Archives for March 2008

BGG Book Review – Love’s Troubadours: Karma: Book One

BGG stirs up everything that chic brown girls love – so why not include book reviews! We all love a good read so I’ve decided to occasionally incorporate book reviews into the mix.

First up, Love’s Troubadours: Karma: Book One, by Ananda Kiamsha Madelyn Leeke. If you haven’t heard of this extremely talented self-published author yet, trust me you will. Leeke’s debut novel tells the inspiring story of a young woman named Karma who loses her two most prized possessions – her artsy career and her ideal cosmopolitan life in New York City.

Although her broken spirit sends her on a downward spiral of self-doubt, depression and confusion, she is awakened by revelations that allow her to see that jobs and enviable lifestyles do not define her true purpose.

Love’s Troubadours is a well-written journey of introspection sprinkled with musical references that will make you take a closer look at your own life and recognize the importance of accepting one’s self for who you are. The book also demonstrates how the human spirit can prevail over any circumstance with the support and love of confidantes, family and friends.

The next time you’re in the mood to curl up on a comfy couch for a good read, grab Love’s Troubadours, – it will not disappoint.

For more on the author, please visit: www.lovestroubadours.com or www.myspace.com/lovestroubadours

To purchase the book, visit www.amazon.com

If you’re currently reading a great book, please share!

Hot Spot: Los Angeles

The City of Angels has always been one of my favorite places to visit. I’ve had an affinity toward L.A ever since I made my first trek there to visit family back in 1998. It was beautiful, the

Who’s Your Style Icon?

My die-hard, fashionista friend (AZ) once asked me, “Who’s your style icon past or present?” I had to think about it for a moment, but I came to the conclusion that that person would have to be the beautiful and talented Dorothy Dandridge. Even though she died decades before I was born, she exuded style, grace and class.

A style icon is someone who sets trends and doesn’t follow them. Perhaps you admire Jennifer Lopez’s sexy street-glam style or the simple chicness of the late Jackie-O? Maybe she isn’t someone who’s known around the world. She could be your fabulously fierce mother or super stylish cousin. Or better yet, maybe you march to the beat of your own drum and don’t follow anybody’s flair for fashion because your personal style is so fresh and unique that there’s no need to look to others for style adoration other than yourself!

Here are a few fashion icons from yesteryear and today that I think are pretty noteworthy. So I ask, who is your style icon?


Legendary actress Dorothy Dandrige always looked polished and pulled-together.


India.Arie taught us all to love ourselves and she exemplifies her mantra with earthy, yet sexy styles.


Our favorite girlfriend, Tracee Ellis Ross has a feminine eclectic style that always demands attention.


New mom Jennifer Lopez effortlessly mixes urban street style with glam.


Jackie Kennedy-Onassis is the quintessential style icon that trancends all demographics. I think we can all agree that her style was timeless.


Beyonce’s fashion sense has evolved from ill-fitted fringe fiascos into a sleek and stylish silhouettes.


Halle Berry even looks fashion forward while pregnant. Can this beauty ever look bad?


Audrey Hepburn’s style epitomized classic chic.

Banging Bangles!

Nothing adds sass and pizazz to an outfit like a unique bangle. I usually like to wear this accessory with a cute dress or tank top and jeans during the spring and summer months for a pulled together, yet carefree look.

They instantly add punch to an otherwise boring outfit. Plus, they work well for both day and night. Depending on your mood, you can throw on a whimsical bold, multi-colored bangle or if you’re feeling a bit more on the conversative side, opt for a more solid subtle shade. The designs, styles and materials of bangles are endless.

Whether you pile them on a la 80s style or wear them individually, a bangle bracelet is the perfect arm candy!


Jessica Kagan Cushman Colored Bangles available at www.ravinstyle.com for $74 (each)


Jessicia Kagan Cushman Bangles available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $125 (each)


Set of 20 Gold Finished Bangles available at www.nordstrom.com for $78


Curved Black Bangle available at www.rampage.com for $8


Pinstripe Wooden Bangle available at www.bananarepublic.com for $24


Beanpye Bracelets available at www.beanpye.com for $25 (each)


Retro Wooden Bangle available at www.forever21.com for $6.80


Tasha Faceted Bangle Bracelet available at www.nordstrom.com for $48 (each)