[EVENTS] Let Your Hair Down Recap!
Saturday, September 13th was the 3rd annual Let Your Hair Down expo, founded by the super sweet Candace Kelly, hosted by Jenell Stewart of KinkyCurlyCoilyMe and sponsored by Hairfinity. Held at Sanders Studio nestled in Brooklyn's Fort Greene/Clinton Hills neighborhood only minutes away from one of my fav eateries The Crabby Shack.
I was the place to be for any natural hair tips and education on how to maintain your manes. It was a fun event especially since I was accompanied by my mom for the first time. We enjoyed the shoppers that came ready to indulge in unique finds and networking with fellow vendors. Though it was a slight disappointment from last year's non-stop thrills it was still lots of entertainment that filled the 9 hour day .
Though I am no longer "The Naturalista" I do enjoy the events but I hope that this is not the beginning of the end of #teamnatural.
Fly. Funky. Fresh.
Sharon
CFO, Apple Butter Boutique
[EVENTS] Beauty Bazaar Recap!
[EVENTS] Beauty Bazaar Recap!
The day started off very gloomy with the chance of rain looming over the day! It was a muggy Saturday on Front Street but that did not stop the crowds of seekers looking for unique finds and sultry sounds.
I was in awe at the number of patrons that flocked the Dream Building, cool vibes described them best! The lovely ladies of Around the Way Curls and American Dreaming put together a well-attended event!
It was our first time vending in Philly and will not be our last! There were not only amazing vendors and the most influential bloggers of the city but make-up artist, stylist and hipsters all in one space.
It was a good day and well worth the hour-half trek to the city of brotherly love!
Fashion. Food. Funk.
XOXOXO
Sharon French
CFO, Apple Butter Boutique
My right-hand Marquisa Daniel!
Arielle VIlmont of Beauty Skin Specialist
Topia Tessema of Abiyah Naturals
Julie of Journey with Juboolee.
Owner Sharon and Shanti of Around The Way Curls.
Started From The BOTTOM...!
After one year, seven months, twenty-six days, three trips to the DMV, self-doubt, frustration and several plan modifications I can jump for joy and ecstatically scream from the top of my lungs and say, its official we are now mobile as of this Sunday!
Our licence plates are hung and permits for the city of Montclair, NJ (Brooklyn coming soon) are in hand!
No one will ever know the ups and downs that have brought me to this point but I will say that patience and prayer do work! There are so many people that helped me on this journey but most of all thank you to the man upstairs.
Our fashion truck is not your average traveling swap-meet but a small gem to a bigger dream, its a clothing carnival on wheels, equipped with not only our contemporary goodies but home to our vintage treasures. Patrons will enjoy the elegant touches cocooned by the classic charm on wheels!
We will hit the road every Sunday this month except September 28th due to our attendance at the Hester Street Fair in NYC (details located under Events).
Follow us on twitter !itsapplebutterb or Instagram for updates, our first stop will be the lovely corner of Church Street near Smit House & Bakery!
Pick up up one of their delectable sweets then come by to say hi!
Love. Peace. Fashion.
XOXOXO
Sharon French
CFO, Apple Butter Boutique
[MAKEOVER] Brains, Beauty + Busty
A few months ago I was asked by a very close friend to help revamp her current wardrobe as she enters a new phase in her life.
Sasha Osbourne was concluding her Residency to begin a yearlong Forensic Pathology Fellowship in Houston, Texas. She was looking to stray away from the basic black suit for vibrant colors and playful silhouettes! Her current wardrobe consisted of ruffle button up shirts, a sea of outdated denim and a collection of black pants which is the make-up of most of America’s wardrobes.
WEEK 1: CLEANSE
After weeks of discussions I was ready to dig into to the two week process. The first set was to purge her current wardrobe of unflattering fits, incorrect hem lines, and cliché’ trends.
Sasha divided her clothing into two piles donation and keep.
[Sidebar] Also try a “tailor” pile, sometimes there are items that work but may need a minor adjustment.
Once the clothing had been divided, which took a few hours and the help of two HONEST girlfriends it was time to tackle the task of “what do I really NEED”? Sometimes I think that many people get caught up in the thrill of purging that they forget about the pieces they already own. A fly brand new wardrobe is great but remember the clothing that you already own find ways to incorporate them into your new wardrobe.
Once you establish your current inventory the next phase is to set a realistic budget. Sasha’s budget was $1,000, and because I’m a budget-nista it was not hard to stay under that number.
WEEK 2: BUILD
After a week of consulting looks and ideas we hit the mall! Though we did do a test run the week before, which makes the second run a breeze! I am a Zara girl to the core but considering that their clothing are cut for Europeans ONLY that would not be the best store for women with curves. Structure was a word that I used often that day. Darts are your friend, heavier materials are also key. Stare clear of Polyesters and other loosey goosy fabrics that cling and do nothing to compliment your figure.
Our first stop was the unexpected JcPenny’s which I was not only pleasantly surprised by their selection of dresses and skirts but the quality for the price was unmatched. They also have a nice assortment of tailored jackets and pants. I am a firm believer in SEPARATES, mix it up a bit depending on your career 99% of the time it’s okay to do so! Don’t get stuck in the matchy, matchy rut, it’s OKAY to step out of the box add a floral with a stripe or orange with purple! Stay away from too trendy or drab colors that do nothing for you.
After spending the bulk of her budget at JC, we continued our trip around the mall to Limited, NY Co., Banana Republic, and other stores picking up and array of clothing and accessories. There were some online purchases as well as a few pieces from Apple Butter Boutique that also made the cut ;)
[Sidebar] My three main tips when shopping are…find the appropriate length, for a woman in her 30’s its essential that you are age appropriate I’m not saying go Grandma, but keep it classy! Knee length or midi are perfect for any height as long as the look is complimented with 3” or better heels. A belt is also a great way to create the illusion of an hourglass figure. An alternative to black, try a leopard print which is a neutral, yes I said neutral that can be paired with any color! Last but not least under garments, a good bra is key no matter how big or small your bust is the right support makes a big difference in how your clothing fit.
The last task was to PAIR clothing and accessories together, Sasha is hip on her own so she did not need too much help in that department once we completed our goal, to buy pieces that can be used year after year.
Below are some pictures shared to me by Sasha of some of the outfits that she put together using the tips that we shared and her own Stylish intuition.
Enjoy!
Sharon French
Owner, Apple Butter Boutique
Love. Peace. and Fashion
Are you looking for a fresh start and don’t know where to start? Contact me by email at info@applebutterboutique.com, subject CLOSET CLEANSE with your name, number, and a brief description of what goal you would like to accomplish. Currently servicing the Northern New Jersey/ New York City area.
[NEWS] Mini HIATUS....we're back!
Happy Friday!
It's been two months since our first event and with all the preparation I needed a mental break! But now the Summer has arrived and its time to turn up the volume! I have been working hard on new ventures and I'm ready to make some announcements, first we are planning our Fall Sip & Shop, tentative date will be September 20th. Location and time will be announced.
If you are interested in being a vendor please email us at info@applebutterboutique.com
Next our MOBILE BOUTIQUE will be up and running July 4th, our Fashion + Food tour dates will be announced under our events tab and via twitter so stay tuned. Thank you for your patience and enjoy 15% off all goodies using code HIATUS now until Sunday!
Fashion. Food. Fun.
XOXOXO
Sharon, Owner Apple Butter Boutique
[EVENTS] 19 days away....
And the countdown begins...
Come out Eat, Drink, Shop & get Glammed at our Vintage Carnival theme Sip & Shop! April 27th. Ticket are $10. VIP tickets are available only 7 left...enjoy a swag bag, reserved seating, special raffles, sweet treats and so much MORE! Get your early bird tickets now! Tell a friend!
I hope to see you there!
Purchase your tickets now!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/apple-butter-boutique-presents-sip-shop-spring-edition-tickets-11020950961
XOXOXO
Sharon
Owner, Apple Butter Boutique
It's OFFICIAL....we're throwing our first EVENT!
APPLE BUTTER BOUTIQUE PRESENTS SIP & SHOP: SPRING EDITION
Apple Butter Boutique invites you to our Spring Sip & Shop hosted By Chante’ of Everything Curvy and Chic. Join us as we celebrate the addition of clothing line Rue 107 to our collection.
Place: Loft 47, 47 Edison Place, Newark New Jersey
Dress Code: Fashionably Chic
Tickets $10 [Early Bird] $15 [After April 20th] *VIP Packages are Available
Doors open at 5:00pm
Fashion Show begins at 7:00pm SHARP
5:00 to 7:00p:
Mimosa bar (First 30 guest)
Raffle Giveaways
Complementary Nail bar by Sandy Le [ig @Gucci_Fiina]
Make-up tutorials
Style Tips
Sweet treats
And SHOPPING of course!
TO PURCHASE TICKETS
For more announcements connect with us on:
Instgram: @applebutterboutique or @thenaturalista
Twitter: @itapplebutterb
Please email info@applebutterboutique.com for more information about the event, VIP seating, and vendor opportunities.
Come out and mingle with young professionals. Hope to see you there!
[EVENTS] Harlem Fashion Week
[EVENTS] March Maddness
[EVENTS] Spring Brunch Gala
Apple Butter Boutique presents our first Spring Brunch Gala to introduce our newest additions to the shop. Rue 107, more Vintage Goodies and Shoes! Plus hair talk with a very special guest and makeup tips from the best!
Please stay tuned for more details coming soon.
Date: Sunday April 27, 2014.
Time: 5:00 to 8:00p
Theme: Vintage Carnival
Dress Code: Sophisticate Chic
Clothes + Cocktails + Carnival!
[STYLE] Dare To Be Different!
Chapter 1
Page 24 of 365
It's okay to stand out in a crowd...
For years, I have toyed with the thoughts of "who's going to be there" ,"where's the venue", in preparation for any outing. I would never wanted to outshine anyone, so I opted to for low-key attire. Now don't get me wrong, I would always add unique elements to whatever outfit I chose to wear but yet it was a muted detail to the boldness that was buried inside of me.
My new motto is to, "over dress" and why not? Why save an outfit for a special occasion when there are so many others to create? I woke one day with a new confidence about myself. Ready to walk down that runway everyday or on weekends at least.
Today marks the beginning of a revitalized new me ready to wear what I please. Not being concerned by my peers but only myself. Yes it may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's my own and I am ready to indulge in every drop.
Confidence. Clothes. Conquer.
XOXOXO
Sharon French
CFO, Apple Butter Boutique
[EVENTS] "All For You" Beauty & Hair
[EVENTS] Chelsea Bazaar Holiday Edition
Holiday Picks
'Tis the season for Apple Butter b to give you our holiday picks for 2013 under $30!
A simple collection to get you through the busy holiday rush!
All items are available now and guaranteed to be delivered before Christmas (US inly). Order before December 20, 2013.
Thank you!
Apple Butter Boutique
Fab Find Wednesday
Welcome ABB Dolls,
With Fall is upon us and Winter is steadily approaching. I have been on a quest to frugally enhance my wardrobe.
As owner of Apple Butter Boutique and a reformed Shop-A-Holic I have many clothing options but as every girl knows there is no sure thing as having to many clothes. Ever season I try yo find key pieces to take me through to the next season, timeless but trendy but pieces. I have been on the hunt for a Varsity jacket which lead me to my Circle of six. Forever21, H&M, Target, ASOS, Bloomingdales and of course Zara.
After a friend and fellow ABB Team member located the Varsity stunner I quickly located all of my closet additions to pair with Apple Butter Boutique Fall collection that were all one click away.
Left to Right, Right to Left
1. Lace Crop Bustier [H&M $5.95] Cranberry Midi Skirt w/ pointy black pump will be the perfect holiday party on outfit.
2. High Heel Court Shoe w/ Metallic Strap [Zara $49.95] Pair with our Knit Motor Pant and Lion Elbow Top w/ a Leather Jacket to polish off the look!
3. Oh Mickey Tee [Forever21 $15.80] Honey Punch Jogger Pant and Zara Court Heel (2).
4. Suede Leather High Heel Sandal [Zara $39.99] Leopard Embroidery Sweatshirt and a pop of red!
5. Cargo Jeans [H&M$49.95] Denim on denim is a must! Add our Denim Crop Top and Aztec Cardigan w/ silver heels!!!
6. Varsity Jacket [H&M $49.90] Pair with our Cranberry Midi Skirt and Heels.
Happy Shopping!
[Lost FOOTAGE] Let Your Hair Down Expo.
Happy Monday! Apple Butter Boutique has been playing catch up lately so please bare with us! Here are photos from the "Let Your Hair Down Expo" at Sir Stage in NYC on September 14, 2013. This event absolutely blew our minds! This was definitely the place to rub elbows with thousands, yes thousands of funky, fly, fashionable Naturals. We were so honored to be apart of this and look forward to next years event! Please enjoy our photo diary of all the highlights from a fashion show to natural hair blogger Taren Guy + do much more!
Mobile PROGRESSION!
As we enter into week four of renovations, I am starting to see the light (literally) at the end of my tunnel. The ceiling is now exposed due to the removal of the gigantic air container that was an serious eye soar. The seams are loosened to be replaced with new metal and rusty screws are swapped out for new ones.
I could not imagine that it would have taken up so much time to rebuild an old camper but I'm also excited and awaiting the final results.
This has been a learning process of how much patience I really have and the appreciation of everyone putting out a helping hand to put my vision to life!
Next on the list decor to add the final touches to this mobile boutique!
XOXOXOXO
Sharon French, Apple Butter Boutique
Next stop BROOKLYN!
For years I have dreamed of riding around the City with my clothing in tow, stopping at each city street with "Girls Just Want To Have Fun", blaring from the speakers. Apple Butter Boutique was always thought of to be more than another store front but a whole experience, by bringing the store to wherever you are.
As of August 2, 2013 that dream will become a reality. Though I am way behind my original timeline of May 3rd, I am still 100% committed to finalizing this chapter in this endless novel of adventure! We have finally found a vintage camper suitable to call our home. Yay!!!
First thought of to be 10 feet longer and an old school Ice Cream truck, to a School Bus, to a Shuttle Van but settling on a 1960's Scotty. I am so elated to turn this shabby 10ft camper to a Chic boutique on wheels! The hard work has only began and I am happy that determination outweighed many hurdles.
More pictures are coming soon. Please check out "Pop-Up Shop" tab for stops in your area. Also email info@applebutterboutique.com to book for events, girls night in, or ALL fashion emergencies.
Did I mention we will start vintage rentals this Fall? Lookout details will be posted under the "Services" tab.
Xoxoxoxo ABB Team
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