How to create your own kind of beautiful – Interview with Karen Joseph

Strong, independent, and determined are three words that describe Karen Joseph, owner of Ezzie Bliss, a newly launched online accessories store. This March, the single mother of three set out to make her love of fashion a successful business, while pursuing a degree in nursing – an unlikely career path for someone who has a background in accounting and telecommunications. As a young girl growing up in Grenada, accessories played a major part in helping her develop self-confidence.

“There were days when I felt ugly when I saw myself in the mirror; although my friends and family told me different,” she says. “It was those pieces of jewelry that made me feel transformed – as if it was like therapy when I put them on. Accessories helped me to build my confidence, and is now leading me towards my accomplishments. I hope I could relay this feeling to other women in similar situations.”

How did you decide on the name?

My sister Ezra is the inspiration behind the name Ezzie Bliss.  Although she is my younger sister, Ezra has had a major impact on my life. She is driven to achieve her goals, she is caring, loyal and loving and because of these qualities, I look up to her and admire her. In Hebrew, Ezra means helper. Ezra is currently engaged and in August she will become Mrs. Bliss. Combining Ezra and Bliss just made sense to me.  When I was thinking about the name Ezzie Bliss it meant “helper of joy.” In my life my sister and my family have been my foundation and my joy.

What motivated you to start your online accessories business? Continue reading “How to create your own kind of beautiful – Interview with Karen Joseph”

Let’s go summer hat shopping together!

I recently booked an early summer vacation. That’s right, in just a few short weeks, I will be basking in the warmth of the sun, listening to the soothing sound of the ocean, and enjoying being kissed by the kind of soft, cool breeze that only exists on tropical islands. Although I am tremendously excited about my trip, once concern I have is the amount … Continue reading Let’s go summer hat shopping together!

Handmade Luxury: Interview with Designer Barbara Campbell

Designer Barbara Campbell

I first introduced you all to designer Barbara Campbell in October 2011, when I attended one of her trunk shows at Bloomingdales in SoHo, where she was showcasing her Black and Gold jewelry collection. This week I had the opportunity to catch up with the busy designer to learn more about her company, where she gets her inspiration from, and how her business continues to thrive in the fashion industry.

Where are you from?

I am a first generation Cuban-American, born and raised in Washington Heights in Manhattan. Both my mother and father were born in Cuba

When did your company launch?

The inspiration for my company began in Vermont in 2006, overlooking a lake in the green mountains. The natural beauty of the environment started merging with my design instincts. The company actually launched while I was on the beach in Montauk. Once again the natural beauty of the beaches and the ocean convinced me that designing accessories that were inspired by nature’s wonders was something I wanted to do. The company officially launched in the fall of 2007. Continue reading “Handmade Luxury: Interview with Designer Barbara Campbell”

Do YOU “Live in Fashion?”

Liveinfashion.com Owner Michelle Akers

Starting your own business is no easy task, especially in the fashion world, where competition is fiercer than an episode of Ru Paul’s Drag Race. So how does a young boutique owner stay on top of their game in a dog-eat-dog industry? We sat down with Michelle Akers, Owner/Buyer of the New York based online boutique Liveinfashion.com to find out.

Launched in December 2009, Liveinfashion.com, caterers to “the woman who is daring to be different.” The online store successfully sells out unique fashionable pieces, reflecting Akers’ eye for quality, and innate ability to sense what women covet when it comes to style.

Where are you from?

Wow…I was born in Houston, Texas then moved to Brooklyn, NY for a little while, then to Jamaica, Queens. Now, I live in Elmont, Long Island.

What inspired you to start you online boutique?

I remember coming home one night and just saying to my mom that I wanted to start an online store. I’m a very daring person, so when I dress people would always ask where I got certain pieces from. I decided that I wanted to be the source of “getting.”

How did you decide on the name?

It came down to either “love in fashion” or “live in fashion.” The slogan “Do you live in fashion?” just stuck and that’s how I chose the name. Continue reading “Do YOU “Live in Fashion?””

RSVP Alison

Rock your Red Pumps on March 10th!

“Every 35 minutes, a woman tests positive for HIV in the United States.”

On March 10th, the US will commemorate National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NWGHAAD), a yearly project of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health that seeks raises awareness of the impact of HIV/AIDS on women and girls. In observance of this day, the 4th Annual Rock the Red Pump™ Campaign is back and encouraging women to rock their favorite pair of red pumps. Here are some fierce red pumps you may consider slipping your feet into this Saturday: Continue reading “Rock your Red Pumps on March 10th!”

Secret essentials for overnight visits and everything else in between

Disguise any bathroom deeds This, to me, is the one of greatest things ever created. Poo~Pourri is a bathroom air-freshener that you spray in a toilet bowl BEFORE you use it to prevent the embarrassing odor. This is perfect if you share a communal bathroom at work, or stay over at someone house, whether it be a male friend, or a girl friend, no one … Continue reading Secret essentials for overnight visits and everything else in between

Bloggerini Event Series

On February 29th I attended the first Bloggerini event at Lair NYC. Bloggerini is a monthly event series hosted by E! News Daily and Inside Edition Contributor, Katlean de Monchy. The event featured fashions by Camille Le Vie and Mori Lee by Madeline Gardner dresses. Monchy jewelry also displayed their impressive line of accessories. Just as impressive as the jewelry was the drinks! I’m am … Continue reading Bloggerini Event Series

Spotlight: African American Designers

With Black History month coming to an end, it’s only fitting that we should profile top African-American designers…. Post submitted by Jolevette AMSALE ABERRA Amsale Aberra  is known for her modern version of the classic fairytale bridal gown. Her gowns have adorned brides such as Bethany Frankel and has starred in many films including “When in Rome” and “The Hangover”.  Born in Ethiopia, Amsale came … Continue reading Spotlight: African American Designers

What’s your sign? SEAH Astrological Jewelry

During New York Fashion Week, I was introduced to The SEAH Collection, an astrology-based line of luxury timepieces and jewelry. I immediately fell in love with the SEAH long earrings with yellow gold two-tone plating (pictured above) that I found, personalized with my astrological sign (Scorpio). I’m not the only fan, it seems. Even the big stars are in alignment when it comes to SEAH. No, I’m … Continue reading What’s your sign? SEAH Astrological Jewelry