Et Cetera Blog Mag

MY FIRST EVENT | GET YOUR TICKETS NOW

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Thu, 16 Jan 2014 09:18:00 +0000

Yaaaassss curls! I'm officially having my very own event. Well with the help of Natural Partners in Crime! Love them; go follow them on IG (@naturalpartnersincrime). Planning is bananas and I want to share so much with you. But for now, please save the date, April 5th. Check out the location which is EVR in New York City. I've heard great things about the venue! This is going to be a meet up but its also like an event so I hope you are excited. And you know the swag bags are going to be on SWAG- full size products, my fav products, samples, coupons, and of course a few thangs from Et Cetera Boutique! Go to our eventbrite page now to get more info as well as to purchase your early bird tickets. Click the image below or click here. I hope to see you all at my first event. Yayyyy!

What's In My Chanel Inspired Bag

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 06:00:00 +0000

Women carry so much stuff in their bags, right? I remember always being fascinated by what was in my Mother or Mommom's bag. Mommom always had chewing gum or mints in hers at church! She always saved the day! I've seen a few tags on YouTube about, WHAT'S IN YOUR BAG so I decided to record one. Let's just say I'm glad I'm not rocking my other fav bag the Just Fab Parisian! If I was this video would be an hour long because that bag is like a suitcase...it fits so much stuff in there! I downsized this past month to this Chanel Inspired, leather quilted bag. I found it at my local Marshall's store. It was very affordable, only $28 or so. Its from a brand called, Urban Expressions. The brand is sold in Marshall's of course, DSW, Amazon and a few other online shops.

In this video I show you what I carry in my bag on a daily basis...this is the minimum, trust me! I usually carry my makeup bag too! But it wouldn't fit in this bag. Also when I have my 'fro out I also carry bobby pins and a goody hair band. That is a must. But with this PS Hair, I'm good! Check out what else is in my bag below. Enjoy!

4CHAIRCHICK Interviews Yolanda Renee

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Sat, 11 Jan 2014 06:33:00 +0000

Meet Yolanda Renee

by Trudy Susan @4cHairChick · On January 10, 2014

YouTuber, Store Owner, Graphic Designer and now Author Yolanda Renee is living her dreams and blazing a trail that she and her family can be proud of. The past year has been a whirlwind of events including major milestones such as a billboard feature with a major natural hair brand and the successful launch of a new children’s book. Yolanda is leveraging her skills as an artist and quickly building a brand that caters to naturalistsas and fashionistas.

What age did you go natural?

OMG, I went natural in May 2012! So I’m still newly natural. I’m still learning and I guess I’m still in the honeymoon phase. I’m loving everything about my natural hair. I won’t tell you my age but I will tell you my big chop was May 2012. Lol.

READ MORE

ELLEvate Now! by OPUA Beauty | Kiss Lups Goodbye

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Fri, 10 Jan 2014 21:53:00 +0000

As a growing YouTube vlogger I have been given a platform to reach thousands of people around the world. I give you demos, tutorials, and information in general about fashion, beauty, style and natural hair. This is so much fun but at some point you have to give back and support a cause. My boyfriend whom you see sometimes in my videos and hear his music all the time lost his mother on July 1, 2013. Karen Adele struggled with Lupus for many many years. And although I wish I supported this cause while she was living I am still proud to spread the word about this aggressive disease. I hope you support my decision to be advocate for ELLEvate Now and OPUA Beauty! In this video I show you a cosmetic line created by OPUA Beauty and ELLEvate Now! K Elle jones is surviving with Lupus and is the creator of ELLEvate Now. This collection is being sold to help with Lupus research. Its the perfect product line for me and to share with you, my curlfriends. We can continue to rock dope lippies and support something great. I will be back soon to share more with you.

For now check out the collection and also get an EXCLUSIVE LISTEN TO DEVON BECK'S SONG FOR HIS MOM. ROOM 244 FT KAREN BECK is a very personal and sad song. I cry every time I listen to it. I actually try not to listen to it because it makes me so sad thinking about Mrs. Karen and what she left behind- her family, her son and her sweet grandkids- Taylor, Sky, Carter and Carson. The title is of course the hospital room number! Really listen to the song and hear how raw Beck's voice is...he couldn't record this without crying...and finally the engineer said to leave it that way to show the true emotion. Also, there are recordings of Karen's voice on this track as the hook. During her fight with Lupus she had several strokes which eventually took her voice. Devon had a voicemail from her which was the last recording of her voice before her last stroke...to me that is amazing. We couldn't hear her talk for a long time before she passed but Devon having this recording is heaven sent. The message will always remind him to keep living his dream. No one can remind him of that in this world except himself, GOD, and HIS MOTHER. That is why this song is so special. You may think that this post, this video, this song is too personal but there are so many people who can relate to this song, and TO THIS CAUSE.

To learn more about Lups visit, http://www.ellevatenow.com/what-is-lupus-the-ugly-truth/ and purchase your lippies visit, http://www.opua.com/ellevatenow-collection.html. MORE COMING SOON!

IG EDITION: Instagram Celeb Look for Less with Curly Nikki

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 22:38:00 +0000

PHOTO CREDIT www.curlynikki.com

Its that time again...to show off one of my fav IG celebs...and I'm so glad its a curly girl this time! Now, Nikki Walton is more than an IG celeb she is the creator of www.curlynikki.com and author of Better Than Good Hair. She is like the Queen of Naturalistas! I actually met her at her book signing in DC at Club Liv. She was so down to earth! When I had her sign my book we briefing spoke about blogging and she remembered featuring me. Originally I didn't submit my work to her. She featured my twistout tutorial and it got major views because of her! I'm not sure if she stumbled across the tutorial or if someone else submitted it...I honestly didn't care. I was just excited to be featured. My curlfriends told me about it as well as a good friend of mine, Landy! Then we did an interview on her blog, Yolanda Renee is Naturally Glam! When we spoke at her event she remembered my work and told me to submit more to her to be featured.I thought she was just being generous but she was serious. We speak briefly over emails and I submit my work for review. I've been featured several times and I will always thank her...she is one of the main reasons why I get so many views on my YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/etcblogmag. I will be forever greatful. Just like Necole Kane of www.necolebitchie.com, Nikki will always be my inspiration to build my brand. I use these amazing women as blue prints to perfect Et Cetera.

I'm totally off subject so now let's talk fashion...Nikki is rocking a dress from one of my fav stores, ROMWE...you can get this exact dress here. And its a very affordable price! Because the dress is so affordable I didn't do a layout like I usually do...anything cheaper would be free. Lol. So if you love Nikki's look check out www.romwe.com to get the dress and more! Add the site to your favs too.

And please don't forget to check out Nikki's blog, www.curlynikki.com! Also follow her on IG, www.instagram.com/curlynikki! Don't be fooled- she has over 19,000 followers on IG and she doesn't even fool with IG...but on her blog, facebook, etc she has millions of women keeping up with her. She is the real deal and doing it in style!

PHOTO CREDIT www.curlynikki.com

Taylor Loves CD4KIDS

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Mon, 23 Dec 2013 07:24:00 +0000

Taylor is officially a Carol's Daughter #CD4KIDS ambassador! Skylar too but her video will debut very soon! This is my girls' first job and I'm such a proud Mommy! I'm so thrilled that they are doing something that will teach them great work ethic as well as spread the word about natural hair. Taylor and Skylar will be little mini me-'s starring in their own tutorials, reviews, and demos! All the videos will appear on my YouTube channel as well as Carol's Daughter's website, www.carolsdaughter.com! Taylor's first assignment was to try out Carol's Daughter's CD4KIDS Collection. The collection includes the shampoo, conditioner and detangler. Each product smells amazing and the scent that stands out the most is the sweet almond oil. I also love that the products are tear free! The shampoo was very thick, the lather was amazing and it actually had a slip to it which made detangling a breeze while I cleansed Taylor's hair. I like to detangle during each step of wash day so her hair is not difficult to detangle after the wash. After the shampoo of course I added the conditioner which was also very thick. During this step the product also made it easy to detangle and keep the hair that way the entire time. Once we tried the detangling spray we were not sure if the product did the job because her hair remained detangled during the entire wash routine. You can purchase the CD4KIDS COLLECTION here! To see more check out the video below:

Carol's Daughter

STYLE | Mesh Beanie by Yolanda Renee

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Tue, 17 Dec 2013 20:28:00 +0000

Yes these mesh beanies are trending and you can get them in a few places but not the one Yolanda Renee makes by hand! I've been rocking this dope girl accessory in a few of my YouTube videos and my curlfriends have been inquiring..."where can I get one of those?!!" At first I didn't think it would be that popular. This past summer I made a headband out of this mesh material and it was super cute! So for the cooler months I of course added the same mesh material but on a beanie. Beanies are super sporty and scream street style. But adding this girlie material almost like a wedding veil adds something special to it. Its not too sporty, nor too girlie...its a bit Goth at the same time which equals all around DOPENESS! Because I create these by hand they are available for preorder! They will go fast so I hope you are interested and place your order through my Big Cartel site. CLICK HERE to place your order! And also window shop the other items.

If you need a statement tee to go along with your accessories please visit my boutique, ET CETERA BOUTIQUE!

SHOPPING | What's In My Sheinside Bag

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 23:08:00 +0000

In this video I show you what is in my Sheinside bag! Visit, www.sheinside.com to browse their affordable fashion!

1 MINNIE MOUSE SWEATSHIRT WITH LEATHER SLEEVES ($33.61)
2 TRANSPARENT ENVELOPE CLUTCH
3 GREY ELASTIC DRAWSTRING POCKETS PANTS (JOGGERS)
4 LEATHER SLEEVE ZIPPER COAT

CURLIES COLOR TOO by Yolanda Renee
Please support my first publication which is a coloring book illustrated by me. This book is perfect for your daughters to color and to learn to love their hair. But it also has tons of helpful tips for Mommies to help guide them. Stay tuned for an announcement about my book tour as well.

AMAZON
ETC BOUTIQUE

B O U T I Q U E   |   S H O P

NATURAL HAIR T-SHIRTS & MORE
http://www.etcboutique.spreadshirt.com

JEWELRY
http://www.etceteraboutique.bigcartel.com

B L O G   http://www.etcblogmag.com
I N S T A G R A M   @etcblogmag or http://www.instagram.com/etcblogmag
F A C E B O O K   http://www.facebook.com/etcblogmag
T W I T T E R @etcblogmag or http://www.twitter.com/etcblogmag
T U M B L R http://etcblogmag.tumblr.com
Thanks for watching!

ETC X PRIVATE STOCK HAIR HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Fri, 13 Dec 2013 12:00:00 +0000

Hello Curls...Private Stock Hair is taking over my blog, huh!?! You should know by now that when I do something I do it 110%. I've been rocking my winter protective style, Private Stock Hair's FRO NATURAL texture which is similar to 4C hair and I want one lucky curlfriend to share the greatness of this hair. Just in time for the holidays I will be hosting a giveaway brought to you by Private Stock Hair. Someone will win the FRO NATURAL hair to try for themselves. I know you will love it. The giveaway starts on Dec 13th and will end on Dec 25th. You can get a head start now and follow myself (@etcblogmag) and PS Hair (@privatestockhair) on both YouTube and Instagram. Other than that review the entry rules on this giveaway graphic! Good luck to everyone and please, if you have any questions leave them in the comments below. I will respond promptly.

SEE MY PRIVATE STOCK HAIR IN ACTION

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 00:09:00 +0000

Visit, www.privatestockhair.com now to do some window shopping! You won't be disappointed. And let's start a convo in the comment box...what is your favorite winter protective style? And who doesn't protect their hair in the winter...tell the truth...let's TALK!

INSTAGRAM CELEB EDITION | JNELV Quilted Leather Skirt

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 00:08:00 +0000

Its time for another shout out to my fav IG celebs...this time around its Jnelv of http://jnelv.com/! Woooo chile I can't even imagine what this woman's closet looks like. Apparently, from her IG account she has clothing lines knocking at her door & inbox for her to wear or feature their clothes on her IG! Yes, on her IG! She is like a human clothes hanger! Everything she rocks just looks ahhhhmazing and definitely fashion forward. I love her edge with a touch on innocence. She's so cute. Lol. I would describe her style a mix of Rihanna, Rita Ora and a touch of the current Beyoncé! I love this girl because I admire her fashion sense, her fierce photos, and the fact she is touching so many girls and women around the world to rock whatever they want to rock! And look fierce doing it. Check her out on IG, @jnelv. I've also recreated one of her many looks below. All items are linked as well. And don't forget to start the convo off, leave a comment and let me know what you think of her personal style!

1 Black Quilted A-Line Skirt
2 Be Seen Mesh Top
3 ASOS Jumbo ID Necklace
4 Blu Bijoux Layered Bangle Set
5 Forever21 Luxe Ruched Belt
6 Vince Camuto Leather/Wool Hat
7 Zara High Heel Leather Ankle Lace-Up Boot

NATURAL HAIR | It's Time for Winter Protective Styling (PS Hair)

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 21:49:00 +0000

Hey Curls! As you know from my previous post I have a new protective style! From these pictures alone you may think, "what is she talking about- it looks like she has her 'fro out as usual!" Lol. But no, this is my fav kinky weave from Private Stock Hair! I absolutely love their hair- it looks so natural and its worth every penny! The first time I rocked their kinky weave I had Go Natural which is their 3C natural hair texture. It was very curly but you could also fro it out. This time around I wanted to give my 4C Naturalistas some love by rocking the FRO NATURAL which is very similar to that texture. Its recommended that when you purchase this hair you fro it out or wear a certain style such as a twist out! I'm excited to record more videos to show you how to do a twist out, bantu knot out, etc with this hair.

The last time I rocked this hair a lot of my curls said the hair was too expensive! It is over $100 a bundle on the site however, this hair lasts over a year! And of course if you take care of it properly it may last even longer. If you go to your local beauty supply store and get hair that is less expensive most likely it is not virgin hair. And guess what it won't last a month...so if you constantly buy that inexpensive hair several times you will spend more than $100-$300 on hair. When purchasing Private Stock Hair to me its an investment for your hair and your wallet! Lol. Don't laugh, I'm serious. Another great thing about Private Stock Hair is its virgin and you have the freedom to do pretty much the same thing to it as you would your hair and more...you can color it, the looser curl patterns you can straighten, blow dry, etc. I honestly treat this like its my own hair- regimen and all. I mostly co-wash it though because you rarely need to add styling products so their isn't much build up. A co-wash is more than enough. The last thing I will say to try to make you understand how BOMB this hair is, their is barely any shedding and there is a lot of hair in each bundle! Even if you did shed some strands you would have plenty left over, trust me! Lol.

The last time I rocked Private Stock Hair a few of my curlfriends asked me about other hair companies such as Kurly Klips, Kinky Curly Yaki, and Heat Free Hair. I have not purchased hair from any of these companies but after speaking with Angela the owner of Private Stock Hair she gave me a few points that makes her company stand out from the rest:

PS Hair is less expensive
Offers live customer service
Reportedly PS Hair has faster shipping time
FREE United States shipping until 12/31/2013
All bundles are full, 4 oz. not 3.5 oz.
Larger selection of hair textures for 3A to 4C hair types
Customers report better overall quality!
Black owned company

And finally Angela states, "I personally test and have worn everything I offer!"

If you are interested in this hair definitely go to www.privatestockhair.com and do some window shopping! Angela of Private Stock Hair and I will be announcing a giveaway very soon as well, right before the holidays. So stay tuned for that also! If you have any questions about the fro natural hair I'm rocking please leave them in the comment box. I want yall to start commenting and communicating with me on here! Ok!!? Thanks for checking out this post on PRIVATE STOCK HAIR!

WINTER PROTECTIVE STYLING | Prepping Your Hair To Be Tucked Away

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 01:39:00 +0000

Hello Curls...its getting cold outside! Brrrrrrr! Is it just me or does it seem like its time to protect our hair all the damn time. I guess we can only have our hair out in the Spring and part of the Fall! Lol. Naturals really stress summer and winter protective styling because the harsh weather- too cold or just too damn hot! Frizz! Ahhhh! No but seriously, it is getting cold outside and although our hair does not have much trouble with random frizz attacks, the cooler air can be damaging. Especially because we are not walking around with wet hair so we tend to moisturize less often. That leaves our hair more fragile. If a wash n' go was your go to style, I can guarantee it will NOT be it for the cooler months. Going outside with wet hair is not a good idea because it can freeze and then break. So most likely you are going to use a blow dryer more often which dries your hair out. Its almost like you can't win, right!?! That's why most naturals turn to protective styles. Braids, twists, buns, topknots, rolls, weaves, etc.

I'm in the process of installing my favorite kinky weave from PRIVATE STOCK HAIR! I installed the GO NATURAL hair texture during the summer and now that it is getting cold I'm going to rock the FRO NATURAL. I will record the process of prepping my hair, installing the weave and do a few videos of how I maintain it. But I also wanted to give you a few tips on here for those who are curious about how to care for their hair before protective styling. So let's go down the list:

1. Give your natural hair some extra tender, love & care before the install. I shampoo, deep condition and then moisturize my hair with the LOC method. If you want to see my WASH DAY REGIMEN, go to my YouTube channel to see my entire routine.

J/A/S/O/N/ BIOTION SHAMPOO | THE MANE CHOICE DEEP CONDITIONER | CD LEAVE-IN | ALIKAY NATURALS OIL BLEND

2. Make sure your hair is carefully detangled. Allow it to air dry before starting your braiding pattern. Braiding your hair while wet maybe challenging.

3. When you are ready to start your braiding pattern be very careful with your hair. You do not want to braid too tight. Braiding your hair tight does not ensure your hair lasts longer it just makes sure you will pull it out! Lol. Be gentle with the braiding to actually protect your hair; not stress it out!

4. Oil your scalp before adding your weaving net or weave.

5. Using a weaving net is optional. The net is supposed to help with the sewing process and it eliminates the stress and pulling on your natural hair after your weave is installed.

DONNA DELUXE WEAVE NET | DONNA DELUXE WEAVE THREAD | SEWING NEEDLE

6. Now you are ready to sew down your weave. I've read a few articles that suggest you use silk thread instead of the cotton thread. Silk thread is known to absorb less moisture from your hair. I personally still use the cotton thread but I also make sure my hair stays moisturized.

7. Before installing your weave please make sure the hair is clean, moisturized and detangled. You can wash the hair before installation or you can wash it once it is installed. There is no right or wrong way to do this.

8. Once the hair is installed you also want to make sure the hair remains detangled. I like to use my infamous HAIR BEAN or TANGLE TEEZER!

9. Co-Washing is very important to keep the weave fresh and to care for your natural hair under the weave. The co-wash product still gets to your own hair and scalp.

10 Using a leave-in is also beneficial. As you can see most of these tips are the same as when you care for your natural hair.

11 Using a t-shirt after washing, co-washing or moisturizing your hair is key! Just make sure its not an ETC BOUTIQUE tee! As you know using a t-shirt eliminates absorption of moisture from your hair. You need this more than ever since your hair is covered with the weave. You need moisture on your scalp and natural hair, not just on the weave.

12 If you have leave out you want to pay extra attention to those areas to make sure they remain moisturized and well blended with the weave. You do not want to have breakage in those areas so also use castor oil on your edges to eliminate thinning, etc.

13 A nozzle tip applicator bottle will be your BFF! You can add water, your fav oils and moisturizers in this bottle and get to those hard to reach areas under the weave. You can add your fav spritz to your natural hair and scalp every other day or as needed. Apply this mixture first. Have a separate bottle with your fav oils combined to seal in the moisture. You can also use the oil blend as needed if you have problems with dry itchy scalp!

APPLICATOR BOTTLE

13 At bedtime protect your hair with a satin bonnet or a pillow case. Again, we want to eliminate absorption of moisture from your hair.

SATIN HAIR BONNET

14 Overall, you should co-wash the weave weekly or as needed and follow up with the LOC method.

I hope these tips help with protecting your hair. If you follow them you should see major hair growth and/or thickness once you let your 'fro out! But also keep in mind diet, exercise, and genetics play a major part in hair growth. What will be your next protective style this winter? Have a plan and the sleet, snow, and freezing wind won't be able to tell you NOTHING!

MY NOVEMBER FAVS | Fashion, Beauty and Natural Hair Items

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 21:04:00 +0000

I'm a little late with this post but its better late than never! Its time to list my fav items for the month of November! I have a few of them but once again, I don't really add new products to my collection so I'm running out of ideas for this YouTube trend. Lol. But I did manage to remember 9 things that I've been obsessing over! There are a few beauty, hair and fashion items included. Please see what I think of each item in the video below. Or go to my YouTube channel and subscribe and watch! I've also provided the links to each item in case you are interested. All are very affordable because yall know I like a bargain! I've also added my signature bamboo earrings and necklace to this post because I LOVE THEM EVERY MONTH! LOL! Enjoy and thanks for checking me out!

Below are all the links to my NOVEMBER FAVORITES. Enjoy and thank me later! Lol.

1 SINFUL COLORS- DREAM ON NAIL POLISH
2 CHARLOTTE RUSSE NAIL POLISH
3 MAC SNOB LIPPIE
4 L'OREAL CONCEALER CRAYON
5 ELF HIGH DEFINITION POWDER
6 CAROL'S DAUGHTER CONDITIONING COWASH
7 AFRO PICK
8 JUSTFAB PARISIAN BAG (BLUSH)
9 MESH BEANIE
10 BAMBOO EARRINGS $8.99
11 CHAIN LINK NEKLACE (HIGH QUALITY) $20

L'Oreal True Match

NYC HOLIDAY TRUNK SHOW

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Thu, 05 Dec 2013 16:03:00 +0000

BROUGHT TO YOU BY @naturalpartnersincrime and @curlsandmo | 12.14.13 | 12-5PM | SUITE 116
TICKETS www.nycholidaytrunkshow.eventbrite.com

SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANEL NOW!

INSTAGRAM CELEB EDITION | Barbra_Ray's Look for Less

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Tue, 03 Dec 2013 08:02:00 +0000

I hope you are enjoying these fashion posts because I'm back with another fav of mine, Miss Barbra Ray from instagram. You can check her out on www.instagram.com/barbra_ray! If you love what you see she has her own online boutique, http://shopstylebybb.storenvy.com/. Barbra has a lot of dope outfits on her instagram but I picked this one in particular because I love the SHAMELESS SELFIE tee she is rocking! You can get my version, here! But other than that you can never go wrong with a classic all black everything look! Barbra added some style with the details though such as the exaggerated shoulders of her blazer which is from BB Dakota...love that site btw! Check it out, www.bbdakota.com! I did find another jacket similar to hers on Zara.com! Another way to play with an all black look is have some studs which she has plenty on her peep toe booties which I found for a reasonable price online. The links are below. So what do you think about Barbra's look? Would you rock it?

1 ZARA Blazer With Gathered Shoulders
2 #SELFIE TEAM NATURALT-Shirt
3 Faux Leather Leggings
4 Nastygal Quilted Bag
5 TOPSHOP Lolly Rubber Eyelid Sunglasses
6 Chain Link Necklace
7 NARS Semi Matte Lipstick - Jungle Red
8 NARS Nail Polish
9 Uranium The Dogma Bangle in Gold

Studded Peep Toe Heel Bootie

FROSACE OUTFIT OF THE DAY Inspired by LeToya Luckett

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Tue, 03 Dec 2013 00:39:00 +0000

I was just browsing my Facebook page when one of my fav sites, Fashion Bomb Daily (www.fashionbombdaily.com) posted LeToya Luckett looking oh so effortlessly stylish...I just had to repost with my own twist of course. Her statement piece, this Givenchy Multi-print Sweatshirt ($1,215) which is SOLD OUT...I wonder if she sold it out!?! Not that I would pay that much for a sweatshirt anyway! Lol. This looks is right up my alley...I love when you can throw stuff together like you just rolled out of bed but it just happens to look stylish! She is definitely doin' it! I've recreated this look with a twist...with one of my fav sweatshirts from my boutique, ET CETERA BOUTIQUE which are designs created by myself with a natural hair twist. I hope you like my take on this look. Check it out below and each item is linked as well- all under $50! I love a bargain!

1 FROSACE Sweatshirt
2 Denim Shorts
3 Madewell Plaid Shirt
4 Michael Antonio Hesper Over The Knee Boot
5 Neiman Marcus Seamed Tote Bag
6 Forever21 Ultimate Statement Bib Necklace
7 Hint of Gold 14k Gold-Plated Bracelet, Interlocking Bangle Bracelet

Printed Sweatshirt

INSTAGRAM CELEB EDITION | JaiNice Look for Less

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Mon, 02 Dec 2013 19:05:00 +0000

Let me start this post off with a disclaimer...I know a lot of people hate on this chick, Jai...yes, she is a firecracker with sooooooooooo much beauty, style and a hustler spirit to go along with it. I can see why some would hate on her...I personally do not...she is ahhhhmazing, flaws in all! Yes she is a firecracker but she has a reason to be. I respect that...its entertaining too! Lol. But please, do not comment on this post with any negativity. I'm all about showing respect and shouting out the fashionistas and business women that I look up to. Jai is one of them...so let's get this post started!

We are still talking about Instagram celebs...I started off with Style Pantry, then Mimi G...now we move on to Miss Jai! She is so dope. I've done a post about her before! She is the creative director of www.klosetenvy.com! I found this look on her instagram (www.instagram.com/jai_nice)! If you are not following her you are 344,000 follows behind! Ha ha! Go follow her dolls!

I love this look because she is wearing so many trends all in one- fur vest, midi skirt, lace up booties, Cuban link sunglasses, and a chain link necklace...all of which are very popular right now! Yea, usually you only want to stick with a few trends in one outfit but when you show off like Jai, you can get away with rocking as many as you'd like! Jai is known for rocking designer pieces mixed with more affordable options too like H&M, Forever21, etc so I'm not sure how much she spent on her 'fit...so instead of a look for less we can call this a recreation. See what I came up with below and the links follow as well. Enjoy!

1 Forever21 Rock On Fur Vest
2 Long Sleeve Crop Top
3 Tribal Print Midi Pencil Skirt or Royah Aztec Foil Print Suba Midi Skirt (pictured)
4 Chain Link Necklace $20
5 MAC Diva Lipstick
6 Illamasqua Nail Varnish
7 Alex And Ani Sacred Studs Tree Of Life Post Earrings
8 The Wildmoon x Untitled & Co Gold Chain Sunglasses
9 Studded Faux Leather Bag
10 Lace-Up Peep Toe Bootie

ASOS Printed Midi Skirt

LOVE IT | L'Oreal True Match Crayon Concealer

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Mon, 02 Dec 2013 15:06:00 +0000

L'Oreal Crayon

Have you checked out my YouTube channel lately? I recently did my take on the "No Make-Up Make-Up" Look that is trending in the YouTube world! I have to be honest, I totally failed at the look! Lol. I ended up using pretty much the same amount make-up that I usually wear. I may have another try at it very soon. But more important than my failure is an amazing product that I've been obsessed with. It will be included in my monthly favs too! The L'Oreal True Match Crayon Concealer is bomb! Like OMG! Its really inexpensive but the coverage is ahhhhhmazing! I have really bad dark circles under my eyes because I rarely sleep! But this little crayon does magic. Check it out for yourself in this video. And don't forget to subscribe to my channel, www.youtube.com/etcblogmag!

INSTAGRAM CELEB EDITION | Mimi G Style's Look for Less

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Mon, 02 Dec 2013 02:55:00 +0000

Mimi, oh Mimi! I love this woman! I first heard of her by randomly doing a google search and landed on her website, www.mimigstyle.com awhile ago! I was immediately intrigued by her fashion sense...its so classy. She has a classic style that will never go out of style! I also had the pleasure of doing a blog collab with her! Hey Mimi! Lol. She was so down to earth...she is definitely a social media celeb turned mogul! She is running thangs in her camp with a popular blog, her social media sites are bananas and she has events and even has her own pattern collection! She is always collabing with the big wigs too! I really am inspired by her and her brand. If you haven't heard of Mimi definitely go check out her blog, www.mimigstyle.com and she is on all social networks as "mimigstyle"! Her Pinterest account and IG are very popular! You may see her featured on Black Girls Killin' It! She is one of their favs too!

But I wanted to feature her again with this dope outfit. Mimi lives in Cali so she is always dressed like its a perfect sunny day! But don't worry, you can still get inspiration from such an outfit...you just need to add a few layers and make a few tweeks. With her look I especially love the way she paired overalls with a crop top. This is a perfect combo to be flirty but still classy! Its not showing too much, ya know. Her two tone necklace and stripe shirt compliment each other perfectly too! To remix this look and make it appropriate for those who actually have a fall/winter season I added another print- this plaid cape. I love mixing prints! And for the overalls I changed the material to these leather babies. Girls, I have not seen these anywhere where I live. Have you? I'm all over the leather jogger pants, pants, leggings, and skirts but not the overalls! I love this twist! Finally, Mimi has on some killer lace up sandals...we need to cover our feet though for this weather so I found these ahhhhmazing TOM FORD booties...yaaaassss, TOM FORD! And the price tag is very reasonable! Check out the recreation below and also check out the links which are all listed as well! And don't forget to follow Mimi on Instagram, www.instagram.com/mimigstyle!

1 TopShop Faux Leather Overalls
2 Bold Stripes Crop Top
3 Forever21 Curb Chain Necklace
4 TOM FORD Zipper Ankle Boots
5 Forever21 Gold Watch
6 80s Purple Anna Rounded Sunglasses
7 Topshop Faux Leather Mini Evening Bag

OMG! Yes, leather overalls! Have you seen them in your local malls or boutiques? I haven't!

Leather Overalls

INSTAGRAM CELEB EDITION | Get StylePantry's Look for Less

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Mon, 02 Dec 2013 01:46:00 +0000

Before I went natural this blog was basically celebrity looks for less! Remember those days before my natural hair took over my life! Ha ha! Well I've been super busy recording natural hair tutorials that I often forget that I still love fashion! I've been inspired lately by not just regular old celebs but by the new celebs! Do you know who the new celebs are? Everyday people on Instagram! I love it. Social media is allowing those gurus around the world to showcase their love for whatever they love. Its an amazing outlet for fashionistas, natural hair gurus, beauty gurus and more! So instead of my old focus of creating celeb looks for less I will be focusing more on my fav INSTAGRAM CELEBS like MiMi Goodwin (@mimigstyle), Style Pantry (@stylepantry), my boo thang Jai (@jai_nice), The Fashion Whore (@thefashionwhore), Dex (@dexty), and many many more! These woman are showing off on IG and I love it!

To kick off this new direction I am recreating one of my favs, Style Pantry's outfit of the day. She posted this a few days ago on her website, www.stylepantry.com as well as her instagram www.instagram.com/stylepantry! If you have not heard of her you should definitely check her out and take some fashion tips from her. Here she is pairing a denim top with some bright leather leggings! And who said you can't rock white pumps after Labor Day! Pssssshhhhhhh! This look is perfection! Check out my take on it below. And the links are listed below as well.

1 Denim Top
2 Leather Hazel Moto Skinny in Orion
3 Links Chain Belt
4 Ribbon Twist Collar Necklace
5 Jessica Simpson Calkins Pumps
6 Rachel Roy Tote
7 Sinful Colors- Dream On Nail Polish
8 LOFT Stud Earrings

Blue Leather Leggings

If you like showing off on Instagram and want to be featured on my blog please submit your photos to etc.yolandarenee@gmail.com with your name, instagram link, and a few words about your look!

OWIGS X ETC MEGA GIVEAWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Sun, 01 Dec 2013 19:16:00 +0000

I absolutely love giveaways. Its my chance to network with other companies and a perfect way to give back to my curlfriends. Yall show me so much support and I love you for that! I try to have a giveaway each month and this one has to be the next big thing next to my Private Stock Hair giveaway! I'm so excited to announce OWIGS (www.owigs.com) is giving away a full lace wig from their site to one lucky winner! I absolutely love their wigs and I've done a few reviews for the company! Its the only place I shop for wigs. The quality is ahhhhmazing, customer service is spectacular, and I just love their celebrity inspired styles of wigs!

I am also sponsoring a few items to make this giveaway even more fab! There is only one entry per person however, you can increase your chance to win every time you make a purchase at ET CETERA BOUTIQUE! Yaaasss curls...there are inexpensive items in my boutique like the bamboo earrings ($8.99), the gold chain necklace that you love ($20), my book CURLIES COLOR TOO ($12), and the tee of the week, BLACK BARBIE ($20/free shipping)! So each time you make a purchase you increase your chance to win. However, you DO NOT need to shop to enter. You can enter by following the below rules but remember you are only entered once this way:

1. SUBSCRIBE http://www.youtube.com/etcblogmag

2. LIKE/COMMENT (video) http://www.youtube.com/etcblogmag

3. LIKE OWIGS ON FB http://www.facebook.com/owigshairbeauty

4. REPOST & HASHTAG (giveaway graphic on IG) #etcblogmag #owigshair
INSTAGRAM | http://www.instagram.com/etcblogmag or @etcblogmag

5. SHOP Increase chances to win by making a purchase on Et Cetera Boutique, http://www.etceteraboutique.bigcartel.com

THE CONTEST ENDS ON DECEMBER 7TH! GOOD LUCK! THE WINNER WILL BE NOTIFIED ON YOUTUBE MESSAGE AND/OR EMAIL!

CLICK HERE TO SHOP ETC BOUTIQUE TO INCREASE YOUR CHANCES TO WIN THESE FAB PRIZES!

SALE | ETC BOUTIQUE

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 18:23:00 +0000

Did you know I moved my boutique? Whether you did or not, I told everyone it was a great move. Faster shipping, better customer service, more design options, and of course...DISCOUNTS GALORE! Today until Nov 24th you get 15% OFF your purchases! Yayyyy! So if you have been checking out all the new designs like FROSACE, HAIR PORN, AND BLACK MOB- now is the time to buy. Hurry over to ETC BOUTIQUE!

My 'Fro Loves Carol's Daughter Products

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 23:05:00 +0000

Carol's Daughter has officially been added to my product junky obsession! As a natural hair vlogger I get to try a lot of natural hair product lines out- the list is lengthy and for some reason my 'fro loves them all. You may be thinking, "uhhhh like that's a problem!!!?" But it is a problem because that is what fuels a product junky, if everything works, we keep buying! I am proud that my hair likes this product line though! I've had the Hair Milk Pudding for some time now and it gives my twist outs a flawless look.

I've recently tried the Hair Milk Conditioning Co-Wash which came in this huge 23 fl oz bottle! The bottle alone sold me on the product! The container is humungous and the pump has an extra long nozzle which allows more product to come out in one pump! You know naturalistas use a lot of conditioner and cowash products! Lol. And anything less than 23 fl oz is considered a sample size for our mega 'fros! I'm so glad Carol's Daughter is now offering this huge container.

Now about the product...it has an amazing slip and it made detangling such a breeze. I finger detangled for awhile and then I was immediately able to use a wide tooth comb that slid through my hair like a hot knife on butter! I was pretty impressed. The Co-Wash cut down on my detangling session tremendously! And more importantly my hair was left feeling refreshed and cleansed. The holidays are coming up and I know naturalistas pull out all the dope hairstyles for their parties and gatherings- so this product is just right to get rid of all the layers of products we used for them. Again, Carol's Daughter's Hair Milk Conditioning Co-Wash is ahhhhhmazing! I will let it speak for itself...check out my YouTube video of what I think about this product and see a live demo of how it worked for my 'fro!

Carol's Daughter

How I Style Leather Leggings x A Fur Vest

noreply@blogger.com (Yolanda Renee) — Sun, 17 Nov 2013 22:35:00 +0000

The cooler days are slowly approaching yall! I don't know about you but I love fall fashion! Its so much fun layering on the style! In this outfit of the day I used pieces from www.sheinside.com! I've done a few outfits with their pieces which are very affordable and trendy. For this look I show you how I styled their Coco Made Me Do It tee and leather leggings. They also sent me a faux fur vest which was entirely too small! I know the company is Asian based but they need to add more fabric to their pieces. I'm not a skinny girl but I am very petite. The vest literally fit my 5 year old, no joke! Lol. I am still in love with this company but they need to realize we are women! We have curves! Lol. Anyway...check out the outfit of the day. All items are linked below!

Love this song,? It's "Diary of a Liquor Bottle" by my boo, Devon Beck. Download at https://soundcloud.com/devonbeck.

To get this look click the links below:

1 Fur Vest
2 COCO MADE ME DO IT tee
3 Leather Leggings
4 Ilsa Studded Boots
5 Bamboo Earrings
6 Chain Link Necklace

Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/etcblogmag!

Quilted Bag