Archives for May 2011

Black is Beautiful!

May 31, 2011

Over the holiday weekend I finally got the chance to watch the preview of the documentary, “Dark Girls,” directed by Bill Duke. If you’re unfamiliar with the video, it explores the deep-seated biases and attitudes about skin color – particularly women of a dark complexion.

The candor of the documentary’s participants is why this must-see video has captured the attention of thousands. Being a mom to a little girl, I can only hope that as she grows up she will love herself regardless of people’s ignorance.

Have you ever had any internal issues about your skin color? Were you ever teased because you were dark-skinned? Please share your thoughts.

Category: Uncategorized | 9 Comments

Farewell Oprah…

May 25, 2011


Courtesy of Harpo

Today marks an end of an era in television. For nearly a quarter of a century, millions of viewers from around the world have tuned in and grown up with The Oprah Winfrey Show. Although I was only 6-years-old when the show first hit the airwaves, like so many other 80s babies, Oprah was THE queen of television in my household.

From shows on domestic violence to unbelievable giveaways, The Oprah Winfrey Show has taught me immensely throughout the years. Plus, being a Chicago native, I feel proud to have lived in the city that built Harpo.

It was always my dream to work for her and a few years ago I came VERY close to fulfilling that goal. However, at the time it was not meant to be. I’m sure that her inspiring and uplifting passion to enlighten the world will continue and ultimately go down in history. Oprah is by far one of America’s greatest teachers and I’m forever grateful.

What’s your favorite Oprah show/memory?

Category: Uncategorized | 3 Comments

Cool Carol’s Daughter Event for my NYC Beauty Babes

May 24, 2011

If you’re in the New York City area and are a fan of Carol’s Daughter, there’s an event taking place right now that you won’t want to miss. The brand known for their luscious lathers and sweet skin and hair care products is launching their Monoi collection at Sephora 34th Street today. The new spokesbeauties: Solange, Selita Ebanks and Cassie will be on-hand to celebrate the new hair care collection.

Beginning at 9am today, the first 250 customers to make a Monoi Gift Set purchase at the Sephora 34th street location will receive wristbands enabling them to meet Solange, Selita and Cassie in person later that evening (consumers should bring their own cameras to get their photo taken with the Spokesbeauties; one photo per person). Walk-ins will also be welcome during the consumer portion of the event.

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

Mini BGG Break

May 17, 2011

Dear Loyal and Lovely BGG Readers,

I’m taking a mini vacation and will be back blogging on Monday. I hope you all have a wonderful and productive week! 🙂

Category: Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

Sail into Style with Stripes

May 13, 2011

We all have our go-to patterns or signature styles that we can never seem to have too much of, right? Well, striped clothing is by far one of my favorite things to buy. I can’t even begin to count the number of striped shirts, sweaters, shoes, and dresses that have made a home in my closet throughout the years.

With the vast variations of the classic crisp nautical look, stripes can be sexy, preppy, or just plain fun!

If you want to ride the wave of linear looks with me this summer, check out some of my top picks:


Anne Taylor Tee available at www.anntaylor.com for $36.50


Knitted Navy Stripe Stitch Open Cardigan available at www.topshop.com for $80


J. Crew Maritime Stripe Blazer available at www.jcrew.com for $118


Maloles Zoe Stripe Flats available at www.cultstatus.com.au for $250


Vivienne Westwood Anglo-Mania Dress available at www.netaporter.com for $345


Elizabeth and James Sleeveless Tie-Front Stripe Top available at www.bloomingdales.com for $265


Blu Bijoux Orange Chevron Drop Earrings available at www.maxandchloe.com for $48


Faye Striped Skirt available at www.lastcall.com for $39 (originally $92!)


Diba ‘Dance With Me’ Red Satin Stripe Wedge Sandal available at www.heels.com for $58


Chevron Stripe Dress available at www.millyny.com for $295


BCBGeneration Stripe Drape Skirt available at www.dillards.com for $88

Are you a fan of stripes?

**The winner of the Vince Camuto shoes is BlessedOne! Please send me your mailing address along with your shoe size. Congrats! Thanks to everyone who left a comment for the contest.

Category: Fashions | 5 Comments

L’Occitane’s New Cosmetics Line

May 11, 2011

Known for their rich and luxurious hand lotions and soaps, L’Occitane en Provence recently launched their newest color cosmetic collection: Pivoine Flora Make-Up. The popular French brand’s latest makeup is inspired by the pretty petals of peonies. Not only is the peony the collection’s inspiration, it’s also an ingredient.

The lovely springtime hues are enriched with softening peony extract, which helps the products glide effortlessly onto skin, making for easy blend-ability.

From a Facecolor Cream Duo to four shades of Lip Shine, L’Occitane is proving that it’s more than a place to buy deluxe lotions. top-notch toiletries and fragrances. The entire collection includes the aforementioned products as well as a face powder, lipstick, eyeshadow, and face powder.

Do you frequent L’Occitane?

Btw, the winner of the Black-Up products is Barbara! Congrats and please send me your mailing address.

Category: Beauty | 4 Comments

Project Pavement

May 9, 2011


Move over Project Runway wannabes and make way for a contest that will have you “pounding the pavement.” That’s right, Vince Camuto, the popular footwear brand is hosting a cool online contest for aspiring shoe designers. Vince Camuto has launched an app that will let contestants design their own shoes or simply submit a sketch. The person with the most votes will be narrowed down to a list of finalists from whom Vince will choose a winner. The lucky winner will have their shoe go into production and will win a trip to New York to meet with Vince.

This opportunity will move you one step closer to achieving your shoe designing dreams! Also, please be sure to “like” Vince Camuto on Facebook to learn about other contests, promotions and giveaways.

Plus, one of my lucky BGG readers will win a pair of Vince Camuto shoes. Simply leave a comment telling me what kind of sandal you like the most for summer? Wedges, platforms, flats, etc? The winner will be announced later this week!

Category: Shoes | 18 Comments