3 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE TASTE OF CHICAGO

This blog post is about Taste of Chicago!  I’ll be sharing three tips about visiting the Taste of Chicago.  The Taste of Chicago is a great event full of family fun and a foodie’s heaven.

Chicago plus size blogger, Nike fanny pack sandal, Chicago, Taste of Chicago“It was a peaceful protest. Delete your account.” _Mayor Rahm Emanuel

(Rahm Emanuel response to governor after activists shut down Dan Ryan Expressway while calling on elected officials to address gun violence)

 

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TASTE OF CHICAGO ENDS SOONER THAN YOU THINK

Taste of Chicago runs from Wednesday, July 11 and ends on Sunday, July 15.  Yes,  you only have 5 short days to taste from the 70 food vendors.  The hours vary.  Wednesday-Friday: 11am-9pm, Saturday & Sunday: 10am-9pm.

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CASH IS KING AT THE TASTE OF CHICAGO

Bring cash!  Yes, you can use a debit or credit card to purchase Taste of Chicago food tickets.  However, many of the booths that sells the food tickets are cash only.

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TASTES OF CHICAGO HAS FOOD TRUCKS

Taste of Chicago has food trucks the year!  Yes, you read that correct.  You can find the food booths on wheels can be found parked at Jackson & Columbus in Grant Park.

For more information on the Taste of Chicago here!

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A true Chicagoan only know the Sears Tower, so what you talking about Willis?

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S H O P   T H I S  L O O K

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READ MY PLUS SIZE & PETITE UNIVERSAL STANDARD GENEVA DRESS REVIEW HERE

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PLUS SIZE TRAVEL GROUPS & EVENTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT!

plus size travel, floral top, stripe pants, YSL red purse, red turban“If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it’s lethal_Unknown

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Plus size travel is more than a trending topic.  Many plus size women are coming together to visit popular tourist destinations.  Honestly, it’s nothing new but we’re more vocal about it.  Here are a few plus size travel groups that are offering a gathering place for curvy travelers.

 

 

plus size travel, floral top, stripe pants, YSL red purse, red turban, gold glasses

 

Fat Girls Traveling  This group is run by plus size travel blogger From Annette With Love.  Fat Girls Traveling is the voice for the curvy, plus size, Fat Female Traveler.  They’re reclaiming the word Fat. We’re leaving the shame and stigma behind and defying the odds. We’re jumping on that plane, jumping in front of the camera and showing the world that we’re here, we love ourselves and they should too! FGT is a Female-Only Group for travel, fashion, and lifestyle: resources, discussions, and support. We are here to encourage each other to live our best lives.  A Fat Friendly and Body Positive Space.  Unlike other Travel Groups, discussions do not have to be limited to travel.

The good people of Fat Girls Traveling have FAT CAMP 2018 happening Aug 24 – 27, 2018 – Won’t be your run-of-the-mill fat camp, as there won’t be any counting calories or wasting time worrying about weight. Instead, we’ll be doing the exact opposite: eating delicious meals, enjoying Happy Hour, relaxing by the pool, and so much more! There will also be arts & crafts, paddle boarding in the lake, morning yoga, and nightly dance parties – all in a fat-positive environment with some of your favorite social media mavens, travel bloggers, and body-positive advocates.

These incredible influencers will share tips on travel, fashion, and self-love through panel discussions, activities and more. There 100 spots total, so reserve yours today! More trip info here

 

plus size travel, floral top, stripe pants, YSL red purse, red turban, nameplate

 

 

We’re Going on a TCFCruise!  This group is run by plus size lifestyle blogger Marie. You asked and they listened!  She has created a plus size fashion experience and what should be an unforgettable event.  The inaugural TCFCruise, is being produced by The Curvy Fashionista and B Memorable Events!  What better way to relax a little bit, than with your plus size and curvy girlfriends, on a 5-day, 4-night cruise to Cozumel, Mexico? Not only will you relax in luxury in Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas boat, but enjoy TCF private parties, informational workshops, and a little fun in the sun!

The cruise takes place Oct 11 – 15, 2018.  There are different available packages with total space for 80More trip info

 

plus size travel, floral top, stripe pants, YSL red purse, red turban, nude heel

 

Another plus size group is Traveling while Plus Size!  This group is run by plus size fashion blogger Garner Style.  She say’s about her group “I’m kicking off this group while I am sitting here in the airport ready to start my trip to Tel Aviv.  This group is for the plus size women that are well traveled and the women who have never taken a trip, but want too!  I travel all the time and want to share some of my tips on reducing the anxiety of traveling while plus size. I also want this group to be a place where you can find great deals on places to go, recommended spots to visit, fabulous hotels and maybe even find a buddy or two to travel with. This is also a great place for reviews, but please critique respectfully.”

Traveling while Plus Size! does not currently have any group trips planned but I’ll be sure to let know when they do!

 

 

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Do you know of any other plus size groups focused on travel that need to added to this post?  Leave their name and link(s) in the comments.

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Feel free to tweet me at @fatgirl_fashion or message me on Facebook here with any fashion, lifestyle or beauty news.     

 

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Top Chicago Blogger plus suit 2 piece suit thefatgirloffashion.com thefatgirloffashion the fat girl of fashion Rachel Roy RachelRoy

FIND OUT ABOUT THE PERFECT SPRING SUIT HERE

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8 STEPS TO A GREAT SPRING BRUNCH FASHION LOOK

plus size spring brunch look ‘Don’t let your food get cold worrying about what’s on someone else’s plate.”_Unknown

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While getting ready for my first brunch date of this spring with a few of my blogger boos in fashion I got to thinking.  What’s the foundation for a great spring brunch look?  What does it take to look fashionable yet comfortable?  How many steps does it take to look Instagram ready?

 

plus size dress spring brunch look

 

I believe anyone can look amazing at brunch in 8 or less steps.  A few springtime wardrobe staples are a feminine dress, straw bag and Keds like tennis shoes.  Those items are a most.  These can be interchanged to fit your liking.  Add a few accessories and wala MAGIC!!!!

 

 plus size dresses for spring fashion look DRESSES 

A brunch look doesn’t require you to wear a dress.  A pair of jeans and tee could easily be swapped in for a dress if you like.  It’s just fashion!  Wear what you want.

  1. Floral Wrap Dress – A crepe woven wrap dress featuring an allover floral print, surplice neckline, a self-tie front closure, darting at the bust, short sleeves with ruffle trim, and a ruffle hem (available up to size 3x).
  2. Ruffle Fit And Flare Dress – Deemed irresistible by basically every woman, this dress in a vivid print features ruffle detailing and. Flutter sleeves, front cutouts, and swingy silhouette heighten the feminine vibe (available up to size 28).
  3. Floral Drape Midi Dress – Beautiful floral print midi dress comes with round neck and tie-keyhole back (available up to size 24).
  4. Frill Bardot Maxi – This gorgeous yellow woven fabric dress has a bardot neck.  Comes in floral print and frill detail.  It also has a shirred waist and high low frill hem (available up to size 24).
  5. Ruffle Sleeve Midi Dress – This V neck midi dress comes with inner button.  This sleeveless dress has no pockets (available up to size 4x).

 

img_2597PURSES

Woven clutch purses have been in style since forever which means they are a great investment piece.  They can be playful yet very stylish.  If you’re not a fan of the woven look exchange it for a solid brown bag.

  1. Circle Straw Crossbody – A straw handbag in a circle shape featuring top loop-button closure, interior compartment with canvas support design, and a faux leather crossbody strap.
  2. Bamboo Square Boxy Clutch – Square clutch bag designed with a have and to hold grab handle and open top.
  3. Woven slim purse – Woven fabric outer with lurex stitch centre panel and patent trims.  Also comes with gold-tone hardware and internal card slots.  There is a back zip top coin compartment along with popper button fastening.
  4. LA Regale Sarah Clutch – Woven satin clutch with push lock closure.  Also has a concealable chain link strap keep this handbag versatile yet timeless.
  5. Straw Flap Pocket Clutch – This bag is hand woven with rattan and leather trim and strap.   It’s made of sustainable, sourced natural materials such as grasses, palm leaf, rattan, and bamboo. All items are handwoven with any slight variations reflecting individuality. The purchase of these products directly supports remote Indonesian communities.

 

shoes for spring fashion look up to size 12 11SHOES

The option for shoes can be endless.  You can pair this look with tennis shoes or heels.  Brunch can be laid back or super dressy.  It’s really all up to you.

  1. Woven Backless Slip On Mules – Tan slides that feature a woven upper that’s full of casual weekend style. These loafer-inspired slides can be paired with skinny jeans, a breezy dress or any casual outfit (available up to size 12 and comes in 3 colors).
  2. Wide Fit Leather Summer Shoes – These peep toe flat sole shoes are wide width.  The slip-on style (available up to size 12).
  3. High Heel Sandal – A bold, block heel and skinny straps make a play on proportion in this statement suede sandal. (available up to size 11).
  4. Bootie – These bootie exudes trendy chic style. Laser cut detailing and a split topline will upgrade any outfit. (available up to size 12).
  5. Slip-On Sneaker – Super cute round toe.  Comes with dual side goring and a perforated upper (available up to size 13 and comes in 3 colors).

 

spring fashion look jacket sunglasses hat watch earrings ACCESSORIES

Accessories are the topper to any look.  They can be worn all together or just pick the one you like best.

  1. Ruffle Denim Jacket – A light-wash denim jacket with a ruffle detail along the sleeves and yoke seam. Two snap-button flap pockets. Two welted pockets. Button front. Single-button cuffs (available up to sizes 28 petite & 28 regular).

  2. Sunglasses – Dark tortoise polarized frames. No prescription required (available in two other colors).
  3. Straw Hat – This hat is made of braided paper straw with a grosgrain band. The width of the brim is 3 1/2 in.
  4. Watch – Women’s Wind-Up Two-Tone Crystal Bracelet Watch.
  5. Earrings – This classic hoop softens up with a rubber cover for textural interest.

 

plus size spring fashion look jacket sunglasses watch

plus size spring fashion look sunglasses watch

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plus size floral spring dress  look with jacket sunglasses watch

plussize fashion 2 pc green suit

FIND PLUS SIZE SPRING TRENDS HERE

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SPRING INTO PLUS SIZE STYLE WITH SPRING TRENDS

Plus size Spring look thefatgirloffashion.com“Florals? For spring? Ground breaking.” _Miranda Priestly (The Devil Wears Prada)

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Today is the first official day of spring.  I’m so excited!  I’ve been ready to step away from Chicago’s winter wear.  To me, spring is the like the screen door being opening to summer.  When a new season changes it allows for new colors,  new trends and yes new purchases, lol.

 

 

Pantone Fashion Color Trend Report New York Spring 2018Photo: FASHION COLOR TREND REPORT

 

Each season the team at the Pantone Color Institute creates the PANTONE Fashion Color Trend Report; a color overview highlighting the top colors fashion designers showing at NY Fashion Week will be featuring in their collections for the upcoming season. With color on the catwalk a key indicator of the color stories, we can expect to see showing up across all areas of design.  The Spring 2018 palette concedited of  12 top colors.  Those top colors are Meadowlark, Cherry Tomato, Little Boy Blue, Chili Oil, Pink Lavender, Blooming Dahlia, Arcadia, Ultra Violet, Emperador, Almost Mauve, Spring Crocus and Lime Punch.

Pantone says “The Spring 2018 palette encourages a sense of fun and playful release. With an air of complexity and distinctiveness, we find ourselves in a sanctuary of color that is ideal for some more unique and dramatic color mixing.”  This really speaks to my whimsical glam fashion style.  Of the 12 top colors, the muse for my spring opening look is arcadia.

 

purple purse with orange shoesPhoto: thefatgirloffashion

 

The color arcadia hints at retro yet at the same time modern, Arcadia is a cooler, cleaner take on green that with its tinge of blue undertone takes us into a new direction for the spring 2018 season.

 

img_2146Photo: Vogue Marc Jacobs Fall ’18

 

Clearly, I didn’t want to go with the standard its spring look with the pattern of flowers, lol.  As a result, I decided to start spring off by color blocking.  I saw this Unique 21 Hero suit and I got all the Marc Jacobs Fall ’18 ready to wear vibes.  To be creative with color I went with a bright purple makeup bag as a clutch. In addition, I completed by adding a pair of Sam Edelman pointed toe pumps.

With the change in seasons, now is a perfect time to try something new with your fashion.  For example, if you don’t have any bright colors in your wardrobe try adding a single solid item of color as a staple piece.  Swap out your traditional black sweater for a yellow jacket.  Many of us have our favorite work shoes.  Try replacing that brown flat with a dark purple flat (depending on the color many will think they’re black but you’ll know better, lol).  Or work color in with your accessories.  I love a good fedora.  This burgundy fedora is affordable and just what spring ordered.

 

Spring trends plus size fashion green suit

plus size fashion blogger in green suit

Chicago plus size fashion green suit

 

 

plus size spring fashionSpring Into Style Collaboration

 

 

I did this post as part of a collaboration with 2 other plus size style bloggers.  We wanted to showcase how plus size women of different shapes and sizes can welcome spring into their wardrobe in multiple ways.  You can find more plus size spring styling with Shamika of froplusfashion.com  and Ashley of fabellis.com.  This group brings diversity with our style and fashion vision.  If you’re looking for style inspiration you’ll definitely find it here.

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BREACH AND BLACK BEAUTY FESTIVAL AT VICTORY GARDENS THEATER

65ad83c8-f4d9-4b92-ad55-0c4fbb6e1c74“I hide the takeout menus under the couch pillows.” _ Aunt Sylvia (Breach)

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This past weekend, Victory Gardens Theater and the Black Women’s Expo teamed up to be the shopping destination for Black-owned and operated beauty companies in Chicago. Victory Gardens did this while being the home of Antoinette Nwandu’s play Breach.  You got so much bang for your buck.  The ticket for Breach included entrance into the Black Beauty festival, a champagne cocktail, and a Victory Gardens Theater swag bag.

 

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Black Beauty Festival hosted by Victory Gardens Theater and the Black Women’s Expo had vendors like Shea Body Works, Luv That Scrub, Entwine Couture, OXO Cosmetics, Chocolate Kinks & Curls, Eden Body Works and many more.  It was wonderful to be able to do a little shopping before the play.

BWe Chicago 2018 will be held at McCormick Place April 6th-8th.

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After the shopping, I attended the stage play Breach at the same theater.  Breach written by Antoinette Nwandu is a manifesto on race in America through the eyes of a black girl recovering from self-hate.  I can say the play was more than I was expecting.  I went through a range of emotions during the two-hour play.  Breach tells the story of a woman named Margaret at a time in her life during self-caused chaos and reflection.   Margaret is trying to do what’s best for her and her future while dealing with her aunt’s treatment of her during her youth.  I left the play touched.  The play runs to March 11th.  I encourage you to see Breach for yourself.  To save on your ticket use the code BEAUTY.

 

 

 

 

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target-www-5CLICK HERE TO SEE WHY I’M CHICAGO’S PLUS SIZE AUTHORITY

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Black McDonald’s Operators Association Treat 300 CPS Students To Black Panther

6d715f2c-dc25-40d9-a1b4-f9a5ec3dc994“Only YOU can decide what kind of king you want to be.” _Nakia (Black Panther, 2018)

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Black McDonald’s Operators Association and Creative Cypher host a day at the movie for 300 plus Chicago Public School students in celebration of Black History Month.  The Studio Movie Grill – 210 W. 87th St., Chicago, IL 60620 played host to the two simultaneous private screening of the much anticipated Black Panther film.   This was also done to promote diversity in the film industry and beyond.

The hand-selected youth-focused non-profit organizations to gather students for the screening include Donda’s House, Common Ground Foundation, Free Lunch Academy, Free Spirit Media, True Star Foundation, Chicago Scholars and more.

Select Chicago’s tastemakers took part in a unique experience Q&A on careers in entertainment. I must say it was a fabulous time!!

21d3f7c6-6c75-4f23-a7a9-8ebeb79304d3Photos are courtesy of BMOAChicagoland

 

After the film, CPS students had the opportunity to learn about careers in film and related industries from a panel of African American professionals.  The moderators were Troy Pryor, Founder, Creative Cypher and Board Member, SAG-AFTRA Chicago President Charles Gardner.  Panelists include:

  • Chris Walker (Pictured) – Comic Illustrator and former Colorist for Marvel Comics
  • Mark Willis (Pictured) – Professional Stunt Performer currently featured in “Black Panther”
  • Tai Davis (Pictured) – Chicago-born Actress currently featured in “The Chi”
  • Jonathan Kirkland – Vocalist and Actor currently featured in “Hamilton”
  • Natasha Parker  – Location Manager/ Scout – Directors Guild of America
  • David Leonard  – Location Manager/  Scout
  • Craig Harris (Pictured)  – Emmy Award-Winning Producer and Writer

 

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The most powerful message I got from this panel is the power of you!  The panels spoke about amplified creative control.  Know that your voice matters.  The panelists said that everyone is creative. “Even how you talk to your friends already is an experience in creativity.”  Panelist Mark mentioned how happy he was that the Black Panther movie showed people of color in a positive light.  “An all-black cast in a movie without any drug dealers or drug addicts.”  I agree with him this movie was needed especially in times like this.

 

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BMOA couldn’t have picked a better film than Black Panther.  Black Panther is the story of T’Challa.  After the death of his father, T’Challa returns home to the African nation of Wakanda to take his rightful place as king. When a powerful enemy suddenly reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king — and as Black Panther — gets tested when he’s drawn into a conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda and the entire world at risk.  Faced with treachery and danger, the young king must rally his allies and release the full power of Black Panther to defeat his foes and secure the safety of his people.

Derrick Taylor, President, Black McDonald’s Operators Association offered thanks to everyone who came together and arranged the event.  I personally want to thank Black McDonald’s Operators Association and Creative Cypher for offering CPS students and their family the opportunity to see a powerful movie that shows people that look like many of them in leadership roles.

 

WHO’S YOUR FAVORITE CHARACTER FROM BLACK PANTHER?

 

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 CLICK HERE FOR THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO DURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

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B.E.T’s The Quad visits Chicago

212edc6d-49a7-4369-b649-5eb7028a3835“Wake up!” _ Dap (School Daze, 1988)

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In celebration of the second season of B.E.T.’s The Quad the B.E.T. team visited the award-winning Huetiful Salon.  Select Chicago’s tastemakers took part in a unique experience.  I must say it was a fabulous night!! 

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The B.E.T. team partnering with pprcstrategy delivered everything I needed in a party at the “quad”.  The star of the event, of course, was “The Quad”.  B.E.T.’s the Quad just started it’s second season.  The drama field show is set at the fictional Georgia A&M University and centered around Dr. Eva Fletcher played by Anika Noni Rose. Dr. Eva Fletcher is charged with saving the prestigious HBCU from bankruptcy and her twenty-year marriage from crumbling while managing a tumultuous relationship with her rebellious only daughter.

 

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WHO’S YOUR FAVORITE CHARACTER FROM B.E.T.’S THE QUAD?

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img_0083CLICK HERE TO SEE HOW ORS CELEBRATES PATRICE “AFROBELLA” YURSIK

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Cars.com And The Chicago Auto Show

38de1826-0274-4d92-aba0-0081d12f334c“Do you wanna ride in my Mercedes boy?” _Pebbles

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This is a sponsored post, however; All opinions are my own.    

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24ec1391-3868-4e0b-ba91-90922e44bdafThe Chicago Auto 2016 wearing LaneBryant.

This is the third time that I’ve been invited to cover the Chicago Auto show.  I’ve noticed very year the auto show gets bigger and better. As the nation’s largest auto show, the Chicago Auto Show spans more than one million square feet of contiguous floor space.  The Chicago Auto Show will have nearly 1,000 different vehicles for the 2018 season.  I have some details to about the upcoming show so you don’t miss a thing.  

The Chicago Auto Show has added Cars.com as it’s newest premier partner for the McCormick Place held event.  The 2018 Chicago Auto Show with take place February 10-19.

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89f1127c-af8b-41ff-848a-251d97987654The Chicago Auto 2016 wearing LaneBryant.

Cars.com , a leading online automotive marketplace will power the show’s new BUZZHUB, a space designed for social media engagement featuring a 21-ft. wall broadcasting real-time trending feeds, giant #CAS18 block letters for pose-worthy moments, enlarged Instagram frame and charging stations to refuel attendees’ smartphones. The new #CAS18 BUZZHUB will also house the live radio broadcasts and social media contest Best of Show voting kiosks.  The Chicago Auto Show attendees can share their “Best of #CAS18” moments and tag their favorite show moments with #CAS18 for daily prizes, including gas gift cards, as well as a grand prize.

Get free tickets from The Chicago Auto Show giveaway here while supplies last.

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WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE CHICAGO AUTO? 
Feel free to tweet me at @fatgirl_fashion or message me on Facebook here with any lifestyle news.
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Gwynnie Bee Melissa McCarthy Seven7 Jeans ........

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS ON THIS SEVEN7 JEAN

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Things To Do In Chicago During Black History Month

img_0611“I make black history every day I don’t need a month.” _Kanye

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Hey friends!  Here’s  a listing of thing to do during Black History month in Chicago.  All are low cost to free. Events include family friendly as well a few that are adult only.

 

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MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY

The acclaimed Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood features the Black Creativity Program, which showcases the contributions of African Americans in the fields of science, technology, engineering and medicine. Special events, workshops and learning labs are held throughout the year. Open through March 4, 2017, the Innovation Studio is a creative space where kids can use a variety of tools and materials to experiment and experience the process of design. Through Feb. 19, 2017, check out the Juried Art Exhibition featuring more than 100 dynamic works by both established and emerging African American artists from around the country. 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., 773-684-1414

 

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY

The acclaimed Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood features the Black Creativity Program, which showcases the contributions of African Americans in the fields of science, technology, engineering and medicine. Special events, workshops and learning labs are held throughout the year. Open through March 4, 2017, the Innovation Studio is a creative space where kids can use a variety of tools and materials to experiment and experience the process of design. Through Feb. 19, 2017, check out the Juried Art Exhibition featuring more than 100 dynamic works by both established and emerging African American artists from around the country. 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., 773-684-1414

 

Afro Fusion – Party In Hyde Park

The Promontory

5311 South Lake Park Avenue West

Chicago, IL 60615

21 AND OLDER

Free Entry w/ RSVP before 10:30

 

Music by: DJ Dee Money + DJ 3k + Bonsu

Afro Fusion is Chicago’s most diverse international partying experience hosted by the award-winning Entertainment Company, D.I.S Entertainment. At Afro Fusion, our DJs fuse different genres of music (Hip-hop, R&B, Reggae, Afrobeats and many more) to deliver an amazing experience. Afro Fusion features some of the most talented international DJs in the world.  Afrofusion is the #1 destination for all celebrations!!

There’s a mandatory coat check for this event.

 

 

 

 

TRiiBE Tuesdays: Black Chicago Representation in Media

Tue, February 6, 20187:00 PM – 11:00 PM CST

416 S Clark St416 South Clark Street Chicago, IL 60605 ~ FREE ENTRY W/ RSVP

The recent debut of Showtime’s new hit show, The Chi, had social media ablaze with debates about everything from its slang and outfit choices to scene locations and character portrayals.It made us wonder: What does an accurate portrayal of Black Chicago look like in film, TV and the news?Join us at Refuge Live on Feb. 6 for our next installment of TRiiBE Tuesdays: Black Chicago’s Representation in Media. Some of Chicago’s leading Black media voices will lead us in a panel discussion on the topic – Britt Julious (Chicago Tribune, Esquire), Erica Faye Watson (The Chi, Windy City Live), Ashley Ray-Harris (The A.V. Club), Vincent Martell (VAM Studio), Adrienne Samuels Gibbs (Forbes) and Odinaka Ezeokoli (Easy, Brown Girls).  Sponsored by Finders Plus RE

A free entry 21 & over event with doors opening at 7 PM

 

 

Black History Month Spoken Word Happy Hour with Yelp

Mix and mingle with our ambitious FindSpark community and with inspiring professionals across industries at our Black History Month Spoken Word Happy Hour, hosted by Hustle Summit Employer Yelp!

Thu, February 8, 20185:30 PM – 7:30 PM CST

Location: Yelp Chicago222 W. Merchandise Mart Plz, Suite 500, 4th Floor

 

CHI ❤s DILLA

It’s been over 10 years since the passing of the legendary producer, James Dewitt Yancey, also affectionately known as Jay Dee or J Dilla. The Detroit, Michigan native passed due to Lupus related complications, but not before he left a lifetime of music for the world to enjoy. Dilla worked with artists such as: Common, A Tribe Called Quest, Erykah Badu, De La Soul, The Roots and Bilal. J Dilla was also a founder and member of the Hip Hop group, Slum Village.Join Chicago’s very own, DJs Joe Kollege, Kwest_on and the J Dilla Foundation as they celebrate the life and legacy of J Dilla with a musical tribute.

Over 21 over event will be held at The Promontory 5311 South Lake Park Chicago, IL

 

Brown Books and Paintbrushes NFP. Inc. Presents: Pop-Up Children’s Art Work

Ages 5 yrs.- 10 yrs. old are invited to an early childhood art experience, celebrating BLACK HISTORY, throughout the entire year! Powered by Brown Books and Paintbrushes NFP. Inc.,

 

 

 

Macy’s Celebrates Black History Month

Macy’s is proud to celebrate Black History Month by honoring Chicago’s innovators and visionaries hosted by Windy City Live’s Val Warner!

Join us on Thursday, February 15th at Macy’s on State Street at 5:30pm in the Narcissus Room for a discussion and Q&A with Chicago’s own African-American pioneers including Chairwoman of WVON Radio Melody Spann Cooper, Brand Manager of Luster Products Inc Resa B. Luster and Co-founder/CEO of Black Tech Mecca Fabian Elliot.

Following the discussion, join us for a reception featuring live paintings, hair-care demonstrations by Luster products, mini make-overs by Fashion Fair, music, sips, sweets and more!

Macy’s on State Street 111 N. State Street 7th Floor, Narcissus Room

 

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Black Panther
After the death of his father, T’Challa returns home to the African nation of Wakanda to take his rightful place as king. When a powerful enemy suddenly reappears, T’Challa’s mettle as king — and as Black Panther — gets tested when he’s drawn into a conflict that puts the fate of Wakanda.  Release date: February 16, 2018 

 

 

Black Girls CODE Chicago Chapter Presents: A Virtual Reality Experience!

Tech Divas will learn how to use Unity3D, an industry standard game development platform, to develop a simple Virtual Reality experience. They will use code to bring their experience to life.

All BGC events are geared towards introducing participants to the technological universe and encouraging them to pursue careers as Tech Creators and Entrepreneurs. This event is intended for girls ages 10-17. No prior computing experience is necessary.

Check-in begins at 9:15AM.
The event starts promptly at 10:00AM. Participants do not need to bring their laptops. Lunch will be provided.

Registration:
IMPORTANT: Once you register for this event please complete the online student profile forms and emergency contact forms which can be found at this link on our website.
Please bring signed copies of these forms to the event.

Scholarships:
Limited scholarships are available by applying HERE and Volunteers need Volunteer Registration Form.

 

DG TAUGHT ME LECTURE SERIES STARRING DAVID BANNER

“I can definitely say that I learned from the best, Dick Gregory….. DG taught me” Elevate your thinking with truth, wisdom, and knowledge

 

Thu, February 22, 2018 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM CST

Harold Washington Cultural Center 4701 South Dr Martin Luther King Junior Drive

 

Englewood Speaks: I Remember When

Come celebrate Black History with us at the next episode in the Englewood Speaks series – I Remember When… stories of Englewood in its glory days.

This event is FREE and Family Friendly!

 

2nd Annual Black Beauty Festival

On February 24th and 25th, Victory Gardens is your shopping destination for the finest products from the best Black-owned and operated beauty companies in Chicago. Your ticket includes entrance into the Black Beauty festival, a champagne cocktail to sip while you peruse local beauty products, a Victory Gardens Theater swag bag, and a ticket to a performance of acclaimed playwright Antoinette Nwandu’s BREACH.

 

The Black Monologues

Chicago Hope Cafe 2431 W Roosevelt Rd

Mon, February 26, 2018 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM CST

 

 

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Do you have any plans to celebrate Black History month?

 

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Feel free to tweet me at @fatgirl_fashion or message me on Facebook here with any lifestyle news.     

 

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CHECK OUT MY VALENTINE DAY GIFT GUIDE HERE.

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FYI:

You can sign up for this blog’s newsletter here and follow on InstagramFacebookTwitter and snapchat and now YOUTUBE!

 

 

Single Girl’s Valentine Day Gift Guide

c3fc4d56-6ace-416f-8e3a-da12ac845a4e“If you can’t love yourself, How the hell are you going to love somebody else?” _RuPaul

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As a confirmed bachelorette when days like Valentine day comes around I make sure to treat myself to something special.  I know a lot of girls will be showing off gifts they’ve purchased themselves aka “doing it for the gram” and claiming it’s from their man.  I’m here to say be honest.  In the words of the great Donna Marie Meagle of Parks and Recreation “Treat Yo Self!” and know it’s ok to do so.

Whether you plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day or Singles Appreciation Day  I have made the perfect gift guide for you.

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The Single Girl’s Valentine day gift guide will focus on 3 of my favorite things.  The first item will be dresses.  Dresses are an easy way to celebrate yourself and show your personality.  The second will be lingerie.  I’m a huge fan lingerie.  As a single woman, I personally wear lingerie for myself often.  It’s a great way to spice up an outlook.  Lastly purses.  Purses as an accessory are my go-to way to take a look to the next level.

 The guide’s color wheelhouse is red and pink.  Both colors have long been associated with Valentine’s day.  Red is the color of fire and blood, so it is associated with energy, war, danger, strength, power, determination as well as passion, desire, and love. Red is a very emotionally intense color. It enhances human metabolism, increases respiration rate, and raises blood pressure.  Pink is the English word for a color often called rosa in Italian, German and Spanish. A color named after the most romantic flower must have something to do with Valentine’s Day! Pink is created by mixing red and white, making it a purer form of the lusty red.

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DRESSES

LINGERIE

ACCESSORIES

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If anything catches your eye simply click the item for direct purchase.  Be sure to tag me on Instagram so I can see how you styled these items.  Even though I’m single this Valentine’s day I’ll be making the love of my life, my nephew Jaivon, a beauty gift basket.  He has brought so much love and joy to my life.  He’s my Valentine every day!

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What are your Valentine’s Day plans?

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Feel free to tweet me at @fatgirl_fashion or message me on Facebook here with any plus size news.     

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READ ABOUT MY DATE AT MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART CHICAGO HERE

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FYI:

You can sign up for this blog’s newsletter here and follow on InstagramFacebookTwitter and snapchat and now YOUTUBE!!