Sisters-N-Style

Memorial Day beauty must haves

2009-05-20T12:42:00.000-07:00

Whether you're going to the beach, a pool party, or a barbecue this Memorial Day you'll want to keep these things in mind before hanging with friends.

Block Out - The most important beauty must have of the summer is a good moisturizer with SPF. When the SPF is higher does not mean you are getting more protection. SPF 15 blocks around ninety-six percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays. Lotions that contain SPF 30 to 60 provide about ninety-seven percent defense from the sun. That extra one percent of protection usually has an oiler formula which will leave your skin greasy.

Glow on – Applying a liquid bronzer before stepping out in your new dress is the perfect way to capture the summer sun and draw attention to your legs. Rub a small amount of liquid bronzer over your legs and arms to add drama. Try Lucy B’s frangipani bronze shimmer oil which is sold locally at Exhale Spa locations.

Throw on the shades – You may love the sun but it's harmful rays aren’t exactly “tlc” for your skin so before going out to enjoy the sunshine be sure to cover up. Grab a pair of stylish shades to guard your eyes. Reducing sun exposure around your lids helps to lower your risk of getting crows feet and dark under eye circles. Also, summer is a great time to wear hats. Wearing hats during the summer can lower your risk of experiencing sunstroke. Plus, hats are always a great summer fashion accessory.

Wax off – Do get rid of unsightly hairs around the bikini area. Make sure to give your special area the special treatment. There are several ways to handle this issue. You can have it waxed professionally at a spa. Bliss spa locations charge $35 for a basic bikini waxing. If this doesn’t quite fit into your budget try an at home waxing kit. Not up for waxing? Use Nair’s Sensitive Formula Bikini Cream which is infused with Green Tea for a soothing application. Find it at your local Wal-Mart.

Be a bronze goddess

2009-05-18T07:48:00.000-07:00

Capture the sun this summer with the look of a bronze goddess. Hollywood goddesses, Halle Berry, Charlize Theron, and Jessica Alba have all been seen wearing this radiantly fresh look. Here are a few tips and tricks to get you one step closer to being a bronze goddess on all summer long!

Face: Moisturize your face. If you have oily skin be sure to use an oil – free moisturizer. Once your skin is dry apply concealer to any blemishes, red spots, or other problem areas. Next, brush a powder all over the face. Try Jane Iredale’s Amazing Base with SPF 20.

Eyes: For this bronze inspired look use Maybelline New York’s Expertwear Trio Eyeshadow in Bronze Gilt. Place the lightest tan shade under the brow bone for a highlight. If you are going to be on beach or at the pool you should use a good waterproof mascara.

Cheeks: Sweep, a matte bronzer like Rimmel London’s Natural Bronzer in Sun Bronze onto your cheekbones, hairline, and jaw line then using a blush brush blend any harsh lines.

Lips: To finish the look apply L’Oreal Paris' Colour Sheer Juicy Lip Gloss in Carmel Crème.

Green Beauty

2009-05-11T08:19:00.000-07:00

Lots of cosmetics brands are slapping the word “natural” on their labels when they may only have one or two natural ingredients. However, there are some truly green beauty products out there that are more than 90% natural.

Josie Maran Mascara
This mascara is great for a subtle day application. To create a sultry dramatic look add extra coats.

Zoya Professional Nail Lacquer in Melanie
Say goodbye to French manicures! This summer is all about color. Try this soft pink polish on your toes.

SukiFace Lip Repair Butter
Moisturize your lips with the hydrating jojoba oils and vitamin e infused in this lip butter.

Kelly Rowlands debut

2009-05-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

Ms.Kelly has a new debut. After, releasing a statement this January announcing her separation with Music World and Mathew Knowles management that currently manages Beyonce and Destiny's Child, Kelly Rowland is spreading her wings straight into the TV screen. The R&B diva is the co-host of Bravo’s new reality show The Fashion Show which premieres tonight on Bravo at 10p.m. est 9 p.m cst. She will be hosting alongside fashion guru Isaac Mizrahi. The show is Bravo’s answer to the loss of their hit show Project Runway to Lifetime in a bitter legal battle. (Project Runaway's new season premieres this August on Lifetime.)

Many critics say they believe the show is only runway knockoff. Each week the winner will have their dress sold in an online store, and the season winner will get their own clothing line. “I think what makes The Fashion Show so unique is that it’s the people’s decision, and not only that but it’s a real show for real people,” Kelly Rowland told People.

All I know is I can never have enough fashion in my life! Not to mention to see Kelly doing her thing!

Kerry Washington's red carpet glam

2009-05-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

Actress, Kerry Washington is always stunning. Try out these easy-to-follow tips to achieve this shimmery radiant look that she used to please the cameras on red carpet at New York's annual MET gala this week.

Face – Prep your face for makeup with Tarte’s clean slate makeup primer. Blend concealer on any blemishes, red or dark areas then apply a sheer foundation like MAC Mineralize Satinfinish SPF 15 Foundation for sheer coverage and a subtle glow.

Eyes – Use a gel – based eyeliner. MAC Fluidline and Stila Smudgepots are two really great gel-liners. When lining the inner eye make sure to use eyeliner that is waterproof to avoid the raccoon look. Lots of mascara or faux lashes are required to achieve this look. Try MAC #7 lashes.

Cheeks – Apply a peachy pink blush like NARS Orgasm blush to the apple of your cheeks

Lips - These are semi – matte lips so there will be no need for gloss to accomplish this look. You will want to use concealer on your lips to mute the natural pink of the lips. Then, simply use a nude liner around the mouth as well as on the lips. This will help your lip color to last longer. Next, apply a soft pale pink lipstick. To master this nude lip combine MAC Subculture lipliner with their Touch lipstick.

Now it’s time to stop the show with your stunning red carpet ready look.

Wash & Go Natural

2009-05-05T15:08:00.000-07:00

Kinky Kurly Curling Custard is a natural wonder. This product was brought to my attention when it was named one of the ‘Hottest Makeup & Hair Products of 2008’ by Essence Magazine. It is great for natural tresses. The all natural gel-like formula moisturizes the hair while pulling down and locking in your natural curl pattern to create shiny southbound spirals. Not to mention how easy it is to use. You simply apply to wet hair after a shampoo. Then you style your hair. If you sleep with a satin or silk bonnet at night then the style should last at least a week. If you desire looser curls then try it with their Knot Today conditioner.

Obama Creates More Jobs For Black Models

2009-04-23T06:35:00.000-07:00

Last night at Cookie magazine’s Smart Cookie Awards in NYC, supermodel Liya Kebede, who is the third African American woman in a row to grace the cover of Vogue (see April 14th post) told NY magazine her thoughts on the Obama effect on fashion. "I think it’s wonderful to have a beautiful, elegant man and woman in the White House," said Kebede. "I think it changes the way we look at things. Already they’re attracting so much attention. I think fashion is following, and I’m really glad that fashion is following what they’re doing and [that] it’s really helping diversity." Kebede added, "I think there’s a lot more black models working and I think that’s because of having Michelle and Barack out there. I mean there’s been this issue, raised last year — how there wasn’t enough black models on the runways — but I think Barack and Michelle have really helped us, hopefully forever, to get over this hurdle for black models."

I agree with Kebede and I have to say I hope the same is true for politics. We could definitely use more diversity amongst our politicians!

Diddy and Who?...Could Be YOU!

2009-04-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

Diddy wants to give some lucky guy a chance to be the next face of Sean John men's collection. Starting tomorrow you can upload a photo to the Sean John site where anyone can vote and comment on the pic and other contestants’ photos. The person with the most votes wins. So be sure to email and call friends and family to put in a favorable vote for you or the one you love. The last date to enter is April 29th. The winner will be announced May 8. Easy enough…good luck!

Beauty Story

2009-04-21T15:10:00.000-07:00

So this weekend I casually indulged in scavenging through the sales and clearance racks at the mall. Shortly after perusing several red tagged racks I realized I wasn’t really in the mood for shopping, specifically the idea of spending money wasn’t appealing to me. (I get like that some times… don’t you?). Then I was attacked by an Estee Lauder rep, she was dressed in all black with a full face of makeup. She coerced me into doing a “free” makeover. I knew it was only a ploy to get me to purchase something. But I have been on that side of the fence before so I decided to give it a whirl. I have to say that it is a bit different for me sitting in the chair to get my makeup done. Look up! Look down! Close your eyes! she commanded while applying Estee Lauder’s lash primer to condition my lashes and the new Turbo Lash Mascara which has a vibrating brush.

At first glance I loved it. “My lashes have never looked like this before”, I exclaimed. Well being an experience shopper and Oprah viewer I knew not to follow my impulse to buy the mascara just yet. I walked around the mall admiring my long dark lashes in every mirror I passed. I just knew I was coming back to buy that mascara until I got home, did my nightly cleaning ritual and lashes were in my hand. Okay, so maybe it wasn’t the mascara but I tried a fair share of lash products including false lashes and I’ve never lost that many lashes at once. So long story short (too late) I would not recommend Turbo Lash or Estee’s lash primer.

The End

More On The Cover News

2009-04-14T13:01:00.000-07:00

May 2009 Vogue Cover

Supermodel Liya Kebede has landed on the May cover of Vogue magazine. This is the supermodel’s second Vogue cover. She was featured on the May 2005 cover. She marks the third consecutive appearance of an African American woman on the fashion publication’s cover. Michelle Obama graced the March cover and this month Beyonce dawns the cover. I will say it is interesting to see a sudden rise in black women on the cover of Vogue considering that the publication has been on newsstands since the early 1900’s. Beverly Johnson was the first African American woman to grace the cover in August of 1974.

August 1974 Vogue Cover

On The Cover

2009-04-10T07:42:00.001-07:00

Okay, all the fellas are in tears because this month will be the last the very last issue ever of the infamous KING magazine. The magazine known for it scantily clad covers featuring the hottest music artists and hollywood stars like Stacey Dash, Gabrielle Union, and Christina Milan to name a few. The last bootylicious sista to grace the cover...Keyshia Cole. I have to say this is not the most flattering photo or pose for that matter. This issue is available now on all newsstands.

Rihanna graces the May 2009 cover of Vibe magazine only two months post the drama that started between her and Chris Brown after Clive Davis' pre-grammy party.

Here's an excerpt from the upcoming issue courtesy of vibe.com on newsstands April 21st.

“You never can believe the media, especially tabloids,” Chris Brown said firmly at Maze, a restaurant in New York City’s chic hotel The London in June 2007. Two bodyguards, a publicist, and an assistant hovered at a nearby table. Later that afternoon, Chris begged management to leave so he could roll around like a regular guy. He was going to play basketball, plotting to pick up girls. Phone calls were made to his mother, Joyce Hawkins, and to his manager, Tina Davis, who insisted that the chaperones stay. Chris had turned 18 the month before, and he was excited that Michael Jackson had just called personally to wish him Happy Birthday and to tell him what a rare blessing it was to be able to sing and dance the way Brown does.

Brown was now famous in a mainstream-pop way that recalled a select few superstars. But despite his soaring fame, he resisted the urge to see what the world was saying about him. “I don’t really look at [gossip blogs],” he said. “I go straight to the source. If I hear something, I like to hear it from the horse’s mouth.”

Back in 2007, Brown spoke presciently about a culture that was about to engulf him. Since the revelation in 2008 of his relationship with Rihanna, Brown has become a tabloid obsession. And now, in the wake of an alleged violent episode in the early morning hours of February 8, the press has gone into overdrive. The morning of the Grammy Awards, Chris Brown allegedly punched, bit, and choked Rihanna. She was left battered and bruised, her photo flashing across computer screens two short weeks later when a police shot was leaked by the gossip powerhouse TMZ.com. But how did the clean-cut Virginia-bred singer get labeled a new-school Ike Turner? “Much of what has been speculated or reported on blogs and/or reported in the media is wrong,” said Brown in a statement released February 15.

Other than that brief statement, Brown has declined to speak publicly about the incident with Rihanna as he prepares to defend himself against two felony charges in Los Angeles Superior Court. But the words from this 2007 interview now read like warning signs in the couple’s turbulent story.
“Being young,” Brown said, that day at Maze, “you always have to have a wholesome image. But I’m not perfect, nobody’s perfect. I’m just a regular guy. I don’t try to try to pretend like, Oh, I’m so nice, I’m such a God.”

He was showing off a new tattoo he’d gotten on his right hand the day after his 18th birthday: a skull with a halo over it. Davis (who would soon become a controversial figure in the singer’s life) was mad the tatt was so visible, and said it would cost sales. “And then this one, these is ninjas, darkness to light,” he said, pointing to a tattoo on his arm. “It’s about my life, me being a kid, being bad, doing the wrong things, but following my own path; darkness to light, doing my own thing. This is the demons I used to fight when I was younger— this is the angel, they just battled.”

VIBE: What are your demons?

CHRIS BROWN: My mom had a boyfriend that was abusive domestically so watching that as a kid, it used to haunt me. Not haunt—but eat at me. I used to want to really hurt the dude.

Why do you think she stayed with him?
Probably ’cause she loved him. I hated him. That was my demons I was fighting. That’s why in relationships I vow not to be that person because seeing that as a kid, you inherit what you see, so I promised myself, I’m not gonna be that dude. I’m never gonna be that person that takes the argument that far. I wouldn’t wanna put a female or child in that position, being that terrified.

Do people think you’re dating Rihanna?
Yeah, they think we dating. I don’t know why. Rihanna’s real cool; Rihanna’s a good girl, like, friend. Not a girlfriend.
How do you know her?

Both of us came out at the same time. We were on the same radio shows, so I’d see her all the time. I’m cool with her friends, she’s cool with all my dancers. Like, we just hang out. We all chill. She’s a good person, a sweet person, but me and her are just cool.
You don’t think she’s fly?

She’s fine! If I was going to date, I’d date somebody in the industry. They understand the time and effort it takes to focus on oneself, so we could understand each other and where we’re coming from. But where I’m at with my career right now, I’m just trying to be focused on that.

But you could have a girlfriend on the low, right?
That’s hard to maintain. Like, if I’mma do it, I’d rather do it all out or not at all.

Mrs.Obama's International Style

2009-04-02T14:38:00.000-07:00

Michelle Obama continues to support the American economy while overseas. Her fashion choices are affordable and American. Here she is photographed wearing J.Crew. Mrs.Obama is expected to appear in more American designs during this eight day international trip for both the President and First Lady to address the current global economic crisis.

Not only has Mrs.Obama met with the Queen but, she has also been spending time with other London ladies. As reported by Google News, the first lady visited an all-girls school in north London on Thursday afternoon. She told the 240 girls about growing up on Chicago's south side, and urged them to think of education as "cool." "I never cut class. I liked being smart. I liked getting A's," she said. "You have everything you need. Everything you need to succeed you already have right here."

Organic Beauty Week -- Why it's so Bad For You?

2009-03-18T13:08:00.000-07:00

I am declaring this week Organic Beauty Week. Why? I have been overwhelmed with new information regarding organic products and the benefits of using them versus the alternative. About a year ago, I made the transition to primarily organic foods (I cheat sometimes)however, now I am noticing the increase in other organic products especially cosmetics.

Below I have listed some information on the potentially harmful chemicals found in many of our favorite beauty products. The below chemicals are found in just about any personal hygiene product you can buy from shampoos, to your favorite eye cream. So I chose to share this information with my SNS family not to freak you out but to make you an educated consumer. It is only fair for you to be aware.

Parabens - Some studies have linked this chemical to breast cancer. However, it has not been proven to cause breast cancer.
Used in: shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, creams, and many other cosmetic products.

Petro-chemicals - Can speed up aging.
Used in: shampoos,conditioners,paint thinners,and makeup.

Phthalates - May slow endocrine function and has been linked to asthma.
Used in: Perfumes, pesticides, paints, nail polish, and sex toys.

Sulfates - Has been linked to increased cancer risk.
Used in: shampoos, soaps, and toothpastes

Stay tuned this week as I will post more information regarding organic products and where to find them!

Organically Beautiful

2009-03-18T12:12:00.000-07:00

The new trend in the beauty world is organic products. That's right! Organic everything even cosmetics. There are several organic cosmetic lines and they avoid the use of parabens, petro-chemicals, phtalates, sulfates and synthetic dyes in their products. These ingredients have been given a bad rap because studies have found that they can be harmful.
(SEE THE POST ABOVE)

Organic beauty brands like Tarte cosmetics have started including vitamins and other minerals in their products. I love the Tarte, Clean Slate makeup primer and I have tried a lot of primers, believe me. It has a soft texture and glides on the skin without leaving a sticky or shiny residue. Not to mention it is packed with antioxidants and natural oils like avocado to nourish any skin type.

Put Down Your BAGS!!

2009-03-02T09:34:00.000-08:00

This is an issue that hits very close to home for me. Even though I'm only in my twenties I have been dealing with under eye puffiness and circles for years now. So here are a view of the tips I picked up from some pretty credible sources, which I have tried and I can truly say that I'm happy with the results.

1. Get a blood test. Some dark circles are the results of a B12 deficiency which is usually associated with anemia. “Nearly one in four black women was anemic, as were nearly 9 percent of Hispanic women. This compared to 3.3 percent of white women.” Dr. Donald Mahoney Jr., a professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. It’s important that you know even if dark circles are caused by some deficiency or hereditary you can still do something about them.

Recommended: Consult your doctor. Make sure you have your physician check both your iron and thyroid levels.

2. Rest and relax. It’s vital that you get at least 7 hours of sleep per night. Sleep helps to reduce your stress level which it turn helps increase your adrenal function that helps you absorb B6 and other important vitamins to stimulate blood flow. The better your blood flow the less likely you are to have dark circles.

Recommended: Turn your bedroom into a sanctuary. Eliminate the television and listen to some soft music before going to sleep.

3. Work the nightshift. Skin naturally repairs itself during the night, so using an eye cream with vitamin K and retinol before you slumber is a great way boost the natural healing process to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness under eyes. You should see results within three weeks.

Recommended: Clinique, All About Eyes Rich. This is a great formula for under eye problems, plus the creamy texture helps to moisturize this area of the skin as well. Be sure to use daily for best results.

4. No more rubbing. Rubbing eyes can break the tiny capillaries beneath the skin, and this can increase discoloration. So, if you eyes itch due to allergies be sure to consult your doctor for proper treatments.

5. Drink it up. Drinking up to two glasses (16oz.) of cranberry juice a day will help to thin the blood increasing the amount that flows through those tiny capillaries beneath the eye which will reduce circles and puffiness within 1-2 weeks.

Recommended: Try drinking Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice. It contains 27% juice and most drinks that have only a percentage of juice will still help to alleviate issues under the eye.

Sources: www.nlm.nih.gov

On The Red Carpet

2009-02-23T06:20:00.000-08:00

Taraji P. Henson, was nominated Best Supporting Actress for her role as Brad Pitt's mother in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. The actress looked gorgeous on the red carpet in this strapless nude Roberto Cavalli gown that accentuates her curves. The pomegranate colored clutch which adds a pop of color. You can't miss the Fred Leighton designed necklace which created a lot of buzz from the fashion world.

On the other end of the spectrum is Beyonce. This dress was definetly not one of her best red carpet moments. The pattern reminds me of a tablecloth or curtains with a metallic flower pattern. I'm sorry I was not feelin' this look at all!

KLS Fall Fashions

2009-02-20T13:19:00.000-08:00

I love this collection from Kimora. This has the touch of glam that I was expecting from Kimora. So even though she scaled back the runaway production looks like she definitely didn't hold back on the designing.
Be ready when these style hit the web and the rack this fall.

So far... So Intriguing

2009-02-17T14:59:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pics from the Fall 2009 NY Fashion Week. These shots are from the collections that have been shown so far. Stay tuned there's more to come. Baby Phat's show is tonight!

Mercedes-Benz Fall Fashion Week 2009

Barbie

BCBG

Diane Von Furstenberg

Donna Karen New York

CK Mens

Tracy Reese

Shock, Color, and Survival of the Fittest

2009-02-17T14:31:00.000-08:00

Wondering what can you expect to see on the racks this fall?

Designers have cut back, scaled down, and upped the ante at NYC’s Fall Fashion Week. Even the diva of glam herself, Kimora Lee Simmons made some major changes to accommodate the economy. (See post below) Many collections have been cut in half to lower costs. The upside of all this is…designers are pulling out their boldest designs this fall because they realize consumers are not shopping for pieces they already have. Nope? It’s all about finding one-of-a-kind pieces that will turn heads and break necks. So designers are competing heavily with each other for your buck this fall season. The racks may not be as full this fall but there will still be some great finds out there.

Kimora Lee Simmons...Fabulousity meets Thriftiness

2009-02-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

The diva of Fabulousity, Kimora Lee Simmons has recently cut costs by scaling back on Baby Phat’s New York Fashion Week show. Simmons has cut her guest list in half and moved to a smaller venue. “Now’s not the time to be running all over and flaunting the money that we don’t have,” she told Heard on the Runway. “Now’s not the time to have all these people come to the show who are coming because they’re your best friends- the people who need to be there are the buyers who need to see the clothes” she added.

Traditionally, Baby Phat closed out fashion week with a bang on Friday night. However, this year the show will take place on Tuesday night so that the international buyers that are usually out of NY by Friday will have a chance to view the show.

“Now’s not the time to be running all over and flaunting the money that we don’t have,”

I’m just saying…

There are critics of Kimora’s cutbacks. But I say in these times you’ve got to play it safe. Especially, when Congress has passed a stimulus plan that doesn’t seem to address the everyday problems were facing. Even a diva knows when to say when.

Michelle Obama Graces Vogue Cover

2009-02-11T09:27:00.001-08:00

This March, Michelle Obama will be the fourth African-American to grace the cover of Vogue Magazine. She joins Oprah, Halle Berry, and Jennifer Hudson as the only African-American women to dawn the cover in the magazine’s 116 years of publication. She is the second first lady to appear on the cover. She is preceded by Hilary Clinton’s 1998 cover.

The cover was shot by noted photographer Annie Liebowitz. The first lady is wearing a magenta sheath dress from designer Jason Wu. Wu also designed the one shoulder ethereal white gown she wore on inauguration night.

It’s culturally historical to have the fashion world embrace a powerful African-American woman who emerged from the Southside of Chicago. In the article she discusses her role as “mom-in-chief”. She talks about settling into the White House, finding a church, and balancing the responsibilities of motherhood and being the First Lady. She also opens up about being criticized for her fashion choices.

“I’m not going to pretend that I don’t care about it. But I also have to be very practical. In the end, someone will always not like what you wear — people just have different tastes.”

This issue hits the shelves soon. I don’t know about you but this is another item to add to my Obama collection!

Keep Your Bag Off the Floor

2009-02-11T05:59:00.000-08:00

My grandma believed that if you left your purse of the floor you'd go broke! These days there are more than just superstitious reasons that will make you think twice about setting your bag on sticky and dirty floors of restaurants and clubs. Luxe Link is a stylish purse hook that you can carry with you. It looks like a compact mirror. Its chic and cheap. For $21 this is definitely a noteworthy fashion find. You can grab a Luxe Link of your own from www.luxelink.com.

Who is carrying this product? Halle Berry, Queen Latifah, and Rihanna

Beauty Must Haves... Look Good Without Running Out Your Funds!

2009-02-10T12:12:00.000-08:00

Tight Budget Friendly Beauty Buys

AMBI Even & Clear Daily Moisturizer w/SPF 30

This moisturizer is great for creating an even skintone and texture without adding that greasy shine. It contains SPF 30 to protect your skin from UV rays. With all that protection this moisturizer has earned the seal of approval from Skin Cancer Foundation. Use this daily!

Price: $11.49

Maybelline Full N Soft Washable Mascara

Build your lashes without the clump or the expensive cost. Trust me when I say it's worth the money and then some!

Price: 5.99

N.Y.C New York Color Waterproof Eyeliner

Great for creating a smoky eye because once you apply it you can easily smudge it for a more dramatic look.

Price: 3.99

Revlon Beyond Natural Skin Matching Foundation

Get a soft and even application without breaking the bank. This foundation a light creamy texture. Once applied it adjusts to match the tones in your skin.

Price: 12.99

AT LAST…She’s Gonna Whoop You’re A**

2009-02-05T09:41:00.000-08:00

The 71-year-old singer, Etta James told a crowd last week at a Seattle concert where she performed, “Your President, the one with the big ears …that woman he had singing for him singing my song. She gone get her a** whipped.” She continued “The Great Beyonce”.

Apparently, Etta is upset that Beyonce serenaded the President and First Lady singing "At Last" (which Etta originally recorded in 1961) during their first dance at the Neighborhood Inaugural Ball.

Recently, Beyonce portrayed Etta in the film Cadillac Records. Etta didn’t have anything negative to say about that, in fact the two were photographed together seemingly friendly towards each other.

Etta’s family claims that her recent gastric bypass surgery has her out of sorts. Well, I say she must be in good enough shape to deliver a 71-year-old a** whooping to Beyonce, the 27-year-old pop diva. You be the judge.

Neither Beyonce nor the White House has made any statements regarding this incident.

Don't Call It A Comeback!

2009-02-02T13:18:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Hudson is definitely back! ‘Amazing. It brought tears to my eyes' these are words from a text message that Hudson received from Jamie Foxx according to Contactmusic.com after her emotionally charged performance at the superbowl.

Since the tragic death of her mother, brother, and nephew in Chicago last October, Jennifer Hudson has stayed out of the limelight. She returned to the stage in Tampa, Florida belting out the National Anthem wearing a white shirt, black pants, and a black cropped military jacket. But, it wasn’t her choice of designer that captured the attention of nearly 100 million superbowl viewers. Jennifer’s vocal performance was inspiring to all.

"This was such an important performance, because it's the first time everyone has seen Jennifer. But she's in such a great place, with such great spirits, and time can heal her wounds. She's on fire right now and totally grounded," said the show's producer, "American Idol" music director Ricky Minor, to The Associated Press.

Hudson’s next performance will be at the Grammy Awards on February 8th on CBS. You can also catch her at the 40th Annual NAACP Image awards airing live on FOX February 12th.

Plastic is Naturally Fantastic

2009-01-29T08:47:00.000-08:00

Stila's limited edition Stila Barbie Loves Stila Paint Can features the 1980's Foxy Doll. The can includes an earth tone three color eyeshadow palette with cheek powder and a tangerine lip glaze. Along with Stila mascara to create the earthy look that dawned during the late 70's and early 80's. Being a natural diva myself I think this is definitely a collector's item. This product is only available online at www.sephora.com.

Gangsta Lovin?!

2009-01-28T12:55:00.000-08:00

Look at that bling! Eve was peeped out in NYC wearing this ring. Who has locked down the illest pitbull in a skirt?

WINTER CLEARANCE...Deals and Steals!

2009-01-28T10:32:00.000-08:00

Depending on what part of the country you're in you should have a least one full month of winter left. So why not go out with a bang! Plus, you'll have some get shoes to start of next winter. Not to mention that a few of these pics can definitely be worn in the spring.

Like these Colin Stuart platform slingback peeptoe sandals for 22.99 available at www.victoriassecret.com.

Jessica Simpson croc pumps for 34.99 available at
www.victoriassecret.com.

You may not be able to sport these in the spring but these are hot find them at
www.macys.com for only 50.99.

Affordable Pampering

2009-01-27T17:20:00.000-08:00

In these economic times we are all penny pinching and cutting back on the little extras. But if you're like me you don't want to give up your mani-pedi for the greater good. So here are a few cost effective home remedies that will leave you and your bank account looking good.

Green Tea

By now we have all heard the benefits of drinking green tea which include increasing metabolism and reducing the risk of certain cancers. Green tea is not just good for your insides it works great on the outside too. Soak your feet in the cold tea brew for about 15 minutes. This is a great way to treat your feet after a long day of standing, walking, or running. You can also try soaking your feet in a concentrated Peppermint or Chamomile Herbal tea brew for an aromatic soak.

Need to exfoliate? Try this great homemade recipe I found on lifestyle.iloveindia.com.

Sea Salt Body Scrub

Ingredients:

1 cup Fine Sea Salt
1/2 cup Grape-Seed, Hazelnut, Or Almond Oil
10 drops Grapefruit Essential Oil
10 drops Juniper Essential Oil

Directions:

Mix the ingredients in a bowl and stir thoroughly so that everything is well blended.
Once properly blended, damp your skin. Apply the mixture and massage it well. Deal first with the tough, rough, thickened areas of the body, such as the feet and elbows.
Wash your skin and feel the tenderness.
Use this scrub once a week.

For more natural homemade treatments check out lifestyle.iloveindia.com.

Another Kanye West Collabo

2009-01-26T10:46:00.000-08:00

Kanye calls himself "the Louis Vuitton don". This past summer Kanye told WWD (Women's Wear Daily) he plans on working with Louis Vuitton to create a sneaker. Well his dream became a reality. "I've wanted to be a fashion designer my entire life," he told the LA Times. "And to see my stuff in the Vuitton show was something else. It was a dream come true." The rapper designed a pair of Louis Vuitton sneakers that were sported in a men's wear fashion show in Paris on last Thursday. West put a lot of energy and effort into bringing his vision to fruition. Louis Vuitton creative director Marc Jacobs told WWD, "I think Kanye goes to the office more than I do. He’s really, really into sneakers." The ten time grammy award winner, also has aspirations to launch a women's clothing line. If his clothes are as hot as his music then bring it on!

Babylosity!

2009-01-23T09:21:00.000-08:00

That's right Ms.Fabulosity is expecting a new baby with her beau model turned actor Djimon Hounsou,44. The couple met in February of 2007. The 33 year old, Kimora is the mother of Ming Lee,9, and Aoki Lee,6 which she had during her marriage to Russell Simmons. As recently told to US, by a close friend of the fashionista "Kimora is really happy!" This will be the couple's first child together. Congrats!!

Inaugural Queen

2009-01-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

I never thought I would see an African American First Lady in my lifetime. However, I could not have hand picked one with more class than Michelle Obama. Mrs. Obama has a very conservative yet chic style. To yesterday’s historical inauguration ceremony she wore a lemongrass knee-length dress with lace and wool fabrics designed by American designer Isabel Toledo. The white dream-like dress that the first lady wore to last night’s numerous inaugural balls was created by the 26 year old, Jason Wu another American designer. The gown was filled with Swarovski crystal flowers to add an ethereal touch and the shoulder strap was put in to accentuate her femininity.

It's All About the Benjamins!

2009-01-18T17:43:00.000-08:00

Whether you're a recessionista, economista, or a frugalista it's all about saving while managing to look like a million bucks! So here are a few tips to keep you looking stylish and keep your money in the bank.

Switch it up! Changing the accessories that you wear with an outfit is an easy and affordable way to add spice to your wardrobe.

Colors! Colors! Colors! Liven up monochromatic dresses and suits with a splash of color. Wearing colorful shoes and handbags are subtle ways to add color to create a fresh look for an old favorite.

Whenever, Wherever, Whatever! Take your spring clothes out of the storage box in the back of the closet. Mix and match your favorite spring floral print, or soft flowing dresses with a cardigan. You can also wear a blazer with these pieces for a sophisticated look.

Goodbye Ash! Winter Skin Care Tips

2009-01-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

Hydrate! Drink lots of water and juices to keep your body hydrated.

Moisturize! Apply a deep conditioning lotion to restore your skin's natural moisture immediately after your shower or bath to lock the moisture into your skin. This is the ideal time to moisturize because once the skin is dry the pores close and lock true moisture out. (For extra silky skin use an oil before lotioning. This will create ultra smoothness. I use Johnson & Johnson Lavendar Baby Oil the lavendar scent will help you to relax from a stressful day!)

Exfoliate! Exfoliate at least once a week to get rid of dead, dry and cracking skin.
Avoid! Extremely hot showers. What? That's right. While everyone loves a nice hot shower. Hot water tends to dry out the skin. So opt for a lukewarm or if you're a solider a good cold shower.

For dry hands and rough cracked feet try rubbing your feet with a generous amount of vaseline before bed. Put some socks or gloves over hands and feet. You'll wake up to pair of amazingly soft hands and feet.

Natural Glam = Nat Glam

2009-01-14T12:17:00.000-08:00

Less is more! Jada's signature look is the epitome of natural glam with soft earth tones, matte textures, and a subtle blush application. How can you create a more natural makeup look? Toning down on your blush is an easy way to achieve a more natural look. The key is to make your blush look as though it coming from under the skin. So to accomplish this the shade of your blush should match your natural blush color.

Find your skintone below and you'll find the perfect shade of blush to create your perfect NAT GLAM look!

Medium - apricot-peach shades

Tan - peaches

Warm Tan - plums

Deep - mahogany

Remember you can always sweep a translucent powder over your blush to tone it down!