Cynthia Rowley Makes Mishaps Stylish!

August 13, 2012

If you’re packing your bags for a end-of-summer getaway, be sure to toss in a pack of Cynthia Rowley’s for Band-Aid Beach Sport Kit bandages for those unexpected nicks. Perfect for water activities, these designer bandages aren’t intended to blend in with skin.

In fact, these bad boys boast a variety of bold, eye-catching colors and patterns that won’t peel off in the pool. 100% waterproof, they come in a clear plastic pouch that will also protect most cell phones from water-involved mishaps. Plus, there’s single-use Neosporin packets in each kit to prevent infections.

Available at here, for $7

During my recent trip to D.C., these limited-edition bandages came in handy when my daughter fell and scraped her knee. I’ve also used them to cover up mosquito bites to prevent infection from excessive scratching. Whether you’re heading to a water park, beach or pool these cool bandages are a must-have for your bag because you never know when you’ll get a boo-boo!

Are you planning any end-of-summer getaways?

Category: Beauty | 2 Comments

MUSIC: BGG’s Top 5 Cover Art Designs

August 10, 2012

Growing up, I always admired the artwork of album and CD covers. However, thanks to the digital age, I either don’t see the cover artwork or simply don’t pay attention anymore. That was until last week, when I saw the eye-catching cover design for Kanye West’s upcoming release, “Cruel Summer.”

In fact, it got me thinking about some of my fave covers from back in the day. From iconic to colorful, there have been many visually captivating covers throughout the years.

Dust off your CD tower and take a walk down memory lane!

 Janet Jackson’s “Control,” 1986

Kelis’ “Kaleidoscope,” 1999

Kanye West’s “The College Dropout,” 2004

Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” 1998

Michael Jackson’s “Dangerous,” 1991

What are some of your fave cover art designs?
Category: Arts and Entertainment | 4 Comments

Fall Fashion Preview: 5 Trends to Try

August 8, 2012

Although we’re still in the heat of summer, the reality is that fall is right around the corner. By far my fave season, fall provides fashionistas with fresh opportunities to rock cool-weather staples and show off new off-the-runway trends.

From mixed prints to luxe leather, these five eye-catching styles will be must-haves for your fall closet.

Check them out:

MIXED PRINTS
Bold, varying patterns will make any ensemble a standout! Tory Burch ‘Angelique’ Mixed Print Blouse, $103, available here.

LEATHER MINIS

Pair a leather mini with a silk blouse for a feminine yet tough-girl look. Milly Leather Delphine Swirl Skirt, $484, available here. 

OVERSIZED JACKETS
Skip fitted jackets for a more relaxed feel that’s perfect for layering. Gap 1969 Oversized Pocket Jacket, $69.96, available here.
WHIMSICAL KNITS

Although cute critters have been creeping into our closets for a couple of seasons now, expect to see even more adorable motifs making their way onto sweaters and knits. Paul & Joe Sister Animal Leopard Cashmere Mix Jumper, $233, available here.

BROCADE

For a full-on glam look, rich brocade designs are nice touch. Mauro Grifoni Short Dress, $298, available here. 

Which of these trends do you plan on rocking this fall?
Category: Fashion | 5 Comments

Nail It with Fun Fingertip Styles!

August 6, 2012
Nail polishes have always been the go-to for accessorizing with beauty. Thanks to various innovations that extend beyond color, the options are now even more endless. Nail art has evolved from simple polish shades to outrageously creative designs.

From magnetic lacquers to adhesive strips to photo finishes, notice-me nails have become instant statement-makers. With so many choices, you’re sure to find a fingertip look that’s right for you! 

Check out these sure-fire ways to nail-it!:

Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Color, $8.99, available here

Sally Hansen Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips, $9.50, available here. 

Ciaté Caviar Manicure, $25, available here
Rad Nails “Hot Man-Icure,” $18, available here

The New Black Ombre 5-Piece Nail Polish Set, $22, available here

Not sure why you’d want to get photos on your phalanges, but this Beyonce fan did! Perhaps, she checked out this site?

What’s your nail style? Trendy, daring, or classic? 

**One lucky reader will win a bottle of the Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail color. Simply leave a comment telling me your particular nail style and the winner will be selected randomly and announced on Monday, August 13th. This contest is only open for U.S residents. 
Category: Beauty | 5 Comments

Olympic Gymnast Gabby Douglas Gets the Gold!

August 3, 2012

Congratulations to our fave BG gymnast, Gabby Douglas, on winning the gold medal for the women’s all-around competition at the London Olympics.

The athletic phenom, 16, is not only the first African-American to win the coveted medal, but is a also the first American to win gold medals in both the team competition and all-around (at the same Olympics)! Plus, to celebrate her history-making Olympic triumphs, Kellogg’s Corn Flakes (a U.S Olympic Sponsor) has already placed her photo on its cereal box!

Gabby Douglas takes the gold at the 2012 London Olympics.

Douglas proves that through determination, hard-work and a good attitude, the sky’s the limit. Hats off to the ground-breaking teenage athlete!

Have you been following the Olympics this year?

Category: Gumbo Mix | 2 Comments

MUST-SEE: “Make Me A Naturalista” Web Series

August 3, 2012

If you’re thinking about transitioning your crowning glory from chemically-straightened strands to natural styles, there’s a web series that you don’t want to miss!

“Make Me A Naturalista,” is a brand-new online series hosted by editors Natasha Gaspard and Yardley Messeroux, of the natural hair websites: Mane Moves TV and The Coil Review.

The pair has teamed up to produce an online show that features women looking to make the switch from relaxers to natural styles, but are unsure of the proper steps to take in order to have a successful journey.

They provide styling tips, product advice, and personal anecdotes all while the guest receives a hair makeover from a natural haircare professional.

Bloggers Yardley (L) and Natasha Gaspard (R)

Charismatic and knowledgeable, both hosts bring an upbeat and refreshing vibe to the show, making it fun to watch. Whether you’re a newbie or natural hair vet, this series is definitely one to add to your YouTube viewing list!

Do you watch YouTube for haircare or makeup tips?

Category: Featured, Hair | Leave a Comment

Oprah Rocks Au Naturel Look on ‘O’ Cover

August 1, 2012

When I interviewed Oprah Winfrey’s famed hairstylist, Andre Walker, a few of months ago, he told me that he gave the renowned former talk show host’s hair “a completely new look” for the makeover-themed issue of her eponymous magazine. And he was right!

Today it was revealed that Lady O is rocking an au naturel do on the September cover of “O, The Oprah Magazine.” She always has enviable locks, but this larger-than-life curly fro is simply fab.

September 2012 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine

I appreciate that she’s embraced her natural curls and felt they were worthy to be worn on the cover of a national glossy. Especially, since there aren’t many (I honestly can’t think of one!) mainstream mags where a woman of color is wearing her hair in its natural state.

Kudos to Oprah for showing us that beauty comes in all hair textures, features, and skin colors!

Do you love the Cover Girl’s curls? 

Category: Beauty | 3 Comments