Signing Papers...

A few days ago, my friends and I were discussing words or phrases that we didn't want to hear or say in 2012! I just came across one... "Irreconcilable differences!" Yet ANOTHER marriage in Hollywood has come to an end due to... you guessed it... "Irreconcilable differences!" Katy Perry and Russell Brand have decided to end their 14 month marriage. According to reports, they spent Christmas apart. Russell was spotted in England and Katy in Hawaii, both without their wedding rings!

photo: nydailynews.com

 Brand released a statement to the Associated Press today. "Sadly, Katy and I are ending our marriage. I'll always adore her and I know we'll remain friends." Well, there you have it! I don't know about you, but I'm ready for the day Hollywood marriages (or any marriage for that matter) to last a lifetime!!! I thought they made a great couple! Oh well..

Oh Baby, Oh Baby!!!

OMG!!! I have been dying to post this, but the site has been having server issues.... Anyways, rumor has that Beyonce' is on LABOR ALERT!!!! I don't think she'll make until February, if that was an actual fact! Staffers at New York's St. Luke's Roosevelt hospital have been notified to prepare the labor and delivery suite for "a celebrity VIP!!!" (Guess I need to book my flight ASAP)! 

Stay tuned to see if she'll be a mother in the last days of 2011 or the first days of 2012... 

photo: nydailynews.com

I can't wait!!!!

Nailed It!

photos: stylishandtrendy.com

I absolutely love a zany manicure. However, they NEVER last on my busy fingers! It looks good for a day, IF I'm able to make it out of the nail salon without a single smudge or mishap! I try doing them myself and it turns into an all-day event. I end up with air-bubbles or I have to soak in the bathtub to get my cuticles polish-free! That being said, I am grateful for nail bling! Blissful Follower, Raven in Charlotte purchased me a set of Nail Fraud (similar to Sally Hansen Salon Effects) nail strips. It's a dry manicure that comes with everything you need! A cuticle pusher, emery board, and 20 appliques. There are plenty of designs to choose from! Nail bling can last up to 10 days. Removal is simple... Just use nail polish removal as you would with regular polish! It's very affordable. They range from about $8 to $10 and you can purchase them at your local drugstore!!! It's a tiny fraction of what you'd pay for a stunning manicure like Solonge's. Check out Raven's nail bling below... Definitely worth a try!

Here's a tutorial... Now you have no excuse!

photo: glamour.com

OMG! She NAILED it!

Pass The Dutch Follow-Up!

As a result of bad-judgement, Eva Hoeke has decided to resign... 

photo: parlourmagazine.com

Her statement: 

“I realize that my first reaction through Twitter, in which I indicated that it was a joke, has been an incomplete description of what me, and also the author of the article, meant. The term ‘niggabitch’ came from America and we solely used it to describe a style of dress. Because of the enormous pressure through social media I was tempted to promise amendment regarding the language in future issues of Jackie. Apart from that I also offered an rectification. I have now come to the conclusion that rectification is not the right solution. I regret that I have taken a stand too quickly regarding an article in Jackie — which moreover had no racial motive at its basis. Through the course of events, me and the publisher have concluded that because my credibility is now affected, it is better for all parties if I quit my function as editor-in-chief effective immediately. After putting my heart and soul into for Jackie for eight years, I realize that these errors — although not intended maliciously — are enough reason for leaving.”

“I should have counted to ten before taking unnuanced stands through social media channels. Through this my credibility has been hurt and that neither fits the role of an editor-in-chief, nor Jackie Magazine. Jackie Magazine will invite Rihanna to share her feelings and thoughts on the article in the next issue.” 

(translation from parlourmagazine.com)

If you ask me, she resigned two days too late! She SHOULD have been fired! Besides Eva's initial excuse for her poor choice of words, what really vexes me about the situation is that she considered it as "American slang" and a "style of dress?!" I think we all know how degrading that word is, despite its use among some entertainers, etc! I'll never understand the thought process, behind this... Needless to say, I hope this is a lesson learned! 

Pass The Dutch!

Rihanna has acquired yet another title.... And I quote... the "ultimate n***a b***h", according to Dutch magazine, Jackie.

photo: bossip.com

Parlourmagazine.com translates: 

"She has street cred, she has a ghetto ass and she has a golden throat. Rihanna, the good girl gone bad, is the ultimate n***ab***h and displays that gladly, and for her that means: what’s on can come off. If that means she’ll be on stage half naked, then so be it. But Dutch winters aren’t like Jamaican ones, so pick a clothing style in which your daughter can resist minus ten. No to the big sunglasses and the pornheels, and yes to the tiger print, pink shizzle and everything that glitters. Now let’s hope she won’t beat anybody up at daycare."

photo: zimbo.com

Wow! I'm surprised this article was published. NOW, would be a good time to resign! Don't think Rih let that slide... Here is her response according to mtv.com...

"I hope u can read english, because your magazine is a poor representation of the evolution of human rights! I find you disrespectful and rather desperate!! You ran out of legit, civilized information to print!" she wrote on Twitter. "There are 1000's of Dutch girls who would love to be recognized for their contributions to your country, you could have given them an article. Instead, u paid to print one degrading an entire race! That's your contribution to this world! To encourage segregation, to mislead the future leaders to act in the past! You put two words together, with the intent of abasement, that made no sense ... 'N---a Bitch'?!....Well with all respect, on behalf of my race, here are my two words for you ... F--- YOU!!!"

Editor-in-chief, Eva Hoeke has since apologized on behalf of the magazine, which can be found at http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1676272/rihanna-jackie-racist-comments.jhtml

Ummm... apology? NO! I'm tired of the apologies. This is NOT slang... IT is NOT a harmless joke... It is NOT a mistake... And it is NOT OK! This is racism, if you ask me! Apologies for racism has become an excuse for ill-mannered, prejudice, and malicious individuals to hide behind ignorance! Where is the censorship and respect? What happened to proofreading? Who approved this article and who thought it was acceptable to publish? It saddens me to read/report on an article of this subject matter, especially with quickly 2012 approaching...

A Kardashian Christmas!

The moment we've all been waiting for... THE 2011 KARDASHIAN- JENNER CHRISTMAS CARD!!! I look forward to seeing what they come up with each year... This year's card is also available in 3D...

Fun times!

photos: eonline.com

 And there you have it... A Kardashian Christmas!!!
Check your mailbox!

Just Like Me...

Great News... The Black Barbie has finally received a makeover, thanks to a natural hair group in Columbus, GA! The au natural diva has received a few natural styles that little girls can not only relate to, but appreciate as well! The dolls will be given to children at the public housing community, Booker T. Washington, in Columbus, GA, just in time for Christmas! 

 

photos: huffingtonpost.com

Although my assortment was pretty snazzy, I have to admit if barbies looked like this when I was growing up, I would have had a more diverse collection! 



Politically In Style

 Two things I NEVER want to be... The President or the President's wife! NO WAY! (Don't worry, this isn't about politics)... Michelle Obama seems to be the most fashionable First Lady, since Jackie Kennedy Onassis. (No pun intended towards those in between)... Mrs. Obama's style exhibits elegance, sophistication, class, and grace! Here are a few reasons why...

photo: thewalkmagazine.com



photos above: mrs-o.com

              
                                                    photo:thefreshxpress.com                                                              photo: omg.yahoo.com

I love her modern, yet timeless her look... She is certainly a risk-taker when it comes to "political fashion!"
WORK IT MRS. O!!!!

I also want to steal a moment from fashion and thank our troops for all their hard work and dedication to our country! I am elated to say that our troops are coming home from Iraq today! Safe travels guys!!!
***SALUTE!!!!***

Pregnant In Heels!

I absolutely love seeing a pregnant woman dressed to the nines. Although I've never been pregnant, I've heard how uncomfortable it can be. Your feet swell, you lack energy, and for goodness sakes, you're carrying around a gut full of human! As a women who LOVES wearing heels, I know how badly your feet can hurt after a few hours! That being said, kudos to all the fabulous women pregnant in heels! Some of you are probably saying, "They should be cute! They have chefs, stylists, and nothing but time on their hands!" That may be true to a certain extent, but pregnancy is pregnancy, right? Anyways, here are a few of my favorite, stylish women of Hollywood strutting around in towering stilettos...

photo: http://www.popularcritic.com

Beyonce' always looks amazing!


photo: people.com

With a name like "Posh Spice," Victoria Beckham turned heads for the majority of pregnancy with baby Harper!

Photo: huffingtonpost.com

Jessica Simpson vows to give birth in heels! We shall see, but no pressure...Great effort so far!


Photo: usmagazine.com


I loved this look on Jessica Alba, while pregnant over the summer. It's simple, sexy, and sophisticated!


photo: tmz.com

And Mel B wowing us over the summer with her leopard BIKINI! She was 9 months pregnant and due at any moment!

It's impressive how woman can still turn heads, while carry around extra weight and ailments during pregnancy! I hope to be just as bold and elegant as these ladies when my time comes! Not sure if I'll prevail, but I will definitely give it a try!!!

The Love Below...

photo: womenshealthmag.com

OK ladies... It's time to get down and dirty! This topic was requested by one of my followers, whom I'll let remain anonymous due to the subject matter... Along with trying to obtain a bikini-body by spring, we also need to make sure that we have tamed the bikini zone! Now, some women may prefer shaving over waxing. However,waxing lasts about three weeks to a month! It removes hair from the root, so over a period of time, the hair grows back less! I know some of you are saying: "What about the pain?!" I'm not going to lie, some areas WILL hurt more than others, but if you know it's something you want to do, prepare yourself ahead of time! Take an OTC (over-the-counter) medicine for minor pain and aches about an hour before your service. Exfoliating the day before may help loosen your hair follicles . ***side eye*** You should also exfoliate after to avoid a bumpy situation!!! Topical anti-inflammatory creams will help, too!

photo: http://beauty-skin.onsugar.com

      Brazilian, French, or traditional bikini??? That is the question that only YOU can answer! The traditional bikini is about two inches (I think) from the sides and top. If you've never waxed your bikini area, I would start there. It's basic and less painful. French is a little less invasive than a full Brazilian, if you know what I mean... So, if you're ready to push the envelope, but not quite ready to let it all go, French might be the way to go!

Here are a few take-aways:

•  Research spas, estheticians, and the services or use a reliable recommendation. 
• Hard wax is the BEST wax! 
• Pay attention to housekeeping
• Make sure she either washes her hands or uses gloves! (I'm a germaphobe)!!
• Exfoliate your skin
• (In some cases), you get what you pay for!

I found this article online... http://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/bikini-waxing-dangers. It's not to scare you, but it's definitely worth the knowledge!

Block It!!!

For those you who never understood the point of taking color theory classes, here's the reason... Color-blocking is back again! This trend has been around for a few seasons, but originally made its debut decades ago, (approximately during the 1960s) with Mod fashion. It started out with the large, colorful, geometric patterns. Now, it's pretty much whatever you want it to be. If you're not comfortable with the idea layering bold colors together, go back to the basics. What's considered basic? Well, try wearing a black dress with colored tights, or pair it a bold-colored blazer and eye-catching shoes! Play around with color-wheel... Find colors that complement each other and BLOCK IT!!!  

photo: colors-4life.com

Take a look at these runway examples... Notice the less-is-more rule... When color-blocking, accessories are minimal! I think that's very important, since your color choices ARE indeed your statement in this case!

photo: fashionbombdaily.com 

photo: anniesosa.com

Color-blocking doesn't stop at apparel...You can even color-block your nails!

photo:shopmason.com

Check out yours truly! 

Feedback Friday!

HAPPY FRIDAY TO YOU!!!! Welcome to the first-ever, Blissful Follower's TAKEOVER!!! Today is all about you! Check out ALL the wonderful feedback I've received throughout the week! 

RE: FUR-EVER IN LOVE...

Blissful Follower, Noura in Augusta, GA sent pics of her little one... Meet 7 month old Disco! She enjoys open spaces that she can run in. She looooves chasing her tail, popping balloons, and her LARGE stuffed rabbit that she sleeps with every night!

I absolutely adore her dress! Her paws resemble dainty, lace socks! How cute!  

RE: Deeply Rooted...

Martie from Charlotte, NC is showing off her ombre' color! 

Next, we have Raven also from Charlotte flaunting an ombre' look...

RE: COLOR YOUR DAY WITH DENIM...

Kim from Charlotte, (now one of my regulars) sporting her colored denim!

WOW! Thanks ladies for a VERY successful TAKEOVER!!! You rocked it out this week!

New Music!

NEW MUSIC MONDAY, three days later... Amy Winehouse's Lioness: Hidden Treasure album has finally been released! It's bittersweet, but I'm glad to be able to enjoy her talent one last time! It's no surprise that her album has already topped charts at the #1 spot!


photo: dailymail.com


A portion of the proceeds from the album will go to the Amy Winehouse foundation benefiting needy children set up by her father.

Tracklist:
Our Day Will Come (Reggae Version)
Between The Cheats
Tears Dry
Wake Up Alone
Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow
Valerie
Like Smoke feat. Nas
The Girl From Inpanema
Halftime
Bestfriends
Body & Soul feat. Tony Bennett
A Song For You


Check out the preview below...

Also, Robin Thicke's new album, Love After War is in stores. From what I've heard, it's classic, relaxing and sexy...

Fur-ever In Love!!!

I would like to introduce to you, two of my favorite 'fursons'... Pebbles and Priscilla! I am totally obsessed with these paws. Their 'fursonalities' compel me to believe that this is their second time around! Pebbles is very sweet, independent and laid-back... She enjoys traveling, fashion (like mum), sun-bathing and looking out of the window! (I have pictures to prove it)!!! Priscilla on the other, is a little more rambunctious. She loves to be the center of attention, FIRST, going to "Nona's" (my mother) house, and running wildly through the house! She enjoys eating treats or whatever you give her, hugs, and playing with her toys! 

Don't let the sweet faces fool you! THEY WILL ATTACK, IF NEED BE!!! LOL!

Here are some photos of them in action... 

  This is Pebbles posing with one of her baby dolls...

Priscilla being silly!

Model pose! Check out her fur!

Wanting to play!!!

Now you can see why I love them so much! Couldn't image life without them! 

If  you'd like to dote on your pet, feel free to send pictures and a little about their pastimes to fashionblog1006@gmail.com.

Deeply Rooted

For those of you who love to highlight your hair knows what it's like to have to maintain it! The normal upkeep is usually about every 6 to 8 weeks... It can be both costly and time consuming. Here's the good news... Unless you're covering your unruly platinum strands, there is no need rush! Some people may call it roots, but in Hollywood it's called ombre'! Ombre' is a color technique that goes from dark to light... In other words, your roots need to be touched up! I've been rocking this trend for years! GET WITH IT HOLLYWOOD!!!

photo: bellasugar.com

photo: fashionbombdaily.com

Although it is considered trend, I doubt it if it ever goes out of style! Well, I guess technically women will stop PAYING for roots eventually... I am guilty of having dark roots at times. But, it's only a matter of time before the contrast is too much for me to handle!
HAPPY TUESDAY EVERYONE!!!!

Feedback Fridays...

photo: jsdguitarshack.com

Good Afternoon, Blissful Followers! As you all know, I love feedback or what I like to call Blissful Venting! I would like to thank those who have commented or sent pictures rocking the latest trends pertaining to entries that I've posted. If feedback remains consistent, I am going to dedicated my Friday posts to you! So, if you've recently sent pictures, but have not seen them posted, Friday is your day! Please make sure that all images are submitted by 9pm on Thursdays!!!
Email me at fashionblog1006@gmail.com.
xoxo, Shekerra