I’m still on a high from the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon in Beverly Hills. I sat there and was in awh at how gorgeous everything looked! I cried a few times and pinched myself in the bathroom! I was trying to get myself together because to be honest guys, I have been to some amazing events but NOTHING like that! It was a room full of influential African Americans and I was extremely proud to be rubbing elbows with them. I was very overwhelmed, not because of the celebrities because I knew most of them but it was because someone thought about me enough to invite me to this prestigious affair! I kept crying throughout the day because it was so moving. I then looked in the mirror inside the Beverly Hills Hotel bathroom and starred really hard at myself and said, “Tam, wow, you did it!” This did not come without careful preparation though….
I’ve been working in media for over 8 years now and it has been extremely difficult! It’s the best and worst thing that I’ve ever tried to accomplish! I spent a poop load of money and time in this thing called “the entertainment industry”. As you know, when you are invited out to cover events, you should try to look your best. I have seen a lot of other media/blogger outlets show up to events looking a hot mess, then some dressed like they were headed to the club right afterwards. Some of you think, well, I’m just on the other side, nobody is really paying attention to me, but I digress! Nobody cares about the content you put out, they remember what you looked like! Trust and believe me, your Auntie! People are VERY visual. Believe it or not, brands, co execs, pr reps look at all of this. I have always loved fashion but I am not rich at all. I live and dress modestly because I have a family. I can’t afford to wear designer outfits/shoes like them all the time but I do try to look presentable when I am out representing my brand.
I expect to see you guys do the same! I demand it because I’ve seen too much over the years! We have to stick together and YOU are representing “your brand” and what better way to promote it, by looking the part! You guys have heard of fake it till you make it, right? I’m not saying that you have to go out and do a complete fashion haul but a lil black dress goes a long way. Put a lil more effort in your hair, makeup, wardrobe choices and shoes. I’ve seen some sights out and about and I’m not going to say any names but you know who you are lol. Then you sit back and wonder why companies and brands are not reaching out to you? Well just maybe it’s your appearance. Sometimes you can have the greatest site and have lots of traffic but when you show up and you are looking like raga muffin, guess what? Most likely you will not be invited back.
If you’re on a limited budget but still want to look nice, I have listed some tips and ideas for you to look red carpet or event ready!
Try thrift stores or consignment shops for great items, even sales racks at department stores for simple or elegant pieces.
Stay away from trendy looks. You are wasting your money! A really great suit or dress can take you further along than an on trend outfit for the moment.
Essential pieces to have in your closet: black or navy blazer, white blouse, black pencil skirt, black pants, black cocktail dress, leather black purse, black pumps.
The color black is always chic and great for any occasion! Add pearls, black pumps and a red lip. You look very professional.
Reach out to designers/brands you like. Be realistic though, I doubt Versace will send you pieces lol. Local boutiques or brands might work best for you. Work with them and do fashion posts with their outfits with links back to their site.
Try to work with a a great makeup/hairstylist in your area. Hairstylist can keep your hair in tip top condition while a makeup artist can help you with beauty looks that are on trend.
Reach out to beauty brands that you love. You would be surprised, they can send you samples that you can start to collecting and save lots of money. Do product reviews with the items.
Always, always wear the proper shapers and undergarments. They make you look so much neater in clothing and in photos.
I hope these tips and tricks helped, till next time!
You can have anything you want in life, if you dress for it.~Edith Head
Top Image by Aaron/Red Carpet Images
Comments are closed.