Mark your calendars everyone! Atlanta-based clothing brand, Initiated Apparel will launch its anticipated first collection via a pre-sale launch Friday, October 14th. The self-empowering focused brand has its sights set on uplifting the self-love movement by combining unique designs while radiating positivity through messaging. “Initiate your higher self, ignite your mind” is the company’s motto.
The mission of Initiated Apparel is dedicated to providing quality clothing with timeless, positive messaging and visual appeal. The initial drop will feature hoodies, T-shirts, and athletic wear. Founder and CEO Kareen Thomas was inspired to start the brand after recognizing the negative mental toll the global health pandemic had on the ‘human experience’.
He states “After making it to the bright side of my own self-improvement journey, I realized that self-encouragement and belief in my own abilities were essential fundamentals to activating an elevated life. I want to help ignite this fire in others.”
The brand strives to initiate greatness, enlightenment, and self-belief to their consumers. CEO Thomas plans to expand the brand to incorporate additional signature and custom items in 2023.
Follow @initiatedapparel on social for up-to-date designs, merch drop dates, and promotions.
This past weekend Matte Collection had their exclusive show at Miami Swim Week in nothing less of course than the iconic Versace Mansion. The brand’s campaign featured on the runway was centered on body confidence with hip-hop royalty socialite, Angela Simmons starring in the show. Admiration and praise were all that the audience had for the extraordinary night.
Founded by designer Justina M., Matte Collection stole the hearts of everyone at the yearly gathering of the world’s best summer wear brands. The successful show is fresh off the heels of the company’s global Confidence Campaign, also featuring Simmons.
Joining Simmons on the runway were rapper JT, of the City Girls duo, content creator Achieng Agutu, and influencer Ari Fletcher. The models flew down the runway in shades of green, purple, and orange swimwear and coverups while strutting self-love.
The Confidence Campaign features models with different body types and embraces diversity. Addressing the inspiration behind the creation of the Confidence Campaign in an in-depth interview with BET.com, Justina McKee said, “I want to make sure that every woman feels sexy, beautiful, and confident while spending time at the pool and on the beach. Everybody deserves that!” The Founder of Matte Collection then elaborated that the campaign is all about women “embracing” the body they have, and “owning it.”
Embracing the campaign, Angela Simmons made a splash and posted her unedited bathing suit pics on social media. Simmons became a trending topic after the photos from the annual event, showing off her body made their way around the internet. Many praised and applauded her honesty and openness when many in the spotlight shy away from it.
Some of the major stars that were in attendance were Mary Fitzgerald from Selling Sunsets, singer and influencer Malu Trevejo, and Rapper Toli. While the show wrapped, the after-party continued in full force with VIP guest, DJ Khaled spinning into the night. Guests danced, toasted and enjoyed the week’s most memorable installation!
For more on Matte Collection, follow their sizzling IG: @MatteCollection
Atlanta embraces the plethora of black-owned businesses from tea to music. Check these businesses when you come out to the Peach State
Brave + Kind Bookshop
This bookstore is located in Decatur, GA. An African-American woman created diverse and creative books for various children to read. Although the books contain classic and modern children’s stories there are a few books for adults to read. The owner is also involved in helping schools build intentional inclusive school libraries.
Just Add Honey Tea Company
This company is based in Atlanta and creates thoughtfully blended loose leaf tea for people to enjoy. They ensure that guests enjoy the best, freshest, and most flavorful teas with every sip. All ingredients are natural and pure from around the world to your own cup.
Iwifresh spa
Iwi stands for it is what it is. The brand wants to be transparent and all the products are from vegetables and naturally grown ingredients. Visit the Farm-to-your-skin Spa and Oasis Wellness Center to experience the power of feeding your skin the Truth in person.
Cheesecaked
This gourmet cheesecake boutique specializes in selling personalized cheesecakes in a variety of flavors. Some flavors they specialize in are Pecan Praline, Champagne, Salted Caramel, White Chocolate Raspberry Swirl, Vanilla Bean, Banana Pudding and many more. You can currently try these delicious creations at Underground Atlanta.
Hot Coffee
The coffee beans used in Hot Coffee come from select growing regions of Africa, Central and South America. From Light, Medium, Dark to Decaf there is an everyday cup of coffee all can enjoy. Hot Coffee also is the first minority-owned coffee retailer to accept Cryptocurrency as a preferred method of payment.
Popup Baby
Popup Baby is a mobile gym for babies and toddlers. They have cultivated a clean, safe environment for babies and toddlers to have a fun experience through sensory play. They are currently in the process of opening their flagship store in Douglasville and will be ready to be booked soon.
DBS Sounds
DBS Sounds is a music store that caters to its audience with broad music genres. The retail music store also manages the marketing for new and established music artists. They also hold events where fans are able to interact with their favorite artists. Just recently they held an instore signing with Kehlani.
Flesh Skin Care Studio
This skin studio helps clients achieve gorgeous skin through non-invasive holistic practices. Licensed estheticians do not rely on any machinery but their hands to achieve great service for their clients. These estheticians serve a variety of clients both men and women with different skin problems such as acne or hyperpigmentation.
Nellie Bean Nail Studio
This nail studio does not accept walk-ins since every client needs to make an appointment to be seen. Each visit is personalized and private with a one-on-one nail session that gives clients individual attention. This nail artist likes to be creative and is willing to do any design with any gemstone you ask for.
God Is Dope
This clothing store has gained recognition for selling streetwear and accessories with the message “God Is Dope”. They have partnered with other brands such as Slutty Vegan to create new merchandise. They also extended their t-shirts and joggers to purses with their logo on the front.
Philanthropist, model, recent Sports Illustrated Finalist and Brain Cancer survivor Victoria Vesce has a long historyof advocacy and philanthropy with various organizations, but her advocacy took on new meaning when she became a cancer survivor at age 24.
Victoria has raised a small-town southern girl who has always had big dreams of pursuing something great. She grew up on a Buffalo Farm in rural eastern North Carolina. Feeling like there was a larger world to explore, she states, “I always knew I was bigger than my hometown.”
In 2016 and 2017 while dancing in the NBA for the Charlotte Hornets, and studying for the LSAT, Victoria started losing her hearing and experiencing extreme headaches. She began experiencing symptoms like fainting, unexplained adrenaline rushes, and dizziness. After a CAT scan and repeated visits to the doctor and ENT, she was diagnosed with a tumor. Doctors discovered another tumor (carotid artery) during an MRI. Surgery occurred 6 weeks later, and following that, Victoria underwent 30 rounds of experimental radiation treatment.
Today, Victoria is fully deaf in her right ear and chronically suffers from tinnitus. She enjoys a new perspective on life and has gratitude for the organizations and people who have helped her along the way.
Victoria states, “My motto in life now is that life is short. I have quit shaming myself or changing myself to please others. I own my life, imperfections and all. I want to help others to reach a point of good health, happiness, and fulfillment – as I have,” said Ms. Vesce. “Brain Tumor Awareness Month presents a chance to become educated about the issues that affect people with cancer diagnoses. It’s also a chance to give to organizations that save lives.”
Even with a life that has been completely altered, there is no slowing Victoria down. She currently works with Berman Law Group in South Florida and continues to model and grow her social media platform. She is a signed model with JL Model Management and Marilyn’s Agency. She recently became a finalist for Sports Illustrated Swim. She says going to the Dominican Republic, shooting with the team, and seeing herself in the magazine is a dream come true.
She currently stars in her own podcast named, Validated By Victoria, where talks all things valid. From getting through life’s struggles, how to get abs, bad dates, and more, Victoria tells it how it is. “I love talking about all things that I think are valid in my life and what others should know from dating to grief.” Stay tuned as she’s rebranding the podcast and line up of guests! She can’t wait for it to debut soon.
Victoria wants to be remembered as someone who endured the fire but still rose from the ashes, especially after her mom’s passing. She wants the world to know her name in a positive light and leave a mark with everyone she meets.
She is currently transitioning into more TV and Film, as well as, taking over her Dad’s company while creating her own. She has multiple projects in the works as she’s rebranding herself this summer.
You can keep up with Victoria on social media @VictoriaVesce
“Working out and what you wear is a form of self-care.” – Melissa Dufour, Founder and Creative Director of Sexy Sweats.
A great fitness guru once said “looking good is important, but feeling great is key!” What if we told you that you can both look and feel good while exercising? That’s the mission of the Athleisure Brand “Sexy Sweats” that hit the market in 2018. Founded by Melissa Dufour, the brand is highlighting the sexiness of staying fit. With true fitness background and overcoming her own health obstacle, this fitness guru is helping others transform their lives one outfit at a time.
The Vice City native is a first-generation, Haitian-American and the oldest of two siblings. Her love for fitness was stamped in her childhood as she watched her father playing soccer. She even participated in many sports herself including track & field, flag football, and boxing, and was even on the girl’s weight lifting team. With a strong athletic background, it is no surprise that it would be the segway to her successful ventures in the future. Melissa later went on to obtain her B.A. in Healthcare and found herself facing adversity shortly after.
At only 25, she was diagnosed with severe arthritis. The experience was a painful one for Melissa. She says “there were times it was hard to walk and after multiple doctor visits, tests and diagnoses, nothing seemed to add up.” This motivated her to change her diet and routine.
After battling arthritis, Melissa gained a new appreciation for looking and feeling good and went on to create a new fitness routine that would balance the two. She notes, “Although it wasn’t the easiest routine for me to follow, I experienced real success in finding balance for them all. I’ve created a schedule to incorporate working out five days a week. I usually find myself in fitness apparel and sneakers on my days off, even if I am not in the gym.” These aspects would become the driving force behind Sexy Sweats.
Photo Credits: Sexy Sweats
Sexy Sweats is new a bold and attractive imprint proving that sweating is indeed sexy. It is described as an athleisure brand made to shape a woman’s natural features, not hide them. It’s the athleisure line for the bold and daring and embodies the unique creative vision for bodaciously curvy women. Sexy Sweats is so attractive in its daring designs, vibrant colors, and intricate stitching with a slimming illusion. The brand was created because Melissa wanted to help women feel their best while working out, which is something she felt was missing.
The brand separates itself through exclusive designs and prints. It’s more than clothing, It’s a movement for women to showcase their confidence, sex appeal, and athletic lifestyle. Dufour states, “Sexy Sweats’s distinctive style and colors are unmatched. It’s an outward symbol that confidence and feeling sexy shouldn’t be hidden, and we are here to embrace it. Everything down to the stitching was given immense amounts of attention.”
Creating the brand was a no-brainer as she states, “I love a good challenge. My goal is to influence the fashion industry with our exclusive pieces, build a lifestyle brand and motivate women to work for their results and proudly show them off.” With prices ranging from $18 to $82 dollars, it’s something every woman can get her hands on.
Photo Credits: Sexy Sweats
When speaking about the creation of the debut, “She Is” Collection, Melissa says it was created with personality and style in mind. I designed each piece intricately, intending to make head-turning clothes. I also added stitching with slimming illusions to enhance one’s silhouette. I want to provide each customer with comfortable, form-fitting pieces that provide much-needed support while in the gym. Sexy Sweats has your favorite athleisure pieces, no matter what size or shape.
Serving both as founder and creative designer is no chore for Melissa as she loves to get in touch with her creativity and bring her visions to life. As the brand grows, the heat is being turned up. “As the founder, I am still in the building phase, learning so much from the business’s administrative side, which can be extremely challenging.” When asked her favorite things about her double role, she says Everything! “ Melissa watches the growth of her brand, and it excites her as she crushes her goals every day. I’m far from the goals I want to achieve but way ahead from when I first started.
“The final results always make the process look like a piece of cake but finding a good balance is the key to business.”
Melissa and Sexy Sweats plan to continue highlighting the sexy of every woman stating “as Sexy Sweats continues to grow, the public can expect a lot of heat. Sexy, daring, new prints and colors all summer long and beyond.” It’s sure to give A Lot of Heat. Sexy, Daring, New prints and colors, dropping this Summer 2022. She also hopes to collaborate with top-of-the-line athleisure brands, athletes, and have other fitness gurus join the movement of fashionable fitness.
You can keep up with Sexy Sweats’s innovative styles on their social media at @sexysweatswear. Join in by tagging and using the #sexysweatssquad. Shop the She Is Collection now available at https://sexysweatswear.com/
The multitalented artist and shoe designer CJ The Visionary is a creative based in Central Florida. From an early age, CJ The Visionary knew he would be a performer being influenced by some of the greatest names in music including Michael Jackson, Prince, James Brown, Marvin Gaye, and Teddy Pendergrass. He later gained popularity from his 2021 debut single “Fall Back.” CJ is already creating a stamp in the music realm as he has already been featured as one of the Artist Picks of the Year by Hollywood Digest. He is also well known for his high-quality shoes made from genuine leather and as the co-creator of the On Repeat Music Video Channel. The serial visionary spoke with The Recap Report to give us a glimpse into his world.
CJ’s passion for music began at 12 years old after witnessing Michael Jackson performing at the Grammys. His childhood consisted of being involved in music and performing. He was involved in the “Concert Chorus” in high school and participated in choir at his church. His musical influences can best be described as a mash-up of the elements of R&B, soul, and hip hop. Established artists such as Chris Brown, Trey Songz, Jacquees, and Jamie Foxx inspire his music today. These influences have helped him craft music that is new and nostalgic which is demonstrated in his newest single release on Valentine’s Day called “Freaky Things.” His purpose with this song was to emulate two people who have created this intimacy and feel that they are the only two that exist in each other’s world.
“Freaky Things” is available on all major streaming music platforms.
Outside of his music, CJ The Visionary holds a true fashion sense which led him to begin designing shoes. His brand Fiya Brand Shoes was born to stand out. His goal was to differentiate from other brands and create something that highlighted his sense of style. He loves fashion and putting colors together which makes this brand the best of both worlds.
The most memorable accomplishment since starting in the music industry has been CJ’s recognition of being named a Top Artist Pick of the Year by Hollywood Digest. When asked about his upcoming goals for 2022, CJ stated his plans are “to perform live and collaborate with fellow talented artists.”
To keep up with CJ The Visionary’s nostalgic sound you can find him on Instagram at @cjvisionary and on United Masters. Check out his latest kicks by visiting on @fiyabrandshoesInstagram.
The most coveted night of the Fashion year, the Met Gala. The theme for this year was Gilded Glamour but what does that mean? Let’s break that down!
According to the Oxford Dictionary, the word Gilded means to be covered thinly with gold lead or paint. While some celebrities adhered to this interpretation most chose to reference the Gilded Age, the time period after the Civil War, roughly between the 1870s to early 1900s.
We’re talking about a time of excess and extravagance. New York City was taking shape into the city we think of today. Picture Grand Central Station and The Statue of Liberty being erected.
Advancements in technology were taking place left and right. Women of the upper class were able to play around with different textiles as more was available to them. “Women’s dresses often featured a combination of many textiles, like satin, silk, velvet, and fringe, all adorned with over-the-top textures like lace, bows, frills, and ruffles,” Vogue writes
Of course, the night wasn’t complete without a little bit of drama! While the stars hit the red carpet, many on social media were first to call out the underwhelming looks of the evening.
Hailing from New York City, PanamaDaPrince always knew he wanted to be in the entertainment industry. He started his music career at the young age of sixteen and never looked back. His parents were a big influence in his passion for the arts.
Today, his operating titles today include artist, fashion designer and creative director.
PanamaDaPrince received major opportunities early on that most artists only dream of. He was able to be the opening act for notable artists. He served as a vital show opener for Hip-Hop pioneers, Wu-Tang Clan & D-Block at Webster Hall in 2013. In addition to opening for G-Unit rapper Lloyd Banks at Stage 48 the following year.
Always having a passion for fashion ,Panama launched his ALPHA clothing brand in 2016. He merged his two passions, fashion and music. “Transcend every obstacle” & “lead the pack” quickly converted into the clothing brands mantra. Some of the stars that have worn his brand include Swizz Beats, Teyana Taylor and Ashley Graham.
After achieving success with his music and clothing brand, Panama was determined to give back to his community. In the wake of the protest for the police killing of an unarmed George Floyd in 2020 he donated the profits from his sales to support protesters’ legal fees. Tired of being a victim, PanamaDaPrince utilizes his platform to bring awareness to these constant social injustices and to spark a positive change.
Post-pandemic Panama, released the highly anticipatedrecord, “Mase Flow”. The song & music video featured hip-hop star Fatman Scoop. The song was a an online success with nearly 30,000 views.
Panama continues to elevate in his entrepreneurial success. The notoriety of his influence has allowed him to collaborate with mainstream brands such as G-Shock.
On the horizon of 2022, he is currently working on his album, If Only You Knew dropping in the near future.
To keep up with PanamaDaPrince follow him @panamadaprince on Instagram
We all know how busy life can get during the holiday season. No need to fret on what to get loved ones this season! Here you’ll find a list of gifts for everyone in your family (including Fido).
Foria’s Quickie Kit
If you’re looking for a gift for your partner, this just might be perfect for you! The “Quickie Set” includes the Awaken Arousal Oil, the Sex Oil and 2 intimate suppositories. These products are all natural, organic and infused with CBD for a fun time for under $50!
This coat will have all eyes on you. Lined with silk and made of fox fur, nothing will make you feel more luxurious than this coat. Made from ethically sourced fur, you can feel good about wearing it too.
Need a good educational bedtime book? We’ve got the perfect one for you!Becoming a Superhero is a fun and innovative way to encourage kids to eat healthily and exercise to fight childhood obesity.
Here’s one for the skincare junkies! This hydrating and brightening watermelon duo,packed with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid will leave you glowing in this winter weather. As an added bonus, the Niacinamide Dew Drops can be used as a primer or highlighter! Who doesn’t want that?
This is perfect for a person always on the go. The air fryer quickly and deliciously makes meals that anyone can make. From the novice cook to the experienced chef, this is a great addition to your kitchen.
Dyson’s complete styler is great for most hair types and styles. Their innovative technology minimizes heat damage and leaves you looking like you just stepped out of a salon!
If you want every morning to feel like a spa day, this is perfect for you.The warming bar heats up in less than a second and distributes warmth to the skin for a luxurious shave. It comes with 5 blades so you know you’re getting a smooth shave.
Our cell phones touch everything. We clean our hands, why not our phones? This UV sanitizing device comes with a built in charger so you know your phone is clean and also ready to use.
Have a loved one who is an avid traveler? This gift is perfect for them! The map makes a unique gift allowing travelers to scratch off the places they’ve visited while also doubling as wall art.
It comes as no shock that we’ve seen a huge shift of influence come from social media over the last few years. That influence has come from the music we’ve come across, the reviews of our favorite binge-worthy shows, and most importantly…the people. You might not even realize that the people you watch across various social media platforms have had such a great influence on you. However, these influencers, as they are widely known, have made that impact on us to a point where many of us now seek out what they find “in style” or “worthy” of attention. Some might consider it good or even bad, but it’s safe to say these influencers have helped shape the world in which we live. Over the past year, amid the pandemic and with more of us having time to scroll our timelines, influencers have had even more opportunity to partake in the growing of their brands and even more chances to capture our attention. Here are 10 influencers I believe have helped shake things up and should be on your radar!
Arnell Armon
When it comes to beauty and fashion, Arnell Armon is that girl! She’s an Instagram influencer who dabbles in the various topics of makeup, hair, fashion, and lifestyle. With over 600,000 followers it’s quite clear many have taken a liking to what she has shown. Many of her followers look forward to each post just to keep up with her skincare routine alone. You can check out her Instagram by following @arnell.armon
Hailie Jade
You may or may not be aware of the fact that Hailie Jade is the daughter of rap star, Eminem. Well shockingly, I had no clue. I was drawn in by her cool layout and her pictures that made me instantly think she was a model. However, once I found out, it made me even more intrigued to keep her on my radar. That’s why I recommend her to be on your radar as well. You can follow her @hailiejade
Bronnie
As a blogger, Bronnie has the influence of many fashion-forward followers. Her outfits are dazzling with a hint of streetwear. She has the ability to make even the simplest outfit look like it came right off the runway. I admire her sense of style as well as her simplicity to make it look so easy to put together. With an Instagram following inching closer to 300,000, she’s definitely one influencer to keep on your radar. You can keep up with her by following @bronnniee
Tamu McPherson
Not only does Tamu McPherson hold a title of influencer, but she’s also founder and creator of All the Pretty Birds, an online magazine-blog-type community for a multiethnic and multicultural audience. Tamu’s style and grace shed light on that very existence of the multicultural aspects of street style and overall beauty. You can find her on Instagram by following @tamumcpherson
Kara Roselle Smith
Afro-indigenous model and writer, Kara Roselle Smith, is probably one of my favorite influencers out of this year. As a writer and activist, she’s able to bring beauty and brains together and make it work in a way that seems effortless. It’s very admirable especially in a society that can sometimes make it seem that the two cannot coexist. She’s high on my radar for sure, so I encourage you to check her out by following her Instagram, @kararoselles
Freedom At The Mat
For all the women out there who need that everyday moment of simply being able to take care of your mind, body, and soul’s well-being, this is the Instagram page for you to follow (@freedomatthemat). By following, you’ll be able to receive tips and other ideas of aid when it comes to self-care. It’s important to keep up with what is happening around you, but even more important to focus on what matters the most…and that’s your mind, body, and soul.
Jordan Airiyah
Jordan Airiyah, also known as @jordanfromvegaz, has to be one of my absolute favorite TikTok influencers. Her videos are always amusing and straight to the point…and might I add super relatable. She’s climbing to almost 700,000 followers and it comes as no shock to me. I’ve even made a couple of videos myself using sound from her own original videos. If you’re looking for content to keep you laughing and also that you can relate to, follow her.
Grant Khanbalinov (heyellianafamily)
I know TikTok is very popular for many of its comedic influencers…you’ve seen who I have enjoyed so far above. However, one of my favorite influencers happens to be the family of Grant Khanbalinov. He often uploads videos of him and his wife’s children, who very recently this year created several videos paying homage to the movie Matilda and popular Netflix show Stranger Things. I found the videos to be so adorable with their daughter playing the parts of the respective characters in each movie. Give @heyellianafamily a follow to see how they capture their family moments.
Amiracle Williams
Known as @heartofcreations on TikTok, Amiracle Williams defines herself as a “goofy multitalented chick”. Each video she uploads shows her comedic side, as well the deliverance of that everyday friend who you look to when you’re in search of a good laugh. She brings beauty with a touch of great comedic timing.
Cassie Stephens
Tennessee art teacher Cassie Stephens reminds us all of that elementary art teacher we had that we always viewed as super cool and so kind. Her TikTok account (@cassie_stephens) brings those exact thoughts to life, which is what makes her so interesting to keep on your radar. She’s relatable and funny with her artsy outfits that take you back to your childhood days.
The Recap Report is an American news publication covering world news, trending celebrities, luxe lifestyle, business and the latest in sports and entertainment.
Just Add Honey Tea Company
Iwifresh spa
Cheesecaked
Hot Coffee
Popup Baby
DBS Sounds
Flesh Skin Care Studio
Nellie Bean Nail Studio
God Is Dope
Foria’s Quickie Kit
Life of God’s Rouge Event Coat
Becoming a Superhero
Glow Recipe Glossy Skin Spell Kit
Ninja Air Fryer
Dyson Complete Styler
Gillette Labs Bugatti Heated Razor
Emu Australia Mayberry Tri 1 Slippers
PhoneSoap 3 UV Cell Phone Sanitizer and Dual Universal Cell Phone Charger
Maps International Scratch The World Map
