Brown Girl Gumbo

Beauty Buy: Bliss Micro Magic Microdermabrasion Treatment

April 22, 2014

Being a busy mom of two, I rarely get the opportunity to indulge in the luxury of spa pampering.

Thanks to Bliss Micro Magic, it’s now easy for me to recreate a spa-like facial experience in the comfort of my own bathroom. A cross between a mask and a cleanser, this at-home microdermabrasion treatment has been a godsend for my skin.

The fine micro-beads exfoliate by gently sloughing away dead skin cells leaving behind a super soft and clear complexion. Plus, it manages to make my pores appear smaller.

I’ve been a fan of Bliss Spa and just about every product from the brand for years, but I was especially drawn to Micro Magic because it’s formulated with volcanic pumice. There’s just something intriguing about a product containing anything from a volcano! Not only does the volcanic pumice make the treatment an interesting beauty buy, the aloe, peppermint, and Vitamin E ingredients seal the deal.

Although the directions suggest using the product twice a week for the best results, I’m already impressed with my skin’s appearance after a single use. I’m going to use it again tonight, but can’t imagine my face looking any more radiant.

If you’re in need of a good facial, but short on time or money give Micro Magic a try!

Bliss Micro Magic Microdermabrasion Treatment available here, $48

How often do you get facials? What are some of some of your at-home spa products?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

Lala Anthony Debuts Short New ‘Do

April 21, 2014

Lala Anthony is going for a lighter, care-free look for spring.

The New York Time’s best-selling author, actress and TV personality, 34, took to Instagram to show off her new eye-catching blonde shorter ‘do with the caption, “Guess who got a haircut by @cesar4styles??!!”

Photo: Lala’s Instagram

Lala’s lovely new style is a nod to her flourishing businesses. “We felt it was time for a new look; a nice change to complement all the exciting new projects taking off in her career,” says Mizani celebrity hairstylist Cesar Ramirez. “Something young and fun to really show off her personality. Being that we are going into summer it was also the perfect opportunity to go much lighter and make a bold statement.”

If you want to achieve Lala’s look, here are a three easy steps:

*On wet hair Cesar applied Mizani Thermastrength Heat Protecting Serum get a shiny blowout while protecting the newly lightened hair from heat damage. Using a small round brush he created a wavy texture.

*Once dried, he used Mizani Defyne Wax to define and hold the desired style into place.

*Finally, Cesar set the look with Mizani HRM Humidity Resistant Mist light hold hair spray to prevent her hair from reverting in the warmer weather.

Do you like Lala’s new ‘do? Have you or are you planning on switching up your hairstyle for spring/summer?

Category: Hair | Leave a Comment

Denim Overalls for Spring: Over or In?

April 15, 2014

I never thought the day would come when overalls would be considered stylish again.

From Rihanna to Ashley Madekwe, over the past year or so, celebrities and street-style fashionistas have been sporting them out and about. Luckily, this time around they’re cropping up in slimmer, more flattering designs and fits.

Back in the 90s, I like many other teens confidently rocked the farmer chic fashion staple. I remember begging my mom for a pricey pair of oversize Calvin Klein aka “CK” overalls from Marshall Field’s (my Chicago readers will remember that store) much to her dismay, but she bought them anyway. They were at least three sizes too big, but back then the bigger and baggier the better! Clearly, I wanted to look like TLC’s long lost fourth member. But in fashion, even the most notoriously questionable styles make a comeback.

While I’m not totally opposed to this popular trend, I’m also not convinced that it lends itself to the over-30 set.

Check out these styles for spring and summer:

Hart Denim Overall Shorts available here, $78

Kensie Jeans Denim Overalls available here, $98

American Rag Denim Overalls available here, $62

American Rag Denim Short Overalls available here, $59

BDG Button-Down Slim Fit Denim Overalls available here, $79

ASOS Workwear Denim Overalls in Washed Black available here, $45

Are you feeling this trend? Did you wear overalls back in the day?

Category: Fashion, Style | 1 Comment

Review: Evenflo Classic Glass Feeding Bottle Featuring Proflow

April 14, 2014

I must admit, I hardly use bottles to feed my 6 1/2 month-old-son.

Yep, I’m one of those moms who breastfeeds on demand all day, everyday. It’s easy for me and my son loves the comfort and nourishment that it provides. However, when my outfit or a particular public location or outing isn’t conducive to breastfeeding, Evenflo’s new bottle line with Proflow vented nipples has been my substitute.

Evenflo Classic + Vented Bottles with Proflow Vented Nipples (trio of 8 oz) available exclusively at Babies R Us, $9.99

I prefer the classic glass option because it cuts down on germs and mold that can creep in with plastic ones. Plus, with the Proflow innovation, the vented nipples direct those dreaded air bubbles straight into the bottle instead of my son’s stomach, reducing gassy fussiness.

Being a second-time mom, I’ve never found a bottle and nipple that my children actually like as much as the “real thing.” My firstborn used bottles a lot more frequently than my son, so I’ve tried a wide variety. The classic glass ProFlow doesn’t leak either, which is a true bonus. And, since we moms are always short on time, the one-piece nipple eliminates extra dish duty.

If you’re on the hunt for a good glass bottle, give the new Evenflo ones with Proflow nipples a go!

Do you prefer glass or plastic bottles?

Category: Baby, Health, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 2 Comments

Kelly Rowland Joins Caress as New ‘Fabulista’

April 10, 2014

In case you haven’t heard, Kelly Rowland is the new “Fabulista” for Caress body washes.

Known for her flawless healthy-looking skin, it seems only fitting that the Grammy-award winning singer would be tapped by the Unilever brand to be its newest ambassador.

In her role, Kelly will follow in her BFF Lala Anthony’s (she was also a Caress Fabulista) footsteps by sharing beauty and fashion tips with consumers and showing them how fresh fragrances inspire her to be fabulous.

Through her partnership with Caress, the brand has launched the new Fresh Collection of body washes including: Emerald Rush (also has a beauty bar), Aqua Sparkle and Juicy Escape. Each of the shower gels is refreshingly fragrant and leaves just the right amount of scent on skin. Since I’m a sucker for citrusy smells, Juicy Escape is my favorite because it has notes of pink grapefruit.

Caress Fresh Collection is available at drugstores nationwide, $5.99

Watch Kelly give us a sneak peek into the upcoming Caress® S/S ’14 Lookbook

I recently caught up with the former Destiny’s Child beauty to inquire about her favorite scent from the collection, her role as a Fabulista and more!

Check out our Q&A below:

BGG: I’m sure you’re offered many partnership opportunities from various brands. Why did you want to team up with Caress?

Kelly Rowland: As an artist, finding inspiration from my surroundings is so important. I’m so excited to team up with Caress Body Wash to help launch the NEW Fresh Collection. Starting my day off with a little fresh fine fragrance gets me revitalized and ready to experience my day to the fullest potential. I’ve been using Caress products for years, and when I got a sneak peek of the new line, I loved it, and knew my fans would too!

BGG: What does being a “Fabulista” mean to you?

KR: I’m so excited to be one of the newest Caress Fabulistas. It’s a celebration of being fabulous and a fashionista! Being part of this amazing group of beauty and style icons gives me the platform to share tips I’ve learned along my journey on how to be fabulous. I’m so excited to join Caress to inspire my fans to enjoy every day experiences in a fresh new way.

BGG: I know they all smell lovely, but out of the three new Fresh collection body washes, what’s your favorite scent?

KR: I love the Caress Emerald Rush from the new Fresh Collection because I’ve always loved the revitalizing scent of lush gardenia and white tea. I also love the Juicy Escape body wash to start my day – so uplifting!

BGG: What is the one style trend that you’re looking forward to trying this spring/summer?

KR: I am LOVING Pastels!

BGG: What’s the most inspiring time of day for you? When do you feel the most creative?

KR: It doesn’t matter what time of day, inspiration brings my creativity to life!

BGG: When do you feel the most beautiful?

KR: When I’m with my family, I feel happy and loved – and beautiful.

BGG: I’m sure it’s hard to choose just one, but if you can what is your all-time favorite song (solo or as a member of Destiny’s Child) to perform? Why?

KR: My favorite song to perform is “Motivation” because it really makes me feel sexy.

BGG: What’s the one song from any artist that can instantly boost your mood?

KR: Right now, I’m loving “Happy” by Pharrell.

Do you use Caress body washes? What’s your favorite Kelly Rowland or Destiny’s Child song?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Beauty, Beauty News, Interviews | 2 Comments

Cool Spring Styles for Kids at The Children’s Place

April 9, 2014

When it comes to buying clothes for my kids, The Children’s Place is my go-to store.

Ever since Ava was a newborn, I’ve been shopping at the kid-centric store. They have fashionable clothes that are comfortable and affordable. Usually when you find kids’ clothing that isn’t overly expensive, the quality is usually compromised. Luckily, that is not the case at The Children’s Place.

Ava visiting The Children’s Place located in Union Square (NYC).

From seasonal dresses to fun graphic tees to girly accessories, Ava always enjoys a visit to TCP. The fact that there’s one only 3 blocks away from our apartment makes it even easier and convenient to stop by and browse the latest styles. In fact, we’ve been to the store three times in the last two weeks!

Now that I have a 6-month-old son, I’ve been hitting up the boys’ side of the store and have been equally impressed. The items aren’t overrun with licensed characters, which is a nod to its design aesthetic. The clothes are on-trend and practical.

It’s hard to believe that TCP wasn’t established until 1989 (when I was 9-years-old). I don’t remember ever shopping there as a child, but if I had, I probably would’ve been one of the best-dressed kids on the block!

Check out some of my favorite looks for spring:

Watercolor Floral Jacket available here, $27

Icon Sweatshirt available here, $9.50

Floral Jeggings available here, $12

Smile Rainbow Bag available here, $6

Plaid Shirt available here, $12

Full-Zip Hoodie available here, $10

Camo Knit Cargo Pants available here, $6

Boys Camera Graphic Tee available here, $6

*Disclosure: I received compensation in the form of a gift card for this post.

Do you shop at The Children’s Place? If not, where do you like to shop for kids’ clothes?

Category: Baby, Style, Travel & Lifestyle | 1 Comment

No Sugar, No Sweat

April 7, 2014

Hello, my name is Karla and I’m a candy fanatic.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a killer sweet tooth for Skittles, Starburts, and my all-time favorite— gummy bears. In fact, since my son was born last September, I’ve been consuming on average a pound of gummy bears a week ! Although I do work out here and there, I know that I need to change my snacking habits for my health and to be a good example for my children.

That’s why I’m excited to take the #AveenoDailyChallenge! I’m ditching my go-to sugar fixes for healthier fruit options for the next 3 weeks. Instead of gummy bears I’ll be munching on strawberries, apples and pineapples. Plus, I plan on pampering my skin with Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion as an additional part of the challenge to keep it smooth and supple for spring.

I know omitting candy from my life won’t be easy, especially with Easter (my favorite holiday) only a couple of weeks away, but I’m committed to completing this challenge. I’ll keep you guys posted on my progress.

Wish me luck!

Have you ever done a similar challenge? If so, do you have any advice for going cold turkey?

Category: Wellness | 5 Comments