Giveaway: Beyoncé’s Pulse Summer Edition Perfume

March 21, 2012
Beyoncé may still be mesmerized by the intoxicating new baby smell of her bundle of joy: Blue Ivy, but this hot momma wants fans to fall for her new limited edition fragrance: Beyoncé Pulse Summer Edition. The new addition to the singer’s successful perfume collection is just the scent to send us into spring and summer.

Beyoncé Pulse Summer Edition available at retailers nationwide for $49 (50 ml) and $59 (100 ml)
A fragrant, exotic mix of fruit and florals with notes of pear, icy mandarin, and pink pepper makes this the perfect perfume to complement warmer weather. It’s light and airy, which is my ideal combination when it comes to spritzing myself in the spring/summer. Plus, the eye-catching turquoise and purple bottle design is bound to stand-out on your vanity.

Have you ever worn any of celebrity fragrances?  

Since today is National Fragrance Day, I’m giving away a 100 ml. bottle of Beyoncé’s Pulse Summer Edition (a $59 value). Simply leave a comment or retweet this post. Also, “liking” me on Facebook wouldn’t hurt either :-). The winner will be randomly selected and announced on Monday 3/26.
Category: Beauty, Giveaway | 41 Comments

Reality Star Evelyn Lozada Launches Cosmetics Line

March 20, 2012

Looks like Evelyn Lozada of VH1’s Basketball Wives is the newest BG on the block to start her own beauty line. Today it was announced in a release that the reality star has launched, “E” by Evelyn Lozada,  a full cosmetics collection. Inspired by her makeup looks on the show, the debut line will feature shimmery eye shadow palettes and makeup brush sets. The collection will eventually include powder pigments, lipgloss, nail polish, and more.

Eveyln Lozada

“I have always been a risk taker when it comes to my personal style and the opportunity to leave my creative mark on the cosmetics world is beyond thrilling and a huge dream,” Lozada said in a statement. “I wanted to create a trendy high-quality product that didn’t need to come with high costs for that savvy beauty consumer.”

28-Color Neutral Palette
Cosmo Color Collection
78-Color Combo Palette
Prices start at $24.95 and are available at www.ebyevelyncosmetics.com

Would you buy any products from her line? Do you watch Basketball Wives?

Category: Beauty | 4 Comments

Stylish Spring/Summer Scarves

March 19, 2012

Pleasant, spring-like breezes seem to be on the rise as we march toward warmer weather. That means now’s the time to ditch big, bulky coats and replace them with light-weight jackets coupled with chic, cotton scarves to ward off any unexpected cold winds.

Kaaru, a Los Angeles-based line of hand-woven, 100% organic cotton clothing offers a stylish variety of scarves to brighten your spring wardrobe. Handmade by rural artisans of Bangladesh, proceeds from these unique, high-quality accessories helps provide fair wages for Bengali women and their children. Plus, customers will also receive a one-of-a-kind, hand-painted 5×8 canvas by Kaaru’s founder with each purchase. 
Fashion, art, and giving back…what’s not to love?
Check www.kaaruonline.com for prices and availability.

Are you a fan of spring/summer scarves? 
Category: Fashion | 2 Comments

Let Nicole Ari Parker “Save Your Do”

March 15, 2012

Nicole Ari Parker, one of our favorite BG actresses is now a budding entrepreneur. The former Soul Food star is on a quest to “save our ‘dos,” with the launch of her revolutionary “Save Your Do Gymwrap,” to help keep our hair sweat-free during workouts.

While I’ve never sacrificed exercising for the sake of my strands, I do know many women who do. We all know those who see the gym as instant “kryptonite” when it comes to maintaining their styles. For those lock-loving ladies, this souped up sweatband is an answer to their hair-preserving prayers.
Save Your Do GymWrap is available here starting at $24.95
I recently used the “SYDGW” during a strenuous workout in in Park Slope and was incredibly pleased with the results. It kept my hair dry by keeping moisture away from the skin while letting cool air in. Even though I have natural hair, I still have it blown out periodically and it kept my edges smooth and frizz-free. 
Not only is this brilliantly-designed wrap good at protecting our ‘dos, but it also gives back to a great cause.  10% of proceeds will go toward the Sophie’s Voice Foundation, a non-profit organization founded in 2008 by Parker and her husband, actor Boris Kodjoe, whose mission is to help individuals diagnosed with spina bifida.

Remember ladies, hair is hair; leading a healthy lifestyle is what’s really important. Also, if you’re wondering if Parker has given up her thespian roots, don’t worry; you can catch her this spring starring in the Broadway revival of “A Streetcar Named Desire.”

Have you ever halted your workout plans to preserve your ‘do? Would you wear the “Save Your Do Gymwrap?”
Category: Beauty, Travel & Lifestyle | 3 Comments

Jumping for Jouer

March 13, 2012

During a recent reorganization of my beauty drawers, I was excited to discover a hot pink blush from Jouer Cosmetics. Not sure how I overlooked the lovely peony shade, but boy was I happy to have found it! The vibrant, electric hue provides the perfect pop of color that my cheeks have been craving.

The mineral-based powder blush blends easily onto my skin while complementing my melanin-rich complexion.  Even though the color looks nearly neon in the packaging, after application it gives you just the punch of pink that will freshen up your beauty routine for spring.

Jouer Cosmetics Mineral Powder Blush available here for $24

Do you ever rediscover beauty products that you used to love? What’s your must-have beauty product for spring?
Category: Beauty | 2 Comments

Giveaway: Get Hair Like Oprah’s!

March 12, 2012

As BGs, our admiration for Oprah Winfrey spans decades and ranges from her undeniable talent as a media icon, philanthropist, and spiritual teacher to her unwavering healthy-looking hair!  Yes, you know that when it comes to our crowning glory, we don’t play. And apparently, that goes for Lady O too! That’s why she’s entrusted her lovely locks with none other than her right-hand hair man of 25 years –– Andre Walker.

Walker has been the mastermind behind our beloved media mogul’s mane since she first graced our small screens back in 1986. Never compromising the health of hair to accommodate various styles, Walker’s main priority has always been to keep tresses at their best. For several years, Walker has been sharing a few of his secrets to great hair by launching his own hair care product line: Andre Walker  Hair.

One of my favorite products from the line is his “Q”- Oil: Quench Essential Oil. This weightless serum is formulated with Argan Oil, which is naturally-rich in Vitamin E and adds instant shine. Plus, the colorless oil also nourishes and hydrates hair.

Just applying a small pump of the serum into my palms puts life back into my oftentimes lifeless, dry natural hair. The serum quickly soaks into my coarse, curly strands and doesn’t leave a sticky build-up.

Available at Andre Walker Hair for $35.

If you’re on the hunt for a serum that adds brilliance without a greasy-feel, “Q” Oil would be ideal for you. Whether you rock your locks chemically-straightened or natural, this product works for all hair types.

Have you ever tried any products from the Andre Walker Hair line? Speaking of Oprah, did you watch her interview with the late Whitney Houston’s family?


**Leave a comment or retweet this link for your your chance to win a bottle of “Q” Oil (a $35 value). The winner will be randomly selected and announced later this week!

Category: Beauty, Giveaway | 11 Comments

EVENT ALERT: Atelier AZZA To Make Retail Debut

March 6, 2012

There’s an emerging Chicago-based clothing designer who’s well on her way to becoming a household name: Azeeza Desai Khan.  Not only is she catching the attention of Vogue editors, fashionistas, and buyers across the country, but she’s also my BFF.

This Sunday, March 11 her line Atelier AZZA, will make its retail debut at Dose Market, the premiere vendor marketplace for food, fashion, and design purveyors in Chicago. 
Azeeza sporting an embellished blazer from her SS12 collection. 
Intricate hand-woven and embroidered, fine cashmere summer shawls, as well as opulently embellished blazers, collars, and dresses from her SS12 collection will be available for purchase. Plus, with each Atelier AZZA buy, a garment will be provided to an impoverished South Asian woman in need. 
If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind pieces that will get you noticed, definitely stop by Dose Market this weekend and check out Atelier AZZA. 
Do you make an effort to support local designers?
Category: Fashion | 2 Comments

Oprah To Interview Bobbi Kristina

March 6, 2012

As reported last week, Oprah has landed the first interview with the late Whitney Houston’s family. On Sunday, March 11, Lady O will sit down with the pop diva’s sister/manager, brother, and the love of her life, her daughter: Bobbi Kristina.

I’m shocked that they’re already speaking out about the passing of their beloved “Nippy,” but everyone mourns differently. Also, I’m no psychologist, but perhaps talking publicly about their grief might be therapeutic. Whatever the case, I’ll definitely be tuning in to hear what the Houston family has to say.

Watch a sneak peek below:

Oprah’s Next Chapter will air on OWN Sunday, March 11 at 9pm/EST
Will you be tuning in? Did you watch Whitney Houston’s funeral?
Category: Arts and Entertainment | 2 Comments

Nicole Scherzinger Nails It With ImPress

March 5, 2012

Last week beauty editors in New York were invited to an afternoon of nail talk with singer Nicole Scherzinger. The former Pussycat Doll front woman and X-Factor judge is now the celebrity brand ambassador for the popular imPRESS Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails.

Ok, I’ll be honest, when it comes to press-on nails I don’t immediately think chic or cool. In fact, I think just the opposite. But after learning more about the quick and easy alternative to acrylics, gels, and the somewhat tedious task of painting your own nails (self-manis always leave my right hand looking less-than-presentable), I’ve had a change of heart.

Scherzinger’s Limited Edition Signature Series is comprised of fun and funky designs that are incredibly simple to apply and are super eye-catching. Plus, they peel off without damaging your digits, come with a variety of sizes, and last for up to a week.

From tie-dye prints to star motifs, these trendy nails are not your grandmother’s press-on manicure.

Starting May, Scherzinger’s designs (6 patterns and 3 colors) will be available in Walmart and CVS stores nationwide for $7.99 and $5.99. 

If you’re on-the-go and don’t have time to polish, definitely give these affordable nails a try for a knock-out finish.

Have you ever worn press-on nails?

Category: Beauty | 3 Comments

Brandy & Monica’s New Video To Premiere Tonight

March 5, 2012

Brandy and Monica fans will be in for a treat today as the video for the reunited R&B duo’s single, “It All Belongs To Me,”  premieres on Vh1 and Vh1.com.  Directed by Chris Robinson, the video will surely showcase the former teen stars in all their gorgeous grown-up glamour.

The video will air 11pm/EST.

Check out a few shots from the video set: 

All photos by: Adrian Sidney
Will you be tuning in? Also, is it me or does Monica look a little like La La Anthony in these stills? 
Category: Arts and Entertainment | 6 Comments