Fashion Magazine Best of 2018

As a blogger, and an all around fashion enthusiast, I still purchase physical magazines every so often.

Magazines has always been my escape from reality so even thought I have online subscription, I still like to purchase a magazine and thumb through the pages.

There is nothing like thumbing through a magazine on a Sunday morning while sipping over priced coffee in Gentrified Brooklyn.  lol

This year I found I'd purchasing more magazines then years before.  With way too many magazines on my table, I thought it would be nice to close out 2018 with a best of. 



Here are my Best Fashion Magazine Covers of 2018.  They are in order of when they came out only.

January: Lupita For American Vogue

Balance on a surfboard in a sequin swimsuit/gown and call it Wellness...yes please. I just love her and how she rocks her natural short hair with no issues

March Allure -Speaking of Hair...

 Maybe it was Black Panther coming out  and all the hype behind the natural hair and deeply African positive representation the movie bought but I was very happy to see Lupita again and with a crown of braid and beads.  YES QUEEN!!!!

July: Curvy Women Vogue Arabia

Haven women of a certain size on the cover of Arabia magazine was a great step in a positive direction for women in the Middle East.  Was very happy to see all bodies in all shapes being represented.

August: Travis+Kyle+GQ=Internet breakdown

I could not escape this photos for weeks!!! It maybe be simple, sexy and not ground breaking but it was one to be remembered for 2018 all because the internet wouldn't let me.

September: Naomi for Vogue Paris, Rianna for Vogue British and Beyonce for Vogue US

Everyone in fashion knows that September is the biggest Issues for all Magazines.  Vogue get so big its commonly known as "The Bible".  I say all this so you understand ground breaking reliant of Beyonce being Editor and Chief of this edition.  I am not a Bey-Hive-er but I do recognize the importance of her  being the editor of such an monumental issue.  Also for her being the first to have a black photographer shoot the cover of Vogue.  

Also this was the first time three black women grace three different magazines for September Issues.
What a month

November: Zoe Kravitz Rolling Stone & Ellis Ross for In Style US

These women show that second generation of famous Fathers and Mothers are just as great!!!

December : Michelle Obama Elle US

If you forgot about the Icon Fashion living legend, and former first Lady, Michelle Obama you gonna remember her know.  With a best selling book and fashion to boot, she is here to show us that the White House is not  the end.  What a great way to close out 2018.

Hope you all enjoyed my list.  Cant wait to see you all in 2019.  Happy New Year....

SET GOALS NOT RESOLUTIONS

We are a few weeks in to the new year and I'm already sick of the gym and weight watcher type commercials.  Aren't you???? I understand that a lot of people choose the new year to set resolutions so that they can change themselves for the new year and that is great.  Resolutions come with great starts but usually trickle off by Valentines Day. I'm happy people want to better themselves but sad to see they never stay with it. 

Now, I set goals NOT resolutions.   

You may have notice I went a bit dark for the first 15 days of the new year.  I took the time to reflect on 2017 and set goals for 2018.   Here are my tips on how I set New Year goals and not just resolutions. 

5 Tips to Set New Year Goal NOT Resolutions

1. Goals should be clear, specific, and measureable
When we focus on what we want the way to get there becomes evident
For example. if your goal is to loose weight don't say "I want to loose weight"  say "I want to loose 20lbs in 3 months by working out with a trainer and getting my meal plan together with a nutritionist"
See...specific, clear and measurable with a how to do it.

2.Make it your own goal
You may see others reaching for higher goals but that's not important.  These are for you.  You have to set goals that are attainable.  This way you won't fail.

3.Speak on your Goals
Don't make your goals and keep to yourself.  Tell your friends and family. By speaking what you want into the world it makes your goal more realistic.
You want to quit your job and start your own business?...let friend and family know.  You never know if someone hears your goal and want to help or better yet they want to partner with you to make it happen.

4.Take action. Now.
This is why I call this "Set Goals NOT Resolutions".  Resolutions are set to start at a specific date, goals start NOW!!!Get a pad and write down what you want for 2016 today
Post it (on social media and your wall), figure out how to get it done.  Don't wait until after New Years Day.  Remember that line from House Party 2 "Time waits for no man!!!"

5. Reward yourself
When you hit a milestone along the way, reward yourself. Plan each milestone, and your reward will help keep you focused.
Lost 5 lbs...get your nails done.  Lost 10...get a facial.  Lost 20, then its time to shop for a new outfit and celebrate with a night out.

What are some of your goals and how do you plan on making them achievements by the end of the year?

12 DRESSES OF CHRISTMAS: LOOK 11 EMERALD CITY

On the 11th day of Christmas my Fashion Fairy gave to me.....

Emerald Green Suit w. Gold touches

 For those of you who don't know its good luck to have green in your pocket for the new Year.  Whats even better.....put on some green of course.  This metallic green suit is both fashionable, sexy and totally BOSS!!!! 

I paired the suit with gold and black to give it some color. Pattern on Pattern may scare a few people but I am a BOSS so I'm never scared to break some of fashion  old rules (and neither should you).

To put it short, I feel like the HNIC in this suit and think it is perfect for a New Year Party.  

OUTFIT DETAIL

Suit & Tie: Eloquii

 **NOW on SALE.  Click HERE to shop the look***

Shirt: Lane Bryant

Booties: Avenue

photos by: afrovocative

sponsored post

Sponsorship does not change or influence NEC SYLE opinion on products

12 DRESSES OF CHRISTMAS LOOK 10: FUR & VELVET

On the 10th day of Christmas my Fashion Fairy gave to me.....

Fur Jacket &Velvet Dress

This velvet dress is simple but will make any women's night on the town amazing.  As soon as I put this on I was in love.  The simpleness of the dress made it easy to wear.  The only thing I had to figure out is what to wear over it?  Its been a cold few days in NYC so what else could I wear but a nice (imitation) fur jacket.

I've never been a huge fan of fur but it has been such a huge trend this season.  I had to have a little bit this winter.
To finish off the look I added pattern tights booties.  Simple yet fashionable right!?!  The key to rocking fur is to let it shine the most in your outfit.

OUTFIT DETIAL

Full outfit from: Full Beauty

*** Dress and fur are now on sale.  Click above to shop this look***

sponsored post
photo by: Afrovocotive
Sponsors do not change NEC Style opinion of product/company

12 DRESSES OF CHRISTMAS OUTFIT 1- THANKSGIVING AND CHILL-Y SWEATER

HELLO MY STYLISTA!!!!

Well the year is almost over and what a year we had(again)!!!  As America seem to be very much in their feelings (both good and bad ways), my life has manage to grow and change as well.  I've missed you guys.  My masters program did take priority and I'm sorry for not giving you guys content.  But I rather give none if I cant give my all.  I am thankful to all of you who have hung in there with me over the past years of the "12 Dresses" takeover.  You guys let me know when I'm doing good and I love you for that. I've enjoyed all my stylista crew and very happy to give you guys this before the end of the year.

So its with that love that I bring you The 12 Dresses of Christmas.  That good old Fashion Fairy is back and taking over N.E.C. STYLE once again!!!! Can you believe its been  4 years now!!!! WOW.  This year she I've been blessed to model all 12 holiday looks!!! Hope your ready to get sick of me! All outfits will have links to purchase so don't worry.  If you like it, you can buy it!!!

Happy Holiday's everyone!

NEC Style out...Fashion Fairy in.

On the first day of Christmas my Fashion Fairy gave to me....

Thanksgiving and Chill-e Sweater

I love wearing a cozy knit sweater for Thanksgiving.  This year I hosted at my house and I wanted to wear something comfortable but cute.  (I am the style blogger of the family...have to live up to the hype).

This off the shoulder sweater was PERFECT!!! I wore it slightly off the shoulder and love that the sweater allowed for some versatility.  The tall swede boots and leggings were a perfect match to keep the look comfy but cozy.  I needed minimal makeup and jewelry for this look (don't want to look too done up) but make sure I added a little bling in my cocktail ring.

 I had a great time this Thanksgiving and got a chance to really laugh with my family.  This was a successful Thanksgiving outfit.

 OUTFIT DETAILS

 Sweater, Headscarf, Leggings: Lane Bryant

Shoes: AVENUE

Click hear off the shoulder sweater and leggings

(sweater is now 40% off)

photographer: Afro-vocative

Sponsor post

Sponsorship does not affect my opinion of the product

MY BEST BLACK FRIDAY SALES

HEY STYLISTAS, Or should I say Save-istas

Hello my Stylistas.  So I hope your are already out the door and standing in line waiting for the doors to bust open and save some money. 
There is nothing more stylish then a woman who knows her sales!!!!
I've research, pre-load my carts, and wrote down all of my Black Friday deals that I MUST take advantage of.

Take note!!!
Here are some sales I'm looking forward too, you should you...

Eloquii

Everything online will be 50% off .  Click HERE to start saving.

Also they have a new item on sale for $25 every day for the next 7 days

Simply Be

Simply Be is now offering 40% off  and free expediting shipment So get that new coat sent today.
Start saving HERE

CVS

YES...CVS! I get small gifts, chocolate boxes, toys, and Christmas stocking suffers every year from here.  You probably remember them being on my Black Friday post from last year.  They just keep  have AMAZING deals.   You can walk out of there with FREE items.  Pop into CVS (they are open on Thanksgiving) to get some free candy and low cost makeup for after your holiday shopping. 

Chick HERE to see more.

JIBRI

This is my fave designer (as most of you know).  So anything I can get for 50% off is just what I need.  A jibri pants for 55-60 bucks!!!! Such a steel  Click HERE to find deals

JCPenney

After combing through the 72 page flier my mind was dizzy with so many things to purchase.  If you waited to buy the Tracy Ellis Ross Collection, this is the time to get it. 

The first shoppers at each location can win a $500 off on $500 coupon, a $100 off on $100 coupon, or a $10 off on $10 coupon. Unfortunately, the popular Disney Snow Globes are not in the ad this year, but there is an assortment of televisions and even a PS4 deal on the first page.

Click HERE to Shop

Lane Bryant

 40% off purchase plus a new items is discounted  every day!!!! Today bras are 29.50 and tie up sweater is 20 bucks!!!!
Click HERE to see more see more discounts.

Groupon

Again I know what your saying but I LOVE shopping at Groupon.  With coupons, reward points (from ebates) and sales I pay so much less.  I already got these 7.99 speakers for my friends.  You can too.

Click HERE to see more deals.

E.L.F. Cosmetics

Time for some new makeup!!!! I love elf to try new trends or colors without loosing my shirt.  

Click HERE to shop and save.

A few other honorable mentions...

Full Beauty 50% off  3 items when you buy 5 Use N.E.C. STYLE code FB505050

Avenue 40-70% off everything 

Ashley Stewart 40% off 

STYLE FASHION WEEK: ADRIAN ALICIA

Adrian Alicea latest collection was presented at Style fashion week  on the famous Intrepid.  The couture designer has been making his name through the fashion world for the past two year.  But please don't think that Adrian is new to the game.  He has been focusing on establishing his own aptly-named line, Adrian Alicea Haute Couture, separate from his partner line Nico & Adrian NY. 

Alicea's lines focus on his Latino and Taino Indian culture and his dancer's background.
For this collection, you got a very latin feel.  Rather through the short shorts or the very vibrant prints or the jackets with no shirt.  I loved the latin feel in every piece that came down the runway.

Also, I felt this collection was very different from his collections of before.  Most of the Adrian's collection of the past has been dramatic and red carpet ready.  This collection seem much more ready to wear.  His patters were eye catching but was balanced out by being in very simple tailored desings.  I found the collection very ready to wear and I wanted to search to find where to get every single garment.

I loved how he also broke up the pattern with neutral colors of nutmeg, off white, grey and navy.  If the items were not complicated in pattern they were complicated in design.   I have followed Adrian fashion for a while and I can see a sophistication and growth in his designs.  I guess he realized his customers want to wear his designs in everyday life.  

I was really shocked (in a good way) at the collection.  Im happy that with the designs, colors and overal story this line told.   Now to get them in my size, but thats another discussion.  

I will leave you all with a quote from the designer himself....

 “…my heart. I make everything by hand. I love color. I love music. I love dance. I want my designs to make people happy, so each piece is unique. I put everything into my work--my heart, my soul, my love. I want everyone who wears my designs to feel special, to feel proud…to know they are different and that they have a right to be.”

BLOGGER NYC STAY-CATION: GIRLS TRIP DAY 1

As a native New Yorker, I realized I don't get to enjoy all things the city has to offer.  I was inspired by the movie "Girls Trip" to take advantage of my city and create a Stay-cation for me and a few of my girlfriends.  Like the movie, I wanted to hang out with some girlfriends leave the drama behind and have a good time.  As bloggers, we all get so busy so it was nice to take some time to just relax. With Marlena-
Big City, Curvy Girl, Thin Wallet, Brooke-Madame Finehouse, Fabiola-Fabiola Michelle, Jonquel-Jonquel Art and Marcy-Fearlessly Just Me with myself, we set off to our
first ever Stay-cation weekend.  

Our first day was all about GIRL POWER.  We started our stay-cation with a Private Museum Tour at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  Courtesy of Museum Hack we took the BABS
(Bad Ass Bitches) tour to see women artist featured at the Met. Here are some pics of women of the the MET.

What they were looking at I still don't know!!!

 Bad Ass Brooke w. Lilith trying to scare her

Jonquel Slaying Everything today

Thanks to our tour guide for being kick ass and for free ice cream

Museum Hack offers tours of other Musums and tours as well.  I will be doing their Beta Tour soon.  Click HERE to find our own tour. 

After we had a quick snack we heading downtown to watch "Girls Trip" at the IPIC movie theater for dinner and a movie.  I was so relax I almost fell asleep!!! Guess that's what large reclining seats will do for you.

Side Question:  Wanna guess which character I am?  Go on. I wont be offended.

via GIPHY

Great movie, great drinks and great food is all I needed to end my day. It was too much fun learning and connecting more with these amazing women but the next day was even more fun!!!

Ready for another fun filled Day??? Stay tuned....

Outfit Details 

I was very happy that I decided to go with a comfortable outfit.  

Top:Full Beauty

Jeans:Avenue

Jewelry: Thrift Shop

 This is a sponsored event and sponsor post. 

All opinions are not biased on sponsorship

Photos owned by myself

Photography of  art cleared by the MET