Temple of Glam

Things We Love: Hawaiian Tropic Cruise

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Fri, 25 May 2012 09:32:03 EDT

Things I love? "Sailing" by Christopher Cross and old episodes of "Martin". There are more things, of course, but for the purpose of this piece, I'm going to stop right there.

I attended the Things We Love Summer Sail the other day and I cannot (well, I can, but I won't) stop raving about the fun I had.

First, I had the greatest table mates. Image courtesy of The Glamazon Diaries.

Second, upon boarding Atlantica yacht we were greeted with Bahama Mamas (and Papas?). In keeping with the Caribbean theme, we enjoyed a Mexican lunch and dessert (customized ice cream sandwiches from CoolHaus).

Third, we received a massive Lands' End tote that was, like its contents, perfect for beach-y adventures. It was so heavy, in fact, it tipped over more than a couple of chairs when we went upstairs for dessert.

1. Dove Clear Tone Skin Renew Clinical Protection Deodorant, Available at Drugstore.com for $7.99
2. Echo Design Bikini Bags, Available at Zappos.com for $20
3. Ettika adjustable Neon Satin Cord with gold Faceted Beads, Available at Ettika.com for $40
4. Fekkai Summer Hair After Sun Daily Mask, Available at Fekkai.com for $25
5. Flywheel Giftcards, Available at Flysports.com for $30
6. Goody Quik Style Paddle Brush, Available at Target.com for $11.99
7. Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer Effect Coconut Papaya After Sun Lotion, Available at Ulta.com for $6.79
8. Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50, Available at Walgreens.com for $10.99
9. Lands’ End Natural Zip Totes in Melon, Available at LandsEnd.com for $35
10. Nest Fragrances Votive Candles, Available at Shop.NestFragrances.com for $14
11. OPI Holland Collection Polishes, Available at Amazon.com for $6.99
12. Philip B Katira Hair Masque, Available at PhilipB.com for $40
13. Reach Toothbrushes from the Jeff Lewis & Shoshanna Gruss Collections, Available at Amazon.com for $6.12
14. Sanuk Women’s Ibiza Stitch Sandals, Available at Sanuk.com for $20
15. Schick Hydro Silk for Women Razor, Available at Soap.com for $11.49
16. Sonia Kashuk Assorted Cosmetic Bags, Available at Target.com for $5.99-$24.99
17. Starbucks Refreshers Sparkling Green Coffee Energy Beverage, Available at Grocery stores nationwide for $1.99
18. Pixi Tinted Brilliance Balms, Available at Target.com for $16
19. Tarte Amazonian Clay Bronzer, Available at TarteCosmetics.com for $37
20. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on Pencil, Available at UrbanDecay.com for $19

Right after we disembarked, we hung out at Chelsea Piers where Makeda cracked open her Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration™ Lotion Sunscreen. Available in SPF 15, 30, and 50 (yes, 50), we slathered it on and the raving began. It moisturizes and glides on to the skin (brown girls, we've all experienced chalk-colored sunscreen that just sits atop the skin). So that's major. Plus, it contains all-natural shea butter.

Oh, and almost as soon as I walked into my apartment, I unzipped the tote and found a NEST Fragrances votive candle. The grapefruit scent was so intoxicating, I (literally) ran into my bedroom and placed it on my nightstand.

Here's a pic of the Fekkai Hair Mask, Tarte Bronzer & Etrika bracelet (I slapped it on as soon as I saw its neon goodness).

Finally since outfit of the day seems to be "a thing" now, here's how I rocked the boat (Yup, another Aaliyah reference).

While you're here, enjoy the tranquil and melodic stylings of Mr. Christopher Cross. Love him.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Hawaiian Tropic® Sun Care via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Hawaiian Tropic. Hawaiian Tropic is a trademark of Tanning Research Laboratories, LLC.

Obsessed with the (Plus-Size) Dress

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Tue, 22 May 2012 22:25:07 EDT

You know I'm not a label freak. Like you know that, right? But there are some designers that I just love unconditionally: Tadashi Shoji, Halston (from the '70s), David Meister, and Yojhi Yamamoto come to mind. They do no wrong in my book.

I'm going to focus on David Meister right now because he offers the most exquisite gowns for missy and plus-size women. Take the gilded Floor-Length Gown ($548) above. It's available in sizes 14-22. I love the universally flattering, empire waist as well as the gathered center that complements and creates a flawless hourglass silhouette. Plus, it's so reminiscent of Studio 54. And as you know fashion begins and ends there for me.

Here's one for my missy sisters with bountiful boobs.

Though this Metallic Gown ($768) might seem impossible to wear, all you need is a pretty Panache plunge bra and you'll be golden.

I'm a huge fan of Panache because the bras are gorge and they offer so much support for D to a KK cups!

Happily Ever After: L'Oreal EverCrème Review

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Tue, 15 May 2012 10:43:10 EDT

I'm pretty sure you think I'm exaggerating because hyperbole is kinda' my thing. I kid you not though; DIY hair almost always ends up in disaster: brittle, angry hair. After a lot of time, energy and sometimes tears (don't judge me), I end up begging my hairstylists to take me into their salons the very next day. Ask them. I've offered to be their best friend, hugs, and even said I could stop by their homes to make it more convenient for them.

That last "offer" borders on a threat, but desperate times...

Despite knowing all of this, from time to time I trick myself to believe that if I just change my products and get professional heating tools, I can have salon-perfect hair.

So when I attended the L'Oreal Paris EverCrème event, I took it as a divine sign to try again*. Instantly smitten, I met Johnny Lavoy. He is not only L'Oreal's official hair expert, but for 30 years (no idea how this is possible...he looks so young!), he has styled celebs like Cindy Crawford, Raven Simone and Gail King. He has also worked a ton of runway shows and magazine gigs. So when Lavoy told the intimate group of beauty bloggers & editors that EverCrème was perfect for dry, naturally curly, and chemically processed hair, I believed him.

The feature product was sulfate-free EverCrème Cleansing Conditioner ($6). One part cleanser-three parts conditioner, it leaves hair clean, super soft, and ready to combat environmental factors and heat styling. Plus, it smells unbelievable. To explain how yummy it smells, I was on the subway and a young woman sat next to me. I recognized the scent immediately and we proceeded to talk about how much we love EverCrème.

Believe me; I don't spend my time sniffing other chicks, so imagine how fantastic it smells!

Back to my DIY experience...well, I gave it a go with the cleansing conditioner and my hair was so very soft. I could hardly believe it! My styling "techniques"? Um, I went to the salon the next day. There are just times when we have to recognize our limitations. My kryptonite is apparently blow drying my hair and cooking anything other than pasta dishes. For the record, I can also make a mean English muffin pizza.

*P.S. I sing this through my DIY-hair sweating & crying fits

Do Brown Girls Tan?

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:13:28 EDT

Recently, I mentioned to two (very) different people that I use self tanner/bronzer and "lay out" in the summer. They responded in two (very) similar ways: "Aren't you dark ENOUGH?"

More amused than offended, I responded in the same exact way, "Dark skin is beautiful...plus, I'm all about an even skin tone.".

So, does the cheese stand alone? Do brown girls tan?

So Fresh & So Clean: Neutrogena Naturals Review

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 21:19:59 EDT

Going natural is everywhere. From organic instant pudding to the hair transitioning movement, natural is the new black. I carry around an earth-friendly tote every day and when I forget it, I have been known to walk out of stores with my purchase in hand. Awkward! Plus, I'm really into natural hair and skin products. Segue time...

I received a canvas (of course) tote bag filled with Neutrogena Naturals (made from post-consumer recycled plastic) and other green goodies, it was a sign that I needed to give it a go. So, I went.

Here are my thoughts:

Purifying Facial Cleanser

Normally, I save clear cleansers for the summer because they don't tend to deliver the moisture my normal-to-dry skin requires. This sulfate-free cleanser successfully removed my makeup and left my skin feeling clean, but not stripped of its oil. It not only includes Vitamins B, C & E, but it also has naturally derived, detoxifying salicylic acid and beta hydroxy acid.

Two words: Balanced cleanser

Purifying Pore Scrub

I have whiteheads. Go ahead and judge me. As a result, I'm constantly looking for the "miracle product" that will make them go away and keep self-extraction at bay. See what I did there? Anywhoo, this 94% naturally derived scrub detoxifies pores and it has a really great consistency. It's not grainy like other scrubs.

Two words: Smooth operator

Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer

A lightweight-but-effective moisturizer, this is a go-to product for me. I like that my skin feels hydrated, but not like an oil slick. AND my skin absorbs it super fast! It's chock full of bionutrients, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory goodness.

Two words: Moisture booster

Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Night Cream

We've all heard it. At night, our skin does its thing: heals, repairs, regenerates (is that starfish specific?).

Enriched with Inca Inchi Oil (it has the highest concentration of omega fatty acids) and Yerba Mate (Brazilian green tea), also known as "tea of life", this cream enhances skin's defense against dullness, leaving it glow-y.

Two words: Night Nurturer

In short, I am in love with this collection. I'm not a fan of perfume-laden products; probably because I'm allergic.

All of the products I used had a barely there scent My arrogant whiteheads were less A LOT less oppressive and my skin felt amazing. Score for team natural!

NEUTROGENA® Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer is a daily lotion that replenishes essential skin nutrients while providing continuous moisture throughout the day for healthier, younger-looking skin. It contains no harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates.

NEUTROGENA® Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Night Cream replenishes essential skin nutrients and is fortified with vitamins B, C, E and anti-oxidant omega bionutrients. This nourishing cream is clinically proven to boost skin’s defense against dullness and roughness, leaving it naturally radiant, healthier and younger looking today and in the future. It contains no harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Neutrogena via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Neutrogena.

Spa Week Is Here!

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 17:19:40 EDT

Trillions of zillions of $50 treatments are now available in a city near you! Well, not exactly a trillion, but you know the deal: facials, massages, manis, pedis, body wraps and more are on sale at SpaWeek.com for a one week only.

I was more than a little impressed by the Red Door hand treatment I experience at the Spa Week Media Event last week. See? I was stoked!

As you probably remember, Spa Week kicks off with a media party where guests receive complimentary beauty treatments (like blowouts, brow shaping & waxing), mingle, and dip delectables in the chocolate fountain. We also walk out with product-laden gift bags. Here's a glimpse of the magic that is the Spa Week Media Party.

Blowout by J. Sisters...

Lorna from The Fabulous Report, Spa Week's Michelle Joni, Kimberlee & More Bloggers...

The chocolate fountain & more snacks...

Break Up to Make Up: KeratinPerfect Review

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:49:54 EDT

My dad's canary-yellow Lincoln Mark V is synonymous with R& B classics for me. Mostly because before I even entered it, I'd hear the music blaring and my dad belting out tunes. One of his favorites was "Break Up to Make Up" by The Stylistics. As I found myself nostalgically downloading the best of The Stylistics a little while ago, I remembered those days...visibly embarrassed, but singing along with him (in my head). Since then, after loving and losing, I can honestly say I understand the song. I get it now, Papa Brathwaite.

The concept of "break up to make up" doesn't relate only to romantic relationships. I've oft-confronted my split ends with scissors, but recently I was introduced to keratin treatments. As I'm sure you know, over time our hair loses protein (chemical treatments and heat exacerbate this natural process). Protein-depleted hair is dull, rough, dry, frizzy, and lifeless. Sound familiar? I'd heard quite a bit about Brazilian Keratin Treatments and relaxed hair. I gotta' tell ya, from formaldehyde formulations to just god-awful results, I had no interest in joining that club.

Well, KeratinPerfect is different. It's called a "smoothing system" because it uses naturally derived protein (from sheep's wool to be exact) to infuse hair with much-needed strength and shine. So yeah, I was invited to an event where attendees were shown how to complete a successful DIY blowout using KeratinPerfect.

For the record, my DIY hair projects end up with me begging my gracious hair stylists (i.e. hair angels) to fit me into their busy schedules. I figured I'd cut out the trauma of trying to fit a hat over my stay-puft hair and just watch the professionals teach more able-bodied bloggers and editors.

I happily took my products with me to my one of my favorite hair angels, Shedelle Holmes. She used the sulfate-free Perfect Cleanse ($24), Perfect Silk Conditioner ($24), and Keratin Blowout Booster Cream ($34). As she shampooed she said, "you can feel the difference even when shampooing". As she blew out my hair, she marveled at its shine and said it actually looked stronger and more healthful...score!

I haven't tried the full, 30-day smoothing process, but it seems so simple...even I could do it (maybe):

Apply Clarifying Shampoo

Apply The Perfector & leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing out

Blow Dry using a dryer like the soon-to-launch in the US *ghd air. Here's a sneak peek!

Flat Iron hair using a tool that goes up to 430 degrees

Et Voile...this version doesn't hold a candle to my dad's, but I guess it'll do...

Not Your Daughter's Jeans Spring 2012

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 10:00:50 EDT

I'll never forget walking down the street with my mom one day. I was like 5. There was something on my mind that I had to ask her.

Baby Breezy: Mommy, do I have a big butt?

Mommy: (Sarcastically) Yeah...we're the butt sisters.

Now, let's just say you didn't "get it from your mama". Enter Not Your Daughter's Jeans ($88- $130). NYDJ can make you look a full size smaller, flatten your stomach, and boost your booty. How? So glad you asked. The criss-cross paneling flattens the stomach, the high-rise design prevents muffin top, and the higher back pockets visibly lift the bum.

The spring 2012 collection is chock full of Razzles-hued jeans AND denim skirts (yup, they're back)! Plus, they have amazing animal-print denim that I went wild for (sorry). If you're more of a classic girl, there are new silhouettes (cropped and boyfriend) to accompany their beloved styles.

Denim Skirts...In Living Color!

Anwhoo, I stopped by the showroom to check out the wares and walked out with these sensational snakeskin-print jeans. At first I admonished myself for wearing an oversized dress (knowing I'd be photographed in the jeans I chose), but then I realized I made the right decision.

Check out my 2012 take on '90s grunge. I'm calling it CBGB chic...Boom.

Here's a close-up of the sssssnakeskin print...

And for some musical inspiration...

Park & Recreation: Hilary Park Jewelry Review

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 11:10:14 EDT

I was never the hardcore go out-and-play kinda' kid. But one all-too-vivid park memory involves me at age 7 on the see-saw...alone. Yeah, it gets worse.

As I pondered what past life to blame for my grounded position, a boy (about 9 or 10) hopped on the other side and we see-sawed our little hearts out. Until. He jumped off and ran to play somewhere else. As I crashed back down to reality, I was back to my introspective state with a sore butt. I'm fighting to not make this memory a metaphor for my childhood.

Moving on...last week I stopped by Hilary Park's jewelry store. I was super stoked to see how she incorporates astrological-isms in her hand-crafted silver and gold pieces. You know I was interested if I traveled to Brooklyn to see her earrings, necklaces, and bracelets (starting at $80).

Oh, the pieces she showed: industrial, but undeniably influenced by nature. In short, they're striking.

From the tough girl, leather-woven Whip Stitch Cuff ($475) to the Winding Path Cuff ($1500), I was in awe of the stunning workmanship and the passion Hilary (understandably) has for her designs. And then as I fawned over the Frida Kahlo pendant, she mentioned she created a similar one in Basquiat's image...crowns and all. She was also nice enough to give me a customized citrine (prosperity) pendant on her signature leather cord. Prosperity? Bring it.

The Hairess Diaries: Do I Need A Relaxer Intervention?

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:30:16 EDT

Yo Diary,

I've had some inner turmoil going on. You see, I have this friend. No, not like I'm talking about myself "friend"; "one-of-my-closest-friends-in-the-world" friend. Anywhoo, we have a couple of tacit agreements:

#1 We will be roommates in hell.

#2 We will never cross over to the "other side" (unless that "other side" is hell, which of course, we will do hand-in-hand).

In short, we're both on "that stuff"...the creamy crack. But like any good addict, I've been keeping a big secret from her. And if she's reading this, I'm sure she's shaking her silky-haired head.

For the past year, I've been stretching out my relaxers (I average about 10-11 weeks). As I've taken a glimpse at my natural texture, I've kinda' been rocking with my locks. BUT by the last week of my stretch, when the shedding gets unbearable, I ask myself "so what are we going to do?".

I contemplate just cutting it all the hell off because as India says, "I am not my hair...I am not your expectations...no". Then I remember the good times I've had with my signature bob. India chimes in again. Then I switch over to Jim Jones because all of that thinking is draining. I also schedule a relaxer appointment.

Once again, I find myself walking down a dusty road contemplating my next move...like good ol' "Bruce Banner". Cue the saddest television theme song ever made.

7 Minutes in Heaven: Sulwhasoo Review

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 10:49:45 EST

OK, OK. The Sulwhasoo facial I had last week lasted for much longer than seven minutes. And yes, my only experience with the ever-popular "7 minutes in heaven" game was watching, "Highway to Heaven". I'm not being funny; there was an episode where these cruel teenagers tricked the unpopular girl to go into a closet with some cute guy just so he could run out in horror seconds later. Bastards.

Anywhoo...Sulwhasoo time. I did a little research beforehand and was like, "whoa mama...$100 for an eye cream?!". When I came to, I found myself in the facial room at Bergdorf Goodman getting prepped for my experience. I was pretty impressed by the concept of incorporating traditional Korean medicine to promote skin balance and harmony, as well as within the body.

The facial consisted of seven steps (including cleanser, serum, toner, and customized treatments):

Cleansing foam ($36)

First Care Serum ($80)

Balancing Water ($55)

Overnight Vitalizing Treatment ($50)

After all seven steps were completed, I emerged relaxed, revived and glowy-glowy-glowy. And if you spend $150 at Bergdorf Goodman, you will get a free facial.

Nudie Beauty: Maybelline Dream Nude Airfoam Review

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 09:49:26 EST

When recently asked about my skincare routine, I noticed myself rattling off a laundry list of products that'd make any Sephora associate proud. When said routine was called "complicated", I admitted it: My name is Shaunequa and I'm addicted to skin care. Look, it could be worse; I mean, have you seen "Intervention"?

In contrast to my skin care routine, my makeup needs are minimal. I do not conceal, bronze, or line anything consistently. So when I find a product that offers light coverage for a more flawless finish, I'm all over it.

I first saw Maybelline Dream Nude Airfoam at Mercedez Benz Fashion Week. I was impressed by its frothy appeal, color saturation, and super-easy application. So I actually *gasp* bought it because they didn't have a tester in a brown shade (c'mon, Maybelline).

Breezy's Tips:

1) If you're looking for medium-to-full coverage, this is not the product for you. If you, like me, are of the tinted-moisturizer persuasion, give it a go.

2) This foam almost instantly "melts" when it makes contact with hands. My suggestion? Spray foam into the cap and apply it with a sponge or your fingers.

P.S. As of right now, there's only one viable brown-girl hue, Cocoa. I repeat: c'mon, Maybelline.

Jad Ghandour Show Fall 2012

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:45:27 EST

Inspired by vintage Hollywood stars like Joan Crawford and Bette Davis, this collection offered a glam nod to noir as well as timeless style.

Swing coats...Leather accents...

Silk Chiffon...Cigarette Pants...

Cutout Details...Princess Seams...

Spectacular Beading...Flowing Fabrics...

And here's a video I took...yep, that's Zang Toi and Cynthia Bailey sitting across from me.

Carlos Miele Show Fall 2012

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:30:25 EST

Let's play a little game of my iPhone camera versus a professional photog's camera...guess whose wins.

Bold Prints...Gilded Glamour...

Theirs

Mine

Pretty Pleats...Jewel Tones...

Theirs

Mine

What did I learn? Two things. #1 Brazilian cowgirls (the collection's inspiration), are some fashionable chicks. #2 I need to bring my real camera next season.

Glamazon Retreat & Relax, Renew, Recharge Sephora Event

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:09:00 EST

Images courtesy of: Jay Shep Photography

Let's call them the four Rs: Retreat. Relax. Renew. Recharge. On a rainy Thursday afternoon, all four are welcomed into my world. I luckily had a chance to connect with some great folks and chomp on goodies created by Katrina Cunning. We also took away gift bags full of ah-mazing stuff like NYX Cosmetics, a Rumba Time Watch and the prettiest earrings from Stone Savant Jewelry (pic below). And since it was a Glamazon Diaries event, of course male models stopped by...

I was more than a little obsessed with the black truffle & thyme popcorn...

Makeda and Jordana...

One of the aforementioned male models...

Alex of Kenton Magazine and fashion stylist, Mia...

Here are the earrings you will see me donning everywhere very soon...

That evening, I stopped by Sephora at Columbus Circle to fete the end of fashion week at Ty's & Christen's Relax, Renew, Recharge event.

AT&T sponsored, this event was a great opportunity to catch up with folks and find new beauty products to "need". A very special part of the evening was winning the first of many giveaways (including AT&T smartphones!)

After rapping with Ehmonie of WhatsHaute.com and Lisa of "Yours in Bridal" fame, I made a bee line to the Bliss and Boscia sections with my $25 gift card. I loved my new gift card. See?

Negarin Presentation Fall 2012

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 10:09:39 EST

Structure, structure, structure...Mandarin collars...chic Colorblocking...Oversized outerwear...Color pops and a super-edgy take on Peplum...

BTW, I thought this model just refused to look at my iPhone camera...apparently she also did the sour-puss thing with Zimbio.

All images are courtesy of Zimbio. Well, except this crappy one; it's courtesy of my iPhone.

Glam Media Dinner 2012

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:00:21 EST

Images courtesy of: Will Ragozzino/BFAnyc.com

I gotta say that I look forward to quite a few things during fashion week: Checking out the season's must-buy looks, catching up with blogger buddies, spotting fun street style, cupcakes & champagne, beauty lounges, and the Glam Media dinner. Last season, I was blown away by the bevy of incredible guests mingling at Fred's at Barney's. The food? Even I, the pickiest eater around enjoyed every morsel of food served. So this season, I knew I'd be there...with bells on. Well actually, there were no bells, but I did saunter into Soho House in a topcoat that I want to make out with on a daily basis. Plus, this season the dinner was sponsored by fashion-week darling, American Express...swanky.

Anywhoo, I saw the other fantastic Glam Media publishers, including the lovely Tineey, Ty, Danielle, and Raijean. We had a blast celebrating the commencement of fashion week, talking fashion (and boys), and meeting new people.

I truly think our table had the most fun. I also think I am biased.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Fall 2012: Dodging Bloodbaths

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:31:32 EST

I had a few reasons for this season's abbreviated fashion week schedule. The main one is I felt it important to dodge the PETA paint that would inevitably splash the fur-clad folks stomping into the tents. Call it a misguided phobia, but getting caught in an impromptu red-paint "bloodbath" is terrifying.

Another? The frenetic pace of fashion week has often left me exhausted, famished, and with a pile of laundry the height of Mt. Kilimanjaro; I'm already a step ahead: my fall 2012 schedule yielded a simple molehill.

That said, I attended a handful of exceptional shows and events that I'm super excited to share with you!

Giveaway L'Oreal True Match Foundation

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:00:46 EST

Perfect foundation? There's an app for that. When I heard about L'Oreal Paris MatchMaker by True Match, I was almost instantly obsessed with the concept of finding your correct shade using a free iPhone/iPad app. I've included a few screenshots below.

Wanna try it? L'Oreal will send the first 5 readers to comment a full-size sample of True Match foundation. Just use the app & comment below with your shade!

And now, for some musical inspiration...

New Year, New Glam: Under Construction

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 10:45:37 EST

Happy New Year! I've been working on Temple of Glam behind the scenes and JUST realized I hadn't given you the heads up.

So...here's the heads up: a brand new and improved Temple of Glam is on its way. And I think you're gonna love it.

Hang in there while I roll up my sleeves and work some magic!

It's A Miracle: It's A 10 Miracle Shine Spray Review

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:30:58 EST

Do you believe in miracles? Despite my status as a native New Yorker, I still do. I mean, yeah; I have my moments when my inner cynicist (like a lyracist, but more embittered), makes an appearance. At those times, I play Culture Club songs and do the Boy George dance ( in my head...mostly).

When that doesn't work, I find new beauty products to obsess over. Enter Miracle Shine Spray. Like all of the It's A 10 products, it has 10 benefits. Here are a few: it adds weightless shine, softens coarse hair, contains antioxidants, minimizes frizz, offers thermal protection, and locks in moisture. Plus, it can be used on wet hair and dry hair.

If you find yourself looking for softer, shinier hair, I suggest Miracle Shine Spray. Now, if you find yourself in a contrary mood, I suggest this:

It's a Thin Line: Hourglass Script Liner Review

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:24:27 EDT

You know the song "Thin Line Between Love and Hate"? What about the Martin Lawrence movie with the same title? Well, the point of it all is the hot-like-fire passion you have for something can go terribly, terribly wrong...and quickly. Kinda' like liquid liners.

Since I have yet to find a kohl pencil that gives me my deepest, darkest lines, I typically stick to my liquid ones. I was just rockin' with a cheapo liq-liner that stayed on forever BUT either because of my "trembly" morning hands or its applicator, coated my lashes.

Enter Hourglass Script Precision Liquid Liner ($32). You guys, I bought this one and haven't looked back. Its super-fine tip allows the thinnest, close-to-lashes coverage ever and you can easily manipulate it into a thicker mod-ish situation. So yeah, I'm loving it; oy let's hope it stays that way.

Here's a scene from the film featuring one of my favorite Hollywood beauties, Lynn Whitfield. Yep, that's a knife. Intense.

Breast Friends Forever: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Shaunequa Brathwaite — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 20:17:06 EDT

Image courtesy of: counterculturebeauty.com

One of my favorite awkward work stories is one in which my manager told me and my work bestie that he did his "breast thinking in the shower". Now I'm not sure if the sight of our bazooms caused his Freudian slip or what, but it was hilarious. And we referenced that phrase often.

For me and my crew, it's like the current state of boobs all the time with us. So of course when Breast Cancer Awareness month comes around, I find myself thinking even more about the topic of our conversations and punch lines.

I attended the Accessory Council Pink Picks event where they presented us with top and often limited-edition products where a portion of sales benefits breast cancer research. And away we go:

Alex Woo Breast Cancer Awareness Ribbon Cord Bracelet ($88)

Anne Klein Breast Cancer Foundation Watch ($65)

Aveda Pink Ribbon Hand Relief ($22)

Bumble & Bumble Spray De Mode ($26)

Bobbi Brown Pink Ribbon Collection ($44)

Chic Boom Speaker Ball ($29.99)

Elizabeth Hurley Pink Ribbon Collection ($24)

Kenneth J Lane Meaningful Pink Bow Pin ($35)

La Mer The Lip Balm ($45)

Check out these other Breast Cancer Awareness products: Lacoste sunglasses, a Mundi Westport smart phone case, and a Thale Blanc Exlusive Pink Pochette!

Temple of Glam

Things We Love: Hawaiian Tropic Cruise

Obsessed with the (Plus-Size) Dress

Happily Ever After: L'Oreal EverCrème Review

Do Brown Girls Tan?

So Fresh & So Clean: Neutrogena Naturals Review

Spa Week Is Here!

Break Up to Make Up: KeratinPerfect Review

Not Your Daughter's Jeans Spring 2012

Park & Recreation: Hilary Park Jewelry Review

The Hairess Diaries: Do I Need A Relaxer Intervention?

7 Minutes in Heaven: Sulwhasoo Review

Nudie Beauty: Maybelline Dream Nude Airfoam Review

Sponsored Post: Boat Shoes. Theophilus London. Repeat.

Jad Ghandour Show Fall 2012

Carlos Miele Show Fall 2012

Glamazon Retreat & Relax, Renew, Recharge Sephora Event

Negarin Presentation Fall 2012

Glam Media Dinner 2012

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Fall 2012: Dodging Bloodbaths

Giveaway L'Oreal True Match Foundation

New Year, New Glam: Under Construction

Sponsored Post ¦ Diamond Girl: Anjolee Jewelry Review

It's A Miracle: It's A 10 Miracle Shine Spray Review

It's a Thin Line: Hourglass Script Liner Review

Breast Friends Forever: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Temple of Glam

Things We Love: Hawaiian Tropic Cruise

Obsessed with the (Plus-Size) Dress

Happily Ever After: L'Oreal EverCrème Review

Do Brown Girls Tan?

So Fresh & So Clean: Neutrogena Naturals Review

Spa Week Is Here!

Break Up to Make Up: KeratinPerfect Review

Not Your Daughter's Jeans Spring 2012

Park & Recreation: Hilary Park Jewelry Review

The Hairess Diaries: Do I Need A Relaxer Intervention?

7 Minutes in Heaven: Sulwhasoo Review

Nudie Beauty: Maybelline Dream Nude Airfoam Review

Sponsored Post: Boat Shoes. Theophilus London. Repeat.

Jad Ghandour Show Fall 2012

Carlos Miele Show Fall 2012

Glamazon Retreat & Relax, Renew, Recharge Sephora Event

Negarin Presentation Fall 2012

Glam Media Dinner 2012

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Fall 2012: Dodging Bloodbaths

*Giveaway* L'Oreal True Match Foundation

New Year, New Glam: Under Construction

Sponsored Post ¦ Diamond Girl: Anjolee Jewelry Review

It's A Miracle: It's A 10 Miracle Shine Spray Review

It's a Thin Line: Hourglass Script Liner Review

Breast Friends Forever: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Giveaway L'Oreal True Match Foundation