To be honest, I’m not a huge fan of Grammy nominee Leona Lewis’ voice. It’s a pretty voice (”Bleeding Love” was a catchy song) and the natural beauty has all of the makings of a star, yet I’m just not feeling the “X Factor.” What I am feeling, however, is Leona’s flair for fashion. The Brit sure knows how to pull a casual yet chic outfit together.
The above photo captures her on a recent shopping trip in New York City and I love the riding boots, leggings, and black cap. I’ve never considered a white coat, and I like the fit of Leona’s jacket. And I know it’s a big trend, but I’m on the fence when it comes to the black fringe hobo bag. What do you think?
After a couple months of searching, I found the perfect pair of black riding boots for a nice price at Nine West. I plan to break them in tomorrow on my birthday. So I have at least one component of Leona’s ensemble. Here’s how you can assemble all of her look:
Boots from Nine West, $130 (they’re 30% off at most Nine West stores)
For better and for worse, we women of color often have a little extra junk in the trunk. The challenge is keeping your rear assets toned, so a few months ago I tried VelaShape. I was inspired to try the non-surgical contouring procedure after watching honorary hot mama Kim Kardashian (she’s more bootylicious than Beyonce) get VelaShape-d on her E! TV show.
By using powerful energies known as elos that reduce the volume and appearance of fat tissues, the FDA-approved VelaShape contours, shapes and slims the body by reducing cellulite and circumference.
My Experience
I went to the White Tea Spa in New York City. My goal was to tone my thighs and my main concern was that the suction-like instrument used during the VelaShape treatment would feel too hot. My friendly body and skin care therapist assured me it would feel similar to a warm deep tissue massage. Once she started on the back of my thighs, they did feel a bit warm. But I told her whenever it felt uncomfortable and she applied more gel to the area.
The procedure took about 40 minutes and at the end I was pleased to hear that I didn’t have much cellulite. Generally, gradual improvement of the treated area can be seen immediately following the first treatment, and my thighs did feel tighter, smoother, and more toned for at least a week following my visit. Although I planned to go back for a second treatment, I never made it.
If you have a lot of cellulite and you’re serious about getting rid of your tush’s dimply appearance or your cottage cheese thighs, however, for your desired results it’s recommended you get at least 4 VelaShape sessions (single session for one area, $285) and keep your rear in gear by adopting a regular exercise regimen.
The beginning of the New Year usually means it’s time to make your New Year’s resolution. And I want to reward one lucky Hot Mama who tells me the best New Year’s resolution with the clutch/evening bag of her choice from Handbag Heaven.
But I’m not looking for a simple answer like “My New Year’s resolution is to lose 10 pounds.” I want you to dig deeper and tell me something you intend to do or change and why? And you’ll increase your chance to win if you tell me how you plan to make the change.
For example, my New Year’s resolution is to be more patient and less critical of myself and my loved ones. How? By listening to spiritual teachers like Eckhart Tolle who focus on staying in the present moment; developing a regular spiritual practice like meditation or going to church; and believe it not, by taking dance classes. Why? Because doing so will make me happier and make life more enjoyable.
To enter the clutch bag contest, email your New Year’s Resolution (remember to give it some real thought) to tracy.hopkins@b5media.com by 12 noon on Tuesday, January 6 (yeah, that’s also my birthday).
Happy New Year to all! We all wish you a happy, healthy, successful and beautiful 2009.
As we usher in the new year, we take a look back at the Best and Worst of 2008, along with a look ahead to 2009. From all the Splendicitybloggers, here are some of our favorite (and not so favorite) things from the world of beauty and fashion.
It’s been a pleasure writing Hot Mama Daily since November, and I look forward to having more fun with the blog in 2009. And whether you’re out partying (safely) or snuggling at home with your sweetie and watching the ball drop from your comfy couch (that’s more my speed), I hope you have a great time.
FYI: I have a contest you won’t want to miss coming up later in the week. So stay tuned.
Whether you’re dressing up or wearing something casually chic, Nicole Richie’s sparkly silver-and-gold ensembles lend plenty of Hot Mama fashion inspiration.
Option A: Richie is in full Hollywood glam mode in a long, gold beaded gown that shows off her healthier shape. This look is perfect for a formal New Year’s ball or VIP gala.
Option B: Nicole stands out with a silver sequin headband (one of the hottest looks of 2008), a plain white tank top and black leather skirt. This look is well-suited for a cool New Year’s party at a club or a hip dinner outing (add a jacket or sweater for warmth).
If you’d like to ring in New Year’s Eve Nicole Richie style (modified for the every girl’s budget of course), here are a couple copy cat options:
The New Year is only a few days away. That can only mean one thing — it’s time for end of the year lists. Last week I recounted my fave and not so fave pop culture moments. So in no particular order, it’s time to revisit my five favorite beauty products of the year:
1) Black Radiance Velvet & Glow (Color & Shimmer for the Face).
This versatile makeup is available at your local drugstore, and can be used to add color to your lips, cheeks, and eyes. What a life saver.
2) Mariah Carey “M” and “Luscious Pink” perfumes. These long lasting, feminine and floral scents will keep you smelling ladylike all day long.
“M” is a deeper fragrance with hints of marshmallow, patchouli, gardenia, and Moroccan incense. Carey describes her new fragrance, the lighter “Luscious Pink,” as “feminine, flirtatious and fun, and truly reflects where I am in my life now, after an incredible year.”
3) Dermalogica products have been part of my skin care routine for more than a decade. I’ve used the Anti-Bac face wash and Dermal Claycleanser on and off to help combat adult acne.
Lately I’ve been using the Age Smart line to reduce the appearance of fine lines. I love the Skin Resurfacing Cleanser, the Antioxidant Hydramist toner, and the Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque. For more info go to www.dermalogica.com.
4) Karen’s Body Beautiful hair products make my hair feel cleaner than it’s ever felt, and they smell great.
I’m fond of the Chamomile Sage Conditioning Shampoo for dryer or damaged hair, the Egyptian Musk Deep Conditioner, the daily moisturizing Hair Milk, and the Luscious Locks mask for super deep conditioning once a month. For more info go to www.karensbodybeautiful.com.
5) Mary-Kate and Ashley Shimmer Plus color stick came in one of the goodie bags I’m super thankful for receiving this year. Who knew that these tiny twins know what works when it comes to makeup?
The silver color crayon can be used as a sparkly eyeliner or eye shadow (or perhaps as a space age-y lipstick). I’m not sure where MK and Ashley cosmetics are sold exclusively, but I’ve seen the Shimmer Plus for sale on Ebay.
If you’re like me, you ate way too many carbs and sweets during the Christmas holiday. And with New Year’s fast approaching, there’s still plenty of temptation to eat, drink and be merry. So here’s the conflict. You want to enjoy the rest of the holiday season and still look fabulous. I’ve discovered the solution – Yummie Tummie shapewear.
The Yummie Tummie Story
Created by fashion designer and celebrity stylist Heather Thomson — the creative force behind P. Diddy’s Sean John line, Beyoncé’s fashion lines, and Jennifer Lopez’s Sweetface brand — Yummie Tummie gives a smoother appearance and is more comfortable than Spanx or a traditional girdle. When Thomson became frustrated with the existing shapewear options available to her and her clients - all of which compressed the bust, didn’t stay in place, and were horribly uncomfortable and unflattering - she created an innovative way to fight the battle of the tummy bulge.
How It Works
Yummie Tummie tank tops and t-shirts are made with a patent-pending dual fabric technology, and its extra bonus comes from its same-tone, firm control midsection panel, which smoothes and shapes your stomach and hips, erasing pounds from your frame, and concealing any lumps and bumps. Because that panel is made with a microfiber fabric that actually wicks moisture away, you will always feel cool and comfortable. And since they’re made with sleek, non-cling yarns, Yummie Tummie tanks and t-shirts never roll or ride up.
In addition to making you look 5 lbs. slimmer, the body contouring tops provide core stability, a benefit also derived from taking a yoga or Pilates class. No wonder celebs including Tyra Banks, Kimora Lee Simmons, and Jennifer Lopez love their Yummie Tummies.
The Hot Mama Test
I received a long-sleeved black t-shirt ($82) and a white tank top ($62). I wore the white tank around all day today and, unlike a girdle, it didn’t feel constricting. I didn’t even have to wear a bra because it fits so snugly. My tummy felt flatter and to my surprise the tank absorbed any moisture. I plan to wear Yummie Tummie the next time I get dressed up and need extra support. So it gets the Hot Mama thumbs up!
I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas or a Happy Holiday. And I hope that you get everything that was on your gift wish list and more. To put you in the spirit, here’s a flashback video of a younger Mariah Carey singing “All I Want For Christmas is You” (what would we do without You Tube?). I love Mimi, even if she is married to Nick Cannon.
So enjoy and rest up for those after Christmas sales!
I barely recognized natural beauty Jessica Alba with these bangs and heavy makeup. The dress is festive holiday red, but I’m not sure about the rhinestone embellishment around her waist — along with the bow on her shoulder she looks like a wrapped Christmas present. But then again, Jessica was in Milan celebrating her selection as the star of the iconic 2009 Campari calendar. So that explains her ensemble’s added drama. And the ruby and diamond earrings are to die for.
What do you think of Jessica’s red carpet look? Is she a foxy lady in red or is her look overdone?
If you have a passion for fashion, you have come to the right place. Our editors will dress you from head to toe and share their wealth of knowledge of cosmetics, fashion, and accessories for both women and men. Join us at the Beauty & Style Channel and be the best looking person you can be
Boots from Nine West, $130 (they’re 30% off at most Nine West stores)
Wool fitted cap from Amazon.com, $24.00
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