Happy Presidents' Day

With most of us being out of school and work in honor of President's Day, I decided to take the day off from BGG. In the meantime, you can check out a Q&A I did with with Glam about Brown Girl Gumbo. I'll be back tomorrow stirring up everything that chic brown girls (and guys) love!

Last Minute V-Day Ideas for Your Guy

We all know that guys don't really care about Valentine's Day as much as we ladies do. However, everybody enjoys feeling appreciated and treated well so why not make his Valentine's Day special? In case you didn't buy your beau anything yet, don't fret -- I've compiled a list of easy and simple things that you can do that will make him swoon!

Prepare his favorite meal. Every man loves a good meal. You don't have to be Rachael Ray to pull off a quick and easy meal that will make his taste buds jump for joy. Of course add some champagne and candlelight to set the mood just right.

Add a playlist of love songs to his iPod that say all of the things you want to say to him. For example: Beyonce's "Dangeroulsy In Love."

Give him a manicure. Most men don't get their hands manicured as much as they should, tonight will be the perfect opportunity to get cozy with his cuticles!

Write him a note saying that you'll pre-order "The Wire" and "The Boondocks" full box sets as soon as they come out. What guy doesn't love these two shows?

Write a heart-felt poem that expresses the passion and love you have for him. Men appreciate loving words even if they claim to be tough.

Slip on your sexiest piece of lingerie. This will get his attention immediately and you won't have to do anything else!

BGG Speaks with eBay Style Director Constance White

Recently, I had the opportunity to interview eBay Style Director, Constance White. In that role she educates consumers about the #1 fashion site on the Internet -- ebay. She also authors a blog on eBay called "Fashion is My Life," where fashionistas can read about her take on the collections shown in NYC and L.A.

The prominent journalist's impeccable fashion sense and style expertise has landed her various appearances on TV shows such as "The Oprah Winfrey Show," "E! Fashion File," "Project Runway," "Today," and many others.

White has held posts as a style reporter for the renowned New York Times, executive fashion editor at Elle, as well as a position at Women's Wear Daily. Her work has also appeared in British Vogue, People, Essence, and The Chicago Tribune. She is also the author of "Stylenoir," a groundbreaking book on black style.

Check out our Q&A:

BGG:What were some of the most surprising fashion trends that you saw during NYC Fashion Week Fall 08?
Constance: I was really surprised that belts and fur are still so strong. The fur trend is more than four years old and belts have been around now for a year but they're both still hot.

BGG:What would you say is eBay's greatest advantage in the fashion marketplace right now?
Constance: Ebay's greatest advantage is the ability for buyers to find great bargains - fabulous fashion items at a great price. With people being cautious about spending and the real estate market at a low, eBay's a great place to save money and still get what you want.


One of the vintage gowns on display at the eBay Style Suite.

BGG:What has been the most searched eBay fashion item for the upcoming spring season so far?
Constance: Out of the fall 2008 trends seen on the runways last week, Booties are one of the most searched for trends on eBay.

BGG: I know that you've spoken out against the scarcity of black models on the runway before, how do you as a fashion expert plan to help bring more awareness to this problem?
Constance: Continuing to speak out about it in public, talking to designers, and booking models of all races are actions I will continue to take to help alleviate the problem, hopefully.

BGG: Being a fashion mogul, I'm sure you've come across many fantastic and one-of-a-kind pieces, but what is your most coveted fashion piece? Why?
Constance: My most coveted item is almost anything fabulous from Commes des Garcons. Something artistic and ingenious, but wearable.

BGG: What classic piece should every woman have in her closet?
Constance: Must have wardrobe items include: a white shirt, a few layering camisoles or T-shirts, a pinstripe pants suit, a pair of jeans, a black dress that goes from day into evening, a black skirt, diamond studs, a good watch or cellphone!, and a good hairstyle.

BGG: If you could choose your favorite fashion icon past or present, who would it be? Why?
Constance: My favorite fashion icon is Diana Ross. She's so over the top and glamorous and always cares about how she looks. She's worked with what she has. She's not the most beautiful woman in the world, but she has made herself into one of the most intriguing (not including her present hairstyle of course!).

BGG: What's the most exciting new fashion-related feature available to eBay users?
Constance: I really love the countdown feature : it
counts down auctions in real time. This way you don't have to keep refreshing your browser to see if you are winning an auction. It's perfect for helping you win that coveted fashion item on eBay.


Vintage Halston gown on display at the eBay Style Suite.

BGG: What key piece of advice could you give a woman of color who wants to break into the world of fashion journalism/commentary?
Constance: Most of the advice is the same I'd give to anyone of any color EXCEPT to women of color I particularly say - network! Get out of your own comfortable world, if you have not already. Insert yourself into the conversation (in a respectful way), invite someone out for drinks who is not your color, ask someone for advice who is white, hang out in the Hamptons, and not just with Puffy. You need the broadest possible network of contacts, if you are going to reach your goals- and they are reachable.

Advice for everyone: Get educated (preferably get a degree). Read magazines, books, the Internet. Intern. Research the career paths of achievers in the industry want to be in. Don't be discouraged.

For more inside fashion tips, visit Constance's eBay blog called, "My Fashion Life" at https://blogs.ebay.com/constance.white

Miracle Mineral Makeup

Last week during Fashion Week I was invited to a blogger meet-and-greet event hosted by Glam Media at the Libary Hotel in Midtown. At the very laid-back, yet somewhat posh event, I had the opportunity to mix and mingle with fellow bloggers while sipping wine and nibbling fancy finger foods. Being that I am an incessant makeup and beauty enthusiast, I was super excited that there was a professional makeup artist on hand from Jane Iredale - The Skin Care Makeup to give us willing participants mini-makeovers.

Even though I had gone to the event with my usual makeup already applied, I was excited to get it redone by a professional. Prior to the makeover, Kevin (the makeup artist) told us all about the benefits of Jane Iredale. I listened, but didn't really think that the products’ “mineral benefits” would be any different from all of the other cosmetic sales pitches you hear all the time.

To my pleasant surprise, all of the seemingly false beauty banter lived up to the hype. Kevin told us that the mineral foundations and concealers included acne-fighting agents while creating an anti-pancake barely-there feel and he was right.

I had a hideous pimple that appeared to have dissipated after the makeup application. Plus, it felt like I wasn't wearing any makeup although I had on foundation, concealer, eye shadow, blush and lip gloss (I could feel the gloss of course)! I must say, after looking in the mirror all I could think was, "Why couldn't I have known him 3 years ago so I could've hired him for my wedding!" I looked amazing and have never felt prettier.

If you have never used or heard of Jane Iredale's products, definitely check them out at www.janeiredaledirect.com. Trust me, they have a wide range of products capable of complementing every BG's skin tone!


Base loose powder


Blush (he used golden apricot on me)


Lash-lengthening mascara


Lip Gloss

BGs & Guys Take on the Grammys!

From Rihanna to Aretha Franklin, the Grammys last night brought out the best of the best in music. The wonderful world of technology made it possible for R&B heavy-hitter Alicia Keys to start the show with a sweet duet with "Old Blue Eyes" himself -- the late great Frank Sinatra. The night was packed with performances by some of our favorite artists.

Although I was a bit confused by the coupling of the 80s group, The Time with R&B pop sensation, Rihanna, their performance was entertaining nonetheless.

The absolute most entertaining act for me was Kanye West, who is the most talented hip-hop artist out right now. His powerful rendition of "Stronger" was a soul-stirring glow-in-the-dark punk party while his tear-jerking tribute to his late mother, Donda West, was compelling and sincere. He also took home the Best Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the the Year award.



The much-hyped duet of Beyonce with her obvious performance inspiration -- Tina Turner was quite lackluster, I don't know what I was expecting exactly, but whatever it was I didn't get it. The gospel set with Aretha Franklin, Bebe Winans, The Clark Sisters and Trinitee 3-5-7 brought church to the Staples Center.

Alicia Keys made another appearance to sing "No One," which I never get tired of no matter how many times I hear it. She topped her performance off with a surprise guest guitarist -- the strangely sexy John Mayer. Not only did she perform twice, she also took home the trophy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.

Our favorite nominee for rehab from across the pond, Amy Winehouse, brought down the house in London via satellite while sweeping the show with 5 awards.

The Grammys were good, but not great. I guess it reflects the state of music right now. Thanks to Kanye West and Alicia Keys they really made the show for me. For a complete list of winners go to www.grammys.org.


Alicia Keys


Beyonce


Jay-Z


Rihanna


Ludacris

Fashion Week Comes to a Close

Now that Fashion Week is coming to a close this evening, it’s time for me to sum it all up! Being that it was my first time being a member of the press invited to various fashion shows and parties, it was an overall good experience. However, waiting in line for 30 minutes or more for a 6-minute show wasn’t exactly my cup of tea, but hey, the things we do for the love of fashion, right?

The most popular trend that I noticed on the catwalks was: non-existent BGs. Don’t get me wrong, there were a few, but definitely not enough. Designer and fellow BG Tracy Reese definitely represented for us on the runway. From the looks of things, it seems like the fashion industry hasn’t changed their ways since the controversy surrounding the lack of color on the catwalks was brought to the forefront last year.

Aside from the model blackout, the most prominent fashion trends I noticed for the upcoming fall season were: rich greens, bold golds, punchy purples, satin, structured silhouettes and the already popular metallic fabrics and black tights.

As for the party scene, I attended a few that were cool, but none that blew me away. So for all of you who wish that you could’ve gone to some of these events, it was fun, but rest assured that it’s not as fabulous and glamorous as you may think. Hopefully, I'll have a more exciting experience tonight or in September during the Fashion Week Spring 2009 shows. Until then, check out some of these celebrities who attended a few of the fashion festivities!


Saleisha, winner of "America's Next Top Model" cycle 9.


Djimon Hounsou and Kimora Lee Simmons


Singer Amerie


Tyra Banks and Russell Simmons


Tyson Beckford


Joy Bryant


Christina Milian


Rihanna


Salt-n-Pepa


Star Jones and Vivica Fox


LisaRaye


Aisha Tyler

Black History Month Events

Now that we’re almost a full week into February, I thought that I would share some events that are taking place in honor of Black History Month around the country.

Even though BGG honors African-Americans on a daily basis, it’s great that the nation takes notice of our contributions to the country even if it happens to be the shortest month of the year!

Be sure to check out some of these events if you're in the area:

The 16th Annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival: A showcase of Black creative films that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Date: February 7 – 18th 2008
For more information visit: www.paff.org

Black History Showcase: People and Progress: Celebrate Black History Month with a showcase of traditional dance, poetry and singing performances.
Location: Clarendon Park Community Center in Chicago, IL
Date: February 23, 2008
For more information visit: www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

Resurrection: A unique blend of music, poetry, comedy and drama, RESURRECTION follows six interconnected men, ages 10 through 60—a child scientist, a young man from the projects preparing for college, an ex-convict, an executive, and a Bishop of a mega-church—through an evening that changes their lives forever.
Location: 14th Street Playhouse in Atlanta, GA
Date: February 2-17th 2008
For more information visit: www.woodruffcentertickets.org

Underexposed: The month-long exhibition is an opportunity to experience the artistry of photographers whose work is under-represented in the field—African-American women. Eight compelling photographers, who are based in New York, but hail from as far away as California and Barbados, are represented in underEXPOSED, showing work ranging from travel and nature photography to portraiture and photojournalism.
Location: Lincoln Center in New York, NY
Date: February 1-28th 2008
For more information visit: www.lincolncenter.org

Chic Status

In New York City, most BG fashionistas carry a designer “status” handbag. Whether it’s vintage or the newest one on the market, many women feel like they have to carry designer purses from Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Fendi, Prada and Chanel to maintain their fabulous fashion style. Personally, I’ve never been a fan of buying bags based on the designer. I don’t care if the bag was made in Italy or the United States, if I like it I’ll buy it. To me the quality and structure of the bag are paramount. As long as it looks good, I’ll wear it, however, I have never worn a knock-off and never will.

Although I have heard that classic A-list handbags will last you a lifetime. Maybe one day I’ll find out, but until I bring home enough money to frivolously purchase one of these super expensive purses, I’ll continue rocking my chic affordable leather Kenneth Cole bags!

What do you guys think?

Chanel Tote Available at www.efashionhouse.com for $1888


Louis Vuitton Manhattan Available at www.eluxury.com for $1560


Fendi Turtle Spy Bag Available at www.eluxury.com for $1910


Prada Calfskin Bowler Available at www.bergdorfgoodman.com for $1595

Super Tuesday's BG Superstar!

There's no classic BG who is as fierce (I’m tired of that word too, but it suits so well) as Miss Diana Ross also known as The Boss! Her dynamic presence demands attention and respect. From her massive mane to her eye-catching glittery frocks, Miss Ross is a fashion icon in her own right.

She’s brought us Motown hits and disco ditties that are known internationally. Not only has she gifted us with popular hit songs, she’s also utilized her bountiful talents by gracing the big screen with cult classics like "The Wiz," "Mahogany" and "Lady Sings the Blues."

I don’t know why, but today I just felt like giving this phenomenal BG diva her props for being a living legend who paved the way for female entertainers worldwide.

5 Diana Ross Tidbits:

Her birth name is Diane Ernestine Earle Ross.

Has been nominated for 12 Grammy awards, but never won.

Was nominated for an Oscar for "Lady Sings the Blues" in 1972.

Intended to call her third daughter (born in 1975) "Chutney", yet misspelled the name as "Chudney" on the birth certificate.

Billboard Magazine named her Female Entertainer of The Century.

Barack the Vote!

Super Tuesday is tomorrow and it’s super important for those of us who are living in one of the 24 states where primary elections are taking place to exercise our right to vote. This presidential race has been one of the most exciting and historical in recent memory. To have an African-American and a woman representing the Democratic Party is nothing less than spectacular!

In honor of my choice for the Democratic candidate - Barack Obama, I came across some cute tees and hoodies that support his campaign. A play on words from the successful Rock the Vote campaign made popular on MTV in the 1990s, these Barack the Vote shirts make a statement both fashion-wise and politically. Not only do they promote Obama, 25% of each purchase is donated to his campaign.

Even if you don’t plan to "Barack the Vote," please go out and let your voice be heard through your ballot. We can make a difference!


$20


$20



$20


$20


$20



$40

All shirts (they have guys' apparel too) are available at www.barackawear.com

Frenzied Fashion Week Amost Here

Yes, that time of the year is upon us New Yorkers yet again – Fashion Week! The crazy hustle and bustle of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week officially starts tomorrow and I’m so excited. This is my first year being invited to cover several fashion shows. I’m looking forward to seeing all the fashionistas and fashionistos from around the world clamor to see what designers like Tracy Reese, Diane Von Furstenberg, Nicole Miller and tons of other talented fashion designers have in store for Fall 2008.

I will bring you guys with me as I attend the shows, parties and all the craziness that goes hand in hand with Fashion Week. Hopefully, after receiving bad press for not using enough BGs as models in the past, leading designers will take notice and include more of us on the runways. If not, you’ll read about it from me and my fellow bloggers.

Stay tuned for the Fashion Week round-up!

Tyra Takes on Magazines!

TV talk show host, producer and former supermodel, Tyra Banks, just solidified a deal with the CW to produce a fashion magazine based reality series for the network. Banks will team up with veteran "America's Next Top Model" producer Ken Mok along with several other producers who make Bravo's "Project Runway," a runaway reality hit.

The new series has been described as "The Assistant" meets "The Devil Wears Prada." The show will also serve as a potential companion to "America's Next Top Model."

"It will be a competition show about aspiring assistants looking to become assistant editors at a fashion magazine," says Mok.

Like with most reality shows, experts are needed. The producers are currently negotiating with a popular fashion magazine to host the contestants. The editors from the chosen magazine will judge, as well as lend their expertise to the competing future journalists.

All magazine and fashion loving reality TV junkies will definitely tune in. I know I'll be watching!

Sweet & Sexy Treats

With Valentine’s Day a mere 2 weeks away, it’s time to tell your beau to check out BGG for great gift ideas! I know that many men and some women feel that it’s the quintessential pointless Hallmark holiday, but what’s wrong with having a day of receiving sweet treats from your significant other?

It’s the perfect excuse to slip into new sexy lingerie and eat deliciously decadent chocolates -- what's not to love? Tell him to start shopping now to beat the mad rush that's certain to ensue days prior to the romantic day.

Here are a few of my pretty gift picks:


Pink roses from 1-800-FLOWERS www.1800flowers.com for $69


Mesh Halter Babydoll Nightie available at Victoria's Secret www.victoriassecret.com for $34


Sterling silver diamond accented bracelets available at Macy's www.macys.com $34 each


Burberry Brit "Sheer" Eau De Toilette Available at Nordstrom www.nordstrom.com $52-$72


Godiva Chocolates $85 www.godiva.com


Kiss Me Exfoliating Lip Treatment available at Macy's www.macys.com for $15


Tiffany's sterling silver heart necklace available at www.tiffanys.com for $405

Little Sheba Comes Back!

Photo Courtesy of The New York Times

Recently, I saw another Broadway play, this time it was "Come Back Little Sheba," starring S. Epatha Merkerson. Known for her role on NBC's Law and Order, Merkerson plays a faded beauty queen named Lola in this dramatic revival first made popular back in 1950.

Set in a fictional Midwestern town over half a century ago, the show revolves around the character, Lola, who is a frumpy, middle-aged, yet childlike wife of a recovering alcoholic. The play explores the depths of her insecurity, regret and loneliness. Lola is a needy and sometimes annoying woman who desperately yearns to feel loved and wanted by her husband.

Merkerson's strength as a theater actor is truly exemplified in this role. Her expressions and spellbinding intensity successfully conveys to the audience her sorrow and dismay as if it were their own. Her co-star and veteran Broadway actor, Kevin Anderson's portrayal of Lola's alcoholic husband is also quite riveting. He sets the tone for this emotional rollercoaster with his subtle, yet perfectly executed gestures and speech that are akin to real alcoholics and substance abusers. The supporting cast also gives commendable performances and provides humorous spurts throughout the otherwise very serious show.

Even though this domestic drama boasts outstanding performances by seasoned actors, the overall plot couldn't hold my attention throughout the 2-hour show. If "Little Sheba" comes back to Broadway years from now, I'm not so sure I'd come back to see it.

"Come Back Little Sheba" is currently showing at the Biltmore Theater, 261 W. 47th Street in New York City. For ticket information call Telecharge at (212) 239-6200.

Meet Fashion Photographer: Piper Carter

Photo courtesy of Ward/VH-1

Being that I am a die-hard reality TV fan, I tuned in to watch VH-1's photography-based reality show, The Shot a few months ago. I knew I was going to be hooked since it combined my love of photography with addictive reality TV. The show featured the super talented BG fashion photographer, Piper Carter, competing with 9 other up-and-coming lensmen for a chance at photographic excellence!

Her intense passion for her craft and abundant charisma made her an ideal person to interview for BGG. I was lucky enough to speak with her recently. Check out the Q&A!

BGG: Where are you from?
Piper: I’m from Detroit. Actually the exact street of the original Motown!

BGG:Do you currently live in NYC?
Piper: Yes, I currently live in New York City.

BGG: How long have you been a photographer?
Piper: I have been a photographer since 1992!

BGG: What made you decide to become a professional photographer?
Piper: I became a professional photographer because I wanted to make beautiful images of women.



BGG: What kinds of images do you enjoy photographing?
Piper: I am a fashion photographer, so I enjoy working with interesting lighting, locations & situations. I enjoy coming up with cool ideas based on film imagery and sort of recreating the atmosphere or psychological state.

BGG: Describe your photography style.
Piper: My style is a combination of raw, earthy, cinematic, strong, beautiful, simple and fresh.



BGG: What inspires you as a photographer?
Piper: As a photographer, I am inspired by beautiful cinematography in films. Great lighting I see on the street and in the paintings of the masters from the northern renaissance.

BGG: What made you audition for the VH-1 reality TV show, The Shot?
Piper: Actually, I got a call from VH-1’s producers in NYC asking me to come in and audition.

BGG: Do you have any regrets about appearing on the show?
Piper: I am happy I did the show. It was a great learning experience and I received lots of exposure and recognition for my work.

BGG: In three words describe your personality.
Piper: My personality is so vast; I am not sure if I can capture myself in three words or I may give the wrong impression if you catch me on a different day. But here goes: friendly, humorous and inspiring (lots of people tell me I inspire them).



BGG: What was your most enjoyable shoot on the show?
Piper: My most enjoyable shoot was the underwater of course because I won! Plus my image was amazing! I loved the dress, the girl, the lighting. Everything was just gorgeous! I was hoping to capture an image that was breathtaking and I did. I saw my shot in my head as we discussed the plan of action; and I executed it precisely as I saw it. The model took direction extremely well. It was very successful and it felt good shooting it.

BGG: The least enjoyable?
Piper: My least enjoyable shoot on the show was the kids because children are not my aesthetic.

BGG: Why?
Piper: I like to shoot women. I will shoot what the client wants of course, but my aesthetic is women. I like to create images based on the silhouette and structure of a woman’s body, life, etc…I am always thinking about romance when I shoot. For my taste children do not offer what I am hoping to achieve with my images: confident, strong and sexy women living an awesome life filled with romance and beauty. It was difficult for me to “see” children in my images.

BGG: Name a few publications where your work has been featured?
Piper: I’ve had work published in British Elle, Trace, SPIN, Essence and my videos on French Vogue’s website.



BGG: If you could choose one celebrity BG (brown girl/woman) to photograph, who would she be if you haven’t already photographed her?
Piper: Jurnee Smollett, she is amazing! I’ve loved her as an actress since Eve’s Bayou and I had been looking for her in film roles ever since. I love her talent and think she’s absolutely beautiful! She’s very passionate and comes across well on film. I have so many ideas for her. I would love to do collaborations with her and do my fashion film series. I have so many ideas for her. I’ve started doing fashion films: they’re anywhere from 15 seconds to 2 minutes and are purely visual candy). I could shoot her again and again in a studio with the fan blowing her hair and just one light or on location walking on 125th Street in Harlem wearing legwarmers and a leather jacket. I’m just thinking off the top of my head. She’s incredible!

BGG: Is there a tip that you can give BGG readers to help them take their best shot while being photographed?
Piper: Be confident! Don't think too much. Practice in front of the mirror and take lots of self-portraits so you can learn your best angles.

BGG: What advice can you tell other aspiring and younger BGs who want to make it in the male-dominated photography world?
Piper: I can say be true to your image. Learn as much as you can, drink lots of water & get rest because it’s a hectic field. Have faith and shoot everyday! Meet as many people as you can. Daydream a lot! Reach out to companies and let them know you exist. Read trade publications like PDN and get yourself listed in LeBook. Test as often as possible. Always tell yourself yes and practice yoga. Not only does the heavy breathing alleviate stress, but constant stretching helps you get into awkward positions so you can get the best shot!

All photos were taken by Piper. For more information check out her website: www.pipercarter.com