I still remember exactly where I was when I heard the news, that awful day that the world lost Aaliyah. I was in college in Miami. Aaliyah was born in 1979, like I was. Her music was undeniably part of the soundtrack of my upbringing. Seeing the dates of her life flash across the news… read all

Despite whatever anyone may say about Beyonce — you can never say that she’s boring, or anything less than fabulous. From the moment I caught a glimpse of her video for Countdown, I automatically liked it — not just for the myriad references to 60’s fashion and style but also for the MAKEUP. There are… read all

Bellas! 2011 is bringing in some gorgeous new makeup to the drugstore, are you ready? The Queen Collection has had a classy new makeover, and their new Queen Collection Lip Color lipsticks are swoon worthy! Moisturizing, smooth, rich, vibrant color in a wide range of shades. I just got some samples in the mail and… read all

For any dark skinned bella questioning whether or not she should rock bright makeup – I present Alek Wek, as seen in the August issue of Dutch Glamour. How do you say…d’gorgeous? Like I’ve been saying for years — we can wear the most glorious and bright colors, and totally pull them off! This inspiring… read all

The venue was exclusive. The ambiance was elegant. Even as I entered the room, I knew this would be an event to remember. Handsomely dressed hosts and hostesses flitted around the room with platters of hors d’oeuvres. A bar in the corner was covered in glasses of champagne, ready for the taking. A Fine Day… read all

April 30th 2010 – a day that shall shine in my memory forever. On that day I was lucky enough to go to The Wit — one of downtown Chicago’s chicest hotels — to meet a legendary makeup artist. Sam Fine. Artist to celebrities such as Iman, Tyra Banks, Mo’Nique, and Vanessa Williams. Author of… read all

Etta James may have had a cherubic face — but listen to that voice. And check out that cat’s eye. Etta was BAD and letting us know in her own inimitable way. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzibSiJv8hc Drink that in, cause they don’t make it like that anymore. I first featured that video in a Throwback Thursday in 2008,… read all

Sam Fine and I are besties now. I just want you to know that. In my head, anyway. I had the amazing, amazing fortune of meeting the makeup artist to the stars last weekend – EPIC post and video to come, bellas! For now, it’s all about IMAN. 55, and more stunning by the day… read all

Chicago area bellas – mark your calendar if you haven’t already! At the Lifebook Lounge on Saturday at 1 pm, celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine will be leading a three hour seminar titled A Fine Day of Beauty. I am SO excited to learn tricks and tips from the genius behind some of the most… read all

She’s drop dead gorgeous with legs that go on forever…and an amazingly sunny, friendly, warm attitude to go with it! I’ve been an admirer of Tennessee-born model Wakeema Hollis from afar, but this incredible interview by Vogue Black – done by the legendary Bethann Hardison – charmed me completely. Hollis is the kind of beautiful,… read all