We've made it to August again and when I usually get to this month it's often used as a time of reflection. Thinking over the past several months and what I've learned or need to work on and just overall seasonal contemplation. It’s also my absolute attempt to squeeze out the last bits of summer plans I can before autumn says, hello. Though the funny thing about making plans is, God will always have other ideas for you. Therefore, take it with a grain of salt. What I know for sure, this summer was one of the hardest seasons I've ever had to endure emotionally in my life, and it’s been a great test in my ability to be resilient, humble, evermore patient, accountable and more considerate of others while allowing myself more grace. All of which is immensely invaluable for healing of the human spirit.
This summer's experience has been less than stellar, no tropical island retreats or overseas flights or even the beach. My reasons will be in a story to come. Yet, it has not stopped me from researching, gathering, bookmarking and collecting all the fanciful summer effects while living vicariously through people, places and things on the internet. With that said, it's time to share my Seasonal Anecdotes for late summer 2024! Which I have been collecting for the ultimate inspirational and aspirational visual mood board for my everyday life. Sure, I'd love to purchase a Fendi speaker to play at the beach but, I alas as I've expressed, I probably won't see any sand this go-around.
Although, my current reality hasn’t stopped me from adding it to my collection, along with other statement pieces, moods, looks, tastes, art and interior design ideas for the near future. And before, I breakdown my annotations for this season, let’s quickly discuss the moods and feelings that I used as inspiration: like Lizzo candidly gleaming into a selfie, while Beyoncé smiles as she boards her private jet off to anywhere in the world (do you see where I’m going here)? Then there’s the archival picture of Kelis and Nas at one of their highest relationship points, a cultural moment and my personal theme I’m vibing with for the autumn season to come.
Lastly, super model Cindy Bruna is immortalized in a dewy beauty portrait adorned in chunky gold and silver jeweled accessories, giving every bit of midsummers spirit in physical form. Consider this my official seasonal farewell, amongst all the adornments that wrap up what I consider a rather hectic and emotionally arduous summer.
1. Simply an image of mood and style, and one of the emotions I've embarked on and hope to tap into more this final month of summer. The mood is chill. You don't really need to think about it, but as classic as this term is, the simplicity still remains the perfect adjective. Chill and relax more. Let the sun rays hit my skin outdoors, finish and read more books, rest under the guise of self-care. While in respite be worry less about things that I cannot control and let go unto the universe.
2. A bag I've been eyeing for at least two seasons and will probably be on my holiday wish list to come, the Bottega Venetta's, Teen Lauren 1980 With Chain in color Barol, $4,400. It simply oozes decadent wine and pleasure while having an evening out enjoying rich Italian food in a dimly lit restaurant with your favorite beau. Listen, I am on the finding the love of my life tip this year (queue the Erykah Badu chorus) and you will see it become more interwoven in my stories to come. Also, this would indeed be a statement purchase, and it's so worth it!
3. Buying and investing in Black art is a very important adulting goal for me and when artist Danielle McKinney latest portrait series started to frequent my Instagram feed earlier this year, showcasing for some solo shows and instantly included on my growing list. Her solo series opened in New York City in February before traveling overseas. I was struck with admiration; her work speaks to the reprieve and softness of women...exclusively Black women. McKinney's art is an intimate revelation, and I truly feel seen. Her art will be on my walls soon enough and can be on yours too, here.
4. One of the sweetest treats during the summer is grilled fruit. My favorites are grilled pineapple and peaches! It's honestly the only way I will eat peaches because outside of this version you can keep them—anything flavored or scented with peach I avoid normally at all costs. Next add a heavy dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese and a handful of fresh blue blueberries, it is surely a delicious midsummers delight. I peeped this version via New York Times Cooking.
5. Not a summer goes by for the past few years were I don't fawn over a pair of Loeffler Randall sandals. This time I'm in a mule mood and this Gingham print mules are it! These pumps are the perfect summery transition, with it's both classic color theory and print that speaks chick. Get those Margot Blue Gingham Bow Mules now!
6. As I spoke on it earlier the Fendi x Devialet portable speaker,$3,100 would completely be a one-off statement purchase for me. Is it necessary to have, no? Is it fly as hell for the beach...yes indeed!
7. l was one of the fashion girls who loved the Alessandro Michele at Gucci era years, it was full of maximalist styles and unique curation, iconic beautifully over the top yet, completely street worthy pieces, just fun! Thus, when he stepped down as the Creative Director in 2022, I was heartbroken. Michele was so inspiring. Then a bright spot came down from the fashion heavens and he's moved on to Valentino. Continuing his hyper maximalist artistry once again, only with slightly more refinement. I mean we are talking Valentino!
Alessandro Michele surprised the fashion world when he unveiled his first Resort 2025 collection. Many looks were reminiscent of his years at Gucci in the best the way. Although, what stood out to me as one of Michele's calling cards, his intense layering style while pairing fancy nylons and embellished socks with sandals. Making it a real statement and almost juxtaposition. He's back and I will be including this on my personal style mood board for the rest of the year.
