Swimwear is a closet staple for the summer. It comes in different shades, fabric, and (these days) sizes. The swimwear game has definitely stepped it up in the style department, with a number of celebrities and influencers trying their hand at some of the hottest swimwear collections, complete with cover-ups, tankinis, and more. As a plus size consumer, I am overwhelmed with love at the strides the swimsuit industry has made in the past few years.

Still, there are some characteristics of of the swimwear industry that fall..flat. After the warm spring and summer months are over, our swimwear hits the back of the closet, not to be seen again for another 10-12 months. Wardrobe longevity is definitely an obstacle not mastered by swimwear...just yet. But sometimes, you run into a line that defeats the odds, doing so in the most unique way. 

Enter STAY by Stacey Angela , a high end luxury swim/resort wear label that caters to the edgy fashionista who loves to travel and express her individuality. Founded in  April 2002 by designer Stacey Angela Williams, each piece is a one of a kind tailored, handmade, custom crochet design where every detail is selected with the customer in mind. The Stay by Stacey Angela has expanded recently to include boy shorts, cover-ups, ponchos, two-tier miniskirts, hats, earrings, gloves, and bowties. 

The STAY brand has reached multi-location notoriety and recognition at a number of fashion weeks, pop-up shops, and magazines. I took some time to sit down with fashion designer extraordinaire to talk about the origins of her brand and her inspiration. 

Why did you decide to choose a career as a fashion designer? I decided to become a fashion designer after being exposed to the fashion industry by my mother and my cousins. My mother took me to tons of Fashion fair/ Bob Mackie  fashion shows. I fell in love with fashion instantly.

What skills are necessary for a successful fashion designer? The most important skill and tool that a designer needs is there mind. You have to be able to be open to all walks of life in fashion and art. Inspiration is everywhere if you pay attention.



What's up next for STAY? Paris City Fashion Week! You can get a sneak peek of the spring/summer line over at staybystaceyangela.com. Take a look and tell her i sent you! You wont be disappointed!






Faithfully,
Brieana

When I'm recording my weekly radio show (insert SHAMELESS plug here: It goes by the same name as this blog, Faithandfashion360 Live on WFNKRadio.com, Sundays from 7pm-9pm. Here's the link.), I usually peruse the social media airwaves and timelines for the things people are talking about, the things they may divided on, as well as the things that just need some JESUS. My sites of choice are typically fashion forward, millenial friendly, etc.

I was scrolling down Instagram the other day and I found a post on one of my sites of choice (one that sometimes I'm almost ashamed to say), and I saw a post that had me pleasantly surprised. TheShadeRoom, the place you love to hate, for its constant celeb post and infinite shade, posted a thought provoking question that forced me into a few minutes of self-awareness. It was so much so that here I am, writing to you about it, and eventually asking you to think about as well;

What is a toxic trait that you possess and would like to work on getting rid of in 2019??


Whoa.
1st of all, I felt personally attacked. They asked assuming that I would even have any! *insert fake disgust*

This question spoke to me in a number of ways and there was a wave of emotions and feelings that swept over me as I thought about an answer.

The fact of the matter is, we all have some things that aren't so great about us. We all have traits that have caused an argument. Things about us that people rightfully don't like. Parts of ourselves that, if we're honest, can stand to hit the trash. It was difficult for me to say out loud, but once I got real with myself, I could name a few.

Moment of transparency: I have a spending problem. I mean a forgo-my-car-note kind of problem. It's something I've realized over the years, especially as I've grown my blogging and fashion brand. There were times where I would even make justifications and excuses about why spending money on the latest shoes were necessary.

"My followers need these looks."
"I have a 10 day grace period."
"How can I grow my brand if I don't invest?"



John 3:16
Romans 5:8
Hebrews 10:24-25
Romans 14:10-19

Chances are, you have a complaint or two about your skin – whether it’s age spots on your cheeks or varicose veins on your calves. All women want to put their best skin forward, but it’s hard when you’re coping with acne, varicose veins, age spots, moles and more. Aestheticians, also known as skin care specialists, cleanse and exfoliate, wax and laser, moisturize and apply makeup to enhance a person's overall appearance. A skin care specialist will first assess the condition of his or her clients' skin and make recommendations on what can be done to improve their skin quality. An aesthetician will also cleanse the skin, and in so doing, educate the client on which face washes, lotions and creams are best suited to him or her. Applying makeup is another piece of the job description, as is advising the client on a personalized skin care regimen.

Happy Friday everyone! And what a good one it is! I'm kicking off this wonderful Easter weekend with my head in 80 degree weather, complete with palm trees and indie music. That's right., I'm in California at Coachella weekend.

The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is an annual music and arts festival held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, located in the Inland Empire's Coachella Valley, in the Colorado Desert. It was co-founded by Paul Tollett and Rick Van Santen in 1999, and is organized by Goldenvoice, a subsidiary of AEG Live. The event features musical artists from many genres of music, including rock, indie, hip hop, and electronic dance music, as well as art installations and sculptures. Across the grounds, several stages continuously host live music.

Happy Sunday everyone!

Today's rainy winter weather called for some warm fabrics , easy for layering, sans the heavy duty functioning of winter clothing.

I got these great pieces from Boohoo, while they had loads of discount codes floating around, ensuring a deal for a steal. I can always count on Boohoo for all of my basics needs, as well as getting me together a couple seasons ahead.








This collarless wool coat was super warm, and made the perfect layering piece. The thin design allows me to put literally anything underneath. without feeling like my own personal suana. I opted  for this funneled turtleneck jumper, also from Boohoo. Yes, it wasn't winter breezy, but I didn't want to leave my neck out! I was in love with the asymmetrical vibe, which was perfect for short torso and long legs. The slightly longer back helped to add an air of sophistication to my on-the-go church outfit.


Don't forget to subscribe to the blog. Comment below on some of the looks you'd like to see next. I love hearing from you!


Faithfully,
Brieana

Happy Sunday everyone! I hope everyone is having a prosperous and productive New Year thus far. I know I am!

Today's outfit was head to toe proof that muted and dark tones do not have to be boring. I didn't wear anything brighter than a dark taupe today. and I still felt as bright and chic as if I was wearing a pink or red. It was definitely a sophisticated start to 2017.

This gray denim skirt is from City Chic, which is becoming one of my favorite shops this year. Contrary to my other pencil skirts, this one has lots of stretch, just enough space for a small waist, and a pencil silhouette that doesn't "stretch out" after my hips are in them. My fellow plus size skirt wearers, you know what I mean. It's that awkward moment between sitting and standing where your favorite denim item doesn't quite go back into place. Plus size problem #234967463.

Paired with a cozy turtleneck and some taupe accessories, this outfit was one for the minimalist books!

Acid denim washed skirt: Similar

Booties: Similar

How do you put together a minimalist outfit? Leave a comment, quip, or photo in the comments. I love hearing from you!

Don't forget to subscribe to the blog!

Faithfully,
Brieana

Happy Monday folks!  I hope you all enjoyed your weekend as much as I did. It was a busy one for sure. This past Sunday, I was able to celebrate another year of life. My 26th birthday weekend was full of celebrations and of course some shopping along the way. It's a blessing when your work is so much fun. I've decided to run down my looks for running errands, a ladies only brunch, a sexy ensemble for a night out. and my sophisticated look to bring in B-Day a.k.a my birthday.

Up first we have this casual Friday look, featuring this super fun leather jacket from Ashley Tipton's plus size line through JCPenney. The first time I saw this jacket on one of my favorite bloggers, I knew I had to have it. It's not your run of the mill leather jacket. It features a mesh/tulle blend, adding 100% femininity to the jacket. Not to mention all of the rose gold button and zippers.

Moto jacket: JcPenney Marled knit sweaters: here Distressed denim:similar

Underneath, I wore this marled knit sweater form Forever 21+, with distressed thrifted denim jeans. Complete with mid length combat boots, and you have an outfit fit for running around ALL day. Fashionable and functional!

On to Saturday, where I opted for dresses all day. I always hear people talk about how much work dresses are, but I think dresses are a go-to when you don't feel like picking out two separate pieces of clothing, and they add a chic detail to whatever you're doing.

My day dress was a sweater dress that was also thrifted. The ribbed detail and moccasin booties helped me to not feel too dressed up.

Dress: Similar Booties: Similar Military jacket: Rainbow Shops

My night dress was a last minute find from the racks of Charlotte Russe. I suaully walk past Charlotte Russe when I'm low on funds, because their sales are to shop till you drop for! This entire outfit (sans shoes) was $35!!! YES you read that right. This mauve/blue ruched number was 50% off, as are ALL of their dresses, and I had to pick up some jewelry (2 for $10). I didn't regret wandering in this time around.

Entire outfit: Charlotte Russe

Last but not least, we have my birthday ensemble. I wanted to go with something a bit more toned down and "grown up" for this occasion, and I immediately thought "bow tie". Because I didn't want it to look too boyish, I opted for this velvet wrap from H&M, which I then fashioned into a bow tie, that way I was able to use it again. My burgundy strap heels are from GoJane. I scored them for an easy $19. The rest of the outfit was thrifted. I have to be more wise about my spending habits after all, I'm a year older!

Heels: here

Which one of these looks was your favorite? Leave a comment below. I love hearing from you!

Faithfully,
Brieana

Hello everyone! Sorry if I've been kind of mum lately in the blogosphere. I'm working on some amazing things that I can't wait to share with you. Today, I re-surface in this fab find I got from JustFab in the tune of zippers and vibrant colors. If you're not familiar, JustFab is an online boutique that runs on style profiles and monthly subscriptions. They charge you $39.95 a month, and you get your pick of their ENTIRE online catalog, complete with shoes, sweaters, jewelry, and outerwear. This month, I looked through my closet and noticed a severe deficit in blazers. As stated in my previous post, my plus girl arms make blazers (or any tops without stretch) a bit of a task for me. Where I go up to satisfy my arms, I find problems in the mid-section and waist fit. This blazer  featured a nice scallop fit in the front, with an amazing cape/fly-away effect in the back, complete with this cool (and functional) gold zipper. This awesome and unique piece also comes in black. Check it out at Justfab right now. And don't worry if you don't have a subscription(though I definitely recommend it). You can still load your cart up with goodies.

Leather skirt: here

Blazer: Here

Don't forget to subscribe!

Faithfully,
Brieana

Since I started my blog in December, I've really gone through some growing experiences. I've grown in patience. I've grown in confidence. I've grown in style. But most importantly, I've grown outside of the lines. What I put together for today's fall fashion outfit is something I would have never done in a million years before, and I mean the loud stripes as well as all the colors! But in using this platform, I've stepped out of the box a number of times...and look forward to doing it again and again.

Today's mixed colors/fabrics/everything style started with this diagonal striped shirt I got from a friend. When she handed it to me, the pre-blogger Brieana was like "what am I going to do with this shirt?", while the blogger babe said aloud "I have the perfect outfit for this shirt". Even in that moment of fighting off my inhibitions to be "tame", "in-the-box", and "normal", the Brieana you've all come to know reared her head and told me to take the top. I'm so glad I did.

I paired it with this suede sleeveless vest from Wish.com, my new place for cheap finds and staple items. Yes, I know, they are definitely a hit or miss when it comes to quality,but I can tell you all about how to spot a good look item. Check out this blog post on my tips and tricks. I love this vest for its paneled theme (perfect for keeping out the wind) as well as the soft suede that managed not to be 10 inches thick.

I donned these low pumps from Charlotte Russe I got on clearance in a nice dusty orange color. Paired with my afro puff, it was a regular fall day for me! Hanging right outside the box!

What are some fashion trends you're not afraid to dive into?Leave a comment, quip, or photo below. I love hearing from you!

Don't forget to subscribe to the blog.

Cape Vest: Here

Faithfully,
Brieana

Floral earrings: Similar