Great Expectations Inspired Video Fashion Shoot by Joey Oso

Hey guys!!! :D Long time no write! I missed ya'll & I missed blogging! : ( I've mostly been posting from Instagram & Facebook these days. It's quick & easy, but I'm easing myself back into blogging. Even though I haven't been blogging, I'm still contacted regularly by folks for product reviews, etc. I usually decline, but I recently was asked to share a very special project by Joey Oso, Good Morning America & L'Oreal Professionnel Freelance Hairstylist. He's put together a very cool project named "Into the Dark" inspired the movie, Great Expectations, that'll be in theaters in a couple of days. I checked out the video & loved it. It really shows raw creativity. I love seeing a true vision become reality. So inspiring. His excitement about the project is refreshing too! It made me excited to check it out. :-)-K.D.

Check out his words on his short movie below!

"It started out with an idea. This idea came to me in Sept 2013. I would think of this idea over and over for a few days/week to see if it even made sense. I also watched the 1999 movie of “Great Expectations” during my mulling over process. Once I put it all together in my mind and it made sense to me, then full steam ahead. Making sense meant the story line I would come up with had to be entertaining. So, I proceeded with the leg work.

The final story line, as you can see in the mini movie, is Romance mixed with Darkness, I like to push the limits. To see such beauty and elegance all around the video and then to add darkness to it, I feel it adds such a beautiful twist to it. Confuses the minds of those watching. I thought real hard of what type of team I wanted to assemble for this video shoot. I searched far and wide for my perfect team. I finally put together this great amazing group of artists! An amazing super experienced, super talented team and I’m totally happy with the end results. Thanks Guys and Gals!"

The Mansion: This Van Cortlandt Mansion House Museum was built in 1748 by Frederick Van Cortlandt. It’s the oldest house in Bronx, NY where it resides. The Surrounding Park was used as a wheat plantation which Frederick owned. The House was used in the Revolutionary War by George Washington. The Van Cortlandts owned it till 1889 from which it was then sold to the City of New York and made into a Public Parkland. The Process of Creating this shoot from scratch continued. Once The Mansion was secured for Oct 1st, 2013, Ideas for props to use during the video shoot were popping up in my head. I ended up, the day of the shoot, with a Jeep Trunk filled to the top with props.

Props included: Furniture I rented (no one was allowed to sit on any furniture in the mansion), an antique real knife I rented, real fruits, real flowers, vintage clothing I rented from this amazing costume store in Yonkers, NY called Beyond Costumes (914-963-1333) and a ton of other trinkets I brought. Including a case of water for the crew. The day of shooting began at 8am, beautiful perfect weather day for an outdoor shoot. The models were from Red Models and Adam Models and they were amazing. They were so cool and collected. The day of the shoot, I had the story line written down, scene by scene, a total of 9 scenes as my blueprint. The models and talent did an excellent job helping me execute each scene I had written throughout the day. They did so with great joy! No egos. The team was already told how this video shoot would pan out the morning of by me and everyone was super excited to see this unfold, So was I! The video shoot ended at 5pm with all smiles on our faces.

Makeup:
Guys; Embryolisse Laboratories Lait - Cr'eme Concentrate Moisturizer L’Oreal True Match Foundation Carmex lip balm Girl; Olay Active Hydrating Beauty fluid Make Up Forever High Definition Primer Cinema Secrets Concealer L'Oreal True Match Foundation Cover Girl Pressed powder Cargo Cosmetics HD-Blush NARS India Song eye shadow Ben Nye Cake Eyeliner Make Up Essentials Human Hair Lashers L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara Shirley & Josephine Lipstick Berry (first look) Plum (second look) Hair; Guys; L’Oreal Professional Architexture, Blowdryer for direction, where I wanted the Hair to end up.

Girls: (First Look) Her hair was already with a great texture when she first walked in, which was needed for this look. I took a 1 inch curling iron and just curled 1 inch sections just how they fell. The sections started from the top of the ear down. I pinned each section up & then hit them with a cool shot from the blow dryer. Took down the pin set and made three large sections of hair with all of her hair, one to create the curl bun on the very top of her head and the other two for each side of her head, by her ears. For the top section, I realized there was not enough hair to create the final look I wanted, so I placed a donut cushion on the top of her head and wrapped her hair around it. Bobbi pinned it all in place. (Second Look) I dropped down all the hair and it pretty much all fell into place with a little movement by me and some minor pinning and she was ready to go!

The Team:
The Photographer; Kristy Leibowitz www.kristyleibowitz.com
Hairstylist; Joey Oso www.joeyoso.com 347 558 3086
Makeup; William Marshall www.kenbarboza.com
Videographer/Video Editor; Schmirk Pictures
Agnes from Adam Models- 212-944-8870 Justin from Adam Models- 212-944-8870
Harrison from Red Models- Tim Klein 212-785-1999 ext 202

Now that you've got the background, check out the video below!

 

For more information on "Into the Dark", you can catch up with Joey here:
Site: joeyoso.com
Email: joeyosohair@gmail.com  

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I Made My 1st Pair of Earrings!!!

Actually, as you can see- 2 pair! Never thought that one day I'd actually make some earrings. lol, I looked into earring making a few years ago & was like "Nah, I'm good with buying them." lol However, I looked online recently for some inspiration on easy ways to make earrings. I'm talking as simple as possible because I wasn't trying to do anything too difficult. I found a great video on making buttons earrings from She Sings Lovely on YouTube. She has a great, EASY tutorial!! All it took was a trip to Joann's Fabrics & Wal-Mart & I was all set!

Earring posts & backs- around $1 at JoAnn's Fabrics
Crazy Glue- $3 at Wal-Mart

The earring material you see above is from some old jean shorts I can't fit anymore & this light gold belt I never wear. Currently, on the hunt for more items around our place that I can make into earrings. I'm definitely going to try & make some button earrings! What do ya'll think?? 

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$1.50 F21 Ridged Square Earrings

 I forgot about this pic. I posted it on Twitter on New Year's Day while I was at The Cheesecake Factory for the very 1st time in life. lol Initially, I was just showing the puff, but I completely forgot I was wearing these vintage, distressed earrings. Love them! I bought another pair too, but I haven't worn them yet or taken pics of them. Forever 21 is quickly becoming one of my least favorite places to shop simply because every time I go in there, it's a freakin' madhouse. I can't shop in the middle of chaos. I like peace & quiet when I'm shopping...mainly so I can think. I'm gonna start shopping there in the early morning when they open because I can't.deal. I've barely been to F21 since we moved to Houston because of this. However, I do love that I can always find a good deal in there! Shoot, I just might start shopping online....

Speaking of online, here they are: Ridged Square Earrings

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4 Things That Don't Go With My Personal Style

 I did this post on ETSS (my other blog that I'm trying merge with this one). It's so funny looking back on this post & comparing it to me today. I have to say....it's all still true! lol Keep in mind I wrote this in spring of 2010.

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Although, I'm still getting used to this "style" blogging thing, I thought I'd let you guys know what you won't see a lot of on this blog.

1. Stockings. I can't stand stockings. I NEVER wear them. They irritate the crap out of my legs. I've never liked them. My mother would try to get me to wear them as a child, but I could barely last a few hours in them. When it gets warm, I really don't like anything touching my legs so pants really don't exist to me at this time of the year.

2. Socks. I know it's trendy to wear socks with sandals right now, but I won't be jumping on this bandwagon. I'm from the south & really prefer walking around with no socks while I'm in the house. Socks are okay, but I don't own a pair I've actually bought. I like the socks that go over each toe. :-) Those are the only kinds I own. And I hardly ever wear them. If I need thicker socks when it's cold, I wear the hubby's.

3. Pants/Jeans. I know I just wrote this in the "Stockings & Socks" category, but it needs to be said again. I'm a dress kind of girl. I love dresses. I've already done a post with jeans. Click here if you missed it. However, you may not see jeans again on ETSS for a lonnnnng time. When it gets steadily warm, I don't wear pants. I'm not kidding. I wear dresses, skirts & shorts. I would love to live somewhere that's so warm that I don't have to wear pants. lol, Seriously. You won't see many outfits of me in pants unless it's cold(er)out.

4. Sneakers. Lol, I only have 2 pair. (well I have some in my mother's garage back home) One pair I've had since I was 17. They're raggedy, but I love them. ;-) The hubs gave me a Foot Locker gift card for Christmas a couple of years ago. He was hoping I would throw away the old ones. Not! The sole will have to literally be falling off for me to throw those shoes away. Hahaha. (UPDATE: The sole really fell off the shoes a few days ago! I was sad at first, but hey I've had them for over 10 years...LOL. I wish I'd taken a pic of them.) Anyway, I bought some Jordans with the gift card. And I'm expecting to keep those for the next 10-20 years. I'm clearly not a sneakers girl. More like heels, flip-flops, sandals, etc...

That's it! I hope you guys now have a little more insight into my personal style. :-)

What things don't go with your personal style?

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Christmas Hair & My 50 Cent Blazer!

Pics from Christmas Day in Memphis! Khloa currently tries to eat everything she can.

The day we drove back to Houston. Just my twist out which I simply tied with my satin scarf & I fluffed it out that morning.

Been wearing this blazer like crazy....It's actually a very bright orangey red, but showing up more orange. I think I'm gonna continue wearing it a lot. I bought it in June 2010 at a thrift store in VA & I'm just NOW starting to wear it. Why I don't know...this jacket is so cute & I love how it's almost like a peplum jacket. ;-)

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The Fashion Fierce Party III

So...guess who's covering The Fashion Fierce Party III? ;-) I told ya'll I was having a fantastic fall...See what I'm talking about! lol! For those that can't make the party, I'll be updating you guys via Twitter from the event on Sunday using the hashtag #TheFashionFierceParty! If you wanna come there's a link to purchase tickets below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: Kristina Mahoney, EliteOne Agency

(713) 320-5996 | Kristina@EliteOneAgency.com

THE FASHION FIERCE PARTY: Shoezy Lover Boutiques' Fall Runway Show. It’s a Fashion Show, It’s a Party, It’s FIERCE!

HOUSTON, TEXAS (October 30th, 2011) - Shoezy Lover Boutique in association with the Law Office of Crystal D. Henderson brings you back to where it all began. On October 30th emerging designers that call Houston home will flood the runway with fashion that is fun, fresh and of course fierce. It’s the 2nd Annual Fashion Fierce Party Fall Edition at Grooves Restaurant and Lounge, 2300 Pierce Street, Houston Texas 77003 at 7pm. Houston's finest and fiercest designers get to show off their lines just in time for the new season. The Fashion Fierce Party, hosted by Jesus Walks, features a full runway show with local designers like Wolfen Wear and Designs by Darnell McGowen as well as boutiques including The Envy Boutique, Glam Boutique by She, and Buffalo Exchange. There will also be a live performance by The Vx and Houston’s songbird, Varrie V.

Makeba Collins, owner of Shoezy Lover Boutique, is the brainchild behind The Fashion Fierce Party. “This event provides a platform where up and coming fashion designers and independently owned boutiques can confidently and artistically present their designs to the public; a platform that would not be otherwise available without the Fashion Fierce Party” says Makeba. “Not only does the show provide them with a great opportunity to present their talents in a major runway production, but it allows these up and coming designers and boutiques to be a part of one of Houston’s premier fashion events.”

An exciting feature of the show is the cocktail hour sponsored by Tequila Distinguido prior to the runway performance. This is a unique opportunity to experience the Distinguido VIP Lounge where guests get to tantalize their palates with the world’s most distinguished spirit and groove to the smooth sounds of DJ Kool Kris. Guests mix-n-mingle and go pop-up shopping with local vendors. The current fashion trends from Twyla Boutique, the hottest colors in make-up from LAMIK, those must-have bags by C. Bentley Novelty Bags, addictive accessories from Accessories R Necessities, gift baskets from Dai Cor Baskets, will all be available for purchase during the cocktail hour. The pop-up shops will also feature Haute Chic Boutique, Culture Boutique, One Chic Touch, Hollywood Fashions, Guilty Pleasures Cosmetics, Unlimited Fashions and More, Organo Gold and Darl’n D’mplz Couture. The Fashion Fierce Party is not your average fashion show!

This will be the 3rd successful runway event and in the past the show has attracted more than 300 attendees with the current attendance expected to double. Doors open at 7PM and tickets go on sale September 30th. VIP reservations include complimentary Tequila Distinguido and the best seats in the house for only $325. Runway seating is available for $40 and includes a Brag Bag filled with unique gifts from the sponsors and vendors. General admission tickets are available for $20. Tickets can be purchased at Shoezy Lover Boutique by calling (713) 570-6761 or online www.TheFashionFierceParty3.eventbrite.com. The Fashion Fierce Party will benefit Change Happens, a non-profit, community-based organization primarily serving adults and at risk youth in Houston, TX.

The Fashion Fierce Party is sponsored in part by The Law Office of Crystal D. Henderson, Tequila Distinguido, Private Sessions, LLC, Twyla Boutique, Guilty Pleasures Cosmetics, Maxx Styles, Jaylon Cornell Esq, Insomniac PR, EliteOne Agency, Brian Keith Productions, Skin Liquere, The One Touch Glam Squad, Glam Mogul Yaya Williams and Southern Girl Entertainment & PR.

Purchase your tickets here: http://thefashionfierceparty3.eventbrite.com/

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Cheapie Ross Shirt & Goodwill Earrings

The tail on this Ross shirt is so CUTE! And for $5.99! Please check out Ross if you haven't already. They have some pretty good deals. The earrings are from Goodwill for around a $1.50. Bought them last November the day before Thanksgiving. I remember the day because traffic was insane as I was out getting some last minute ingredients for Thanksgiving. I stopped at Goodwill on my way back home... No matter how much I prepare I always seem to find myself in an over crowded grocery store the day before Christmas & Thanksgiving. I'm not doing that crap again this year for the holidays! #yeahright

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DIY: Cut A Dress Into a Shirt

I've had this dress for a couple of years now. I've worn it so many times as a dress that I wanted to do something different to it...and I wanted a new outfit! lol

 These pics were taken a couple of weeks after I delivered Khloa Boa in April...

Here's the finished product! (taken a week ago)

You can even use some of the material to make a headband....

I cut the dress as best I could. It's in no way a perfect straight line all the way across...I do advise drawing a line w/ a marker or something else where you want to cut. If you can sew (unlike me!), you could hem the bottom a little. This was a great way to make my dress into a new outfit. I've had the dress for years so it was ready to do a lil' something to it. ;-) Or if you have a dress like this you could make it into a shorter dress. Just another idea....

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HG Hairstyle Headliner: Eboni Ife'

Hey ya'll! This afternoon I bring to you the awesome fashionista from The Fashionista Next Door: Eboni Ife'!

Take a look at Eboni rocking the Classy Side Bun W/ A Side Twist! Isn't it cute?!! I like how she paired it with the Forever 21 fedora. Check her original post on TFND here.

I love her style! She puts together some of the cutest outfits. Don't believe me? Check 'em out.

In her photos, she always looks like she's having so much fun. These are the kind of pics that make me smile. :-) I love to see people #enjoyinglife.

I hope she doesn't mind me hijacking a few more of her pics, lol. I just had to show you guys her amazing style. She seems like a such a cool & fun girl! :-)Wanna see more? Then go check out The Fashionista Next Door. ;-) Thanks for allowing me to feature you Eboni! :-)

Want to be a HG Hairstyle Headliner? Send me a pic of you displaying one of the hairstyles featured on HG! Email me at thehairgurl (at) yahoo (dot) com.

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New Year's Eve Attire...

Now usually I don’t go to a party for New Years Eve, but this year I am! I wanted to do something different….you gotta change it up once in awhile! I ordered a dress online from Macy’s thanks to a gift card I received for Christmas (Thanks Ma!). However I don’t think the dress will be here in time…so I think I’ll have to go get a quick outfit because I really have no clothing I want to wear. I’m really digging this bustier from Charlotte Russe… What do you ladies think? What are you ladies doing for New Years Eve???

My Alternative to Stockings

It's no secret that I despise stockings. They itch and they are very uncomfortable to me....so as a result I never wear them. Years ago, I worked at a Dillards and all of the women had to wear them if we had on a skirt. They had a very strict dress code...Once I forgot to put some on with a suit. When I showed up at work, they told me that I needed to go purchase some stockings so....I went to another store in the mall and had to pay $8 for a pair! Needless to say, my dislike deepened... However, since it's winter and I like wearing skirts so I need to come up with another alternative....

Introducing.....sweater tights! I know I'm late...but I'm here now.lol I am in love with these sweater tights that can be found here. I figure that if they feel like a sweater then it won't be irritating to my skin at all. Right now I only want them in gray and black. I might do a color in the near future. Do any of you ladies adore or hate sweater tights? Please share!

One Brown Girl

Ya'll can't tell me these tees aren't cute!!! I am loving these adorably chic tees. I can't believe I've never heard of them until now. One Brown Girl has been featured in Black Enterprise, on MSNBC, and many more. They have an annual sale going on right now so take advantage if you like the shirts!!! I think I'm gonna get the pink artsy brown girl shirt (when I can work it into my budget lol)...it has pink crystal in it! I'll make sure I post pics when I wear it...I'm already thinking about what accessories I would wear with it...lol.

*Click on the post title or tees for their website.