tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214Thu, 31 Dec 2009 21:35:02 +0000black, black women, fashion, news, style, entertainment, magazines, black magazines, fashion magazines, african american, african, Nubian, women, opinions, music, pop culture, journalism,journalist,writer, creative, fun, up-to-date, latest, lifestyle, women of color, inspiring,http://allsafera.blogspot.com/asksafera@gmail.com (Safera)Blogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-6651954851813002373Sat, 12 Dec 2009 11:18:00 +00002009-12-12T11:20:12.622ZPlease join Safera at our new location. Thanks for reading.Safera xoxohttp://allsafera.blogspot.com/2009/12/were-moving.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-3634796140994707324Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:46:00 +00002009-06-01T15:48:53.051+01:00Greetings from Washington, D.C.Hi all I'm away and may not be blogging for a few days (maybe weeks). I'll try to update as often as I can. I'm trying to improve thisblog and take it in a new direction. Stay tuned and thank you for reading.Safera xoxohttp://allsafera.blogspot.com/2009/06/on-hiatus.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-5864538595615887457Thu, 14 May 2009 08:56:00 +00002009-05-20T11:55:41.933+01:00MagazinesThoughtsI read a feature in Grazia magazine about a young woman who graduated from an Ivy League school, Cambridge University, who works as a cleaner. Shocking? Well, yes and no. A few years ago I wouldn't believe that such things happened to Ivy leaguers but given the current economic slump it's feasible.I'm glad she shared her experience because a university degree- no matter how prestigious the http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2009/05/reality-bites.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-8450537646351406482Wed, 13 May 2009 23:48:00 +00002009-05-20T12:04:33.067+01:00FilmI've been reading about a film adaptation of PUSH a novel by Sapphire.I haven't read the book but here's the trailer Precious for those of you who have.Source: Amazon.com, Wikipedia, Youtube*Sidebar: Monique scares me. Mariah Carey looks very different from her usual glamourous persona. There's something contrived about the whole http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2009/05/precious.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-958863953325369461Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:59:00 +00002009-05-20T12:29:45.217+01:00BeautySince moving to London almost two years ago my skin has yet to fully adjust to the hard water. The water here is the worst I have encountered and strips my skin of moisture. I have tried to counteract this by bathing and showering with warm water, but in the winter I can't help but overindulge in sauna-like showers.To combat the highly chlorinated water and improve my skin I have started a facialhttp://allsafera.blogspot.com/2009/04/healthy-skincare-prescription.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-6576893261056487161Sat, 07 Mar 2009 02:02:00 +00002009-04-05T01:37:49.944+01:00Harlem HeightsThoughtsBlack IdentityIt was by chance that I heard about Harlem Heights, a new reality show that premiered on BET in March. I must admit BET does not inspire confidence and I was cynical about it. Relieved that this was not a Flavor of Love meets The Real World meets The Apprentice, I started to think the show might actually be good. What stood out most was that this was "allegedly" a show about young professional http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2009/03/harlem-heights-new-renaissance.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-7234832184900644574Sat, 07 Mar 2009 01:33:00 +00002009-03-07T02:01:32.439ZThoughtsLately I've been doing a lot of thinking and a lot of soul searching and I've realised the following:1. I hate my day job2. I need to update my CV/Resume3. I need to stop thinking and start doing4. I MUST network more 5. Life is what you make it or make of itI am SO over my day job and as much as I've stuck it out (those bills won't pay themselves, now) I can't bear it anymore. There is a small http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2009/03/am-i-ungrateful.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-2421463464247682509Sat, 07 Feb 2009 12:35:00 +00002009-03-07T02:33:00.989ZSounds LikeI'm feeling inspired by this song. This version was directed by Beto"Mooncricket"Lopez in 2001 before Goapele signed to Sony BMG.I like how raw it is. No gift wrapping.Goapele "Closer"I'm feeling closer already.http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2009/02/sounds-like.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-5053769392931133436Thu, 05 Feb 2009 10:23:00 +00002009-05-20T12:06:11.651+01:00FilmThe best way to enjoy any film is to avoid all reviews and opinions. Your initial reaction is genuine because it hasn't been influenced by someone else's opinion.I take the same stance with music. If I dislike a song the first time I hear it, then it's probably because I don't like it. I don't need to hear it on every radio station, see the video on websites/blogs, in commercials, on billboards http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2009/02/seven-pounds.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-1943652149162400580Wed, 19 Nov 2008 01:58:00 +00002009-05-20T12:25:24.405+01:00FashionMagazinesSessilee Lopez is on FIRE!Images courtesy of I-D magazinehttp://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/11/is-that-you.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-6072172212915031593Wed, 19 Nov 2008 01:08:00 +00002009-05-20T12:26:02.217+01:00MagazinesThoughts Images courtesy of fashionista.comSo good 'ol Vogue has decided to spread some equal opportunity love across its pages. Oh joy! Am I the only one rolling my eyes and kissing my teeth? Let me find something positive to say hmmmmmmm... (jeopardy theme song playing)... I like Arlenis' hair and uhmm... (long pause)... (crickets). Yeah, I'm done.Thoughts? Anyone?Question: Why is Vogue relevant?http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/11/can-leopard-change-its-spots.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-6733360546497356234Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:39:00 +00002009-05-20T12:07:03.602+01:00FashionSince I've been gone PR5 ended with Leanne winning and Korto coming in second (sigh). Jerell was booted off and Kenley competed at the tents. I must admit despite her attitude and remarkable ability to make garments that are very similar to pieces produced by well-known designers, Kenley's work was flawless.I was disappointed because I felt Korto was most consistent and made beautiful clothing, http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/11/update-pr5-finale.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-1620549520276628717Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:58:00 +00002009-05-20T12:27:38.458+01:00FirstsBlack IdentityPoliticsHey Party People :o) I was on a bit of a hiatus but not to worry I'm back!In recent news (heavy enough to cause a global impact) Barack Obama is now President-elect of the United States of America. Definitely one for the history books. In the true spirit of underhanded and dirty politics he's left to clean up an economic meltdown, improve America's image abroad and guide the nation (supporters, http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/11/obama-time.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-2421058119615503745Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:32:00 +00002008-10-30T10:34:42.587ZSounds LikeGnarls Barkley- TransformerThoughts?http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/10/sounds-like.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-7899382992132460793Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:09:00 +00002009-05-20T12:08:40.260+01:00ThoughtsHi Everyone,I haven't posted in a while (a month to be exact), maybe the month of October doesn't do it for me, who knows. At any rate I plan to resume blogging soon and will commit to consistent posts. I'm alive and well and hope you've missed me. Have you?I plan on making some major moves this year for my benefit and more importantly yours. Let's pray to the most high that I work hard to make http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/10/alive-and-still-kickin.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-6009209618792418402Tue, 30 Sep 2008 13:13:00 +00002009-05-20T12:09:03.546+01:00ThoughtsIf you were on a sinking ship (literally and/or metaphorically speaking) would you abandon ship and save yourself or would you stay and try to save someone else?This question comes to mind when I think about the unstable US stock market and it's affect on the global economy. The domino effect is spreading fast and while greedy corporate fat cats deserve to fall on their fat a**es the truth is, http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/09/hyperthetical-question.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-13863908289926378Fri, 26 Sep 2008 07:46:00 +00002008-09-26T09:47:54.330+01:00I don't get itBlack IdentityOn Wednesday I noticed a young woman (early 20s) in front of a makeup counter looking at products. Normally I wouldn't care because I don't know anything about makeup but when I saw her face my heart sunk. She obviously uses some kind of skin bleaching cream because you could tell it wasn't her true complexion. Perplexed by why someone would do such a thing I thought about writing a post. http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/09/skin-deep.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-1487269456183905059Sat, 20 Sep 2008 17:52:00 +00002009-05-20T12:07:47.469+01:00FashionIf you don't want to see the collections until the final episode then look no further.My top three picks based on all the episodes so far (1-10) are Korto, Jerell and Leanne.I love Korto because she infuses African prints and culture into her designs. Her clothes are wearable and flattering for most figures. She's been consistent enough to secure a place in the finale (in my opinion).I love her http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/09/pr5-runway-finale.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-1910617099850480185Sat, 20 Sep 2008 15:37:00 +00002009-05-20T12:08:20.053+01:00ThoughtsBoy do I hate my job! Hi friends lately I've been thinking about planning my escape (sorry to be so dramatic) but it's getting to the point where I feel stifled. You'd think I've been working for years at this particular job but it's not even two months yet! I think because it isn't a huge departure from anything I've done in the past.In a previous post I talked about my career path and making http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/09/thinkin-of-master-plan.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-3634050814078714811Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:01:00 +00002009-05-20T12:09:26.578+01:00FilmImages courtesy of livingtv.co.uk and topnews.inThandie Newton will portray the U.S Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice (yes you read correctly) in the film W directed by Oliver Stone. The film will chronicle the life and administration of current U.S president GWB. According to imdb.com the movie is slated for Novemeber 7 following the election. So as the world waits to see who is next in linehttp://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/09/thandie-newton-plays-condoleezza-rice.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-2468239437501230945Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:36:00 +00002009-05-20T12:10:28.417+01:00ThoughtsWhen I was in high school I always thought I would work in the medical field. I'm not sure if that was truly a personal aspiration, my mothers dream or a combination of the two. Growing up I only knew about traditional occupations that were the pillars of any society be it your doctor, lawyer, teacher etc.Shortly before I started College (University for those of you in the UK) I was so confused http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/09/what-happens-to-dream-deferred.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-1295042006789594932Sat, 06 Sep 2008 08:59:00 +00002009-05-20T12:11:40.518+01:00ThoughtsThere was a time when the majority of earthly inhabitants lived as one with nature. These days the majority live a lifestyle that is destructive to our environment, but ultimately to ourselves.One of the problems that has plagued man is his ego. He lives to consume. He wants everything bigger, faster and easier with no regard for how these demands are achieved as long as it is available for http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/09/nature-is-laughing-at-mankind.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-583784690507710445Sat, 06 Sep 2008 08:26:00 +00002009-05-20T12:31:30.307+01:00FashionCapsule WardrobeAs I mentioned before I'm trying to compose a capsule wardrobe. Gone are the days when I stand in front of my wardrobe (day after day) contemplating what I'll wear. Gone are the days when I run around frantically searching for something to wear to an event. And gone are the days when I wonder where it all went wrong.While a certain amount of spontaneity is good, logic and careful planning will http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/09/personal-stylist.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-4693164981622106133Sun, 31 Aug 2008 07:39:00 +00002008-08-31T08:58:41.388+01:00Sounds LikeHey everyone, forgive me for not posting lately. I started a new job and haven't had the time to post. I promise to get it together real soon. I'm still working on a special post and hope it all comes together. Z from The Blay Report brought my attention to this Gnarls Barkley video "Going On." I was taken by the vocals and the beautiful nubian people (no booty shaking, cursing or denigration).http://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/08/busy-busy-busy.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341902611821519214.post-5333660522824477420Thu, 21 Aug 2008 20:16:00 +00002009-05-20T12:17:05.061+01:00Project RunwayFashionMagazinesHi everyone. So I've been MIA for the past few weeks due to a project I've been working on and a well deserved vacation. While I was away I was thinking about the blog and what I wanted to post next. I have a few posts for you so let's get started.A Quick Recap of PR 5 Episodes 2-5If you've been following the show then you're probably aware that several lackluster designers have been aufed! Kortohttp://allsafera.blogspot.com/2008/08/welcome-back.htmlasksafera@gmail.com (Safera)3