![Quantcast](http://pixel.quantserve.com/pixel/p-GS-HF4BKvzCmv.gif)
![6 Style Experts Share Tips To Upgrade Your Look For Fall/ Winter](https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy81MDUzNDM4NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTc0OTk5NjYwMH0.EJqDvkBBDa-rwSeAE6iSvBe0xQNIH27xQOF4Wxr7EkQ/img.jpg?width=1200&height=600&quality=90&coordinates=0%2C0%2C0%2C171)
6 Style Experts Share Tips To Upgrade Your Look For Fall/ Winter
Earlier this week, I slipped on my favorite flip-flops and hurriedly walked out the door, only to turn around a few seconds later and swap them for a pair of boots. That’s when it hit me – fall is here, and “winter is coming.'' In Atlanta, the heat lingers for a while, but I think it’s finally time to retire the sleeveless tops and denim shorts and commit to long-sleeved shirts and stylish slacks. Change is constant whether we want to accept it or not, and nothing displays this quite like the weather. But as someone who's been working in sweats and t-shirts for the past few years, I realized my closet was no longer giving what it was supposed to give. Half of my wardrobe felt outdated, and the remainder only partially reflected my current style.
So, after giving away a few bags to Goodwill and Insta-stalking my favorite influencers, I decided that my current “mood” would influence my style – but this still presented a problem. I wasn’t sure exactly what mood I wanted to convey. Because I enjoy the confidence of business casual looks. But if I’m honest, I also like the power I feel in more sensual styles. Still, the majority of the time, I love a comfy, cute, and casual fit. Luckily for me, I learned I don’t have to commit to just one, and neither do you. Our fashion choices can be just like us: multifaceted. Still, it doesn’t hurt to have an overall idea of your signature style.
So we talked to a few women who can help. Here’s 6 Black fashionistas you should know, along with their style advice for the colder season.
For Sneaker Lovers
Melissa Carnegie, Kicks and Fros Founder
How did you go about starting your sneaker collection, and what advice do you have for women looking to build their own? I started my sneaker collection, buying sneakers I liked and that fit my style. Advice I have for other women looking to build their collection is to start where you are. Outlet stores will be your best friend. You don't have to break the bank when starting your collection.
Give me three staple sneaker styles that should be in every woman's closet.
I would say an Air Force 1, Adidas Stan Smith, and Jordan 1.
What are a few ways to incorporate sneakers into our professional looks?
Always be yourself and pair kicks with your everyday style. One way I take them into a professional setting is pairing them with suits. Maxi skirts, slacks, and graphic tees also look great when rocking sneakers.
There's a narrative out there that heels, sandals, etc., are more girly or "feminine" than sneakers. What are your thoughts on this, and can you share some fashionable ways you incorporate sneakers into your style to dispel this?
I don’t agree with this narrative at all. You can 100% give all feminine energy when wearing sneakers. Sneakers with dresses always bring a feminine, soft edge. Crop tops, skirts, and cropped fitted tops with baggy loose bottoms also give feminine energy.
What's next for Kicks and Fros? Also, can you share a personal goal you're working on?
We launched a sneaker cleaner in the beginning of October I’m super excited about. It’s a project we’ve been working on for two years, and I can’t wait for our community to have it in their hands. A personal goal I’m working on is scheduling downtime to do something fun, something other than work, lol!
For Thrifters
Bicoastal B, Stylist
What’s your favorite thing about thrifting? What advice would you give to people who struggle to find nice pieces while thrifting?
My favorite thing about thrifting is finding designer/high-end brands for cheap. It literally gives me a high. I have been thrifting all my adult life, pretty much. The best advice I can give individuals who are wanting to thrift is to go with patience and kind of already have in mind what you’re looking for. Don’t be afraid to pull out your Pinterest board to look at inspo while shopping.
Are there any staple pieces you recommend we add to our collection?
Blazers are great to throw on with literally anything, and boom you’re that girl. Also, I’d say a leather jacket, a nice turtleneck, and a good pair of jeans and slacks.
When did you realize you wanted to be a stylist, and what services do you offer?
I first realized I wanted to be a stylist when I lived in Tokyo. I was putting looks together and posting them on IG. I had one lady DM me and asked if I offered a service, and the rest is history. Now, I offer a number of services: style boxes (where I thrift shop for your personal wardrobe based on a brief questionnaire), personal shopping, and photoshoot styling.
For Fashionistas
Pilar Scratch, Stylist
What's the fall fashion tip you swear by?
When it comes to autumn fashion tips, layering is key. To achieve a chic look, you can try out some of these top combinations: a long coat and neck sweater, white tee and wool pants, a long quilted vest, white button-up, & knee-high boots. When layering for the autumn season, it's essential to balance proportions and mix up textures. Keep this in mind, and you'll have a fantastic wardrobe in autumn!
How did you cultivate your signature style?
My signature style was honed through my study of vintage fashion, mainly influenced by the edgy yet classic look of the ‘80s and ‘90s. I delved into Pinterest boards and even interned at Patricia Field’s boutique in the early 2010s before it closed. I was fortunate enough to study under some of the fashion industry's greats, and the experience was invaluable.
Who are your style influences, and what have you learned from them?
I'm grateful to have worked closely with my fashion influences, Ty Hunter and Patricia Field. Ty is a dear friend of mine now. They've both had a significant impact on my sense of style. Through them, I’ve learned that fashion is an art form that manifests in clothing, and it's a fabulous way to express oneself. Additionally, it's crucial to not be afraid of taking risks in the fashion industry. Remember, the bolder the statement, the greater the risk.
Sometimes I go to events and it feels like we all shopped at the same place. Tell me about a few of the ways you keep your looks so stylish yet unique.
You can revitalize your wardrobe with a clothes swap. Try swapping clothes with your most fashionable friends. One great way to keep your wardrobe feeling fresh is to adopt a one-in, one-out policy. Get rid of items that haven't been worn in months and trade them for something your friend has grown tired of wearing. It's a win-win situation! By doing this, you can acquire distinctive items that will give you the feeling of a shopping spree.
What services do you offer, and what's the best way to connect with you?
Currently, I have the pleasure of working as a celebrity wardrobe stylist and serving as the Editor-in-Chief of Fashion Gxd Magazine. Our magazine is sold at Barnes and Noble, Walmart and is Amazon's best-selling magazine. We showcase a diverse range of entrepreneurs and their life journeys. I have been working as a wardrobe stylist and fashion/shopping expert for the last decade, dressing celebrities such as Fatman Scoop, Musiq Soulchild, Rah Digga, Mariah Lynn, Jim Jones for Fashion Gxd Magazine, and River Mason Eromosele. My expertise has been recognized by several reputable sources, including The Wall Street Journal, Insider, Instyle, Yahoo, Essence magazine, BET, People Magazine, The Source magazine, Bustle, Men's Health, and Huffington Post.
For The Girls Who Like A Little Sex Appeal
Taquiela Wright, Designer of Lingerie Brand Delisa Rose
I like that your designs feature different styles and textures (lace, chiffon, velvet). It gives more of an elegant look. Are there other stylistic elements women should try to upgrade their style?
Play around with different fabrics for your skin tones, body type, and body shape. As I’ve put on a little weight, I pick fabrics that accentuate my curves. But for your lingerie closet, for example, work with stretchy materials and things that will form to the body. Know your body type but also the comfort. The form, fit, and color is all important. Little secret: I do a lot of focus groups, and red is always the #1 color my girls prefer for sexy styles.
Talk to me about making sure our clothing is environmentally friendly.
It’s a journey with that because sustainability in top quality material is expensive. But you want to get something that’s durable. Velvet and lace is what I play around with most with Delisa Rose. But it’s good to pick materials that can be washed several times or collectible items.
Inside or outside of the bedroom, what are a few ways we can upgrade our look and add a dash of sex appeal?
Stick to the classics – like, the look of Chamise (her design) is not a new thing. It’s just the way I created it. So, I pair transitional sensual pieces with classics. That way, you can feel elegant and nice while walking outside while still owning your sensuality and sexuality. (For example, she was wearing a bright pink blazer in the interview and paired it with a lingerie teddy underneath.)
Now you have an interesting background. In addition to being a designer, you’re an engineer. How did your engineering background impact your journey into Delisa Rose?
I have to mention the manufacturing process. I didn’t think about how this was going to come together. I just decided I wanted to design a brand you can wear in and outside of the bedroom, so I had to learn garment production, but that was such an easy transition because of my manufacturing skill and sorting. I specialize in raw materials, so before it’s even processed I can tell if the purities meet the requirements, and that helps with laces and stretch quality.
For Risk-Takers
Monique F., Stylist
Are you big on accessories? What are a few must-haves you recommend?
I firmly believe in always accessorizing when leaving the house because these little additions, whether it's a piece of jewelry, glasses/sunglasses, a hat, scarf, or even a belt, have the power to elevate any outfit to the next level.
Who are style influences, and what have you learned from them?
My style is influenced by remarkable individuals such as June Ambrose, Tracee Ellis Ross, Rihanna, and Zendaya. They’ve taught me the importance of embracing risks when defining your personal style. Fashion, for me, is not just about clothes; it’s an extension of self-expression. It’s a means to showcase who I am authentically.
What services do you offer, and what’s the best way to connect with you?
I provide a range of services, including personal styling, personal shopping, wardrobe revamping, and wardrobe styling for on-set photoshoots and videos. The best way to get in touch with me, you can find me on Instagram at @Morefined and reach me via email at morefined@gmail.com.
For The Girls Who Live Out Loud
Tomi Randall, Stylist
How did you cultivate your signature style?
Over time, by allowing my authentic self to shine through. I was able to align myself with the brands that aligned closely with my own personal values while being unapologetic AF.
Can you tell me about one of your style must-haves?
Necklines: turtlenecks, crewnecks, v-neck, or a cowl are great. Each neckline deserves its own unique necklace that complements the shape of each given silhouette. So it’s MAJOR to give yourself options that help you elevate your look.
What have you learned from your style influences?
June Ambrose; said “ I'VE NEVER CONSIDERED MYSELF TO BE A "FASHION GIRL." BECAUSE I DIDN'T GO INTO IT NEEDING TO BE ACCEPTED BY THE FASHION DESIGNERS AND THE HOUSES. I WAS BUILDING MY OWN ATELIERS AND WRITING MY OWN TICKET, CREATING MY OWN PATH.”
I’ve learned through the hard work & dedication June Ambrose possessed at harnessing and honing in on her authentic eclectics in the carvings of her path that I too can strive to create a standard, my own standard, the new standard.
Sometimes I go to events and it feels like we all shopped at the same place. Tell me about a few of the ways you keep your looks so stylish yet unique.
It’s not what you wear, it’s how you wear it. My style is divinely guided by my higher self. She comes alive with texture, embodies moods, & sets the tone for any room she enters.
What services do you offer, and what's the best way to connect with you?
I provide my client the full luxury experience for both styling and couture design services for red carpet appearances, interviews, music videos, commercial, film and TV and one one-on-one image consulting/ virtual styling.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image by Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
Kirby Carroll grew up in VA but now calls Atlanta, GA home. She has a passion for creating content and helping brands grow through storytelling and public relations. When not immersed in work, you can find her sipping a mimosa at brunch or bingeing a new TV drama on Netflix. Keep up with her on social media at @askKirbyCarroll.
How This New Bond Repair Line Transformed One Mother's Postpartum Shedding Into The Ultimate Curl Comeback
This article is in partnership with SheaMoisture
For Crystal Obasanya, her wash day woes came shortly after her son did. The beauty and lifestyle content creator had been natural for years, but during postpartum, she quickly learned about one reality many mothers can relate to experiencing: postpartum hair loss. “Sis had thinning hair. Sis had split ends,” she shared about her hair changes in a Reel via xoNecole.
Over a year into her postpartum journey, Crystal explained she also had dry, brittle hair, noting that keeping it hydrated before pregnancy had already been “a task.” The 4C natural recalled going from thick hair during pregnancy to a thin hairline due to postpartum shedding as “devastating.” When it came to strengthening and revitalizing her hair, the new SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection was just the thing she needed to elevate her damaged coils to revive and thrive status and get them poppin' again.
SheaMoisture is providing us with the cheat code for transforming dry and damaged strands into thriving and deeply nourished crowns. By unveiling their 4-step hair system, the SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection is equipping you with the tools to reverse signs of hair damage caused by protective styling, heat, and color and is uniquely formulated for Type 3 and 4 hair textures.
The haircare system revives damaged natural hair by repairing and rebuilding broken hair bonds through a game-changing combination of HydroPlex Technology and AminoBlend Complex, a unique blend of fortifying amino acids formulated specifically for curly and coily hair. Scientifically proven to reduce breakage by 84% and make your hair six times stronger (vs. non-conditioning shampoo), the collection infuses your hair with the nourishment it craves and the strength it deserves.
All five products of the SheaMoisture Bond Collection are infused with natural strengthening ingredients like Amla Oil and fair-trade shea butter. The collection consists of the 4-step breakage-fighting Bond Repair system, as well as the Bonding Oil.
“When trying it out, I quickly noticed that my hair felt revived and renewed, and my curls were so hydrated,” Crystal said while using the Amla-infused Bond Repair Leave-In Conditioner. “I also felt my hair strands were stronger.” So much so that the influencer felt brave enough to get her hair braided shortly thereafter. “I can definitely say that I will be keeping it in my hair wash routine,” she added in the caption of her Reel about her positive experience using the products.
SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection is making bond-building a key player in your wash day routines and the purveyor of life for thirsty manes. Because who doesn't want stronger, shinier, happier hair?
Step One: Bond Repair Collection Shampoo
Rejuvenate your hair with SheaMoisture Bond Repair Shampoo, your go-to solution for luscious locks. Packed with hella hydration power, this shampoo adds moisture by 60% while removing buildup without stripping your strands. This shampoo gently cleanses impurities while significantly enhancing shine, smoothness, and softness.
The Bond Repair Collection Shampoo is the first step in the 4-step Bond Repair system, all of which are powered by the uniquely formulated AminoBlend, and HydroPlex, SheaMoisture’s technology that rebuilds hair strength at its core.
Step Two: Bond Repair Collection Conditioner
Tailored to repair styling damage, this creamy conditioner locks in 12x more moisture than standard non-conditioning shampoos, boosting damaged hair strength by 1.5x with significantly less breakage. The creamy SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection Conditioner deeply hydrates, enhances manageability, and leaves your hair looking healthier and shinier.
Step Three: Bond Repair Collection Masque
This Ultra Moisturizing reparative masque is a moisture-rich game-changer for those dealing with the aftermath of hair damage caused by styling. The SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection Masque delivers 13 times more moisture compared to non-conditioning shampoos, ensuring your hair feels nourished and soft. Designed to repair and rejuvenate, this masque significantly strengthens damaged hair — making it twice as strong while reducing breakage.
Step Four: Bond Repair Collection Leave-In Conditioner
Elevate your curl game with SheaMoisture’s Bond Repair Collection Leave-In Conditioner. Lightweight and hydrating, the Bond Repair Leave-In Conditioner provides 12x more moisture than non-conditioning shampoos and tames frizz with 24-hour humidity control. Designed to define curls and coils, the leave-in conditioner enhances softness and shine allowing you to detangle effortlessly.
Bonding Oil
The SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection Bonding Oil is a multitasking all-in-one formula that acts as a heat protectant and provides the hair with moisture, strength, shine, damage protection, and intense nourishment. This lightweight oil not only offers 24-hour frizz and humidity control but also fortifies your tresses, making them up to 5 times stronger with significantly less breakage.
Featured image courtesy
Megan Thee Stallion On The Realities Of Being The Boss: 'You Do Everything On Your Own’
Rapper Megan Thee Stallion's recent appearance on Club Shay Shay is making headlines for her valuable insights on what it truly means to pay the cost to be the boss.
During the interview, the "Hiss" emcee discussed her decision to sign a distribution deal with Warner Music Group. This move came after settling with her former record label, 1501 Certified Entertainment, following years of legal battles over ownership of her master recordings and the right to release new music. Megan's new arrangement allows her to maintain her independence as an artist and release music through her label, Hot Girl Productions.
Another gem the "Cobra" lyricist shared on the platform was her advice from her mentors, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, regarding her legal woes and business ventures. Megan also got candid when discussing how much she spends on her productions as an independent artist.
Check out the highlights below.
Megan Thee Stallion On Why She Decided To Go Independent
“I’ve been in a situation where I felt I was so out of control for the longest. When I say out of control like I didn’t really have complete control over my music. I could barely go perform when I felt like it. They couldn’t use my music in commercials. I had to literally go to court every time I wanted to drop a song. So I just was like, you know what? I need to do what’s best for me like I can appreciate what a label can do for you, but if y'all can’t agree to these terms, then I don’t want to do it. So I wasn’t going to go nowhere where they wasn’t going to give me what I was worth, and they wasn’t going to give me what I was asking for. But that’s how I wound up with my distribution deal from Warner because they believe in me.”
“It’s really like a trust thing when you sign to a label. It’s all business at the end of the day, but you still want to be somewhere where y’all can trust each other. I know you ain’t going to mess over me, and I'm not going to mess over you. We both need to win. They seemed like they wanted to win with me. They didn’t want to win without me. It wasn’t a situation where I felt like we’re gonna do this with or without you. They wanted to win together, and that’s what I liked about Warner.”
Megan Thee Stallion On The Advice She Received From Beyoncé and Jay-Z
“When I was in the situation that I was in and I wanted to get out of it they told me you need to do this on your own. Like you already know what it is, you got all the tools. All the legal s–t that you are going through right now I know you are learning something, so you should figure out how to get out here and be your own boss.”
“Beyoncé is the person who actually inspired me to get my own tequila because I used to be the cognac queen. I’m still the cognac queen, but as much as I used to enjoy cognac and I promoted a lot of people liquor brands, she was like the next time I see you, you need to have your ownalcoholic beverage. I was like, ‘You right, queen. I am going to have my own s–t.’ So now I have my own tequila.”
Megan Thee Stallion On Spending Her Own Money
“I’ve been spending my own money for a long time. These music videos ain’t cheap. That’s what I definitely learned when I jumped off the porch and wanted to be independent. I said how much this s–t cost? I go in for myself. I believe in myself and I believe that I am making a really good investment in something that I believe in. If I don’t back myself up, who else going to do it? If I don’t believe it, y’all mother f–kers ain’t going to believe it. So the last three music videos y’all seen me put out that’s straight out of Meg Thee Stallion bank account, and that s–t was not cheap. But that’s okay because I like good art. When I look at a music video I want to watch that s–t over and over again. So I want to put out something that I know that my hotties are gonna want to watch over and over again.“
‘You can’t make money without spending money. When you ever heard somebody say it costs to be the boss. Now, I really do understand that. Like I like to have nice things, I like my things to look a certain type of way. I want it to be extravagant. I want it to look like a production every time you see it. Now, how is that going to happen? Whose money is that? You can either go get somebody to invest in you, but now you are making them a boss over you, too. Now, do you want to have complete ownership? You invest everything in yourself. You do everything on your own. I’mma say the money part is the part that I’ve definitely learned about having complete ownership and being your own boss.”
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images