Today, I own at least 160 different styles of hats both authentic and bespoke designs by some of the leading milliners within the industry. Whether the hat is designed for an upcoming event, a sponsorship post or to simply keep the sun out of my eyes – hats have become a part of my authentic style.
Lesley Sharma, Owner & Milliner of Lady Sharma Hats is a milliner who established her brand in 2013 and appreciates the appearance of a lady-like elegance. Sharma’s Summer 2017 collection exudes a wide-range of floral pastels, extended brims and textured sun hats all retaining a lively resort appearance. I find myself rarely leaving my house without one of her designs as they present a degree of sophistication which complements my vintage aesthetic – flawlessly.
Even through you may not normally wear hats; I’ve found people will latter admit (behind closed doors) that when they’re in the presence of one, they have an overwhelming interest to at the minimum, try one on. What is it about millinery that compels us? Perhaps, it’s the thought that each hat has a story, and the details are uniquely bespoke. Whether you are in the presence of a vintage cloche which reminiscent of the 1930s era, to a traditional shaped fedora and all the alfresco adventures that the name implies.
From my personal collection I see the opportunity to not only provide a poetic homage to the women who wore them prior, but to allow others to see the historic implementation and convey that through the unbinding love I have for millinery. At any rate, a woman is not really dressed unless she is wearing a hat and at that being a Lady Sharma.
Lady V London Ivory Dress (similar here & here). Tropical Straw Fedora c/o Lady Sharma Hats. Vintage Rhinestone Brooch & Earring Set (similar styles sold on Etsy). Cat-Eyed Sunglasses c/o Retro Sunnies (sold out, similar here & here). ‘Really Red’ Lipstick c/o Mary Kay. Aerosoles, Laminate Sandal, available at Macy’s. Location, The Royal Hawaiian Luxury Resort
In the life of a San Franciscan seclusion is never found, as living in the center of civilization randomly provides any privacy. I recently found on my latest exploration to both West Lahaina and Honolulu a journey in which served as a lesson of self-preservation and value, two actions that are often unheeded by many. While I traveled outside my accustomed comfort of pure chaos within the city, all I knew during my departure was that I would soon land on an island of pure relaxation.
During my first morning in West Lahaina, I woke early (as I typically do) and decided I’d take a walk on the shoreline prior to my first photo-shoot for Brim and Dash Millinery to watch the sun rise over the ocean. Within a minute or two, I felt a feeling I had never felt before. Perhaps the only way I can label it is, seclusion. I couldn’t help but question the value of time asking myself should one trade their personal time for a form of monetary exchange and if so, at what cost?
Can life truly be calculated into a dollar value? Or is it determined by your life’s accomplishments? In my personal experience during my travels, I’ve found the latter to be true. Life is given value and meaning by one enjoying and accepting it for what it’s worth. As a spokesmodel to many, the value of providing an amplitude of value during such a journey has been rewarding beyond measure. From the bespoke beauty of Phyllis Warman Jewelry on the beaches of Maui to the Hawaiian glamour of Miss Poppy Wear showcased on the steps of the historical Mona Surfrider Hotel.
Having spent most of my mornings conducting photo shoots, in addition to several media appearances I uncannily forgot I was engulfed within a tropical paradise of abundance and beauty. While hiking in the lush mountain terrain of Hana; leading to an evening consisting of business preparation for an upcoming interview on The Bonnie Sheri Show.
As the final days approached, so did the anticipation of being a guest on Hawaii News Now, an Emmy Award Winning broadcast. During this segment, I educated viewers regarding the misinformed stereotypes surrounding the auto-immune disease sharing the experiences a type-one diabetic goes through on a daily basis. Having been diagnosed nearly three years ago, many of you that regularly follow are aware of my underlining mission to create a form of positivity through the condition. Having been a guest on last weeks segment has assisted me to raise the level of awareness.
We are given only an unexpected amount of time to experience the world, partnerships, and love. From the ill-fated experiences, we encounter there is a sense of unveiling glamour that can be found from its sorrow. Perhaps in better terms, life provides us meaning in addition to value.
Top: Grosgrain Ribbon Raffia c/o Brim & Dash Millinery. Retro Swimsuit c/o Red Dolly Swimwear (similar here & here). Cat-Eyed Sunglasses c/o Retro Sunnies (sold out, similar here & here). MAC Cosmetics ‘Chili’ Matte Lipstick. Location: Honua Kai Resort & Spa
Bottom: Blue ‘Doris’ Hawaii Dress & Fascinators c/o Miss Poppy Wear. Gold Rhinestone Earrings, available on Etsy. Aerosoles, Laminate Dress Sandal, available at Macy’s. ‘Really Red’ Lipstick c/o Mary Kay. Location: Waikiki Beach, Honolulu Moana Surfrider Resort & Spa
Before a long trip, there is something to be said for the unexpected experiences that will take place in one’s life. At first glance, it comes from the cultural evidence that travel can make us more vulnerable, creative and curious to explore the unseen. Today, I find myself traveling to Hawaii for a number of diabetes advocate media appearances, business sponsorships, and the opportunity to explore the tropical islands of both Maui and Oahu.
Months prior to today’s departure, I have been feeling quite reflective through a two-year process I have undergone of self-growth finding such a profound meaning of what we call – life itself. Many may place all their faith in the fact that experiencing an unforeseen place, people and cultures changes them in the best ways. I’ve found through personal endeavors we push ourselves to uncontrollable situations giving unrealistic meaning that now becomes our story which in reality is how we see life. Despite the next leg of unexpected challenges I’ll experience hours from writing this post I know one thing is certain, the journey to success begins with your past.
While I sit curb side awaiting my driver to graciously take me to the airport I find myself watching the sun rise for the first time in many years. With the morning glow from the sun beaming on my pale alabaster complexion I find such certainty in my journey to Hawaii through my personal mission to explore ways I can being proper media attention to the diabetes community. With several advocate meetings scheduled which includes the American Diabetes Association, guest appearances on both The Bonnie Sher Show and Hawaii Now News I find the potential to raise awareness extremely optimistic.
Let’s also not forget the style sponsorships and media campaigns with the following sought-after designers and luxury boutiques beginning with: Miss Poppy Wear, Heidi Herrman, Brim & Dash Millinery, Phyllis Warman Jewelry, White Rabbit NY, Lady Sharma Hats, Senita Athletics, Nuvia Q for Gladys Magazine & my exclusive VRAI interview with Project Runway and AllStar designer Kini Zamora.
Morever, this trip wouldn’t be complete without Rich of rf_fisher_photography, I only can begin to imagine how his keen and professional eye will not only capture me through the lens but the beauty that will surround us both.
American Living Jersey Dress (similar here). Retro Sunnies Cat-Eyed Sunglasses (similar here & here). Authentic Accessories available on Etsy. MAC Cosmetics ‘Chili’ Matte Lipstick. Cole Haan ‘Amela’ Pumps. Travel Services booked through Expedia
richinlovefashion.com 