Food for Thought: Soulful Sunday

         Photo Credit: Google Images

Our weekend is winding down, and I hope that you all enjoyed your Sunday. It's a day for us to gather and recollect our thoughts, prepare for our upcoming week and get our house in order but make sure to relax as well. 

Food for thought today: You can be better or bitter, Powerful or Pitiful. But you can't be both! 

Wishing you all a prosperous week! 

Lipstick & Love, XOXO. 

Let's Talk: Empowerment

It's been awhile, the holidays had me very busy and now we are winding down 2013 to began our New Year. 

I was thinking about our career, dreams, the roles we play in our life and others and thought what if no one have us credit or acknowledged our achievements and positives? Would you stop doing those things that you loved, that helped someone or whatever it may be because you were overlooked? 

Often times people only remember the bad, they pick out our weaknesses and cover up on our strengths because of fear of the unknown, intimidation, and their own lack of vision. You put in your all to be the best person, to grow in all areas of your life, and to change who you were to who you want to become. Maybe you feel as if no one notices how much you are working on oneself, your career or the things that you want out of life but know that it's someone rooting for you, they see your full potential and the ones that can't, don't let that get you down. Embrace who is there for you! Even if it feels like no one gives you credit for pushing towards your goals give yourself credit, it all starts with YOU! 

Lipstick & Love XOXO 

Saturday Style: Hair

This week Saturday Style isn't a Fashion Post but dealing with the styling of our hair whether natural or installed tresses. Maintaining healthy hair is the result of having a nice, defined hairstyle. If your real hair is not maintained and upkept it will show in every style you wear. During the coldest months it is vital to keep your hair clean and moisturized. 

My install was taken out this morning, it was an actual u-part method. I used the products shown here to moisturize my natural hair. The Doo Gro Anti Inch was massaged into my scalp using small sections to help with dandruff and flaking.  The Dr Miracles Follicle Healer Pomade is best used for edges and the temple and nape area to treat thinning. And I distributed the Tresseme Keratin Serum and Argan Oil all over my hair starting from the roots to the ends to seal in moisture. I am letting my hair breathe for a day or so and letting the products sink in before washing it. I have no specific hair regimen nor am I a professional, I just use what works best for me. I also like to switch up products from time to time and try other hair routines. 

What are you using on your hair to keep it healthy? 

Lipstick & Love XOxO 

Glam Gal: Lipstick & Love

Good Saturday Morning to you Beautiful

People! This week I decided to get glam and rock some lip colors. Usually I only apply bold lipstick when hanging out, but not during my work week. *starts to sing: Staying alive working 9 to 5, my 9 to 5* 

The lip colors I werked from top to bottom were RiRi Heaux: I like the matte feel of this lipstick and also it still has moisture not making the lips feel cracked and dry. Second, was RiRi Woo lipstick and it is also matte. The red lipstick is definitely a signature color. Lastly, I kept it simple with MAC's lipglass in Salmon. Now this gloss is perfect to wear alone or paired on top of any lipstick to get a shine. Oh, and it was also a headband and bad hair week but it all worked out perfectly. 

Tell me more of the lip colors that you like to wear this fall or any time! 

Lipstick & Love XOXO 

Fab and Fit: BGWT New Workout DVD

Now *Lunge* and *Squat* and *Lunge* and *Squat*. Let's get that Booty Right Ladies! I began to laugh after I wrote that because when doing the first Black Girls Workout Too dvd I'm almost out of breath coaching myself and gulping down a bottle of H20 stating "I can do this". Last week I was on the roll working out 3 times and trying not to eat out, while making better food choices. This week I'm back in the fatness house, I haven't done a thing but look at my workout gear and climb into bed.

So how do you all stay motivated and determined to put forth the effort each week to accomplish your fitness goals? I know that It all starts within yourself and if you want to get things done, you just have to do it. Do you think having a partner to workout with is a great idea to stay motivated? What are your fitness tips?

Vitamin Ellen and Lana Ector have released a new dvd TODAY. You can buy it over on Amazon at a price of $29.99. They are snatching it back and getting you to do those SQUATS NO SHOTS in this DVD and it also comes with a new meal plan. I am contemplating on buying the dvd because I yet to do what needs to be done with the first one but I've also thought far ahead and said what if I switch out my routines between both. Such a good Idea huh.

Are you setting fitness goals and clean eating habit goals for the new year? Let us in on your secrets too!

Lipstick & Love XOXO

OOTD: Horseback Rider Gal

 

Such a late Wednesday post, excuse me but my days are very long sometimes! But my goal is to remain consistent no matter what. I want to bring more fashion photos to the site so that is in the plans, hang on with me! Lol. 

A little style goes a long way! How can one go wrong with Plaid and Riding Boots? I am loving this jacket I purchased not too long ago and it is just the right statement piece for any outfit. Since plaid is on the trending list it's perfect for fall wear. I have yet to go with the plaid button down trend but I plan on it. What plaid pieces have you wore lately? 

Lipstick & Love XOXO 

Get Glam: Pointed Pumps

My Get Glam pick is the pointed toe pumps. I know that this style has made it's comeback for some time now, but I have yet to really get into it. Not because I don't think that they are stylish but I just haven't snagged many pairs to wear just yet. I brought a pair last year and they are still boxed in my closet waiting to be worn. I really think this style goes well with boyfriend jeans and any shirt of choice whether a button down, t shirt, or chiffon top. These pumps are such a classic and great for business events, and interviews not limited to a night out on the town or dinner with your love. Are you into them yet or you'd rather just stick to other choices?

Lipstick & Love XOXO 

Get Glam: Pointed Pumps by unitedstatesoffash1on featuring red sole shoes

Jimmy Choo black shoes
jimmychoo.com

Christian Louboutin red sole shoes
christianlouboutin.com

Christian Louboutin leather shoes
christianlouboutin.com

Jeffrey Campbell pumps
neimanmarcus.com

Black shoes
shopakira.com

Empower: Who is in your Circle?

Photo Credit: Google Images

Today I was thinking what should I write about that could motivate us or fuel our mind and this topic came to me quickly. Last night I had a group chat with my friends and we talked about great things, motivation, buying homes, and our accomplishments and such. I said to them I look at what I have achieved and the things that I have accomplished and yet the things I still have to do. You know you can either look at the glass half empty or half full, or you can just be grateful that you even have a glass. 

But the main question to this is WHO IS IN YOUR CIRCLE? Your circle consists of the people that you are around, that can add or subtract into your life. Remember the saying birds of a feather flock together? At one point I would say that was not true, you don't have to be like the people you hang around but you know what, the people that you closely associate yourself with can have an impact on your actions and lifestyle just as well as the surroundings you sit in. Keep business minded, positive people in your circle and you are likely to set goals, learn new things to embrace into your future, and reach your highest potential. Keep shallow minded people, gossip, negative thinking, negative acting individuals around and you are likely to drown in your own misery and theirs as well. One message that I keep posted up around me so that I can always reflect back on it is from Colin Powell. Let these words sink in, and you know what before the new year comes go ahead and CLEAN HOUSE! You have no more time for people who can't push you to soar to newer levels, to the TOP we go!! 

The less you associate with some people, the more your life will improve. Any time you tolerate mediocrity in others, it increases your mediocrity. An important attribute in successful people is their impatience with negative thinking and negative acting people. 

As you grow, your associates will change. Some of your friends will not want you to go on. They will want you to stay where they are... Friends that don't help you climb will want you to crawl. Your friends will stretch your vision or choke your dream. Those that don't increase you will eventually decrease you. 

Consider this: 
Never receive counsel from unproductive people. Never discuss your problems with someone incapable of contributing to the solution, because those who never succeed themselves are always first to tell you how. Not everyone has a right to speak into your life. You are certain to get the worst of the bargain when you exchange ideas with the wrong person. Don't follow anyone who's not going anywhere... 

With some people you spend an evening: with others you invest it. Be careful where you stop to inquire for directions along the road of life. Wise is the person who fortifies his life with the right friendships. If you run with wolves, you will learn how to howl. But, if you associate with eagles, you will learn how to soar to great heights. 

"A mirror reflects a man's face, but what he is really like is shown by the kind of friends he chooses." 

The simple but true fact of life is that you become like those with whom you closely associate - for the good and the bad. 

Note: 
Be not mistaken. This is applicable to family as well as friends. Yes...do love, appreciate and be thankful for your family, for they will always be your family no matter what. Just know that they are human first and though they are family to you, they may be a friend to someone else and will fit somewhere in the criteria above. 

"In Prosperity Our Friends Know Us. In Adversity We Know Our friends." 
"Never make someone a priority when you are only an option for them." 
"If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters." 

“Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude..".. 

Colin Powell 

Lipstick & Love XOXO 

Empower: Staying Passionate about your Dreams

Photo Credit: Google Images

Do you have dreams, goals, and aspirations? Are you doing everything in your power to create possibilities for them? We all have a purpose in this life, a calling and not just a hustle that brings money. I believe that some people confuse their true purpose with their temporary careers. You know that feeling you get when you know what you want to do in life, when you see something that reminds you of your dreams, and how you just want to do everything to bring it all to life. At times, we let obstacles block our view, we let fear keep us from getting started, or we let others talk us out of our own visions. 

"Allow your Passion to become your Purpose, and it will one day become your Profession." It is important to stay passionate about what is on the inside of us. We have to keep our flame lit so that our light keeps burning and never dim down. I think that in order to stay passionate you have to feed your mind and creative being each day with new ideas. You have to also stay consistent with your passions. Don't let days slip by and procrastinate, remember the saying don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today. Journaling your thoughts is one way to open your mind up and fuel it. Get started, you can be whatever it is you want to be, you can do whatever it is that you want to do, but it all starts with YOU!

Lipstick & Love XOXO 

Spotlight: YK Owner Yonikka Kae'

Photo Credit: ykbeads.myshopify.com

It's Monday Loves, and I hope your weekend went well. I had a very busy weekend Christmas shopping and spending time with my family that I did not blog much. But, today I am back and I wanted to start off the week with a SPOTLIGHT feature. To me SPOTLIGHT is showcasing a hardworking, business oriented and humble individual, those are just some great assets to the person.  

Yonikka Kae' is a woman who I followed on Twitter and Instagram and she was the inspiration behind me starting my own jewelry line called JW Collection which has been put on hiatus. She is the owner of YK beads which is a line of unique handmade beaded pieces that all represents meaning and healing. She also has other items such as earrings and necklaces. I first learned of YK beads through BrookandtheCity and I adored it at first sight. Not personally knowing Yonikka but I admire her ambition. She seems to have a humble spirit, working hard in her YK Warehouses, taking care of her adorable son, and pushing herself towards her greatest potential. She recently offered to share her advice and tips for others who wants to start a business through a series of sessions and you could email her and the price was very reasonable. I can't wait to see what else she has in store for the world! Go check out YK Beads and shop for great jewelry! 

Lipstick & Love XOXO 

Saturday Style: Work Week OOTD

Happy Saturday Loves! I know I'm posting super late but it's been a long productive day. I wore this outfit during the week for work. It's just another comfy chic' ensemble for me, anything with prints and color is my go to style. I snagged the top from the 3.1 Phillip Lim collection for Target, did you get anything when it made its debut? 

I am hoping to change up my style very soon, I would like to incorporate very sleek, sophisticated and tailored pieces to my personal wardrobe. I love that your style can be whatever you like, it can always evolve. Fashion is really priceless. 

Lipstick & Love XOXO 

Bad Bey, H Town: BEYONCE

Did BEYONCE just give it to us or not?? Dropping an album without any promotion or anyone knowing is pure genius. I woke up in awe, hit the download button and have been in concert ever since. LOL! A visual album is creative and amazing. Bey Hives and Bey Stans are in heaven right now. So far, I love the songs Drunk in Love, Pretty Hurts, Partition, and Mine. Excuse me, I love the entire album! It is exclusively available on Itunes and will be available for purchase in retail stores on the 21st of December . Be sure to pick it up, I promise you won't be disappointed. Beyonce has given me an entire new outlook on her, she works so hard and she is such an ICON.

Track list Includes:

1. Pretty Hurts
2. Haunted
3. Drunk in Love (feat. JayZ)
4. Blow
5. No Angel
6. Partition
7. Jealous
8. Rocket
9. Mine (feat. Drake)
10.XO
11. Flawless (feat Chimamanda)
12. Superpower (feat Frank Ocean)
13. Heaven
14. Blue (feat. Blue Ivy)
15- 32 (Visual Videos)

NOW AGAIN, WHO RUN THE WORLD?? GIRLLLLSSS

Lipstick & Love xoxo

Let's Talk: Healthy Hair

When it comes to hair talk, what do you consider healthy hair? We as (African American) women have went from thinking the perm, relaxed hair was the best thing since sliced bread until the journey of natural hair began to take over. Is it true that either style chosen can be healthy depending on how you take care of your hair, or all the chemicals and ingredients in perms are really bad for us? Honestly I will be the first to say that I have failed to properly take care of my hair when I thought I was the bomb.com (LOL) and I am now on a journey of restoring it to it's natural and healthy state.

Let's talk about what are some of the mistakes that we as women can make when it comes to our tresses.

1. Not keeping our hair washed and cleansed of impurities, dirt and bacteria on a weekly basis.
2. Some think that wearing weaves and installs protects their real hair so they don't bother having a regimen for it underneath the caps and nets.
3. Failing to use a scarf or silk pillowcase when going to bed at night.
4. Poor diet and lack of water.
4. Not choosing and doing research on a hairstylist who actually cares about your real hair.

So, with that being said here are some tips that I think are beneficial for healthy hair.

1. Drinking plenty of H20 to keep your scalp hydrated and eating healthy.
2. Washing your hair once a week or every two weeks, and using a deep conditioning treatment.
3. Developing a hair regimen personalized for you.
4. Consultations with a hairstylist on what will be most beneficial for your hair.
5. Keeping your scalp and hair oiled and clean under your installs, plus making sure that they are not too tight where it causes traction to your edges and fine hairs.
6. Wrapping your hair up at night to keep it free from tangling.
7. Researching the products you use for your hair, and doing a spot test before using it over your entire head.

Disclaimer: I am not a hairstylist nor an avid lifestyle coach for healthy hair, these are just tips from my own personal life with my hair. *Covers eyes*

Do you have any great tips when it comes to hair care??

Lipstick & Love xoxo

Personal Style: OOTD

I decided to showcase a little of my own personal style today or in other words my  OOTD. It was very rainy here so I actually changed out of my pumps into a pair of Zara flats. 

I would like to describe my go to ensemble as comfy chic'. Being that I work in a office, flats and comfort is best for sitting at a desk for many hours. I'm obsessed with heels, handbags and color when choosing pieces to purchase or wear. What do your personal style usually consist of?? 

Lipstick & Love xoxo 

Get Glam: Leather Pencil Skirt

Get Glam: Leather Pencil Skirt by unitedstatesoffash1on featuring Miss Selfridge

Miss Selfridge skirt
missselfridge.com

Topshop skirt
nordstrom.com

Forever Unique red bodycon skirt
$110 - repertoirefashion.co.uk




Get Glam is my pick of the week regarding Fashion likes and trends. I have chose Leather Pencil Skirt's because of the sophistication they give to your outfit. The leather pencil skirt is a statement piece screaming "I'm a Ladddyyy" if worn in all of the right ways. Pair your leather skirt with a pointed toe pump and a chevron top and you could never go wrong! 

Lipstick & Love xoxo 

Photo: Created by Me. 

Inspiration: Big Person, Small Heart.

Hello rainy Sunday! As we are wrapping up our weekend and preparing for a new week ahead I wanted to give us all some inspiration. 

Can you remember the last time you did something for someone out of the kindness of your heart? Sometimes we become so wrapped up in ourselves and think that if it doesn't benefit us that we will not take part in it. When we have those thoughts it is pure selfishness. Sometimes we don't help others, don't smile or invite them in, or we judge them on what or who we think that they are. 

Status plays a huge role in today's society and although it always has their are social networks that give everyone the opportunity to gain some sort of status. Have you noticed how people with 10K followers usually like and converse with people that are similar to their own group. A person with 100 followers may be an individual with a lot going for themselves but are overlooked by companies, people of status, and more just because it LOOKS like they don't have what it takes. 

All in a nutshell, you can not be a BIG person with a small heart. Give everyone a chance, smile at everyone you meet or pass by, and do not down or overlook them because they may not act, speak or dress like you. You never know who God will use to bless you or help you. 

Lipstick & Love xoxo 

Sunday Spotlight: Keri Hilson

Sunday Spolight this week is dedicated to Songwriter & Songstress, Keri Hilson. Keri is a Grammy nominated singer and has made classic hits that we've jammed to such as the songs "Pretty Girl Rock" and "Turning me On".

 Her poetic justice hairstyle that consists of long flowy braids have been seen on her lately is the perfect eloquence to her features. Keri displays style, grace, and talent that's why she is our Sunday Spotlight of the Week! 

Lipstick & Love xoxo

Photo Credit: @dreamincolor Instagram 

What to Wear: Holiday Party Dresses

What to Wear: Holiday Party Dresses by unitedstatesoffash1on featuring a green long sleeve dress

Naeem Khan green long sleeve dress
marissacollections.com

FAUSTO PUGLISI red dress
stylebop.com

DP Collection gold dress
dorothyperkins.com

Black cocktail dress
societyofchic.com

Saturday Style : Shoedazzle

Its the weekend loves and Saturday Style is in full effect. I am an avid shoe lover just like most women. There are many shoe sites that you can sign up as a member for a monthly price and the stylists personalize a shoe boutique for you. On the sites there are perks such as credits, clearance & sales and more items like accessories and handbags. 

One of my favorites has to be Shoedazzle. There isn't a month that passes without me picking out a shoe whether it's a classic heel, funky style of some sort, or flat boots. I scored a free pair of black boots this month! Whoop! How awesome is that? The subscription price is not expensive, at $9.95 and you can always count on finding an amazing shoe whether for work or play. 

These are my 3 shoe picks for Saturday Style. Will you be purchasing any soon? 

Lipstick & Love xoxo 

Beauty: Aveeno Products

Happy Friday! I have not gave you all any of my thoughts or picks on beauty products that I enjoy. I wanted to first start off with skincare because even under all the makeup, it is very important to take care of your skin, and using the right products that works best for you in your everyday routine. Everyone is different seeing that some of us individuals have oily skin, others have dry, and we can even have a combination of them both. Acne is also a skin problem that many people suffer from and even if they are seeing a dermatologist developing a routine at home is very vital. 

My favorite Beauty/ Skincare products for my face is Aveeno. It is made with Active Natural ingredients such as Soy, Oatmeal, and wheat. The products come in a variety of combinations to help one such as the clear complexion package, or positively radiant package. These are two of my favorite and I have seen a positive difference in my face since using the foaming cleanser and daily moisturizing lotion. You can buy the products online here --> Aveeno Products  or in your stores such as Walmart and Target. One great thing I also like about Aveeno is that the line extends into products for your hair and body, your baby, and even for men. How Awesome is that! 

This is my Beauty pick of the Week. What do you use daily in your skincare routine?

Lipstick & Love xoxo

Lipstick Fashion Pick: Denim on Denim

Today's Lipstick Fashion Pick is the Denim + Denim Trend and a little accessory of Fur. It is no way to go wrong seeing that you can add just about any color or pop of one's own personal feel because of how broad this outfit can be when adding details. Since it is fall and fur is a go to statement I decided to add this as my go to detail. Picking out a chunky statement necklace or a leather jacket will make your denim pop as well.

The Denim + Denim fit can be worn all season round which makes this a great Fashion pick in my eyes. How would you dress yourself in this trend?

Photo Credit: Designed by Me.

Denim on Denim by unitedstatesoffash1on featuring long sleeve shirts

Mango long sleeve shirt
$57 - houseoffraser.co.uk

Rag & Bone blue jeans
matchesfashion.com

C / Fan Candace Blue Racoon Fur Collar
shoplesnouvelles.com

Tis' The Season: Good Deeds

Good Morning Lipstick Loves! Let me jump right into the Good Deed that happened today. What a way to start off a great Morning!!! Starbucks and a story, how can you go wrong with that? LOL! If you are a Starbucks lover like me, you are racing to the dainty little spot in the morning to beat the long drive thru line and make it to work on time. Everyone is trying to grab a Venti coffee or latte to begin their day.

This morning as usual I had ordered a Iced Chai Tea Latte and breakfast sandwich to go, and when I pulled up to the window the cashier says to me "The person in the car has already paid for your order, so all you have to do it just take it". I was so stunned because it was not anything I was expecting that my eyes began to water and my emotions were all in a frenzy. The gesture of someone else's good deed made me feel so great inside, I could not believe it. I did not know the person and now the kind of car that they were in was a blur, but what I did know was that I couldn't stop the tears or the feeling of joy and blessings. It was such a great way to start off my day.

Isn't it amazing how thinking of someone else other than yourself can have such an impact and difference in that person's life. It is not the size of the deed but the kindness and genuine spirit of your heart that counts. I will always remember what that person did for me when I go to Starbucks. :) Tis' the Season of Joy!

Lipstick & Love xoxo