Birmingham /

MARIO JOINS CHRIS BROWN AND USHER ON THE R&B TOUR

The opening night of The R&B Tour made one thing abundantly clear: MARIO still has the room. The GRAMMY-nominated R&B star joined USHER and Chris Brown as a special guest for the blockbuster launch of the highly anticipated co-headlining stadium tour at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado — and walked away with one of the night’s most memorable moments.

Throughout Chris Brown’s sets, MARIO joined him on stage, lending his voice to a production designed to celebrate R&B’s legacy as not just a genre — but as the foundation of popular music itself.

When MARIO stepped into his own spotlight for a DJ break that gave way to a medley of his chart-topping hits, the room confirmed what his fans have known for two decades. The Denver crowd was locked in — singing every word, from “Let Me Love You” to “Just a Friend” to “Crying Out for Me” — a full, unbroken connection between artist and audience that underscored exactly why MARIO belongs on a stage of this magnitude. Across more than 70,000 seats, the response was clear: the songs haven’t aged. Neither has the voice.

MARIO joins the tour as part of a broader celebration of R&B’s cultural legacy and staying power, alongside fellow special guest Eric Bellinger. His inclusion alongside two of the genre’s most iconic performers underscores a truth that his catalog has always embodied: real R&B endures — and so does MARIO.

“R&B raised me and it has sustained me for over two decades. Being on this tour with USHER and Chris is a full circle moment for me and for the genre — a reminder that this music never left. It just needed a stage big enough to say it out loud.”

See Video HERE

The tour appearance comes on the heels of a milestone 2025 for MARIO, who delivered one of the most celebrated remixes of Kehlani’s GRAMMY-winning hit “Folded,” further cementing his place in R&B’s current cultural conversation. That same year, he sold out his headline tour, Nothing But Us, and made a notable appearance alongside Drake, continuing a year defined by high-profile collaborations and renewed momentum. Fans can expect new music from MARIO in the near future. For those looking to share a more personal moment with the artist, pre-show meet and greet packages are also available for select tour dates.

See video HERE

Produced by Live Nation, The R&B Tour will continue its North American run with upcoming stops in Minneapolis, Detroit, Washington D.C., Charlotte, Nashville, and beyond through December 2026. Tickets and VIP packages are available at RaymondAndBrownTour.com.

ABOUT MARIO

GRAMMY-nominated R&B singer, songwriter, and actor MARIO gained national attention as the teen singing sensation behind some of R&B’s most defining hits. The Baltimore native, who grew up singing in church, signed with music legend Clive Davis’ J Records and released his eponymous debut studio album in 2002, featuring his first top five R&B/pop hit “Just a Friend 2002” — earning him two Billboard Music Awards and a GRAMMY nomination, and cementing him as one of the greatest R&B performers of his generation.

His sophomore album Turning Point produced the double-Platinum, nine-week Hot 100 chart-topper “Let Me Love You,” penned by Ne-Yo — one of R&B’s defining moments of the decade. He followed with Go (2007) and D.N.A. (2009), adding Gold-certified singles “Crying Out for Me” and “Break Up” featuring Sean Garrett and Gucci Mane to a catalog that only grew in cultural stature.

With multiple Top 10 singles and over 20 years of chart success, MARIO remains a defining force in R&B — celebrated for his timeless vocals and authentic storytelling that continue to influence a new generation of artists. His 2025 Mood Swings EP bridges the soulful legacy he has refined over two decades with the evolving sound of today’s R&B. On The R&B Tour, MARIO steps back onto the stadium stage as proof that the genre’s greatest voices never truly leave — they endure.

ABOUT THE R&B TOUR

Produced by Live Nation, The R&B Tour unites GRAMMY Award-winning icons USHER and Chris Brown for a landmark stadium run across North America — a celebration of R&B’s enduring cultural impact, featuring an innovative co-headlining format across more than 50 dates through December 2026. The tour is partnering with Global Citizen to support access to education worldwide, with $1 from every ticket sold benefiting the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. Tickets and VIP packages are available at RaymondAndBrownTour.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow @therandbtour on Instagram and TikTok.

Celebrity /

Anthony Anderson, Stephen A. Smith, Adam Blackstone, Phylicia Fant, and More Gather for the 7th Annual HBCU Week Awards Gala as Foundation Announces Two New Scholarship Initiatives

7th Annual HBCU Week Awards Gala

HBCU Week Foundation welcomed some of the nation’s most influential leaders across entertainment, sports, business, media, and higher education to Wilmington, Delaware, for its 7th Annual HBCU Week Awards Gala at the historic Hotel DuPont. Co-hosted by HBCU Week Foundation Founder Ashley Christopher and Emmy Award-winning actor and Golden Globe nominee Anthony Anderson, the evening celebrated excellence, leadership, and the transformative impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities while unveiling two new initiatives that will expand opportunities for future generations of HBCU students.

Among the notable attendees were Anthony Anderson, ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith, Grammy Award-winning producer and music director Adam Blackstone, Amazon Music executive Phylicia Fant, entrepreneur and music executive Robert “Don Pooh” Cummins, and media personality Loren LoRosa, who returned to support the Foundation following her recognition as an honoree at last year’s gala. The evening also welcomed corporate executives, educators, elected officials, HBCU leaders, alumni, and advocates committed to advancing educational access and excellence.

This year’s honorees represented a remarkable cross-section of leaders who continue to shape culture and inspire future generations. Adam Blackstone received the Trailblazer Award for his extraordinary contributions to music and entertainment as a Grammy Award-winning producer, Emmy Award-winning music director, and Tony Award-nominated orchestrator. Phylicia Fant was honored with the Leadership Award for her groundbreaking work as Global Director of Black Music and Culture at Amazon Music and her longstanding commitment to elevating Black artists and culture on a global scale. Robert “Don Pooh” Cummins received the Living Legacy Award in recognition of his impact as an entrepreneur, restaurateur, music executive, and cultural visionary whose influence spans multiple industries. Robert O. Wright III was presented with the Rising Star Award, honoring his achievements as a Division I student-athlete and emerging leader whose dedication, character, and commitment to service embody the future of the HBCU community.

A highlight of the evening came when the HBCU Week Foundation announced the launch of two new scholarship initiatives designed to expand access and opportunity for HBCU students and graduates. Among them was the HBCU Week Sports Scholarship, inspired by the extraordinary leadership and generosity of Rising Star Award recipient Robert O. Wright III. At just 20 years old, Wright pledged $25,000 of his own money to help establish the scholarship, making him one of the youngest major contributors in the Foundation’s history. His investment reflects a deep commitment to ensuring fellow student-athletes have the resources needed to excel academically, athletically, and professionally.

The Foundation also unveiled the HBCU Week Treasurer’s Fellowship Graduate Scholarship, which will support HBCU graduates pursuing advanced degrees in business, finance, economics, public policy, accounting, and related fields. In addition to financial assistance, the fellowship will provide mentorship, leadership development opportunities, and access to industry professionals, helping cultivate the next generation of financial and civic leaders. Together, these initiatives represent the Foundation’s continued commitment to creating pathways for success and investing in the future of the HBCU community.

“The HBCU Week Awards Gala is a celebration of achievement, purpose, and possibility,” said Ashley Christopher, Founder of HBCU Week Foundation. “This year’s honorees embody excellence in its highest form, and we are proud to recognize their accomplishments while simultaneously investing in the next generation of HBCU leaders through these new scholarship initiatives. Robert’s decision to invest in other students at such a young age is a powerful example of leadership in action and reflects exactly what HBCU Week is all about.”

The evening featured a star-studded red carpet, special tributes, inspiring remarks, and memorable moments that highlighted the lasting impact of HBCUs on culture, business, entertainment, sports, and society. As the Foundation continues to expand its reach and impact nationwide, the gala served as both a celebration of achievement and a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in future generations.

For more information about HBCU Week Foundation and its scholarship initiatives, visit www.hbcuweek.org or follow @HBCUWeek on social media.

Accessories /

Refresh Your Wardrobe for Summer: 10 Affordable Fashion Pieces Every Woman Needs

Kim West in Rome, Italy

Summer is the perfect season to refresh your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Whether you’re attending brunch with friends, networking events, family gatherings, church services, or enjoying a weekend getaway, a few versatile pieces can instantly elevate your style.

As someone who believes fashion should be both stylish and affordable, I’m sharing 10 budget-friendly fashion staples that can help you create multiple looks all season long.

1. A Classic White Dress

A white dress is a summer essential. It’s crisp, timeless, and can be dressed up with heels or kept casual with sandals. Look for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool during hot summer days.

2. Wide-Leg Linen Pants

Wide-leg pants are comfortable, flattering, and perfect for women who want polished style without sacrificing comfort. Pair them with a tank top, blouse, or lightweight blazer.

3. A Colorful Statement Blouse

Summer is the season to embrace vibrant colors. A bold pink, coral, yellow, or turquoise blouse can instantly brighten your wardrobe and create multiple outfit combinations.

4. Denim Jacket

Even during summer, restaurants, offices, and evening events can get chilly. A lightweight denim jacket is the perfect layering piece that never goes out of style.

5. Neutral Sandals

A comfortable pair of nude or metallic sandals can work with dresses, skirts, shorts, and jeans. Choose a pair that can easily transition from day to evening.

6. A Structured Tote Bag

Every woman needs a versatile tote that can carry daily essentials while looking polished. A neutral tote works for errands, work meetings, travel, and church events.

7. A Matching Two-Piece Set

Matching sets continue to be one of the easiest ways to look put together. They’re comfortable, stylish, and can be mixed and matched with other pieces in your closet.

8. White Sneakers

White sneakers are no longer just for the gym. They pair beautifully with dresses, skirts, jeans, and casual summer outfits while keeping you comfortable throughout the day.

9. Lightweight Midi Skirt

A flowy midi skirt creates an effortless feminine look and works well for church, networking events, and weekend outings. Pair it with a simple tee or dressy blouse.

10. Statement Accessories

Accessories are often the most affordable way to refresh your wardrobe. Consider oversized sunglasses, layered necklaces, colorful earrings, or a stylish belt to transform basic outfits.

Final Thoughts

Refreshing your wardrobe doesn’t require a complete closet overhaul. By investing in a few versatile, affordable pieces, you can create dozens of stylish outfits throughout the summer season.

Remember, fashion isn’t about spending the most money; it’s about feeling confident, comfortable, and authentic in what you wear.

What fashion piece are you adding to your summer wardrobe this year? Share your favorites in the comments below!

 

Accessories /

Tabitha Brown’s Signature Necklace

Now available exclusively at www.tabandchance.com is the Tabitha Brown Signature Necklace — and the story behind it is as meaningful as the piece itself. This necklace was originally handcrafted by Chance Brown for his wife Tabitha, and it has become her daily companion — a wearable reminder of faith, love, and the power of intention. Now, for the first time, fans can wear a piece of that same story.

THE DETAILS:
• 18k gold plated over stainless steel
• 20-inch chain with charm featuring white and red zircon gems
• SRP: $65.00
• Available now at www.tabandchance.com while supplies last

This necklace is a declaration — of faith, hope, and the transformative power of love. It’s the kind of accessory that resonates far beyond trend cycles, making it a natural fit for gift guides, faith-inspired style stories, or meaningful accessories roundups. At $65, it’s also an incredible Mother’s Day gift at an accessible price point.

Birmingham /

USHER AND CHRIS BROWN: THE R&B TOUR STARTS THIS SUMMER

GRAMMY Award-winning icons Chris Brown and USHER today, officially announce dates for The R&B Tour, a 2026 co-headlining stadium run across North America. Uniting two of the genre’s defining hitmakers, the tour will deliver a must-see run of performances across the U.S. and Canada. The artists surprised fans last week with a joint teaser commercial on Instagram, sparking widespread excitement and anticipation for the upcoming trek.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BROWN (@chrisbrownofficial)

Produced by Live Nation, the 33-date outing kicks off on Friday, June 26 at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, making stops in major cities including Detroit, Chicago, Toronto, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Houston and Miami before wrapping up on Friday, December 11 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. The tour will also partner with Global Citizen to provide access to quality education for children around the world by donating $1 for every ticket sold to the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.

This massive live spectacle follows on the heels of record-breaking accomplishments for both artists. At the end of 2024, the North American leg of USHER: Past, Present, Future sold over 1.1M tickets, featuring 62 sold out shows, with multiple nights in each city, followed by an equally impressive European leg.

Last October, Chris Brown officially wrapped his sold-out BREEZY BOWL XX WORLD TOUR, capping off a massive international run celebrating the 20th anniversary of his career. The trek marked Brown’s highest-grossing to date and has become the highest-grossing tour ever by a solo Black American male artist, earning nearly $300 million and drawing 2 million fans across stadiums in North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom.

TICKETS: Tickets will be available starting with Citi presale (details below) beginning Tuesday April 21 followed by The R&B Tour Presale on Thursday April 23. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on sale beginning Monday, April 27 at 12pm local time on RaymondAndBrownTour.com.

Make sure to sign up for The R&B Tour Presale by April 21 at 10pm ET. Anyone who signs up for the presale can join, no code needed. To sign up for the The R&B Tour Presale, you must be a Live Nation All Access member – you can join for free when signing up for the presale HERE or by visiting livenation.com/allaccess.

CITI PRESALE: Citi is the official card of the The R&B Tour in the United States. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning on Tuesday, April 21 at 12pm local time until Wednesday, April 22 at 10pm local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.

VIP: The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, invitation to a behind the scenes tour, access to the pre-show VIP Lounge, exclusive VIP merchandise & more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com.

WHAT PRESS IS SAYING:

“R&B enthusiasts will love this“ – USA Today

“…the pairing of Usher and Brown signals a major moment for contemporary R&B.” – Black Enterprise

“…anticipation building for what could be one of the year’s biggest live music events.” – TheGrio

THE RAYMOND & BROWN TOUR 2026 DATES:

Fri, Jun 26 | Denver, CO | Empower Field at Mile High

Tue, Jun 30 | Minneapolis, MN | U.S. Bank Stadium

Thu, Jul 2 | Detroit, MI | Ford Field

Fri, Jul 3 | Detroit, MI | Ford Field

Tue, Jul 7 | Cleveland, OH | Huntington Bank Field

Fri, Jul 10 | Washington, DC | Northwest Stadium

Sat, Jul 11 | Washington, DC | Northwest Stadium

Fri, Jul 17 | Charlotte, NC | Bank of America Stadium

Tue, Jul 21 | St. Louis, MO | The Dome at America’s Center

Sat, Jul 25 | Nashville, TN | Nissan Stadium

Tue, Jul 28 | Birmingham, AL | Protective Stadium

Sat, Aug 1 | Syracuse, NY | JMA Wireless Dome

Fri, Aug 7 | East Rutherford, NJ | MetLife Stadium

Sat, Aug 8 | East Rutherford, NJ | MetLife Stadium

Tue, Aug 11 | Toronto, ON | Rogers Stadium

Wed, Aug 12 | Toronto, ON | Rogers Stadium

Mon, Aug 17 | Boston, MA | Gillette Stadium

Fri, Aug 21 | Chicago, IL | Soldier Field

Fri, Aug 28 | San Francisco, CA | Levi’s Stadium

Sat, Sep 5 | Las Vegas, NV | Allegiant Stadium

Sun, Sep 6 | Las Vegas, NV | Allegiant Stadium

Thu, Sep 10 | Dallas, TX | AT&T Stadium

Fri, Sep 25 | Los Angeles, CA | SoFi Stadium

Sat, Sep 26 | Los Angeles, CA | SoFi Stadium

Tue, Sep 29 | Glendale, AZ | State Farm Stadium

Sat, Oct 3 | El Paso, TX | Sun Bowl Stadium

Mon, Oct 5 | San Antonio, TX | Alamodome

Fri, Oct 9 | Houston, TX | NRG Stadium

Sat, Nov 7 | Atlanta, GA | Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Sun, Nov 8 | Atlanta, GA | Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Fri, Nov 20 | New Orleans, LA | Caesars Superdome

Thu, Dec 3 | Miami, FL | Hard Rock Stadium

Fri, Dec 11 | Tampa, FL | Raymond James Stadium

ABOUT CHRIS BROWN

Chart topping, multi-Platinum artist Christopher Maurice Brown is an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor. The RCA Records signee is regarded as one of the most prominent artists in R&B music, being credited as an evolver of the genre, and often being referred to by contemporaries as the “King of R&B.” His R&B has been characterized by several influences from other genres, mainly pop music and hip hop. To date, Chris Brown currently stands as the R&B singer with the most Hot 100 entries in Billboard history and is in the top 10 of all artists across all genres with the most RIAA multi-Platinum certifications. His latest tour, Breezy Bowl XX, is Brown’s best-selling and highest-grossing tour to date, and also became the highest-grossing tour ever by a solo Black American male artist, earning nearly $300 million and drawing 2 million fans across stadiums in North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom. Brown’s lyrics develop predominantly over emotional and hedonistic themes. Brown has had wide comparisons to Michael Jackson for his singing and dancing abilities, as well as for his stage presence.

ABOUT USHER

USHER has changed music, culture, and countless lives. The multiple GRAMMY Award-winning diamond-selling international megastar, actor, dancer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist inspires change yet again.

Beyond selling over 80 million records worldwide and collecting dozens of awards, he has simultaneously lit up the small screen on NBC’s The Voice and the big screen in blockbusters such as Hustlers. He has also tirelessly distinguished himself as a devout humanitarian, raising tens of millions of dollars for various causes and uplifting youth via his New Look Foundation. Since 1999 he has been providing opportunities for young people in underserved communities and enabling them to flourish and achieve seemingly impossible dreams. A long-time supporter and Global Citizen Ambassador, USHER has performed at events since 2015 raising awareness to defeat poverty, defend the planet, and demand equity. A true outlier, he was equally at home on the stage of his sold-out My Way Las Vegas residency as he was on a 2016 government cultural mission to Cuba as part of President Barack Obama’s Presidential Committee for Arts and Humanities. In 2024 he celebrated 30 years as an entertainer, releasing his ninth studio album, COMING HOME and was the headline performer at Super Bowl LVIII. USHER: Past, Present, Future’s US & international tour sold over a million tickets with 62+ sold out shows and multiple nights in each city.

Lifestyle /

Simple Wellness Upgrade: Why I Added Naked Creatine HCI to my Daily Routine

Girl, not all creatine is created equal.

If you’ve ever dealt with bloating, stomach discomfort, or (yucky) gritty powders, it may be time to switch to Creatine HCI. What’s even better is that it actually tastes delicious!

Naked Creatine HCI Powder in Raspberry Lime has clean ingredients, easy digestion, and a light, citrus-berry flavor that mixes effortlessly into your routine.

Prepping my post-workout beverage

What Is Creatine HCI?

Creatine Hydrochloride (HCI) is a form of creatine bound with hydrochloric acid, making it more easier to absorb than traditional creatine.

That means:

  • Smaller serving size
  • Faster absorption
  • Less water retention & bloating

For women who want results without discomfort, HCI is a game-changer.

Why Choose Naked Creatine HCI Raspberry Lime?

1. Clean, Transparent Ingredients

2. No Bloating, No Grit

3. Refreshing Raspberry Lime Flavor

4. Supports Strength, Power & Performance = RECOVERY

How to Use Naked Creatine HCI

  • Mix one serving with water or your favorite beverage
  • Take before or after workouts
  • Use daily for best results

Because HCI requires a smaller dose, it’s easy to fit into any routine…early morning walks, baby stroller time, midday workouts, and evening stretches.

Mid-morning walk and now fueling up for recover.

Final Thoughts

If you want a clean, effective creatine that’s easy on digestion and actually enjoyable to drink, Naked Creatine HCI Raspberry Lime checks all the boxes.

No junk. No bloating. Just performance support; the Naked way.

 

Fashion Week /

Valette Studio Winter 2026/2027 Collection: Paris Fashion Week

VALETTE STUDIO

Autumn-Winter 2026/2027 Collection

The New Romantics

«The New Romantics» is born from a contemporary melancholy: that of a fashion world where the image has gradually taken precedence over garment design. The Autumn-Winter 2026/2027 collection proposes a return to the craft and the human touch. It asserts craftsmanship as an emotional language and the garment as the link between the body and the maker, through its materials, colors, and embellishments.

Materials: Tailoring wools, Wool broadcloth, Wool gauze, Faux fur, Recycled leather, Technical cotton, Cotton voile, Herringbone denim.
Color Palette: Glossy and powdery black, Powdery white, Electric blue, Fiery red, Evening green, Wine, Terracotta, Indigo blue, Luminous grey.
Embellishments: 3D printing, Embroidery on print, Gouache and watercolor dyeing inspired by the makeup of David Bowie, Mick Jagger, and the 80s.

 

MANIFESTO FOR THE UNITY OF DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING

VALETTE STUDIO AND VALETTE ATELIER ARE ONE. DESIGNING ONLY MAKES SENSE IF ONE FULLY EMBRACES THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS.
SEPARATING THE IDEA FROM THE CRAFT, THE DESIGNER FROM THE ATELIER, AMOUNTS TO PRODUCING SHAPES WITHOUT RESPONSIBILITY AND GARMENTS WITHOUT SOUL.

A BRAND THAT INVENTS GARMENTS CAN ALSO MANUFACTURE THEM. VALETTE STUDIO IS PROOF OF THIS. VALETTE ATELIER COULD NOT EXIST WITHOUT THE EXPERTISE OF AN IN-HOUSE

LABEL, CAPABLE OF UNDERSTANDING A DESIGNER’S INTENTIONS. YET VALETTE STUDIO COULD NOT DESIGN WITHOUT A MANUFACTURING ATELIER DEDICATED TO OTHER HOUSES.

GIVING LIFE TO IDEAS THAT ARE NOT OUR OWN IS A CRUCIAL ACT. FASHION IS NOT JUST A PRODUCT. IT IS ALSO CRAFTSMANSHIP. BETTER YET, A WAY OF BEING.
MANY BRANDS NEED TO MANUFACTURE HERE, LOCALLY. WITHOUT MACHINES AND WITHOUT SAVOIR-FAIRE, THEY GO ELSEWHERE.

TO DESIGN IS TO COMMIT
TO MANUFACTURE IS TO BE IN CONTACT WITH REALITY
FOR AN ALMOST SENSUAL EXPERIENCE.

 

Lifestyle /

The Midday Boost Every Mompreneur Deserves: Review of Naked Nutrition’s New Naked Sparkling Energy Drinks

Running a business while raising a family requires a unique kind of strength.  The kind that blends determination, resilience, and a whole lot of grace. As mompreneurs, our days start early, end late, and demand that we bring our very best to both our clients and our children. And somewhere between the emails, the brand planning, the school pickups, and the dinner routine… whew. We need a boost that actually supports our bodies, not one that sends us crashing later.

That’s why I was excited to try Naked Nutrition’s new Naked Sparkling Energy drinks; a clean, no-nonsense energy option designed for people who care about what they put into their bodies. If you’re juggling Zoom calls, content creation, and snack-time negotiations, this might just become your new favorite pick-me-up.

Why I Tried Naked Energy

As someone who values wellness but lives in reality, I needed something:

Clean

Effective

Not overloaded with sugar

Naked Sparkling Energy checks all of those boxes. Their formula focuses on transparency; no artificial colors, no fillers, and no mystery ingredients. Just intentional energy.

Finished drafting the newsletter.

Midday Mompreneur Test: Does It Deliver?

Let’s be real: the midday slump for a mompreneur hits hard. That 1:30–3:00 p.m. window? If you know, you know.

So I tested Naked Energy right at the moment I typically feel my brain slowing down.

My experience:

  • Within 15–20 minutes, I felt alert and not jittery
  • I could think clearly
  • My energy felt steady, not spiky
  • I finished my client tasks without feeling drained afterward

This is the kind of boost that helps you go from “I’ll do it later” to “Let’s knock this out right now.”

Leaving the grocery store.

Evening Routine Bonus: The Gentle Glide Into ‘Mom Mode’

Here’s what surprised me most: the energy didn’t linger into the evening or keep me wired.

Around 5 p.m., I was able to shift gears into family time with presence…not exhaustion. And by bedtime? No crash, no restlessness. Just my usual wind-down routine.

If you’re a mompreneur who has to balance professional productivity and family presence, this alone is a huge plus.

Flavor Profile & Mixability

Depending on the flavor you choose, Naked Sparkling Energy has:

  • A clean, slightly tangy taste
  • No syrupy sweetness
  • A smooth mix that dissolves quickly in water

It’s not a candy-sweet drink but it’s more wellness-forward. Think: crisp, refreshing, intentional.  Interested in trying the various flavors and getting a smooth energy boost to finish your task list, click here:  Sparkling Energy

Accessories /

From Alabama A&M to NYFW: Kim West Elevates Southern Voices in Fashion

Kim West, fashion influencer, dynamic speaker, and founder/publicist of The Kimberly West Agency, proudly attended New York Fashion Week as a media representative for her renowned digital platform, Style + Life + Fashion Blog.

In addition to covering the week’s most notable runway shows, presentations, and style moments, West represented her PR agency at exclusive fashion events, further cementing her role as a bridge between brand storytelling, fashion journalism, and public relations.

A proud graduate of Alabama A&M University’s Apparel Merchandising and Design Department—holding both undergraduate and graduate degrees—West has built a career at the intersection of style, culture, and communications. Her unique perspective as both a fashion professional and media strategist allows her to amplify designers, brands, and creative voices with authenticity and impact.

“Attending New York Fashion Week is always an inspiring experience. It’s an opportunity not only to highlight the artistry of global designers but also to represent the innovation and creativity coming from the South—especially from my alma mater, Alabama A&M University,” said West.

Through her work with Style + Life + Fashion Blog, West continues to deliver insider coverage of the latest industry trends while championing diversity, entrepreneurship, and accessible fashion. Meanwhile, as founder of The Kimberly West Agency, she leverages her expertise in PR and brand strategy to help lifestyle and fashion brands expand their reach and visibility.

About Kim West

Kim West is a fashion influencer, speaker, publicist, and founder of The Kimberly West Agency. She is also the creator of Style + Life + Fashion Blog, a leading digital platform for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle coverage. With academic training in apparel merchandising and design from Alabama A&M University, West has built a career at the forefront of fashion media and public relations. 

Follow Kim on social media:  Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and TikTok 

Accessories /

Event Recap: Celebs and Fashionistas Attend Paris Laundry x The Webster Event in Atlanta Last Week

Based in New York and created in 2021 by Guy Samuel, Paris Laundry is a menswear brand that focuses on creating bespoke pieces with most things being made in very limited quantities (many 1/1, 1/2 and 1/3 pieces). On Thursday, guests viewed a showcase of their Fall/Winter 2025 Collection: “Sole Prototypes,” a One of One Upcycled Capsule Exclusive to the Webster (which averages $850 to $7,000).

The brand imports fabrics and materials from Japan and Italy as well upcycle vintage garments, accessories and fabrics.  Everything is hand-made in their New York studio.

This is in including their focused retail partnerships – as the brand has successfully partnered with The Webster for five seasons. This event introduced them to Atlanta (the Webster opened in Atlanta in 2024).

The event was attended by: Kelli Ferrell (Real Housewives of Atlanta), social media influencer, Alonzo Arnold, R&B singer, Austin Rogers, WBS-TV reporter, Audrey Washington, actor Dennis White, and reality TV personality, Elsie K. 

Ferrell wore a diamond-encrusted denim jacket by Paris Laundry, pairing it with a Skims bodysuit, leggings by Naked Wardrobe, shoes from Tom Ford, and a Chanel bag.

Guests enjoyed complimentary cocktails by: Casamigos, Belaire, McQueen & The Violet Fog, and The Deacon – and grooved to the sounds of DJ Jordan Rock.