LoveBrownSugar

Cover Girls: Tia Mowry for VIBE Vixen

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Tue, 29 May 2012 16:39:00 +0000

Tia Mowry is giving "hot mama" on the cover of VIBE Vixen this month, rocking a white blazer and royal blue. Just call her the Memorial Day special. Was anyone else as flabbergasted as I was that Tia and Pooch decided to quit BET's "The Game"? VIBE Vixen has the scoop on her life post-BET and all the amazing things she's doing from her new book "Oh Baby" to her reality show, her new role as an auntie and more. Check it out here!

What do you think of the cover?

Drop The Dryer: Bantu Knot Out

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Tue, 29 May 2012 15:14:00 +0000

So last week I introduced you guys to Nikita of My 12 Month Natural Hair Challenge! Here's her very first installation of "Drop The Dryer". Check out how she styles her Bantu Knot Out:

One of my favorite heat-free styles is the bantu knot-out. It's quick, easy, really cute, and maintainable for days at a time. I also like it because it is also a great way to retain moisture. I start my bantu knots by first creating twists with wet or damp hair.

I make about 15 twists (4 at the bottom, 5 in the row above that, 3 at the crown and 3 at the front) and then create a bantu knot out of each twist, which I then secure with a bobby pin. Tie a scarf on your head (I suggest satin or slik) and then put on a satin bonnet over that in case the scarf slips while you sleep. If you have your own hair securing method, please use what works for you.

The next morning, after showering (do not take your bantu knots out pre-shower!), Pull out each knot and separate the twist. Then separate each half into two halves. To get rid of the all of the parts, use your fingers to gently lift your roots (you can use a pick instead if you'd like) making sure to not pull your fingers all the way through.

It's nice and easy, and you can just moisturized with some jojoba oil and shea butter, re-twist and bantu knot at night for the same look the next day. Below are my results:

This style requires no heat, retains moisture and can easily have handbands, clips, and hats incorporated with it. Give it a try and let me know your results!!

- Nikita, My 12 Month Natural Hair Challenge

Have a cute heat-free style you want to share? Send us your pics at DropTheDryer@gmail.com!

LBS Beauty Review: Carol's Daughter Transitioning 1-2-3

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Fri, 25 May 2012 14:43:00 +0000

It's here! So if you follow me on Twitter or Instagram (username: lovebrownsugar), you know that I recently took the following pic after being sent a new box of Carol's Daughter's Transitioning 1-2-3 Kit.

From My Instagram

Yes, ladies if you're transitioning from relaxed to natural (or already 100% natural), look no further. This the kit for you. The Transitioning 1-2-3 Kit is CD's answer to the two-texture struggle. It claims to contribute to 93% less shedding, healthier scalp and softer strands. But even if you only have one texture, this kit is spot on. Keep reading for the awesomeness...

First things first, you know I'm a "packaging is everything" type of girl. I'm in love with the painted, turquoise packaging on the box and on the products. It will definitely stand out on a beauty shelf. Now onto what's inside...

Each kit contains 3 main elements: Purifying Extra Gentle Cleanser, Renewing Scalp Spray, and Restoring Anti-Breakage Treatment. The Kit recommends using the Purifying Cleanser first, then the Renewing Scalp Spray and finally the Anti-Breakage treatment as the final step. I used them in that order.

Here are my thoughts on each product after one trial:

1. Purifying Extra Gentle Cleanser

- This product is amazing for clarifying hair
- 100% Naturals (not Transitioners), I wouldn't recommend using this more than once a week. It's definitely for purifying and not for packing in moisture
- Very low lather
- Amazing smell

2. Renewing Scalp Spray

- Where has this product been all my life? Love it!
- Cool, refreshing tingle on the scalp after using
- It EXFOLIATES your scalp, gently. Umm, amaze
- Perfect for transitioners who wear extensions and braids
- Great as a mid-week scalp refresher if you don't have time to shampoo

3. Restoring Anti-Breakage Treatment

- Great creamy consistency for a deep treatment
- Perfect to use under the dryer
- Leaves hair soft & smooth

So here's my head of curls after using the product, drying and styling (in a bantu knot-out):

Like what you see? Get you some at this link right here. They're currently on pre-order!

Guess what guys? It could be yours. I'm giving some away!!! *Oprah twirl*

Leave a comment below (make sure your email address is linked in your profile too) and you could be the proud winner of a Transition 1-2-3 Kit! I'll be giving one away EVERY FRIDAY for the next few weeks, so keep your eyes peeled and keep commenting! Winners will be chosen at random and announced every Monday.

Eligibility:

1. Follow both @LoveBrownSugar & @Carols_Daughter on Twitter

2. 'Like' the Carol's Daughter Facebook Page

3. Leave a comment below!

Fierce or Foolish: Solange at MoMa Garden Party

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Wed, 23 May 2012 21:25:00 +0000

Last night Solange Knowles (my fave) showed up rocking a fashion-forward ensemble at the MoMa Garden Party. In a leaf-printed Flaminia Saccucci shorts and skirt hybrid, Solange rocked the party with a rhinestone clutch and nude classic pumps. Eclectic, fashion-forward, yet sophisticated.

Thoughts? Would you rock an ensemble like this? Fierce or Foolish?

Hair Tutorial: LoveBrownSugar & VIBE Vixen

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Wed, 23 May 2012 18:03:00 +0000

Hey loves! So remember back in January when I got my hair done by the lovely stylists at True Indian Hair? Yes, this post and this post I was rocking that amazing sew-in of Kinky-Curly hair. So I actually filmed that whole process as a segment for VIBE Vixen TV! Check it out below as I walk you through the step-by-step sew-in process:

So I have to say, I was a little nervous while this video was being made. But I'm so happy with how it came out! Stay tuned for more videos about my fashion & beauty adventures on the streets of NYC. I'm just warming up!

Have you ever had hesitations about installing extensions? I wanna know, soundoff below!

Brunch at Harry's

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Wed, 23 May 2012 17:03:00 +0000

This past weekend, we sipped mimosa & got #fancy to celebrate the birthday of Jessica of Glamazons Blog. The festivities took place at Harry's in the Financial District. If you're ever there, you must try the Cornflake & Coconut-Crusted French Toast. I mean...foodgasm on a plate.

Jessica looked "glamazing", as she would say in a neon lace dress by Urban Outfitters and a matching neon neckpiece by H&M. I opted for my Marni for H&M maxi dress and Joe Fresh chain.

Jessica & I

Good times were had by all...

Me & Makeda of The Glamazon Diaries

Chris of Fresher Than Chris, Sandrine Charles

Jessica enjoying her day

Happy Birthday Jess!

P.S. For my makeup look I opted for slightly bronzed cheeks, bright yet neutral eyes and a hot pink lip!

Where do you guys head for brunch on the weekends? I'm a foodie at heart. Tell me the name and location of your fave brunch locale.

Introducing...The "Drop The Dryer" Series

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Tue, 22 May 2012 15:34:00 +0000

Many of you, when I did My Blowout Month post, inquired about the best ways to maintain length. My perpetual answer to that is heat-free styling! It's one of the main tips I gave within that post about how I've been able to grow my hair consistently and it's also just a good rule of thumb for anyone transitioning, currently natural and even relaxed. Heat styling does serious damage if you don't use the right protection, so instead of having to go through all that...chile, drop the dryer!

Nikita of My 12 Month Natural Hair Challenge

A good friend of mine, Nikita of My 12 Month Natural Hair Challenge has agreed to pop over to LoveBrownSugar weekly and give us an update on her amazing heat-free project. Starting this month, Nikita has vowed to go 12 whole months without any heat styling. That means no press & curl, no blowouts & no flat irons! Drastic, right?

Nikita drops her dryer

She even had to have a Parting Ceremony for her heat-styling tools. Complete with white wine! Yes, it's that serious. Nikita will be giving us an update on cool ways to style your hair heat-free, product reviews, hair tips & more. She's a girl on-the-go, so she's all about quick & easy hairstyles.

Nikita's Bantu Knots

Even better? We want YOU all to participate! Send pics of YOUR fabulous heat-free hairstyles to DropTheDryer@gmail.com for a weekly shoutout on the site. Make sure to include the products you used to achieve your look. Can't wait to see your submissions!

Everyone please join me in welcoming Nikita to the LoveBrownSugar fam. Drop her a note in the comments section!

Color-Block Party: 5 Ways To Rock It For Work & Play

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Mon, 21 May 2012 20:46:00 +0000

Nanette Lepore S/S 2012

Summer is upon us and you know what that means? Time to incorporate explosive colors into the wardrobe! Yes, ladies, long gone are the days of black, navy and gray. With summer 2012 trends being all about neons and pastels, there's no room for neutrals in your arsenal.

Last weekend I attended the Rising Affluent conference to speak on a panel about branding & social media. While there, I was greeted by some super chic women in business casual brights that made me do a double take. Take a cue from these fashion-forward mavens on how to incorporate color into your wardrobe:

1. Skirt The Issue

This young lady decided to incorporate a bright pastel pink skirt into her attire. She topped off her look with a patterned silk blouse and rounded shades...

Get The Look: Save ($28.50), Spend ($79), Splurge ($1,032)

2. Make A Statement

Take a bright colored simple dress like this one and make it fancy with a statement necklace! She kept her accessories simple with black pumps and rounded classic black shades.

Get The Look: Save ($48), Spend ($183), Splurge ($428)

3. Add Texture

The lovely Patrice of Looking Fly on a Dime played up her colorful vintage frock with basket weave handbag and snakeskin pumps!

4. Blaze A Trail

So I decided to rock a hot pink blazer to the conference. One, because I was rushing out the door and it's the easiest thing to throw on. And two, because it spells professionalism with a hint of fashionably chic.

5. Mix It Up

Don't be afraid to go multi-colored! Color-blocking is still huge this season. Pick complimentary colors like royal blue and orange to play on the trend. Don't be afraid.

Sidebar: Don't these ladies have amazing hair?!

That's it for my tips! How do you rock your bright pieces? Leave your style tips below...

LBS Beauty: My First Glossybox

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:49:00 +0000

A few weeks ago I had the privilege of uncovering my very first Glossybox! For those of you who don't know, Glossybox is the global leader in beauty boxes. Each month, they send a beauty box to your home, including five of the latest and most exciting beauty products from around the world. Before this month, Glossybox had only been available in the UK and select other countries but now they're officially shipping to the US! If you've ever heard of Birchbox, this is similar but Glossybox's products are more high end. Check it out:

First off, the packaging is simply delightful. I'm very much a "packaging is everything" type of girl so when I opened the box, I gasped! So amaze!

In each Glossybox is a really cute postcard thanking you for subscribing and also a list of all the cool products in the box. They also included a "Trend Guide" which was really cool because it explained all the amazing trends in different parts of the world. From Greece to South Africa to Japan. I loved it.

Whoop! Full size products! Can you believe? Are you gagging like I was? Inside my box were samples from Erno Laszio, C.O. Bigelow shampoo, Cargo EyeBronzer, Kryolan High Gloss Lip Shine, OPI nail lacquer and Basq eye gel. Fun!

I'm excited to give these products a try. I'll make sure to post reviews of my favorites. If you're a beauty junkie interested in signing up to receive Glossybox, subscriptions start at $21/month. Go to Glossybox.com for more information.

JOIN ME FOR A TWITTER PARTY TODAY!

Today from 3PM-4PM EST I'll be co-hosting a Twitter party with the Glossybox folks. Make sure you're following me @LoveBrownSugar and @Glossybox_US to participate in the chat. Today is all about hair! Send me your hair questions via Twitter with the hashtag #GLOSSYchat - can't wait to tweet you guys!

Flavor of Friday: Met Gala Style, Tamu's Threads & Events

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Fri, 11 May 2012 16:20:00 +0000

Happy friday folks! Here's the rundown of this week's news, events & fab stuff to discuss:

Red Carpet Haute

My lovely companions at Glamazons Blog gathered up a haute rundown of the best fashions at the Met Gala. In case you missed the livestream of the red carpet, check out their picks for Best Dressed. They hit the nail on the head with their post featuring Solange, Beyonce, Chanel Iman & more.

Who's That Girl?

I heart Tamu! If you don't know her, get into her. StyleLikeU recently did a video featuring one of my fave street style photographers Tamu McPherson of All The Pretty Birds. Her blog is amazing and she's such a sweetheart (I've run into her many a time during NY Fashion Week and she's absolutely adorbs). Check out the video HERE - props to Huffington Post BV for posting it.

Be There or Be...Lame

Ok folks, some important events you NEED to attend if you're in the NYC area. (Non-NYC folks, I'm working on some cool ways to include national citywide events, so stay tuned!)

I'm speaking! Yes, yours truly will be on a panel of experts for the above young professional conference Rising Affluent. I attended this last year (blogged about it here - a must-read!) and had an amazing time. It's so great being in the company of other young professionals who are driven and connected. It's also awesome to hear all about entrepreneurship, branding, and success from a panel of experts and influencers. I would encourage anyone with hopes and dreams in the NYC area to attend. You won't regret it.

To register for tickets, click here! I'll be speaking on the 9:50AM panel on Branding & Building a Social Media following.

My curly friends Natasha of Asili Glam and the Around the Way Curls crew are hosting a fab natural hair meetup next Thursday, May 17th called Curl Daze! There will be cocktails (by Ciroc, 21+ only, sorry youngin's), there will be goody bags, and there will be lots of natural curls! Curly or not, you don't want to miss it. "It's a party, it's a party it's a partayyy" *Waka Flocka voice*

RSVP for Curl Daze here!

Ok that's it for this week's updates. Have a faboosh weekend y'all. And hit me up in the comments if I missed anything!

Cece's Curls: My Blowout Month & 3 Tips for Growth

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Thu, 10 May 2012 16:49:00 +0000

So as you guys know, I've been natural now for almost a year and a half. I know I don't nearly spend enough time talking about my hair journey on here, but I promise I'll get better at it. I did my Big Chop in November 2010 and since then I've restricted myself to heat styling only once every 4-6 months and to continuously doing protective styles. Here's where I started:

November 2010

I have to say, my steady regimen of low heat and protective styles has been working! I wanted to show you guys some comparison shots from my very first blowout in October 2011 (one year post Big Chop) and my most recent blowout in April 2012. My hair has grown out alot!

Above is a pic of my very first blowout on natural hair in October 2011, just 6 months ago. I got it styled at the Hair Rules Salon with head stylist Dickey. See here for that post with video!

Above is a picture of my second blowout & press (April 2012). I took a few "length check" photos. I'll share those with you soon.

Updo on pressed hair (April 2012). This was about a week after my press. I got tired of wearing it out in pin curls so I pulled into this updo for a Saturday of shopping. I'll do a follow up post with more pics of this style as well.

Bantu Knot out on blown out hair (May 2012)

I have more pics to share in some follow-up posts but my main reason for sharing this post is to encourage all of you out their in the beginning or middle of your hair journeys. Your hair will grow, trust me! My hair is now the longest it's ever been in my life and I'd have to attribute that to the following three things:

3 Best Practices for Natural Hair Growth

1. Limit heat-styling.

It's hard, yes. But you can do it! As someone who has been addicted on & off to the creamy crack, press & curls, and blowdrying, I know it's a hard habit to beat. But letting your natural curls grow without applying heat is a great way to protect them from damage and breakage. Do a heat-free challenge for a few months and you'll begin to notice a clear difference in your hair's texture and strength. And there are TONS of cute styles to get into that don't involve heat at all.

2. Do more protective styling.

I actually just wrote a whole post for Carol's Daughter Transitioning Movement site about this very principle. Protective styling isn't just braids, weaves and wigs. Believe it or not, rocking a turban out one day is a protective style! Wearing your hair in a loose bun is another protective style. As long as your ends are being covered and shielded from the harsh elements, you're protective styling. And more of it leads to less breakage and therefore more length retention.

3. Condition, condition, condition.

I live by my weekly deep conditioner. Whichever deep conditioner you choose, try to make sure it incorporates natural ingredients that will nourish your hair and scalp. You can also make DIY deep conditioners (there are tons of YouTube vids for this). Making sure your hair is properly conditioned is the best way to assure proper length retention.

Any other tips for growing out natural hair? Share them in the comments section!

Winner: Bon Bon Vie Tote

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Mon, 07 May 2012 21:53:00 +0000

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Bon Bon Vie tote giveaway on Friday! You guys said you'd rock your tote with everything from turquoise trousers to tank dresses. Too fab. Love it! As promised, we have a winner for this amazing gift...

Congratulations Akila or @Es_Curls on winning this gift! Akila wrote:

"My style is very simple. I will rock this tote with a colorful fitted t-shirt, jean shorts, and sandals. A cute pair of earrings and chunky bangles will complete my look."

Well Akila, we can't wait to see a twitpic of you rocking this tote on the mean streets! Please email luvbrownsugar@gmail.com to claim your prize. Thanks to everyone for participating and stay tuned for more awesome fashion & beauty giveways to come.

This giveaway is sponsored by Bon Bon Vie. Winner was selected by random drawing.

LoveBrownSugar Feature: HuffPost Black Voices Top Instagrammer

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Mon, 07 May 2012 14:57:00 +0000

Hey folks! If you guys already follow me on Facebook and on Twitter, there's another social network you should be stalking me on - Instagram! According to HuffPo Black Voices Style & Beauty editor Julee Wilson, I'm a top fashion & beauty Instagrammer!

I'm so proud that my random nail art snaps and Fit Room Flicks are getting me somewhere in life. Whoop! Check out the full list of amazing folks featured on HuffPo Black Voices HERE. And check out a few of my recent style snaps below:

My Sally Hansen Salon Effects manicure in Tri-bal It On

My travel story in this month's UPTOWN Magazine

My fave new bag from Handbag Heaven

Are you guys on Instagram? What's your username? List it below so we can be BFFs!

LoveBrownSugar Giveaway: Bon Bon Vie Tote

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Fri, 04 May 2012 17:11:00 +0000

Happy Friday y'all! To celebrate my return to the blogosphere (and just because I love you guys), I'm hosting a super chic giveaway with clothing & accessories line Bon Bon Vie!

If you haven't heard of Bon Bon Vie, get into them. Founded by chic web developer & designer Shari Neal, what started out as a Connecticut-based tee company is quickly blossoming into a lifestyle brand. I've seen her super cute "Brown Skin Lady" tees all over the blogosphere and I'm proud to collaborate with Shari on this giveaway.

According to the owner, "Bon Bon Vie is a brand that’s accessible, positive, and created to encourage people to 'live the good life.' The Bon Bon Vie lifestyle isn’t necessarily about material possessions, but rather self-love, pursuing your dreams, and celebrating your own personal joy."

Love it!

If you think Bon Bon Vie is amaze like I do, leave a comment below explaining how you would rock the following tote from their accessory collection:

One winner will be selected at random and announced on Monday, May 7th.

BONUS: For EXTRA entries into the contest, tweet the following message: "Loving this @ShariBonBonVie giveaway on @LoveBrownSugar http://ow.ly/aHSVd #totesamaze"

Good luck!!

Cover Girls: Monica & Brandy for Ebony Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Wed, 02 May 2012 16:12:00 +0000

The original R&B songstress contenders of "The Boy is Mine" fame, Monica and Brandy, cover this month's Ebony Magazine. Perfectly appropriate, as their June issue theme is music and these two have been back in action after small career hiatuses.

I'm absolutely in love with the bright pops of color on these two. Can't wait to see the full spread! The June issue of Ebony hits newsstands this month.

Thoughts? Fierce or Foolish?

Source

LoveBrownSugar Event: Shop & Swap

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:02:00 +0000

Calling all NYC fashionistas! Tomorrow evening, myself and a few of my fellow curvy bloggers are throwing the shopping bash of the season!

Join us for a chic Shop & Swap event where myself, Gabi of Gabifresh.com, Ty of GorgeousinGrey, Alissa of StylishCurves, Nicolette Mason, Nadia Abhoulhosn, and Kellie of Fatshion Insider will be selling and swapping from our coveted closets.

There will be an open bar, special guests, prizes and giveaways so you do NOT want to miss it!

RSVP to info@fatshioninsider.com and look for me inside! I'll be selling clothes, shoes, jewelry and more. Bring CASH and plan to shop til' you drop.

See you tomorrow!

My Big Break & 3 Life Lessons

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 17:05:00 +0000

Happy Friday everyone! I'm back and better than ever. It's amazing what time away can do for your outlook and perspective. At the end of March, I decided to take an unprecedented hiatus from my blog and from my social networks like Facebook and Twitter. Yeah, I know. What was I thinking right? Well before you assume that I just fled the blogosphere and never looked back, let me explain.

In all my 3 years since LoveBrownSugar's inception in July 2009, I've never taken a blog break. My decision to take a break was ultimately a combination of exhaustion, lack of motivation and confusion. Between my site not yielding the results I really wanted, to my disappointment with the way the online publishing industry is functioning, to my anger at brands and individuals who continuously take advantage of bloggers like myself, I decided a hiatus was in order. This combination of feelings plus added personal stresses led me to step away from the keyboard to really think, evaluate and rediscover why it is I do what I do. It may be hard to understand, but us bloggers really put alot on the line each time we blog. We're putting our hearts, souls, insecurities, our shortcomings and everything in between on a page for you all to look at, evaluate and judge. And at times, it can be taxing. And if you're not careful, you can start to question what your purpose is.

Even if you're not a blogger, have you ever felt these feelings about your life? You know, those "Why am I here? Why me?" feelings that you just can't shake. If you've never felt like that before, it can be really scary. I'm writing this post, not as an excuse for stepping away from my site for a while but as motivation for anyone else who may be feeling the way I was almost a month ago. Here are three important lessons I learned during my time off:

1. It Gets Better.

When you're going through something, whether it be emotional issues, physical pain in your body, problems at work or home, relationship problems, it's important to remember that trouble won't last. Even though, in your current situation, it might seem like all hope is lost or that your suffering is insurmountable, just remember that things always get better. Ever heard the phrase "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning"? There are no truer words. Whatever you're going through, remember that it will be short-lived. And that you will come out of it 100x stronger than you came in. Take a second right now and reflect on all the hard times in your life up until this point. And even after all that, you're still here right? See.

2. Be Quiet & Listen.

I do alot of talking. I always have. I was the girl who came home from grade school with A's but with a small note from the teacher "Talks too much in class!" next to my grade. Giving presentations were always my strong suit because I'm not scared of crowds. It's inevitable then, that I've emerged as a social media specialist by profession and that I make my living writing, tweeting, and essentially talking (in some way, shape or form), all the time. But sometimes life situations call for you to sit back and listen. Whether it be listening to advice from your friends/fam about what you should do, or listening to your Higher Power about what direction you should take in life, quiet time is always necessary. Because true direction comes to people who have their ears open and their mouths closed.

3. Count Your Blessings.

Before you assume your situation is the worst it could possibly be, take a second to really think about all you have going for you. Literally count your blessings. Pull out a sheet of paper and list all the things that are wrong in life on one side, and all the things that are great on the other. 9 times out of 10, the good will outweigh the bad. Don't forget to list things like "I'm breathing" and "I can see" on there. People tend to forget that things we take for granted, others have to live without. This exercise will undoubtedly give you perspective. Regardless of what you're going through, you're blessed. Never forget that.

Now I know this post isn't about fashion or beauty or shoes or the Knowles family, like my normal posts (yes I'm obsessed with all these things). But I strive to always be completely honest with you guys about my life and what I love. I hope these lessons are ones that you guys can use in your own lives. Because aside from style, we all need a little inspiration now and again.

Natural vs. Fake Hair Debate: Weigh In

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 21:51:00 +0000

Hey guys! I'm ecstatic and bubbling over to announce my latest story. A few months ago, the beauty editor at Refinery29 tapped me to ask 5 of my fab friends about their hair journeys, regimens and how they feel about the natural vs. relaxed, fake vs. real and everything in-between debate. This week, they posted the article and it's been stirring up tons of interesting commentary.

Here's a snippet about the story:

At the root of every bad hair day is a desire to achieve the highest level of hair amazingness possible...and the subsequent failure to meet those expectations. We always want what we can’t have, so we set ourselves up for disappointment when our strands can’t live up to our high hair hopes. We all fall prey to mane envy, and with that comes the desire to enhance — whether it be through straightening, coloring, cutting, or adding extensions.

Photo by Erin Yamagata

There’s been an interesting debate brewing recently over what "natural" hair actually is and whether hair enhancements like wigs, weaves, and extensionsplay a misleading role in how we define beauty these days. Is wearing your hair natural “better” than wearing extensions? What exactly gets everyone so riled up when a woman chooses to wear fake hair?

We found five real, stylish girls who have all dabbled with faux hair to answer those questions and more. Read on for their insightful opinions on this hot-button issue, then weigh in with your own thoughts on the “natural or not” debate.

You can check out the full story over at Refinery29.com

What are your thoughts on this debate? What side are you on and why?

Cover Girls: Angela Simmons for Ladygunn Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:53:00 +0000

Angela Simmons steals the spotlight in this month's issue of LadyGunn Magazine. Though I've never picked up an issue, I might be heading to the store to grab one. These photos of Angela are gorgeous.

Love the playful texture of the editorial...

And the hair is flowing and radiant per usual. Loves it!

BONUS: Just found this super cute video of Angela, her stylist Kanayo and her makeup artist Angel making over an NYC subway rider for BET's Rip The Runway 2012. Check it out below!

Image Source: TheYBF
Video Source: BET.com

Last Chance! Refinery29's Most Stylish Hood Contest

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 20:04:00 +0000

It's officially the LAST day for the Refinery29 contest I told you guys about two weeks ago! I really need your votes to take home a win. Just click on the picture below, go to the 'Popular Contestants' tab and click the heart in the left hand corner over my picture.

If I win this contest with Refinery 29 and luxury retailer Cole Haan, I'll officially win an editorial on Refinery29.com, a Cole Haan wardrobe and FREE NYC transit access for a YEAR! This would mean so much to me, and would really help me make some improvements to LoveBrownSugar.com if I win. Not having to worry about NYC transit fees would be a life-altering benefit for me this year, and would help me bring you guys more amazing content, giveaways, and posts.

Please Click This Link and Vote For Me!

Click on the 'Most Popular Contestants' tab. Check the heart in the left hand corner and login with your Facebook account to vote!

Photo by Ugonna Igweatu

Thanks in advance guys!!

LBS Beauty: All In the Pleat

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:44:00 +0000

Yesterday, I did an outfit post "All in The Pleat" and promised to post a mini how-to on how to get my beauty look. There are a few main hair & makeup essentials I used to achieve the look. Below is a break down of the products and how I used them. I promise, when I get the hang of this video thing, I'll start recording these.

Ok so I'm super excited that I FINALLY can pull my natural hair into a top knot. The main products I use to achieve this look are:

1) Spray bottle (with a mix of water, drop of coconut oil, and cheapie conditioner)
2) Jane Carter Leave-In Conditioner (gifted to me by the wonderful folks at True Indian Hair after I got my sew-in done. Now I'm hooked!)
3) Curls Unleashed Curl Boosting Jelly
4) Goodie hair bands
5) Hair pins
6) Homemade sock bun

I typically use my spray bottle to dampen my hair so that it's manageable and moldable. Then, I apply leave-in conditioner to properly moisturize. After that, I pull all my hair up using a goodie band into a puff at the top of my head. At this point, I'll apply my Curls Unleashed Curl Boosting jelly around my edges and up to the top of my hair to hold in strays and give my hair some shine. I place my sock bun over the edges of my puff and actually pull the edges around it into a neat bun. Then I use another goodie band to finish off the bun and pin the stray hairs with hair pins! Since I don't have a vid, take a look at how Youtuber Laila-Jean does her sock buns:

For my red lip, I used none other than MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo.

It's the perfect matte red and it works on so many different skin tones. For my face, I used Makeup Forever HD Invisible Cover foundation mixed with MAC Oil Control Lotion for my very own tinted moisturizer. I then brush my cheeks with Stila Cosmetics One Step Primecolor in Capri Coral for a nice bronzy finish. On the eyes, I'm wearing Urban Decay Eyeshadow in YDK.

That pretty much sums up my look! Any other questions? Hit me in the comments box.

LoveBrownSugar Chic: All In The Pleat

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 17:51:00 +0000

I was playing around in my room taking test shots before snapping this outfit. Two of my recent finds. Two new wardrobe staples - the tribal top and the pleated skirt.

So happy I can finally get my hair up in a top knot. I used the sock bun method. Tutorial coming soon on how I do mine.

Hair & Makeup

I went for a shimmery eye and a matte red lip. Tomorrow I'm going to post a mini how-to on products I used to achieve this look so stay tuned.

Nails

Last week I got minx done at Channing in the City's 2 Year Anniversary Party. The lovely ladies of Nail Taxi hooked me up. My first time getting a full set of minx and I really like it!

The Look

I paired the look with my favorite jewelry and a pair of wedge booties.

Top: Forever 21 (similar one for under $20 here). Skirt: H&M (similar one here and cognac version here for only $64). Wedges: Forever 21 (similar here for only $40). Watch: Michael Kors. Wrap Bracelet: Linea Pelle.

Have you voted for me yet? Click my picture below and go to the 'Popular Contestants' tab to vote!

The Fab Five: Amanda Miller

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 13:23:00 +0000

You guys may remember seeing today's subject Amanda Miller as one of my very first Get Like Me interviewees back in March of 2010. As the Senior Fashion Market Editor at Saks 5th Ave, Amanda exudes chic. I mean, when you're directing the trends and buying decisions at a mega retailer like Saks, you kind of have to exude style.

I'm pleased to introduce a new series The Fab Five, highlighting five amazing ways to wear one killer piece. This first rendition is guest edited by none other than Amanda Miller! Check it out below:

As the Fashion Market Editor at Saks Fifth Avenue, I am a girl who still LOVES to play dress up in my closet. Whenever I leave a store with a new item I automatically daydream about different ways I will rock it. I usually love to buy transitional pieces that I can wear from spring to fall. One of my most recent purchases is this blackground floral print dress from H&M ($24.95). Here are 5 different ways I would wear this:

Vest: Saks Fifth Avenue Astrakhan Vest. Shoes: Christian Louboutin. Sunglasses: Oliver Peoples. Earrings: H&M

When it starts to get a bit colder a few great outerwear pieces are essential, especially in New York. I have this Astrakhan vest from Saks Fifth Avenue Collection that I love to wear with just about everything.

I would wear this over the dress with printed stilettos (and black tights depending on the weather). This is cute enough for work and afterwork drinks.

Leather Jacket: Elie Tahari. Shoes: Jimmy Choo. Leggings: Wolford. Handbag: DVF

To transition this dress into early fall when the weather just starts to get a little crisp in the morning, I would wear this back to my Elie Tahari black leather baseball style jacket.

I would probably go no hosiery for September, but when it gets a bit colder I would wear this with black opaque tights and rock this at work.

Blazer: Elie Tahari blazer. Earrings: Vintage. Ring: H&M. Clutch: Nancy Gonzalez. Wedges: Sam Edelman.

If I want to be more casual a great go-to item in my wardrobe is my Elie Tahari blazer.

I would throw this over the dress and wear it with comfortable Sam Edelman wedges for a trip to the park in the Fall.

Trench: Viktor and Rolf for H&M. Flats: Jimmy Choo. Handbag: Elliot Luca. Earrings: Vintage.

It seems that Spring may have finally sprung, so I love pairing this Viktor & Rolf trench coat for H&M that I got a few years ago (one of my favorite things in my closet) over this dress.

Mixing floral print with the defined waist trench coat is ultra feminine and I can wear it back to my Saks Fifth Avenue black ballet flats for a comfortable Sunday brunch.

Skirt: J Crew. Wedges: Boutique 9. Bag: Rebecca Minkoff. Earrings: Vintage

Summer is by far my favorite season (probably because I am a summer baby) and I absolutely LOVE dressing for the summer. One of my favorite tricks is making a dress into a different silhouette, so here I put my dress on with a chambray J. Crew skirt over it.

This gives the illusion of a knit top. I would wear this with my new Boutique 9 white wedges for a summer date night.

Would you rock your dress this way? Any other tips/tricks for getting mileage out of this piece?

Follow Amanda on Twitter at @amanda_at_saks | Read her Get Like Me feature

Cover Girls: Melanie Fiona Covers VIBE Vixen

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 16:19:00 +0000

On the heels of her new album release, The MF Life, R&B songstress Melanie Fiona covers VIBE Vixen. She's giving off-kilter glam with this melon sorbet dress and menswear tie. Absolutely love her style. VIBE Vixen chatted with the Canadian sensation about her new album, her emotional highs & lows, heartbreak and self-confidence:

On her new album:
I believe that the songs people have heard and the things that have been released, when they get the album, they’ll be pleasantly surprised. That’s not necessarily the bread and butter of the album. There’s really great hidden gems on this album, and I just think that it’s a really strong album that gives appeal to both men and women, which I think is a tough thing to do.

On heartbreak:
"...for me, I just know that even when I’m in love, I still write about heartbreak and that’s an emotion that I draw on and I know people need to hear about that. I think that there’s strength in owning that [hurt] and sharing that and saying like, Yeah this is who I am and this is where I’m at. And I think that why people love the music."

On being confident & finding her "sexy":
I think, as women, we continue to evolve and find it. It even becomes as materialistic as you finding the perfect pair of shoes and just putting them on. I think it’s always a process, and I think you have to be able to find the sexy everywhere. You really have to find the sexy when you feel the ugliest, so I feel like it’s a constant evolution.

Read the full interview over at VIBE Vixen

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3 Ways To Simplify Your Life

noreply@blogger.com (CeCe) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 07:05:00 +0000

This week, I've been commissioned by the lovely folks at Sprint to expand on the ways I simplify my life. As a blogger with a full-time job, sometimes burnout is inevitable. At the moment it's 3AM and yes, I'm still blogging. But for anyone who wears more than one hat; whether you have extracurricular activities, children, or a small business - life can be daunting at times. Here are 3 simple ways I simplify my life:

1. Prepare.

Preparation is the antithesis of confusion. Though it may be hard at times (especially if you don't have a personal assistant!) preparing everything you need for the coming days/weeks can make all the difference. I once read a book about efficiency and time management, and one of the key takeways was about "batching" tasks. That means doing a whole lot of one specific thing, all at one time. Bloggers, for example, can take 3 - 4 hours out of their weekend to just draft up and schedule all posts for the remainder of the week, instead of spending two hours each day on them. That's essentially batching. And it helps!

2. Write things down.

"I know I have to do something at 5pm tonight but I can't quite remember what..." Sound familiar? Simplify your busy schedule by writing things down! Whether it's oldschool with a pen & paper or digitally on your iPad, writing down to-do lists and checklists can really help you remain in control. If you're forgetful like me, this is key.

3. Know your limit.

The hardest thing for me to do, when I was in college, was saying "No". Whether it was a friend who needed to vent for an hour, a group member slacking on their work that needed some extra "help", or an event invite sitting in my inbox. I always felt like whatever was asked, I could do. Not true.

Knowing your own limits can truly help you avoid potential pitfalls and will essentially simplify your life. Sometimes you need a day to yourself. And that's ok. The sooner you realize it, the faster you can take the time you need to re-energize and conquer your complicated life.

How do you keep it simple? Leave your tips in the comments section.

Sprint is the only national carrier that has truly Unlimited data for all phones while on the Sprint network with the Everything Data plan. No throttling, no metering and no overages. Plus you get Unlimited text and calling to any mobile. It’s the simple plan that allows you to use data on your phone the way it should be used. Visit http://bit.ly/xK6WDo

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