Merry Christmas!

From The Savvy Sistah!

The Savvy Sistah on TV

I am so excited to finally have a commercial on TV. I had a wonderful time filming it and I am definately looking forward to the opportunity to do more in 2009.

St. Ives Elements Microdermabrasion

St. Ives is taking the leap into natural skincare. So far the only product i've tried is the St. Ives Elements Microdermabrasion and I really like it. I've always been a fan of their apricot scrub but this one has fine mineral crystals that seem less harsh for my skin.

St Ives says, "fine mineral crystals gently exfoliates to deep clean and smooth away the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin texture. This formual, with Chamomile and Viatmin E, leaves skin feeling moisturized, fresh and renewed".

All you have to do is moisten your face, gently massage and rinse. It comes in a 4oz tube and I bought it at Walmart for $6.64. (Online drugstores sell it for $7.99)

Ingredients

Water (Aqua, Eau), Hydrated Silica, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Methyl 2 Sulfolaurate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Acrylates Copolymer, Disodium 2 Sulfolaurate, Acrylates/Palmeth 25 Acrylate Copolymer, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Cocamidopropyl PG Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance (Parfum), DMDM Hydantoin, Disodium EDTA, Polyacrylamide, Linalool, Limonene, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Tocopherol, Propylene Glycol, Sorbitol, Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract, Primula Veris Extract, Helianthus Annuus Extract (Sunflower), Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract (Matricaria)

New Direction for "The Savvy Sistah"

We'll I haven't updated my blog in a while and I recently had to ask myself "why"? But I think finally the original vision has come back around. At first my desire was to have an inspirational & encouraging talk show for women of color. But when that fell through I thought maybe a blog would be the next best thing.( Because I always have something to say). But for some reason my content seemed to be focused primarily on celebrities, gossip and highlighting over priced fashions. It's nothing wrong with that, but you do need a balance. So last week I did my first "Savvy Style" seminar with some wonderful savvy sistahs and it's like I was reborn. I felt like I found my purpose again. For three hours we laughed and talked about self esteem, makeup, skincare, hair and clothes. These women were honest and really looked to me to give them some practical information to help them feel good about themselves. So my goal now is to reach the "everyday woman". The woman that may not be on TV everyday or have her own hair stylist, personal trainer, chef, wardrobe stylist etc (you get the picture, but if you do...Go Girl!!) I want to celebrate the woman that works all day, picks up the kids from school, cooks dinner and still has time to make the man in her life feel like a king. And the sistah who took a hobby, built a company and is now the CEO, but still makes time to volunteer at a women's shelter. And the mother serving in Iraq who wanted to provide for children and make a difference. I can go on and on about Savvy Sistahs who are making a positive mark in our society everyday. And if you look in the mirror, I'm sure you'll see one too.

So ladies it's our time and our turn to shine!!!

Stay Savvy!

Christian Neo-Soul Artist....Lisa McClendon

If you want some music for your soul, then you have to go pick up "Soul Music" by artist Lisa McClendon. My cousin turned me on to her music and I love her style and "her stand" for Christ. She has a few cd's out now and she's getting ready to release a new one.
So make sure you check her out. Listen to some of her music @ http://www.last.fm/music/Lisa+McClendon

Kitchen Chemist: Natural Toothpaste

I am a self proclaimed "kitchen chemist" so I'm always looking for things to make right in the comfort of my home. When I saw this recipe for natural toothpaste I had to try it and pass it on to you ladies. We have so many chemicals in the majority of the products we use daily so I just wanted to see if I could find a natural alternative to toothpaste.

Here's the recipe...

1. Mix three parts baking soda with one part table salt.

2.Add three teaspoons of glycerine to the dry mix.

3. Add in enough water (a few drops) to make a paste.

4. Add a few drops of peppermint oil to improve the taste.

5.Store in a covered container in a warm place and use like you would regular toothpaste.

Now you may not use this mixture as much as you would your regular toothpaste. But now you have a sugar free and non toxic mixture you can make yourself.

Just Accessorize: Gray Skies

When is winter going to be over? I am getting so tired of looking at these gray skies. The only thing that comforts me at this moment are these cute handbags and boots I found on the web today. (One day I'll be able to buy them but until then I still seem to find comfort in fashion). These accessories are stylish and are a great alternative to always wearing black. So even though there is still a few inches of snow on the ground and it's to cold to even go outside sometimes, I do find comfort in knowing that spring is right around the corner. But until then, at least I have found something gray to make me smile.

Jimmy Choo "Riki Perforated Bag" at www.net-a-porter.com $2295

Miu Miu Leather Coffer Bag at www.net-a-porter.com $1445

Marc Jacobs "Quilted Leather Messenger Bag" at www.saksfifthavenue.com $1145

Dior " Lace Up Suede Boots" at www.eluxury.com $95

Stella McCartney "Patent Ankle Boots" at www.net-a-porter.com $537

In the Spotlight: A Fox in Paris

Vivica A. Fox has been making her rounds at many fabulous party's and fashion shows for Paris Fashion Week these past few days. She has been spotted at party's for Roberto Cavalli & Swarovski and attending spectaular fashion shows for Ungaro, Celine and Christian Lacroix. And I must be the first to admit that she doesn't look half bad. I like the new bob she's wearing, but it looks similar to the style and haircolor her best friend Star Jones Reynolds currently wears. Nevertheless, since I do see some improvement, I just wanted to put her "In the Spotlight".

Face First: The Eyes Have It!

Blue Storm by MAC

Alicia Keys

Eve

Ladies, this is your year to be that sassy, bold woman you have been dying to be! Don’t be afraid to let your inner diva come out, let it shine, let it shine! Dare to be scandalous in these dark, edgy shades of blue that will make you stand out when you step out for a night on the town!

This season you can find your perfect evening look with a dash of navy or midnight blue eye shadow. Milani Cosmetics has a beautiful and affordable line of eye shadows available at your local CVS and Walgreens that really pop! (I used them myself!) I personally recommend Evening Sky or Denim Blues to create the smoldering image without breaking the bank. You can also use L’Oreal HIP Pigments Shadow Duo in Spirited or Color Truth Cream Eyeliner in Midnight Blue. Now for this latest twist on the smokey eye you can always find an array of shades at MAC Cosmetics, but to pull off this look just make sure, you are wearing a neutral, soft pale lipstick or gloss to compliment the look. You can also wear a darker lip hue but not too dark, you should always look for shades that will compliment your skintone. So ladies this season don't be afraid to wear eyeshadow that's edgy, bold and don't forget.....BLUE

From left to right: Laura Mercier, MAC, and Loreal Cosmetics

Article by guest Makeup Artist: DaDiva
For beauty questions e-mail her at Rosatwin12000@yahoo.com

View portfolio at www.modelmayhem.com/member.php?id=7624

Missing in Action: Where's Savvy!

I've been "Missing in Action" for the month of February, but i'm back now. I really like blogging and sharing things with all you wonderful sistahs but sometimes the cares of this world can really change your focus. I've been back on the road traveling for Cadillac (which I love) and when I'm home I help my mother as much as I can with my grandmother (she's still recovering from a bad accident she had last year). But I really needed this time to think about what I really want in life and what really matters. So ladies if you're feeling like I felt...that being a little overwhelmed with what's happening in your life right now, take a few minutes to yourself and find out what you really want in life. You may want to start a business, go back to school or even go on a much needed vacation, nothing is out of your reach at this time. It's never to late.

The next time you see MIA from "The Savvy Sistah" just know it's to give you an update on a vacation to Mia....Miami that is.

Stay Savvy!!

Ruby Dee & Queen Latifah Winners at the SAG Awards

The legendary Ruby Dee & Queen Latifah took home awards at the 14th annual SAG awards. Ruby Dee won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role for her work in 'American Gangster' and Queen Latifah won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries for her work in 'Life Support'. I like watching these award shows, but not so much for what goes on in doors, but I love to watch the glitz & glamour on the "Red Carpet". But this year it was special to see a wonderful actress like Ruby Dee finally get recognized for all of her hard work. It's trailblazers like her that paved the way for actresses like Halle Berry, Jennifer Hudson, and Queen Latifah. This is going to be a busy season for Ruby Dee because she has also been nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Supporting Actress category. So make sure you watch on February 24 to see if see walks away with an Oscar. I know her husband the late Ossie Davis is looking down and cheering her on.

Savvy Hairstyles:Blond Ambition

Mary J. Blige

Beyonce

Eva Pigford

Many years ago I went and bought a box of Dark & Lovely hair color because I wanted to be a "blond" (blonds have more fun, right?) But since I didn't know the proper way to take care of color treated hair, it all fell out. So the conclusion I came to was that black woman should not have blond hair. But over the years that has changed because I have seen many sistahs achieve the blond hair I desired with the help of weaves,wigs and just learning how to take better care of their hair. I think Mary J Blige, Eva Pigford, and Beyonce really look great with blond hair. The goal is to make it look natural at all cost, so you really need to have the right skin tone (more yellow/bronze undertones) and the right shade of hair color and of course the right hairstyle. Now I do know some sistahs that really should just leave the blond hair alone and go back natural, because they haven't mastered this look. But in the mean time if you want inspiration I think these four sistahs definitely have "Blond Ambition".

Savvy Sistah: Nancy Wilson

Nancy Wilson is a classy jazz singer with a smooth voice. When I saw her in the Essence Magazine a few years ago it was hard to believe that she was born in 1937. I think alot of the young female singers of our day can learn alot from veterans like Ms. Wilson. This "song stylist" has over 70 albums, three Grammy awards and a career that spans over 50 years. She has won numerous awards including a NAACP Image Award, Trumpet Award and she even received her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. To prove that she still has what it takes at 70 years old she won a Grammy for The Best Jazz Vocal Album for "Turned to Blue". This classy, polished and talented silver haired songtress is still on top of her game and she's my Stylish & Sophisticated Celebrity of the Week.

Ladies! Take Care of Yourselves

It feels so good to be back to blogging! I have been sick with the flu for five days and I have made up my mind that, "I never want to be sick again". Between using Tylenol Cold & Flu, DayQuil, NightQuil, and Robitussin, my cabinets kind of resemble the medicine section at Walmart and I think I will be immune from any disease for the next two years. But one thing I did realize is leading up to this shutdown was that I really wasn't taking care of myself. I wasn't eating right, sleeping, exercising, or making sure I had on warm clothes when I went outside. (I sacrificed my health to try to look cute and now I'm paying for it). So ladies don't be like me, start taking care of yourself now before you have to pay for it later.

Savvy Style: A Stylish Twist on the Kaftan

Jennifer Lopez in mint green one shouldered Kaftan by Versace

Black full length silk caftan by Temperley London $2539 www,net-porter.com

Multi-colore print sheer cotton kaftan by Emilio Pucci, $539 www.net-porter.com


Multi-colored print cotton kaftan by Emilio Pucci, $815 www.net-porter.com

Chocolate crinkled cotton kaftan by Melissa Odabash, $249, www.net-porter.com

For years my mother would come home from work and put on one these beautiful house dresses. And every time she walked around the house, especially if we had guest visiting she always looked presentable, sophisticated and comfortable. We'll today when she wants to lounge around the house she still wears one, but they have really evolve over the years. A kaftan(sometimes spelled caftan) is worn all over the world by men and women. And not only can it be worn around the house but many use it as a cover-up at the beach or you can put on cute pair of sandals and you'll have a chic dress to wear to a party. Although you can find kaftans anywhere (I even saw them at the beauty supply store) I think the one's offered at http://www.net-porter.com/ give a new twist to an old design. "The Kaftan" comes in many styles, lengths and colors so you'll never have a problem looking stylish around the house, the beach or a party.

Product Review: Infusium 23

My product review for this week is Infusium 23 leave-in treatment. I have used the Original leave-in treatment for many years and I have always experienced really good results. And now Infusium 23 has new packaging and a new "ologie" collection that include leave-in treatments that work to repair your hair based on a certain need. Leave-in conditioners (treatments) to me are a must-have if you want to have healthy hair. Their purpose is to offer continuous moisture and vitamins that nourish , protect and strengthen your hair long after you have shampooed and conditioned it.

If you lack moisture: The Moistur(ologie) line hydrates and replenishes moisture to dry hair.

If your hair needs more strength/protein: The Repair(ologie) line strengthens hair and protects it from damage that leads to breakage and split ends.

If your hair is prone to frizz: The Frizz(ologie) line helps to tame and smooth frizz-prone hair.

If you have colour treated hair: The Colour(ologie) line enriches and protects colour treated hair.

The Infusium 23 mission has not changed since it was created in 1924 and that's to "transform damaged, dry, frizzy, chemically treated and fine hair into shiny, silky, manageable hair".

Their leave-in treatment is good for all hair types and you can find a 16 oz bottle at Walmart for $5.84.

Savvy Home Decor: Glass Art Showpieces

Art Glass Vase by Caleb Siemon, $1050 http://www.guild.com/

Art Glass Plate by Jeri Goodman, $220 , www.guild.com

Glass Art Perfume Bottle by Mary Angus, $365 , www.guild.com


Art Glass Bowl by Janet & Rick Nicholson, $1055, www.guild.com

These beautiful artistic pieces were created using blown glass. The colors and designs are so elegant, vibrant and unique, I can just image what the artists were thinking about when they created these wonderful pieces. I searched through pages and pages of photographs from artists at "The Artful Home" and I found so many bowls, platters and vases, that I simply fell in love with them all. So if you want to add a boost of color or a uniquely designed sculpture to your home decor, how about starting with one of these Glass Art Showpieces.

All these pieces can be found at "The Artful Home" www.guild.com

Double Duty: Skincare from your Kitchen Cabinet

Left to right: Organic Honey, Chamomile Tea Bags, and Apple Cider Vinegar.

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I have always been what you would call a "kitchen chemist". I like mixing things and making up new products. But what I really like is creating new beauty products just by using basic items around the house. I started this years ago when I got my first pimple and I read how toothpaste could double as a zit cream. After such good results, I started looking in my kitchen cabinets for other things that I could add to my skin care regimen. One of the best facial masks I've ever used was plain honey. It will moisturize and tighten your pores, just put a warm cloth on your face to open your pores, apply honey, leave it on for 7-10 minutes, and rinse with warm water followed by a splash of cool water . The day I ran out of my astringent I was able to make my own using 1/2 apple cider vinegar mixed with 1/2 water. This works great because it restores the pH balance to your skin and helps to fade dark spots. And who doesn't love an at home facial. All you have to do is pour warm water in a bowl and add a chamomile tea bag, cover your head and bowl with a towel and relax for 10-15 minutes. So the next time you run out of any of your skin care products just go look in your kitchen cabinet and see what items can work double duty.

Oprah Winfrey is getting her "OWN"!

"Savvy Sistah" Oprah Winfrey is making history again and this time she's doing it really big with her "OWN " cable channel. The Oprah Winfrey Network will launch in mid 2009 in 70 million homes and it will debut on the Discovery Health Network. ( home of TLC and the travel channel). At the beginning, you won't see the "Oprah Winfrey Show" because the current syndication deal won't expire until 2011 but with her eye for discovering new talent (Rachael Ray & Dr.Phil) plus her Oprah Winfrey presents movies I'm pretty sure this network is going to be the one to watch.

For full details listen to Oprah talk about her network on The Today Show

Savvy Celebrity: Yolanda Adams

Yolanda Adams is one of the true singers of our day. She was raised in Houston Texas and is a former school teacher and model. She got her start singing with the Southeast Inspirational choir and in 1987 released her first album titled "Just as I Am". I have always liked her because she's real. Every time I see her sing I always sit on the edge of my seat, because I can't wait to hear what's going to come out of her mouth. She has the kind of voice that will make you feel joy, bring tears to your eyes and take you to a place of peace all at the same time. And I like her style, she carries her 6'1 frame very well and seems to pick the right clothes to compliment her. This Grammy award winning gospel artist has sung the National Anthem at the 2007 AFC championship football game, for President George Bush and the TV show America's Got Talent. And because she's a savvy sistah she's not just a singer but she's now hosting the Yolanda Adams Morning Show on Radio One and designing her own clothing line. She's a mother, singer, host and designer and she's my stylish and sophisticated celebrity of the week.