BGG Dines w/Carol’s Daughter’s Lisa Price

September 24, 2012

Last week, I had the privilege of attending an intimate dinner with Carol’s Daughter founder, Lisa Price.

Held at the swanky French-Vietnamese restaurant, Indochine, here in New York City, fellow beauty bloggers/editors and I had a chance to dine with the natural beauty businesswoman. Over an exquisitely delicious meal, (I was obsessed with the stuffed shrimp!) we chatted and learned about new products while getting to know the incredibly down-to-earth entrepreneur.

 Since I’m a huge CD fan, I was already pretty familiar with most of the products of topic, but was thrilled to learn about her new split-end preventing-product—Monoi Repairing Split End Sealer ($25). Since going natural a few years ago, I tend to suffer from split-ends, but not as much as I did when I wore my hair relaxed. Until now, I hadn’t come across a product that solely focused on combatting the annoying hair occurrence of split ends.

Monoi Repairing Split-End Sealer available here, $25

Infused with coconut oil and formulated to seal and bind ends, this product also moisturizes and conditions in an effort to maintain strong, healthy hair. I’m excited to give it a go in hopes of cutting down on occasional trims. Stay tuned for a full review!

In addition to learning about new CD products, I also got the scoop on her line of luxurious Candy Paint lip glosses. Unfortunately, if you loved them like me, you’re out of luck. She doesn’t plan on taking on the makeup arena again anytime soon.

After talking products, Price and I also chatted about the wonderful world of motherhood. She gave me great advice about  balancing work and family, which is never an easy feat!

Thanks to this lovely dinner, I can definitely attest that her personality is as warm and inviting as her products!

Are you a fan of Carol’s Daughter products? 

Category: Beauty, Featured, Hair | 3 Comments

Rihanna Debuts New Pixie Cut at VMAs

September 7, 2012

Between Fashion’s Night Out, President Barack Obama’s speech, and Rihanna’s super cute pixie ‘do, last night’s Twitter feed was all abuzz.

While the R&B pop diva could never steal the president’s shine, her newly shorn strands undeniably caught the attention of style and beauty fans around the world.

Rihanna at the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles. 

I, too, was smitten by her cropped coif. It gives her a sweet, yet sassy and sophisticated look that she totally pulls off. When I spoke to her stylist Ursula Stephen a few years ago, she spoke to me about being responsible for styling Rihanna’s original short ‘do. 

“We’ve been talking about going short for a little while now. And we actually planned to cut it next week but, I just felt like – why wait?? Let’s do it today! She was ready for her short hair again,” Stephens, told reporters of Rihanna’s current cropped look.

Are you loving Rihanna’s pixie cut? 

Category: Hair | 2 Comments

Steal Zoe Saldana’s Sexy Pony Look

September 5, 2012

At last night’s The Words premiere, actress Zoe Saldana sported a show-stopping back-plunging gold, Ellie Saab dress, but all eyes were on her gorgeous low-hung pony.

Celebrity hairstylist Mara Roszak created this messy, yet polished pony in three simple steps that can be easily replicated with John Frieda products. Perfect for BGs who rock straight strands, this look is definitely a head-turner!

Get the deets below:

Step 1 – Prep and Texturize
“Achieving the undone quality of Zoe’s hair relies on creating texture while preventing flyaways. Start by evenly applying John Frieda Frizz-Ease Curl Reviver Styling Mousse ($5.99 at drugstores) through towel-dried hair to tame frizz, boost shine and build texture. For added volume, spray roots with a texturizing spray and rough dry.”

Step 2 – Secure the Style 
“To create the perfect natural wavy texture, loosely braid hair and let it dry. Once hair is completely dry, take out the braid and break up the waves by running your fingers through your hair. Gently tease the crown for a bit of height. Next, pull hair from each side of the face to the back of the head, allowing one section of hair to overlap the other and pin in place with bobby pins. Continue this all the way down the back until all the hair is wrapped into a pony tail shape. Allow the pieces around the face to naturally fall out for a soft feminine look.”

Step 3 – Polish and Perfect 
“To finish the look, mist a thin coat of John Frieda Frizz-Ease Moisture Barrier Firm-Hold Hair Spray ($5.99 at drugstores) in an even, all-around motion.”

How do you make your pony standout?

Category: Hair | Leave a Comment

Tracee Ellis Ross Reveals Her Hair ‘Miracle!’

August 27, 2012

Last week, Soft-Sheen Carson Optimum Salon Haircare invited me and fellow beauty bloggers and editors to an event introducing their newest product launch — the Miracle Oil Collection, here in New York City.

Hosted by one of our fave “curlfriends,” actress Tracee Ellis Ross, shared her personal experiences using the products (6-in-1 Miracle Oil, Miracle Oil Hair Moisturizer, Miracle Oil Hair Crème) on her coveted curls with the audience.

Tracee Ellis Ross sporting a summery ensemble paired with killer YSL shoes at the event. 

“I love that the 6-in-1 hair oil really goes into the hair and penetrates the cuticles,” she said. “I put it (oil) in a spray bottle and I put it in my hair in the shower when it’s soaking wet. I move my hair around my shoulders,  flip it over and squish it around with the water in my hair, and I don’t need any other products,” she continued.
Attendees were also treated to a funny video clip featuring Ross coming to the realization that she could eliminate several products with just one product — the 6-in-1 Miracle Oil.

Miracle Oil Collection available here ($5.99-$8.99).
After the event, I was most excited to try it to see if the multi-purposed  6-in-1 product would really live up to its claims of being a hot oil treatment, daily leave-in conditioner, scalp oil, heat protector, frizz controller, and dry skin hydrator. Luckily, I was pleasantly surprised! I put a few drops of the apricot, argan, avocado, coconut, jojoba, and sunflower-infused oil in my hair and on my daughter’s hair to see if it would provide sheen without feeling weighed down and it did! I then rubbed a little on my arms to see if it would absorb quickly without feeling greasy and it did!

I haven’t tried the other two products, but the Miracle Oilseems to be a great buy. Plus, it doesn’t have an overwhelming scent, which is always good for me. I used it all weekend and so far, it’s well on its way to becoming one of my bathroom staples!

Have you tried any of these products? Are you a fan of Tracee Ellis Ross’ curls? 
Category: Beauty, Featured, Hair | 2 Comments

MUST-SEE: “Make Me A Naturalista” Web Series

August 3, 2012

If you’re thinking about transitioning your crowning glory from chemically-straightened strands to natural styles, there’s a web series that you don’t want to miss!

“Make Me A Naturalista,” is a brand-new online series hosted by editors Natasha Gaspard and Yardley Messeroux, of the natural hair websites: Mane Moves TV and The Coil Review.

The pair has teamed up to produce an online show that features women looking to make the switch from relaxers to natural styles, but are unsure of the proper steps to take in order to have a successful journey.

They provide styling tips, product advice, and personal anecdotes all while the guest receives a hair makeover from a natural haircare professional.

Bloggers Yardley (L) and Natasha Gaspard (R)

Charismatic and knowledgeable, both hosts bring an upbeat and refreshing vibe to the show, making it fun to watch. Whether you’re a newbie or natural hair vet, this series is definitely one to add to your YouTube viewing list!

Do you watch YouTube for haircare or makeup tips?

Category: Featured, Hair | Leave a Comment

Calling All Curly Girls: Carol’s Daughter Launches New Hair Milk Collection

July 20, 2012

If you’re a fan of Carol’s Daughter cult-favorite Hair Milk, then you’re in for a true treat! The natural hair and body brand is introducing a new 4-product collection of the curl-perfecting system. While they’ve improved the scent and slightly reformulated the classic moisturizer, they’ve added three additional products to keep our curls clean, conditioned, hydrated and in place.

The collection includes a Co-wash Cleansing Conditioner, Original Leave-in Moisturizer (Hair Milk), Lite Leave-in Moisturizer (Hair Milk) and Pudding (Hair Milk that holds, defines and styles).

Hair Milk 4-Product Collection Starter Kit available here, $24

In celebration of the new launch founder, Lisa Price, is hosting “Curly Parties”across the country. Kicking off the festivities on July 27th at Macy’s (State Street location) in my hometown, Chicago. During the event, attendees will be able to speak with on-site curly hair specialists and mingle with other curly girls. Plus, some who make a qualifying purchase will walk away with a limited edition goodie!

Sounds like a win-win to me!

Are you a fan of the original Hair Milk? 

Category: Beauty, Hair | 1 Comment

GIVEAWAY: Mixed Chicks Prize Pack

June 22, 2012
Like many BGs, I have various hair textures. For instance, the hair in the front of my head has a looser curl pattern, while the back tends to be a bit coarser, tighter curl. Having combination hair can make finding one product to speak to all of my strands difficult. That’s why I’ve been tempted to try Mixed Chicks to treat my “mixed-up” hair, but haven’t had the chance. 
Now that the cruelty-free, vegan natural hair care line is launching its full adult line in over 700 Target stores, I just might get that opportunity (check back for a full review). I’m curious to see how well the products work for a non-“mixed chick.”  
Ideal for multicultural women seeking a one-stop shop for all of their hair care needs, Mixed Chicks boasts a bevy of products for curly, kinky, wavy-haired, or somewhere in-between BGs. 
Mixed Chicks founders Kim Etheredge (L) and Wendi Levy (R). 
In celebration of their Target partnership, I’m giving away the following products: Mixed Chicks Sulfate Free Shampoo, Mixed Chicks Detangling Deep Conditioner, and the Mixed Chicks Straightening Serum. 
Mixed Chicks line available here. 
To learn more about the products and the BGs behind the brand, click here for an exclusive Q&A with founders, Kim Etheredge and Wendi Levy. 
Who’s your celebrity hair icon? Simply leave a comment and one winner will be randomly selected and announced on Monday, July 9th. Again, the prize pack includes a shampoo, conditioner, and serum. 
Category: Giveaways, Hair | 23 Comments