He's so not Hollywood...He just lives there! - Video Director Taj Stansberry

My first encounter with video director Taj Stansberry was via phone; however, his great personality and sincere demeanor startled me. I assumed that he would be so "hollywood", but that was not the case. Ever since that day I was determined to work with him. So when I finally met him in person at our first photoshoot, I was excited yet apprehensive and the butterflies in my stomach confirmed that. I was in the presence of this creative and innovative genius, who had a story for truly has a remarkable story about his journey into the music/film industry and how he became the industry giant that he is today.

His accolades include numerous music videos for major recording artists such as Nas, Neyo,Rihanna, Eleckric Red, Musiq Soul Child and I can’t forget “The Team,” (shout out to "the Bay") as well as numerous other celebs. Another one of his major achievements is his involvement with The Popular Kid Corp, a boutique production company set out to protect the client’s artistic integrity. Through innovative thinking and detailed design, their creative services focus on the development of the brand, through short-form film making, photography, web design, and consulting.

Taj is a man on the go, an international jet setter; one week he might be in the ATL and 3 days later he could be in Japan. The ability to be versatile and always on the move has aided him in the pursuit of the success he is today. He is focused, intelligent, wise, driven; yet he is no book-worm type visually. He has the wardrobe of the latest and most trendy labels; however, he also appreciates vintage and timeless pieces. And of course he has a special individual to thank for some of those swagged-out look; his stylist Erica Dias of course!!! LOL!!! Ladies love him and men respect him; he’s your girlfriend's favorite video director…..Taj Stansberry.

Check out this video reel of some of his music video work:

TAJ's 2008 Reel from Taj Stansberry on Vimeo.

Items that "BANG": Headbanger Accessories

[Cop These]

Hello beautiful people of the world… I have to show some major love to the bay area!

HEADBANGER Accessories began in Spring 2008 in Oakland, CA by designers Shayla Jamerson, Tasha Dial and Tiffany Stapleton. The ladies' inspiration came from the attempt to fulfill a need and bring innovation, creativity, and swagger to the accessory game. These women have started a “movement” and have tons of followers, fans, and yes “copycats”… but there can only be one !!! These three women are taking it to the next level and changing the game in fashion and accessories. I have had the pleasure of working with these smart, beautiful, talented women while styling my clients. As I pulled out the Headbanger Accessories for Lisa Wu-Hartwell of the Real Housewife’s of Atlanta, she thought that the earrings were very unique and creative. You can find Lisa sporting a few pair on their website.

So ladies if you are looking for fashion forward, haute, funky earrings that “BANG” check them out and get a pair of Head Bangers. We love Head Banger Accessories all the way from the “A”…. Thank you Shayla, Tiffany and Tasha for blessing our world with items that “BANG”

PS. Shayla is one of the BEST Fashion Stylist in the game. Very fashion forward, always thinking outside of the box when it comes to styling her clients. Check out just a little sample of her work on her myspace page @ http://www.myspace.com/sockittomecake and Tiffany is changing the game when it comes to event planning and you can check her out on www.facebook.com/people/Tiffany-Stapleton Also don't forget to check out the new season of Real Housewives of Atlanta We love Lisa!!!

Ms. Chrisette Michele's video "Its all in what U do"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzVZLITVqAw

This is how I'm feeling now.... Chrisette Michele's video "It's all in what u do" is on point. She defiantly has one of the most strongest voices in the music game. She is sooooooooo talented!! Remember fellas its all in what you do. When your words aren't adding up in your actions it's time to let you go.


xoxo Fashion 101

ROCK BAND ...THE 54.. & YES THEY R HAUTE

I know when most people think of "rock bands" these are the few thing that might come to mind:

4 White guys
Unique crazy gear
Loud music

Well this group gives you all that accept there NOT white...Don't get me wrong I love alot of rock bands out there...but I had the pleasure of working with this hautttttttttte group African American guys called "The 54". Their sound is unlike any other rock band out and when you attend one of their live performances they give you a show you will never forget!! Check out a photo shoot that I had the pleasure of working on as the Wardrobe Stylist.




xoxo FASHION 101 ERICA DIAS

Dope Track: Jazzy's "Remote Control"

With an unquestionable talent and an unmistakable allure, this soft-toned hummingbird is already captivating the ears of a craving international fan base. R&B artist Jazzy is the clear passage to airwaves you’ve been needing to breathe. With an industry void of love, real romance, and vibrancy, Jazzy thankfully offers up an authenticity sure to not only spark your interest, but capture your heart and have you melting for more. Lurking for replicas or tracings are irrelevant, this sweet R&B/Soul songstress is confident that you'll ‘Make-Up’ ways to fall ‘in love’. PS. The song "Make Up", is my favorite song ever!!!!

Some of the other stuff I do....

Atlanta Fashion and Style Honors At Opera With VogueMaven.com from C.Mitchell Beyond A Vision on Vimeo.

"On the Prowl".... Up n' Coming Designers With VogeMaven.com from C.Mitchell Beyond A Vision on Vimeo.

xoxo Fashion 101 Erica Dias

This is what I dooooo. Wardrobe Stylist: Erica Dias

Everything that glitters isn't gold, however I work really hard to take my career to greater heights. I love what I do, and I wouldn't change career fields for anything in the world. Ive had my good days and bad, but the ending results are truly worth it. Rather I'm styling a photo shoot, working on a video, or personal shopping for a client or even doing someones makeup, I know first and foremost that everything that has happened had to happen and everything that GOD has planned for me, can not be stopped.

Grandma, continue to be my ANGEL, Thank You for everything that you have taught me. As you continue to watch over me, just know that I'm thinking of you on every project and am grateful to you for allllllll my blessings!

Enjoy.






xoxox Fashion 101

These Heels Weren't Made for Walking....

I'm a shoe freak and I lovvvvvvve different, funky pairs of shoes, but some of these heels were not made for walking... Tell me what you think??

xoxo FASHION 101 ERICA DIAS

Women Changing the Game: Meet Nina Brown

The other night at music artist Edward Long's listening party, I met this very beautiful tall glamazon woman by the name of Nina Brown. Nina was hosting the party. When I saw her I thought to myself, "Wow she has such a genuine smile." She was full of life and you could hear happiness in her voice. I was determined to introduce myself to this joyous woman. Upon doing so, I found out Ms. Nina, is from Fairfield, California. :) Fairfield about 30 minutes away from where I grew up. Yay for all Cali people shutting it down in ATL!!

Nina is the producer of the Frank & Wanda Morning Show on V-103. She is making moves and fulfilling her dreams and goals. She's definitely the Michelle Obama type. When she enters the room, you can sense that she is about her business. Nina is humble, fearless, and as she calls it, a "GOD’S Girl"… I love it! Watch out world, I would not be surprised if she was producing Oprah’s show next!!!

To all my ladies who have dreams, goals, and a passion to be the best, take a good look at this beautiful woman of color shutting it down.

Please be sure to tune in to V-103 The Morning show in Atlanta, GA. Ladies let’s continue to shine!!! Hard work pays off. Continue to allow GOD to use you because through him ALL things are possible.


xoxo. FASHION101

Im sooooo GOOD & BROWN !!! & I wear it on my chest!!

The other day I met CEO (Amy Smith) of Good&Brown, a t-shirt line of wearable pieces that reflect the beauty and strength of brown skin. While not meant to be exclusionary, Good&Brown is an expression of pride and confidence for people of color who often go unappreciated by the mainstream market.

When I spoke to Amy, she explained how she love's everything about her brownness and being Good&Brown is a direct reflection of her history life as it stands and the future that she holds. Amy, created this line so that others who feel the way she does, can express themselves proudly, loudly and without any regrets.

I am passionate, bold and optimistic and I am definitely so good and brown. What about you?

To purchase one of these wonderful t-shirts, please visit www.sogoodandbrown.com

xoxo. Erica Dias/ Ms. Fashion 101

A "Clothes" Encounter....

Since its launch in December 2008, A Clothes Encounter has become Atlanta’s premier ongoing consignment event in support of charity. Founded by actor Kaira Akita (Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married, The Family That Preys, BET’s first scripted sitcom Somebodies), A Clothes Encounter collects gently-loved designer, name brand, and vintage women’s clothing and sells them for 30% - 80% off retail at seasonal Luxury Consignment Events in support of local charities.

I had the pleasure of working the event this past Saturday as the Personal Wardrobe Stylist for the VIP members. VIP members get a hour long private shopping experience with me before all the other customers arrive. I had an awesome time. Everyone should sign up to become a VIP member!!! LOL! Please visit the site @ www.aclothesencounteronline.com to check out up and coming events. Karia, is one of the most sweetest people you will meet. Beautiful on the inside and out, this young woman is making things happen!! A Clothes Encounter, is destined for success.



xoxo Fashion 101/ Erica Dias