Brown Girl Gumbo

Pretty-in-Print Bikinis

May 30, 2012

With the unofficial start of summer underway, it’s time to hit the beach in this season’s hottest print bikinis. Don’t fret if you weren’t blessed with the svelte body of a Victoria’s Secret model or boast Baywatch-worthy curves, there are endless cuts and designs to complement all shapes and sizes.

From tankinis to halters to itty-bitty string bikinis, wearing a flattering two-piece bathing suit is the most fashionable way to have fun in the sun.

Remember, all you need is confidence to be a bombshell on or off the beach!

Check out a few of these pretty print two-pieces:

There’s no skirting around the fact that this Robin Piccone Ikat is beyond eye-catching. Available here, $132

For those who don’t dare to bare their bellies, this Pily Q tankini is ideal. Available at here, $128

Beyoncé showed off her killer bod in this 80s-inspired Luli Fama Delirio bikini via her Tumblr. Available here, $152

This sexy Mara Hoffman Underwire Cami bikini will provide maximum support for your best assets. Available here, $220

Customizing your perfect fit will be a cinch with this drawstring Roberta Roller Rabbit bikini. Available here, $100

A twist on the classic bandeau style, this Argentovivo Graphic Print is a striking standout. Available, here, $350

Let your shoulders take center-stage with this sleek Vince Camuto Camouflage Halter bikini. Available, here, $138

Are you bikini-ready for the summer? What’s your favorite bikini style?

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Category: Fashion | 3 Comments

Black Opal Takes a Step in a New Direction

May 29, 2012

Since 1994, Black Opal has been celebrating brown-skinned beauty by offering products that cater to our specific skin needs. However, since becoming one of the first cosmetics and skincare brands to solely cater to melanin-rich skin tones, it seems to have gotten a bit lost in the shuffle. In my opinion, the launch of similar lines and mainstream makeup companies finally addressing the void in the marketplace caused the brand to somewhat fly under the radar in recent years.

That’s all about to change with the help of celebrity makeup artist, Frank Guyton, who will serve as the brand’s new Artistic Director. Under his guidance, Black Opal will continue to serve and take brown beauty to exciting new heights by developing color trends, shade palettes, cosmetic techniques, and more. First up, the lovely Paradise Passion and Colada Cocktail compacts for summer.

The Caribbean-inspired palettes will transform peepers into tropical delights. With bold shades of cool ocean blues, dazzling bronzes, and unexpected yellows, these shadows and shimmers capture the true spirit of the season.

Tropical Sizzle compacts will be exclusively available at blackopalbeauty.com starting June 21st

Do you wear bold and bright shadows during the summer or do you tend to stick to neutral palettes throughout the year?

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Category: Beauty | 2 Comments

Have a Snap Happy Holiday Weekend

May 25, 2012

If you guys caught any of my tweets from earlier this week, you’d know that I was in my hometown, Chicago. I was back in the Windy City to attend yet another Oprah’s LifeClass taping.

I know, I know, I’m totally Oprah obsessed, but I’m really just trying to get tips on how to “live my best life ever!”

The show featured author Iyanla Vanzant and the topic was about having those tough talks with a loved one. The show hit close to home because who hasn’t had a time in their lives when they were faced with the rather unpleasant task of having a hard conversation? I actually am facing that very scenario with a former close friend.

Whether we confront conflicts head-on or cower away in fear, we have all had those times when we just have to let it all out in order to move on and resolve the problem. But, whatever you do, don’t ever try to resolve a problem via email or any social media platform. Far too often I see people airing their dirty laundry on social media when a conversation over the phone or better yet in person would be the obvious smarter choice. Oprah and Iyanla agree.

I used to dream of working at Harpo Studios when I lived in Chicago.

That said, I’ll be back next week with more beauty, style, and giveaways. In the meantime, please check me out on Instagram:

Are you on Instagram? If so, I’d love to follow you! Leave your handles in the comments. Also, if you have any recommendations, please let me know. Right now, I’m only following 2 ppl! Ha!

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Category: Gumbo Mix | 2 Comments

FashionIndie Features My Summer Beauty Must-Have

May 23, 2012

My friends over at FashionIndie.com recently featured my summer makeup must-have along with four other fantastic beauty blogger favorites.

It’s always flattering when fellow blogs and websites include my two cents in their roundups.

Check out our best balmy weather picks here.

What’s your summer makeup essential?

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Category: Beauty | 4 Comments

Event Recap: The Brotherhood & Sister Sol Voices 8

May 22, 2012

The African proverb, “it takes a village to raise a child,” is an ideology that I’ve always believed to be true. The Brotherhood and Sister Sol organization exemplifies that concept. For nearly 20 years, Bro/Sis has served as a long-term support system for thousands of Black and Latino youth from ages 8 to 22.

Founded in 1995 by Khary Lazarre-White and Jason Warwin, the New York City-based non-profit organization focuses on leadership building and educational advancement through a myriad of enriched, hands-on programs and outreach. From helping students with homework to funding life-changing trips abroad, Bro/Sis has positively impacted many lives.

Last week, Bro/Sis held its 8th Annual VOICES event held at the Frederick P. Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center honoring and celebrating those who have helped make the organization a success throughout the year.

Hosted by actor Boris Kodjoe, the night was filled with inspiring, soul-stirring speeches by attendees and honorees including: Soledad O’Brien, Ana L. Oliveira, Harry Belafonte, Mayor David Dinkins to name a few.

From L to R: Wyclef Jean, Harry Belafonte, and Boris Kodjoe.

“We strive to offer long term, intensive involvement for our members and provide unique services that support their personal development and academic achievements which is why 95% of BHSS Alumni are working full time or enrolled in college,” said Lazarre-White.

Although Bro/Sis is based in New York, its leaders have worked with various schools and similar programs throughout the country to help expand its mission. With organizations like Bro/Sis, our villages will be filled with smart, globally-aware, upstanding citizens.

What are some of your favorite outstanding youth serving organizations?

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Category: Gumbo Mix | 2 Comments

Listen: Whitney Houston’s Last Recorded Work

May 21, 2012

It’s still hard to believe that Whitney Houston aka “The Voice,” is no longer with us, but her fans will be comforted today with the release of the late songbird’s final recording.

“Celebrate,” from the upcoming remake film, Sparkle, in which Houston stars was her last recorded song before her passing in February.

The uptempo single features Jordin Sparks who also co-stars in the movie set for release in August.

Listen below:

Did you watch the Whitney Houston tribute on the Billboard Awards last night?

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Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

Event Recap: “Spring Is In The Hair” National Natural Hair Day Event

May 21, 2012

This year National Natural Hair Day took place on Saturday, May 19th. In cities across the country, naturalistas gathered to talk hair, network, and gain information about how to care for natural textures.

I attended the “Spring Is In the Hair,” meet-up hosted by Natasha Gaspard of My Mane Moves and Imani Dawson of A Tribe Called Curl at The Rock Shop in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

The event location was only a few blocks from my apartment so there was no excuse not to attend the soiree celebrating our curls, coils, kinks, and waves.

Admittedly, my hair didn’t turn out the way I had hoped. So I took a last-ditch effort and quickly pulled my hair into pompadour held in place with a mini headband.

At the event, we learned tips from Karen’s Body Beautiful and super cute styling techniques from sought-after stylist Diane Bailey of Tendrils Hair Spa in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. Plus, there were plenty of fun interactive games and giveaways throughout the afternoon. To top it off, each attendee walked away with a gift bag filled with full-size hair, bath, and body products.

I’m still a newbie when it comes to natural hair meet-ups so this gathering was a great introduction.

Check out a few pics: