Beauty

Vh1’s Yandy Smith Signs on as Mielle Organics’ First Celebrity Brand Ambassador

Arianne SuggsUpdated on November 10, 2015November 10, 2015Leave a Comment

Vh1’s Love & Hip Hop Yandy Smith became Mielle Organics’ first celebrity brand ambassador making an announcement via social media after months of trying the products and naming them her “#ProductCrush” via Instagram. Over the course of two months, Smith tried several of the products and chronicled how her hair improved. One of the key improvements Smith mentions is her edges growing back due to the company’s Mint Almond Oil and Babassu Oil and Mint Deep Conditioner.

The reality TV star and the Mielle Organics’ CEO and Founder Monique Rodriguez met after Smith tried the products and gave an impromptu mention via social media. Rodriguez says, “I chose Yandy as an ambassador because she is going through a natural hair journey and she exudes the Mielle Organics’ mission to Empower, Excite and Educate.” Rodriguez went on to say that Smith’s love for natural products made her a perfect ambassador to promote the Go Green lifestyle, which promotes people to be conscious about the products they consume as well as what their skin absorbs. Smith who often wears protective styles due to a rigorous and demanding filming schedule understands the importance of keeping her natural hair healthy and says it’s even more important for her to make sure she is using healthy products as a nursing mother.

Rodriguez, a Chicago native and former nurse launched the Mielle Organics ‘Go Green‘ campaign in October of 2014. Since then, it has created a huge following of women who are becoming more conscious about the importance of using healthier products in their beauty and hair regimen. The company’s blog The Mielle Life further promotes the natural hair journey by highlighting the background on ingredients, style tutorials, trends and tips for women and children to keep their hair and bodies healthy.

Smith will host a Mielle Organics’ event celebrating her as their first celebrity brand ambassador at Deuces & The Diamond on November 14, 2015 in Chicago, IL.

About Mielle Organics

Mielle Organics is a new and extremely popular all natural and organic hair products line for adults and children. Launched in May 2014, the company has over 140,000 customers in 87 countries. After mere months in the natural hair care industry and achieving over $1.5 Million dollars in sales, Mielle Organics is widely recognized for its results-driven products and excellent customer service.

The company wholeheartedly believes that what is consumed by the body is displayed in outward appearances. They promote natural, organic ingredients, and are proud to exclusively use natural products derived from rooted plant oils and natural herbs. The products are paraben free, no harsh chemicals and no harmful preservatives; everything is made from love and nature and is not tested on animals.

A full description of the company’s products and mission can be found at http://www.mielleorganics.com .

Fashion

Sweater Weather Style Under $50

Arianne SuggsUpdated on November 9, 2015November 9, 2015Leave a Comment

To many this is the most wonderful time of the year and in a fashion sense it truly is and then some! When it is warmer wouldn’t you agree that many times only one to three items are needed to complete an ensemble? However, once temperatures take a dive layering and heavier duds become the queens of the style dominion. Therefore, what clothing item will you want to get your hands on NOW in order to rule the street style catwalk?

Sweater weather is back ladies and better than ever! This season cozy up in our top neutral and bold fall color picks for under $50 from Canyon River Blues, Covington and Metaphor to make sure you will never have to sacrifice style for comfort. Take a lesson from Queen Bey who knows her way around the sweater department.

Available for purchase at www.sears.com

Fashion

LACMA Art + Film Gala 2015

Arianne Suggs November 9, 2015November 9, 2015Leave a Comment

Art is defined as “the quality, production, expression, or realm, according to aesthetic principles, of what is beautiful, appealing, or of more than ordinary significance.” Film is a genre of art that is the compilation of skills, techniques, vision and loving labor in order to entertain and excite audiences the world over. Throughout history the flavor as well as vibe of art has not stayed the same but has changed to reflect the spirit of the times. For instance, the art designed during the Renaissance differs from crafts created in art periods such as: Art Nouveau, Baroque, Romanticism, Gothic, Surrealism and Egyptian.

Therefore, we could not assume that throughout time that film would remain the same as well. We have seen advancements in film in a very short amount of time from silent films to spectacular CGI masterpieces. It is clear that art and film truly do cross paths and go hand in hand.

In recognition of this simple fact this past Saturday a gala was held by Gucci and Los Angeles museum LACMA to honor artist James Turrell and filmmaker Alejandro G. Inaartu. Proceeds from the gala go towards making film a more central aspect of the museum’s curatorial programming. This in turn would help to provide more acquisitions, education and exhibitions showcasing the relation between art and film.

The event was presented by actor Leonardo Dicaprio and LACMA trustee Eva Chow and included much celebrity fanfare. Stars from film, fashion, art and music industries collided to lend their support and pay homage to the night’s honorees. Keep scrolling to see a few of our favorite looks spotted coming down the blue carpet.

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 07: Recording artist Usher attends LACMA 2015 Art+Film Gala Honoring James Turrell and Alejandro G IÒ·rritu, Presented by Gucci at LACMA on November 7, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images) — Singer Usher (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Neil Rasmus/BFA.com/REX Shutterstock (5355730am) Naomi Campbell LACMA Art and Film Gala, Los Angeles, America - 07 Nov 2015 — Model Naomi Campbell Photo by Neil Rasmus

Designer Rachel Roy

Fashion

Drake Hotline Bling Saves Ugly Sweater Weather

Arianne Suggs November 6, 2015November 6, 2015Leave a Comment

Remember that really ugly sweater that grandma and grandpa gifted you while pinching your cheeks? Well, we can’t fix the damage done to your jawline or make sure no one ever sees that family photo of you in said sweater on Facebook. However, Drake is coming to the rescue this season to make sure your sweater is a little bit epic this time around.

Now before you start envisioning Drake at home knitting just know it’s his likeness from his latest music video that is being used. Drake’s dance moves have been the subject of millions of social media posts, news articles and youtube videos making even one particular math teacher an instant celebrity. Now its the couture world’s turn to remix and add their flavor to the Hotline Bling mania.

Close Up of the Hotline Bling Sweater

One sweater that caught our attention and that sadly we are actually seriously considering purchasing (LOL), can be found at the online store The Yetee. The Hotline Bling Holiday Sweater showcases Drake’s signature moves from his music video along with snowflakes (Aw tis’ the season), cocktails and of course the blinging cell phone (insert laughing emoji)!

This honestly is one of the most awesome sweaters we have come across in a very long time. Act fast if you want one though, because The Yetee only has the Drake Hotline Bling sweater for pre-order until the November 8th. The sweater that will save ugly sweater season can be all yours for just $25.

Thoughts? Drop a comment down low or hit us up on our Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr or tweet us @1966magazine.

Just in case you live under a rock (its alright sometimes we feel that way too) and you have not experienced the greatness known as Drake’s new Hotline Bling music video. Check it out for yourself down below:

Fashion

Aurora James of Brother Veillies Proves Dreams Do Come True

Arianne SuggsUpdated on November 6, 2015November 6, 2015Leave a Comment

Disney has ingrained in our minds from an early age that when we wish upon a star dreams do come true. However, anyone that has ever reached the level of success that they have long thought about knows that it is a little more involved than just peering up at the night sky. We can all wish for something to happen, but in reality if we want said wish to come true there is much work involved.

This week handcrafted shoe designer Aurora James was bestowed with the honor of being the recipient of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund. This fund was founded in order to give support to emerging American fashion talents. Three prizes are rewarded to three selected designers in order to aid them in going next level. Two runner-ups receive $150,000 while an overall talent winner receives $400,000.

The designers also receive vital mentorship by already established industry executives as well as designers. If you want to be successful it is always good to be in a circle of other successful people. As the saying goes, “If you are the smartest person in the room, then you are in the wrong room.” True growth involves being humble to realize you do not know everything and being chill enough to go ask for the help you do need. Aurora no doubt understands the importance of having a great support system and revealed her feelings about her big win by saying,

“Babies we made it! I will never be able to accurately express how much this means to me. Thank you so much to everyone who has stuck by me and supported me with Brother Veillies these past few years! And biggest thank you to Vogue Magazine CFDA and all the judges for taking a walk on the wild side with me!

So incredibly humbled and excited to be a recipient of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund. This win means so much to us and everyone on the ground in Africa that have dreamed this golden dream with us.”

FILE - In this Nov. 2, 2015 file photo, singer Zendaya, left, and designer Aurora James, of Brother Vellies, attends the 12th Annual CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Awards at Spring Studios in New York. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File) — (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File)

Zendaya Wears Brother Veillies

The shoewear that Aurora James creates is definitely boisterous in design and style. Nevertheless, fashion is about displaying personality and expressing yourself in a fun, fresh way everyday. Zendaya Coleman was Aurora’s date for the night and was adorned with the designer’s fur trimmed sandal heels. Zendaya shared a few words about James stating,

“So happy for this amazing woman, Aurora James, something she said last night was so real, she said so often the fashion industry is inspired by Africa but never gives back to it. The fact that you are able to refurbish scraps of materials dumped into South Africa, the fact that you give women there a chance to use their skills, giving them jobs and actually allow them to create an income for themselves and their families is so empowering. This is the only fur exception I’ve ever made because it’s refurbished and being made with respect, resourcefulness, and purpose. Thanks for all you do and I wish you continued success.”

Aurora James is definitely shaking up the fashion game one small step at a time. Zendaya was not the only one to give glowing remarks in regards to James’ design aesthetic. Designer and hip hop mogul Kanye West also had a few words about Aurora’s collection. Kanye commented,

“When I saw fur shoes, I knew I was in the right place.”

Yes, Aurora James is setting the bar and solidifying trends with grace and allure. The fashion industry has long had a dark shadow cast on it due to its lack of diversity. Nevertheless, as more women like Aurora James chase down their shooting stars it makes it just a little easier and opens up the door of opportunity for other women of color to follow in her lead. Congratulations once more Aurora and we know you are going to go far.

Thoughts? Talk fashion with us on our Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr or tweet us @1966magazine.

Fashion

Fashionable Mention: Balmain X H&M Cotton and Leather Shoes With Metal Detailing

Arianne Suggs November 5, 2015November 5, 2015Leave a Comment

Let us not forget boys and girls, ladies and gentlemen that today marks a fashion moment that shall definitely go down in history as being one of the best couture pairings ever. For months on our style calendars we have waited out for time to pass so that November 5th would finally be upon us at long last. Why is today so awesome when it comes to being “en vogue?”

The Balmain X H&M collaboration is finally available to the masses for purchase. One item that we definitely want to cop ASAP before stores run out is the Balmain X H&M Cotton and Leather Shoe With Metal Detailing. These heels which retails for $199 are right on trend for the season and will give your various ensembles the perfect chic boost. Just scroll through this post to see all of the different outfits that were paired with these beauties.

Caged style heels are huge right now so if you want to look like a bag of money you will want to indulge in this look. Balmain has been a brand that has been just out of reach for many ladies due to its price point. However, retailers such as H&M understand that the French label’s appeal is a major sale waiting to happen thanks to its cool factor made evident by supermodels, bloggers, celebrities, social media models and the like.

Besides stunning shoes, you will be able to get your fashion hands on Balmain’s infamous sequined dresses, beaded coats and jackets as well as gold and black tops. Nonetheless, our final thoughts on word on the caged heels is that it is a very versatile design. This means you can wear them with dresses, pants, jumpsuits and skirts which will go a long way in getting your money’s worth.

Thoughts? Join the discussion on our Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr or tweet us @1966magazine.

Fashion

Pay Your Tuition or Even Rent With a Gucci Bag

Arianne Suggs November 4, 2015November 4, 2015Leave a Comment

We are sure by that title instantly you are thinking, come on 1966 that sounds way too good to be true. However, we are here to let you in on a little secret that is allowing women to turn fashion into hard cold cash. How are these fashionistas making an extra buck or two? We will give it to you straight… they have entered the world known as Pawn My Gucci Purse. What in the world does that entail?

Well, handbags made by Gucci have always fetched a nice price namely because the Italian brand is in very high demand. As Instagram models and Tumblr stars grow in popularity so does the desire to have their designer duds. Like editorial models these ladies help influence the trends that all girls want not now, but RIGHT now.

Nicki Minaj Spotted With Gucci Classics “Jockey” Large Hobo Bag

Every picture these dolls take are an easy marketing campaign for the brand or label that gave it to them. Think about how often you have scrolled the comment section seeing various girls asking where they can get a particular fashion item. Product placement is pushing sales which is why social media is becoming a bigger marketing beast.

Therefore, what does all of this mean for gals who have a Gucci purse laying around at home? Well, it is very good news because this means the market is very much in your favor. Pawn shops want what you possess and they want it bad because they know it is an easy sale. They know girls want these designer bags and if they can get their hands on them then it is lights out, cha-ching all the way to the bank.

Throwback: Rihanna Slinging Gucci Soho Leather Disco Bag

Just how much can you receive from pawning off a Gucci handbag? According to statistics, depending on the bag that you have in your possession you can receive anywhere from $50 to upwards of $5,000! Instant money that you can use to pay bills, tuition, rent, airline ticket, go towards your savings (highly recommended by us LOL) or hey a brand new outfit! Whatever is your bag baby (all puns intended) you can make some side money quick by pawning off your purse.

Want more details on how all this works? We thought you might have a few more questions, so be sure to scroll back up and click the link in the opening paragraph.

Thoughts? Drop a comment down below or hit us up on our Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr or tweet us @1966magazine.

Hair

Hair Envy: Laura Govan’s Chic Exaggerated Pompadour Cut

Arianne Suggs November 4, 2015November 4, 2015Leave a Comment

Laura Govan always sets the standard when it comes to rocking a mean haircut. Govan once again does not disappoint in the hair department as she takes short hair up a level…literally. If you are worried about hair diversity when it comes to shorter lengths do not be dismayed from living out your hair dream. Whether long or short there numerous options for when you are feeling a little more creative.

If you follow Laura on Instagram (her profile can found by searching for @lauragovan) you will notice that she keeps her tresses seriously looped off. Moreover, we love pixie and cropped cuts on her because when you have such a beautiful face why hide behind it will loads of hair anyway? In a recent photoshoot lensed by photographer Erick Robinson (he’s on the gram as well as @imerickrobinson) Laura displays her fierce super high pompadour with sides fashioned in gorgeous finger waves.

Her hair is a beautiful mix of vintage as well as modern hair design. As a side note we loved that her couture and makeup were more streamlined so that the focus could radiate off her lovely mane. Therefore, if you are a daring gal who likes to walk on the wild side with elegant flair then this style will suit you to a “T!”

Thoughts? Talk hair with us on our Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr or tweet us @1966magazine.

Designers

5 Times North West Slayed a Tutu

Arianne Suggs October 30, 2015October 30, 2015Leave a Comment

It is never too early to begin your journey on the road to fashion epicness. As proven by Kanye West’s cutie pie daughter, North West. This week a video of North went viral as she walked along in a parking lot passing by paparazzi uttering, “I said no pictures.”

North may not have wanted the attention but it was hard not to look due to her super stylish ensemble. North is enrolled in dance class that may also lend to her fabulous tutu outfits. However, West has been seen rocking the tutu sometimes accompanied by designer jackets by brands such as Balmain even outside of class. Therefore, it is safe to say that little North enjoys the look and she should because she looks absolutely adorable. For this reason, we present 5 times North West has slayed the tutu.

Fashion

Throw a Pajama Party In Celebrity Style With Mix and Match PJ Sets!

Arianne Suggs October 28, 2015October 28, 2015Leave a Comment

Pajama parties are making a comeback! What better way to spend time talking to your squad about the Mr. Good Looking and how he better pick up the pace before cuffing season ends. The girlfriend PJ soiree is one filled of laughs, tears, chick flicks, specialty food/drinks and of course style! Long gone are the days of throwing on that old oversized shirt left by the ex or given to you by grandma. Remember ladies, those Instagram “woes” photos are going to need a fashionable touch to break 100 likes.

Take a cue from island gal Rihanna who always sets tone and trends associated with good fashion. Rihanna chose to lounge in a Jack Wills Onesie Striped Pajamas ensemble. Super cute, super comfortable and by the looks of the photos highly voguish.

Throw a Pajama Party In Celebrity Style With Mix and Match PJ Sets3

You can make this celebrity trend your very own and show up to your next party in a cozy yet stylish set with your family or girl’s night in. Better yet, Joe Boxer’s Flannel Pajama Shirt & Pant Sets retail for only $34 so everyone can match without breaking the bank while saving budget for that coveted ice cream sundae bar for a truly special event!

Throw a Pajama Party In Celebrity Style With Mix and Match PJ Sets4

Throw a Pajama Party In Celebrity Style With Mix and Match PJ Sets2

Throw a Pajama Party In Celebrity Style With Mix and Match PJ Sets5

*Available for purchase at www.sears.com