Instaweek 5.21.13

Back In Action

I'm back guys! After spending the good part of last week in San Juan, I was pleasantly surprised to return to beautiful sunny weather here in NYC. I had such a great time relaxing (and working!) beachside. San Juan is a beautiful city. This week, look out for a full review of places to eat, sleep & play in San Juan.

All About Hair 

First off, can we talk about how Solange SLAYED her Complex Magazine shoot. That girl looks flawless!

Speaking of hair, I'm still going strong with my Indique Mix & Match curly look! I posted a video back when I was prepping for LBS at Coachella, and these curls seem to get better with every wash. I'm currently planning my summer look. Contemplating box braids once again. We'll see!

New Products I Love

I was invited to Brush Salon in NYC last week for a launch event featuring John Frieda Styling Tools by Conair. When it comes to styling your hair, the tools can really make or break your look. John Frieda by Conair has a new line of styling tools including a flat-iron, a hairdryer and a hot air brush that use advance ionic technology to prevent frizzies, especially good for curly-haired gals like myself. I used the blowdryer to on my curls with the diffuser attachement and it revealed the beautiful head of hair you see above. I'm sold!

Ann Taylor LOFT invited me to their Summer Fridays launch party last week and revealed the newest pieces from their summer collection - amazing stuff! I scored the lace minidress above, and I'm also obsessed with a tribal print jumpsuit that isn't coming out until July. I don't normally shop at LOFT but their new collection definitely gives me a reason to make a faithful return.

Like I promised in last week's Instaweek, I finally did a review of MAC RiRi Woo and compared it side by side with my fave Ruby Woo. Check out the results here.

I hope you lovelies have a wonderful week! Any plans for Memorial Day weekend?

My Instaweek 5.13.13

Happy Monday loves! I hope you guys all enjoyed your Mother's Day weekend and kept up with all things fabulous here on LoveBrownSugar.com. In case you haven't, here's the scoop on LBS and in my crazy life (all via Instagram):

The Makeup Show (NYC)

Last Monday, I attended The Makeup Show here in NYC and got my entire life getting information on the latest & greatest in cosmetics, learning about social media from fab panelists and fellow bloggers Ty Alexander of Gorgeous in Grey, Lianne Farbes of The Makeup Girl and Felicia Walker Benson of ThisThatBeauty. Among my favorite discoveries? OCC (Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics) launched a new collection called LIP TAR: STAINED GLOSS, available for purchase May 23rd. Danielle of The Style & Beauty Doctor has a detailed review of the line. Also, one of my fave celebrity makeup artists AJ Crimson has launched a new line of BB Creams which I cannot WAIT to give a try. I've been trying to find a BB cream for my skin tone for ages! Review coming soon. The Makeup Show is coming to a city near you soon - check the website for more info.

Brown Girls Giving Life

Congrats to Ms Kerry Washington on her very first ELLE Magazine cover. If you haven't already, check out her spread here. Also, the streets are going wild for Ciara's new hair look. Her latest haircut is causing quite a stir and prompting spontaneous haircuts round the country. Check it out here!

Motherly Love

I saw so many cute Instagram and Facebook pics of you guys and your moms yesterday! Mother's Day always makes me feel warm & fuzzy inside. I absolutely love my Mom. She's my shero. She taught me to follow my dreams and not to wait for anyone to give me permission to be great. I'm beyond grateful for her.

New Product Obsessions

I mentioned this service in my Last Minute Mother's Day gift guide, but I am absolutely obsessed with Original Scent. I went to see the perfumers behind the brand last week and they handcrafted a scent for me based on questions about my likes/dislikes, my lifestyle and personality. It is such a great gift - full review coming soon

RiRi Woo for MAC is my newest lipstick obsession. I don't care if it looks like Ruby Woo. RiRi's signature is on it and that's enough for me (true fan status, no?). Anyway, I'll be posting a review on the differences between the two later this week so stay tuned!

Sun & Sand in San Juan

This week I'm blogging live from the sunny shores of San Juan, Puerto Rico. I decided to take a last minute biz trip here and while I'm here I'll be doing reviews of some of my favorite places and trying out new hotspots and getting the scoop on all things amazing in San Juan for you lovelies who may be planning Caribbean getaways for the coming season. I'm being hosted by the beautiful & super chic boutique San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel. Puerto Rico is such a great destination for a last minute getaway and there are some really chic yet affordable options if you're planning a trip here. Stay tuned for more updates!

Have Instagram? Follow me boo! Instagram.com/LoveBrownSugar

Instaweek 4.8.13

Happy Monday guys! I don't know about you, but I'm in a damn good mood because finally the weather has peaked here in NYC and it is above 60 degrees! Let the church say Amen. Anyway, here's my weekly Instagram recap:

My girls Janelle and Jill

Two of my absolute favorite music artists have both found themselves on the covers of my fave magazines - Jill Scott in Ebony and Janelle Monae in Essence this month. It is a rare occasion that I'm clamoring to the newsstand to pick up two must-have issues. For me, these ladies are the epitome of class and artistic talent combined. They have both made a conscious decision not to sacrifice themselves or their art for this business. They make women like myself embrace our differences with pride. And they also have a thirst for life that really shines through their music.

Spring Is In The Fingertips

It's officially spring! Not only am I excited that the weather is finally above 50 degrees but I'm ecstatic about the fun nail art ideas I can now experiment with. I attended a nail art and fashion event at the French Connection store in SoHo, sponsored by nail lacquer brand Ginger & Liz. They did really fun floral designs for all the guests. Not to mention, the French Connection SS13 collection is amaze. Such a great night!

Coachella

It's official guys! I'm headed to the Coachella Music Festival in partnership with Indique Hair. I'll be out there in my cutoffs and crop top snapping street style pics, Instagramming my life away and doing interviews while vibing to indie tunes - I can't wait! I've been trying to get out to Coachella for two years now. So happy to finally be attending and experiencing it for the first time. Started from the bottom now we here! *hits my dougie*

Growth

This weekend I stumbled on some old pics of Solange back in 2009 when she first made a natural hair statement by chopping off her long locks and opting for a TWA. Back then there were so many critics - myself included. I'll admit it, I was totally shocked by her new look. I thought it was a cry for attention! But little by little as I started to report on her red carpet appearances and I witnessed how confident she was with her bold new look, I fell in love with it. Just a few weeks before I started my tenure at Honey Magazine, they were the first publication to shoot Solange's new look. I started there, super proud to be part of a staff that was on the cusp of trendsetters and statement-makers like Solo. And similar to her TWA, I've grown so much since then! It's almost like I started my journey to true self-discovery at the same time she cut her hair. So this shoot will always remind me of that pivotal time in my life.

What about you? Is there a pop culture event or celebrity news story of the past that reminds you of a pivotal time in your life? Share your experience below!

(oh and follow the kid on Instagram @LoveBrownSugar)

Instaweek 1.14.12

Can you believe it's already the middle of January? It feels like just yesterday I was recapping my NYE outfit and now I'm on my way to picking out a Birthday Suit (one that involves clothes).

So last week was full of news. From Rihanna's new hair to Beyonce's GQ cover, Nicki Minaj's clothing line and brand new music from Destiny's Child. It was quite the eventful week.

In LBS news, I have a big announcement to make very shortly. I'll be taking yet another trip to LA next month for a huge event that I can't wait to dish to you guys about. More deets coming soon, but I'll just say that I'm super excited and I need to find a dress stat!

I'm determined, this year, to redefine my style & do things outside the norm just because I can. So what it's January? I'm wearing neon nail polish. So what I'm not in grade school? I'm wearing a snapback, sneakers (platform of course), and a backpack. Stop living by everyone else's definition of normal or acceptable. Make your own rules.

What rules are you breaking this year?

My Insta-Year 2012 & 20 Things I'm Thankful For

I cannot believe how quickly 2012 has come & gone. I feel like I was doing this year-end Project 365 review post just yesterday and suddenly we're approaching the dawn of a completely new year, and here I am again. My 20's are flying by! Sheesh.

I have so many incredible things to be thankful for this year. 2012 was truly a year of growth and constant change for me. I think I experienced the most changes in my adult life during this year. From career changes to lifestyle changes to personal life changes and self-renewal, this was a pivotal year for me. I've learned so much about myself from all the trials & tests I've had to endure. My faith is way stronger and I have clarity of mind about where I see myself and what I truly want out of life. The Quarter-Life Crisis is real, y'all. But necessary. Most important lesson learned? Count your blessings.

Here's a list of My 2012 Top 20 Things I'm Thankful For:

1. My first trip to San Francisco

San Francisco is a city after mine own heart. From the incredible sight-seeing, the beautiful rolling hills, the coastal views and the amazing green lifestyle there, to the tech vibes and the diversity of the city, I fell head over heels.  I love it and I can't wait to go back!

2. The birth of my newest nephew

There's nothing more beautiful to me than the birth of a new soul. We added a happy addition to my family this year - my nephew Ezekiel. My other nephew Justice has made cameos on the blog from time to time (particularly this time I dressed him up in my Russian fur hat Ralph). I love these two boys with all my heart.

My 3 year old nephew, and my new 8 month old nephew

3. Taking Risks With My Look

Before this year, I hadn't colored my hair at all since 2006. Big step for me! I mean, yes it was colored extensions so not actually "my" hair, but it was still major for me to embrace the color and the change. Dana Gibbs of Dana's Loft did an excellent job on my BET Awards look. I think it was my best hair ever. Ombre ends might make a reappearance on this head in 2013.

4. My First Published Travel Story

I have always been addicted to travel. Any major trips I take, I document them right here on the blog and it's always been something I was really passionate about. So it was a MAJOR deal for me to have my first travel story published in a print magazine. I had the opportunity to do so in the April 2012 issue of UPTOWN Magazine. I'll never forget it!

5. My first "Home" away from home

So this year I started my new Home Improvement series. I moved into a new apartment in the city that just has so much character and, for once, really feels like "my" home. I've been really enjoying making it my own and giving it a personal touch.

6. Discovering LiSi Cosmetics 

By far one of the best moments of 2012 was my first time walking into the flagship LiSi Cosmetics store in downtown NYC. From that day on, I have been hooked and the brand has been so incredibly supportive of me and my endeavors. I've had so much fun spreading the word about them. From the Digital Launch Party to the creation of my nail polish color. I'm beyind grateful for having stepped foot into that store.

7. My Trip to the BET Awards

The fact that this blog all started with a runway recap of the BET Awards in 2009, it really brought things full circle for me when I was invited by Ford to be a special guest in their Ford Hotspot in LA. Not only was it my first time in LA, but my Road To BET Awards series really hit home for me because it truly has been a journey since starting my site.  The opportunities I've been given go beyond my wildest dreams.

8. My Trip to New Orleans

I almost didn't make it to the Essence Music Festival this year. But I had always wanted to go and so instead of being rational, I threw caution to the wind and booked a last minute flight out to New Orleans. Best decision I made all year. I had an absolute blast hanging with my blogger besties in one of the most beautiful and culture-rich cities in this country.

9. My Successful Whole 30 Challenge

So towards the end of the summer, you guys who follow me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook probably recall me jumping head first into a full 30-day detox called The Whole 30. This was life-changing for me. It's incredible to see firsthand how your body reacts to cutting out toxic foods. I never felt better. I'm already planning my next Whole 30 journey for 2013. It may be happening sometime in February, stay tuned.

10. Being Valued as a Voice

This year I had the pleasure of doing a number of speaking engagements and panel discussions =- something I've never done before! This year, I spoke at the Blogworld & New Media Expo, the Rising Affluent Conference, the BlogHer Conference, a Fashion Blogger panel for a Youth Women's group as well as a PENN Alumni panel. You guys already know I love to talk, so being able to share some of my experience in this industry with other folks who really care? Priceless. I can't wait to do more of it in 2013.

11. My First Runway Fashion Show

BlogHer blessed me with the opportunity to strut my stuff in their very first runway fashion show. I had SUCH a blast being in the company of other awesome bloggers and walking down a runway for the first time. I even landed a beauty feature on Elle.com because of it. So much fun!

12. Hosting Social Women Brunches

This year, myself and Yoli of Yoli's Green Living co-hosted a series of brunches entitled "Social Women". We had esteemed guests like comedienne actress Kim Coles and even socialite/entrepreneur Angela Simmons. I've always love hosting events so this was a true accomplishment for me.

13. My First ATL Weekend (Turned Week)

There's nothing like a plate of Southern food to make you feel at home, even when you're away from home. I visited Atlanta for the first time this year and what was supposed to be a quick weekend getaway turned into an extended stay due to Hurricane Sandy. I didn't complain. I connected with ATL friends, ate tons of Southern cuisine and counted my blessings, considering the tragedy that was taking place in my hometown.

14. My Successful 2 Year Natural Hair Journey

Two years natural guys! Can you believe it? I didn't think I would make it without the creamy crack but I did! And the journey is still going strong.

15. My Daytime TV Debut (Katie Couric Show)

I had the pleasure of being Katie Couric's behind-the-scenes live blogger on her daytime talk show this year. I got to meet Katie, I wrote a post for her website and I was treated to a front row seat at the show (with laptop in tow). It was a great experience. 

16. Taking Part in Political History...Again

I voted back in 2008 for what I believed would never actually happen. Having a First Family of color for the past 4 years has been nothing short of amazing for me. Our ancestors fought so incredibly hard to make dreams like this come true. I was happy this year to participate in his re-election. Not because of his skin color, but because I believe in his values and what he plans to do for this country. I'm not really big into politics, but I was proud to do my civic duty this year.

17. Meeting Iyanla Vanzant

Guys, I am ONE degree of separation from Oprah! That's right, your girl met Iyanla Vanzant at a launch dinner for her new show "Iyanla Fix My Life" not too long ago. I was honored, to say the least. She has such a warm presence, and her show on OWN network is really touching lives. This night was monumental for me.

18. My BlogHer Style Squad Appointment

I am a super proud member of BlogHer Publishing Network's very first Style Squad. I contribute posts to their site and they now service ads right here on LoveBrownSugar.com (as you guys probably have noticed on the right sidebar and top header). It's beyond my wildest dreams that I'm able to make a little chump change from doing what I love. I'm thankful to BlogHer for believing in me and supporting my dream.

19. LoveBrownSugar Nail Lacquer

What can I really say? This is something I can now check off my bucket list. I have a beauty product in my name! Even now, over a month after the announcement, I'm still in awe. My Limited Edition "LoveBrownSugar" nail polish is still available for sale HERE. I love & appreciate you guys who have supported me by purchasing bottles of your own!

20. Surviving 2012

From bad breakups to bouts of unhappiness and depression, nearly losing loved ones in my immediate family and feeling like all hope was lost. I even stopped blogging for nearly a month! God's grace is really the only reason I can say I'm still here. So I'll go forward counting my blessings and remembering how important it is to give thanks for the positive things in your life. One of which, for me, is your readership and your continuous support. I'm beyond blessed to have readers (and friends, really) like you all. I wish you guys continous success, prosperity and true happiness for the upcoming year!

What's one major thing you accomplished in 2012? What are you most proud of?

Instaweek 11.12.12

In The Morning
Happy Monday! I have to say, Monday mornings are normally quite mundane for me. There's something about Monday morning that conjures up feelings of dread and anxiety. I stumble out of bed, rush out the door (because I'm normally running late), hop on a crowded train to work and count the many ways I'll probably have a horrible week. This Monday is different though. Not that my circumstances have changed. But I woke up this morning feeling overwhelmingly grateful for all the wonderful things I have in life. I'm determined to make this a great week despite undesirable circumstances. The minute you take time to change your perspective and focus on what's great about your life instead of all the things horrible about it, your emotions makes a shift as well. Positivity breeds positivity and the same goes for negativity. So this week, I implore you guys to reset the negative mental tape in your head and focus on seeing the positive in your life situation. It makes a HUGE difference, trust.

New Beauty
Cece's Curls are back y'all! I spent last week experimenting with new hair styles. My 2 Year Natural anniversary is coming up soon and I'm ecstatic. My curls have grown out so much. I'll have some posts up later this week about my hair style experiments. On the hair topic, the wonderful folks at Jane Carter sent me a sample of their Curl Defining Cream. I plan on giving it a try this week. Also, Maybelline has recently released their own version of the nail applique trend (top left)- Maybelline Color Show Fashion Prints Nail Stickers. They sent me samples of two of their styles. Pics of that should be coming soon as well. Can't wait to try them!

Rocked The Vote
Whoop whoop! I'm sure I'm not the only one ecstatic about last week's election results. I'm happy I had the opportunity to fulfill my civic duty and I hope you guys were able to as well. Also, thanks to those of you who entered my Rachel Roy "VOTE" tee contest - the winner has been announced on the page here.

Happy Birthday Ursula Stephens (Slash...I Was 2 Feet From Rihanna Y'all!)
Celebrity hairstylist and Motions Haircare spokesperson Ursula Stephen celebrated her birthday last Thursday evening at Boudoir in downtown NYC. Ursula is most noted as the hairstylist who transforms Rihanna's coif ever so often and drastically puts beauty aficionados in a state of shock & wonder with her red carpet looks. Yep, she's major. I was invited to celebrate her birthday last week along with countless other bloggers, editors and celebs like Taraji P. Henson, Toccara and (gasp!) Rihanna (middle left)! Y'all. She walked in and I nearly fainted. She was about 2 feet from me. And she's absolutely gorgeous in person. I didn't get to "meet" her sadly. She made a beeline for VIP and stayed there. It wasn't like My Chance Encounter With Kanye BUT it was magical nonetheless.

How did you guys spend your week? Talk to me!

Instaweek 11.5.12

Happy Monday all! I'm praying that those of you who have been affected by the aftermath of Hurricane  Sandy are quickly recovering. It's been a crazy week for so many but if you're still alive, you're blessed! Have to be thankful for that. Here's what I got into last week:

Sandy Situation: So as I mentioned last Monday, I was stuck in Atlanta after my flight back to New York was cancelled due to Hurricane Sandy. To be honest, it was a blessing in disguise. Though I probably gained about 10 pounds from all that amazing Southern cuisine, I was safe and sound at a friend's home. I ended up staying until Thursday evening when my flight was rescheduled and returning to my NYC apartment in mint condition, with power/lights/electric, etc.

Helping Hands: Though I lucked out as far as having no complications at my apartment related to Sandy, other New Yorkers were not as fortunate. A few friends and I devoted our Saturday this weekend to volunteering with the New York Cares organization to help underprivileged NYC residents in lower Manhattan who are at a severe disadvantage due to Hurricane Sandy. We handed out food, fresh water, pampers and other imperative supplies to families who were affected by the storm. If you're in the NYC area and you have the ability to help out this week, check their website here OR check out NYC Service for even more ways to help.

Back In Action: I'm back in the fold, back to posting regularly, buying too many pairs of shoes and galavanting around town (or wherever the MTA is functioning right now). Last week's events were truly eye-openers for me. Live every day like it's your last.

How was your week? Were you affected at all by Hurricane Sandy? Feel free to share!

My Instaweek: 9.17.12

New York Fashion Week has finally come to a close and as such, I spent this entire weekend doing absolutely nothing. And it felt great! I went for a hot stone massage, had brunch and slept. Yes, quite the uneventful weekend but here's a snapshot of all I got into last week:

- Huge shoutout to the folks at Birchbox and the manicurist from Color Club for starting my week off right last Monday. LOVED my manicure and all the special treats I went home with from the Birchbox Sample Stop lounge

- Three shows I adored last week: Rachel Roy (which I gushed about here), Gerlan Jeans (Minnie Mouse theme? I'm all in), and Rachel Zoe (gotta love the Zoe)

- I had the outstanding pleasure of attending the NY screening dinner for Iyanla Vanzant's new show on OWN called "Fix My Life". Hostess Demetria Lucas of A Belle In Brooklyn interviewed Iyanla all about the premiere episode featuring Evelyn Lozada and it was a night I will never forget. I even got the opportunity to meet and chat with Iyanla - I LOVE her! If you' haven't already, lock the show times into your calendar. Iyanla "Fix My Life" airs on Saturdays at 10/9c.

How was your weekend? Fill me in!

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My Insta-Week: 8.20.12

So I skipped this post the other week because my schedule was cray and I had no time to insta-snap. Sigh. Last week was definitely a week of discovery for me. Here's what I got into:

- The Whole 30: So I'm on a new 30-day nutrition plan called Whole 30. I have to credit Erika from Style Activist with putting me onto this plan. I had been searching far & wide for a good detox/body reset to finish off my summer and bring me healthily into the fall/winter season. And so far, it is working amazingly well! I've dropped a dress size in just two weeks and I have more energy than I ever thought possible. I'm crafting a blog post about it this week, so stay tuned for further details. In the mean time, click over to Grit & Glamour's "Get Started on Getting Healthy" post. She has a TON of great advice and links to the Whole 30 plan.

- Laugh & Love: I spent this weekend running the streets with one of my partners-in-crime Sandrine Charles (see her luxuriousness in the pic on top left). I had been feeling kind of down last week so instead of jam-packing my weekend with to-do's, I kept my schedule wide open and just...lived. Spend one day a month with absolutely nothing on your to-do list. And spend time with people who make you laugh - it's good for your health.

- That Juice: I hate greens. Yeah, I said it. The new plan I'm on REQUIRES the ingestion of leafy greens and, at first, I thought I might die slowly. You want me to eat greens? Hell nawl. I hate them. But I found a trick! Juicing. I can ingest an entire bag of Kale or Spinach if it is juiced with a hint of apple, carrot and ginger. Voila! Farm to cup.

What new things did you discover last week?

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My Insta-Week: 7.30.12

Last week was fill up pink and turquoise. If you haven't notices, those are my favorite colors! To sum it up, here's a list of what I got into the last week of the month:

- I had the pleasure of hosting a super chic digital launch party for LiSi Cosmetics. Huge hugs to all my blogger boos who came out to celebrate. If you guys haven't heard of LiSi, don't be shy - go to the website and check out some of their products.

- I've been scouting out locations for my big end-of-summer LoveBrownSugar 3 Year Anniversary Bash which I can't wait to share more details about! Everything is hush hush for now, but just know makeup, sweets & cocktails will be involved.

- Since I had been doing so much traveling during the first half of the month, I spent last week (and the weekend) catching up with friends & family. I had one of my good friends over for cocktails in my garden. Learning to appreciate little moments like this in life. Sometimes you need a break!

How was your weekend? Do tell!

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My Insta-Week: 7.23.12

The last few weeks have been quite eventful! So much that I haven't had a chance to post one of these in over two weeks. So here's a super brief rundown of the majority of my July. Still about a week left in this month, let's make it great!


- So I went to Miami the week before last for a much-needed (real) vacation. Though I have been traveling alot lately (from Los Angeles for the BET Awards to New Orleans for Essence Music Festival), I hadn't had a real break to just, well, chill and not work! So I packed up my things and headed down to the shores of South Beach with some friends.

This is me pretending to be rich in my new bathing suit - from the H&M Plus line!

So among beach bumming on South Beach, I partied, ran into both Lil' Scrappy and Stevie J (hello Love & Hip-Hop ATL), pool-hopped and posed for group photos. Best way to spend a weekend getaway.

- I discovered a few old things and few new ones recently. I went home to see my parents and ended up cleaning out an old drawer with souvenirs from my past study-abroad travels. Don't you love those moments? I also discovered my new favorite shoe line Ron Donovan. Sexy stilettos. I nearly fainted. And I did my very first Berry Mango smoothie all by my self. Yep yep, big girl now...

Demetria Lucas (ABelleInBK.com), Jessica Andrews (GlamazonsBlog.com)

- Yesterday I co-hosted an amazing brunch with women of color who work in the social media space. It was so awesome being around such beautiful women who are trying to make change with their social media presence. The lovely Kim Coles (you may know her as Sinclair from Living Single) showed up and ate and talked with us. The lovely folks at Shea Moisture sponsored. I love them and I love her.

How was your week/weekend? Talk to me!

My Insta-Week: 7.9.12

This past weekend, on the heels of my amazing trip to Los Angeles (I'm luxuriating poolside in the top right corner), I visited New Orleans for the Essence Music Festival and had an amazing time. Here's a snippet of what I got into. More updates on that to come!

- There is nothing...I repeat NOTHING...like the food in Louisiana. Everything has so much flavor! Major party in my mouth happened at multiple stages this weekend. From the Catfish Platter at New Orleans Hamburger & Seafood Co, to the fresh-baked Beignets at Cafe Du Monde. That food? Incredible.

- I came prepared with a simple to-do list for NOLA. Safe to say I accomplished everything and more.

- I ran spent my weekend with some of my absolute favorite people at EMF this year. Including bloggers Patrice of Afrobella, Renae of In Her Shoes, Danielle of The Style and Beauty Doctor, Lexi of Curls, Coils & Kinks and SO many more. I was in the presence of some of the most beautiful women. Don't worry, I took tons of pics!

How did you guys spend your weekend? Were any of you in NOLA for the festival?

My Instaweek: 6.25

I can't even begin to explain how crazy last week was! I spent all week prepping for LA until finally arriving in Hollywood. Here's what I got into:

- Shoe shopping was the first thing on my mind. I went on the hunt for the perfect comfort & class mix of shoe. The sparkly one above from Zara was gorge but they didn't have my size!

 - I'm currently obsessed with this House of Harlow ring. The perfect exclamation point for any outfit

 - Fashion To Figure sent me this classy white dress that I wore out to dinner on Saturday. Loved it!

 - I got my ombre hair! Dana Gibbs of the Dana's Loft salon hooked me up with amazing ombre highlights for the big day

 - I visited the new Georgetown Cupcakes location that just opened up in Soho, as a shopping pitstop. Those red velvet cupcakes are just....to die for.

 - The lobby at the Chamberlain Hotel in West Hollywood is everything.

 - Shoutout to my makeup artist in LA Keli Kel for giving me a fierce face for the BET Awards!

My Insta-Week: 6.18.12

Last week was fun. Putting this recap together makes me excited about the cool things to come this week. Here's a rundown of all I got into this week (clockwise from left):

- My hair is growing! I took my makeup off and my hair down for an au naturale pic on Friday and I'm so surprised at how fast it's growing out. It's been about 1.5 years now. Remember my Big Chop?

- I've been thoroughly enjoying my new backyard & garden. Had a few business meetings out there this weekend. Look out for a new Home Improvement series post this week.

- I'm crazy for Neon this summer. On Instagram, I hosted a giveaway/contest with this pic asking if my followers thought I opted for Essie Bright Tights or Funky Limelight:

Turns out I opted for Essie's Bright Tights! Congrats to Kara Johnson for winning the giveaway.

- In beauty product previews, I tried out Ojon's Rare Blend Oil this weekend and was thoroughly pleased with my results. It left my hair silky soft and moisturized. Full review coming soon!

How was your week? 

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My Insta-Week 6.11.12

Last week was quite eventful. Here's were some highlights:

- I went to an Ojon Beauty event and hung out with Melanie Fiona

- I feel in love with this California Coral nail color from Essie at the salon

- I was gifted this super cool Gold Black Label Leaf ring from BomBom Jewelry

- I took a break from my all-gold-everything jewels and opted for silver for a day.

How was your week?


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My Insta-Weekend 6.8.12

It was everything a great summer weekend should be - sunny weather, bright clothing, brighter drinks and sale shopping. This weekend I...

- Spent too much time shopping at Joe Fresh (love this shop, I literally spent 2 hours browsing, trying on clothes and sampling their nail polish bar)

- Got cheap margaritas at this amazing outdoor mexican spot in midtown called Blockheads

- Indulged on a childhood favorite, Mister Softee

What did you guys get into this weekend?


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LoveBrownSugar Feature: HuffPost Black Voices Top Instagrammer

Hey folks! If you guys already follow me on Facebook and on Twitter, there's another social network you should be stalking me on - Instagram! According to HuffPo Black Voices Style & Beauty editor Julee Wilson, I'm a top fashion & beauty Instagrammer!

I'm so proud that my random nail art snaps and Fit Room Flicks are getting me somewhere in life. Whoop! Check out the full list of amazing folks featured on HuffPo Black Voices HERE. And check out a few of my recent style snaps below:

My Sally Hansen Salon Effects manicure in Tri-bal It On

My travel story in this month's UPTOWN Magazine

My fave new bag from Handbag Heaven

Are you guys on Instagram? What's your username? List it below so we can be BFFs!