Identity | Earth & Ether

All you gotta do is say, yes!

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This is by far my favorite Floetry video. I like how this song makes me feel.

I really loved these two sisters together, but I know how it can be working with women who can’t seem to stop being angry! Simmer down ladies! Check the lyrics on this track. my favorite parts are in bold.

See I’ve been watching you for a while, when you smile and stuff
And I wanna know if I can be with you for the night, alright
Is that alright, baby, baby

There is only one, for me
You have made that a poss-ibility
We could take that step to see
If this is really gonna be
All you gotta do is say yes

All you gotta do is say yes
Don’t deny what you feel let me undress you, babe
Open up your mind and just rest
I’m about to let you know, you make me so 2x

So, so, so, so, so, so
You make me so, so, so, so, so, so, so, so

Loving you has taken time, taken time
But I always knew you could be mine
I recognize the butterflies inside me
Since it’s gonna be made tonight, tonight
All you gotta do is say yes

All you gotta do is say yes
Don’t deny what you feel let me undress you, babe
Open up your mind and just rest
I’m about to let you know you make me so 2x

So, so, so, so, so, so
You make me so, so, so, so, so, so, so, so

You make me so, so, so, so, so, so, so, so
You make me so, so, so, so, so, so, so, so, so, so

Click here to watch the music video for Say Yes.

Peace,

Shila aka Kush

The Up Close and Personal Diaries

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Welcome. I want to introduce to you my new series of articles and interviews titled: Up Close and Personal. They feature yours truly, but the goal is to speak with other women and men that I find to be significant. I will link them in the menu bar to replace the “Stories” tab. This is the first. Check it out. It’s just about me! Testing the waters to find harmony. Smile.

THE QUESTIONS ARE IN BOLD

What is your real name? My name is Shila, but I have some aliases. It’s fun to use different names when writing, performing, or painting. Oh yes, those are some of the things that I do. Ok, so let’s talk about what you do. Honestly, I have a lot of talents and have not yet settled into one. I think as a society, or generation, we are a bit beyond the days where we worked 30 years and retired from the same company. The stability of this lifestyle can be comforting, but I am not that. I need rapid change. However, I need to maintain a steady cash flow to survive. Been shifting a lot lately to secure this level of my life. I live in America. Although I think the concept of money is full of shit, I still gotta pay bills. So how are you maintaining financially? It’s a combination of things. I have a gig and then I do freelance performance art, business writing, graphic designing, I’ve sold paintings. I wish to do better with selling my talents. My entrepreneurial side helps. Do you have children? No. How old are you? 29. Are you going to have children? What! Not sure. I really love my nieces and nephews and find comfort in them when I need to satisfy that instinct. However, I may in another life. What is your average day like? It is not a 9 to 5 type of day. It changes. I have worked very late into the night and very early. This way is better for me. My day is not all about work. I have time for reflection, exercise, connecting with people, some eating, spending time with nature like staring into the sky, walking by Lake Erie, smelling the flowers. It all matters. Hmm. Is this balance a challenge? Yes. I am learning that everything has to be in moderation. Too much or too little doesn’t work. Balance the scales to reduce stress. Have fun, but not before you give it your all. That’s nice. Is this actually working for you? Yes, but it does not exist in the element of perfection. I’m working it out. How are you maintaining your health? Herbs and holistic methods work best for me. I’ve eliminated bread as much as possible because of my sensitivity to gluten. Not much dairy, definitely not milk. Sweets on occasion, if at all. Today I wanted a Krispy Kreme donut, but I resisted. I like broccoli, brussel sprouts, green beans, potatoes, romaine salads with a vinaigrette. I cook veggies in as much garlic and capers as I can stand without becoming offensive to others… the smell! I eat corn chips with hummus weekly. If I am over a friends, I will eat a chip, but I stopped buying them. A few months ago I was adjusting to having gained 10 lbs. I was telling everyone. They were probably cursing me out in their minds because I was going on and on. I should have kept quiet. I was just surprised that one morning I got up and was much heavier than I’d ever been. I couldn’t fit my pants. I was irritated. People actually noticed that I had gained weight! Now recently, I lost 15 lbs without even being aware that I was losing weight. This happened in a month. It teaches me that I should not speak of the unimportant. I should just try to balance it all out. Make it count in a different way. My weight is not a problem. Just eat to live. No complaints. If I gain a little weight tone it up. If I lose it, do the same. I also love wine both dark and light. I am careful with the alcohol. It’s full of calories. But I like it too. Smile. That’s cool! Have you been published? Well, yes I have worked with a local magazine for a few years- articles, photos and photo manipulation, poetry, and this blog is a publication. I want to go farther with this, though. I want to do some serious editorial publishing. I want to conquer the challenges of reading. and get people to read what I write. I want to delve into the element of persuasion with the pen. What is your style of music? Oh my, it’s so much. Right now I am listening to N.E.R.D. and Kelis. In my music library you can find Badu, L. Hill, Sade, Sweetback, Gregory Isaacs, The Jackson 5, Common, Telepopmusik, The Roots, De La Soul, Tribe, Tupac, early Alicia Keys music, Esthero, Lucy Pearl, Aerosmith, Bjork and Portishead, Me’Shell Ndegeocello, Amy Winehouse, Anita Baker, The Art of Noise, Asa, Nneka, Ambrose Akinmusire, Bilal, Maxwell, D’Angelo, Alanis Morisette, SWV, Brandy, Xscape, Janet Jackson, TLC, 702, 112, Donell Jones, Carl Thomas, Tweet, Enigma, Madonna, Etana, Eurythmics, Eric Roberson, Gaelle, Carlos Santana, Goodie Mob, Fisk University Jubilee Singers, Floetry, Watts Prophets, The Verve, Black Starr, Skye aka Morcheeba, Miles Davis, Musiq… and the list goes so far and wide. Lots of people have good things to say lyrically. You get excited about music? Most definitely. I love to hear a lot of the old and some new like LiAnn La Havas, Esperanza Spalding, Quadron, Janelle Monae… shit! I hesitate when talking about new music. I really have to search my brain when trying to think of newer artists that resonate. The world is evolving and there are still those out there with major talent. You have an interesting style. What inspires your dress code? It’s all me. I don’t mimic anyone or anything. When I’ve tried to be sexy or cute, it didn’t work out spiritually and it attracts an attention that I do not need. So I keep it queen-like. I’m Shila. That’s all. But, there are some artists out there whose styles I like. Les Nubians. Whoa! Beautiful. Erykah can do no wrong when it comes to dress! Nneka has this rugged look that I adore. Solange is OK because she isn’t mainstream with her dress code. I definitely dig her hair. Jill Scott has a nice look. Boy does she wear that smile! That’s pretty much it. I don’t model myself after anyone, though, especially not entertainers. Why did you name your blog African Essence? I was trying to represent what’s inside of me- the style, the story, the real deal. I feel close to my ancestors. I do not want to ever repress my true roots. I feel it in my soul. I love the culture within. I project it. I actually am at the point where I want to change the name. I’ve evolved into something else. That’s coming. I’ve noticed that you read a lot. Yes. Honestly, it has been so hard to maintain a regular reading schedule, but sometimes I have to just stop, put it all down and read… and I don’t want to read online or using an eReader. I need the book to be in my hand. I want to feel the spine, the pages.Yes! Even with magazines and newspapers, CD inserts! I like the smell. I like the physical. Any favorites? For some reason Lerone Bennett Jr’s Before the Mayflower is a book that I cherish. I have 4 editions of it. My favorite mag is WaxPoetics. Whatchu know about it!? I discovered this magazine in ATL at a record store in Little Five Points. Been in love ever since. I read mostly non-fiction African-American Lit/Black Studies. I also read a lot of books based in Buddhist philosophies, art and science rituals, things like that. What is the up close series about? I tend to open up like a flower when I am around the right people. They love that I am not afraid to tell the truth. I love that they appreciate a good story and listen so well. I say some interesting things. I am more interested in the things that others have to say, so here I am. As an aspiring writer, it is important that I take this challenge- get people to open up just like me! It’s so much better when we tell the truth… with humility. Tell us something interesting, Shila. About you. Oh wow! I suppose this is the point of it all! Ok, so you really want to know? Here it is! I do not believe in religion or marriage as practiced in doctrine. I believe in a higher connection with the Creator, Universe, and with people! It gets better than what’s on paper and in a book. Don’t hate me! Smile. Peace.

Interview conducted by the spirit of Gil Scott-Heron – haha

Gotta, gotta read. Trying to finish the Questlove book and I am looking forward to reading The Hip Hop Generation by Bakari Kitwana.

Finding harmony,

Kush

I Write

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Just Wanted to Share My Poetry

Note: I tell people to refresh their pages because I am always changing things. However, keep in my mind, I have to protect my writing so the words that are not visible are on purpose! Smile. Copyright law Shila style! Embrace the digital art. Peace and love.

Snippets of my writing. Enjoy.

Shila aka Queen

P.S. We must read! On Friday, November 15 I had the pleasure of experiencing this very beautiful sister at Case Western Reserve University’s Think Tank hosted by the lovely Ms. Rhonda Williams.

Author: Sonia Sanchez

Men That I Will Always Love… Musically :)

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Seeing Usher on the cover of the November 2013 Men’s Health Magazine reminded me of the highs and lows of R&B music over the past decade or so. For me the music used to be all about the experiences of life and love, but now it has more of an egocentric nucleus with artists lashing out and praising themselves rather than the aforementioned. Call it evolution, but I call it disappointment! R&B was so pure, fun, mellow, groovy, enlightening, and worthwhile. I turn to the past to get stimulation…

Resurrecting the past is not always a good idea, but in 2013, it seems to be my only option when it comes to music. So, I turn to the men I loved in the 90s and early 2000s. I always get a kick out of these videos because they portray honest emotions, attitudes, and dress codes.

Donell

Musiq

D’Angelo

Usher

Yasiin

CLICK ON THE SONG TITLES TO VIEW THE VIDEOS VIA YOUTUBE.

#1 Usher: You Don’t Have to Call Usher has a lot of music that I like., but this is one of my favorites from him. Why? Because he was having so much fun in the video! He is constantly smiling (1:03, 2:03, 4:01, 4:40, 4:55) and he has some cool dance moves. I especially like when they are in the car and do the bounce! I also love the parking lot dance and the way the crew walked into the party! Hilarious and so cool. He had skates on his heels… oh my! I cannot get enough of this video. It always brings my mood up. Enjoy.

#2 Donell Jones: Where I Wanna Be All I can say is that I get confused too sometimes Donell. We will work it out!

#3 Musiq Soulchild: HalfCrazy You think that you are crazy? No, I am crazier Musiq! I love this song and I will always cherish your music because it helped me to understand a lot about emotions. Also, that kiss he delivered at 1:36! Whoo hoo! Makes me wanna…

#4 D’Angelo: Lady I am waiting for the day when I can see a D’Angelo concert. You just don’t understand. And yes D’Angelo, I am your lady for life!

#5 Mos Def: Umi Says Now known as Yasiin Bey, he is probably my mos fav lyricist of all time. Amazing at any thing he practices.

That’s it for now folks. These men… hmmmm

Kush Queendom

P.S. You might find this book to be valuable.

So I’ve Been Thinking

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Just want to share some poetry.

Kush aka Shila aka Queen

P.S. Listening to the Rebirth of Slick… because I’m Cool Like That

Introducing Something New

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African Essence will be getting a face lift… stay tuned. Evolving.

…gonna re-program your mind as you watch the water turn to wine, come and grow with me… wanting something new.,. my world is spinning…

Kush

P.S. Listening to Electric Lady by Janelle Monae

Why We African Headdress

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Often referred to as headwraps or turbans, African and African-like head coverings have become quite the accessory in various dress codes. I believe that it is a beautiful addition to the wardrobe and in my closet, it is my most beloved adornment. I wear headwraps at least twice a week and have been doing so for quite some time. It is part of the many cultures that I celebrate, all indigenous to the continent we know as Africa. I encourage ladies to explore the headwrap, not just as a fashion statement, but as part of African-American identity. Like other headgear such as the niqab, hijab, kufi, kofia, kippah, non la, patka, shpitzel, tam, taqiya, or sombrero it has its purpose and is highly valued by those who wear it.

Why wear a headwrap?

#1 REASON – It’s simply beautiful.

#2 REASON – To represent the African Diaspora: it’s part of the culture we lost during the Middle Passage. We are redefining and regaining our physical identity via attire/garb.

#3 REASON – It’s protective of our crowns.

#4 REASON – In compliance with codes of modesty.

#5 REASON – It represents regality.

#6 REASON – To absorb perspiration when working and keep the hair off the face.

#6 REASON – Social and spiritual significance; articulation of piousness.

#7 REASON – It’s quite stylish.

Most of the time you can determine the use of a headwrap based on the type of fabric used. I listed a few reasons, but I know there is so much information out there surrounding the headwrap. Explore.

: I love these scarves!

Related Materials

Headwraps

The African American Woman’s Headwrap: Unwinding the Symbols

HarvestGirlLove Etsy Store

Jafya Royalworks Etsy Store

Tambo Collection

Purchase African Headdress

Thank you for visiting,

The Kush Queen for African Essence

P.S. I found this video to be very enlightening. It’s always good to know the truth and decide what you want to do with it.

Part 2: The Turban Across the Globe (kaurthoughts.wordpress.com)
Headwrap and leather jacket kind of day (lamodexxaisha.wordpress.com)
Charting 5 centuries of African American history (kfwbam.com)
A simple, yearly test can save Black men from dying (louisianaweekly.com)

The Monday Hot List – Music Makes My Day

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Hello people! Sorry about the playlist I posted on Saturday. Turns out the page had some major technical difficulties and the videos would not load. Well, I have a new playlist for today. Let me know what you think. Peace and harmony.

Note: Click on the pictures or links to listen to the song.

Nneka: Heartbeat

Iyeoka: Simply Falling

Asa: The Way I Feel

Bjork: Possibly Maybe

Also by Bjork: All is Full of Love

Maroon 5: Secret

Portishead: Only You

Also by Portishead: All Mine

Telepopmusik: Breathe

Also by Telepopmusik: Don’t Look Back

Morcheeba: Slow Down

Erykah Badu w/ Stephen Marley: In Love With You

Jill Scott: I Think It’s Better Interlude

Also by Jill Scott: He Loves Me

Gaelle: Repetition

Also by Gaelle: Love You More

Me’Shell Ndegeocello: Trust

Also by Me’Shell Ndegeocello: Soul Searchin’

Miguel Migs w/ Me’Shell Ndegeocello: Tonight

Res: 700 Mile Situation

Thank you for listening and visiting.

Kush Queen for African Essence

FaLL LoOk BoOK PaGe 2… wear what you got

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This Autumn I am focusing on wearing what is already in my closet. I won’t be purchasing much of anything. I gained some weight and had to let some things go. However, I had enough stretchy clothing to carry me for a while. My motto is no CONSUMERISM. Thank you Lauryn Hill for solidifying my decision! She gets deeper than fashion in her hot new track.

Today’s Look: The Lavender Sweater Dress

FROM HEAD TO TOE:

Stretchy fabric used for head wrapping from JoAnn’s.
Lavender dress from Venus. I was quite disappointed when I first bought this dress because I ordered the smallest size they had and it was too big! However, I gained 5 lbs and now I can fit it! It was on sale for $19 last year. I really like it now! Venus has nice dresses for women who have curves. I normally would buy from the sale and clearance sections. This dress has to be hand washed.
The black and gray multicolored sweater is from TJMaxx. It was $25 which is more than what I would normally pay, but I needed a sweater. I have worn this for 3 years and I hand wash it as well.
The stockings are gray from Target for $4.
The shoes are by Aldo. They were expensive because of the leather. It’s called the Fornilli.
Sterling silver earrings from a guy who came into the beauty salon selling jewelry! $10. Sterling silver rings from thrift stores, Passport to Peru, and City Buddha.

Final Note: Sweater dresses are one of my favorite items of clothing so when I saw this one for just $19, I jumped on it! They can get pretty pricey, but I’ll stay in the under $30 range. It’s difficult for me to pay over $25 for any article of clothing that is not mud cloth or Kente cloth. I normally buy them at the end of the season for more than 80% off. I’ve gotten them from Dots, H&M, Dillards, and online, all for under $20. This dress is made with viscose and is very thin and a bit see-through. Wearing with stockings is a must. You may even have to wear a slip.

The Kush Queen for African Essence

P.S. Have you been reading? Don’t slip. Queens must read. This is the first fiction book I’ve read in years and I’m liking it. Doctor Sleep by Stephen King.

Midwest Styles: Do You Remember Bell Bottoms (africanessence.wordpress.com)
Living in the Midwest: Spring Queens (africanessence.wordpress.com)
The 60 Degree Spring Queen (africanessence.wordpress.com)
I Love the Sun Thrifted Ensemble (africanessence.wordpress.com)
Lauryn Hill released from prison, releases new song (listen) (brooklynvegan.com)
Lauryn Hill Releases “Consumerism”, Released From Prison [@mslaurynhill] (dayandadream.com)
Lauryn Hill Releases New Song on Prison Release Date (essence.com)
Lauryn Hill – Consumerism (deadendhiphop.com)

FaLL LOoK BoOk PaGe 1 … wear what you got

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In the Midwest weather used to be simple. We would have cold Winters, warm Springs, hot Summers, and moderate Falls. Times have changed and sometimes the seasons blend. I have no complaints! I actually love the complexities of weather. Everyday is an exploration. I no longer pack away my winter or summer clothes for storage. Everything stays in the closet year round. Sunday I wore shorts and today I had on heavy socks and insulated shoes. That’s how it is these days!

Just go with the flow of the sun. Since, the seasons can no longer dictate the dress code, wear what is befitting of the day. This is a wardrobe check to help you transition into “autumn-like” weather…

Don’t forget to share, comment, and follow African Essence!

One of my favorite pairs of earrings.

I really love mustard colored clothing.

I normally wear wine colored lipsticks. The only color I really like.

I adore wooden and feathered jewelry.

WHAT I AM WEARING FROM HEAD TO TOE

My natural hair is permanently dyed using Silk Elements Santa Fe Bronze. I normally only dye my crown once every 4-6 months. Recently I decided that I wanted to grow the color out and focus on my original hair color of black. The dye is $4.
The shirt is made by a brand called Angie from Dillard’s. It was originally $32 but I bought it for $10.
The denim skirt is originally made by Mossimo for Target. I got it brand new from a thrift store for $3.
The stockings are from Target..maybe $4?
The fringe boots are from Sears/Kmart online. I caught them on sale last season for $10. The quality is fine. No visible wear or tear. They were originally $30. I noticed that these stores offer cheaper items online. What’s the catch? I don’t know! You can get fringe boots from Kohl’s, Nordstrom’s, Macy’s, etc. I am not sure if they are the trend this year… but of course on African Essence we don’t follow trends, we set them!
Earrings: Icing by Claire’s for $2
Left arm bracelets from Glitter 3 for $3. Right arm leather bracelet from City Buddha for $4. The wooden necklace might also be from City Buddha for maybe $3?

CONSUMERISM. I went to Forever21 a few months back and was amazed to see that the clothing store had expanded to twice its size. It was ridiculously overwhelming so much that I vowed not to return! It was just entirely too much clothing. It looked like a sweat shop had thrown up in that place! I decided then that I would wear what I have and try not to spend any money on clothes. People think that I buy buy buy, but I have had most of my wardrobe for years. I was the same clothing size for about 10 years. Recently this changed and I had to buy a few items. Before this, my clothes lasted… 🙂 Honestly, I admit that my closet is stretched so I am not going to be doing much shopping until at least Summer 2014. I am saving for some trips/vacations so I will see how this balances out.

Peace and so much love!

The Kush Queen for African Essence

P.S. As much as I am drawn to some decorative clothing, we have to be careful not to become wasteful, penniless consumers. Check out Lauryn Hill’s new song called CONSUMERISM. I love her. If you don’t see the track below refresh the page. 🙂

I Love the Sun Thrifted Ensemble (africanessence.wordpress.com)
Consumerism by a 23 year old female. (itismorethanenough.wordpress.com)
Spring Things for Queens:Fringe (africanessence.wordpress.com)
3 Tips to Transition from Summer to Fall (stylenest.com)
Learning How to Wear Skinny Jeans Part 2 (africanessence.wordpress.com)
Learn To Stand Out! Fall 2013 Hairstyle Trends (dangerouslee.biz)
Closet Organization Tips for Fall (Infographic) (apartmentguide.com)

Ode to Camouflage aka Army Fat

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THIS IS THE ULTIMATE “HOW TO WEAR CAMOUFLAGE GUIDE” SO GET READY! Stay TUNED FOR next week’s guide on “HOW TO WEAR MUD CLOTH.”

CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO ENLARGE. USE THE ARROWS TO BROWSE.

THE MEN’S STYLES ARE AT THE BOTTOM.

If I have to love anything about trends this year, it is definitely army fatigue and camouflage attire. Although it has been around for decades, it is one of Autumn’s biggest fashion highlights. When you go to stores such as H&M, Forever21, DEB, Rainbow, Wet Seal, Macy’s, Dillards, Rue 21, Body Central, Urban Outfitters, Target or anywhere, you will see it plastered on every mannequin from pants and leggings to jackets, hats, backpacks, scarves, shoes, and even cell phone accessories, coffee mugs, watches, purses and dog clothes. I’ve always liked the camouflage design. Browsing the web, I saw some ladies who looked really fly in their army fat:

Note: This is sort of a long entry because I wanted to show you that there are so many ways to be creative with army fatigue. So scroll all the way through to get the full experience. If you click on an image, use the arrows to go to the next image and as always please do not be afraid to FOLLOW African Essence using your email address. Look for the follow buttons on the page. I love you too! Peace.

chictopia.com

Army fat with short skirts…

I like the baggy look.

So lovely.

I like this jacket. I would wear jeans.

This is my favorite camo print- it’s dark with no added studs or anything like that.

I like the distressed jacket… no flag, though!

Red is such a great color to pair with army fat.

I like the contrasting pink.

I like the jumpsuit.

I like the contrasting yellow.

Nice.

I like…

Sort of cute.

Mary J. Blige… love this!

I dig.

I really dig the vest.

How I Wear My Leggings – To Compliment My Femininity, Not My Sexuality

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I read that leggings that are worn as pants, have been banned in many schools across the country because they are said to be distracting and too revealing. Employers are banning them for the same reasons, adding that they contribute to harassment and are unsafe. I comprehend. Of course we can argue the truths and untruths of this matter, but the bottom line is, a person has to have self-awareness and esteem to be able to understand why leggings may not be the best choice of attire when in search for success and positive attention. Ladies, do what you feel, but be prepared to receive what you get. I am here to offer alternatives so that you won’t be attacked, embarrassed, or harassed.

Here is how I wear my leggings:

My gold and black.

Black and gold for autumn.

I love photo filtering.

Just wanted you to see the gold studs that run all the way up the leg. Super hott!

I dig this shoe. Think I got them from Dillards on clearance.

The shirt detail. Aziza gave me this. I think she got it from from Dots. www.azizayasmine.com

The shirt detail. Aziza gave me this. I think she got it from from Dots. http://www.azizayasmine.com

Sandals are by http://www.arturochiang.com

Here, you can see the mini-skirt I wore over the leggings.

The skirt hiked up a bit, but I pulled it down as far as it could go.

From the side… not bad or inappropriate.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

I have my reasons for not liking leggings… I saw a young lady the other day who, judging from her demeanor and attitude, could not have been over the age of 14. She was very irritated because some boy made a rude comment about her rear end. 😦 Well, she had on leggings and was wearing them as pants, so I’m like… hmmmm… wait a minute. Before we get too angry, let’s talk about self-awareness. She was very shapely for her age and that is OK, but she probably should not have had on leggings as pants. You might want to consider how you wear those leggings young lady! Should you wear a long shirt to cover your behind or perhaps a dress so that your body will be less revealed?

What could she have done differently as to not attract negative attention and energy? Just last month a guy got arrested at my job for approaching some little girls in a sexual manner. It was disgusting. He had been watching them and decided that he’d make his move. I observe the girls every time I am at work, paying attention to what they wear and a lot of it is not cool. Many times I see the young girls raising up their shirts to show their stomachs in public and talking loud, and wearing see through shirts so that the boys can see their bras. And more often than I care to witness, they wear too tight and too small clothing that is a cry for attention. It is just a bit much for a child to be wearing leggings as pants. Actually, I can’t believe how many of them do. I wish that I could say that it is OK to wear anything no matter how tight, but after observing predators, I would cover my child up. That guy wasn’t the first guy I saw go after a child. It saddens me because I wish the world was simple enough to where things were NOT looked at in a sexual way. But the reality is: SEX IS USED TO HYPNOTICALLY DISTRACT AND we have to be careful not to become a victim of the SEX. I work in a public place where I see a whole lot of inappropriateness and hyper-sexuality and I cry. I cry inside for people who have been bamboozled into thinking that letting it all hang out, will get them what they want.

Let’s talk prevention. We can avoid a lot of negative behavior by wearing things that compliment our femininity rather than our sexuality.

Peace and love… I only say these things because I want you to receive the respect you deserve. I’ve made my wardrobe mistakes and wearing too-revealing clothing was one. I do not want or need the wrong kind of attention. I also do not want to be a sexual distraction. I would much rather grab the attention of your mind.

All I can say is that when I dress like a Queen, I am treated as such.

It’s all love,

The Kush Queen of African Essence

No, leggings aren’t pants!!!! (stylebyshaheeda.wordpress.com)
Feminine Edge. (colormevoguish.wordpress.com)
The Season of Leggings and Yoga Pants is Upon us: Don’t Be a Victim of a Spandex Mishap (nattiepop.wordpress.com)
The right way to wear leggings in school (cnn.com)
California School Bans Leggings Because They Were Distracting To Boys (http://newsfeed.time.com)
23 Reasons Leggings Are The Worst (buzzneed.com)

Avoid this: WHEN TRENDS GO WRONG…

Learning How to Wear Skinny Jeans Part 2

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Yesterday I shared with you all how I wear my black skinny’s. This is my red pair. Check it out and let me know what you think. Don’t be afraid to like this post if you are a wordpress blogger and subscribe using the follow blog option in the menu to your left. I’d appreciate it! Thanks!

I got the red earrings at Glitter for $1.00.

I like the pleather belt. I will be head wrapping a lot for the cold weather as a protective style as opposed to getting weave.

Again, with skinny’s I like my booty to be covered as much as possible.

This shirt is so cool.

The jeans were $9.99 at Kohls.

This shirt was $7 at Body Shop. I’ve seen the design at many different stores.

Peace and so much love,

The Kush Queen for African Essence Blog

Learning How to Wear Skinny Jeans Part 1 (africanessence.wordpress.com)
8 Fashion Essentials for Winter (turnstyleconsign.com)

Learning How to Wear Skinny Jeans Part 1

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Ok, skinny’s aren’t my favorite, but somehow I bought 3 pairs for under $10 a piece. They have been sitting in my closet collecting dust, so I thought I’d give them another go… this is DAY 1: The black pair.

I like them paired with a good military boot, sandal, or high heel. No flats!

I like my booty 2b covered.

I found out that I like them best with tunics.

These jeans were $9.99 at Kohls.

I like black skinny pants and dark jeans the most.

Gotta have my sterling silver!

I feel like stomping!

I dig this print a lot.

I got these from rainbowshops.com

I like the tapered sweater. Got it from H&M for $10 a year ago.

Overall, I like them a little. I definitely think you have to know your body type in order to wear them because like everything in life, everything ain’t for everybody. These jeans hug so if you wear them, KNOW your body!!!!!!

*I figured, I might as well not waste them. I think they look OK on me according to my shape. I’ve seen a few ladies who can honestly wear them and look great in them (I’ve only seen a few). I’ve worn this black pair in the past with high heel wedges and other sandals. I will not wear them with flats unless I cuff the bottom of the jean. The flats have to be a clean-looking light weight canvas shoe. None of those Tom’s shoes or baby doll flats. I do not like that look at all! It makes the feet look like boats! LOL. Well anywho… I’ll be back tomorrow with a 2nd look.

Peace and love,

The Kush Queen of African Essence