Self-Love Lessons from Janelle Monáe

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when a woman of color sees a positive representation of her likeness in the media. At first glance she’s in awe, enamored even. She then begins to study said woman, examining her appearance, calculating her movements, and paying close attention to how she carries herself. She watches how she communicates her thoughts, beliefs, and passions--careful to see how others respond to her presence. Next, she makes note of their similarities. See, this part of the magic is key. While many argue that comparison kills confidence, this form of comparison could very well save a life. This woman begins to see that there are others with qualities like her who are not only surviving, but thriving as well. And that if this woman can make it out here in the world, so can she.





At least that’s what I was thinking to myself when I first saw Janelle Monáe dancing across my TV screen back in 2007.

Spring Style Inspiration | Floral Dresses and Wedges

It's finally starting to feel like spring down here in the south. Though the temperatures can still be a bit temperamental, it's still safe to pull out your softer, delicate fabrics and hang the coats to the back of the closet. These transitions always get me hype, as spring is my favorite season. Not only does my birthday come in the spring, all of my favorite styles and colors are celebrated during this time of the year. Beautiful blush hues and pastels greens make a bold comeback and I can gladly start wearing my coral lipstick in the daytime again without a care in the world.

And last but not least, I get to rock my favorite springtime style pairing as often as I'd like--floral A-line dresses, wedges, and my staple denim jacket.

BOOKS | Spring Reading List

Happy Tuesday, guys! It's been a while since I've shared a reading list over here, which is a shame because I'm always reading something, right? So I thought today's Top Ten Tuesday link-up over at The Broke and the Bookish would be the perfect opportunity to get back in the groove of things. Today's link-up calls for the Top Ten Books on my TBR list. Below are the books I'm looking forward to getting into this upcoming season.