Faith, Family, Thrift

Luxury Laundry: Managing the Household Load

June 12, 2018by Mrs. Lo Johnson2 Comments

Having the ability to do everything does not mean that you should. Whew – glad that’s finally out and in the open!!!

If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed take a look at your to do list and ask yourself:

Do I have to do this?

If the answer is No – then delegate it or completely get rid of it.

If the answer is Yes – I challenge you! Are you absolutely sure you have to do this? Does it have to be done at a specific time?

Let me explain.

In my household – I handle the laundry.

Continue reading “Luxury Laundry: Managing the Household Load” →

Family, Thrift

Overpacked Living & Oversized Jacket

May 4, 2018May 4, 2018by Mrs. Lo JohnsonLeave a Comment

Mother celebration month is officially here! When I think of the woman balancing motherhood alongside all her other responsibilities the first word that comes to mind is:

Pressure

This is probably not the word you wanted to see, but I am just being honest. There is always something that a Mother has to do! Personally, I have this underlying pressure to fit everything in, to make sure everyone under my roof is pleased, and to make sure my individual identity remains in tact. It is a lot & that is before extending to the responsibilities and expectations outside of the home!!! Over the past few weeks I have reflected on this struggle and have determined that some of this pressure may be:

Continue reading “Overpacked Living & Oversized Jacket” →

Money, Thrift

The Must Have Flower with Lasting Power

April 17, 2018April 17, 2018by Mrs. Lo JohnsonLeave a Comment

There is nothing like a vase of fresh flowers! Colorful blooms brighten up any space and if you are living somewhere where it is still snowing in April –

The Flowers Bring Hope!

Ever Saturday my fam bam takes a trip to Trader Joe’s and I sooo look forward to the trip. My husband focuses on getting the food, I ooh and ahh over the floral section, and our kids secure the snacks! My one and only responsibility is to secure the bouquet (maybe 2 or 3 – if I am willing to sacrifice a snack 😀 )! That is my kind of grocery trip!

As much as I looooooooove flowers – I refuse to break the bank to secure them and those petals better not fall off for some days!!! The cut flowers have to last. A few weeks back I was soooo “stressed” out about what flowers to select because every bouquet was saying “Take me home”! I would put a bouquet in the cart, wheel it around, see a lady with a different bouquet, talk to her, switch my bouquet out so we could be twinsies, & repeat! Finally as we were nearing check out I talked to a fellow Mom club member – who had the flower lover scent all over her and some kids! I asked her 21 questions about the flowers she had in her basket and she gushed about how they were the best in the land! So I got two bouquets of the flowers she had!!!

Let’s just say – I am a forever fan of these budget friendly flowers! If they can survive a photoshoot of being flung to and fro – they are a definite keeper!!! 🙂

Bam!!! Here are the long lasting blooms and the thrifted Kaftan that better last a lifetime!

Hanging flowers upside down helps them to open up and last longer !

Just Kidding!

It’s simply an extra AF pose that will cause others to laugh hysterically and question your sanity! & if you’re lucky they may ask you where you snagged your shoes from!

I promise this is not an ad – these clorox white sneakers are Nike and were snatched off the DSW clearance rack. I tip toe around town trying to stay clear from all signs of dirt 😉 .

Do you know what kind of flower this is?

This is the ” Lily of the Incas”.

The scientific name is “Alstroemeria” & they come in a plethora of colors.

Abrupt Pause

The detailed print on this Kaftan needs proper acknowledgement.

Let’s stare and admire the wardrobe art.

Originally I thought I’d only wear this $4 gem at home, but it makes me feel like royalty – so I’ve ventured out of my palace and into the supermarket with it on!

My new fashion motto is to: Standout & Wear Whatever I Want!

If someone has something to say – I am prepared to slide them my Reseller Stylist business card and offer to hook them up with some royal threads 😀 .

Back to the Blooms

Alstroemeria “Lily of the Incas” has lasted as long as 3 weeks for me! I typically pick up 2 different colored bouquets for $8. Once I get them home, I sit down at the kitchen and let my mind drift while I prep them for the vase. The ends get cut and the leaves on the lower portion of the stem get snipped. I also clip off any leaves that look beat up. Then – in the vase they go.

As time goes on – the water will obviously need to be changed and I just keep cutting the stems down.

These flowers are so easy to take care of and truly have a

“long lasting beauty”.

Be on the lookout for these blooming beauties and a kaftan to elegantly sashay around in!

Do you have a favorite flower with some staying power – do tell!

Peace & Blessings,

Lo Johnson

Thrift

Festival Fashion

April 9, 2018by Mrs. Lo JohnsonLeave a Comment

It is time to start getting ready for those art & music festivals! The extremely popular Coachella Valley Festival (aka BEYONCE concert 😀 ) is just a few days away! If you are looking for that last-minute stand out outfit – your local thrift store might just have your back.

Check Out The Scarves!

I love an item that can be worn an unlimited amount of ways and doesn’t take up a lot of space. Thrift stores are overflowing with this versatile accessory! Find a large square scarf with a fun bold print pattern – and make it into a trendy top!

Simply fold it into a triangle then tie the ends around your back!

The larger the scarf the more dramatic the tie in the back!

If you think you would dance right out of a halter top – which is entirely possible – then there are a few other options:

Take the scarf (in its square shape) – tie one set of ends around your neck and the other set of ends around your waist. This makes for a well supported top.
Make the scarf into a fun statement head wrap or headband

– Perfect option for covering up that sweated out hairstyle!
Wear the scarf as a belt to accent your outfit

Bam! You have one item and multiple styling options!

The best part is that scarves can typically be thrifted for less than $3! The one I am wearing cost me 2 dollars – which means less money needed to shop and more money available to have a good time with friends & family! Cheers to the non budget breaking – stand out – be kind to the earth and reduce waste fashion find – YASSSSS! Isn’t that the hippie way!?!

I can almost guarantee that no one will have that same scarf pattern!

Which is something to smile about!

Just make sure you don’t wear heels to get your festival groove on – that is a sure way to get awkward stares and have yourself crying in a field somewhere 😦 ! Wear comfy sandals or sneakers. The goal is to look effortlessly cute and unleash that free spirit!

For the chilly mornings or evenings – search your local thrift store for an oversized lightweight jacket! The one I have pictured above happens to be my favorite color and matches my scarf color palette – it only cost me $5. I would also wear with a fun oversized denim jacket!

If you are like me and looking to attend Summer festivals like Lollapalooza or Afropunk – you have a lot more time to prep and have pre-loved fashion shipped right to your door! My poshmark closet is filled with festival friendly pieces and is constantly getting new inventory. A few of my offerings are pictured below – keep in mind there is only one of each ;)!

Wishing you the best of luck in building up your budget friendly festival wardrobe!!!

Have fun & much love ❤ !!!

.

Peace & Blessings,

Lo Johnson

Thrift

Suri Rose Boutique Vintage

April 6, 2018April 6, 2018by Mrs. Lo JohnsonLeave a Comment

Our lives are filled with intersections. Moments where we are going about our journey and we cross paths with another traveler. Many times we have those quick ” hi and bye” chats where we may get a little nugget to help us along the way, but then there are the course altering collisions! I am talking about the good kind – the encounters that cause a shift in your mindset and create beautiful masterpieces.

One Saturday in 2017, I was at my local thrift store sourcing for inventory. I didn’t feel extraordinary that day and I was looking a hot mess! To be honest I was not in the mood to be seen. As I was combing through a rack of dresses, this beautiful Black Woman struck up a conversation with me. One of her first questions was ” Is that your hair?” followed by “What is your size?” and then a “Do you model?” – I was cracking up inside, but maintaining outward composure (…i think 😀 ). After chatting for a bit, we exchanged numbers and Instagram handles.

Let me tell you about my friend:

Kristian, the owner of “Suri Rose Boutique Vintage”

Black Girl Magic Alert!

Kris (pictured above) has extensive styling experience; ranging from editorials to fashion shows to movies.

The day I met her I did not know she was a collector of beautiful pieces! In fact, she has been doing so for 15 years! I had the opportunity to view some of her finds and this woman has been blessed with –

The Eye

If you are a reseller or collector of vintage pieces – you know that this is HUGE! Kris has got the gift and I have had the honor of seeing it firsthand!

The sequins.

The furs.

The lace.

The intricate details on her colorful garments!!!!

I. Want. ALL. Of. It. Some of her finds are posted on her Instagram page here, however, that does not even begin to scratch the surface. Kristian’s collection deserves a space of its own. The world needs to fully experience her artistry in person!

Thankfully, she is a woman with a vision and the work ethic to back it! Kris has plans to open a physical boutique selling eclectic pieces of clothing and furniture. I cannot wait for the day to come… like can I just get in line now !?! Y’all her pieces will fly off the shelf. This will happen because she not only has an “eye” for garments – she has a heart that sees beauty in everyone. This is what life is all about:

Showing the overlooked and undervalued that they too are loved!

We all desire to be known. The day she met me – I was in my hot mess disguise, yet she “knew” me to be model caliber. Through her business Kris hopes to use that same “eye” to show at risk teens their potential and how to help save the Earth through sustainable fashion. Hmm, maybe they will get their first job logging inventory at her store or assist customers in selecting pieces!…One thing I do know – is that they will be edified with words of encouragement. Kris is the mother of not 1, not 3, not 5, but SEVEN beautiful human beings! She is well –

Equipped to Inspire!

In fact, she rang my phone with a proposition that I personally could not resist. Kris had a vintage 1960’s coat that she described to me as being reminiscent of “Jackie O.” style and when thinking of someone to model it – thought of me! Before even seeing the coat – I was all the way signed up for this reseller stylist collaboration! All I had to do was show up, get styled from head to toe, and pose.

We connected and had such a blast! Laughter was the thread holding all of our conversations – she dropped a gem of a response to my ” What would you tell your 30-year-old self?” question – which is an entire post in itself (wait on it 🙂 )! I learned that Kris is concerned about how the world is losing the art of communication, taking time to breathe, reading from books, and loving ones self to the fullest. The funny thing – is that as she was styling and photographing me in her pieces – it was like we traveled to an era where self-confidence soared and time slowed.

You are invited to observe this experience in the fashion gallery below.

All quotes are from the iconic Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis –

as this photo shoot was inspired by her impeccable style.

Enjoy & much ❤ .

“There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world.

Love of books is the best of all.”

“Once you can express yourself, you can tell the world what you want from it….All the changes in the world, for good or evil, were first brought about by words. “

“I am a woman above everything else.”

“I want minimum information given with maximum politeness.”

“One should always dress like a marble column.”

” I think my biggest achievement is that, after going, through a rather difficult time, I consider myself comparatively sane. I’m proud of that.”

” A great goal in life is the only fortune worth finding.”

“I want to live my life, not record it.”

Special thank you to my friend Kris for affording me the opportunity of being styled in her pieces and experiencing her creative vision.

Peace & Blessings,

Lo Johnson

Family, Thrift

Kimono Robe, Jean Overalls, & Grilled Cheese

March 26, 2018by Mrs. Lo Johnson4 Comments

You ever have those wardrobe items that you just wear all the dang time!?! I certainly do & I am not ashamed at all. I am an aspiring minimalist who is proud to not have a personal closet overflowing with clothes. Every time that I am in my closet or folding laundry – I look to see if there is anything that I can sell or giveaway.

“Y’all We Need to Streamline”

That is the phrase I say non stop in my house. My husband just laughs at me and the kids simply stare at their mother. But for real, I’m not joking – I’d rather keep just a few items (pre-loved preferred) – treat them well – and then release them for someone else to enjoy!

I soooo appreciate the folks that were kind enough to part ways with this kimono robe and the jean overalls!

The Kimono Robe was thrifted right before a trip to Morocco and believe it or not – has an actual map of Morocco on it! God wanted me to have this piece of art, I am sure of it! When I wear this beauty I truly feel like the daughter of a King!!! Straight majestic orange crush vibes!

When I found the overalls one of the button enclosures was missing – which is probably why it was kicked to the curb. Welp – I snatched it up, grabbed a button enclosure set, and my son’s teacher installed it for me! These overalls have been getting worn to every dang thang since! I have worn them to picnics, work, church, – you name it!

These two very different closet staples had never been paired together & I must say this combo will be repeated time and time again! The gold drop earrings, accessories, and heels – keep the look elevated.

Tory Burch “Marion” Quilted Lambskin Tote (thanks hubby).

Asus ZenWatch 3 (thanks again hubby)

DSW Shoes (clearance).

The African Women, elephants, and zebra animal print – make me ooh and ahhhh like a little child. ❤ I just might need to see Black Panther again, wearing this exact same outfit – so I can pretend I am a Wakanda native! hmm……let me go check out the movie showtimes….. (I’ll be righhhhhhhhhhht back)

“Did my husband just say “cheese” as in smile or “grilled cheese” as in food…?

Yea, sooooo the movie mission was abruptly put on hold (womp womp) -> blame it on the food temptation! I mean…one cannot work on an empty stomach and risk getting hangry!

Thankfully my classy ensemble could transform to ” I’m ready to eat chic” in a blink of an eye – by simply removing the robe in a lady like manner (aka throw to the nearest chair)!

My husband made a delicious grilled cheese & tomato soup lunch! I took some photos and rough notes – so maybe one day I can get up off my tooshie to melt some cheese on some bread and warm up a soup box. You’ll probably beat me to it – recipe is below. 🙂

Fancy AF Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup

Ingredients

Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup (1 Box – feeds 4)
Brioche Bread Loaf Slices
Shredded Cheese of Choice (Monterrey Jack & Mexican Cheese – is what we used) – 1/4 cup per sandwich
Olive Oil (a little)
Butter (a little)
Parsley or Cilantro (to garnish and look real fancy)

Directions

Pre-heat oven to 350
Shred up your cheese of choice – if you want it really cheesy then shred up a mountain high pile. *sing ” Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” while you do this – it’s only right! 😀
Warm up your box of soup on the stove top, stir occasionally low heat
Warm your olive oil and butter in a skillet (we prefer cast iron) – lightly brown your brioche loaves on each side – medium heat
Place the bread slices into the buttery skillet. Top half of the sandwich (one slice) with your cheese mixture and place the other slice on top – cover the skillet with a lid to get the nice cheese melt.
Uncover the skillet and for added swag – place in the oven for additional browning and melting – keep in for just a few mins, remove, and slice your sandwich
Pour your soup into a bowl & garnish to liking, plate the slices, and BAM -> all done. 🙂

This quick and simple meal was a hit! Can you tell!?! 🙂

We will definitely be having this fancy grilled cheese & tomato soup combo again!

Feed me again please and I will bring a side of thrifted style, same outfit swag.

There is nothing wrong with wearing the same outift and repeating a yummy meal! 😉

Peace & Blessings,

Lo Johnson

Thrift

Spring Forward Fashion

March 16, 2018by Mrs. Lo Johnson3 Comments

I don’t know about y’all, but I am ready for Spring! I spent last weekend cleaning out cabinets and closets to bring in the quickly approaching season. Operation streamline & be a wannabe minimalist was in full effect! The winter sweaters have officially gone – BUH BYE – and the spring attire has moved right on in! You might catch me wearing a bright floral sundress and open toed neon shoes – despite lingering snow flurries. Dear Chicago weather – don’t even try it!

It is time to Spring Forward!!!

C’mon lets jump into the flower blooming season that screams COLOR! Aint’ no half steppin over here in these corridors – plus this concept is Bible.

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, 

do all to the glory of God."


1 Corinthians 10:31

Translation – if we doing the dang thang – let’s do it to the fullest – to glorify our maker!!! I set out to do that on Daylight Savings Time Sunday. To fully celebrate the losing of an hour and the gaining of more sun I rocked a color on color on color thrifted outfit!!! It was so bright that it helped me push through the hour of sleep I missed! 🙂

I hope it makes you smile & feel inspired to go all in!

Smile so hard that your teeth get dry! Spring and more sunlight is just around the corner!

This unbranded bag was thrifted for $5 and has beautiful sequin embellishments. It’s a beautiful reminder on the importance of bearing good fruit & seeking the fruits of the spirit.

Wrap me up in Gold, puhlease! This $6 thrift find could not be resisted. Not sure if it’s a shawl or a blanket – but i do know it’s mine – forevaaaaa.

These diamond shaped teal earrings were given to me by my grandmother they stand out nicely against my top. My pink top is Max Studio – $4 thrift find.

Dear ladies that wear larger shoe sizes – there is hope! I’m kicking back in a pair of DSW shoes that I snatched off the clearance rack! We’ve got ground to cover and can do it without being forced to wear granny shoes – praise the Lord!

I got 5 on it – as in – $5 paid for these pants! Michael Kors, thrifted, perfect fit, bold coral, – need I say more! ❤

I spent $20 dollars on the featured thrift finds and cannot wait to uniquely pair them with other wardrobe items! I’m pretty sure I’m going to change my name to Daylight Golden Sunshine – color is an obsession!

Don’t be afraid to be a glorious walking ray of sunshine this Spring! Are you stepping out into the light looking bright? Do tell! 🙂

Wear color confidently and don’t be afraid to stand out!

Having the ability to do everything does not mean that you should. Whew – glad that’s finally out and in the open!!!

If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed take a look at your to do list and ask yourself:

Do I have to do this?

If the answer is No – then delegate it or completely get rid of it.

If the answer is Yes – I challenge you! Are you absolutely sure you have to do this? Does it have to be done at a specific time?

Let me explain.

In my household – I handle the laundry.

Mother celebration month is officially here! When I think of the woman balancing motherhood alongside all her other responsibilities the first word that comes to mind is:

Pressure

There is nothing like a vase of fresh flowers! Colorful blooms brighten up any space and if you are living somewhere where it is still snowing in April –

The Flowers Bring Hope!

Let’s just say – I am a forever fan of these budget friendly flowers! If they can survive a photoshoot of being flung to and fro – they are a definite keeper!!! 🙂

Bam!!! Here are the long lasting blooms and the thrifted Kaftan that better last a lifetime!

Hanging flowers upside down helps them to open up and last longer !

Just Kidding!

It’s simply an extra AF pose that will cause others to laugh hysterically and question your sanity! & if you’re lucky they may ask you where you snagged your shoes from!

I promise this is not an ad – these clorox white sneakers are Nike and were snatched off the DSW clearance rack. I tip toe around town trying to stay clear from all signs of dirt 😉 .

Do you know what kind of flower this is?

This is the ” Lily of the Incas”.

The scientific name is “Alstroemeria” & they come in a plethora of colors.

*Abrupt Pause*

The detailed print on this Kaftan needs proper acknowledgement.

Let’s stare and admire the wardrobe art.

Originally I thought I’d only wear this $4 gem at home, but it makes me feel like royalty – so I’ve ventured out of my palace and into the supermarket with it on!

My new fashion motto is to: Standout & Wear Whatever I Want!

If someone has something to say – I am prepared to slide them my Reseller Stylist business card and offer to hook them up with some royal threads 😀 .

*Back to the Blooms*

As time goes on – the water will obviously need to be changed and I just keep cutting the stems down.

These flowers are so easy to take care of and truly have a

“long lasting beauty”.

Be on the lookout for these blooming beauties and a kaftan to elegantly sashay around in!

Do you have a favorite flower with some staying power – do tell!

Peace & Blessings,

Lo Johnson

It is time to start getting ready for those art & music festivals! The extremely popular Coachella Valley Festival (aka BEYONCE concert 😀 ) is just a few days away! If you are looking for that last-minute stand out outfit – your local thrift store might just have your back.

Check Out The Scarves!

I love an item that can be worn an unlimited amount of ways and doesn’t take up a lot of space. Thrift stores are overflowing with this versatile accessory! Find a large square scarf with a fun bold print pattern – and make it into a trendy top!

Simply fold it into a triangle then tie the ends around your back!

The larger the scarf the more dramatic the tie in the back!

If you think you would dance right out of a halter top – which is entirely possible – then there are a few other options:

Take the scarf (in its square shape) – tie one set of ends around your neck and the other set of ends around your waist. This makes for a well supported top.

Make the scarf into a fun statement head wrap or headband

– Perfect option for covering up that sweated out hairstyle!

Wear the scarf as a belt to accent your outfit

Bam! You have one item and multiple styling options!

I can almost guarantee that no one will have that same scarf pattern!

Which is something to smile about!

Just make sure you don’t wear heels to get your festival groove on – that is a sure way to get awkward stares and have yourself crying in a field somewhere 😦 ! Wear comfy sandals or sneakers. The goal is to look effortlessly cute and unleash that free spirit!

For the chilly mornings or evenings – search your local thrift store for an oversized lightweight jacket! The one I have pictured above happens to be my favorite color and matches my scarf color palette – it only cost me $5. I would also wear with a fun oversized denim jacket!

Wishing you the best of luck in building up your budget friendly festival wardrobe!!!

Have fun & much love ❤ !!!

.

Peace & Blessings,

Lo Johnson

Let me tell you about my friend:

Kristian, the owner of “Suri Rose Boutique Vintage”

Black Girl Magic Alert!

Kris (pictured above) has extensive styling experience; ranging from editorials to fashion shows to movies.

The day I met her I did not know she was a collector of beautiful pieces! In fact, she has been doing so for 15 years! I had the opportunity to view some of her finds and this woman has been blessed with –

The Eye

If you are a reseller or collector of vintage pieces – you know that this is HUGE! Kris has got the gift and I have had the honor of seeing it firsthand!

The sequins.

The furs.

The lace.

The intricate details on her colorful garments!!!!

I. Want. ALL. Of. It. Some of her finds are posted on her Instagram page here, however, that does not even begin to scratch the surface. Kristian’s collection deserves a space of its own. The world needs to fully experience her artistry in person!

Showing the overlooked and undervalued that they too are loved!

Equipped to Inspire!

You are invited to observe this experience in the fashion gallery below.

All quotes are from the iconic Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis –

as this photo shoot was inspired by her impeccable style.

Enjoy & much ❤ .

“There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world.

Love of books is the best of all.”

“Once you can express yourself, you can tell the world what you want from it….All the changes in the world, for good or evil, were first brought about by words. “

“I am a woman above everything else.”

“I want minimum information given with maximum politeness.”

“One should always dress like a marble column.”

” I think my biggest achievement is that, after going, through a rather difficult time, I consider myself comparatively sane. I’m proud of that.”

” A great goal in life is the only fortune worth finding.”

Abrupt Pause

Back to the Blooms