Set Mag Blog

My Babies Love The Lord

2010-04-21T18:12:00.000-07:00

I try my best to make sure that my babies know and love the Lord. We go to church together. We watch children movies that explain Jesus' life and death. We read their Bibles together. Reign reads their Bibles to them. I make an honest attempt to answer any and all questions they have about God and Jesus. I try to make sure they are very aware of their actions and how Jesus wouldn't do certain things so they shouldn't. I don't know maybe I reference God and Jesus too often to them because they've gotten a great amount of love and admiration for them both. So much to the point that they discuss them amongst themselves. One day Reiganna said "Mommy I miss God and Jesus and I love God and Barack Obama and Jesus and all the guys up in Heaven. My grandma too.". She brings me such joy. Sometimes her thoughts amaze me since she's just 3. Another day she asked Reigan "How come Jesus died?" Reigan said "Because bad people put him on the cross. But He's coming back down." Reiganna says "Yeah bad people right? Jesus is coming back yay!" Then they turned their joy into a song "Jesus and God are watching us forever! So I know that everything will be okay." They titled the song Jesus and God Love Us. Am I going too hard with my teachings or is this normal behavior? Either way I pray that they all continue to embrace what they've learned and live a good life built upon morals and the utmost respect for themselves and others.

What is appropriate dressing and what should determine it?

2010-04-21T18:06:00.000-07:00

Being a wife, significant other, mother, daughter or business professional, do you
take heed or should I ask do you have pride in how you dress?

My question isn’t focused on “bedazzling or spicing up” your daily attire. It’s focused on what you choose to wear on a day to day basis. For example, are you reaching for jeans that are cut so low that your bottom hangs out, tops that are so open that your chest is all over the place or dresses that are so darn short that your------well, you get where I’m going right?

Is there a point in our lives where we need to “dress our age? LOL, whatever that means. I’ve seen SEVERAL magazines that feature so called “appropriate looks” while you’re in your 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, 50’s and so on. And to be quite honest, me, being a size 8 (striving for size 6) 35 year old wife and mother of 3 (yes, I put myself on blast) have always been able to pick and choose something I would wear from EACH age group! *Give it Up ladies, don’t act like you’ve NEVER ran into Charlotte Russe for a quick going out top!

In any event, I don’t know the answers, but I do have very strong opinions. However before I reveal my opinions, I’d like to pose the question: Should what you wear be a reflection of your age, body type or status (in a relationship, married, children etc)? Additionally, I’ve attached some pictures of some Celebrity Moms for your review and to hopefully get your mind working.

I’d love to get your feedback and also some answers to the posed question. Please email me directly at info@jadareneestyle.com.

I have an opinion,

Baby It's Too Hot, No It's Too Damn Cold

2010-04-18T19:15:00.000-07:00

So it really bothers me when I fall asleep in bed comfortable w/ the air at a cool 6(which is still too cool for me but I like to think I compromise since 71 and auto is where I like the temperature) and then I wake up with my extremities frozen and my nose running. Because good old Eddy comes and sneaks into the room after I'm sleeping or in the bathroom and effs with the air conditioner no matter what season we are in. In 30 degree weather he needs the bedroom, hell any room he's in, at a freezing 60-58.5 degrees and blowing on high! WTDTA? Seriously this isn't normal. Some nights I just leave the room because I can't take it and it's just not fair. Or if I happen to wake up I sneak over to the unit and fix it. It's certainly an ongoing issue for us. I recently bought him a chillow (women going through menopause use them to combat hot flashes) he loves it yet the room is still on ice when I wake up. Where is his compromise in doing that mess? You can't see it but I'm getting heated just writing about this. I know life isn't fair but damn where is my creative control?

Sailing Anyone?

2010-04-18T19:13:00.000-07:00

Anyone ready to go sailing? That seems to be on the designers minds these days with all the nautical looks. Don't get me wrong, I like the idea of heading to the Hamptons to ride around on a yacht, dressed cute sailor pants, a fun hat and a striped shirt. My only concern out of that outfit is the striped shirt. Actually, striped anything causes me to get antsy. I'm a broad woman, so the wrong striped ANYTHING can go completely wrong or completely right. My advice to myself and to you if you have any concerns: go for thin stripes or diagonal strips!

Check out www.bananarepublic.com for the awesome universal striped pieces. My favorites are the Sleeveless Striped Vest and the Sleeveless Striped Sheath.

Nicole Miller, www.nicolemiller.com, also came out with some awesome striped dresses that I personally feel can compliment many. I took a walk on the wild side with the Urban Renewal Blouson dress she has out now! She proves with this piece that stripes do not have to be boring.

www.saks.com you must look at and consider the following:

CLOTHES (real), Salon Z Abstract stripe cardi
BCBG, Stripe silk tank
Soft Joie Sheer stripe top
Theory, Stripe cotton tunic

Happy Sailing,

What Career I'm a Mom

2010-04-14T19:50:00.001-07:00

So many thoughts come around when you look back on your life and realize that all of your dreams of success haven't been attained. I mean sure I've made some accomplishments but not nearly as many as I'd have liked to. I was the 1st in my family to graduate college in June of 2001, I'm raising my sister and have been since July 23rd of 2001, I've birthed 3 beautifully smart children and have my final on the way, I'm married and raising my husbands 4 year old son which is so stressful on us but I guess you do things for love and I recently wrote a children's book dealing with my own personal issues on a grander scale. Yet with all of that I still feel so far behind my time. Sure I could go back to school and get my masters but then what? Or I could test drive some internships to gain some hands on experience and try to discover my inner passions but then what? Hell I could continue to write books but my fear of success and being forced to leave my kids is just far too much for me to accept right now. So I remain stagnant and my hopes and dreams are just that. I've been a stay at home mom for 7 years! Ouch!!! I'm so attached to my kids and they to me that just the thought of not being with them daily makes me feel guilty. When their dad and I would take trips alone I'd be on an island some where crying because I felt bad that they were home crying because I wasn't there. Even though they absolutely drive me nuts most days I'd feel like I would be doing them such a disservice if I made attempts at a career or even a life outside of my family. I guess the truth is if I didn't have a husband able to care for us I'd be beating the pavement and working hard but since I do in some ways it just seems like a waste of time. If this marriage doesn't work out I'm sure I'll find out what it is to work and raise my babies. You only live once so holding back isn't necessary yet I can't seem to muster up the courage to do the things that rest on my heart. Help! I need a career that doesn't require my absence from my babies much outside of their school hours. Any suggestions?

I'd Wear That!

2010-04-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

Who says you have to be thin to dress in fashion forward attire? We all have our excuses for why we don't wear this or can't buy that and sad to say they often revolve around our personal body images. I know I'm guilty of it!

In any event I decided to go against the norm. Instead on clicking on sites that cater to women from sizes 0-10 AND giving myself a headache trying to figure out if I'll look good in the dress being modeled by a size 4 model----I decided to go another route! I looked up pieces on plus size websites and/or in department stores to find pieces that I'd wear (as a size 8). Check out below to see what I discovered!

Trendy plus size sites
http://www.torrid.com/torrid/index.jsp
http://www.bandlu.com/
http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/6025135/2376776~2374327~6007059~6025135?origin=srcontent

My Last Child Is On His Way

2010-04-12T19:36:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy is tough emotionally, physically and mentally on me. I wish I could enjoy this time like the women on TV do but I can't, hell I don't. I'm having my fourth child 3 months from now and I'm going crazy! A lot of days I just feel so unattractive, so unhappy. I've birthed three 9 pound babies and I'm far from a big woman. My 5 foot 1 1/2 inch frame has been beat up by these children. I was almost 130 pounds before I got pregnant and I'm 150 already. I forgot how painful my 3rd child was on my body, mind and heart. When we decided #4 I didn't think back long or hard enough. I'm in pain daily! My pelvic bones have been damaged by the weight of the other 3 and I feel broken inside. I can't even walk around the grocery store without wanting to cry, can't enter or exit the bed without pain this mess sucks! I'm going to a maternity chiropractor Monday with hopes of being fixed. It's supposed to ease my pain and make my delivery easier and faster. Pray for me people. I considered having a c-section this time just to avoid breaking another of my children's collar bones but I'm afraid to get cut. My mid-wife has suggested I get induced two weeks early so my baby is smaller so that's what I may do. I'd love to get my tubes tied but I'm so afraid of that pain but God willing I will more then likely do it. Mostly because I never want to feel this kind of pain again, ever. My children are most definitely beautiful blessings but I need do other things with my life.

Diffusion Brands

2010-04-12T19:27:00.000-07:00

The economy has prompted more then just drastically slashed prices on normally high end designer clothing. It's also forced several designers to find "alternative" ways to sell their pieces. Several have paired with highly recognized store fronts to offer "limited edition," diffusion lines at a fraction of their normal price points.

I'm sure you've seen advertisements such as, "Jimmy Choo," for H&M, "Vera Wang," for Kohls, "ABS," for JCPennys and even "Stella McCartney." for GAP. Easily the most recognizable mega store that continuously brings in fabulous designers with cool, unique pieces is Target. Currently, John Galiano is the feature! However, mark your calendars because on April 25, one of my personal favorites will be in Target...Zac Posen!

Check out some of Zac's couture pieces and also some of the styles he'll have at Target (trust me; you're not going to want to miss out)!

Happy Shopping,

I Don't Have A Job But I Work Damn Hard

2010-04-08T17:49:00.000-07:00

Monday thru Friday is a very hard work week for me when it comes to my kids. Bedtime is 8pm, well that's when the tv's and lights go off, but they manage to pick on each other and fight and cry and call my name at least 100 times collectively before the sandman kicks in. Idk why but Reigan and Reiganna fight every night, Reign is always the most sleepy but he has to deal with Noah's desire to sneak and play and then his snoring before he can rest easy. Meanwhile I'm in my room belting out threats because I can hear them. Smh. How do I get these kids to just lay down and go to sleep without laying down and falling asleep with them, because that really makes their dad mad. He feels so left out and pushed aside because most of my time is spent taking care of the kids and afterwards I'm exhausted but if he helped me maybe things would go by smoother and I wouldn't be so worn out nightly which is another issue for another day. After they go to sleep I have to pick out their clothes, clean up their messes and make sure their lunch food is available. I love my kids very much but they work me out! What was I thinking when I decided to have another one?

Can You See The Man In The Mirror?

2010-04-08T17:41:00.000-07:00

I still can’t seem to get over the tragic death of pop sensation Michael Jackson. As a long time humanitarian, and his philanthropic efforts, I can confidently say that he is remembered not only for his music but also his passion and love for people in despair and the environment. I’m pretty sure everyone can sing their favorite MJ song, and of course I think my favorite is the BEST!

Man in the Mirror! I LOVE THAT SONG! “I’m going to make a change for once in my life. It's going to feel real good, gonna make a difference, gonna make It right. As I turn up the collar on my favorite winter coat, this wind is blowing my mind. See the kids on the street; not enough to eat. WHO AM I TO BE BLIND PRETENDING NOT TO SEE THEIR NEED”…

I have officially made that song my life mantra. It speaks to the heart of many people in the world deeply. When is the last time you took a deep look in the mirror? Sure you might say this morning, but I mean the other mirror. The mirror that shows you the reflection of your soul. The mirror that tells you not only who you are but also the person you want to be.

“I’ve been the victim of a selfish kind of love its time that I realize. There are some with no home not a nickel to loan….” Key word in this verse is SELFISH! Can we go back to the mirror again? Look deep… Is it showing you that now is the time to share that selfish love?

I can go on and on dissecting this song, but my reason for all this is of course to get you to want to make the world a better place! YOU CAN CHANGE THE WORLD! Change and giving doesn’t always equal money. So as usual I challenge you to find a way to make a change. Let me know what you come up with….
God willing talk to you soon.
Chanita

My 3rd Child Looks Just Like Her Dad

2010-04-07T18:48:00.000-07:00

Reiganna was born September 1st because I made my midwife induce me on my due date. I did not want to carry her another day. I had been in so much pain the entire pregnancy. I felt like my pelvic bones would break any day. Simple tasks like climbing into my tub were chores because I thought there was nothing I could do about the pain. Walking wasn't so bad then until I slipped down our front stairs while 7 months and miserable. I didn't think I hurt myself much, my left but cheek was bruised because I managed to slide down 5 of the steps on my behind, I don't think I had a scratch anywhere but there was more pain. Another day I slipped on some baby oil someone had spilled a few drops of on my bedroom floor. One leg went one way the other went the other way and that mess really hurt! I had to soak in the tub that night because my pain was excruciating but I was hurting on the inside. Was someone trying to take me out or was I just clumsy? Granted my belly was so big that it had been ages since I saw my feet but damn what was next? Fast forward to my delivery day, my midwife is doing what she can to make me comfortable, hot showers, soaking in the tub and sitting on the ball but I'm just ready for it to be over. This birth was so much harder than the other two. I don't think I was prepared mentally for this one because there was so much going on in my life. But this birth was TOUGH! I didn't make a sound pushing out my son, not one and had not gotten any pain meds with any of them but I was begging for them this time at one point I was crying. I was tired, hurting physically and mentally and ready for it to be over. Of course my midwife refused and I had to bare that pain and push her out and yet again she was broken. After weighing in at 8lbs 15oz and measuring 21 1/4 inches she was cleaned up I was given my baby to feed. Again she was screaming from pain on her left side. Since I knew what I was looking for I laid her down and checked her collar bone and sure enough it was broken on the same side her sisters had broken 2 years before. So it's clear to me that my fat son altered my birth canal and is the reason I'm breaking my babies clavicles and I'm so upset by it all. I find out that her blood type is a mixture of her dad's and mine which aren't compatible types so she has jaundice. We had to go back to the hospital the same day we were released because she needed light therapy to draw the jaundice out of her system. I was an emotional wreck but thank God my baby is alive and well and has no lasting effects of any of it. Reiganna's also tall, a bit meatier than her big sister and if she and her father don't look like twins my gosh! I lost that one.

Romp Away!

2010-04-07T18:30:00.000-07:00

Does your day look like this?
1. Wake up at 5am to work out
2. Get Children ready for school
3. Volunteer at school library
4. Shower and change for noon business meeting
5. Meet a client at showroom for wardrobe selection
6. Pick children up from school and take to dance class
7. Shower and Change outfit for shopping/social event at Saks
8. Etc.etc.etc.

What a schedule! Lots of responsibilities and at least half of them require me to look fabulously put together! What saves me and should save you is my suggestion for an easy, go to piece that will cover all the above events. In addition to it being one of the most challenging pieces for me to find (only because I needed one that complimented my body type), it also happens to be one of Springs top Trends!. Do I have you guessing? Wondering? Scratching your heads on what the heck I'm talking about? Ok, I'll stop torturing you and let you know what it is:

THE JUMPSUIT Ladies and Gents (and the crowd goes wild)!!!

The jumpsuit goes by many names, romper, overalls, bodysuit or even play suit! It also comes in an assortment of lengths, materials and styles. Whether you're going on a business venture or to the playground ----you can reach for a jumpsuit (and a nice pair of earrings and necklace) and rest assured that you'll look great! As I stated above, my challenge was finding one that worked for me. I needed one that could go from day to night with the switch of a jacket, I needed one that didn't hug my very muscular thighs, and I needed one that was long enough for me to pair with cute gladiator sandals or some nice Jimmy Choo heels. Trust me, when I say it wasn't an easy task! But I'm proud to say that my Black, Racerback, Button Front, Silk jumpsuit from Ali Ro------was well worth the wait and headache!

Below you'll find some of my favorite picks and suggested Rules for acquiring and wearing the JUMPSUIT:

1.Casual (playground, grocery store etc) opt for a nice cotton or jersey knit jumpsuit.

2. Dressy or semi dressy event (ladies night out, date night, business function etc) opt for nicer materials like silk, tencel, or even wool if it's chilly out.

3. Solid colors are best for full length jumpsuits and unless you're a between a size 0-10, go for a loser fit (loser does not equal balloon baggy).

4. If you must have a full print piece----go for a romper style and please make sure your legs can back it up!

5. Accessories can definitely take a solid jumpsuit to the next level! But be tasteful and remember, less is always best. For example, one statement piece necklace is enough!

My Beautiful Daughter

2010-04-06T19:32:00.000-07:00

Okay so I'm on my 2nd child out of wedlock and inside I'm not so happy about it. I mean she nor her brother were accidents since their father and I planned my pregnancies but reality can set in and hit you like a ton of bricks. 10 months after our son was born he wants me to get pregnant as his Christmas gift. I'm thinking I'm getting off easy because I had the hardest time buying this guy gifts; he had everything and I just adored my son and knew I'd be fine with a 2nd child. So it's the night before Halloween and I'm in labor with baby #2. I was upset and tried to fight the pain because I didn't want my baby born on October 31st but she was ready. Another 9 pound 21 1/2 inch long skinny baby came out of me. She was beautiful but something was wrong. I heard another pop again I felt no pain but I was sure I wasn't crazy. So the nurses clean her up, my cousin cuts her umbilical cord since her dad was too chicken to do it and they bring her to me for a feeding. My baby was crying out in pain and I'm asking my midwife what's wrong with her. Every time I pressed her left side up against my body she would scream. So they take her and lay her back on the table for a closer examination and find the problem. She had broken her left clavicle and there wasn't much they could do about it. I'm upset because I feel like it's my fault and of course everyone is trying to dumb it down. It's just her collar bone and it'll heal within 4 months. I had to sling Reigan's arm all day to minimize the movement, take her for x-rays to make sure there was no permanent damage and the whole ordeal was a bit much. She's in great shape now and there are no side effects of the break thank God! Today Reigan is so tall and skinny; I was always short but skinny just like her, almost as tall as her brother and so beautiful I promise she's my female twin.

2010-04-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

In the fashion world, new styles, clothes and trends are showcased months prior to the actual season. For example, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week this past February focused on fall 2010 pieces and the upcoming MBFW in September will focus on Spring/Summer 2011 apparel. These shows serve as great insight for Stylists like me, magazine editors and anyone else who needs to stay ahead of the game for personal or professional reasons.

HOWEVER, I must admit that at times it is hard for me to focus on say, spring/summer clothing when I’m layered in Ugg boots and a down coat. Or, if I’m sitting on the runway at a show wearing tights, shoe boots, a sweater dress and over coat. My point is, it’s sometime difficult for me to envision the upcoming season of trends 3-4 months ahead of time! And it may be the case for some of you!

Well, this weekend, South Jersey had a breakthrough of some great weather. The sun was shining, the skies were clear and the temperature reached a high of 75! Alas ladies, spring is here! And now that I’ve truly accepted that, I can better appreciate the trends of the season!

One of my favorite trends and a highly recognized one amongst fashion insiders is Camouflage! I’m talking camouflage pants, tops, shorts and skirts. I love it to death! This rugged, army fatigue normally is placed on cargo shorts and gets paired with a t-shirt and timberland boots. NOT THIS SPRING! In other words, don’t be surprised if you see someone in a camo skirt or dress with some rocking heels, and instead of “smirking,” you find yourselves “smiling in admiration!”

Please refer to the websites and pictures below for camo inspired trends for Spring 2010. And see how not only these designers, but celebs as well have taken camo to edgy, sexy heights! And please don’t hesitate to email me directly at jadarenee3@yahoo.com for more camo inspired ideas!

Juicy Couture (visit www.shopbop.com)

Balmain (visit www.style.com)!

Always in Fashion Fun Ladies,

My First TIme

2010-04-06T19:15:00.000-07:00

As I wreck my brain trying to figure out my 1st time doing community service, I can’t put my finger on the very FIRST time so I will go to my most distant memory…
My little sister was a Brownie. For some of you new age kids yall are gonna have to Google it! I’m with Wendy Williams when she said, “Am I getting so old or the culture changing so much that I have to explain everything I’m talking about as if I’m talk to a classroom?” She won’t do it and neither am I! Anyway, I remember her putting on her brown uniform and going to the elementary cafeteria that smelled of stale potatoes and fresh baked cookies. She would work tirelessly on trying to earn patches that she took interest in. After enduring this for some time, I decided I need to join. If my parents were going to torture me by making me sit there because it was a good way to get rid of us at the same time, I might as well join instead of being bored out of my mind!

At my age level I joined as a Junior. I remember my green uniform that still is hanging in the basement at my dad’s house on Dartmouth. What I didn’t know that once I joined there was a GREAT deal of work to do. First I had to learn the pledge which I still know to this day: “On my honor, I will try, to serve God, and my country, to help people at all times and live by the Girl Scout Law!” Then I was being drilled on the mission: Girl Scouting builds girls of Courage, Confidence, and Character, who make the world a better place. It’s amazing that I was walking in my life’s purpose at a young age, yet I didn’t recognize it… Now on to the patches…
We often were allowed to work on the patch of our choice, but our group leader said we would be doing one all together. It was a service patch and although I don’t remember the name I can tell you with a straight face that I was one of the girls probably complaining. Was the fun about to be sucked out of us? What about the patches that had to do with arts and crafts or dance, all things that tickled my fancy at that time?

Off to the homeless shelter we went. I can remember walking in like it was yesterday! “What was that smell? Why is everybody so dirty? What are they mad about? Well you know me; Ms. Life of the Party had to find out. I chose the job of taking the plates to the table. Why? Because I was going to ask those people what the deal was. One by one I asked their story and to my surprise they all wanted to tell me! That day changed my life!

After that day I went to work not only at that homeless shelter, but countless other places that had to deal with helping others! Can you remember when you FIRST HELPED someone? I want to hear about it…
God willing I’ll talk to you next time

My First Born Was My Son

2010-04-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

My 1st child, Reign, was huge! I couldn't believe he came out of me at 9 lbs 1 oz, 213/4 inches long. He was so fat, he looked like the Pillsbury Dough Baby and I was terrified! On his way out I heard a loud pop. No one knew what it was, I didn't feel injured in any way so we switched the attention to my new baby. He came out with his umbilical cord wrapped around his neck and consequently his face was blue. My poor baby wasn't breathing! I'm still not sure how that happened but while he was head down and ready to exit the womb he face was up so he had to be turned to face down. Anyway my baby had a blue face, was on the table being cleaned up and helped to breathe while I'm damn near in a full on panic but still had to push out my placenta. During which time I hear him crying. So he was alive the placenta came out and my son was in my arms. For my 1st birthing experience that was a bit traumatic but we both made it through. Today he's almost my height with the deepest voice I've ever heard on a child and he is my male twin!

April Fool's Day

2010-04-05T18:33:00.000-07:00

Although last Thursday was April fool’s day, I didn’t expect to be fool…that is, by many of my friends and loves one. Before we get started let me inform you that I am about to piss off a couple people, but like my dad always told me “It is better to be pissed off, than pissed on!” So be mad or go grab an umbrella….

So just my luck on the last day of collecting donations for my non for profit, it would fall on you guessed it, April Fool’s Day. So as I’m sending out countless emails begging for donations, my daughter called and informed me that it was April Fool’s Day! That was it, that's why people weren’t sending in donations. They were too busy. Busy emailing messages that start off with “Don’t call me ever again or HELP I’m locked up, etc.” To busy as grownups playing on people’s phones or coming up with a prank along the lines of the movie Home Alone.

Sounds silly right? Yea well guess what? All the excuses I hear people tell me their reasons for not donating are too! So I thought I would beat them to the punch by explaining it to you all why I didn’t receive one donation on Thursday! It was because it was April Fool’s Day!!!!!!!!!

With that being said I hope everyone had a very joke filled day!
God willing, I’ll talk to you tomorrow

Pregnancy Changes Things Huh?

2010-04-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

I was on an emotional roller coaster the entire pregnancy. My then boyfriend and I had issues to say the least. I guess when he was working to get and keep me he didn't realize the magnitude of his actions. Sure he asked me to have his baby and I agreed mostly because I was in a place where I felt like nothing was promised and I had nothing to loose. Especially since I had just lost my mother the year before but also because I was head over heels in love and just wanted to be happy then reality set it. All of the drama and changes that came along with our choice were so real! I hadn't put much thought into my job which had so many opportunities to become so much more in my near future. He hadn't thought about his family and friends who now all looked at me as a gold digger because I was pregnant for this athlete who had been my friend for 6 months before we did anything. Sure we moved pretty fast after that point but I really thought he loved me, felt very safe with him and he had become one of my best friends. He knew everything about me, my past relationships, my mothers life and death and how I felt about family. I however knew his heart but had no knowledge of his true thoughts in reference to us and our relationship. He really didn't feel like it was a sin to lie to me about his actions and do him as long as I wasn't hurt by them because I didn't know about them. So while I had a key to his house and slept there damn near every night outside of his road trip time he still managed to be very free when he wasn't with me. I was a fool to say the least. It wasn't until I had to choose between him and my job that I really felt trapped and just lost. I had been used to working and maintaining my own. Had held at least one job since I was in middle school and sometimes two. Man I was going crazy! What I had gotten myself into, only time would tell.

Just Because

2010-04-01T16:28:00.000-07:00

You know the saying, "You are what you eat?" Well how about asking yourself, "Do I dress according to my surrounding or do I dress to impress regardless?” I had to ask myself that question this week. 80% of my profession is done from my home in South Jersey. I have gradually gone from immediately showering after my work out and changing into a cute outfit, to conducting business calls, preparing client outfits and coordinating for fashion shows in my work out gear! Yuck Right!!

While some may be ok with that, I find it unacceptable! Never mind the fact that I’m a Fashion Stylist and should not need to GET READY, but should always BE READY! How about I simply should take more pride in my day to day attire------even if that means chasing around my 4 year old in 3 inch heels (ok, that may be pushing it). But do you get my point? I mean come on, I’ve been with my husband for over 15 years, but even he mentioned that he’d appreciate if I dressed at home the way I did when I was going out. Ouch!

My fall back, excuse is that I’m in South Jersey!! I can throw on some Uggs, jeans and a cute Butter Super Soft Hoodie and be a fashion statement! *Was that harsh? When I look back on my day-to-day attire in Atlanta and LA, I was constantly wearing heels, cute jeans, fitted jackets, lovely blouses and nice dresses. Lord and when I need to be in NY, even simply for showroom appointments, it’s like GAME ON!!!

Therefore, I’m going to challenge myself and everyone else. To step up your day to day fashion game! Shower after working out in the morning! Get dressed in some causal, chic attire or if you’re really feeling good, throw on a dress and heels! Give your husband and/or significant other a reason to do a double take when he comes in! Give your children a reason to look you up in down with pride when you pick them up from school! And most importantly, give yourself an excuse to start wearing and ALL the clothes that you constantly think you have to “SAVE FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION.”

Till the next jean size (DOWN) ladies,

Renee

Oh yeah and check out the examples below for quick, effortless, yet extremely stylish dressing. And if you see any pieces you like or simply want to hit me up on email with questions, please do so at jadarenee@yahoo.com.

Giving Back, Are Pennies Enough?

2010-04-01T16:23:00.000-07:00

If you haven’t figured it out by now, I’m complaining, I mean blogging regarding non for profit, giving back, and just in general helping others. Sure most of you have this pre conceive notion that your giving is up to par as far as you are concerned but I beg to differ on behave of the many homeless, orphans, abused, and single mothers of the world!

Honestly, does the notion of you handing the homeless man your spare change as you rush by fulfill you? Or putting a few extra dollars in the collect plate at church do it for you? But my favorite is the rich athletes, entertainers, and corporate Americans that can’t wait until Thanks giving and Christmas to strut their stuff by buying a few turkeys and handing out toys! Boy I know they feel good as the pull away in their Bentley and pass the kid they just gave the toys to standing at the bus stop hold their bag like it has a million dollars in it, and might I add, in 20 degree weather!

So I challenge you today to dig deep. Really think about how you are contributing to the world? Does your giving back match your blessing? Are you a living example to your children and those around you in the area of giving? Again if your answer is yes, then stick around and keep reading what I have to say, and those who cannot answer with yes, I’m 100% sure that I change your heart and mind on the issue.

Talk to you tomorrow God Willing!

Chanita

Fashion with the Stars?

2010-03-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

The highly anticipated new season of Dancing with the Stars just hit TV last week, but I’m not so sure that all of the costumes were a hit! Let’s face it. going on television is already a set up because it adds 10 plus pounds to the body. I never really believed that until the day I was doing an interview on a local news channel. I wore a cream sleeveless top that I thought was stunning and complimented my tone arms. Boy was I wrong! When I saw the footage later that day, I mistook my toned arms for some large baseball bats that would have given Popeye The Sailor a run for his money! Not good. My lesson learned, COVER UP THE ARMS ON TV!

As you get to know me over the weeks to come, you’ll notice that I have a very big opinion on clothes and colors matching ones tone and shape. In other wards, denim leggings were NOT made for everyone, and Lord, wearing flats and skinny jeans, and your shoe size is a 12, so not for everyone---but that’s for another day.

Right now my concern is how one chooses a costume for a show like Dancing with the Stars that WILL compliment their shape. Granted, many may be able to wear anything b/c they’re genetically blessed. But not all of them.

For example, Niecy Nash, who is a hilarious comedian and spunky TV host. Niecy normally dresses like she knows her body type and what works for it. But after seeing her in what looked like gold, shiny, colored gift wrap (and matching flower), I’m scratching my head. I think she could have selected something more flattering for live TV. What do you all think? I’m not jus picking on her, I’ll have more after Tuesday’s show. And on “Body Types.”

I Miss My Mommy

2010-03-31T20:06:00.000-07:00

One of my friends from high school called me just after the kids left for school to say happy birthday and we talked for 2 hours. She asked how Brandi was & I gave my opinion. She's 14, my oldest child is ,7 and she feels too old to be around them, yet she's too young to hang with me all day and on the grander scale of things I want her to be a child as long as possible. I told her Brandi is still keeping her emotions bottled up and no matter how many times I talk and cry with her she always curls back up in her shell. Then she asked me about myself and how I was doing and had I dealt with my loss. I had to honestly say no I hadn't. I'd been so focused on being the strong one that my own pain had been masked by my will to fight for survival. Almost 9 years later I'm still so hurt by the loss of my mother. I'm mad at the reason for her death, also angry at her dead partner for ending her life by his carelessness, mad at myself for not taking advantage of every minute I had with her oh hell I'm just mad! I don't have a mother anymore, she was gone long before I ever thought about having kids, wasn't at my wedding and won't be here ever again. I long for my mother because I'm sure that my life would be so much better if she were here with me so I sympathize with my little sister because she's just got me as a mother figure and on so many levels I just am not the same.

Shop Til You Drop!

2010-03-30T19:06:00.000-07:00

I grew up borrowing clothes from family and friends, looking forward to the free handouts from the Salvation Army where my mom worked and even tearing out pictures from the fashion magazines like Sears, JC Penny’s and Hudsons (give me a break, I’m from the inner city of Detroit, those places were HIGH fashion to me). I was always hoping, wishing and dreaming that one day, I’d have those sought after shoes or that vintage handbag that wasn’t seen anywhere!

And look at me now! I walk into the best NY showrooms and order items that aren’t event in stores yet. I attend several fashion shows during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week and simply point and select what I’m going to order and even better, I get selected pieces packed, shipped off and delivered to THE CLOSET!! I HAVE TOTALLY ARRIVED!

Ok, ok, ok, maybe not quite, BUT I do get to live vicariously through my career as a Professional Fashion Stylist for my company, JadaRenee. So what if the money I spend at the showrooms and stores are for my clients, so what if the clothes I now borrow are on loan for a client and SO WHAT if the items delivered are into the closet of CLIENTS and not MINE (well, sometimes). I still consider myself a TRUE BLOOD FASHION EXPERT!

I’m thankful that SET Magazine entrusts me and my 20 year career in the fashion business (I count those years of borrowing and tearing out pictures of clothes as an extended internship) to deliver informative, honest, candid, enlightening and most importantly FASHION FORWARD Blogs on a daily basis!

Saving The World, One Blog At A Time!

2010-03-28T20:35:00.000-07:00

Wow! Technology has come a long way from the days of me voicing my opinion in the school newspaper or on the debate team. Yes I was the loudest girl in the cafeteria complaining about everything under the sun from women’s rights to why did our high school mascot have to change from an Indian to a Knight? Did the Indians really care so much about my suburban high school in a Jewish community?
With that being said one thing has been constant in my life and that is my outspoken ways and my heart to change the world! I am the true definition of that phrase “You can’t save world!” I hear it all the time from relatives, neighbors, friends, even my husband will throw it out there when our bank account takes a major hit from me wanting to help someone else. The truth is I do believe I can HELP change the world! Why not???

I was extremely honored when Set Magazine asked me to be a part of bloggers on different issues, but even more please that they recognized my passion for helping others and non for profit organizations. Allow me daily to show you the world through my eyes and various leaders, mentors, organizations, and studies that believe as I do, that people can make a difference.
My saying for 2010 is what’s BEYOND THE GAME? What game you say? The game of life, football, work, relationships. What’s beyond it all? I may not have all the answers but I like to think I do! LOL
God willing I’ll hit you tomorrow!

Where's The Love?

2010-03-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

I just turned 31 in March this year and I have to say it was one of the most hurtful birthdays I've endured. I was sad for a number of reasons really. I was missing my mommy. My kids are so smart and so hard headed that they were stressing me out. It didn't help that my husband and I were not speaking mainly because I think he makes some very selfish decisions when it comes to our quality time together, but he still expects so much from me regardless. He was going on a 7 day road trip on my birthday and had a game the night before that I didn't attend because he wasn't playing. After the game he decided to go hang with an old team mate even though he was leaving the next afternoon for 7 days. Yes we had made plans meet up for the last 4 days of the trip but I was still hurt by his choice to go hang. So I decided that I wouldn't even entertain his apologies because I didn't feel they were genuine. I mean I understand a man needs his male time but a pregnant woman needs to feel loved, respected and appreciated. I may be super mom and woman but I still want to be made to feel special. Sometimes I have to remind him that I'm human. He thinks that being home everyday is enough but it's not. Especially when his friend is over chilling damn near every night! Why doesn't he get it? I need and want it all; love, affection, quality time, and not just an expensive gift.