“We are all born with creativity and we get blocked.” 
I caught up with Mel Mason, the ‘clutter expert’ to talk about how to unlock your creativity so you can accomplish. 

Tune into hear the full podcast at www.anchor.fm/lookinggood and thank you supporting our show!

Who’s Mel Mason? International best-selling author Mel Mason is the clutter expert and sexual abuse survivor. She grew up depressed suicidal and surrounded by clutter which she realized after coming back from the brink of despair and getting through her own chaos was that the outside is just the mirror of the inside. 

Mel is on a mission to empower people around the world to get free from clutter inside and out so they can experience happiness and abundance. 
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Getting uncomfortable with yourself is an ‘act of self-love’ to truly experience the ultimate success.   

I was the cluttered messy kid where you couldn't walk in my room. My entire floor was covered and it wasn't just stuff, it was trash too. I was fine living like that. Only, I needed to do things differently. And as a result of learning how to be present for my own personal experience, I just spontaneously started clearing my environment, I went from someone who was fine living like that to someone who could no longer tolerate clutter, and learning to be present from my own experience in a non-judgmental loving space. 

What's next for you? My show, the Mel Mason Show is in production and will be scheduled to air this July. It's your birthright to experience happiness and abundance in every area of your life. This show is about bringing you experts that aren't just me that can help you address all the different levels of clutter and you have access that that divine flow of abundance and you're experiencing happiness.

I’m also speaking at our local chapter on leadership, I guess I'm valedictorian. I've also been a vegetarian for a couple years and also went vegan.

Now, I started reevaluating things and decided that I’m not going to be rigid about anything in my life. Now I no longer want any labels. I'm no longer vegan or vegetarian. I'll eat what I want, when I want. I’ll just choose to eat healthier but not Rigid. The point? To deliver our truest best version of ourself and to be comfortable in that Space. 

Where can people find you? Get my book Freedom From Clutter free at freegiftfrommel.com

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His wife left. He lost his job.  A Retired US Marine, Funding Expert, Roosevelt Morris Lost Everything and lived in his car.  He made the decision: His American Nightmare was not going to happen to anyone else.

Today, Roosevelt Morris is on a mission to keep businesses in business, for people to chase their dreams – not he money. [He makes access to money sound easy too].

After taking a bath in his car one day, he popped into Goodwill. He ran into a former marine who told him “Sergant Roosevelt, you saved my life, you were in charge we call come home.” He was then offered an opportunity: To learn about investments.
That homeless, car bird-bathing day changed his life.Today, Roosevelt is a recognized funding financial expert, an author, and he's on a mission to keep American’s in business. No one should suffers the pain he endured to achieve success through his company, 133 Approved Funding Incorporated.   

When you feel there’s no hope, he can provide you with hope.   

We caught up to talk about the “the I can't afford it syndrome.”  

[ See Trends from Fashion By Inga (code LookingGood10) and Everyday Ritual (code D&Tcoffee) for 10% discount)

What is the “I Can’t Afford It Sydrome?” If someone says I can't afford it, we provide you a solution for them.  We provide initially with the cash and financing for startups, established businesses,  Doctors, anybody with zero percent financing, up to 20 months. Why? So businesses can stay in business. So you can grow even if you started business yesterday. If you have inventory you you've got something with let's say Marshall Fields, we can help with Accounts Receivables.  That way you don't go out of business - waiting for the company to pay you.  Continue to build while you wait to get paid.  --> here[ Learn to Pitch & Make Money with my mentor, here ] 

You make it sound easy. Why do you love this business? I see people’s faces go from feeling defeated and having these puffy eyes to hope.  I love to see the blood and the life come back into people when they see that there is hope.

A local pizzeria near here was hit with hard times just before Covid.  If she had not taken funding, she would have to close, loose her house, and everything because she had nothing else to fall back on.Fortunately, that day I went in to get a homemade pizza. When I told that there was a way we could potentially help her, we filled out the application right then and there online she was approved right then. We provide you a solid solution on how to get out and we can help you follow that plan. Within six months to a year you're out of that problem depending on how big it is. You’re flourishing and prosper because our premise is no business no business should go out of business.  --> How can you get funded? See here

What wisdom do you want to pass along to Creatives & Entrepreneurs?First, manage your credit. Credit can make you or break you or take you out. We have a free guide: how to boost your credit from 100 to 200 points even if your credit sucks – get it here text Looking Good to 26786 to find out if you qualify for funding or to learn more - or click here

Here Roosevelt Morris on the Looking Good Podcast, here

PS today, Roosevelt is reunited with his kids, has a thriving career, and a new wife. Remember you are limitless, anything is possible.

We caught up with Lindsay to talk about fashion and it’s impact on self-image.

By Daniella Platt

Lindsay Rae wants to give women permission to feel beautiful exactly as they are.  As a photographer, Lindsay has photographed over 600 women, most of whom struggle with body image and these women have stripped down for private sessions.  More than ever, Lindsay is hearing the term "covid 15" referring to the negative impact of the quarantine on weight gain and body image. 
Stemming from a background of trauma and abuse, it took Lindsay years to find self-worth. Through a healing journey, she learned invaluable lessons on how to truly find peace with yourself.

Lindsay, why are we having a conversation about fashion and body image? 
As women, we compare ourselves to the most is the younger versions of ourselves so whereas we're not just fighting against an entertainment industry, a fashion industry, the makeup industry, we're also fighting against ageism and our own ideals and struggles. 
I want to help women realize your body is beautiful at every step in the journey, whether you're a zero or a size 20.

How are you stepping into your power and going to change the world? 
We're going to raise the generation that's going to change the world because women are stepping into their power in a way that we're impacting our children to be kinder individuals.
When you feel good about yourself, you move through the world with more kindness and love, compassion and empathy. 

I believe people come in all shapes of fabulous, in fact, I write about body inclusivity in my book.  Being every size and shape myself, I can empathsize. What message do you have for brands and women for plus-sizes?    
I recommend the brand ELOQUII to plus-sized women like myself. 
I want brands to hear this: If brands veered off into more diverse body types, I have money to spend on it if you make it my size.

“Fashion is my weapon” is tattood on your arm.  Why?
That means, the way you dress is the armor that you put on to attack the world.  Necklaces, scarves, pieces you wear are your weapons, and the elements that make you an individual, they make you stand out, and you take them to battle. 
They're my confidence. Everybody's got that thing.  What’s yours? 

Why is shifting body image your mission?
What people don't understand is that in the movies and in photography, the subjects don't have flawless skin. The camera operator has diffusion filters over their lenses which scatter the light and diffract it to create a sense of blur over the skin. The entire beauty industry that was built upon destroying your confidence to build it back up and that's something I refuse to play a part in. 

Often children will emulate negative patterns when they see a parent insecure. Our children look at us and say, "Oh, Mommy doesn't like her belly. Well, now I don't like my belly."  I remember a time my daughter was four years old, she had on the cutest little baby crop top that she kept pulling down. This moment is vivid in my memory, she looked at me and she said, "I don't like my tummy, Mommy."

My heart shattered like it has never shattered before because a four-year-old doesn't learn this from watching TV.  They learn it from watching their mothers tear themselves apart.
That was my motivation to change. I wasn't intrinsically motivated to change for myself. I made a pact to change the way that I communicated about my body to everybody else in the world, and most importantly to my daughter. 

Why does the way you speak about yourself matter – even when it comes to jokes?
Self-deprecating humor always got me through things, but it's also part of what kept me down. I love laughing. There is nothing better to me than a belly laugh that makes you almost pee your pants. For years, I was the subject of the joke.
Now, I made myself the subject of the joke. The only way that I felt comfortable interacting in a room of people was if I could make them laugh, because how could they like me for just me? How could they like me for my fat face, my scars, my chin hair from hormones? So, I make fun of those things first so that way, they couldn't do it. 
I controlled the narrative and then I began to believe myself.

What are some body image safe social media practices? 
Create an emotional bubble for yourself. 
Pick who you scroll on Instagram. Pick what you watch on TV. Choose how you see the things online and relate them to yourself.  Remind yourself that there are diffusion filters that most professional cinematographers use. 

Lastly, share your life-changing Ah – Moment.  During a George Floyd march in Albany NY… what happened? 
2020 was an extremely volatile and explosive year for race relations in our country.  After George Floyd was murdered at the hands of police, rallys for Black Lives Matter began popping up all over the United States.  The one in Albany was particularly destructive to local businesses.  As local business owners a few cities over in Troy planned for an 11,000 person March, many of us made the decision to board up our storefronts and paint the boards with words of support.  

To me it was a beautiful act of community solidarity. My Muse, Destini, an elegant, intelligent, and powerful Black woman went around town with me to memorialize the art.  
As we were taking pictures, a local business owner passed by and I asked if he wanted to jump into a few shots with Destini.  

That exact moment in time my perspective and place as I saw myself as a white woman shifted. He said "You see art, I see people afraid of me, we are not having the same experience."  
I put my camera down to discuss, with Destini, her perspective on what transpired.   Initially she saw the art like I did, until the shift in perspective was brought to her too.  "These painted boards are here to protect you from me?"

Together we decided no more photographs in front of the boarded storefronts. We grabbed my gear to head back to the studio, as we did, we passed the police station, barricaded from its own citizens it is designed to protect. 

I asked Destini if we should try one more photo.  She bravely jumped on the barricade and placed her fist with Black Power into the air.
This moment captured is my most powerful photo. It sits on my living room mantle as a reminder of my privilege and the strength that occurs when women listen to each other and raise each other up. 

What last words of wisdom do you want to leave people with – today?
It is my life's purpose to share the message of radical self-acceptance with as many humans as I can. 

Where can people find you?
My website is www.Bodyimageactivist.com  or on Instagram @bodyimageactivist. I am also on episode 2 of Looking Good with Daniella & T. Coffee – tune in. Find the episode at ww.daniella.today.
--
About Daniella

Fashion and Lifestyle Creative Connoisseur, Daniella Platt hosts Looking Good with Daniella & T. Coffee TV -- join us! It's on the ezway.tv.
A #1 best-selling author of Looking Good, a Playbook with 3 Ways Anyone Can Have A Fashion Line & Be A Sales Rockstar, Daniella is also the Designer of JUNGLE accessories, & creates merch for all so you can take your art and message to the world - no inventory needed. She loves creativity, art, self-expression, your story, and with 2 decades of fashion and media, from NY to LA, she's a known apparel industry marketing expert consultant.  Get the free goodies, enter to win contests, visit her show, and connect with her at www.daniella.today  


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• FashionMingle.com - VIP Membership 50% Discount with code LookingGood
• GOOTEN -- MERCH! Make your clients LOVE YOU FOR LIFE with gifts and messages that last forever! Code is LOOKINGGOOD -- **ps: we design and manage all merch for all businesses - done-for-you services**
• Pitch Class with my mentor: Play Big With Daniella

Catching up with Cat... [make sure you get to the giveaway at the end + watch her on Looking Good with Daniella & T. Coffee, ep6]

Cat Osham has designed thousands of swimwear styles for women of all ages, from super sexy to more conservative. Throughout her journey as a designer for 25+ years, she has traveled the globe for inspiration, spoken with countless women, buyers for major retailers and specialty shops, engaged in focus groups and spent countless hours trying on swimwear to find out what works and doesn't work. 

If you have ever been to a beach or pool, you likely have seen her designs on brands like BCBG, Nautica, Tahari, Caribbean Joe, Stella Parker Swim, the list goes one. 
 
In your words, you said: 
“Shopping for swimwear can be as scary as public speaking. It’s one of people’s biggest fears. Imagine, half naked in public. Designing swimwear is a beautiful art that marries creativity with technical  expertise. It’s taking a small piece of fabric and making it go to work!”

What sparked your love for fashion especially with designing women's swimwear?  
Growing up, I’ve always loved art and because my Mom was in the textile industry, I spent a lot of my afternoons in that environment. I learned how to sew in the 7th grade and embraced wanting to  create something different for myself, especially with not growing up with a lot of money to buy the latest trends…and it was more fun to make it! I used to stay up all night finishing a garment just to  wear to school the next day.  

I fell into swimwear. My design portfolio reflected the type of clothing I wanted to design…it was music inspired with metallics, patent leather, fish net. In fact, some of the models in my portfolio  were wearing hand cuffs…..it definitely stopped people in their tracks during an interview for a job.  

I landed a job with one of the big swimwear companies that specialized anywhere from competitive swimwear to fashion. Definitely a great way to start my career. I fell in love with women’s swim and  stayed ever since.  

When I started my career, I never realized how being around tall beautiful models would test my self-esteem. I’m petite….much shorter than the models and most of my colleagues. I have a  little joke that I’m the perfect height for fittings with models because I’m at eye level with their chest.  

What is your favorite part about designing swimwear and what inspires you – you mentioned, you see your pieces worn around the world? 
When I meet women, they have a tendency to point out all the reasons they can’t or don’t like to wear a swimsuit. It more often than not, turns into a therapy session.  I love to create. I design with a lot of different women in mind. It’s a challenge for me to give her fashion but address her needs.  

My favorite part of what I do is empowering women to feel confident in her style. I love traveling the world, getting inspired, photo shoots and it’s always wonderful to see women wearing my designs.  Wearing my design means you’re taking a piece of my art with you for pool time or away on an awesome vacation to build memories that can last a lifetime  
 

What are the most important factors to look for when shopping for swimwear? 

• Color will attract you first when it’s on a rack or display. Next will be the style. You want to look for something that you can feel comfortable and confident in.  
• Feel and stretch the fabric in the swimsuit. All fabrics stretch differently. 
• Think about adjustability and support. Does it have an under wire? Are there removable cups? Removable cups can shift while you’re wearing it so it’s important to adjust them when putting on your suit.  
• Coverage….how much coverage do you want and keep in mind that your suit will feel heavier when wet.  
• You want something that’s going to fit your body well while it’s dry.  
• Busy prints create a camouflage effect on your body. It’s a great minimizer.  
• Color and print can be mood boosters so find something that’s going to bring you joy! 

 
Walk us through some trends in swimwear and any of your favorite looks.
I love color!

• Wearing monochrome outfits looks so fresh.  
• Off the shoulders continue to be one of my favorites. It’s fun, flirty and hides that back arm action. It’s great for women with a smaller or bigger bust.  
• I love bling….so a fun sparkly coverup is great from day to night.  
• Minimalist type styles are in, along with hi-waist bottoms and poof sleeves in different variations.  
• Poof sleeve tops take a swim top to the next level. You can pair it with hi waist bottoms, jeans or a skirt for that extra fashionable vibe.  

 
A lot of us have been home, not traveling or going too many places, how do we get into the mindset of putting on a swimsuit.
I say, let’s lift up your mood and transition into the mindset to get out again. What I love about a great cover-up is that it’s a perfect gateway to inch our way back to getting out. The weather will start  warming up even more and vitamin D, the outdoors does wonders for mood boosters.  

My mission is to empower and boost people’s confidence so that they can feel better about what they see from the inside out. Don’t let the negative self-talk hold you back from having some fun. Get  out there, splash around and make waves! 

How can people find you, Cat? 
@catoshman/
www.catoshman.com

What's next for you?
I am launching a crowd-funding campaign so that I can build a sustainable foundation that will provide resources to empower women to become bolder believers in who they are. Some of the  advantages of women in charge of her beauty is a huge spike in her self-esteem. When a woman feels better about herself, often her relationships with her husband, family, friends and associates grow  stronger. She taps into her power to make bolder moves in her personal and professional life.  
 
GIVEAWAY....
I will raffle off $200+ worth of resortwear coverups
How to enter? 

1. Write any post or screen shot with the the words Looking Good
2. Tag @lookinggoodyaya @catoshman @teranceantonio
3. Drop your email here 
   
   

Yes, Cat will be raffling off $200+worth of resortwear coverups

Be Fabulous!

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www.LookingGoodwithDaniellaandTcoffee.com
 

ezort Collection’s COVID-19 essentials support the restaurant industry
Influenced by the current events, designers Catherine Liss and Francis Sango partnered to launch Rezort Collection, a capsule collection of COVID-19 essentials. The collection will drop a teaser line of products which includes a hoodie and a throw blanket.
The designers’ core belief is that when you feel good, you do good. Rezort Collection aims to help its customers by enhancing their lifestyles with meaningful pieces and enlightened basics. Liss and Sango were frustrated by the limited choices of comfortable yet elegant and stylish clothes that look effortlessly sexy. So, they created Rezort, which benefits consumers by supporting their lifestyle.
Everyone has a story to tell. Rezort is the designers’ way of sharing their story while helping consumers create their own stories to share with the world. According to the founders, Rezort inspires people not to be afraid to enjoy all the gorgeous sights and beautiful memories this world has to offer.
“We think of our designs as little stepping stones of positivity, inspiring that self-confidence to help you journey across the rushing waters of the day,” Sango said. “We also want to share in a greater sense of gratitude toward the world and all its gifts by conducting socially-conscious business, remaining mindful of our blessings and always seeking to uplift others.”
The dominant art within the collection is the Rezort logo, inspired by a peacock. The peacock symbolizes vision, self-expression, spirituality, awakening, integrity, freedom, guidance, protection and watchfulness, the co-founders said. In some cultures, the peacock also represents patience, kindness and luck. All of the aforementioned traits are much-needed during these uncertain times. The COVID-19 essentials are a prelude to the Rezort apparel collection launching later this spring.
In an effort to support the struggling restaurant business, the COVID-19 essentials line is giving back to The Barstool Fund. The founders are big fans of dining out and witnessed how negatively the coronavirus pandemic impacted the restaurant business. Developing this drop and contributing to The Barstool Fun is aligned with their company mission, they said. With every item sold, Rezort will allot a portion of funds to philanthropic causes related to the restaurant industry.
The Rezort Collection is a lifestyle brand for passionate, driven and confident women who want to give back while feeling stylish and empowered, the founders said. The brand was established in New York City in 2020. As part of their vision, Rezort is committed to building a legacy of confidence by focusing on a feel-good and environmentally-friendly approach to life.
Daniella Platt is the host of “Looking Good with Daniella & T. Coffee,” an author and an apparel industry coach/consultant. She is also the co-creator of the Jungle accessories collection. Connect with her at [email protected]. For more information about Rezort, contact Adriana Lerga at [email protected].


​https://www.mannpublications.com/fashionmannuscript/2021/05/01/feel-good-do-good/

Meet Melissa Shea, Founder and CEO of Fashion Mingle.  
Fashion Mingle is a global network for fashion industry professionals. With over 6000 members  in 100+ categories, Fashion Mingle connects fashion pros to the resources and services they  need in every major city in the world.  

About Melissa 
With over 20 years in the fashion and tech industry, Shea is fueled by a love of learning about  the “next new thing” and has built the first platform to connect local fashion communities in  every major city in the world. 

Shea has managed media teams for New York Fashion Week and was the creator of the official  New York Fashion Week Networking Party, held every season since 2017. Fashion Mingle clients include international fashion and beauty industry professionals, and is known for producing fashion shows with unique themes, such as Times Square Fashion Week, and Covergirl NYFW Designer Popup. Shea loves creating experiential events like NYC Fashion  Industry Tours and Influencers Unscripted, as well as at iconic venues like the Sydney Opera  House and Argentine Consulate. 

​Why did you create Fashion Mingle? 
With a background in web development and marketing, a chance meeting with someone  in the fashion industry inspired Shea to build Fashion Mingle. She instantly fell in love  with the wildly creative designers, photographers, models, makeup artists and  hairstylists she met, and as she learned more about their businesses, she quickly  understood how difficult it was to grow a business that would sustain themselves and  their families. As someone who is always looking for solutions to problems, the concept  of Fashion Mingle was born. 

Who should join Fashion Mingle? 
Fashion Mingle has over 6000 members, and 100+ categories of fashion industry  professionals. The idea is to connect everyone in the fashion industry, from the moment  the designer has the concept, all the way through to getting the designs to the customer.  A designer’s collection passes through many hands, from the original sample production, to the Lookbook shoots, and through retail operations. A designer can put together their  entire team, right from our platform.  

Tell us about some success stories? 
One of my favorite success stories, which we call a “Mingle Match”, is when a successful  denim jean designer in Louisville KY reached out because she needed a patternmaker  that specialized in denim and she couldn’t find anyone locally. We were able to connect  her with 10 different companies in 3 different countries. She tried out 2 and was very  happy with her final decision.  

What is the core mission of Fashion Mingle? 
Fashion Mingle’s mission is to solve problems for fashion industry entrepreneurs.  
Fashion Mingle provides networking and educational opportunities to introduce our members to  experts in business, marketing, production, and media. Members have the opportunity to attend  virtual networking events, take courses and workshops, and connect directly with mentors.  

We also provide a full suite of marketing services designed to create a strong foundation for fashion businesses. From digital marketing, website development, and concierge services, we use our global network to connect our clients to the resources they need for success. 

What's next for the Fashion Mingle?
We’re ready to launch our new service - a jobs portal that will allow our members to post full and  part time jobs, freelance projects, internships, as well as barter and volunteer opportunities. 

The bottom line is that everyone in the fashion industry needs to make money. Fashion Mingle  is providing the platform to make that happen easier, and faster than ever before. 

Do you have any giveaways or prizes?  
Join our VIP Membership for 50% off with code LookingGood 
VIP members enjoy exclusive opportunities to promote products or services and personal  introductions to our trusted network of service providers.  

Members can earn free months as a Featured Member by sharing their affiliate link with their  fashion community.  

Where can people find you?   

• ​www.fashionmingle.com 
• Follow us on all social networks @fashionmingle  
• Join us every Friday at 1pm EST for Mingle Mastermind Sessions, a weekly webinar featuring  topics on business development, marketing, and growing a more sustainable fashion industry.   https://fashionmingle.net/mastermind/ 
  
  

Here is a video that promotes our NYFW Networking Party - hopefully back February 2022! 

We didn't know it could Save the Amazon. 

When we launched JUNGLE, a scarf toting “Stop Playing Small," featuring spirit animals and novelty to inspire people to feel ferocious, outrageously wild, people all over the world wore it - united on zoom screens, feeling connected.  

Hard times have fallen on one women who loved the scarf.  Sandra Fernadez-Osores owns an Eco Lodge in Peru. Heavy rainfall destroyed areas of her ecolodge, and the rainforest, and as one who experienced the ramifications of Sandy in NY, my heart felt the need to act. 

Can we help, I asked?  We created a powerful mug toting the original Spirit Animal artwork ‘Stop Playing Small’ with the “Save The Amazon” message.

A portion of proceeds will go to the Amazon Rainforest Conservation - you can learn more about it here – www.taricayaecoreserve.org/our-project.

A Note from Sandra:  When you're ready for a JUNGLE ADVENTURE and to RECONNECT WITH NATURE, reach out to her. Find her contact info in the listing for the mug – here. She will also give you special love and pricing. 

The JUNGLE collection and Looking Good with Daniella & T. Coffee are to inspire you to be limitless, and share creativity of those who do it all - despite it all.  Thank you for joining in pursuit of giving back to those who give. 

PS just in case, the links :) 

• Save the Amazon MUG

FOLLOW YOU PASSION (click here to tune in)!

Where will it lead you? On Wade Thomas's AIM TO WIN podcast, I'm giggling as I share my story (I'm not sure why?)

I came from a small town in Long Island. Friends went off to practical careers like law or finance. My eyes were onto NYC, to "create," at advertising agencies. Later on, after watching the towers fall on 9/11, I moved to Los Angeles, stepped into Fashion Publishing and didn't look back -- for nearly two decades (and still going). ⠀
⠀
This story and tips are to inspire you. ⠀

• - We talk about why I wrote a book, called Looking Good on fashion and sales? ⠀
• - Why your upper body is prime-real-estate for unity and community: make your shirts & hats count! ⠀
• - And how to FLIP THE HUSTLE -- you have to Live Big, just how do you get there? It all starts with a PB&J Sandwich. ⠀

⠀
Tune in here -->  https://lnkd.in/gtTGDBG

As seen in the Fashion Mannuscript January 2021
​https://www.mannpublications.com/fashionmannuscript/2021/01/01/sales-yoga/

Sales Yoga Daniella Platt
January 1, 2021
4 Min Read

The secret to growing an global authentic brand in 2021 — even if you’re still on your sofa
As a speaker at the recent Next Virtual Global Conference and Fashiondex Sustainable Fashion Forum, I’m excited to share with you tips for 2021 to make an impact on your brand’s authentic growth. There’s no time to play it safe. Think about your goals as hot pizza — because you should never settle for cold, old pizza, according to Kristen Leone, owner of marketing firm Hot Pizza.
Why is it important to craft your brand story? Your clients are craving the human experience. They want to see your art and your heart in the world. With 80% of millennials buying products because of their purpose and cause, your brand story makes a big impact.
There are four pillars of creating a successful brand story: value, authenticity, purpose and heart. One fun practice to get yourself on the right path is to try to turn your worst client into a raving fan.
How can you sell your brand story authentically? First, try some sales yoga. Take a deep breath, and give clients what they want. Remember: you are your own Tylenol; you have the power to make your own headaches go away. When you meet someone, don’t just pitch your business; offer to help. Invite that person into your inner-circle and ask, “To whom can I introduce you?” You are now in the process of creating relationships, and people will begin to know, like and trust you.
How can you be a social butterfly and grow your brand following organically? The answer is simple: other people’s platforms. Speak on stages, podcasts and as many places as possible to grow your visibility. Offer gifts to turn the people you meet into brand fans, and let them fly with delight as they spread your story. Remember: the one person you reach can reach many others!
How can you have less and love more? To spread the message of sustainability, encourage people to buy pieces that makes them dance and not to let a sale sway them. Beyond spending less, people should have pieces that make them feel like a VIP that they keep and enjoy like friends for years to come.
There’s also a magic to knowing about the designer, the craftsmanship and the brand inspiration. Sharing the sustainable practices of a designer will help consumers connect to that message. Simply sharing a little behind-the-scenes information about your supply chain can evoke passion and change.
What young companies have been making strides by following this advice? One company evoking change for craftsmanship is Ally Shoes. Its near-custom supply chain creates shoes to order, limiting excess and maximizing fit accuracy. Another is Upcycle LA, a blank apparel brand known for turning water bottles into t-shirts.
As a brand or artist, you must create; it’s your talent. How are you putting your art and your heart into the world? What is your brand story? I’d love to hear. Remember: hot pizza — you’re worth it!
The Next Global Virtual Conference was founded by Monica Henderson. It was a two-day event to help people and brands calibrate life, maximize business and boost influence in these challenging times. The Fashiondex’s Sustainable Fashion Forum series was a weekly event produced by Andrea Kennedy.
A creative connector, Daniella Platt’s mission is to take your message and art to the world. She has built and sold hundreds of campaigns for lifestyle and fashion brands. Today, she shares the secrets to do it yourself in her book “Looking Good,” available on amazon.com. Reach out to her at [email protected].
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As seen in the Fashion Mannuscript, February 2021
​https://www.mannpublications.com/fashionmannuscript/2021/02/01/flip-the-hustle/

Flip the Hustle Daniella Platt
February 1, 2021
5 Min Read
Photo by Chlesea Gates
You can’t sit on the sidelines just because you’re working from home
“Ms. Platt, please pick up your daughter. We are closed until further notice.”
I zoomed over to the preschool to find a teacher wearing gloves, holding Lysol, with panic in her voice. Next, a text arrived from my husband: “Effective immediately: NBC employees will be working remotely.” When my parents told me that we couldn’t visit for Passover, my heart ached. Are hugs and kisses canceled too?
It all happened in a blink, right? On March 12, 2020, we were hustling, living normal lives. Twenty-four hours later, it all changed. It was very confusing. Weeks later, when broken glass, graffiti and the National Guard filled Los Angeles, I found myself wondering, “Am I alive? How was this happening?”
As an action-taker — one who loves warehouses, trade shows, the fuel of the fast-paced urban jungle — staying home was not my game plan. Nor was sharing a home office with my husband and toddlers, a sanctuary lost to co-working and a playroom.
I share this with the awareness that each person has a story, a roadmap derailed. What would come next?
What happened next was a miracle, as wondrous as Moses’ splitting of the sea! Showing up online were heart-centered entrepreneurs, sailing ships of gratitude, inviting people aboard to collectively learn to thrive in this new world. While we wait for the vaccine to be distributed, you must jump aboard. This is how we learned to flip the hustle: take different actions to get results. Here are a few simple steps you can embrace to change your business and mindset.
Practice Sales Yoga
Take a deep breath and connect with your community members. Keep their mood top of mind. Perhaps they’re numb or unsure how to plan? Keep it light.
Ask sensitive, simple questions. A favorite question is, “How do you make a PB & J sandwich?” Although it seems silly, you’ll be amazed by the reaction. People will relax and giggle, and the answers will be insightful, opening the door to opportunities when the time is right. I share more done-for-you scripts in my recent book, “Looking Good.”
Be You
Encourage creators to stay true to their art. When it comes to fashion and lifestyle, your fans hunger for your creations. The retail mentality is “buy now, need now,” so adjust.
Be Grateful
Have gratitude. Give love — and then give more love. Send gift baskets. Create unboxing experiences. Send cards in the mail. Share your roadmaps to success, and champion others’ success.
Work on Discipline
When the hustle is your fuel, how can you maintain momentum? To flip, keep to a schedule, and stick to your plan tirelessly. You are limitless. As you flip, take risks. As they say, if you shoot for the moon, the worst that will happen is that you land among the stars.
Stop the Blur
When we look back at the coronavirus pandemic, how will we remember it? Will it be the era of stretch pants? Hoodies? Toilet-paper hoarders? Will you remember how the days blurred together or putting together themed outfits for your family? Beyond the sadness, will you remember days of sunshine? One thing that’s certain is that you will remember this time as being transformative. And hopefully, you are getting dressed and showing up for your day, whether you’re above a keyboard or hitting the streets.
You see, when you get dressed, you are energized, ready to take on the world and prepared to make decisions. Clothing is fundamental as to how we are perceived and the energy we exude. Getting dressed affects your mood and sense of self-worth. You light up the Zoom house and command attention. You smile at your reflection, and it feels good. Plus, smiling releases endorphins and other brain molecules that fight stress, relieve pain and act as an antidepressant — and we all need that.
To succeed, you can’t sit on the sidelines in your yoga pants. Now that you are getting dressed, what should you wear?
From Gym to Home Office
Consider looks that transition nicely from real life to screens. Bold and vivid colors like orange, aqua and yellow are popular. Remember: your upper body is your on-screen real estate!
Play Big
Have fun with big statement pieces, like chunky necklaces, dangling earrings or a cool hat. Beading, wooden pieces and artisanal looks are show-stoppers.
Be Versatile
Shop for pieces that are versatile and all-weather to support your year-round needs. During hard times, people crave heritage, cozy pieces, like comfy loafers, clogs, slip-on sneakers and shirts with slogans.
Embrace Nature
Boho style, which highlights pieces found in nature, uses natural dyes and has a unique, earthy color or texture.
Pay Attention to Details
Embrace craftsmanship. Without the fast hustle, you can shop from designers who share their story and take time to appreciate the little details.
For now, you might still be home. Make sure to have fun. Rock your Zoom bod with a nice walk around your neighborhood. Keep a sense of normalcy.
Daniella Platt is an author, brand strategist and sales coach. She is the author of “Looking Good: Be a Sales Rockstar & Fashion Startup Playbook” and a collaborator on the recently-released Jungle collection. Find out more about her work at daniellaplatt.com.

HOPE IS A MUSCLE. FLEX IT.
​I've been quiet since Dec 10th. Covid came to our home. The call to write a story for this book came December 29th. My heart was drained. How to thrive post covid was the question: I was out of words 'in the holding it together zone,' a roaring 2020 turned into a 2021 whisper kick off.

How do you want to remember this Era? As the year of No Pants? As Blursday? When was the last time you wore shoes? Thriving Sales? You have to Flip the Hustle. In my chapter, and others, stories, we share first hand stories and habits, as we all have a Journey derailed.

You have to Flip the Hustle & Remember to Get Dressed [Above the Keyboard]: it's important for your health, wealth. Spread LOVE! Let me know if you can relate.

Here's the LINK -
https://amzn.to/2Y3MTCj



I pulled through & Hope you love these stories inside.

The secret to growing an global authentic brand in 2021 — even if you’re still on your sofa! Here are tips for 2021 to make an impact on your brand’s authentic growth.

There’s no time to play it safe. Think about your goals as hot pizza — because you should never settle for cold, old pizza, according to @Kristen Leone, owner of marketing firm Hot Pizza, Along with other other insights from the Next Virtual Global Conference Monica M Henderson
and Fashiondex.com Andrea Kennedy

Read it on the @fashionmannuscript
https://lnkd.in/gus_NMd

THIS NEW YEARS EVE, GRAB A PEN! Write a letter to yourself, like Martina Coogan does every New Year’s Eve. And, Sit Up Tall! Self-care is what you can control, according to yogi Susan Levin, who transformed her life after divorce through stretches and wants everyone to be healthy.

Martina is a Metaphysical Monarch, who shared that when we look back at the Era of Coronavirus, we will question, how did this year support us? We will see it as a transformational year. Martina grew up feeling trapped in a life she didn’t want. She set the intention to do things differently, only, when she ventured out towards newness, it didn’t work as she wanted. She studied different disciplines to free her from emotional blocks.

“The more we sit, the more we stress. It’s doing something so simple every day as stretching to be healthy. You have to be positive.” This year, Susan Levin transformed her yoga business online and is learning technology. Throughout Covid, Susan felt, she learned to be herself again. “Keep moving forward. You have to be positive because we spend the most time with ourselves.”

Tune in to hear these incredibly fulfilling words, epic pieces of wisdom and stretches from Martina Coogan and Susan Levin, to round out this year of business lessons and personal growth.

Find free gifts of yoga stretches from Susan Levin at www.mypersonalpriorities.com and mediations from Martina Coogan at www.martinacoogan.com

TUNE IN HERE -->
https://open.spotify.com/episode/17JNj6myO4CmFYeaMGDV1B

Read the story here

What’s in your closet that when you wear it, you light up the room? Perhaps you would say, “I always wear my Gucci shoes to close deals!” Men and women alike say that they have one piece that gives them confidence to walk on stage, sign a big deal or even a reason to get out of bed. "Life is too short to wear boring clothes," according to my friend and design partner on JUNGLE Collection, Inga Goodman.

You see, fashion is essential. It lets people feel amazing and have fun. How you wear fashion is your style, the brand of you. Style is your voice, your self-expression.

But fashion is also addictive and costly!

I was heading toward a financial problem if I didn’t take control. Working in fashion, I’d overdose on purchasing. Clothes were piling up. Too much money was spent, and still, nothing matched.

I had to start dressing like a V.I.P. and create shopping ground rules for a functioning, fierce wardrobe to fix this situation. So, I created a plan. Here are five tips to dress like a V.I.P. with a wardrobe you love.

1. Invest in neutrals. Pick a palette of colors that work for you. While I prefer red, white and blue, others prefer pinks or yellows. Use seasonless pieces to layer, like short-sleeve tops and blazers.
2. Invest in tops. As a mom and working from home, shirts are versatile. Dresses are less so.
3. Museum pieces are keepers for life. Think of your body as a museum, and curate it with pieces you love. Fashion is art. Learn about the designers and brand missions. You will begin to value your purchases.
4. Ask yourself, “Does it make me dance?” Body positivity is crucial whatever size of fabulous you are. A trend isn’t hot or sexy if you feel like a sausage! Dress according to your body type. Don’t let a sale seduce you.
5. Eye a piece for a few days. A price may fluctuate, and, in a few days, you’ll know if it’s true love or a toss.
   
   

Fashion is love, yet the fashion industry can be gritty. I talk about this more in my book “Looking Good,” a playbook teaching anyone to turn an idea into a fashion business.

What is remarkable about fashion is how it can help everyone feel like a V.I.P. When you feel great, you will be ready to conquer the world.

So next time you go shopping, keep these five tips in mind, feel empowered.

Daniella Platt is on a mission to make sure everyone feels limitless and like a VIP. 
​

Read the full story in the Fashion Mannuscript here

A similar story is also in the best selling book, 1 Habit for Entrepreneurial Success, co-authored by Forbes Riley and Steve Samblis, and 150 contributing authors. The book is a game changer. Get a copy here. 

Contact Daniella for brand strategy, promotional apparel, or speaking/promotional engagements.
Find everything here -- 
Fitting In, the book
Looking Good, the book
1 Habit, the book, 
Mastercourses on Fashion & Sales
JUNGLE Collection to empower and inspire
www.daniella.today

Rumble -- We are happy to introduce Daniella Platt, one of our contributors to the largest book on Entrepreneurial Habits ever published. The book is called 1 Habit For Entrepreneurial Success. It is 820 pages, 300 life-changing Habits from 150 of the top Entrepreneurs on the Planet. It is a game-changer just waiting to happen. If you are going to build a business, why not build an Empire! Pick up a copy on Amazon https://amzn.to/33PqLiW

​Women innovators who champion self-love and empowerment

Meet these designers showcasing their message through their creations: Avis Carter, founder of JC Cover Me and FashAzon TV, Alex Perry of Bohyne and Lee Smith, founder of brands Women Are Not Prey and Anxiety Is a Liar.

Avis Carter (courtesy of JC Cover Me)JC Cover Me & FashAzon TV
Meet Avis Carter, founder and creator of JC Cover Me and FashAzon TV. JC Cover Me is a diverse line of quality, handcrafted scarves, head wraps and accessories for those who like to showcase their unique personality.

In a twist like her head wraps, Carter has also turned to TV producing. Along with her co-producer Nena Hayden, the duo is releasing a FashAzon TV network that gives up-and-coming design entrepreneurs the opportunity for exposure. The show will air on ZTV Network, which was founded by Zondra Evans. FashAzon will introduce designers and creative talents globally to more than 200 million viewers on the trend-focused streaming platform.

“Entrepreneurs are cut from a different cloth,” Carter said. “We tell designers: we love to work with brands to tailor a business to let the world see the cashmere in you. You are the diamond, formed under heat and pressure, of value and always in style.”

FashAzon is built on two scriptures: Romans 12:6, “We are different, according to the grace given us,” and 1 Timothy 4:14-15, “Do not neglect your gift… Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.”

The platform will launch this winter. During the holiday season, Carter and Hayden will continue to build their brand and grow the FashAzon community, they said. To be featured on FashAzon, connect with Carter at fashazon.com or jccoverme.com.

Bohyne
Bohyne from Beyond Gender is one of the only fair trade and truly sustainable bridal fashion lines in the industry. Designed by Colleen Yankovich and managed by Creative Director Alex Perry, the Cambodian cooperative is fair trade-certified. The brand designed their debut Deadstock Collection to feature timeless silhouettes in an array of eco-friendly fabrics, including locally-crafted peace silks, bamboo and Deadstock lace and Valentino silk blends.

“It’s the standard in the bridal industry to release at least two collections a year — some up to 100 pieces each, which is insane!” Perry said.

Bohyne has abandoned the wasteful and unsustainable model of the bridal fashion industry by developing “slow drops.” The collection was released with five to eight looks at a time through the beginning of 2020 rather than all at once at a spring or fall bridal market.
Since the brand debut, Perry has collaborated with Rice Love Bags to help feed families in India that have been impacted by COVID-19, as well as the Pittsburgh Fashion Week Film Festival for a project redefining gender-norms through fashion.

“The holidays are usually a big ‘down time’ for the industry when we see a lot of trunk shows being scheduled and collection orders processed,” Perry said. “This year has shown us that we are following on our path, and we’re damn proud to do so, rather than participating in an unethical, exploitive industry.”

The brand continues to look ahead and strategize about how to make 2021 even more sustainable, inclusive and revolutionary. Think more activism, more education and more brand partnerships that envelope its ethos, Perry hinted. To learn more about Bohyne, visit bohyne.co.

Women Are Not Prey & Anxiety Is a Liar
Meet Lee Smith, the Atlanta, Georgia-based founder of the Women Are Not Prey and Anxiety Is a Liar apparel brands, among others.  “Each brand was initially started as a personal empowerment platform based on mantras I used,” Lee explained.

The brands evolved into more than personal empowerment over time and into visual activism supporting social revolutions, Lee said. The brands’ focus is to empower a person to wear the change they want to see.

The Anxiety Is a Liar collection is intended to normalize talking about mental health, and the mantra appears on various tanks, tops, masks and mugs. It also totes feel-good actions such as “Unclench your jaw,” “Relax your tongue,” “Relax your shoulders,” “Take a few deep breaths,” “Smile,” “You got this,” and, of course, “Anxiety is a liar.” The collection can be found at anxietyisaliar.com.
Smith’s other collection, Women Are Not Prey, is a form of visual activism.

“I started the Women are Not Prey apparel brand to normalize and socialize the concept that women are not prey to predatory, harassing or bullying behaviors,” Lee said. See the collection on Instagram at @womenarenotprey and shop both collections at iamanempress.com.

Daniella Platt is a fashion and lifestyle strategist who guides people from concept to sales success. Her book, “Looking Good, Be A Sales Rockstar & Fashion Startup Playbook” is on Amazon. Share your ideas with her at [email protected].


EXPLORE THE JUNGLE: Our new empowerment inspired collection to remind you to STOP PLAYING SMALL, Be Ferocious & Outrageously Wild of accessories and scarves.  Giftable signs of hope and strength above the keyboard.  www.JungleandCoffee.com 

We have always been a visually-obsessed culture. Only today, how we shop, date, entertain and live is through a screen. Everything is merging — your future, the real world, the digital internet world — and now, your life is online!

So what are the trends ahead for a digitally-oriented society? To answer that question, we caught the WSGN trend talk during WWDMagic digital. Here are the five trends inspired by this talk, which align with the mood and lifestyle of the country.

So, whether you are shopping for yourself, for the holidays or creating your own line, here are a few concepts to keep in mind.

From Board Room to Living Room
Make sure your clothing style is “above the keyboard”-friendly. Consider looks that transition nicely from real life to screens. That can include bold and vivid colors, like orange, aqua and yellow.

Although athleisure was a trend long before the pandemic, it is even more ubiquitous with everyone working from home. Find everyday clothing that can take you from workout to work essential. WGSN suggested body suits and biker shorts for women, which are versatile. Remember, your upper body is your on-screen real estate!

Break Out the Jewelry
“Jewelification,” as I like to call it, is definitely an “above the keyboard” style. Accessories are an easy way to play with your limited styling on a screen. Have fun with big statement pieces, like chunky necklaces or dangling earrings. Beading, wooden pieces and artisanal looks are also popular show-stoppers. 

Function & Form
As you shop or design, keep in mind what people want now that their lives and living patterns have changed so dramatically. The need for usability is high, as no one knows what is going to happen next. As WGSN noted, people are craving heritage pieces, like comfy loafers, clogs and slip-on sneakers, which have become the new mule.

Focus on pieces that are multi-purpose, multi-functional and all-weather that can take a person from day to night. People want to have something that works on both their Peloton and their Zoom. Help people find a way to feel great while giving them the function they need.

Get Earthy
One of the biggest aesthetic trends right now is Boho style. Sometimes called “found in nature,” this trend highlights pieces that use natural dyes, have a unique, earthy color or sometimes a 3D texture. Luckily for manufacturers, it is easy to repurpose dead stock or vintage pieces for this trend.

When you’re designing, get inspired by nature. The most popular pieces are inspired by the sea, land, air or greenery. Go outside, and take it in!

Slow It Down
People are truly embracing crafts and craftsmanship now, as life and work has become slower. Without the hustle, people are able to slow down and appreciate the little things.

But in the end, while sustainability and craftsmanship are the buzz words of today, consumers still want fun. Sustainable and high-quality goods still need to be glamorous and exciting.
In the meantime, enjoy these moments of downtime. I hope these tips help you craft a collection you love and curate a closet that fuels your life.

Known for her “energy,” Daniella Platt is a fashion strategist who guides people from concept to sales success. Her book, “Looking Good,” which teaches creatives how to sell, is on Amazon. She can be reached at [email protected].