Accessories /

4 Simple Yet Effective Ways To Jazz Up Your Outfit

If you are real life fashionista and like to take care of your appearance, then this article could be of great use to you. Everyone likes to look their best as the clothes that you wear and the way that you present yourself can tell the world a lot about you. So, it is important to project a positive image out there for all to see. Continue to read on in order to learn some simple, yet effective ways that you can jazz up your outfit.

  1. Jewelry

A simple yet effective way to make any outfit pop is to add some sparkle and character in the form on jewelry. If you are unsure of how to choose the right jewelry for your outfit then don’t worry as some tips are listed below:

  • Focus on the necklines – for example, if you are wearing a V-neck then you may want a shorter necklace. Alternatively, if you have a boat neck, then you want a necklace that is longer. A turtleneck is great for earrings and bracelets, and pearls would go well with a sweetheart neck.
  • Do not go overboard – adding one or two pieces of jewelry is often more than enough. This is especially true for formal events when you want to look elegant. Choosing a few high-quality pieces such as crystal silver rings is highly recommended.
  • Choose a focal piece – if you have lots of loud and bold jewelry, it is advised that you do not wear them altogether. Instead, choose one bold piece out of your collection to be the focus.
  1. Shoes

Never underestimate the power of shoes! While you may not realize it, your shoes are one of the first things people look at when they see your outfit. So, be sure that your shoes match well and compliment your outfit. It is important to remember to clean your shoes too. Do not neglect this as leaving the house with muddy or dirty shoes is not a great look. Be sure to read the care instructions so that you can take care of the fabric of the shoe properly.

  1. Have the right bag

Another important consideration is the bag. Of course, not all outfits require a bag. However, if you plan on taking some essential items with you, taking a bag with you is recommended. A bag is a great way to add some color into your outfit if color is what you are lacking. So, if you are feeling an all-black look then you could pair this with a colorful bag to break up all the black shades.

  1. Makeup

Makeup for many is a great way to jazz up your outfit. You could go for a natural look if you please or you can find a way to match your makeup look with your outfit. For example, if you are wearing an orange shirt as part of your look, then why not compliment this with some orange eye make-up.

Kamala Harris /

New Biographies for Kids About Trailblazing Women of Color – Women’s History Month

Publishing just in time for Women’s History Month (March)  National Geographic Kids Books is debuting three new biographies that feature three game-changing, inspirational women of color who have made an indelible mark on the world.

Speak Up, Speak Out! The Extraordinary Life of Fighting Shirley Chisholm, by Coretta Scott King Honor winner Tonya Bolden with a forward by voting rights activist and current Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, is a middle grade/middle school title that is already receiving rave early reviews.  A daughter of immigrants, Shirley Chisholm’s story is remarkable — she battled racism and sexism, broke barriers and made history.  Shirley boldly spoke up for what was right and changed the political landscape by becoming the first Black woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, followed by a historic run for President.  And while the presidential campaign trail in 1972 did not end in victory, Shirley Chisholm shows us how you can make change happen when you speak up and speak out.
 
And….
 
This winter, the critically acclaimed National Geographic Readers series introduces the youngest readers to two modern-day women who, like Shirley Chisholm, are also political pioneers.   National Geographic Readers: Kamala Harris and National Geographic Readers: Stacey Abrams are both fully illustrated Level 2 readers penned by African American writers whose age-appropriate text bring these women — and their accomplishments — to life, helping the youngest of readers better understand who these headline makers are.  

    

 
 

National Geographic Readers: Kamala Harris (L2) by Tonya K. Grant  (National Geographic Kids Books, ages 5-8, Jan 2022, PB $4.99) Explore one of the most powerful and highest-ranking female figures in American history with this biography of Vice President Kamala Harris in this Level 2 reader.  On January 20, 2021, Kamala Harris made history. That day, she became the first woman, the first Black American, and the first South Asian American to be elected as Vice President of the United States. Young readers will learn about Harris’s childhood, her early career, and her journey that led to winning the vice presidency. This early reader also explores how Harris devoted her life to helping others, from serving as the Attorney General of California, to being elected as a U.S. Senator, to working alongside President Joe Biden on the campaign trail and in the White House.

About the Author: Tonya K. Grant is an elementary school librarian and an active member of the #BlackCreatorsinKidLit community. She is committed to promoting reading and strives to inspire all children to read and see themselves in books. She lives in McDonough, Georgia with her husband and two sons. Follow her on Twitter – @TKGrant1

Essence Festival /

THE 27TH ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE HOSTED IN NEW ORLEANS

ESSENCE Communications, Inc., the leading media, technology, and commerce company dedicated to serving Black women and their communities deeply, has announced the 100% physical return of the ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ to New Orleans with extended virtual experiences and a commitment to creating opportunities that will economically benefit, invest and contribute to Black-owned businesses. The Festival will host a multi-generational experience entrenched in culture, equity, and celebration.

“As the nation’s largest festival by per day attendance, the ESSENCE Festival of Culture is a staple that celebrates community and empowers equity.  We are excited to welcome the family back live to New Orleans and thrilled to connect with more of our diasporic family through new digital experiences,” said ESSENCE CEO Caroline Wanga.  “Whether it be those that have three years of outfits reflective of the Festival tradition that was disrupted by the pandemic, or those who will have their inaugural Festival experience in 2022 , all are invited to immerse in the crown jewel of culture known as the ESSENCE Festival of Culture. Our almost three-decade-relationship with the City of New Orleans has been critical to the fiber of the Festival and we fully recognize and appreciate the City and its citizens for all they do to create memorable experiences for all attendees. Lastly, it is critical that we understand that what we deliver with this Festival—live and virtually—also impacts Black economic inclusion. The ability to have those that benefit from this be Black businesses is my favorite manifestation of our 2022 Festival theme, ‘It’s The Black Joy for Me.’ See you in July.”

ESSENCE looks forward to physically returning to the City of New Orleans after a hiatus due to the pandemic. The partnerships with this culture filled city have spanned more than 25 years. As the brand expands its footprint, it will continue to focus on the positive economic impact to the City and Black-owned businesses.  As ESSENCE intentionally connects deeper within the City’s culture, it is excited about bringing back new and returning activations, including concerts at the Superdome, Superlounges, ESSENCE Wellness House, ESSENCE Eats Food, Wine & Spirits Festival, the ESSENCE Studios Screening Room, The Men’s Experience, The Marketplace (which economically impacts thousands of Black-owned businesses), the Girls United track which highlights Gen Z experiences, Day of Service, E-Suite, Wealth & Power Stage, The Tech Summit and more.

Festival-goers will witness Black Joy live featuring performances from our stellar headliners including: Janet Jackson, Nicki Minaj, Kevin Hart, New Edition, The Isley Brothers, The Roots & Friends, Jazmine Sullivan, Summer Walker, D-Nice & Friends and many more. Additional talent and experiences will be announced soon. 

Tickets are now on sale. For tickets, access and updates on this year’s ESSENCE Festival of Culture, visit www.essencefestival.com. Join the conversation via social @ESSENCEFest. Experience The Festival on ESSENCEStudios.com and ESSENCEFestival.com. 

 

*Proof of full Covid-19 vaccination is required to participate in ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ events. 

Lifestyle /

Influencer-Owned Lifestyle Brand, Rachel Parcell, Launches SS22 Home Collection

Lifestyle brand, Rachel Parcell, launches its RP Spring Home Collection! The whimsical collection includes a floral napkin set and table runner, wicker placemats and napkin rings, as well as precious melamine plates, bowls, and glasses that are perfect for your Easter tablescape or spring soiree.
The brand, founded by influencer Rachel Parcell, is adored by celebrities including Alessandra Ambrosio, Gabrielle Union, Eva Longoria and more, who have been spotted in Rachel Parcell’s feminine and flirty frocks. You can find the entire collection on their website here (affiliated with ShareASale 64685 and Skimlinks 85273) ranging from $58-$128.
Rachel’s journey to owning her own brand began with Rach + Drew, an online journal she made in 2010 to document her newlywed life with her husband. Rachel had intended this personal blog to be read only by friends and family, but her content soon proved appealing to her growing readership. Rachel formally changed Rach + Drew to Pink Peonies, focusing on her her personal style. Rachel was able to leverage her success as an influencer by launching a capsule clothing line in her name —all timeless, elegant, and feminine pieces, attainably priced for women all over the world. Rachel Parcell has grown into a lifestyle brand, offering not only highly crafted womenswear, but also mommy + me designs, home décor, and more.
Birmingham /

2022 WORLD GAMES TO CELEBRATE THE PEOPLE, POWER, AND RICH MUSICAL HISTORY OF ALABAMA IN OPENING AND CLOSING CEREMONY PERFORMANCES

The initial line-up and details of The World Games 2022 Opening and Closing Ceremonies have been announced, promising two nights of unforgettable performances celebrating the rich musical and cultural history of The Games’ 2022 host city Birmingham, AL. Set for July 7 and 17 respectively at Birmingham’s Protective Stadium, the ceremonies will feature musical and theatrical performances spanning a broad range of genres and generations. With funk legend and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Bootsy Collins serving as Master of Ceremonies, the lineup of performers includes: Yolanda Adams, Alabama, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Bo Bice, Sara Evans, Taylor Hicks, Jamey Johnson, Nelly, Pastor Mike Jr., Martha Reeves, Sheila E., Ruben Studdard, Tony! Toni! Tone!, Worth The Wait, and Yung Bleu.
The World Games 2022 will kick off on July 7th at Protective Stadium with Unlocking The Magic: Celebrating The Power of The One. The evening will be a colorful celebration of sport and Birmingham history. Presented by Alabama Power, the presentation will feature live entertainment, special effects, honorable dignitaries and a parade of athletes representing more than 100 countries. Produced by Birmingham-based LRY Media Group, the Opening Ceremony will celebrate Birmingham’s past, present and future. Spoken word artist, musician, educator, and Birmingham native, Sharrif Simmons will be delivering a poem in the Opening Ceremonies.
On July 17th at Protective Stadium, the grand finale of The World Games 2022 – One World-One People: Celebrating Legacy, Achievement & Unity – will commemorate The Games with incredible performances and the opportunity for athletes, fans and volunteers to bid farewell to Birmingham. Presented by Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, the final presentation will include the ceremonial passing of The World Games flag to representatives of the 2025 host city: Chengdu, China.
“The World Games will bring a once-in-a-lifetime level of focus and attention to Birmingham and Alabama,” says Dr. Henry Panion, Artistic Director of The World Games 2022. “It is our goal to showcase and celebrate the very best of Alabama in presentations that are both festive and reflective, commemorating our past yet articulating the hope of our future. I wanted to combine the elements of Olympic ceremonies and Super Bowl half-time shows, with the best of my true loves… the sounds of a symphony orchestra and the pageantry, artistry, and precision of professional drum corps. Gospel Music and the sound of Gospel have influenced virtually every form of music across the globe. So, as an indigenous art form of America and Alabama, it is only appropriate that it be featured so prominently in these World Games.”
Developed in partnership with the cohort of global partners and advisers, Birmingham, AL-based Audiostate 55 Entertainment has been brought on by The World Games to create and direct the ceremonies. This year’s Opening and Closing Ceremonies will be a feast for the eyes and ears. Each evening will showcase elaborate custom costumes, props and performances, set to the backdrop of one of the largest LED displays amassed in America. The choreographed presentation of synchronized lights and immersive sound will feature a cast of over 700 combined performers across the two nights (including dancers, field pageantry artists and more), a 75-piece orchestra, and an array of choral ensembles including gospel, classical, and youth choirs, all embarking on a journey across the history of Birmingham, from its incorporation in 1871 into its future.
The World Games are returning to the United States in 2022 for the first time in more than 40 years. This year over the course of 11 days, The World Games will feature events across 34 sports, showcasing some 3,600 athletes from more than 100 countries. A total of 24 competition venues will participate in this year’s World Games, including the newly renovated Birmingham Jefferson Civic Complex.
Stay tuned for more information, including news on the forthcoming theme song of the 2022 World Games.
About The World Games:
The World Games is an extraordinary, international sports event held every four years, in the year following each Summer Olympic Games. Staged over 11 days, The Games represents the pinnacle of competition for 3,600 of the world’s best athletes in 30+ unique, multi-disciplinary sports. The World Games generates worldwide exposure for participating sports and provides a highly visible stage on which athletes from more than 100 countries compete for gold. More than 600 medals will be awarded to the competing athletes, including 200 gold medals for the ultimate champions in each discipline.
The World Games is led by the International World Games Association (IWGA), a non-profit organization that is composed of 37 International Sports Federations and recognized by The International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Follow The World Games here:
Celebrity /

TUNE IN | Buttah Skin’s BEYOND THE SURFACE Digital Series for Black History Month | EPISODE 4: Nina Parker

Tune in and watch episode 4 of BEYOND THE SURFACE by Buttah Skin, executive produced and hosted by Natalie Manuel Lee. In honor of Black History Month, the show will highlight Black creatives and changemakers and examine the stories that have shaped their lives and careers.
 
This week, Natalie chats with E! host, broadcast journalist and fashion designer, Nina Parker. Nina discusses how it’s never too late to change careers, how contentment can be a distractions from true career goals, and the importance of loving herself first.
 
BEYOND THE SURFACE will stream across official Buttah Skin platforms each week on Thursdays, including the brand’s official website, ButtahSkin.com, as well as their official Instagram @buttahskin. In addition, the audio version of each conversation will be available in podcast form via Apple Podcasts and Spotify. 
 
Beauty /

Celebrity MUA Saisha Beecham Uses AJ Crimson Beauty on Musician Estelle

Celebrity Makeup Artist Saisha Beecham and singer/song writer Estelle shared a photo on Instagram showing off the musician’s makeup look using AJ Crimson Beauty. Saisha used AJ Crimson Beauty’s Blurflection Priming Souffle ($55; https://ajcrimson.com/) to achieve a smooth, flawless look on Estelle.

The Black-owned luxury cosmetic line features a variety of different products + lip shades and is now carried at Nordstrom.

Accessories /

5 Spring 2022 Accessory Trends That Will Elevate your Style

Accessories can make or break an outfit, and no-one understands that better than Jenn Loyd, Fashion Stylist for NBC & CBS, a Personal Fashion Stylist, Lifestyle Expert, and founder of Lobe Love, a bespoke accessory company.

Over the years, Jenn has styled hundreds of women, and is passionate about helping women look and feel their best, and uncover their own unique, personal style. When it comes styling a look, Jenn pays attention to details with accessories.

“When I’m not helping women win their freedom from Outfit Overwhelm into Clothing Confident, you’ll find me creating and celebrating a life that is functional AND fun”, says Jenn.

Jenn was interviewed on Spring 2022 accessory trends, and we’d love to share her insight with you:

1. What colorways are you seeing for Spring?

There are going to be so many dreamy colors: Periwinkle, soft lilac, soft tan, and my personal favorite – hot pink.  A gorgeous infusion of color!

2. Do you foresee all-white ensembles featuring? What does this mean for accessories?

I  love all white ensembles because you can pair them with any color statement. An all-white ensemble will instantly pop with colorful accessories or you can keep your statement pieces all white for a clean, sophisticated look.

3. With the abundance of crochet predicted, what accessories do you have in mind to 

complement this look? 

I would love to pair crochet looks with jewels… we have some coming in spring that will work exceptionally well with crochet. The juxtaposition of organic wool with glittering stones works well.

4. Any gingham accessories for Spring? If so, what colorways?

Gingham will be a fun pattern this season and I would wear it in the colors for spring. I’m gravitating towards soft lilac and hot pink for earrings and headbands in particular.

5.  With sexy bra tops making a return, what earrings will best compliment this look?

Depending on the detailing of the bra, I would pair them with some fringe earrings or jewel with fringe earrings. The minimalist bra look allows for a ‘wow’ earring to fill up the space.

6. Your top embellishments for Spring earrings?

I am big on jewels this Spring in soft tan, purple and blues. Chains and pearls will be making a statement as well and adorn your ears perfectly.

Beauty /

BELOVED by Love Beauty and Planet: Valentine’s Gift Guide

BE[LOVE]D is in the air! Valentine’s Day is right around the corner wanted to share the greatest pampering beauty gifts from vegan beauty brand BELOVED by Love Beauty and Planet! Check out the below products available at Target and Target.com that make the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day!

About BELOVED by Love Beauty and Planet

  • BELOVED by Love Beauty and Planet is a line of pampering bath & body products that transforms bath time into a small act of love for your body, mind and planet.
  • Our products are vegan, made with plant-based cleansers and moisturizers, free from parabens and sulfate cleansers, and made with 92%+ naturally-derived* ingredients. Love Beauty and Planet (including BELOVED) is PETA approved, meaning we do not test on animals, anywhere in the world.
    • *We consider an ingredient naturally derived if it’s unchanged from its natural state or has a natural source and undergone some processing — but retains greater than 50% of its original natural structure. 92% naturally derived means 92% of our formula, including water, is made up of naturally derived content!
  • Our bottles and jars are recyclable and made with 100% recycled plastic. We are proudly committed to continuously seeking innovative ways to reduce our environmental impact while offering consumers exciting formats for their different needs (excluding body scrubs, candles, and sheet masks)
  • BELOVED by Love Beauty and Planet is available exclusively at Target stores and Target.com/Beloved

 

@kwest1908

By Love Beauty & Planet #unboxingvideo #beauty #targettok #target #fy #fyp #fypシ #PepsiApplePieChallenge

♬ Aesthetic Girl – Yusei
Beauty /

DARK & LOVELY BRINGS BRIGHT, BOLD & BLONDE HOME WITH NEW UPLIFT BLEACH KIT – TikTok Outfit

Now entering its 50th year, Dark & Lovely has been the go-to brand for Black women looking to achieve head-turning styles, while protecting the integrity of their hair. The brand continues to stay relevant with new innovations like the Uplift Bleach Kit, which appeals to consumers of all agers, including Gen Z and Millennials who are looking to express themselves through their style. Keeping in step with this, the new Uplift Bleach Kit features a patented, two-part system that is not only easy to use, but delivers up to 8 levels of dramatic lift – from Black to honey blonde to platinum. The new haircare solution also includes curl safe technology with encapsulated oils that provide 4x more hydration, while maintaining hair texture.

“As a newly converted blonde, I am thrilled for the launch of Dark & Lovely’s new Bleach Kit,” said actress, producer and Dark & Lovely Brand Ambassador, Storm Reid. “This has already become an absolute must-have in my beauty arsenal. What I really love is that I can actually use it to keep my hair looking amazing from home.”

“When opting to go blonde, it’s important to use products that not only help you to achieve your desired hue, but nourish the hair while respecting its natural curl pattern,” said celebrity hairstylist Kendall Dorsey, who styles Kelly Rowland, Saweetie and Alicia Keys.  “The Dark & Lovely Uplift Bleach Kit does just that, making it the perfect at-home staple for blonde bombshells.”

Dark & Lovely

The Dark & Lovely Uplift Bleach Kit is available for $8.49 at Walmart stores nationwide and Walmart.com. For more information about Dark & Lovely and the Uplift Bleach Kit, please visit DarkAndLovely.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

ABOUT DARK & LOVELY
Dark & Lovely, founded in 1972, was created to help Black women express and embrace their individual styles. As one of the first brands to celebrate the Black consumer, for 50 years Dark & Lovely has been known for offering innovative products and technology made exclusively for Black Women to address their specific beauty needs.  As a subsidiary of L’Oréal USA, Dark & Lovely continues to unveil breakthrough hair innovations for women of color. For more information, visit www.darkandlovely.com

 

@kwest1908

Classic high low pieces. #church #churchoutfits #blackgirltiktok #highlowfashion #thrifted #fyp

♬ original sound – Kim West | Style Life Fashion