Author: Rena

Music As Self Care: Kelly Rowland

KellyRowlandCoffeeVideo
Well hello there!

 

I know it’s been a looong minute since I’ve posted/updated Curves And Coffee but I’ll get into that another day  😉 (if you follow me, you’re already up to date!)

 

Since there’s A LOT going on all around the world and it’s weighing heavily on everyone, I hope you guys are taking care of yourselves physically AND mentally.

For me, one of my self care items is listening to music. Sometimes just being able to vibe out, listen to sweet sounds of R&B or getting up and dancing around the house to Pop or rapping along to some old school Hip Hop is all I need to sweep me away, calming my nerves in the process.

Let me stop rambling…

Here’s Kelly Rowland showing us the many beautiful shades of COFFEE

 

 

I wish this song was longer!

Lots of good music has been blessing my ears over these months of lockdown and I couldn’t be happier about that! This song and video has been out a couple months and I meant to drop it here sooner but better late than never!

So now that I’ve showed you mine, what are some of your favorite lockdown-nerve calming-self-care tips?

Just What You Needed: Recycled Leather Journal

Writers, this one is for you!

It’s time to upgrade your old journals and notebooks. This Cool Cowhide Writers Muse is courtesy of the great people at Groovy Groomsmen Gifts and it is the perfect addition to your journal stash!

 

No need to carry around that annoying metal or plastic spiral that gets snagged on everything anymore. You’ll even impress those around you when writing in public and that last part is just a bonus! According to the site: the journal is recycled cowhide leather, contains 100 sheets (200 sides) and unlined. It’s available in brown leather and sizes at 7″ X 5″ X 0.5″. The customization is laser engraved. 

There are lots of other incredible products offered by Groovy Groomsmen Gifts like cuff links, watches, and even iPhone covers.  Whether you’re planning a wedding or looking for gifts for friends and family, they have it all. The perfect place to get customized gifts for anyone any wedding/party attendees or just pickup something for yourself.

 

 

Sports Madness in March

 

 

Hey there fellow sports lovers!

 

It’s the most wonderful time of the yeeear!

 

 

  • The NFL combine is over and the draft will soon give us a new year of rookies to watch out for…
  • The NBA playoffs are creeping ever so closely…
  • MLB opening day is just days away…
  • We’re smack dab in the middle of NCAA March Madness…
  • Plus there’s a little thing called NHL playoffs happening soon

Let’s not forget about soccer, gymnastics, ice skating, and tennis events underway as well!

Whew!

That’s a lot of sporting events! There’s literally something for everyone happening right now.

 

So, I think it’s about time you rep your team and I know just what you need.

 

Let’s go!

 




The Sandlot Tee -$36.90- Torrid

 

 

 

Atlanta Braves Raglan Tee -$38.90 – Torrid

 

 

 

 

Detroit Tigers Raglan Tee -$38.90 – Torrid

 

 

 

 

 

USWNT Floral Summer Scarf – $29.99 – Fanatics

 

 




Detroit Pistons Color Block 3/4 Tee – $44.99 – Fanatics

 

 

 

 

WNBA Plus Size Tee – $29.99 – Fanatics

 

 

 

 

Detroit Red Wings Hockey Fights Cancer Hat – $27.99 – Fanatics

 

 

 

Detroit Red Wings American Needle Slouch Hat – $34.99 – Fanatics

 

 

 

Of course those were just a few of my favorite or hometown teams but I’m pretty sure you’ll be able to find yours at those sites and stores too! Also, some of these items are currently on sale so grab them while you can get a deal.



Wednesday Wants: The Moto Jacket

plus size biker jacket

It may not feel like it outside but the calendar says March.

March is usually the month when the weather starts to change for the better (at least when it stops snowing.)

I also celebrate my birthday in March (March 4th to be exact so Happy Birthday to me!) and being able to wear a cute light jacket would be a great birthday gift!

But, until I can ditch the heavy winter parka, double wrapped scarves, gloves, and of course the snow boots, I can only fill my closet.

So, what’s on my shopping list this spring…whenever it gets here? Cute moto & biker jackets of course!

Totally on trend and just like the perfect bag: it goes with EVERYTHING! Of course I’ve already did the shopping for you. Check out these cute plus size moto biker jackets.

 

 

 

Joanna Hope Side Tie Jacket – $99 – Simple Be

 

 

Plus Size Off Shoulder Moto Jacket – $59 – Ashley Stewart

 




 

Her Universe Captain Marvel Moto Jacket – $98 – Torrid

 

 

 

 

 

Suedette Biker Jacket – $74.99 – Simply Be

 

 

There’s plenty more jackets to be added to your closet here –> Biker Jackets

 

Dressed up or dressed down, which one are you gonna choose?!
 
 



Tadashi Shoji: New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2019

From lush velvet to shiny sequins, this parade of formal frocks had it all…including a few rompers/jumpsuits! Even I’d LOVE to wear these!

Here are just a few of my faves from one of my faves from the always inclusive Tadashi Shoji.

Featuring plus size models in dresses perfectly made to hug curves just right…

Photo via Gio Staiano for Now Fashion

 

Photo via Gio Staiano for Now Fashion

 

Photo via Gio Staiano for Now Fashion

Embed from Getty Images

 

 

Photo via Gio Staiano for Now Fashion
Photo via Gio Staiano for Now Fashion

All the looks from this show looked soft yet so powerful and regal…just what you want in evening wear or a party dress. Tadashi Shoji continues to amaze.

 

(Photos are not mine nor do I claim them as mine. Photos are presented with caption and owners with rights to said photos. Posted here for editorial purposes only. Please contact if need removed.)

‘Tis The Season for Wedding Planning

It’s engagement season!

Are you in planning mode already?

Need help with the extras for the big day?

No problem!

 

Whether you’re the bride, the groom, the wedding planner, or wearing ALL three hats, there’s a new site ready to help! Forever Wedding Favors! Forever Wedding Favors has all of the cute and festive favors for your guests that’ll be sure to be a memorable gift to them. Items can be purchased in bulk and delivered to you FOR FREE with purchases over $75. One stop shopping makes your to-do list even shorter!

 

Here are a just a few of their items ready to go!

 

 

 

Bear Hug Salt & Pepper Shakers

 

 

 

 

Wine Bottle Bottle Opener

This awesome wedding favor can be customized! The label of the wine bottle opener can truly become your own personal gift to your guests.

 

 

 

Mini Gumball Machine

 

 

 

Tie The Knot Wine Stopper

 

 

 

Antique Typewriter Keys (Magnets)

 

 

And a plethora of other items just waiting for your special event!

 

The good people at Forever Wedding Favors have made it super easy to find what you need. You can search for specific items and even by the theme of the wedding/event you’re planning. For example, I love candles and especially this set:

Searching for all the candles is really easy because all the candle favors are in one spot. 

 

After scouring the Forever Wedding Favors site (the shopaholic in me of course), I’ve found that lots of the items can be used for any event you’re planning. Most importantly: a girls night, birthday party, family gathering, etc. I love a good site that offers customers lots of products and plenty of ideas. Also, favors can be personalized like their sets of stationary. Be sure to check it out!

 

 

(Products pictured given for honest review.)

Wednesday Wants: Christmas Shopping Gift Guide

Hey guys!

I know it’s been a minute or five, apologies for my absence but your girl has been BUSY (plus a break from all things social media is always nice.) No worries, I’m back and hope you’ve been doing well while I was away.

So, what’s a good way to ease back into writing and sharing? By helping everyone out with their Christmas shopping of course!

Instead of our regular Wednesday Wants wish list, here’s some of the things I adore that’ll be sure to be awesome gifts for anyone on your shopping list!

Are YOU ready?



Let’s jump into it, shall we…

 

Let’s start with the person on your list that isn’t into fashion or you aren’t sure what they like:  You can always get old faithful e.g. a gift card OR you can go the humanitarian route and make a donation in their name to their favorite charity. My favorite charities involve those that are animal helping, environment saving, and/or keeping the homeless fed & warm. There are plenty across the world to donate to so choosing one will be simple.

Here’s my fave furry friend enjoying the gift of Bark Box last year. Psst! Pets love gifts too!

 

 

Now if your Christmas shopping list includes the girl who loves fashion as well as charity, the following ideas are for you (and her!)

 



 

2018 is the 90th anniversary of Mickey Mouse and the celebration is happening at Disney Parks around the globe and on ShopDisney.com.  As a lover of everything Disney, the items that follow are the cutest things EVER and I want them all…they’ll also be the perfect gift for anyone on your shopping list.

These Beats by Dre Apple headphones are a must have! Not only are they functional because they’re cordless but they’re super cute!

Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones – $329.95

 

Socks. Yes, SOCKS! Everyone needs socks and why not get some colorful fun socks?! I probably have way more socks than I’ll ever need but every time I see a really cute pair, I end up getting them. These particular socks come as a set with a matching box for each pair, advent calendar style! (FYI, they also have a mens set and I’d get those too because…double the cuteness!)

Disney Socks Advent Calendar Gift Set – $39.95




 

This single serve coffee maker comes WITH the special edition mug and it’s under 30 bucks! You get to save money and give the coffee lover in your life the perfect gift!

Mickey Mouse 90th Anniversary Single Serve Coffee Maker – $24.95

 

You can’t go wrong with jewelry. Even better…personalized with the receivers birthstone. Just make sure you get the right month lol aquamarine if they’re a March baby like me!

Mickey Mouse Birthstone Necklace – $56.95

I could, quite possibly, list every item on Shop Disney but I’ll spare those non-Disney fanatics. 




 

Moving right along…

It’s winter and some of us love a little luxe to go along with our snow

River Island Plus Faux Leather Biker Jacket – $103 ASOS Curve

 

Because being cute yet comfortable is a thing! This two-piece pant set from Premme comes in several colors including a sunshine bright yellow! Some sizes & colors are sold out but you can add your email to the wait list…trust me, do it.

Marissa Wrap Top – $59   Marissa Pant– $72

 

 

Eva Off The Shoulder Dress by Poetic Justice – $68

 

Shoes. Bags. Enough said.

Saint Laurent Opyum YSL – $995

 

Journee Collection Zinia – $54.99

 

Journee Collection Adley – $49




 

Thank GOD stacked and chunky heels are back and still in for 2019! Listen, I love heels. I love wearing them, I love how they look, love how my calves look in a sexy stiletto but let’s face it… we (I) can’t wear skinny heels everyday or even every time I go out without wanting to take them off and slip on those emergency flats because of the pain! These are for my chunky heel lovers:

For everyday/on the go/at work/just don’t want my feet to hurt and look cute at the same time heel

FYI: They come in red.

And here you see how cute they’re styled with a fishnet sock and I’m here for it!

Christian Louboutin Marimalus Spike Heel Pump – $895

And because it’s bootie season…

Suzi Folk – $1,195




 

If I’m going give into the crazy, clunky, old people sneaker trend, it’s going to be stylish fall into the trend of the masses. Thankfully Steve Madden gets me and made this ‘Cliff’ sneaker. There a TON of colorways to pick from and these three a just a few…

Cliff by Steve Madden – $99

Speaking of Steve Madden

BKAIA in Blush – $68              BKWEEN in Black – $68

A few of these items may be on sale starting Black Friday. Even if going out into the the shopping frenzy that is Black Friday isn’t your thing, you can easily grab these things online in the comfort of your own home in your PJ’s! I’ll be clicking the keyboard keys with you in hopes of grabbing some of these items on sale.

Hopefully I’ve covered all the ladies on your shopping list…just remember, If I like all of these…pretty sure she’ll LOVE them!

Wednesday Wants: #PrideMonth Edition

Celebrating the whole month because June is Pride Month!

Shout out to every LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning) person around the world!

It’s always nice, supportive, and fun to celebrate EVERYONE!  Whether we know someone who identifies or not…let’s simply be proud and appreciate each other. Even though we’re now two weeks into Pride Month, it’s never too late to show some color.

Below, I found a few cute things that might tickle your rainbow fancy!



 

 

Fast Lane Pride Cotton Lightly Lined T-Shirt Bra – $41 to $51

 

 

 

Gold-tone Rainbow Rhinestone Ring – $16.90

 

 



 

 

Rainbow Rectangle Sequin Tee – $21

 

 

 

 

Rainbow Party Supplies Collection – $2 to $10

 

 

Pride Narwhal Ride Pool Float – $29

 

 



There are plenty of other ways to support those we love and one of those ways are to donate to charity! Simply ask (or Google) a charity that supports the LGBTQ family.  Remember, any amount helps!

Here are few great charities 

ACLU

Human Rights Campaign HRC

The Trevor Project

GLAD

Planned Parenthood

 

If you know of others, please feel free to add them in the comment section below…



A Gift For Your Girls

It’s that time of year again…wedding season!

Now that the Royal Wedding Day is over, you can go back to planning YOUR big day!

I know. I know. It’s dreadful. It’s stressful. It’s expensive.

BUT

Keep remembering that it’s a celebration of family, friends, life, and love.

Plus, I’m always here to help you out with some of that stress so you can cross off something on that to-do list!

Remember this post, Gifts For Your Guy? Have a look to refresh your memory. Well, those same people are bringing us a website to help us all. Check out Bridesmaid Gifts Boutique, here you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for all the lovely bridesmaids in your wedding party!

 

My favorite (I was able to pick) is the Dazzling Duo $42.

Click photos to enlarge

 

It comes with a silky smooth cotton floral robe (your choice of colors: Soft Pink, White, Burgundy, and Navy) and a glittering tumbler (colors are Gold or Silver Sparkle.)  Both items come in a customized keepsake gift-box with a magnetic closure.

 

The robe and tumbler can be customized with the receivers initial, also your choice of color so each recipient can have their favorite color imprinted on the robe and tumbler for even MORE personal touch.

 

 

By the way, the robe is available for us curvy girls in XL (plus size) which I ordered. It fits perfectly with lots of room, as a size 18-20, I could probably go to a smaller size and still have room. Just know that it will fit all your curvy and plus size bridesmaids/friends.

Bonus: The gifts on Bridesmaid Gifts Boutique can also be purchased for any holiday or gift for that special lady in your life…trust me, she’ll love it!

 

 

Wednesday Wants: Hip Hop History MCMxPuma

80’s and 90’s hip hop is how I grew up. From my listening to what my Dad listened to, to hanging around the older brothers of my childhood friends…hip hop is in me and so is the fashion that comes with it.

 MCM & Puma are two brands that were synonymous with rap way back when. I remember carrying my Mom’s MCM purse around the house in the 90’s like it was mine so this collab brings back good memories! Some trends may come and go but TRUE hip hop fashion is trendsetting just like MCM!  

Now let me just get some life savings together to afford such a luxury when its’ released next week!

In the meantime…

Here’s a preview…

 

 

 

 

Start the countdown and sign up now to get updates.

Here: PUMAxMCM

 

 

Let MCM tell you about it…

 

 

Seriously, are you ready?

 

 

All photos are via MCM.com