Ring Around the Collar

Move over blingy statement necklaces and make room for more refined designs. Sleek gold collars are creeping up on celebrities and fashionistas for a chic, bold look. Whether hammered or hard-studded, these necklaces are an easy way to instantly add polish and panache to any ensemble.

From L-R: Christina Milian, Angela Simmons, and Kelis rocking eye-catching gold collars.

Check out these picks:

Allen Schwartz Canary Coast Gold Tone Collar Necklace available at www.endless.com for $85

Alexis Bittar Liquid Gold Collar available at www.bloomingdales.com for $375

Kenneth Jay Lane Satin Gold Hinged Collar available at www.shopbop.com for $215

Hard-Studded Collar Necklace available at www.urbanoutfitters.com for $24

Hive and Honey Hammered Collar Necklace available at www.piperlime.com for $26

Are you a fan of statement necklaces?

President Barack Obama Loves Black People

In an effort to ensure that we BGs and guys get out and re-elect President Barack Obama into office, he announced via video the 2012 launch of African-Americans for Obama campaign to rally African-American voters.

In the video, the president says, "I don't think there's a better time than African-American history month to consider the tremendous progress that we've made through the sacrifices of so many, or a better time to commit to meeting the very real challenges we face right now."

He added that he wants us "to continue making history," by using our voting power at the polls.

Watch the entire video below:

Do you think President Barack Obama will be re-elected?

Must-See TV: Black History Month

It's hard to believe it's February since we're experiencing such a mild winter, but it's here, which means it's our month to celebrate and recognize our contributions to the country. PBS has several programs that highlight African-American history and showcase our stories.

From a documentary on the abolition of slavery to an exploration of our communities in the 60s and 70s through film and music, PBS will air a slew of programs that will enlighten and inform during Black History Month.

Check out my must-see choices:

Slavery By Another Name: Wall Street Journal senior writer Douglas A. Blackmon, explores the little-known story of the post-Emancipation era and the labor practices and laws that effectively created a new form of slavery in the South that persisted well into the 20th century.
Airing Monday, February 13 at 9PM, EST

Independent Lens: The Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975: Audio and visual interviews from African-American artists, activists, musicians, and scholars. Pictured: Angela Davis.
Airing Thursday, February 9 at 10pm, EST

Independent Lens "Daisy Bates: First Lady of Little Rock": This program tells the story of Daisy Bates' life and public support of nine black students who registered to attend the all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, which culminated in a constitutional crisis — pitting a president against a governor and a community against itself.
Airing Thursday, February 2 at 10 pm, EST

How will you celebrate Black History Month? Will you be watching these programs?

Thank You, Don Cornelius

The news of Soul Train founder, Don Cornelius's death leaves me with a heavy heart. Like so many little young brown girls and guys, I made it a point to catch Soul Train every Saturday morning for years.

I remember tuning in to see my favorite acts at the time, Bell Biv Devoe, Another Bad Creation, and En Vogue perform on that famous Los Angeles soundstage. Just thinking about those music-filled mornings brings back such fond memories.

Music is the universal language and Mr. Cornelius showcased it on a weekly basis for decades. His contributions to our rich, cultural history is unprecedented and he will live on forever in our hearts and as we stroll down the next "Soul Train," line at a wedding. :-)

May he rest in love, peace and soul!

Natural Hair Files: Go-To Transitioning Styles

With so many of us women of color embracing our natural hair textures, it's no surprise that many of us grappling with finding styles that work well with our newfound curls, kinks, and coils. While I didn't go for the BC (big chop), I found styles that would camouflage my chemically-straightened strands with my newly grown thicker texture.

Throughout my journey, roller sets and two-strand twists were my go-to styles while I learned how to care for my natural hair. Those styles made my mane manageable while still looking chic and polished. In addition to those common transitioning styles, I also opted for top-knots and buns (with a scarf or simple headband), which I still wear if I'm too lazy to style it after a wash.

Me embracing the top-knot bun. 

What styles did you or do you currently wear as you transitioned to natural hair?

Fabulous Photos of The Week!

Chrisitna Milian at an event in Hollywood.

Kelly Rowland at an event in L.A.

Oprah Winfrey in India.

President Barack Obama during the State of the Union Address. 

Rashida Jones at the Sundance Film Festival in Salt Lake City.

Vanessa Williams and Tracee Ellis Ross announcing the NAACP Image Awards in L.A.

What's your favorite photo of the week? Have a wonderful weekend!

Must See TV: UNCF's An Evening of Stars

We all know that a mind is a terrible thing to waste thanks to UNCF's powerful motto. It's true - education truly is the key to success. Tune in to BET this Sunday to watch the 33rd Annual United Negro College Fund's An Evening of Stars showcase highlighting some of our brightest future leaders.

Each year UNCF makes it possible for more than 60,000 African-American students to attend college and equip them with the essential educational tools to make them successful citizens.

The night will be full of inspirational performances by Patti LaBelle, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Musiq Soulchild, and more while raising funds to continue making students' dreams come true.

The event will air January 29, at 11PM on BET.

Were you a college scholarship recipient?

Brow King Damone Roberts Joins TheLookBag.com

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with the one and only Damone Roberts. For those few who aren't familiar with Roberts, he's THE king of eyebrows. From Oprah to Beyonce, Roberts has been shaping the brows and beautifying some of Hollywood's elite for years.

In addition to running his brow beauty empire, which includes two salons, Roberts has been tapped by TheLookBag.com to bring beauty buffs the hottest makeup and skincare products to their doorsteps.

His beauty expertise, credibility and positive influence within the industry caught the attention of TheLookBag.com, which lead to their partnership earlier this year. "We wanted to align ourselves with the best and most relevant celebrity beauty guru out there. Damone has a great reputation, and his artistry can be seen on the most famous faces," Lookbag.com executive Tia Valenciano said.

Through an affordable monthly $10 membership, consumers can customize their profile to match the kinds of product samples they'll receive. TheLookBag.com makes it simple for members to test five products for women who may find it difficult to find products that work for them without breaking the bank.

Proving that he's not just a face of the company, Roberts takes his role seriously. "We only include the good stuff," he said. He scours the market for deluxe, high-quality products that will work for all women. Currently, members can choose from a variety of luxurious moisturizers, body creams, and other reputable products picked by the celebrity beauty guru.

Next up, Roberts hopes to include La La Vazquez's new makeup line and Kimble hair care products.

Damone's Do's and Don'ts:

"You're never too big to keep learning."

"Brown girls should never be afraid to experiment with color. Our skin-tones can carry colors."

"Don't over-tweeze!"

For more information on TheLookBag.com click here.

Are you familiar with Damone Roberts? If not, be sure to follow him on Twitter @DamoneRoberts

Citron: My "It" Color of the Moment

Between the occasional pink summer pieces, my wardrobe is pretty devoid of color. That's all about to change. This spring I'm starting anew when it comes to welcoming bright and bold colors into my closet. With the neon trend taking over the runways and makeup counters across the country, I've decided to partake in some of the fun.

Right now, citron is catching my eye. While you won't catch me rocking the vibrant hue from head to toe, I will wear the citrusy shade in small doses. Citron can freshen and complement neutrals such as gray and tan for an updated twist on basics.

Me wearing a citron top under a leather jacket.

J. Crew Toothpick Jeans available at www.jcrew.com for $108

Marc by Marc Jacobs Python Effect Neon Leather Waist Belt available at www.netaporter.com for $130

Camilla and Marc Cylinder Crepe and Jacquard Dress available at www.netaporter.com for $660

Marni Rope Necklace available at www.theoutnet.com for $354

J. Crew Pencil Skirt available at www.jcrew.com for $110

Proenza Shoulder Zip Wallet available at www.shopzoeonline.com for $560

Neon Racerback Tank available at www.bluefly.com for $24.79


Would you wear citron this spring? Do you have a go-to color that dominates your wardrobe?

Soap Stars

While I'm known to be a shower gel kind of girl, I still can't help picking up pretty soaps. From those luxurious handmade bars at Lush to Sabon's beautifully-scented soaps, I'm a sucker for sudsy bars that are wrapped in eye-catching designs or adorned with decorative packaging.

Plus, if they're made with fresh ingredients that combine a mixture of colors and textures, I'm even more inclined to buy. If you're like me and don't actually use these these lady-like toiletries, they make great gifts for house guests or lovely eye-candy for your bathroom's vanity.

Check out these bar-raising soaps:

La Lavande  French Egg Soaps available at www.lalavande.com  for $44

Sabon's Kiwi Mango Soap available at www.sabon.com for $7

Fresh Waterlily Soap available at www.fresh.com for $15

Haslinger Honey Soap available at www.smallflower.com for $3.95

Lush Summer Pudding Soap available at www.lushusa.com for $5.95

Mark's Clean-Up Time Conditioning Bath Soap available at www.avon.com  for $8

Nest Orange Blossom Bar Soap available at www.smallflower.com for $16

Pacifica French Lilac Natural Soap available at www.drugstore.com for $5

Agraria Santa Barbara Bar Soap available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $65

L'Occitane Shea Butter Extra Gentle Soap Vineyard Rose available at www.usa.loccitane.com for $7

Are you a fan of bar soaps or do you prefer shower gels?

It's the Balm & the Winners of the Twisted Sista Contest Announced

Baby it's cold outside! With blustering cold winds and arctic-like air blowing across the country, our lips definitely need extra TLC. To prevent dry, chapped lips I admittedly alternate between several balms depending on what I pull out from my bag first.

But right now, I make an extra effort to sift through my bevy of balms to grab my current go-to: L'Occitane's Moisturizing Organic Shea Lip Balm.

Available at www.usa.loccitane.com for $12

It glides on easily and instantly restores moisture to my pucker. Plus, the shea butter acts as a protectant against dryness. Oh and the absolute best part is that it doesn't leave that unsightly white film that so many others leave behind, which is never a good look. So if you're on the hunt for a new balm, this is a  great buy.

What are your favorite lip treatments to use during the cold winter months?


**The winners of the Twisted Sista collection are: SuchAnAfroholic, Nicole Rogers, GaPeach_est1083, Jesusismygrace, MissMika - congratulations ladies! Please email me your mailing address at info@browngirlgumbo.com by next Friday, January 27th. Thanks to all who left comments and reTweeted. They'll be more giveaways so stay tuned!


Also, be sure to check out Red Tails in theaters today. Support movies that tell our stories.  ;-)

NAACP Image Awards Nominees Announced

Even though there were some bright spots for us BGs and guys at last week's Golden Globes, our stars will shine even brighter at the 2012 NAACP Awards.

The nominees for the 43rd annual award ceremony honoring achievements in film, TV, music, literature, and writing/directing were announced today.

The Help has a great chance of sweeping the show with eight nominations, including Best Actress.

Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer star in The Help.

While Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer have a chance at taking home a couple awards, the cast from the BET hit series The Game have a shot of making a few touchdowns too. The show was nominated for four awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series.

New mom, Beyonce also earned four nominations from her most recent work: "4." Hmm...maybe she'll get lucky with her favorite number and win them all!

Click here for the complete list of nominations.

The NAACP Image Awards will air February 17 at 8pm on NBC. Will you be watching? Have you seen or read The Help?

Sanaa Lathan Joins Pantene

I've been a huge fan of Pantene Pro-V products for years. In fact, when I first stopped going to the shop and started maintaining my hair at home, I turned to Pantene to give me moisture and body that my mane craved. If you need some convincing that their products really produce healthy-looking hair, look no further than their newest muse - Sanaa Lathan. The naturally stunning actress, 40, is representing the brand's Nature Fusion Collection.

Sanaa Lathan on set of a Pantene print advertisement photo shoot.

Luckily, I was on-hand to see the Brown Sugar (that's STILL one of my favorite movies) beauty's strands up-close-and-personal at a press event held in Manhattan last month. Her hair looked as if she had just stepped out of a commercial. Ok, she probably did - but, that still didn't take away from how gorgeous and healthy her tresses looked. She told reporters, “My hair looks and feels great when I treat it well. One of the reasons I like the Pantene Pro-V Nature Fusion Collection is because it’s infused with a naturally-derived ingredient, Cassia that strengthens my hair against damage."

Pantene Pro-V Nature Fusion Moisture Balance Shampoo and Conditioner is available at drugstores nationwide.

The shampoo and conditioner from this innovative line includes natural moisturizing and shine-inducing properties derived from a blend of Cassia, Aloe Vera, Calendula, and Ginger ingredients. While I have yet to test Nature Fusion, if it makes my hair look soft and healthy like Sanaa's lovely locks sign me up.

Oh and for my fellow naturalistas - this formula supposedly complements our tresses too. ;-)

Do celebrity-endorsed products motivate you to try them? Will you try Pantene Pro-V's Nature Fusion? 

Also, don't forget to check out BGG tomorrow win I reveal the 5 winners from last week's Twisted Sista giveaway!

Spring Forecast Calls for Neon Sprinkles

If you're timid when it comes to testing daring makeup shades, rethink your beauty routine for spring. This upcoming season is going to be chock full of neon hues and eye-popping palettes to complement our skin tones and highlight our favorite unique features.  If you're afraid of looking like Nicki Minaj on Halloween, don't be. Just opt for playing up one particular area and keep the rest of your face neon-free.

From vibrant lip colors to bright shadows and liners, step outside of your comfort zone this season and go for big and bold beauty. I'm always a fan of hot pink puckers so you'll definitely find me testing out this trend.

Solange rocking a hot-pink neon pout. 

One of my favorite brands, Bobbi Brown has an entire Neon & Nude collection that will equip your beauty arsenal with all the neon essentials.

Check them out:

Available at www.bobbibrown.com

Will you be wearing neon makeup shades this spring? 

Brandy and Monica Reunite in Music

It's hard to believe that it's been 14 years since Brandy and Monica collaborated with their Grammy-award winning hit, "The Boy Is Mine." What's even more difficult to believe is that was the same year I graduated from high school, but who's counting the years? Anyway, the R&B diva duo is back with a single, "It All Belongs To Me," which is set to release February 6 on RCA Records. 

The multi-platinum artists worked with Rico Love who wrote and produced the track. The song, which will appear on Monica's forthcoming album, "New Life" March 6, as well as on Brandy's yet-to-be-titled release later this spring. 

Will you be listening for this reunited collaboration? Were you a fan of "The Boy Is Mine?"