My Secret to Staying Fresh & Dry All Summer Long!

July 20, 2015

I think it’s safe to say that a large portion of the country is experiencing a pretty intense heat wave.

When temperatures reach the ‘90s and beyond, staying fresh and dry become even more of a top priority. That’s why deodorants are crucial to maintaining our overall personal hygiene. As we attempt to beat the summer heat, our sweat glands produce a not-so-pleasant smell, which can be the pits (pun intended)!

Luckily, there’s no shortage of antiperspirants to choose from—but unfortunately, we know that they’re not all created equal. Staying with the tried and true brands can be a smart move. Secret has always been a staple in my bathroom. It’s been at the forefront of the market for decades and for good reason.

Throughout the years they’ve mastered a formula that manages to keep underarm body odor at bay, while incorporating cutting-edge innovations to also keep us healthy and fresh.

Their latest offering, Secret Clinical Strength, has been my go-to for most of the summer. Its “Adapt & Respond” technology stops bacteria in its tracks reducing smelly sweat from even starting. It glides on easily and doesn’t irritate my skin. Plus, it has a pleasant scent that isn’t overpowering. It comes in three different forms: Clear Gel, Invisible Solid and Smooth Solid—but, Clear Gel is my summertime fave.

If you want to get in on the secret to staying dry and odor-free, definitely check out this new line of antiperspirants!

Secret-DeodorantSecret Clinical Strength “Adapt & Responds” Clear Gel available here, $8.79

What’s your go-to deodorant?

Category: Health, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

Take the My Black Is Beautiful ‘All Together Beautiful’ Challenge!

July 13, 2015

With Misty Copeland becoming the first African-American principal dancer at the American Theatre Ballet last week and Serena Williams making history with her four consecutive Grand Slam titles in Wimbledon this past weekend, we know that black girls rock! There’s no denying that we can accomplish any feat and break down any barrier placed before us. We are smart, beautiful and powerful!

That’s why Procter & Gamble’s (the company behind beauty brands such as Covergirl, Pantene and Olay) My Black Is Beautiful “All Together Beautiful” campaign is the perfect way to celebrate us. In a world where beauty is often defined by the outer exterior, this challenge invites Black women and girls to redefine the standard of beauty as a standard that defines beauty by – integrity, strength, character and spirit, as well as values positive actions, and celebrates those who are reaffirm this standard everyday.

Far too often neither our inner nor outer beauty is appreciated or acknowledged in mainstream media, TV or films—leaving it up to us to honor ourselves.  And, while self-love is great, it’s just as important to support, uplift and encourage our fellow BGs too! That’s why I’m thrilled to share this “pay it forward” challenge with you!

ESSENCE relationship editor Charreah Jackson is one of the editors who has embraced the "All Together Beautiful" campaign.

ESSENCE relationship editor Charreah Jackson is one of the editors who has embraced the “All Together Beautiful” campaign.

Simply follow these 3 easy steps:

1. Record a video that celebrates a woman who you believe is “All Together Beautiful”.
2. Share this video across your social media pages using hashtags #MBIB & #AllTogetherBeautiful
3. Challenge another woman by tagging them on social media to do the same for someone else.

Check out the video below to hear whom a few editors and online influencers believe are “all together beautiful!”:

Who do you believe is “All Together Beautiful?” 

Category: Beauty, Gumbo Mix | 1 Comment

GIVEAWAY: Warner’s Bra & Panties Set

July 7, 2015

Since my boobs are no longer going up and down in size due to breastfeeding, it’s time to get a bra fitting and go shopping!

Warner’s has a line of bra and panties that won’t pinch or tug in all the wrong places. Launching this month, the No Pinching. No Problem. collection promises to provide smooth silhouettes. For me, comfort trumps style—luckily, these bra and panties don’t lack in either department. The seamless underwire or front-closure wire-free bra designs contours to the body creating a functional, yet sexy look. Plus, the hipster and hi-cut panties are soft and practical. Gone are the unflattering creases and painful digs that tight elastic panty bands and ill-fitting bras can cause. Who wants to be tugging and adjusting their unmentionables all day?

Not only can some bras and panties be uncomfortable, but wearing the wrong undergarments can wreak havoc on outfits too! That’s why it’s just as important to put thought into what you’re putting on underneath as what you put on top.

 

warner-bra-panties Warner’s No Pinching. No Problems. collection available here, starting at $12

**GIVEAWAY: If you’re looking to add to your intimate apparel wardrobe, you’re in luck. I’ve partnered with Warner’s to give two readers a bra and panties set valued at approximately $55. Simply leave a comment below or Tweet me (@BrownGirlGumbo) telling me what’s more important to you when it comes to intimate apparel: comfort or style? The giveaway is only open to U.S residents. The winners will be randomly selected and notified via email on Tuesday July 21, 2015 (contest ends 11:59 pm July 20, 2015).

Category: Fashion, Giveaway, Gumbo Mix, Uncategorized | 31 Comments

Product Review: Dyson V6 Absolute Cordless Vacuum

July 6, 2015

With two small kids under the age of 5, my apartment is a magnet for mess.

From pretzel crumbs to colored pencil shavings to Cheerios, my floor can be subjected to just about anything at any given moment. Luckily, we have a Dyson V6 Absolute Cordless to help clean up the never-ending mess. Calling this household device a vacuum cleaner doesn’t do it justice—this is a MACHINE! While it’s completely compact and easy to use, it packs such a powerful punch that lumping it in a group of average vacuums just doesn’t seem right.

Unlike others on the market, this two-speed Dyson lifts layers of dirt in addition to picking up surface crumbs and the like with the ease of a trigger. The suction is so intense that it sucks up the most stubborn dirt and dust for an unmatched deep cleaning. It works brilliantly on carpets, hardwood and  linoleum. Plus, it comes with four attachments (dusting brush, crevice tool, dusting tool and rotating brush turbine tool) for multi-use. We use it to remove dirt and dust from those hard-to-reach places, such as vents, ceilings and walls. I also enjoy using the crevice tool to suck up the nibbles and bits from my son’s highchair and stroller. The slender attachment is also great for cleaning out nooks and crannies from around large kitchen appliances such as stoves and refrigerators. Not only are the attachments huge bonuses, but the V6 can also turn into a handy handheld. Simply remove the handle and you’re equipped with a pint-size picker-upper, ideal for cleaning couches and cars.

There’s no denying that the functionality is the most important aspect, the sleek, hi-tech design makes it even more appealing. My husband constantly raves about how cool it looks. He once said that it “seems like a gadget straight out of the “Jetsons!”‘ In addition to the performance and feel, the convenience of it being cordless, bagless and compact is a huge benefit for those of us who live in small spaces.

If you’re looking for a vacuum cleaner with incredible pickup power, look no further. The price might seem steep, but you get what you pay for. Trust me, it’s a splurge—but it’s well worth it!

Dyson-v6-vacuum

Dyson V6 Absolute Cordless Vacuum available here, $599

*Disclosure: I received a Dyson V6 vacuum to conduct this product review. All thoughts, opinions and expressions are my own.  

What’s the one household device/gadget that you can’t live without?

Category: Gumbo Mix | 2 Comments

Beauty Buy: CARGO Cosmetics New Gel Lip Colors

July 6, 2015

During the summer months I usually opt for a less-is-more look. Who can be bothered with heavy makeup while fighting constant humidity? Not me.

That’s why I’ve been obsessed with CARGO cosmetic’s new 2015 limited edition Gel Lip Colors. Not quite a gloss or a balm, this unique beauty buy is definitely a treat for your lips. The soothing gel texture glides on effortlessly and doesn’t create that nasty white film like some glosses and balms. It can be worn alone to moisturize lips while providing a subtle hint of color or added to existing lipstick for an added bit of sheen. I like to use it solo to keep my lips soft and supple. Plus, the adorable skyline packaging and New York City-inspired names (Brooklyn, Soho, Tribeca and Chelsea) make it even more of a fun and practical purchase.

If  simple, hydrated lips is your thing don’t miss out on these offerings.  Remember, they’re a limited edition and won’t last long!

Check them out below:

tribeca-cargoCARGO Limited Edition Gel Lip Color in “Tribeca” available here, $20

cargo-brooklynCARGO Limited Edition Gel Lip Color in “Brooklyn” available here, $20

soho-cargo

CARGO Limited Edition Gel Lip Color in “Soho” available here, $20

chelsea-cargo

CARGO Limited Edition Gel Lip Color in “Chelsea” available here, $20

What’s your go-to summer lip choice: lipstick, balm or gloss?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

3 Tips to Keep In Mind At Your Next Barbecue

July 3, 2015

When it comes to the Fourth of July, fireworks might be the first thing to come to mind. But, food is probably a pretty close second! In fact, the 4th is  the most popular holiday for grilling, followed by Memorial Day.

Who can resist the taste of juicy burgers, finger-licking BBQ and delectable hot dogs? Oh and don’t forget the American quintessential sides of potato salad and baked beans! These decadent summer staples are synonymous with the holiday and help make it fun and festive. While it’s ok to indulge in some of these mouth-watering dishes, it’s important to be smart and sensible.

Dr. Michele Reed, a board certified family physician in New York, shares a few tips on how to stay active and avoid derailing a healthy diet at your next backyard barbecue:

*Prep for Success: Set the menu, shop smart and have fun. Make sure lean meats, creative salads, in-season fruits and veggies and better-for-you marinades are all part of the plan.

*Get Moving: In between the food and drinks comes all that great activity. Keep a playlist of tunes going, have some water balloons on reserve or play an impromptu volleyball game – there are tons of crowd-pleasing activities that you can do in your own backyard.

*Portion-Control Gear: Whether you’re bringing your favorite summertime salad or a delectable dessert make sure to include a serving utensil that promotes portion sized eating. If hosting, choose a theme, decorate your space and remember to encourage portion controlled eating by stocking up on salad-sized plates.

What’s your favorite Fourth of July fare? How do you make healthy choices while being tempted with tasty summer treats?

Category: Gumbo Mix, Health, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

Show Off Your Patriotic Side With These Festive Polishes

July 2, 2015

With the Fourth of July only a couple days away, why not celebrate with a patriotic mani? Deck out your digits in festive red, white and blue shades to honor America’s independence.

I’m a bit on the conservative side when it comes to polishes and designs—so rocking a plain white color is probably the extent of my patriotism. But, if you’re feeling a bit more daring, opt for a decorative mix of eye-catching nail art. From flags to fireworks, the options are endless.

Check out these patriotic-inspired polishes to show off at your 4th of July shindig:

mischo-beauty-polish

Mischo Beauty “Billie” Nail Lacquer Set available here, $54

butter-london-sprog

Butter London Nail Lacquer in “Sprog” available here, $15

Flag-nail-decals

American Flag Nail Decals available here, $2 (for a set of 20)

opi-nonstop--white

O.P.I Infinite Shine Lacquer in “Nonstop White” available here, $8

Essie-Leading-Lady

Essie Nail Polish in “Leading Lady” available here, $8.50

jin-soon-cool-blue

JinSoon Nail Polish in “Cool Blue” available here, $18

Do you get creative with your nails or stick to more conservative looks?

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Mom’s Corner: The Benefits of Breastfeeding

July 2, 2015

As a mother, breastfeeding my children was such a special, cherished time in my life.

From the moment they came into the world I offered them what I felt was the best choice—breast milk. Prior to having them, I researched all the facts about breastfeeding. I found that there were just too many benefits for moms and babies to not give it a shot. Luckily, both of my little ones latched on immediately and quite effortlessly. And, frankly it took them a while to finally let go and move on to the next stage.

To be clear, I don’t knock moms who prefer to feed their newborns and infants formula—I simply did what I felt was the most natural and beneficial for my family and me. I nursed both of my children exclusively for the 6 months, which is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. In fact, I continued well past a year.

KBP-breastfeedingMe nursing my son when he was still under a year old (I think).

I know that not every mom has as good of a nursing experience that I’ve had, but I encourage all new and expectant moms to at least give it her best effort.

Breastfeeding-infographic

Every mom is entitled to feeding their babies what they feel is best no matter what. But, in case you or someone you know is thinking about breastfeeding, check out these tips, facts and advantages from the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners and the American Academy of Pediatrics:

*Breastfeeding provides unique health benefits for babies.

*Ask the doctors and nurses to place your baby skin to skin with you immediately after birth (the baby must be healthy and alert) so that you can breastfeed.

*Try not to give the baby a pacifier while breastfeeding is being established (a few weeks to 1 month after birth).

*Mothers who breastfeed recover from childbirth more quickly and easily.

*Breastfeeding also protects the mom’s health.

*Breastfeeding saves money.

*Breastfeeding is also good for the environment, since there are no bottles to wash or formula cans to throw away.

*Breastfeeding takes practice and you may need help. Don’t be discourage if you find it challenging at first, it gets easier.

Did you breastfeed your child(ren)? What was your experience?

Category: Health, Travel & Lifestyle | 3 Comments

Wedding Season: Say ‘I Do’… to Tech

June 30, 2015

It’s official, wedding season is in full swing!

If you or someone you know is planning a wedding, chances are you’re going to do it in style—tech style that is. Sure, beautiful gowns, lovely venues and mouth-watering menus top many brides’ check-lists, but now technological components are also becoming major factors when it comes to planning the perfect wedding celebration.

 

From photo booths to selfie sticks, today’s nuptials are becoming an even more fun, interactive affair. With social media having such a huge impact on so many of our daily lives, it’s only fitting that this cultural phenomenon would also be apart of our wedding ceremonies. Plus, incorporating tech gadgets and encouraging guests to share photos, etc, provides the bride and groom with memorable shots that a traditional photographer might miss. And, of course creating a custom hashtag is a must to group all of your silly and swoon-worthy shots!

My only gripe with the tech trend is that I wish some of these cool innovations and social media existed back when I tied the knot a decade ago! Perhaps, one day time travel will turn that dream into a reality! LOL

In the meantime, check out a couple of gadgets from AT&T that will help you pull off the perfect high-tech wedding day:

 

selfie-stick-att

iStabilizer Monopod Selfie Stick available here, $35

zte-projector

ZTE Spro 2 Smart Projector available here, $399

Have you attended a high-tech wedding this year? What are you thoughts on selfie sticks at weddings?

Category: Gumbo Mix | Leave a Comment

Get the Look: Brandy’s Hair at the 2015 BET Awards

June 29, 2015

Last night’s BET’s Awards was one to remember. From the Bad Boy to the Janet Jackson dance tribute, the night was filled with moving speeches and memorable performances.

But, being the hair and beauty buff that I am, I couldn’t help but notice Brandy’s gorgeous blow-out! Since joining the cast of “The Game,” it seems like the former teen pop star/actress has been more daring with her hairstyles. Perhaps her character, Chardonnay, has inspired her to step outside the box and rock looks beyond the braids that she made famous in the ’90s.

Hair stylist Tymothe Wallace for Motions Hair Care created her eye-catching ‘do. Inspired by Barbie, Wallace put a natural spin on the typically long and straight look. “Brandy is an icon—she can do no wrong! Tonight she wanted to look like Barbie in her metallic party dress so we went for the natural version,” he said. Plus, Wallace gave it an ultra-modern edge so it didn’t look too retro.

I’m a huge fan of celebrities and fashionistas wearing natural and textured hairstyles on the red carpet. Just a few years ago (in the era of relaxers) this would not have been as acceptable or deemed as beautiful as it is today. Kudos to Brandy for embracing this statement-making style!

brandy-betPhoto via Brandy’s Instagram

To get her lovely look, check out the following steps:

How to:

Prep hair with Motions Natural Textures Pre-Wash Detangling Butter to tame hair and reduce breakage. Next, wash hair with Motions Natural Textures Moisturizing Cleanser and Smoothing Conditioner to add moisture and improve manageability. Lock in moisture with Motions Active Moisture Leave-In Detangler to enhance natural texture. Finish with Motions Light Hold Working Spritz for hold and Motions Indulgent Oil Spray for shine

Products Used:

*Motions Natural Textures Pre-Wash Detangling Butter

*Motions Natural Textures Moisturizing Cleanser

*Motions Natural Textures Smoothing Conditioner

*Motions Active Moisture Leave-in Detangler

*Motions Light Hold Working Spritz

*Motions Indulgent Oil Spray

Did you like Brandy’s hair? Whose style did you like the most last night? 

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Beauty, Fashion, Hair | 1 Comment