Brown Girl Gumbo

My 200th Post!!

June 24, 2008

When I started this blog last September, I knew that I wanted to write about my favorite things: fashion, beauty products and celebrities/entertainment. I’ve always enjoyed writing so I wanted this blog to serve as my outlet. I never knew that people would actually enjoy reading it, but I am so glad that you guys do!

I’ve been thinking about incorporating a few more topics into BGG, but I’d love to hear what you guys would like to read about.

Please share your ideas.

I can’t believe this is my 200th post. Again, thanks sooooo much for reading BGG and leaving comments; your support is really appreciated.

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Category: Misc. | 22 Comments

So Fresh & So Clean!

June 23, 2008

Nothing is hotter than white in the summer! Whether you wear a crisp white dress or a pair of fitted white jeans, when you wear this classic hue you will definitely look chic and stay cool at the same time!

Do you wear white in the summer?

P.S I’m in Chicago all week on a much needed vacation to spend time with my friends and family so I won’t be able to check out other blogs like I normally do, but I will still try do my posts and will catch up on my favorite blogs when I return! 🙂

Check out some of these white hot fashions:

Ella Moss Striped Pocketed Dress available at www.pinkmascara.com for $187

Diane Von Furstenberg “Lou Lou” Skirt in White available at www.dvf.com for $298

Theory Ruby Rolled-Up Shorts in White available at www.pinkmascara.com for $160

White Canvas High-Heel Sandals available at www.zappos.com for $64

White Cotton T-Shirt available at www.anntaylor.com for $24.99

Crystal Deco Bangle available at www.intermix.com for $150

Mango Shop Cardigan availalbe at www.mangoshop.com for $19.99

Ann Taylor Fit & Flare Jeans available at www.anntaylor.com for $49.99

Xhilaration Quitled White Hobo Bag available at www.target.com for $19.99

MUST-HAVE – Tide to Go Instant Stain Remover Pens available at www.drugstore.com for $6.99

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Category: Fashions | 23 Comments

Double-Duty Moisturizers

June 19, 2008

I’ll be honest, I’m not a fan of foundations; but tinted moisturizers with SPFs are nice alternatives. These light-weight formulas do double-duty because they act as an SPF moisturizer, which protects your skin from the sun, as well as provide a bit of coverage. They’re especially great to use during the summer when you don’t want to apply a heavy base. With tinted moisturizers, you can forgo your foundation, which allows your skin to breathe. Plus, you can still maintain a fresh and sheer look without looking “made-up.”

The best part is that they’re just like us BGs, you can find them in all shades!

Have you ever used tinted moisturizers?

Check out some of these:

Smashbox Sheer Focus Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 available at www.sephora.com for $30

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Tinted Moisturizer available at www.walgreens.com for $10.99

Laura Mercier Oil-free Tinted Moisturizer available at www.sephora.com for $42

Lancome Aqua Fusion Continuous Infusing Tinted Moisturizer available at www.dillards.com for $37

Jane Nearly Foundation Tinted Moisturizer available at www.walgreens.com for $4.99

Jane Iredale the Skincare Makeup Dream Tint Moisturizer available at www.janeiredaledirect.com for $36

DuWop Revolution Face Tint Moisturizer available at www.beautyhabit.com for $29

Skin Tint Moisturizing Treatment SPF 30 available at www.sephora.com for $42

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Category: Beauty, Tinted Moisturizers | 21 Comments

Happy Feet!

June 18, 2008

Now that summer is officially only a few days away, it’s time to sport those cute toe-baring shoes if you haven’t already! In order to wear your killer gladiator sandals or fabulous peep-toe pumps with confidence, having a nice pedicure is mandatory. Having chipped polish and ashy heels is not a good look and can take away from your overall BG chicness.

Do you give yourself at-home pedicures?

Check out some of these products that will keep your feet pretty:

Just for You Pedicure Implement Kit available at www.sallybeauty.com for $9.99

Winning Nails Fun-shaped Toe Separators available at www.sallybeauty.com for $1.99

Homedics Pedicure Spa Salon Foot Bath with Heat available at www.ulta.com for $49.99

Tweezerman Glass Pedicure File available at www.tweezerman.com for $15

Bliss Super Slough Scrub available at www.drugstore.com for $34

Skin Free Sweet & Smooth Sugar Scrub available at www.drugstore.com for $15.99

Olay Body Thermal Pedicure Foot Treatment available at www.drugstore.com for $9.99

Lippman Collection Nail Polish Sampler Kit available at www.victoriassecret.com for $6.99

Heel-to-Toe Sure Grip Toenail Clipper available at www.sallybeauty.com for $2.99

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Category: Beauty, Pedicures | 24 Comments

BGG Chats with Celebrity Hairstylist – Ursula Stephen

June 17, 2008

You may not be familiar with the name Ursula Stephen, but if you’ve seen Rihanna lately, you’re quite familiar with her work. Ursula is a notable celebrity hair stylist who helped give Rihanna a cutting-edge coif that she’s popular for today. Hailing from Brooklyn, Ursula is definitely a force to be reckoned with when it comes to hair!

I had a chance to catch up with the busy stylist.

Check out our Q&A:

BGG: Did you always know that styling hair is what you wanted to do as a career?
US: Wow, Career, that’s a big word. Well at least at that age it was, too young to anticipate it as a career. I just knew that I had a passion for it. It made me happy- it just felt right.

BGG: We all know that you’re most known for giving Rihanna her new signature short hairdo. What inspired you to do that style? US: Well, I wanted to give her something that was edgy and classy at the same time. The bob just seemed perfect!!

Rihanna last week.

Rihanna in March.

Rihanna last September.

BGG: What products do you use on Rihanna’s hair?
US: I use lots of conditioning products. As her lifestyle requires lots of styling. So its all about protection and moisturizing. I use the Bed Head Ego Boost leave-in conditioner and the FHI hot sauce, which restores moisture to the hair.

BGG: What do you think will be the next big hair trend for the summer?
US: I think the next trend is heavy bangs. Heavy bangs combined with all lengths of hair. Its all abouts bangs!

BGG: I know that you’re all about the short-dos, but what styles do you recommend for women who are afraid to cut it all off, but still want an edgy, stylish look?
US: That’s a misconception. I definitely have a passion for a great cut – I do great weaves and work with real hair as well, let me tell you! (laughing) But mostly I love great looking healthy hair whether short or long. I just want sisters to let go of the weave. Especially when its not a confident weave or its not doing anything for you. If you want to try a new look but are afraid, try on some wigs, or if you have a weave cut that short; if you don’t like it you can always take it out!

BGG: What other celebrities’ hair have you styled?
US: Along with Rihanna, I also work with Michelle Williams, Saleisha Stowes(former winner of America’s Next Top Model). I’m always doing makeovers and fashions stories with Essence magazine too.

Michelle Williams

Saleisha Stowe

BGG: What’s the most glamorous part of being a celebrity hairstylist?
US: One of the glamorous parts of being a celebrity stylist is the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world. However, the reality is you probably won’t get to experience the country. You only get to sight-see on the way to the hotel and then its straight to work!

BGG: What are the 3 main tips you can give BGs in regards to maintaining healthy locks?
US: CONDITION, CONDITION, CONDITION!

BGG: Tell me a bit about your upcoming hair seminars that you’re planning for the summer. What can attendees expect?
US: I intend on offering so much more than the fact that I’m a “celebrity stylist” or providing hair tips. I want to talk
about everything in the business. The good the bad and the ugly! (laughing)

Visit Ursula’s site at www.ursulastephen.com

Are you planning on getting a cute new style for the summer? Please share!

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Category: Hair, Interviews | 30 Comments

Sweet Dreams & I’ve Been Tagged…Again (Music)!

June 16, 2008

For those warm summer nights when you want to feel pretty, but still stay cool, slip into a cute PJ short set! This comfortable and super feminine sleepwear style is the perfect mix of playfulness and sexiness.

What’s your favorite garment to sleep in during the warmer months?

Check out some of these:

Josie Cami & Short Set available at www.nordstrom.com for $43.90

Tildon Woven Cami & Short Set available at www.nordstrom.com for $21.80

Polka & Dot PJ Short Set available at www.forever21.com for $14.90

Tildon Ruffled Hem Cami & Shorts available at www.nordstrom.com for $24.80

Cami & Short PJ available www.victoriassecret.com for $14.99

Vera Wang Collection Cami & Short PJ Set available at www.nordstrom.com for $42.90

Tildon Woven Cami & Shorts available at www.nordstrom.com for $21.80

Aimee PJ Set available at www.forever21.com for $12.80

Xhilaration Cami & Short Set available at www.target.com for $10.49

So, I’ve been tagged, this time by PCD aka Pretty Circle Drawer. Here’s the deal,

MEME Rules:

1. Put Your itunes/ music player on Shuffle

2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.

3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER WHAT!!!

Here goes!

IF SOMEONE SAYS “IS THIS OKAY” YOU SAY?
Friend of Mine Remix by Kelly Price

WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
She Will Be Loved by Maroon 5 – I think the lead singer is soooo handsome!!!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
Cry Me a River by Justin Timberlake – LOL!!!

HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
I Got 5 on It by the Luniz – I’m sooo embarrassed!

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE’S PURPOSE?
Put Your Records On by Corinne Bailey Rae – I guess this would be cute if I were a singer or something!

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Save Room by John Legend – That’s true! I do believe that people should save room for love!

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Your Smile by Rene & Angela – I would like to think that I have a nice smile! 🙂

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR PARENTS?
No Scrubs by TLC – That’s right, my mom is no scrub! LOL

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
Guess What? by Syleena Johnson – Strange…

WHAT IS 2+2?
All Falls Down by Kanye West & Syleena Johnson – Funny 2 Syleena songs back-to-back

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
Bump, Bump, Bump by B2K – SO WEIRD!

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Rock Your Body by Justin Timberlake – Good match!

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Before I Let You Go by Blackstreet – ???

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
All For You by Janet Jackson – That’s funny!

WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Contagious by the Isley Brothers – LOL!!!

WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
She Don’t Love You by Letoya Luckett – I hope not! 🙂

WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
They Don’t Know by Jon B. – That fits perfectly!!

WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
My Prerogative by Bobby Brown – I guess it will be my prerogative!!!

WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
My Baby by Janet Jackson & Kanye West – So my husband is my hobby! LOL

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
I Want You Exclusive by Day 26 – Funny!

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
Bed by J. Holiday – Eew!!

WHAT SHOULD YOU POST THIS AS?
Jam Tonight by Freddie Jackson

Thanks PCD for the tag, that was fun! 🙂

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Category: Fashion, PJ Short Set | 20 Comments

Nude Hues

June 12, 2008

As you guys already know, I’m a lip-gloss fanatic. So when I had the opportunity to try a couple new shades from Kissable Couture’s new summer line, I was excited! The line consists of three barely-there nude shades that are great for those who aren’t quite ready to jump on the brighter shades trend. These more subdued hues are perfect for mixing (which I love to do) to create your ideal lip color.

Halle Berry is a fan of the hint of tint look.