What's In My Cup?

In spirits of the cold weather the fall and winter season brings, we would like to ask: whats in your cup? Who doesn't love a hot latte or soothing cup of your favorite teas and hot cocoa during these bitter months.

My cup for the day: Starbucks Chai Tea Latte 

Here is an outfit that compliments the spicy aromatic aura of the tea, 

and will be sure to keep you warm... enjoy ;)

Cropped Orange Knit Sweater ($23 at urbanog.com)
Compliments the hints of cinnamon in the chai

Cigarette High-Rise Seam Jean ($59 at urbanoutfitters.com)
For the Indian Black Tea leaves 

Brown Lace Up Oxfords ($36 at lulus.com)
For the hits of spicy cardamom in the tea

Cream Cable Knit Beret ($24 at urbanoutfitters.com)
For the steamed milk foam topping off my latte

Fresh Pick of the Week!: Anderung Clothing

Change. A simple yet powerful word, this is what Anderung Clothing / Changemakers is all about. 26-year-old Bethune Cookman University graduate Shaheed Rucker currently resides in Philadelphia, PA where him and his team create apparel that makes more than just a fashion statement; it supports positive societal change.

“One of my first pieces I designed was a simple Triangle logo T-shirt because it’s the universal symbol for “Change” and that’s what I stand for” said Shaheed. He believes in improving one’s self and the community through positive change. His partner organization “Changemakers” devotes time to participate in extracurricular activities in the community such as sports, arts and crafts and education to help change behaviors.

Motivation, inspiration from other great artistry, positive energy as well as competitiveness all awakens Shaheed’s creative senses when designing. What is his niche in the fashion world?  “No ideas original, so I can’t claim anything, but I do pride off of incorporating social change through fashion.  I like everything to bear a significant reason that affect the lives of others” he replied. It seems as though he is taking a revolutionary step in the fashion world; creating a brand that holds greater meaning than just being one’s choice of apparel for the day.

Anderung "Classic Logo" Crewneck Sweatshirt $55

Anderung Cheetah Tee $40

“Having a rare and unique approach is what inspires the pieces, each design is well thought out , we try to make them very different from normality” said Shaheed about Anderung Clothing. Implementing style and longevity with classic timeless designs along with good quality garments allow him and his team to establish their unique apparel that makes a statement. With his gold watch and gator slippers being his favorite wardrobe items, it is clear that a bold statement is definitely something Shaheed likes to make.

The great city of Philly is a key inspiration to the Anderung brand. “In Philly you have to stay ahead , you have to be a forward thinker when it comes to style in this city. The challenge of thinking forward serves us as beneficial , that enables you to sustain longevity in other places” said Shaheed. His passion for fashion even derived from the city. “Watching people get teased in grade school if you didn't have the latest or dress “Fresh”. It’s instilled as a kid, so you can’t really shake it ,I also love art, fashion is art and I love to create” he said.

What’s in store for Anderung Clothing in the future?  “You can look forward to our brand to stay exclusive and push the envelope of creativity, continuous unisex garments made for everyone” said Shaheed. Be sure to keep an eye out for this awesome line in your city, change is being made!

Anderung Clothing Contact Info:

www.anderungclothing.com

http://www.anderungclothing.com/blog/ 

Stained Lips Radio:::

The Game ft. Kanye West and John Legend- "Jesus Piece"

XXX,

Ash.

Our Bad Gal Does It Well...

 

 

Our Fashion Guru, Siee killed it in one of the hottest trends of the season...leather pants!!!

Get hip like Siee shop here , here , and here !!

 

 

 

 

 

stained lips radio:::

 

never gets old.

MIA - Bad Girls

 

 

 

XXX,

B.

 



CHRIS BENZ: S/S 2013

I’m not sure what caught my attention first…the presentation of his S/S Collection in front of  a linen and rose striped drop or the extreme over-layering of quirky mixed patterned pieces.  Either way the man is pure genius and if you didn’t know Chris Benz before prepare to get to know the insanely creative man now.  Noted as the “Prince of Color”, the American designer perfectly paired oversized vintage-y patterned jackets with crumpled trousers, a dress over top, and a chunky sweater tied at the waist to top it all off.  WHO DOES THAT!?!?!...and make it look so effortless at the same time??? Most of my favorite pieces included the oversized black trousers with the stripe-like fringe trim, the beautiful mint chiffon numbers, and the enormous green and orange hexagonal shaped jacket. Could you tell I’m a bit obsessed?  Oh wait…to top it all off, during his Spring presentation my now new best friend announced that he will be lowering his price point to reach a wider audience!  HELLO!...*waves poor little wanna-be rich girl.  Fashion risk takers take notes…as I throw out all my boring pieces in my closet!  

 

 

 

 

 

XXX,

B.

 

 

 

 

 

stained lips radio:::

...this song has absolutely nothing to do with Chris but it's my fave song right now!

 

Rih- Pour it up

 

 

 

 

 

Fresh Pick of the Week! : IamCARNAZZA

 A mix of edginess and an eclectic twist, all handmade here in the USA. Alyssa Carnazza brings us her apparel line: IamCARNAZZA. 24-year-old Alyssa is a 2010 graduate from Fordham University where she studied Communication and Media Studies, but she is currently residing in Westwood, New Jersey creating a brand as well as finding her niche in the fashion platform.

“The first piece I designed was a white cocktail dress, inspired by the modern day Marilyn Monroe” says Alyssa about a garment she constructed for her high school prom. “At the time, my mom had just introduced me to sewing and I saw a challenge in creating what I could wear” she said. Being able to see a sketch come to life and transition from paper to the hanger is something that definitely intrigued her.

Aztec Poncho $98

Fashion Era’s. This is something IamCARNAZZA brings to their customers; being able to find a set of pieces that represent one’s current attitude and/or feeling in that very moment. Expressing this attitude with different era trends allows one to even create their own personal era. IamCARNAZZA focuses collections on both fashion trends and Alyssa’s own personal vibes.

Neoprene Asymmetric Circle Skirt $85

Neoprene Vest with Cut Out Back $75

“I want my buyer to feel confident and cool instantly upon wearing an IamCARNAZZA piece. I design to create closet staples that everyone can style differently and add their own flare to” says Alyssa. One of her own staple wardrobe items are her camouflage calf leather Christian Louboutin pumps. Very fashion forward!

Who would be her ideal designer to work with if she had the chance? No one other than the American fashion innovator Jeremy Scott himself. His risky mixing techniques of merging fashion with pop culture is something Alyssa loves and admires.

"I AM" Unisex Tees $35

Alyssa is currently teamed up with her mother and developing IamCARNAZZA as a family company. They are in the process of creating a Fall 2013 collection as well working with their Creative Director, Kristen Carnazza, bringing pieces to life in photo and video shoots accompanied with hair and make-up. “We’re an imaginative and inspired family that works really well together; I couldn’t be more grateful to have them beside me” says Alyssa.

Be sure to keep a tasteful eye out for the emerging IamCARNAZZA line! We are definitely looking forward to their collection in 2013!

Keep up with IamCARNAZZA:

www.iamcarnazza.com

www.facebook.com/iamcarnazza

http://iamcarnazza.tumblr.com

www.youtube.com/iamcarnazza 

TUNE IN!

:::::::::STAINED LIPS RADIO::::::::

Rihanna (Unapologetic): Jump 

XXX,

Ash.

Ya Gotta Keep Your Head Up...

 

Talk about hiatus.  I guess I was on mine a few weeks to long.  I’ve been thinking…a lot.  At the time I stopped blogging I didn’t believe in myself.  I would look at other blogs and get discouraged.  I would find myself behind with my posts.  I disappointed my team, I disappointed my viewers but I had to make a few changes within myself.  The first steps…stop caring what others would think.  For a minute I lost the true reason why I even started blogging.  I started with the intention of doing it for myself…because well fashion is my passion and I wanted to spread my knowledge, my adventures, my travels, everything with my wonderful viewers.  Then I got discouraged…knocked off my rocking horse and I felt like I wasn’t doing well enough.  And that’s when my self-conscious kicked my ass.  You see I’m human. Yes believe it or not…and I happen to be my worst critic ALL the time.  The time I stopped blogging I just felt like I could’ve been doing sooo much better.  So I took a break.  Ok a long break.  But were back!  And where I still think there’s room for improvement, I don’t want to keep you waiting any longer.

 

While I was on “break”, I decided that it was time for me to start making some moves.  Moves towards what I want to do in fashion, begin networking, and stop being such a punk.  My boss at work gave me a great piece of advice a while back…he said “if you don’t speak up now, you will never have a voice”.  Ahhh so true, and despite my tough criticism towards myself, I realized that I need to let that go and just get out there.  So what if I don’t have the best blog, so whattt I’m not at the top of your best dressed list.  I’m learning…I’m getting out there so my voice CAN be heard! 

 

After some searching...I found a post that a Japanese Stylist looking for an assistant for an upcoming photoshoot for KURV magazine.  KURV is an Australian magazine featuring high-end fashion, editorial, art, design, music and film.  You can check them out online at www.kurvmag.com.au .  Masayo, the stylist in whom I now love, was styling for the magazine’s spring issue with pieces from Y-3’s 2013 Spring Collection.  We worked with three Ford models that were all awesome in Tribeca.  It was an all-day shoot…oh did I mention it was outside!  Nonetheless, it was great experience and I had a fun time doing what I always wanted to do.  Where this is the first styling gig I had I can’t wait to get out there and see what I can do on my own.  With compliments of Masayo and her approval that I should style more often, I can’t wait to see what I can achieve next!

 

 

 

As for me…personally…I need to let go of my fear.  Let go of the thought of failure.  What did Drake say..."started not to give a f*** and stop fearing the consequence."  Remember that beautiful peeps..stay blessed...positive...and keep your head up.

 

 

Music in our ears la di dah la di dah

Stained Lips Radio::::

 

Ya gotta keep your head up :)

 

 

 

 

XXX,

B.

Fresh Pick of the Week!: Mila and Fire

-->

When two innovative individuals with paralleled eclectic senses for fashion combine, amazing things can come to life. 24-year-old long time best friends Mila and Fire are a perfect example of what can be accomplished when two people sharing the same passion for fashion collaborate.

            Individualism, style, and sex. Not only is this the motto for their self-named apparel line Mila and Fire, but it is also the look and essence they aim to achieve with their garments. Graduates from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and Virginia Commonwealth University, the ladies studied topics of public relations, fashion and French. They are currently working hard in the nation’s capitol of Washington D.C. as business owners, entrepreneurs, and most importantly TRENDsetters. 

Vintage Black and Gold Sweater $18

Contemporary Sheer Fuchsia Maxi Skirt $39

Reconstructed Sheer Printed Maxi Dress $32

            

         “We have always been lovers of fashion, specifically of electric pieces with a sexy undertone. We’ve always pushed the envelope, with interest in the evolution and recycling of fashion” said the ladies. Both are natives to the Washington D.C. fashion scene.

“We believe that Washingtonians have an impeccable sense of fashion, that is often overshadowed by the business suits of the political world and practical clothing worn by tourists.”

            The Mila and Fire clothing line always ensures that their pieces appeal to a wide array of body types. Many of their garments are reconstructed, adding their own twist or vintage style to items they purchase themselves. “Garments are only as great as they body they are flattering” said the ladies. This is extremely important when trying to appeal to a diverse crowd of customers, like those in Washington D.C. and surrounding metropolitan areas.

             Keeping a close eye on people in the city, their own peers, as well as surrounding environments is what helps Mila and Fire in their creative process. “Our creativity is awakened at the most random times and in the most random forms,” said the ladies. “There is something about watching other young business owners thrive that pushes us to aim for the same high goals.”

Reconstructed Leopard Print Open-back top $25

            “We would love for our brand to help make a name for the D.C. fashion scene,” said the ladies. It is safe to say they have already accomplished getting their brand out there with a strong online presence and a photograph feature if their apparel in the NY Times during Brooklyn’s Afro-Punk Festival. 

            Everyone should stay tuned as the ladies are currently in the process of planning a launch for their collection which will be their own sketches and visions- it will be 100% Mila and Fire. Their spark in the fashion world is only sure to continue growing.

            “We try not set limitations on ourselves so that in the future we can continue to grow and expand Mila and Fire in as many ways as possible”.  

Want more Mila and Fire? 

Website/Shop: milaandfire.com

Blog: http://milaandfire.blogspot.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MilaandFire
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Mila.FireVintage
Tumblr: milaandfire.tumblr.com

Tune into Stained Lips Radio for the day::::::

 ASAP Rocky: Purple Kisses

 XXX,

Ash.

Moody Mondays.

 

(tumblr, ifyouseekstyle)

 

 

Hail to sweater weather!  My mood lately has been super reflective to the chilly nights, warm scarves, and my super hot Chai tea's I've been rushing to get every morning. Don't be fooled I hate the cold weather but I love snuggling up next to my love with tons of blankets (her favorite), a dimly lit room, a cup of tea (my favorite), and a romantic comedy.  I now dedicate my Monday's to my mood.

 

 

 

Stained Lips Radio::::

 

Little Dragon - Thunder Love.

 

 

 

 

 

XXX,

B.

Vamp Life.

Vamp Life. by lipsstained-usa featuring a pencil skirt





I decided to start my inspiration boards again on Polyvore.  I really love this website!  It's like a HUGE corkboard online. HA! Anywho, let me know what you think!  I'll be posting them every week with fresh new ideas and inspiration not only for myself but for you as well!  I decided to dedicate my first board to NYC, Vamp Life.  I'm sure all of you know unless you live in a cave that the city NEVER sleeps.  I thought this look was perfect for an all-nighter type of gal ;)



XXX,
B.



Stained Lips Radio::::


I don't know about you lames but I like to get rachet when getting dressed ;)

2 Chainz- Crack

 

Fresh Pick of the Week!: Elan Renegade Vintage

Courtney Burton, Owner

Do you crave the classic and eccentric look of vintage apparel? Well look no further. 22-year-old DC/Baltimore native Courtney Burton brings you her line Elan Renegade Vintage, which offers an exquisite range of garments and accessories that add a little spunk to the traditional vintage look.

Courtney reconstructs and creates all of the lines apparel, innovatively merging international prints such as African or Moroccan designs but keeping her focus on the clean vintage look of each garment. One of her very first reconstructed pieces was a vintage high low floral dress. “I initially fell in love with this piece in its original form as a maxi dress but as my style evolved I searched for a new design and experimented with my sewing machine and this awesome piece was the final product, for now” she said.

Vintage 80's Color Block Mini Dress $20 

80's Brown Leather Skinny Trousers $40

Vintage 70's Floral Kimono $45

As a DC native and resident, Courtney has definitely allowed the unique metropolitan city to inspire her own personal style and the pieces sold in the Elan Renegade Vintage shop. “Being in an area filled with such sophistication and classic style inspires me to incorporate my own personal style with the professional atmosphere of the city.”

Designer Zac Posen’s creations also play a big role in the look of her line. “His designs are complete insanity and I am obsessed with every collection” she said about his pieces. Posen incorporates classic silhouettes while stile giving a modern, yet unexpected detailing, similar to what Courtney constructs.

          Courtney even finds great inspiration right in her home. Old vintage photos of her mom and aunts are what awakens her creative process most of all.

“Growing up I never considered myself fashionable but my love for style has definitely come from my love of thrifting” said Courtney.  Thrifting is definitely becoming more and more present among independent designers. Customers can be assured walking down the street that the next girl wont be wearing the same blouse or dress, which is a great feeling. “To save money and to pass time my parents were avid thrifters. I’ve inherited that attribute and I hope it continues to fuel my creativity in the future.”

Vintage Purple Suede Belt w/Gold Buckle $35

Antique Gold Photo Frame Necklace $20

Elan Renegade apparel primarily appeals to young professional women who desire unique and intricate pieces which are far from the typical everyday 9-5 look that’s out there. Her pieces are especially for ladies who want to keep it classy with a spunky flair-a sophisticated yet rebellious hipster.  

“The most important consideration when adding to and constructing pieces for my inventory is how unique each item is. Fashions evolve from season to season so creating pieces that are interesting and unique enough to withstand the current trends and continue to remain stylish is essential” said Courtney. This is definitely good to know, pieces that can be work year round are always a plus for any trend-setter.

Along with being the owner of the clothing line, Burton studies public health and is working hard towards her Masters Degree in Applied Sociology at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC).

 

“In the future, I hope to expand the range of the Elan Renegade Vintage shop to incorporate styles that speak to fashionistas with all kinds of style” said Courtney about her line. She plans on establishing a career that will help evolve others’ styles and even transform their look as a fashion stylist. We certainly have something amazing to look forward to from Elan Renegade Vintage!

Be sure to check Elan Renegade Vintage out at: 

Blog: elanrenegadevintage.blogspot.com
Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/elanrenegadevintage

Tune into Stained Lips Radio for today::::::::::
Lana Del Ray-Mermaid Motel

XXX,

Ash.