Creatively Yours

She's Gotta Have It:: Monif C. "Karen" Lattice Insert Dress

2013-05-24T11:10:00.000-04:00

Tell me this dress is not EVERYTHING!! I'm a bit reluctant to drop almost $200 (love Monif C. but she breaks my bank) on a dress that I may only wear once. At any rate, this "Karen" Lattice Insert Dress oozes amazing so I'm thinking really hard about saving my coins and buying her.

Price:: $198 (Available June 7th)

What do you think beauties? Is this worth the $200 splurge?

Thrifty Thursday:: DevaCurl Get Started Curl Essentials Kit

2013-05-23T10:07:00.000-04:00

As the girl that has an entire storage unit set aside for hair products alone certainly the last think I need is more hair product to add to the stash but this DevaCul Get Started Curl Essentials Kit is calling my name! Since going natural I've heard noting but rave reviews about DevaCurls but I admit the thought of paying almost $20 one shampoo was keeping me away.

Lucky for me, Ulta.com has a Get Started Curl Essentials Kit for just $37.95!

Here's what the kit includes::

DevaCurl No-Poo (12oz) Price:: $18.95
DevaCurl One Condition (12oz) Price:: $18.95
Ultra Defining Gel (3oz) Price:: $7.95
DevaTowel Price:: $12.00
4 Free DevaClips

With all that's included, this set is too good to let sit on the shelf!

Have you tried DevaCurl products?

Spa Sonic Skin Care System Review

2013-05-22T09:15:00.000-04:00

How many times have you washed your face at night swearing all the makeup had be washed away only to wake the next morning to find traces of makeup on your pillowcase? It's certainly happened to me on more than one occasion which prompted me to start looking for tools that would deeply cleanse my skin. When you think about skin purifying systems there is probably one name that comes to mind but the Spa Sonic Skincare System may just one excellent system you've been sleeping on.

The Details::
Once only available in spas, the Spa Sonic Skincare System rejuvenates, exfoliates and illuminates the skin. Use of the system provides a deeper cleanse and promotes rapid absorption of the skincare products you use.

My Results::
I'm quite pleased with my Spa Sonic, I use it about 3 times a week and my skin looks and feels amazing. Initially, I did experience some breakouts during my first week of use but that's not very uncommon as the system is starting a deep cleanse and all the crap that has been residing in your pores is being pushed to the surface. My second week of use proved to reduce the signs of pores and my skin was more radiant and visibly healthy. The body brush attachment is an added perk especially since I suffer from body acne I just add my body acne fighting cleanser to the brush and within a few week I've seen the acne dramatically improve.

The system comes with a 4 brushes: One for the face and body, as well as a pumice stone for the feet and and facial buffer. While I appreciate all of the attachments I'm not really convinced that the facial buffer does much of anything beneficial so it is a step that I skip.

The Bottom Line::
If you're looking for a moderate priced skin cleansing system then the Spa Sonic Skin Care System is perfect for you.

Ro Recommendation:: Yes
Pros:: Price, inter changeable brushes included, works to deep clean skin
Cons:: No timer to ensure that you are using the tool for the correct amount of time in one area. Brushes only move in one direction.
Price:: $50-$70 depending on retailer
Ro's Rating:: A

Have you tried the Spa Sonic Skin Care System? What are your thoughts?

Disclosure:: This product was provided to me by a public relations company or brand in consideration for review. In no way does this impact my personal thoughts and opinion on the product. Please review my Disclosure policy if you have any additional questions. If you’d like me to review your product(s) please feel free to contact me.

A Curvy Girls Guide To Swimsuits:: My Top 5 Swimsuit Picks

2013-05-21T08:52:00.000-04:00

The sun has finally decided to start shining on a regular and pool season is quickly approaching and what's a great pool party or trip to the beach without a fashionable entrance? If you're a curvy/plus sized girl like myself (I teeter between sizes 10-12) then I'm sure you've experienced some angst and perhaps embarrassment when it comes to swim wear. While I've been hitting the gym lately harder than ever the fact still remains that I will probably always have these wicked curves so it's just about time that I embrace them and find some kick ass swimsuits in the process.

I'm loving that more designers are making fab clothes for us curvaceous divas! Check out my top 5 picks for making a splash at the beach!

1. Forever 21 Abstract Halter Swimsuit:: I wanted to do cartwheels when I found out that Forever 21 was launching a plus-sized swim line! Look all types of amazing with this abstract watercolor v-neck halter top swimsuit.
Price:: $27.80

2. Monif C "Sao Paulo" Plus-Sized Bikini Top w/Underwire & High Wasted Bikini Brief:: When it comes to head-turning plus-sized fashion, Monif C. definitely has her finger on the pulse of what us curvy girls need. I'm in love with the idea that I can rock a two-piece swimsuit and look excellent in the process.
Price:: Top: $61.50 Bottom:: $56.00

3. Rue 107 Hudson River Bikini:: Released less than a month ago Rue+ has been the recipient of much fanfare and it's no wonder because the collection is pretty awesome. The Hudson River Bikini is one of my faves!
Price:: Top:: $30.00 Bottom:: $60.00

4. ASOS Curve Swimsuit With Spot Contrast:: Just how adorable is this swimsuit? Perfect for the gal who doesn't want to show to much skin but aims to look super cute!
Price:: $42.00

5. Swimsuits For All Leopard Tropical One Shoulder Swimdress:: I love that you can make a major fashion statement with this swimsuit and diminish the look of your tummy and hips.
Price:: $68.00

What are your favorite swimsuits for the summer?

Photo Credit::
Monif C
Forever 21
Asos
Rue107
Swimsuits For All

Can I get your Digits? 7 Must Have Polishes for the Summer 2013

2013-05-20T10:22:00.000-04:00

Thank goodness summer is finally about to make her entrance and what's summer without a great nail polish? Take a look at my 7 must-have polishes for summer 2013.

7 Must Have Polishes for the Summer 2013::

1. Essie "Butler Please" Hands down this is my favorite blue nail polish EVER! Your nail life just isn't complete without it.

2. LVX "Citrine" The perfect honey toned yellow. Excellent for the gals that want to rock a beautiful shade of yellow without the neon look.

3. Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics "Suspiria" What's summer without a hot magenta nail?

4. China Glaze "Highlight of My Summer" If you want a polish that makes a statement without the bold colors, then this minty polish is the one for you.

5. Essie "dj play that song" You just can't go wrong with this beautiful neon plum polish.

6. Cult Nails "Nakizzle's Shizzle" How beautiful is this sky blue cream polish? It has to be part of your collection.

7. Inglot "672" This is great for wearing in the office and for days when you just want a little nude on the nails.

What's your favorite polish for the summer?

All Shade:: 9 Stylish Sunglasses Perfect For Spring And Summer

2013-05-20T09:37:00.000-04:00

We all know what a great accessory can do for a ensemble, and with the sun shining bright like a diamond its only right a pair of sunglasses makes their way into each and every spring look. We always see ladies like Rihanna, June Ambrose and NeNe Leakes rocking a great pair so this season its time for you to grab some haute shades. Ladies we found nine of the hottest pairs of Sunglasses in different hues and silhouettes that are sure to give life to your accessory collection. Check them out below:

Top Row

ASOS 70s Square Sunglasses w/ Cut Away Details | $20.36

ASOS Round Sunglasses With Metal Bridge Detail | $20.33

Cheap Monday Point Oversized Cat Eye Sunglasses | $42.43

Middle Row

Stella McCartney Round Sunglasses | $244.37

Gucci Black And Gray Visor Sunglasses | $252.85

AJ Morgan Occasion Round Sunglasses | $25.47

Bottom Row

Ray-Ban Pattern Square Wayfarer Sunglasses | $237.58

Dolce & Gabbana Mamboo Collection Red Sunglasses $312.25

. Asos Square Retro Sunglasses | $20.36

She's Gotta Have It:: Forever 21 Spike Metallic Sandals

2013-05-17T10:01:00.000-04:00

Chronic On-line window shoppers anonymous is probably a group I should be the founder member of considering that I spend about an hour each day making a wish list of all the things I want to buy. So when I came across these Forever 21 Spike Metallic Sandals I knew I had to have them! With a price tag under $35 adding them to my closet was a something I didn't have to think twice about.

Do you love them?

Ask Ro:: What's A Good Dark Spot Corrector?

2013-05-16T13:53:00.000-04:00

Ophelia asks:: What's a good dark spot corrector under $50

Ro's Response::
I'm sure we can all agree that when it comes to dark spots they are something that we all hate and want to get rid of. Since the chemicals used to brighten and remove dark spots can sometimes be harsh on the skin it's imperative that you choose a product that will protect your skin in the process of brightening those dang spots.
My top recommendations are unfortunately priced over the $50 mark BUT two of my suggestions are sets which provide you with the entire line of products designed to enhance the brightening process and protect your skin at the same time.

**When working to correct dark spots it is EXTREMELY important to use sunscreen (you should already be using it on a daily basis) and keep your skin well hydrated.**

Ro Recommends::

Jurlique Skin Brightening Trio:: Jurlique can do no wrong in my book when it comes to skin care so it's no surprise that their Skin Brightening system contains a host of ingredients (including Vitamin C) that give the skin a healthy glow and keep it healthy during the process. After about 30 days of continued use you'll see a more even skin tone.
Price:: $68

Kit Includes:: Purely Bright Cleanser, Purely Bright Radiance Serum, Purely Bright Night Moisturizer

Peter Thomas Roth De-Spot Skin Brightening Corrector:: For matters of anti-aging and skin correction, Peter Thomas Roth has the game on lock. When I think of dark spot correction that will deliver real results, I think De-Spot. You can start to see results within two weeks and its even formulated for use on the hands and neck area. I have a friend that has used this product faithfully and within a year of continued used all of her spots are gone, now if that's not enough to sell you I don't know what else to tell you.

Price:: $75

Philosophy Miracle Worker Dark Spot Correcting System:: Not only will you be kicking dark spots to the curb but you'll also be fighting the signs of aging when using the Miracle Worker Dark Spot Correction System. Retinoid helps to keep the wrinkles at bay while the Dark Spot corrector works overtime to improve the appearance of skin tone.
Price:: $104
Kit Includes:: Miracle Worker Dark Spot Corrector, Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Retinoid Solution, Miraculous Anti-Aging Retinoid Treatment Pads

Say farewell to those pesky dark spots!

Have a beauty question? Feel free to send me your questions and I'll find a beauty solution for you.

Nexxus Youth Renewal Rejuvenating Elixir

2013-05-15T08:37:00.000-04:00

It's true, I obsess about a lot of things when it comes to beauty and when the matter of my hair is involved the level of obsession is real! Healthy hair is extremely important to me so I'm always on the prowl for products that nourish my hair and help to maintain its health. I admit that Nexxus is a brand that has not even registered on my radar in years so I had to do a little research about this Youth Renewal Rejuvenating Elixir.

The Details::
Keep the 8 signs of hair aging at bay (breakage,volume loss, lack of shine, brittleness, loss of color vibrancy, unruliness, dryness and roughness) with the first anti-aging hair line from Nexxus which works to re-balance the look and feel of your hair. This light-weight leave-in treatment helps to rebuild the strength of your hair while making it more vibrant and radiant.

My Results::
Since using the Nexxus Youth Renewal Rejuvenating Elixir I've noticed that my hair is much more soft and a bit more manageable after washing. In the 3weeks that I've been using the product consistently I've noticed that my red hair is a little more vibrant and there isn't as much shedding when I comb my hair. Overall I'm pleased with the feel of my hair, I'm convinced the elixir is helping to seal in a little more moisture.

Bottom Line::
The Nexxus Youth Renewal Rejuvenating Elixir is a definite keeper. With just a few drops needed after each wash the product should last you a reasonable amount of time and your hair will look amazing in the process.

Ro Recommendation:: Yes
The Good:: Enriched with Omega 3, Keratin, Argan oil, and Vitamin E (The stuff that makes & keeps hair healthy).
The Bad:: N/A
Price:: $17.99 (cvs.com)
Ro Rating:: A

Disclosure:: This product was provided to me by a public relations company or brand in consideration for review. In no way does this impact my personal thoughts and opinion on the product. Please review my Disclosure policy if you have any additional questions. If you’d like me to review your product(s) please feel free to contact me.

Product Review:: ROCKSTAR WHITE Teeth Whitening System

2013-05-14T09:24:00.000-04:00

There is nothing worse than a beautiful smile with less than pearly whites. For the last few months I've been considering getting my teeth whitened but the budget that I'm on these days won't allow for professional whitening so I did a little research and decided to try some at home solutions.

I tried out some of the whitening strips by a really well know brand but after 3 or 4 days my teeth were super sensitive and I just couldn't bear to apply the strips anymore. You could probably imagine my reservations when I received the ROCKSTAR WHITE teeth whitening system to try out. The box must have set on my dresser for weeks before I had the nerve to give it a try, that tooth pain the 1st time around with the strips was no joke so I couldn't take any chances.

After doing a little more research I came to find that ROCKSTAR WHITE has all natural ingredients, and is sugar and flouride free. If that wasn't enough the brand prides their product as having the "Wow without the Ow."

My Results:
I was really pleased with the overall presentation of the system. The teeth whitening gel is in a syringe type device with a mold for your teeth and mouth tray for accuracy of product placement and Vitamin E swabs to help keep any discomfort away. The taste of the gel isn't so great but to be honest that was the only part of the process I didn't particularly enjoy. I used the product on a regular basis and not once did I experience any pain or discomfort. In addition to that, my teeth were visibly whitened.

The Bottom Line::
If you're looking for a teeth whitening system that delivers real results and won't cause you any pain then ROCKSTAR WHITE is the perfect product for you.

Ro Recommendation:: Yes
The Good:: Sugar free, flouride free, kosher, painless
The Bad:: N/A
Price:: $47.95
Ro Rating:: A+

Disclosure:: This product was provided to me by a public relations company or brand in consideration for review. In no way does this impact my personal thoughts and opinion on the product. Please review my Disclosure policy if you have any additional questions. If you’d like me to review your product(s) please feel free to contact me.

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Introduces Stained Gloss

2013-05-13T09:40:00.000-04:00

New Wave

Last weekend I attended The Makeup Show New York and I got a chance to attend the blogger preview and was lucky enough to get my hands on the new OCC Lip Tar Stained Gloss. I've always been crazy about the infamous OCC lip tars but when I got the scoop on the Lip Tar Stained glosses I knew I had to make them mine!

Lip Tar vs. Stained Gloss::
You won't lose any of the pigment that you've come to know and love from the Lip Tars so breathe easy! What you will get is a looser formula with a high gloss finish that can be applied directly from the tube. The Stained Gloss is great to wear alone or layered with another product.

The pigment is absolutely stunning and paired with the glossy finish your lips will take center stage!

OCC Lip Tar Stained Gloss in New Wave

The Lip Tar Stained Glosses will officially launch on May 23rd at Sephora. You definitely want to add this to your collection.

Disclosure:: This product was provided to me by a public relations company or brand in consideration for review. In no way does this impact my personal thoughts and opinion on the product. Please review my Disclosure policy if you have any additional questions. If you’d like me to review your product(s) please feel free to contact me.

Kerry Washington Covers ELLE Magazine

2013-05-07T12:26:00.000-04:00

I've always been a fan of Kerry Washington but since she's become the beloved sometimes heavily debated character Olivia Pope I've been suffering from Kerry fever baby! Anywho, she's covering the June issue of ELLE magazine and I will be diving into the pages as soon as it hits the stands!

Check out the full spread::

Kerry shares of her Scandal success Kerry says: 'I'm the luckiest broad in Hollywood right now. To be the lead actor on Scandal and to be in the highest earning Tarantino movie- I don't get to ask for more."

Oh Kerry...how I love thee!

Source:: ELLE Magazine

Mother's Day Shopping Guide:: Skincare

2013-05-07T07:57:00.000-04:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner and if you're anything like me then you still have some last minute shopping to get done for the special mother's in your life. Since I'm all about beauty and pampering yourself I put together a shopping guide that will help you choose the perfect gift for your awesome mom's.

Today I'll focus on some great skincare items that will help mom's skin look radiant and youthful! Check out some of my favorite picks for maintaining healthy skin and keeping youth on your mom's side.

1. Spa Sonic Skin Care System:: This system deep cleanses the skin and has attachments that can be used on the face, body and feet.Pair the face brush with your favorite cleanser and she's on her way to happy, healthy skin.

2. TARTE Maracuja C-Brightner Eye Treatment:: Busy moms can kiss tired looking eyes goodbye with this Vitamin C enriched eye cream that will help to smooth and tighten the skin around the eye area.

3. Peter Thomas Roth Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel:: Help mom achieve brighter, refreshed skin with this anti-aging cleansing gel. Great for creating and maintaining a healthy complexion. This pairs perfectly with the Spa Sonic Skin Care System.

4. StiVectin Less Wrinkles More Lift Kit:: StriVectin is a leader in skincare and you just can't go wrong with this 3 piece set for mom. The face serum, neck cream and concentrate for stretch marks and wrinkles will help to firm and tighten the skin. Mom will look like she took a sip from the fountain of youth with this set.

5. Philosophy Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Neck Cream:: Keep Turkey Neck at bay with this neck cream that can also be used on the hands and dècolletè. Packed with essential omega fatty acids, the skin will radiate and resist signs of aging.

Happy Shopping!

Navigate The Makeup Show with ease:: Mobile App and Official Floor Plan Info

2013-05-02T22:39:00.000-04:00

We're just days away from The Makeup Show New York and aside from being super excited I know I have to have a master plan when it comes to navigating the show. Well lucky for us there is now a mobile app that will help you make it though the show with ease! Check out the deets below on how to get the app and I've also included a map of the floor plan for you!

Downloading the App::

From the iPhone or Google Play Store download the "Showcased International" app.
Contact info@showcasedinternational.com for a personal login and password
Personalize your dashboard and activate alerts

Floor Plan::

If you're attending The Makeup Show this weekend be sure to say hello :).

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Announces First 3 Celeb Spokesmodels

2013-05-02T13:08:00.000-04:00

NEW YORK, NY (MAY 2013) – Celebrity drag queens Willam, Detox and Vicky Vox become the first faces of Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics. These drag queens are amongst Hollywood’s most famous and can be seen on RuPaul’s Drag Race, Rihanna’s music videos, Nip/Tuck, American Wedding, and from their chart topping singles on iTunes as DWV (Detox, Willam, Vicky) and now on to the packages of Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics.

Making their debut on May 7, 2013 you can find this dynamic trio wearing their favorite matching Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tars and Nail Lacquers in a collection exclusive to Sephora.com. The celebrity drag queen collection of Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer Duo Packs will each come with a mini Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Brush and Drag Queen Trading Card that Willam, Detox and Vicky Vox can be seen on.

This makeup-loving trio is a natural choice to sport Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics long-lasting Lip Tar, which goes on slick and moist but dries down to a satin finish and densely pigmented Nail Lacquer. The six packs of Celebrity Drag Queen Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer Duo Packs will each be offered at a special price of $22.50, and will include:

Anime - Bright Neon Pink Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer with Willam Trading Card
Black Dahlia - Super Blackened Red Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer with Detox Trading Card
Kava Kava - Neutral Peach Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer with Vicky Vox Trading Card
NSFW - True Balanced Red Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer with Willam Trading Card
Strumpet - Deep Purpled Burgundy Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer with Detox Trading Card
Grandma - Clean, Classic Coral Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer with Vicky Vox Trading Card

Don't you just love OCC?

Party Like a Vixen at the Vibe Vixen Spring Beauty Event

2013-05-02T11:19:00.001-04:00

If you're in NYC this weekend come on out to People Lounge and celebrate your beautiful natural hair with The Kinky Collaborative , Curl Kit and Vibe Vixen. Come out an mingle with some of your favorite bloggers (including myself) and get beauty and hair tips.

The Details::
When: Saturday May 4, 2013 5-9pm
Location: People Lounge
Purchase Tickets: http://naturalhaireventsnyc-eac2.eventbrite.com/

Hope to see you there!

MAC RiRi Woo Available 5/2/13

2013-04-30T15:52:00.000-04:00

Looks like I'll be stalking the MAC website bright and early this Thursday for the release of RiRi Woo! I shared a few weeks ago that the superstar singer and fashion icon would be releasing a line of products through MAC.

The Details:
Color: RiRi Woo is a cool red matte lipstick (think Ruby Woo)
Price: $15 US/$18 Canadian
Availability: May 2, 2013 via www.maccosmetics.com

Get Positively Radiant with Aveeno Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream

2013-04-29T15:42:00.000-04:00

As I'm sure you know by now I'm a bit obsessive when it comes to taking care of my skin. With my 31st birthday less than a month away you can imagine that I'm all about maintaining my youthful look. Now if you know anything about skincare in general you know that the skin cells regenerate themselves at night and you have to have a stellar nighttime routine to keep your skin in tip top shape. There's nothing better than waking up with clean, well moisturized skin after a good night of resting and you have to have a pretty awesome night cream like Aveeno Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream to make that happen.

The Details::
Help to brighten and even your skin tone with the Total Soy Complex found in Aveeno Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream. Vitamin B3 found in the cream leaves your skin smooth and healthy looking.

My Results::
Immediately my sense of smell was delighted when I smelled the Intensive Night Cream. To be perfectly the consistency of the cream paired with the smell reminded me of a lotion. I liked that that formula wasn't too heavy and didn't seem to weigh down my skin with a greasy feeling. Since using the cream on a consistent basis I've definitely noticed that my skin is not as dull in the morning and much softer. I'm actually looking forward to testing out the entire Positively Radiant line.

The Bottom Line::
With a price tag under $20 this fits into just about any budget beauty. It's a definite buy!

Ro Recommendation:: Yes
The Good:: Scent, lighweight, delivers results
The Bad:: N/A
Price:: $16.99
Ro's Rating:: A

Disclosure::

I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.

In no way does this impact my personal thoughts and opinion on the product. Please review my Disclosure policy if you have any additional questions. If you’d like me to review your product(s) please feel free to contact me.

Kelly Rowland Goes Makeup Free For People's Magazine Most Beautiful People Magazine

2013-04-24T14:09:00.000-04:00

You have to admit that it takes a lot of courage to step if front of a camera for a national magazine especially when you're as famous as Kelly Rowland. Kelly is a stunning beauty and she recently posed makeup free for the annual People Magazine Most Beautiful People issue and she's a poster girl for great skincare!

Photo Credit

In the issue Kelly talks about feeling "clean" when she's makeup free and enjoying letting her skin breathe when she doesn't have to be in full makeup.

This is a great reminder that you can look amazing (and should look amazing) without makeup.

Do you go out without makeup?

Stretch Your Curls With Marc Anthony Strictly Curls

2013-04-23T11:24:00.000-04:00

Shrinkage is like kryptonite when it comes to us curly-haired girls. So often I find myself searching for products to stretch my curls and blow drying my hair just to get my curls to lengthen. Having to do all of that just adds time to the styling process and we all know I'm a girl on the go so my time is quite precious. You can imagine how excited I was when MARC ANTHONY Strictly Curls Stretch and Curl Defining Styling Lotion arrived on my doorstep.

The Details::
Stretch:: Loosen up with curls with Strictly Curls Stretch which adds weight to your curls without feeling stiff or weighing your hair down. The formula enriched with Coconut Oil and Vitamin E not only hydrates your hair but helps to eliminate frizz and kicks shrinkage in the butt!

Curl Defining Styling Lotion:: Enhance your curls with this alcohol-free, non-sticky formula that helps create definition and leaves your curls bouncy and soft. No need to worry about humidity or frizz when using this lotion, you're curls will be the center of attention.

My Results::
They say a picture is worth a million words so I'll just let the photos speak for themselves.

Right: No product Left: MARC ANTHONY Strictly Curls Stretch applied

Products applied to entire head

The Bottom Line::
Simply put, if you want to stretch your curls without them feeling weighed down and sticky then this is the perfect line for you.

Ro Recommendation:: Yes
The Good:: It works! No product residue, curls aren't weighed down
The Bad:: The Curl Defining Styling Lotion really doesn't smell that great
Price:: $8
Ro's Rating:: A+

Are you struggling with shrinkage and looking for a way to stretch your curls?

The Makeup Primer You've Been Sleeping On:: Cargo Cosmetics blu_ray Activating Face Primer

2013-04-18T10:53:00.001-04:00

I probably have more than enough makeup primers to last me until the rapture but I'll just be honest and say that I really only use 2 of those primers on a regular basis. Cargo Cosmetics blu_ray Activating Face Primer is a stellar primer you're probably sleeping on and if you knew what I knew you'd probably list this primer in your top 5!

What's so special about this primer Ro?
This silicone and paraben free primer is clinically proved to improve the appearance of your skin with daily use. You'll notice refined pores and reduced wrinkles.

My Results::
From the moment I felt the Cargo Cosmetics blu_ray Activating Face Primer I knew we were a match made in primer heaven. Not only does this primer make my skin feel as smooth as silk but it keeps my makeup in place all day! While I don't have wrinkles (and may the force be with me so that I never get them) I can certainly vouch for the fact my pores aren't as visible and my skin looks absolutely great since using this primer on a regular basis.

The Bottom Line:
I'm a firm believer that if you wear makeup you need a great primer and it just doesn't get much better than this Cargo Cosmetics blu_ray Activating Face Primer.

Ro Recommendation:: Heck Yes!
The good:: Paraben and Silicone free, keeps makeup in place
The Bad:: It's all good beauties!
Price:: $34
Ro's Rating:: A+

Budget Beauty:: 9 Handbags For Spring Under $100 Dollars

2013-04-15T08:26:00.000-04:00

Sometimes the best, and most efficient way to freshen up looks in your closets is to add some new accessories into your life. Yes, those small items that often add the final touch to your look can also freshen up your ensemble and create a new vibe for that Plan Jane look you go to when you get that "girl get dress we going out tonight" call while your already comfortable in bed. Here are 9 of the hottest handbags under $100 dollars that you need for the spring summer months that are sure to give your wardrobe all kinds of life.

Top Row

Betsey Johnson One And Only Flapover Bag | $98

ASOS New Look Jenny Pocket Tote Bag | $33.32

Forever 21 Faux Leather Satchel | $27

Middle Row

Topshop Pushlock Crossbody Bag | $70

Topshop Mini Twistlock Holdall | $56

Kimchi Blue Glossy Suitcase Satchel | $49

Bottom Row

Zara Combination Leather Shopper | $99

Zara Neon Box Clutch | $35.90

Missguided Edithea Studded Box Clutch | $30.14

Shop for a Cause with Stella & Dot for F.A.C.E. The Movement in support of Autism Awareness Month

2013-04-09T13:01:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't love to accessorize especially with the super fab pieces from stella & dot and of course we pretty much all love to shop! So you have to feel excited when your buying great jewelry and shopping for an important cause. This month I'm teaming up with Rachel Schwemmer , stella & dot stylist and Shante Harris, CEO of FACEthemovement.org to support Autism Awareness and raise money for a worthwhile cause!

How can I help?
It's pretty simple, just head on over to my stella & dot trunk show and shop to your hearts content!

How does shopping help Autism Awareness and who's benefiting from this?
There are a few ways your shopping can help:
1. 15% of sales from purchasing ANY item from my stella & dot Trunk Show will be donated to FACEthemovement.org
2. 20% of sales from purchasing any items from the Autism Awareness Boutique will be donated to HollyRod.org AND 15% will also be donated to Facethemovement.org

Why F.A.C.E. the Movement?

Dylan! Photo Credit:

I met CEO Shante and her gorgeous little boy Dylan a few years ago and I was inspired by their story. Honestly I knew next to nothing about autism until I met them and I just couldn't imagine the challenges that families of autistic families face. Shante recently launched F.A.C.E. movement, a non-profit organization that supports families and children dealing with autism. I could not think of a more deserving charity than F.A.C.E. the Movement to donate to.

Find out more about Shante & Dylan here and shop for a great cause!

Where do I shop?
You can shop by clicking the link HERE

Happy Shopping!

Ten Shades Of Spring Inspired Looks:: The Statement Necklace and Wide Leg Pants

2013-04-03T07:10:00.002-04:00

Ladies Im back with another spring look for you and this ensemble features a wide leg pant and a statement necklace. With a slim fit bottoms being more popular we forget how great a wide leg can be, so I started this look with a bright lemon wide leg pant from BCBGMAXAZRIA. I paired the vibrant pants with this white crocodile textured top from Zara. I really like amount of detail on this garment and is a great upgrade to replace that plain white shirt you have in your closets. For accessories I opted for something very fun and playful, a statement floral necklace with matching earrings from Betsey Johnson. To bring out that lavender color in the necklace I added a pair of B Brian Atwood sandals. And for a bag I chose this DKNY Shopper because not only did it bring out the hints of green in the jewelry, the look could handle another solid color without it being too much.

Ladies will you be trying a wide leg pant for spring and give those slim fit bottoms a day off. Sound off below and let us know it this is a look you would try.

BCBGMAXAZRIA Joan Wide-Leg Pant | $178

Zara Crocodile Textured Top | $59

Betsey Johnson Flower Frontal Necklace | $165

Betsey Johnson Carved Flower Stud Earrings | $25

B Brian Atwood Strappy Sandals | $425

DKNY Saffiano Small Work Shopper | $295

Janelle Monae lands May Essence Magazine Cover

2013-04-02T12:23:00.000-04:00

Photo Credit

Janelle Monae looks simply stunning on the May cover of Essence Magazine! She's rocking a fab red lip, perfectly groomed brows and is given the perfect amount of highlighting. I really can't wait to read the interview where Janelle discusses her choice to keep her body covered up, her new album dropping this summer and mending her relationship with her dad. Until then I'll just swoon at this beautiful cover.