Temple of Glam

Curiously my TV has seen quite a bit of the NBA Finals. My sofa has experienced impassioned yelps and abundant profanity.

In short, my apartment is experiencing an NBA takeover; so maybe it's time for my NBA makeover. See what I did there?

Fact: I am a native New Yorker
A) Despite that, I anticipate a Spike Lee sighting more than an actual Knicks' game
B) The above statement leads me to...

Fact: I have no allegiance to any team. I base my cheers purely on...
A) The team who is working together ("hustling"?) better
B) The player that I find most attractive

As you can imagine, those facts brought me nowhere closer to my NBA Finals makeover; but this NBA Fashion page did! I think of my friend Crystal and her penchant for off-the-shoulder sweatshirts when I see this Knicks Andrews Top ($44.99). She of course, would rock her home team, the 76ers.

As high-top fades and Gumbys are in full effect (again), wouldn't you say it's time for a little '80s-inspired sweatshirt action? Speaking of action, if my crew were challenged to a b-ball game, I’d totally wear the Andrews Top. I'm pretty sure we'd look like the clip below (because I’m b-ball challenged):

During a particularly cathartic " Buddha" moment, I gave away one of my mom's amazing '70s hand-me-downs. It was an indigo-denim dress with a fitted top, long sleeves and an amazing flared skirt. It also happened to be the maternity dress she wore with ME in her belly. As much as I try to "que sera sera" that decision, it truly is a "que pena" moment (shout out to my Spanish teacher, Ms. Gliatta). So yeah, I have tacitly vowed to replicate the flyness that was that dress for the past 15 years. Seemingly impossible (it was dope plus it had sentimental value), I found my faith renewed when eShakti contacted me.

eShakti has a website chock full of styles to satisfy even the most finicky palates. How? You find a design you like and make it one you love (by altering aspects like the neckline, sleeves, length, and pockets even!); the cost to make changes is only $7.95. For the Queen of Picky Eaters (er, me), it was a movable feast of fashion once I picked my complimentary design.

I chose the Retro Chambray Shirtdress ($64.95). I shortened it to knee length and changed the sleeves from three-quarter to long. The neckline was perfect as is and of course, I kept the pockets intact; mama needs a place to put her hands. Its structured shoulders and soft chambray fabrication were chic edits to my mom's dress.

Until March 25th, Temple of Glam readers will receive $25 off orders with promo code TEMPLEFGLM46.

As you'll see below, I completed my homage to '70s glamour with my brown knee-high boots (I forget the designer, but they're beyond) and my new fluffy hair:

Raise your hand if you had the pleasure of gaining the "Freshman 15". Never the bandwagon-jumper, I gained the lbs. during my senior year. Blimey, I'm a rebel!

I went through the obligatory emotions: denial, bewilderment, and full-blown obsession about the new-found junk in my very-spacious trunk.

What does that have to do with Valentine's Day? No idea. I consider this a safe space so don't mess that up by judging me now.

As my co-workers discuss taking the entire week off this year to avoid the mushy-lovie-dovieness of Valentine's Day, I thought about a perfect gift for gals in and out of coupledom.

The Petit Four Lip Balm Set ($14) offers four (obvi) plastic petits four, which hold a lip-smoothing balm. So yeah, whether you're puckering up to your loved one or giving yourself an arm hickey, your lips will be soft.

And honestly, isn't that what Valentine's Day is all about...arm hickeys?

Look. I keep my makeup pretty simple on most days: mascara, lip gloss, and blush. Sometimes though, especially if I'm working a more androgynous outfit, I turn it up with a winged liner or heap on a massive amount of blush for a babydoll effect.

The other day I worked my "Annie Hall"-inspired look so I decided to turn up my eyes with some liner. I did this ignoring the fact that I had an eye doctor appointment: dilated pupils, glaucoma test, teary eyes. Let's just say I lack far sight and foresight from time to time.

Luckily, L'Oreal sent me the new The Super-Slim by Infallible ($8.99). First, it goes so close to the lash line! Second, as I found myself wiping away black makeup throughout the multiple eye-ball, my mascara was gone and my liner was still intact. As I felt my way around the city (you know, dilated pupils and all), I knew my lids were covered...infallibly. Not sold yet? J-Lo wore Super-Slim at this year's Golden Globes...BOOM.

EXCLUSIVE TEMPLE OF GLAM GIVEAWAY!
One Temple of Glam reader will win a signed copy of Jillian Michaels' new book, Slim for Life & a month's supply of popchips (including the delish new tortilla chips)! Just "Like" Temple of Glam on Facebook to be automatically entered...easy peasy!

5 TIPS FROM JILLIAN MICHAELS:
Make A Resolution…And Keep It
Resolutions don't have to begin and end at the start of a new year; resolve to do it and start now!
It’s All About Balance
Eat three balanced meals (every four hours) with a snack between lunch and dinner. That's key! Reach for a healthful snack like carrot sticks and hummus, fresh fruit, or almonds and dried cranberries.

Just Because It’s Not Fried Doesn’t Mean It’s Not Delicious
When you're in the mood to nosh, replace fried potato chips with a more healthful alternative that satisfies your salty craving. popchips are a great and my favorite snack option! They're delicious and one single-serving bag has less than half the fat of fried chips (and only 100 calories)!

Cook Healthful Alternatives
Opt for cooking methods that use little or no fat such as steaming, grilling, baking, popping, broiling or roasting. Have a weakness for fried chicken? Instead take skinless chicken breast cutlets, cover them in egg whites and a crushed up cereal like cornflakes and bake. You'll get the same great taste and more than half the calories and fat!

Grab A Buddy
You will achieve greater success when you have support. So get your friends together. Here's to a healthier you in 2013!

J-Lo looked amazing at last night's 70th Annual Golden Globe Awards. Here's the rundown from celebrity makeup artist, Mary Phillips!

STEP 1: Mary prepped Jennifer’s skin with L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Miracle Blur ($24.99).
STEP 2: She warmed up Jennifer’s skin using L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Makeup in Caramel Beige ($10.95).
STEP 3: She used L’Oréal Paris Super-Blendable True Match Crayon Concealer in Fair/Light Warm ($8.95) to brighten up the under-eye area and illuminate the cheek bones.
STEP 4: Mary used a small amount of L’Oréal Paris Visible Lift Color Lift Blush in Nude Lift ($12.95)  on Jennifer’s cheeks for a hint of color and sheen.
STEP 5: She used several colors of the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Eye Shadow Quads ($7.95): Cupa Joe as a base and Black Pump around the outer corners.
STEP 6: She added L’Oréal Paris Infallible Eye Shadow in Eternal Black ($7.95) toward the lash line to create depth and sculpt the eyes around the crease.
STEP 7: Mary used the L’Oréal Paris Super Slim Liner by Infallible ($8.95) on the top lids to further define the eyes.
STEP 8: She then used the L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Shocking Extensions Mascara ($9.95) on the top and bottom lashes to complete the smoky-eye look.
STEP 9: Mary kept the lips very warm and neutral with a nude lip using L’Oréal Paris Colour Caresse Shine Stain in Eternally Nude ($9.99).

I missed you. Did you miss me? Well, in honor of this time of sparkling new-year resolutions, I come bearing gifts:
Today...free manicures!
Next week...an NBC "Biggest Loser" giveaway!

WHAT: Free Manicures in LA & NYC
WHEN: Today, January 11 5-8PM
WHERE: Any of these nail salons/spas
HOW: Simply choose your manicure shade from the Debborah Lippmann GIRLS collection (in picture below) inspired by the characters of HBO's "Girls" and take the bottle (and fresh-to-death Nails by Incoco nail appiques) home.

Image courtesy of runway.blogs.nytimes.com

MY EXPERIENCE: I walked down the street yesterday and was asked, "do you want a free manicure?". I quickly wondered if this was some kidney-harvesting ploy, but decided since she stopped me in front of Spa Belles, it was probably legit. As the concept was explained to me (each shade represents Hannah (hunter green), Jessa (burgundy), Shoshanna (violet) & Marnie (pink)), I studied each one. As I selected my shade I began to quietly chant, "Don't pick Hannah. Don't pick Hannah. For the love of Pop Tarts, don't pick effing Hannah!" Of course I picked Hannah. 

Whatevs. I love that hunter green. I even happened to wear a Hannah-esque vintage dress yesterday. Dagnabbit, I can't escape her.

There are several iconic movies that we can quote ad infinitum. "What's Love Got to Do with It" is definitely one of those films. Well, at least for me. As much as it brought the drama (limo-fight scene anyone?), it also created comedy in the least likely places (limo-fight scene anyone?).

As many times as my crew and I beg one another to "eat the cake", I implore myself every fall to "moisturize the hands". I make a half-hearted vow to use moisturizing gloves every fall/winter. But let's be real. Who really has the wherewith all to use them consistently?

Sure, during winter months we tend to wear gloves, but some of us need to start earlier in the season. And by "some of us", I mean um, me.

This is where Nivea Extended Moisture Hand Cream ($4.99) comes in. It's made for very dry, rough hands. I used it once and almost didn't recognize my hands. Soft, soft, soft but not greasy, greasy, greasy (like "Ike's" hair in the clip below).

Perhaps you are familiar with Dr. Miracle's commercials. If you have never watched BET, there's a good chance you have never seen one. Lucky you.

Dr. Miracle's commercials are what nightmares are made of. There's often a pretty brown lady with dehydrated (read: crazy looking) hair. Out of nowhere an omnipotent voice (God, is that you?) and a detached arm appear. The bellowing voice offers snarky beauty advice and taunts her a little; then "the hand" presents her with a Dr. Miracle's product. Now I'm all over camp, but there's something way too I Know What You Did Last Summer about the commercials. Can a be-hooked hand be too far behind?

Rant over. I received a box of Dr. Miracle's products and after meticulously checking for dismembered limbs, I tried them out. Since it's summertime, I was very happy to use the Day Treatment Facial Moisturizer ($8). It boasts ingredients like soy, shea butter, and Vitamins A, C & E. Also, it has SPF 15. Plus, it features their signature "Feel It" formula, which means there's an awesome cooling-tingle thingie. My skin looked instantly hydrated, felt cool, and was protected from the sun. Score.

Watch at your own risk...you've been warned!

Recently reminiscing about my first trip to London, a few "episodes" came to mind: my almost-unspeakable bohemian phase (socks with sandals anyone?), ballooning up two dress sizes, and of course exploring the city on a 50 pound/week stipend (I ate a lot of frozen Hawaiian pizza...don't ask).

Then there's my Heathrow Airport experience, but I'll avoid that air pocket-paved trip down memory lane.

I remember walking through Brixton where I stumbled upon Electric Avenue. I chanted the '80s classic as if my own private meditative mantra and continued on my vintage-shop quest. Though I found the perfect surrogate grandma and a beef patty in Brixton, my perfect-vintage-shop search continued throughout London. 

My love of vintage and (well-done) vintage-inspired tees was only enhanced by my trip to England.

Here are some great vintage-inspired tees with a decidedly English state of mind.

Queen In Concert ($25)

Sex Pistols "Rotten" ($20)

Ziggy Stardust ($20)

If you've been unlucky enough to be with me in a nail spa/salon when a man saunters in, you've inevitably heard me mumble and grumble about the "intrusion".

Mumbles include colorful variations of "GAH! Can't a girl wear a mini skirt while pedicuring without having to cover up?". Followed by the whiny query, "why can't they find their own spot?"

Enter NYC's BBRAXTON. Its tagline, "Exceptional Grooming. For Exceptional Men.", truly says it all, but fine if you need more, here you go.

Founded by the beautiful (Tony Award-nominated) Brenda Braxton, it boasts an impressive menu of services, including: Hair cuts, hair care, and spa treatments (*ahem* like manicures).

Look at that...just in time for Father's Day. Boys, give it a try...and keep out of our salons. K? Love ya. Mean it.

Image courtesy of Shedelle Holmes

Before Styled by June. Before her turban line. Before something else monumental, I loved June Ambrose.

Perhaps you remember when I met her at a fashion event last fall. I totally bartered with the Essence magazine photographer: "You can totally take a pic of me...um, but will you introduce me to June? I like, love her."

Minutes later it happened. She took a look at me in my vintage coat and said, "Girrrrrrl, you got me tonight. I spit on you...puh". True story.

When I found out that my super-talented, celebrity hair stylist friend, Shedelle Holmes, created June's luscious waves for the CFDA awards this week, I had to get the scoop for us:

Shedelle's inspiration: "June is, of course, a trendsetter and I wanted her to be the 'eye catcher' of the night so that meant her hair had to make a statement. My inspiration behind June's voluminous waves was the late Donna Summer. 

Oh and here I am stepping and repeating with Ms. Ambrose last fall:

Things I love? "Sailing" by Christopher Cross and old episodes of "Martin". There are more things, of course, but for the purpose of this piece, I'm going to stop right there.

I attended the Things We Love Summer Sail the other day and I cannot (well, I can, but I won't) stop raving about the fun I had.

First, I had the greatest table mates. Image courtesy of The Glamazon Diaries.

Second, upon boarding Atlantica yacht we were greeted with Bahama Mamas (and Papas?). In keeping with the Caribbean theme, we enjoyed a Mexican lunch and dessert (customized ice cream sandwiches from CoolHaus).

Third, we received a massive Lands' End tote that was, like its contents, perfect for beach-y adventures. It was so heavy, in fact, it tipped over more than a couple of chairs when we went upstairs for dessert.

1. Dove Clear Tone Skin Renew Clinical Protection Deodorant, Available at Drugstore.com for $7.99
2. Echo Design Bikini Bags, Available at Zappos.com for $20
3. Ettika adjustable Neon Satin Cord with gold Faceted Beads, Available at Ettika.com for $40
4. Fekkai Summer Hair After Sun Daily Mask, Available at Fekkai.com for $25
5. Flywheel Giftcards, Available at Flysports.com for $30
6. Goody Quik Style Paddle Brush, Available at Target.com for $11.99
7. Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer Effect Coconut Papaya After Sun Lotion, Available at Ulta.com for $6.79
8. Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50, Available at Walgreens.com for $10.99
9. Lands’ End Natural Zip Totes in Melon, Available at LandsEnd.com for $35
10. Nest Fragrances Votive Candles, Available at Shop.NestFragrances.com for $14
11. OPI Holland Collection Polishes, Available at Amazon.com for $6.99
12. Philip B Katira Hair Masque, Available at PhilipB.com for $40
13. Reach Toothbrushes from the Jeff Lewis & Shoshanna Gruss Collections, Available at Amazon.com for $6.12
14. Sanuk Women’s Ibiza Stitch Sandals, Available at Sanuk.com for $20
15. Schick Hydro Silk for Women Razor, Available at Soap.com for $11.49
16. Sonia Kashuk Assorted Cosmetic Bags, Available at Target.com for $5.99-$24.99
17. Starbucks Refreshers Sparkling Green Coffee Energy Beverage, Available at Grocery stores nationwide for $1.99
18. Pixi Tinted Brilliance Balms, Available at Target.com for $16
19. Tarte Amazonian Clay Bronzer, Available at TarteCosmetics.com for $37
20. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on Pencil, Available at UrbanDecay.com for $19

Right after we disembarked, we hung out at Chelsea Piers where Makeda cracked open her Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration™ Lotion Sunscreen. Available in SPF 15, 30, and 50 (yes, 50), we slathered it on and the raving began. It moisturizes and glides on to the skin (brown girls, we've all experienced chalk-colored sunscreen that just sits atop the skin). So that's major. Plus, it contains all-natural shea butter.

Almost as soon as I walked into my apartment, I unzipped the tote and found a NEST Fragrances votive candle. The grapefruit scent was so intoxicating, I (literally) ran into my bedroom and placed it on my nightstand.

Here's a pic of the Fekkai Hair Mask, Tarte Bronzer & Etrika bracelet (I slapped it on as soon as I saw its neon goodness).

Finally since outfit of the day seems to be "a thing" now,  here's how I rocked the boat (Yup, another Aaliyah reference).

While you're here, enjoy the tranquil and melodic stylings of Mr. Christopher Cross. Love him.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Hawaiian Tropic® Sun Care via Glam Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Hawaiian Tropic. Hawaiian Tropic is a trademark of Tanning Research Laboratories, LLC.

You know I'm not a label freak. Like you know that, right? But there are some designers that I just love unconditionally: Tadashi Shoji, Halston (from the '70s), David Meister, and Yojhi Yamamoto come to mind. They do no wrong in my book.

I'm going to focus on David Meister right now because he offers the most exquisite gowns for missy and plus-size women. Take the gilded Floor-Length Gown ($548) above. It's available in sizes 14-22. I love the universally flattering, empire waist as well as the gathered center that complements and creates a flawless hourglass silhouette. Plus, it's so reminiscent of Studio 54. And as you know, fashion begins and ends there for me.

Here's one for my missy sisters with bountiful boobs.

Though this Metallic Gown ($768) might seem impossible to wear, all you need is a pretty  Panache plunge bra and you'll be golden.

I'm a huge fan of Panache because the bras are gorge and they offer so much support for D to KK cups!

I'm pretty sure you think I'm exaggerating because hyperbole is kinda' my thing. I kid you not though; DIY hair almost always ends up in disaster: brittle, angry hair. After a lot of time, energy and sometimes tears (don't judge me), I end up begging my hairstylists to take me into their salons the very next day. Ask them. I've offered to be their best friend, hugs, and even said I could stop by their homes to make it more convenient for them.

That last "offer" borders on a threat, but desperate times...

Despite knowing all of this, from time to time I trick myself to believe that if I just change my products and get professional heating tools, I can have salon-perfect hair.

So when I attended the L'Oreal Paris EverCrème event, I took it as a divine sign to try again*. Instantly smitten, I met Johnny Lavoy. He is not only L'Oreal's official hair expert, but for 30 years (no idea how this is possible...he looks so young!), he has styled celebs like Cindy Crawford, Raven Simone and Gail King. He has also worked a ton of runway shows and magazine gigs. So when Lavoy told the intimate group of beauty bloggers & editors that EverCrème was perfect for dry, naturally curly, and chemically processed hair, I believed him.

The feature product was sulfate-free EverCrème Cleansing Conditioner ($6). One part cleanser-three parts conditioner, it leaves hair clean, super soft, and ready to combat environmental factors and heat styling. Plus, it smells unbelievable. To explain how yummy it smells, I was on the subway and a young woman sat next to me. I recognized the scent immediately and we proceeded to talk about how much we love EverCrème.

Believe me; I don't spend my time sniffing other chicks, so imagine how fantastic it smells!

Back to my DIY experience...well, I gave it a go with the cleansing conditioner and my hair was so very soft. I could hardly believe it! My styling "techniques"? Um, I went to the salon the next day. There are just times when we have to recognize our limitations. My kryptonite is apparently blow drying my hair and cooking anything other than pasta dishes. For the record, I can also make a mean English muffin pizza.

*P.S. I sing this through my DIY-hair sweating & crying fits

Going natural is everywhere. From organic instant pudding to the hair transitioning movement, natural is the new black. I carry around an earth-friendly tote every day and when I forget it, I have been known to walk out of stores with my purchase in hand. Awkward! Plus, I'm really into natural hair and skin products. Segue time...

I received a canvas (of course) tote bag filled with Neutrogena Naturals (made from post-consumer recycled plastic) and other green goodies; I took it as a sign to give it a go. So, I went.

Here are my thoughts:

Purifying Facial Cleanser

Normally, I save clear cleansers for the summer because they don't tend to deliver the moisture my normal-to-dry skin requires. This sulfate-free cleanser successfully removed my makeup and left my skin feeling clean, but not stripped of its oil. It not only includes vitamins B, C & E, but it also has naturally derived, detoxifying salicylic acid and beta hydroxy acid.

Two words: Balanced cleanser

Purifying Pore Scrub

I have whiteheads. Go ahead and judge me. As a result, I'm constantly looking for the "miracle product" that will make them go away and keep self-extraction at bay. See what I did there? Anywhoo, this 94% naturally derived scrub detoxifies pores and it has a really great consistency. It's not grainy like other scrubs.

Two words: Smooth operator

Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer

A lightweight-but-effective moisturizer, this is a go-to product for me. I like that my skin feels hydrated, but not like an oil slick. Plus, my skin absorbs it super fast! It's chock full of bionutrients, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory goodness.

Two words: Moisture booster

Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Night Cream

We've all heard it. At night, our skin does its thing: heals, repairs, regenerates (is that starfish specific?).

Enriched with Inca Inchi Oil (it has the highest concentration of omega fatty acids) and Yerba Mate (Brazilian green tea), also known as "tea of life", this cream enhances skin's defense against dullness, leaving it glow-y.

Two words: Night Nurturer

In short, I'm in love with this collection (especially because I'm not a fan of perfume-laden products). I'm pretty sure I'm allergic to certain perfumes so it's probably for the best that I keep them off of my grill piece when possible.

All of the Neutrogena Naturals products I used had a barely there scent

My arrogant whiteheads were A LOT less oppressive and my skin felt amazing.

Score for team natural!

NEUTROGENA® Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer is a daily lotion that replenishes essential skin nutrients while providing continuous moisture throughout the day for healthier, younger-looking skin. It contains no harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates.

NEUTROGENA® Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Night Cream replenishes essential skin nutrients and is fortified with vitamins B, C, E and anti-oxidant omega bionutrients. This nourishing cream is clinically proven to boost skin’s defense against dullness and roughness, leaving it naturally radiant, healthier and younger looking today and in the future. It contains no harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Neutrogena via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Neutrogena.

Trillions of zillions of $50 treatments are now available in a city near you! Well, not exactly a trillion, but you know the deal: facials, massages, manis, pedis, body wraps and more are on sale at SpaWeek.com for a one week only.

I was more than a little impressed by the Red Door hand treatment I experience at the Spa Week Media Event last week. See? I was stoked!

As you probably remember, Spa Week kicks off with a media party where guests receive complimentary beauty treatments (like blowouts, brow shaping & waxing), mingle, and dip delectables in the chocolate fountain. We also walk out with product-laden gift bags. Here's a glimpse of the magic that is the Spa Week Media Party.

Blowout by J. Sisters...

Lorna from The Fabulous Report, Spa Week's Michelle Joni, Kimberlee & More Bloggers...

The chocolate fountain & more snacks...

My dad's canary-yellow Lincoln Mark V is synonymous with R& B classics for me. Mostly because before I even entered it, I'd hear the music blaring and my dad belting out tunes. One of his favorites was "Break Up to Make Up" by The Stylistics. As I found myself nostalgically downloading the best of The Stylistics a little while ago, I remembered those days...visibly embarrassed, but singing along with him (in my head). Since then, after loving and losing, I can honestly say I understand the song. I get it now, Papa Brathwaite.

The concept of "break up to make up" doesn't relate only to romantic relationships.  I've oft-confronted my split ends with scissors, but recently I was introduced to keratin treatments. As I'm sure you know, over time our hair loses protein (chemical treatments and heat exacerbate this natural process). Protein-depleted hair is dull, rough, dry, frizzy, and lifeless. Sound familiar? I'd heard quite a bit about Brazilian Keratin Treatments and relaxed hair. I gotta' tell ya, from formaldehyde formulations to just god-awful results, I had no interest in joining that club.

Well, KeratinPerfect is different. It's called a "smoothing system" because it uses naturally derived protein (from sheep's wool to be exact) to infuse hair with much-needed strength and shine. So yeah, I was invited to an event where attendees were shown how to complete a successful DIY blowout using KeratinPerfect.

For the record, my DIY hair projects end up with me begging my gracious hair stylists (i.e. hair angels) to fit me into their busy schedules. I figured I'd cut out the trauma of trying to fit a hat over my stay-puft hair and just watch the professionals teach more able-bodied bloggers and editors.

I happily took my products with me to my one of my favorite hair angels, Shedelle Holmes. She used the sulfate-free Perfect Cleanse ($24), Perfect Silk Conditioner ($24), and Keratin Blowout Booster Cream ($34). As she shampooed she said, "you can feel the difference even when shampooing". As she blew out my hair, she marveled at its shine and said it actually looked stronger and more healthful...score!

I haven't tried the full, 30-day smoothing process, but it seems so simple...even I could do it (maybe):

Apply Clarifying Shampoo

Apply The Perfector & leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing out

Blow Dry using a dryer like the soon-to-launch in the US *ghd air. Here's a sneak peek!

Flat Iron hair using a tool that goes up to 430 degrees

Et Voile...this version doesn't hold a candle to my dad's, but I guess it'll do...

I'll never forget walking down the street with my mom one day. I was like 5. There was something on my mind that I had to ask her.

Baby Breezy: Mommy, do I have a big butt?

Mommy: (Sarcastically) Yeah...we're the butt sisters.

Now, let's just say you didn't "get it from your mama". Enter Not Your Daughter's Jeans ($88- $130). NYDJ can make you look a full size smaller, flatten your stomach, and boost your booty. How? So glad you asked. The criss-cross paneling flattens the stomach, the high-rise design prevents muffin top, and the higher back pockets visibly lift the bum.

The spring 2012 collection is chock full of Razzles-hued jeans AND denim skirts (yup, they're back)! Plus, they have amazing animal-print denim that I went wild for (sorry). If you're more of a classic girl, there are new silhouettes (cropped and boyfriend) to accompany their beloved styles.

Denim Skirts...In Living Color!

Anwhoo, I stopped by the showroom to check out the wares and walked out with these sensational snakeskin-print jeans. At first I admonished myself for wearing an oversized dress (knowing I'd be photographed in the jeans I chose), but then I realized I made the right decision.

Check out my 2012 take on '90s grunge. I'm calling it CBGB chic...Boom.

Here's a close-up of the sssssnakeskin print...

And for some musical inspiration...

I was never the hardcore go out-and-play kinda' kid. But one all-too-vivid park memory involves me at age 7 on the see-saw...alone. Yeah, it gets worse.

As I pondered what past life to blame for my grounded position, a boy (about 9 or 10) hopped on the other side and we see-sawed our little hearts out. Until. He jumped off and ran to play somewhere else. As I crashed back down to reality, I was back to my introspective state with a sore butt. I'm fighting to not make this memory a metaphor for my childhood.

Moving on...last week I stopped by Hilary Park's jewelry store. I was super stoked to see how she incorporates astrological-isms in her hand-crafted silver and gold pieces. You know I was interested if I traveled to Brooklyn to  see her earrings, necklaces, and bracelets (starting at $80).

Oh, the pieces she showed: industrial, but undeniably influenced by nature. In short, they're striking.

From the tough girl, leather-woven Whip Stitch Cuff ($475) to the Winding Path Cuff ($1500), I was in awe of the stunning workmanship and the passion Hilary (understandably) has for her designs. And then as I fawned over the Frida Kahlo pendant, she mentioned she created a similar one in Basquiat's image...crowns and all. She was also nice enough to give me a customized citrine (prosperity) pendant on her signature leather cord. Prosperity? Bring it.

Yo Diary,

I've had some inner turmoil going on. You see, I have this friend. No, not like I'm talking about myself "friend"; "one-of-my-closest-friends-in-the-world" friend. Anywhoo, we have a couple of tacit agreements:

#1 We will be roommates in hell.

#2 We will never cross over to the "other side" (unless that "other side" is hell, which of course, we will do hand-in-hand).

In short, we're both on "that stuff"...the creamy crack. But like any good addict, I've been keeping a big secret from her. And if she's reading this, I'm sure she's shaking her silky-haired head.

For the past year, I've been stretching out my relaxers (I average about 10-11 weeks). As I've taken a glimpse at my natural texture, I've kinda' been rocking with my locks. BUT by the last week of my stretch, when the shedding gets unbearable, I ask myself "so what are we going to do?".

I contemplate just cutting it all the hell off because as India says, "I am not my hair...I am not your expectations...no". Then I remember the good times I've had with my signature bob. India chimes in again. Then I switch over to Jim Jones because all of that thinking is draining. I also schedule a relaxer appointment.

Once again, I find myself walking down a dusty road contemplating my next move...like good ol' "Bruce Banner". Cue the saddest television theme song ever made.

OK, OK. The Sulwhasoo facial I had last week lasted for much longer than seven minutes. And yes, my only experience with the ever-popular "7 minutes in heaven" game was watching, "Highway to Heaven". I'm not being funny; there was an episode where these cruel teenagers tricked the unpopular girl to go into a closet with some cute guy just so he could run out in horror seconds later. Bastards.

Anywhoo...Sulwhasoo time. I did a little research beforehand and was like, "whoa mama...$100 for an eye cream?!".  When I came to, I found myself in the facial room at Bergdorf Goodman getting prepped for my experience. I was pretty impressed by the concept of incorporating traditional Korean medicine to promote skin balance and harmony, as well as within the body.

The facial consisted of seven steps (including cleanser, serum, toner, and customized treatments):

Cleansing foam ($36)

First Care Serum ($80)

Balancing Water ($55)

Overnight Vitalizing Treatment ($50)

After all seven steps were completed, I emerged relaxed, revived and glowy-glowy-glowy. And if you spend $150 at Bergdorf Goodman, you will get a free facial.

When recently asked about my skincare routine, I noticed myself rattling off a laundry list of products that'd make any Sephora associate proud. When said routine was called "complicated", I admitted it: My name is Shaunequa and I'm addicted to skin care. Look, it could be worse; I mean, have you seen "Intervention"?

In contrast to my skin care routine, my makeup needs are minimal. I do not conceal, bronze, or line anything consistently. So when I find a product that offers light coverage for a more flawless finish, I'm all over it.

I first saw Maybelline Dream Nude Airfoam at Mercedez Benz Fashion Week. I was impressed by its frothy appeal, color saturation, and super-easy application. So I actually *gasp* bought it because they didn't have a tester in a brown shade (c'mon, Maybelline).

Breezy's Tips:

1) If you're looking for medium-to-full coverage, this is not the product for you. If you, like me, are of the tinted-moisturizer persuasion, give it a go.

2) This foam almost instantly "melts" when it makes contact with hands. My suggestion? Spray foam into the cap and apply it with a sponge or your fingers.

P.S. As of right now, there's only one viable brown-girl hue, Cocoa. I repeat: c'mon, Maybelline.

As soon as I was sonically introduced to Theophilus London, I knew it was a very special moment. "Flying Overseas" was unquestionably my gateway track; since then I've explored a bunch of his other songs and am rather caught up in "Soles of Fire" (technically the song was made by Chauffeur, a group consisting of Theophilus and Mark Ronson). So yeah, yeah, yeah how does this relate to boat shoes?

"Soles of Fire" opens with Theophilus London's line, "What a coincidence we both wore boat shoes". As soon as I heard it, I scoured my closet in my mind. Is he singing to me? Do we both have boat shoes?

I also remember attending Kimmie Smith's Sebago preview at Robert Verdi's lounge last season. After seeing all of the fantastic colors and styles in her collection, I was officially in a top-sider state of mind. Plus, the classic footwear is an ironic wink to my "fly girl in bohemia" sartorial style.

So does Theophilus London actually wear men's boat shoes? I dunno. Can I imagine him finding a clever way to rock them? Sure. Am I still bitter that I didn't go to the Rebecca Minkoff fashion show (with a surprise  performance by Theophilus London)? Call me Lemonhead. And to my friend who sent me her video of said performance: I thank you, but I kinda' hate you.