OOTD Archives - ASHLEY ♥ ADORES

Outfit of the Day: ‘Sisters’ … As Seen On ‘Insecure’

February 28, 2022

“Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.” Romans 12:10

This Outfit of the Day pays homage to my favorite TV show, “Insecure,” in light of its recent four NAACP Image Award wins! The oversized cotton shirt features a large multicolor illustration of four African woman and artistic “Sisters” text — and it just screams “Blackity Black” to me. It’s giving bougie auntie circa 1993, and that’s exactly why I needed it. The timing of this post is also apt, as it’s the last day of Black History Month and the eve of Women’s History Month. Issa Rae, the show’s creator and star, is Black history and women’s history in the making! Consider the look a tribute to her.

T-shirt: “Sisters” Fruit of the Loom Tee (Vintage)
Shorts: Big 5
Shoes: Crocs
Head wrap: YGN
Necklace: Etsy
Photographer: Dash

Fun story behind the vintage “Sisters” Fruit of the Loom tee — the star of this OOTD. It’s the actual shirt that Issa wore on “Insecure”!! Season 4, Episode 1, to be exact. The episode is titled “Lowkey Feelin’ Myself” and is the one where Issa preps for her sponsor mixer for the Market Street Block Party. When the show ended, I was bummed. It’s the end of an era for sure. However, I was fortunate to have a piece of memorabilia from the show that while keep the memory alive for years to come. I was the highest bidder on the “Sisters” shirt on Screenbid and a short while later, it arrived with a certificate of authenticity and the auction tag! Which reminds me … I need to find a proper frame to display everything.

To see more Outfit of the Day/Night posts, click here.

OOTD Roundup: World MS Day 2021

May 30, 2021

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. …A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:9, 12

And just like that, another World MS Day is upon us! It seems like a few months ago when I was celebrating this day of global solidarity and hope for the future for the first time. I kept my new tradition going and did an OOTD roundup to commemorate the occasion, because every day is worth celebrating. Truly. So I put on a bright orange dress (orange is the official color of MS awareness), my current pair of favorite shades and a smile and rocked this mini photoshoot. As symbolized in the second image, sometimes living with multiple sclerosis feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. There’s so much to worry about — the unknowns about the progression of my condition; managing my symptoms while balancing work, family and friends; and still trying to find joy in the process. Life with MS is not easy, but with my support squad by my side and looking to other people who are triumphing over the same struggles, it makes things better. I’m grateful for every one of them!

The World MS Day theme from 2020 to 2022 is “connections.” Last year, I chose to focus on my gals who supported me during the early stages of my MS diagnosis and journey. This year, I’m highlighting my fellow MS warriors who I’ve connected with via social media. Funny how the vast world of chronic illness can feel so small and inclusive! They have lifted me up and encouraged me by simply being who they are. These lovely ladies — seen below in their various shades of orange — include Kaci, the radiant roller skater; Ashleigh, a rose of an inspiration; Roxy, the remarkable MS fashionista; Diane, the dope DJ; Moyna, the marvelous motivator; Risha, the beautiful blogger; and Bianca, a beaming MSer who was recently diagnosed. Get to know about these inspiring women below, as they share what the MS community means to them and what makes them hopeful for the future.

Kaci Bell

• Name: Kaci Bell / @myelinmoxi
• Location: Dallas, TX
• Occupation: Realtor
• Diagnosed: August 2017

“The MS community means so much to me: It means knowledge of other’s experiences and perhaps a foretell of our own. It means instant friendships/connections — it’s hard enough to talk about this, it makes it so much easier to communicate with someone going through the same thing. It means strength and resilience, because we don’t let each other feel sorry for our disease, we continue to uplift each other and encourage positivity with our MS. It means having a bond, especially when wearing an article of clothing that mentions MS, it’s a talking point between strangers that is either knowledgeable or creates a relation between them. This community has been the most embracing one I’ve ever identified with and it’s been the most helpful resource since my diagnosis. 🥰 ”

Ashleigh Rose

• Name: Ashleigh Rose / @arose
• Location: Florida
• Occupation: Founder of A Rose Collective
• Diagnosed: November 2018

“The MS community means (cliché warning) the world to me. When I was newly diagnosed, I didn’t find many positive accounts that showcased that yes, living with MS is tricky, but it’s not the end of my life. So I wanted to change that narrative. Be the person I needed for others. So I turned my personal IG account @arose into a safe space to share my journey and spread Multiple Sclerosis awareness. Opening myself up to the world, to the beautiful connections I’ve made, has been more than rewarding. It’s been life-changing. My story continues at A Rose Collective and I look forward to making many more MS Connections! Xx”

Roxy Chanel Murray

• Name: Roxy Chanel Murray / @multiplesclerosisfashionista
• Location: London, England – UK
• Occupation: MS Advocate and Podcaster
• Diagnosed: 2012

“The MS community means so much to me. They have become a massive part of my life. Bringing me so much joy, light, love and guidance on my journey. What makes me hopeful for the future is the progression that’s happening currently in the medical world with drugs and medical trials that show that there may be a brighter, happier future for all MSers. As well as the way the community has connected and created greater spaces, less loneliness and better well-rounded information resources available for all.”

Diane Palaganas

• Name: Diane Palaganas (a.k.a. DJ Danga Dang) / @_danga_dang
• Location: Long Beach, CA
• Occupation: Part-time DJ, Full-time WARRIOR
• Diagnosed: January 2016

“The MS community is an inspiration of hope and motivation. No one else understands the pain and fight we go through. When I see other warriors surviving and thriving with this disease, it makes me push and fight even harder. I believe anything is possible. I am open to all the possibilities of the future and am thankful for everyone with me on this journey.”

Moyna

• Name: Moyna / @lifewithmoyna
• Location: New York City, NY
• Occupation: Paralegal, Freelance Writer and Content Creator
• Diagnosed: December 2019

“The MS community is very warm and welcoming. I hope for the future is that more POC MS patients can be displayed. Seeing people who look like me in MS advertisement and other PR materials. Representation is SO important. It is helps to see others like you and know you are not alone!”

Risha Serrano

• Name: Risha Serrano / @reeshespieces_
• Location: Las Vegas, NV
• Occupation: Executive Administrator of a healthcare facility and Blogger
• Diagnosed: January 2018

“The MS community is strong, resilient and supportive of one another. Reassures me that I am not alone in my journey. It gives me hope that I can continue to live a fulfilling life despite having MS.”

Bianca Sair

• Name: Bianca Sair / @beeezzzyy_
• Location: Philadelphia, PA
• Occupation: Direct Support Professional
• Diagnosed: February 2021

“I’m new to the MS community so it’s still a lot to learn. I do hope to gain support as well as give support to my fellow warriors as well as gaining knowledge. I just hope a cure for MS is coming soon so we don’t have to continue to suffer inside.”

To see more Outfit of the Day/Night posts, click here.

Outfit of the Day: Bet on Black

May 13, 2021

I never underestimate the power of a good statement tee to bring an outfit home. And when in doubt, I always bet on black — you really can’t go wrong in black. This Outfit of the Day is pretty much all black everything, save for the pop of burgundy on my lips and on my feet, as well as the gold accents.

“… being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience …” Colossians 1:11

T-Shirt: Love Black Culture
Jeans: Amazon
Sneakers: Air Jordan 1 Mid SE
Necklace: Etsy
Earrings: Amazon
Canine Confetti: Courtesy of Ryley the Mini Dachshund
Photographer: Dash

Thinking about the message of my T-shirt (*say it louder for the people in the back!), I always bet on Black — my people, our culture, our art, our expression. We are so dope! I wish that others would love us as much as they love our culture. I’ve heard it put this way: “They want our rhythm but not our blues.” I think you know the “they” to whom I’m referring. We’ve seen it far too often. They love everything about us (our dances, out music, our vernacular, our natural features, etc.) and try so hard to emulate us, but when it comes down to it, don’t even fix their mouths to give us credit for our brilliance that they co-opt, acknowledge our contributions or stand up against the countless injustices we face on the daily. Le sigh. Hopefully someone gets the memo when they see this shirt. Even if they don’t, I’m still gonna serve this Black girl magic on the reg!

To see more Outfit of the Day/Night posts, click here.

Outfit of the Day: Love to Lola

February 8, 2021

This Outfit of the Day features the designs of one of my favorite people, my friend Lola Wusu! Today happens to be her birthday (Happy birthday, girl!) so I thought I’d to show her some love by posting the look I pulled together featuring her dope Genesis Portrait Crew. Side note: When the people in your life step out on faith to create something on their own, support them. That goes for clothes, books, art, music, food — you name it. Show up for your people!

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Lola is just a vivacious, beautiful spirit. Her love of life is contagious and it’s no wonder that the sweater incorporates the phrase “live to love.” Her family name, Wusu, means “mighty warrior” and, according to her website, “That’s exactly who this line is for; those mighty warriors for whom fashion meets community, for those who want to look good, do good, feel good. Every. Single. Day. Just like Lola.” This idea of being a mighty warrior resonates extra with me — an MS warrior fighting every day to not let my chronic illness get the best of me.

I absolutely love the bold simplicity of the sweater. The rigid white lines plus the pop of red in the lips combine to create magic on the ultra-soft black crewneck sweater. I had to mirror that aesthetic by putting on a red lip of my own. And I took the pop of red a step further by breaking out my beloved Air Jordan 1 x Anna Wintour/Vogue collabs.

Genesis Portrait Crew: Wusu & 4th
Jeans: Amazon
Sneakers: AJ1 “High Zip AWOK” (Nike x Vogue)
Hair: Braids by Meme Ford
Photographer: Deborah

To see more Outfit of the Day/Night posts, click here.

Outfit of the Day: Grand’s Handbag

July 20, 2020

This post is in honor of paternal grandmother, Clara (we grandkids called her “Grand”), who passed away on July 2. Today, July 20, would have been her 85th birthday. My grandma was the most stylish woman I’ve ever known. She loved her furs (Detroit winters warrant full coverage) and lived to dress up. Grand taught me the importance of making a good first impression with my appearance, and is my greatest style inspiration. I have vivid memories of her teaching me how to iron clothes (’cause wrinkles are never cute); her helping me pick out a fancy Easter frock (all pink everything, complete with frilly socks and a tiny purse); and us going shopping for white tennis shoes in the spring. It was a ritual that my brother and I always looked forward to.

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Romans 8:18

Jumpsuit: GoJane
Headwrap: Amazon
Flats: H&M
Clutch: Vintage Stuart Weitzman from Grandma (gifted)
Photographer: Dash
Murals: @batdude88/@awalkingcanvas and @mara.bubblegum

One thing I learned about my grandmother since she passed is her love of designer threads. As a kid, I knew Grand could dress — I never paid attention to who she was wearing. When I went home to Detroit for the funeral, my aunts asked me to look through my grandmother’s jewelry and her closet to see if I wanted to take anything to help remember her. I saw this bright, flashy clutch tucked away on top of some shoe boxes in the living room closet and fell in love with it. It was so ’80s. It wasn’t until I got back to Long Beach and opened the clutch that I saw the label: “Stuart Weitzman/Made in Spain.” Granny?!

Grand had great, no, impeccable taste! I decided to make her clutch the star of this Outfit of the Day. It’s gorgeous, just like Grand. I’m wearing all black to signify that I’m mourning my grandmother’s loss. She was truly a one-of-a-kind woman, and I miss her tremendously. She was the epitome of style, grace, resilience, beauty and love. I’m wearing a headwrap as a crown of sorts. My grandma was royalty to my family and those who knew and loved her. I threw in the pops of red on my lips and shoes to reflect my grandma’s spirit. Her light that shone brightly, and boy did she know how to coordinate. Scroll through the slideshow to see a couple photos of Grand. I wish I had a photo of her wearing this darling clutch. I’m sad that she’s no longer here to serve up more head-turning looks, but I know that I will see her again when I go on to glory. In the meantime, her spirit will live on though me and my family. I aim to make Grand proud with every OOTD I pull together for this here blog.

To see more Outfit of the Day/Night posts, click here.

Outfit of the Day: A Teddy Bear You Can Wear

June 19, 2020

Today is the last official day of spring! I’m cleaning out my closet and putting my summertime finery to the front, but one piece I’m holding on to is this snuggly Teddy Bear Coat from my friend Jená Monique’s boutique. Wearing it feels like a warm hug, and those are welcome all year long, right?!

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens …” Ecclesiastes 3:1

Teddy Bear Coat: Jená Monique
Cable-Knit Sweater: Thrifted
Jeans: Forever 21
Scarf: Amazon
Hair: Braids by Meme Ford
Photographer: Deborah

This coat (sold out now, but previously available in this luxurious brown and a chic grey) is one size fits all, and this is one of the rare cases where it actually rings true! It’s a little roomy but it doesn’t look like I’m swimming in it. And it has pockets! Ones deep enough to hold me cell phone and wallet. Though this piece might be reserved for colder seasons, don’t be surprised if it finds its way out with me on a random chilly night. I’ll make it work! Now that things are heating up, it’s a great excuse to do some retail therapy and treat yourself to some lighter threads. And if you like the style of this coat from Jená Monique, she has just dropped some summertime looks. Run, don’t walk! Support Black-owned businesses this Juneteenth 🙂

To see more Outfit of the Day/Night posts, click here.

Outfit of the Day Roundup: World MS Day 2020

May 30, 2020

Today is World MS Day, and I’ve decided to do something different — something very Ashley Adores — to commemorate the occasion.

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Proverbs 17:17

Jumpsuit: Missguided Orange Bow Front Bandeau Jumpsuit
Earrings: Francesca’s
Sandals: Amazon
Photographer: Dash

I’ve enlisted the help of a few friends who are showing their solidarity and support for World MS Day, while also helping to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis. As some of you may know, I am one of the nearly 1 million people in the United States living with MS (2.3 million worldwide).

Orange is the official color of MS. This theme of this year’s World MS Day is “Connections,” so I wanted to show some of my connections (a.k.a. friends) wearing orange in support of someone with MS (me). At times, living with a chronic illness can be an isolating feeling — not to mention the stressors that come with being immunocompromised during a pandemic — but I’m blessed to have a tribe full of real ones who have my back.

Support from people who truly love and care for you can feel better than medicine when you’re chronically ill. The women pictured in the gallery below have served as inspiration and lifted me up when I needed it most.

Here’s a little about each of the women rocking their best orange ensembles in style in this roundup:

• My sister Ayesha is a superwoman who is an awesome mother to my nephews, Jordan and Marquis. She is also an honor roller as she pursues her degree, and is a craftmaker extraordinaire. She has always been ahead of her time. As a kid with sarcastic humor, I was convinced that there was a 45-year-old trapped inside her young body. Ayesha’s favorite color is (you guessed it) orange, and she wears it gracefully with a yellow (my favorite color) accent necklace.

• Yvette is my bestie, who I’ve known since the fifth grade. She is a lover of birds and also is my favorite songbird. Not only is she blessed with the vocals, but she has the distinct ability to make me laugh like a lunatic with her antics. Some of my best adventures traveling the word have been with Yvette, and I can’t wait to explore new places with her once this pandemic subsides.

• Unbridled creativity is what comes to mind when I think of Lola. She always turns heads with her bold outfits and daring accessories, and she has a heart of gold. Far from the ordinary, Lola exudes rare beauty inside and out. You can shop her creations at Wusu & 4th. (Photo by RSee)

• Jená, another entrepreneur-fashionista, is a mother, stylist and owner of the Jená Monique boutique (shop this Sheer Perfection Maxi Dress and other orange ensembles!). We met at church as we ministered through dance together. She loves the Lord and has a heart for serving her community. In all aspects of her life, Jená is the epitome of style and grace.

• My homegirl, Linda, has become family throughout the years. I can count on her for anything. Literally! One of the best things about Linda is her transparency. She doesn’t shy away from sharing what’s on her heart and her faith is so strong. I know that I can keep it 100 with her at all times, and that she would go to war for me.

• Stefany is a colleague who has been a great friend to me. She is a true inspiration, a supportive mother of two, and is as real as they come. Her effortless style is enviable. I mean, she has lewks for days! Stefany’s most valuable asset is how genuine she can be — she means what she says and says what she means. Love her!

• This curly cutie is Octavia, a quirky, funny, radiant spirit who is a joy to be around. I leave every encounter with her uplifted. I can always count on Tae for a timely word, and she has the voice of an angel. You better sang, Tae! As someone who also is enduring her own health challenges, seeing her thrive is encouraging, to say the least.

• Whitney has become a full-on woman right before my eyes. I remember fondly the days when she had just moved to California and we connected at church. These days she’s back in Arizona with a successful career in commercial property management, the cutest babies, a dope hubby, and a bomb house. Whit’s still got the baby face, but she’s got the wisdom and hilarity to match. Catching up with her on our weekly Zooms has definitely been one of the highlights of this quarantine!

• Simply put, Olamide is goals. She is one of the smartest and driven people I know. Where there is a will, Olamide will find a way, from teaching herself to code and launching a grassroots match-making service during the pandemic, to becoming a homeowner before 30 and affecting real change with leadership at our company! I stan. Not to mention, her singing voice touches people deep in their souls. I’m glad our work friendship has become a real friendship.

To see more Outfit of the Day/Night posts, click here.

Outfit of the Day: Do-Gooder

January 31, 2020

And just like that, we have closed the books on our first month of 2020! January came and went so quickly, and yet I feel like most of those days were spent guessing what the weather was going to do. It’s been that weird mix of freezing nights and early mornings but midday sunshine and springtime vibes come afternoon. So not full-on winter coat worthy but not exactly thin cardigan ready. This fluffy jacket by Nike has been a Godsend — it’s versatile enough to keep me the right amount of warm, and stylish enough to elevate just about any look that I pull together as I’m rushing out the door.

“Trust in the Lord and do good …” Psalm 37:3

These days I’ve been keeping it classic with black-and-white outfits featuring a pop of color. This ensemble was built around my “do-gooder” shirt.

At the start of the New Year, my church began making a concerted effort to do good for 21 days straight in the same we we’ve done Daniel fasts. My pastor described being a do-gooder as carrying out “practical, tangible acts prompted by God but directed toward people.” Ultimately, the goal is to lead people to God by being his hands and feet, doing good deeds, meeting people’s needs, showing kindness and such. It sounds so obvious, right? Do good. Not because you want something in return, but because we honor God when we give freely. And dare I say, it’s quite alright to look good while you’re doing good 😉

See more of this cozy, carefree ‘fit and find out where to shop the look after the jump!

Outfit of the Day: New Year, New Me

December 24, 2018

When I think back on all that happened this year — perhaps one of the toughest of my life — I’m grateful that I made it through. I know it sounds cliché, but I’ve got “New Year, New Me” on the brain. That includes a fresh perspective on productivity, career, finances, and, most importantly, my health. I showed you how I’m keeping fit in style in last week’s Outfit of the Day. Here’s another look at how PrettyLittleThing is helping me get workout-ready for 2019.

“You have armed me with strength for the battle; you have subdued my enemies under my feet.” Psalm 18:39

If 2018 has taught me anything, it’s how to fight. Three months in to the year, I was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. I had to use all that I could muster up to regain my energy, my self-confidence, my passion and my strength. I’ve been back in the gym building up my stamina and slowly making progress. Thankfully, PrettyLittleThing is helping me look good while doing it. The mesh crop top paired with the black paneled leggings makes me look like a total bawse, if I can say so myself. And the PLT script peeking through the top softens the look by adding a little feminine touch.

See more of this ensemble and shop the look inside!

Outfit of the Day: Birthday Behavior

July 10, 2017

My birthday was this past Friday, July 7, so naturally I celebrated all weekend long. (Truth be told, the rest of the month is fair game for celebration.) See more of one of my favorite birthday Outfit of the Days to date after the jump!

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