Baby It’s Spring & It Might Rain Outfits!

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It’s still a little cold in the Midwest, but it’s getting warmer! Hopefully the stockings season will be over soon! Enough with the April showers! This week, it should reach the upper 60s and believe me, we are all soooo happy! Tune in later this week for my style ideas for our warmer weather.

The last of the stockings…

THE STYLE: The stockings are from Target’s clearance bin.They were only about $5 for 2 pairs; the skirt is from Forever21 because I love their cheap skirts; $6; the shirt is from TJMaxx for $10; the legwarmers are from Claire’s for $7; the boots are from Kohl’s and have been featured on my blog several times for $21; the earrings are from Glitter for of course $1; the hat is from Spencer’s for maybe $15; the jacket was from Sears on an out-of-season sale and hopefully we won’t need that anymore! It was $10.

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Long dresses that are made of a light-weight fabric are great for the Spring. You can lighten up dark colors with bolder colors. Check it out.

THE STYLE: The headwrap fabric is from JoAnns (like $3 by the yard); the leggings which were just back up because the dress is s bit see-through were $10 at Kohls; the dress is from H&M on clearance it was $7; the necklace– I was getting my hair twisted and a guy came in the salon selling jewelry! Yes, I gave him $15 for it (lol); the belt is from the Body Shop for $10; the sweater is from TJMaxx for $11.

Queen Duafe for African Essence

P.S. Need a book to read? Check this out: Egyptian Yoga Volume 1: The Philosophy of Enlightenment by Muata Ashby

Wait a minute! Need some music? Sade liberated me this afternoon with music from her 2011 tour!

Living in the Midwest – Spring Queens

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I live in Midwestern United States where the weather can swing drastically, hitting above 100 in the summer and below zero in the winter. The Springs are cold and warm, and hot, and cold again! It’s nothing to fear, you just have to be prepared and accept the reality of varying temperatures.

Living in the Midwest allows me to get super cReaTiVe with my wardrobe. I can be laid back, conservative, athletic, but most of all JAZZY! My attire is most often referred to as Jazzy. People ask, “where did you get that?” If I can remember, I tell them, but I shop all over. Mostly in thrift stores and specialty-clothing boutiques. I do not discriminate! Anywhere I go from, TJMaxx to Steinmart, I can always find the most “jazzy-ethnic” attire they carry. That’s my thing, that’s my style. My favorite stores are thrift stores, but like I said, I go all over.

I love being able to create my own style!

Many people enjoy living in the Midwest, although it can be depressing sometimes! Nine months of cold weather can have you visiting a psychoanalyst! No need to complain, just get with the program. When its cold, love it, when it’s hot love it even more! Our seasons seem to be all over the place and are highly unpredictable at the present time.
So I keep my closet fully equipped with all types of light and heavy clothing. Every morning I put my foot out the door to see what the weather feels like and I go from there…

THE STYLE… The shirt I am wearing above is one of my favorite pieces. It is a very light fabric and I normally wear a camisole underneath it. I got it from an African Boutique years ago named SeneAfrique, $25. It closed down. The shirt has gold accents so I wore gold jewelry to match. It’s a gold cuff bracelet which you can get from anywhere these days. The necklace is a beaded brown and gold layered style and I have no idea where I got it (maybe Dillard’s on clearance years ago?). The earrings are a costume-like gold from Glitter (in malls), $1. The jeans are from Charlotte Russe, $10. I like flare jeans. The shoes are from Aldo, $95. They are leather inside and out, that is why they are pricier. They are called the Fornili shoe and date back at least two years. I won’t spend that much anymore, but there was something about these shoes that made them awesome. I like them a lot and they don’t hurt. Of course I wouldn’t do crazy amounts of walking in them either.

HOPE THIS HELPS YOU CHOOSE SOME COMFORTABLE ATTIRE THAT FITS YOU.

Peace and love,

Queen Duafe for African Essence

P.S. Need a book to read? Check this out…

Afrocentricity and the Academy: Essays on Theory and Practice edited by James L. Conyers, Jr.

Revisiting Chrisette Michele – Vocalist, Pianist

Posted on April 19, 2013 by Shila Iris

Chrisette Michele is looking pretty fly these days. I like that she explores hair color. I’m feeling colorful too!

I am not sure what happened with her music. I purchased her very first CD and it was really good. Ever since, I haven’t been able to get into her lyrics. Her voice is amazing, though. It’s mature and sophisticated. The songs she did with Jay Z and Nas were the best collaborations I heard from her. On her debut album, Love is You was my favorite song and Let’s Rock which had a Wu-Tang beat was nice as well.

All of her looks are pretty hot. I assume she has a wonderful stylist. Hope to hear some good music from her soon.

Poetry in Music- Vocalist ASA (pronounced ASHA)

Posted on April 15, 2013 by Shila Iris

“I’m in chains, you’re in chains too

I wear uniforms and you wear uniforms too

I’m a prisoner, you’re a prisoner too, Mr Jailer”

Asa is a Nigerian- born singer who is currently performing all over the world. Her music is a feel good, conscious protest to modern day slavery. She explains concepts such as love, oppression, peace, and dreaming. Of course I have some songs that I play over and over because the messages speak to what I am, but all of her music has a sharp angle of awareness that we don’t hear a lot these days.

Vocalist Asa, click on the image to be directed to her website

Asa represents a new breed of artist largely indebted to beautiful poets like Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and MeShell Ndegeocello. Her lyrics are far from cookie-cutter, lacking the repetitive, hypnotic trance that modern artists get over using. Asa allows you to think and to get involved spiritually with the rhythms. If there is a parent out there looking for some good music for his/her young teenage daughter to listen to, please try ASA.

Queen Style

My heart leaps when she speaks in her native tongue on songs such as So Beautiful, Bi ban ke, and Bimpe. On her album Beautiful Imperfection, my favorite song is The Way I Feel. It is reminiscent of Nina Simone’s efforts in addressing the struggles of Black expression. While Nina Simone was more direct with her messages of demur, Asa is still powerful, especially since people are seemingly trying to force the world to forget the crimes of colonization endured by people of African descent. It won’t help to forget, or brush these issues under the rug. It’s better to address them and learn about the real history of the mother land.

“I’m talking to you jailer

Stop calling me a prisoner

Let he who is without sin-

be the first to cast the stone

Mr Jailer

You suppress all my strategy

You oppress every part of me

What you don’t know,

you’re a victim too

Mr Jailer”

These are lyrics from her song Jailer, the first song on her debut album. Just wonderful! Check out ASA in all her efforts to spread a different kind of message, not driven by money. Her music is linked on her website. Check out your local library if you want to borrow her CDs to try them out first. The video below is cool, however, I normally like music more without having viewed the videos. I like to hear the message before seeing it.

Queen Faces- Poetic Images of My Favorite Artists

Posted on April 13, 2013 by Shila Iris

Queen Faces- Beautifully Poetic

QUEEN ERYKAH

POETIC FACES IN APRIL – My favorite picture of the “mos-eccentric” Erykah Badu… really love the simplicity in this photo.

POETIC FACES IN APRIL- Erykah Badu is lovely, not just because of her wonderfully HomemadeVINTAGE&eccentric look, but because she is an exceptional artist with some of the best lyrics I’ve ever heard. Every single album is greatness!

Chaka Khan & Erykah are great!

BEAUTIFULLY POETIC – NNEKA

Nneka is a very hot artist! I admire that she is not contemporary and she has a very distinct voice. She can sing, rap, and do poetry- I'm all on board the Nneka train! I love her album cover for SOul Is HEaVy

Nneka is a very hot artist! Her lyrics are expressive and socially relevant. I admire that she is not “contemporary- sounding” and she has a very distinct voice. She can sing, rap, and do poetry- I’m all on board the Nneka train! I love her album cover for SOul Is HEaVy

She’s got a lot of FLAVA!

Nneka is deep.

BEAUTIFULLY POETIC – THE FLOACIST

The amazing voice of NATALIE STEWART

The Floacist- I really follow Natalie because she is on of the most successful female performing poets I know of. Her lyrics mean a lot and I really appreciate her level of consciousness. She always looks so comfortable no matter what look she takes on. You can tell moeny doesn't drive her- the art does. Peace to this QUEEN.

The Floacist- I follow Natalie because she is one of the most successful female recording and performing poets I know of. Her lyrics mean a lot and I really appreciate her level of consciousness. She always looks so comfortable, no matter what look she takes on. Money doesn’t seem to drive her- the art does. Peace to this QUEEN. I dig. (I’ll have to blog about her body art later on- very nice!)

POETIC FACES IN APRIL- These are great photos of Natalie. Have you listened to her CD? It’s really nice.

BEAUTIFULLY POETIC – LIANN LA HAVAS

POETIC FACES IN APRIL- I am lovin' this chick right now! Her name is LiAnn La Havas and her voice is extremely and soothingly POETIC! My favorite pic of her.

POETIC FACES IN APRIL- I am lovin’ this chick right now! Her LYRICS ARE awesome as is her voice- Extremely and soothingly POETIC! My favorite pic of her.

BEAUTIFULLY POETIC – the LES NUBIANS will never die!

Have you seen them? I remember going to their concert and being completely amazed by their voices and their movement. I felt like I was in a cyclone of culture! It was such a HIGH. If you can ever catch them in concert, please go. They give a great show.

The Les Nubians have so much style and flava. Amazing looks.

BEAUTIFULLY POETIC FACES

BEAUTIFULLY POETIC

JANET’S POWERFUL VELVET ROPE YEARS& THE DESIGN OF A DECADE

How can we ever forget the wonderful Velvet Rope years of Ms. Jackson. She was at her peak during this time. Her movement brought the world to tears.

How can we ever forget the wonderful Velvet Rope years of Ms. Jackson? She was at her peak during this time. Her movement and vintage beauty brought the world to tears.

BEAUTIFULLY POETIC – L. HILL

Yesterday and Today

Lauryn Hill broke records with her lyrics that no female rapper has yet to come close to. I don't mean, grammy's and such- I mean she had the power to get into your heart because she was so REAL.

POETIC FACES IN APRIL. The misunderstood Lauryn will forever move me. The MisEducation was awesome! Every word and every song. I have yet to hear an album like this. I even loved loved loved her MTV Unplugged. She was so beautiful and humble. We remember you Queen!

BEAUTIFULLY POETIC – GOAPELE

Goapele’s music continues to be wonderful. I even enjoyed her last album which she added a bit of a “neo-pop” twist to a few of the songs. She is powerfully POETIC.

BEAUTIFULLY POETIC – JANELLE MONAE

POETIC FACES IN APRIL- She is extremely expressive/animated and I love every bit of it! Her lyrics are amazing as well.

POETIC FACES IN APRIL- She is extremely expressive and animated and I love every bit of it! Her lyrics are amazing as well.

I use NATIONAL POETRY MONTH to teach people about poets and writers who have influenced and ARE changing culture. I practice different forms of poetry and study vocabulary words and expressions that will help me in storytelling. I find things that are “poetic” in nature and I try to help young people understand what it means 2BaPoEt. I define poetic as having the power to be persuasive, and get people to support your messages.

These are the FACES of the wonderful women who have influenced me artistically.

It is National Poetry Month and as a verbal artist, I love it!

POETRY IN APRIL – How FELA the Musical Blew My Mind!

Posted on April 6, 2013 by Shila Iris

Last night I was hungry and thirsty for a concrete live depiction of Fela Kuti’s life story. I had received this once before when his son, Femi Kuti performed live in Cleveland, Ohio at the Beachland Ballroom. Femi did an excellent job of bringing forth the style of Afrobeat that his father had so carefully and wonderfully created. Combining Yoruba tribal music (which involves advanced drumming, mainly using the dundun), jazz, highlife, funk, and chanted vocals, he brought us a ravishing upbeat style of music that we let loose and danced to! I especially loved the chanting and the dancers. You have to see it to know what I mean. It is like poetry- exciting, igniting, and hypnotizing.

Every single time I watch a video of Fela, I get so excited! It is some of the best free-flow dancing you’ll ever see- performed only by authentic dance Queens! This past summer I had gone to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, Michigan and seen the exhibit on Fela Kuti. It too, was awesome. It isn’t there anymore, but if you can see it, please try to find it! Since then, I have been following the musician.

Seeing his son perform live,
seeing the exhibit,
watching videos of him,
listening to his musicians CDs (especially Fela’s drummer),
and now seeing the musical, I am officially FELA crazy!

Fela, the musical was excellent! Although it was not advertised well in Cleveland, it still drew the most diverse crowds of people that the city has to offer. I saw so many of my wonderful Elder Sistahs and Queens, even some coming from Columbus, which is two hours away. It was worth every penny!

The acting was good. I loved DUAIN RICHMOND, who played Fela,

He was awesome and his lines were comical in all the right places. I was more than happy to get up and dance when he requested that the audience stand up and take instruction from the dancers. We danced in clock positions, moving our rear ends in 12 o’clock, 6 o’clock, up and down motions! You do yoga, while I do the Fela workout!

I appreciated the storyline, which was simple and told without “fillers.” Michelle Williams, the singer from Destiny’s Child did a good job. I think she has potential to excel on Broadway. She wasn’t the best dancer, but I wasn’t really expecting that. She did what she could. Overall I give her a 6.5 out of 10.

I loved that Fela’s mother, Funmilayo (played by MELANIE MARSHALL) was a central part of the story. The large screen displayed on the right hand side of the stage revealing her picture added so much definition to the play. The lighting, sound, projection, and graphic parts of the performance were on point. The costumes were inspiring (if you are looking for style ideas).

The singer playing Fela’s mother and the dancers brought the musical home!

The Afrobeat band, the Antibalas, were flawless. THE VIBRATIONS THAT THIS PLAY SET OFF made it hard to leave the theater after the 2.5 hours. I wished it would go on! Honestly, I live for these moments where culture gets so real! The movement of the women was spiritually inviting, not sexual at all. It forced the audience to become part of the Fela experience. There was one dancer who I could not stop watching, her name is ONEIKA PHILLIPS- gotta say she was powerful!

Check out the cast and go see it in its last stages if you can. If you like African culture, it will definitely blow your mind!

Peace and love,

Queen Duafe for African Essence

Headwraps & Afros- Solange & Today’s Black Woman Style Report Magazine

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Solange

I understand that Solange is big in the media right now because of her modeling and the types of clothing she wears. I am not into jumping on bandwagons but after looking at some of her pics, I definitely agree that she has style. She is going against the grain, choosing to cultivate her natural beauty rather than mimicking the fake identity that is labeled “trendy.” That is evident in this video:

Solange’s uniqueness is oozing out in all of her artistic endeavors. The video above is cool in many ways. I like the design and setting, the people, and even Solange’s dancing. She is moving to her own beat and I can dig that. The stylist responsible for her look in this video is Ty Hunter. After doing some research on Mr. Hunter, I learned that his styling is definitely worth following. Although mainstream, he brings a wonderfully earthy and colorful angle to his client [s].

In addition to Solange’s music and modeling, she is a DJ and budding fashion ICON. She seems to have a good attitude and knowledge of herself so perhaps she can tackle fashion and identity. I like that she wears head wraps and “ethnic” designs. I’ll keep an eye on her.
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Ever once in a while I look at style magazines. Most of the time I cannot bear to look in them because I do not like the images of women that I see- painted faces showing no traces of reality. Often times the clothes are a bit overbearing as well. I have learned how to have a discerning eye.

THIS IS THE COVER OF THE APRIL/MAY 2013 ISSUE OF TODAY’S BLACK WOMAN STYLE REPORT MAG. I LIKE the golden dress on Megan Good (I am not sure if I would wear it, though!)

I can appreciate some things about these sorts of magazines. My wishful thinking makes me think that perhaps one day, the world won’t be so consumed with sex and the physical. If you are conscious of who you are, you won’t buy into these things. Sadly, many of us are not and we end up thinking this is what we are supposed to look like.

Material things are not what defines us. Black and beauty are not synonymous. If they were, women would not spend so much time trying to change into something that they are not via clothes, make-up, etc.

The outfits that I am sharing may encourage you to find your own style. They are not meant to encourage you to copy someone else’s. In saying that, I saw a few good pics that I want to share that could add some flava to your wardrobe. What do you think?

I LOVE THE STOCKINGS IN THE MIDDLE!

I LOVE THE COLORFUL SUIT ON THE LEFT!

I LOVE THE HAIR AND THE GRAY SUIT AND SHOES! THIS IS GARCELLE BEAUVAIS.

Today’s Black Woman Style Report April and May 2013

WOMEN’S STORIES- The ART of STORYTELLING

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Storytelling is a creative art form that dates back to the beginning of time. It has been one of the most effective methods in communicating and in sharing history. It allows us to break down and let it all out! I personally love to share my stories with people as part of my cycle of growth. I have loved and been loved; I have hurt and been hurt- telling these stories are liberating!

No one can tell you how to tell your story. You have to decide on the best way to share your life. Some people will like what you do, and many won’t, but if you keep a clean heart, the world will return the positive energy to you.

I most often choose to tell my stories using poetry. I look like this when I do (lol).

I find it refreshing and it gives me a crazy boost that flows through my entire body! It’s hard to explain. My style is at best rhythmic, but the cadence changes just as the temperature of my stories change. My pulse goes up and down and through the roof! Even when I’m calm, I’m excited inside. I tell women’s stories because I AM WOMAN. Some of these stories are bright and cheerful, and some are deep and dark, but in the end everything is good.

In storytelling, I have learned that denial is not an option. The truth sets me free. My perspective is what’s most important in my art of storytelling. I mesh together what I have learned with what’s happening now. The past, the future, and the most important- THE PRESENT! I am here RIGHT NOW! Not tomorrow or yesterday- now!

In my continued celebration of women I would like to share with you a small gift that a very special person gave to me … Nikki Giovani’s book “My House.” Published in 1972.

The guy that gave me this book is someone that I talk to in passing, but he’s almost a stranger. Somehow he understood that I adored poetry and he decided to give me this book as a gift for Women’s History Month. Much love to him for thinking of me. What is so special about this gift is that pages 25 and 26 are missing! The poem that is supposed to be on these pages is called Just A New York Poem. This is weird for me because New York has been on my mind for weeks now. He gives me this book with the poem ripped out! Interesting. I feel like I needed that poem to be in the book, but it is not. Well, the rest of the book is great. Check it out if you can.

I like Nikki’s poems. I met Nikki Giovanni during my undergraduate studies at Fisk University. She once attended Fisk and she was a visiting professor for some time. I really dig her evolution as a woman. Her stories travel deep into the soul and resonate. She tells the truth. I appreciate Nikki Giovanni and all the women who boldly tell stories of hurt and triumph without placing blame or pointing fingers. Peace to all Queens who have stopped hiding. Peace to you.

Queen Duafe for African Essence

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH- I AM EVERY WOMAN, THAT INCLUDES YOU

Posted on March 12, 2013 by Shila Iris

In speaking to a group of men last week, it was not surprising that they had never heard of WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH. They asked me if this was something new. I told them that it had been a national celebration for quite some time now. The worldwide celebration of women started in the early 1900s but it evolved into a month-long celebration in the U.S. in 1987. It was started as a way to promote equality among sexes in the classroom. This is of great importance around the world even today as women are still denied many rights in countries around the world! Sadly, I do not come across many women who know about Women’s History Month or are ready to talk about the importance of women in our culture. This is a good time to learn!

I feel the necessity for the celebration from two personal standpoints: being WOMAN and being BLACK. Although the month is not just about women gaining the right to vote, women’s suffrage is one of the defining elements. Women wanted to be treated like thinking & feeling human beings and did not want to be disenfranchised on the basis of sex. This is what led to the struggle for women’s rights known as the feminist movements.

DEFINITION

Feminism (n): the advocacy of women’s rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men.

In America, women’s suffrage movements and Black freedom movements were parallel but indeed separate. I am deeply affected by both. America is still in the recovery years from slavery and oppression. THE DATES:

March 30, 1870, the 15 Amendment was adopted allowing Black men the right to vote. Few actually ever voted because of other oppressive laws that were set up to counter their votes. Blacks were still being lynched and treated like animals well into the 1960s. So, almost 90 years after the initial ratification, there were still too many parameters set up to deter Blacks from voting.

Women’s right to vote came in 1920 after the 19 Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that prohibits any United States citizen to be denied the right to vote based on sex.

Were Black women voting at this point? Not too many. Black people did not FULLY exercise the right to vote until the 1960s after protesting Jim Crow laws that were pretty much scare tactics to keep Blacks from voting. This is why many people believe that women actually received the right to vote before Blacks.

Not until the Voting Rights of 1965 did African Americans start to vote, without fear of being beat, lynched, spat on, turned away, etc. It eliminated literacy tests, poll tax, and other subjective voter tests that kept Blacks from voting.

Technically, all WOMEN did not get the right to vote, free of discrimination until 1965. This meant that any person regardless of race or sex could vote. Every diasporic groups voting rights were strengthened during the Civil Rights Movement.

In the celebration of the history of the woman, I would like to acknowledge the 1920 amendment as well as the Voting Rights Act which was the beginning of the right for every woman to vote free of discrimination. I am you, and you are me and we must celebrate every woman the same.

QUEEN DUAFE FOR AFRICAN ESSENCE

Akua Naru & Aziza Yasmine – Much Style & Much Flava

Posted on March 9, 2013 by Shila Iris

Most people who know me, know about my TWO loves:

Melodic Poetry & Natural Beauty

Akua Naru, lyricist, is the definition of femininity IN poetry at its finest. Redefining hip hop, her lyrical prowess is a sultry caress to my ears- so much soul.

Aziza Yasmine, natural hair stylist, softly caresses the tresses to bring out the best in every woman. She has been transitioning women back to their natural roots since the 90s after returning from a trip to Africa where she learned many hair techniques.

These two women visually remind me of one another. They have similar spirits and do a great job at their crafts. Upon listening to Akua, I get butterflies. For me, this means that I am learning and believing and feeling a kindred spirit. When in Aziza’s chair, I feel a level of trust that I have not felt with many others. I adore these women and in celebration of WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH, I want to honor their contributions to WOMANHOOD. They are very much alive and moving and are helping women to define what they are. Choose to cherish your true identity, and not live in vain. BE YOURSELF. Start listening and start appreciating what you are. Check out the video below to hear what Akua has to say about telling stories and about womanhood. I like her message. What we must realize is that the way we talk, the way we look, and the things we do, define us. Your physical identity tells the story of your existence, just as your words and actions do. Make sure you’re living righteously and putting out love. What you give out is exactly what you will receive. Live, learn, and change. Grow up, not down. Peace!

Sisters in struggle,

QUEEN DUAFE FOR AFRICAN ESSENCE

Fashioning Your Identity- Booklist

Posted on February 27, 2013 by Shila Iris

Soul searching? These are 20 books that can help you discover yourself from the inside out. Happy Black Afro-American History Month!

Term/Definition of the day:
Cultural Nationalism: the celebration of the contributions of black people to world history

BOOKLIST

1. Black: A Celebration of a Culture by Deborah Willis

2. African Beginnings by James Haskins and Kathleen Benson

3. Black Venus 2010: They called Her Hottentot edited by Deborah Willis

4. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

5. Iconic by Lakesia D. Johnson

6. Beyond the Black Lady: Sexuality and the New African American Middle Class by Lisa B. Thompson

7. My People by Langston Hughes, photos by Charles R. Smith, Jr.

8. Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans by Kadir Nelson

9. The Sweet Breath of Life: A Poetic Narrative of the African American Family by Frank Stewart and Ntozake Shange

10. Posing Beauty: African American Images from the 1890s to the present by Deborah Willis

11. Soul on Ice by Eldridge Cleaver

12. The Social Theory of W.E.B. Du Bois edited by Phil Zuckerman

13. The Tao of Wu by The RZA

14. Rules for Radicals: A Pragmatic Primer for Realistic Radicals by Saul D. Alinksy

15. The Dance of Anger: A Woman’s Guide to Changing the Patterns of Intimate Relationships by Harriet Lerner

… and then if you want to get into fashion, I found these books to be authentic guidelines to wardrobe

16. New African Fashion by Helen Jennings, foreword by Ike Ude

17. The Sartorialist: Closer by Scott Schuman

18. The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman must Own by Nina Garcia

19. The Style Strategy: A Less-is-More Approach to Staying Chic and Shopping Smart by Nina Garcia

20. The Little Black Book of Style by Nina Garcia

I have read all these books and I believe I gained a broader understanding of identity and of what fashion means to people. Maybe you can read them and understand more about yourself as well.

Peace and Love,

Queen Duafe for African Essence

The Winter Won’t Last Forever- Check Out Harvest Girl – CREATE Inspire LOVE Life

Posted on February 24, 2013 by Shila Iris

I was browsing and I found this wonderful shop that I want to share.

With the spring and summer approaching, you’ll want to invest in additions to your wardrobe. I do not think these clothes are too expensive because of their design and exclusivity.

ETSY STORE: http://www.etsy.com/shop/HarvestGirlLove

I couldn’t help but to think of Jill Scott‘s song after looking at this store.

I also found this video that is connected to the line of clothing. It is a sister doing poetry. I like it!

LET MY STORY REACH YOUR HEART

Posted on February 20, 2013 by Shila Iris

JAMBO! (SWAHILI WELCOMING)

In this very new year, I want to take a minute to remind everyone what African Essence is about. I love doing this blog and I am very thankful for everyone who reads the articles, follows us, and everyone who sends positive vibrations this way. We will continue to encourage people to find out WHO and WHAT they are in this very tough world. We added a new tab above. PLEASE CHECK IT OUT! The story is a wonderful testament TO LIFE. It’s tough to share stories where we play bad roles, but I am brave in this manner. May the story reach your heart and journey on with you. Hope you learn from it.

This year with every new post, we use a soundtrack of songs to express the messages. The playlists are very diverse. Music is a great connector when trying to communicate. For the feature article, the playlist is the following:

Nneka: Heartbeat

Lyrics: “You throw stones, can’t you see that I am human, I am breathing; but you don’t give a damn.

Madonna: Secret

Lyrics: “Happiness lies in your own hand, It took me much too long, To understand how it could be, Until you shared your secret with me…”

Janelle Monae- Neon Valley Street

Lyrics:

May this song reach your heart
May your ears love the sweet melody
Every note, every chord
I’ve arranged them for you and for me

May the sound of my voice be your guide
Bring you closer to me
Let us bathe in the noise
Let the love in your heart speak to me

For now, I’ll pretend
I’m holding your hand

We met alone forbidden in the city
Running fast through time like Tubman and John Henry
But the time was wrong
Illegal aliens moaned
It’s such a pity that the city’s just a danger zone
Atomic blues bombing hearts like Iraqis in Babylon
The droid control will take your soul and rate it
Berate, slay it
You hate it and debate it but you don’t get caught
And outlaw outrunning the law, ha

May the strings make you smile
May they always remind you of me
For now let’s pretend
I’m holding your hand

THESE SONGS ARE AMAZING. THEY HELPED ME FIND MY WAY BACK FROM A CONFUSING STATE. MAY MY STORY REACH YOUR HEART. EVERY WORD, EVERY SYLLABLE- LET IT GUIDE YOU…

THE STORY GOES…

We have never attracted negative energy within the realms of African Essence and don’t intend to start now. We say this because there are some very horrible and spiteful forces out there that attempt to critique and judge and pretend to be GOD. Well, we have to fight them and keep it positive. Despite these negative influences, we are still powerful and full of love! We want to give that love to whoever is willing to receive it. In doing so, we cannot dwell or be held down by anything that happened in the past. It’s like the history of the African in America. It is wise that we definitely acknowledge our past, but we have to keep moving. If you are the same person that you were 6 years ago, then you are dying.

I am queen. I always tell people, I am not the same person from yesterday. Each and every day I grow and learn and live and breathe and thank the universe for allowing me to be a part of it! Here, at African Essence, we march forth in our desire to be the best!

We will not allow our past to suffocate our future. That’s what I am and who we are!

African Essence is a spiritual place for people who want greatness in their lives. Our readers are dedicated and have shown great support over this past year. They have helped us to grow and change in a positive direction. We gather and talk about identity, culture, and many other topics that help define who and what we are. Thanks to everyone who supported African Essence through this first year of blogging.

I (Queen Duafe) started African Essence because young girls ask me all the time about the way I dress. The way I dress can be described as colorful, original, and most definitely ethnic. My ethnic dress code is not strictly African, although it is what I love the most. I am of African descent living in America. That means a lot when it comes to identity because the identity of the African American woman has been tampered with from Harriet Tubman to Michelle Obama.

Moreover, I admire and adore Indian and Caribbean dress. I study dress codes from all over the world. My garb is not really about fashion. Actually, fashion is the least of it. It is really more about discovering one’s true identity. Before you can ever begin to cloth yourself correctly, your mind has to be righteous. If you are thinking sexually, than you project that. If you feel horrible, you may just look that way. If you have nothing but brown shoes and white button up shirts in your closet, you have got be able to be comfortable in it. Wardrobe is not about getting attention. It is about being able to walk into any situation and look confident. Through African Essence, we help you choose the clothing, accessories, and attitude that look best on you.

When you are dressed comfortably and respectfully, you are able to achieve much more in life. You cannot be at your best if you are looking your worst. African Essence is about helping women to adorn themselves in a way that is pleasant and respectful. I cannot describe my dress as fashionable, edgy, fabulous, fierce, or any such term. I can only say that, what you wear reflects what you are. So often do we see women in clothes that are too small, too tight, too big, too dull, too crazy, or just NOT becoming of who or what they are. We never want to draw too much attention to ourselves with our attire. We just want to cultivate a good spirit world around us. I am confident in everything that I wear and from my experiences, I pull some great energy from my dress code alone! Sometimes, I may wear something catchy, but the universe knows that my intentions are to help people and give them a broader perspective on how to dress. I do not desire attention. I find that people with low confidence and esteem, who really admire my style can show hate instead of love. It doesn’t faze me, though! I love you too.

Our women and girls need an alternative to modern day FASHION. The women portrayed in media are often nude, light, with long hair and eye lashes. They show off their curves in the worst way and they force our younger generations to think that the less you have on, the better you look. I see girls do it all the time. It doesn’t do them any good in the long run, if they want to admit it or not. Show some respect to get some. Be all that you can be… I believe in you.

I do not pretend to be perfect and I do not encourage anyone to do so. We all go through trials, life is that way. Pointing the finger and attempting to ‘expose’ someone via the digital landscape is never an acceptable way to express your contempt for another. It is COWARDLY. I encourage all who visit African Essence to keep it positive and show some love. All other things are not necessary in this spiritual circle. We are beautiful. God created me just like he/she created you! I am African and so are you! Love me or leave me alone! Our ritual at African Essence is to put out love. We do not allow hate to poison our cipher.

DO NOT LET THE CIPHER BE POISONED-

THIS IS A SPIRITUAL AND RITUAL PLACE

In saying this, I encourage you all to click on my FEATURE STORY tab above. This year, I will frequently feature a new story that I hope can help or inspire someone to change their life. These stories are written by me and are real.

Peace and love to you.

Queen Duafe for African Essence

My New Year Start’s Today

Posted on February 13, 2013 by Shila Iris

Today is February 13 and it is my birthday! I am excited! I never really get excited on my birthday but this year I am grateful for so many things, including all the new and wonderful people who have become a part of my world. I can thank my greatest friend in life (he knows who he is) for introducing me to so many new ideas, people, and feelings… we have a chemistry only true friendship can understand.

SMOOTH IS LIFE TRAVELS WITH YOU BESIDE ME… Thanks for being real and being so kind and tough and respectful and thoughtful and supportive. You have helped me evolve as an artist more than anyone. Peace and love to you always.

So… I love being an Aquarius. The sign defines me and I define it. Now it is time to write.

This is my first blog entry of the year. I wanted to write many times, but for some reason I could not! I think I had to get into the groove of the year. I was discouraged from making observations about the year and making resolutions until I made some major decisions about my life. My new year starts NOW- February 13. My birthday always feels more like a new year for me. In the past I have not been a big birthday person, but it means a great deal to me this year because I feel like I have more wisdom than I ever had. I have grown tremendously and I do not mind getting older. I welcome age. I can already see myself loving my gray hair when that time comes!

WHAT I HAVE TO SAY ABOUT GETTING OLDER…

I’ve noticed changes in my body. It looks like I will have to get more active this year because my skin feels different and my face looks a bit different.

I’ve noticed changes in the way that I think. Things do not affect me the same. I want more now and I have this constant desire to find freedom.

I’ve started to face reality. I used to struggle with the here and now. I wanted people to be how I wanted them to be and I wanted them to change on the spot. I am not too concerned with these types of things anymore. My biggest concern is connecting myself with nature and seeing the world.

I used to have time to waste, but as I get older I realize that I need to keep pressing on. I do not want to play as much anymore (well, maybe just a bit). I love to have fun and smile every moment that I can… smell the flowers, if I may. I just realize that work and play have to match. THE KEY IS: USE MODERATION IN EVERYTHING THAT YOU DO. Overuse and abuse make you grow old faster. Bad habits make you grow older as well. Only take what you need. Only buy what you need. Only use what you need. I accept enough to get by. Do not be greedy. Have you ever been at a cook out and watched that one person load their plate up until it is spilling over? Then they laugh and make meaningless comments trying to come up with an excuse as to why they are being greedy? DO NOT BE THAT PERSON. Take a little and leave some for others, move on. Do not accept anything for free. Work for the things you desire in life.

2013 HAS BEEN GREAT!

I ushered in January with history and poetry and art. I celebrated Kwanzaa with a group I perform poetry with: The Griot Project. We celebrated our 2^nd Annual Kwanzaa this year. We had all observed Kwanzaa in the past, but we decided to celebrate it together and invite people to our celebrations. For 7 whole days we did this. Each evening we had a brief ceremony, ate, had discussions, took pictures, gave gifts, and glowed in the midst of our ancestors knowing they were proud that we took pride in our African American Identity- no watering it down.

I made Kwanzaa gifts. Since I paint and create, I love to give people art. I used old vinyl records to create Africa-inspired designs.

I enjoyed making these gifts and spending time with friends. I invited my friend Robert over ON my day which was Nia: Purpose (we all take a day and do research and share our findings with everyone who comes). He brought his friend Jennifer who I had never met. She later connected me with another poetry group in Columbus,Ohio. I was very grateful. This is why I enjoy meeting new people because it seems we all touched each other and were there at that particular time for a reason. THAT WAS MY NEW YEAR!

I also spent time with my friends from Umojah Nation Reggae Band. We went to Oil City, PA. They had a 4 hour gig welcoming in the New Year! Yes, 4 hours! It was fun. I do not have a picture from that day because I think everyone was too cold to pose!

Well. this year I hope to do some extensive traveling and see my family more.

More to come…

Check out my birthday playlist:

1. Jill Scott: Spring Summer Feeling

2. Telepopmusik: Don’t Look Back

3. Esthero: Thank Heaven for You

4. Janet Jackson: When We Oooo

5. Madonna: Secret

6. Maxwell: Bad Habits

7. Corinne Bailey Rae: Closer

8. Portishead: All Mine

9. LiAnn La Havas: Don’t Wake Me Up

10. Erykah Badu: Out My Mind, Just in Time

Peace & love and thanks for reading,

Queen Duafe of African Essence

Style Ideas for African Essence Queens

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Outfit Elements:

1. The Crown- I really love my hair short. I’ve kept it short for the past 6 six years or so. Right now, my grooming regimen is simply brush curls. This is- taking the softest bristled brush you can find and brushing your hair in a circular motion, allowing the natural curl pattern to become very defined. I use a a shea oil mixture from aiiznaturals.com to condition the follicles. I then use a non-flake gel (Eco Styler) to hold the curls in place. However, most of the time the gel isn’t necessary. The curls will just stay because I have tightly coiled hair.

2. Manicure- Clear polish.

3. Make-up- I normally like my lips tinted, but I am not wearing any make-up in these series of photos.

4. Jewelry- I wore two sets of earrings. The first set was a bronze colored pair that I got from Kohl’s. The second pair, I got from a natural hair fair that came to my city about 3 years ago. An African vendor sold them for $15 a pair. She made them and painted them by hand. The rings were from various vendors at festivals. They are copper. One is shaped like an ankh and the other is an abstract design. I wear them often. The large bracelet is from an annual African street festival held on Jefferson Ave in Nashville, TN between Fisk and Tennessee State University.

5. Dress- DOTS (on clearance for about $7)

6. Tan sweater- JCP ($20); multi-colored sweater- DEB ($5); large reversible scarf- Forever 21 (maybe about $14)

7. Stockings- Target ($6 on sale)

8. Fringe boots- $10 (Sears/Kmart website on sale w/ free shipping!)

9. Notes & Style Rules: It is rare that I pay full price for any item of clothing or pair of shoes. It is mos def possible to dress for cheap. The items that I like, people don’t normally go for, so I can find them for dollars. Also, I am not into designer brands. So no, I did not need the Minnetonka boots although I know that they are a better quality. Maybe one day, but not for now. I didn’t need to spend much money. These cheaper fringe boots are working out just fine for me.

The dress was a great find. I love the textured look. It matches the stockings. I’ve gotten similar dresses from the thrift store.I do not like a lot of the clothes at DOTS because they look cheap, but the key is to go for those items that you can make look more elegant.

Also, have rules to what you can and cannot buy. For example, I do not ever wear stripes! I think stripes do not compliment what I am- my skin tone, my hair, my mind- they are just not for me. In the cheap female clothing stores you will see a lot of stripes. People go for that, but I go for the items with patterns or for the items that are plain. Another of my rules is not to purchase anything with a logo or name brands unless its something I got from the thrift store. I do no like to rep any company.

Overall, because I buy for cheap, I can splurge on other things when I need to. I work in a casual environment so if I wanted to wear this outfit to work, I would put on the longer sweater so that my butt would not show. At night, to go out with friends, I can wear the orange sweater with the designs. It does not cover the butt (keep in mind it is still appropriate for the African Essence Queen, nothing too revealing). Also, I convert all earrings to clips. I cannot get pierced ears because they don’t agree with my body. I buy clips on earrings at Claire’s on clearance and remove the clips and use them on other earrings. I also buy them from JoAnns Fabrics but they don’t sell any comfortable clip-on findings.

Queen Duafe for African Essence

Earth & Ether

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Style Ideas for African Essence Queens

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