Jessica Simpson Floral Printed Dress

Hey ladies! How y'all feeling? Today I want to talk about something that I'm pretty sure we've all experienced... Buyer's Remorse... Remember that time you just had to get that outfit even though the price wasn't too hot... Well that happened to me not too long ago... Luckily with a little bit of patience I was able to turn this shopping tragedy into a shopping treasure...





I first saw this dress Fall 2015 while shopping in Dillard's. I can't remember the exact month (September or October), but I remember I was looking for a dress to wear to my friend's wedding in October. When I saw this dress, I knew it would be the perfect dress for the occasion. The only thing I did not like was the price tag. At this time the dress was listed at regular price around $99. Feeling that I would not find something to wear before I left for the wedding, I made the rash decision and bought the dress. After my purchase I felt really good... I could check this off of my list of things to do in preparation for my trip... but then something happened... Buyer's Remorse. Now I know to most $99 may not seem a lot, but for a graduate student whose loans continue to stack up year by year this was a very large coin to lose... Every time I would see this dress hanging in my closet all I could think about was the amount of groceries I could've gotten with that much money or how many times I could have filled up my gas tank... I just couldn't get over spending that much money on a dress I would probably wear once... and maybe a few times to church once the spring time hits. So my conscious got the best of me and I returned the dress maybe a week after it's purchase. Surprisingly, I ended up wearing something out of my closet to wedding. The older I get the more I realize that you don't have to buy a new item for every event. Now that probably was the first time in many years that I didn't buy something new for an event, but lets just say I'm still a work in progress.

Now being an avid window shopper, I probably visit Dillard's maybe once a month. I rarely buy something on these trips... Shopping just happens to be something I enjoy to past time. In the months to follow I continued to see this dress on display. The wedding had passed, but I was still in love with the dress. The price tag on the other hand, had yet to budge. Fast forward 5 months and I'm in Dillard's doing some window shopping and guess what I see... a sign that reads "Clearance 65% off." Usually I avoid this section... By the time clothes hit clearance in Dillard's it's usually something that I don't want or something that is not in my size... Nevertheless, I decided to check the rack out. To my surprise I see the dress hanging with a price tag that reads $34... and guess what??? It was just my size!! Yep thats right... 65% off the original price... I'm pretty sure you guys know I did not hesitate to make this purchase.

This floral printed dress from Jessica Simpson features a beaded neckline and side slit. It is the perfect combination of feminine and ultra chic. Though there's no weddings coming up any time soon and nearly half a year has passed, I do think this purchase was right on time as the weather heats up. To finish off the look I paired it with some Vince Camuto criss cross strap platform sandals that I also purchased during the Dillard's Clearance Sale. These were a whopping $24!!!!! Macy's is still selling this exact same shoe for $90... Talk about a STEAL!!! If you're trying to get my look for the same price I suggest visiting your local Dillard's or Macy's... I've searched everywhere but unfortunately the dress seems to be sold out everywhere online...

In an effort to avoid experiencing buyer's remorse I want to leave you with a few little tips.... Count to three. 1.... 2.... 3.... Let's stop buying things because we want it... First let's think if we really need it... In the event that you absolutely need to purchase an outfit for a special occasion, lets try not waiting to the last minute to buy it... In the situation above I made a rash decision in purchasing the dress because I felt like I would not have enough time to find another dress.... All it took was a little delayed gratification… Hope you guys enjoyed reading the blog today… See you next time!!

Flirts in Skirts | Valentine's Day LookBook

Hey ya'll! I know it's been a long time since I've blogged, but I have been swamped in school.  I still find it amazing that I had the time to do a shoot with a presentation and preliminary exam coming up soon.  Nevertheless, I'm back and blogging… And what better way to bring it back than during a girl's favorite holiday… Valentine's Day!!!

Valentine's Day has always been a great holiday for me because I'm obsessed with chocolate!! Yeah thats right… Forget all the flowers and dates and just give me the chocolate…  and after I've sat at home and eaten all of the chocolate I can for one day, I like to head out with friends or with that special someone and dress things up.  Those of you that know me or have read past blogs know that my wardrobe mainly consists of comfy chic items.  I'm always on the go with school and usually only buy items that I can wear all day and feel comfortable.  But on Valentine's Day I like to change things and go major girly… And what is more girly than a pink skirt?!?!  Below you will find three different outfits I've put together for Valentine's Day with each outfit featuring a pink skirt. If you like any of the items, keep reading and I will tell you where I purchased each item so that you can get your very own.

I recently discovered  Charlotte Russe carried plus size clothing.  I remember in college all of my friends loved Charlotte Russe and when they walked into the store, I went straight to the jewelry or shoe section.  I literally could not fit anything in that store.  This really upset me because my friends would always be able to find something really cute and at affordable prices.  Now, 4 years later, I get to as well.  The skirts in the first two looks and the bodysuit in the last look came from Charlotte Russe.  If I remember correctly, I got a really good deal on all items during an online sale.  I think I paid like $6 each for the tulle skirt and bandage skirt and $10 for gray bodysuit.  Yep, thats right… All three items were purchased for under $25!!! Now that's a steal!!!! I suggest frequently visiting the site before purchasing because there seems to be a different deal going on every other day.

First Look:  Breakfast at Tiffany's

So my first look is my spin on Breakfast at Tiffany's… More like brunch with my girls.  When I was single, my single friends and I would get together on Valentine's Day for brunch at our favorite restaurant… We not only did this on V-Day but basically every chance we got… lol… what can I say? We really like brunch.  Brunch is sort of our time to get together and catch up with what's going on in our lives.  Every now and again, we like to dress things up and look real fancy.

 The top in this first look was actually purchased maybe 2 years ago at Target.  I found it in the clearance section for under $10.  I had so many plans for this bodysuit but could never find the right bottoms to pair it with… Fast forward two years later and I finally found the right bottoms lol.  My shoes were purchased in college from Dillard's… The brand is Gianni Bini.  Though this is possibly my second time wearing the shoes, they are so comfortable.  I doubt this style is still available seeing as though I purchased them in 2012… but you can never go wrong with a nice heel sandal.

Skirt Found Here; Similar Top Found Here; Similar Shoe Found Here

Being busy with school is definitely one of the reasons I haven't posted a blog in a while… but the second reason is because all my friends are busy too and I have nobody to take pictures of me… So I really appreciate my friend Shari helping me out with this one… I even told her to dress up so she can take a couple of pics too… I didn't tell her much about my looks just that I would be shooting a post for Valentine's Day-- and what do you know? She shows up in a tulle skirt as well… So there you have it ladies… 

Tulle Skirt = Valentine's Day lol…

Second Look: Date Night

So Bae has already told you he's got Valentine's Day covered.. and if your dreams have come true, he's made reservations at that fancy little restaurant you've been wanting to try.  He finally got it right, ladies.  So you look into your closet to find something that shows off your figure just right.  This bandage skirt from Charlotte Russe does just that--hugs my curves in just the right place!  I paired it with a top that I've had for so long I can't even remember where I got it… Oh wait… JcPenny… Yep! I absolutely love this top because I can pair it with jeans for a quick cute look.  The shoes, like at least 90% of the shoes in my closet, were purchased in college.  Let's just say during college my line sisters and I totally visited Dillard's and DSW once a week.  I hardly even buy shoes these days unless it's flats for work or church… These shoes were purchased from DSW and the brand is Chinese Laundry.  While they're not the most comfortable, they probably are one of my most worn heels.  I just slip a gel insole in them before I go out and before you know it, I'm dancing the night away and my feet aren't even hurting.

Skirt Found Here; Similar Top Here and Here; Similar Shoes Here

Third Look: V-Day to the Max(i)

Now this third look is by far my favorite look because it fits in with my comfy chic style… And I get to wear flats….  Now I'm kinda short so you really can't see the flats I had on with this outfit, but they were a really cute pair of sparkly Steve Madden Conncord Flats like the ones being sold here.  The maxi skirt was purchased last year from Target.  I absolutely love Target clothes… in fact… I may do a haul from them soon.  The gray top is actually a bodysuit from Charlotte Russe.  Though it's not pictured here, the top has a cute little key hole on the back.  This look is truly universal.  No matter what plans you have on Valentine's Day you can wear this outfit.  

Similar Skirt Here; BodySuit Found Here

Well, folks there you have it… My Valentine's Day LookBook!  I hope you enjoyed it…. Have suggestions for future looks and blog post? Let me know… See ya soon! 

Sitting on Top of the World

During the summer we are always on the go... Heading to this BBQ, that festival, this picnic, that party... I think you pretty much get it... Summer is all about fun and food, but let's not forget about fashion!  

I've always lived outside the city in the suburbs.  While living in Mississippi this wasn't a problem... A 15 mile drive only took you 15 minutes... Moving to Atlanta, however, changed my life... Traffic, traffic, traffic... This small town girl just could not get used to a 15 mile drive turning into an hour long road trip.  For the first 6 months I was literally late to everything...  I even arrived to my own pinning ceremony an hour late because I was stuck in traffic...

Fast forward... I've been living here for two years and I think I've finally gotten a hang of traffic... I know when and when not to leave my house lol... But most of all I've learned how to pack for a day.. Yes really... Everyday before I leave my house I pack a bag for the day...  It usually includes some workout clothes, pjs and an outfit for the next day... You just never know...  Especially after Snow Apocalypse '14 -- Yes I survived after being stranded... 

Just a little background...  

I live 33 miles north of Downtown Atlanta (according to Siri it would take me 51 minutes to get to downtown); my school is 23 miles from where I live (it takes 48 minutes to get to my school); however, my school is only 13 miles/25 minutes away from downtown... 

I spend most of my day at school... After classes there's always that one friend that wants to go somewhere downtown... But wait... I can't just rush home and change my outfit...  That's when I finally got the hang of Day to Night looks.. I always went places in my "school clothes" because I just refused to drive all the way back home and then head back downtown... In case you guys haven't checked... Gas is a little too high... and AINT NOBODY GOT TIME FOR THAT!! 

Since I've moved to Atlanta and now that I'm in professional school my wardrobe has totally changed... I find myself only buying clothes that are functional to my lifestyle... Can I wear it to school?  How can I transform it in case a friend wants to go out to dinner or to a party after class?  The easiest transformation pieces for me are skirts and dresses...  I always find myself taking a dress and pulling a skirt over it... Check out this Day to Night look I pulled off...  

This first look is perfect for brunch with friends or a BBQ with coworkers 

Have a date planned after that BBQ?  Slip off the skirt to show a more fitted dress perfect for any date! 

Dress from Target, Shoes from ASOS 

Skirt from Ross

Pictures were taken on the Jackson Street Bridge, Atlanta, Ga 

Stepping Out

Tis the season for Crop Tops + Florals…. So I've heard…

Summer Fashion is all about being bold and stepping out in tiny shorts, floral prints, tank/halter/crop tops, and short dresses.  Now I'm a fan of summer fashion,  but I've always played it safe with more "covered" approaches of summer fashion -- maxi dresses, long flowy skirts and kimonos.  Let's just say I've always been a little self conscious about certain things on my body -- especially my arms (I still don't think I'm ready to rock a tank).  Just recently a friend and I had a conversation about stepping out of our comfort zone.  As creatures of habit its so easy to get stuck into not doing something just because we've never tried it.  It reminded me of a blog post I read a while ago from For Colored Gurls.  If you've been following me since the beginning you know that my sole purpose for creating this blog was to be an inspiration to others.  The other day while watching +Chante' Burkett and +Kelly Augustine +Size Tag Video, Chante answered that her biggest pet peeve in the plus size community was women who claimed to be confident and an inspiration to other plus size women while opting to cover their bellies with oversized purses in every shoot.  After reflecting on what she said, I totally had to agree.  How can I be an inspiration to you guys and tell you to love your body when I choose to hide certain things about my body…. So guys… I stepped out!

I found this gorgeous floral two piece crop top set from Stacked Apparel

Shoes: Urban Outfitters Purse: Michael Kors 

Everything you ever wanted is one step out of your comfort zone. 

Looking to find a matching crop set of your own? Check out +Alissa Wilson and her blog +Stylish Curves where she tells you were to get the latest Two Piece Crop Top Set 

I'm So Fancy

Two weeks ago while browsing Facebook, I came across a Lip Sync Battle between Jimmy Fallon and Emma Stone.  Jimmy's first song was Fancy by Iggy Azalea.  The beat drops, "First things first I'm the realest," and I was in love.  This was my first time hearing an Iggy Azalea song so I rushed to youtube to see the whole video.  Definitely click here if you haven't seen the video.  The music video is spin off of the classic 90s movie Clueless… What I loved most about this music video was the Alicia Silverstone- esque black and gold pleated skirt with matching blazer.  There's something just so FANCY about that color combination… So I decided to recreate a fancy look with black and gold items from my closet.  Check it out below… 

I believe this is my second time wearing this black pleated skirt that I got from Gap over two years ago. Once I put it on I fell in love with it all over again.  Unfortunately, I have no clue where the top came from.  It was "thrifted" from an Instagram vintage boutique.  Probably bought during a random I'm tired of school so lets shop fits (I usually have these fits after a test)… If I find out the name of the IG account I will update this blog ASAP.  My shoes are from Ross.  Every time I wear them I have a classmate telling me I look like royalty.  Ross is my go to store to find basic items such as workout clothes and shoes.  I may do a recent haul post on some cute workout pants I purchased from there.  If you would like to see a post about them just let me know in the comments.  

If you're ever in the Atlanta area I highly suggest renting bikes and riding the BeltLine.  These picture were taking on it's trail.  It amazing how this colors of the street art perfectly matched my outfit.  I'll just call it divine intervention.  

The Suit(e) Life

Move over guys!  Women have decided to take over... again! This time we decided to raid your closets and add a modern, chic flare to your boring pant suits.  We've added pops of color, prints, and tailored them to suit our frames.  

Get the same Blurred Spot Pant Suit I'm wearing here and here!

Let's face it... Nobody can rock a pant suit like Solange. But it's ok to try...right?

Photo from Lioness Blogs

Curvy. Courageous. Curly. Couture. Cutie of the Month: Annisa LiMara

Last September I received a text from one of my line sisters.  I expected the usual, "Hey, just checking in... How have you been?" text that I receive once a week from at least one of my line sisters... But this one was different.  It was a text that asked me if I watched youtube videos and if so, what did I like about them? Of course I started listing: hair and makeup tutorials, vlogs, etc.  She then replied, well I'm starting a YouTube channel soon and would like to know if I have your support.  "OF COURSE!" I replied.

Fast forward to today, Annisa's youtube channel, AnnisaLiMara, is reaching almost 5000 subscribers with a little over 25 videos!  Check out her most watched video below reaching over 20000 views!!!!  

Not only have I had the opportunity to have this young lady as a sister, but I have also had the opportunity to work under her in the launching of her first Swim/Resort Wear Line. She is not only a sweet and wonderful person, but she is also very passionate about everything she touches.  Everything she touches turns to gold... just like her golden hair!  If you haven't already definitely subscribe to her YouTube channel , like her Facebook Page and follow her on Instagram. I imagine great things coming from this girl in the future!  

Want more information about Annisa's hair, future plans, and what inspires her?  Keep scrolling to read what she had to say during our interview.  

Annisa LiMara

1.    How long have you been natural?  Who/What pushed you to give up the creamy crack?

I have been natural since 2005 and gave up “creamy crack” because of major hair breakage and thinning from too many relaxers and permanent hair color from my senior year in high school. Looking back I had no idea it was “going natural”, I just considered myself going cold turkey because my hair had gone from being thick and medium/long length to thin and unhealthy. Almost a decade later, I’ve now transitioned AND big chopped so going back to my natural hair texture was a long process but well worth it.

2.    How do you keep your hair looking so fabulous? What’s your regimen?

Deep condition and moisturize! I wash and deep condition my hair every week (or every other week) and by deep conditioning for the past 6 months intensively, I’ve been able to retain moisture which really helps the upkeep of any hairstyle. I now can go two or three days without doing much to my hair and other days I just add water or leave conditioner and use my Peppermint Hair Butter for extra moisture.  My hair is also a mixture between curly and kinky so I can play up each part which makes styling my hair fun and versatile.

3.    What inspired you to start a YouTube channel?  What would you say to somebody who wants to start a channel of her own?

I initially began my channel because I wanted to share my experiences and thought it would be really a fun and challenging project. Watching Taren Guy, Andrea’s Choice and a ton of other channels really inspired me to be fearless in going after my goals. I also have a really big following on Instagram so I wanted to answer all of their questions through my channel and to connect with other natural hair and fashion lovers.

4.    What was the hardest part of starting your channel and how did you overcome that?

The hardest part was the technical issues such as editing, uploading, etc….not as easy as one may think. I’m a perfectionist so I used a plethora of resources for advice (other YouTube channels, videographers, friends) and did hours of research until I understood the process. Even though it is still challenging, I’m learning so much and have come up with a formula to create quality videos for my subscribers for which there is still room to grow.

5.    What are some of your favorite CURLY girl products?

This is a hard question because there are so many! I absolutely love Carol’s Daughter especially their Hair Milk and Tui Leave in Conditioner. I also love the Yes To line, specifically Yes To Carrots, Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel (a must!), and Wen Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner! Of course, I also love my Peppermint Hair Butter which is a mixture of all my favorite hair butters and oils, especially peppermint oil which stimulates the scalp and promotes growth.

6.    Did you ever expect to see yourself featured on hair blogs all over the world?   How does the natural hair fame make you feel?

Absolutely not! I never expected any of the recognition I’m getting and it feels so surreal because it is hair! Of course hair is important to us as women but I didn’t realize it could generate this much “natural hair fame”, however, I don’t consider myself famous at all but count myself as blessed and extremely humbled that I’m able to reach so many people and be a leader in this movement.

7.    What can you say that will inspire others to follow their dreams?

Designer Tracy Reese once said that designs can be inspired by “a piece of music, a painting, a book, a vacation spot or a particular city”….every persons’ dream is developed from inspiration and discovering what you love can ignite hope and conquer fear. As I get older, I am finding that the common factor that hinders anyone from achieving their goals is fear. Fear of rejection, fear of failure, fear of succeeding and the responsibility that comes with success…fear of self. I am now striving to step out of all of my fears and becoming brave. My prayer is that everyone can see past their own fear into the bravery and courage that God has given us through Him. I am still learning and growing, therefore, I say this prayer every day to gain the faith to be brave and let that light shine to encourage others.

8.    So now that you have shared your hair with the world, when will you share your fashion?

I’ve actually already launched my first Swim/Resort wear collection March 2012 which introduced everyone to the A’LiMara (a-lai-mar-rah) brand. I took a hiatus after that to complete my Masters and to also refocus on what I want to accomplish with my brand. Therefore, I decided to do an exclusive collection of ‘Natural’ wear this year at my Natural Hair Forum & Fashion show titled Curls, Kinks & Fashion which included crop tops, fitted v-necks and high-low dresses. My goal now is to incorporate more of my style and fashion knowledge into my brand and hopefully produce another Swim/Resort wear collection in the near future.

9.    How can people follow you? Facebook? IG? YouTube? Purchase your homemade hair butter?

You can follow me on IG, Twitter & Tumblr as well as like my Facebook page at ilovealimara. My hair butter plus my exclusive collection of ‘Natural’ wear t shirts and dresses at www.ilovealimara.net

10. So what’s the next step for A’LiMara?

Growing and improving my YouTube channel, launching my next swim/resort wear collection (hopefully next summer), fulfilling my new position as fashion editor for Natural Hair Mag, and just expanding the A’LiMara brand…there are no limits!

Comfy Chic... Again

Spring Break 2014 was a success!!! It definitely was great to take a break from pharmacy school and let my hair down for Mardi Gras in New Orleans, La.  If you've ever been to Mardi Gras you can understand that by the end of the week you are extremely exhausted!  

On our last day my friend and I decided to have a chill day... We went to Emeril's Restaurant for lunch and rode the trolley to the French Market afterwards.  On this particular day I opted for a more comfy look--a sweater I'd just purchased from +H&M , a t-shirt from Torrid and comfy jeans from +Forever 21 .  On our way to the flea market we passed a lot buildings with very rustic facades.  Of course I just couldn't pass by without snapping a few pictures.  I posted a few pictures on IG and received a lot of feedback about my outfit.  Everybody loved it and wanted to know where I purchased the pieces.  Skorch Magazine even reposted my pic stating that they loved the style.  So... Guess What? Now you too can have my outfit.  I've included the links to where I purchased each item below.  If you decide to purchase anything tag your pictures rocking your new fit on IG @lalatmr89 !!! :) 

Purse Jeans Shirt Sweater Shoes 

Breaking All The Rules!!!! Mixing Prints

Last Year +Alissa Wilson posted a blog entitled Breaking All The Rules. In the blog she urged curvy girls to break down the fashion barriers and wear clothes that we've been told our whole lives didn't look right on our shape--horizontal stripes, crop tops, tutu’s, bikini’s, mini skirts, and even skinny jeans.  Now, I've never been the type to feel insecure about what I wore, but as I read the post I began to realize that subconsciously I also believed that those items just didn't suite my curvy frame.

The other day while searching Facebook, I came across a picture of From The Rez to the City.  Her outfit was literally drop dead gorgeous!!! It took me back to the days when I believed that curvy women couldn't wear patterns--let alone mix multiple patterns.  Unfortunately, the first thing I said was, "I wish I could pull that look off."  At that moment I instantly recalled Stylish Curves blog.  Why did I believe I couldn't pull it off? I rushed to my nearest +Lane Bryant  to find the items she had in her picture.  At first I just wanted to try the outfit on...It was only supposed to stay in the dressing room, but to my surprise the outfit was EVERYTHING! It looked amazing on me as well.  It was at that moment that I realized Curvy Girls can wear anything... even mixed prints.

Top and Bottom: +Lane Bryant 

Top: Lane Bryant Skirt: +Old Navy Shoes: +Steve Madden 

Curvy. Courageous. Curly. Couture. Cutie of the Month: Danielle Wells

I was so excited about starting my new blog.  I had finally gained enough COURAGE to do something that has always been a thought in the back of my mind.  I sat at the computer for hours writing down all the topics I wanted to talk about.   After completing my list, I scanned through it again—at first very eager to start.  But then I noticed that everything I had written down was stuff I wanted to see…. What about my viewers? 

I suddenly had a flashback… I saw myself looking at blogs from GabiFresh, OnTheQTrain, Stylish Curves , Everything Curvy and Chic and GarnerStyle.   I’d remember looking at their blogs thinking, “Man I wish I could do that.”  It took a year to realize that I actually could…and now, I am.  Those young ladies inspired me to let go of my insecurities and do what I wanted.  Who cares what everybody else thinks? Then it dawned on me—I want to inspire others like they inspired me. 

After thinking of how I could inspire others, I finally figured it out!  I’ll feature a Curvy.Courageous.Curly.Couture.Cutie of the Month.  This person will be somebody who inspired me to become courageous and embrace who I am.  My hope is that by featuring this person, I will not only show my viewers who inspired me, but also offer inspiration to the next girl who is viewing my blog and wishes that they could be as COURAGEOUS as me. 

So… My first Curvy. Courageous.Curly.Couture. Cutie of the Month ….

Danielle Wells 

New Year! New Me!  Right? I’m sure you have already set your New Year’s Resolution for 2014.  What was it—to lose weight, get fit, stop eating at McDonalds? Most resolutions for the New Year are all about Fit and Fitness.  Well let me introduce you to Danielle Wells.  I’ve followed Danielle on her fitness journey it seems like forever.  She has been such an inspiration to me and my weight loss journey.  I asked her a few questions about her journey and have included her answers along with transformation pics down below.  I hope that her journey inspires you just as much as it did me. 

How long have you been on your fitness journey?

Honestly, I feel like I’ve been on this fitness journey all my life, but not until December 2010 did I become as dedicated as I am now. Many people ask me this question, but being “the big girl” all through junior high school and high school, I’ve always felt that I’ve tried to lose weight since I could remember, just to fit in.

What was the hardest part of your journey to overcome? How did you do it?

The hardest part of my journey to overcome would have to be realizing that the weight would not go away over night and that I had to learn to make healthy choices when my friends decided to have a night out of the town. I’ve always had this image of myself being “small”, and in my mental mind this is what I held onto every time I felt like giving up. As far as enjoying nights out with friends, I would fuel up on water and fruit before heading out. That way I couldn’t possibly overeat and if I did eat just because of the atmosphere, I was completely content with a small house salad no bacon or cheese.

What has been your motivation to continue your journey?

Once I became a Zumba® Fitness Instructor, I saw that people started to look up to me. My students constantly told me of the inspiration that I gave them. At that moment, I knew I was starting to touch people and how it affected their personal lives, I couldn’t stop. To know that I could change someone’s life, was all the motivation I need to continue.

You’ve dropped how many dresses sizes? Do you still consider yourself a CURVY girl?

 Overall, I’ve gone from a 28 to a 12/14. I am currently almost fitting a 10. ;-) Of course I still consider myself a curvy girl. I have hips and thighs and my tummy is not perfectly flat. My body is just now at a state where I can love my curves because I can see them and they are not hidden by layers of fat.

As soon as I start a diet it seems as if my friends want to go out for dinner and drinks.  How do you balance a healthy lifestyle and hang out with friends?

I know this part is hard for a lot of people. This is where I encourage people to have their cheat day. Now hopefully, you aren’t having 3-4 cheat days a week because then you are not accomplishing anything. If I happen to go out and it’s not a cheat day, then I fuel up at home so when we make it to a restaurant or wherever we may go, I will only order salad or soup. Yes, my friends make fun of me when I do this but I know the goals that I have set for myself. Another good option is to never look at a menu. Have in mind what you know you can eat for example; fish, brown rice, veggies, salad etc and tell the waiter/waitress what you would like. At that point, have them only bring half of the entrée and go ahead and box up the other half so that you can take it home. Have them bring the other half when they bring the check and you are getting ready to depart from your venue.

What made you become a Zumba instructor?

Zumba® Fitness is exercise in disguise! It is truly a party and like no workout that I have ever experienced before.  After I saw my body starting to change with Zumba® Fitness, I knew at that moment this is something I wanted to share with everyone. I really wanted people to fall in love with exercise and Zumba® was definitely the way to go!

What are you favorite CURLY girl products to use for your hair?

Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La Defining Curl Custard, is my go to ;-) Cantu Leave in Conditioner is my second favorite. I also have a friend that makes her own natural hair care product called Naturally Whipped. That’s the product Facebook name as well, Naturally Whipped :) 

What is your go to style during workouts? How do you balance natural hair with working out? 

Usually during my Zumba® Fitness classes, I wear my hair down and curly. The type of curls that I have, I can wash and go and let them air dry. I teach Zumba ® Fitness classes anywhere from 4-5 times a week, so it’s pointless to adapt to a style. Wash and go seems to work for me!

When you first started your fitness journey, what was your favorite meal/snack?  What is it now?

Frozen grapes are my favorite snack to eat, because they taste like candy! My favorite meal would have to be Tilapia and Sweet Corn, I still find myself eating this now. It’s quick, easy, and yummy! I think now, I love cajun grilled chicken with stir fry vegetable and brown rice.

What must we cut out if we want to start living a healthy lifestyle?

This is such tricky question! I am not a nutritionist, therefore I can’t tell anyone exactly what to cut from their diet other than the obvious things like fried foods, french fries, heavy sauces and dressings, heavy seasonings, sodas, excessive sweets like candy bars, fruit snacks etc. If you want to start living a healthy lifestyle, you have to adapt a healthy way of eating. Cleaning up your diet is just hands down, the best way to go. Incorporating more wholesome produce is just the logical way to go. My best advice is to just love fresh, wholesome foods. Simply enjoy time in the kitchen experimenting with new food ideas. 

Did you ever expect your weight loss to be inspiration to others? If you could speak to everybody who’s thinking about starting a fitness journey, what would you say?

When I started on my weight loss journey, I had no idea as many people where watching me as they were. As I started to see my results, more people began to ask me what I was doing. At this point, I figured it was all just a part of the reaction of people seeing me gradually losing weight. It was not until I started teaching Zumba® Fitness, did I see that I was inspiring others to live a healthy lifestyle. As humbled as I have remained, I can never put into words how it makes me feel to know that I have changed so many lives. What I would say to anyone that is thinking about starting a fitness journey is simply to just do it. Find your “why” and dig deep to transform yourself. Realize that there will be obstacles and that peer pressure is hard when you are trying to eat right. There are many things in life that we will never be able to control, but the one thing we can control is the food that we put in our mouths. Weight loss starts in the kitchen, and no matter how much you stay in the gym, if your nutrition is lacking then you will not accomplish what you initially went out for. You have to be mentally prepared for weight loss; your brain has to be in order. Set small goals initially and reward yourself as you accomplish them. Of course do not reward yourself with food, but rather with a pedicure, manicure, new makeup or a smaller size tee shirt or bottoms. We are given only one opportunity to live in this flesh, why not take care of it?

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