Cream of the Crop

As you guys know, I’m always on the prowl for pretty blushes and bronzers. My latest obsession with these cheek-enhancing products is cream blush. I’ve been using one brand in particular for the past couple of weeks just to switch things up a bit since winter arrived.

I’ve found that using cream-based blushes are actually great alternatives to powder blushes during the colder months because they add a bit of much-needed moisture to dry skin. Plus, they provide an enviable dewy look that is usually only attainable during the warm seasons. So go ahead and get a head start on summer with a sexy, creamy cheek color. TIP: Berry-hues, dark reds and deep pinks are the most complementary on many BG skin tones.

Have you ever used a cream blush? If so, what are your thoughts?


Jane Iredale Cream Blush available at www.janeiredaledirect.com for $26


Nars Cream Blush available at www.nordstrom.com for $23.50


Clinique Blush Wear Cream Stick available at www.saks.com for $18.50


M-A-C Blushcream available at www.nordstrom.com for $18


DuWop Blush Therapy Retreat available at www.skinstore.com for $22


Prescriptives Blush More or Less Creamy Color available at www.prescriptives.com for $21.50


Revlon Cream Blush with Pop-up Mirror available at www.drugstore.coom for $8.81


Ulta Cream Blush available at www.ulta.com for $6.50

Notorious!

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of catching a press screening of the upcoming film, Notorious. This biopic based on the life of the late rapper, Christopher Wallace better known as the "Notorious B.I.G" or "Biggie Smalls" gives viewers a glimpse into the world of the legendary lyricist from his rise to fame until his untimely death.

Most of the actors do an excellent job portraying their famous characters, especially breakout star Jamal Woolard who plays Biggie. However, Derek Luke as "Puff Daddy" (his moniker back then) wasn’t exactly what I was expecting – I guess Puff's unique swagger just can't be copied.

Overall, it was a respectable movie that I’m sure hip-hop fans and moviegoers around the world will enjoy; it’s just too bad Biggie isn't here to witness it.

Do you plan on seeing, Notorious? Were you a fan of his music? If so, what is your favorite song by him?

Check out the trailer:


In theaters nationwide on Friday, January 16th!

P.S For those readers in NYC, did you notice how the Union Square - 14th Street train station is like a huge billboard for the movie!! LOL

Cleaning Out My Closet!

Now that we’re all starting fresh due to the New Year, taking inventory of our closets is definitely in order. This past weekend, I decided to purge some items that are no longer welcome in my wardrobe. For a few of the garments I found myself asking, “What was I thinking when I bought this,” or “was this ever in style?”

Those unflattering fashions were donated to my local charity while others were turned in for cold-hard cash at Beacon’s Closet, a NYC-based store where you can sell, trade and donate clothes.

If you decide to clean out your closet, be sure to hang on to these timeless pieces that will take you from season to season!


LBD (these frocks are my weakness…you can never have too many!)



Lightweight scarf (perfect for chilly days or summer nights)


White cotton/Spandex blend t-shirt (long & short sleeve - the most versatile item I own!)


Cashmere cardigan (if not cashmere, any fabric in this sweater style will do!)

What do you do with your unwanted clothes? Do you swap with friends, donate or hold on to them hoping you'll fit into them again or they'll come back in style?

Beat the Winter Skin Blues!

Since winter is here to stay for the next few months, now is definitely NOT the time to skimp on moisturizing! Harsh winter winds can wreak havoc on our skin if not properly treated. The best way to protect it during these cold days is to use a facial moisturizer (ideally with SPF 15). I never leave the house without applying a double dose of Oil of Olay; it's the best for maintaining a healthy glow, while combatting dull, winter-ridden skin!

Do you double-up your daily moisturizing routine during the winter? If so, what is your favorite brand?

Check out some of these top moisturizers!


Oil of Olay Complete Daily Moisturizer available at www.drugstore.com for $10.99


Juice Beauty Organic Facial Moisturizer Concentrate available at www.sephora.com for $36


Hope in a Jar Moisturizer available at www.sephora.com for $15


Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense Facial Moisturizer SPF-50 available at www.drugstore.com for $13.99


Ambi Facial Moisturizer available at www.target.com for $9.49


Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 (4 oz.) available at www.barneys.com $29.50


Dove Deep Moisture Facial Cream available at www.skinstore.com for $6.99

Off to a Great Start!

Happy New Year!! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. I had an absolutely perfect time with my family during my trip to Chicago. Although the weather caused a bit of concern initially, ultimately I arrived safely.

I can't believe it's 2009!! There are quite a few things that I hope to accomplish within the next 12 months considering it will be my last full year in my fabulous 20s!

What are your hopes and goals for this year? Do you ever make resolutions? If so, do you ever keep them?

Here are a few of mine:


Enhance BGG!


Write more!


Make more time to call family & friends (some don't count texting as communicating! LOL) Me with my cousins and sister (orange).


Take Spanish lessons (I know a little, but not enough!)


Travel abroad (at least once this year)!

Light My Fire!

During this time of year, there’s nothing more festive than lighting a few candles! Since I don’t have any holiday décor showcased in my tiny apartment, I always opt to light a few candles to create a cheerful, yet relaxing environment. For me, being surrounded by a few scented candles is an instant pick-me-up! Plus, they make for perfect inexpensive gifts (although I’d recommend buying a non-scented one if you aren’t sure of the person’s scent preference) for both men and women!

Do you enjoy lighting candles? What's your favorite scent?

Check out some of these!


Coach Signature Candle available at www.coach.com for $65


Calypso St. Barth Mix & Match Candle Set available at www.calpyso-celle.com for $75


Diptyque Basile Holiday Amber Candle available at www.smallflower.com for $78


Aunt Sadie's Candy Cane Candle available at www.urbanoutfitters.com for $12.99


Jo Wood Organic Samka Natural Wax Candle available at www.beautyhabit.com for $85


Light My Pink Scented Candle available at www.victoriassecret.com for $20


Le Couvent Des Minimes Verbana & Lemon Scented Candle available at www.macys.com for $20


L'Occitane Cherry Blossom Scented Candle available at www.loccitane.com for $22

Spa Scents 3-in-1 Apple Blossom Scented Candle available at $5.99 at www.sallybeauty.com

**The winner of the Sedu Flat iron is Blair! Congrats! Please send me your mailing address info.

The Most Fabulous Flat Iron!

Just when I thought that I’d already found the perfect flat iron, I was introduced to the Sedu Revolutionary Professional Nano Tourmaline Ionic Styler! The difference between this one and my other favorite is the fact that the Sedu iron seems to provide less heat damage. I say this because I don’t get that dreaded burning smell when I’m doing my hair like I did with other one.

Plus, this flat iron has a sleek design and anti-slip edges that prevent hair from slipping, which eliminates snagging. I must admit, the best thing about it is that it comes with a heatproof iron pouch making it perfect for the girl on the go! As much as I despise doing my hair, this flat iron actually makes the task less arduous! I might even try doing something new with my do for the holidays!


Available at www.folica.com for $139.95

Have you ever tried this flat iron? Well one lucky winner will get the chance, right in time for the holidays! Just leave a comment today and the winner will be selected randomly and announced tomorrow.

BGG's Christmas Wish List!

This holiday season has been the first year when there is absolutely nothing that I really want for Christmas. My family has asked me countless times what it is that I’d like to have for Christmas, but I can’t come up with a thing! I guess if I had to choose something, although I don’t REALLY need or desperately want anything, it would be from the following list. On second thought, maybe there are a few things I'd like! LOL

What’s on your wish list this year? What is your all-time favorite Christmas present – ever?


Satin Pajama Set available at www.victoriassecret.com for $59.50


Zadro Double-Sided Illuminated Makeup Mirror available at www.justvanities.com for $79.95


Tarte The Vanity Limited Edition Set available at www.sephora.com for $52


Diamond Fascination 14K Gold Diamond Accent Hoops available at www.kohls.com for $300 (orig. $750!)


Pink & Gold Journal available at www.papyrus.com for $24.95


Gold Crystal Pen available at www.papyrus.com for $8.95


Marc by Marc Jacobs Lock it Up Camille bag available at www.shopbop.com for $249


Diamond Squares & Circles picture frame available at www.papyrusonline.com for $68


Homedics Pedicure Spa Salon Footbath available at www.walmart.com for $49.88

Chic Coats for Cold Days!

Now that there’s absolutely no denying that Old Man Winter is definitely here and will be for the next few months, it’s time to bundle up in coats that will keep us warm without sacrificing style! Whether you prefer a classic textured tweed or a puffy down-feather filled parka, this season the options are endless for all coat-lovers (like me)!

What's your favorite winter coat style?

Check out a few of these all under $150


Double-Breasted Military Coat available at www.victoriassecret.com for $139


City Style Fur Hooded Coat available at www.nyandcompany.com for $51.98 (orig. $129.95)


City Style Hounstooth Coat available at www.nyandcompany.com for $129.95


Anorak Plumiya Coat available at www.mango.com for $117.99


City Style Wool Captain Coat available at www.nyandcompany.com for $109.95


Bobbie Solid Coat available at www.delias.com for $99


Jessica Simpson Pauline Buckled Coat available at www.nordstrom.com for $105


Textured Cocoon Coat available at www.bananarepublic.com for $129 (orig. $250)


Hilary Radley New York Belted Trench available at www.nordstrom.com for $105.90