Fabulousness at Your Fingertips

If you’re tired of your nails chipping by the second day or hate playing the waiting game until your polish dries, then the Sally Hansen Salon Effects may be just the “nail candy,” you need to add flair to your fingertips. 

The nail effects (or nail sticker strips) are a budget-friendly collection of eclectic patterns and bright colors that will certainly garner attention. With only two steps to follow (apply and shape), it’s a fast and fashionable alternate to regular polish. Plus, there’s no drying time whatsoever. The Salon Effects last up to 10 days and can be easily taken off with nail polish remover. I’ve tried the nail effects and surprisingly the claims hold true. They lasted over a week through dishwashing, heavy duty chores, and typing without any chipping. 



While I’m a big fan of this product, I will caution you to take your time and select the stripes that best fit your own nails. Some of the strips that you may assume are automatically made for a specific finger–I assure you–it might not cover your nail the way you want.

Overall, the application process may take up to 15 minutes to complete. However, with each package only costing about $8 to $10 dollars, you can’t lose.


Have you ever tried these strips? If so, what did you think? One lucky reader will win a pack. Simply “Like” Brown Girl Gumbo on Facebook,  Tweet me, or leave a comment for your entry.

By: Khadijah C.

Event Alert: Kandee Shoes Debut TONIGHT at The London Candy Company

If you’re a fashion editor/blogger then you don’t want to miss the launch of the popular, UK-brand, Kandee Shoes, taking place TONIGHT at The London Candy Company.

Check out the invitation below:

Introducing BGG’s New Contributor

It’s with great pleasure that I introduce my new BGG contributor, Khadijah. She holds a master’s degree in journalism and hails from Queens, New York. Khadijah’s looking forward to keeping BGG fresh and on the pulse of what’s new in the world of beauty/style.

I’m sure you guys will enjoy reading her weekly posts on BGG.

Here’s a snapshot of Khadijah’s take on beauty and fashion:

Finding out the latest scoop in celebrity culture, discovering the best beauty products and uncovering the latest fashion trends are my true passions. Working a 9-5 job pays the bills, but browsing an aisle in Sephora makes my heart flutter. I’m grateful for having the opportunity to be a part of the Brown Girl Gumbo family and look forward to keeping you updated with all things that make us brown girls unique and beautiful.

  • Favorite makeup product: Concealer and lipgloss (I can’t choose only one…lol)
  • Style Icon: Rihanna–truly love her adventurous take on the HAIR, fashion and make-up game!
  • Best Hair Product Brand: Cantu products are my go to for styling at the moment. I also love Herbal Essences for washing my hair. 
  • Describe Your Style: My style is a combination of boho chic, classic with a twist and whatever makes me feel good that day. I’m currently loving all things with a print pattern as well as bright colors. I can be as earthy as Erykah Badu one day and dolled up like Beyonce the next. 
  • Best Advice You’ve Ever Been Given: Very simple–you can’t please everyone….
  • Favorite Quote: Never let people know your moves, let them see the results.
  • Favorite Book: Too many to name.
  • Fashion/Beauty Pet Peeve: Fashion–It’s not always about the size of the clothing, but rather if it fits well. Don’t be afraid to go a size up (or down in some cases). Beauty–Brown girls, don’t be afraid of color. We wear it well!

Get Sculpted

Have you ever found yourself trying to sculpt and contour your cheeks, but fail miserably and end up looking like a clown? Well, if that’s the case you’ll love L’Oreal’s new duo blush – The One Sweep
The fool-proof powder blush takes the guesswork out of highlighting your cheekbones. Thanks to the custom-designed brush applicator, the complementing pigments are evenly distributed providing perfected definition.  
Available in 4 shades, you’re sure to find your ideal match!

Available at drugstores nationwide for about $11.

If you have the same problem while applying eyeshadow, they have a similar product that will have you beautifying like a pro! 

Are you a fan of blushes or bronzers? One lucky reader will win The One Sweep Blush Duo. Simply leave a comment and a winner will be randomly selected and announced next week.

I’ve Got the Blues

Back in the ’90s when I was growing up, rocking a denim shirt was not only stylish, but one of the most practical and comfortable articles of clothing to own. However, once the new millennium got under way, the former fashion staple was tossed to the back of our closets and nearly forgotten.

Well, as we all know what’s old is new again when it comes to fashion. Needless to say, our favorite denim blouse is back and more versatile than ever. Paired with a colorful maxi-skirt or khaki shorts, denim tops whether short or long-sleeved have fashionistas clamoring for the classic blue-hued basic.

Asos Pussy Bow Denim Blouse available at www.asos.com for $60.34

Belted Blouse available at www.neimanmmarcus.com for $70

Coy Blouse available at www.7forallmankind.com for $215

Current Elliot Bluejay The Scout Denim Top available at www.stylebop.com for $182

Denim Shirt available at www.shopmango.com for $42

Denim Halter Top available at www.hm.com for $12.99

Jessica Simpson Puff Sleeve Blouse available at www.jessicasimpsoncollection.com for $49

Washed Blue Ruffle Sleeve Jean Top by Closed available at www.stylebop.com for $120

Are you a fan of the denim top? Would you rock this country chic look?

One in a Million

If you’re looking for a mascara with a ‘lash’ up on all of the competition, L’Oreal Paris’ brand-new Voluminous Million Lashes in Carbon Black is your best bet. The sleek gold tube contains an innovative brush with bristles that successfully separates lashes preventing clumping. Plus, the formula includes jojoba and palm oil to help soften and conditions while creating long, thick lashes. I’ve always been a fan of Maybelline’s Great Lash, but this mascara definitely has me reconsidering my options.

What’s your favorite mascara brand? One lucky reader will win a tube of L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes in Carbon Black. Simply like Brown Girl Gumbo on Facebook or Tweet me your favorite mascara brand to be entered for the contest. The winner will be announced on Friday.

Available at drugstores nationwide for $8.95

Beach Buddy

Even though I just returned from a fun Miami getaway with my girls, the real BFF on vacation was my Co-Lab Christopher Kon tote. The large canvas bag allowed me to cram all of my beach essentials from flip flops to sunblock to my iPad. I literally couldn’t leave my hotel room without grabbing the comfortable and practical all-purpose bag. Plus, it helped served as my carryon at the airport too.

Before you book your summer vacay be sure to pack a great beach bag.

Check out some of these totally cool totes:

Lesportsac Beach Tote available at www.bloomingdales.com for $88

Kate Spade Cabana Stripe Raelin Tote available at www.katespade.com for $147

Lanvin Flower Denim Tote available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $663

Juicy Couture Gen Y Je T’aime Tote available at www.juicycouture.com for $88

See by Chloe Tote available at www.couture.zappos.com for $65

Volcom Keep It Up Beach Tote available at www.pacsun.com for $29

Do you own a beach bag?