The Original Manhattanite is a pop culture blog focused on entertainment, television, music, art, fashion and more, written by pop culture enthusiast, freelance writer, and the queen who wears her New York crown proudly and many hats, Chloe Jewel Riccardo her blog has been published and was created on October 21, 2008 in New York City.
It’s Fashion Week in New York City
and this is perfect timing to discuss some new clothing lines. These three
ladies I admire them not only for their talented acting abilities but also
because of how they have established a brand for themselves too. I admire them
demonstrating being classy, sophisticated, well poised, and groomed. They have
done some comedic roles, dramatic roles, and romantic roles as well. They know
how to transform themselves into different characters and they also know how to
attract people on the red carpet too.All three have found a way to expand their brand and message with style
and beauty by developing their own fashion labels partnering up with well known
high fashion store brands to expand themselves with their own collections. Who
are these three ladies?
I
am talking about Gabrielle Union-Wade, Eva Mendes, and Alani Nicole
Vasquez-Anthony we know her by her stage and actress name, “La La Anthony”. These
three women have started beauty, cosmetic, and fashion labels all with the help
of teaming up with many well know designers and stores too. I am going to start
with Gabrielle Monique Union-Wade originally from Nebraska, Omaha, born October
29th, (she’s a Scorpio too lol), first she’s an actress who has starred in many 1990s comedies,
television shows, and film, “10 Things I hate about you”, “Bring it On”,
“Deliver us from Eva”, “She’s All That”, “The Brothers”, “Bad Boys 2”,
“Cadillac Records”, “Top Five”, “Birth of A Nation”, “Think Like A Man 1 and
2”,“Almost Christmas”, and BET’s “Being Mary Jane”, stars as “Pauletta Paul
/”Mary Jane Paul” a successful television news anchor on Satellite News Channel
who has to deal with the juggling family and a television show, her dating
life, and many other personal struggles too within the show. I love it because
it’s relatable, fun, hilarious, real, and I love the fact it has an African
American woman as a lead too.It’s
relatable because as a 30-something now who wanted to be a journalist/producer/writer
I can see what life can or could be like balancing it all too. Gabrielle has
had some incredible roles in her career ones that women of color want to see
themselves as a classy, beautiful, sophisticated, and well established woman. I
didn’t realize how much her image actually impacted me and many other women of
this generation too. How we need to be seen in society and on a day-to-day
basis.
Her
clothing line I love because it is targeting women of all shapes and sizes too.
Women can embrace wearing whatever clothing they feel comfortable in that is
catered to their size. In August of 2017 Gabrielle’s collection debut at New
York Company it has featured colors like mango salsa, fuschia, a royal blue,
exotic print, bandage dress, body con dresses, halter choker tops, flowy tops,
harem pants, and more that are sophisticated, classy, and are easy to dress up
and down. I love this because as a woman who is curvier and is not a size 0 I
love that I can find something that suits my personality, my body type, and I
know I am getting great quality. I love something that can make you look and
feel like a woman. It’s hard
sometimes today where you cannot find clothes that fit you and are tailored to
your sizes sometimes. So when I found out that these ladies were going to be
teaming up with different designers and stores I was excited to see what they
would be coming up with next. Gabrielle’ s clothing sizes run from a size 0 to size 20.
Which means you can get everything at great price from a size extra small to a
double x l. So women of all sizes can wear her clothing. Women have had nothing
but positive reviews on the collection and that’s always a great sign for
business, the designer, and the company too. Gabrielle also has a hair beauty collection called,
“Flawless” that you can find that is perfect for textured and relaxed hair too.
I believe when it comes to fashion
and clothing there are still many issues a lot of women face today. This is
important because recently I had a personal experience that made me more aware
of how being more curvaceous can affect women when they are shopping and even
models too. I have a lot of moments when you are aware of the pressure you feel
in society about your body image and shape. I applied for a job recently in
July for a part-time position. They needed a model for the job and I wanted to
take this position on because people told me ‘Why don’t you model” earn some
more income. Plus having a grandmother who did some modeling in her twenties
and thirties too it was always a great idea for me too.
I considered it I thought what the hell.
Little did I know that reality hit me again when I realized that unfortunately
you really have to be what these people are looking for too. I applied for the
job it was under Elie Tahari and they requested a woman who was between 5’6-5’8”
she had to have a curvy fit body type, now what I didn’t know until they re
edited the job post adding a size 6 come on ladies
have an open mind next time. They wanted someone with a size 6 pant size. They
called me back and liked my photo but didn’t consider me because I wear a size
10 and can squeeze into a size 8 dress too. I thought okay that’s fair I am not
what they want. I felt a bit upset but thought you know what maybe I am not
supposed to be the right person for that job. However it has made me even more
aware of the fact how models feel when they are trying out for auditions or
need to try on clothing too.
How you feel a
pressure to be thinner, more waif- like, instead of embracing their curves. So
when I saw these clothing lines it just made me excited they are going to have
women from all different shapes and sizes jumping up to buy their
clothing.This is a dream come
true where we don’t have to be drastic we can still have some meat on our bones
or “junk in the trunk”. We should always be able to feel like I am an original I don't have to be like the woman in front of me or sitting next to me. I can be different, embrace the skin I am in, and I love who I have become too.
The next two
ladies I salute and applaud these two for them because they also define that it’s okay to be
curvy and know the struggle is real sometimes. Eva Mendes (starred in “Out of
Time”, “Hitch”, “ Cuban-American born actress from Miami, Florida born March 5th,
is a gorgeous actress, model, businesswoman, and mom of two girls Esmeralda and Amada . Eva teamed
up with New York & Company to develop her brand of clothing. She also
became the creative director of CIRCA Beauty products currently sold at
Walgreens and online. Her clothing definitely reflects the woman’s Latin
American roots, her glamorous and sophisticated side. I love the clothes
because it’s something you can wear to work, on a date, to a party, or wherever
you may want to be. It has pastels lavenders, dark evergreens, then peaches,
corals, and bright colors so you can dress up her clothes and dress it down
too. Love these looks because the prices, quality are amazing, and every
customer who has purchased online or in the store gave her 5 stars all the way.
The last person is
Alani Nicole Vasquez-Anthony from Brooklyn, New York she was born June 29th
you know her as Total Request Live “vee-jay” host, actress, producer, business woman, and author, to
her two books, “The Power Playbook” and “The Love Playbook”, she’s been
featured on hit television series, “Power” on Starz, and has a cosmetic line,
“Motives”, and now two clothing lines, “Fifth & Mercer” and now Lord &
Taylor’s collection, “La La Anthony Collection” under Levis. She teamed up and
reached out to Tommy Hilfiger and was immediately connected to get her clothing
line up and running. She wanted something that would appeal to women of all
sizes, shapes, and love a great pair of jeans. I have talked about La La on my
blog previously when she debuted her first book and her hit show, “La La’s Full
Court” she made a name for herself. I always love when people can have a spot
and just boom they blow up doing something you never expected to see them doing
at all.She earned the whole Lord
& Taylor department store window display on Fifth Avenue which is pretty amazing as someone
who worked there and saw the ins and outs of what happens behind the scenes. I am telling you this
is a huge and big deal when you make it on Fifth Avenue.It’s a big deal because so many
tourists, customers come down to shop and window shop at the department store.
So it’s pretty amazing to see how people can see the girl on MTV, VH-1 host has
blown up and made it on Fifth Avenue too. La La’s bomber jackets, jeans
everything runs on a size 0 to a size 24 I did my homework and saw some of the
jeans myself in person too. So when she says she has your size I can vouch for
that yes she has your size. So make sure you stop by Lord & Taylor
department stores.
I can’t talk about shoes on my blog without mentioning something about the ladies too.
You know her best from HBO’s
television series, “Sex and the City” playing the bubbly, effervescent, chic,
tough fashionista, and columnist, “Carrie Bradshaw”, and starring on HBO’s
television show, “Divorce”. Did you also know that she has an impeccable,
stylish, and beautiful shoe line titled (“SJP”) who is this accomplished woman
and shoe aficionado it is Sarah Jessica Parker. Producer, theater, film,
actress and now fashion designer she has added to her resume too. Her new store
is located outside of Maryland in Oxon Hill at the MGM Grand Hotel &
Casino, venue, and concert hall.
Her clothing and shoe line it’s
whimsical, sophisticated, flirty, and fun. From ballet flats, evening shoes,
sandals, and stilettos are all within her shoe collection. They are appealing to all women of all
ages and backgrounds. She has a
way of making you to sashay down the street like it’s a catwalk. She is
incredibly talented with her shoe game. I suggest you all go see her stores and
check out the site too.
Her style is just as bubbly, effervescent, sophisticated,
tailored just as she is too.I
watched a few interviews with her and she’s one of the most down to earth
people. Welcoming, inviting, and really a great linguist too SJP has a way with
words I have loved too. Something about people who are wordsmiths and who have
great style it’s a perfect combination. When it comes to fashion we have to
know exactly what we are going to be talking about too. Especially clothes you
have to learn textures, colors, neutrals, sizes, and what your own body shape
and what works for you too. Working in retail has definitely taught me a lot
about that as well. SJP’s style you can see it reflected in how each shoe is
designed intricately to show that you are receiving five star quality.
Hello my dear
readers I have missed all of you terribly. I have been going through a lot of
different changes personally and professionally. All for the better though so
these past 2 months this summer have changed me in many different ways. So let
me tell you what happened and why I have been gone for so long. I usually write
almost every day and try to get up to 3-4 posts if I am working then I know I
have to post on weekends. So sorry if my loyal people thought I forgot about
them. Hey life was happening and making some big changes too. I noticed my
numbers were decreasing (LOL!) I am like “Oh no hell naw….lol!” I can’t forget
about you all the faceless beautiful people who are keeping me going on everyday
to keep on pushing and keep on writing when I see my numbers jump to 70-100
views I know I am doing something right I have to keep striking when the time
is right and keep going.
So what was I
doing since June 26th…..okay now what I didn’t tell you all. You
know I share a lot with you. I had some extra free time this year. From May
27-June 8th I took a vacation from work to enjoy Memorial Day
weekend and the beginning of the summer. Now what I didn’t know was when I came
back from my vacation . My life was going to change drastically all in a matter
of a week. I think my theme for this summer is the Kaleidoscope Rollercoaster
Summer….it has been changing and changing every single minute for the better
but in some ways that grew me too. Okay so here we go here’s what happened….I
got laid off along with 2,000 employees from my job. I worked for Hudson’s Bay
Company specifically for
Lord & Taylor
and Saks Fifth Avenue. I started off as a temp employee first. I and was making
an hourly pay range. When I left my jobI was an executive and became the Facilities Financial Coordinator. I
was making a really decent salary and had benefits too. I loved where I worked
and it was a great place to be. I was there for exactly two years we were just
getting ready to party and celebrate that I had been there for 2 years. We had
just celebrated the 347th anniversary for Hudson’s Bay too. I bought
cupcakes too and was so proud to be apart of the company. Now what I didn’t
mention well not to everyone was that behind the scenes since October of 2015
there had been some layoffs from my job. A lot of good people got cut off
actually. It wasn’t a major alert to me at first not until I saw a couple more
people leaving then I knew something isn’t right. I kept feeling this weird
vibe that something was coming too. I kept fighting against everything being
thrown at me. I kept trying to keep my options open too. Unfortunately even
after the move I wasn’t going to be able to save a little more time while I was
there.
I actually told my
boss in November of 2016 I wanted to take a vacation I told her early, I told
the head of my department too so they would know that I would be taking a trip
so they would know way in advance before anything came up. In December one of
my co-workers left first she and I were pretty cool actually too. She found
something really fast too which was great.Now when she left that was one thing but then a domino
affect happened. Everyone started leaving actually and it was a bit
disappointing and heartbreaking too. The crazy part was that my office we were
on the high level the 22nd floor which faces Vesey Street (which I
shared with my boss too) we had huge glass windows and the whole exterior
except the door was made out of glass. We could actually see people being laid
off too. It was crazy and couldn’t believe it was happening literally right in
front of us. It was hard to watch but we knew we had to remain calm and
maintain professionalism too. So while people were dropping like flies and
leaving. Here’s what I did……I decided to take a vacation and leave.(I highly recommend this to college
students do not leave…don’t leave until it’s your time and your Human Resources
department tells you to leave). What I am saying is try to postpone your
vacation or if you take a vacation make it short and sweet. I took my trip for
about a week and a half. I did this but my boss, the head of my department, and
my HR Manager knew this too.We
discussed it about 3 or 4 times actually. My trip was almost 2 weeks so it was
a little long. That’s aside the point though…..Let me tell you what happened on
my trip and the crazy journey.
My vacation “The Golden State” and
“Sin City” visited California and Las Vegas my second time in Sin City was
better than my first time. I had been planning this trip since I left New
Orleans in 2015. I had 2 years to plan my trip and I was struggling too.I was able to do this trip, pay for it,
plan it, and prepare for two years. Luckily during my two years at my job I
became permanent and I earned a salary too.So this came in handy. I also hit a couple of bumps in the
road too and I did have some luck too. So I arrived to Newark International
Airport first I took a car service (shout out to Dial 7 car service you guys
are awesome and you rock). Now when I got to the airport and went through
security I starting feeling a little anxiety and nervous. Usually I am calm and
cool when traveling. This trip I was a little on edge actually this time. When
I tell you what happened you will understand that my anxiety was just a sign
that it was not going to be a 123 easy trip.
I think being by myself too again I
could do it but I kept feeling like “Damn, I wish someone had come with me
though”. Now here’s the first little hiccup I almost lost my boarding pass! I
am like noooooo wait a minute did I drop it. I dropped it in the perfect place
by security and where the conveyer belt is too. Thank god I found it. I got on
my flight and was relaxing and the flight was smooth and easy. I actually like
Virgin America is great and a great way to travel. I was so nervous I wasn’t
going to be able to pay for my hotel room though. I kept worrying :”What the
hell are you going to do until your room gets charged sleep in the airport
again (I did this back in 2012 heading to my late great-grandmother’s90th birthday party). No I
couldn’t do that so I got to the hotel I stayed at the Sheratonby LAX Airport and thank you god I
didn’t have to worry about paying until I checked out anyway. So when I was
able to get to my room and just lie on my giant king size bed it was amazing! I
was so happy my check cleared and I was good. So I did a happy dance and got
ready to enjoy relaxing and having fun. I only had 4 days in California too I
was supposed to see some family but I promise you all I will be there to see
you next time. I had 4 days to see and do whatever I wanted to do. My first
stop I just browsed actually and just walked around for a minute, but then I
knew stick to my itinerary. I went to the Graumann’s Chinese Theater, downtown
LA I checked out the malls, shopping centers, souvenir shops, the Hollywood
Walk of Fame, and took a Hollywood Beverly Hills Tour too I loved it. I was in the car with this
really cool woman who gave me a tour taking pictures of me in the middle of the
street. About to get run over lol! I had a great time Los Angeles was beautiful
the air has this beautiful floral fragrance, kind of like lavender and
magnolias. The night was beautiful we had a full moon up in the sky. I discovered “El Pollo Loco” Mexican and
chicken restaurant one of my favorites now the food was so good. They gave me
two bags of a whole chicken that food lasted me about 3 days.
So seeing one of my dream places
was incredible too. One area I love being in was Koreatown actually it was
close to Beverly Hills! Who knew lucky me after doing research looking for a
cheaper hotel I ended up staying at the East-West Hotel . I loved being there
it was quiet which as a writer/blogger we need that to really take in what the
hell we are doing lol. So that helped actually and I found some great places to
visit while I was there.I visited
The Grove, downtown LA I ran into a Target after being on a bus getting
distracted and lost. I was texting one of my best friends and got so distracted
one night was hilarious I missed my stop. So I miss my stop and I look it’s
dark, I am alone, and I realize where the hell I am. Iam downtown in Los Angeles where all of
the shelters and homeless people hangout. Mind you it’s about 9:30-10pm West
Coast time. I am like “Hell no I am going to get me a cab back to my hotel room
or something”. I think they actually filmed a few movies whereI was actually it was kind of funny.
Now the hotel I stayed at in Korea town I was actually literally down the
street from where “LALA Land the 2016 film and 2017 Oscar and Golden Globe hit”
was filmed which was pretty crazy. The Langham Apartments is where the movie
was filmed if you go back to the scene of Emma Stone’s room and apartment.
That’s where the movie was actually filmed.So it was kind of cool and the apartments actually are
decent prices too. Loved that
block great apartments and affordable rates. I probably would have moved there
actually too.
Now back to my trip…thank god everything
worked out cause I wasn’t too crazy about being right by the airport. Now on my
last day of my trip I went to the Beverly Hills Saks Fifth Avenue I loved it I
went there for my store. Special shout out to the store operations manager,
Adrian! I had a ball he took really great care of me. I loved it so much my job
hooked me up with a tour of the Beverly Hills Saks Fifth Avenue store. 3 things
I love about the store.
3.The
Bridal Department in the Beverly Hills store is incredible loved and would love
to go back again in the future very soon. It was kind of like an out of body
experience when Adrian took me up. I was in for a really beautiful surprise.
First thing told me “Chloe come back here” this is where you need to go.
Somewhere different for something original one day so we will see in the future.
That was the best
way to end my vacation I went up and admired the rest of Rodeo Drive and then
went back to my hotel and had a great night. Ready for trip#2- Las Vegas!
So when I woke up
and got ready I couldn’t take a cab that morning so I had to take the train. I
got stuck and thankfully this time someone rescued me I was at the Los Angeles
Bus Station sitting there like who can help me get back to home. Thank god and
shout out to my stepfather helping me with this actually. I was able to make it back to the
airport just in time. I purchased my ticket and the crazy thing is when I put
the money in I somehow got 2 tickets. You know when people say “God makes no mistakes….”
well sure enough he didn’t. So I walked outside to the Flyaway & Megabus
bus stop to the airport and there was an Asian man with his daughter on his way
out too. He needed a ticket to board and I was able to give him that. Timing
truly is everything I believe and it happened so perfectly. He gave me 5 bucks and we both boarded
and were on our way. Now here’s the catch though after I went through Virgin
America check in and boarded my flight. Funds were decreasing rapidly and fast.
I needed to get to make sure I could get to my hotel room. Taxis, Uber, or Lyft
would probably charge me about 20 to get to my hotel. My flight was quick an
easy (Now for those of you who really want to conserve on your dollars here’s a
trip tip: Take Megabus instead of spending 80-150 dollars for a one –way flight
to Las Vegas). It would be longer but wouldn’t take you but a few hours to get
too. So as I went on my way I was praying the whole time how am I going to make
it to this hotel now. I landed and I was supposed to arrive at my hotel room by
4pm let’s try closer to 1am. I am going to explain some of the bus drivers had
to guide me and figure out a “convenient and cheap way “ for me to get my hotel
room without spending anything extra. I didn’t have it I had to call family
again. My family really helped and blessed me with this trip. My brother I
reached out to him I needed help and knew I would have to pay him back pronto.
(I did) lol but still I couldn’t make it to the Elara. So what I ended up doing
was asking actually there was a heavy set black man with glasses waiting for
the bus. He told me what I would have to do to get there. Around this time it
was getting late (I was supposed to arrive early I wanted to actually go see
Trey Songz perform lol). I was so late in Vegas there was no way I could make
it. The trip was just getting more challenging. My eye sight was getting dim to
my left eye was getting irritated too. I had on old contact lenses and needed
to change them immediately. The later it was getting the more my eye was
getting bloodshot red and irritated too. Plus I had a 35 pound suitcase, two
bags, a jean jacket, and a purse. Let me tell you something you want to talk
about strength, tolerance, patience, drive, and being passionate. All of these
qualities kicked in when I went to Vegas. The first time I went was a little
long it took us a while I was younger though. It took me the whole night to get
to Vegas but here’s the catch I had money on me though that was different it
went smoother. This journey took longer because I was struggling literally and
had to be really patient. I caught the bus but couldn’t get down South Las
Vegas Boulevard. The hotel was about almost 2 miles away. I had to drag my poor
suitcase down the street. The wheels got damaged I have had it about 5 years
it’s been on quite some journeys with my mom and me. So I think this time the suitcase
may have to be replaced now. I was so frustrated, angry, and a bit disappointed
too from taking the suitcase with me everywhere. I wound up putting on my ipod
and blasting Beyonce the whole time. When I get in tough situations trust me
this woman is the one who can pull me back up and get me through tough times
when I need strength, resilience, and to trust myself too. Usually that works for
me actuallyand I can channel my
inner Sasha Fierce. This works for me since college and I just transform and go
into beast mode. It’s like I am Wonder Woman, A female soldier, and a warrior
in a battle. Everytime she was
singing from her song, “Freedom” ….”A winner doesn’t quit on themselves” then I
knew don’t stop walking with the suitcase, push through and keep going.
That strength
comes in and I took that suitcase and even though I was in a lot of pain. I
made it through and I made it down two miles. I got to my hotel the Elara the
Hilton Grand Vacations resort. (I am thinking of naming my daughter, Elara
after that experience lol well I love the name anyway lol). I love the hotel
and resort because it had everything a woman needs Starbucks (for those late
nights after partying you need a breakfast or caffeine pick me up), very cool shopping stores like
Aldo, House of Celeb Boutique, and H&M it’s all part of the Miracle Mile
Shops, and then also the casinos and the concert venue, “The Axis” remember I
was there for JLo so I had to keep going when you’ve spent about 300 on front
row seats you want to continue going no matter how heavy your suitcase is too.
(PART TWO)
Getting to the Concierge Desk I got
up there and I completely forgot I still had to cover the incidentals for my
room. So I tried to explain to thehotel staff my situation and that I would have the money the next day.
The staff negotiated and I felt so bad. I had to figure something out they told
me they would allow me to sleep inside the lobby. So I walked over to the bar and
sitting area. I sat there literally praying and hoping what to do next. What do
you do when you cannot afford to
pay for the incidentals.I felt
horrible I think feeling anxious and upset because I had a few doubts about the
trip but I needed to get away. I went to the bathroom and I cried stressed out,
annoyed, and feeling like why isn’t this going the way I imagined. So I took
out my lenses, cause my eyes were really bloodshot now, and just sat down by
the sitting area. I texted an old friend of mine first and could not figure out
who else to call it was 1am Pacific Time in Las Vegas and 4 am Eastern Standard
Time in New York City most people were either sleeping or out partying. I checked
my bank account actually and I saw
it said “-26.96” I am telling you the struggle was real that day. I was still
expecting a little bit of money to come in though. I am not lying to you I laid
my head down praying to God please figure something out. About 10 minutes later
I looked at my account and saw 500.00 dollars. I am not lying to you it was
exactly the amount I was going to need for the trip. A miracle literally before my eyes I took out 200.00 dollars
from my account right away. I figured there must be some money that was
re-transferred back into my account. So I took what I could but I knew even if
I spent it all I would just have pay my bank back overdraft fees (Which I ended
up doing anyway). I
went back to the concierge desk I gave the staff $100.00 dollars for my room. I
was overjoyed and they gave me my hotel room keys, a bag with the Hilton Honors
member logo with two bottles of water, information, tourist information, and
off I went to room 1506.I went to
the guard and passed him the electronic key and went straight up to the set of
elevators and to my room. I had to wait for my bags the bell hop would bring
them. I couldn’t believe this was going to happen actually. I couldn’t believe
I could actually see still at this point. I walked into see this gorgeous
Hollywood themed (how perfect for me) king size room. I had electronic shades,
I had a beautiful red leather couch, and whole fully stocked kitchen, with a
mini refrigerator, a microwave, every thing was really top of the line. I walked
into my bathroom was just stunning the lighting there was even a make up mirror
with lighting over the sink.It
was just stunning I literally thought I went to heaven at this point of my
trip. The flight, the walking, and dragging my poor suitcase was all worth it.
I went to the bed that night and just prayed that I could get a doctor the next
day. I woke up about 9 Pacific time called my parents up and told them what
happened. I got ready and went right to the nearest doctor’s office I found a
taxi walked the very sizzling hot strip, I put on my jeans shorts, and a
Forever 21 yellow mustard shirt that says “Have a Golden Day” and went straight
to the urgent care office in Las Vegas. They told me they would not accept my
insurance so I would have to pay out of pocket. Thjs was convenient because I
had the money now. So I went to go see the doctor and she prescribed me
Ciprofloxacin for my eye she gave me oral tablets and also eye drops.Now here’s the tricky part and some of
you may not want to hear the next part when you are in Las Vegas. You are not
allowed to drink alcohol when you are taking oral tablets or the eye drops can
cause poor judgment, lack of concentration, vision impairment like blurriness
and just really not good when you are on medication. So it was okay with me I
chose not to drink this time. I also read some other things on my prescriptions
were saying not to eat dairy. So when my pharmacist explained it was tricky
especially the day of the J-Lo concert….
THE DAY FINALLY ARRIVED-JUNE 3RD…..Woke
up that morning after eye drops hoping my eye would heal itself and it was
getting better, lighter actually, I still couldn’t really wear my contacts but
I figured because it was going to be at night it wouldn’t be so bad actually.
So what I did was I waited until the evening to put them in and that actually
worked. I had about an hour and a half to kill some time so I was trying on
this outfit it just didn’t feel right at all. It was an olive green jumpsuit
with a crop top. The top looked great but the pants were too long for this
occasion. Something told me to switch the pants and try to find a skirt. I went
downstairs to H&M I figured budget find something cute but still sexy too.
This was Vegas now and I am going to see one of the fiercest divas of them all.
So I found a dark forest green two-piece outfit with a crop top and a tight
skirt with a slit. I decided not to get the crop top but mix it with the skirt
and this worked! I loved how I felt and looked much better I paired it with
black strappy gladiator flat sandals. I took my red bucket bag purse off I went
I was excited I was going to go to Drai’s Nightclub to have a good fun night
Big Sean was performing. So that worked I would have a really late night.
What’s funny when I walked down the Miracle Miles Shops I had people staring
and give me high fives when they saw my outfit lol! I felt like damn I needed
that especially since I was by myself that night. I think God knew okay she
needs to have fun and enjoy herself. I needed that extra boost of confidence
that night. Considering I didn’t get back to my hotel room until 5:30 in the
morning. That night after the concert J-Lo killed it I took video, photos, and
will cherish this forever. So I went off to Drai’s and had a great time dancing
and I spotted this chocolate brown tall 6 foot 4 inch man. I was getting hit on
my a few guys that night. I wasn’t trying to even entertain the thought of
being with them. Some of them were just crass, nasty, sloppy, and just players
too (sorry I have to be honest). I saw this man though something drew me to him
for some reason. Although I didn’t really want to be bothered I just wanted to
lay low and enjoy myself.He
actually gave me the look and the finger like “Come here” and wanted to talk to
me. He did I found out he was from Philadelphia and he was about 25 actually. He
was tall, you can tell he could be a basketball player, a model, or some kind
of athlete. His name was Rich and I thought okay I haven’t met too many “Richs”
in my day but he was really handsome, very cool, down-to-earth too. He was only
going to be in Las Vegas for one more night. So we took that last night and
used it and got to know each other. Let me tell you something if I hadn’t been
on vacation and feeling so damn good at that moment. I probably wouldn’t have
even been talking to him.I think
because I wanted to move on too (Remember I broke up with my ex well now 6
months ago but haven’t seen him in almost 9 months anyway)….At this point all
bets were off I got to know him college educated, was employed, modeled on the
side,family oriented, just cool,
easy to talk to too. I loved how we had some things in common too. I loved his
energy and I also loved when we hugged at the end of the night how I felt like
this small little thing protected with him. It was nice just conversation
believe me I thought about him coming up for a nightcap and talking. It was just
pleasantand nice to really get to
know someone without the strings. I wasn’t sure if he had a girlfriend already
considering that he had a couple girls(who were friends I can’t see someone purposely leaving their girl for
another person they hardly know) and his boys with him on this trip. Yet he
kind of singled me out and wanted to get to know me too. I enjoyed it we stayed
in touch for about a month but when my world turned upside down…..we lost
contact.
So he went back to Philly I checked
out and went to another hotel. I signed up for a competition to win a car and I
ended up getting 250 dollars to gamble, dinner, and any Las Vegas show. My luck
changed dramatically after meeting Rich actually. So I checked into the Linq
which is amazing it’s like an adult carnival honestly. It’s really a great
place and spot to eat, shop, and relax from all of your gambling and partying
too. My last night I checked in late I actually met another guy too I went to
dinner, went to a comedy show, and I went to bed ready for my journey back
home. What happened….next I wasn’t expecting. My flight was delayed I was
getting incoming text messages from United saying my flight was delayed. Next I
also realized I still had 250 dollar vouchers I went downstairs fast and walked
away with 200 dollars cash I won about 260 in Las Vegas a big advance from 50
bucks. I walked out of there on such a high but my flight being delayed took me
and snapped me into reality. The plane was having complications and engine
trouble I had to call United to get them to reschedule my flight and get me to
one fast. Thank god this woman found a 1:30pm flight leaving from Las Vegas to
Colorado and then Colorado to New York City. I got home about 12am in the morning
exhausted, tired, jet-lagged, and happy it was over. Now the only thing was
this I didn’t know that my life was about to change in 2 hours. I got to work
my boss knew I would be in late and my flight was delayed too. My boss and I
continued working she was happy to see me too.The only thing is I felt weird like something was right. We
heard lay offs were still happening. My HR Director called me and told me Chloe
we have to let you go. I couldn’t believe it. All of my energy, my heart, and
everything went out of me. I literally was having an out of body experience
where you know what’s happening but you’re in shock. I thought everything was
okay actually. My bosses informed me earlier it was okay, I would be fine they
knew I was going away but the cuts were still being made. I had a feeling this
was going to happen though but I am glad that at least now looking back on it.
I was shocked but I didn’t become hysterical or emotional. I didn’t not until I
got home actually I was upset, hurt, and my pride was hurt. For 2 months this
allowed me to grow emotionally, physically even, and allowed me to realize one
important thing. You get to start all over again…two years of growth at an
amazing retail brand company, working in a breathtaking office, an office that
gorgeous five star restaurants and shops. I am talking about the love of my
shopping life Brookfield Place lol. I love that place they gave me such
creative inspiration it was insane. I fell in love with a building lol…some of
you may have seen some photos of me (that’s how much we were in love). Lol….so
when I left it was disappointing and it hurt. It wasn't just about the clothes no it was about the fact I worked really hard at a company that allowed me to grow. I built something that's what made it even more special and unique too.
I am still going back to visit
when you find a shopping place you love like that you never let that go. Even
if your are just window- shopping. You go for inspiration, just to admire, to
dream, to never forget that dreams come true too. So my job was generous gave
me a severance package, and I stay in touch with everyone today. I will be back
to visit during the fall or winter to check in with everyone when I am good and
ready. I cannot wait I am excited but I will tell you I learned about patience,
how working hard pays off, building relationships is crucial if you want to
survive, stay away from negativity, pursue your dreams despite what anyone
says, and listen to your instincts always. I also realized how beautiful it is
when New York City comes together too, working by the world trade center for me
was a huge gift there are so many reasons. I think also just seeing how much it
evolved and rebuilt itself literally that’s the amazing thing. I think that’s
one thing I learned how to survive, how to rebuild myself up too, how to come
back stronger, tougher, and I found a new person inside me, she’s in there.
She’s ready to be unleashed, I have a lot more sense about what I want and what
I deserve too. I believe now this new chapter will be a beautiful one full of
passion, joy, love, happiness, laughs, appreciation, and just realizing that
it’s still good to be alive too. I am looking for a new career with my passions
and creativity, coming into my own as a woman, a new relationship too, and more
stay tuned. I know this was long but I love you all for reading this. Sorry I
was gone for 2 months I had a lot to talk about. You know I always have so much
to share with you and there’s more…I promise stay tuned. Go visit Las Vegas, go
visit California, go see J-Lo, and go enjoy yourself no matter what.
Update now I am in a new different place new job starting for me and maybe I will have a career closer to my field that's coming soon, still doing my temp jobs at the moment, focusing on branding and taking my blog to another level, and maybe new love coming soon. I will have more information for you all soon.
Shout out to H&M in Las Vegas having such amazing stores at the Miracle Miles Shop and having this sexy green skirt with the slit lol brought me a lot of good luck
So happy to see this sign lol!!!! Great memories =)
Taking last minute photos and getting souvenirs before I head back to NYC.
LOL Holding my vouchers of money from Wyndham Hotel who hooked me up with lunch and $250 dollars worth of vouchers, dinner, and a show I chose comedy lol =)
On Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California May 31, 2017- this picture one of my favorites I will always remember
The morning of my J-LO Concert love the Elara hotel eating steak & eggs for breakfast.
So much J-Lo stuff what to choose I chose a cup actually lol...but will probably get something else the next time she's on tour. =)
I went to see
Spice Girls live in concertI was
11 years old this was not my first concert actuallyI have been attending concerts since a baby actually and I
believe this was around the summer of 1998. Now I say 20 years ago cause I
officially fell in love with the Spice Girls back around this same time too. I
am a true 90s kid I watched Full House, Fresh Prince of Bel Air, I grew up
wearing the oversized plaid shirts, big jeans, Jansport bookbags, watch
ing The
Babysitters Club movies, and Boy Meets World. I was that kid but these ladies I
didn’t know what have such a profound impact on me but would also influence
many young girls and women all over the country too. I remember going to this
concert with my childhood friend and classmate Meaghan Johnson (nee Soucek) we
met at my Catholic grammar school in the fall of 1997 at Saint Peter’s Grammar
School and we wanted to emulate the Spice Girls so badly.I wanted to be Posh Spice because of
her classy glamorous style and she wanted to be the sweet, lovable, and demure,
Baby Spice. Looking back on that now so many things make sense now in a good
way. We already kind of defined ourselves as females how we wanted to be seen
to the world.
So back to the
spice Girls we loved all of their songs, the messages about empowerment,
standing up for yourself, and being confident. For two young pre-teenage girls
we needed that especially in junior high school. At this time this was a great
era for music actually the Pop explosion when N’SYNC, Backstreet Boys,
Christina Aguilera, and Britney Spears would all join and be apart of this
movement too in the music industry during the late 90s and early 2000s. We
loved them so much we even performed and I choreographed a 5 minute routine for
our talent show for the girl scouts. One thing I always loved was how they
discussed Girl Power and being encouraged to stand up for yourself, stay
motivated, and strong. For pre-teen and teenage girls that is really important.
You are not aware of how much a message can affect children and teenagers in
songs. I think many of singers and artists don’t realize their influence on
their younger audience.Luckily I
had the Spice Girls and so many other 90s divas, pop stars, and artists who
spread messages early to young ladies. I realize now we were all becoming
mini-feminists you don’t realize how much a song, a message can empower girls
to achieve their goals, their dreams, and whatever they choose to be in life.
The
Spice Girls had a major explosion young girls and boys adored them, does anyone
remember the memorabilia during this time lollipops, posters, dolls, their
movie selling out fast in theaters and on VHS tapes I am sure back then. One thing I noticed a few years later
the group took a hiatus and break for a long time. They decided to take a break
for a while and focus on solo projects. The group has remained friends and
still reunite to this day which is an amazing thing. They rejoined together for
several events one being the 2012 London Olympic games where they all reunited
and joined together to perform a medley of their hits.The group has gone on to have a lot of
success each of them now have been featured on talent competition shows like
America’s Got Talent, Boy Band, starting their own clothing lines, have been
featured in television shows, movies, and films. They have also added additions
to their families too. The group has had so much success so who knew 20 years
ago what they would accomplish with a song called “If you want to be my lover”
jumping, kicking, and dancing in 5 inch platform shoes , sneakers, and
heels.So salute to the Spice
Girls: Melanie Chisolm, Emma Bunton, Melanie Brown, Geri Halliwell, and
Victoria Beckham on achieving their success and teaching young ladies don’t
ever forget your Girl Power Spice.This August in London they will have movie theaters playing “Spice
World” the 1998 hitmovie about
the Spice Girls.
Browsing and interviewing the staff at the Brooklyn, NY 233 Flatbush Location
Guess what my readers I have a lot of things going on this year some big changes and new things. I will finally make a big professional dream of mine come true. Hopefully before the end of the summer I will have my own website I am working on it right now . This is to commemorate the 10th anniversary of my blog. My blog it turns 10 next year so I wanted to take my blog into some new directions. I will continue to write believe me no matter what I will always write but now I am going to expand the blog a bit more. I will probably include a link on the website too but I wanted you all to see what I am capable of in case you may want your own blog and may need assistance too. I am doing some freelance writing now for a blog called "What are those" here's the link to the website http://www.whatarethose.com the blog was founded by Darius Guerin an up & coming entrepreneur on the rise and fellow sneakerhead too. I have written a couple of pieces and wanted to show you in case you maybe interested too and having some work written too. Feel free to follow me and him on instagram too. @chloejewelriccardo
One thing you
instantly notice when you look up the glass cases which holds the sneakers they
keep the sneaker models in pristine condition and they look similar to a
trophies being put on display. Next you look up in the center of the ceiling is
a sneaker chandelier which has Nike Air Force Ones hanging and dangling above
you in a pyramid style form art piece.
The most popular
shoe that buyers and customers love are Vans, Nike Airmaxes, Adidas Inuki, Nike
97 Airmaxes, Qasa Y-3 high black are selling out quickly and seem to be the go
to sneaker for the winter season too.
The owner of Kith is Ronnie Fieg he
first brought his first location to Brooklyn in 2011. Ronnie had a passion and
love for sneakers, selling, and developed at an early age he knew what he loved
the shoe business. He started out in the stock room first, at David Z Designs he
grew into his role memorizing brands, getting familiar with the business side
and actually put the time, investment, and wanted to expand his role too. He
did that going from stock room, salesman, assistant manager, and became a buyer
for David Z Designs and then later established and found Kith in Brooklyn. He
began bringing in many different shoe designers Adidas, Converse, PUMA, Polo
Ralph Lauren, Saucony, and Asics. On
November 11, 2011 Ronnie opened his first location of Kith a boutique store and
in 2016 there was a complete renovation made and now he has four locations with
a few pop up locations. One in Bergdorf Goodman Department stores located at
745 Fifth Avenue. The other locations are in Manhattan at 644 Broadway, 64
Bleecker Street in Manhattan for the women’s Kith store, Brooklyn location 233
Flatbush Avenue, and Miami, Florida location at 1931 Collins Avenue in Miami
Beach, Florida. The price range
for all sneakers starts at $65-400 plus.
Ronnie just came
out with a new clothing line and sneaker line collaborating with Coca Cola and
their brand for the summer and was released this August 2017. He had always
been a fan of the red & white classic label of Coca Cola, which has been
used by so many artist including artist, Andy Warhol.You can find the collection at Coca Cola’s website. So with
this entrepreneur on the rise everyone is going to know this Queens New York
natives name.
Chadwick Boseman is that dude! He
is making his acting chops felt and seen in the film and entertainment
industry. He just earned and received a major part as one of the first African
American superheroes for Marvel comics. He will star along with Lupita N’yongo
("Twelve Years A Slave" , "Star Wars: The Force Awakens", "Queen of Katwe", and "The Jungle Book ),Michael B.
Jordan (Creed, Fantastic Four, Fruitvale Station, That Awkward Moment ) Danai Gurira ("All Eyez On Me", "The Walking Dead", "The Visitor", and "Mother of George") ,
Forest Whitaker ("The Last King of Scotland", "The Butler", "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story"), Angela Bassett ("American Horror Story", "Olympus has Fallen", "Notorious") , Andy Serkis ("Rise of the Planet of Apes", "The Hobbit, "The Lord of the Rings": Series & Franchise) , Sterling K.
Brown ("Thurgood Marshall", "This is Us" television series, "American Crime Story", "Army Wives") , Phylicia Rashad (do I need to even list her resume (lol)...."The Cosby Show", "Creed", "For Colored Girls", "Frankie & Alice") I was pretty shocked to see she would be starring in this film but a very nice surprise to see Mrs. Rashad is branching out into different roles outside of comfort zone . There are some veteran actors in this film along with
new comers and performers too. This cast is pretty incredible and full of
surprises.
I
love how Boseman is the kind of actor who will engulf himself into a role and
he knows how to transform each and every single time. He gives an incredible
performance each time you may remember him playing real life hero and athletic
legend, Jackie Robinson in the movie “42” (2013), he starred as the godfather
of soul in “Get On Up” when he played James Brown and he killed the role
becoming him inside and out actually.Now this fall he will star as “Thurgood Marshall”. The first African
American supreme court justice during the late 1930s and early 1940s Marshall
was involved with a case where a woman was raped, assaulted, and attempted
murder was involved. For more information on the film “Black
Panther” visit http://www.marvel.com and stay
tuned for the film’s trailer will be up shortly before the film debuts in
February next year. Until then watch the trailer above and I included the Thurgood Marshall trailer for you all too enjoy readers will be back with more for you. XOXO =)
Taraji Penda Henson is a force of
nature in the entertainment, film, and television industry this woman is truly
at the peak of her game right now. Television show Empire is coming back for
their fourth season on Fox television this fall on September 28th,
Hidden Figures nominated received multiple awards Screen Actors Guild Awards,
Golden Globe Awards, NAACP Image Awards for 2017, first African American woman
to receive a critic’s choice award, and BET Award this year which she has received six awards out of 9 nominations.
Proud Mary film starring "Taraji P. Henson" due January 2018
I finished Taraji’s book, “Around
the way girl” this spring 2017 and it gave me a whole new perspective,
appreciation for my own life, my dreams, you cannot take your dreams lightly,
keep pushing, pursuing, and believing they will come true too. Her book was
real, relatable, honest, and loved the message about just owning who you are as
a woman, embracing yourself, your journey, story, remaining humble, and giving
it all that you have too.
She has incredible stamina, drive,
and pushes until doors will be made open. She has a way of telling a story
through a character that any human being can relate to as well. It’s something
that’s a gift.You don’t just
learn that you are born with it. When you can create a character that is so far
removed from yourself and bring it to the screen that’s a true gift.
Taraji’s next role will be Mary an
African American assassin in a film about becoming very close to a young boy. I
saw the trailer with her dressing up in thigh high knee stiletto leather boots,
all leather outfit, and putting on red lipstick. She steps into a Maybach black
four door car and that’s when I knew she has arrived. Finally this generation
gets to see a powerful African American woman raise a little hell for once and
kick some behind. She can not only do it with her mind but also do it in heels
and still maintaining her femininity. It’s incredible we need more female roles
where women aren’t catering to everyone in the film. Some of you know what I
mean not being the mother, the grandmother, the maid, the secretary, all of
those roles are wonderful and amazing in real life. However in the film
industry for African American women we need a variety and change. It’s amazing
to see more females are now able to showcase themselves in roles like a doctor,
a political strategist (like Olivia Pope), a lawyer, a comedienne, or a
dentist. It’s time for women of all colors and backgrounds to have some roles
where we can get back to saying “Yes I am a female but I can do it all baby…and
kick butt in heels” literally .
Some of you know as a kid dreamed and I wanted to be a
triple threat: singer, dancer, and actress. As a kid I always wanted to be in a
movie where I could play someone similar to this being like a detective in all
leather like a female “Shaft”, “Foxy Brown”, but you get to save someone too. I actually used to dress up in my mom’s
clothes as a little girl pretending to be some kind of detective. So to see a
woman come out with a film where she gets to be an assassin and it’s role of
empowerment. It’s a dream come true for to see in the 21st century.
In Taraji’s case she’s saving a
little boy but also able to give people a little hope too. Back to my point
about the fact that we need more screenwriters to show the complexity of women,
how we struggle with different things on a daily basis, and bring a piece of
that reality to television and film. In Taraji’s case she has done and
surpassed that with her roles.“Loretha “Cookie” Lyon” may not be a real person but there are pieces of
her that any woman can relate to on screen, her compassion for people, her
toughness with her sons, her undying love for Lucious, her sons,and her family, her drive to keep “The
Empire” afloat too. Taraji’s roles
have a way now of showing Hollywood, the entertainment industries, film
industries and across the globe. I can show you what a woman can really do on
and off screen.I believe Proud
Mary will do the same in January 2018.Proud Mary stars Taraji P Henson, the legendary Danny Glover,
(Dreamgirls, Almost Christmas, Lethal Weapon franchise, Beyond the Lights,
Dirty Grandpa, the Color Purple).Neal McDonough (Flags of our fathers, Minority Report, Captain America,
First Contact), and introducingJahi D’Allo Winston who has starred on “Feed the Beast”, “The New
Edition Story”, and will play “Danny” in Proud Mary.
I hope all of you will go support
and see the film as she transforms to Cookie into a hitwoman how diabolical and
transformative of you Taraji go girl! For more information on the film follow
Proud Mary on your social media websites and stay tuned it arrives January
2018. For more information for the fourth season of Empire on Fox television network visit http://www.fox.com
