Well, hello there!

I’m back after an extremely productive, yet restful weekend and I must say I feel pretty darn good! I hired a handy man to clean my overly cluttered and disorganized basement. What he did in three hours, would have taken me at least three weeks (therefore, it would have never happened!) Initially, I did a walk through with him and explained essentially what I needed done, and he made a few suggestions I never dreamed of, they and made total sense. Honestly, since then, it’s as if a load has been lifted – a load I was unconsciously carrying..............I’m stepping a lot lighter now............

It’s hot, but I’m not complaining because, I simply adore the summertime. The sunshine, long clear days, trips to the beach, late night strolls, PLUS, my feeling that people’s my attitudes are so much better, makes the summer my absolute favorite season. Also, I get to wear my cute sandals, and pretty sundresses – what else can a girl (woman) ask for?

Ms. Aikasha is wearing another original Ms. Aikasha cream muslin, bias cut/seamed, double layer maxi skirt, black knit MadRag tube top, Beverly Feldman red jeweled kitten heel thongs, and Roberto Mengonil arge red foil leather tote. Accessories include a unique Cleopatra inspired red/gold seed bead necklace, large wooden red rectangular earrings, assorted glass, beaded and acrylic bangles, white porcelain Swiss Legend watch, and black Gucci shades.

Tip: the most simpliest of outfuts can look elegant. It all depands on how you accessorize.............the simplier the outfit, the more sophisticated the accessories.

I sat on the train this morning, my eyes closed, giving thanks to my Creator, and  I got a tap on my knee; “you look like you should be chillin’ in the islands”. It was the train conductor who’s always so complimentary and unknowingly has contributed to my motivation to write this blog. The long flowing skirt, jeweled gladiators, embellished halter top and sunglasses, I could understand just what she meant.

Probably as infrequently as I’ll “don” a pair of trousers, it’s with that same infrequency that I’ll wear a pair of flats. I’m all about heels, preferably high heels. I just feel so poised and feminine in them. So, when I do wear flats, I make sure that I’m not “schlepping down the street” and I’m extremely conscious of my posture: back arched, chest out, shoulders square!

Ms. Aikasha is wearing a Madison Grey long silk, dark blue floral pleated skirt, (unknown brand) black cotton knit embellished halter, Apepazza blue suede jeweled gladiator flat sandals and Juicy Couture mauve leather “Ring Bling” handbag. The outfit is made complete with a Swiss Legend white porcelain watch, large hollow gold tone hoop earrings, and coordinating Lucite, steel, glass and fabric bangles.

Tip: When wearing sandals, please, Please, PLEASE make sure your feet are presentable. If a salon pedicure isn't in your budget, soak your feet at home in hot soapy water and trim nails to be neat and presentable. After soaking, smother your moist  feet with either cocoa butter, petroleum jelly, or A & D ointment and then put on some old socks. Keep you feet covererd for at least an hour (overnight is perfect). When you remove the socks, your feet will look and feel amazing! 

Note: I got home late (again), sun was down, so I had to take the pic inside (again!). I'm trying to NOT make this a habit :)



I, L.O.V.E Bob Marley! I grew up on his music, and today his group, The Wailers, performed at New Jersey Performing Arts Center aka NJ PAC – and it was absolutely amazing!!

Every Thursday night during the Summer, my friend Kitab, produces a series of outdoor concerts at the NJPAC and, whenever it’s feasible, that’s where I spend my evening. Tonight was the first event I attended this Summer and was also able to spend quality time with my younger brother David, jamming to some serious reggae music (he’s returning to England tomorrow) .

All that being said, by the time I got home, it was too dark outside to take my picture, so I had to use my entrance foyer which doesn't have the best lighting, hence my having just one pic to showcase todays outfit.

I work for the CEO/founder/owner of the company, and, fortunately, he’s given me carte blanche to dress as I please – so there’s no one monitoring or policing me – thank goodness!! Strapless, halter, backless, long, short...... all a part of my work wardrobe.

Ms. Aikasha is wearing a My Michelle teal floral, nylon, strapless, ruched, asymmetrical hemmed dress (wow - that was a mouthful!), beige Gucci wooden mules, and a leather Juicy Coutoure mauve “Ring Bling” handbag. Extra long shoulder duster earrings and a mix of hammered brass, wooden, and large lucite beaded bracelets complete the look.

Tip: Ruching is amazing at camoflaging. If opting for a more body con look, but your tummy isn't as flat as you'd idealize, I highly recommend a ruched dress/top. You'll still accomplish the "svelte"  silhouette you envision, while hiding those bulges that you're still working on.

Well howdy folks?!?:

…..and how beautiful was the weather today? It was absolutely perfect!! 73 degrees at 7:00am sounded just wonderful. I had no idea what I was wearing, (I usually have it all planned - or at least a glimmer of a thought), so I had to  figure it out “on the cusp”, and still make it out of the house before 8:00am to catch my train. I have a few outfits in my closet that I’m not absolutely crazy about, but I keep them because the fabric is amazing, or the construction/workmanship is impeccable. This just so happens to be one of those outfits.

The length isn’t particularly flattering, the pleated bottom accentuates my already relatively wide hips, and the neckline is pretty standard - nothing special. However: it’s made from 100% pure silk; the pleats are perfectly sized;  the bias binding is meticulously applied, and I just love, Love, LOVE the colours. So, for those reasons, I continue to wear this two piece ensemble – and still get compliments!

Ms. Aikasha is wearing i.t.w.(by Claude Brown) two piece silk multi-coloured skirt set, Baker’s brown linen peep toe sling back sandals, Juicy Couture “Ring Bling” mauve leather handbag, large gold-tone mesh earrings, large wooden bangles and small solid brass bangles. Roberto Cavalli alligator strap watch and Michael Kors large brown tortoise shell shades complete the outfit.                                                                            

Note: If you wonder why I smile all the time - it's because I have a lot to smile about. I have an incredible relationship with my Creator - He has truly blessed me. My children are amazing, and yes - they do drive me absolutely crazy sometimes - but I wouldn't trade them for the world! My main camerman is my 16 year old son Anakchen. When he's photographing me, he always tells me to smile. I asked him today why? and does he like my smile?? he very shyly answered "yeah". I thought...........Awwwh!!

It’s officially been summer for about three weeks now – no need to wonder about bringing a jacket for the cool evenings – just accept that it’s hot. and will be hot for a “hot minute”!!Along with the predictably warmer temps, summer merchandise is on sale so it’s the perfect time to shop. I got these really hot BCBG Max Azria red suede/nude leather ankle wrap sandals from Neiman Marcus, and I couldn’t wait to wear them. I try to wear my new shoes to church first – but I envisioned this particular outfit with these shoes and Sunday just seemed too far off!!!

I had to go for a massage after work(which was absolutely AMAZING) and didn't get home until almost 8pm - hence the quality of the photos - forgive me!

Ms. Aikasha is wearing Katherine Hamnett red/purple/grey iridescent “snakeskin” print pencil skirt, Georgio Armani black silk cowl neck “fit & flare” top, BCBG Max Azria red suede/nude leather ankle wrap sandals with mirrored silver chunky heel, and Michael Kors large pale pink handbag. To pick up on the mirrored heels, she tied the look together with Banana Republic large silver cuff, Gap black satin bangle, Betsey Johnson silver shoulder dusters, and Manhattan black/silver Australian crystal watch. 

Note: There are certain pieces that just never go out of style. Case in point: this Katherine Hamnett skirt – I bought it in 2003 – that’s almost 10 years ago! Some investment pieces you have to put away and just bring them back out when the fashion cycle repeats itself (and guaranteed – it WILL repeat itself). However – this skirt, I have worn every year since I bought it – Summer through Winter!! Ok, ok, ok – that’s a rarity, I admit – but, I just had to share.

Tip: If your bra straps are gonna show, at least make sure they coordinate with the outfit!!

But really though - how Hot are those shoes??

Hello there people!

The weekend is over and here I am……again! This morning started off a little cooler than it’s been – thank goodness - it was only 72 degrees at 7:00am - yay!! I have these really funky open toe boots that are as totally impractical when it’s 90 degrees as they are in 30 degree weather – I just love to wear them though. So, since “….it was only 84 degrees” today, I pulled them out. Since they’re such a statement maker, I decided to wear a more understated dress:

Ms. Aikasha is wearing a grey Clu ¾ sleeved modal knit dress with cream ruffles, grey open toe Gunmetal knee-hi boots, Maxx NY burgundy leather bag, and custom made long cream crochet scarf (made by my daughter Nyamka - who also designs clothes). Gold tone and cream colored stone necklace, and brass bangles, Manhattan silvertone/black bracelet watch, and cream colored Torino Lamborghini shades top off the outfit.

Tip: Modal is the new cotton. It’s derived from the beech tree, is really lightweight, and used by many luxury design brands. Because it’s so light, it does tends to cling so I highly suggest wearing a slip (half or full) which encourages the fabric to just fall delicately.

h

“hey soul sista’....ain’t that mista, mista……on the radio, on the stereo……the way you move ain’t fair you know”. Chorus to Train’s 2010 hit song. 

“you are my African Queen..the girl of my dreams…you take me where I’ve never been….you make my heart go tin-a-ling-a-ling”. Chorus to 2face Idibia’s 2009 hit song.

These two songs epitomize today’s outfit - don't you think?

We had a female billionaire coming to the office today so I had to look my absolute best. I’d met her before and I was so impressed by her presence, humility, politeness, and beauty - and she dresses her behind off!!

I planned in advance to rock a Ms. Aikasha original, but was totally undecided about what shoes to wear. Black strappy sandals are my absolute favorite – I have about 10 pair – but what ones? Then it struck me! Instead of the obvious black, how about picking up on the background colour of the dress? I have a few pair of shoes this pale/nude/pink color - and even better - a pair with a wedge that also picks up on the neon yellow/green tie-dyed swirls in the fabric. Perfect!! So, Ms Aikasha is wearing an original Ms. Aikasha 100% cotton batik African print sundress with large pockets, Michael Kors pale/nude/pink large handbag, Reed Krakoff pale/nude/pink "Architect" sandals with neon yellow wedge and brass trim, Patrizia Pepe black aviator shades, Swiss Legend porcelain watch, brushed copper shoulder duster earrings, and coordinating acrylic and platic bangles.

Tip: the bigger the bag, the more we carry. However, this can affect your posture, amongst other things. Try to limit what you carry to the basic essentials and also, switch things up a bit. don't always carry with the same arm or shoulder, etc., etc.,



“96 degrees……..in the shade………real hot……….oh-h yeah……..in the shade”.

The above are lyrics from a really “hot” reggae song of the 80’s by Jamaican group “Third World”. As I walked to the train this morning at 6:45am, the song chimed in my head, and though it was only 78 degrees at the time, I knew today was going to be another hot one!  I have a plethora of sundresses – and if my prior posts are any indication – dresses are my absolute favorite. I’m so, so glad I’m a girlJ.

Miss Alosha, my 19 year old daughter was hanging out with me last night and helped me decide on today’s accessories for the dress. Since the dress is a bit “fussy” (as my mum would say), I had to be careful of overdoing it. Miss Alosha is an all American jeans and t-shirt kinda gal, so she likes to keep it simple and helps her mum tone things down just a bit.

Today, Ms. Aikasha is wearing: Sue Wong floral silk chiffon sundress with black satin piping, Coach black patent leather gladiator sandals, Cole Haan large wicker bag with green leather trim, Patrizia Pepe black aviator sunglasses, Swiss Legend white porcelain watch, black onyx pear drop earrings, selection of green/white/black/clear Lucite  and plastic bangles, silver/rose quartz bangles.

 Tip: When your dress/ensemble has "a lot going on", let it speak for it-self. It's not necessary to add a ton of jewellry because it can make a unique piece look trashy. Be subtle and tasteful and you can make that statment piece really make a statement.
This dress is self lined. Some sheer dresses aren't lined and in that case, I'd recommend wearing a slip (yup - sounds ancient, but is extremely tasteful and can still find one in the lingerie department of most major department stores).
Whether you opt for a full or half slip, it's so much better than showcasing your panties, or worse - and I've seen this too often - your bare behind!

TIP: I highly recommend investing in a full length mirror. nothing like a full "head-to-toe" view of yourself before you walk out the door

Another hot day in the tri-state area – the forecast today was 96 degrees – and yes – it was HOT! I left the house 5 minutes earlier than normal, just so I could take my time walking to the train station - and I still worked up a sweat!

I’m a lover of dresses, and skirts, long and short - they are the main staples of my wardrobe. However, every now and then, I’ll put on some trousers. Today was that day. I wore this ensemble last summer and got a lot of compliments so I figured, why not?!?

About three weeks ago, I did the whole summer/winter wardrobe switch and while doing it, I came across a few pieces I’d completely forgotten about (you know what I mean?). If you’re anything like me, you get really excited about wearing a particular item/outfit again – so, I reiterate, today was that day.

Ms. Aikasha is wearing Volume One floral turtleneck, backless top, Victoria's Secret "Moda International" cream cotton trousers (I shortented them to this length)  Cole Haan large wicker handbag with green leather trim, beige Gucci wooden slides, Cynthia Rowley orange shades, and an assorment of coordinating acrylic bangles

Tip: underpinnings (bras, panties, thongs, slimmers - essentially anything worn under clothing) are as essential to our wardrobe as the actual outfit, designer or not. Wearing the correct underpinning can make, or completely "break" the look of your ensemble. When wearing close fitting pants, I recommend a thong, thus foregoing the infamous pantyline. If you find that thongs aren't comfortable, then go for the hemless sort of panties/boy shorts, that lay flat and smooth against your body and are almost undetectable under clothing.

July 2^nd, 2012

I had a really hard time getting up this morning – I was exhausted!! My weekend was a bit busier than usual. My housekeeper comes every other Saturday so since this was her Saturday off, I had to get to work! Then it was off to the salon; the variety store; graduation party;………then Sunday was 8am church service; breakfast with one of my daughters, and church companion Ade; cook dinner; watch “My Week with Marilyn” – an informative peek into Marilyn Monroe’s life – and topped the evening off by watching the “BET Awards” on DVR with the fam, which btw, was Amazing! All this interspersed with the occasional friend stopping by to say "hi" and random phone calls - I finally made it to bed by 1:30am – completely, totally, and utterly worn out!

All that being said – when the alarm sounded at 7am - I hit the snooze button.........twice!  

While laying in bed and counting each minute that passed, I decided I needed to wear something bright and colorful to help keep me awake and aware. I looked in my closet, looked at the time, and looked in my closet again. I just wasn’t seeing anything that was giving me the energy boost I needed, and it was only getting later.

I went into my sewing room and turned on the iron and came back my closet. still nothing! I jumped in the shower, brushed my teeth and after lotioning my body, went back to the closet to start “filing” through my dresses and, voila! there it was – a Ms. Aikasha original – perfect for the purpose. This multi-colored cotton/rayon blend dress has an elastic smocked top and empire waist cut - making it nice and airey - the wind just blows.............red jewelled mules are Beverly Feldman, the large black/gold suede bag is by Gucci. Large red wooden rectangular earrings and an assortment of red glass, multi-colored glass and black satiin bangles complete the look.

Tip: when your outfit is predominently multi-colored, I suggest you find one color to "ground" it. The black collar/front panel of this dress was my color or choice, hence the large black satin bangle and black suede bag. Black sandals would have been perfect, but I just L.O.V.E these little red jewelled thongs.........