First one I heard about was Macy’s. Then Sears and KMart. Then JC Penney. Then mall staple The Limited closed 250 stores. Then long-beleaguered American Apparel announced store closings. Now BCBG announced plans to close several stores. By the time this post goes live, there’ll likely be more to add to the list. The list of nationwide… read all

My eternal shopping dilemma — I love quality, but I’m not willing and/or able to pay full retail prices. I am all about the look and the labels for less. I love rummaging through a good outlet store. Even moreso, I love looking online for bargains so I know exactly how steep of a discount… read all

I’ve been in deep denial. I’ve been lying to myself. Some days, Chicago plays along — giving me balmy afternoons in the 50’s. But on a day like this Monday, I can’t deny it any more. Winter is coming. It’s cold November raining sideways right now as I write this. Soon that rain will be… read all

It began in 2014, as a list of 101 Independent Black Owned Businesses to support for Blackout Friday. In 2015, the list grew to 350 Independent Black Owned Businesses. And this year, I’m happy to announce that the Black Owned Business Directory has grown into its own page that will remain an ever-growing work in… read all

  In my line of work I interact with entrepreneurs and indie brand creators from around the world, the majority of them are people of color (obviously, this is Afrobella.com!). I’ve heard the complaints from so many corners, about the struggle to get noticed or to stand out as a product producer, or the difficulty… read all

When it comes to wardrobe musts and fashion do’s, I tend to steer on the side of “do you!” – meaning that the old rules don’t apply anymore. We’re in a time when fashion is truly about self expression and whatever fits and flatters you, is the perfect thing to wear. Having said all of… read all

Macy’s is one of my favorite department stores and ever since I moved to America, I’ve been shopping there. Macy’s to me truly IS the quintessential American department store shopping experience – fun, clean, bright, on trend, glamorous and abundantly inspiring. When I lived in Miami, my Macy’s was in Dadeland Mall. Now that I… read all

It’s July, which means it’s tourist season here in Chicago. This is the time of year that our apartment sees the most action. The weather is sizzling hot and every weekend there’s a festival or some big summer event that brings the masses to the city. Summertime Chi! I love it, and it’s one of… read all

In case you haven’t been paying attention to the fashion news, The Limited’s plus size fashion line Eloquii, will be no more by the end of summer. Right now, the discounts are ridiculously steep. We’re talking 70% and 80% off the original prices, for those willing to dig through the remnants of dresses, tops and… read all

  My husband has learned over the many years of our marriage – I’m not one for generic jewelry. I’m not one who wants him to go to Jared and I don’t believe every kiss begins with Kay. I don’t generally go gaga for the pieces you see on display at the department stores. What… read all