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

What do you get when you mix sophistication, glamour, and around the way fashions? You get a personalized stylist, one of a kind pieces, and a fashionista's paradise! This is She Boutique has been keeping me LACED for the past few years, with unique items for the unique lady, with an emphasis on the hood girl at heart!

Founded by Adrienne Randall, This Is She Boutique is located in Reading, PA. Don't let that stop you from getting all the latest pieces though! Adrienne also offers personal shopping and styling services. If you're already sure of what you need, expect to find reasonable prices for the diva in you!

Geared towards the urban community, Adrienne Randall says her clientele is the 'urban sophisticated fashionista', where she specializes in high fashion. A face like this is especially important for us hood girls! I mean, Rainbow and 10 Spot will ALWAYS be great places to shop, but with This Is She Boutique, gone are the days of possibly running into another diva with the same dress!

                                                                                  

"...fashion is a confidence booster. It feels good to purchase and wear the pieces you love. It gives a woman an extra pep in her step and a swing in her hips. To me that is the best feeling in the world to know I was apart of that." 

Happy Monday divas and fashionistas! Here's to a prosperous and productive week ahead. For now, I'm flashing back to Sunday with these floral pieces I scored from my favorite on-a-budget safe place, Rainbow Shops.

Although it was a colder day out, this ensemble kept me nice and warm , especially with the warm red hue of these pants! The accordion ruffle waist and side tie added some flare to it, along with the dainty floral design. I added another layer of femininity to the ensemble with this high neck, open lace top. How cute!

And can we also stop for a moment and take a look at these amazing earrings! Talk about a statement! These textured discs were lighter than I thought they would be, and I really felt like an African princess. Sunday....CONQUERED!

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 Monday folks! I hope you all had a blessed and productive weekend, doing all of the things you set your hearts out to do in 2017. Personally,I was continuing to live out my dreams in Miami, as I had the honor or representing all of the fabulous curvy/plus girls of Los Angeles in the Miss Fashion Week Universe competition. All of the beautiful contenders (runway, petite, plus, and international) convened in sunny Miami beach to compete for the reigning title as Queen for the year 2018. It was a whirlwind experience to say the least, and although I didn't win, my Quneedom reigns on for the year of 2018. Catch me in LA soon.

Along with the competition this weekend, were many photo opportunities. My sponsor and mangers had us in all of the right locations to slay!

My favorite photoshoot wardrobe item? These "Prissy Pants" I purchased from TNicoleBoutique. These were an awesome combination of business casual and comfort!






There was plenty to do in Miami. With all of the networking, meetings, and traveling, I needed to be cute, comfy, while meaning business. This red pair allowed for the chic vibe I needed,with an awesome stretch in the waist in addition to the gold buttons. The flared legs allowed for the breezy Miami air to vent through.

Paired with this Off-the-shoulder top from Ashley Stewart(currently sold out), I was ready to hit the streets of Miami, destined to make some connections.

What's your favorite "Girl Boss" look? Comment or post a picture below!


Faithfully,
Brieana

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 Friday everyone!

It's been a windy one this week in PA. The leaves are blowing, my hair is flying, and I'm packing on the layers to battle the piercing wind. I needed something cozy, practically impenetrable, and obviously, stylish to get me through Friday.

In comes this  lace up sweater from INC International Concepts. I scored this by way of a free clothing subscription trial through Gwynnie Bee. Staying stylish on a budget is getting easier and easier! Basically, you search through loads of dresses, pants, and sweaters for what you like best, they send it to your house, and you can wear it as often as you like, send it back (or not), and repeat! This trial has been awesome because it's introduced me to a few plus size brands I'm not familiar with. including INC International Concepts, who blessed me with this awesome sweater.

This stretch knit top features a scoop neck, with easy slip on (the lace-up design is just a chic bonus). I've been going crazy about the lace up. crochet features on designs lately, and this one was just up my alley.






For all of my plus size divas, sizes 10-32, be sure to check out Gwynnie Bee for your closet needs. They do not disappoint, and what's better; there's no commitment!

Have a blessed weekend everyone!

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 Sunday! Today's outfit post if an ode to the comfort of the 90's fashions, with the effortlessness of a flowy dress. This combo was brought to me straight from City Chic. This overall dress (affectionately called the Soft Hunter Dress) was the perfect love child of comfort. class, and a flattering silhouette all in one bundle. I'm excited to wear it again and again just to show you all how versatile one dress can be. I keep it simple this time with a black shirt, but I know the possibilities are endless. This number is super easy to slip on and off, and the silver accents bring it together perfectly!

I paired the dress with this red cheetah print handbag I got from TJ Maxx. If nobody has every told you about their legendary purse section, I'm telling you. They have something for the understated clutch lover all the way to the dramatic tote holder, in all color and textures, and at the right price! This purse was a step down from my typical suitcase-esque purses, but it definitely did the trick, especially when put together with my wine strappy heels from Go Jane.