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What About Yo’ Friends – Monday Musing

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Hey Pretties,

Happy New Year! We made it to 2021 and to a very important election, the Georgia Senate race. This election could change the climate of this country for the better. I was thinking that for the last four years, we survived a President who often demonstrated that he was ill-suited, not fit, nor qualified for the honor and privilege of leading the free world. I understand it is a bold statement, but it is a statement based on fact. Because, thanks to Twitter of all things, everyone had a front-row seat to the spectacle. Let’s review some of the tweets, build the wall, fake news, kids in cages, attacks on female politician’s appearance, support of dubious people, impeachment, etc. The list is long. Furthermore, I am not here to expose or to inform because you all already know!!

What struck me as odd was why don’t his circle, advisors, tribe, crew, posse, clique, whatever say to him, “Dude you are doing the most!” I mean that is what friends do, they check you. And this goes well beyond agreeing or disagreeing, but closer to recognizing destructive, toxic, or plain crazy as hell behavior. Did anyone say stop it, pull up, take it down a thousand, relax, relate, release?  Where are his friends or close advisors?

In President Barack Obama’s book, A Promised Land, which I am currently reading and one of the best books I have read in some time, he frequently mentions his circle of advisors – David Axelrod, David Plouffe, Robert Gibbs, and of course Valerie Jarrett. He spoke candidly about how he relied upon them for advice and guidance in political matters. Sometimes he accepted the advice and sometimes he did not, but he was open to their counsel. That makes total sense to me because as I have mentioned here, here, and here, your circle makes a difference. You need honest, smart, and wise truthtellers who have your back. And of course, advisors don’t blow smoke either because that’s not helpful. Perhaps the President does have a circle but he tells them to kick rocks! Who knows.

I have not made any New Year’s resolutions, but one thing I know for 2021, I will continue to nurture my connections with my friends. I appreciate them for NOT having me looking crazy in these ATL streets! As much as I enjoy getting poured into with love and laughter and excellent advice, I want to pour into them as often as I can they deserve it.

Have you reached out to your circle of trusted advisors this year?

On another note, if you are in Georgia, please vote, it matters.

robincharmagne

Dresses Over Jeans – OOTD #119

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Hey Pretties,

Yessss, I am back with a new OOTD (Outfit of The Day) for my new pretties! With the coronavirus situation, we have to improvise and I took it back to the living room for some fashion fun! I missed playing dress up and super excited to share one of my favorite casual style trends – dresses over jeans! This styling is so fun and easy to put together – you just need a button front dress and a pair of jeans. It does not get any easier than grabbing two simple pieces to rock a casual style.

I saw this dress online and the geometric, tribal kinda print caught my eye. And would you believe it’s a rental from Gwynnie Bee? I love the print and the maxi length. You can find a similar dress here and jeans here. I could not find a good dupe for this sold-out tote bag, sorry ladies!

Easy, breezy style with nude sandals that pair perfectly with this print! I am ready for brunch or a day of shopping…when the outside opens!

And bold, gold accessories to top off this casual look! These gold hoops are big and sexy but super light! I am rocking gold accessories all summer!

I am now scouring my closet for button-front dresses to pair with jeans or over slim leg pants too! So many options with this casual style! Is this trend for you? Have you tried it?

robincharmagne

Happy Birthday To Me

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Hi Pretties,

I know it has been too long since I have shared a blog post! What better day than my birthday to get back in the blogging business. Y’all this 2020 is unforgettable. If I don’t remember anything else in life, it will be this year and how it changed everyone. There is rarely an event or situation that happens that touches everyone, but EVERY continent I believe except Antartica has been touched by this pandemic! But, I am not dwelling on the pandemic. More than anything, I am thankful to live to see another birthday.

So what have I been doing during the pandemic…cooking, cleaning, and shopping…yeah I know y’all have been doing the same thing too!

What I Have Been Doing…

  1. The first thing I purchased was a new cookware set. If I was gonna be cooking up a storm, I needed some cute cookware. This is ceramic and so easy to clean, that was a big selling point for me.
  2. To make my cooking life easier, I ditched my crockpot and I jumped on the Air fryer bandwagon. I have never seen such pretty chicken wings and fries on the gram’. Of course, I bought the accessory kit too. It’s bout to be on and popping in my kitchen!
  3. And, because I just needed my 1000th pair of earrings, I got these cuties in a bold gold. I’m rocking gold accessories all summer! These are super lightweight and come in a bunch of sizes.
  4. I know I’m not going anywhere in particular, but when I do leave the house, I still want to rock stylish sunglasses. These were less than $20 bucks and yep they come in other colors too, including pink!
  5. Ever since I started blogging, I have wanted a ring light. And with so many more indoor photoshoots, it’s a must-have for content creators. I mean are you even a content creator if you don’t have a ring light? IJS…

If I can say anything about this birthday year, it has been the year of learning. I have learned how to tie a head wrap, the basics of tai chi, Zoom “dates”, how to cook two chicken dishes in the crockpot, the basics of SQL, and I am just getting started. Getting older and smarter, you can’t beat that!

How are you celebrating your birthday this year? What have you been doing during the pandemic?? Smooches pretties!

robincharmagne-logo

Toronto, Canada – Let’s Go

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Hi Pretties,

Have you dreamed of traveling for the holidays? I mean how much turkey, dressing, mac n’ cheese, collard greens, and sweet potato pie with a big glass of sweet tea will you have in a lifetime? But that menu does sound really good, fattening but super good. Okay I digress, yes that Thanksgiving menu sounds grand, but what about a trip up North, way up north to Toronto, Canada. I traded turkey for Toronto and it was so worth it!

This trip was at Thanksgiving and the temps were quite cold and it was not Thanksgiving in Toronto. Canada celebrates Thanksgiving in October. And, as a major metropolitan city and the capitol of Ontario, Toronto has everything – lodging in every price point, dining with diverse options, sightseeing from museums to the zoo, and shopping from high end designer stores to vintage boutiques. We were there a short amount a time but managed to see some fun sites such as the Toronto Christmas Market and the CN Tower, which has amazing views by the way!

Toronto-landmarks-robincharmagne
Toronto Christmas Market/CN Tower/Canada Sign/Toronto Eaton Centre

My most favorite attraction in Toronto was the Bata Shoe Museum. During the time we visited, there as a Manolo Blahnik shoe exhibit called The Art Of Shoes. First things first, do you know this famed shoe designer is a man? I did not and was totally taken aback. There was a large display of shoes, renderings of shoes, and a video featuring the designer. In addition to this fabulous exhibit, there were several floors that housed various exhibits of shoes – the earliest shoe design from over 4,000 years ago, basketball shoes which as I recall belonged to Shaquille O’Neil, glass slippers, snow shoes, kids shoes, mens shoes – something for everyone and super educational, I mean who knew shoes had such a storied history. There is also an adorable gift shop with an assorted selection of shoe related gifts.

Toronto-ShoeMuseum-robincharmagne
History of shoes, so amazing and beautiful

The food in Toronto was really good with lots of choices. The first place we ate was Jack Astor’s is was very lively and we had a fantastic server. This spot was the jump off for our trip, a real neighborhood feel. And, definitely put us in a mood to have a good time seeing Toronto – highly recommend. Apparently Evviva’s is super popular because there was a line and a wait. I would say it was so worth it. Not only was the food delicious, but the ambiance was really nice – highly recommend. My favorite though was dinner at the CN Tower. The service was outstanding with a very attentive server. Our food was on point, beautifully presented and delicious. But the view of Toronto is unmatched. The restaurant revolves with 360 degree views of Toronto. So pretty, especially at night. The prix fixe menu with three courses was well priced at under $100 – highly recommend

Toronto-Eats-robincharmagne
Jack Astor’s/ Evviva/CN Tower

Toronto has some interesting sites, including a wrecked police car hanging out of a building. I believe this was from a local television station. Another interesting building is the Flatiron Building that has a trompe l’oeil painted on the side by the artist Marg. There are also many architecturally stunning buildings throughout Downtown Toronto. Grab your camera so you don’t miss a shot.

Toronto-FlatironBuilding-robincharmagne

As you can read from this post, I loved Toronto – the food, the attractions, the shopping, we didn’t have dull moment. But frankly, unless you like super cold weather, I would not recommend going at Thanksgiving. It was soooo cold for my taste – I’m talking puffer coats, hats, scarves, and gloves. However, if you prefer colder temps, it is the perfect time of year to visit. The Christmas Market is also a good draw for this time of year. I plan on visiting Toronto again…when it is warmer. Do you prefer traveling in colder or warmer weather?

robincharmagne

Five Tips For Working At Home – Monday Musing

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Hello pretties,

My how things can change! I am going to cut straight to the chase – COVID-19 is significantly impacting our daily lives, with some of you now working from home sweet home. This has been my work situation for 15 years and I have learned a few things along the way that I am sharing with y’all today! Here are five tips for working at home…

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Renaissance Gateway Staycation Part II – Let’s Go

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Hello pretties,

Today, I’m sharing Part II of my staycation at Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel. Of course, a well appointed, comfy room is a must but I am drawn to hotels with beautiful decor. Take a peek at some of the artwork and furniture pieces…

This is a mural on the lobby wall
The lobby bar is well stocked with comfy seating
This room off the bar is like a big living room/game room/craft room-so inviting
These swings- yeap indoors

This hotel felt like a big home with all kinds of living spaces for dining, relaxing and of course nice rooms for sleeping. The location is perfect for travelers being 5 minutes from the airport and ten minutes from restaurants and shops. If you’re in The A, choose this beautiful hotel!

Have you stayed at any beautiful hotels? Do tell!!!

robincharmagne

Turtleneck Next Level – OOTD #118

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Hello pretties,

Back on the OOTD train with THE OG outfit – something cute on the top and jeans on the bottom. That outfit combo is the most flexible when building a casual wardrobe, with endless options for top and bottom. Today I’m rocking a classic – the turtleneck but with a twist.

As soon as I saw this sweater with the open shoulder on Eloquii, I snagged it. The open shoulder is a nice detail without being too revealing or exposed in cooler months. Turtlenecks are great wardrobe builders and immediately give an outfit a bit of polish. They can be a good addition to suits and dresses. But in true form, I paired this one with a pair of plain comfy jeans that would fit nice and snug in a pair of black to the knee boots. I finished off the look with a round crossbody bag. Take a peek…

black-turtleneck-robincharmagne

Shop The Look

This OOTD was super easy to put together and I am pleased with how it turned out. I and ready for shopping or a casual night out. And, this turtleneck will be in heavy rotation, provided this crazy Georgia weather stays consistently Winter, because clearly Mother Nature appears to be forgetting the seasons.

What is your wardrobe staple? That one thing that you always feel good wearing?

robincharmagne

Renaissance Gateway Staycation – Let’s Go

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Hi pretties,

Staycations R’ Us, or me rather. A short getaway is good for your overall well being. I am fortunate to have so many amazing hotel choices right here in my hometown and I chose the Renaissance Gateway for a long celebration weekend.

Let’s face it, a hotel room can make or break your stay. Here are some things to consider in a hotel room:

  • Location – high up, away from the ice machine and elevator
  • Size – big enough to move freely
  • Staples – coffee station, free water
  • Bed – nix the decorative pillows
  • Bathroom – big, with a a door, and easy to use shower head
  • Extras – good toiletries, reading nook

The Room

Let’s talk about this door! How unique is this design?!

I love the room, so fun and modern. The gallery wall over the bed is a mix of contemporary art in a classic black and white color combo! The wall art is quite interesting and definitely sparks conversation. I love that the bed doesn’t have a million pillows – nap ready!

The bathroom is cool, but not cold in white, black and gray tones. The dark flowers are a nice touch. It’s well appointed and a good size.

But then a glance to the right and bam, an incredible art wall – in the bathroom. Was not expecting it and loved it!

The decor is simple but unique. The settee at the end of the bed is perfect for getting dressed or relaxing in front of the television. A reading nook is always a nice feature of a room, this one is no exception in a beautiful apple green. But, my favorite piece is the trunk bench, in a rich brown with belt detail and accented with a cute pillow.

The obligatory full length mirror is a must. The rustic frame is compliments the room’s decor.

This room was right up my alley. My preference is a modern room without too much stuff and lots of unique details. I was so pleasantly surprised but really this hotel is smartly done with accents that really standout.

Next post I will share this unique space and my thoughts overall on my staycation.

Does the hotel room matter to you or is it just a place to sleep?

robincharmagne

Skirts And Sneakers – OOTD #117

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Hello pretties,

OOTDs are back!! Would you believe I have not posted an outfit in over 1 year. Seriously, almost 2 years this month. Playing dress-up is one of the most fun and truly creative aspects of having a blog. Fashion provides an outlet for freedom of expression from head to toe! There is no shortage of looks as fashions change from season to season.

The Backstory

I started including outfit looks from the inception of robincharmagne. I posted on Instagram, “I been posing” with a pic of me as a little girl. And, it’s quite true, I have always liked clothes so it just made sense. You can view the first OOTD here. Fast forward to 2016 when my family experienced the loss of two immediate family members and I just didn’t feel like blogging, let alone doing a whole photoshoot. But what was worst, I started eating my grief. I comforted myself with food. I took a few pics here and there but just couldn’t get back in the groove of weekly outfits. Something had to change.

Same Thing Different Year

Fast forward a couple more years to 2018 when yet another immediate family member passed away. I was so done with everything including blogging. Again, I would eek out a post or two but there was no consistency. I was just a sad sack who again ate her grief. As the pounds piled on, I said well when I lose these pounds, I will get back on my blog and back to styling outfits. Needless to say, that didn’t happen.

The Change

In 2020, I was fired up to restore my robincharmagne to the vision I once dreamed of before everything changed. But, I was reluctant to even book a photoshoot. I thought to myself, “I have gained so much weight and you can’t even tell I am down 20 pounds. I will wait until I lose some more pounds before I get back to the OOTDs.” WTH? Naw sis! I could hear the words from a powerful Tedx Talk with the lovely and talented Cece Olisa. She hit it on the head, “Dont wait on your weight to live the life you want”! I booked the shoot and picked an outfit. Go me!

What I’m Wearing

This week’s look is inspired by all the fashionistas on the web rocking tops, skirts, and kicks. Yep ditching the heels for a comfy pair of sneakers. This look is clearly a departure from my usual uniform of jeans and a cute top. But, the contrast of this ornate sweater from Loralette and gold metallic skirt from, wait for it…Walmart for $20, with the black and gold Nike sneakers make for a fun look. I was so comfortable, the skirt moved with such ease, I could have worn this outfit all day… take a peek…

Shop The Look

This is a look I really could rock in all seasons – changing the sweater to a graphic t-shirt in warmer weather and rocking a lighter sneaker. Are you rocking this casual but fun look?

robincharmagne

Images: http://www.shotsbypriiincesss.com

Who Is Robincharmagne?

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Hello pretties,

It has been some time since I introduced myself. But I did not want to do the “usual suspect” questions – favorite color, dream vacation, etc. I found these quirky questions and thought I would share some known and unknown tidbits about me. I hope you enjoy a peek inside robincharmagne…

  1. You’re wearing perfume, what scent is it?

Euphoria by Calvin Klein, it’s a sexy scent with notes of pomegranate, black violet, and black orchid.

  1. What is your coffee order?

Medium with 3 cream, 3 splenda, shot of hazelnut

  1. Favorite body part?

My eyes…light brown and kinda big and bug-eyed

  1. One thing about me that you wouldn’t know?

I love Western tv shows! Bonanza, Rifle Man, Big Valley, Raw Hide, Gunsmoke

  1. Favorite old movie?

Mildred Pierce with Joan Crawford, original boss babe and the wardrobe for this movie – old Hollywood glam

  1. What is your favorite Netflix show?

My favorite special is The Black Godfather, don’t have a favorite show

  1. What is the craziest thing you have done?

Ziplining in Costa Rica, NEVER again. It was so scary and very, very, high off the ground. Did I mention monkeys. NEVER again

  1. Have you ever failed at anything and what did you learn?

I auditioned to be a Georgia lottery girl, you know calling out the numbers.  Lesson-do it afraid

  1. Who is your celebrity crush?

Will Smith – hope he sees this…I would faint

  1. What social media are you addicted to?

Oh my gosh Instagram – beautiful, creative, and crazy

  1. You are going out with friends, what are you doing!

Brunching at a loud and bouncy spot in The A, looking super cute

  1. What is your go-to hairstyle?

Short and sassy, always works – classic

  1. Who is your favorite musical artist from the 20thcentury?

Whitney Houston, so sorely missed. Favorite song – I Have Nothing

  1. What is your greatest achievement in high school?

Speaking at graduation was quite an honor

  1. Can you describe yourself in just 3 words?

Loyal, smart, funny

  1. Which smartphone do you use, iOS or Android?

Team Android foreva

  1. Who is your favorite stand-up Comedian?

Chris Rock…hope he sees this…I would faint

  1. Which is your favorite holiday movie?

Santa Clause- all 3 back to back to back

  1. Most influential book?

Outside of the Bible, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz  – be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, always do your best

  1. Which one do you prefer, Coke or Pepsi?

Coke of course. Visit the World of Coca-Cola when you’re in The A

Tell me something about you I don’t know?? I’m nosey!

robincharmagne