Brown Girl Gumbo

Soulful Sounds of Summer

July 28, 2009

With the anticipation of Whitney Houston’s upcoming release, “I Look to You,” it seems like people are finally getting excited about music again. After getting rave reviews from attendees at her listening parties in London, NYC and L.A, it seems like Ms. Houston just might be on her way to making a true comeback.

In addition to Whitney Houston’s highly-anticipated September release, here are a few other new and semi-new releases that could be music to your ears:

Whitney Houston – “I Look to You”

Maxwell – “Black Summer’s Night”

Jordin Sparks – “Battlefield”

Joe – “Signature”

What are some of your favorite CDs and songs right now? What do you think is the song of the summer? Are you looking forward to Whitney Houston’s new release? Do you think she can make a comeback?

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Category: Music | 19 Comments

Pretty in Pink!

July 23, 2009

Last year I noticed the trend of hot pink lips, but it seems to be even more prevalent this summer. During my visit to Miami’s swim wear fashion shows last weekend, I noticed that the majority of the models on the runway were donning hot pink lips and cheeks. Although I have yet to paint my pucker pink, I have opted to go bold with an electric shade of pink on my nails. I’ve also gone for bright pink blushes because they instantly add color and dimension. The eye-catching candy-colored hue always seems to add a bit of girly flirtiness that seems so suitable for the summer!

Are you a fan of hot pink makeup?

Essie Nail Color in Flirty Fuschia available at www.drugstore.com for $8

Amazing Seven Blush in Hot Pink available at www.ulta.com for $22

jane iredale – The Skincare Makeup SPF18 Lip Color in “Melisa” available at www.janeiredaledirect.com for $18

Kevyn Aucoin Beauty The Creamy Moist Glow in “Hot Pink” available at www.drugstore.com for $24

Lancome Color Fever Gloss Sensual Vibrant Lip Shine available at www.dillards.com for $22

Revlon Creme Lipstick in “Love That Pink” available at www.drugstore.com for $8.99

Rosie Jane Lip Dew in “Apple Blossom” available at www.beautyhabit.com for $16

**One lucky reader will win the jane iredale – The Skincare Makeup SPF18 Lip Color in “Melisa,” (a $19 value). Just leave a comment and a winner will be selected randomly and announced tomorrow!

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Category: Beauty | 16 Comments

Must-See TV: CNN’s Black in America 2

July 22, 2009

Ever since CNN aired the super controversial Black in America two-part series last year, I have anxiously awaited a new installment of the documentary. Many people were not pleased with the topics that were covered in the original series, which resulted in a lot of heated discussions and debates surrounding the show and how we as African-Americans were being portrayed.

This time around, CNN host Soledad O’Brien promises that it will provide a balanced and truthful overview of the state of African-Americans this time around.

Here is an exclusive clip from the show featuring comedian Steve Harvery. Check it out here.

CNN: Black In America 2: Steve Harvey Exclusive
Uploaded by thatsfunny. – Watch the latest news videos.

Part 1 airs tonight on CNN 9pm, EST. Will you be tuning in? What were you thoughts on the last one?

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Category: Arts and Entertainment | 11 Comments

Are You a Cover Girl?

July 21, 2009

Although I didn’t have one of these cute cover-ups while on my mini-Miami vacay, I will definitely pack one on my next trip to the beach. These super chic sarongs, tunics and swim dresses are perfect for the BG who doesn’t want to bare it all, but still wants to look fashionably beach-ready.

Do you like to bare your body on the beach or are you more of a cover girl?

City Style Beaded Trim Sarong available at www.newyorkandco.com for $18.71

Embroidered Boho Cover-up Tunic available at www.victoriassecret.com for $85

Feather Swirl Coastal Kaftan available at www.althea.gap.com for $89

Love Shop Stacy Beaded Tunic available at Intermix for $89-119

Michael Kors Point Break Tunic available at www.lordandtaylor.com for $29.99

O Beach Salsa Cover-up available at www.figleaves.com for $23.10

Plunge Cover-up Tunic available at www.victoriassecret.com for $22.99

O Beach Wahine Cover-up available at www.figleaves.com for $23.10

Strapless Ruffle Cover- Up available at www.victoriassecret.com for $24

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Category: Fashion | 11 Comments

Get Moving!

July 16, 2009

For those of you who have been procrastinating when it comes to working out, there’s no better time to start than now! With summer in full-swing, there are so many outdoor options for exercising. I know that many of us BGs put off working out to preserve our ‘dos, but our health should always come first. Doing at least 30 minutes of cardio 3 times a week will keep those pesky pounds away and our hearts healthy.

What’s your favorite work-out routine? Do you prefer bike riding, jogging, swimming, etc? For those BGs with relaxed tresses, do you oftentimes forgo working out in an effort to keep your lovely locks straight?

**Btw, the winner of the Yes to Cucumbers Soothing Facial Mask is Calming Corners. Please email me your mailing address. You will have 7 days from today to respond, otherwise, I will have to select another winner. Congrats!

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Category: Health | 18 Comments

As Cool as a Cucumber!

July 15, 2009

For me, nothing is as invigorating or refreshing as the wonderful scent of cucumber! Its natural cooling, soothing and cleansing effect makes it a key ingredient in many of today’s most popular beauty products. From facial masks to fragrant sprays, cucumbers are not just tasty, they’re great for your overall healthy both inside and out. It keeps your skin soft and your eyes de-puffed. What’s not to love?

Are you a fan of beauty products that have a cucumber component? If so, what are a few of your favorites? One lucky reader will win the Yes to Cucumber Soothing Facial Mask (a $14.99 value). Simply leave a comment and a winner will be selected randomly and announced tomorrow!

Here are a few popular pre-pickle products:

Yes to Cucumbers Soothing Facial Mask available at www.walgreens.com for $14.99

Bare Escentuals Bare Vitamins Eye Rev-Er Upper available at www.sephora.com for $21

Bath & Body Works Scrub available at www.bathandbodyworks.com for $15

Carol’s Daughter Ocean Eau de Toilette available at www.sephora.com for $27

Fresh Cucumber Cleansing Foam available at www.sephora.com for $48

Dove Fresh Body Wash Cool Moisture Cucumber Green Tea available at www.drugstore.com for $8.79

Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Masque available at www.sephora.com for $45

Suave Natural Moisturizing Cucumber Melon Body Wash available at www.drugstore.com for $3.49

Vaseline Fresh Aloe Hydrating Body Lotion with Aloe & Cucumber available at www.drugstore.com for $5.99

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Category: Beauty | 24 Comments

Chic Tanks for Summer!

July 14, 2009

Tank tops are one of the essential clothing items for summer. The typical light-weight materials used for tanks provide perfect ventilation that will keep you cool during those hot & humid summer days and nights. Most tanks can be dressed up or down depending on the accessories and whether or not you pair them with shorts, skirts or jeans.

What are your favorite style of tanks? Loose-fitting, fitted, drapey, embroidered, or etc?

Piped Ribbed Tank available at www.bananarepublic.com for $17.99