BeautyXchange

Simple Valentine's Gift Idea for Your Self

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:30:00 +0000

I know Valentine's day is a few weeks away and I think it's a perfect time to spend some time pampering yourself. If you don't normally have the time or the funds to treat yourself to a massage then V day is a perfect time to do so, what better way to let your body know how much you value it by giving it some TLC.

Massage Envy is perfect for this, it's convenient and relatively affordable, especially if you're a first-timer to their services. Actually, a couple of weeks ago, two of my girlfriends and I went for massages to kick off the New Year rejuvenated.

The Maxwell Daily Reader by John C. Maxwell

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0000

I picked up this book last November; prior to purchasing it I had never read a book from John C. Maxwell but this has been the perfect introduction to his writing.

It's essentially a compilation of Maxwell's written work in a daily format filled with inspiration and convential wisdom. Though I must admit it is a bit more centered towards management in an orgnaizational type setting as this is Maxwell's trademark.

However, I have found it insightful and helpful to me as I view life in terms of the organization and myself as the leader trying to steer it in the right direction.

Here are a few pearls of wisdom, I have found so far in my daily readings:

You cannot grow unless you are willing to change. And you will not change unless you change something you do every day.

People who achieve their potential do so because they invest in themselves every day. They take the time to add value to themselves.

Characteristics of a good leader: consistent, courteous, and clear.

The way people see others is a reflection of themselves. If you change yourself and become the kind of person you desire to be, you will begin to view others in a whole new light.

Focus on the journey, not the destination.

Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.

No one becomes rich, unless he enriches another.

When we refrain from giving, with a scarcity mentality, the little we have will become less. When we give generously, with an abundance mentality, what we give away will multiply.

Embrace your failures as blessings in disguise.

Seek first to understand, then to be understood.

Our attitudes determine what we see and how we handle our feelings. These two factors greatly determine our success.

To establish credibility you must make sure that what you say, what you do, and what you say you do are consistent with each other.

Though January is almost over, I would recommend this book while you journey into 2012. I'm sure you will find inspiration in each passage.

Girl Crush Sanaa Lathan for Panten Pro-V

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 04:30:00 +0000

It's refreshing to see my girl crush, Sanaa Lathan as the new face and spokesmodel for the Pantene ProV Nature Fusion collection.

Check out Sanaa's beauty regimen in a recent Stylist.com interview:

On maintaining her thick hair:
I always deep condition. It's really important to keep my hair moisturized, not put too much heat on it and keep the ends trimmed. Also, I like to rotate my hairstyles. I'll do straight and then when I'm in-between, I'll wear my natural texture.

On hair extensions:
I'll wear pieces and weaves in movies, but I'm loving my own hair especially because I've been taking good care of it and can go without [extensions]. I like wearing it in a cool chignon or really wild.

On her favorite Pantene products:
I love the NatureFusion Moisture Balance shampoo and conditioner and the Relaxed & Natural daily oil cream moisturizer.

On her sexy red pout:
It's MAC Ruby Woo. I love the matte finish and it looks different on so many skin tones. Part of the fun in being an actress is that I can have so many personas. I think every woman should be that way. Yet, when it comes to my makeup, there's been two go-tos: the dark eye with nude lips or a red lipstick.

On her flawless complexion:
For my skin, I like using organic because it goes straight into your bloodstream. It's like putting something into your mouth.

On staying in shape:
I have one of those mini trampolines that you can get from WalMart. I jump on that for about 30 minutes while watching soap operas.

image via Stylist.

IT girl S.O.L.A.N.G.E knowles

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 21:15:00 +0000

Solange has become a style icon in her own right. What I admire most about her is - she seems to be sensible and simplistic by nature. Seems like she doesn't try too hard, or try to complicate things. I enjoyed reading her interview with Vogue Italia, seen below.

source

Name

Solange Knowles.

Personal Style

Evolving, Bold, Unrefined, Expressive.

Place you call home

Brooklyn.

Must have wardrobe items

Vibrant colours and print fabrics. High waisted silhouettes, statement shoes, easy dresses and Doc Martens for rainy days.

Favourite designers

Marni, DVF, Acne, Opening Ceremony, J.Crew, Boxing Kitten.

One item every girl should have?

"I believe every girl should own a pair of chic and comfortable flats."

What is your definition of style?

"The canvas of our individuality. An outlet for expression."

Favourite places to shop?

"I do most of my shopping online with Net A Porter, Shopbop, Theoutnet. When I need the in store experience, Opening Ceremony in New York is always fun."

Fashion Icons?

"Diana Ross, Erykah Badu, the Fela Kuti Queens, my uber glam mother, Chaka Khan, Bjork and the girls on the street in my hood."

Most valuable possessions

"My sanity."

Where do you find inspiration?

"Travelling, diving into other cultures face first. The colours everywhere, the colour palette of shotgun houses in New Orleans, spices in Marrakesh, nail polishes on shelf at my favourite nail shop in Brooklyn. I just left Rwanda and have never seen colours used in such natural and spectacular way in my life. I see colour before I see any other element in design."

Song of the moment?

CJ HILTON Cold Summer.

Beauty Routine

"I am very low maintenance. I think I am lucky when I get to wash my face at night. I occasionally get facials by a miracle worker in Los Angeles named Mirta. However, apparently getting facials is not the way to erase months of carelessness and angry pores. Sleep is vital, happiness is key so I feel the most beautiful with those two elements combined."

Make up Routine

YSL concealer, Rimmel mascara, Rimmel pencil eyeliner, bright lips... Keep it moving

IT Bag?

"I have never really been a bag girl.(Shoes is a whole other monster) but I am currently carrying a Mulberry bag that I love!"

Fondest childhood memory

"Too many good ones to share!"

Relationship status

"Happily Committed. It is not complicated, thank God!"

Personal motto

"I tend to adopt Tamar Braxton's Motto over my OWN.COM."

What does success means to you?

"Defining success on my own terms. First, being a loving and committed mother. I have failed in all things if I have not achieved that. Being an artist that creates to express the needs of my own, and in the process hopefully inspiring others. Having the financial stability to support the lifestyle that makes me feel fulfilled. I know that happiness is a temporary state of mind, success means for me constantly growing, evolving to find that place."

How do you feel about being recognise for your great sense of style?

"I feel completely flattered and also very humbled."

Your wish list for the season?

"I am still on last season wish list! I still need to dive into some of the insane sales of things I drooled over but could not fix myself to buy new things when I have a new house to furnish. There is a pink and orange wool jacket from Bottega Veneta that I am lusting over. A yellow Proenza Skirt I have been trying to get my hands on forever. I am definitely into waiting until I can truly afford the statement pieces I love, that I will wear forever! I still have couture dresses that came out 4 years ago, that have not worn yet. I am definitely not in a rush to wear things because they are the new new. I guess when I will decide to wear those pieces people will be calling them vintage (Laughs)."

What is your opinion about the black representation in the fashion industry?

"I think it is evolving, and that is a beautiful thing! Now when I flip trough magazines I can see just as many beautiful black models in major campaigns as any other race. Unique, striking,beautiful women. I felt so extremely blessed to be Rimmel's first black spokesperson, and to be embraced fully for being exactly who I am. And standing next to Kate Moss, with my Afro bigger than days light. I don't by any means consider myself the most qualified for model material. I think that people tend to respond to what is real. Black women carry that flame with so much ease and confidence. It is being captured and celebrated on all fronts in fashion now. I have friends who are doing greats things, that movement is very real and well deserved!"

5 things you can´t live without?

Water, food, plants, sun and sex.

Projects?

"My blood, sweat, tears and long awaited album, which is being mixed as we speak."

Change :: Grow :: Evolve

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Source: chickabug.com via Chloe on Pinterest

Hope you all had a great holiday and your first week into the new year was filled with anticipation of the areas in your lives that you want to improve.

For me, I've found that categorizing my life into the broad areas that I want to focus on has helped me tremendously. After I categorized those areas I felt a lot less overwhelmed and intimidated by them.

{home health family career hobbies} pretty much sums up those areas

This blog falls into one of those categories. For the longest time, I've felt that the time had come for me to put it to rest. Truth be told there are so many things that I am inspired by and want to share but they don't necessarily fall into the realm of what I've constructed this blog around.

I've contemplated just starting anew but reconsidered for various reason. I've been asking myself, do I stay or do I go. Yes, indecisiveness is an area I struggle with, I'm working on it :)

All I can say for now is ~ Let's see where this journey or changes takes us.

***

The words that reflect me at this particular time are: change - growth - evolve as I'm constantly doing all three. They say with age (I'm 30) comes wisdom....whoever they are....are not lying. It's amazing how with time and experiences, our attitudes, thoughts, philosophies, change, grow, and evolve to shape us into who we are meant to be.

"The art of life is constant readjusting to your surroundings."

-Kazuko Okokaura

Beauty in Words: Lifestyle Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 15:31:00 +0000

The Paradox Of Our Age

We have bigger houses but smaller families;

more conveniences, but less time.

We have more degrees but less sense;

more knowledge but less judgment;

more experts, but more problems;

more medicines but less healthiness.

We’ve been all the way to the moon and back,

but have trouble in crossing the street to meet our new neighbour.

We built more computers to hold more copies than ever,

But have less real communication;

We have become long on quantity,

but short on quality.

These are times of fast foods but slow digestion;

Tall men but short characters;

Steep profits but shallow relationships.

It’s a time when there is much in the window

But nothing in the room. — the 14th Dalai Lama.

This morning I landed on this and thought of how true the words rang to me. The New Year is a few days away; so for me some of these words is a reminder of some concepts to keep in mind.

Hope all of you are having a wonderful holiday season.

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Hope it's filled with laughter and love.
~Gigi

A Few of My Favorite Things -- Part Deux

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Hey guys. I wanted to share a few of my favorite things with you. Here they are:

HairCare

I've had my eyes on the Original Moxie hair care line for a few months now and during their Black Friday sale I scooped up two of their products: Luxe Locks & Hair Bling. The luxe locks is the bomb.com and I had a feeling it would be. I loved the fact that my hair was not only defined, but soft to the touch, had mobility and nice shine. The hair bling, I used to unravel my braids or twists. It's excellent for adding high shine as it suggests.

Lippies

I'm using the holidays as an excuse for my sudden experimentation with red lip color. Truth be told I've experimented with reds before but for some reason always thought it was a bit much for me. But, that all changed after watching a video by Shirley of meek-n-mild. I was inspired to revisit the reds and I'm glad I did. The two colors that I've been wearing are drugstore brands: L'Oreal: Target Red and Maybelline: Are You Red-dy. The L'Oreal Target Red is a bit on the matte side, which I like versus the Maybelline Are You Red-dy which is more glossy and moisturizing. Both are equally bold and unique in their own way.

Aromatherapy

The Dayna Decker candle pictured is so good it's intoxicating. The amber scent is subtle but calming and adds a nice fragrance to the home plus the wick makes this crackling sound like wood burning in a fireplace. It makes a great hostess gift if you plan on attending any holiday dinners or parties or for yourself if you're a candle lover like my self. Only caveat - it is on the expensive side. But, every now and again you owe it to yourself to splurge a little.

So, that's my list. What are you loving right now? Share with me.

5 Christmas Gift Ideas for the Guys

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 04:00:00 +0000

I find it difficult to shop for men more-so than women. You may or may not agree but men can be more complicated than us females. The two men that I find it difficult to shop for are my husband and brother, mostly because they are picky and tend to have expensive taste.

Here are 5 categories of items that I think will make any guy happy, no matter their taste.

1. Digital/Electronic Gadgets for the "techy" guy: a Tablet/DSLR/SmartPhone will keep them happy for the next six months.

2. Fragrance. I love the scent of a nice masculine cologne. This one in particular.

3. Clothing: Leather Jacket.
Unlike a coat, a leather jacket can be worn for the better party of the year and can really take things up a notch.

4. Skincare Although purchasing skincare can be a bit tricky.

I like the look of this kit. It has a face & body scrub, masque, moisturizer, lip balm, etc for the guy that takes his beauty regimen more seriously than his lady. ;)

www.menaji.com

5. Accessories: Wallet.

Like most women, men like to switch their wallet game up too. TJ Maxx always has a good selection of designer wallets for a fraction of their original cost.

Do you find it hard to shop for guys?

Hair's My Natural Beau(ty) - Adjatay

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. I'm back to share with you another Hair's My Natural Beauty feature with the cutest little boy with a head of a hair that would rival Troy Polamalu. Check out his story, told by his mom, a natural herself, Daphney.

This week's #NaturalHair Beau(ty) is 3 year old Adjatay from New Jersey.

How old is Adjatay? Adjatay is 2 yrs old and will be 3 in December

How would you describe his hair? Adjatay's hair is soft and full of medium size curls.

What hair products work best for his hair? The products that I use in Adjatay's hair are Grapeseed oil and SheaMoisuture products....I also make my own Leave-In Conditioner that I picked up from KimmayTube on Youtube....I wash his hair with a sulfate-free product called HairOne from Sallys beauty supply.

What's his hair regimen like? Every 2 weeks I saturate Adjatays hair with Olive Oil and put a self heating foil hair cap and let him play and enjoy his day for a couple of hours than I wash his hair with the HairOne conditioning shampoo. I than take the leave-in I made and spread it through out his hair, this helps me to detangle his hair also. Afterwards, I am ready to double strand twist his hair while using SheaMoisture Curl Smoothie. He sleeps with a hair bonnet to keep his hair from drying and every couple of days I use the a couple of drops of Grape seed oil and run it through his hair to keep it moisturized.

How do you style his hair? I double strand twist Adjatay's hair...since its getting longer I sometimes box braid it.

What resources have helped you in maintaining and styling his hair? I have done alot of my research on Youtube and i even googled alot and found ways to maintain his hair.

Do you ever plan on cutting his hair? I do not plan on cutting his hair anytime soon.

Isn't he the cutest little thing :) When I first saw the 3rd pic via his Mom, I was amazed and had to feature him. His mom does an excellent job of caring for his hair, I wish I had the patience and had the resources we have now four years ago when I was taming my own little one's hair.

So, what do you guys think?

Pretty Girls Rock at American Music Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 03:45:00 +0000

Last night, I watched the American Music Awards and thought it was pretty good in terms of performances. I really liked Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine & Gym Class Heroes , Maroon 5 + Christina Aguilera, Mark Anthony & Pitbull and Mary J. Blige.

As far as looks, these were my favorites:

I love everything about this look. So cute and chic.

Jennifer is working this little silver number.

J.Lo seems to always get it right. Love the lace.

Love Alanis Morisettes' shoes! and that fishtail was perfection.

Did you watch last night's #AMAs?
Any looks that you favored, that I didn't list?

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10 Fashion Tips for A Working Woman

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 21:15:00 +0000

Written by: Marina

Working women are expected to look well-kept and polished. This is especially true if you have a job that requires you to keep your image up such as a receptionist, a business owner, or a lawyer. What you choose to wear on a daily basis can let employers know that you are serious about your job. On the other hand, it can also let them know that you are a little unorganized if you don’t make the right decisions. The following are 10 fashions tips that can help working women look fashionable and presentable.

Fashion Tips for Working Women

1. Look the part. You want to look at if you actually woke up in the morning and put forth a little effort into the way you look. You don’t want to appear as if you just rolled out of the bed. If you are expected to be a professional, strive to look the part. This will vary depending on your profession. A rule of thumb is to dress similar to your boss. How she dresses will be a good indicator of how she expects you to dress.

2. Strive to have the polished look. Looking cute and trendy is certainly okay on some days. The majority of the days, however, strive to project a polished professional image. Choose classic attire such as pencil skirts, button up blouses, and pantsuits. Find ways to dress them up by adding in a splash of color here and there. You want to look clean. Keep your hairstyle up to date so that you look like you keep up with the times.

3. Avoid over the top jewelry. If you are going out for a night on the town, flashy jewelry may be acceptable. It is not acceptable for the office. Don’t wear jewelry that is going to stand out or offend others in any way. Keep jewelry in the office minimal and classy. Too big or too bright will distract others, including your boss. Go for diamond studs and a nice simple bracelet.

4. Do your clothes fit? Wearing clothes that do not fit can be uncomfortable and unappealing. If they are too big, you may look slouchy. If your clothes are too small, you may get attention that you are not looking for. The right fit is important in portraying a professional image.

5. Don’t go too low. The office is not a place for low cut shirts. Be cautious of what you are allowing others to see. If cleavage is showing, the shirt is too low. Make sure the neckline of your blouse covers your cleavage.

6. Handbags do matter. Your handbag can say a lot about you. Oversized handbags may give you the appearance of being unorganized. Choose a small or medium size bag that helps you get the professional image that you are looking for.

7. Nails. You can’t look professional if you walk around with your fingernails half painted. Make sure to remove old nail paint. Opt for a manicure or choose to go without any paint at all.

8. Make-up. Avoid sparkly eyes and lips in the workplace. Choose subtle colors that won’t stand out. You don’t want people looking at your makeup and making decisions about you. You want them to notice your professional attitude and what you can offer to the business.

9. Avoid going too casual. If you show up in your pajamas and a pair of slipper you will likely get fired. Don’t go too casual to work. Make sure the styles that you choose are appropriate for your workplace. It’s okay to wear jeans and heals if your workplace calls for this attire. Use your best judgment.

10. Can you see through it? You don’t want to walk around in clothing that you can see straight through. This does not project a professional image at all. If you wear white, be cautious of your bra showing.

Looking professional is the key to getting people to take you seriously. What does your work clothing say about you? Do you need to make some changes to your wardrobe?

Article Source: http://www.beautyandfashiontech.com /10 Fashion Tips for Working Women

Nicki Minaj OPI Nail Lacquer Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 03:46:00 +0000

Nicki Minaj is the most recent celebrity to team up with nail lacquer company, OPI. The collection makes its debut next year according to her site. Of course, being the girly girl that I am, I like the "Pink Friday" but also like the vampy look of "Super Bass".

What about you, which color interest you or not?

Which celebrity would you like to see collaborate with a major beauty brand?

P.S. It's been a while :)

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5 At-Home Hair Care Remdies to Treat Your Tresses this Season

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:30:00 +0000

Winter is around the corner and that means excessive DRYNESS, possible breakage, and perhaps split ends.

Here are five fast and furious tips to combat those issues:

1. Condition Condition Condition. Invest in a super moisture infused deep conditioner to hydrate and replenish your hair from the cold winds and those pesky wool hats that always seem to snag our hair. I'd say deep-condition at minimum once a week.

Suggestion: Dabur Vatika Natural Conditioning Treatment --Love it Love it Love it.

2. Trim your hair of any split or frail ends. A trim doesn't necessarily mean a hair cut (so don't fear) it can save your hair from further damage.

Suggestion: Purchase Roux Mendex Treatment from Sally Beauty Supply. I've used it a couple of times for my raggedy ends and noticed an instant difference. I must say though, that this is just a temporary solution for me when I'm unable to get in a stylist's chair for a trim. But, it works wonders! Trust me.

3. Put the blow dryers, curling iron, flat irons, any heat appliances down for a while. By now we all know that excessive heat on the hair shaft is no bueno. However, if you choose to do so keep the temperature setting at a low setting and use heat protectant serum to protect the hair from the hot tool.

Suggestion: Chi Silk Infusion

4. Use a Sulfate Free Shampoo - Most shampoos that have sulfates are drying and harsh so using one that is FREE of sulfates will minimize the risk of drying out your hair. There are gazillion of sulfate free shampoos on the market now. Go to your nearest drug store and skim the shelves for one that fits your particular needs.

Suggestion: Organix Haircare - so many varieties to choose from.

5. Don't Neglect Your Scalp - your scalp is the root of most hair issues (pun intended). So keeping it fresh, clean, and free of product can only help boost your hair's overall health. Massage your scalp a couple of times a week to stimulate blood flow and keep it happy and nourished.

These are just 5 quick tips to keep your hair in shape this fall and winter when you don't have a weekly standing hair appointment with a stylist (which I rarely do).

What are some of your suggestions that are not listed?

Let us know.

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Hair's My Natural Beauty: Chantel

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Welcome to another edition of Hair's My Natural Beauty - a series of informative/inspiring/insightful natural hair interviews showcasing the various textures of natural hair.

This week's Natural Hair beauty is...

Chantel

from

Newark, NJ

How would you describe your hair?

MY HAIR HAS A MIND OF IT OWN. SOMETIMES I MANAGE TO ACHIEVE THE LOOK I'M GOING FOR AND SOMETIMES IT'S STUBBORN

How long have you been natural?

I ATTEMPTED TO GO NATURAL TWICE BEFORE I ACTUALLY STUCK WITH IT. MARCH 28, 2008 WAS THE LAST TIME I RELAXED MY HAIR (ACTUALLY IT WAS A TEXTURIZER...I CALL MYSELF WEANING MYSELF OFF SLOWLY). I'M APPROACHING MY 3RD YEAR AND I'M STILL GOING STRONG. YAY!

What prompted you to "go natural"?

I DON'T HAVE ONE OF THOSE 'I WANTED TO GO BACK TO MY ROOTS' TYPE OF STORIES. I SIMPLE HAD TO MAKE A CHOICE OF HAVING COLOR IN MY HAIR (WHICH CONSIST OF BLEACHING) VS A PERM.. I CHOSE COLOR AND GAVE UP THE PERM. IF I WOULD HAVE KEPT UP WITH THE DOUBLE CHEMICAL, I WOULDN'T HAVE HAD ANY HAIR BY THE TIME I WAS 40. ALSO, MY HAIR IS ON THE THINNER/FINER SIDE, SO WHEN I'D PERM MY HAIR MY SCALP WOULD BE VISIBLE FOR THE 1ST TWO WEEKS.

In your opinion, what is the main difference between having natural hair vs chemically relaxed hair?

FOR ME THE MAIN DIFFERENCE IS VERSATILITY. I'VE ALWAYS TOOK CARE OF MY HAIR. WHEN MY HAIR WAS RELAXED, I WOULD GET DEEP CONDITIONS, DOOBIES, AND TRIMS ON THE REGULAR.

What hair styles are you fond of using to style your natural hair?

LATER I'VE BEEN EXPERIMENTING WITH MY TWIST OUTS AND BRAIDS OUTS. I'M TRYING TO MINIMIZE ON USING MY FLAT IRONS SO MUCH...SO ONE MY NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS WAS TO NOT FLAT IRON MY HAIR AS MUCH AND I'VE BEEN STICKING TO IT

Do you accessorize your hair? What accessories do you use?

IN THE WINTER I REALLY DON'T. I PLAN ON USING MORE ACCESSORIES IN THE SUMMER

What hair products (shampoos, conditioners, styling aids) work best for your hair? Why?

I'M A HUGE FAN OF TRADER JOE'S PRODUCTS RIGHT NOW BECAUSE THEY ARE NATURAL, THE CONDITIONER DE TANGLES MY HAIR AND THEY ARE CHEAP!!!! ALSO PANTENE FOR WOMEN OF COLOR CONDITIONER FOR THE SAME REASONS (EXCEPT FOR THE NATURAL PART)

What is your hair regimen? How often do you wash/co-wash?

CO-WASH EVERY WEEK, DEEP CONDITION TREATMENT, MOISTURIZE, AND TWIST OR BRAID WITH WHATEVER PRODUCT I GRAB OFF THE SHELF

What resources, tools, books, videos, etc helped you along your natural hair journey?

YOUTUBE, NATURAL VETS, CURLY NIKKI, PATIENCE, AND MY OWN TRAIL AND ERROR

Hair's my natural beauty because....
I CAN BE SO VERSATILE. MY HAIR CAN BE MY OUTFIT FOR THE DAY, IT CAN BE AN ACCESSORY, IT CAN STAND OUT, IT CAN BLEND IN...ITS WHAT GOD GAVE ME AND I'M PROUD THAT I FINALLY GOT OVER WHAT SOCIETY THINKS ABOUT NATURAL HAIR AND DECIDED TO EMBRACE IT. I ENCOURAGE EVERY BLACK WOMEN TO GO ON A NATURAL JOURNEY AT SOME POINT IN THEIR LIFE.

=======
This interview should have been up ages ago! I've been a slacker, anyway Chantel and I go way back, we used to work together back when I lived in Jersey. She is super sweet.

I'm pretty sure some of the above info may have changed with regards to her hair products, and regimen so be sure to check out her blog, Natural State of Mind and subscribe to her youtube channel for updates.

What are your Fall Must Haves?

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 15:00:00 +0000

This fall it's all about comfort for me and layers. I lover layering.

Two items that I'm keeping a look out for are: booties and scarves.

For cute and inexpensive booties: check out DSW they have a wide range to accomodate any budget.

More MICHAEL Michael Kors...

For scarves: check out Target, TJMaxx, or any large department store.
Once you have your scarves in check then you can check out this video on different ways to wear them.

More adidas by Stella McCartney...

What are some of your Fall must haves?

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Treasure Our Tresses Event

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:30:00 +0000

Hey ladies, I want to bring to your attention a natural hair event that will take place in Chicago, IL on November 5th with internet sensation, Natural Chica, and the Mane Source blog. If you're in the Chicago area and decide to attend; definitely share your experience with us.

30 Super Simple Smoothies to Get Your Health Kick On

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:45:00 +0000

Hey lovelies! Since last post I talked about Breast Cancer Awareness, I figured it would be appropos to follow it up with a health related post today. Nothing too crazy, just some simple smoothie ideas.

30 Super Simple Smoothies:

1. Banana: Blend 2 bananas, 1/2 cup each vanilla yogurt and milk, 2 teaspoons honey, a pinch of cinnamon and 1 cup ice.

2. Strawberry-Banana: Blend 1 banana, 1 cup strawberries, 1/2 cup each vanilla yogurt and milk, 2 teaspoons honey, a pinch of cinnamon and 1 cup ice.

3. Strawberry Shortcake: Blend 2 cups strawberries, 1 cup crumbled pound cake, 1 1/2 cups each milk and ice, and sugar to taste. Top with whipped cream and more strawberries.

4. Triple-Berry: Blend 1 1/2 cups mixed blackberries, strawberries and raspberries with 1 cup each milk and ice, and sugar to taste.

5. Raspberry-Orange: Blend 1 cup each orange juice and raspberries, 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 1 cup ice, and sugar to taste.

6. Peach-Mango-Banana: Blend 1 cup each chopped fresh or frozen peaches and mango, 1 cup each plain yogurt and ice, 1/2 banana, and sugar to taste.

7. Honeydew-Almond: Blend 2 cups chopped honeydew melon, 1 cup each almond milk and ice, and honey to taste.

8. Cantaloupe: Blend 2 cups chopped cantaloupe, the juice of 1/2 lime, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 cup water and 1 cup ice.

9. Carrot-Apple: Blend 1 cup each carrot juice and apple juice with 1 1/2 cups ice.

10. Spa Cucumber: Peel, seed and chop 2 medium cucumbers. Blend with the juice of 1 lime, 1/2 cup water, 1 cup ice and 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar or honey.

11. Kiwi-Strawberry: Blend 1 cup strawberries, 2 peeled kiwis, 2 tablespoons sugar and 2 cups ice.

12. Cherry-Vanilla: Blend 1 1/2 cups frozen pitted cherries, 1 1/4 cups milk, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon almond extract, a pinch of salt and 1 cup ice.

13. Tangerine-Honey: Peel and seed 4 tangerines, then blend with the juice of 2 limes, 1/4 cup honey and 1 cup ice.

14. Apricot-Almond: Blend 1 1/2 cups apricot nectar, 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt, 2 tablespoons almond butter and 1 cup ice.

15. Grape: Blend 2 cups seedless red grapes with 1 cup concord grape juice and 1 1/2 cups ice.

16. Blueberry-Pear: Blend 1 1/2 cups frozen blueberries, 1 chopped pear, 1 1/2 cups each maple or plain yogurt and ice, and sugar to taste.

17. Banana-Date-Lime: Blend 2 bananas, 3/4 cup chopped pitted dates, the juice of 1 lime and 1 1/2 cups each soy milk and ice.

18. Peach-Ginger: Blend 2 cups frozen sliced peaches, 1 1/2 cups buttermilk, 3 tablespoons brown sugar and 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger.

19. Grapefruit: Peel and seed 2 grapefruits, then blend with 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar and 1 cup ice. Sprinkle with cinnamon.

20. Pomegranate-Cherry: Blend 1 cup frozen pitted cherries, 3/4 cup pomegranate juice, 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, a pinch each of cinnamon and salt, and 2 cups ice.

21. Chai: Blend 1 1/2 cups chai tea concentrate with 1 cup each milk and ice. Sprinkle with chai spice or ground cinnamon.

22. Blueberry-Banana: Blend 1 banana, 1 cup blueberries, 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk, 1 tablespoon each honey and lime juice, 1/4 teaspoon almond extract and 1 cup ice.

23. Creamy Pineapple: Blend 2 cups chopped pineapple, 1/2 cup cottage cheese, 1/4 cup milk, 2 teaspoons honey, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla, a pinch each of nutmeg and salt, and 2 cups ice.

24. Watermelon: Freeze 3 cups cubed seeded watermelon until hard. Blend with 1 cup cubed fresh seeded watermelon, the juice of 1 lime, 1/4 cup sugar and 1 cup water.

25. Pineapple-Coconut: Freeze about 2 cups coconut water in 1 or 2 ice-cube trays. Blend 2 cups each chopped pineapple and coconut ice cubes, 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon honey and 1/2 cup coconut water.

26. Apple-Ginger: Blend 1 chopped peeled apple, a 1/2-inch piece peeled ginger, the juice of 2 limes, 1/4 cup honey, 1 cup water and 2 cups ice.

27. Black Raspberry–Vanilla: Blend 1 pint blackberries, 1/2 cup raspberries, 1 cup vanilla yogurt and 1 tablespoon honey.

28. Creamsicle: Blend 3/4 cup frozen orange or orange-tangerine concentrate with 1/2 cup cold water and 1 cup each vanilla ice cream and ice.

29. Mango-Acai: Blend two 4-ounce packages frozen acai berry puree, 1 cup chopped mango, 1/2 cup orange juice and 2 cups ice.

30. Spiced Pumpkin: Blend 1/2 cup each pumpkin puree and silken tofu, 3 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 cup milk, 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, a pinch of salt and 1 cup ice.

Get the other 20 here

Source: Food Network

Get that blender out :)

Hair Cuts for Curly Hair

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 23:30:00 +0000

Tips for styling curly hair no matter the cut:

• Look for products that have olive oil, coconut oil, and other hydrating ingredients in them. When you hydrate the hair, it adds weight. Weight defines curls and makes it easier to manipulate them, while preventing them from exploding into frizz.

• Apply product when hair is damp, right out of the shower, so that the product can dry with the hair and help neutralize the curls.

• Blow dry your roots without the diffuser, then attach the diffuser for your ends, so that it doesn't take hours to dry your hair.

++++++++

Per celebrity stylists Ursula Stephens and Kevin Mancuso curly haired girls should consider these particular haircuts to maximize their curls:

1. IF YOU HAVE MEDIUM DENSE HAIR THAT'S WAVY or RELAXED like Jordin Sparks...

Get an extremely layered long cut.

Why the cut works: The layers begin at Jordin Spark's cheekbones, which helps to give movement to the hair, says Stephens. "It keeps it sexy, instead of just one heavy length. When you don't have layers, you have a bohemian, heavy look." Stephens says this style isn't about being neat, but about creating free, movable hair.

2. IF YOU HAVE FINE TO MEDIUM HAIR WITH TIGHT SPIRAL CURLS like Anna Lyn ...

Get a really long haircut with layers.

Why the cut works: Mancuso says the curlier the hair, the longer the layers should be. AnnaLynne McCord's lioness mane is tamed with defined curls and tapered at the ends with layers

3. IF YOU HAVE THICK, VERY TIGHT CURLS like Corinne Bailey Rae ...

Get a shoulder-length pageboy cut with longer layers at the ends.

Why the cut works: It's not quite a lob (long bob), but the cut is a length that sits right on your shoulders, which makes Corinne Bailey Rae's beautiful curls short enough to maintain but long enough to prevent her hair from getting too big, says Stephens.

For the full article go to Total Beauty

25 Ways to Wear a Scarf in 4.5 Minutes!

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:45:00 +0000

Hi ladies (& gents)...I've been a bit MIA but haven't forgotten about the blog.

Love wearing scarves but I don't have enough in my wardrobe (will rectify that soon) but this video gives me plenty of ideas on how to wear the few that I have.

How have you been? Are you a scarf wearer?

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Gee Beauty Salon in Bal Harbour

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 02:30:00 +0000

This is a new beauty salon in Bal Harbour Florida.
I'm convinced this is what heaven looks like. :-)

I haven't been to South Beach in a LONG time actually the first time I went to South Beach was with my best friend, we had just graduated from high school and stayed at hotel very close to Bal Harbour.

The Bal Harbour area is one of the most GORGEOUS ever. The mall there is RIDICULOUS. I mean luxury is not even the word to describe it.

So, if you're ever in South Beach go down that Collins Ave strip and make your way to Gee Beauty at Bal Harbour and let me know how it is or better yet take me with you. :)

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The CUTEST Furriest Thing EVER!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:37:00 +0000

Isn't he CUUUUTE!

Maybe you've all seen him before but I just learned of BOO, the world's cutest dog today

while reading the Oh Joy! blog. At first I couldn't tell if he was a stuffed animal or not until I saw an actual video of him strutting his stuff, wagging his tail, tongue all out and everything.

BOO's facebook page has 1.7+ million fans and he has a book!!

adorable.

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Get the Look for Less with Rent the Runway

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 17:00:00 +0000

Rent the Runway is an online site that lets you rent designer dresses and accessories at a fraction of the cost of what it would cost you to buy "off the rack". Though I've not rented a dress I really like this idea.

So, here' show it works:

1. You've got an event to go to right and you're like shoot WTH am I going to wear.

2. You go to the Rent the Runway site and join (it's free)
3. Search for a dress, select your dress size, and a backup size (hey you never know).
4. Schedule a delivery date (about 2-3 days before actual event).
5. Your dress is delivered (fresh, clean, and dry-cleaned).
6. Wear it. Have fun at your event.
7. Return it (in the pre-paid box provided) and drop in a mailbox.
8. That's it.

You don't have to clean it. They'll do that once it's returned.
Even if you rip the dress (you know while dancing ;-) or spill a drink on it, or whatever don't worry it's covered with the $5 insurance fee.

So what do you think?

I think it's an ingenious idea. Of course two women (from Harvard Business) came up with this concept. Love that.

Would you rent a dress from this company?

Let me know!

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Oldie but Goodie: Infusium 23 Leave-in Treatments

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 22:30:00 +0000

I love hair products and most of all I like having options. But, sometimes too many options can leave me feeling a bit overwhelmed. Creamy leave-in vs non-creamy vs xyz...you know what I mean. Sometimes I just need to go back to the basics before the myriad of natural this and that.

Infusium 23 is the leave-in I and many hair kitchen beauticians swore by in my chemically-straightened days. Recently, I revisited the "new" and improved formula and was reminded again of why it used to be a staple especially for my roller-sets.

Love the fact that it detangles like a breeze and leaves my hair soft to the touch.

I like the concentrated strength but some may want to dilute it if they find their hair feeling a bit weighed-down. What I dislike about the leave-ins though is the packaging. They ought to be in a spray pump not a squeeze and pour bottle. It makes for a more even distribution when in a spray bottle, which is how I use it.

What I do is - I squeeze some into an empty spray bottle and distribute that way. Other than that, it's great for providing a bit of conditioning and strengthening to your hair if it's a bit dry, brittle, or even damaged.

Depending on your hair concern, you can choose from any of the 4 types (see above) that they offer and you can even use it as a heat protectant on dry hair right before flat-ironing or curling iron. And at $6.99 why not.

Have you ever used Infusium 23?

What was your experience?

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Solange Knowles is Serving up Some Major Curlspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Gigi) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 03:30:00 +0000

This is making me want to go find a wig similar to this ASAP.

I love BIG hair.

BTW - Solange has been looking FLY consistently.

Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe - all on point.

Love it.

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