BGG Chats with Kimora Lee Simmons

Ever since she hopped on the seen as Mrs. Russell Simmons back in the late 1990s, Kimora Lee has become a mainstay in urban pop culture. From turning the fashion brand, Baby Phat, into an empire to her outrageous antics on her reality show, Life in the Fab Lane, Ms. Fabulosity has no plans of slowing down.

I recently spoke with the fashion mogul about life after Baby Phat, being a mom of three, and more. Check out the interview here.

Are you a “Fabulosity” fan? 

Coming to a TV Near You

Have you heard about the latest TV ventures from uber-comedy producer Keenan Ivory Wayans and mega star Queen Latifah?

Well, get ready to set your DVR’s as the hit 90’s sketch comedy In Living Color will be making a comeback to FOX. Revamped with a brand new cast and new musical talent, FOX is hoping to revive its original hit series with two 30 minute specials to see if viewers will respond favorably. With edgy segments such as the hilarious “Men on Film” with David Alan Grier and Damon Wayans, In Living Color may very well fill the void where Mad TV ended.

Also, former talk show host Queen Latifah is returning back to daytime TV a new talk show slated for the Fall 2013 season. Latifah will be teaming up with Will and Jada, who will serve as executive producers. While the Queen appeared on her eponymous talk show that lasted two seasons, perhaps creating a dream team with the Smiths will give her the boost she needs to compete with the current talk-show divas.

Do you think either of these shows will survive today’s fickle TV market?

posted by: Khadijah C.

Beauty Bits

I know Sephora makes many of us BGs feel like a kid in a candy store, that’s why you can’t miss out on their Friends & Family online discount that ends on November, 2nd. Happy Shopping!

In other beauty news, Nicki Minaj, with her colorful getups and outrageous costumes is taking her penchant for eye-catching flair to nail polishes. The avant-garde rapper, who also happens to be the most sought-after Halloween costume this year, is teaming up with the super nail polish giant OPI for a limited edition 6 polish shade line launching at the top of the new year.

The names of her exclusive polishes are named after her hit songs, “Super Bass,” “4 Life,” “Did It on ‘Em,” “Fly,” and “Save Me.”

Since Nicki Minaj is fearless when it comes to both fashion and beauty, I’m sure it won’t be long before she launches her own line of beauty products. Will you be buying?


submitted by: Khadijah C.

Ross’ Return to TV

Now that our favorite “girlfriend,” Tracee Ellis Ross, is back on the air, we can continue to admire her coveted curly locks on BET’s new show, Reed Between the Lines. While I haven’t actually seen an episode of the show just yet (blame Oprah, because the hour that I spend on TV this season has been devoted to her Life Class), I do plan on catching up on past ones via DVR soon.

I’m just excited that the executives at BET are finally broadening their horizons and abandoning all of those mindless video shows for original programming that feature fictional professional BGs and guys who reflect a positive image of us. While the premise seems strikingly similar to The Cosby Show, it will be refreshing to have the option of tuning into to a show that doesn’t depict us in a demeaning light. Seriously, how long can we keep watching reality shows filled with us BGs at each other’s throats?

So my question is, have you guys tuned in to Reed Between the Lines? If so, what are your thoughts?

Carol’s Daughter Launches New Smoothing Collection

Just when you thought Carol’s Daughter couldn’t possibly get any better, founder Lisa Price, proves that there’s no plateauing in sight. Her latest concoction, Chocolat Smoothing Collection, claims to keep strands soft and smooth without altering one’s natural curl pattern.

For example, since I have non-chemically treated hair, but use a flat iron to periodically straighten, this product would be ideal. It’s supposed to keep the dreaded “poof” and frizzies at bay even in high humidity.

Since I just received the samples at the launch last night, I have yet to try the 3-step system (shampoo, blow dry cream, and conditioner), I plan to try it soon so please stay tuned for my review.

Oh, in case you’re wondering if the products smell like chocolate, they don’t – thank goodness. The name actually comes from a blend of cacao extracts.

Available at www.carolsdaughter.com for $54 (a $60 value)

Would you try this new smoothing system? What products do you use to keep your hair frizz-free?

Beauty News: Paula Patton Joins Covergirl

Actress Paula Patton is the newest BG to team up with Covergirl. The new mom, and wife of blue-eyed crooner, Robin Thicke, is set to be the new Celebrity Brand Ambassador of a couple of cool new products under the Queen Collection.

In celebration of the new partnership, the brown-skinned beauty will be on-hand to chat live on Facebook this Saturday, October 22nd. You guys will be able to talk with her about her beauty and skincare regime. Plus, you’ll hear about a contest that’s launching on Halloween where you can win a chance to meet her and one of her favorite makeup artists for a Queen Collection Makeover.

Click here for details.

The new Queen Collection will include, Vivid Impact Eyeliner, Natural Hue Matte Pressed Powder and LashFanatic Mascara and will be available in stores January 2012.

Here’s a sneak peek:

Update Your Fall Style on a Budget

Now that the fall weather has finally arrived, there’s no need to splurge on an entire new wardrobe to get this year’s latest looks. Here are a few simple ways to spruce up your style without breaking the bank:
Add a Leather Jacket
Layering a leather jacket over your tees, blouses or dresses screams edgy girl chic –instantly creating a more vamped up look.

Black Rivet Washed Lamb Scuba Jacket available at www.wilsons.com for $179.99

Elle Faux Leather Crop Jacket available at www.kohls.com for $58.50

Michael Kors Black Knit Collar Bomber Jacket available at www.bluefly.com for $268.20

Statement Shoes

Whether you choose to go with the trend of “over-the-knee-boots” or a bold colored bootie, both will take a plain outfit from drab to fab.

Take a look at Amber Rose in these tan suede boots and Angela Simmons in her brightly colored blue-suede shoes:

Well-Tailored Blazer
Like a leather jacket, a blazer is a timeless piece that will never go out of style. Whether it’s vintage, classic or modern, a blazer can be used to add a funky flair to your style.

Check out Solange in her canary yellow blazer:

Instead of a basic black blazer, you may want to consider adding a pop of color to make your outfit stand out. If you want a similar look, check out this nutmeg blazer from Topshop:

Nutmeg Boyfriend Blazer available at www.topshop.com for $130

What are some of the ways you’re updating your fall looks?



Submitted by: Khadijah Cole