By Katrice
Let's face it, Valentine's Day has long been designated as the holiday centered on her. But, he has things he'd love to receive too. Just ask him.
{via Atlanta Tribune: The Magazine, February issue}
January 30, 2012
January 27, 2012
On Deck: Redken Shine Flash 02
By Katrice
I received a 4 oz. Redken Shine Flash 02 Glistening Mist in an event gift bag last fall and have used it a couple times without noticing any particular benefit to my hair. I didn't think much about it because I was using it at times when I had little expectation. But, yesterday morning, my hair needed a extra boost to make it through one more day before being washed. First off, I read the the product details and instructions — something I always tell others to do and hadn't done myself.
Details: Illuminate hair in a flash. Fine-mist aerosol spray adds a lightweight, high-gloss finish without stickiness.
Directions: Lightly mist on dry hair.
Here's what I did:
Since I was planning to wash my hair last night, I wanted to just moisturize and kind of shape my chunky 'fro for work. So, I went through my hair quickly with my hands loosening it back up from being packed down under my sleep cap. Then, I took the Shine Flash and pulled pieces of hair up the way that I would like them to be lifted and shaped, and lightly sprayed each section. {See below}
After spraying it in about five sections, I continued to lift it and kind of shape without disturbing small pieces.
In the end, I didn't notice any shine, but my hair was a looser chunky afro than I usually achieve {without a lot of manipulation} and maintained with no shrinkage throughout the day. It's a perfect refreshing elixir. Love.
{This was midday. Excuse my camera phone pic.}
January 25, 2012
{Quickie} Long Day? This Can Help
By Katrice
Gift cards. I carry a cute faux snakeskin pouch with nothing but my gift cards in it for these times. If you have a stash too, save them for when the mood for retail therapy hits you. Pick-me-up shopping and gift cards are the perfect union. You won't be spending cash and you'll be able to enjoy a little indulgence in the name of rejuvenation.
iPad yoga. My coworker recently shared a few new apps with me and one of them was a Yoga app for beginners. When I've had a long day, many times, I just want to be quiet. All-in YOGA HD: 300 Poses & Yoga Classes is perfect for me to recoup. The app includes more than 200 poses that come with detailed written instructions, photos, videos, and male voice guidance as well as yoga music to help you work out more efficiently. There are also about 25 different yoga exercise programs for both beginners and more advanced users.
Meetups. I have three friends that I met on Twitter who are always my go-tos for coffee chats. Our conversations run the gamut from work and family to our goals and every single thing in between. These quick get togethers have turned our virtual introductions into refreshing friendships and excellent energizers.
Laughing. "Norbit" is my guilty pleasure. I only saw this movie for the first time a few months ago and whenever I feel like laughing, it's top-of-mind. A good laugh at the end of the night does wonders for your mood the next morning.
January 24, 2012
You're Invited to The MVL Social!!
By Katrice
I've been so busy that I haven't had time to wish my blog a Happy 2nd Birthday!!
But, not too busy to plan a special event to commemorate the occasion. I hope that you will join me on Feb. 23rd at 6:30 p.m. for The MVL Social. Come out for a couple hours to the free soiree, sponsored by Atlanta Tribune, Shea Moisture, Beautiful Textures, Color Me Beautiful and Avon, and enjoy light fare, music, mingling and even a few surprises at the beautiful LOFT at Castleberry Hill. I'm looking for you {and your guests} to be there! Click the banner to RSVP and tell a friend.
January 23, 2012
Stylish Approach
By Katrice
Cardigan | Express
T-shirt | Target
Skirt | H&M
Ring | Traci Lynn Jewelry
Bracelets | Forever 21 & TJ Maxx
Necklace | Loehmann's
January 21, 2012
Blogtog Journal #4: What's the Story?
By Katrice
I think I knew this in the back of my mind, but it took photographer John Stephens to say it for it to shift to the forefront: The story of a blogger photo is key.
I know that we {bloggers} love a good outfit. But, how many times have you been scrolling through images in a post and started to wonder what the difference was in the shots after like four or five? I'm definitely guilty of having a discovered a look that I love, having it photographed ... and getting so caught up in the shots that I don't want to edit the photo story that I'm constructing. And I'm an editor, for goodness sake ... I believe every story can use some editing.
So, where do we begin with our blogtogging? According to John, the same way a writer conceptualizes his writing: Questions that the reader will ask while looking at your images are the same questions you should be asking yourself while trying to relay your message visually.
When I saw John's photo -- I realized the strength of what he said about using the walls and ceiling. I could imagine this angle being used to depict a gallery owner. So, by the time I got to the photo at the top focusing on The Book of Photography, I understood that my camera was hardly ever the problem -- but all of the elements that go into executing a good photo.
I think I knew this in the back of my mind, but it took photographer John Stephens to say it for it to shift to the forefront: The story of a blogger photo is key.
I know that we {bloggers} love a good outfit. But, how many times have you been scrolling through images in a post and started to wonder what the difference was in the shots after like four or five? I'm definitely guilty of having a discovered a look that I love, having it photographed ... and getting so caught up in the shots that I don't want to edit the photo story that I'm constructing. And I'm an editor, for goodness sake ... I believe every story can use some editing.
So, where do we begin with our blogtogging? According to John, the same way a writer conceptualizes his writing: Questions that the reader will ask while looking at your images are the same questions you should be asking yourself while trying to relay your message visually.
● Who?
● What?
● Where?
● Why?
● What does this image say and does it match up with what you had in mind for your blog?
I don't even know that I had ever asked myself these questions before he said I should. But, before telling me, he had me take a photo of him.
{My photo}
I was focused on lighting and composition {see Blogtog Journal #3}. Little did I know this was a lesson in Environment.
"Your subject can be in place, your lighting could be spot on, but if your background is distracting it could ruin a potentially great photo," John said. And that's exactly what you see in my photo. I should note here that my class was held in his very industrial studio and so there was a lot to work with for environment.
His tip: Looking around to find the best background is always a simple but under-used technique for finding the best angle. Know that everything can be considered: the walls, the ceiling and even the floor. Move around your subject and find the best perspective within your surroundings. There are also times when the environment can assist you in telling the story which connects your readers further to your written words.
{John's photo}
His parting words: Just as important as it is for your writing to be clear and concise, the same applies to your images. They are extensions to further connect your readers with your intended focus. Incorporating good composition, {*an engaged subject,} proper lighting, and good use of your environment can make for a great compliment to the actual written story. Look at it as if your blog were the pages of a magazine and the photos you take — the cover images that entice the reader to read it.
Happy blogtogging!
January 18, 2012
A Little Sunshine
By Katrice
Blazer | H&M
Sweater blouse | Forever 21
Slacks | H&M
Shoes | Forever 21
Ring & Necklace | Forever 21
Bag | Francesca's Collections
January 14, 2012
On Deck: Essie, Sand Tropez
By Katrice
I've been searching for a staple opague polish in a nude shade and I think I've found one that can transcend the seasons with me. Essie, Sand Tropez is perfect because it gives my hands a clean look without being too stark or chalky. The color is actually a mix of taupe and slate, and I was able to achieve a nice finish with just two coats. This is my first experience with this brand and I'll certainly be adding more to my collection. What do you think?
I've been searching for a staple opague polish in a nude shade and I think I've found one that can transcend the seasons with me. Essie, Sand Tropez is perfect because it gives my hands a clean look without being too stark or chalky. The color is actually a mix of taupe and slate, and I was able to achieve a nice finish with just two coats. This is my first experience with this brand and I'll certainly be adding more to my collection. What do you think?
January 13, 2012
Just a Thought: Getting Over Myself
By Katrice
I'm sure you can relate to this back and forth since what I'm talking about isn't any behavior original to me, of course.
That right there was a moment of liberation for me today. I may never be fully reconciled because I am ever changing. Reconciliation, the process by which all parts are caused to exist in harmony, should begin every time a part of the "whole" changes. This epiphany fits well with my pursuit of wisdom.
Though I cannot promise that I will not scrutinize my forearms or that I won't at least try the exercises I found on Google yesterday for my cheeks {Ha!}, I do realize that it is time the begin the process of getting over myself. And I mean that with all the love and appreciation I can muster for this beautiful, healthy, brown body.
This morning I walked by the mirror and thought to myself, "Hmph ... my shape isn't so bad after all." Truth be told, I later attributed it to what I was wearing — a loose fitting tank, long cardigan and leggings — articles of clothing that, in unison, are extremely forgiving. Just a few days ago, passing the same mirror, I noted that I should really get to work on dropping about 10 lbs.
I'm sure you can relate to this back and forth since what I'm talking about isn't any behavior original to me, of course.
In essence, there is a constant dichotomy-type struggle within most women, including myself. That of which is not always the result of low self-esteem or self-love or even self-realization. However, it is in response to the world's reception of the female body on the whole — the politics of our bodies, if you will. Frankly, the reality is that even with a healthy self-concept, we can experience cyclical rejection of ours and others' "bodies" ... and subsequent contempt. Remember the last time you reacted to another woman's shape or size? Note: It doesn't matter that she didn't hear you. And what about the times you audibly scrutinize your imperfections to others?
Rarely does what we see portrayed as the beauty standard resemble us in size, age or race. And what we take in must come out.
So it happens that we find ourselves at regular impasses; Perhaps at age 13 and 18, 25, 35 and so on. We become discontented with our hips and thighs, and we study every part of our bodies that isn't what we'd like it to be. And in the intervals between, we come to a period of self-acceptance; Followed by period of rejection. And the process of reconciliation continues.
Rarely does what we see portrayed as the beauty standard resemble us in size, age or race. And what we take in must come out.
So it happens that we find ourselves at regular impasses; Perhaps at age 13 and 18, 25, 35 and so on. We become discontented with our hips and thighs, and we study every part of our bodies that isn't what we'd like it to be. And in the intervals between, we come to a period of self-acceptance; Followed by period of rejection. And the process of reconciliation continues.
That right there was a moment of liberation for me today. I may never be fully reconciled because I am ever changing. Reconciliation, the process by which all parts are caused to exist in harmony, should begin every time a part of the "whole" changes. This epiphany fits well with my pursuit of wisdom.
Though I cannot promise that I will not scrutinize my forearms or that I won't at least try the exercises I found on Google yesterday for my cheeks {Ha!}, I do realize that it is time the begin the process of getting over myself. And I mean that with all the love and appreciation I can muster for this beautiful, healthy, brown body.
January 11, 2012
Watch These Docs {And Thank Me Later}
By Katrice
During my recent vacation, I was determined to spend every bit of my free time catching up on the documentaries I'd been queuing on Netflix for the past few months. I'm an information fiend, so one search or revelation always leads me on a subsequent search or into digging for more information. Because of that, I literally had an unending selection of films on deck — from subjects of culture and politics to history and crime. Enjoy.
{Empty Veronese picture frame after the evacuation of the Louvre in 1939.}
During my recent vacation, I was determined to spend every bit of my free time catching up on the documentaries I'd been queuing on Netflix for the past few months. I'm an information fiend, so one search or revelation always leads me on a subsequent search or into digging for more information. Because of that, I literally had an unending selection of films on deck — from subjects of culture and politics to history and crime. Enjoy.
The intricacies of war are absolutely mind-boggling. I learned a lot about World War II from the documentaries that lead me to The Rape of Europa, but none were as fascinating as this. The Rape of Europa tells the epic story of the systematic theft, deliberate destruction and miraculous survival of Europe's art treasures during the Third Reich and the Second World War. For 12 years, the Nazis looted and destroyed art on a scale unprecedented in history. But young art professionals as well as ordinary heroes fought back with an extraordinary effort to safeguard, rescue and return the millions of lost, hidden and stolen treasures.
2. Been Rich All My Life
I had never heard of The Silver Belles and decided to watch this film because it was among those suggested by Netflix. Been Rich All My Life follows the most unlikely troupe of tap dancers — The Silver Belles, five women aged 84 to 96. In their heyday they worked at some of Harlem's most prestigious joints, performing with legendary band leaders like Cab Calloway, Jimmie Lunceford and Duke Ellington. They met in the 1930's as chorus dancers at the Apollo and the Cotton Club. When the big band era ended, and with it the need for show dancers,each of the women went into other work. The Silver Belles regrouped in 1985, put their shoes back on and, in the film, are as sassy as they ever were.
7. Please Vote for Me
Watch this brilliant doc with your middle-school aged children. Though China's government is Communist, a Grade 3 class at Evergreen Primary School has its first encounter with democracy by holding an election to select a Class Monitor. In this enlightening documentary, the filmmaker captures all the action as the three candidates — two boys and a girl — go all out to win: performing in a talent show, debating each other and delivering speeches to their classmates. You won't even believe how well these third graders present themselves.
2. Been Rich All My Life
I had never heard of The Silver Belles and decided to watch this film because it was among those suggested by Netflix. Been Rich All My Life follows the most unlikely troupe of tap dancers — The Silver Belles, five women aged 84 to 96. In their heyday they worked at some of Harlem's most prestigious joints, performing with legendary band leaders like Cab Calloway, Jimmie Lunceford and Duke Ellington. They met in the 1930's as chorus dancers at the Apollo and the Cotton Club. When the big band era ended, and with it the need for show dancers,each of the women went into other work. The Silver Belles regrouped in 1985, put their shoes back on and, in the film, are as sassy as they ever were.
3. A State of Mind
This film is a perfect peek into North Korea for those who, like me, have little knowledge of life in the country. A State of Mind provides a rare glimpse into what is one of the world’s least known societies. Following two young gymnasts and their families for more than eight months in the lead up to the Mass Games, documentarians gave us a direct view of socialism — involving thousands of performers in the biggest and most elaborate choreographed human performance on earth.
This film is a perfect peek into North Korea for those who, like me, have little knowledge of life in the country. A State of Mind provides a rare glimpse into what is one of the world’s least known societies. Following two young gymnasts and their families for more than eight months in the lead up to the Mass Games, documentarians gave us a direct view of socialism — involving thousands of performers in the biggest and most elaborate choreographed human performance on earth.
4. The Trials of Henry Kissinger
The Trials of Henry Kissinger nearly made me want to return to school and study history and foreign policy. Want an introduction to foreign relations between the U.S., China, Vietnam, Korea and Pakistan? Watch this. The film focuses on Christopher Hitchens' charges against Henry Kissinger as a war criminal — about which he wrote in a book of the same title. Kissinger's story raises immense questions about American foreign policy and highlights a new era of human rights.
The Trials of Henry Kissinger nearly made me want to return to school and study history and foreign policy. Want an introduction to foreign relations between the U.S., China, Vietnam, Korea and Pakistan? Watch this. The film focuses on Christopher Hitchens' charges against Henry Kissinger as a war criminal — about which he wrote in a book of the same title. Kissinger's story raises immense questions about American foreign policy and highlights a new era of human rights.
5. BHUTTO
Benazir Bhutto's story is both inspiring and devastating. BHUTTO is the story of the first woman in history to lead a Muslim nation: Pakistan. Her two terms in power saw acts of courage and controversy as she eradicated polio and stood up for women, while fighting the male-dominated political elite, and a nervous military leadership, while battling accusations of corruption and scandal. In 2007, with the South Asian country rolling in turmoil and under the thumb of yet another military dictator, Benazir was called back onto the world stage as Pakistan’s best hope for democracy. With her assassination she transcended politics, but left a legacy of simmering controversy and undeniable courage that will be debated for years.
Benazir Bhutto's story is both inspiring and devastating. BHUTTO is the story of the first woman in history to lead a Muslim nation: Pakistan. Her two terms in power saw acts of courage and controversy as she eradicated polio and stood up for women, while fighting the male-dominated political elite, and a nervous military leadership, while battling accusations of corruption and scandal. In 2007, with the South Asian country rolling in turmoil and under the thumb of yet another military dictator, Benazir was called back onto the world stage as Pakistan’s best hope for democracy. With her assassination she transcended politics, but left a legacy of simmering controversy and undeniable courage that will be debated for years.
6. Which Way Home
Before this film, I was anti-immigration. After, I was for policy that would make it possible for immigrants to find a safe haven in the United States, and for the first time I realized the magnitude of my ignorance about the sometimes devastating realities of life outside the U.S. Which Way Home shows the personal side of immigration — following several unaccompanied child migrants as they journey through Mexico en route to the U.S. on a freight train they call "The Beast." We're privvy to the stories of children like Olga and Freddy, nine-year-old Hondurans who are desperately trying to reach their families in Minnesota, and Jose, a ten-year-old El Salvadoran who has been abandoned by smugglers and ends up alone in a Mexican detention center. Theirs and several others are stories of hope and courage, disappointment and sorrow.
7. Please Vote for Me
Watch this brilliant doc with your middle-school aged children. Though China's government is Communist, a Grade 3 class at Evergreen Primary School has its first encounter with democracy by holding an election to select a Class Monitor. In this enlightening documentary, the filmmaker captures all the action as the three candidates — two boys and a girl — go all out to win: performing in a talent show, debating each other and delivering speeches to their classmates. You won't even believe how well these third graders present themselves.
*Top photo source: Lynn Nicholas
January 10, 2012
DIY Alexander Wang Hardware Clutch {via RunwayDIY.com}
By Katrice
I loved this post on RunwayDIY.com so much that I had to contact Arianna about mirroring it. I discovered the site just this morning and I'm completely taken. I already have a small list of projects from browsing just a few of her posts. First up, this Alexander Wang-inspired hardware clutch. I'll post pics of the finished project.
{Source}
I loved this post on RunwayDIY.com so much that I had to contact Arianna about mirroring it. I discovered the site just this morning and I'm completely taken. I already have a small list of projects from browsing just a few of her posts. First up, this Alexander Wang-inspired hardware clutch. I'll post pics of the finished project.
January 8, 2012
Win a Design Essentials Gift Set!
By Katrice
Design Essentials has the answer to our on-the-go hair care needs -- a spectacular gift set of mini products compact enough for your purse or luggage. And you may just be lucky winner one!
Design Essentials hair care system encompasses products engineered to infuse hair with a natural balance of vitamins and protein that promote movement and manageability for a myriad of hair types.
Gift set includes:
The giveaway: Like the My Vicarious Fan Page on Facebook and leave a comment on the wall about something special you do to pamper your hair -- straight or natural. The winning response will be announced on Wednesday morning.
*Sponsored by Design Essentials.
Design Essentials hair care system encompasses products engineered to infuse hair with a natural balance of vitamins and protein that promote movement and manageability for a myriad of hair types.
Gift set includes:
- Hydrate Leave-In Conditioner (1 oz) - a cream-based leave-in conditioner formulated with botanical extracts like Jojoba and Sweet Almond Oil that softens and moisturizes dry, thirsty hair.
- Detail Extra Hold High Gloss Setting Lotion (1 oz) - a ready-to-use setting lotion that produces a medium to firm hold while leaving hair soft enough to comb and style.
- Sleek Edge Control (.5 oz) - a moisturizing gel for smoothing edges and creating sleek looks.
- Mini Bag
The giveaway: Like the My Vicarious Fan Page on Facebook and leave a comment on the wall about something special you do to pamper your hair -- straight or natural. The winning response will be announced on Wednesday morning.
*Sponsored by Design Essentials.
January 6, 2012
Mix & Match
By Katrice
Hat | Forever 21
Black and white sweater | Old Navy
Yellow and white sweater | Old Navy
Slacks | H&M
Cuff Bracelet | Target
Watch | Timex
Shoes | Target
January 4, 2012
Quickie: Introducing H&M+
By Katrice
This spring H&M will rebrand it's plus size collections as H&M+.
Formerly, Big is Beautiful, the new moniker signals that at H&M fashion will always come before size, according to the brand whose philosophy is to bring you fashion and quality at the best price. H&M+ will include a range of versatile, modern essentials — the a flirty blazer and perfect long sweater as well as twin sets, white shirts and ankle-length pants — in sizes 44-54 and will be available in select U.S. stores.
This spring H&M will rebrand it's plus size collections as H&M+.
Formerly, Big is Beautiful, the new moniker signals that at H&M fashion will always come before size, according to the brand whose philosophy is to bring you fashion and quality at the best price. H&M+ will include a range of versatile, modern essentials — the a flirty blazer and perfect long sweater as well as twin sets, white shirts and ankle-length pants — in sizes 44-54 and will be available in select U.S. stores.
Back to Black
By Katrice
Faux Fur Vest | Express
Cowl Neck Top | Kohl's
Stretch Chinos | Mossimo for Target
Bag | Francesca's Collections
Bracelets | Goody Double Wear Elastic Bands
It's the Little Things
By Katrice
It's that time again. The moment when we feel inspired by the newness of year and want to mark it by declaring some type of commitment to changing things within and around us. It's normal; I'd wager to say, we've all done it. Over the past few years though, I've moved away from start-of-the-year resolutions and begun to cultivate an atmosphere that inspires me to be my best self year-round.
Something inspires me each day. Music or a conversation. Sometimes, it's giving, or a lesson or observation. It could virtually be anything.
As I prepared for vacation at the end of 2011, I decided that to redo the decor in my office as I haven't really changed it much over the past few years. I like to feel inspired the moment I enter a work space. So, my office is, in large part, full of books and magazines that I love. Mainly magazines. But, my most cherished office fixtures are the photos strewn throughout.
{My grandmother, as a young woman in the background, and my mom}
It's that time again. The moment when we feel inspired by the newness of year and want to mark it by declaring some type of commitment to changing things within and around us. It's normal; I'd wager to say, we've all done it. Over the past few years though, I've moved away from start-of-the-year resolutions and begun to cultivate an atmosphere that inspires me to be my best self year-round.
Something inspires me each day. Music or a conversation. Sometimes, it's giving, or a lesson or observation. It could virtually be anything.
As I prepared for vacation at the end of 2011, I decided that to redo the decor in my office as I haven't really changed it much over the past few years. I like to feel inspired the moment I enter a work space. So, my office is, in large part, full of books and magazines that I love. Mainly magazines. But, my most cherished office fixtures are the photos strewn throughout.
These images remind me to ever be grateful and focused ... and zealous in my pursuits. And more than anything else, to simply take time to not only dream but to remember.
What inspires you?
January 1, 2012
Inspiration Found: The Mother of All Turbans
By Katrice
{Source}
This photo will be going on my inspiration board. I am committed to giving my hair a break over the next six months with twists, pin ups and head coverings, and Ms. Ambrose's turban {here} is just the inspiration I needed.
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