Harriett’s Park Ave Fashion Show

Lights, camera, action! It was finally time for the main event: Harriett’s Park Avenue Fashion Show (read about my backstage experience here). As soon as I heard the music start I quickly headed to the media pit to take my place. ‘Alright, Iris—Take a deep breath and dive in.’

There I was with my tiny DSLR, holding it tightly like a newborn baby while I squeezed my way into the media mosh pit. So what if I was tripping over somebody’s tripod and occasionally getting elbowed when a professional photographer hit the shutter button. I didn’t mind it at all. Another photographer was kind enough to point out a small but cozy corner on the platform for me to sit. Clearly, I must have looked lost and confused. She looked up at me, smiled, and motioned for me to sit. Finally, I got my spot and I got my camera, that’s all I need. Now to document the show! Check out below for some of my favorite looks.

Unapologetic, big, bold, statement jewelry from Bahalia:

Marie Claire: Women in Business Event

Orlando, The City Beautiful, just as we were growing to be the best of friends, the city threw some curve balls. These include torrential rainfalls on the only days I don’t have my umbrella, crowding of the malls with busloads of tourists on the only days I have time to shop, and closing every restaurant near me at 9:00pm on the days I need to grab food late.

But then, just as I was about to give up hope on the city, I got invited to The Women in Business Event hosted by Marie Claire and Ruth Chris Steakhouse. It’s almost as if the city wanted to cut me a break and take me out on a nice date. This time it pulled out all the stops.

Taking Care of Business (with my Christian Louboutin)

You might remember from this post that I was surprised on my birthday with a pair of Christian Louboutin Rolando pumps. Since then, I’ve been debating when and where to debut these beauties. After all, you can never have a “first time” again, so it had to be special. I wanted it to be an event where it would really stand out among the crowd. After much debate, I decided the perfect occasion was my profession’s annual conference. It is typically known as a conservative and professional gathering, but why not spice it up with some unexpected red soles? When I slipped the pumps on, I felt an instant burst of excitement and energy running from my toes to the top of my head. It was official, I was ready to network, discuss research ideas, and negotiate contracts. I was unstoppable. When I crossed my legs during seminars there weren’t eyes in the room that didn’t gravitate towards those red soles. Who can blame them? It’s definitely not a pair of shoes for the shy at heart. And I definitely was not feeling shy. I was equipped with my power suit and my Loubis. I was ready to stand out and use that confidence to my advantage. In the end, it turned out to be a great conference with new contacts and potential clients. Was it because of the Louboutins? Or my confidence? Or a little bit of both? I guess I'll never know!

A Girl and Her First Louboutins

Ever take the moment to think about the special gifts you’ve received in your life that left a lasting impression? A recent surprise birthday gift has had me thinking about those special first gifts. My first Barbie, bike with training wheels, make-up set, and of course, heels are just a few of those gifts that invoke cherished memories of my childhood. My recent surprise birthday gift will be forever ranked as one of those adored first gifts. A pair of Christian Louboutin! I’m not in a place in my life where I can enjoy that kind of luxury so this day will be permanently etched in my memory. Why is it so special? Well, I found out that my husband and family united to research all they could about Christian Louboutin and save their hard earned money just to buy me shoes! And now, these will always be more than a pair of shoes for me. Imagine my poor family calling and visiting Christian Louboutin vendors all over the state! They never gave up, they never judged, and they never thought it would be a silly purchase. All they wanted was to put a smile on my face and it was definitely accomplished. I will always remember this day as the day that my family put aside all reason and splurged just for me, just to get me my very first Louboutin.

Honestly, I hesitated posting this video because I reacted so dorky and silly. But it really shows how I felt that day. I can write about it but nothing captures the moment like a video! Plus, it gives you a glimpse of who I am.  After all, you read my blog (I love you for that)! I apologize for all the background noise. This was not a planned video!

What surprise gifts have left a lasting memory in your life?