BET HER’S NEW ORIGINAL DOCU-SERIES “BET HER PRESENTS: EXCEPTIONAL BLACK WOMEN” PREMIERES

BET Networks announces original docu-series BET HER PRESENTS: EXCEPTIONAL BLACK WOMEN that recognizes courageous, inspiring, and successful women who overcame life’s obstacles. Each half-hour episode will highlight one exceptional woman, featuring never-before-seen photos, videos, intimate sit-down interviews and more. This season will document the lives of MC Lyte, Maxine Waters, Meagan Good, Terri J. Vaughn, and Regina Hall. “BET HER PRESENTS: EXCEPTIONAL BLACK WOMEN premieres Saturday, March 2, 2019, at 9 pm ET on BET HER.
On the premiere episode, legendary lyricist, DJ, author, actress, entertainer, philanthropist, and icon MC Lyte, reveals her intimate stories of struggle, perseverance, and success in the music industry. She also recounts her journey from growing up in a single-parent home in Brooklyn to being the FIRST female solo rapper ever nominated for a Grammy and more. We also hear first-hand accounts from MC Lyte’s business partner Dr. Lynn Richardson and mother, Constance Moorer.
“BET HER Presents: Exceptional Black Women” will feature tales from the following exceptional women:

  • MC LYTE (Premieres Saturday, March 2 at 9 pm ET/PT)
  • MAXINE WATERS (Premieres Saturday, March 9 at 9 pm ET/PT)
  • MEAGAN GOOD (Premieres Saturday, March 16 at 9 pm ET/PT)
  • TERRI J. VAUGHN (Premieres Saturday, March 23 at 9 pm ET/PT)
  • REGINA HALL (Premieres Saturday, March 30 at 9 pm ET/PT)

BET HER PRESENTS: EXCEPTIONAL BLACK WOMEN” is Executive Produced by Keith Beauchamp, who also serves as series Director, and David Dessel for Till Freedom Come Production.
For more information on BET HER PRESENTS: EXCEPTIONAL BLACK WOMEN visit BET.com/BET-Her. Also, join the conversation on social media by using #ExceptionalBlackWomen and @BETherTV. 

Bioré Blue Agave + Baking Soda Collection: A Dynamic Duo

Introducing the NEW Bioré Skincare Blue Agave + Baking Soda Collection. The new Pore Cleanser, Instant Warming Clay Mask and Nourishing Whipped Detox Mask help deep clean and nourish combination skin by leveraging blue agave + baking soda in these new formulas. While Baking Soda deep cleans, Blue Agave provides conditioning benefits—making these ingredients a dynamic duo—for combination skin sufferers who need an exfoliating, deep clean while still being able to condition those dry patches.

 

Featured Photo from Byrdie

 

Bioré Blue Agave + Baking Soda Balancing Pore Cleanser: Developed especially for those with combination skin, this everyday cleanser deep cleans the oily parts while smoothing and conditioning the rough, dry parts— for balanced, conditioned skin. Not only does it remove deep down dirt and impurities from the pores, but it gently exfoliating away dead cells, allowing healthy cells to emerge. With continued daily use, you’ll achieve softer, smoother skin and a more balanced complexion.
How to use: Wet face, pump cleanser into hands and work into a lather. After massaging over entire face, rinse thoroughly. $5.99.
Bioré Blue Agave + Baking Soda Instant Warming Clay Mask: Sometimes your skin needs a little extra TLC—plus, what better way to take a selfie—if not with a blue mask on! Designed to purify and refine skin by absorbing excess oils, this instant warming mask opens pores and melts away that pore-clogging dirt, oil, and sebum—leaving your skin clean, soft and refreshed. This warming clay mask, formulated to deep clean pores, is pH balanced for comfortably clean skin. This mask has a unique self-healing technology that is activated when massaged into the skin. This thermal formula in conjunction with purifying and skin toning clays optimize the mask’s ability to deep clean and purify.
How to use: Wet face, as the mask is activated by water. Dry hands and apply mask. Massage mask for about 1 minute to help heat it up. Then thoroughly rinse with warm water to remove the mask. The mask does not dry or harden. $5.99.
Bioré Blue Agave + Baking Soda Whipped Nourishing Detox Mask: Clogged pores seriously need to chill! The menthol in this detox mask creates an intense pore-tingly sensation—that’s the feeling of a good deep clean. Formulated for combination skin, this mask contains natural Blue Agave, known for its ability to soothe and condition, and deep cleaning Baking Soda to help eliminate impurities, leaving skin clean, refreshed, and ever-so-nourished.
How to use: Wet face and apply mask evenly, avoiding eyes. Chill out for 3-5 minutes for seriously purified pores, then thoroughly rinse with warm. $6.49.

2019 ESSENCE FESTIVAL 25TH ANNIVERSARY PERFORMANCE LINE-UP

The ESSENCE Festival®, the world’s largest entertainment and cultural experience, celebrates its 25th anniversary during Fourth of July weekend in New Orleans and unveiled part one of its epic 25th anniversary performance line-up.  The impressive schedule currently features more than 80 of the most talented and creative artists from across the globe.  More acts will be announced in the coming weeks.

The 2019 ESSENCE Festival’s three-night concert series at the Louisiana Superdome includes Missy Elliott, Mary J. Blige, NAS, H.E.R., Anthony Hamilton, Big Freedia, Davido, Doug E. Fresh, Frankie Beverly, Jermaine Dupri, Ledisi, MC Lyte, Morris Day, Musiq Soulchild, Pharrell Williams, Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky & Mike (RBRM), Sheila E., Teddy Riley, Teyana Taylor, Timbaland, VanJess and more. Hosted by Loni Love. Music by D-Nice.

Additional performers include 702, AlunaGeorge, ALX, Amanda Black, Big Daddy Kane, Biz Markie, Brownstone, Celeste Ntuli, City Girls, El Debarge, Elle Varner, Erica Falls, EU, Force MDs, Ginuwine, Jacquees, Koryn Hawthorne, Lucky Daye, Mase, Nao, Nigel Hall, Normani, Queen Naija, Rakim, Rayvanny, Sauti Sol, Scarface, Talk Box, Tellaman, Vanessa Mdee, Water Seed and more. Plus, a live album recording by PJ Morton with Jojo, Luke James, Mia X, Pell and The Hamiltones.

“When the ESSENCE Festival was founded 25 years ago, it marked a pivotal moment of vision and reverence – a critical acknowledgement of and investment in the power of our culture,” said Michelle Ebanks, Chief Executive Officer of ESSENCE Communications. “In the years since, it has set a standard that many other festivals have aspired to, and today, the ESSENCE Festival has grown to represent an annual homecoming for Black artists from across the globe.  In honor of our 25th anniversary, nearly 30 artists per night over 3 epic nights will come together to mount the world’s largest and most extraordinary cultural celebration. To one and all, we say, ‘Welcome to ESSENCE. Welcome home.’”

Special performance highlights include two seminal albums thematically brought to life, Mary J. Blige’s ‘My Life’ and NAS’ ‘Illmatic’ – each of which are marking 25-year anniversaries in 2019.   ESSENCE will also cultivate a special mainstage moment honoring Frankie Beverly for his lifetime contribution to music.

Weekend ticket packages are on sale now with prices starting at $185. For information about ticket sales, accommodations and the latest news about the ESSENCE Festival®visit Essence.com/festival.  Join the festival community: Follow us on Twitter @essencefest #EssenceFest and become a fan of Festival on Facebook.

Janet Mock is a Vision in Gismondi1754 Jewelry at the Elton John AIDS Foundation Oscar Viewing Party

Janet Mock was seen at the Elton John AIDS Foundation Oscar Viewing Party Los Angeles, CA Sunday, February 24, 2019.  She wows in Vivienne Westwood Gown with Gismondi1754 Nuvole Bianche Collection.

New for 2019, the Nuvole Bianche / “White Cloud” Collection by Gismondi1754 is an exceptional, perfectly paired white diamond collection, that like the beauty of clouds are all individual master designs just based on their natural shape, crafted with a most minimal setting to give the appearance they are simply floating on air, just as the brightest, whitest clouds appear to be floating in the bright blue sky.

 

 

Please credit jewelry to GISMONDI1754 

Instagram: @Gismondi1754

Styled By: Jason Bolden @jasonbolden

 

 

About Gismondi 1754:

Seven Generations – One Passion. The excellence and expertise of the Genoa-based high-jewelry brand renowned for jewelry as art, Gismondi combines centuries of craftsmanship and rich history of design over seven generations. With meticulous attention to modernity and references to the artisans of the past, it is a perfect link; connecting the memory of the past and the radiant future. In Gismondi jewels, the manufacturing excellence of the family tradition combines beauty with passion and technology under the leadership of its youngest family descendent, Massimo Gismondi. Gismondi 1754 is sold in the US and globally at fine jewelers as well as in its signature stores in Portofino, Genoa, Capri, Milan, London, and St. Moritz.

 

Taraji P. Henson Dazzles in 85 ct of Gismondi1754 DIAMONDS at the 2019 Vanity Fair Oscar Party

TARAJI P. HENSON At The 2019 Vanity Fair Oscar Party Los Angeles, CA Sunday, February 24, 2019. She sparkled in 85 ct of White Gismondi1754 Diamonds.

New for 2019, the Nuvole Bianche / “White Cloud” Collection by Gismondi1754 is an exceptional, perfectly paired white diamond collection, that like the beauty of clouds are all individual master designs just based on their natural shape, crafted with a most minimal setting to give the appearance they are simply floating on air, just as the brightest, whitest clouds appear to be floating in the bright blue sky.

 

 

 

Please credit jewelry to GISMONDI1754 

Instagram: @Gismondi1754

Styled By: Jason Bolden @jasonbolden

 

 

About Gismondi 1754:

Seven Generations – One Passion. The excellence and expertise of the Genoa-based high-jewelry brand renowned for jewelry as art, Gismondi combines centuries of craftsmanship and rich history of design over seven generations. With meticulous attention to modernity and references to the artisans of the past, it is a perfect link; connecting the memory of the past and the radiant future. In Gismondi jewels, the manufacturing excellence of the family tradition combines beauty with passion and technology under the leadership of its youngest family descendent, Massimo Gismondi. Gismondi 1754 is sold in the US and globally at fine jewelers as well as in its signature stores in Portofino, Genoa, Capri, Milan, London, and St. Moritz.

 

 

BLACKKKLANSMAN’S LAURA HARRIER WOWS IN BESPOKE ETHICAL LOUIS VUITTON GOWN AT THE 91ST ACADEMY AWARDS® REPRESENTING SUZY AMIS CAMERON’S RED CARPET GREEN DRESS INITIATIVE

As a partner with Suzy Amis Cameron’s celebrated Red Carpet Green Dress (RCGD) campaign, BlacKkKlansman lead actress Laura Harrier, wowed the crowd as she arrived at the 91st Academy Awards ® wearing bespoke ethical gown made by Louis Vuitton.

Harrier’s gown was created in the Louis Vuitton’s Paris atelier with an ethical and eco-responsible approach established with long-time verified suppliers. The gown is made of TARONI SPA blue crepe silk certified by the Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS), which is the worldwide leading textile processing standard for organic fibres, including ecological and social criteria.

The handmade embroidery by Vermont Paris required more than 450 hours of work and is made of glass beads, Swarovski crystal shards and sequins respecting the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®, an international quality label for harmless textiles.

To qualify as a RCGD eco-conscious garment, each piece must either be made from sustainable materials, including organic, recycled or repurposed fibers. Other features include using hand-made detailing or incorporating natural dye processing, with a dedicated focus on the minimal negative impact on the environment, and environmentally and socially responsible design.

This year makes the 10th anniversary of RCGD, and in honor of this, the sustainable criteria will be overseen by Good On You, a new partner of RCGD. Good On You is the world’s leading rating system on ethical and sustainable fashion to assist people in making positive shopping choices–all delivered through an accessible app.

Amis Cameron launched RCGD back in 2009, with the intention to create awareness for the importance of sustainable practices in fashion. Each year, RCGD works with international designers to create sustainable eveningwear to showcase during the Academy Awards®.

Also supporting the sustainable lifestyle are RCGD 2019 partners TESLA, Absolut Elyx, and AKA luxury serviced residences, a vibrant destination featuring exquisite residences designed for stays of 31 days or longer. It is because of their help along with annual contests that financial security can be provided to MUSE School CA. MUSE School CA is an environmental non-profit educational organization Amis Cameron founded in Calabasas, Calif. with her sister Rebecca Amis. This assistance enables students to access a transformative educational experience. MUSE School CA ensures smaller class sizes, personalized instruction and learning practices; all set within an inspiring and beautiful campus. Through these key elements, MUSE School CA paves the way in creating leaders of the future. For more information, go to www.museschool.org.

For more information please visit http://www.redcarpetgreendress.com.

SUZY AMIS CAMERON & RED CARPET GREEN DRESS CELEBRATE 10 YEARS OF SUSTAINABLE GLAMOUR FASHION AT ANNUAL PRE-OSCARS CELEBRATION

Celebrating 10 years of sustainable fashion, author, actor and environmental advocate Suzy Amis Cameron hosted her annual Red Carpet Green Dress (RCGD) Pre-Oscars Celebration in partnership with Absolut Elyx, AMUR and AKA West Hollywood last night at the Albright Fashion Library in Beverly Hills.

With over 160 guests, some high-profile faces included this year’s celebrity partners Laura Harrier (BlacKkKlansman), Danielle Macdonald (SKIN & Bird Box), last year’s representative LaKeith Stanfield, Amis Cameron’s husband James Cameron, Michelle Rodriguez (Fast & Furious franchise), and Fiona Xie (Crazy Rich Asians) among others.

Guests entered the celebration greeted by exclusive wardrobe pieces from the AMUR x RCGD debut collection.

The collection features six looks, revealed last night for the first time, and was displayed in a curated presentation created by Oh Mannequin!

The AMUR x RCGD is now available for purchase at https://amur.com/collections/amur-x-rcgd  and in select Bloomingdale stores around the country throughout March.

Guests enjoyed plant-based appetizers provided by Veganics and sipped on Absolut Elyx vodka specialty cocktails as a warm welcome was given by Samata Pattinson, Vice President Global Campaign Manager of RCGD. Pattinson shared her journey of how she started out as a former winner of the campaign back in 2011 when the RCGD was a contest for budding designers, and how she has come full circle with Amis Cameron in the past eight years.

Pattinson then introduced RCGD founder, Amis Cameron, who spoke about the journey of RCGD and how proud she is to see how the fashion industry and top designers continue to embrace ethical guidelines and make sustainable fashion desirable.

Additionally, Jeff King, Head of MUSE School CA, and Rebecca Amis, co-founder of MUSE, spoke about the educational impact made on the future generations, while students shared their experiences about the eco-friendly school and how they are embracing the sustainable lifestyle in their daily lives.

Following the MUSE School CA testimonials, Pattinson took the floor and announced the official launch of the online auction where all proceeds will go to MUSE School CA, the beneficiary of RCGD.

The exclusive auction items include:

Albright Fashion Library Styling Experience for One
The winner of this auction prize will receive a free fitting and styling with Irene for any event of their choice. The winner will be able to choose from over 35,000 items from runway couture to vintage wear.

Ultimate TESLA Experience for Up to Five People
●      Tesla factory Tour – a behind the curtain look/private tour of Tesla’s Northern California Factory. (Not open to the public)
●      Weekend Usage of a Tesla Model S or X vehicle
●      2-night stay at the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay

Bvlgari Divas’ Dream White Gold, Onyx, Turquoise, And Diamond Pave Necklace
“Divas’ Dream” fan-shaped pendant necklace in 18k white gold, designed as a mosaic fan-shaped pendant set with turquoise, onyx and pavé-set diamonds to the smaller fan-shaped turquoise and diamond top. Necklace priced at $8,100

Bvlgari Divas’ Dream White Gold, Onyx, Turquoise, And Diamond Pave Earrings
“Divas’ Dream” drop earrings, designed as mosaic fan-shaped drops set with turquoise, onyx and pavé-set diamonds to the fan-shaped turquoise and diamond tops, in 18k white gold. Earrings priced at $13,600

RINGO 4U2C Art piece by American Artist Daniel Ringo

STEVE KAUFMAN Original Piece

A 2-night stay at the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay

Bespoke Crafted Cufflinks Provided by Royal School of Needlework
Inspired by the iconic and stunning ‘Lava Dress’, which was worked by the Royal School of Needlework (RSN) and worn by Naomie Harris to the 2013 Oscars, the RSN Embroidery Studio has designed and hand embroidered this beautiful brooch and cufflink set.

The bid is currently open.

The fashion affair drew to a close around midnight.  In preparation for the Oscars on Sunday, Laura Harrier and Danielle Macdonald will be fitted in various fashion showrooms around Los Angeles, including the AKA West Hollywood, a vibrant destination featuring exquisite residences designed for long stay comfort, as they prepare to represent RCGD by wearing ethical gowns made by top global fashion designers.

This Spring, Bold is the New Blue: Denim Steals the Spotlight

An essential spring staple gets a fresh update in the all-new  Kut from the Kloth color denim collection. Known for infusing modern trends with coastal flavor, Kut from the Kloth makes trendy accessible and affordable fashion for trendsetters on a budget. This season, brighten up with essential denim in a playful color palette with fits designed to flatter any figure.

Swap out those baby blues for a hue guaranteed to inject a little life into this season’s wardrobe. This spring, it’s all about choices – and Kut from the Kloth has exclusive color denim to add a modern flair to your classic cuts. Available now in the best-selling Diana fit, punch up your spring denim game with the Diana jean in powder blue, army print, rich navy or rosieblush. On top, shop new spring romantic prints and soft colors to create a whimsical movement against sweaters and jackets. Shades of neutral rose and white pull together everyday ensembles with an air of timeless sophistication.

Show a flirty flash of skin in skinny ankle-baring cuts, featuring frayed hems that add lively texture. Create a sexy silhouette by pairing with this season’s hottest new boxy top trend, layered beneath a flowy sweater for those chilly springtime breezes. Complete the look with a kick flare jean like the Stella flare for the total 70’s inspired look this season.

The Kut from the Kloth color denim collection is available now, exclusively at www.KutFromTheKloth.com. Say goodbye to boring blue and discover all the hottest hues of the 2019 spring season in essential fits that flatter. Earn points toward future purchases with every order, and enjoy free ground delivery within the US, with free returns and exchanges within 30 days. Follow @KutFromTheKloth on Instagram for style tips to “brighten up” this spring.

About Kut from the Kloth:

Embodying the spirit of California, Kut from the Kloth is a vibrant, contemporary lifestyle brand.  With innovative fabrics, a flawless fit and sophisticated style, the KUT collection is designed with your busy life in mind, so you can confidently go from day to play. Our premium quality denim is as diverse as you, “kut” for your body at a great price and made with the best value and quality. We are passionate about creating exclusive LA-inspired, fashion-forward looks that are made with love just for you. This year we celebrate you: strong, beautiful and confident. The garments we design are for women, by women. Thank you for inspiring us to deliver the best product possible. #InspireMore Get styling ideas @kutfromthekloth on Instagram.

#OOTD or #WIW Sweet Pea Hi-Lo Off The Shoulder Blouse: Valentine’s Day Casual Look

Last Thursday was Valentine’s Day and I’m sure that everyone wanted the perfect outfit.  Ever since being a kid, I have enjoyed dressing up for this holiday.

I was planning to purchase items from another store but lost track of my weekly schedule between digital marketing, business consultations, and civic meetings.  Either way, I ran over to one of my favorite retailers (since college) to purchase a blouse.  I already planned to wear skinny jeans and rose gold booties.

The Sweet Pea Hi-Lo Off The Shoulder Blouse was a nice addition to the items in my closet.  I also wore a pair of rose gold chandelier earrings but they were not visible in the photo.

My valentine’s day gift was the bracelet seen on my wrist.  As the day unfolded we enjoyed lunch and was surprised by a new family pet!

Hi-Lo Blouse:  New York & Company | Booties:  Express