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Bridal Bliss: 5 Beauty Must-Haves

June 23, 2014

Now that summer is officially here, that means wedding season is underway!

Whether you’re a bride-to-be or bridesmaid, you’ll want to put your best face forward on that special day. However, due to the stress and anxiety of either saying “I do,” or serving as your BFF’s or sister’s personal bridal assistant, keeping your skin in check leading up to the big day and during the occasion can be a job in of itself.

With the help of a few good beauty products you can ensure that your face will look fab for the bridal album, and of course all those countless wedding day selfies!

Check out these picks to keep you looking picture-perfect:

Pre-nuptial prep

Clarisonic Mia 2 Cleansing Brush available here, $149. This nifty beauty device is a cult fave because its pulsating bristles easily slough away dead skin leaving behind a radiant glow that’s essential for wedding day snapshots.

GLO Solo Teeth Whitening available here, $45.”Say cheese” with ease thanks to this innovative whitening system. Skip the strips and trays and get several shades whiter teeth in as little as two weeks!

RapidLash Eyelash & Eyebrow Enhancing Serum available here, $30. Forgo falsies and bat your lashes with confidence by using this lengthening serum.

Big-Day Beauty

By Terry Cheek to Cheek Water Color Blush available here, $48. You’ll be a blushing bride with this natural cherry-colored flush to the cheeks. And, don’t worry about whether it will suit your skin tone because the versatile shade complements most complexions.

Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray Oil Control available here, $29. Keep shiny skin at bay with this oil-absorbing spray for a camera-ready look.

Are you going to be a bride or bridesmaid this summer? If not, are you attending any weddings this season?

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Protect Your Peepers: Contact Lenses that Serve as a Sun Defense

June 18, 2014

Most of us know the importance of using sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect our skin from harmful UV rays. But, I bet you didn’t know that contact lenses can also serve as a barrier for our eyes.

Acuvue Brand Contact Lenses is the only major brand to offer a complete line of UV-blocking lenses. In fact, their OASYS® lenses provide the highest level of protection against 96% of UV-A rays and 99% of UV-B rays that reach the cornea.

Since I currently wear eyeglasses and am looking to make the switch to contact lenses, this is wonderful news! I’m all about protecting all parts of my body from the sun, especially during the summer when my exposure is heightened.

Visit www.acuvue.com for more information

Check out these sun safety tips from NYC-based optometrist Dr. Susan Resnick to help you have a healthy summer:

Wear wraparound sunglasses with UV-blocking lenses
Be wary of cloudy days – you can get just as much UV exposure when it is cloudy, as you can on a bright, clear day
Be cautious around water and snow, as reflections from both can bounce up and into the eye
The sun is most dangerous for the eyes when you least expect it – in the morning and in the evening – when the sun is in direct line with the eye

Do you wear contacts or eyeglasses? How do you protect yourself from UV rays?

Category: Wellness | 1 Comment

Tupac’s Lyrics Inspire Broadway’s New Musical ‘Holler If Ya Hear Me’

June 17, 2014

Yesterday would’ve been Tupac (2Pac) Shakur’s 43rd birthday.

It’s hard to believe that I was only 16 when the iconic rapper, poet, activist and actor was shot and killed in Las Vegas. Fast forward 18 years and fans like me are still being captivated by his prolific lyrics. This time not just on our iPods, but on Broadway.

This past Saturday I was invited to see, “Holler If Ya Hear Me,” a musical inspired by the late rapper’s lyrics. Being that I’ve been a fan of Tupac’s music since I was a teen, I was excited to see the show. Admittedly, at first I was a bit hesitant when I saw the commercial featuring the show’s star, Saul Williams. Initially, I thought the musical was going to be about Tupac’s life; so I felt Williams was an interesting choice to play the part. Luckily, prior to the show I did my research and realized that the show wouldn’t be based on Tupac at all, just his lyrics.

Directed by Kenny Leon, the man behind Broadway’s hit “Motown,” “Holler If Ya Hear Me,” is an all too familiar story—a man (Williams) tempted to go back to a life of crime after the death of a friend cut down by gun violence. The story also includes sub-plots about family, love, change, race, hope and friendship. While the storyline may have been a bit average, the way in which the plot weaved in with some of his greatest songs was nothing short of brilliant.

Fans of Tupac know just how versatile his work was and the show exemplified that talent. With songs such as “Keep Ya Head Up,” “Dear Mama,” and “Life Goes On,” viewers who may have been unfamiliar with his lyrics were given a glimpse into his inspiring mindset. While lyrics from “Hail Mary” and “If I Die 2night” provided a look into his more emotional, darker side. And, his political and even light-hearted views were showcased in songs like the show’s namesake, “Holler If Ya Hear Me” and the playful, “I Get Around.”

Broadway veteran actress Tonya Pinkins, along with the show’s leads: Saul Williams, Christopher Jackson, Saycon Sengbloh, as well as the supporting cast were incredibly charismatic and energetic making the show entertaining from start to finish. At times, it felt like a concert!

Although we’ll never know if Tupac would’ve approved of his work being featured on the Great White Way, we can rest assured that his mom, Afeni Shakur, gives it her stamp of approval since she serves as one of the show’s producers.

The show is a great testament to just how much of a cultural influence and impact his music had on an entire generation. Mesmerizing performances and legendary music make “Holler If Ya Hear Me,” a must-see for those looking to take a nostalgic trip back in time when Tupac’s music reigned supreme; to me, it still does.

“Holler If Ya Hear Me,” is currently in previews and officially opens June 19 at the Palace Theater in New York City. Tickets are on sale here!

Have you seen “Holler If Ya Hear Me?” If so, what are your thoughts? If not, what’s your favorite Tupac song?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | Leave a Comment

Style Review: Vionic Sandals

June 13, 2014

Now with the official start of summer only a couple of weeks away, it’s time to slip into some stylish sandals!

Each year I buy several pairs of inexpensive, yet trendy sandals but they usually leave my feet in pain. Basically, they last a season and then I’m on to the next. Since I don’t have a high arch, it’s difficult finding pairs that don’t hurt my feet, pocketbook or compromise style. Enter Vionic sandals.

This innovative brand has an “orthaheel” technology that provides stability, support and most importantly, comfort. At first, I was reluctant about testing out a pair of their sandals because I feared they’d look like something out of my granny’s closet. Let’s face it, whenever the words “ortho” and “shoe/sandal” are mentioned in the same sentence it usually isn’t a good look. Luckily, once I tried them not only were they comfy, but actually cute! Plus, they seem to contour with the shape of my feet, which is unlike any sandal I’ve ever worn.

Since I’m a mom, these have become my go-to weekend sandals for running errands and taking family walks. They’re easy to slip on and can work with just about any casual ensemble. Now if only they could create some comfortable, sexy heels or stilettos!

I’m wearing the “Santiago” leather sandals and are available here, $99

What’s the most important factor when it comes to purchasing sandals? Price, style or comfort? Unlike heels, are you willing to compromise comfort for stylish sandals? Share your #solestory on Instagram!

Category: Style | 1 Comment

Quench Your Curls: 6 Moisturizing & Conditioning Sprays for Natural Hair

June 9, 2014

We BGs who rock hairstyles that show off our natural curls, waves, kinks and coils know that hydrating sprays are essential to achieving some of our favorite looks.

Although I stopped relaxing my hair in 2007, it wasn’t until last year that I finally started using hair spritzers and leave-in conditioning sprays to help enhance, moisturize and maintain my curls. They can tame frizz, define curls, as well as provide a bit of shine. Plus, now that summer’s around the corner these sprays are perfect for overall rejuvenating and refreshing tresses in hot and humid weather.

Check out these picks to help quench your curls:

Ouidad Botanical Boost Moisture Infusing & Refreshing Spray (8.5 oz) available here, $17

“The Juices” Nourishing Herbal Leave-Ins (8 oz) available here, $14

Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner available here, $11

Quenched Curls Curls Refresher and Moisturizer available here, $16

Karen’s Body Beautiful Hair Blossom Moisture Mist (8.5 oz) available here, $16

Do you use leave-in conditioner sprays and mists to hydrate your strands?

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7 Stylish Studs & Ear Cuffs

June 3, 2014

Now that my baby boy is almost 9 months old, my beloved hoop earrings have been forced to take a backseat.

Like most babies, his curious nature has resulted in broken earrings and painful, pulled lobes. So until he no longer finds my classic gold hoops fascinating, I’ll be opting for more baby-friendly styles like cute cuffs and eye-catching studs to adorn my ears.

Check out some of these buys:

BCBG Max Azria Spike Ear Cuff available here, $24

Jennifer Zeuner “Love” Earrings available here, $132

Eddie Borgo Pave Crystal Cone Single Ear Cuff available here, $100

Betsey Johnson Camera Stud Earrings available here, $30

Freida Rothman ‘Femme’ Maltese Cross Stud Earrings available here, $65

Steve Madden “White” Faceted Bead Ear Cuffs available here, $18

Alexis Bittar ‘Elements – Jardin Papillon’ Chain Link Stud Earrings available here, $75

Do you prefer studs or hoop earrings?

Category: Fashion, Style | Leave a Comment

Remembering Dr. Maya Angelou: One of America’s Greatest Treasures

May 29, 2014

Yesterday, I learned of Dr. Maya Angelou’s passing en route to my children’s doctor’s appointments. As I schlepped toward the subway with two kids in tow, I got several back-to-back text messages from friends and family alerting me of her death.

After being in the pediatrician’s office for what seemed like an eternity and just being a busy mom in the evening, I didn’t have a chance to write about the prolific poet and author. In this fast-paced 24/7 news cycle, people may be on to the next big story, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge Dr. Angelou’s legacy today.

I remember reading her autobiography, “I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings,” in elementary school like so many other young African-American girls and connecting to her story in ways I had never connected before. In fact, that book single-handedly made me fall in love with reading biographies and autobiographies (my favorite book genre).

Throughout the years, I’ve found myself quoting lines from her poems, speeches, books, etc. Who hasn’t repeated one of her most famous quotes, “When a person shows you who they are, believe them the first time?” She had such a special way of making the most profound concepts seem so simple.

The late thought-provoking activist and teacher’s wisdom will live on in our hearts and through her brilliant work forever. She was indeed a phenomenal woman!

1928-2014

Here are a few more popular Dr. Angelou quotes (via ABC News):

“If you have only one smile in you, give it to the people you love.”

“The truth is, no one of us can be free until everybody is free.”

“I’m a woman Phenomenally.”

“Nothing can dim the light which shines from within.”

“Nothing will work unless you do.”

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. Don’t complain.”

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

“Everything in the universe has a rhythm, everything dances.”

“While one may encounter many defeats, one must not be defeated.”

“My great hope is to laugh as much as I cry; to get my work done and try to love somebody and have the courage to accept the love in return.”

What’s your favorite Dr. Maya Angelou quote?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | Leave a Comment

Gabrielle Union Shares Summer Beauty Tips as the New Face of Philips Sonicare

May 22, 2014

No matter how we style our hair or what clothes we wear, a gorgeous smile is always the best accessory. That’s why Philips Sonicare and Philips Zoom! has tapped actress Gabrielle Union as their new face to help drive home that point.

Known for her beautiful smile, the “Think Like A Man Too” and “Being Mary Jane” star, 41, has teamed up with the popular oral healthcare brand to help encourage women to feel confident about their looks. As part of their partnership, the bride-to-be is sharing a few beauty tips for the summer.

Check them out below:

Stay hydrated: They say you should drink 8 glasses of water a day, but I drink double that – a FULL gallon! Aside from the obvious – staying hydrated – it keeps my skin, hair and nails healthy and keeps my metabolism revved.

Feel good about your smile: A healthy, white smile is an essential part of my year round beauty routine. It’s a great accessory to any outfit and helps make a lasting first impression. I brush with Philips Sonicare DiamondClean to keep my teeth and gums healthy, and my dentist whitens my smile with Philips Zoom either in the office or with convenient take-home trays.

Go natural: On set at “Being Mary Jane,” we’ve been experimenting with this fresh look for my character that has become my go-to for warmer weather: A heavier brow (it makes you look more youthful!), a nude lip and just mascara for the eyes. If I do more eye makeup for nighttime, I avoid black and stick to shades of brown for a more naturally dramatic look.

Keep hair simple with bold accents: I live in Miami and my show shoots in Atlanta, which are both extremely hot and humid places in the summer. For a cute and low maintenance hairstyle, I take it back to 1986 with braids, or I put my hair up in a simple topknot. A top knot is also great for going out or a big event – I pair it with a cat eye and a bold red lip.

Confidence is key: It’s so important to feel confident about who you are and not to succumb to unrealistic expectations. I gave that up a while ago. I try to keep healthy habits like exercising and eating fruits and veggies – I’m really into juicing daily – but I don’t put pressure on myself to fit a certain mold. If you’re 5, 10, 20 pounds more than you want to be, it’s okay. Just feel confident about being YOU!

Do you use teeth whitening treatments to keep your smile bright?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News | 4 Comments

Product Review: Olay Fresh Effects Dew Over Hydrating Gel

May 21, 2014

When I think of my first beauty experiences, Oil of Olay comes to mind.

I’ve been using the classic skincare brand ever since my mom introduced the facial moisturizer to me in middle school. The simple white and black bottle always had a luxe appeal despite it being a drugstore buy. Although I didn’t need any anti-aging wrinkle-prevention creams at the time, the quintessential moisturizer always rescued my skin from dryness.

That’s why I was super excited to try the brand’s new Fresh Effects Dew Over Hydrating Gel Moisturizer. The fun and inviting packaging caught my eye, as well as the commercials.

Olay Fresh Effects Dew Over Hydrating Gel Moisturizer available here, $14

The hydrating gel-based moisturizer is a departure from the creamy lotion that original Olay fans have come to love. But, change is good. The light-weight gel is cool and calming leaving behind a refreshed feel, making it ideal for the warmer months. Plus, it’s oil-free and won’t clog pores. In fact, thanks to its powder formula, it actually absorbs excess oil! While the scent of white tea and honeysuckle is a wee bit off-putting, it doesn’t make it deal-breaker.

I never thought that I would find a facial moisturizer that could potentially replace my beloved original Oil of Olay, but this just might be the one!

Do you use gel moisturizers?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Featured | 3 Comments

Fashion News: Chanel Iman Joins the Gap Factory Store Campaign

May 16, 2014

Chanel Iman might be most known for being a sultry Victoria’s Secret model, but the fresh-faced beauty is now tapping into her girl-next-door allure by teaming up with GAP Factory Store.

Kicking off today, the model, 23, is joining celebrity stylist E! TV personality George Kotsiopoulos for the “Exclusively Styled” campaign. Together they will showcase some of the hottest summer styles and trends from the discounted retailer.