Within a few months of blogging and a few decades of purchasing clothing, I sometimes find myself asking, “Where are all of the black designers?”. Representation matters within the world of fashion, as in other forms of media and industry. As contributors across the fashion industry in innovation and trends, and far too commonly the victims of appropriation, I want to honor Black women in the fashion industry.

You may recognize the name Samantha Black from season 11 of Project Runway. Her clothing line, Sammy B., is spunky, fresh, and full of color. Her pieces are for everyday wear with flare and her way with sleeves earned a place in my heart. My first purchase from her collection was the Anita Flounce Sleeve Top – a fitted, wine colored, off-the-shoulder top with exaggerated flounce sleeves. It is as good as it sounds.

It is no surprise that she transformed the simple white t-shirt into anything but basic. Keeping in the tradition, the white tee also has flounce sleeves. The top, which can be worn casually or dressed up, fits perfectly into the wardrobe of anyone who prefers a little flare.

I decided to dress it up for my Saturday events and wore it with a green pencil skirt and multicolored cloth mule sandals. These shoes are bold and statement shoes, with unique designs and other embellishments, are one of my favorite ways to accent an ordinary or casual look. My accessories collectively tell a story of travels – a pearl necklace given to me as a gift from China, a summer clutch I found at a market with items from Southeast Asia, and a bracelet handmade from African prints. The bracelet is from my sister’s jewelry line, Nani.

Outfit Details – Shoes: Nasty Gal|| Top: Sammie B.|| Skirt: The Limited

 Who are some of your favorite designers?

As always, thanks for stopping by!