Put Your Best Face Forward!

May 12, 2008

During my birthday trip to Houston I was treated to my very first facial! It’s true, I was a virgin to the relaxing process that purifies pores, sloughs away dead skin and leaves your face feeling smooth and rejuvenated. Yes, I know I’m a late bloomer.

Of course I had done mini-facials in the comfort of my own bathroom before, but never had I had an actual professional esthetician perform one on me. I absolutely love to be pampered so it was the perfect gift.

Since getting professional facials can be a bit pricey, here are a few over-the-counter products that just might give you that same spa experience!

How often do you go to a spa for a facial?


Pretika Sonic Dermabrasion Facial Care System available at www.target.com for $59.99


Nivea Visage Q10 Gentle Spa Microdermabrasion Kit available www.drugstore.com for $19.49


Pangea Organics Facial Mask Japanes Match Tea with Acai and Goji Berry available at www.nordstrom.com for $34


Vitamin Infusion Home Facial Kit available at www.ulta.com for $70


Bliss Pore Perfecting Facial Polish available www.blissworld.com for $30


Neutrogena Advanced Solutions Facial Peel available at www.ulta.com for $21.49


Bliss Youth Group Skin Care Kit available at www.blissworld.com for $68


Cosmedicine Spa-It-Yourself at Home Facial Kit available at www.sephora.com for $95


Seaweed Pore-Cleansing Facial Exfoliator available at www.thebodyshop.com for $12.50


Sue Devitt Micro-Quatic Anti-Ageing Facial Treatment available at www.spacenk.com for $125

Category: Beauty, Facials, Spa | 19 Comments

“Bra”nanza!

May 9, 2008

We all have them and they all need our support. You’ve got it, I’m talking about our beloved boobies! That’s why finding the perfect bra is essential to making them look their absolute best!

Because I am a member of the, “Itty Bitty…” – you know the rest, I opt to wear bras with a tad of padding. In fact, I used to be a huge fan of the gel-padded bras until I had a messy mishap that I’ll spare the details about. Since then, I now stick to regularly padded, but liquid-free bras!

From sexy lace underwires to super supportive sports bras, there’s one that’s right for you. Plus there are tons of bras out there that can work with just about any outfit. The key is to make sure that you’re getting the right size. Head to your local lingerie store or a nearby Victoria’s Secret to get professionally fitted – trust me, it will make a huge difference.

In the meantime check out some of these!


Simply Vera Vera Wang Wire Free Bra available at www.kohls.com for $19.99


Hanky Panky Stripe Bralette available at www.nordstrom.com for $45


Chantell Intimates Caprice Underwire Demi Bra available at www.nordstrom.com for $115


Tobi Cosabell Pearl Bra available at www.tobi.com for $88


Adidas Clima “Cool” Sports Bra available at www.nordstrom.com for $30


Gilligan & O’Malley Favorite Fit Bra available at www.target.com for $9.99


Padded Bandeau Bra available at www.gap.com for $29.50


Victoria’s Secret Low-Cut Push-Up Bra available at www.victoriassecret.com for $48-51


Victoria’s Secret 100-Ways Strapless Convertible Bra available at www.victoriassecret.com for $50-56

Category: Bras, Fashion, Lingerie | 25 Comments

All-Time Favorite Hair & Beauty Products!

May 7, 2008

We BGs love trying that hot new lip gloss or the latest trendy miracle cream, but some products are just staples in perfecting our beauty. Whether your grandmother told you that Vaseline is the answer to ashy elbows or your college roomate told you to use Johnson’s Baby Powder under your eyes to dust off excess eye shadow, we all have our favorite, tried and true products that we can’t live without.

Share some of your must-have items! Here are a few of mine:


Johnson & Johnson Baby Oil Gel available at www.duanereade.com for $3.99 – I use this on my legs after a nice hot shower and they always leave them feeling silky smooth!


Optimum Oil Therapy Dry Hair Healer available at www.walgreens.com for $4.49 – I have extremely dull hair so this cream breathes a bit of life into it, plus it smells delightful!


L’Oreal Colour Juice Lip Gloss available at www.drugstore.com for $7.99 – I’ve used just about every color they carry and I still can’t get enough!


Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner available at www.walgreens.com for $7.49 – Before I found this product I used to get raccoon eyes by the end of the day, but because it’s waterproof it never smudges!


Oil of Olay Complete All Day Moisture Lotion available at www.walgreens.com for $6.99 – My mother has always used Oil of Olay so I thought that I should too since she has fabulous skin even though she’s in her 60s!


Maybelline Great Lash Mascara – Of course this made my list. I’ve written about it several times. It really is the best mascara ever!


Sulfar 8 Original Anti-Dandruff Medicated Formula available at drugstores nationwide. – My hair is extremely dry and dandruff prone as a result of my relaxer. Although it stinks, it tingles and gets the job done every time.


Dermablend Smooth Indulgence Concealer available at www.macys.com for $18 – I’ve been using this concealer for several years. It blends into my skin perfectly without making me look like I’m obviously wearing makeup.

Category: Beauty, Must-Haves | 22 Comments

Stylish, Strappy Flat Sandals!

May 6, 2008

Thanks so much for all of my birthday wishes! I really appreciated each of them!!

I’m back from my birthday trip to Houston. I had such a wonderful time hanging with my cousins. I ate, ate, and then ate some more! I also went to this super fabulous spa called the Urban Retreat (compliments of my favorite cousin) where I got a facial and massage, which was downright heavenly!

Since it’s super humid in Houston, my hair didn’t fare too well, but it was ok since I was just relaxing with family. Although I did wish that I had brought a comfortable pair of stylish flat sandals to wear while dining and shopping. Even though it’s not as hot in New York as it is in Texas right now, warm weather is right around the corner so what better time than now to pick up a cute pair of sandals!

After dealing with a long, hectic flight delay on my way back to NY, I could use another massage, but I digress.

In the meantime check out some of these strappy flats. Would you wear the popular new Gladiator style?


Sam Edelman Black & White Boa Snake Gilda Sandal available at www.kitson.com for $78


Pour La Victoire Nanette Sandal www.urbanoutfitters.com for $168


Seeri Floral Sandal available www.stevemadden.com for $59.95


Vince Amuto Barb Thong Slingback available at www.macys.com for $98


Roope Metallic Sandal availalbe at www.stevemadden.com for $59.95


Miss Sixty Strappy Sandals available at www.asos.com for $76.34


Froid Leather Sandal available at www.freepeople.com for $268


Haiku Sandal available at www.guess.com for $90


Stella Crystal Sandal available at www.freepeople.com for $118


Karla Brown Sandal available at www.couturecandy.com for $84. I had to include these because the name is just so adorable! 🙂

Category: Sandals, Trip | 28 Comments

Travel Time!

May 1, 2008

By the time you read this post I’ll be in Houston celebrating my birthday with my favorite cousins. I’m going to relax with spa treatments, food and fun. I’m not even taking my baby with me, ahem, not my husband – my Macbook! I don’t know how I’ll survive without it, but I’ll manage.

Anyway, since I’m going out of town, that means I’ll have to go to my least favorite place on earth – the dreadful airport. Even with high fuel prices and the impending recession, people still have to get places. So if you’re going to travel, you might as well go in style with these super chic suitcases and luggage sets!

Hopefully, these stylish travel bags won’t get lost in the shuffle!

Do you usually have your bags checked or do you typically carry on?


Diane Von Furstenberg “Working Girl” Luggage Set available at www.macys.com for $299 (was $760)


Classic Louis Vuitton Keepall 60 available at www.eluxury.com for $1000


Longchamp Pliage Trolley available at www.saks.com for $255


Life Pelle Collection Vegetable Leather (I’ve never heard of that either!) Carry-On Rolling Duffle Bag available www.neimanmarcus.com for $1,045.


Tag Dots Luggage Set available at www.macys.com for $99.99


Lacoste Duffle Bag available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $114


Delsey Pink Luggage available at ww.neimanmarcus.com from $30-$340


Nike Connection Large Wheel Bag available at www.nike.com for $180

Category: Fashion, Luggage, Travel | 24 Comments

Get Smooth Legs for Spring!

April 30, 2008

Even though it’s only in the 60s here in New York City this week, it’s almost time for us BGs to go barelegged again. Showing off our gorgeous gams is what spring ensembles are all about.

From short shorts to mini-skirts, this time of year calls for smooth and shiny legs. But in order to get our legs lovely, we must remove all remnants of hair.

Today, there are a myriad of options available. From gels and creams that can easily slough away the finest of hairs to laser removal, there is a process that’s right for you.

How do you get your legs spring/summer spotlight worthy? Do you wax, shave, laser or go au naturel? Please share!


No! No! A revolutionary new concept in hair removal, suitable for all hair types and skin colors. It is NOT a razor. Available at www.sephora.com for $250


Veet in Shower Hair available at www.drugstore.com for $7.99


Moom Organic Hair Removal Kit available www.drugstore.com for $16.40


Nair Lotion Hair Removal with Baby Oil available at www.drugstore.com for $5.26


Emoji Optima Hair Removal System available at www.drugstore.com $69.99


Bliss Poetic Cosmetic Waxing Kit available www.sephora.com for $45


Schick Quattro High Performance Disposable Razors for Women with 4 Blades available at www.walgreens.com for $7.99

Category: Beauty, Hair Removal, Razors | 20 Comments

Great Gifts for Mom!

April 29, 2008

With Mother’s Day less than 2 weeks away, it’s time to think of special gifts that will make your mom smile. Whether she’s a makeup maven, self-help enthusiast, candy lover or somewhere in between, BGG has rounded up some of the best gifts to honor the woman who made us who we are today.

What was the most memorable gift you’ve ever given your mother or received on Mother’s Day?

Take a look at these:

Flowers always brighten a woman’s day, especially pretty pink ones! Posh Pinks Bouquet available at www.teleflora.com for $52.95


Diamonds are a girls’ best friend. Sterling Silver Diamond Bangle Bracelet available at www.macys.com for $242.10


Ever want to get your mother to tell her life story? Here’s your chance! This Story of Lifetime book has over a 500 questions that you can ask your mom. From describing her first proposal to her first job, this book is perfect to pass down to generations. Available at www.redenvelope.com for $48


You played in her makeup when you were a kid, why not repay her with luxurious Lancome lipstick? Mother’s Day Lips Seductive Cools available at www.lancome.com for $49.50


You’d be hard-pressed to find a woman who doesn’t love chocolate – I’m sure your mom is no exception! Queen for a Day Chocolates available at www.redenvelope.com for $38.00.


For the mom who loves snapping shots of her kids and grandkids at family gatherings, this Canon PowerShot Digital Camera is perfect for the parent-paparazzi. Availble at www.compusa.com for $169.97.


Since she rarely makes time for herself, treat her to a relaxing spa treatment. SpaFinders.com have gift certificates that are valid at over 4000 spas nationwide from $50-$1000.


If you can’t get her to go to a spa, bring the massage to her with the OSIM iSqueez Foot and Calf Massager available at www.brookstone.com for $399


To help maintain your mom’s gorgeous glow, try Carol’s Daughter’s Almond Celebration Set available at www.carolsdaughter.com for $58.00


For the mom who adores all things Oprah, this hardcover “best of” book is bound to please. O’s Guide to Life: The Best of O, the Oprah Magazine available at www.amazon.com for $19.77

There’s no photo for this, but I had to include taking your mother out to a spectacular brunch (a gospel brunch would be even better). She’ll appreciate that you filled her belly and spirit!

Category: Gifts, Mother's Day | 17 Comments

Cool & Comfy Cardigans!

April 28, 2008

Last week I had the opportunity to attend an event hosted by Martin & Osa at a boutique hotel in Soho. I must admit, I had never heard of this brand prior to receiving the invitation, but after attending the party, I am now in LOVE with their line of cashmere cardigans! They’re lightweight, super soft and affordable.

Lightweight cardigans are perfect for pairing with spring/summer outfits. If it’s not quite chilly enough for a jacket, but you still want to have something to keep you a bit warm, wearing a cardigan is the ideal choice. Having a light sweater really comes in handy when you’re dining out, in the office or at the movies where the AC is on full-blast.

Plus, they can fit into a bag or tote for easy-access!

Check out some of these:

Martin & Osa Cashmere Silk Cardigan available at www.martinandosa.com for $128


Featherweight V-Neck Cardigan available at www.jcrew.com for $59.50


Cashmere Martin Cardigan available at www.jcrew.com for $188


Cotton Swing Cardigan available at www.ninewest.com for $89


Cotton-Blend V-Neck Cardigan available at www.bananarepublic.com for $34.99


La Jolla Print Cardigan available at www.jcrew.com for $88


Free People Ballon Sleeve Cardigan available at www.shopbop.com for $108


Belted Rolled-Up Cardigan available at www.gap.com for $49.50


Mossimo Cropped Cardigan available at www.target.com for $17.99

Category: Cardigans, Fashion | 27 Comments

Fabulous Photos of the Week!

April 25, 2008


Ashanti and Gayle King at an event in NYC.


Actor Jaleel White in L.A.


Jill Marie Jones in L.A.


Actress Tamala Jones in L.A.


Tia Mowry with her new husband Corey Hardrict.


Kanye West at an event in West Hollywood, CA.


Omarion at an event in West Hollywood, CA.


Serena Williams at an event in L.A.


Model Nik and personality Melyssa Ford at an event in NYC.


LL Cool J at an event in NYC.

Category: Uncategorized | 26 Comments

I’ve Been Tagged Again!

April 24, 2008

I’ve been tagged again! This time by PCD and Mischo Beauty.

Here’s the drill:

1. Link the person who tagged you…

2. Mention the rules in your blog…

3. Tell about 6 unspectacular quirks of yours

4. Tag 6 following bloggers by linking them

5. Leave a comment on each of the tagged blogger’s blogs letting them know they’ve been tagged

Here are my 6 unspectacular quirks. If you’ve heard these before – please forgive me! 🙂

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR QUIRKS?

1. I’m not a makeup artist, but I’ve never met a bronzer I didn’t love. I have TONS of them; although I usually just end up using the same one!

2. I have to have some type of non-chocolate candy every single day – otherwise I’ll go nuts!

3. I have over 50 DVDs that I have never watched or even opened.

4. I love to sing ALL THE TIME, although my husband tells me I can’t carry a tune.

5. I take a camera with me EVERYWHERE! You never know when there’s going to be a Kodak moment!

6. I am addicted to online shopping. Oops, you guys already knew that! 🙂

I’m not tagging anybody else because all of my favorite blogs have already been tagged!

Category: Tagged | 19 Comments