Summer 2016 – Page 11 – Style [+] Life [+] Fashion by [@kwest1908]

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta / May 6, 2016

AFRICAN AMERICAN FESTIVAL 2016 – CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

SINGER/ACTRESS CHINA ANNE MCCLAIN AND BRAVO’S “THICKER THAN WATER” STAR CYRENE TANKARD ADDED TO “THE ROAD TO THE FESTIVAL” EVENT AS PARTICIPANTS AT THE 2016 BROWNGIRL VILLAGE RETREAT

Hosted by actress and producer Vivica A. Fox (Empire, Kill Bill, Set it Off, Independence Day) and actor and writer Jonathon Slocumb (The Steve Harvey Show, Meet the Browns), July 4^thweekend is going to be two fun-filled days of entertainment for the entire family.

Our newest festival activation, BrownGirl Village, will debut their one day retreat during “The Road to the Festival” events on Saturday, May 21^st at the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, sponsored by EMC. Produced by Synregy Communications and greiBO Entertainment, this event for girls of color between ages 12-17, will empower and encourage Brown girls in underserved communities to see beyond their current situation and expose them to new possibilities through mentorship, conversation and programming. More than 100 attendees will participate in breakout sessions, panel discussions which will instill self esteem and encourage them to continue to dream and pursue their goals. Actress/Singer China Anne McClain (House of Payne, Daddy’s Little Girls, A.N.T. Farm) and Bravo’s “Thicker Than Water” star Cyrene Tankard will join Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Comptroller Joan Pratt to address the young girls in powerful conversation about image, the beauty within and more.

“BrownGirl Village is a great way to partner and give back to the community we live and work in. This amazing organization also helps us to expand our brand visibility,” says Jackie Glenn, Global Chief Diversity Officer at EMC.

XFINITY Live, sponsored by Comcast and Music Choice, is the hub of the festival’s social media experience onsite and will feature a Twitter wall, live performances and must-see celebrity interviews. Music Choice will be interviewing artists and celebrities, providing candid conversations and behind-the-scenes footage from XFINITY Live. To gain exclusive access to XFINITY Live, visit the XFINITY onsite display or a local XFINITY Store.

“BrownGirl Village and the African American Festival can only happen with the support of our sponsors and partners. We appreciate their support and look forward to the exciting activations they are bringing to our attendees this year,” states Shelonda Stokes, CEO at greiBO Entertainment, Producer of African American Festival.

The African American Festival takes place at the Camden Yards Sports and Entertainment Complex on Lots B & C, between Oriole Park at Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadiums. Join the conversation on social media by logging on to AAF’s multiple social media platforms:

On Twitter by using hashtag: #BmoreAAF40, #BmoreAAF @BmoreAAF
On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/BmoreAAF
On Instagram by liking the fan page at Instagram.com/BmoreAAF

The 2016 African American Festival sponsors are: Comcast, Music Choice, Under Armour, Visit Baltimore, BGE, Diageo, Maryland Lottery, Caribbean Digital Network, Verizon, Dynamic Healthcare, EMC, Evergreen, Howard Stirk Holdings (HSH), Maryland Transit Authority, ShopRite, Washington Mass Transit Authority, Morgan State University, StateFarm, Care First, Colgate, Cricket, Whiting Turner, Maryland Highway, Geico and Bluffa Jo Cosmetics.

The African American Festival is hosted by Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and the City of Baltimore and produced by greiBO Entertainment.

For festival updates and more information about the African American Festival, please log on to http://www.africanamericanfestival.net.

About Comcast Cable:

Comcast Cable is one of the nation’s largest video, high-speed Internet and phone provider to residential customers under the XFINITY brand and also provides these services to businesses. Comcast has invested in technology to build an advanced network that delivers among the fastest broadband speeds, and brings customers personalized video, communications and home management offerings. Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA, CMCSK) is a global media and technology company. Visit www.comcastcorporation.comfor more information.

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Beauty / May 5, 2016

Nivea Lip Care Challenge – Product Review

It’s no secret that I’m a fan of Nivea skin care products. My connection with the product line started years ago when searching for a good hydrating, daily lotion. In the winter months, I suffer from dry skin and in the summer I strive to have a beautiful glow.

I was invited to take the Nivea Lip Care Challenge and gladly accepted the offer. The goal behind the lip products is to provide a quick swipe of shimmer for a rooftop happy hour or make sure your lips are protected against the sun at the beach.

We often forget about caring for the lips; only concerned with the latest cosmetics brand, shade or gloss. I found myself using the Nivea products at various times of the day. For example, before bedtime I would use the Mint and Minerals lip balm. I preferred the Smoothness Hydrating with SPF 15 sunscreen during the day while out in the sun. My personal favorite was the Milk and Honey Lip Care.

I also keep my lip balms in a cosmetics bag for easy access. Using the lip care products helped to repair my lips from the harsh winter season. It’s a must-have product that can actually be used all year long. Nivea Lip Care balms are found at various drugstores or your local Target.

Lifestyle Tips / May 4, 2016

Hilton Chicago: The Perfect Summer Getaway

The Perfect Summer Getaway: Chicago’s Gold Coast Neighborhood

Top Ten Tourist Attractions for Families

The Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites is just steps away from some of the most iconic must see Chicago attractions. Families can park their car

and walk in any direction to enjoy one or many unique attractions found on Chicago’s famed gold coast. Attractions that are great for families include:

– American Girl Place

– Chicago’s Pizza Tours

– Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop / Hershey Chocolate World Store

– Millennium Park

– Oak Street Beach

– Historic Water Tower

– Chicago Observation Deck

– Tilt

– Water Tower Place

– Broadway Playhouse

All of this activity calls for a home away from home stay and the Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites is just the place for a summer family stay. Recently refreshed spacious suites, offering separate living areas, flat screen TV’s, plus jaw dropping views of Lake Michigan and panoramic city views makes this property a top pick. You won’t want to miss the night time skyline from the top floor pool and fitness center. It’s a site to behold. An array of eleven unique suites adorned with iconic Chicago themed wall art await guests.

Today’s connected travelers will appreciate free lobby Wi-Fi plus business travelers can also take advantage of connectivity stations and printing capabilities. The property is group and business friendly with 10,000 sq. ft. of versatile meeting space for events to include destination weddings, business and exhibit events. Host a fundraiser for 300 guests in the Lakeshore Ballroom or choose amongst 14 stylish meeting rooms with A/V capabilities: including the Gold Coast Board Room featuring classic lakeside views, and a 52-inch flat-screen monitor.

The resort also provides guests two onsite dining options. The Local – Chicago, a restaurant that infuses local Chicago fare with traditional courses, is a delicious dining experience. Sushi lovers will want to dine at Mirai Sushi featuring a three-star menu of traditional Japanese options layered with a modern day twist – serving the freshest sashimi, specialty rolls and small plates. Families can take advantage of the children’s menu offering kid favorites and adult approved entrees. Of course, the Magnificent Mile and nearby neighborhoods are dotted with unique eateries from fine dining establishments to mom-and-pop neighborhood favorites.

Flights are available from Chicago O’Hare International Airport or Chicago Midway Airport. The hotel is easily accessible with valet and self parking options: click here for driving directions.

About:

All of this activity calls for a home-away from home stay and the Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites is just the place. Recently refreshed spacious suites, offering separate living areas, flat screen TV’s, plus jaw dropping views of Lake Michigan and panoramic city views makes this property a top choice. You won’t want to miss the night time skyline from the top floor pool and fitness center, it’s a site to behold. An array of eleven unique suites adorned with iconic Chicago themed wall art await guests. Upgrade to a Lakeview Suite to savor views of Lake Michigan while business travelers may want to book an Executive Level suite with private access to the Executive Lodge where complimentary breakfast, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar is available daily.

Accessories / April 11, 2016

South Moon Under Spring Fashion and Accessories

There’s something about the photos (below) that made me excited about dressing for warmer weather! It’s time to transition out of faux fur and into those maxi dresses! I like South Moon Under because their brand truly epitomizes my individual style. Their clothing’s on trend, laid back, but most importantly, it’s well-made.

Yes, the prices are a bit different from other retailers but I am the type of girl who will wear a maxi dress several times before donating. My favorite dress should not start ripping at the seams or (even worse) the zipper breaking. The store also has “cool kids” accessories such as Kate Spade Sunglasses, Flash Tattoos, Beauty Blender Sponge, and Spanx Panties.

I like to wear fedora hats, jumpsuits, hoop earrings, and denim skirts. Dressing for me is about what I want to communicate during that particular time. My body frame is petite (short girl) and due to this you will rarely see me wear flared pants or dolman sleeve tops. Having great style is about wearing what makes you feel comfortable and understanding what works for your figure type.

Enjoy the coupon below (click on the photo) and start updating your Spring wardrobe today!

South Moon Under Affiliate Program

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta / April 1, 2016

Arundel Mills Expands with New Retailers

Shoppers seeking the latest in fashionable footwear for men and women and treasured women’s apparel will soon have two new options to choose from at Arundel Mills with the scheduled spring openings of shoe retailer G.H Bass & Co (Spring 2016) and women’s fashion outlet Francesca’s Collection (Spring 2016).

“G.H Bass & Co and Francesca’s Collection are two wonderful additions to our mall,” said Gene Condon, general manager at Arundel Mills. “Both brands emphasize what shoppers want; the latest trends for less. In line with our own mission to offer the best selection at a discounted price, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome these two great companies to our mall.”

For those seeking the highest quality footwear at the lowest discounted prices, G.H Bass & Co will be the place to shop when it opens at Arundel Mills in the spring of 2016. Founded in 1876 in Wilton, Maine, G.H. Bass Co. has continued to live up to the mission of its founder of “mak[ing] the best possible shoe for the purpose in which it will be used.” The store will offer quality and affordable shoes for the whole family and will be located in Neighborhood 3 near H&M.

Those who seek luxurious style will enjoy the addition of Francesca’s, one of the fastest-growing women’s fashion retailers in the country. Since its founding in 1999, Francesca’s boutique stores have offered women a bevy of unique handpicked apparel, jewelry, bags, shoes, accessories and home goods. The store will be located in Neighborhood 4 near Teavana.

G.H Bass & Co and Francesca’s joins Steve Madden, Cole Haan, and Yankee Candle, as the newest additions to Arundel Mills– Maryland’s largest outlet and value retail shopping destination.

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta / March 23, 2016

Wildfox Fragrance and Nordstrom Beauty Trend Week

Next Saturday – April 9th – stop by Nordstrom Towson Town Center during their Beauty Trend Week for an exclusive Wildfox Fragrance Event! Take a walk on the wild side by dropping by the Wildfox counter to experience a scent journey that’ll leave you feeling dreamy. For an added bonus, layer Wildfox body crème frosting plus a spritz of Wildfox juice.

See complete details below:

Nordstrom Towson Town Center
Saturday, April 9th – 10am-9pm
700 Fairmount Ave, Towson, MD 21286
(410) 296-2111
Link: Nordstrom Beauty Trend Week Spring 2016

Follow Nordstrom Beauty
Twitter: @Nordstrom
Facebook: facebook.com/nordstrom
Instagram: @Nordstrom
Pinterest: pinterest.com/nordstrom
Blog: blogs.nordstrom.com/beauty

Ann Taylor / March 21, 2016

Ann Taylor Spring Dress Collection

There’s nothing like throwing on that first dress at the start of warmer temperatures. A spring day can take you anywhere so be prepared with fresh dresses for all occasions, whether it be a picnic, Easter, Passover or even Mother’s Day.

Featuring sweet variations on polka dots, pretty eyelet lace and contrasting patterns, Ann Taylor’s spring dress collection comes in a range of flattering shapes from halter necklines to sheaths to midi dresses, all cinching in at the waist so your readers will look considered, down to the last detail.

Event / March 15, 2016

Alabama Gulf Coast Convention Joins Food Sport

Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, known across the country as Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism (www.orangebeach.com), has signed as the 2016 title sponsor of the World Food Championships (www.WorldFoodChampionships.com), making Orange Beach, Alabama the Official Host Site of this year’s ultimate food fight.

The arrangement ensures the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach area capitalizes on the energy, excitement and economic impact of an anticipated 1,200 chefs, home cooks and competition teams who will compete for World Food Championships’ $350,000 prize purse and its industry-leading $100,000 grand prize.

The event, which last year attracted competitors from 45 states and 17 countries, will take place Nov. 9-15 at The Wharf (www.alwharf.com), a resort destination with a full-service marina, retail, dining and entertainment options anchored by a multi-use event center and a 10,000-seat amphitheater.

“Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism and our Sports Commission are excited to step into the arena of competitive food sport with the World Food Championships coming to our beach destination,” says Vice President of Sales Beth Gendler. “Sports has truly diversified our destination, and this event helps us diversify even further.

“One of the focuses of the sports commission is to build shoulder season business, and the World Food Championships will be a very impactful event in both room nights and number of people visiting our community during the fall shoulder season,” Gendler said. “It is our pleasure to welcome these national and international food competitors to the Alabama Gulf Coast this November.”

All told, World Food Championships is expected to bring an estimated $2 million in direct local spending as it draws thousands of foodies and Food Sport enthusiasts to the Alabama Gulf coast, elevating hotel and vacation rental bookings, restaurant spending and other community revenue metrics that come with such signature events.

The deal also connects Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism with World Food Championships’ universe of marketing assets, including national media exposure which eclipsed 794 million impressions last year, as reported by independent media monitoring service BurrellesLuce.

The World Food Championships has experienced rapid growth since its creation in 2012 as the richest and largest Food Sport competition in the world. From a 30% annualized growth in competitors, to its second TV series scheduled to air summer 2016 on Destination America, the WFC has evolved into a year-long quest for thousands of competitors and foodies, as well as a marketing platform for innovative companies.

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism welcomes more than 5.7 million individuals to the Alabama Gulf Coast each year for family reunions, vacations, meetings and sporting events. Marked by its sugar-white sand beaches, deep-sea fishing and countless family attractions, the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores area is one of the world’s leading beach destinations, annually attracting more than 5 million visitors. Centrally located along the Gulf Coast, and a short drive from airports in Pensacola, Fla. and Mobile, Ala., Orange Beach’s lodging properties are ideal for beach-side access or inland retreats that are both convenient and affordable. A spectrum of local dining, upscale shopping, fishing, golf, nature and adventure-based excursions also contribute to a spectacular vacation, holiday or leisure experience.

The bulk of these Orange Beach-based food fights will occur in Kenmore Kitchen Arena, the largest outdoor kitchen in the world, measuring a full city block at 7,800-square feet. The competition space features $250,000 worth of Kenmore branded stoves, cooktops, countertops and cookware – enough for 50 chefs to cook simultaneously. An additional $100,000 worth of professional grills from Bull Outdoor Products affords open-flame grilling.

To learn more about the WFC and its qualifying events, tournament-style process or consumer experiences, visit www.worldfoodchampionships.com.

To learn more about Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, visit www.orangebeach.com

To learn more about The Wharf, visit www.alwharf.com.

# # #

About the World Food Championships:
The World Food Championships (www.WorldFoodChampionships.com) features hundreds of competitors seeking food fame and fortune. The fifth annual event, scheduled for Nov. 9-15, 2016 at The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama, invites the champions from the biggest and best food competitions around the world into a single highstakes culinary showdown for hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and prizes. Follow World Food Championships on Twitter (@WorldFoodChamp), and Facebook and Instagram (@WorldFoodChampionships).

About Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism:
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism serves as the official destination marketing organization for the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in addition to the unincorporated area of Fort Morgan. To learn more about the whole different state of discovery on Alabama’s 32 miles of white-sand beaches, visit either www.GulfShores.com or www.OrangeBeach.com. This convention and visitors bureau is an accredited Destination Marketing Organization (2012-2016). Follow Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism on Twitter (@AlabamaBeaches), Instagram (@GulfShoresOrangeBeach) and Facebook (@AlabamaGulfCoast).

Accessories / March 10, 2016

Inspired Luxe – Handcrafted Chic Pieces

This season, the handcrafted pieces from InspiredLuxe.com, an e-commerce site that houses sustainable and one-of-a-kind jewelry from artisans throughout the globe, brings you a collection of statement pieces that will be the perfect touch for an effortlessly chic summer look.

Utilizing exotic stones, beads, rocks, leather, metals, along with other materials (many repurposed)— the collections offer a unique twist on the modern bohemian trend. By adding these eccentric pieces to anyone’s wardrobe, it will be easy to create a sense of relaxed luxury.

Accessories / March 4, 2016

Shoedazzle Color Of The Month – Daffodil Accessories

Daffodil is considered the new Shoedazzle color of the month. The accessories brand has an array of Daffodil inspired handbags, jewelry, and shoes. First Lady, Michelle Obama wore a similar shade in a beautiful sheath dress. This inspired women to wear the hue while adding a pop of color into their wardrobe.

It’s the perfect Spring shade because this color mixes (and matches) well with every fashion piece. Trendsetters and Style Bloggers are seen wearing Daffodil colored eyeshadow, nail polish, and hair accessories.

For an everyday look, pair (Daffodil) yellow accessories with a jumpsuit, jeans, or basic t-shirt. Color trends are fun to wear but don’t forget to make the style your own!

Fashion, Beauty, and Lifestyle Blog

Category: Summer 2016