was around April 2017 if I’m not wrong! I was strolling around Jamia Mall in Nairobi Kenya, looking for a piece that would add some zest to my wardrobe. I then came across this bubbly lady in one of the stalls on the ground floor. Before I even expressed my shopping concerns, she had already welcomed me introduced herself and was like “You will love this kimono‘ The moment I tried it on I was absolutely smitten. Up to date, my close friends can attest my drool over kimonos is real. I’m always in the mood for this attire. It’s actually one of my wardrobe staples.

Borrowed from the Japanese, the beauty about Kimonos is that it adds vibrancy to almost all attires. You can throw it over your dresses, shorts, jeggings and even beachwear. If i’d say, it’s the cherry on the cake!Today I’m serving you the delicate laced kimono with floral patterns. The sheer lace not only allows your outfit to be seen but also adds abit of texture to the outfit.This look is my definition of pure elegance.

The animal printed detail is actually a scarf tied around my waist. I’ll be talking more about styling scarf ideas in my future posts.This is what I’d dress when I’m going for brunch with the ladies or lunch date.

Style serving: Delicate jungle green lace kimono worn over black body corn dress with a touch of animal printed scarf

Thanks 😊for stopping by.

Stay safe and have a great day.

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COLD WEATHER OUTFITS, FASHION TIPS

Cold Season Wardrobe Necessities

authenticallyritah

The cold weather is here again! As you observe the COVID 19 guidelines to help reduce spread of this irritating virus, i hope you are keeping warm as well. Combining outfits that are warm and stylish at the same time can be taxing at times.

There are lots of outfits out there which can keep you warm and stylish. Today i’m delighted to share with you three wardrobe pieces that will keep you not only warm but stylish as well effortlessly.

  1. Poncho

One of the greatest ways you can clutch the cold season, is by rocking a poncho! A poncho is a clothing mostly woolen in material designed to keep your body warm. Ponchos were originally worn by the South Americans. They come in various designs and sizes.

Style Serving: Gorgeous grey checked poncho plus luscious  navy blue jeggings crowned with classic ankle boots

2. Jeggings

Since most of the ponchos are oversized, combining them with something more fitting like jeggings works really well. It balances the look which works very well for curvy women. The beauty about jeggings is that they are super comfy and warm.

navy blue jeggings

3. Ankle Boots

This look gives you that undoubtedly classic charm when you complete the ensemble with ankle boots. The additional benefit of investing in ankle boots is that they go well with almost all attires.

Outfit details

I got the Poncho from Jade Collections. The heavy Jeggings are from Midland Boutique at Monrovia Street, Nairobi and the Ankle Boots were sourced from Heel to Toe

Its amazing how this look can give you warmth but still make you feel super cute and comfy. Have a great day.

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Uncategorized

Welcome to my fashion blog!

authenticallyritah

When i enrolled in university for a Business Management Course, my sisters used to tell me that I’d chosen the wrong career path! They knew i had burning passion for style and fashion. True to that, i have a very keen interest on style and fashion. I enjoy experimenting pieces of garments together. Getting dressed is like having a ”happy hour” to me.

My body frame is what I’d call “plus size”. This has never stopped me from dressing it in a flattering way! My late brother played a great role in encouraging me to follow my dream and start this blog. Unfortunately, i kept on postponing this hence limiting myself with excuses which didn’t hold any water. I now echo the sentiments from this famous quote “the only limits are the ones which exist in our minds”!

My aha moment happened during the Covid 19 Pandemic. As we were locked-down, i had a lot of reflections about my life and got inspired to finally start my own fashion blog, ”Authentically Ritah” which i launched on 23rd June, 2020.

Styling plus size body frames can be challenging at times in so many different aspects and that’s where I come to your rescue! I’m not a fashion guru but I believe I can share with you one or two things which i’ve learnt about fashion in my own authentic way. The fashion world has endless possibilities to be explored.

I will be showcasing to the world that curvy ladies or as some would call them ‘plus sized’ have more stylish options. Stay tuned!

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