MY SYNFUL CATWALK IN TOKYO

Remember my friend Synethia? See here. The one who made the clutches from Japanese obis?

Well looky here!

A 30 year old, 5' 3 inch, lock wearing English language teacher opening in Tokyo Fashion Week.

Do you have dreams? Do you believe in you? Go forth and claim your place.

My friend since undergrad, shopping partner , bridesmaid, listening ear, comforting words and road dog !!

flippin fierce!!!!

I am so proud!!! I feel like a proud mama!!

See more here

Who said bridesmaid dresses are for one time use?

A few months ago I attended a friend's wedding in Barbados. She had the novel idea of custom made silk dupioni corseted tops, pencil skirts and banded belts.

Honestly, at first I didn't get it. When I got to BIM( as Barbados is called) I was pleasantly surprised. Not only was her selection, a rich fabric in an amazing colour, but her design was carefully executed by Caribbean Icon Award Fashion Designer Pat Brathwaite. (See her work here and here and here)

Wasn't Les the most beautiful bride?

My friend Les, heard me plotting on the many ways I'd wear the outfit again...even before her wedding was over. I still havent done the crisp button down white shirt, tons of Channel-esque pearls and nude pumps just yet.

I had shown only a peek of the dress here. Here's how I've worn pieces of the bridal attire...countless times.

Above, the entire outfit, in my friend's bridal party, Barbados.

With a nude pocketed dress and gold hoops, out to drinks with friends in Kingston.

With dark denim, a metallic top and wedges, out for drink with friends in Waltham, Ma.

With a button down pin stripe shirt and white boot leg pants, presenting at a conference in Jamaica.

With a off white 3/4 sleeve tank , orange bib necklace and purple velvet flats, today at work in St. Lucia.

be good. do better. look your best.

Claat .....

I used to accompany my mother( a reluctant seamstress) in Kingston, Jamaica, to the fabric(claat in Jamaican creole) store. I took the opportunity to accompany an older co-worker, also a seamstress here in St. Lucia to the fabric store for the heck of it.

All the memories came rushing back, Indian silks, British cottons, post- colonial madras plaids.

I picked up a few pieces. Now I'm looking for a tailor/seamstress to make a few pieces while I'm here.

This is how I feel....

Happy to be alive!

Striped top- The Gap, Vest- FCUK, Skirt- J-Crew ( click image for larger view)

How are you feeling?

be good. do better. look your best.

Kweyol Clutch

This month is Kweyol (Creole) Heritage month in St. Lucia. The entire country celebrates the creole ( French, English and African) heritage with traditional music, dance, food, exhibitions etc. I attended an event, October Fest en Kweyol ( a fusion of the German Beer Festival with a Kweyol Flair) These handmade straw clutches were on display and I had to take one home.

The wristlets, clutches and small shoulder bags are carefully crafted by a local St. Lucian woman, Lil, who usually sells in the City's market, using straw harvested in rural St. Lucia , scraps of fabric and used plastic for the inside lining.

Top- F-21, Shorts - French connection, Necklace - a shop in St. Lucia, Sandals- Nine West

Other pictures from the event can be found at my Travel Blog, CaribbeanConservationChic.tumblr.com.

be good. do better. look your best.

SHE started in a supermarket

Let's talk Caribbean Chic.

It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to pick up SHE in the grocery store. IT WAS JUST THERE!! AVAILABLE. The magazine is carried by one [as far as I know] book store in Boston. I was familiar with the coveted glossy pages of caribbean fashion, features and profiles of fabulous Caribbean women, but had no knowledge that it was as St. Lucian as the Pitons!!

This month's issue has a lovely round up of Caribbean fashion Week that took place this past June in Kingston.

"Since its inception in September 1998 as a freebie from Julian’s Supermarket, SHE Caribbean has developed into a highly respected international women’s magazine. Publisher Mae Wayne remembers well the magazine’s beginnings as a promotional vehicle for the supermarket’s products. The response was encouraging from the start. Gradually, the magazine changed its Saint Lucia bound focus to concentrate on all women from the region"

I cheated. I am sorry.

So. I have been in St. Lucia now for 13 days. I started a new travel blog CaribbeanConservationChic at tumblr to document that journey and because I find that pictures are better looking there.

St. Lucia is good so far. Like my homeland Jamaica, but yet very different. I am working on biodiversity conservation( read: protecting trees, animals etc and managing how people use these scarce resources that are essential to the 'sustainability' of Caribbean economies)

That JCrew Button down skirt (Thrifted) Shirt- Gap, Necklace( Goodwill) Shoes(Kenneth Cole)

Shirt- (BCBG), Top- (NY&Co.), Khaki-( Gap) Necklace - (Liz Clairborne) Paparazzi, for the organization's press release.

Blazer -(Old Navy(Thrifted), Top( Max Mara, stolen form my sister), Skirt- ??? Lady Bug Necklace( Lucky Brand@ Macy's))

I have been enjoying getting dressed with less than a quarter of my closet and lots of accessories. My challenge is even greater because of what I call 'post-colonial mannerisms' that limits what "work wear" is. Typical work wear here is button downs, polyester suits, nylon stockings etc......I try not to stand out...too much. Although I had some critical commentary on pattern mixing. Still a little taboo.... I know what is expected having worked in Jamaica......but I choose not to pay attention.....While the island is usually 80 degrees the office AC is kept at 26 degrees.....so layering is okay...for me atleast.

be good. do better. look your best.

From St. Lucia

Wedding Day. First Day. Same thing.

Something old. Something new. Something borrowed. Something blue.

The itsy bitsy, little yellow polka dot ( okay, it's not a bikini) is old clothes for someone but new to me. I picked up the 'thrifted' (read:poop inna/old bruk), at Goodwill in Boston. The vintage Ralph Lauren silk shirt fits like it was custom made for me! The pin striped belt is borrowed from the best friend a girl could have and the pants are basic blue wide legs from the Gap. No, I didn't wear those flip flops!

See travel blog here http://caribbeanconservationchic.tumblr.com/ ( I find tumblr a better platform for posting photos) I will post here less for the next six months that I am in the Caribbean.

be good. do better. look your best.

From St. Lucia....

And the winner is...

Dominique Alexander!! She gets a scented 6 oz candle from Starfish Oils in Jamaica.

I'm loving the spirals in her hair.....and that smile. Congrats!!

be good. do better. look your best!

Do not forget the giveaway...ends on Monday August 24th@ 5pm

There are a few places I must visit on every trip to Jamaica.Devon House in Kingston is one such place. The historical site is now home to craft shops, restaurants and the best Ice cream in the world!!! There I said it.

I stopped in at Starfish Oils, a handmade aromatherapy company. I picked up a scented candle just for you. Yeah you!!!

Email me, your name and a picture of you looking your best. One person will be randomly selected to receive the prize.

The Jamaican Review: Bridget Sandals

When I lived in Jamaica, time minus 4 years ago, I so badly wanted a pair of Bridget Sandals. Fresh out of college in 2003, I saved enough money to buy a pair and was discouraged by a friend not to. ....it wasn't worth it she said! Should have never listened to her.

Meet Bridget Sandals. Jamaican fashion staple for the uber fabulous and 'buy jamaican aficionado'. Hand crafted leather that pre-dates the current gladiator trend. The original Rastaman and root girls wear.

In Jamaica a couple days ago, I missed the opportunity to stop in to her store because of the conference. Royally pissed, I counted by loss and was moving on when I saw that they were sold in the airport. Nothing like sandals shopping at 6am!!

Look at her featured here for sneak peek of the production and interview and full review and a buffet of pictures here.

A pair will set you back $75 ( Jamaican $6,000) I consider it an investment Jamaica small business industries and myself!!

I bought the iconic rose pair in orange...I plan to open them on my birthday in 12 days and act all surprised.

Check out the tutorial on how to wear.

be good. do better. look your best.

Jamaican Product Give away

There are a few places I must visit on every trip to Jamaica. Devon House in Kingston is one such place. The historical site is now home to craft shops, restaurants and the best Ice cream in the world!!! There I said it.

I stopped in at Starfish Oils, a handmade aromatherapy company. I picked up a scented candle just for you. Yeah you!!!

Email me, your name and a picture of you looking your best. One person will be randomly selected to receive the prize.

Post-Conference Style

Again sharing pictures from last week's conference. It was mostly serious days and fun nights. A couple clubs, a few dinners, festivals, agricultural shows , laughter and chatter with friends and family.

Clubbing

Dinner with a friend.


 Lunch with another friend.

Drinks with friends.

Jamaica's 47th Independence celebration.

Conference Style

So I decided how to share some of the pictures from last week's conference in Jamaica.  I'll share what I wore, what other people wore, natural hair beauties, food and local products. Not necessarily in that order.

This first batch will include what I wore to the two days of workshops in Kingston.

Day one: "Cool and Collected" - To co-facilitate a workshop on Mentoring.

I ditched the black suit for a more tropic friendly ensemble. Shirt:GAP. Pants:Tahari. Purse: BCBG. The story of this pink belt/band is forth coming.

Day two: "Pastel People"- To participate in workshop on Promoting Cultural Literacy and lunch with a cousin.

While pastel is not a usual choice for 'business setting" I saw that dressing for the heat and also the air conditioning took priority. Dress: J-Crew. Blazer: Old Navy. Bag:BCBG. Pumps: Tahari.

be good. look better. do your best.

Back from the Islands

Howdy blog world. 

Back from the conference on the islands. Stay tuned for highlights and a give away. In full disclosure, I was negligent at times in taking photos and am currently sorting and organizing the ones I have.

be good. do better. look your best.
Tammyanka

Airport Style Guide

3:45 am @ Logan Airport, Boston

I like airplanes. I fly as often as I can (afford to) and would rather fly to work than drive. A part of the fondness is going through airports. In full disclosure, I love being in airports.  Non-stop flights are over rated since you miss the chance to explore new airports.  An airport is the world in transit…..on your next trip stop and enjoy instead of watching the departure time screen…

Here are my pointers for a stylish airport experience!!

1.     Do book the earliest possible flight.  Lines are shorter at 5am, except on weekends. Book mid week if possible (Tues- Thursday) – flights tend to be cheaper.

2.    Do smile, breath and understand that TSA policies, despite how ridiculous they seem, are your safety. (Scratches head to ponder what 3.5 ounces of shampoo can do as opposed to 3)

3.    Do reuse transparent reusable toiletries pouch instead of  a new zip lock bag each time you travel.

4.      Do wear a cross body bag with pockets for ‘stuff’  (you may find nice vintage or modern ones at thrift stores) or carry a large shoulder tote.

5.     Do carry your own coffee/tea cup and tea bags. This saves  money and avoids Styrofoam cups (the flight attendant may find you odd!!!)  Ps. Hot water is usually free in the airport!!!

6.     Do carry a cute scarf that can double as a blanket – avoid the one left on the seat from the Istanbul or Cairo flight!

7.     Do avoid skirts and dress (gasp: I said it!) They are not the best option for running through terminals and picking up luggage.

8.     Do not wear denim and avoid clothing with pockets. This lessens the tendency to store coins.  Leave the bling at home. Coins in pockets & bling equals a search!!

9.     Do not wear shoes and clothing with hardware and extra fasteners i.e studs, buckles, metal gadgets, lace ups and zippers. Remember you are avoiding a cavity search!!

Linen pants and t-shirts (white, cotton), colored scarf with wooden accessories are my staples .…Chic yet practical and comfy. Cavity search avoided!!

be good. do better. look your best!

To the land of my birth....

Dear Blog World,

I'll be away for 8 days, attending a conference and frolicking in Jamaica. Meeting new folks, tackling development problems of my small island and hanging with my high school and college friends!! Can you sense the excitement in my typing? Details of the exciting opportunity in my new blog The Reluctant Immigrant.

I am unsure of my posting schedule , but I will be eyeing island and indigenous styles on your behalf....lot's of treats and even a give away when I return.

be good. do better. look your best.

Architectural Designs (updated)

I wanted to share House of Siim.

I have loved her designs since I was a first year student in undergrad where I knew a model and fellow dorm mate who modeled her pieces.

Siim, is an Architect turn designer..."Siim's clothing combines ethnic and modern geometric forms with inspirations drawn from the rich heritage of the Caribbean, layering lushly textured, lightweight fabrics with clean geometric lines."

I love the structure pieces, the whites are very cliche Caribbean ( I am a sucker). I should seek her out and buy a piece on my next visit home.

In the event you are moved to buy me a early birthday gift. Please go ahead and get the white pant suit featured above. Thank you kindly, you are way too kind.

be good. do better. look your best.

Hairy Jamaica

I am sitting in bed wearing lingerie and pearls  (TMI). I got dressed up for bed because I am still working on a paper and wont leave the house for the day.

 I was fueled to do the post when I read an interview over at BGLH'.(Click here for full interview)

"Jamaica is more accepting of traditionally African features mainly because the dominant culture is of African decent. Though they have a tendency to make note of skin tone with terms such as brownin' etc which is no worse than red bone/yellow bone in the U.S. The U.S. really pushes light skin, and straight hair BUT I am seeing the U.S. incorporate more ethnic beauty in the media. It's so refreshing!!!"

I cant say I agree, but I wanted share some images in any case.

Images directly from the site Afflicted Yard. His warning on piracy would be quite scary..had  I not been Jamaican too. See the link below for more.

The Afflicted Yard