Gladyz with a Z

Summer’s a wash...I’m ready for fall [fashion]

     How I feel about Summer 2020, in 5 words: “What the fcuk was that?!”

     I celebrated my dirty 30, in January...and I decided some time back around June that I’d be turning 30 again, next year, because again...WTF?!

     I am so grateful that I got the opportunity to celebrate my birthday before Corona came to town, because I know others that have not been able to celebrate in the ways that they wanted.  My friends surprised me with a party bus down to the boardwalk to enjoy some seafood; the restaurant was AMAZING.  Since then not only has Corona brought just about everything to a screeching halt, but that restaurant has also flooded during a storm, a couple months ago.  

     It doesn’t take much for me to count my blessings these days.  This summer may not have turned out how I planned and I may not be able to do anything that I WANT to do, but I have everything that I NEED.  This summer has been one for the books to say the least, but I am grateful simply to be able to have experienced it.  Things could be better, but things could also be a lot worse; “all of my good days outweigh my bad days; I won’t complain.” [If you aren’t familiar with Rev. Paul Jones’ I Won’t Complain...do yourself a favor, get into it, and bless your life]

     This summer has been survived in lounge wear, for the most part in my bed, I may occasionally travel to my desk or the couch; no sundress, so rompers, no sandals....no flights, no road trips, no beach days.  I’ve been to the park twice...for lunch dates and even though we ate in our respective cars, they were still highlights of this summer.  The first time was for my homegirl’s birthday, I had crab cakes on a bed of spicy dirty rice, topped with crawfish etoufee...have mercy.  We found that restaurant as part of Houston’s Black Restaurant week and it was everything that we needed it to be.  I look forward to going back and enjoying a couple cocktails at the bar, because their drink menu was popping as well.  The 2nd time was to see a homegirl that came into to town, for the week, celebrating her birthday.  We ate a little bit of something from everywhere that day: brisket tamales, chicken alfredo fries, and boudin eggrolls.  Again...have mercy.  I haven’t been out to eat much, but I have made sure that the times I did risk my life were worth it.

     I’m ready for the seasons to change, for multiple reasons...  To know me is to know that fall/winter fashion has always been my favorite.  I love hoodies and sweaters, hats and boots, the layering, the colors...just everything about it.  

     This edgy casual fall look, is an easy every day look, perfect for class, dinner with the friends, or a day of running errands.  You can never go wrong with a graphic tee and camos.  Check print is a trendy print for the upcoming seasons, and this is a blazer would make a great staple piece for your fall/winter wardrobe.  These cutout croc combat boots are a great way to update a classic shoe, dress them up or down.  

    All in all, I’m ready for fall.  Maybe cause I’m hoping that it will be closer to the end, or some breakthrough for this pandemic shit...maybe it’s because I’m ready for this election...it could also be because I’m ready for a cold front, because this heat is for the birds, but I’m definitely ready for fall fashion.  

-gbj

t-shirt: sacai

shoes: amiri

handbag: karl lagergeld

glasses: oliver peoples

mask: grlfrnd

“i want to get away, i want to flyyyyy awaaaaay”

     A relaxing trip is wanted, deserved, needed...all of that.  It really doesn’t matter if it’s a family vacay, a girls trip, or a baecation; I just need one ASAP.  Corona needs to pack her things and GTF...ASAP.  There’s really no other way to put it.

     This is a bold, yet effortless casual look; perfect for brunch followed by shopping, in a new place to experience the local cuisine and fashion scene.  The bright colors definitely reflect my mood on vacations.  How amazing is it to not be responsible for anything other than enjoying yourself and exploring?  The hardest part of a vacation (after dealing with the anxieties of travelling) should be whether to just take it easy and relax, or indulge all that your destination has to offer; the perfect vacation is a delicate balance of the two.

   I know that we can and will get through this pandemic and I look forward to hopping on a plane and leaving all of the worries behind.  To be honest, at this point, I don’t even know or care where I go first...I just want nice views and great food.

-gbj

t-shirt: urban outfitters

pants: rosie assoulin

shoes: bottega veneta

handbag: dolce and gabbana

sunglasses: dorothy perkins

mask: cotton citizen

earrings: deepa gurnani

watch: versace

     “Shawty got a thang for them SLABS...wood grain grippin’ on the dash”  It’s me, I’m Shawty.  Ain’t nothing like a Texas girl...but the ones from Houston just hit a lil different.  Houston, Texas, born and raised; this outfit is a tribute to the city that I love.  Astronaut button down, because Houston is also known as Space City; baby blue plants, in memory of the Houston Oilers; purple nail polish, because we’re the city of purple sprite; and a money clutch, for the ballers and the hustlers getting to the bags.

     I was born in 1990, so I got a chance to experience some of the best things that Houston has/had to offer.  Astroworld, Funplex, The Livestock Show and Rodeo, the Oilers, the Clutch City Rockets, the Comets...the list goes on.  The food scene here is AMAZING.  From food trucks and delivery services to pop up shops and brick and mortar restaurants.  The talent that is in this city and a product of this city is unmatched (#shoutout to Beyonce).  It’s a big city, with small town southern hospitality and I will represent it, until the day that I die!

-gbj

shirt: valentino

pants: stella mccartney

handbag: judith leiber

sandals: versace

watch: cartier

earrings: gucci

sunglasses: dior

mask: shon simon (black woman owned business)

nail polish: deborah lippmann

     I am real life obsessed with these Attico pants.  I mean...just look at them; the color, the silhouette, the snake print...these pants are beautiful.  These statement pants are the kind that you love so much that you want to wear them everyday...but styling them can present a challenge; I have created 8 different looks, for different occasions.

1. An effortless bruch look.  Perfect for an afternoon catching up...and trying to sober up, from the night before.  Pair the pants with an artsy graphic t-shirt, for a cute and comfy look.  This look is completed with a chic slip on sandal and a gray blazer.  An elevated casual look that puts comfort first.

2. An edgy casual look.  Great for a night out, with bae; catching live music, a bite to eat, and a couple of drinks.  It takes a bold person to mix patterns; I love the combination of camo with these pants.  The camo jacket, layered over a black graphic hoodie creates a cohesive color scheme, set off by the pops of blue, with the pumps and handbag.

3. An edgy business chic look.  Work wardrobes do NOT have to be boring.  Swap the khaki slacks for a statement pant, like these; swap the traditional collared button down, for one with a round neck; trade your blazer, for a leather biker jacket, and complete the look with a printed pump.  While your work day may not be the most exciting, your wardrobe can be everything but boring!

4. A casual weekend look.  Weekends are supposed to be meant for taking a break and relaxing, but we all know that weekends are usually spent trying to handle all of the things that we weren’t able to get to, during the week.  From grocery shopping and hair appointments, to checking in on family and having a couple drinks with friends, this effortless look will transition well.  You can never go wrong with a graphic t-shirt [the only Christopher we aknowledge is Wallace] and denim jacket.  Completed the look with a white mule, instead of sneakers, to complete the look on a chic note.

5. A simple everyday look.  Whether it’s for class or a casual day at work, this look is perfect.  Stripes are a fun way to add color, to any look.  The denim jacket is a staple wardrobe piece; but the details of this one, the hood and the pockets, instantly elevate it to a statement piece.  This look, completed with beanie and chunky hybrid sneaker, is set off by a swanky pair of statement earrings.

6. A casual day off look.  Those days when class is cancelled at the last minute, or you just decide to take a personal day, are some of the best.  You get to sleep in, grab a bite at your favorite place (without having to wait), maybe taking care of somethings so you can enjoy your free time on the weekends...there are endless possibilities.  This look is perfect for whatever you decide to do.  A simple casual look, that still makes a fashion statement.  A graphic tee and sneakers, keep it comfortable, while the clutch adds some fun.  It’s always a good idea to have a removable 3rd piece, just in case it gets a bit cool...or warms up.  This color block puffer jacket is the perfect mix of fun and fashion.

7. An eclectic look.  This look is perfect for a night out, with the girls...when you want to dress up, but don’t feel like wearing heels.  Layer a corset over a t-shirt to accenuate your waistline.  The pink mohair coat adds a touch of glamour to the look and the yellow boots are a funky way to complete the look.  Playing with colors, patterns, and textures are a sure way to create unforgettable looks, for any occasion.

8. A fun party look.  As someone who has been quarantined, since March, I am looking forward to the late nights that turn into early mornings.  There’s nothing like dancing the night away, with some of your favorite people, then staggering to nearest pizza joint or late night restaurant.  The tie dye graphic tee paired with the bright orange suede biker jacket create a fun and functional look.  Just in case you get a bit carried away, on the dance floor, you can remove the jacket and continue to dance the night away.  The black bootie and embellished hat box handbag are classic pieces, with a bit of a modern twist, to complete the look.

     This flirty, casual day time look was inspired by the vacations and baecations that will not be had, this summer. *moment of silence*  This bright orange mini skirt, paired with a fun graphic tee is the epitome of fun and flirty.  A chic sneaker to complete the look makes this outfit perfect for touring and discovering new places, while serving looks, without sacrificing comfort.  Statement [jewelry] pieces and bangles are a great, easy way to instantly elevate casual looks...and if we’re going to be wearing masks for the forseeable future, we might as well invest in cute [effective] ones that go with our outfits, right?!

     After having to cancel April’s trip to Amsterdam, I accepted that I probably would not be doing much, if any, travelling this year.  I would love [and need] nothing more than to spend a couple days, doing nothing productive and being responsbile for nothing, excpet enjoying myself.  I had plannedon soaking up sunshine, trying new restaurants and cuisines, shopping local markets, and exploring new places, but Corona had other plans.  I am aware that others are not letting this virus stop their summer travel plans, unless their destinations have restricted non-essential travel; but for my own peace of mind, I just feel like it is safer to stay home.  

     I do know that once things get better...whenever that may be, I will be taking AT LEAST a week off, to enjoy some much needed relaxation and recharging.  It may be somewhere tranquil and tropical, or it could be a new city rich with culture and places/things to discover; regardless, I will be unapologetically indulging in all that it has to offer.

-gbj

graphic t-shirt: zara

skirt: pretty little thing

sneakers: saint laurent

jewelry: ross simons, jacquie aiche, luna rose, accessory junkie, and anita ko

handbag: topshop

mask: lovers + friends

sunglasses: calvin klein

watch: versace

     This is an edgy casual look, inspired by the nights with friends with that I miss, so dearly.  This look would be perfect for the movies, a game night, a kick back, or a night of drinks, out with your girls.  I am in love with this bralette!  It’s a versatile piece; I decided to dress it down, with a pair of distressed denim cutoff shorts and sneakers.  The multicolor plaid button down is both fashionable and functional; it adds color to the look and provides multiple styling options.     

     It’s amazing what a late night convo with friends can do for your soul.  We didn’t talk about anything in particular...yet we talked about everything.

     Needless to say, socializing these days is a lot different.  I have not been out for food and drinks with my friends, since March.  To say that I miss it is a severe understatement.  It’s safe to say that just about everything in my life has become virtual, curbside, and contactless.  I do everything that I can to make sure that I limit my contact with other people.  I was a “germaphobe” before Corona came to town...so I have take more extreme measures than others.

     I haven’t had a haircut, since March...I haven’t had this much hair on my head, since 2016.  I haven’t had a mani or pedi...I do my own, but it’s not the same.  I miss the click clacking of my acrylic nails on my phone and keyboard, I miss the luxurious feeling of hot jelly pedis with fresh oranges.  I haven’t had a hug...and I’m not even a hugger, but at this point I could use one.

     I’ll be the first to admit that some days are better than others; some days I get a lot done, other days I have no motivation to do anything but eat and binge cooking shows and Netflix.  Not to seem like I take my friends for granted, because I definitely don’t, but these last couple of months have definitely helped me to appreciate them even more.  From swapping recipes and Netflix party dates, to conversations about spirituality and connecting with ancestors, there is no way that I would have made it this far, through all of this, without them and I know it.

     When I count my blessings, I count them twice.  I’m not fond of sharing mine...but you should definitely get some friends like them!  LOL

  -gbj

bralette: maison close

shorts: topshop

plaid button down: lifehe

sneakers: nike

glasses: oliver peoples

watch: hermes

handbag: topshop

mask: shon simon (black woman owned business)

earrings: nordstrom

     An edgy heel effortlessly elevates this comfortable, casual look.  It is amazing how a pair of shoes and a handbag can transform any look.  This look could also be styled with sneakers and a fanny pack.  This look is perfect for a lazy day, around the house, or picking up curbside orders.  A classic denim jacket can complete just about any look and add a neutral pop of color, to monochromatic looks.

 "Self-care is a priority and necessity-not a luxury.” -Justin Chang

     Self-care is not always about sipping wine, while soaking in a bubble bath, or indulging in luxurious pampering at a spa or salon.  Self-care is doing any and everything that may be necessary, for you to be the best version of yourself.  These days, in the midst of a pandemic and a revolution, self-care is more important than ever.

     Some days it may be making sure that you’re staying hydrated and boosting your immune system, other days it may be unplugging; whatever is necessary, do it.  During these times, we simply cannot afford to neglect our bodies or our minds.  It’s not always easy to do the things that we need to do, but that doesn’t mean that they are necessary; if anything those are times at which it is is most important.

     If your productivity levels are looking a bit different these days, it’s ok; we are living through unprecedented times.  If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unplug.  Unplug from social media, the news, even people that drain your energy.  We are all taking things day by day and just hoping for the best.  

     Take breaks, set boundaries, and don’t forget to breathe.

-gbj

shirt: boohoo

pants: unravel project

shoes: saint laurent

denim jacket: dorothy perkins

handbag: balenciaga

mask: shon simon (black woman owned business)

nail polish: wolf & badger

    This elevate casual daytime look, could be instantly transformed to a chic night time, by removing the denim jacket (or wearing it draped around your shoulders) and swapping the sneaker for a black high heeled sandal.  This outfit is a perfect example of “all in the details”.  The one-shoulder black bralette is a flirty alternative option to a basic black tank top.  The multi-animal print pattern and tiered ruffles combine to create a fun and flirty skirt, perfect for day or night.  The hamburger clutch, designed with colorful Austrian crystals is a fun statement piece that completes the look.

     At this point, I just feel like I’m one of the last people still in quarantine, working from home, and wearing mask if I leave my house.

     I even wear a mask when I go to pick up my curbside orders or roll through a drive-thru, to get a burger.  I saw a meme that said “I’m tired of saying that this shit is crazy...but this shit is crazy!”

     Of course I miss my friends, going out to eat, traveling, and all of those things...but it’s just safer, in the house.

     I spend my downtime cooking, doing puzzles, reading, virtual happy hours and virtual dates, and of course Netflix; I love Netflix Party.  I’ve perfected my banana bread and created a couple new favorite recipes.  I’m still struggling through the hardest puzzle that I’ve ever attempted...more on that at a later date. Anyway, I’ve finished books that I’d never gotten back to, mastered turning just about any game into a virtual drinking game, and watched some great shows and movies.

-gbj 

bralette: pretty little thing

skirt: river island

sneakers: nike

clutch: judith leiber

sunglasses: george keburia

earrings: child of wild x revolve

watch: jaeger-lecoultre

rings: ettika

Call me crazy, but there is something so exciting and intriguing about organized crime!  

Back in 2001, I fell in love with Danny Ocean, and I have been riding the wave ever since.  Fast forward 17 years, [geez!], his sister is the captain and she has a plan that could only be concocted and executed by an Ocean.

Sandra Bullock, along with Cate Blanchett, Rihanna, Helena Bonham Carter, Mindy Kaling, Awkwafina, Anne Hathaway, and Sarah Paulson pull off the biggest jewelry heist in history, at the Met Gala.

I may be a bit biased, because we all know that I love fashion and diamonds, but this movie just may be my favorite, in this franchise.

I LOVE that a [relatively] small group of women, were able to pull off such an elaborate plan, with nothing but detailed planning and teamwork.

If you haven’t already, GO SEE THIS MOVIE!!!

Did you see their red carpet looks, for the premiere?!  

The ladies worked the red carpet, shining brighter than Cartier diamonds.

Sandra Bullock in Elie Saab

Cate Blanchett in Missoni

Rihanna in Givenchy

Helena Bonham Carter in Vivienne Westwood

Mindy Kaling in Atelier Prabal Gurung

Awkwafina in Reem Acra

Anne Hathway in Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture

Sarah Paulson in Prada

EVERYTHING is EVERYTHING.

Tracee.  This suit.  These poses. These moods.

Everything.