Archives for March 2008

Great Moisturizers for All BG Hair Types!

March 18, 2008

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not who you would call a “hair” person. Although I live in New York City, I get my hair done in my hometown, Chicago. I know that sounds crazy, but I head back to the Windy City several times a year. Last year I flew to Chicago 8 times!

Don’t get me wrong, I have had my hair done here before, but the agony of sitting in a salon wasting away precious hours is not my idea of time well-spent. So in order to maintain my mane, I wash and condition it on my own in between touch-ups and trims.

As you can probably assume, I’m a simple BG when it comes to hair styles. I typically wear my hair like you see in my profile picture, a chignon or chic ponytail. When I’m feeling adventurous or desperately in need of a change, I’ll opt for the undone 2-strand flat twist style. My husband thinks I’m boring in the hair department and he might be right, but one thing’s for sure…there are just some styling products that I can’t live without. For example, Soft-Sheen Carson’s Optimum Dry Hair Healer is the absolute best!! It works wonders on my oftentimes lackluster locks.

What are some of your must-have moisturizing styling products?

Here are a few popular picks:

Soft-Sheen Carson Optimum Oil Therapy available at www.drugstore.com for $3.99

Pantene Oil Cream Moisturizer available at www.walgreens.com for $4.99

Kinky Curly’s Curling Custard available at www.kinky-curly.com for $25

Dr. Miracle’s Hot Gro Hair & Scalp Treatment Conditioner availalbe at www.drmiracles.com for $7.99

Motion’s Hair & Scalp Moisturizing Hairdressing available at www.walgreens.com for $4.69

Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk available at www.carolsdaughter.com 4oz. – 8oz. for $12-18

Miss Jessie’s Curly Butter Creme available at www.missjessies.com for $58

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Category: Beauty, Hair | 29 Comments

Terrific Totes!

March 17, 2008

Like most women, I tend to carry my entire life in my handbags. Luckily for pack rats like me, this season is all about the tote! Tote bags are ideal for women who have a habit of putting everything in their bags from makeup palettes to books.

Some of the hottest totes can even double as shopping bags, which is a good and chic way to go green. Plus, many of them are perfect for packing spring/summer essentials for those lovely days at the beach.

Unlike other handbags, totes tend to have a sophisticated and structured look that make them stand out from the other designs. These practical carryalls can definitely hold it all without compromising style!

Check out some of these trendy totes:

Tracy Reese “Tangiers” Tote available at www.nordstrom.com for $594

Isaac Mizrahi Tote available at www.target.com for $39

Juicy Couture “Icon” Tote available at www.nordstrom.com for $75

Kenneth Cole Metallic Leather Tote available at www.macys.com for $103

Saving the Planet Shopper Tote available at www.target.com for $12.99

Banana Republic Sutton Large Straw Shoulder Bag available at www.bananarepublic.com for $198

Coach “Bleecker” Canvas Large Tote available at www.nordstrom.com for $378

Banana Republic Brown & Orange Canvas Tote available at www.bananarepublic.com for $118

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Category: Fashion | 18 Comments

Fabulous Flats!

March 13, 2008

Walking is a huge part of living in New York City. That’s why I love the fact that flats are so fashionable right now. Wearing comfortable, yet chic shoes is essential to getting around in the city.

Who wants to sport sexy, 3 inch-high heels while trying to catch the subway, “L”, Marta or whatever your public train service is called? Ok, maybe some of you do, but it isn’t easy. For those of us in NYC, it takes skill to navigate through the endless throngs of people on crowded sidewalks and subway platforms. Plus, you have to seriously concentrate on how to avoid getting your heel stuck in one of those inconveniently placed subway grates while trying to look poised and polished all at the same time.

So, leave the stylish heels for the days when you’re cabbing it or driving and opt for a fabulous pair of flats!

Check out some of these:

Tory Burch “Reva” Ballet Flat available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $195

Linea Paolo “Florene” Calf Hair Ballet Flat available at www.nordstrom.com for $94

Nine West “Lost One” Yellow Flat available at www.ninewest.com for $59

Jessica Simpson “Leve” Flat available at www.nordstrom.com for $58.95

Faconnable Marcie Flat available at www.piperlime.com for $123

Nine West Silver Giraffe Print Flat available at www.ninewest.com for $49

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Category: Fashion | 26 Comments

New Artist Spotlight – Karina Pasian

March 12, 2008

While most teenagers wish their voices can be heard about different issues, Karina Pasian speaks for them in her catchy, debut single, “16 at War,” which is an anthem of independence and admiration. The newly signed Def Jam R&B recording artist is only 16, but well on her way to becoming the next “it” girl to hit the airwaves. Her song is already in heavy rotation at New York City radio stations.

This New York native’s strong voice has caught the ear of many heavy-hitters in the industry, including the legendary musical genius — Quincy Jones, who happens to be her godfather. Her powerful, yet pristine voice has even been heard at the White House where she performed last year for an Emilio Estevez-produced event. Karina has also worked with popular artists such as Chris Brown, The Dream, Ne-Yo and others.

Having had a passion for singing since a toddler, Karina is a record company’s dream — she’s talented, likable and is cute as a button!

I recently had a chance to speak with the musical ingenue.

Check out our Q&A:

BGG: How did you get signed to Def Jam?

Karina: My A&R, Shakir Stewart, called L.A Reid and told him that he had to come and hear me. L.A Reid was actually on his way to Paris, but came back, heard me and signed me on the spot. Jay-Z closed the deal. There was actually a bidding war for me between record companies, but I decided to go with Def Jam.

BGG: Who are your musical inspirations?

Karina: Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald and Beyonce.

BGG: Describe your musical style and what people can expect to hear on your forthcoming release?

Karina: It’s more like real R&B with pop/dance and hip-hop. It’s definitely real R&B.

BGG: What sets you apart from other artists out right now?

Karina: I think the main thing that separates me from other people who are out, is the message that I deliver. I sing and perform songs that have substance, integrity and story lines that touch people. I really want my music to change people’s lives.

BGG: Who would you like to work with in the industry that you haven’t worked with already?

Karina: Stevie Wonder! I admire him a lot. It would really be a pleasure to work with him.

BGG: What do you want to be known for in the music industry?

Karina: I want to be known as a real artist who is not labeled as Hispanic, but a person who respects herself and has substance.

Here is her song, “16 at War.” She doesn’t have a video for it yet, but I thought you guys might want to hear it!

BGG: What do you do in your spare time for fun?

Karina: I’m just a regular girl. I still go to school. I love to talk on the phone and go to the movies. You know, just regular girl stuff!

BGG: Who do you enjoy listening to on your iPod?

Karina: I love Brandy. I also listen to a lot of gospel including Kim Burrell & Yolanda Adams, as well as Chris Brown, The Dream (he wrote her single, “16 at War” and Rihanna’s “Umbrella”), Beyonce, etc.

BGG: Have you come up with the title for your CD yet, which will be released this summer?

Karina: No, not yet, we’re still working on it!

BGG: What advice do you have for other young singers looking to get signed to a major label?

Karina: My advice would be to always stay grounded, work hard and put your all into it. Also, get a good team; they will keep you grounded.

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Category: Interviews, Music | 18 Comments

For Clear Skin One Word — Cetaphil!

March 11, 2008

If you’re one of the lucky few who never experiences a blemish, pimple or simply dull-looking skin, you’re probably the envy of all of your friends. For the rest of us mere mortals, we have to religiously apply skin care products in an effort to keep our skin looking clear and acne-free.

Cetaphil is one of those effective, tried and true products that have been around since many of us were born. Chances are you’ve tried one of their products whether it was recommended by your friend or dermatologist, this brand is synonymous with achieving clean and clear skin. My sister actually told me about Cetaphil a few years ago.

I tend to have very oily skin with occasional breakouts and washing my face each day with their Daily Facial Cleanser really helps control the oil. The best part about Cetaphil products is that they are fragrance-free and gentle enough for all skin types. Since they don’t have a sweet, girly smell, guys can use them too! Plus, all of their products are conveniently available at drugstores nationwide.

If you’ve never tried Cetaphil, get $2 off of Cetaphil Daily Advance Ultra Hydrating Lotion for joining the Cetaphil club community by logging on to www.cetaphil.com/browngirlgumbo

What are some of your favorite facial cleansers?

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Category: Beauty | 25 Comments

Nip/Tuck?

March 10, 2008

Now that former Destiny’s Child member, Kelly Rowland has confirmed to People magazine after much speculation, that she did in fact undergo breast augmentation, made me think about the increasing number of celebrities and now ordinary working-class people who go under the knife for the quest of physical perfection.

Of course, everyone has the right to choose whether or not they want to have cosmetic surgery, but do we hold celebrities like Rowland to a certain standard? She told People, “It is a decision I made for myself. I like it, and that’s all that counts. I now feel complete.” Do you think that by her admitting her procedure, gives young girls who see her as a role model the wrong impression of loving themselves for who they are?

According to cosmetic surgery statistics, these are the most common procedures:

Whether it’s liposuction or a nose job, would you ever consider having cosmetic surgery? Men, do you prefer women with natural breasts over surgically-enhanced ones or does it matter at all? Please share your thoughts!

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Category: Beauty, Health, News | 22 Comments

Lip Balm Buff

March 6, 2008

I don’t know about you, but I have to apply several products in order to achieve the perfect pout. The first and most important component to my lip regimen is lip balm.

I use balm, butter, jelly or whatever it may be called as a base to get my kisser nice and moist. With so many flavors, textures, tubes and jars, it’s easy to find one that’s right for you. No matter what your product preference, this process is crucial to applying liners, lipsticks and glosses easily and smoothly.

For me, skipping this simple step is a no-no. If for some reason I forget to apply my lip treatment first, it screws up the whole look and feel of my lips. Maybe it’s just me, but I’m obsessed with getting my pucker just right!

Here are a few of my favorite lip moisturizers:

Hershey’s Lip Balm Trio available at www.sephora.com for $16