My Interview with "What Not to Wear's" Clinton Kelly

Recently, I had a phone interview with Clinton Kelly of TLC's "What Not to Wear." We talked about how he and Macy's are teaming up for a year-old initiative to make-over America, one city at a time. And he'll be making a stop in Minneapolis, next weekend at the Southdale Macy's. He's touring 15 different cities and making over 15 women in each. More info on the tour: http://www1.macys.com/campaign/clintonkelly/makeoveramerica.jsp

I also got to ask Clinton some questions about Spring trends and working your wardrobe on a budget. He had a great piece of advice about trends, "Never participate in a trend that doesn't serve your body type." I say Amen to that one, its better to wear a regular pair of jeans if boyfriend jeans literally make your shape look like your boyfriend's. Check out the interview for more great tips:

Examiner Minneapolis Talks to Clinton Kelly
Uploaded by pillowtalkmedia

New York Trendsettters : Partying Claim to Fame

I have to promote Absolut Vodka Mango flavor forever since they placed me on page 80 of there national US Weekly ad with my fabulous CoCoa hued friends- Bernie, Sandrine, and Glamazon -Jessica (http://blogspot.theglamazons.com/)
I think we are the hottest thing to drink Absolut since Samantha's boo, Smith Jared from Sex and the City.

Although im a few days late a dollar short, I totally forgot to post about this party, it was great, it was for the introduction of there Mango Absolut flavored liquer. It was open bar all night with mango decorations and amazing music at venue SPACE. I think in today's economy it's really beneficial & smart to have events such as this to promote the brand and get people buzzed so that the results are that they are economically inclined to purchase at their next personal shindig. In my own mind I am officially the "Absolut Mango Girl".

Sojourner Truth's Memorial on The Hill

Today, Sojourner Truth became the first African American female to have a memorial bust at the US Capitol. And how fitting for the first African America First Lady to unveil it? The bust will be in the U.S Capitol visitor's center, so if you're in DC go take a look!


Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee spoke at the ceremony



And look at Hillary, this color looks great on her.


Michelle, Nancy, Shelia, and Hillary; I would have loved to have been there!


photos via Zimbio.com

Keri Hilson ft. Kayne West & Ne-Yo: Love Knocks You Down

Once again, It's Miss Keri Baby! I don't think there's one bad song on her album In a Perfect World. So we'll probably have more Fab Friday videos from Miss Keri Baby. This song is perfection; the lyrics, the beat, and featured artist are flawless. And my favorite part is when Ne-Yo sings, "Miss Independent, to the fullest." Yes, I love it! I can play this song over and over again!

Keri Hilson - New Music - More Music Videos

ALL L’Oreal Eye Shadow or Liner buy 1 get 1 free*

ALL L’Oreal Eye Shadow or Liner
buy 1 get 1 free*
WITH CARD
(Without Card $3.89 - $12.99)
thru Apr 25


Portia and I are both fans of L'Oreal eye shadows because they're great quality at an even better price and the colors really pop on our caramel and mocha complexions!





These are fab, my favorite colors are the navy blue and turquoise "Showy" combo. And what's really great about them is that the colors are super suitable for women of color, hence
High - Intensity- Pigments.





Check these sites out for more product info

http://cvs.shoplocal.com/cvs/Default.aspx?action=browsepagedetail&storeid=2589313&rapid=684420&pagenumber=1&listingid=-2089920024


http://www.lorealparisusa.com/_us/_en/default.aspx#page=top{navmedia:_blankoverlay:productdetail//objectid+Cos18d_10//diagnosticmain:brandpage:hipuserdata//d+d//}

(no) Sex in the City: Part 3

Exhausting...

Dating can be rather exhausting when you think about it. You go to work; you may have a 2nd job, a side hustle, be taking classes, freelancing, or leading an organization. After that, you have your friends that you like to hang-out with, add in family time, and experiencing city-living as a 20 something year-old and top it all off with dating; just writing about it is exhausting.

First of all, being out and about and meeting new people is hard work. Friday nights are usually a difficult night to go out on because you're so drained from the work or school week. But I usually mutser up some energy to "put my face out there", to let people know I'm still around and maybe meet some new guys. When you do go out, it's great to meet a guy with some intriguing potential, but a downer when your schedule's don't align. You find out that you both can't agree on a time to hang-out. He has basketball games on Tuesday night, you have Yoga on Wednesday, he's meeting his boys to watch the game on Thursday; you get the point. The worst part is when you're trying to set up the initial meeting and you keep playing phone tag. And if this ends up happening, one side usually gives up the pursuit or pursuing. You could possibly prevent this by inviting him to an "errand" date and suggesting an activity that you both would like to do together. Talk a walk around your favorite park, go to an after church bunch, and you'd be surprised how much fun you'll have grocery shopping with a guy (trust me, it's a riot if you go with the right guy).




What about when you meet more than one great guy and you want to date all of them, at once? Isn't that the best problem have, so many boys and so little time? You want to keep all of them around because each has a certain characteristic you like, and its like you're dating the perfect guy buy dating all of them. Not to mention, you can hang out with one when the other is getting on your nerves. As great as this sounds, you might get a little tired managing your time, life, and more than one guy. So prioritize your guys, and alternate weeks. If there's an activity you want to go to and know one guy will like it more than the other, then invite him. Hang-out with the other guy the following week and so on. And it also helps to be upfront with all the men you're dating; let them know you're dating other people, so they'll be a little more understanding when you can't hang.

Black is in

"Black is in!"

The most powerful politician in the world is Black.

The head of the Republican National Committee is Black.







The best known media mogul on earth is Black.


The greatest golfer in the world is Black (even if he doesn't know it).







The top female tennis players in the world are Black.

The highest grossing actor worldwide is Black.








The fastest racing driver in the world is Black.


The brightest Astrophysicist under the sun is Black.





The Superbowl-winning Head Coach is Black.




The most successful brain surgeon in the world is Black.






The fastest human on the planet is Black.


... Michael Jackson must be kicking himself.

It's Earth Week, be Eco-Chic

Earth Week started yesterday and continues until April 25th. Earth Week is the extension of Earth Day on April 22nd and both have the same purpose to inspire awareness and appreciation of the Earth's environment. It seems like in the last 5 years, "Going Green" has become the "in" thing to do. People have hybrid cars, carry reusable bags (remember 2 summers ago when Whole Foods had the "This is Not a Plastic Bag" reusable bag and people stood in line for hours to get one?), buy free trade, and wear recycled clothes. Yes, eco-friendly clothes and totes are quickly gaining popularity and here are some Eco-Chic finds:


Walmart, Organic Cotton Tee, inspired by Beyonce; $6
Don't sleep on Walmart, they have Earth Day Tees inspired by musicians like Keith Urban, Gavin Rossdale, Jewel, and of course Beyonce. All the shirts are made from 100% organic cotton. http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifI usually don't like holiday inspired shirts, but the design on this is hot. Wear this with skinny jeans, a black vest, and a skinny belt.
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=10902645


Sak's Fifth Avenue, Good Society Organic jeans; $99
And here are your jeans to wear with your Earth Day shirt; they're made from 100% organic cotton. What's all the rage about organic cotton? According to the wonderful Wikipedia, it's made from plants that aren't genetically modified or treated with pesticides.
http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446212467&site_refer=AFF001&site_refer=AFF001&siteID=J84DHJLQkR4-F0LaPIpZ.cz5tZ7Bfjq6qA


Target, "Loomstate" for Target bird-print shorts, $26.99
Target has teamed up with Scott Hahn and Rogan Gregory to bring you the limited-edition "Loomstate" line. All the pieces in the line are made with 100% organic cotton and these shorts are a great eco-friendly addition to your summer wardrobe.
http://www.target.com/Loomstate-Target-Bird-Print-Short/dp/B001UFY3RA/qid=1240279898/ref=br_1_4/176-9004466-7384552?ie=UTF8&node=1267145011&frombrowse=1&rh=&page=1


Boutique To You, Gypsy Paris 05 Dress, $59.99
This dress is the definition of eco-friendly, its made in a solar-powered factory, of organic fabric, and natural dyes. Check out the all of Gypsy 5's 2009 collection: http://www.boutiquetoyou.com/category_s/560.htm. And Halle is a fan of this dress too.


http://www.boutiquetoyou.com/Gypsy_05_Paris_Dress_p/w080313.htm?source=shopstyle



Kohl's, Sterling Silver tree pendent, $19.99
The Pendant display card is made of recycled paper and biodegradable plastic; and proceeds from purchases go to the World Wildlife Fund.
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/jewelry/necklacespendants/sterlingsilver/PRD~363392/EcoFriendly+Sterling+Silver+Tree+Pendant.jsp?prtID=pfx&src=k108283&cm_mmc=Performics-_-Affiliate-_-ShopStyle.com-_-Primary



Forever 21, Peacock feather print tote, $5.50
This economical reusable woven cotton tote bag is so cute, I could carry this all Spring and Summer
http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=FOREVER21&category%5Fname=acc%5Fhandbags%5Ftotes&product%5Fid=1060031321&Page=all

Britney Spears- If U Seek Amy

It's Fab Friday! And there's no shame in my game, I LOVE this song. When I first got the album (yes, I have Britney Spears' Circus album on my iPod), I played it over and over again. I didn't know who the heck Amy was and why someone was seeking her, but thought the beat was so fun to dance to. But now, I think we all know what Britney is singing about; she's something slick and kind of freaky for this one. But that doesn't diminish the fact that this song is great, the red shoes in the beginning of the video are fab, the dancing is contagious, and her body is on point!

Britney Spears - New Music - More Music Videos

Get involved: National Volunteer Week

Volunteering is one of my favorite hobbies; it's free and you get to help people at the same time. What can be better than that? I've been inspired to make my community a better place by the actions of history's greatest leaders and public servants; from Gandhi, Princess Diana, Melinda Gates, Oprah Winfrey, to Dr. King and so many more. National Volunteer Week runs from April 19th to April 25th and this year's theme is "Celebrating People in Action." This theme presents a chance for people, organizations, and cities to recognize the everyday people that make meaningful impacts on their communities. National Volunteer Week couldn't come at a better time, it comes on the heels of Senate passing the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act. The Act would increase funding for AmeriCorps and other volunteer programs and President Barack Obama (another great public servant) is slated to sign the Act soon. Please check out opportunities to volunteer on www.volunteermatch.org and the official National Volunteer Week website: http://www.handsonnetwork.org/programs/more/nvw.
Both websites are super easy to navigate and you can even search for opportunities based on your service and organization preference.


The First has time to volunteer, I'm sure you can donate an hour of your time


More info on National Service Legislature:

http://www.opencongress.org/bill/111-s277/show

http://philanthropy.com/news/updates/7615/senate-relaxes-lobbying-restrictions-in-national-service-bill

By giving that definition of greatness, it means that everybody can be great, because everybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve... You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love. And you can be that servant. ~ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Nutritionist No-Nos

the weather is warming up-- which means mini skirts, daisy dukes, and halter tops! Be mindful of foods that appear "healthy" to keep those tops and bottoms in shape. The list is from Joy Bauer, a Today's Show nutritionist and best-selling author.

JOY BAUER'S 5 PICKS-TO-SKIP...

2% Milk
The FDA allows 2% milk to be labeled reduced-fat, but that's a relative term (whole milk is 3.25% fat). Calorically speaking, the difference between whole and 2% milk isn't all that impressive: 150 calories for a cup of whole milk vs. 120 for a cup of 2%. Skim milk, on the other hand, has the same protein and calcium content as whole and 2%, but weighs in at 80 fat-free calories per cup. Assuming you drink a cup a day, switching to skim will save you more than 14,000 calories in a year's time. That simple substitution translates to a four-pound yearly weight loss!

Whole Wheat Bagels
While it's true that whole grains, and products made from whole grains, are much healthier than their refined flour counterparts, some whole grain foods are not worth the calories. Take bagels, for instance. A big, New York-style whole wheat bagel has just as many calories (350 or more) as one made with white flour. Definitely stick with whole grains when it comes to bread products, but instead of your Sunday morning bagel and lox ritual, try a toasted whole grain English muffin (130 calories) and lox instead. You'll save at least 200 calories, and who doesn't love all those nooks and crannies?!

Chicken Caesar Salad
It's easy to see why our next trickster, Chicken Caesar salad, leads people astray. After all, aren't we constantly being told to eat more vegetables, and to choose lean sources of protein? But McDonald's Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken contains 410 calories and 24 grams of fat, while their Quarter Pounder has the same number of calories, and even less fat. And that's nothing compared to the classic Chicken Caesar salad recipes you'll find at local restaurants and chains, which contain approximately 1,100 calories and 96 grams of fat.

The culprits, of course, are the creamy Caesar dressing and oil-soaked croutons. Nearly half the calories in McDonald's salad comes from the dressing, so if you switch to their low-fat balsamic vinaigrette, you save 150 calories, as well as 15 grams of fat. The calories in a classic Chicken Caesar almost anywhere can be nearly slashed in half if you lose the croutons and substitute a teaspoon of olive oil (two dashes) and unlimited vinegar for the dressing. Can't live without the Caesar dressing? Request it on the side and go easy!

Granola
This cereal was invented in 1863, and then revived 100 years later in the "crunchy granola" 1960's. Originally a simple mixture of rolled oats, nuts, and honey, granola has morphed into a product its 19th century creator would hardly recognize. Bear Naked's latest "all natural" flavor contains 21 ingredients, including four types of sweeteners, chocolate, and peanut butter. It's also 140 calories per ¼ cup (that's a whopping 280 per serving!). Even low-fat granola packs a caloric punch. One serving of Health Valley's Real Oat Bran Almond Crunch clocks in at 200 calories. Consider that the average breakfast bowl holds about two cups of cereal, and you see why granola spells "trouble."

TIP: If you really like starting your day with granola, stick with ¼ cup, and mix it with a less caloric cereal, like Bran Flakes or plain Cheerios. Another option is to sprinkle one to two tablespoons on low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese.

Fruit Smoothies
Sure, all that fruit makes smoothies healthier than a milk shake, but your waist doesn't know the difference between the calories in berries, bananas, soy milk, and antioxidant "boosts," and those in ice cream, whole milk, and chocolate syrup. In fact, Jamba Juice's original size Peanut Butter Moo'd® smoothie contains an astounding 840 calories. That's 160 calories more than a medium chocolate shake at Burger King!

You can still enjoy smoothies, just order smart or make your own. "Jamba Light" options contain 150-160 calories per 16-ounce serving, and the same size "All Fruit" selections are 200-220 calories. If you have a blender, try pureeing a sliced banana, one cup of strawberries, one cup of skim milk, and ice to taste. This healthy homemade concoction contains about 230 calories, and will save you lots of dough (smoothies can be pricey!).

For more surprising finds, check out the Attack of the 1,000-Calorie Entrees.

Don't Forget to File your taxes!

The deadline for your 2008 taxes is tonight at midnight! But don't worry, you still have time for Turbo Tax, Tax Slayer, or H&R Block. Especially if you only claim yourself when you file, it shouldn't take you more than 2 hours to finish. Last minute filing can be stressful, so after you've signed, sealed, delivered; or submitted online go get a discounted meal and a free dessert:

McCormick & Schmick’s : This a deal!
On April 15, the chain offers a $10.40 menu of entrees. (Entrees regularly range from $16 to $33.) Each diner also receives a $10.40 “tax relief” gift certificate for a future meal.
www.mccormickandschmicks.com/



PF Chang ’s China Bistro
Dine at one of P.F. Chang's 130-plus restaurant locations across the country on April 15, and save 15% on the total bill.
www.pfchangs.com/



Maggie Moo's
Come in to participating Maggie Moo's Ice Cream and Treatery location and enjoy a free single scoop of ice cream. They're calling this an "e-cone-omic" stimulus package, I love it!
www.maggiemoos.com

Cinnabon:
Free cinnabites from 5PM to 8PM
http://www.cinnabon.com/home.html

(no) Sex and the City: Part 2

Confusing


Have you ever met a guy and thought there was a strong connection? You engage the usual routine; talk, exchange numbers, and go out on the first date. But, when you go out on that date, you find out that you were blinded by his good looks and charm during that first meeting and the initial connection sparks slowly start to dwindle away. And reason why the sparks dwindle is because of the mixed signals, the confusing mixed signals. Either he's too forward and thinks you guys are sleeping together just because he bought you a meal, and you just thought it was a causal first date. Or he's not being completely honest about his relationship status, career, lifestyle, or anything else you want to know about a guy. Or he thinks he thinks he's God's gift to Earth and talks about all the women he's been with and can get. So then, why did you ask me out? Or you just don't know what this guy wants: Does he what to date, is he looking for a serious relationship, does he want to start as friends? Neither of you is being honest and upfront with each other, and all the dating details become really confusing. There's also the initial phases of dating, like should I call him or should I let him call me? Are we officially together or are still just dating now? Should I be dating other people; is he dating other people? And should I be angry if he's dating other women?

I think this is why a lot of potential relationships don't get a chance to get off the starting blocks and fail during the beginning phases. Being honest with someone you're just getting to know can be very difficult, but it shouldn't be. Think about it, if you tell him that you're single, really enjoying the dating life right now, and are not looking for anything serious. What's the worst that could happen? If he tells you he's not looking for that, no worries because other guys will ask you out or you'll ask them out (yes you can!). And if you're confused about status, just ask him. Next time you guys are hanging out, tell him if you're dating other people or not. If you open up first, he might be more likely to share what he's thinking. I think it's better to save ourselves the trouble and time; avoid the confusing moments of dating and be honest with each other.

White House Easter Egg Roll

Barack, Michelle, Malia, and Sasha hosted the White House Easter Egg Roll today. The festivities included book readings, performances by Fergie, and a Easter Egg roll race. And true to the Obama presidency and firsts, this was the first time in history the South Lawn festivities welcomed gay parents and their children.


Michelle's hair and make-up is flawless! Her new hair stylist should have a book on how African American females can maintain healthy hair.






all photos via Zimbio
http://www.zimbio.com/pictures/zSuULdQxCcS/White+House+Hosts+Annual+Easter+Egg+Roll/rwqHBClUR9y

Top Secret Revealed, The winner goes to......

BO!

This is the cutest dog EVER! Like seriously, my heart melted when I saw this pooch. And how appropriate is it that its a black and white dog-Even the dog is mixed! love it!

President Obama pets the first dog alongside Natasha (Sasha) , Bo-a 6 month old Portugese water dog.

Happy Easter

We're wishing you Happy Easter; have a great Sunday!

Your Sunday Easter Best: Clutches

No Easter Sunday outfit is complete without a Spring time inspired clutch. Matching is overrated; and if you need proof, Clinton and Stacey on "What Not to Wear" often say that matching your bag with your shoes and outfit is something our mothers did. So don't worry about having your bag and shoes match; in fact, the best outfits incorporate the right hue of colors that "you're aren't supposed to wear together." It may not sound like it looks good, but trust me:


Macy's; "La Regale" pink and silver beaded clutch, $60
Soft green, pale blue; or light fuchsia dresses. Yes, definitely wear a wear with this clutch
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=371093&CategoryID=27691&LinkLoc=26846&LinkType=SiteAd&AdID=503254



Kohl's; "Apt. 9" Abstract clutch, $16
This is literally a portable work of art; so if you have a white dress, let that be your blank canvass and the bag your masterpiece
http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/handbagsaccessories/handbags/clutches/PRD~436223/apt+9+Abstract+Clutch.jsp


Nordstrom; "Beckon" Soft bow Clutch, $98
Try a bright yellow clutch with any light to medium shade of pink dress or skirt
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3001977?refsid=245188&refcat=0%7e2376779%7e6008000%7e2384925&SourceID=1&SlotID=1&origin=related


Target, Beaded Peacock feather clutch, $14.99
Enhance the greens the peacock detail and wear similar shades. But avoid navy or dark green because they will make the clutch look dull. The brighter the color, the better. The price is as beautiful as the bag. This level beaded detailing for only $14.99 is a STEAL
http://www.target.com/Merona-Peacock-Beaded-Clutch-Ivory/dp/B001NHPNMY/qid=1239398559/ref=br_1_5/179-5805643-9146013?ie=UTF8&node=370215011&frombrowse=1&rh=tgt%5F1%3AClutches&page=1




Dillard's; "J.Renee" Floral print envelope clutch, $99
I would use this one for church and all Spring. There are so many colors in the bag, so pick a shade and get pieces that work with it. Any pop of lavender in your outfit would work to accentuate the bag
http://www.dillards.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=301&storeId=301&langId=-1&productId=501780818&linkshare=http://www.shopstyle.com/affiliate



New York & Co.; Braided Purple tulip clutch, $19.95
Stay away from dark red, brown, orange, and dark prints with this one. But a nice light blue, pale yellow, or coral; perfection!
http://www.nyandcompany.com/nyco/browse/product_detail_with_picker.jsp?productId=prod1100042&parentId=cat70158&subcatId=cat720066

Beauty Buzz : Get to the Point

Eyes are the main factor in your makeup application. Get to the point with smoldering, subtle, or smiling eyes. Forget the rules that brown eyes = black liner and blue eyes=brown liner. Whatever your mood is go for! Surprise your face with a turquoise or bright green liner, you will be surprised at the wonderful praises you get-That's if you apply it right of course!

The best way to apply black eye liner is to apply in the inner rim of the eye, it creates that dramatic yet appealing look. For bright fun peepers, you can just apply to the actual bottom rim of the eye and apply a nude shadow on your eye lid. And for dramatic results, apply all over the eye. Both the bottom and top. To create subtle eyes, its best to use a cream tipped eye pencil in a light brown shade. This universal colour will allow your eyes to look amazing on top of any eye shadow.

Sue Devitt Eye Intensifier Pencils are the rage, it applies smooth, the color is long lasting, and they range in 13 shades inspired by different beauty locations. My favorite is Tanzania. (beauty.com, $22.00)

To create a smoldering eye, its best to line the entire eye with a Kohl pencil. MAC Eye Kohl in smolder will create a sizzling factor. Check out Tyra's eye, great application will get you a look like hers.

(maccosmetics.com, $14.50)

Cat Eyes are back again for the Spring! Pair this look with a pop of pink gloss and you are diva in the room. Revlon ColorStay Liner in Blackest Black is a steal for only $7.49 (drugstore.com)

For this Easter weekend, be sure to line your bottom eye in a bright shade of pastels!