Rewear Your Fashions with Febreze

We have all worn clothes that weren’t necessarily ready for the hamper, but needed a slight refresh.

Recently, I found myself in that position.

A few weeks ago I attended a fall street fair where I wore a chunky sweater and a pair of my favorite jeans. While I enjoy street fairs like anybody else, what I don’t like is the smoke that emits from the open fire pits roasting delicious corn and savory jerk chicken. Does it smell good? Sure. But do I want to smell like grilled meat hours later? No!

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Enter Febreze’s newest offering, Clothing Odor Eliminator. When I got home, I sprayed my sweater and jeans with Febreze twice in the front and once in the back. The mist dried fairly quickly and left my sweater and jeans smelling fresh and clean! Like the name says, it eliminates odors and unpleasant smells in three quick sprays. For a busy, working mom like me, this newly launched spray has been a godsend when it comes to giving clothes a quick refresh in between washes.

The spray won’t stain and is gentle on most fabrics including jeans, sweaters and outerwear. However, don’t use it on garments that may water spot (silk, suede, leather). For me, it’s perfect for the sweaters and blazers that I leave in our offices when the a/c is on full blast even in the dead of winter. While they don’t necessarily get dirty, they definitely need freshening up on a weekly basis.

If you’re looking for an easy way to extend laundry day on some of your favorite pieces, Febreze Clothing Odor Eliminator is a great option.

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Febreze Clothing Odor Eliminator, available here, $5.

 

 

 

 

 

Q&A with 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Winner, Addlia Edwards

Two weeks ago, eight beautiful women from around the country took center stage at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn for their chance to be crowned Finding Ashley Stewart 2019.

After a year-long search for the woman who embodies what Ashley Stewart, the global plus-size fashion brand, stands for: kindness, perseverance, resilience, confidence, and empowerment, there could only be one winner.

That person was Addlia Edwards, a hairstylist and makeup artist hailing from Atlanta, Ga. As the winner, Edwards walked away with a $10,000 prize package including a year-long wardrobe, styling, makeover, photoshoots, and more.

I caught up with the bubbly southern belle to find out what earning the Ashley Stewart title means to her, how she plans to empower women, fall beauty trends and more!

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Addlia Edwards, the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart winner. Photo via Instagram.

Read on for our chat.

What inspired you to enter the Finding Ashley Stewart ambassador search?

Ashley Stewart was a household name when I was growing up. I loved the company and what they stood for. I honestly was not going to enter the contest because I didn’t think I could possibly be chosen out of thousands of women. After talking with a friend, I realized I had nothing to lose.

How do you define your style?

I’m a glamour girl. I love anything with sparkles, sequins, rhinestones, metallic and velvet, but I also love a classic look with a pop of edge. I like being trendy but I also like to go against the grain.

Did you always embrace your curves, or did body acceptance take time?

I’ve always been a lover of my curves.

When do you feel the most beautiful and confident? Why? 

I feel the most beautiful and confident when the seasons change and when I’m not dressed to go to work. Every season, I change my hairstyle and color so it’s like having a new and refreshed version of myself. I don’t like to look the same for a long time, and I love change when I’m in control of it. At work, I have to wear black everyday so it’s always refreshing when I can wear a pop of color and a pair of heels.

What was the most surprising aspect of being a part of the Finding Ashley Stewart Finale?

I felt taken care of! I am usually the one taking care of others for their events. I’m usually doing others’ hair and makeup, making the desserts or setting up and taking down for events. This time, I was on the other side. I was not behind the scenes this go round. I was one of the people with a spotlight and a story to share.

What do you plan to do now that you have the Finding Ashley Stewart 2019 title?

It is my plan to touch the lives of as many women that I can by empowering them and helping them to walk confidently in their own identities. I want to help shape others to be leaders who are resilient, confident, kind and active in their communities. I want to add even more flavor to the already flavorful brand and help grow the movement of empowerment and public service.

2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Addlia Edwards (2nd L) receives award onstage at the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Describe how you felt when you heard your name called as the winner? 

Wow! I felt relieved, like my time had finally come! I had been trying so hard these past few years. I rejoiced as others got their successes and breakthroughs. I had honestly gotten to a point where I felt like maybe my life as it was. Sometimes I felt like that was all that God had for me, but I still never gave up. So to hear my name being called confirmed what I felt deep down in my soul all along, but had been drowned out by fear. I knew there were amazing things in store for me and that I was called to do great things. I felt like it was finally my time to shine!

What do you love the most about the Ashley Stewart brand?

I love the resilience of the Ashley Stewart brand. I love that with everything the brand has been through, it still continues to bounce back, thrive and give back to others. Not only does the brand thrive on its own, but the brand encourages and empowers women to bounce back, thrive and give back too.

From your perspective as a hairstylist and makeup artist, are there any hair and beauty trends we should be on the lookout for this fall? 

I believe a lot of us are starting to embrace our inner queen. I think regal looks are becoming a big trend. Be on the lookout for bold and rich hair colors. Coils, coils and more coils. Sleek and ornate ponytails and up-dos. A ton of hair jewelry and bright and bold lip colors and eyeshadows are coming.

How do you give back to your community? Why is it so important to you? 

I love volunteering with the homeless and at young girls’ and women’s retreats. It is important to me that I give the homeless, young girls and women what I wish I had when I was a young girl and when I was homeless and growing as a woman.

How will winning Finding Ashley Stewart 2019 help you empower girls, teens and women across the country and world? 

Ashley Stewart is known worldwide. I now have a platform to make an impact wherever I go and with whatever I do representing the brand.

What does it mean to you to be on this journey with a brand that has given more than $300,000 in scholarships and charitable donations, and truly gives back to the community?

It absolutely means everything to me! I love giving back. I love making a difference in someone’s life. To be on this journey with a brand that loves doing the same is so refreshing.

What do you want all women to know?

I want women to know that it is ok to be your true, authentic self. That’s what make you beautiful! It’s not the hair. It’s not the makeup. It’s not the body shapers and the money you have or don’t have in your bank account.  No one can be you and that’s your super power. Do not be ashamed of your past or present. All of it works together to create the beautiful masterpiece that you are!

What makes you feel beautiful and confident? Do you shop at Ashley Stewart? If so, what do you love the most about the brand?

Recap: Finding Ashley Stewart 2019

Every year there are events that I look forward to attending, but none of them are ever as fun as the Finding Ashley Stewart Finale.

This past weekend marked my second year covering the crowd-pleasing show. Part pageant, part concert, the event is a culmination of a year-long search for an ambassador who embodies what the global fashion brand stands for: kindness, perseverance, resilience, confidence, and empowerment.

2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: A view outside Kings Theatre during the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Over the past year, Ashley Stewart made stops in several major cities including Los Angeles, Miami and Chicago, on the hunt for Finding Ashley Stewart 2019. This year, eight beautiful finalists were flown to New York City to showcase their style, curves, smarts and unique personalities in front of a live audience at King’s Theatre in Brooklyn. No contest is complete without a master of ceremonies and a roster of judges and this year was no different.

2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Loni Love speaks onstage at 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Hosted by talk show host/comedian Loni Love, the event was chockfull of talented judges and special guests including Kid Capri, DJ Olivia Dope, producer and media mogul Yandy Smith, drag queen, performer, and Season 11 contestant of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Silky Ganache, American journalist and essayist Charisse Jones, as well as past Ashley Stewart winners Tiffany Flamer and Theresa Larsen.

2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Faith Evans performs onstage at 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

After each of the hopefuls strutted their stuff across the stage and answered hard-hitting, topical questions, the audience was treated to an unbelievable concert.

R&B legend Faith Evans opened the show with hits like, “Soon As I Get Home,” and “I Remember (You Used to Love Me).” She ended with the dance party anthem, “Love Like This.” As a diehard “faithful” (the endearing term Evans uses to describe her loyal fans), I was in heaven as the talented singer took me back to the ‘90s with her powerful voice. Hip-hop pioneers Salt-n-Pepa shut the show down after performing classics like “Let’s Talk About Sex,” “Shoop,” and “Push It.”

2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Sandra Denton, Pepa and Cheryl James, Salt of Salt N Pepa perform onstage at 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Finally, after the soul-stirring musical acts, it was time to crown Ashley Stewart 2019. After much deliberation, the finalists which included a teacher, news assistant, makeup artist and other professionals, were narrowed down to one: Addlia Edwards.

2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Addlia Edwards (2nd L) receives award onstage at the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

The Atlanta native and hairstylist walked away with the title of Ashley Stewart 2019 and a $10,000 prize package including a year-long wardrobe, styling, makeover, photoshoots, and more.

In addition to show’s grand prize, the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart finale event also awarded over $300,000 in scholarships and charitable donations, partnering with organizations such as Susan G. Komen, Black Retail Action Group, and others.

Since 1991, Ashley Stewart has been a stalwart on the plus-size fashion scene, as well as a positive pillar in the community. With more than 89 stores across the country, and a booming online presence, Ashley Stewart has undeniable staying power and we’re here for it!

What article of clothing makes you feel confident and empowered?

This Classic Timepiece Will Take Your Style Back to the Future

It seems like Stranger Things has everyone reminiscing and wishing they could travel back in time to the mid-’80s, myself included. A sucker for nostalgic fashions, my latest obsession is an eye-catching watch from the Casio Vintage Collection. The digital timepiece is the perfect accessory to amp up any ensemble this summer and beyond.

For starters, the sleek, gold-tone stainless steel bracelet goes with just about everything. From a flirty sundress to a casual T-shirt and jeans look, it instantly elevates any outfit. Simply put, its versatility is unmatched. Not only is it a fashion must-have, it’s also exquisitely functional.

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Casio Vintage Collection available here, $55.

With features including a daily alarm, stopwatch and an auto calendar, it’s sure to please those who second-guess the practicality of wristwatches. Oh, and did I mention this throwback classic is also water resistant? That’s perfect for those (read: me!) who tend to lose track of time while taking excessively long showers. Plus, the light function really harkens back to a different era before everything was automatically illuminated.

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In the age of smartphones, some might question purchasing a fashionable timepiece. For me, it’s a no-brainer. This traditional timeless accessory will never go out of style. Don’t believe me? Just watch (pun intended).

If you’re on a hunt for a timepiece that will keep your style in check while serving major functionality, look no further than this classic collection.

Do you wear watches or do you get the time from your smartphones or other electronic devices? 

REVIEW: Let Measure & Made Upgrade Your Jean Game

If you have a hard time finding the perfect pair of jeans, you’re not alone.

It’s no secret that many women of all backgrounds and body types have trouble snagging jeans that fit in all the right places.

Well, thanks to Measure & Made, a women’s fashion brand that specializes in custom-like fits, your never-ending jean-shopping search might be over.

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I recently attended a press event where I learned all about the innovative brand and their knack for designing nearly tailor-made denim duds. For starters, the jeans are powered by FITLOGIC®, a unique patented sizing system that identifies your size and shape based off a two-number decimal system. To put it simply, a short and easy quiz calculates the best fit based off your answers. For example, do you tend to gain weight all over or more in your midsection? Questions like these help the FITLOGIC ® system formulate a personalized fit.

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Measure & Made jeans are available in variety of styles and rinses. Prices start at $79.

For someone who has difficulty finding jeans that fit in the waist while snuggly complementing my curves, I was beyond excited to give these jeans a try. Let me just say, I’ve never had jeans that accentuated my waist like these.

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Unlike so many of my other jeans, there was no nagging gap in the back. This skinny style cinched my waist, hugged my behind and even gave my bum a bit of a lift. I loved the rinse, fit and overall style of these jeans. Plus, they’re comfortable and don’t feel constricting at all. Looks like my hunt for figure-flattering jeans has finally ended!

If you’re tired of the same run-of-the mill, ill-fitting jeans, Measure & Made just might be your perfect match!

What’s your favorite jean style: skinny, straight, boyfriend, wide-legged or distressed?

Beautycon NYC 2019: My First Experience

Two weeks ago, beauty lovers descended on the Javits Center in New York City for a fun-filled weekend at Beautycon. Not familiar with Beautycon? Well, it’s the beauty mecca for those who can’t get enough of makeup, cosmetics and the social media stars behind their favorite blogs and video channels.

As a beauty blogger with an endless stash of lipsticks and mascaras, I knew it would be an event I’d enjoy. I was right. Thanks to Dove, I was able to attend the 5th annual event as their guest for an incredible experience that I won’t soon forget.

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The legacy brand invited me as part of their inspiring new campaign, Project #ShowUs, designed to tackle beauty bias and representation. Before the two-day event got underway, I got a sneak peek at Dove’s booth and was able to explore their ingenious activation which celebrates beauty in all forms.

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The brand partnered with Getty Images and Girlgaze to launch the world’s largest stock photo library 100 percent created by women. Throughout the booth, some of the 5,000 photographs of 179 women from 39 countries were on full display for visitors to see.

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In addition to Dove’s interactive booth, they also offered Beautycon attendees free hand massages using their new Body Wash Mousse and Exfoliating Body Polish for smooth, soft skin.

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The two-day convention was comprised of countless innovative beauty activations, fun makeup tutorials, invigorating dance breaks, and inspiring panel discussions.

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All the panels featured industry leaders talking about subjects around race, beauty, inclusion, media and social justice. For example, Dove hosted the panel, “I Deserve to Be Seen: Beauty Bias & Representation,” moderated by former Teen Vogue editor-in-chief Elaine Welteroth, with guests from publishing and journalism.

Another interesting panel, “Black Girl Magic On the Big Screen,” featured Marsai Martin, Issa Rae and Regina Hall from the new comedy, “Little,” which discussed beauty standards and what it’s like being a black woman in Hollywood.

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Oh, and did I mention the convention’s headlining guest? Yes, America’s favorite no-holds barred Bronx native, “okurr!” Yep, the one and only Cardi B was on hand to discuss managing finances and fame in the popular “Making Money Moves” session.

And it wasn’t just all makeup and panels. Hair is also a big part of what makes us feel beautiful. Thankfully, the event was chock-full of hair care brands. From SheaMoisture to the Mane Choice, the convention was teeming with well-known and up-and-coming brands to satisfy our hair care cravings.

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Beautycon is a must for those who enjoy all things beauty. For me, it was an honor and privilege to be a guest of a brand that I’ve admired and used for as long as I can remember. Attending Beautycon fortified my self-esteem and restored a bit of confidence that I’ve been lacking these past few months. Hearing uplifting stories and seeing gorgeous images that represent me, I was reminded to embrace and celebrate my own unique beauty!

Have you ever attended Beautycon? If so, how would you describe your experience?

Ashley Stewart Crowns ‘I Am Ashley’ Winner

Last week, Ashley Stewart crowned its “I Am Ashley” ambassador search winner.

For the second year, the leading fashion brand conducted a nationwide #FindingAshleyStewart tour in search of an ambassador who embodies the brand’s ethos:  kindness, resilience, confidence, community and of course, fashion.

BROOKLYN, NY - SEPTEMBER 15: A view of venue exterior during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: A view of venue exterior during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

After a seven-month search, which included tour stops in Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Harlem, Dallas, and several other cities, Tiffany Gosa-Flamer of Chester, Pennsylvania, took home the title.

BROOKLYN, NY - SEPTEMBER 15: (L-R) Kendra Powe, Sharonda Gradberry, Chelsi Moree, Tiffany Gosa-Flamer, James C. Rhee, Mary E. Allen, Raquel Wells, LaShawn Kinley and Diane Diaga attend Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: (L-R) Kendra Powe, Sharonda Gradberry, Chelsi Moree, Tiffany Gosa-Flamer, James C. Rhee, Mary E. Allen, Raquel Wells, LaShawn Kinley and Diane Diaga attend Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

BROOKLYN, NY - SEPTEMBER 15: Tiffany Gosa-Flamer attends Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: Tiffany Gosa-Flamer attends Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Held at Kings Theater in Brooklyn, the finale showcased eight finalists vying for the chance to win the $10, 000 prize package, a new Ashley Stewart wardrobe, makeover, tour-sponsored gift prizes, a photo shoot, and participation in features across Ashley Stewart media platforms for one year.

BROOKLYN, NY - SEPTEMBER 15: Loni Love (L) and La La Anthony speak onstage during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: Loni Love (L) and La La Anthony speak onstage during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

The evening was filled with inspiring stories from the contestants, good music and fierce fashions. Hosted by Loni Love, comedian and co-host of the daytime talk show “The Real,” the two-hour show was an empowering celebration of women.

BROOKLYN, NY - SEPTEMBER 15: Soledad O'Brien appears onstage during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: Soledad O’Brien appears onstage during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Media maven Soledad O’Brien and radio personality and actress Lala Anthony were also in attendance on behalf of the brand to present close to $150,000 in charities and individual scholarships to several students across the country.

Plus, the event featured amazing ’90s throwback performances by MC Lyte, SWV and Naughty by Nature.

BROOKLYN, NY - SEPTEMBER 15: SWV perform onstage during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: SWV perform onstage during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

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Me with my friend Shelley at the Finding Ashley Stewart Finale in Brooklyn, NY.

“Becoming Ashley Stewart 2018 means that I have a great opportunity to empower girls, teens and women across the nation, and share my story of how I turned my life around,” said Gosa-Flamer. “It’s a true privilege and honor, and I’m proud to say that ‘I Am Ashley’.”

Do you shop at Ashley Stewart?