Category: Self Growth

Why My Glasses Have A Purple Glare

I was practically born with glasses on. Thus, lens technology is my kind of party. The red frames I am wearing now were a gift from my brother and father, who also have a healthy sense of style. Friends noted my glasses had a purple reflection, which I did not notice. It was only after editing my LookBook images that I saw what they were talking about. Out of all the glasses I have worn over the years, this is the first time my lenses have looked like this. Since I did not order purple-rain-lenses, I slightly panicked thinking the lab might have done something wrong. So, of course, I did some research and felt the need to share my discovery with the world.

My lenses have an anti-reflective coating. Even though I have had this on my previous glasses for the past 10 years, there has been a new development recently that causes this colored glare. The purpose of anti-reflective coating is to remove reflections from the lenses to improve the quality of vision and look of the lenses. It removes the “back-glare” that is caused by light hitting the back of the lens and bouncing into the eyes. This can cause eye fatigue and blurry vision while viewing a screen or driving at night. This coating is installed as layers on both sides of the lens to cancel out the intensity of the light reflected from the inner surface and outer surface.

Now, I always understood anti-reflective coating to remove all reflection from the lenses. At least, I figured that is why it was called “anti-reflective.” All advertisements and demonstrations show clear lenses.

So, why do my glasses have a glare…a purple glare? It turns out the color of the light reflection is determined by the quality of the anti-reflective coating. A blue or purple coating has 6 layers and a green coating has 9 layers. The heavier coating is prescribed for those who drive more at night and use the computer a lot. These colors are known as a “residual glare.”

My frames also have aspheric lenses. This is also a recent development in lens technology where the concave of the lens is reduced to minimize the magnified appearance of the eyes. My prescription is pretty strong and not the same for both eyes. For a long time my eyes have looked very big with one noticeably bigger than the other. These lenses do not completely cancel the magnification, but I do notice a change in size. Note aspheric lenses do not alter the quality of vision, but rather are a cosmetic adjustment.

Now, are these new developments worth it? To some, the purple residual glare looks cool. I do not see purple while wearing the glasses, so the glare does not distract me. However, looking back at the demo images, I was expecting my lenses to look clear. It might be that the combination of the aspheric lenses and the anti-reflective coating causes a bigger glare. Compared to my previous glasses, these seem to pick up more reflections. This is why I feel that stores and labs that specialize in lenses should make an extra effort to explain their products. There are so many options now to add to your lenses that the lack of a comprehensive menu of choices can lead to pleasant surprises or disappointments.

Do you have experience with different glasses? What is your opinion on the new anti-reflective coating?

September 28, 2015
Why A Blogger Should Think Bigger

Beyond producing and curating content, adding skills to their DIY branding tool box, keeping up with trends and news, and interacting with followers and influencers, a blogger must find time to think bigger. What kind of impact could your blog make if it reached a bigger audience, was supported by bigger brands, and/or reached a higher potential? I started to ponder this idea more after participating in the twitter chat #confessionsofablackblogger hosted by Black Bloggers United.

My content is judged b4 reading it. My perspective could be helpful to all if given a chance. #ConfessionsofaBlackBlogger

— Dagny Zenovia (@DagnyZenovia) August 21, 2015

The growth in our online community says it all. We own it. No need to conform when we set the trends. #ConfessionsofaBlackBlogger

— Dagny Zenovia (@DagnyZenovia) August 21, 2015

In addition to noting the discrepancies in which bloggers receive endorsements and are awarded for their work, a bigger discussion about a bloggers potential ensued. Even though there has been an increase in blogger networks, from Facebook groups to brand connectors, many bloggers can still feel isolated from any online community.

If you have ever found yourself in this predicament, I want you to reflect on why you are blogging. What is your purpose? What is your goal?

I see a lot of talk about brand endorsements, income reports, and monetizing strategies that all bloggers are encouraged to achieve. I admire those who have excelled in those endeavors and am inspired by what their brands stand for. However, that is not what I envision for my blog.

Like my logo says, my blog is a place to be informed, amused, and motivated. I am more interested in collaborating or working on projects that enhance and impact society, education, public policy, the arts, history…the list could go on. The posts I write might not include a clear-cut solution, but I hope they help my readers think, wonder, dream, and act. As I add to the LookBooks on my blog, it is not only about where I bought my clothes and how I look in them, but also to encourage my readers to find comfort in their unique radiance and learn how to accentuate it with style. In return, I am creating my opportunity to improve and explore my storytelling and design skills and connect with other brilliant people. These are things I enjoy doing, but I also have a bigger picture in mind. The blog is part of the foundation. The prize evolves with what is built on that foundation.

“The only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity. You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there. So here’s to all…the people who have redefined what it means to be beautiful, to be sexy, to be a leading woman, to be black.” – Viola Davis

Of course I was also inspired by the display of Excellence at the Emmy Awards. Viola Davis speech was on point and I applaud her, Regina King, and Uzo Aduba for being who they are and bringing us along for the journey. They created their opportunity and stuck to it not for an award but for the significance of their talent and presence in the arts and society.

I see bloggers (or freelancers or self-publishers or content creators) as people creating their own opportunities. When one of you win, we all win. Regardless of what your purpose is behind that opportunity, recognize its potential, not only for you, but for those you empower through your talent and presence.

What are you doing with your opportunity?

September 22, 2015
Don’t Slam The Door Behind You

Do you remember the feeling you had when you were younger and was so excited for your parent or older sibling or supportive adult to return home to show them the painting you did or the A+ you got on your ABC order test? You were not looking for an award, but rather wanted to be the source of pride and happiness for that person.

As we get older, we cross paths with a variety of adults that want to see us succeed. They might give the dollar amount of your age for your birthday every year, treat you to your favorite food or activity to celebrate your accomplishment, or just take the time to talk with you and make sure your priorities are guided and set.

As old as I am, the MVP (most valuable players) of my support team are my parents. They are the only ones who cheer me on even when they cannot see clearly where I’m headed. They set the bar for me to aspire higher and push further. For now they are the only ones who understand the source of my passion, struggles, and determination for my work and life.

On the other hand, I have met adults whose perception of me changed as I got older. When I was younger, they viewed me as a cute girl who would go far. As a young adult, they view me as a threat. I know this sounds harsh, but this is the impression I get. I am the kind of person who remembers the slightest gesture of kindness. So, naturally, I make a point to keep in touch and assume sharing my journey thus far would be appreciated. Instead I get responses like, “Really? What are you planning to do with all those degrees? Fill a thermostat?” or “Gosh! How long is it going to take you to stick to one thing?” or “That’s nice, but why waste your time?”

As much as I try to continue holding my head high and strive to achieve my dreams, these kind of responses have taken a toll on my psyche. I stopped sharing. I doubted my vision. I questioned my purpose. Pay attention to what you tell people, especially if they trusted you with a glimpse into their dreams. It is amazing how much a flippant comment impacts a person.

I am still working on finding my tribe. People who understand, recognize, and appreciate everything about me. People I feel inspired by and in turn support. People who will make the extra effort because they want to see me succeed. People who believe in me.

To help you build your tribe, I wanted to give you some tips on finding and being a mentor (or responsibility-partner if the former title gives you nightmares).

1. Be generous

In spite of negativity and challenges, always give more than you receive. That does not mean putting others before you or accept abuse. I mean give it your all – that project your secretly tinkering with, that group you know you can contribute to, that job you know you can be a boss at – do not suppress your talents just because others question them. Make a habit of giving everything to what you want to achieve. Be open to listening to others without needing to reply.

2. Let go of entitlement

No one has to help you. It would be nice, but it is not a requirement. You don’t have to be successful. It is what we all strive for, but it is not an obligation. If you dedicate your focus more to strategically building and supporting, less time will be wasted dwelling on rejection. Regardless of which side of the mentor-team you are on, always be grateful for those who stick around and respect those who reach out to you.

3. Take charge

Don’t wait for permission to thrive. Don’t seek approval for your brilliance. Take initiative for your story. Focus on polishing your craft and creating your own opportunities. The people who are able to enhance your vision and your life will come to you at the right time.

I hope these tips were helpful. Do you have a mentor or are you mentoring someone? What do you appreciate most by the people who support your endeavors?

September 5, 2015
Vibe: Seraphim by Akua Naru

I stumbled on this artist a few months ago and fell in love with her work and vibe so much that I bought two of her albums, which both are on constant rotation in my car. It still takes a lot of effort to find female MCs who I resonate with that showcase meaningful lyrics and individuality. She is really talented and has a message you should check out. I like how she portrayed this song in the video. The simple things that fill the bigger part of a love story.

August 29, 2015
How To Dress Boss Fabulous
Building a wardrobe and developing a signature style can be a lot of fun. Not only do you avoid feeling like you have nothing to wear when you look in your closet, but you also feel good in what you are wearing and add an additional outlet to express your personality.

I started developing a signature look when I was in college. I have always been drawn to elegant minimalism and funky attitudes. My wardrobe has evolved to incorporate my changing preferences in taste and comfort. Due to the constant questions about my style, shopping routine, and wardrobe pieces, I guess my little wardrobe personal project has gone well. So, to start the style segment of my blog, I want to share with you some basic tips and inspiration to build a signature wardrobe.

The first thing to remember is to not aspire to fit into certain trends or expectations. Being stylish or fashionable is all about personality and self-love.

1. Create Your Style Profile

Take note of what colors, shapes, and moods resonate with you. Do you prefer a specific era of fashion or love a certain celebrity’s style? Collect images of outfits you admire, think you could wear, and would like to aspire to look like. When I was creating my style, I used magazines and saved google images on my desktop computer. Now you can use Pinterest not only to find images but to find information on how to dress for your figure depending on cut, pattern, and color.

I love bright colors, vintage cuts, chic lines, and funky attitude. My fashion icons range from Audrey Hepburn to Cleopatra Jones to Olivia Pope. I wanted my everyday look to be casual chic with a pop of personality influenced by being a southern belle and world traveler.

2. Build Your Wardrobe

Once you got an idea of what your overall look will be, it’s time to assess your closet and go shopping. It will take some time to phase out the pieces that do not fit your evolving style and replace them with items that will enhance your wardrobe. Start with statement pieces that portray your new signature style.

I started by collecting blazers, A-line and pencil skirts, chiffon or silk blouses, and cute loafers and heels. I could mix-and-match some of my old tops and accessories with my new pieces and could see which pieces in my closet I could give away. In college I shopped at Forever 21, Macy’s, TJ Maxx, and DSW as well as some thrift shopping. Now I shop at New York & Company, The Limited, DSW, Aldo, and Nordstrom Rack plus thrifting.

3. Dress Like A Boss

Now it is time to master the dress routine. As you continue to build your wardrobe, you will develop a catalog of outfits in your closet. Every piece should be able to pair with more than one other item. Experiment with color-blocking and pairing patterns. Learn how to “recycle” your clothes by mixing and accessorizing to stretch your wardrobe. I have heard some people document the items in their closet on their iPad or other electronic device. That is cool, if that works for you. Overtime I documented my closet in my mind. In the morning or while preparing for a special occasion, I look at my closet and create the outfit in my mind then pull out the pieces that work with what I imagined. Ironically this only takes a few minutes, but people usually comment on how I must wake up at 4am to get dressed. We will keep this secret to ourselves…ok?

Here are a few fashionistas I admire:
How would you describe your style profile? If I started a LookBook series on my blog, what details would you find most helpful?
August 15, 2015
Vibe: No Sleeep by Janet Jackson

Can we talk about how much Janet Jackson is slaying her come back? I hope everyone is taking notes.

First, her debut single is an R&B-grown-and-sexy track with a catchy hook and her signature smooth style. Her, Jimmy Jam, and Terry Lewis always make a fabulous team.

Second, in the video, her look is an upgrade from “That’s The Way Love Goes.” I love her hair, love the outfit, love the plush home, and love the smooth dance moves. The sentimental tributes blend so well with the imagery that I could not help but smile while I was watching. She also made a smart move to feature J Cole on the track to connect with younger generations (who should already know who Ms. Jackson is) and bridge R&B with Hip-Hop.

Third, she has established Rhythm Nation Records to not only produce her own work but to also provide a platform for other talent.

I managed to get tickets to her Unbreakable Tour and am already putting together my Rhythm Nation outfit. Janet Jackson is such an authentic and talented queen. I really hope everything she is planning to do is successful and continues to be awesome.

August 8, 2015