From beauty to style, stirring up everything that chic brown girls love!
My friends over at FashionIndie.com recently featured my summer makeup must-have along with four other fantastic beauty blogger favorites.
It’s always flattering when fellow blogs and websites include my two cents in their roundups.
Check out our best balmy weather picks here.
What’s your summer makeup essential?
The African proverb, “it takes a village to raise a child,” is an ideology that I’ve always believed to be true. The Brotherhood and Sister Sol organization exemplifies that concept. For nearly 20 years, Bro/Sis has served as a long-term support system for thousands of Black and Latino youth from ages 8 to 22.
Founded in 1995 by Khary Lazarre-White and Jason Warwin, the New York City-based non-profit organization focuses on leadership building and educational advancement through a myriad of enriched, hands-on programs and outreach. From helping students with homework to funding life-changing trips abroad, Bro/Sis has positively impacted many lives.
Last week, Bro/Sis held its 8th Annual VOICES event held at the Frederick P. Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center honoring and celebrating those who have helped make the organization a success throughout the year.
Hosted by actor Boris Kodjoe, the night was filled with inspiring, soul-stirring speeches by attendees and honorees including: Soledad O’Brien, Ana L. Oliveira, Harry Belafonte, Mayor David Dinkins to name a few.
Although Bro/Sis is based in New York, its leaders have worked with various schools and similar programs throughout the country to help expand its mission. With organizations like Bro/Sis, our villages will be filled with smart, globally-aware, upstanding citizens.
What are some of your favorite outstanding youth serving organizations?
It’s still hard to believe that Whitney Houston aka “The Voice,” is no longer with us, but her fans will be comforted today with the release of the late songbird’s final recording.
“Celebrate,” from the upcoming remake film, Sparkle, in which Houston stars was her last recorded song before her passing in February.
The uptempo single features Jordin Sparks who also co-stars in the movie set for release in August.
Listen below:
This year National Natural Hair Day took place on Saturday, May 19th. In cities across the country, naturalistas gathered to talk hair, network, and gain information about how to care for natural textures.
I attended the “Spring Is In the Hair,” meet-up hosted by Natasha Gaspard of My Mane Moves and Imani Dawson of A Tribe Called Curl at The Rock Shop in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
The event location was only a few blocks from my apartment so there was no excuse not to attend the soiree celebrating our curls, coils, kinks, and waves.
At the event, we learned tips from Karen’s Body Beautiful and super cute styling techniques from sought-after stylist Diane Bailey of Tendrils Hair Spa in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. Plus, there were plenty of fun interactive games and giveaways throughout the afternoon. To top it off, each attendee walked away with a gift bag filled with full-size hair, bath, and body products.
Have you ever attended a natural hair event? If not, would you?
Now that the natural hair revolution is underway, more women are making the decision to ditch relaxers and embrace their curlier textures. However, that journey isn’t always easy. Transitioning can be a tough task to take on for someone unequipped with the proper hair care knowledge needed to successfully go au naturel.
Carol’s Daughter’s 3-Step Transitioning Kit was created to help make that leap from silky straight strands to curls, kinks or coils a lot smoother.
They’ve identified product build-up, scarred scalp, and demarcation breakage as the three main problems many women face when transitioning and formulated products to serve as solutions. The trio of products includes: Purifying Low-Poo Cleanser (makes it easy to detangle without stripping hair of its moisture), Renewing Scalp Spray (exfoliates the scalp), and Restoring Anti-Breakage Treatment (strengthens demarcation points). Plus, the products are packed with natural ingredients such as sugarcane, olive oil, coconut, and soy protein to promote healthy hair transitions.
Had this kit been around a few years ago, it would’ve saved me from emotional stress and helped me tackle my once tortured tresses with ease.
Are you currently transitioning? If so, what has been your experience?
Who doesn’t love Target? The cheery and chic atmosphere makes it hard not to walk out of the store empty-headed. It has become the standard destination for shoppers seeking everything from home goods to designer duds. And with the successful launch of The Shops earlier this month, they’ve really upped the ante. The unique idea to showcase and celebrate shop owners by giving them an opportunity to sell their merchandise to the masses is a refreshing and innovative take on retail.
This September (9th), the superstore will debut its second installment of The Shops. The new addition will bring Target and Target.com shoppers four exclusive limited-edition collections from fashion and home decor brands.
Items from New York’s Kirna Zabête (women’s apparel and accessories) and Odin (men’s apparel and accessories), San Francisco’s The Curiosity Shoppe (giftables) and Boston’s PATCH NYC (home décor) will surely give Target customers new reasons to keep hitting the Bullseye.
Have you checked out the current installment of The Shops at Target?
For me, having clear and even skin is the epitome of outward beauty. That’s why countless facial products, including Ambi’s Skincare Regimen clutter my bathroom shelf in an attempt to achieve ultimate beauty bliss. Oh and because I am a complete cosmetic junkie.
While I’ve tried Ambi in the past, I was always lured by the latest new product that I never stuck with it long enough to see just how awesome it works.
After having several months of blemish-free skin, my picture-perfect journey abruptly ended and the breakouts returned.
Being the experts in skincare for us brown-skinned beauties, I turned to the Ambi Skincare Regimen: Even and Clear Foaming Cleanser, Even and Clear Daily Moisturizer, and Fade Cream for some much-needed help. I used the trio of products consistently for three weeks and saw a remarkable difference.
The foam wash kept my face clean and balanced by unclogging pores and combatting excessive oil in an effort to prevent new breakouts. Plus, it didn’t leave my skin feeling tingly or irritated like other brands I’ve used in the past. I don’t know about you, but there’s just something fun about slathering foam on your face.
However, using the moisturizer was a initially a bit of a challenge. I was so used to applying one of my tried and true formulas that I was reluctant to stop, but resisted in order to use the entire Ambi system. It was a bit thicker than my usual go-to, but it still properly moisturized my skin.
As disappointed as I was that I had to reach for a fade cream to lighten those dreaded dark marks, I was delighted by the results. The hyper-pigmentation spots haven’t completely disappeared, but the darkness has definitely diminished. That’s a huge coup considering I haven’t been using it for that long.
I’m certain that with continued use of Ambi, my once radiant skin will resurface better than ever!
The experts in skin of color, brings you a skin care regimen to help you achieve flawless skin. Use AMBI®’s Even and Clear Foaming Cleanser to help clear breakouts and reduce dark marks. Follow with Even & Clear Daily Moisturizer, so skin will look even and smooth. And AMBI®’s #1rated Fade Cream, diminishes dark spots and discoloration, for a beautiful and natural skin tone.
Disclosure: Compensation was provided by AMBI® via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of AMBI®.
Have you tried Ambi products? If so, what was your experience?
Back in the day, Swatch was the watch to rock. Now, it seems the popular Swiss watch and jewelry brand is more stylish than ever. With two new additions for summer to its signature Chrono Collection — Red and Fucshia Circle Irony Chronos, the watches are as fashionable as they’re functional.
The sleek polished stainless steel design coupled with the colorful tone-on-tone counters make for a chic timepiece.
While I tend to peek at my phone to tell the time, these watches make me want to switch back to looking at my wrist.
As if Kohl’s couldn’t get any better, ELLE Cosmetics, a chic new makeup line will be sold exclusively at the store.
Comprised of various complementary shades for eyes, lips, and face, ELLE Cosmetics brings a fresh and updated feel to the makeup offered at the chain. Inspired by runway looks, the line includes products in ultra-sleek packaging that reflect the current fashion trends.
I’m totally obsessed with the creamy, yet shimmery lip glosses that glide on smoothly without leaving lips sticky or gooey.
From electrifying neon polishes to straight-from-the-beach bronzers, the collection boasts quality items that will help make your beauty radiate.
Also, if you haven’t already purchased your mom a gift for Mother’s Day (I’m the queen of procrastination too), stop by Kohl’s and instantly update her makeup bag with a few of these goodies!
What makeup trend are you loving this spring?
Since becoming the American Idol back in 2004, Fantasia Barrino has experienced many triumphs, as well as her fair share of trials and tribulations.
From a highly publicized suicide attempt to controversy surrounding her alleged affair with a married man, Fantasia has risen above the drama. The Grammy-nominated singer, 27, chooses to focus on what’s the most important aspect of her life — being a mother.
Mom to infant son, Dallas Xavier, and daughter, Zion, 11, Fantasia will celebrate this Mother’s Day, Sunday May 13th, here in New York City where she’ll be performing in concert with Charlie Wilson at The Paradise Theater in the Bronx.
I caught up with the busy mom to talk motherhood, beauty, and if she still watches the show that made her a household name.
Check out the Q&A:
I know that your son is only a few months old, but so far, how has motherhood been different this time around since having your daughter, Zion?
“Motherhood is amazing! I love it! Being a mother you learn something new about yourself everyday. Having an older daughter, I have gotten comfortable in the way I was raising my child. But having a new addition, it’s the start of new ideas. I’m nurturing both of them and in return they are helping me continue to define who Fantasia is. I love my babies!”
Can you describe your ideal Mother’s Day?
I feel like my ideal Mother’s Day is everyday. Zion and Dallas both make me smile everyday without there being any special occasion. They are both still very young so there isn’t much they can give but their love and the special card’s Zion makes at school, which always warms my spirit.
Being a mom myself, I know that it’s the hardest, yet most rewarding job in the world. What would you say has been the most challenging aspect of motherhood being an entertainer?
“I think the most challenging part of being a mother and working not just in the music industry, but any industry would have to me managing your time. I have done a great job at managing my time between work and making sure I am around for every significant moment in my children’s lives.”
You’ve had many hairstyles throughout the years. With so many women going natural lately, would you ever consider it?
“I would consider going natural. I do what makes me feel good at that moment. If going natural so happens to be it, then so be it!”
What are a few of the beauty products that you absolutely can’t live without?
“I love Pink Luster products not only because I have worked with them, but because I’ve used it since before anyone ever knew who I was. They make great products that not only make your hair look good, but also keep it healthy which is important.”
You’ve overcome so much in your life. What do you do to stay above the drama and as stress-free as possible? Do you do yoga or meditate?
“Praying and keeping God first has always helped me over come any difficulties in my life. I don’t allow myself to stress because it doesn’t change anything.”
Do you still watch American Idol?
“I still love American Idol and I am spilt between Joshua Ledet and Jessica Sanchez. I love both of them!”
What’s your favorite Fantasia song?
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