Natural Hair Files: Go-To Transitioning Styles

With so many of us women of color embracing our natural hair textures, it's no surprise that many of us grappling with finding styles that work well with our newfound curls, kinks, and coils. While I didn't go for the BC (big chop), I found styles that would camouflage my chemically-straightened strands with my newly grown thicker texture.

Throughout my journey, roller sets and two-strand twists were my go-to styles while I learned how to care for my natural hair. Those styles made my mane manageable while still looking chic and polished. In addition to those common transitioning styles, I also opted for top-knots and buns (with a scarf or simple headband), which I still wear if I'm too lazy to style it after a wash.

Me embracing the top-knot bun. 

What styles did you or do you currently wear as you transitioned to natural hair?

Must See TV: UNCF's An Evening of Stars

We all know that a mind is a terrible thing to waste thanks to UNCF's powerful motto. It's true - education truly is the key to success. Tune in to BET this Sunday to watch the 33rd Annual United Negro College Fund's An Evening of Stars showcase highlighting some of our brightest future leaders.

Each year UNCF makes it possible for more than 60,000 African-American students to attend college and equip them with the essential educational tools to make them successful citizens.

The night will be full of inspirational performances by Patti LaBelle, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Musiq Soulchild, and more while raising funds to continue making students' dreams come true.

The event will air January 29, at 11PM on BET.

Were you a college scholarship recipient?

Brow King Damone Roberts Joins TheLookBag.com

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with the one and only Damone Roberts. For those few who aren't familiar with Roberts, he's THE king of eyebrows. From Oprah to Beyonce, Roberts has been shaping the brows and beautifying some of Hollywood's elite for years.

In addition to running his brow beauty empire, which includes two salons, Roberts has been tapped by TheLookBag.com to bring beauty buffs the hottest makeup and skincare products to their doorsteps.

His beauty expertise, credibility and positive influence within the industry caught the attention of TheLookBag.com, which lead to their partnership earlier this year. "We wanted to align ourselves with the best and most relevant celebrity beauty guru out there. Damone has a great reputation, and his artistry can be seen on the most famous faces," Lookbag.com executive Tia Valenciano said.

Through an affordable monthly $10 membership, consumers can customize their profile to match the kinds of product samples they'll receive. TheLookBag.com makes it simple for members to test five products for women who may find it difficult to find products that work for them without breaking the bank.

Proving that he's not just a face of the company, Roberts takes his role seriously. "We only include the good stuff," he said. He scours the market for deluxe, high-quality products that will work for all women. Currently, members can choose from a variety of luxurious moisturizers, body creams, and other reputable products picked by the celebrity beauty guru.

Next up, Roberts hopes to include La La Vazquez's new makeup line and Kimble hair care products.

Damone's Do's and Don'ts:

"You're never too big to keep learning."

"Brown girls should never be afraid to experiment with color. Our skin-tones can carry colors."

"Don't over-tweeze!"

For more information on TheLookBag.com click here.

Are you familiar with Damone Roberts? If not, be sure to follow him on Twitter @DamoneRoberts

Citron: My "It" Color of the Moment

Between the occasional pink summer pieces, my wardrobe is pretty devoid of color. That's all about to change. This spring I'm starting anew when it comes to welcoming bright and bold colors into my closet. With the neon trend taking over the runways and makeup counters across the country, I've decided to partake in some of the fun.

Right now, citron is catching my eye. While you won't catch me rocking the vibrant hue from head to toe, I will wear the citrusy shade in small doses. Citron can freshen and complement neutrals such as gray and tan for an updated twist on basics.

Me wearing a citron top under a leather jacket.

J. Crew Toothpick Jeans available at www.jcrew.com for $108

Marc by Marc Jacobs Python Effect Neon Leather Waist Belt available at www.netaporter.com for $130

Camilla and Marc Cylinder Crepe and Jacquard Dress available at www.netaporter.com for $660

Marni Rope Necklace available at www.theoutnet.com for $354

J. Crew Pencil Skirt available at www.jcrew.com for $110

Proenza Shoulder Zip Wallet available at www.shopzoeonline.com for $560

Neon Racerback Tank available at www.bluefly.com for $24.79


Would you wear citron this spring? Do you have a go-to color that dominates your wardrobe?

Soap Stars

While I'm known to be a shower gel kind of girl, I still can't help picking up pretty soaps. From those luxurious handmade bars at Lush to Sabon's beautifully-scented soaps, I'm a sucker for sudsy bars that are wrapped in eye-catching designs or adorned with decorative packaging.

Plus, if they're made with fresh ingredients that combine a mixture of colors and textures, I'm even more inclined to buy. If you're like me and don't actually use these these lady-like toiletries, they make great gifts for house guests or lovely eye-candy for your bathroom's vanity.

Check out these bar-raising soaps:

La Lavande  French Egg Soaps available at www.lalavande.com  for $44

Sabon's Kiwi Mango Soap available at www.sabon.com for $7

Fresh Waterlily Soap available at www.fresh.com for $15

Haslinger Honey Soap available at www.smallflower.com for $3.95

Lush Summer Pudding Soap available at www.lushusa.com for $5.95

Mark's Clean-Up Time Conditioning Bath Soap available at www.avon.com  for $8

Nest Orange Blossom Bar Soap available at www.smallflower.com for $16

Pacifica French Lilac Natural Soap available at www.drugstore.com for $5

Agraria Santa Barbara Bar Soap available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $65

L'Occitane Shea Butter Extra Gentle Soap Vineyard Rose available at www.usa.loccitane.com for $7

Are you a fan of bar soaps or do you prefer shower gels?

It's the Balm & the Winners of the Twisted Sista Contest Announced

Baby it's cold outside! With blustering cold winds and arctic-like air blowing across the country, our lips definitely need extra TLC. To prevent dry, chapped lips I admittedly alternate between several balms depending on what I pull out from my bag first.

But right now, I make an extra effort to sift through my bevy of balms to grab my current go-to: L'Occitane's Moisturizing Organic Shea Lip Balm.

Available at www.usa.loccitane.com for $12

It glides on easily and instantly restores moisture to my pucker. Plus, the shea butter acts as a protectant against dryness. Oh and the absolute best part is that it doesn't leave that unsightly white film that so many others leave behind, which is never a good look. So if you're on the hunt for a new balm, this is a  great buy.

What are your favorite lip treatments to use during the cold winter months?


**The winners of the Twisted Sista collection are: SuchAnAfroholic, Nicole Rogers, GaPeach_est1083, Jesusismygrace, MissMika - congratulations ladies! Please email me your mailing address at info@browngirlgumbo.com by next Friday, January 27th. Thanks to all who left comments and reTweeted. They'll be more giveaways so stay tuned!


Also, be sure to check out Red Tails in theaters today. Support movies that tell our stories.  ;-)

NAACP Image Awards Nominees Announced

Even though there were some bright spots for us BGs and guys at last week's Golden Globes, our stars will shine even brighter at the 2012 NAACP Awards.

The nominees for the 43rd annual award ceremony honoring achievements in film, TV, music, literature, and writing/directing were announced today.

The Help has a great chance of sweeping the show with eight nominations, including Best Actress.

Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer star in The Help.

While Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer have a chance at taking home a couple awards, the cast from the BET hit series The Game have a shot of making a few touchdowns too. The show was nominated for four awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series.

New mom, Beyonce also earned four nominations from her most recent work: "4." Hmm...maybe she'll get lucky with her favorite number and win them all!

Click here for the complete list of nominations.

The NAACP Image Awards will air February 17 at 8pm on NBC. Will you be watching? Have you seen or read The Help?

Sanaa Lathan Joins Pantene

I've been a huge fan of Pantene Pro-V products for years. In fact, when I first stopped going to the shop and started maintaining my hair at home, I turned to Pantene to give me moisture and body that my mane craved. If you need some convincing that their products really produce healthy-looking hair, look no further than their newest muse - Sanaa Lathan. The naturally stunning actress, 40, is representing the brand's Nature Fusion Collection.

Sanaa Lathan on set of a Pantene print advertisement photo shoot.

Luckily, I was on-hand to see the Brown Sugar (that's STILL one of my favorite movies) beauty's strands up-close-and-personal at a press event held in Manhattan last month. Her hair looked as if she had just stepped out of a commercial. Ok, she probably did - but, that still didn't take away from how gorgeous and healthy her tresses looked. She told reporters, “My hair looks and feels great when I treat it well. One of the reasons I like the Pantene Pro-V Nature Fusion Collection is because it’s infused with a naturally-derived ingredient, Cassia that strengthens my hair against damage."

Pantene Pro-V Nature Fusion Moisture Balance Shampoo and Conditioner is available at drugstores nationwide.

The shampoo and conditioner from this innovative line includes natural moisturizing and shine-inducing properties derived from a blend of Cassia, Aloe Vera, Calendula, and Ginger ingredients. While I have yet to test Nature Fusion, if it makes my hair look soft and healthy like Sanaa's lovely locks sign me up.

Oh and for my fellow naturalistas - this formula supposedly complements our tresses too. ;-)

Do celebrity-endorsed products motivate you to try them? Will you try Pantene Pro-V's Nature Fusion? 

Also, don't forget to check out BGG tomorrow win I reveal the 5 winners from last week's Twisted Sista giveaway!

Spring Forecast Calls for Neon Sprinkles

If you're timid when it comes to testing daring makeup shades, rethink your beauty routine for spring. This upcoming season will be chock full of neon hues and eye-popping palettes to complement our skin tones and highlight our favorite features.

If you're afraid that neon makeup will leave you looking like Nicki Minaj on Halloween, don't be. Just opt for playing up one particular area and keep the rest of your face neon-free.

From vibrant lip colors to bright shadows and liners, step outside of your comfort zone this season and go for big and bold beauty. I'm always a fan of hot pink puckers so you'll definitely find me testing out this pop-of-color trend.

Solange rocking a hot-pink neon pout. 

One of my favorite brands, Bobbi Brown has an entire Neon & Nude collection that will equip your beauty arsenal with all the neon essentials.

Check them out:

Available at www.bobbibrown.com

Will you be wearing neon makeup shades this spring? 

Brandy and Monica Reunite in Music

It's hard to believe that it's been 14 years since Brandy and Monica collaborated with their Grammy-award winning hit, "The Boy Is Mine." What's even more difficult to believe is that was the same year I graduated from high school, but who's counting the years? Anyway, the R&B diva duo is back with a single, "It All Belongs To Me," which is set to release February 6 on RCA Records. 

The multi-platinum artists worked with Rico Love who wrote and produced the track. The song, which will appear on Monica's forthcoming album, "New Life" March 6, as well as on Brandy's yet-to-be-titled release later this spring. 

Will you be listening for this reunited collaboration? Were you a fan of "The Boy Is Mine?"

Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Even though he left this earth over 40 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s memory and legacy are still alive today. We BGs and guys should be especially grateful for his contribution toward making our lives better in this country. His unyielding desire for all people to be treated equally despite the color of their skin was remarkable. If it weren't for his courage and others civil rights activists like him, we wouldn't be where we are today.

Take a moment out of your day to stop and reflect and honor this outstanding man's legacy. Be sure to check out your local newpapers or go online to find MLK-related events taking place in your area today.

He may be gone physically, but his dream will live forever!

Have you visited the MLK Memorial in D.C? Are you planning to visit sometime this year?

Get Twisted: GIVEAWAY Twisted Sista Hair care Collection

Being a naturalista, I'm always trying various products in the hopes of finding the perfect shampoo or that conditioner that I'll love unconditionally. While there are many brands that work for my hair type, Twisted Sista is the latest line to positively speak to my strands.

Even though the Vitamin E-enriched formula complements my kinky/curly texture, it's for all hair types. Whether curly, thick, natural, or chemically straightened, this London favorite caters to women with varying hair needs, but who ultimately want frizz-free tresses.

My favorite product from the collection is the curl activator. It helps define and moisturize my curls without weighing them down. Plus, it has a pleasant subtle scent that doesn't offend my senses. 

Have you tried Twisted Sista Hair care Products? If you want to try,  5 LUCKY READERS will win the entire line which includes: De-Frizz Shampoo, De-Frizz Conditioner, Curl Activator, 30 Seconds Curls Spray, Blow Drying Creme, and Different Strokes Serum. Simply retweet this link and/or leave a comment. 

EBONY Launches Vintage Tumblr

If you're a fan of fashion, celebrity photography, vintage ads, and all things related to the African-American experience from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s, EBONY magazine's newly launched Tumblr will be your go-to destination for old-school inspiration.

The beautifully poised Dorothy Dandridge gracing the June 1962 cover.

Will you be checking out their Tumblr?

Game Face

With the start of The Game's 5th season last night, I'm sure most viewers tuned in to see what's in store for Melanie and Derwin and the rest of the characters, but being a beauty buff, I'm always admiring the cast's makeup.

All of the actresses usually sport a flawless face; especially Tia Mowry. When I caught up with the new mom last year, she divulged that the key to her natural beauty is simple: "I try to get at least 8 hours of sleep and drink a lot of water," she said.

While downing water and getting enough sleep may not be all we need to look camera-ready everyday, here are a few products that will help you get a fresh-faced, radiant glow similar to the one that our favorite Game character rocks:

Clockwise from Top Left: Organic 2-in-1 Bronzer & Blush available here; Too Faced Natural Kiss Natural Color Collection available here; Physician's Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Ultra Black Mascara available here; Too Faced Neutral Eye Shadow Collection available here; Bare Minerals Natural Lip Gloss available here; Shiseido Natural Eyebrow Pencil available here; Tarte Cheek Stain available here. 

Do you prefer natural-looking cosmetics or are you more adventurous with your makeup routine? 

Cocoa Cure

While chocolate typically serves as an one of the most delicious indulgences on the planet, it also boasts a bounty of beauty benefits. The cocoa plant is rich in anti-oxidants, which provides natural skin-enhancing properties. Plus, it's packed with magnesium and vitamin B1 that are known to produce calming effects.

From slowing down the appearance of Mother Nature's aging process to stress-relief to filling heart-shaped boxes, cocoa and chocolate can be a woman's secret beauty weapon and ultimate sweet-tooth fix.

Check out some of these cocoa-enriched beauty picks:

Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Whipped Souffle Shea Cocoa Butter available at www.walgreens.com for $8.50

Chocolala Massage Bars available at www.lushusa.com for $12.95

Cocoa Butter Hand & Body Lotion available at www.thebodyshop.com for $12

Carol's Daughter Chocolat Smooth Curly to Straight Set available at www.carolsdaughter.com for $54

Yuzu & Cocoa Bubbleroon available at www.lushusa.com for $5.95

L'Occitane Limited Edition Cocoa Flower Ultra Rich Body Cream available at www.usaloccitane.com for $24

Hurraw Chocoloate Lip Balm available at www.americanapparel.com for $.3.80

Ron Robinson 100% Pure Organic Cocoa Kona Coffee Body Scrub available at www.ronrobinson.com for $25

Vaseline Vitalizing Gel Body Oil available at www.walgreens.com for $7.50

Are you a chocolate lover? Do you purchase cocoa-based products?

Beyonce Welcomes Baby Girl Blue Ivy

The princess of hip-hop and R&B royalty has arrived. Beyonce gave birth to baby girl Blue Ivy Carter on Saturday. It is the first child for the superstar singer and her hip-hop mogul husband, Jay-Z who have been married since 2008. Hopefully, the birth their daughter will finally silence the ever-present conspiracy theory chatter about her pregnancy on the blogosphere.

Congratulations to the power couple!

Do you like the name Blue Ivy? Do you think "Ivy" comes from their fascination with the number "IV" or "4" as some blog readers have speculated?

Check out the super cute song proud papa Jay-Z recorded for his glorious bundle of joy here. 

Cool Kicks to Kickstart Your Cardio Plan

If those weight loss commercials featuring divas Janet Jackson, Jennifer Hudson, and Mariah Carey have motivated you to kick-start your New Year by getting fit, check out these cute sneaks that will have you hitting the pavement and gym in style.

Nike Women's Air Max Moto +9 Running Sneakers available at www.macys.com for $95

Puma Women's Faas 250 Running Sneaker available at www.endless.com for $46.75

Puma Future Cat M1 Big Cat Ferrari Fashion Sneaker available at www.endless.com for $75

Nike Women's Air Relentless Sneaker available at www.macys.com for $65

New Balance Women's 442 Sneaker available at www.dsw.com for $50

Y-3 Running Sneakers available at www.ssense.com for $130

Adidas Women's L.A Trainer W Sneakers available at www.macys.com for $49

Alexander Wang 'Dillon' Sneaker available at www.lagarconne.com for $385

Is working out more one of your New Year's resolutions? What do you do to stay fit?