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.  

Imperfect

I hope at this time, you are seeing the efforts of your hard work coming to life! I took a moment a few days ago to write down a laundry list of everything I have going on right now. I.am.overwhelmed. But don't worry about me! The good thing is that I am even more determined to find that much needed balance. One "to-do" on my list is to create a women's wear, Spring/Summer 2015 collection by this August. (Long sigh!) I went through an entire list of excuses of why I should walk away from this opportunity: "I don't have time", "I want to be able to give this my all, so I'll just wait until next year", "I can't compete now because my designing skills aren't where they should be"~ Blah! I was reminded of a previous post where I mentioned if we waited until things were perfect to pursue anything, nothing would get accomplished. Being to complete those tasks will bring more satisfaction if we can talk about the bumpy road(s) we had to walk, run, skip, and crawl in order to cross those tasks off of the list. Stay tuned.

Faith

C-duo

"Courage + confidence is a recipe for just being cocky." What?! Who in thee (insert your choice word here) said that? There are plenty of talented people in this world. The difference between just the talented and the talented whom actually build a life surrounding their talent is that "C" duo. You can't have one without the other. We were given a life to be productive. What better way to be productive than to work your talents?!  Since I've committed myself to building my business, I've had moments of being intimidated by own vision! Then I stop and breath. My appreciated reader, you and I were born with everything we need to build "brick by brick." Being told "No", hasn't killed us. We just need to step over those "No's" until we find our way IN. We don't have the time to worry if we're viewed as being "cocky." I'd rather be called "cocky" than to just be a dreamer. The End.
P.S. At the time of this post, I was running on 4 hours of sleep. So, rather than a funny, clever ending, "The End" was the best ending I could think of.

TNT

I hold a corporate job where I manage a department and forecast profits. From the outside, it looks as if my “career” is going well. But this job is just that: a job. It’s not a career. Some days while I’m in my office, I get sidetracked and go to my own business plan and just stare at it. I stare at it wishing I was in my design studio picking out fabrics for my next collection!  That makes for a long day! (Side note: I do not speak of my blog at work, so no co-workers will be reading this. However, it’s possible they could stumble across my blog. If that happens anytime soon and they see this....well.) I’ve had to eat, sleep, and breathe tenacity. Tenacity is keeping the right attitude from day to day while working a job that pays the bills, but doesn’t fit the bill. Tenacity must override the temptation to wake up Monday morning already wishing it was Friday again! Tenacity has to override feelings of being stuck. Tenacity must override frustration. Let.tenacity.rule.

Just sign the papers!

Did I really just let 19 days go by into this New Year without posting?! To my readers, I hope your withdrawals weren’t too extreme. I can’t believe it’s already the 19^th day. I hope your 2014 has brought pleasant beginnings. I signed papers during these last 19 days that make my business official. Going through those documents made me nervous, yet excited. When I signed that last piece of paper, I took a deep breath and leaned back in my chair. This is the time where the line between talking and doing is defined. A dream is just a vision, until the first step is made.  

         “Life is not magic tricks and illusions;you have to saw yourself to see success.”

Monumental

There are plenty of people who say “The new year is just another day.” Some people may say it just because that’s how they feel; no particular reason. I suspect there are some people that don’t recognize a new year because of cynicism.  Life has a way of throwing jabs for so long, those jabs can send a person into a complete cynical bubble that’s difficult to get out of. I’ve had moments in life where it felt like my heart was just going to explode; moments that left me feeling broken and hopeless. So, I sympathize with those who don’t have the desire to recognize a new year, let alone get turned up for it. (Side note: Today is the last day I’ll ever use the phrase “Turned up” or any form of it.) There’s still something in me that won’t allow my mind to ignore that I’ve lived another 365 days! It is a privilege to have been given the grace and space to see the end of another year-it’s monumental for me. The end of a year brings all types of emotions. The emotions that I can articulate are excitement and anticipation.  For 2014, I have a vision of what I would like to see happen not just for myself, but for the people I love. This is the last day of 2013 and I can pick up the phone and still hear my loved ones voices. It goes without saying that no one knows what 2014 holds, but I do know that I will hold on to my loved ones much tighter. In 2013, I realized when you finally accept, once and for all, that dream and just go for it; that decision takes you into another zone of self-confidence and assurance. 2013 brought me a full understanding that peace of mind means everything.  So, whether you celebrate the end of a year/beginning of a new year or not, I wish to you peace of mind and more self confidence. With those two, you can conquer anything in 2014 and beyond.

My list of "2013's Fascinating People"

                                                         

My Nephew

There’s no holding my nephew in my arms because he is now walking! Because my parents’ house is not baby proof, we had to create barricades to keep him in one room. I watched him as he studied the “barricades”: walking back and forth trying to figure out a way to get free! Kids show us how to be resourceful: if you can’t get one thing one way, they show us how to create another route to get where we are trying to go.

My Niece

When my niece asks for something, in her mind, it has already happened. When she makes a statement, she says it with fact even when there is no evidence. Kids show us how to be bold with our faith. Thanks to my niece for reminding me to just believe.

My Grandfather

You know the adage, “It’s never too late”, well; my grandfather personifies that to the fullest. How many people in their 80s do you know still compete in weight lifting contests? About 1 month ago, he competed and beat several records. He doesn’t do it for notoriety. He does it just because he enjoys it.

My Brother

This year I really had the chance to watch my brother as he is fulfilling his role as a father. I’m sure there are times things get tough for him in his new role. The way he has embraced fatherhood has given me many “Proud Big Sis” moments.

My Mother

I’m the age my mom was when she decided to pursue a career she’s always wanted. She pursued HARD in unfavorable situations. Today, she has those two letters behind her name.  Her success goes beyond having those letters. She is also successful because she didn’t wait for the “time to be right” nor did she wait until she “had more money.”  I'd say most of her success lies in the fact she realized she waited long enough and made a decision to go for it. No excuses.

Top 7

During this time, there are shows who give highlights of fascinating moments, fascinating people, or pure ridiculousness of the closing year. Well guess what?! Yours truly has created her first list…Top 7 long moments of “Pure Ridiculousness that needs to end in 2013.” Please note: The number does not denote the level of “ridiculousness.”

1)     Every unfavorable situation, including bad weather, has been blamed on President Obama. Just stop it. You know who you are.

2)     Those of you constantly claiming to have “haters” aka “fans.” Who cares? Just get more hobbies. This way there would be no more mental energy left to spend on all “haters” and “fans.”

3)     Facial tattoos. No.

4)     Being afraid to make that dream a reality. At least try. (A reminder to myself.)

5)     Men with braids/long hair. I can’t.

6)     People sending me game requests on facebook. 

7)   People talking about themselves in 3rd person, like I just did above. 

Friend..Are you there?

Other than death (a little dramatic), what would cause a friend to stop returning your phone calls, emails, text messages? This topic came about when my brother expressed concern that a friend of his had stopped communicating with him. Now my brother expressed his slight disappointment for about 2 minutes and then he was done with it. Of course, as Big Sister, I offered my advice. I told my brother to not take it personally and some people you have to just let them be. I started thinking about the times in my life when several people that I labeled as friends didn’t reciprocate my communication efforts. This is what I believe: Friendship=Communication. Friends are blessings. Friends are people that you share your heartaches and triumphs with. If you are feeling like you’re pushing a friendship/communication on someone, then I’m pretty sure he/she is.not.a.friend. People DO change and get different over time for whatever reason. Even if you said something or did something offensive to those individuals, if they couldn’t be mature enough to express that to you, that’s too bad. Sometimes life gets in the way. I get that and yet I still don’t believe in constantly trying to contact someone who chooses to not respond. To wonder “What happened?” or “Did I say something wrong?” is wasted mental energy. You wish that person the best and move on.  

Rent a what?!

It was brought to my attention over greens and german chocolate cake that people are renting boyfriends/girlfriends for the holidays. Now I had to do a little online research to find out how many of these “rent a boyfriend/girlfriend/” services exist. These services are big business and there are plenty to choose from. The goal of this service is to help people avoid the holiday “pressure” of family and other people asking questions like, “Where is your date?”, “What happened to the “one” you brought to the last holiday dinner” or “Why aren’t you dating?”  Let’s stop here. No one can pressure you unless you allow it. What happened to just being honest and saying, “I’ll bring someone around when I feel the time is right” or “I thought I would be cuter if I came alone” or “My love life isn’t up for discussion. I came to eat!” (Being honest is free. No service charge for that!)  I get that some of the pressure comes from within. Here you are sitting at the table surrounded by couples and you have walked into this holiday gathering by yourself. You may start to look around wondering if you are the only one who doesn’t have a boyfriend/girlfriend/fiancé/husband/wife..something?!  I’ve been on both sides: I’ve been “attached” to someone at the table and I’ve been “single” at the table. Even though those questions hit my mind, being the “single” one didn’t make me feel any less or incomplete. It certainly didn’t make me feel like I should’ve rented a boyfriend just for appearances! That is not cute nor is it hot. I felt complete because I was surrounded by my family. I felt complete because I was talking, laughing, and joking with the people I love. It may seem as though I’m mad at these services. I’m really not. The creators of these services have found a niche to make legal money. These “rent-a-date” services feed into the notion that people would rather paint pictures and be pseudo, rather than just live life for real.