Brown Girl Gumbo

GIVEAWAY: Warner’s Bra & Panties Set

July 7, 2015

Since my boobs are no longer going up and down in size due to breastfeeding, it’s time to get a bra fitting and go shopping!

Warner’s has a line of bra and panties that won’t pinch or tug in all the wrong places. Launching this month, the No Pinching. No Problem. collection promises to provide smooth silhouettes. For me, comfort trumps style—luckily, these bra and panties don’t lack in either department. The seamless underwire or front-closure wire-free bra designs contours to the body creating a functional, yet sexy look. Plus, the hipster and hi-cut panties are soft and practical. Gone are the unflattering creases and painful digs that tight elastic panty bands and ill-fitting bras can cause. Who wants to be tugging and adjusting their unmentionables all day?

Not only can some bras and panties be uncomfortable, but wearing the wrong undergarments can wreak havoc on outfits too! That’s why it’s just as important to put thought into what you’re putting on underneath as what you put on top.

Warner’s No Pinching. No Problems. collection available here, starting at $12

**GIVEAWAY: If you’re looking to add to your intimate apparel wardrobe, you’re in luck. I’ve partnered with Warner’s to give two readers a bra and panties set valued at approximately $55. Simply leave a comment below or Tweet me (@BrownGirlGumbo) telling me what’s more important to you when it comes to intimate apparel: comfort or style? The giveaway is only open to U.S residents. The winners will be randomly selected and notified via email on Tuesday July 21, 2015 (contest ends 11:59 pm July 20, 2015).

Category: Fashion, Giveaway, Gumbo Mix, Uncategorized | 31 Comments

Product Review: Dyson V6 Absolute Cordless Vacuum

July 6, 2015

With two small kids under the age of 5, my apartment is a magnet for mess.

From pretzel crumbs to colored pencil shavings to Cheerios, my floor can be subjected to just about anything at any given moment. Luckily, we have a Dyson V6 Absolute Cordless to help clean up the never-ending mess. Calling this household device a vacuum cleaner doesn’t do it justice—this is a MACHINE! While it’s completely compact and easy to use, it packs such a powerful punch that lumping it in a group of average vacuums just doesn’t seem right.

Unlike others on the market, this two-speed Dyson lifts layers of dirt in addition to picking up surface crumbs and the like with the ease of a trigger. The suction is so intense that it sucks up the most stubborn dirt and dust for an unmatched deep cleaning. It works brilliantly on carpets, hardwood and linoleum. Plus, it comes with four attachments (dusting brush, crevice tool, dusting tool and rotating brush turbine tool) for multi-use. We use it to remove dirt and dust from those hard-to-reach places, such as vents, ceilings and walls. I also enjoy using the crevice tool to suck up the nibbles and bits from my son’s highchair and stroller. The slender attachment is also great for cleaning out nooks and crannies from around large kitchen appliances such as stoves and refrigerators. Not only are the attachments huge bonuses, but the V6 can also turn into a handy handheld. Simply remove the handle and you’re equipped with a pint-size picker-upper, ideal for cleaning couches and cars.

There’s no denying that the functionality is the most important aspect, the sleek, hi-tech design makes it even more appealing. My husband constantly raves about how cool it looks. He once said that it “seems like a gadget straight out of the “Jetsons!”‘ In addition to the performance and feel, the convenience of it being cordless, bagless and compact is a huge benefit for those of us who live in small spaces.

If you’re looking for a vacuum cleaner with incredible pickup power, look no further. The price might seem steep, but you get what you pay for. Trust me, it’s a splurge—but it’s well worth it!

Dyson V6 Absolute Cordless Vacuum available here, $599

*Disclosure: I received a Dyson V6 vacuum to conduct this product review. All thoughts, opinions and expressions are my own.

What’s the one household device/gadget that you can’t live without?

Category: Gumbo Mix | 2 Comments

Beauty Buy: CARGO Cosmetics New Gel Lip Colors

July 6, 2015

During the summer months I usually opt for a less-is-more look. Who can be bothered with heavy makeup while fighting constant humidity? Not me.

That’s why I’ve been obsessed with CARGO cosmetic’s new 2015 limited edition Gel Lip Colors. Not quite a gloss or a balm, this unique beauty buy is definitely a treat for your lips. The soothing gel texture glides on effortlessly and doesn’t create that nasty white film like some glosses and balms. It can be worn alone to moisturize lips while providing a subtle hint of color or added to existing lipstick for an added bit of sheen. I like to use it solo to keep my lips soft and supple. Plus, the adorable skyline packaging and New York City-inspired names (Brooklyn, Soho, Tribeca and Chelsea) make it even more of a fun and practical purchase.

If simple, hydrated lips is your thing don’t miss out on these offerings. Remember, they’re a limited edition and won’t last long!

Check them out below:

CARGO Limited Edition Gel Lip Color in “Tribeca” available here, $20

CARGO Limited Edition Gel Lip Color in “Brooklyn” available here, $20

CARGO Limited Edition Gel Lip Color in “Soho” available here, $20

CARGO Limited Edition Gel Lip Color in “Chelsea” available here, $20

What’s your go-to summer lip choice: lipstick, balm or gloss?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

3 Tips to Keep In Mind At Your Next Barbecue

July 3, 2015

When it comes to the Fourth of July, fireworks might be the first thing to come to mind. But, food is probably a pretty close second! In fact, the 4th is the most popular holiday for grilling, followed by Memorial Day.

Who can resist the taste of juicy burgers, finger-licking BBQ and delectable hot dogs? Oh and don’t forget the American quintessential sides of potato salad and baked beans! These decadent summer staples are synonymous with the holiday and help make it fun and festive. While it’s ok to indulge in some of these mouth-watering dishes, it’s important to be smart and sensible.

Dr. Michele Reed, a board certified family physician in New York, shares a few tips on how to stay active and avoid derailing a healthy diet at your next backyard barbecue:

View image | gettyimages.com

*Prep for Success: Set the menu, shop smart and have fun. Make sure lean meats, creative salads, in-season fruits and veggies and better-for-you marinades are all part of the plan.

*Get Moving: In between the food and drinks comes all that great activity. Keep a playlist of tunes going, have some water balloons on reserve or play an impromptu volleyball game – there are tons of crowd-pleasing activities that you can do in your own backyard.

*Portion-Control Gear: Whether you’re bringing your favorite summertime salad or a delectable dessert make sure to include a serving utensil that promotes portion sized eating. If hosting, choose a theme, decorate your space and remember to encourage portion controlled eating by stocking up on salad-sized plates.

What’s your favorite Fourth of July fare? How do you make healthy choices while being tempted with tasty summer treats?

Category: Gumbo Mix, Health, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

Show Off Your Patriotic Side With These Festive Polishes

July 2, 2015

With the Fourth of July only a couple days away, why not celebrate with a patriotic mani? Deck out your digits in festive red, white and blue shades to honor America’s independence.

I’m a bit on the conservative side when it comes to polishes and designs—so rocking a plain white color is probably the extent of my patriotism. But, if you’re feeling a bit more daring, opt for a decorative mix of eye-catching nail art. From flags to fireworks, the options are endless.

Check out these patriotic-inspired polishes to show off at your 4th of July shindig:

Mischo Beauty “Billie” Nail Lacquer Set available here, $54

Butter London Nail Lacquer in “Sprog” available here, $15

American Flag Nail Decals available here, $2 (for a set of 20)

O.P.I Infinite Shine Lacquer in “Nonstop White” available here, $8

Essie Nail Polish in “Leading Lady” available here, $8.50

JinSoon Nail Polish in “Cool Blue” available here, $18

Do you get creative with your nails or stick to more conservative looks?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

Mom’s Corner: The Benefits of Breastfeeding

July 2, 2015

As a mother, breastfeeding my children was such a special, cherished time in my life.

From the moment they came into the world I offered them what I felt was the best choice—breast milk. Prior to having them, I researched all the facts about breastfeeding. I found that there were just too many benefits for moms and babies to not give it a shot. Luckily, both of my little ones latched on immediately and quite effortlessly. And, frankly it took them a while to finally let go and move on to the next stage.

To be clear, I don’t knock moms who prefer to feed their newborns and infants formula—I simply did what I felt was the most natural and beneficial for my family and me. I nursed both of my children exclusively for the 6 months, which is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. In fact, I continued well past a year.

Me nursing my son when he was still under a year old (I think).

I know that not every mom has as good of a nursing experience that I’ve had, but I encourage all new and expectant moms to at least give it her best effort.

Every mom is entitled to feeding their babies what they feel is best no matter what. But, in case you or someone you know is thinking about breastfeeding, check out these tips, facts and advantages from the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners and the American Academy of Pediatrics:

*Breastfeeding provides unique health benefits for babies.

*Ask the doctors and nurses to place your baby skin to skin with you immediately after birth (the baby must be healthy and alert) so that you can breastfeed.

*Try not to give the baby a pacifier while breastfeeding is being established (a few weeks to 1 month after birth).

*Mothers who breastfeed recover from childbirth more quickly and easily.

*Breastfeeding also protects the mom’s health.

*Breastfeeding saves money.

*Breastfeeding is also good for the environment, since there are no bottles to wash or formula cans to throw away.

*Breastfeeding takes practice and you may need help. Don’t be discourage if you find it challenging at first, it gets easier.

Did you breastfeed your child(ren)? What was your experience?

Category: Health, Travel & Lifestyle | 3 Comments

Wedding Season: Say ‘I Do’… to Tech

June 30, 2015

It’s official, wedding season is in full swing!

If you or someone you know is planning a wedding, chances are you’re going to do it in style—tech style that is. Sure, beautiful gowns, lovely venues and mouth-watering menus top many brides’ check-lists, but now technological components are also becoming major factors when it comes to planning the perfect wedding celebration.

View image | gettyimages.com

From photo booths to selfie sticks, today’s nuptials are becoming an even more fun, interactive affair. With social media having such a huge impact on so many of our daily lives, it’s only fitting that this cultural phenomenon would also be apart of our wedding ceremonies. Plus, incorporating tech gadgets and encouraging guests to share photos, etc, provides the bride and groom with memorable shots that a traditional photographer might miss. And, of course creating a custom hashtag is a must to group all of your silly and swoon-worthy shots!

My only gripe with the tech trend is that I wish some of these cool innovations and social media existed back when I tied the knot a decade ago! Perhaps, one day time travel will turn that dream into a reality! LOL

In the meantime, check out a couple of gadgets from AT&T that will help you pull off the perfect high-tech wedding day: