Jumping for Jouer

During a recent reorganization of my beauty drawers, I was excited to discover a hot pink blush from Jouer Cosmetics. Not sure how I overlooked the lovely peony shade, but boy was I happy to have found it! The vibrant, electric hue provides the perfect pop of color that my cheeks have been craving.

The mineral-based powder blush blends easily onto my skin while complementing my melanin-rich complexion.  Even though the color looks nearly neon in the packaging, after application it gives you just the punch of pink that will freshen up your beauty routine for spring.

Jouer Cosmetics Mineral Powder Blush available here for $24

Do you ever rediscover beauty products that you used to love? What’s your must-have beauty product for spring?

Giveaway: Get Hair Like Oprah’s!

As BGs, our admiration for Oprah Winfrey spans decades and ranges from her undeniable talent as a media icon, philanthropist, and spiritual teacher to her unwavering healthy-looking hair!  Yes, you know that when it comes to our crowning glory, we don’t play. And apparently, that goes for Lady O too! That’s why she’s entrusted her lovely locks with none other than her right-hand hair man of 25 years –– Andre Walker.

Walker has been the mastermind behind our beloved media mogul’s mane since she first graced our small screens back in 1986. Never compromising the health of hair to accommodate various styles, Walker’s main priority has always been to keep tresses at their best. For several years, Walker has been sharing a few of his secrets to great hair by launching his own hair care product line: Andre Walker  Hair.

One of my favorite products from the line is his “Q”- Oil: Quench Essential Oil. This weightless serum is formulated with Argan Oil, which is naturally-rich in Vitamin E and adds instant shine. Plus, the colorless oil also nourishes and hydrates hair.

Just applying a small pump of the serum into my palms puts life back into my oftentimes lifeless, dry natural hair. The serum quickly soaks into my coarse, curly strands and doesn’t leave a sticky build-up.

Available at Andre Walker Hair for $35.

If you’re on the hunt for a serum that adds brilliance without a greasy-feel, “Q” Oil would be ideal for you. Whether you rock your locks chemically-straightened or natural, this product works for all hair types.

Have you ever tried any products from the Andre Walker Hair line? Speaking of Oprah, did you watch her interview with the late Whitney Houston’s family?


**Leave a comment or retweet this link for your your chance to win a bottle of “Q” Oil (a $35 value). The winner will be randomly selected and announced later this week!

EVENT ALERT: Atelier AZZA To Make Retail Debut

There’s an emerging Chicago-based clothing designer who’s well on her way to becoming a household name: Azeeza Desai Khan.  Not only is she catching the attention of Vogue editors, fashionistas, and buyers across the country, but she’s also my BFF.

This Sunday, March 11 her line Atelier AZZA, will make its retail debut at Dose Market, the premiere vendor marketplace for food, fashion, and design purveyors in Chicago. 
Azeeza sporting an embellished blazer from her SS12 collection. 
Intricate hand-woven and embroidered, fine cashmere summer shawls, as well as opulently embellished blazers, collars, and dresses from her SS12 collection will be available for purchase. Plus, with each Atelier AZZA buy, a garment will be provided to an impoverished South Asian woman in need. 
If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind pieces that will get you noticed, definitely stop by Dose Market this weekend and check out Atelier AZZA. 
Do you make an effort to support local designers?

Oprah To Interview Bobbi Kristina

As reported last week, Oprah has landed the first interview with the late Whitney Houston’s family. On Sunday, March 11, Lady O will sit down with the pop diva’s sister/manager, brother, and the love of her life, her daughter: Bobbi Kristina.

I’m shocked that they’re already speaking out about the passing of their beloved “Nippy,” but everyone mourns differently. Also, I’m no psychologist, but perhaps talking publicly about their grief might be therapeutic. Whatever the case, I’ll definitely be tuning in to hear what the Houston family has to say.

Watch a sneak peek below:

Oprah’s Next Chapter will air on OWN Sunday, March 11 at 9pm/EST
Will you be tuning in? Did you watch Whitney Houston’s funeral?

Nicole Scherzinger Nails It With ImPress

Last week beauty editors in New York were invited to an afternoon of nail talk with singer Nicole Scherzinger. The former Pussycat Doll front woman and X-Factor judge is now the celebrity brand ambassador for the popular imPRESS Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails.

Ok, I’ll be honest, when it comes to press-on nails I don’t immediately think chic or cool. In fact, I think just the opposite. But after learning more about the quick and easy alternative to acrylics, gels, and the somewhat tedious task of painting your own nails (self-manis always leave my right hand looking less-than-presentable), I’ve had a change of heart.

Scherzinger’s Limited Edition Signature Series is comprised of fun and funky designs that are incredibly simple to apply and are super eye-catching. Plus, they peel off without damaging your digits, come with a variety of sizes, and last for up to a week.

From tie-dye prints to star motifs, these trendy nails are not your grandmother’s press-on manicure.

Starting May, Scherzinger’s designs (6 patterns and 3 colors) will be available in Walmart and CVS stores nationwide for $7.99 and $5.99. 

If you’re on-the-go and don’t have time to polish, definitely give these affordable nails a try for a knock-out finish.

Have you ever worn press-on nails?

Brandy & Monica’s New Video To Premiere Tonight

Brandy and Monica fans will be in for a treat today as the video for the reunited R&B duo’s single, “It All Belongs To Me,”  premieres on Vh1 and Vh1.com.  Directed by Chris Robinson, the video will surely showcase the former teen stars in all their gorgeous grown-up glamour.

The video will air 11pm/EST.

Check out a few shots from the video set: 

All photos by: Adrian Sidney
Will you be tuning in? Also, is it me or does Monica look a little like La La Anthony in these stills? 

Boobie Prizes

Now that spring is on the horizon, what better time than now to clean out your closets and refill your drawers with brand-new bras? It’s typically this time of year when I treat myself to beautiful bras to feel special and spruce up my lingerie stash.

Plus, we all know that our “girls” need to be lifted and appreciated and buying a good bra will do just that. Who can forget Oprah’s life-changing boob-intervention episode? A good-fitting bra can instantly take you from frumpy to fabulous. From underwires to wow-inducing demi-cut wonders, bras are definitely the essential undergarment that we can’t go without.

Check out a few of my favorite styles:

Calvin Klein Naked Glamour Underwire Push-Up Bra available at www.nordstrom.com for $25.90

Deborah Marquit Lace Soft Cup Bra available at www.netaporter.com for $175

Hanky Panky Neon Yellow Bra available at www.shopplanetblue.com for $37

Xhilaration Multi-Scoop Bra available at www.target.com for $16

Orange Multi-Way Bra available at www.victoriassecret.com for $39.50

No-Wire Full Coverage Bra available at www.victoriassecret.com for $39.50

Cosbella for J.Crew Emilia Underwire Bra available at www.jcrew.com for $68

What’s your favorite bra cut?

Nicole Ari Parker & Blair Underwood to Star in “A Streetcar Named Desire”

Looks like Broadway will soon be featuring a few of our favorite BGs and guys. Nicole Ari Parker and Blair Underwood, Wood Harris, and Daphne Rubin-Vegas will star in the incredibly popular play “A Streetcar Named Desire.”

Based on the 1947 original by Tennessee Williams, the stellar cast directed by Emily Mann will surely bring a refreshing twist to the clash of class drama that captivated audiences for decades.

The rehearsals started earlier this week. I can’t wait to see this play!

Pictured from L to R: Wood Harris, Nicole Ari Parker, Daphne Rubin-Vegas, and Blair Underwood.

Are you looking forward to seeing this Broadway play? What was the last good play/musical you’ve seen?

Fabulous Photos from the Oscars

Although I was less than impressed by the fashions gracing the red carpet at yesterday’s 84th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, I was overjoyed that Octavia Spencer took home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in box office hit, The Help.

Despite, not winning the coveted trophy for Best Actress for the aforementioned movie, Viola Davis still dazzled in emerald green with her uber-fabulous natural ‘do.

Take a look at some of the stunning BGs (and guys) in attendance:

Octavia Spencer

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ “Undefeated” won Best Documentary, where he served as an Executive Producer.

Grammy-winner Esperanza Spalding.

Jennifer Lopez

Pharrell Williams

Robin Roberts

Shaun Robinson 

Sheila E. *Be sure to catch her episode of “Unsung,” airing tonight on TV One at 10PM/EST.

Sherri Shepherd

Viola Davis

Did you have a favorite red carpet look?

Let The Lip Bar Prettify Your Pucker

Last night I was invited to attend the highly-anticipated Lip Bar launch hosted by fashion blogger Gabi Fresh and sunglass designers Coco & Breezy here in New York City. In case you’re wondering, “what’s the Lip Bar?” Trust me, you won’t be wondering for long. This innovative cosmetic line is well on its way to becoming a coveted brand for adventurous beauty buffs.

Each lipstick retails $20. Click here to purchase.

Founded by Melissa Butler, a BG Detroit native, The Lip Bar is an all-natural, hand-crafted line of incredibly moisturizing lipsticks in shades that aren’t for the color-shy.

Founder, Melissa Butler, and me at the Lip Bar launch. 

These super pigmented lipsticks are like Skittles for your kisser. With colors resembling a rainbow’s spectrum, The Lipbar boasts a bevy of hues named after popular alcoholic beverages such as the “Bahamas Mama,” a  cool coral color and a mint green shade named “Sour Apple Martini.”

The Lip Bar team in all of their colorful glory. 

Not only will these lip shades stand out in a crowd, they’re made with enriching ingredients: shea butter, avocado oil, coconut oil, and Vitamin E for maximum moisture.

Would you dare to wear these bold, electrifying colors on your pucker? Do you make it your business to support BG entrepreneurs?