BlackCherryMagazine Online

2014-09-26T01:48:00.002-04:00

Founded in 2008, BlackCherry Magazine is the fastest growing online Life and style magazine for women of color.. we provide exclusive information and frequently updated articles on beauty, entertainment, lifestyle as well as cultural enrichment. Our main purpose is to unite women of diverse background around the world and set our own standards of beauty as well as help enpower each other. In other words we are Fun, Fearless,Fierce and Diverse! If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions, please send an email to info@blackcherrymag.com

Founders/Editors-in-Chief

Towera Kamkondo {More}
Dianna Ricci {More}
info@blackcherrymag.com

Contributors

Tosin
Edj
Uzo

Advertising and Press Inquiries

E-mail- press@blackcherrymag.com

Join the Facebook Group
Add us on facebook:Blackcherrymagazine
Follow us on twitter @blackcherrymag

SPOTLIGHT

2010-09-07T14:43:00.012-04:00

Miss-b Hollywood

Our Very Own Diana Ricci sat down with the "Fist Pump" Hit Artist Miss B-Hollywood for an exclusive interview with Blackcherry magazine

Blackcherry Magazine (BCM): Tell me a bit about the Jersey Fist Pump Song you been working on. How did that concept come about?

Miss-b Hollywood: As a recording artist I work with Prize Fight Boxing and I bring their boxers into the ring while rapping a song of mine, usually boxer Dedrick Bell. I was preparing to perform live for an upcoming fight that would be featured on Showtime and Fox Sport South and I needing something suitable to boxing and came up with fist pump music. After I finished the song, my brother ask me "Have you heard of Jersey Shore, they fist pump, you should pitch the song to the show", and I did.

BCM:What can the fans expect from Miss B Hollywood?
Miss-b Hollywood:Expect nothing short of Greatness!

BCM: Before you get ready to perform what are some warm up techniques you use?
Miss-b HollywoodL I'm usually quiet before a show just waiting to go on. Because I'm so quiet before my set, people usually ask me "Are you nervous", it's not really that lol.. I guess it's just my warm up technique.

BCM:What's the hardest thing about being a woman in the music industry?
Miss-b Hollywood:I think being a woman makes it easier to be in the industry.

BCM:What inspires you to do music?
Miss-b Hollywood:The hugs and warmth I receive from fans and those who love my music.

BCM:How do you respond to fame?
Miss-b Hollywood I'm grateful for the recognition and love that I receive.

BCM:Let your fans know where they can get Miss B Hollywood music.
Miss-b Hollywood:On Itunes, make sure you support the new single, Fist Pump Music!!

For more on Miss B-Hollywood
facebook.com/missbhollywood
twitter.com/missbhollywood
Miss B Hollywood opens Universoul Circus - Fist Pump Music 2010

SkinCare Tips

2010-09-03T17:41:00.001-04:00

Skin Care Tips For Black Women

In order to maintain healthier skin, you must follow some skin care tips. This is recommended specially for dark women. The color of the skin differs because of the melanin concentration in each and every person.

To maintain your skin in proper condition, you should follow some daily skin care routine. It is advised not to use a harsh cleanser. It is also recommended to use branded skin care products. Application must be using circular motion.

Use products that are specialized in hyper pigmentation. Use exfoliating products which remove dead cells which are responsible for making the skin lifeless. To give a good glow to your skin, it is always recommended to use extra moisturizer on your skin. This can be done immediately after taking bath.

For black women, a smooth healthier skin can be obtained by proper care. Beautiful skin always starts from within and glows outside. Intake of plenty of vegetables and fresh fruits in the diet is recommended. Oily items should be avoided. Drink plenty of water. Exercise is a good way to keep your skin healthier. Follow a healthier lifestyle.

For the face, it is better to use a separate moisturizer. Use a good facial cleanser in the morning and before you go to sleep. Remove all your make up and cosmetics before you go to bed. Use sunscreen lotion in all the seasons. This helps in preventing wrinkles and cancer. Black skin needs protection from the rays of the sun which damage the skin.

People who have got black skin will develop keloids. For those who have got black skin and want to improve their complexion, it is mandatory to clean the skin regularly. Exfoliate your skin regularly to get rid of dead skin and to have healthier skin. People with black skin should preferably wear light colored clothes which reflect the sun rays.

Black skin is very sensitive during summer. There may be a chance of sun burn. Hence it is very important to nourish the skin regularly. Try using cocoa butter face mask. It is highly beneficial for black women. Purchase good quality mascara.

2010-09-03T16:28:00.000-04:00

Featured Talent
We will Grow by: Bolanle Emmanuel
Tears drop from my eyes as I visualize the pain and the hard times which my people have and still are experiencing in their lives.
I acknowledge this and realize I have to project nothing but strength.
I walk away from any situation that may weaken my spirit.
I spit at those who try to damage my image.
I am Black and woman.
I am the pro-creator of this society;
keeping my voice at a heard level never leaving out those who need my help.
I will help my people if I am able.

I will take my brothers and sisters up the mountain and let them see the world;
let my brothers and sisters feel and believe we are on top of all things.
Those tears that drop from my eyes are a sign of happiness.

They represent the joy I feel in knowing my people have came this far.
So I cry when I see a Black lawyer, doctor, scientist, journalist, teacher and student.
For we have come a long journey shackled at the feet.
For we have broken barriers and released those bad stereotypical names.
We will continue to grow for those who doubt us;
we will flourish.

2010-09-03T16:24:00.000-04:00

Featured Girl Of The Month

Lydia

Name: Lydia Micah Jones

Where are you from? Proudly Malawian via Universal :D

Favorite Musician & Song: A bit of a tricky question. I love music so much that it would be impossible to name one artist and song......anything catchy with a message I can relate to is good enough....I love African music though and Jazz!!

Fav. Movie: Errrrrmmm can’t choose one but here are a few of my favourites Hotel Rwanda, Sarafina, Sound of Music and Sister Act 2 to name a few

Favorite Foods: As long as it’s good food and edible I will eat, I try not to be a fussy eater because there are people out there starving.....therefore I can only be grateful!!

Favorite quote:
Be the best blessed you that you can be and be the difference...... every single individual is an architect of their future

Your Greatest Achievement: What is a great achievement? As long as we still have children starving and dying of HIV/AIDS then no one has achieved anything great.......However I’m hopeful that a generation of ordinary people with an extraordinary purpose is rising up......therefore together in unity we will hopefully achieve what many leaders have failed to do.

I saw some pictures on your facebook when you went back to malawi, Can you tell me more about that?:
Yes I was in Malawi working over there doing humanitarian, mission work and it was an excellent trip. I have an orphanage there and also support other causes there.

Where do you see yourself 5 years from now, and what do u plan on doing for malawi or africa?
Well I have a vision for countries around the globe stricken by poverty and the Aids epidemic; however I think the proverb states “Charity begins at home”. I along with my friend Michelle are doing loads of humanitarian work in Malawi currently, we are in the early stages of building an orphanage, our vision is to also have youth and women empowerment centres which we are in the process of looking into in order to start building.....We need all the financial help we can get. We are also fundraising money in order to ship off blankets we would love to donate to Balaka District Hospital. Our next destination is Mozambique and Zimbabwe.....let me quote my Cousin Masauko Chipembere Jnr “We grow from seed to tree, me and my people building”.
Building is what we are doing, between now and the next five years we hope to set a stable and firm foundation in our foundation, in order to do big things. I will keep you posted on more projects that are in the pipeline, for now my vision and purpose is to serve people in different communities from all walks of life.

What message or advice would you give to young malawi girls?
Never stop dreaming, aim high and never sell yourself short, be the best blessed you now because you only have one life to live!!

I know your big into music as well as fashion. Tell me what/who inspires you
My Inspiration comes from my faith in God, family and friends, surroundings, culture, travel and every day ordinary people who do extraordinary things. A fusion of different things really!!

What is ur one MUST have beauty item and ONE must have fashion item?
I love mascara and lip balm and fashion item I think I don’t have one specific thing lol
How long does it take you to get ready?

Give us one beauty tip or advice?
Less sugar and Drink enough water and always keep yourself hydrated you will notice an improvement in your skin....

Tell us about Your Future Plans:
txpanding my clothing line House of Purple to Men’s wear and you can order from http://houseofpurple.bigcartel.com/
Fundraising for our Foundation XtraOrdinary and becoming one of the biggest non profit charitable organisation that makes a difference and you can visit us here
• http://www.facebook.com/pages/XtraOrdinary-Foundation/143416232335658?v=wall
• http://wix.com/xtraordinary/xtraordinary
• And our official sit which is currently under maintenance www.xtraordinary.org.uk
If you would like to donate and make a difference please visit our www.wix.com/xtraordinary/xtraordinary site and click on the donate tab

CoverStory

2010-09-03T16:22:00.000-04:00

COVER STORY

The Dangers of Skin Bleaching

Click the link for more pictures.
Warning: Pictures contain disturbing images

............................................................................................

Would you use a cream or soap that may have the following long term side effects … skin cancer, liver damage, kidney damage or poisoning? Sujata Jolly, a graduate in medical sciences, highlights the dangers of skin bleaching products.

In the modern appearance conscious society, there is a myth that lighter paler complexions portray beauty, riches and success. A fair complexion remains de rigueur particularly in Asian and African cultures. Unscrupulous traders continue to meet the substantial demand for skin bleaching products although most are prohibited for sale in the United Kingdom.

On 27th July 2005, a batch of more than 46,000 tubes labelled body cream was intercepted at Gatwick airport in a container from Lagos, Nigeria. These creams contained steroids and were en route to a warehouse in London for distribution. Soon after, customs made their largest seizure of a consignment of creams containing hydroquinone from West Africa. We will never know what amount of such products gets through the net to be sold under the counter.

My first reaction was here “we go again”. Hardly a week passes without a mention of the damaging effects of skin bleaching in the media. Many journalists and television researchers are in touch with me due to my very long association with the campaign that culminated in the ban of hydroquinone in cosmetics. Some of us turn a blind eye to the warnings and just sleep walk into a situation that has loud and clear warnings of turning into nightmare.

Obsession With Lightening Skin Colour
Skin lightening preparations are used by many people of Asian and African origin to lighten their skin in response to social pressures or perhaps for psychological reasons. They are the victims of old colour myths, where we are led to believe that a paler complexion is more virtuous. Indeed the media has made fair complexions a marketable commodity as is amply illustrated by the matrimonial columns in the Indian press.

Many Asian women believe they can attract wealthier and more desirable husbands if they have lighter skin. India has seen a phenomenal growth in the sale of skin lightening creams, currently valued at over $190m indicating a huge obsession with fair skin. This hit the headlines as a row over a recent television advertisement for skin lightening cream fuelled a heated debate in India over why fairer skin should be considered more beautiful and be a measure of success.

Women’s groups in India considered this promotion demeaning to women portraying them as items of lust. Woman-power worked and the advertisement was taken off the air. Ironically the health implications of using skin bleaching creams were not debated. Getting the advertisement banned was a hollow victory; as such products remain openly available for sale.

I also find it rather disturbing that Dr Jamuna Pai is freely dishing out her expert advice to the Shaddi.com readers to use Hydroquinone/ Kojic Acid/ and Vitamin C to lighten their skin.

Although, as a minor mitigation, she does add “also cover the areas with a good sun block during the day, as the skin-lightening agents tend to make the skin sensitive to the sun.” Why on earth bleach first to inhibit the production of melanin by destroying the melanin producing cells and then use another chemical to protect the skin against sun rays. Asian and African skins are naturally blessed with enough natural sun protection for a normal every day lifestyle so I believe there is no need for any additional intervention. Only cases where there is excessive and prolonged exposure to the sun warrant additional protection.

Skin Colour

There is a wide geographical distribution of skin colour related to the solar intensity experienced by the inhabitants of the various regions. People tend to be darker in tropical regions and fairer in more temperate zones. However, in Arctic regions the skin is somewhat on the dark side again due to snow glare; this is borne out by the Inuits in particular.

The colour of one’s skin is due to a biological pigment called melanin. Both genetic and environmental factors determine the amount of melanin in the skin. Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes and a partial destruction of melanocytes will reduce melanin levels leading to a fairer complexion. This is a simple, albeit a little flawed, explanation of a technically complex subject.

Melanin plays a crucial role in the absorption of free radicals and it also shields the skin from immediate damage of solar radiation protecting the skin against sunburn. Melanin can be regarded as a key to human survival. Nature created this biological mechanism for our protection and we should not destroy it for some false promises

Campaign Against Bleaching Creams
I graduated in medical sciences and later specialised in aetiology and then dermatology including formulating innovative products. In 1979, as a young scientist and a mother, I set up my own research and development consultancy to treat skin disorders.
I was overjoyed when a Ugandan marketing company approached me in 1983 with a proposal for me to develop and supply a high strength skin bleaching range for the multi-million dollar African market. However, my euphoria was transient. Within weeks I realised the potentially harmful effects these products might have on skin. I decided that this was one project I would not touch with a barge pole. This chance episode jolted my conscience and became the starting point for me to lead a long and arduous campaign against the use of skin lightening creams. I also pledged to concentrate on developing treatments that could help to reverse and to treat the damage caused by such products.
Hydroquinone – Traditional Bleaching Agent
The use of hydroquinone in cosmetics for over the counter sales is not permitted in European Union due to its adverse biological reactions. In the early part of the 20th century, workers in a rubber manufacturing plant observed de-pigmentation of their skin leading to white patches. This was attributed to the use of hydroquinone as an anti-oxidant in the manufacturing processes. The workers sued for damages as a result of their injuries, but at the same time this ‘discovery’ led to the commercial exploitation of hydroquinone as a skin-bleaching agent in cosmetic creams to meet the Asian and African desire for a paler complexion.

Destruction of Natural Protection
Hydroquinone was initially understood to inhibit the production of melanin, but later studies demonstrated that it in fact destroys melanocytes. This means that hydroquinone based products would undoubtedly lighten the skin but at a price. The price, as I will explain below, is frightening, and it is not worth taking the risk to look like the Joneses.

As melanocytes from the skin are gradually destroyed by the use of bleaching creams, the skin is left at the mercy of harmful ultra-violet rays rendering it defenceless and fragile. It is a known fact that the dark skinned persons rarely suffer skin cancer but that valuable protection is lost with the partial destruction of melanocytes. Wounds on bleached skin take long to heal. Any surgical wounds may not be able to hold sutures because of deterioration of the epidermis.

Hydroquinone is known to cause skin irritation, post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation and nail discolouration. Upon exposure to sunlight, the skin can develop ochronosis - a chronic condition characterised by a sooty black coarse appearance. However, after prolonged use, hydroquinone can penetrate into the lower layers of the skin causing thickening of the collagen fibres. This may be the start of irreversible damage to the connective tissue in the skin and cartilage. It is insanity to risk paying such a price for temporary lightening of the skin.

A final nail in the coffin for hydroquinone are more recent studies suggesting it to be mutagenic (capable of causing changes in the genetic material).

Proscription of Hydroquinone in Cosmetics
For over 20 years I have vigorously campaigned to have the key ingredients used in the skin bleaching products banned and also to create public awareness of the dangers associated with using such products. I did this by writing features for the popular and professional press and by appearances on the radio and television. I was helped by some like-minded scientists and trading standard officers who offered me valuable guidance that helped build momentum for this campaign.
The dangers of skin bleaching creams were considered serious enough and repeated representations to health ministers finally brought good news. The use of hydroquinone was banned in January 2001 for over the counter cosmetics within the EU. Now it is only permitted in the prescription products under medical supervision.

Beware of Second Generation Bleaching Agents
Hydroquinone in developed countries was recently replaced by a new wonder ingredient Kojic Acid discovered by Japanese scientists. The honeymoon did not last very long. Animal testing has shown that Kojic Acid can cause embryo toxicity, systemic toxicity in the liver and kidneys, and cancer of the liver. As a result Kojic Acid has already been banned as a cosmetic ingredient in Japan in 2003, soon followed by Korea and Switzerland, because of the potential mutagenicity concerns.

I am already aware of the increasing difficulties obtaining Kojic Acid through the normal supply chain from Japan. It seems that it is only a matter of time before the use of Kojic Acid as a cosmetic ingredient is banned in the EU.

Remember colour is only a pigment of your imagination…

by Sujata Jolly

Entertainment

2010-09-03T15:41:00.000-04:00

Dear BlackCherry Mag

Q: am so confused. I found a pink mac lipstick in my man's car..I tried to confrot him about it, but he says its mine?.First of all i dont wear lipstick, pink one at that...I feel like I am going crazy because this guy is swearing on his dead father that its mine. Have I gone crazy? or my man is just very sick?

-Abigal S.-- Canada

A:This is your clue...take the hint and bail out if you feel ever so inclined.
It could be anyone's and he may actually believe it is yours. Or he could have a sister or friend who has red nails. I cannot say for certain. I suggest you not make too much out of it. If he has given you a reason in the past to mistrust him so then here is another hint. Take it!

Got a question? need some advice?
Send your questions to info@blackcherrymag.com

2010-09-03T03:19:00.000-04:00

South Africa
South Africa is the Rainbow Nation, and the cultural diversity you will encounter everywhere you go can only amaze you. South Africans also have a history of race division, however, and although they seem on the surface to enjoy a highly developed sense of inter-race humor, it pays as a rule to keep clear of any searching debates about race and race politics.

Crime: Caution pays better dividends than denial…

There is no getting around the fact that South Africa is a dangerous country. Crime statistics are astronomical, with the added leavening of a widespread taste for gratuitous violence that sees many otherwise reasonably benign crimes lapse into extreme and unnecessary bloodshed and loss of life.

Why this is so has consumed endless debate among sociologists and civic leaders, but the fact remains that it is so, and for a visitor to this fair land caution pays a better dividend than denial, so here are a few pointers:

South Africa has a deceptively ‘Developed World’ appearance that lulls a visitor into believing he/she is in the developed world. In Africa such conspicuous wealth floats on a deep pool of corresponding poverty, so don’t be fooled, and take nothing at face value.

Take note of the razor wire and iron gates at your backpackers lodge or hotel, and recognize that such lavish security is not there for no reason at all.

If you travel with a group stick together, and follow the advice of your tour leader or hotel proprietor when navigating local conditions. Try not to travel independently if you can help it, and stay away from any city center after dark, and try and stay away from city centers the rest of the time too, they are rarely the most pleasant parts of town.

Don’t put yourself at unnecessary risk. Don’t pull up on the side of the road for a nap, drive or walk into any high density residential area, and try not to be out on the roads after dark

The best advice of all would be to book a trip if you intend to travel and do not leave it until the last minute and wing it on your own.

Your instincts of survival and self preservation should turned up to the maximum at all times in South Africa!

The upside of the South African race diversity is the cultural wonderland that invites a curious visitor into many culinary and sensory adventures. Consider the many diverse restaurant, cafes and bars for example, and just one regional example is Cape Dutch cuisine, that aromatic synthesis of East Indian and colonial mixes seems to have emerged strongly in South Africa, and particularly in hotspots the Cape and Durban.

Cape Dutch food and wine is widely available all over the region, and melds together the influences of early Dutch settlers with a plethora of Indian and Malay. Then there is Indian itself, with such local variants an the Durban Masala, a fiery version of the original that is a must for curry buffs. Look out for samoosas, known in local parlance as dri-hookie-coolie-cookie. Dutch/Afrikaans borrows liberally from this culture, as it does from all sub-cultures in South Africa. Afrikaans cuisine is focused often on the ubiquitous braai, a local barbecue tradition, and on one-pot fire-cooked meals called potjies, and then of course the cinnamon and cumin laced delicacies of the Cape-Colored community.

Music and dance is also very much a feature of South African culture. Here again a range of social influences have fused to throw up a variety of different sights and sounds, characterized…well…by variety. If World Music of a pan-African texture is what you will be looking for, you will find it in many forms, but also you will find a developed and highly sophisticated jazz culture, variants of hip-hop, lashings of mainstream homegrown rock and punk, and the deeply traditional and sentimental Boer Musiek that caters to the fading white middle classes.

A range of music and arts festivals are held annually throughout South Africa, and an unfortunate visitor indeed will be he or she who finds nothing to suit their tastes.

South Africa is very well covered by guide books, local history and one or two Nobel literary laureates that collectively offer an almost unlimited choice of reading material to introduce you to South Africa.

South Africa has more to see than any other African country…

Most of the main travel destinations in Africa sport a handful of attractions, usually defined by idyllic tropical beaches and wildlife parks, and of course South Africa has these in abundance, but it has so much more besides. From east to west, from north to south, the possibilities are endless.

The Cape is famous for temperate landscapes, traditional Europeanesuqe architecture and wine and cuisine, but look out for the vibrant nightlife and plethora of cultural venues in Cape Town, Shark Diving in Gansbaai and whale watching in Hermanus. The heartland of open road touring in South Africa is the Western Cape region that encompasses the Karoo, Namaqualand and the Kalahari fringe of Richtersveld and the Kgalghadi TransFrontier National Park.

Kwa/Zulu Natal is the sultry east coast of South Africa, lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and studded with wonderful beachside towns and villages, headed up by the metropolis of Durban, that original cultural melting pot in an already culturally diverse nation.

KNZ is the homeland of the Zulu Nation, and traditional cultural expression tends to reflect this, but it is also the home of the largest East Indian population outside of India, and so seethes with color, fragrance and flavor. It is the most populous province in South Africa, and is highly developed along its coastline, although further north thing are a bit wilder with the St Lucia Wetland complex and smaller but iconic parks such as Hluhlue and Umfolozi.

It is an intensely green and tropical region of South Africa, but it also enjoys The Midlands which is the soft heart of the nation, and composed mostly of green, rolling hill country that culminates in the rugged escarpment of the Drakensberg Mountains.

The North and Northeast of South Africa is big game country, and the province of Mpumulanga boasts the greatest wildlife park of the all: Kruger National Park, the flagship of South African conservation, and without doubt one of the best eco-travel destinations in Africa.

Besides this the northern end of the Drakensberg Escarpment is a uniquely beautiful region of highlands, canyons, caves and forests, offering historic glimpses of the old mining heritage of South Africa.

The cities of South Africa each enjoy a distinct individuality, with Cape Town leading the pack, but Johannesburg following close behind, and the runners up of Durban, Port Elizabeth and Bloemfontein each offering unique cultural insights and vibrant urban grooves.

Get around easily in a highly traveler friendly environment

South Africa, it often seems, does not belong in Africa at all. It enjoys a transport and communication infrastructure that by world standards is impressive, but by African standards is miraculous. Expect therefore to experience no problems getting around.

Each of the provinces has an international class airport with all the facilities that might be expected from a first class facility. Thanks to the prevalence of crime in South Africa these airports are very stringently regulated, and most hotels and lodges offer a complimentary airport pickup, which takes much of the guesswork out of coming and going.

Besides this there is an excellent domestic and regional flight network that covers not only the main airports but many of the smaller ones, and again your hospitality proprietor or tour operator will usually collect and drop you off.

Inter-city travel by coach and scheduled bus service is always easy to arrange, and the selection of services, as well as destinations, is, as would be expected, very good.

For budget travelers a dedicated bus services is in operation that completes a series of circuits around South Africa, taking in almost all the main backpackers lodges, on a jump-on-jump-off basis. These is the Baz Bus.

Everything under the sun for the comfort traveler

Here again expect astonishing variety and high standards of service and facilities.

Brand name hotels proliferate in South Africa, and most, if not all, enjoy a solid web presence so information and bookings are easy to arrange.

Likewise South Africa has a widespread and growing network of backpackers lodges that are also well represented on the web and also offer all the sensible services necessary to keep you safe in a high crime neighborhood.

Also a common feature in South Africa are a litany of game and theme lodges set in and around the main national parks and beauty spots, probably most notably game lodges, but all kinds of these high end facilities exist. They are rarely cheap, but standards are universally high and usually the service is integrated with some sort of safari/excision option that explores the surrounding area.

Lastly a vast network of B&Bs and Guesthouses are to be found all over South Africa, and rarely does a town of village not have at least one. These tend to be less well represented on the web, and often they serve road touring parties and work along the lines of drop-in bookings.

All in all South Africa is well set up to handle large numbers of travelers from budget to elite with everything in between.

World class standards of health care…

A growing feature of the South African hospitality industry in the Health & Wellness phenomenon, and in most of the upscale wilderness lodges – and there are few of these that are not upscale – an emphasis is placed on spa and wellness facilities that try as much as possible to lean on local tradition herbalism and practice.

In the Cape the industry has a much more cosmopolitan flavor, while throughout the country there are themed resorts that tap into geo-thermal springs offering a variety of curative properties.

South Africa is also one of the global medical tourism destinations, Safari & Surgery being the local variant, and bearing in mind that the first successful heart transplant was conducted in South Africa, facilities and expertise across the board are very high.

It is not unknown, however, for hospitals to refuse care, even emergency care, to the uninsured, so while you will probably have better care than you can expect at home, it is not free, and health insurance is vital.

Emergency response on South Africa’s roads and countryside is exceptional, but again make sure you have insurance.

Step into a fully fledged consumer nation…

Seasoned African travelers who are accustomed to a complete lack of consumer culture on the ground are usually amazed when crossing the Limpopo into South Africa to be confronted immediately by an American style Mall culture that in many respects exceeds the lavish supply of the original.

The Sandton Center in Johannesburg, for example, is regarded as one of the world premier shopping destinations. It is only just slightly more lavish than many other luxury malls scattered around the country, and thousands of other smaller shopping centers countrywide that offer everything you are ever likely to need, and usually much more.

So don’t worry if you forget something, and more importantly if you are planning a trip north into the African heartland any last minute requirements as well as any pharmaceuticals you will need along the way are all easily available in South Africa.

Use your plastic anywhere in South Africa..

This is again something that you need not worry about too much in South Africa. The local currency is the Rand, it is internationally traded and there is no local currency black market as there is in many other African countries. Most banks will change money, and credit cards are widely accepted almost everywhere that you will need to use one. Local ATMs proliferate, and are usually very reliable.

Get the word out with the best communications infrastructure in Africa

The web is alive and well in South Africa, wi-fi is everywhere and every hospitality facility, even the most humble, is connected. It is very easy to get connected up with a cell phone, and pay-as-you-go set up is a simple matter of walking into your local or airport Vodacom or MTN store.

Find out what you need to know in the most out-of-the-way places…

Once again the web is replete with South African tourist information, but most hospitality establishments will offer a complimentary copy of Coast to Coast, a jazzy, up to the minute publication that covers just about everything you need to know about South Africa.

Besides this all the main, and even most of the peripheral, tourist destinations have a tourist Information office, with the main ones being in the main cities.

Backpackers Lodges operate on a network, and the information exchange that exists in these establishments is second to none. Everything that is hot and current, bad or disreputable, or even downright dangerous, will be known about very quickly on the backpack circuit, so it is there that you should look for up to the minute info if you are an independent traveler.

2010-08-30T17:51:00.000-04:00

BLACKCHERRY MAGAZINE ONLINE WILL BE BACK SHORTLY! THANK YOU

Model Search 2010-2011

2010-08-10T03:01:00.001-04:00

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?

Can you represent BlackCherry Magazine?

Have you got beauty and brains?

If you answered yes, then this is right for you!

BlackCherry Magazine is looking for top model girls that have got the total package!
The BCM Models will act as presenters as well as public speakers or our magazine!

Submit your info along with 3 pictures and why you think we should choose you
to models@blackcherrymag.com

2010-07-25T17:59:00.001-04:00

Tips For Finding The Right Lip Color
With the plethora of colors, brands and textures flooding the cosmetic industry, choosing the right lip color can be a bewildering experience.

Most women stick to the same tried and tested lip color years after years for fear of making a mistake. Every woman should have an assortment of lip shades to suit her different moods and outfits. For this, certain guidelines should always be kept in mind.

Before purchasing a lipstick, examine the color of your teeth. If your teeth has a yellowish tinge, then plums, cocoa brown and warm pinks are ideal colors for you while corals and orange tints should be avoided.

Next choose a shade that complements your skin color. Women with dark complexions should go for deep reds, wines and plum colors. Shades with orange or pink undertones are extremely flattering for women with pale skins. Raisin, light brown and brownish red shades are suitable for olive skins.

Keep in mind the specific time when you intend to wear the lipstick. A subtler shade of lip color like pinks and nudes in cream and matte finishes should be opted for daytime wear. While a glamorous high shine glossy look is ideal for the night.

For fuller lips darker shades are best. Glossy lip colors in lighter colors make thinner lips look fuller. If you have dry lips choose a cream lipstick or a lip gloss over the more drying matte variety.

Experiment with different shades before choosing a lip color. Always check the shade in natural light as the artificial light inside departmental stores can often distort the color. Request sample mini lipsticks from your local drug or departmental store which you can try out at the comfort of your home. If you are unable to get the desired shade, try blending two different lip colors to create a more suitable tone.

Keep in mind your overall make-up before choosing a shade. If you are a person who likes heavy eye make-up then go in for lip colors which are of a more natural or a lighter shade. Rich, bold shades complement lighter eye make-up.

Browse through fashion magazines and visit forums on the internet to get a greater awareness of the latest lip shade trends and the ones that would complement you the most.

Wear the right shade of lipstick for that touch of glamour.

Little Black Dress

2010-07-25T16:46:00.000-04:00

Thing To Consider When Buying Your LBD (LittleBlackDress)
Your LBD or little black dress is one piece of clothing that you wouldn’t dream of not owning. If you are thinking of updating your wardrobe by buying a little black dress, you are not alone. Fashion experts agree that this is the one single item of clothing that every woman should have at hand to help her make a good fashion statement.

Most women cannot decide the right choice of buying a little black dress. It is a versatile garment that can be used for either formal dressing or a casual one. The first step in buying a little black dress is to know the structure of your body well. Once you know how you feel about your body, then the next step to make sure you choose a comfortable dress. Opt for a material that flatters your body well, does not itch or pinch, and does not make you feel self-conscious.

Cotton is always a good choice, since it adapts to almost every occasion. Make the fitting of the dress absolutely comfortable. Since the idea is that you should be able to wear this dress to both formal and casual events, you need to make sure you can sit and walk on it comfortably. The next step in buying a little black dress is to select the design. Avoid excessive decorations, such as lace, sequins, or frills. A simple cut is better as there is little chance of going wrong there.

Avoid low cut dresses or too revealing ones, unless you are absolutely sure of carrying it off and know the dress code of the event really well. Even the simplest dress can be made outstanding by adding the right accessory such as shoes, jewelry and bags.

Another good idea while buying a dress is to make sure that the dress can be re-used for a couple of years. Because of this, just do not go out and buy a dress worn for funerals. There is a big difference between this and the little black dress. It pays to own one because if you use it well, it will serve you well too!

Features

2010-07-25T14:21:00.003-04:00

Featured

Featured Gallery
Luisa Diogo,Prime minister of Mozambique

Since she replaced Pascoal Mocumbi as the prime minister of Mozambique in 2004, Luisa Diogo’s stock has risen internationally. She made her mark as an anti-poverty and health advocate, waging a battle to stop the HIV/AIDS epidemic blighting her country, where 16% of its 20 million citizens have contracted the disease, costing the nation 1% of its GDP every year. She was awarded the 2008 Global Women's Leadership Award. ...|More|

Featured Girl Of The Month
Lydia Micah Jones

"What is a great achievement? As long as we still have children starving and dying of HIV/AIDS then no one has achieved anything great.......However I’m hopeful that a generation of ordinary people with an extraordinary purpose is rising up......therefore together in unity we will hopefully achieve what many leaders have failed to do."..|More|

Featured Talent
We Will Grow

by Bolanlee Emmanuel

Tears drop from my eyes as I visualize the pain and the hard times which my people have and still are experiencing in their lives.
I acknowledge this and realize I have to project nothing but strength.
I walk away from any situation that may weaken my spirit.
I spit at those who try to damage my image.
I am Black and woman.|More|

If you want to be our next featured Girl of the month/artist/talent/designer then send us an e-mail and let us know why you should be featured send your emails to spotlight@blackcherrymag.com nominations are also welcome

Past Spotlights

Titi 'Oh Snap'- Gorgeous model with great sense of style reppin Nigeria
Zara - - NIGERIA's dopest female entertainer in AND out of Nigeria.
Maureen Ogbu-- Ridiculously beautiful !Tia&Tamera Mowry look alike Reppin U.S.A

Remedy For Dark Spots

2010-07-25T13:46:00.000-04:00

Remedy for Acne/Dark Spots

Acne scars are the outcome of the acne problem. These scars left behind on the skin look bad and hide your face beauty as well. But this is not a problem without a solution. You can avoid and clear these scars and need to keep the following things in mind.

If you have scars because of acne, it is important for you to know how to avoid and clear these scars. These scars not only affect your looks and beauty, they also affect your self confidence. The people having such scars on their skin normally avoid social gatherings to avoid embarrassment.

Eliminating these scars is not a trouble-free task; rather it is more tricky to clear these scars than to cure acne itself. The most important thing is that you cannot hide these scars through any type of makeup or concealer.

This does not mean that you cannot get rid of these scars; many people have successfully removed these scars. This means that you too can clear these scars and it is possible but difficult. This article is for you if you want to clear the acne scars. Here are a few methods through which you can successfully get rid of these scars on the skin.

The first important and effective method through which you can eliminate these scars is the application of olive oil. Massage olive oil thrice daily on the affected area. Keep on applying olive oil until the scars disappear or start looking dim. Olive oil is a very good natural treatment and it helps to improve your skin health as well. Since olive oil is all pure and natural, there is no harm or side effect of it on the skin.

Second method to avoid the acne scars is the application of vitamin E on skin. Vitamin E has all moisturizing properties and it is good for the skin. It also helps to keep your skin young and fresh with aging. You can use vitamin E supplement as well in the absence of vitamin E oil as it is equally effective.

The last thing is the application of lemon juice on the affected area. This will also help to remove the scars

2010-07-23T17:34:00.001-04:00

Look Sensual With Shorts

As if having dry hands isn’t enough, when you are a woman and you want to look fabulous as well as stylish, then one thing you should be thinking about is women’s shorts. There can be nothing more sensual than women’s shorts especially if you have great legs.

If you know you have great legs, then you should have some of these shorts in your wardrobe. You can always choose mini skirts but women’s shorts would certainly be a better option.

Be confident

It will be easy to look sensual if you can carry yourself well in these women’s shorts. This means that you must be confident. Unless you are confident that you look good in them, you will not look good in women’s shorts. During the warmer months especially, women’s shorts will always be popular. This is because women just love to wear them because they make you cool and comfortable.

Choose what you want

Trousers are good, but women’s short have a special appeal because they stand out from the ordinary. Those who have the shape that most people die for will discover that this is perfect for them. The question now is how short you want them to be. This is up to you. It will depend on how comfortable you are while wearing them. If you are not comfortable in very short ones, you can opt for the longer ones that are just above the knees but if you love to flaunt your great legs, you can opt for shorter women’s shorts.

There are no limitations

There are some women who think that women’s shorts can be only worn at home. This is not true at all. You can see that some of the celebrities in Hollywood are seen on screen in shorts. That means that they can be worn when going out. You can wear them anytime and anywhere. The only exception is the cold season.

Where to find them?

You can buy women’s shorts from shopping malls and clothing shops. There are expensive ones from expensive brands, but you can buy less expensive ones if you don’t want to spend much on women’s shorts. There is much information about women’s short online, in case you want to know more about them. You can even buy online.

2010-07-23T17:33:00.000-04:00

Fashion Tips
Hey! Are you beautiful, intelligent, with a fabulous personality and an eye for the latest fashion trends, but confused over how to pull it together? No need to worry, here are some trendy tips for you to pull together the correct look.One’s personal style tells a lot about what sort of a person you are. You don’t need to worry about the money you have spent on the latest fashion, as we will tell you how to pull a perfect look from what you have. It is simple and at the same time risky. The key is balance, and less is more.Go ahead and choose an outstanding item from your wardrobe and start to build around it. Let’s say you have this absolutely stunning piece of jewelry that you have to show off. Then try and team it up with a black dress, as black flatters the figure without overshadowing the look of your jewelry.If you have jeans with works on it, then you can team it up with a solid looking shirt and heels. They go well with decorated jeans. If the design on the jeans is too loud, then the shirt will tone it down.If you have golden flats for your feet, then compliment them with a simple shirt and a petal pusher. You will look amazing.Forgot about your new pink pumps? Complimenting them with a pair of black jeans and a white shirt will never be wrong. Black jeans and a solid colored shirt can also never be a bad idea.The fun is to take an item and build your looks around it. Don’t be stuck with one look. Be a lady one day and a model the next day. Draw your ideas from mingling the past year’s look with the generation next look. It is all about experimenting with different styles.If you are fashion conscious, then keep in mind that fashion is all about confidence; confidence in your look and combination of style. Whether you are 18 or 40, be proud of your appearance and be comfortable with your style, as it is very important.

2010-07-23T17:30:00.000-04:00

How To Avoid Common Fashion Mistakes
Fashion bloopers are deadly; they make a dent in the purse as well as in your confidence. But they happen. So how do we judge the right look? Keeping your eyes and ears open to a great extent and developing your personal style go a long way in averting them!

Everybody likes to look fashionable and trendy. It is not a crime. But blindly aping your favorite star or your gorgeous neighbor next door is definitely a crime. It is very important to pay heed to the shape of your body, your hairstyle and your personality. Like unsuitable colors. Some colors may look very good on the mannequin but they may necessarily not suit you. The trick here is to try out colors that suit your skin tone, making you neither look too pale or too bright. Another common mistake is ill-fitting clothes. Never try squeezing into a size smaller thinking that it will flatter your figure. On the contrary, when you do this, the extra bits (if you have any) look more prominent. The same tip applies for wearing too loose clothing. They may conceal what you want to conceal but they also make you look ungainly.

Complimenting your outfit with the right shoes is a must. Do not make the mistake of matching your formal shoes with your casual attrite or vice-versa. They may look smart in your eyes but believe me, it is an illusion! Also, nothing ruins an outfit more than a pair of ill-fitting or rundown shoes. Keep your shoes clean and it is always a good idea to have different pairs for different occasions.

Ladies feel incomplete without their war paint i.e. makeup. It is always advisable to wear lighter makeup during the day and heavier layers at night. Also, wear colors that flatter your face and match your outfit. Aftershave for males is always a very good idea. There is nothing more attractive than a clean-shaven, great smelling guy!

Well groomed hands and feet also make you look good. Whether you are male or female, a clean and well-groomed look will always make you feel good and confident. A pleasing personality coupled with the right clothes, underclothes and the proper footwear and accessories is the best combination for compliments. A few tweaks here and there, a study of your personality and comfort factor and some good old-fashioned sense will get you there soon.

2010-07-23T17:28:00.000-04:00

The Perfect Jeans

How to choose the best jeans for your shape? Simple. Know what your shape is. Are you, petite, pear shaped - or curvy? The shape of your body is less of a problem than you think. Jeans are designed around shapes. Boot cut, low risers, straight cut, classic denim, boy jeans - you name it, the designers have already sussed out the perfect pair to suit your shape. All you have to do is work out which jeans will suit you shape the best.

How To Choose The Best Jeans For Yor Shape

Are you carrying a few extra pounds around the waist and thighs? Then you’re a curvy lady. And no – that’s not a bad thing. What’s wrong with curves? Celebrate what you’ve got … no shame in being a woman that’s curvy in all the right places!

Are you petite ... and wish you were taller? Or maybe you're just full on top to toe curvy? Whatever your size, there is a perfect jean for you. Most of us have insecurities about various parts of our bodies. For me, I'm far from perfect ... but I'm also a long way from being bothered. Many of us have had children or middle age is creeping in. Some of us were just blessed with curves from the off. But it's worth remembering that real women have real curves.

Curves rock ladies. And our men tend to have a thing about them too ...

Jeans For Curvy Women

Lycra is your friend when it comes to jeans for curvy women. Forget chocolate. Chocolate is for feeling good … Lycra is for looking good. Don’t buy classic cut, rigid denim. Far too restrictive. The jeans need to flex with our bumps – not flatten them or move them elsewhere. And the overall cut that’s best is the fit and flare type. Boot cut. The slight flare at the ankle balances out the hip width and adds to an illusion of a straighter, longer leg length.

And aim for dark jeans – though not black. Black jeans are great until you’ve washed them a few times. Now let’s talk butts. Curvy butts need pockets that are narrowly aligned – not hugging the side seams. That just adds width where there is none. A good yoke – that’s the bit between the waist band and the pockets. A triangular yoke is best – prevents gaping and hugs the lower back a lot better.

Curvy women jeans checklist:

Dark denim
Lycra
Fit ‘n flare style
Narrow placed butt pockets
A wide yoke

Top Tip: If you find a fantastic pair of jeans that fit perfectly yet they’re too long … buy them. The hem can be shortened very easily. The cut can’t.

Now you know the design that fits you the best – which brand? Money no object: True Religion jeans. On a budget: Gap or House of Dereon.

Petite Jeans

Now petite jeans are something else. Being petite alone is more do do with height – not just shape. So saying, if you’re petite and curvy, you need to combine some of the tips for curvy women, and then adapt them to incorporate with your petite fit jeans. First off – never buy Capri length anything. That just shortens you even more – it only serves to cut a few more inches from the leg length. You need to aim for long, clean lines – a well cut straight leg pair of jeans is perfect.

Do not buy baggy styles – another ‘shortener’. They will only add width, further reducing length and height. Buy jeans that have a neat, straight cut hem – no turn-ups or cuffs. The same goes for jeans that have a wide kick-flare. Remember, you’re aiming for clean cut lines, anything that adds the illusion of height without swamping your frame.

Petite jeans checklist:

Straight cut lines
No Capri lengths
No turn-ups or cuffs
Nothing baggy or wide legged

Top tip for petite jeans: if you find a designer or brand that already produces an excellent line in petite clothing, then the chances are that they’ve got petite jeans down to a fine art.

Money no object: Not Your Daughters Jeans, Levis or True Religion jeans. Budget brands: Gap and House of DereonPlus

Perfect Plus Size jeans

Plus size jeans for larger ladies are just as easy to find as any other size, providing you know what to look for. First – make sure you buy the correct size. Don’t squeeze yourself into a smaller size. As with jeans for curvy women, make sure that there’s an adequate yoke piece.They really do make the difference where gaping is concerned. Don’t buy wide spaced rear pockets and make sure they’re the type of denim that have Lycra or spandex woven into the fabric.

Avoid low risers – they’re simply not flattering. However, don’t go for high waisters either. You’re much better to buy a pair that sit nicely around the waist, that don’t sag when you’re sitting or ride up or down when you’re on the go. Choose jeans that are made from dark denim and avoid anything that’s faded or faded in strategic places – like across the seat. This just adds width. Pockets should be close together and minimal in detail. The cut needs to be either straight or boot cut. A slight flare will balance out the hips/thighs/butt area.

Plus size jeans checklist:

Lycra or spandex – jeans with flex
Straight of boot cut
The correct fit
Avoid low risers

Top tip: don’t worry about the size on the tag. If you find a great pair of plus size jeans that fit – buy them.

Money no object: Abby Z at Nordstrom. Budget brands: Old Navy or Gap

2010-07-23T17:12:00.000-04:00

Shopping Guide For Shoes
Women are crazy for shopping and this is no hidden fact. When it comes to shopping, buying footwear is probably one common habit that every women shares.

However, there are so many things that go wrong while shopping for it and you end up adding a bad piece of footwear in your collection. Do not worry as here are some tips that can help you out.

Buying a sensible pair of shoes is essential. It must take care of your style and comfort level. The first thing that you should think of before buying shoe is that you must take care of occasion for which you are buying it. If it is for a date, do not end up buying flats.

Have a glamorous look and go for stiletto heels. These even go with evening wear and other formal occasions but you must restrict this type of heel to such occasions only because heels can be harmful health wise. For daily wear, stick to short heels or flats. Wedges are a good option for comfort and style.

Another mistake that women generally make whle buying shoes is buying wrong shoe size. Never buy a size smaller thinking it would widen down itself. Buy fitted pair of shoes only and change it in every 2 year at least.

Size and fit play an important role. Sometimes you buy shoes that cause unbearable pain and swelling in foot. This is when you know it is the wrong size. Do not repeat the same mistake again.

Sometimes, people have a problem of having one foot bigger than the second one. In such a case, you must take care of comfort and buy two pair of same shoes of different sizes. Of course the money factor pinches but in such a case, your health and comfort are at stake.

Also, the best time to buy shoes for yourself is early in evening because in afternoon, foot tends to swell generally. So all these things should be kept in mind while you are out for shopping of the shoes. Buy what you like and what you are comfortable in.

Party Wear

2010-07-23T17:09:00.001-04:00

Tips For Inexpensive Party Wear
With the party season knocking on the door, it is a dilemma everyday to scout the right kind of party wear. Another bigger problem is looking for less expensive things or dresses. It is always not possible to look out for expensive clothes. So what do we do? We make do with a little bit of mix and match.
The first thing to do is to find out the dress that fits you the best. It could be a lace top, a figure hugging trouser or even a buttoned down dress. Next, have a good look at it and see if you can give it a makeover. For instance, you can dress up your top or dress with a smart collar in velvet of any other crushed, shiny fabric. Or opt for a broad belt in a contrast color for your dress. Your trouser is probably the easiest to jazz up. You can embellish it with beads or sequins or any such thing.
The colors can be in solid ones or even printed. The point is to take out the best so that you can look like a new person and wear it with confidence. The next step is to complete the outfit. This especially holds true if you are opting for trousers or a top. If your trouser is printed, then pair it up with a solid-colored top else the colors will clash. Swing a metal belt on your hips to complete the look.
Else, if your trouser is in a solid color or you are wearing jeans, then you can experiment to no-limits. Jazz up the party night with a bright colored top. The colors can compliment or you can go for a contrasting one in an electric shade of color such as metallic blue, fuchsia pink or a fluorescent green!
Since your outfit is one of experimentation, the thing to remember is to keep it simple. Over dressing can kill the mood and ruin your look in a minute. It is up to you to make people compliment you and not think that you are looking like a clown in the Christmas or New Year party! This is not all; watch this space for more ideas for inexpensive party wear.

2010-07-23T16:10:00.001-04:00

Finding Plus Size Women's Clothing Isn't Difficult
Every woman has the right to look good. You do not have to have the figure of a zero size model to look good and stylish in what you are wearing. You can look good and find great clothes, even if you are on the heavier side. You might find this difficult to believe, but it is true. If you look in the right stores at the right clothes, you will find yourself at your elegant best without any difficulty.

You can follow these tips and find some great clothing for yourself.

Pick the right store

You will want to do some research before you decide on buying a frumpy dress that you do not even like. Walk about and try to look for stores that stock for plus size clothing for women. You can find these specialty stores just about anywhere. You just need to look at the right place.

Find the right size

Be honest with yourself and find the right size. Wearing clothing that is too tight will only make you look bigger and is definitely not stylish, and wearing clothing that is too loose will do nothing but add a few extra pounds to your figure. Therefore, try some clothes on and find what size fits you the best. That is the best for you. You can use an objective opinion of your friend who you know will not lie, or even your husband.

Being in the right size will flatter your figure.

Go online

You can find some great deals on clothes online also. Therefore, instead of staring at empty images online, try doing something worthwhile, like looking for good clothes for your size online. The best you can do is look for online sites of shops around you. This way you can browse in advance and go and try for yourself what you liked online. This will save a lot of your time, and if you are especially shy then it will be good for you.

Add some color

You do not have to wear black permanently as if you were in a period mourning that would not end. It is true that black tends to hide a few pounds, but there is nothing wrong with other colours. Choose colours based on how they will look on you. Try some on and see if the colour suits you. In fact, some prints can actually do a favour to your figure by hiding the bad part and accentuating the good parts. Therefore, do not fear to wear colours.

2010-07-23T15:57:00.001-04:00

Choosing The Right Jewelery
When it comes to jewelery women are spoilt for choices. There is so much variety now. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds and necklaces, rings, brooches the list is endless.

Choosing the right piece for your outfit defines who you are and all women regardless of their age face this problem at some point or the other. Though you might have loads of jewelery, you would still end up facing the problem of what to wear.

You should make sure your piece is unique, defines your personality, and suits the occasion instead of choosing a piece because you bought it or it is expensive. Opt for a trendy look if it is a casual informal occasion and a more formal, classic look for those big do’s.

Make sure that the jewelery you wear is not old fashioned making you look ancient. Make sure you choose your own jewelry instead of asking others for advice. A combination of what is in fashion and what looks good on you is enough knowledge to choose your own jewelery.

Jewelery can be divided into two segments depending on their usage. For daily use you have small and inexpensive trinkets. You can wear these with all kinds of clothes and can also mix and match pieces. For special occasions jewelery is usually expensive, intricate and one of a kind pieces. It is mostly worn as a set and is not used with other pieces.

Rings are pretty popular now. If chosen with care they accentuate your look. Women with small hands should wear small rings with one or two stones. Oval shaped rings makes a hand look longer and thinner and is preferred to other shapes. The current trend is rings with big stones and patterns.

Earrings bring out your features and create a balance between your face and figure. For instance if plump people wear round earrings it makes them look fatter. These don’t suit people wearing glasses too. Small earrings with simple designs look nice on a round face.

Brooches are chosen if one wants to make a statement. Huge brooches in a variety of designs like a flower or animal shapes are hugely popular now. Brooches in gems like rubies, jade, diamonds look beautiful.

2010-07-23T15:37:00.001-04:00

How To Change Old Dresses Into New Ones

When dresses get out of fashion, the only thing that we imagine is to discard them, but they could simply be reshaped making them trendy all over again.

There are many ways of changing old dresses into new ones and the most interesting part of it is that you can do all the alteration by yourself.

Add new features

You can add new feature to your old dress to make them new. You can add a decorative belt that is eye catching and original. This now becomes the spotlight of the dress and when you wear it, it changes your figure. You can also use a silk scarf: the way you wear the scarf can make a difference. It could be worn slanted at one side or attached by a brooch. Another thing is to wear a waste coat over it making the dress into a kind of skirt.

Change the dress itself

You can change the length of the dress; this is mostly by reducing it. This changes the dress completely. In cases of shorter dresses, you can change the length by adding a new material to it. You have to change the pattern but it should be in tone with the old style. You can change the sleeves of the dress, reducing them or adding some laces or decorative beads to them. Laces and decorative beads can also be used to change plain dresses making them evening wears.

You can remove the sleeves altogether and fit spaghetti straps in their place. Or you can change strap dresses into strapless ones. You can choose different colors and materials to make totally new sleeves.

You can use parts of the dress to make patches for your jeans; you can use them also to transform other dresses.

In cases where the dress cannot be transformed but you want to keep it for other reasons; you can use them to make other useful things in the house. For example you can make pillow cases out of such dresses.

Before you throw away a dress you really love, consider these options. You will be amazed at what old out fashioned dresses could become.

FASHION 101

2010-07-22T19:28:00.002-04:00

How To Change Old Dresses Into New Ones

When dresses get out of fashion, the only thing that we imagine is to discard them, but they could simply be reshaped making them trendy all over again. |More|

Choosing The Right Jewelery When it comes to jewelery women are spoilt for choices. There is so much variety now. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds and necklaces, rings, brooches the list is endless.....|More|

Finding Plus Size Women's Clothing isn't Difficult

Due to over activation of Sebaceous Glands, there is lot of production of Sebum and when it accumulates on the skin, the face becomes shiny. Oil also builds in the pores, mixing with bacteria and dead cells, resulting in breakouts of the skin. ...|More|

Things To Consider When Buying Your LBD

Your LBD or little black dress is one piece of clothing that you wouldn’t dream of not owning...|More|

Tips For Inexpensive Party Wear

With the party season knocking on the door, it is a dilemma everyday to scout the right kind of party wear. Another bigger problem is looking for less expensive things or dresses....|More|

Shopping Guide For Shoes

Women are crazy for shopping and this is no hidden fact. When it comes to shopping, buying footwear is probably one common habit that every women shares...|More|

The Perfect Jeans For Your Body Shape

How to choose the best jeans for your shape? Simple. Know what your shape is. Are you, petite, pear shaped - or curvy? The shape of your body is less of a problem than you think...|More|

How To Avoid Common Fashion Mistakes
Fashion bloopers are deadly; they make a dent in the purse as well as in your confidence. But they happen. So how do we judge the right look?..|More|

Designer Spotlight

Fashion Tips

Hey! Are you beautiful, intelligent, with a fabulous personality and an eye for the latest fashion trends, but confused over how to pull it together? No need to worry, here are some trendy tips for you to pull together the correct look. |More|

Look Sensual With Shorts

As if having dry hands isn’t enough, what hurts women even more is having problems with their nails and in particular, cracked cuticles..|More|

2010-07-22T19:08:00.001-04:00

How To Take Care Of Your Nails
As if having dry hands isn’t enough, what hurts women even more is having problems with their nails and in particular, cracked cuticles.Nails are woman’s next colored play thing that comes second only to her face.Women enjoy this indulgence to boost total appearance especially on occasions when they want to stand out. That is why they spend hours to pamper their nails, even go as far as weekly or monthly appointments with nail spa, just to take care of nails.
What causes cuticles to crack?
Cuticles are sensitive to weather conditions in the same way our skin reacts to it, especially to the cold weather. Winter is the time when our skin is mostly susceptible to intense dryness. Our cuticles too react in the same way to cold and dry air. Not only that, other factors that aggravate this condition are constant hand washing and failure to moisturize.
Don’t let this happen to your cuticles. Remember, as your hair is your crowning glory, your nails, howsoever tiny that they may seem, can add definition to your character. Surely a sign of cracked cuticles could only mean one thing, how little emphasis you give to the finer details of your body.Fix this problem with the help of tips listed below.
How can you remedy your cracked cuticles?
There are many nail care and cuticle products in the market that are specifically designed for regular maintenance. Use it to fix your cracked cuticles.The first thing that you must do is to moisturize. Get nail care cream products with organic ingredients like Jojoba, Almond Oil, Vitamin E or Shea Butter. These are great in helping cuticle issues. Apply it to your cuticles. You may also find these products beneficial for your heels and elbows, so include them while you’re at it. Apply it to your nails and surrounding cuticles. Rub or massage gently. Do this daily.At night, you can apply super-strength cream to your hands and cover it with gloves overnight. Do this treatment for a number of nights. Go for hand cream products like the ones made by Keihl and Dove.