Back to work!

I hope you have had a chance to check out my first Spring/Summer Collection on my website: http://tamuincorporated.wix.com/mysite.  So now that my hiatus has been over, I’ve been researching retailers that would be a good fit for my label and preparing marketing material to send in hopes of getting meetings with optimistic buyers! Oh yeah; and still sewing. Here’s where you, my dear, lovely, faithful, reader, can help. (Did I mention you were lovely and faithful?)

Please tell me what you want and need to see when you walk into a women’s wear boutique. Just give me the first few words that come to your mind; your comments can be about the clothes, your comments can be about the people that work there, your comments can be about the dressing room….anything! I look forward to getting your feedback. Bonne nuit!

September's Gift

Since I'm still on this "vacation" that I promised myself, I'll keep this short. This is a new month with blank pages. We have been given the gift to write new life stories, our life stories, on those blank pages. I hope you fill yours up with progress, wisdom, accomplishments, laughs, and beautiful memories. Happy writing.

So how did it go?!

So how did it go? It went. Actually, it went very well. With this being my first collection, it was important that the audience understood my apparel vision and aesthetic. Based off of the feedback, they got it! After investing a $hit ton of money and time in a big project, even though we are in a imperfect world, I still had the nerve to actually EXPECT for the presentation to be perfect.  Surprise! Things were not perfect. Between a few backstage mishaps, I had to take moments to myself to just calm down and breath. No, I didn't go have a cigarette or a glass of wine. I had to take moments to remind myself why I was there to begin with. I won't go through the things that went wrong (this time) or what I would change about the entire collection. I will say that I was/am in my element. When you are a part of that type of show, people, including your models, look to you for direction, which I had no problem giving. You have to make quick decisions to adjust to the imperfections; every minute counts. I learned, once again, I can handle more than I thought. Now that's doesn't mean I'm supposed to handle everything all of the time. Side note: I will be enlisting the help of a seamstress. I took my designer walk down that runway and I breathed a sigh of relief, not just because the show was done, but also because my support system was in the audience. That gave me more confidence than anything. My support may not understand the direction I'm going or may not fully understand my business vision. But what I do know is that they believe in me and that's everything.

P.S. I'm awaiting my professional photos from the show that I will post on this blog and on my website.

The Rookie

Twelve days until showtime.  On the last night of this fashion week, there's the finale that only ten out of the thirty designers, in the entire show, get to participate in. I was not chosen as a finale designer. Do I feel defeated? No. Am I disappointed? #&!! Yes. Now I could either choose to have an attitude, which would negate all of my hard work that I've put into this "thing" so far, or I can choose to get an explanation on why I wasn't chosen as a finale designer. I've chosen to get the explanation. My thought was that being apart of the finale, especially, as a "new" designer,  would have been a stamp of approval that I'm making clothes and building a business that's marketable and wanted! But now, four days have past, and I now think that the time, effort, and money I've put into my work, IS the approval stamp! A good analogy was used to compare what I'm doing to a rookie.  Some rookies win the championship the first time and some don't. Those that don't, they never retreat because they know they have the goods. That's all.

Another ONE

Even if you don't follow what goes on in the world of ballet, you've heard of Misty Copeland. I ran across an article in Elle Magazine titled " Proof That Misty Copeland Is the Most Badass Ballerina." (The link for the article is at the bottom of this post.) I noticed in the article, there was a copy of one of the rejection letters she received on her dream catching journey. That struck me as so significant as I was reminded to keep record of my small beginnings: from my current work space that I'll just simply call "The Design Studio" to my first fashion show, and even the rejections! When you start seeing your own progress regardless of how big or small, it does something for your confidence in what you have to offer. Keeping record of your journey is not just for your inspiration, but to inspire someone else. I wonder what Misty thought when she was reading that she was "too old" to follow her ballerina dreams. She may have been sad, she may have had thoughts of "f...this", but she had enough stamina within her to keep the letter ...as motivation and to keep dancing. Next time you receive a denial, don't throw it out. Add that to your "Progress File." You'll need it later for the next "Badass" article featuring YOU.

 (http://www.elle.com/news/fashion-style/misty-copeland-ballet-under-armour)

Un-titled

During my first round of fittings, I mentioned this show will be my first fashion show. Someone responded with "Oh my God, it must be driving you crazy to have thrown yourself into this, that's a big deal." Never mind the "driving you crazy" part. My focus was the fact that I threw myself into this-no planning involved. The planning came after. Is that the ideal way to go when starting a business, or anything, for that matter? I don't know. I don't think there is a definite answer. I hear people say, "Well I'm trying to do this, or "I'm trying to do that." I've had to stop myself from using those phrases. I realized "I'm trying" sounds as if I'm trying to down play my work. That's exactly what I was doing. My thinking was "If I down play it, then I won't jinx the success." That's a dumb way to think. Since I've committed myself 150% to this, I've had to go through a language and a mentality change. To say, "This is what I am doing...." let's people know you are confident in your goals, your ideas-that phrase forces people to listen. I guess the lesson in that for me is to be proud of what is happening. I say to you also, be proud of whatever project, business, etc., you have started and know that you have all you need at this moment to see it through.

                                

Oh $#!^; I almost missed it!

Yep, I almost missed July's introduction! Since I've started making a point to blog specifically about the "First", it's my business to remain consistent. If that is one thing that has stood out for me within these last 4 months, it is the importance of consistency. I've attempted to start my business before, how about 15 years ago (somewhere around there)?! Well, nothing became of it. Why? Because I was not consistent. Deep down I knew what I wanted, but I kept going back and forth. I was "uneven"! That's why now at 37 years old, I sometimes feel as though I'm starting all over. I understand those feelings, but I don't let them put shade over my vision.  Consistency applies to everything you can possibly think of and it takes honesty to acknowledge areas where consistency doesn't exist. So, July has just become the official month of: "Making decisions and sticking to them",  "Being steady",  and "Being positively relentless." Enjoy.

Part 2 of "For your enjoyment"

If you remember in part one, I mentioned sacrifice. Maybe this post is premature; maybe I should wait until I've made more progress in my business, but here it goes. I've realized that starting a business can be a lonely process. I have beautiful people around me who love and support me, so how can loneliness be "here"? Since starting, I've had to sacrifice time spent with my circle. I've had to make phone conversations brief. I'm about to miss out on a trip to support my sister in her competition. I've had pass up those tender moments when I'm just with my family for no other reason than to just see their faces. Sometimes I feel like the little kid who got sent to her room and looks out the window at the other kids wishing she could play too (slightly dramatic, but honest). I've had to say no to weekend dinners, parties, and happy hour chatter. My social life....hmmmm...let me check in my bag and see if it's in there. Taking a break now consists of me completing that little, cumbersome, business chore. This business is my child-it has taken over my life. My hope is that my circle understands my intentions. I certainly don't want anyone to feel like they are less of a priority. I try to get phone times in when I'm driving or take a second to send a "checking in" message. Ok Tamu Talks readers. What do you think? Will better time management help me? or Do I just need to "man" up and deal with it?

We Like Them Big!

Now that I have your attention: I want to thank all of you for reading! Because of you, my "viewing" number continues to increase. I would like to see more comments from all of you! On social media, people are more inclined to comment, when they see other comments.  You can either post your comment anonymously or, if you are feeling real good about yourself, you can use your name or even your personal URL if you have one. So, comment on!

Part 1 For your enjoyment

"Enjoy the process" is what I heard. Then I thought, "How do I enjoy the process when there's so much sacrifice involved?" (Let's talk about that in Part 2.) I have to remember why I set out on this venture to begin with. I've mentioned this before. I have the chance to resume my pursuit of something I love. It's easy to push the "why" aside because your mind is so full of ideas, yesterday and today's to-do lists. Forgetting the "whys" make it easy for frustration to set in. So, I've made a conscious effort to look at my to-do list and understand how each step is progress. I'll replace complaints of being tired with being thankful that I have life to get back in this lane. I've also noticed that simply taking a 10 minute break brings the "why" back into focus. Please hold...for Part 2.

Flats are sexy too!

If are like me, you put on heels every chance you get-no special occasion needed.  Yes, I've read the articles about what excessive "heel-wearing" can do to my ankles. I wear heels so much that when I finally do pull out the flats, my feet do thank me! You don't have to look or feel "frumpy" in flats.  They can be just as sexy as heels. The trick to flats is that you DO want to show leg! You can wear flats with dresses and skirts, but opt for those short dresses and mini flared skirts. Of course the length will depend on where you are headed, so for a more conservative look, choose the hem line that hits right above the knee.  When you wear pants with flats, make sure your pants aren't too long. Your pants should hit right at the top of your foot. If you absolutely have to have some type of height at all times, don't forget about the 1/2 inch "heels". Go for the pointed toe, 1/2 inch heel. This next-to-nothing heel will still elongate you.  Speaking of the pointed toe, if you are petite, pointed toe flats over a rounded toe will be your best option. The rounded toe tends to shorten rather than elongate. Be trendy with your flats.  Choose wild prints over solid colors. One of my favorite flats is the, sexy and sometimes edgy, gladiator sandals. I swear they look perfect with everything!  Happy flat hunting.

Pair these leopards with a flared skirt or dress.

These are perfect for adding a pop of color.

This is a navy blue skirt that can be worn with both flats shown above. To simplify, add a white blouse, tank top, or crop top.

Yes I know. Another celebrity pic, but it shows how chic flats can look with a dress. 

A Kardashian. Stay calm. This pic shows my favs!

These are perfect for short shorts!

Notice how the pants hit right above the foot.

Wear these hot ones with a flirty little black or red dress.

An Exercise Moment-Again

Now let's talk workout gear. I mentioned this in the last post, but you want to be comfortable when you exercise in general. When it comes to running, shoes are everything. I wouldn't suggest being cheap on the shoes. A good pair of running shoes are light and have good ankle protection. While you are trying them on, a good test will be to jump up and down..yes..jump up and down in the store! How do your feet feel when you land? Are the shoes light and "cushiony" around your ankles? Take the time to try on running shoes that will work for you-this can be the difference between you and an injury. Now for the clothes, I keep my attire as simple as possible. I stick with tanks and sports bras; those are most comfortable for me. I find long and cropped sweat pants to be more comfortable than leggings. Leggings hold sweat in-gross. Now is the time when you can be frugal. Tank tops you can buy anywhere, but Old Navy is usually my "go-to-tank top-store." I buy my sports bras in packages of 3; I get these at any Wal-Mart or Target. Danskin makes a cropped, soft, cotton/polyester blend sweat pant with an elastic waist and tie and where do I find this brand? Yep. Wal-Mart. Don't negate fit just because you are buying clothes to run in. Will your clothes make your run the most enjoyable thing in the world? I won't answer that. I will say that dressing for a purpose does change your mind set about what you are about to do. So Happy Running! (If you are a new runner or you are just getting started with a workout routine, we would love to hear about your progress :-))

An Exercise Moment

It feels like weeks have gone by since my last post and June is only 8 days in!  With your busy lives, I hope your June is off to a healthy start!  Speaking of health, let's talk about exercise for a minute. In my last post, I talked about breaking a routine and starting something new.  Exercise (I hope you take time for it!) can become very routine. Instead of going into the gym to use the same machines, try running.  Don’t let running scare you. Your body will get used to it much quicker than you think.  Here are some tips to get you started.  When I started running, I found that focusing on time, rather than distance was much easier. I took it slow. I would run 2 minutes, walk a minute, and alternate.  I would set goals for myself to run continuously for a certain amount of time and increase that time at each session.  Also, since I wasn’t concerned about distance at first, I didn’t make speed my concern either (and I still don’t.)  Can you get the same results from walking as running? In my opinion, it depends on your purpose for running. If weight loss is your main goal, you will see results quicker when you advance  into running.  I’m basing that on the changes I saw in my body when I went from just walking to running. Running is a good body toner and it is also the perfect, quick, full body workout when that is all you have time for. As you start running, remember to relax.  Starting out,  I ran with tense shoulders and arms. I also made fists, which served no purpose for me.  I make a conscience effort to drop my shoulders, which can look really dramatic to a person who didn’t know what I was doing.  Spending a few minutes stretching will help you relax before your running session. When you relax, it will also help your breathing. You'll want to be comfortable when you run (or when you exercise in general), which brings us to our workout gear. I'll talk about that in the next post!  (Disclaimer: I’m not a certified trainer or a health professional. Please consult with your physician before starting any exercise program. The tips I've offered here are strictly based on my experience. Did I leave anything out of this disclaimer?)

June

If you are a regular reader of my blog, you already know how I feel about a new month. If you are new reader, let me fill you in real quick (Bare with me "regulars"). To me a new month means just that...new. A new month is another opportunity to become rejuvenated by embracing the new.  Life is busy, we have our schedules, and it easy to get trapped in our routines; having done nothing to rejuvenate ourselves. Have you ever been driving and you realize that you've traveled that route so many times that without thinking, you are suddenly at your destination?!  Breaking a routine doesn't have to be major, it can be as simple as driving a new route.  For this month, try a new advertising method for your business. Switch up that workout routine. Go for a run on a new route. Instead of getting highlights, go for a permanent change in your hair color. Go to happy hour on Wednesday, instead of Friday. Visit a new restaurant.  Reach for a book or magazine that you would normally ignore. Try a new shade of lipstick. Instead of capris, reach for shorts! You get the idea? Mixing up the routine and trying something new, no matter how big or small, keeps the creativity flowing, keeps boredom away, and forces us to think differently. Now, am I saying that simply getting a new hair color is going to give you your next business idea? No, but you never know what will give you that push you've been looking for to send you in a new direction. 
Blessings.

Let's Talk Swimsuits!

 I love sitting by the pool, drinking sweet iced tea, listening to smooth jazz, with no worries. This is one of my ways to relax during the summer months. Shopping for a swimsuit can be quick and easy. We've all seen those pictures that show what type of swimsuit to pick out for your body type. I'll try to simplify with words here and show examples at the end. The body type termed "boyish" figure, which I don't like by the way, is for the small figured, less curvaceous woman. If this shape belongs to you, reach for that printed 2 piece with a top that has a defined bust line and bottoms that have gathering detail on the sides for the illusion of curves. Any print will also add to the "curve appeal."  If you're really blessed on top or really blessed on the bottom, try this: Reach for the padded halter top that will keep "them" up and in; The bottoms that offer full coverage can be your go-to. Full coverage bottoms can also hide stretch marks and can also help "hold in" in a round stomach. For you hour glasses, cut out one pieces are gorgeous for you. If you "2 piece it", avoid those hipsters, aka boyshorts. Those can tend to "non-accentuate" your waistline. If you are "curvaceously curvy", one piece suits that draw the waist in are flattering-usually these suits will have a geometric pattern on them. Swimsuits, 2 piece or 1, are made to draw attention to certain parts of the body. While you're shopping, you have to decide what you don't mind showing. This is what I say about shopping for clothes in general: In the end you have to be comfortable with what's in your mirror, but have fun and try something new. 

If a 1 piece is always your go-to, choose a style similar to this, with an accentuated waist line, plenty of "top" support, and full bottom coverage. Reach for a bright color. Even though I've used this picture as an example, this color is actually gorgeous on any skin tone.

This picture shows an example of the style of bottoms that honor the hour glass figure. I mentioned avoiding hipsters in my post. Those can give the illusion of the "muffin top".

Here is the geometric pattern that will either accentuate the waist line or give an illusion of a waist line.

This is an example of bottoms that will give you the desired full coverage.

Here is the style I was referring to for the small figured woman.

This is just one example, amongst hundreds, of the "1 piece cut out" I mentioned for hour glass figures.

Beauty Outside

With the exception of this one, it seems most of my Memorial Day weekends are spent outside - eating! Depending on your location, this weekend can be tricky on the weather front. The weather can be perfect with just the right amount of sun and breeze or it can be blazing hot with no breeze (which doesn't bother me at all!). Oh wait. I forgot one. it can also be cloudy one minute, sunny the next, then intermittent rain. I digress. Regardless of your situation, other than your grilled food, here are a few items that can help get you through the elements. Don't leave home without that SPF protection. Yes I'm talking about sunscreen that some of us don't think we need. I reach for the unscented spray-on sunscreens.  The spray-on sunscreen products go on smoother than the lotions. I always wear an SPF lip balm underneath a tinted gloss to keep my lips moisturized. Although some of you can't help that you shine bright in crowds, to help control that unwanted extreme face shine- you know the kind that can give you that un-sexy, greasy look- try a loose, bronzed powder. If applied extremely light, it can be used the same as a pressed powder. Leave room in your bag for your favorite travel size scent. I prefer a roll-on scent or a small spray. I don't know if it's possible to completely avoid smelling like charcoal, but having my favorite scent at my fingertips just makes me feel better. A few of my favorite "outside" beauty products are listed below. Have a happy one.

May-be Fashionably Late

May can sometimes feel like December, when it comes to the pocket book with all the holidays, graduations, party invites and gift buying. It would be easy to spend a fabulous penny on clothes to keep you looking your best for each event. But because you know the power of mixing and matching, you don't have to spend too much (unless you want to). I think people treat graduations like weddings; just because it's warm outside doesn't mean you should wear denim shorts to a graduation. The dress for a graduation is on the same lines as dressing for a wedding. Look like you are going to a celebration, but not in a way that draws attention (Well, maybe a little attention won't hurt). Go for a classic full skirt with a loose fitting blouse. For that memorial day barbeque you have planned, here is your chance to wear denim shorts. You can pair that same blouse with shorts...and I dare you to add a pop of color by pairing with bright colored shoes-have fun with it. If you know you'll be outside for a lengthy amount of time, to save your legs from mosquitoes, opt for cropped linen pants, still keeping those bright colored shoes of course.  For you party animals that won't be satisfied with just an outside barbeque, for your night out, take that same full skirt and pair with a fitted strapless top or go backless. 10 more days of May, make it count!

"Plane" Clothes

Warm weather is moving in on us (maybe for you extra lucky ones, perhaps you are feeling the heat right now!) and so are peak traveling times. Sitting in an airport presents so many opportunities to hand out fashion violations. While going through security, the last thing we want to think about is whether we are ready for a fashion photo shoot or not. I get that. But we don't have to look like "who did it and why" when we travel. I promise. So, my ideas for "flying cute" go like this; If you don't want to freeze to death on the plane, I'd stay away from wearing shorts. I find jeans uncomfortable to sit in for extended periods of time, so I usually opt to wear leggings or jeans (bright colors of course!)  that are made of a stretch blend. Linen pants are also a great option because you don't have to think about wrinkles, they are heat friendly, but will keep your legs from turning into icicles on the plane. This is where you can reach for that maxi dress..again (it's so versatile, it's ridiculous!).  Pair it with a denim jacket or any jacket or sweater light enough to quickly fold and tuck away into your bag once you land (I know how annoying it is to walk around with bulky jackets and sweaters and luggage!).

Now, can I get a window seat?

Good News

(Follow up to "There's Always Room.") I walk into the conference room expecting to see a small group of people. Instead of a starting line up I hoped for, there's an entire basketball team staring at me (Ok. Only 10 people, but you get the idea). Some with smiles and some with blank stares. Regardless of their expressions, they are anticipating my final presentation. I instantly get those sweat beads on my forehead. While I'm setting up my garment and mood board for show, I'm frantically talking to myself, "You are Tamu. You are in your element. Own it." So, I start talking. I find myself treating this presentation as if I'm making a sales pitch to buyers looking for the next apparel line. Aside from the slight emotional moment I had, I left the panel feeling good. Today confirms the "goodness." I've been chosen to showcase my first Spring/Summer line during Omaha Fashion Week-August 18-23rd. Is this New York Fashion Week or Paris Fashion Week? Not yet; I'm moving down the list.

  

There's Always Room

Happy Tuesday my Tamu Talks readers! I had to drop in for a minute to tell you I've been hard at work on my collection to present in the final round for this August fashion show. Side note: Working on, in, and through your passion brings so much freedom. I've always understood that you can't wait for an opportunity to present itself, you have to create your own opportunities. You can't know how true that statement is until you actually start to live it. Creating your own opportunities keeps you from worrying about whether there's room for what you have to offer.  There will always be room for you because when you create your own opportunities, you are creating your own space.  

Stretch

These few weeks into April have been fast, exciting, and challenging! We know time goes by when you are busy. Exciting because of the "Big Wins" I was able to witness and be a part of.  Challenging- Let's save that for later.  If I didn't really know before, I know now what it means to stretch yourself! I have learned these last 13 days that when you are stretched beyond your capacity or beyond what you thought you could accomplish, the outcomes are pleasantly shocking. I watched my sister get crowned Miss Nebraska (and next to compete in the Miss United States Pageant in July and yes, I'm pointing this out for the sole purpose of you tuning in~ Check your local listings!) This was an opportunity she almost ignored because she had never competed in any pageant...ever. Pageants were not her thing! Imagine that. I was chosen as a finalist to present a spring/summer women's wear collection in hopes of debuting my line during Nebraska Fashion Week this August. I made the final cut literally within minutes! When you take the risk of throwing yourself into elements that could open doors to your next level (even if that path is not at all what you had planned) things happen...good things happen. Don't worry about what the path looks like.

Makeup pause

As you Spring clean, or in other words, shop for those trendy wardrobe pieces this season, do not forget to show your cosmetic bag, kit, or drawer some attention. I was asked to provide my freelance makeup artistry while attending a wedding last weekend. Even though I probably ended up with more makeup on my white shirt (yes, I wore a white shirt while I was working! what was I thinking?! the shirt was extra cute though) while I "glammed" up my clients, I had so much fun. When I was first asked, to prepare, I practiced creating natural looks by playing it safe with bronze, earth tones. Instead, I opted for bold plums and slightly dramatic eyes.  While you are rejuvenating your makeup collection this season, reach for something you may not be used to wearing. For your lips, try a plum shade and pair with a deep burgundy eye liner. Coral is also a beautiful shade for lips; try a coral gloss and pair with an emerald eye shadow that has shimmer or simply use a green eye liner; be delicate with your application. Of course, the shades will always depend on your skin tone, so treat yourself to a "cosmetic counter makeover" to be sure you choose the right shades or better yet, contact me for your consultation.

A Special Day..a day early!

"Tamara, You still think you are 21." I was told this the other day during a conversation about my lack of sleep. I know I need more sleep! (And it has nothing to do with the fact that I'm getting older. I'm only "almost" 37! (For the record, I do feel like I'm 21
!) I feel as though I'm just getting started. Life is busy but, in the meantime of me finding that balance between work and sleep, I remain excited to have things in the pot. Not to mention, after 37 years,  I've embraced...my dreams, my personality, my self. To all of my dear readers who are celebrating any special event this weekend, I'll send you a toast from the Windy City! Celebrate on.....

A Fashion Break

The Black Dress has been the safety net in our closet for many occasions. Let us not forget about the Leather Jacket; In all shades, it is just as much a staple as the Black Dress. Next time you look into your closet and say "I don't have anything to wear", look to your Leather Jacket that can be an instant, simple outfit creator.  With little thought,  it can be paired with anything. Use the Leather Jacket as a quick wardrobe change from day into evening, to add an edge and a sexy tone to your outfit. I've included 3 simple looks that show the same Leather Jacket paired with a black dress, a high slit skirt, and print leggings.