Nikki Panache
nikkipanache
Moving Past Fear| Moving Towards Destiny
Reality has it where we experience fear. But is fear real? Is it the misapplication of our past experiences? Instead of learning from the most challenging occurrences in our lives, do we then, now, negatively apply these experiences to our next steps in life?
I cannot answer these questions for you. Only you can do that. But as for me, I can remember plenty of times where I let fear supersede my positive self and dictate my next steps in life into a world of disarray.
For instance, once, I delayed action to accept a job offer in order to find out what I had been waiting on would never come.
“Seize the opportunity God has offered” has become one of my biggest self mantras and a word of affirmation. This self affirmation has allowed me to focus on what God has for me. It has allowed me to focus on his cues and clues which he has set out for me (and you) daily. I’ve achieved this through meditation and prayer.
Even when we fall short, in our steps towards our destiny, we often find that there’s still hope if we can, once again, gain footing. “Get on the good foot!”
On this day, may your steps be ordered. And even if you lose footing along the way … I pray that you never lose HOPE.
Follow @dgmovement as @msracheld discusses “Letters of Hope” regarding women and entrepreneurship, and join her at her next event “Desserts and Skirts| The Bow Tie Edition.” Ms. Rachel sets out to inspire change through life-changing experiences with the “Desserts and Skirts” event being one of them. See Dream Girl Movement’s website for more info about her and her non profit organization.
Join in the conversation using #dessertsandskirts telling us about your life-changing experiences that helped you find your purpose or has inspired change in your professional/personal life.
-NP
Nikki’s Take on The Value of Women Networking| Part One
Dream Girl Movement, Destined Image and TFHApparel.com have taken on the challenge to creating posts every week dedicated to women, networking and entrepreneurship. This week’s theme is The Value of Women Networking. What do you think about the idea of networking? What is the value of women networking?
I’ve attended several conferences, some geared towards women and business and others centered on business and personal development. I’m always most fascinated with women who have found a way to manage being executives, wives, and mothers. Someone once tried to convince me that I could NOT have it all. That I would either sacrifice for a wonderful marriage or career.
Yet I keep meeting women who are conquering it all, who have it all. They are playing the roles of an executive, a wife, a mother, daughter, sister, confidant, friend … and so forth. I believe God designed us—women–to be great task managers, naturally, but we are reaching new horizons each day. As Devine Bowers, CEO/Founder of Destined Image, has often shared with me, “Women were created to be helpers to our husbands, but not limited to this task.” I love that!! Devine often SHARES the dynamics of being a wife in oppose to her other roles as a project manager (at one of the largest banks in our country) and a mommy to two young children. She explains further that “it is about knowing what God wants you to do in each role … that is how you find direction.” Even further, I believe that’s how you find defense against distractions, focus, and discipline. Ultimately, with our conversations, I’m finding out that this is the key to earning/having it all—getting in touch with the Spirit and letting it guide you. As you can see, I found these things through our conversations, through building a rapport with Devine that allowed for genuine SHARING.
I’ve taken Devine’s advice. I’m marching onward to having it all as I type this. She inspires me daily with her tenacity and commitment to all that she does. But if it wasn’t for our network, our relationship with one another, our boldness to speak freely with one another about life, entrepreneurship and our personal relationships, we wouldn’t be able to FUEL each other with INSPIRATION and or EMPOWER one another. All of this comes with SHARING(networking), and that’s what networking should mainly be about. Not one trying to create a leveraging situation or superficially showing interest for personal gain. It shouldn’t be about pretentiousness or shallowness when we—women–get together to SHARE in! It should be about SHARING genuine stories of inspiration, resources to pull yet one more person along to their next level of greatness, and connecting with people who speak to our personal/professional journey. That’s where the wealth lies.
“Wealth is generated with the many uncomfortable conversations one is willing to have.” -Tim Ferris
Furthermore, if you haven’t realized it, networking is SHARING, EMPOWERING, and CONNECTING that leads to INSPIRATION, RESOURCES, and SUCCESS. Without sharing, how can we have it all anyway? Think about that.
With that being said, I now invite you to have a conversation with me about the value of women networking. I’m also extending the invitation for you to connect with myself, owner of TFHApparel.com; Devine Bowers, owner/founder of Destined Image; Rachel D, owner of Dream Girl Movement, and other entrepreneurs with whom you may share, empower, and connect. Read more about this June 29th event here: Dessertsandskirts.eventbrite.com.
Thanks for reading.
–NP
When White Guys Go Flirting with Nikki … Part Deux
I wake up every morning to the usual–emails, instagram notices, and Twitter alerts. Last Thursday, I woke up to an out-of-the-ordinary … a white guy sending a special texts– “Good morning, Nikki. Wishing you a wonderful day.” text. I thought nothing of it … (at first) but to be polite and thank this … guy. Then he went on to ask if he was being too forward. I never thought wishing someone a wonderful day as “forward.” So I replied. Then he goes off to text “What I meant was … ok fine … you are the best thing since sliced bread. You’re beautiful. And … I just couldn’t contain myself … I had to tell you …” There’s more that involves keywords “pouring” and “thick.” I didn’t even tell my boyfriend. You guys and gals are the first to hear about it. It kind of got a bit … hmm what do you call it? … vulgar. I had to stop him …
Here’s the thing, I didn’t mind the flattery. I don’t believe any woman does. However, he really laid it all out there … just out of the blue. I had no idea on how to react. I didn’t want to hurt his feelings, discouraging him from confidently approaching other women. Damage control. But I wanted him to know that he could not go on like this …
…especially when I’m … HIS … client. White guys don’t go flirting with Nikki and laying your heart’s desires all ecstatically on the first approach. It’s overwhelming. You gotta learn how to build up to it. Where’s the beginning? Where’s the climax? Then lay out your heart’s desire.
In all honesty, I’m all about expression. You should find several ways to express yourself. However, don’t go expressing your every thought when approaching any man/woman, possible love interest, for the first time. White guys … you don’t have to do this with Nikki. Ease into the situation with consistency and then lay it on her … or approach her in person with a compliment and then enjoy an intriguing conversation.
When White Guys Go Flirting with Nikki, don’t OVERWHELM her in your approach.
Besides … she’s simply unavailable.
It’s a @TopflightHall Bow Tie Wednesday
Good Day, My People.
Today, I want to share a Highlight of one of my clients. He’s a huge supporter of TFHApparel.com bow ties and has been supporting since I’ve opened a shop on Etsy. He’s incredibly stylish. I just love the way that he incorporates color and floral into his wardrobe, giving it a manly edge. Here’s @Topflighhall (IG), his TFHApparel.com Botanical bow tie, his soles and socks. It’s Bow Tie Wednesday at Nikkipanache.com. Heck, every day is bow tie day, if you ask me!
Here are a few pictures of @topflighthall.
Check him out on Instagram. He’s got style, and he gives his audience a daily of dose of styling options. So very cool.
Recap of @CharlotteStyle 25 Most Stylish Event
Long time no see, eh? I know, I know. I’ve been out gallivanting, living life and working on the TFHApparel.com business. Even so, I’ve been managing to get out and mingle a bit. First, off I wanted to recap Charlotte Style Mag’s 25 Most Stylish where they honor 25 Most Stylish in business and entertainment in Charlotte. This year’s event was held at Suite which is located in the Epicenter of Uptown Charlotte.
Katie McKeiver was the red carpet correspondent, and lots of people showed up in the best attire. The running theme, of the crowd, was brightly colored dresses, suits, separates, and lots of bow ties. I even spotted a woody (a wooden bow tie) which was nicely adorn by Keith (of Silverfly).
Other special guests included artists Sunshine Anderson and Special Ed.
Special thanks to JSW Media and Charlotte Style Mag for media access!
Me and @JSMacks (IG) Singer/Bandmember
Model Jennifer Michelle wears TFHApparel.com custom, handmade bow tie.
Simone of @honeebeegifts (Twitter)
Keith and Fidel
Custom suit designer
Todd, Rob, Rita, The Clothier
@keithcradle @chuckholliday
“Hey … Mister … DJ”
@jtmichellemtam @youarenowonQ (Twitter)
@nikkipanache
@jtmichellemtam
TFH Campaign
Greetings, Panachers! I’ve been away too long. Yes; I know. I’ve been consumed with my bow ties–designing and bringing them to life. To add, I’ve been organizing this The Female Haberdasher Bow Tie Campaign. I’m raising $1000 for manufacturing, marketing and advertising. I’m taking my neckwear business to a new level of success. And I need your love and support as I continue this journey.
To add, TFH was placed in a boutique about a month ago, Dupp & Swat of Charlotte, NC. I’m so excited that people can now experience my bow ties in person. This has been my motivation to strive to get these bow ties in as many boutiques and department stores as possible.
I know you’re ever so curious about my love life. It’s been all over the place. Lol. It’s hard to maintain any kind of constant when you’re moving and shaking all the time. But I’m going to get it right one day. You just wait.
Furthermore, my life, more stories, and pictures are to come … I’ll keep you posted and will begin to post more often.
Thanks for your patience and your invested interest in Nikkipanache! Xo Soon!
Hope you had a Happy Valentine’s!
On Twitter & IG @Nikkipanache
Fantasia Plans for 2013 Album Release
It’s a new year for new beginnings especially for R&B Artist/Singer Fantasia who is now preparing to release her new album.
This morning, I caught a glimpse of her promo shoot, thanks to lifewithbrandon.com.
Here, Fantasia is serving up a new look to compliment her new sound … She has evolved. And says it here while sporting a new coat of glamour; check out the fur. POW!
If this photoshoot is any indication of her upcoming album, then I’m anticipating feverish lyrics and a long-way-from-Kansas Fantasia. This shot right here is hot!
What She’s Wearing and Credits
Maximilian fur Bloomingdales
Louis Vuitton runway collection shoe
Styled by Brandon C. Young (lifewithbrandon.com)
Gold body chain: stylist PCM
Hair by derickus Crawford
Shot by porter garner
The 12 Days of Christmas with The Female Haberdasher’s Bow Ties
On second thought, inundating you guys’ inboxes with bow ties would be a bit bunch. But I’ve been tweeting my 12 Days of Christmas Bow Tie Special. Here’s an update.
On the 1st Day of Christmas, I designed the Southern Gent which was inspired by my southern influence.
On the 2nd day of Christmas, I designed Winter because Charlotte looks nothing like a Winter Wonderland and, I needed to see snow. In this tie, there is abstract snowflakes pattern. So much for Christmas in NJ. Unfortunately, that’s not going to happen.
On the 3rd Day of Christmas, the nation mourned a tragedy. We lost 27 people in Newtown, Connecticut. Mostly precious children. I didn’t post at all. Yet I designed the Purple Heart for all the brave souls we learned about that day.
On the 4th Day of Christmas, I attended #asummitchristmas (find these wild tweets by using tgis hashtag) which was coordinated and hosted by Carolina alumni. It was the BEST party I attended all year. And I attended a lot of parties this year so … There were over 70 people at this house party. Homemade liquor, food, hookahs … a party. And folks sported their tacky sweaters. This could’ve been my tacky bow tie. I instead left this at home and went in a sparkly gold tunic, leopard black print/black jeans, and gold heels. Oh and a blazer. Just in case you were wondering. Anyway see my Tacky Sweater Bow Tie. Ain’t it a beauty?
On the 5th Day of Christmas, I designed a custom black and red bow tie for a client in Atl. It’s a reversible made with canvas and taffeta. It’s so hot. Watch how I tied it here.
On the 6th Day of Christmas, I’m not going to lie to you, I was negotiating deals with another bow tie designer. And I went fabric shopping. The store was still out of my herringbone. So annoyed. But a few fellas had been inquiring about bow ties I had on-hand especially The Modern Outdoorsman. Truth be told, I have a sample that I will not sell. But I decided to put this tie up for rent. No new bow tie design here. Just a popular piece put up for rental.
On the 7th Day of Christmas, I went fabric shopping for more Christmas–themed colors. And my ATL client wanted a matching pocket square. The Female Haberdasher received more hits online, emails, and so forth about more custom bow ties. I’m on crunch time. And when you’re the only one picking out fabric, sewing bow ties, marketing, advertising, and so forth, it gets too be a bit much when the orders roll in. I’ve been managing. But I need so help!! But anyway, here’s the pocketsquare and bow tie set together.
On the 8th Day of Christmas, I designed a custom bow tie that hasn’t been revealed because it’s for an event tonight. So I hate to keep you in suspense, but check back tomorrow. This bow tie has four different lapels! Talk about complicated. But it’s dope! Here’s a single style pattern of it. Christmas Polka dots with a strip of red down the middle.
On the 9th day of Christmas, I found myself back at the post office in a long line. And believe me, I’m grateful. I’m thrilled that people are loving my bow tie designs.
Furthermore, I did more fabric shopping and thought to myself that another reversible is in order. So I’ve put a few different patterns together. All poly fabric. Will post this bow tie tomorrow, between fabric shopping and the postal office errands, of course. I gotta get these bow ties shipped before the holidays. That’s how much I appreciate my customers. More tomorrow, so tune in then for more pictures and more designs.
And for your custom-design bow tie, check out The Female Haberdasher online shope OR email me at: nikki@nikkipanache.com
Winter Bow Tie | 2nd Day of Christmas Special
Last week, here in Charlotte, we experienced 70-degree weather. Though I’m dreaming of a white Christmas, I know we, Charlotteans, won’t be getting snow any time soon. Continue reading
The Southern Gent Bow Tie| 1st Day of Christmas Special
Sweet Tea. Honey. Lemonade. Vintage wear and patio living. These are a few images that come to mind as I pour all over The Southern Gent. As you can tell from The Modern Outdoorsman, I’m truly inspired by my southern -sphere and enjoy some elements of country! And this beautiful bow tie striped in navy, rose, cream, and green says, “C’mon ovah and have a look.” Here’s the first of twelve limited-edition bow ties for TFH 12 Days of Christmas!
Well, whadd’ya think? Lend me your feedback on the comments section below. And if you have inquiries, please direct them to my mailbox– nikki@nikkipanache.com. I can’t wait to reveal the others.
“This oughta be fun.”
Photo, copy, and video credits: Nikki Panache Inc.
@FemaleHaberdash Presents the 12/12/12 Bow Tie Deal
The Female Haberdasher celebrates 12 Days of Christmas with 12 limited-edition bow ties starting today, the 12th and ending 24th of December.
Each day, for 12 days, The Female Haberdasher will present a handmade bow tie for men/women on this blog, twitter, and on TFH Bow Tie shop. In these posts, expect videos, tutorials, neat banners, pictures and more surrounding the “limited-edition bow tie of the day.” And the BEST thing about these bow ties are … oh you just gotta watch the video to find out.
By the way, this candy stripe bow tie to the left isn’t one of them. However, if you’re interested in owning this item, you may email me: nikki@nikkipanache.com.
Where’s Your Brandy Snifter? | Cocktail of the Day
Friday is just another excuse for me to indulge in spirits!
And my drink of choice, my preference rather, would be brown. Some say, “brown will bring you down.” Chuckles* But I don’t know what those people are drinking on … Cause brown lifts my spirit!
And on that note, I’d like to introduce you to the cocktail of the day: The Grown Man. Such a cocktail was inspired by the grown men that I know who love sipping on brandy or Grand Marnier but never got the inclination to mix the two. Try it. You’re in for a treat.
I prefer it on the rocks, a modification for grown women. Enjoy.
1 oz cognac
1 oz Grand Marnier
Mix contents in a shaker. Serve straight up in a brandy snifter. Garnish with an orange slice.
Auditioning for @NickCannon ‘s WildNOut
On Monday, I woke up with every intention on mailing out my bow ties, purchasing shipping goodies, and cutting fabric. By 1 o’ clock, I had it all done.
Then I ran across an interesting tweet that required action … It had me intrigued, pondering over the possibilities. At the moment, at the time that I saw the tweet, I decided that I was going to react!
At 4:15p, I headed for S Blvd. Found my destination and parked my car. I believe that your actions are prayers in themselves, but I said another quick one anyway.
By 5p, I was waiting in the lobby of CBS radio stations along with about 14 others. Some familiar faces … Some you might know.
A lady soon swung around from the back to take our names and line us up. In tandem, we walked and was led to an open room filled with seats and long tables.
Nervous, I chatted a bit with a few familiar faces and waited my turn.
And then … I was called.
I was instructed to give MTV all kinds of permission to use my face and footage. Thereafter, I stepped into the room to meet Nick Cannon and audition for the new season of WildNOut!
Nick? Oh yea he was really cool and laid back. He wore a purple-pink long sleeve dress shirt and a gray vest and matching pants. He greeted me with a smile and asked me to introduce myself.
Then I auditioned. I won’t disclose the details of the audition. But I will say that I enjoyed myself. And I may do other auditions in the future. If nothing else, it was a great experience.
Here’s the face of nervousness, anticipation, and exhilaration wrapped into one. A silly face to help me remember this moment.
Bow Tie Thursday | Meet The Modern Outdoorsman
This week, I, The Female Haberdasher created–The Modern Outdoorsman–a bow tie made of herringbone, tweed and duck fabrics. So proud of its look and feel, I just had to share.
You might ask, “What makes The Modern Outdoorsman so special?”
Well here are THREE reasons as to why The Modern Outdoorsman is so darn special!
Introducing @CocoaClassy and @MayaJHicks Blogs. Also, see @JSWMedia Red Pump/Red Tie Affair Recap from 2011
Good Day, Readers!!
Guess who made other blogs? Nikkipanache.com, yours truly! I love it when bloggers collaborate for the sake of getting other blogs out there. It’s all about that cyber love (don’t you think?) that gives these wonderful posts that we write day-to-day meaning. So on that note, I wanted to introduce to you two new blogs created by people I know.
Please check out Cocoa Classy Blog which is a digital magazine for women of color and beyond. Cocoa Classy took the time to highlight Nikkipanache and my new venture with bow ties. You can check out her site here. Read the article on Nikkipanache Bow Tie venture here.
Furthermore, a young, enterprising blogger–Maya Hicks–created a blog–HowIlandedmydreamjob–about how people, like you and me, are landing their dream jobs every day. Some happen by a shock wave of lay-offs and sometimes “-ish just happens,” and people find their ways to their dream jobs, nonetheless. Read more about Maya and the people she’s interviewed here. Read the article on Nikki “The Female Haberdasher” Panache here. Also, Maya will be hosting a bow tie giveaway for her blog. You can enter by just subscribing by email.
Ok, now … don’t delay. Go check out these other blogs today. Thanks, All.
Coming up: Attending JSWMedia Red Pump/Red Tie Affair on Saturday, Dec1. Will post. Here are pictures from last year. If you’re in the Charlotte area and would like to attend this year’s event, click here for details.
Black Friday Offer–The Female Haberdasher offers FREE Shipping at Bow Tie Shop
You don’t have to stand in long lines or endure poor weather conditions when shopping with
The Female Haberdasher this Black Friday.
Now until Tuesday, November 23, 2012 midnight, TFH offers Free Shipping (domestic).
Use coupon code: SHIP2ME to take advantage of this offer when shopping for your next favorite bow tie!
TFH designs freestyle bow ties for men and women. Some are trendy like the purple leopard print bow tie which is now being featured. Others are classic like the black and white herringbone bow tie that is fitting for office.
At TFH bow tie shop, there’s a link for custom-design bow ties that can be created from fabric that YOU request. Say for example if you’re looking for a purple and metallic bow tie to complete your NYE outfit, you can request that using the item reserved for custom bow tie designs.
TFH will continue to list new items, so if you don’t see anything that you like now, check with us for future orders.
For more information on The Female Haberdasher and private collection offers, email me: nikki@nikkipanache.com. Private Collection deals allow buyers to purchase 5 bow ties or more at a reasonable price.
Women Wear Bow Ties
I’ve been asked repeatedly about women wearing bow ties. “How do you wear it?” Answering this question varies from female-to-female. For me, I like to play up my more girly, feminine side. I love lots of color and floral patterns.
Below, I styled together one of The Female Haberdasher floral bow ties–”Lucie“–with a gray shirt that has a bit of a collar, a black Banana Republic Blazer and Levi’s boyfriend cut jeans. The shoes: Franco Sarto Mary Jane.
This is my casual look for a day about town. Tell me what you think.
For more information on ordering The Female Haberdasher’s bow ties, see online shopping site. Email for other inquiries: nikki@nikkipanache.com.
Behaving Fiercely Started at the Age of 4: The Beginnings of an Independent Thinker
First of all, before I start this post, I just have to say its so damn hard for me to write these transparent blogs. I mean … Do you really wanna know Nikki P?! Mann listen!!! We’re going to build up to the heavy stuff. I understand people wanna understand me and why I’m so this and that. So I’ll blog from time to time to reveal things about me. Got it?! Well then ok …
You remember what I said in my vlog about having strong views about dating? Well these views are reflections of an independent thinker who began behaving independently at a very young age.
A childhood story, shall we?
When I was about 4 or 5, my mom would advise me not to go to the corner store before school in the morning. I was told to walk straight to school which was a couple of blocks away, fewer blocks from our apartment than the corner store. But anyway I was so hard-headed. I managed to convince my mom to give me money nearly every day under the false pretense that I would use it for lunch and not for a toasted, plain bagel with cream cheese that I had grown a liking for due to our Saturday breakfast routines.
And you should’ve seen me. I wasn’t big as a minute. I wasn’t even tall enough to see the countertop in the check out line. And in hindsight, I know my mom advised me not to go down the street to the corner store by myself because she feared what and who I would encounter down there at the tender age of 4 (or 5).
Furthermore, it was Jersey City in the 80s. On any given day, you could find winos and drug addicts in some alley somewhere and god knows what else. But when this is your environment, you learn a different set of survival skills. You can determine good/bad through exposure and experience. Trust me, I knew not to talk to strangers. I knew how much my bagel cost and how to order it. And I understood that I had to take an extended route to school just to avoid the windows of my apartment, a “clear” path to not being caught.
Well finally either the store clerk told on me or my mom caught me walking the wrong way to school, the path that led to the corner store. Either way, I was made into being a liar one day and had to be accompanied on my walks to school going further.
As you can see my determination in getting what I want began at a young age. I was hard-headed and fiercely independent. I remember disliking chaperones accompanying on my walks to school. The conversation was not to my liking, and I missed those bagels as I could never convince her, my chaperone at the time, to walk me that way to the corner store. Although I had made the decisions to repeatedly disobey my mother and reaped the consequences, I still experienced the moments of growth in thinking for myself. I knew how it felt to really want to do something on my own and just go for it, having weighed the consequences and understanding just what those consequences meant should I ever had to face them.
Moreover, we all know about groupthink. If we’re all thinking the same thing, someone’s not thinking. And that kind of thinking once led the USA to a defeat. With that being said, I’m sure we can all remember a time when we were inspired or motivated to be an independent thinker. It could’ve been a time in your childhood. It could be a time when you felt your ideas were challenged at work. Or it can be a time when you had to make a huge decision in life that might have a deep impact on others. Whatever the case, I encourage independent thinking and the moments that get us to thinking. For this is the pathway to becoming a fierce and independent thinker!
Nikki Panache Introduces Brands in this [Video]
Nikki Panache introduces Nikkipanache.com and the Female Haberdasher Bow Tie Shop. She defines “panache” and “haberdasher” and why she chose to use those words to define her brands.
Kerry Washington looks Scandalicious at the AMAs
Did anyone catch the American Music Awards last night? I missed most of it, having tuned in at the beginning of Stevie Wonder’s performance. And during that very flashy and over-the-top performance of Psy and Hammer, I caught a glimpse of one of my favorite actresses–Kerry Washington. She looked stunning in a canary yellow, lace, see-through number designed by Stella McCartney. Kerry “Olivia Pope” Washington can do no wrong in whatever she wears. And you would know that if you watched ABC’s hit show Scandal! Hah! Here she is looking stunning as ever as usual.
Photo Credit: Getty
Link to Global Grind
