Beauty

Get the Look: Taraji P. Henson’s 2015 Met Gala Hair in 5 Simple Steps

May 5, 2015

Move over Oreo, Taraji P. Henson is America’s new favorite “Cookie!”

And while Taraji wasn’t channeling her popular “Empire” character at last night’s Met Gala, she still managed to turn heads with her flowing long locks.

Dressed in a gorgeous black-and-white Balenciaga gown, Taraji looked stunning—but, her silky smooth ‘do hair took centerstage.

To show off Taraji’s eye-catching earrings, Balenciaga designer Alexander Wang served as the inspiration for the style. “He envisioned a sleek, clean and long look to showcase her amazing earrings,” said celebrity stylist Ursula Stephen who created the winning look. “I kept it modern by creating a short center part and tucked the hair behind her ears.”

Ursula used Motions products, which is one of my go-to hair care lines of late.

Photo by Getty

Check out these five simple steps to get Taraji’s show-stopping style:

*Start by prepping hair with the Motions Straight Finish Heat Styled System for a sleek look that won’t harm natural curls

*Create a severe center part and tame fly-aways with the Motions Radiating Hair Gloss then divide hair into small sections and flat iron from root to tip

*Apply Motions Light Hold Working Spritz to the two front sections, then comb behind the ear and secure underneath with bobby pins

*Add Motions Shine Enhancing Pomade to the edges and lengths for extra sheen

*Finish with Motions Light Hold Working Spritz once more to secure the look

Did you like Tarji’s hair? Who had your favorite hairstyle at the 2015 Met Gala?

Category: Beauty, Hair | Leave a Comment

Event Recap: SELF Magazine’s Self Approved 2015 Beauty Awards

May 1, 2015

Although I cover various topics here on BGG, my all-time favorite category is beauty!

That’s why I was so thrilled to attend SELF magazine’s Self Approved 2015 Beauty Awards last week. Held at Condé Nast’s new headquarters located in 1 World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan, the annual event rounded up and celebrated the best beauty offerings of the year.

Divided into six separate categories, the magazine found the must-have products that detox, hydrate, protect, brighten and multitask (editor’s pick was the wild card).

From luxe shampoos to coveted creams, the event showcased the magazine’s top picks in alluring fashion. The winning beauty buys sat atop black lacquered pedestals surrounded by pretty pink petals, creating a gorgeous spring oasis.

With an out-of-this-world view, tasty bites and of course, beauty talk, it was a delightful evening. Plus, some of the magazine’s winners were a few of my personal faves too!

Gorgeous SELF display made out of greenery.

Couldn’t attend a SELF event without taking a selfie! My hair was completely ruined due to the rain and humidity, but my lipstick was cute! Ha!

These yummy-looking chocolates were tempting, but I exercised SELF-control.

A few of the beauty winners on display.

The manicure station truly brightened my evening.

Check out five of my top picks that also made SELF’s cut below:

Aveeno Positively Nourishing Purifying Body Wash available here, $6. This ultra-lathering wash smells divine and leaves skin feely squeaky clean without over drying.

Lorac Gold “Unzipped” Eyeshadow Palette available here, $42. This universally-flattering set of golden hues will bring out your peepers’ natural beauty in a blink of an eye

jane iredale Hand Drink available here, $29. Being an eczema sufferer, this super rich moisturizing lotion soothes my skin leaving behind a lovely rosy scent.

Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber De-Tox De-Puffing Eye-Cubes available here, $50. Puff be gone! These innovative cubes diminish the appearance of dark under-eye circles and unsightly puffiness in a single use.

NARS Dual-Intenisity Blush in ‘Panic’ available here, $45. This cool compact’s striking pink and bronze combo compliments most BG skin tones.

Have you tried any of these products? What beauty products do you think deserves to win a beauty award?

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6 Bath & Beauty Finds I’m Loving For Spring

April 15, 2015

Now that spring is FINALLY in full swing, there are a few beauty products that will take me through the season and possibly beyond.

Fresh blooms, new beginnings and my birthday? What’s not to love? Spring is just an all-around winner on so many fronts, but especially when it comes to switching up your beauty routine. It’s the perfect opportunity to embrace change by picking up a new lippie or trying out a look-at-me nail polish.

From trusted toners to of-the-moment lip colors, these are some of the things I’m loving for spring.

Check them out below:

Dove go Fresh Revitalize Body Wash in “Mandarin & Tiare Flower,” available here, $7.49. This tantalizing citrusy, yet sweet scent evokes the freshness and vitality of spring. I lather it on liberally to cleanse my skin and treat it to a moisturizing mandarin-soaked scrub. I just wish they’d create a body lotion and mist to accompany this irresistible smell.

Mischo Beauty Nail Lacquer Set in “Perfect Storm” available here, $54. This toxin-free polish is a luxe as it gets. The light blue hue reminds me of ocean waves and carefree days. Plus, this lovely nail lacquer brand is BG owned!

Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore-Perfecting Toner available here, $4. I’m still suffering from post-partum skin problems and this all-natural toner has been a godsend. Most astringents are drying, but this formula doesn’t leave my skin feeling or looking flaky—instead, clean and refreshed.

SheaMoisture Lip Crayon in “Sarah” is available here, $10. In case you didn’t know, the popular hair care brand has expanded into cosmetics and we BGs are loving it! The super pigmented hot pink crayon goes on smooth and gives just a bit of shine without feeling greasy.

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Suncare Moisturizing Sunscreen Balm, SPF 15 available, here, $6, This balm is the bomb! Say goodbye to those unsightly white streaks that most sunscreens leave behind. This cocoa-butter based SPF effortlessly blends into melanin-rich skin, making it the perfect sun protectant for us BGs.

Too Faced Little Black Book of Bronzers available here, $49. When it comes to bronzers, this brand has the competition beat. This cute book-shaped bronzer (8 varieties) compact is bound to have the perfect shade that’ll give you a coveted sun-kissed glow.

What bath and beauty goods are you loving for spring?

Category: Beauty | 2 Comments

Exclusive Interview: Rapper Trina Talks Beauty, Food, Music and More!

April 10, 2015

Hip-hop fans may know Trina as “The Baddest Chick,” but the popular rapper is expanding her résumé and branching out into the beauty world.

The thirty-something Miami native is currently serving as the brand ambassador for Body of Royalty. Tapped by the cosmetics company earlier this year, Trina will be the face of their mink eyelash line.

Described as a brand for women who are confident, provocative, and create their own definition of beauty—Body of Royalty seems to have chosen the perfect “queen” for this campaign. Recognized for her curves, bold eyes and self-assurance, Trina exudes an independent attitude that the brand celebrates.

I recently caught up with her to discuss this partnership, her sex symbol status, the products she can’t live without and more!

Body of Royalty 100% Mink Eyelashes are available here, $24

Check out the Q&A below:

BGG: Tell me about your partnership with Body of Royalty and why did you decide to team up with them?

Trina: I am a fanatic of eyelashes and I think they have a nice quality of products. Again, I’m a huge fan of lashes. The fact that they have 100% mink top and bottom lashes is what initially drew me to the brand. I love the lipstick and makeup too. For anyone who loves to get dressed up love to wear lashes.

BGG: What do you think separates their lashes from different brands?

Trina: The quality is outstanding. You can wear them up to 25 uses before having to toss them out.

BGG: Before being in the spotlight, were you always a makeup girl?

Trina: Yes, I always enjoyed getting dolled up. I grew up surrounded by a bunch of women so you know there were always hair/makeup, clothes, shoes and other girly things around.

BGG: Aside from eyelashes, what are some of your must-have beauty products?

Trina: I’m a really big fan of facial cleansers, eye serums and simple moisturizers. I’m in Miami, but I have to have them wherever I go.

BGG: You’ve had many hairstyles throughout the years. Are there any hair trends that are off-limits?

Trina: I don’t know because I’m really just a throw-my-hair-into-a-ponytail kind of girl. I don’t like styles that are too neat or too done. I don’t think I’ll ever go too crazy with colors. I stick with my main two: goldish-blonde or black.

BGG: Everyone knows that you’re a considered a sex symbol in the hip-hop community. When do you feel the sexiest?

Trina: I think I’m the sexiest when I’m happy because it brings out a lot of confidence.

BGG: When you’re not making music or playing around in makeup, what do you do for fun?

Trina: I prefer to do absolutely nothing. I love to relax. But, if there’s a beach around that’s where you’ll find me.

BGG: You’ve had a long successful career in the music industry. What advice would you give an up-and-coming artist?

Trina: I would tell him/her to be focused because this industry is nothing to play with—only the strong survive. You have to be determined and know exactly what you want and stay true to who you are no matter what because there are a lot of ups and downs.

BGG: Past or present, whose celebrity style do you admire the most?

Trina: I would say Diana Ross because she’s always been so glamorous, fabulous and ladylike.

BGG: What would fans be surprised to know about you?

Trina: With all of the social media and blogs out there I don’t know. (laughing) But, people probably wouldn’t know that I cook a lot. Because I travel so much, people wouldn’t imagine me cooking like a big Thanksgiving dinner.

BGG: What do you enjoy cooking the most?

Trina: I’m a huge seafood lover; I could cook it everyday.

BGG: What are a few of your TV guilty pleasures?

Trina: I don’t really have any. Every now and then I get nosey and see what’s going on on TV, but again I’m traveling so much I miss all the good stuff. I am excited and looking forward to watching Nene Leake’s new show with Kim Zolciak (“The Road to Riches”). Also, Lifetime is my favorite to watch when I have TV time.

BGG: What can fans expect from you regarding your upcoming music?

Trina: I have a bunch of different songs that were recorded for the album. The music is energetic, fun, sexy, vulnerable, and just a fun album.

Do you occasionally wear false eyelashes? If so, what’s your favorite brand? Are you a fan of Trina’s?

Category: Beauty, Interviews | Leave a Comment

BET’s Black Girls Rock!: Get Regina King’s Makeup Look

April 6, 2015

Who doesn’t know that black girls rock? Last night’s broadcast celebration of our astounding beauty, undeniable talent and impressive societal contributions was a true testament to that notion.

Actresses Regina King and Tracee Ellis Ross killed it as co-hosts of BET’s “Black Girls Rock!” award ceremony held at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark. While their fun and charismatic energy was entertaining, Regina’seye-catching makeup almost stole the show!

Inspired by Regina’s flawless and radiant skin, celebrity makeup artist, Oslyn Holder, wanted to create a look that highlighted the “American Crime” star’s covetable complexion.

Check out how he achieved Regina’s lovely beauty looks using SheaMoisture products below:

HER SKIN:

*To achieve a luminous and creamy canvas, moisturize and prime skin to ensure a flawless finish.

*Using the SheaMoisture Foundation/Concealer Duo Brush, apply SheaMoisture Sheer Liquid Foundation in Gobi Bronzi over the entire face.

*To highlight and brighten the under eye area, lightly pad SheaMoisture Créme Concealer in Fawn under the eye.

*Apply the SheaMoisture Color Correcting, Contouring & Highlighting Palette in Medium Dark, mixing the colors to ensure a perfect shade to highlight under eyes, temples and high plains of the face and neck.

*Set makeup with SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Pressed Powder in Yuma Pecan.

*Following, sweep SheaMoisture Illuminating Powder in Havana Sunrise on the apples of cheeks, forehead, nose and cheeks to for a sun-kissed glow. Follow up with Mandalay Dusk on contoured areas.

*To finish complexion, apply SheaMoisture Mineral Blush in Varkala Spice on the apple of the cheeks.

HER EYES:

*Apply SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Eyeshadow in Claudia on the outer lid, sweeping Montana on inner lid and corner of eye. Blend to create a seamless finish.

*Lightly place SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Eyeshadow in Claudia as liner for lower lash line.

*SheaMoisture Liquid Eyeliner in Black is used to line the top lash line. Slightly wing towards the outer perimeter of eye.

*Complete look with SheaMoisture Volumizing Mascara in Black for top lashes, and SheaMoisture Lengthening Mascara in Black on lower lashes.

HER LIPS:

*Prep lips by using SheaMoisture Lip Exfoliator to smooth and moisturize.

*To achieve the opening look, use SheaMoisture Lip Crayons in Sarah and Kenia, in equal parts.

*Finish by applying SheaMoisture Lip Gloss in Jenny and Rosie, again in equal parts.

SheaMoisture products should be mainstays in our makeup bags because they’re created with our various skin-tones in mind! Be sure to check out Target to explore the entire line!

Did you watch “Black Girls Rock!?” If so, what was your favorite part?

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Product Review: Caress Forever Collection Body Washes

March 16, 2015

When it comes to cleansing, I’m all about body washes. It’s something about a rich lather that turns shower time into a relaxing experience for me.

That’s why I’m currently obsessed with Caress’ new line of cleansers. Launched last month, the Forever Collection is taking body washes to a new level. Available in two scents: Love Forever (a mix or dark berries and scarlet roses) and Adore Forever (a mix of vanilla, honey and roses), these cleansers are the first perfume-infused body washes to release a fragrance with every touch.

Caress Forever Collection body washes available at drugstores and mass retailers nationwide, $3.99

Thanks to the technology of Caress Fragrance Release Pearls, skin is treated to a subtle scent that lasts well beyond the shower. I usually buy body washes that are more on the sweet side, but these floral notes are not overpowering and actually quite nice.

Aside from the refreshing long-lasting (up to 12 hours!) fragrance, the body washes thoroughly cleanse without drying out skin. Plus, the packaging is just so darn pretty. The sleek black bottle exudes a luxe feel that you typically don’t find with drugstore brands.

If body washes are your go-to cleansers, give these a try— you won’t be disappointed.

Do you prefer sweet, citrusy or floral scented body washes?

Category: Beauty | 2 Comments

Jane Iredale Launches Country Weekend Collection for Spring

March 9, 2015

This winter I’ve been in desperate need of a getaway.

So when jane iredale—The Skin Care Makeup team invited me to leave the city to celebrate their upcoming spring launch, I jumped at the chance.

About 60 miles outside of New York City, we bloggers and editors were whisked away to the Bedford Post Inn in Bedford, NY for a beauty-ful evening. Owned by critically-acclaimed actor, Richard Gere, the renowned bed and breakfast was as dreamy as a romantic movie set.

The location served as the perfect backdrop to showcase the mineral makeup brand’s beautiful new “Country Weekend” line. Comprised of a lip color, gel eyeliner and eye shadow kit of versatile shades—the new spring offerings are ideal for a soft and ultra-feminine look.

jane iredale “Country Weekend” Spring Collection available here, Getaway Palette ($58), Jelly Jar in Espresso ($28) and Just Kissed Forever Peach Lip & Cheek Stain ($25)

While I’m a huge fan of jane iredale’s Jelly Jars and eye shadow palettes, my favorite item from this particular collection is the Just Kissed Forever Peach Lip & Cheek Stain. Similar to mood makeup, the lip color customizes into a peachy pink shade based on your body’s unique chemistry. Admittedly, I was a bit apprehensive to see if it would actually complement and work for darker skin-tones for us BGs, but was pleasantly surprised. It gave me a peachy pink tint that was subtle, yet still eye-catching. Plus, it left my lips super moisturized without feeling greasy.

After learning and testing out the new products, we were treated to a hands-on pasta making demo conducted by Bedford Post Inn’s head chef, Michael White. Following the demo, we dined on a delicious three-course dinner coupled with some of the best wine I’d ever tasted.

Stuffed and happy, the evening had successfully satisfied my yearning for a mini-getaway. Now I’m just counting down the days for spring to finally arrive!

Did you have a getaway this winter? What makeup trends are you looking forward to trying this spring?

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