Ibena Love

Ibena Laser-Cut pump - Eleanor Anukam Footwear (shown in size 12)/Coat - Next Tall/Dress and Ring - Forever 21/Oversized Metallic Clutch - Target/Hair - Perfect Locks

Photo Credit: Meg Russell Photography

When you come across a new shoe line that is just for us...you must scream it from the rooftops! Well...

ELEANOR ANUKAM FOOTWEAR IS HERE!!!

Girl...let me tell you. The new shoe line from Eleanor Anukam comes in sizes 9-13 and is hot on another level. Not only does the line have these beautiful laser-cut pumps, they also have an array of fashion forward styles in both heels and flats and are constructed in the highest of fashion. I could go on for days about the craftsmanship however this video shows you better than I could ever explain it...

Wasn't that just breathtaking? Side note: These green babies are next on my list followed by the same pair in all black.

My first pair are the Ibena Laser-Cut pumps in nude (also comes in black). They are showstoppers. You really don't have to wear much with them because they are the outfit. From the detail to the perfect neutral color to the fit, these pumps pack a tall style punch. 

Upon first wear there was a little discomfort (that new-shoe moment) but it quickly went away and I fiercely walked all over the place in them. As you can see, when I wear them, I rock simple pieces with clean lines because the shoes really do speak for themselves. I am in serious love with the Ibena and the entire Eleanor Anukam Footwear line. They are crazy good, in our size and made impeccably well...what's not to like? Side Note: The box they come in is sturdy, pretty and enclosed is a durable shoe bag. You have to appreciate a shoe line that pays attention to all of the details!

So that is the skinny on an exciting new footwear line that is awesome enough to make shoes in sizes 9-13. I hope you like them as much as I do! So...what do you think?

Poncho Power

Let's just sit for a moment and laugh at the title of this post. Yes. I am a corny Tall girl and I love every minute of it. Poncho Power...hehehe:)

On to the real reason why we are here...this fabulous poncho! It's from Long Tall Sally and haute isn't even the word. The best part about it, is that you look completely polished but feel like you are wrapped up in a blanket all day. the true definition of comfy chic. We all know I love me some comfy chic.

I paired the poncho with my favorite boots of the season from SMASH Shoes. The Lexy actually go above the knee (gasp), are really comfortable and they look great dressed up and down. I then added a punch of color with a simple maroon skirt I picked up at Forever 21 (which is really supposed to be a midi but you know how that goes) and my favorite hat (yes, you have seen it many times. I am a firm believer in repeating).

Wow! I just realized that this is my first post of 2016. This year is going to be amazing! Not because of resolutions but because I believe and know that at all times God has great things planned for me and He does for you too. You can do all things and it doesn't take a new year to believe and begin!

Something Old, Something New

Tall Joggers - LEL/Sequin Top - Nordstrom/Shoes (size 12) - Payless/Blazer and Bracelet - Forever21/Earrings - H&M

Photo Credit: LaKeela Smith Photography

If your holiday season was anything like mine, you didn't have time to look for a New Years outfit, let alone buy one. Never fear...your closet is here!

Yep, that's right. Step right on in to the comforts of the clothes that are conveniently placed in your closet. Take this look; the shoes are 3 years old, the pants and blazer are 2 years old and I bought the top on super sale last year and never wore it. Now, you are probably saying, Alicia, who just has this stuff hanging in their closet? You do boo and here are 5 tips to pull off a last minute NYE look:

1. USE BLACK AS THE FOUNDATION

Black is a color that goes with everything and is the best foundation for a last minute look because it's timeless, flattering and everyone has something black in their closet. Anything from a little black dress to a jumpsuit to a black skinny jean and crop top...start with black and the possibilities are endless. Want to ramp it up a bit? Go with a vibrant, solid color as your base.

2. ADD SOME SPARKLE

Take a scan of your clothes, shoes and makeup for anything that sparkles. Try them on with your fit and pick the option(s) that work best for you. Even something as small as an eyeshadow with some sparkle in it, can glam up your look for your NYE soirees. Don't be afraid to wear multiple sparkly pieces...go sparkle or go home!

3. SHOESTOPPERS

We all have those bold shoes that we can't rock that often because everyone would easily notice a repeat wear (it shouldn't matter but it does). Break those babies out for your NYE parties. A hot shoe will polish off your look and make your fit standout in the crowd as you bring in the New Year.

4. FROST LIKE A BOSS

Breakout those eye-catching accessories that don't get an every day wear...this is the time to rock those bad boys! I went with gold but any metallic will do. This is also something quick and inexpensive that you can buy if you absolutely have no options (but I know you do).

5. GLAM BAM

Rock out your hair, makeup and nails. It's amazing what you can create in just these 3 things alone. Even a white tee can be glammed up when all these elements are personalized and polished. Quick Tip: When it comes to parties you can't go wrong with a bold, bright lip.

THE ULTIMATE RULE: CONFIDENCE IS KEY

No matter what...rock what makes you feel great! Bring in the New Year in a fit that you love and you can never go wrong. When you look good, you feel amazing and your confidence sizzles even more than it already shines.

I wish you light, love and uber success in 2016. Pursuit those dreams, prepare for your blessings and appreciate them when they come. And please tag your Tall NYE looks with @TallSWAG so I can see how your Tall, fabulous self brought in the New Year!

Cheers to an amazing 2016!

Winter Woes

Chunky Oversized Sweater (shown in size M/L)- THE HEIGHT/Converse All-Star Fresh (shown in a men's size 10)/Leather Look Leggings (Shown in size M. Similar HERE.) - Long Tall Sally/Sunnies - Target/Bag - Thrifted

Photo Credit: Lakeela Smith Photography

I feel like winter just dropped in on us all at once. It went from a long t-shirt type of season to give me all of the layers you can and add a scarf situation. It's times like these where you need a fierce sweater and the chunky oversized sweater definitely fits the bill. 

This Tall gem is one of those pieces that looks amazing but feels like you are wearing pajamas all day. Seriously, you feel like you are cuddled up in a blanket. The arm length is great (no cold wrists) and the body length is actually a proper tunic length.

Can we talk about the price for a minute. OK...so you know how most manufacturers add a katrillion dollars for every inch they add to a garment? Not THE HEIGHT. This sweater is only $50 which is a great price for all of that Tall sweater goodness.

I added some leather look leggings and my new converse babies to complete this look but you can rock some skinny jeans, a skirt, wide leg pants...really anything goes with this haute sweater.

Well...I really have nothing else to say about this FAB sweater so...until next time my Tall lovelies!

Orange Crush

Abstract Chevron Palazzo - Taller Than Your Average for Long Tall Sally (Shown in size 12. On sale for $65)/Roll Neck Jersey Top - Long Tall Sally (Shown in a medium. 1 for $35 or 2 for $55. Come in 6 color options.)/BFT Celena Patent Ankle Boot - Long Tall Sally (Shown in size 12. Comes in sizes up to 14.)/Hat - Forever 21

Photo Credit: Lakeelah Smith Photography

Growing up, I always thought that wide leg pants would make me look taller and guess what...they do boo. They bring attention to the length of those long legs (especially when wearing a print). Now. my younger self ran from this because why in THE HECK would I want to look taller? However, I now know what a blessing this height is and why not highlight the gifts that God gave you?!?

The Abstract Chevron Palazzo is the perfect pant to accentuate your tall, beautifulness (it's a word in the Alicia dictionary:) They are cut exceptionally well, have a bold vertical print and the fabric flows like a crisp, clean river (too much Alicia). But seriously...these pants are amazing. They are one of my favorite pieces from the latest Taller Than Your Average for Long Tall Sally Collection. They are always HOT and I always want every single piece (winning that for life would be like hitting the lottery). I can't wait to see what's next.

I paired it with a hat, some killer patent ankle boots (that go up to 14) and one of the LTS Basic pieces that I love (and have in multiple colors), The Roll Neck Jersey Top. Just in case you didn't know, Long Tall Sally has amazing basics that are long and will expand your wardrobe in many ways. They enable you to have a proper fitting foundation and that is half the battle in dressing Tall.

Bottom line. Wear what you love, love what you want and leave the self-doubt behind you where it belongs. You are wonderfully made...never forget it!

35

In many ways, I have forgotten about ME.

You see, between life, work, blogging, writing, and creating new concepts, I forget to take care of the very person who keeps all of those things going. I rarely take time to celebrate myself, my accomplishments and who I have become.

I found myself getting overwhelmed and had moments that were not becoming of me. I dismissed the smell of roses and would walk right by them scoffing at the time it would take to stop and recognize their beauty. I was on autopilot and didn't know how to take back the control.

As cliche as it sounds, the approach of my 35th birthday spurred an evaluation of life. Was I actually living? What was important in life? Would I ever find someone to share it with? How did I become 35, did I do it in the best way possible and more importantly what should I change moving forward?

So many questions which ultimately result in one answer: Everything that happens in this world happens at the time God chooses. Ecclesiastes 3:1.

While we must always work on ourselves and our relationship with Him we must also REST and know that happenings in our life are not to be questioned. You are right where you need to be babygirl!

With all of this is tow, I decided to celebrate myself for a moment and kick-off my 35th year right with a dinner and an 80's Baby Roller Skate party!

I dined with 15 of my closest friends at one of my favorite restaurants in Oakland, MUA. I ate, ate some more and was surrounded by absolute love. It was a beautiful night with all of my friends that God selected to be in my life. 

I was born on 11.30.1980 so I decided to have an 80's Baby Birthday party doing something that I loved to do as a kid...roller skate!!! It was SO much fun. We had a blast and I loved putting the whole party together. It was totally rad dude!

You know I had to go-in on the 80's fit, right!?! Details: Bodysuit: Target (secret...it was really just black spanx). Shorts, cut-off sweatshirt and leg warmers: Forever 21 (Airbrushing by Wais Guy in Durant Square). Footless tights and fingerless gloves: Party City. Headband: .99 cent store. Earrings: I already had those. Nail color: Flashy Fuchsia by Sally Hansen. Make-up: Me, myself and I.

Closer detail on the airbrushing by Wais Guy in Durant Square in Oakland, CA. TallSWAG it all day baby!!!

I rented a room at the Golden Skate in San Ramon which is probably the most 80's skating rink I have ever seen. I proceeded to decorate the room with an explosion of neon and 80's nostalgia including slap bracelets, neon cupcakes (which I rudely forgot to take a picture of) and a candy bar straight from 80's childhood memories.

Background for Photos. We pretty much used this all night.

Neon cupcake table with pictures of me throughout the 80's.

You must accessorize! For the record, nobody was lame and everyone took one or more:-)

The 80's candy table was a hit!

Everyone who came to the party left with a totally awesome 80's Baby Birthday Mix by my favorite DJ, D-Sharp! If you want to download it, click on the image of the CD below. Trust me, there is a guest MC on the mix that won't disappoint:-)

The room even came equipped with some mood lighting. I mean really...80's much!?!?

And then we skated like there was no tomorrow! Here are some video clips from then night. It was a blast!

Me trying to get my skating legs.

Trying to keep everyone who is skating in one fame is hard.

They asked me to jump in but...I thought I would sit this one out;) There were so many talented skaters there! Watching the different groups was one of my favorite parts of the night.

Every time we started skating 'cute' we almost fell.

Man, I felt and just feel so incredibly loved. I don't usually celebrate my birthdays on this level and I am so glad that I did. It brought all of my favorite people together and I cannot tell you how important that is for your soul. It reminds you of you or how far you have come, what is important and that your life is rich in pure love.

Swaggin out in the black light.

You better hug on those tall thighs silver shorts!

So with all of this said...I will be moving forward in gratitude knowing that every moment is divinely selected for me to experience. I will refute fear and do everything in my power to live life to the fullest, in it's realest light, 100% of the time. This is a year to begin, celebrate, love, appreciate and achieve. Thanks in advance for taking the ride with me!

Smootches,

Alicia Jay