EmilyB

~ Fashion Lights Report~

Emily B wont just be recognized as the mother of rapper Fabolous son!  As some might or might not know she has a real passion for fashion!!   Previously styling a few celebrity clientele she is stepping out into the fashion scene with her very first shoe line.  We have to admit that it is only right since she has a mean, as Fab would say, "Shoeaccide" repure herself.  The shoe line is named after her, "EmilyB", and we love

 the black bird that will be beneath every shoe.  On her Instagram she symbolizes much with the theme of the "blackbird".  No inside on when the shoe will officially drop for purchase but according to her Instagram account it will be sometime this Fall! 

Get Ready Ladies!!!

In other fashion news the r&b singer Keyshia Cole has emerged with her own shoe line in collaboration with Steve Madden!  Shes been working on this project for quite a while and we are happy to announce that soon we will alll be able to rock her trendy shoe line.  Do expect to see bright and multi colors, pointy toe stilettos, and even gladiator inspired looks!! 

Have a Great Weekend!!!!!!

CAMERA PIC

This topic came to mind as I sat home one day watching the new day time television talk show "The Real"  During this particular episode one of the hosts (happens to be my favorite) Adrienne Bailone did a little segment where she gave watchers a "How To" on camera pictures!

Since the social media take over with pictures and video, people are using Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to post their best footage.  If its not pictures of the vacation they're taking its the food they're eating, the party they're attending, the store they're shopping in.  So forth and so forth, I'm sure you get the point.

Well, what are we here to talk about with this subject matter??  Some tips on how to make your pictures look the BEST OF COURSE!

THE SELFIE



Ms Tae Heckard
infamous for her "Selfie" poses and
she does a FAB job!!!

Picture courtesy of APlateofthisACupofthat
Jenn IG @shes0fly

This is the hot picture that is going to be the DIY (Do It Yourself).  Its the perfect picture of all because you are your own photographer, you cant go wrong and no one is to blame but yourself.  Which is why this cant fail!  These pictures are usually a close up shot of you so ladies and gents please make sure everything is on point!  For the ladies especially if your wearing make up make sure that face is beat to perfection and hair is laced!  For the ladies who want to do the natural selfie we encourage this also, after all we are all born with the skin we are in!  Directions for this type of picture is to hold camera phone in either hand.  You cam either do the two hand extension of the arms where both hands are holding the camera phone up in the air looking down on you.  You can also do the one hand hold where either hand holds the camera phone and pose using your best facial expressions whether sexy, comical, serious, etc!

SCENERY SHOTS



Picture taken my Trina "Soho"

Are you vacationing in Italy, at the Statue of Liberty, on the beach in Turk and Cacos, and want the all of your followers to know??  This is the shot you want to take!  These types of pictures show the scenery you are around.  It could be a picture of the trees, skyline, sunrise, high rise buildings, cabanas, etc.  These pictures are suppose to show much details of your surroundings and make your followers wish they are where you are.  So next time your someplace beautiful, start snapping away!

Picture courtesy of Kim Kardashian for IG!

MIRROR MIRROR ON THE WALL

Picture courtesy of Emily B from her IG, perfect mirror
picture demonstration!

This is one of my favorites when it comes to social media.  This type of photograph can work in two benefits.  Number one, it helps you to take a picture of an ensemble you are wearing without someone having to take the pic for you.  Secondly it helps you to catch the best double image of yourself.  You can capture yourself taking a picture of yourself, front view, what we like to call the "BBM POSE" (credit to Fabolous).  You can also capture a front and back view all at the same damn time! GENIUS!!

WHATS TO EAT?



This picture in particular comes from the rapper
2 Chainz himself.  For those who follow him, you must have the
same questions I do as to; Who is the chef?
Pic courtesy of IG: hairweavekiller

For many Foodies like myself and those who just plain like to eat and show off, this is the right picture for you!  This is the most simple picture because its only a snap shot of your dish or even what you might be sipping on!  The only advice with this type of shot is your angles and your phone camera amenities.  If taking a picture of a dish make sure to do an over head shot to assure the viewers can see the entire dish. Please don't eat a bite and then snap shot, be sure to take the picture first and then proceed to devour *smile*.  Make sure your lighting is good and no blurriness.  You want people to want what your eating not get sick. LOL.

THE "IT" ITEM

Picture courtesy of R&B singer Ciara.
Prime example of showcasing the "it" item!



This picture is courtesy of the beautiful Emily B, on IG,
showing off her mean shoe game and Hunny, you
have every right!

These types of postings are usually showcasing some sort of item that you want to show off to the world.  Usually clothing, shoes or sneakers, jewlery, cars, etc.  Not much is needed to be done in the practice of taking these sorts of shots but in order to stand out from the rest make sure to place the item in great scenery, lighting, and or place setting to make it pop out in the picture!


                                                                          
All in all social media is setting the platform for some very entertaining, desirable photographs that will give your viewers a little ensight to your exciting life.  Some choose not to partake in social media, I personally see it as an individuals journal, scrapbook, advertisement, etc.  It can be used for anything and everything but most importantly you want to make your pictures are worth every click of the LIKE button!

Have any other helpful advice of snap shots??

Feel free to comment on this posting and share your tips!

  



NYC RESTAURANT WEEK

"Who said you cant eat at the finest spots

without breaking your pockets?"

-Trina 1stclassladies

Who ever has this thought in mind must not know what time it is in NYC!  It is the annual NYC Restaurant Week for the summer duration (there will be another for the winter duration). Taking place from yesterday July 22nd until Aug 16.  I sware NYC never sleeps, literally and when it comes to it's amenities.  NYC Restaurant week began in the year 1992 as a lunch promotion and since then has taken off and built its home with consumers who want to experience the finer tastes in life without spending the usual sky high prices!!

We have handpicked our favorite restaurants, even their pre fixed menus waiting for us to savor, that will take part in this duration and of course are sharing with you!

"21 Club"

Cuisine: American Traditional

Neighborhood: Midtown West

Mon- Fri Lunch & Dinner

"BlueFin"

Cuisine: Seafood

Neighborhood: Times Square

Mon-Fri Lunch & Dinner

"Cipriani WallStreet"

Cuisine: Italian

Neighborhood: Financial District

Mon- Fri Lunch & Dinner

"Dos Caminos Soho"

(also Third Ave, Meatpacking District, and Park Ave)

Cuisine: Mexican

Neighborhood: Soho

Mon-Fri Lunch & Dinner

"Mr Chow"

(also 57th st)

Cuisine: Chinese

Neighborhood: TriBeca

Mon-Fri Dinner Only

"TAO"

Cuisine: Pan Asian

Neighborhood: Midtown East

Mon- Fri Lunch Only

TO VIEW THE FULL LIST OF PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS VISIT SITE BELOW

CLICK HERE

Enjoy!!!

Then Élan Regime Was Born

Fashion changes, but style endures- Coco Chanel

 

And then .... Élan Regime was Born!

 

What do you get when you mix originality with boldness, class and a touch of sexiness? Why it could only be Élan Regime. The mastermind behind the design is none other then Jamel Runcie.  Though he is both Jamaican & Carriacouian he started his days out as a brooklynite. His mom would later move him & his sister to Mount Vernon to better his future as Brooklyn just like anywhere else can sometimes be a dangerous place to raise a family. Being raised by a single mom plays a part in the individual Jamel is today. FirstClassLadies had the pleasure of meeting as well as interacting with this amazing young man and we must say its a breath of fresh air to see a young star on the rise value that of a woman and family the way that he does not just in his clothing but in life. "Hopefully I have a little princess because my mission is to establish Élan Regime for my unborn daughter & my Real estate Investment Group for my unborn son."  Now that's what we call looking out for your future! 

This designer has made his marks and it is permanent! His apparel is distinct and his accessories are divine. Atlanta, GA 2008 is when and where this brand got its beginning. After realizing the high class potential of it, Jamel moved back to New York in the late year 2009 to launch his line known as Élan Regime. The name Élan Regime comes from a character Jamel created. You see, Élan is a young women in her early twenties that conquered the fashion industry by establishing it built on respect and trust.

 

signature Élan Regime shorts along with the "Single Moms
Rule" Tee

One word to sum up the line Élan Regime is simple- Unique. Élan Regime represents ALL women! All the designs and pieces created are based off the way women feel about life and what they want out it. This pieces are bold and daring, pushing the boundaries set by society and what they think a "Lady" should be. Every woman wants to feel just what Élan Regime's slogan states which is "Sexy Attitude With Style." She wants to be comfortable in her own skin and seen by the world as someone to watch out for as her confidents is clear in each steps she makes. Know that this brand is all about women empowerment. The cloths give a story, telling the public exactly how a women feels without her needing to speak. FirstClassLadies favorite Élan Regime line? " I heart Men Not Boys!" The message is as clear and straight to the point as it can get as NO woman and we me NO WOMAN wants boy to take on the responsibility as their significant other.

Owner of Élan Regime with 1stClassLadies Trina
at a recent pop up shop

It would be a lie to say that this brand just like any other has not seen it's fair share of bad days. Setting goals and just as your about to check it off your to do list- a set back. Though they are the hardest to overcome, they are not impossible. Giving up on the other is! "I will never give up because I'm passionate about what I do and women love the Élan Regime movement." From the thrill seeking excitement of designing custom  pieces such as shorts, shirts, sunglasses or snapbacks, to vending at shows or even having the line featured in fashion shows is also the motivation that keeps Élan Regime alive. Kind or inspirational words from an individual is a bonus and the humbling attitude towards those that praise the brand is something to commend. "Being told that Élan Regime is a fun destination to shop and that I'm a dope designer is priceless and keeps me going."

Élan Regime Shades: Strike a pose Ladies!

The main motivation stems from family. "The day when I can call my mother and tell her to quit working is the day I become successful." Knowing that he can provide for his family and give them what they need is what keeps Élan Regime a float.

It's not just those that praise the brand or shop it that Jamel gives credit and thanks to. Though this is a one man show as far as designing all the apparel as well as the financial provider for the brand, he has a team that helps him make the vision of Élan Regime a reality. The helping hands he would like to thank are Badley Ferrance, Saadia Williams, Tawania Johnson, Star One Photography, Boshia Rae-Jean, Jay Powell, Jessica Matos, Mike Fields & Ivy. And FirstClassLadies thanks you too!

 

Final words to those trying to follow a dream is this-  "NEVER GIVE UP. Always love what you do and don't do it for the wrong reasons. If you love what you do then you will never work a day on your journey to success, it will just be a way of life. There are going to be many setbacks to overcome especially the closer you are to your goal so NEVER let anyone tell you that your dreams cannot be reality and remain optimistic."

To Learn more about the Élan Regime line, you can visit these social sites as well as its website:

Website / www.elanregime.com

Twitter / elanregime

Instagram / elanregime

Facebook Fan Page / elanregime

 

 

BRUNCH AT BUTTERMILK CHANNEL

"They say breakfast is the most important
meal of the day we say brunch is"

- Trina 1stclassladies

Its funny how people travel the world to see and dine at various places before realizing the spectacular places they have in their own city!  Case in point this most talked about restaurant ButterMilk Channel located in the Carroll Gardens area of Brooklyn New York.  Right on the corner of Court St and Huntington St amongst other restaurants, boutiques, and scenery. 

This American bistro definitely exceeded our expectations and is at the top of our list for best brunch spots.  We visited on a Saturday morning where parking wasn't an issue, and once putting our names down it wasn't too long before we were seated though there was a crowd.  What impressed me mostly was throughout waiting the host and hostess made sure to keep us in the loop of when we were to be seated.  As a bonus my four year old was able to create art work and we were offered complimentary Jelly Donuts. 

This venue is perfect for any scenario whether your hanging with friends, out with your family, or even on a date.  Once served we delighted the delicious Butter Milk pancakes short stack with their home made sausage.  The best pancakes I've ever had in my life!  On the side we had their cooked to perfection with that just right crisp hashbrowns!

As I looked around at the atmosphere in this venue I see business woman come together to have mimosas and play catch up on their careers and life.  I see men with their mates enjoying a great meal and quality time.  I see three generations of grandmother, mother, and granddaughter savoring the moments.  Its more then a place to eat at Buttermilk Channel, it feels like you never left home!

Buttermilk Channel

524 Court Street

Brooklyn, NY

(718) 852-8490

Euroflo

They Call Him Euroflo

Ever have the radio on and hear a song you've never heard before but can't help but cut it up and listen? There is something about it that you enjoy- it's different, it's new- it's Hot!! That's the feeling you get when listening to music from up a coming artist Euroflo. This is no regular artist on the rise. This 26yr old Brooklyn based talent can write, produce, perform and keep you wanting more. With such a unique name as Euroflo, one has to wonder were did it originate from. It all started in Harlem when he relocated from Brooklyn. Euro also known as his Solo(short for his real name Solomon) was one that prided himself in his appearance. Decked out from head to toe, he was one that admired the European cut and fashion sense of style. He wore his confidence on the sleeves of his tailored fit clothing and it was obvious to others. Friends as well as family took notice of his style and would make comments like " I see you on your Euroflo." He was different and always knew he was. Being what is considered the "norm" was never his style and this is not just depicted in his since of fashion but also in his music.

Euro growing up had a talent that to many was evident- basketball. He was nice and to many he had a future further then some professional basketball players. Though it was a sport he enjoyed, it was never a question if music would be in Euro's future as it was what him and his family lived and breathed. Having brothers that were artist on Def Jam and producers just made the passion for music deeper as he would be around and in the studios with them. But it wasn't just being in the music atmosphere that Euro enjoyed. It was the creative art of music that gave him a thrill. "I fell in love with the art of creating, inspiring, and the process of putting it all together in music."

The push to become a successful artist came at the age of 19yrs old when he met his good friend Lonnie Levine. He would push him and always believed in Euro's future as an artist. They would have freestyle sessions in packed dorm rooms and go for hours! Lonnie unfortunately passed away a time later but before he did he made Euro promise him that he would give his everything and one day make it to the top. Lonnie's presence in Euro's life though short lived left a permanent  mark on Euro's heart. It made him realize just how talented he was and having someone believe in him that much could only mean there were more out there that would/could believe in him so he had to make it to the top and that's just what he plans on doing.

What keeps him motivate you ask? His two smallest yet biggest fans - His daughters! They think nothing but the world of him bragging to friends and teachers about who their father is and what he does. This is what keeps him waking up and thinking "Don't give up." With motivation comes inspiration and being a Brooklyn born artist, its no surprise that Jay-Z is his biggest music inspiration. Its not just the fact that he came from the same streets as Euro but its the fact that he came from the same streets and he has become who he is today. He is proof that hard work pays off and doors open for those who really push the limits and open the door themselves. Yes Jay-Z is known for his music going down as one of the best in history  but he is also a well known business man. He has gone places, did things and seen people some of us only dream about. This is the inspiration that Euro uses everyday to keep pushing forward.

1stclassLadies out supporting Euroflo at a show along with Juss-B
and Seven

  

And people sure come out to support! FirstClassLadies have witness first hand the talents of Euroflo. His diverse audio is a start that sets him apart from the rest. Being a writer for different artist in different genres of music, allows Euro to create a sound as well as style of music that can not be duplicated but appreciated by those that listen. Here is where that not following the "norm" comes into place. While most artist may follow the trend being set by another artist, Euro follows his own trend.

The proof is in his music as he has two mixtapes available on http://www.datpiff.com/ titled "Passport to Success" and "Passport to success: Cicquot Life." He also has a collaboration album on iTunes called "Digifresh Boys: Party Time" He has performed all over New York, Connecticut, and Marthas Vinyard. He just finished up his label called Ascot.Music.Group. He has a collaboration project along with his artist Gatzby and Juss-B titled "B.A.M" which dropped July 10th on Datpiff.com and just when you thought he might considered slowing up a bit, he has his EP dropping at the top of 2014!

Words for the public from Euroflo? " Just want to say I appreciate the art of music and the history behind it. I live to inspire people who truly believe in following their dreams."

For more on Euroflo hit up these social sites:

Instagram: Euroflo_AMG

Twitter: Euroflomuisc

Facebook: Euroflo Musik

Show bookings etc: Euroflomusic@gmail.com

THOUGHTS FOR THURSDAY

           "To keep the body in good health is a duty,             otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear."

-Buddha

As much as one can dine in or out with some many choices in cuisine, we also like to promote good eating habits.  For this year 2013 we would like to share 13 health tips concerning food, nutrition, and even excercise tips.

EATING BREAKFAST

There's no better way to start your morning than with a healthy breakfast.  Include lean protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.  Try oatmeal cooked with low fat milk, sliced almonds and berries, or top a toaster waffle with low fat yogurt and fruit.

MAKE HALF YOUR PLATE FRUITS & VEGGIES

Fruits and veggies add color, flavor, and texture plus vitamins, minerals and fiber to your plate.  Make 2 cups of fruit and 2 1/2 cups of veggies your daily goal. 

WATCH PORTION SIZES

Do you know if youre eating the proper portion size????  Get out the measuring cups and see how close your portions are to the recommended serving size.  Using smaller plates, bowls, and glasses can help you keep portions under control.  Use half your plate for fruits and vegetables and the other half for grains and lean meat, poultry, seafood or beans.  To complete the meal, add a glass of fat-free or low-fat milk or a serving of fat-free yogurt for dessert.

BE ACTIVE

Regular physical activity lowers blood pressure and helps your body control stress and weight.  Start by doing what exercise you can for at least 10 minutes at a time.  You don't always have to hit Planet Fitness and or Bally's , take walks during your lunch time or after dinner. 





FIX HEALTHY SNACKS

Healthy snacks can sustain your energy levels between meals.  Whenever possible, make your snacks combination snacks.  Choose from the My Plate food groups: whole grains, fruits, vegetables, low fat dairy, low protein or nuts.  For the kids, try whole grain crackers, low fat cheese, apples and or bananas. 





GET TO KNOW FOOD LABELS

Ever wonder about what the numbers in the Nutrition Facts panel really mean???  Or,  the difference between reduced fat and low fat???  The Food and Drug Administration has strict guidelines on how food label terms can be used.  Get those facts here:
www.eatright.org/nutritiontipsheets

CONSULT AN RD



Whether you want to lose weight, lower your cholesterol or simply eat better, consult the experts.  Registered dieticians can help you by providing sound easy-to-follow personalized nutrition advice and put you on the path to losing weight, eating well and reducing your risk of chronic disease.

FOLLOW FOOD SAFETY GUIDELINES

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that roughly one in six Americans gets sick from foodborne disease each year.  Reduce your chances of getting sick by practicing proper hand washing.  Separate raw meat, poultry and seafood from ready-to-eat foods like bread and vegetables.  Use a food thermometer to make sure food is properly cooked.  Refrigerate food quickly at a proper temp to slow bacteria growth.








GET TO COOKING

Cooking at home can be healthy, rewarding and cost effective.  Resolve to learn some cooking and kitchen basics, like how to dice an onion or how to store herbs and spices.  This saves money versus eating out a lot and your choices are left to you.







DINE OUT WITHOUT DITCHING YOUR GOALS

You can dine at a restaurant and still stick to your healthy eating plans.  The key is to plan ahead, ask questions and choose foods carefully.  Think about nutritious items you can add to your plate- fruits, veggies, lean meat, poultry or fish.  Look for grilled instead of fried, broiled or steamed items.

ENACT FAMILY MEAL TIME

Research shows that family meals promote healthier eating,  Plan to eat as a family at least a few times each week in 2013.  Set a regular meal time.  Turn off the TV, phones, ipads, and other electronic devices to encourage meal time talk.  Get the kids involved in meal planning and cooking.




BANISH BROWN BAG BOREDOM

Whether its a brown bag lunch for work or school. make it a healthy lunch packed with nutrition.  Try whole wheat couscous with chick peas or black beans; whole wheat tortilla filled with chicken, mushrooms, onions and tomatoes; baked potato topped with broccoli, low fat cheddar cheese and salsa.

DRINK MORE WATER

Our bodies depend on water to regulate temps, transport nutrients and oxygen to cells, carry away waste products and more.  DRINK UP!!!!!!!