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Chronicle Quickie...Work It Out Part 3!!!


Greetings Divas! It has been a quite a long time since I shared one of my workout playlist with you, which I agree is totally unacceptable! Especially since so many of you have resolved to get healthier in 2012. As with my previous playlists (Work It Out Part 1 and Work It Out Part 2), this playlist contains high energy tracks that I like listen to when running. These tracks help me to stay motivated and upbeat so that I can finish my workout…a little bit of music is all it takes! This playlist is about 45 minutes long, and is perfect for a warm up, work out, and cool down. Let me know what you think!


Good Feeling by Flo Rida (4:06)

We Found Love by Rihanna (3:35)

Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO (4:22)

Moves Like Jagger by Maroon 5 (3:21)

On the Floor by Jennifer Lopez (3:51)

Give Me Everything by Pitbull (4:16)

Rolling In The Deep by Adele (3:56)

Take Over Control by Afrojack (3:41)

One More Time by Daft Punk (6:07)

Bored by The Shoes (3:39)

Oh My Love by Chris Brown (4:45)
 

There you have it! Now, in the spirit of sharing, let me and your fellow Divas know what you’re working out to in your quest to get healthier and 2012!



Building a Professional Wardrobe...Next Steps!

Greetings Divas! As you may recall, back in November I began a discussion on Building a Professional Wardrobe. In the first installment, I shared my suggestions for 10 basic staples that every professional woman should have in her closet. At the end of that post, I asked you all to share some of the items that are staples in your closets. The responses, both on the Chronicles and in my inbox, have been phenomenal…thank you all for joining in the discussion!


It has been a couple of months since I unveiled my thoughts on the 10 basic professional wardrobe staples. As such, I think it’s time to move on to the next steps. These next set of items are meant to add to and complement the basics. Before we get into the next steps, here is a list of the basics:



(1) A complete suit in black, navy, or charcoal gray;

(2) A sheath dress;

(3) A black skirt;

(4) Black pants;

(5) A button-down white shirt;

(6) A black blazer;

(7) Quality blue jeans;

(8) A classic trench coat;

(9) Classic black pumps; and

(10) A set of pearls.



And now for the Next Steps!






(11) A Second Complete Suit – So, you’ve already purchased your first complete suit in black, navy, or charcoal gray as suggested in the first post. This time, purchase another complete suit in a different color. Remember that a complete suit includes a blazer, matching pants, and a matching skirt. Again, score a suit in light wool material that would allow you to wear the skirt and pants as separates, which gives you more options.







 (12) Cardigans – Nothing says classy-chic like a cardigan. Not only do they complement a variety of skirts and pants, they also keep you warm in variable office temperatures. They also present a polished look without the formality of a suit. My suggestion is that you start off with three quality cardigans in colors that will best complement the skirts and pants you already have in your wardrobe. And while you’re picking up some cardigans, don’t forget to grab…






(13) Basic Tank Tops – Tank tops look great underneath cardigans and suits. Stock up on plenty of black and white tank tops, which will pair with a variety of outfits, as well as additional colors that can spice up the other pieces in your wardrobe. I often find great quality tanks at a reasonable price at New York & Company, Express, and Ann Taylor, to name a few.





(14) Button-Down Shirts – You can never have enough button-down shirts. Stock up on a variety of different colors and styles that will pair well with the skirts and pants you have gathered in your wardrobe. Mix up solid colors and patterns, as well as different materials, until you have amassed an eclectic selection of shirts. If you’re just beginning to build your business wardrobe, start out by purchasing at least 3 shirts, and continue to build as your wardrobe grows.







(15) Khaki Pants – Always great to have in your wardrobe for those casual work days. Like the blue jeans that you have already added to your wardrobe, khakis are ideal for “dress-down” days when the office dress code is relaxed. Also like the blue jeans, your khakis should be neat and non-offensive. Stay away from the cargo-like khakis, and steer towards khakis that pair well with button-down shirts, blazers, and/or cardigans.








(16) Another Sheath Dress – I previously suggested that your basic wardrobe should include a sheath dress in black, brown, or gray. For your next steps, score another one in a different! The truth is that the sheath dress is the perfect “go-to” item for the professional woman who wants to combine style, class, and comfort. As I mentioned before, the sheath dress transfers well from day to night…just switch up your accessories! Again, your sheath should fit your form without being too tight.







(17) Navy Blue and Dark Brown Shoes – So, you’ve already gotten the classic black pump. Add to your basic professional footwear collection by picking up a pair of navy blue and dark brown shoes. Since we are working on building a professional wardrobe, the accompanying footwear should complement the items that you have already purchased. Like the black pumps, your navy and brown shoes should be high quality and comfortable.




(18) Work Bag – Every Professional Diva needs a reliable and spacious work bag to carry all of her work necessities. Be sure that your workbag is durable, and allows you to organize via compartments. My suggestion is that you go for a neutral color that is sure to complement your wardrobe, such as black, brown, or tan.





(19) Accessories – As you begin to build your wardrobe, you should also work on purchasing accompanying accessories that will glam up your outfits. Belts, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and broaches all personalize an outfit, and permit you to bring your own signature style to traditional professional wear. Select accessories that are reflective of your personality and style, but be careful not to cross the line into tacky…and we all know where that line is, right?



Well, that’s all for now Divas! Please continue to follow the Chronicles as you build your professional wardrobe for more tips…coming soon! Have a great week!


Martini Thursday!!!


Sangriatini

Greetings Divas and Gents! And welcome to another edition of Martini Thursday! This week’s martini comes at the request of my bloggy friend Bessie over at Bravoe Runway. This week’s recipe combines brandy, red wine, and fruit flavors to create the Sangriatini. For this martini, I have 2 preparation suggestions: the first takes 1 day to make, and the second takes 2 days. If you’re short on time, go for the first recipe. If you have a little time to plan ahead, go for the second. I also suggest that you use a sweet red wine and 100% fruit juice (where applicable) to get the best flavor. So what’s it going to be…recipe 1 or recipe 2? Either way, I think the Sangriatini is a winner…but you’ll let me know right? Perfect! Enjoy!

Sangriatini Part 1 (For a Quick Fix!)

Ingredients
4 oz of Sweet Red Wine
2 oz of Brandy
½ oz of Triple Sec
½ oz of Orange Juice
½ oz of Apple Juice
½ oz of Pineapple Juice
Orange Slices for Garnish
Ice
Recipe
1. In a small bowl or pitcher, combine Red Wine, Brandy, Triple Sec, Orange Juice, Apple Juice, Pineapple Juice, and Ice. Stir!
2. Strain mixture into chilled martini glass (no ice).
3. Garnish with an orange slice.
4. Strain remaining mixture into your friend’s chilled martini glass (no ice).
5. Toast to a successful and productive work week while watching a Sex and the City marathon.

Sangriatini Part 2 (The 2-Day Affair)

Ingredients
12 oz of Brandy
4 oz of Sweet Red Wine
½ oz of Triple Sec
2 Sliced Oranges
2 Sliced Limes
2 Sliced Apples
1 Cup of Sliced Pineapple
Ice

Recipe
Day 1
1. Slice fruit and place in a large bowl. Pour brandy over fruit. Cover and place in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
2. Head over to the Martini Chronicles and check out some of my other tasty martini recipes on the Martini Roll Call.

Day 2
1. In a small bowl or pitcher, combine 4 oz of the fruit-infused Brandy, Red Wine, Triple Sec, and Ice. Stir!
2. Add some of the remaining fruit to a chilled martini glass.
3. Strain mixture into chilled, fruity martini glass (no ice).
4. Strain remaining mixture into your friend’s chilled martini glass (no ice).
5. Toast to a successful and productive work week while watching the two episodes of Grey’s Anatomy you DVR’d over the last couple of weeks.

So, which one will you choose? Have a wonderful and safe weekend! And Drink Responsibly!


Diva Spotlight!!!

Shea Pedro 
The Bajan Beauty 


Greetings Divas and Gents! And welcome to the first Diva Spotlight of 2012. Today’s spotlight features Shea Pedro, affectionately known as the Bajan Beauty. Shea is a 31 year old property manager from Brooklyn, New York. Shea currently resides in Miami, Florida, and is in the process of earning a B.S. in Management and Supervision from Miami-Dade College. She is also the author of the fabulous blog Curves and Confidence: Loving Who You Are When No One Is Looking. I can’t remember exactly how I stumbled upon Shea’s blog, but I have been hooked ever since. Shea has impeccable style, which extends to her business attire. As we become more acquainted with the professional diva that is Shea, we are also treated to her take modern day professional wear. Let’s put the Bajan Beauty in the “Haute Seat” and get to know her and her style a little better!



MC: Welcome to the Haute Seat Shea! Can you start out by giving readers a description of what you do in your current position.


Shea: I currently work for a commercial real-estate management company.  My job is to act as an agent for the owner of my property.  I supervise the daily operations at my building to ensure that owners’ investment is protected.  I also provided the tenants with customer service for any issues that may arise.  Lastly, I ensure that any necessary alterations or repairs are completed in a timely manner and within our budgeted cost.


MC: Interesting! How did you come to be a Property Manager? What was your career route?


Shea: I was living in Bahrain with my husband, and due to security issues I had to leave the country and return to the states.  Once my husband finished his tour in Bahrain we moved to Miami and I immediately started looking for work.  I actually don't even remember applying for my current position, however when I received the call for the interview I went.  I had been on several interviews and none of the companies really interested or wowed me.  When I was interviewed for my current position I was immediately impressed with the warm feeling I received from the company.  My interviewer, who is now my boss, carried herself well and everyone I interacted with that day had the same level of confidence.  I was sure I aced the interview and I was eager to work for this company.  For one, they are family-owned business, and two, they are a black-owned business dedicated to improving low-income areas in Miami.  I actually wasn't their first choice; they had given the position to another gentlemen and he didn't show up on the first day!  So they called me up and I happily accepted. 


MC: Thank God that guy didn’t show up! Now, please tell us that single professional accomplishment makes you the proudest? 


Shea: Being in the military! I was young and it was hard to leave my family and friends to go and live in another country.  I will admit at first I hated every day of it.  Eventually I embraced it and I began to excel.  It was hard to standout amongst the crowd and be known as an outstanding sailor, especially being female.  Once I got my mind right, my chain of command took notice of me in a good way.  I built my reputation and became known for my work.  I took my military career very seriously and my ex-husband who was my boyfriend at the time was just as dedicated.  It is always easier to progress when you have someone right there with you to push you along.  Part of me regrets leaving the Navy to be a wife, but at the time I thought that was the best decision for me.   


MC: What is your advice for women who would like to enter into your profession? 


Shea: This is not specific to my profession, but for any professional female.  My advice is to never allow anyone to take you out of your comfort zone, regardless of who it is.  Don’t let anyone think that because you are beautiful, you are not just as smart and well put together. 


MC: Here here! Now tell us how you balance you career with your personal life. 


Shea: I am single with no kids, so I pretty much don't have any issues with work-life balance.  My job isn't that demanding, so for me work stays at work once I leave at 5pm.


MC: Lucky you! What do you do in your spare time?


Shea: Blog! And I also attend school.


MC: What personal accomplishment makes you the proudest?


Shea: Putting the pieces back together after going through a nasty divorce.  I told myself regardless of what happened between me and my ex-husband I would NOT become a bitter, scorned woman.  Trust me it was a process, but I gained so much confidence and grew into a stronger and better woman.


MC: Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years, professionally and personally?
  

Shea: I would love to start teaching at the college level.  As a student I appreciate my professors that bring real life experiences and knowledge to the classroom.  I expect them to hold us, as students, to a certain level of excellence.  I want to be that professor that will push my students to do their best and succeed.  This has been on my mind for quite some time, and once I complete my Master in Business Administration teaching will be my next step.


MC: What else do you want our readers to know about you and/or your career path?


Shea: I am very introverted! Sometimes it can be hindrance, especially when people perceive me as being “mean,” which I am not.  I tend to keep to myself and I do better with smaller groups.  However, since working on my degree, I have become accustomed to public speaking.  It really helps when you are knowledgeable about what you presenting.   


MC: And now the most important question: What is your favorite martini?




MC: Tell us a little more about your blog and your business style.


Shea: The outfits I present on my blog are mostly work-related. I try to mix it up, but still maintain my level of professionalism.  My office dress code really isn’t that strict so I kind of push it a little bit, but not too much.  If you do have a strict office dress code, one easy way to spice up your look is with color and accessories.  A suit can go from “blah” to “heeeey” with the addition of a scarf, belt or statement necklace. 


When shopping for clothes look for items that can pull double duty:  a pencil skirt can easily transition to a date night outfit when worn with a nice blouse or a sassy jacket.  Jean trousers can be worn on casual Friday, but also transition into a Sunday afternoon outfit that would look great with a pair of wedges.  Dresses are the easiest pieces to remix. During the work week put on a blazer for a professional look.  For weekend wear, trade in the blazer for a denim jacket and a scarf for a casual look.


And ladies, your hair says a lot about you before you even open your mouth.  My advice is to stay away from two-toned, bright colors in a professional setting.  I know some ladies are having issues with natural hair in the work place.  I personally don’t take issue with it, nor do I think it is unprofessional.  As long as your hair is styled nicely no one should have any issues, unless you have strict guidelines in your office, which should be in writing.


Last, but not least, shoes can make or break an outfit. Make sure you wear something that is comfortable.  However, if you are like me, sometimes I trade comfort for cuteness.  I always keep a pair of flats in my car and under my desk.  These come in handy when I have to do a lot of walking during the day.  Also, try putting your work shoes on once you are at your desk. This saves them from unnecessary from wear and tear.  I can’t tell you how many times I have stepped in cracks and scraped my heel walking inside my office parking garage.    
Please take a moment to join me in thanking Shea for stopping by the Chronicles! Also, don’t forget to check out Shea’s blog (Curves and Confidence: Loving Who You Are When No One Is Looking) for some great ideas on spicing up business wear.


Caption This!

One of my favorite picture of President Obama!

Hey Divas and Gents! Do me a favor and caption this picture in the comments section below!


10 Things We Really Don’t Need…But Would Make Life Easier…Or Just Better...Maybe!

Greetings Divas! Every Sunday as I prepare myself for yet another work week, I always find myself thinking of ways to make my busy life easier. Whenever I get on this wavelength, the worst thing for me to do is to start surfing the Internet. Why? Because the Internet is full of advertisements for things that I really don’t need, but could possibly make my life easier...or just better! I immediately start thinking about how a product, which I had never heard of before, could instantly improve my life. I suddenly need this product that I had managed to do without my entire life. How many of you have been here before? Well, get ready to go back there, because I have found 10 things that you really don't need, but could possibly make your life easier...or better...maybe. And not only will I present these products to you, but I will give you reasons why you need them. Just call me your pusherman...or pusherwoman...pusherdiva? Whatever!





1. The Stay in Bed Massage Pillow – Now, I know I’m not the only one who likes to do work while sitting in the bed. If you’re going to work in bed, why not work in complete comfort. The Homedics massage pillow pictured here has a built in work light, cup holder, and back massager. Everything you need to effectively surf the Internet work in the comfort of your own bed.









2. The Water Bottle That Holds Everything – Don’t you hate going to the gym with a bunch of stuff in your hands? Your water bottle, your house key, your car key, cash for the juice bar, and identification…it’s too much! In comes this water bottle that holds it all quite conveniently. I like to call it a necessary convenience.










3. Portable Espresso Maker – Why the hell not! Think about it: you save money because you’re not rushing to Starbucks each time you need a caffeine fix, and….you’re not rushing to Starbucks each time you need a caffeine fix...it’s portable! Double win!





4. Portable Steamer – That awkward moment when the judge calls you out of the blue to tell you to immediately come to court, and your court suit hanging in your office is wrinkled. Two choices, go home an get another suit and be late for court (which is not really a choice), or head to court on time in your wrinkled suit. As you can probably tell, this has happened to me...twice! Obviously I didn't learn my lesson the first time. While this sordid tale is personal to me, the portable steamer is always a great product to have in your office…because you never know!




 5. Toothbrush Sanitizer – Your toothbrush is gross.Trust me on this one. Just get it. No explanation needed!








 6. Electric Wine Bottle Opener – Have you guys seen these things? They are fabulous! First, the design of the new models of electric bottle openers are positively sexy. Second, they are all reasonably priced and come in a variety of different colors, shapes, and sizes. Third, and most important, it helps you get to the wine quicker!








7. Quality Makeup Brushes - A must for every Professional Diva. We should all invest in quality makeup brushes, as they help us to put our best face forward. Quality makeup brushes allows for a smoother and more flawless finish. Start with the basics, and then continue to build on your collection. And don't forget to purchase brush cleaner!








8. Cell Phone Sanitizer – I won’t gross you out with statistics on the amount of germs that plague your cell phone on any given moment. Let’s just say all the bad germs will end up on your cell phone at some point...each day! Cell phone sanitizers are a great way to cut down on some of the grossness. Is that a word?

9. Exfoliating Face Scrubber - Someone once told me that the two keys to great looking skin are drinking lots of water, and regularly exfoliating. Cut to the trendy electric exfoliating face scrubbers, all of which promise to remove dead skin cells that gives your face a dull appearance. The results: radiant, clean, and acne-free skin!


10. Laser Hair Removal - Waxing and/or shaving can be a pain in the neck for many women. And professional laser hair removal treatments are quite pricey. Cut to the do-it-yourself hair removal laser. The TRIA Laser Hair Remover pictured here is FDA-cleared, and is the first and only laser for hair removal available for at-home use. TRIA uses the same laser technology used by professionals for in-office laser hair removal for permanent results in the comfort and privacy of the home. TRIA also boasts that you can start seeing results with just 2 treatments. I need this now!


Are you mad at me for posting these products? What other products can you think of that would make your life easier, better, or both? 


 
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