Happy Holidays!!!!

Hello you guys! Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, Happy Kwanzaa, Kuwa Na Krismasi Njema... ALL of that, to you! Let's not dwell on how much of an inconsistent ham I've been, and more on the now. Lol, I'm so dramatic, I know. I've missed this space, this energy, the buzz I get from sharing my obsessions and creative spaz. Sigh. SO! Let's cut to the chase, a few weeks ago I came across a look from our "beloved" KKW... None other than Kim Kardashian-West. Lately I've been feeling her muted looks. The whole all black everything and neutral digs are totally more my speed than florescent body-cons and such. I live for a good neutral outfit with a pop of color. The look I chose to put my own spin on was a grey-nudey top she paired with a red sweater skirt and a simple capped toe pump. (See below)

So, here is what I cam up with! The details/brands are below, top and bottom was thrifted from the Salvation Army! I love the skirt, love love love. 

Thank you all for continuing to ride with me, I wish you all the happiest of holidays and pray that you receive nothing but love and positivity in the upcoming year! Stay tuned, He's not done with me... So I'm not done with this! =) 

Top: Old Navy, $0.48 from Salvation Army

Skirt: Eminent, $2 from Salvation Army

Shoes: Mossimo(Target brand) $14(I think, I purchases them years ago)

               (typical blogger look down, nah I didn't find it yet)

XOXO,

Kelly

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The Style Adventures of Cocoa & Kelly: Part Deux

hip·pie

 noun \ˈhi-pē\: a usually young person who rejects the mores of established society (as by dressing unconventionally or favoring communal living) and advocates a nonviolent ethic;broadly :  a long-haired unconventionally dressed young person.

   Basically, if you were wondering... We still don't give a $#%@. As big as the world is... As broad as our imaginations and mental spaces range... As beautiful as intelligence and true individuality is... Someone is STILL focused on becoming the next *insert favorite scheming celebrity name.* Identifying solely as a "hippie" is not the ploy here. No one's encouraging you to mix your hottest polyester blend knit with a pair of tie dyed linen pants and Birkenstocks... Absolutely, no one. The true goal is inspiring a deeper zen and connection of who you are and where your interests lie... No, frolicking in an open field high on allergy pills doesn't really scream zen... But, creating this project was very peaceful and fun. 

                                              

   While I probably wouldn't have survived Woodstock; Reasons-- I have bad allergies, I hate large crowds, and I had a very hard time walking barefoot during this photo-shoot... The whole "hippie" life moves me, I'm definitely more of a free spirit. 

On Kelly: 

Pants; Thrifted, $1.50

Jersey, Thrifted, $3.33

   This whole look is something that just fell together. It's my favorite thus far because well, I tend to like things that typically don't make sense. I'd wear a tersey(tight ass little boy's jersey,) every day of life if I could. They're just my thing. The pants are comfy and kind of obnoxious, like me. I love them. Click here to go check out Cocoa's entry and see where she copped her cool digs.

    If you don't feel like smoking something that's illegal in 28 states(totally kidding,) and dusting off your banjo and rounded sunglasses... I didn't successfully do my job. In all seriousness though I hope you're always inspired. I pray for your continued growth. I hope this reaches you in great spirits. I hope you're smiling right now, if not... Whale penis. Don't google that, just laugh at the thought. XOXO

One love, Peace & hand Sanitizer,

-Kelly


Social Media & "tings":
xosalvationkelly@gmail.com
Instagram-
@salvationkelly
@kellyaugustine

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Getting Personal

*These are just a few of posts I've shared weeks ago on Instagram and Facebook, just wanted to post them here because of an idea I have... Stay tuned! xoxoxo babies!*

Posted May 1, 2014:

I just want to plant flowers in the hood, we have sunshine too. And visit farmer's markets on Thursdays. And art walks on Fridays. And festivals on Sundays... after church. I want to hold hands and be in like with a person that is on the same wavelength as me... Or at least one that is able to tolerate my otherness. A person that initially wanted nothing more but to learn my last name and about where my family is from. A person that will mouth the lyrics to "Ms. Fat Booty" with me, but recognizes that I am more than the title of one of my favorite songs. I wanna spend more time in museums and parks and minimal time in clubs and office buildings with equally as strange people that only see numbers. I wanna do more, and talk less. I need to give more. I'm probably being too strange for social networks at 8pm. Y'all carry-on with your magic pills, twerk videos and sad "news." That wasn't me being negative by the way, scroll down a little bit... I bet you'll find one of three.. Be great babies. XOXO

Posted April 23, 2014:

I'm crazy. I'm moody. I'm too short. I'm too fat. I'm too dark. I'm not black enough. I'm too confident. I'm sarcastic. I'm selfish. I'm lazy. I swear too fucking much. I'm too blunt. I'm too emotional. I lack emotion. I'm honest. I'm loving. I love my family. I'm a hard-worker. I'm determined. I'm intelligent. I'm loyal. I'm supportive. I'm loyal. I'm loyal. I'm loyal. I love the Lord. I do not have daddy issues. I miss my daddy. Chicago worries me. I wish I could bottle violence, ill feelings and anxiety up and bury it beneath 19474337464 oceans. I'm afraid of being alone, but I hardly let people in. I. Give. A. Fuck. About. Things. Even things that most people won't consider. Why am I writing this. Why AM I writing this? Idk. I'm the biggest supporter of self love, and the number one fan of anyone that refuses to let words from mindless, minuscule, morons move them. I feel so much, so often... But not enough. Lately, I've been extremely confused, extremely anxious and more emotional than I've ever been as an adult. I don't know what this all means but I listen. I listen to the voices. Dawg, I said I'm crazy... I listen to the voices. I'm learning how to understand MY life and where it's headed. How often do you just stop and focus on nothing but yourself? We get so lost in these "jobs" and tasks, we forget what really matters. Who, really matters. What's your soul looking like? Give yourself some more attention, you deserve it. This is dramatic as 10 aunties during a yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaas session. You hear me though. Love youuuuuu. XOXO 


Posted April 5, 2014:

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Sat"rawr"day

If you didn't know, I'm convinced that the animal version of myself is a lion. No you can't convince me otherwise. While today has not been one of my best days, I decided that I don't have to look as crazy as I feel. I found this shirt in a mound of my clothes not that long ago. It used to be one of my favorite tanks because of the lion face and neutral colors. The leopard shirt/dress worn over it is one of my absolute favorite pieces in my closet. It's flowy and comfortable, plus it's long so it give me that "gone with the wind fabulous" feeling my soul requires. 

Leopard dress/shirt: Thrifted, $1.70

Lion Tank: JC Penney, $14.99(roughly, it was over 3 years ago)

Black "Riding" stretch pants: Thrifted

Jordan Sneakers: Gifted from B =)

By the way, y'all see my hair?! THIS is what I strive for. I'm all for frizz and big hair. One of my personalities think they're Chaka Khan. J/k... Kind of. I hope your day is going great! Don't be mopey like me, turn that Sadderday into a gooooood evening! Cause dammit I said so. 

Peace & Hand Sanitizer,

Kelly XOXO

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Clearance Rack

Well, hello there! Spring has sprung! Kinda... Here in Chicago you can never be too sure, today we have 70 degree loveliness, tomorrow we'll be pulling out snow boots. As if. Regardless of our current weather conditions I FEEL like a blooming flower, and I think it's time to look the part. We all have seen or heard of the Peter Pilotto line for Target, if not... click here. When I first heard about this, I was thrilled. I love a great deal, and I definitely love seeing "high-end" designers create affordable lines for easily accessible stores. While I loved the idea, I'm still the same ol thrifty me. A pesky bargainer that will not budge, unless it's amazing. Therefore I waited and waited... and waited, for the prices to drop. The available items were nice, but just didn't tickle my fancy immediately. Plus I kind of hate having things that everyone else has. 

Here are a few items I liked, they clearly sold out first because I never saw them in stores!

Black checker print slacks, originally $34.99

Floral belted a-line dress, Originally $44.99

Anywhoo, months and a few clearance racks later, here I am purchasing a sweatshirt from his line. This sweatshirt caught my eye because of it's bright and bold patterns. The material is really thick and stiff, but rather comfortable, if that makes sense. 

I almost didn't post this, due to the noncompliance of my hair. It just would not get Chaka big for me that day. Meh, we all have our days. I love this sweatshirt. I've already worn it to work once, and plan to rock it again before the heat cranks up. Have you all purchased anything from this line!? Take my advice, go skim through a few clearance racks. Don't be afraid! Goodies await you. 

Peace & Hand Sanitizer,

Kelly XOXO

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Blogging Fail.

This past Sunday, I stayed home from church to work on what I thought would be an AMAZING blog post. I was home alone, just me and my music... Things didn't go as planned.  My shirt was wrinkled. My hair looked disheveled. My camera settings were not right... Here are the best shots of what I took, check out the outfit details. I'm learning that everything isn't always a win the first time. I am not invincible, although I am convinced that I'm basically Wonder Woman. Don't be ashamed to accept your failures and get up and try again! It's worth it, YOU are worth it. Love you baby boo. 

Top: Thrifted,  $2

Skirt: Forever 21, $8.50

Shoes: JcPenney $24.99(nude peep toe pumps)

Bag: Thrifted $5

Plaid top: Fallas, $1.50

Iron Man Bodysuit: Forever 21, $13.80(don't quote me... 13 something)

Pants: Stretch Jegging, Thrifted, $2

Thigh High Boots: Torrid(3 years ago,) $64

XOXO,

Kelly

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Valentine's Date Lookbook

Love is in the air! 

While I may turn blue from holding my breath, I encourage you all to inhale! This time of year can be so depressing for some, pressuring for others and just downright FUN for most! Whether you're going solo to your favorite restaurant, rolling with the homies for a night of dancing and patron...(Remember to designate a safe phone holder. Don't text your ex while drinking, millions have suffered.) Or lastly, maybe your crush has mustered up the courage to finally take you out. Whatever your scenario may be this year, let me take away some of the pressure of searching for what to wear. My style may not be parrallel to yours but ideas are always great to exchange! Enjoy!

Look #1: Dinner with the "beau"

(pardon the under-eye powder glow, I'm still learning my camera =/)

Boys are simple. They like simple things. And boobs and butts. Wear something that makes you feel sexy, and causes him to swoon a little. Show off your curves while keeping a touch of your personal quirky style by wearing something with a print or fun design.

WD NY Dress: Marshalls, $10.00 

(sz. 10 bought about 3 years ago, when wearing it was only a dream) 

Magazine Clutch: I got this from an aunt several years ago

find something similar here

Knee High Boots: Forever 21+, $22

(Not pictured... I'm so sorry, I will do better with showing my shoes!!)

Look #2: Let's go to the Movies, Babe

This is probably my favorite look. If you know me, you 1. know that I hate pants, and 2. know that I love turning things that should be worn with pants into dresses! I simply took a thrifted, over-sized men's sweater and paired it with nylons, black leg warmers worn up to my thighs, and knee high suede boots. 

Thrifted Sweater: $4.10

Leg Warmers: Burlington Coat Factory, $3.99

Knee High Boots: Forever 21+, $22

Red Clutch: Torrid, $12

(FYI, I'm wearing a dark plum LA girls lip liner on my lips)

Look #3: Dancing, Dinner & Drinks with Friends 

(two looks, one dress)

Remember this dress from my birthday post months ago?! I brought it back with a winter twist. I'm all for layers and using certain clothing items all year. In the last look here I paired the dress with another dress, sounds crazy? The red dress is simply a wrap dress left open, with a winter scarf to accessorize.

Newport News Body Con Dress: Thrifted, $5?

Red Norma Kamali Dress: Thrifted, $3

Old Navy Demin Jacket: Thrifted, $5

Fur Stole: Mom's

Sam Edelman Leopard pumps: Thrifted

Black Moto Boots: Thrifted, $4

Look #4: Bowling with Buddies

Mixing prints and textures? I'm here for it.

Polka Dot Shirt: Thrifted $1.50

DIY Distressed Denim Shorts

Moto Boots: Thrifted, $4

Vintage Givenchy Houndstooth Jacket: Thrifted, $6.99

Black Studded crossbody: Torrid, $14

Look #5: Treat Yourself Well

Because you deserve it! Whether you're alone or lonely, throw some red lipstick on and get out to do something you enjoy. I especially like to be comfortable when I take myself out. Comfortable does not mean frumpy, wear something cute & cozy. 

Sweater: Forever 21, $3.50

Black "riding" pants: Thrifted, $2

Black studded headband: Dots, $4

Tan Platform Booties: Just Fab, $39.99

(FYI, Mac's Ruby Woo is on my lips)

Valentine's Day is sometimes taken a bit overboard and in the midst of that we lose touch of the celebration that's intended. I won't go into the origin of Saint Valentine's Day, but I will remind you all of the celebration of love that it represents. Don't get wrapped up in people, things and places that wear you down. Your life is a celebration, you are special! A significant other won't do you any justice if you're not right within. No amount of chocolate or gifts will heal a broken spirit, but I mean.. it will make it taste pretty nom nommy. If you're alone this Valentine's day, do something that makes you happy. If you're hanging with your family or friends this Valentine's Day, plan a fun, family friendly movie night. If you're in a relationship or dating, hang out with your main squeeze and do corny stuff that makes passersby gag. If you're in a long distance relationship... All I have to say is, distance makes the heart grow fonder, and Skype will keep you... Nevermind. Just have fun cause, I love you! Oh and, if you say "ValenTIMES" I'm convinced that you eat mayonnaise by the spoonful and were abducted by hoodrat aliens. Say no.

Oh, cause you thought we were done?! Go check out my partner in style's Valentine's Day lookbook. She always adds the perfect amount of sugar & spice to her looks!

www.theehautecocoa.com

Peace & Hand Sanitizer,

Kelly XOXO

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"Journey to the Best Me"

I'm just trying to create my best surfboardt body. I've always had a big bottom. I've always had wide hips. I've always had jumbo dumbo thighs. I've always been short. I've always had a smaller midsection. I've always had huge arms. Are we on the same page here? I am not perfect. I am not at any "goal" weight. I do not know how much I weigh because I became obsessed with the numbers at one point, so I've 86'd scales. My main goal is to feel good and look MY best. Not Rihanna's best, not Beyonce's best... I'dbelyingifIsaidIwouldn'ttradeallathisforBey'sbodythough. But, you get my point.  So, you're really interested in what I do to maintain my chunky soup?(My neighbor once called me chunky soup and I have NOT let it go yet.) Follow along for a few pointers on how I have learned to put my shape in shape.

If you're anything like me, the gym is not your idea of a great time. I tend to either love or hate going to the gym. I'm also great at excusing myself from going, "I left my ear buds at home... guess I can't work out!" While leaving your ear buds behind is tragic, it's not a valid enough excuse. Since the gym isn't my favorite place to go, I researched and eventually created my own "weightloss" contributing routine which mainly focused on what I put into my body oppose to how much I exhausted it. About two years ago, I decided to become a pesco-vegetarian. For no other reasons than 1. I do NOT digest meat well... Just think about it, yea. 2. After fasting from meat during lent I realized that it was no longer a necessity in my life. 

So, what do I eat? Not including the things that I like to indulge in ever-so-often. Since working at my new job, I've been eating candy again, almost daily and that has to stop. Sugar is not my friend, and I do not wish to get reaquainted. 

Fish: tilapia, salmon, catfish, flounder
Greens: Spinach, kale, green beans
Fruits(just to name a few of my faves): Pineapple, mango, blackberries, raspberries, bananas
Other foods that I try to eat daily: Plantains, tofu, brown rice, cashews, pecans, sweet potatoes, black bean chips, Greek yogurt(not often,) ground soy meat, hummus.. You get my drift? I try to stay away from things in boxes that sit on shelves. Like I said I am not perfect. I have my raging triple chocolate gelato moments. 

What gets me moving? When I do go to the gym, I usually spend about 45 minutes on the treadmill. A good 30 minutes on the floor mats doing core exercises and 15-25 minutes using 10lb weights to do arm curls and while squatting. I am in no way a fitness expert, I must stress this. These are just things that work for me. When I'm at home I use a 20lb kettle bell to do squats and kettle bell swings. I also like to go to YouTube to follow routines from a few of my favorite banging body fitness gurus as well. 
banging body guru #1 banging body guru #2 banging body guru #3

38-33-51...Smh, this new shameless thing is truly something else. Anywho, when I lose weight it typically comes from my feet(go figure) and my midsection first. I will NOT complain. I do not waist train. I've never tried to waist train. I won't say I never will, but I currently am not interested. No shade, no sun.


When you're starting out, the best thing to do is just... DO! Consult someone that you trust to advise what your fitness focal points should be. Get rid of the "dieting" mentality. Eat clean, that's it. Don't crucify yourself for eating a burger and fries every once in a while. We are not perfect, we need to still have foods that we enjoy but realize that everything is best in moderation. You can never eat enough vegetables. Fruits have sugar in them, while it's a natural sugar... It is a sugar nonetheless so be aware of how much you intake. Never think that a little effort is too little. When it comes to creating a better lifestyle all it takes is making some effort. Little by little, think about the last time you tried to change... Now think about allllll the time in between wasted. You could totally be where you wanted to be 2 years ago! Give it a go, motivate yourself. Motivate your family and friends. Self love is the best love! 

Now that you've learned about what works for me... Check out www.theehautecocoa.com and follow her journey!

Peace & Hand Sanitizer,

Kelly xoxo

If you ever have questions or would like to see what I'm doing in between blog posts:
IG: kellyaugustine & salvationkelly
email: salvationkellyxo@gmail.com

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Notes From Kelly

It's Saturday and as usual, I'm home... chilling in my favorite, raggedy, flannel shirt. Just wanted to drop in and spread a little love as I tend to do. The more time I spend alone, the more I realize how vital it is to have alone time. I have truly grown to love and appreciate every bit of ME! I encourage everyone that reads this to always remind themselves that everything begins and ends with you. No love is like self love! Spread it, feel it, be it. And always remember, Kelly cares... Even if nobody else cares! Word to Tupac... Who is still alive... Bye.

Peace & Hand Sanitizer,

Kelly xoxo

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Cropped.

When it comes to crop tops, you're either a fan or you think they're senseless. For years, as a fatty, I never would have imagined the day that I would bare anything in my midriff. Maybe it's a boost of confidence, maybe it was the few lbs loss... OR, maybe I just stopped giving a damn! I hope for the latter, because people's opinions do not matter. When it comes to fashion, you go with what's right for you. Everyone doesn't share the same "flaws" or "problem areas." 

I digress, this top was something I definitely winged at the last minute. I'm the queen of winging it. It started off as a regular, size large, Hanes, ladies' sweatshirt. All I did was cut the bottom "band," that typically falls at your waist, off. Once removed, I then cut a good 3-5 inches off of the then bottom of the sweatshirt. Once THAT part was cut, I sewed the band to the new bottom... was that confusing? If anyone would like better detail I'll consider a DIY video or pictured steps. The joggers were thrifted, duuuuh. A regular men's pair of adidas jogging pants worn high waisted. I hate the baggy fupa illusion these pants give but I love the comfort and sporty spice realness they serve.

(This is another suit that I altered a while ago, excuse my awkwardness, idk. 

This was thrifted for $1.50.)

Crop tops can be fun and worn tastefully. There are multiple lengths that you can buy them in, and if you can't find one that fits YOUR body how YOU want it... create your own! Fashion has no boundaries when you make your own rules. People will always find something to talk about, just tell them to make it good! Be well babies. XOXO

Peace & Hand Sanitizer,
Kelly

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Happy New Year!!!!!!!

Dress: Banana Republic, h=thrifted $3

Belt: Pay Half, $7.99

Boots: Forever 21+,  faux suede black 

knee high, $22.25 (not shown)

Happy New Year everyone!!!!! I pray that you all had great, SAFE fun last night! I want YOU to know, yes you, even you with the eye boogers at 1pm... every single one of you, that take the time to read my blog, comment on pictures, send me encouraging words... Whatever. I. Am. Grateful. 2013 was a very trying year. I don't want to go into great detail of the happenings so I'll just say that it was trying. I saw a version of myself that I never want to see again. With hard prayer and support from my amazing family and friends I made it through and stepped into a light that I never want to see dim again. 

Although last year had it's not so great moments, I am still able to focus on the good and glories that 2013 did bring..

Here are my top 5 moments of 2013!

1. Kensington Jupiter!

My Niece who I love so much. From the moment I saw her shimmy down the human slide, I was overwhelmed with joy and the deepest love. She is truly a gift. 

2. My Blog

I decided to do something that was for me. Something that made me happy and allowed me to pour my loopy brain onto a public forum where like minds and others could CHOOSE to read and learn things. Even if only one person reads my posts, I'm grateful. 

3. Losing 50 lbs

I didn't lose the total 50 lbs in 2013, maybe... 35. The rest was loss in the previous year. Changing my "diet" was one of the best decisions I've made for my body. Don't get me wrong, I still love and indulge in hot fries and dairy, they just don't love me.

4. A New Job

I started a new job that I don't hate. Lol, seriously... While I was hunting all I prayed for was stability and peace in whatever I found. My co-workers are great and the environment is welcoming and growth is always an option.

5. My Family

Sure, I've been with them for 26 years thus far but last year really brought us together. After losing our grandparents, dealing with personal struggles and typical family strife... We made it through and love each other even more from it.

If it hasn't already been implied enough, let me say that I love you guys! I pray that this new year brings you all the clarity, love and joy possible. Be your own light. Start your own path. LIVE! Get you some self love in your life and GO OFF!! Take care and be royal!

Peace & Hand Sanitizer,

Kelly XOXO

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