Savvy Celebrity: Gabrielle Union "The Fashion Designer"

Savvy Sistah Gabrielle Union wasn't at New York Fashion Week to just look at the fabulous runway shows and attend the hip parties, but because she'll soon be adding fashion designer to her resume. According to Black Voices, the new line will be called Love & Blessings (name not set in stone)and will cater to women of a variety of sizes. She wants to create an affordable line that she'll sell on HSN or QVC. She is a fashion maven and I'm excited that she want's to create a stylish & affordable line that all women can wear.

Savvy Events: ESSENCE Fierce and Fabulous Luncheon

Essence Magazine celebrated "40 Fierce and Fabulous" Savvy Sistahs at a luncheon in New York and I wish I could have been in the room with all these fabulous women. The event was hosted by Tracy Ross and was also attended by some wonderful young ladies from Girls Inc, a charity for girls. Savvy Sistahs like Naomi Campbell, Gabrielle Union, Kerry Washington, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Lynn Whitfield helped to make this luncheon a star studded event. You really have to give honor where honor is due, a lot of these women have blazed the trails and open the doors for many of us today.

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Savvy Sistah of the Week: Myisha Croom-Turner

Myisha Croom-Turner

Last week I had the pleasure of coming in contact with a very talented jewelry designer named Myisha Croom-Turner. This Savvy Sistah is the owner of Brace Yourself Boutique where she sells her handcrafted untraditional bohemian style jewelry. She said she was inspired to start her own collection in 2000 because "I could never find what I was looking for, so I decided to start designing my own jewelry". After selling her handcrafted jewelry for years to family and friends she took a leap of faith into the marketplace in May 2007 to start selling her creations to the masses.

Since that day she has sold her jewelry in tradeshows, craft fairs and the "Sip n' Shop Girls Night Out", which she created to give women a chance to socialize while shopping and supporting other female designers and business owners. Her first event took place in 2007 and featured 30 trendy designers and the next soiree' will take place in Ontario, California on September 24th.

Questions & Accessories with Myisha

Heritage Bracelet $22.00

What did you do before you started designing your jewelry collection? How did it prepare you for what you are doing now?

 Prior to starting my jewelry design business, I was a Corrections Officer for Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department for 11 years.
My job as an Officer really didn't prepare me for what I'm doing today...Lol!  However, working in such a negative and depressing environment for so long did force me to acknowledge my passion for jewelry design.  I absolutely knew that I could not work in that field for another 11 years because it was draining me in every way you can imagine.  In 2009 I finally stopped denying my need to pursue Brace Yourself and Sip n' Shop full time and I resigned from my corrections position, and I haven't looked back :)

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Savvy Lifestyle : Cholesterol and Glucose Check!

Yesterday I had a chance to have my blood tested and I had my Cholesterol and Glucose checked.I'm happy to say that everything is fine. My mother had her blood tests a few months ago and found out her numbers were not favorable and it could have negative effects on her heart in the long run. So not only did she do a lifestyle change (exercising, less stress, better eating habits) but she also encouraged my sisters and I to get our blood tested too.

Here are a list of facts about Chloesterol according to Medicinenet.com

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Savvy Media: Oprah's Farewell Season

We all knew it would come to an end someday! Tomorrow starts the 25th and final season of the Oprah Winfrey Show. She has been a big inspiration in my life and not just because I have a desire to be a talk show host, but because of her drive, determination and her business savvy. I'm excited about her new network (OWN) and I can't wait to see all the fabulous things that are going to take place this season. John Travolta will be her guest for the premier show, plus one of the biggest surprises in the Oprah Show history. 

 

Take a look at the video to see what you can expect tomorrow!

For more information: CLICK the LINK

Savvy HairStyle: Taraji P. Henson

Savvy Sistah Taraji P. Henson is celebrating her 40th birthday today. This Oscar-nominated actress has really come into her own over the years. Not only do I want to celebrate her birthday in this post but her Savvy Hairstyle. I absolutely love when she wears her hair this way, what do you think? Take a look at a few more looks.

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Savvy Product: Organix Coconut Conditioner

I went natural a few years ago, so I'm always on the look out for products to keep my hair healthy and happy. I love coconut oil and I use it after I condition my hair to lock in moisture. We'll the other day at Wal mart I saw this "Nourishing Coconut Milk" conditioner by Organix and I had to try it. Some of the key ingredients are silk amino acids, jojoba oil, coconut oil, organic coconut milk, panthenol, egg white protein and vitamin e. My hair actually felt softer and had less tangles than it normally does. It may not be one of my staple products, but I did like the way my hair felt, so we'll see.

Ingredients:Water, cetyl alcohol, behentrimonium, cetearyl alcohol, cetearyl glucoside, glyceryl stearate, glycerin, cyclomethicone, dimethicone, jojoba oil, panthenol, silk amino complex, coconut milk, egg white protein, coconut oil, vitamin e, tetrasodium EDTA, fragrance, dmdm hydantoin, methylchloroisothiazolinone, methylisothiazolinone.

Available at Wal mart: 13 fl.oz for 6.99

For more information on products: click the link
Originally posted March 9,2009

Savvy Events: Jennifer Hudson Gospel Birthday Celebration

Savvy Sistah Jennifer Hudson will be celebrating her 29th birthday this year with a gospel concert in Chicago on September 12, 2010 at 7:00pm. Jennifer will be singing along with featured artist Kelly Price, Shirley Murdock and Ricky Dillard (just to name a few). Tickets are no longer on sale through Ticket Master, but can be purchased at the door.

For more information: CLICK the LINK

Savvy Shoes :Moschino Lady Clou Sandal

These leather and suede Savvy Shoes are by Moschino. I love the gold studded accents around the peep toe and the strap.These shoes have a 4 1/2" stiletto heel and red detail on the inside.

For more information: CLICK the LINK

Birthstone Style: The Sophisticated Sapphire

To all the Savvy Sistahs who have birthdays in September your birthstone is the "Sophisticated Sappphire". The sapphire is available in a variety of shades (pink, orange and lavender) however the deep blue shade is the most well known and desired. The word sapphire originated from the Greek word 'Sapphirus" which means blue. When you think of the color blue, you may picture a blue sky or an ocean but the color can also be associated with faith, wisdom, trust and loyalty. The largest sapphire is 563 carats and it's called "The Star of India".  You share your birthday month with Savvy Celebrities like Beyonce, Jennifer Hudson, Anika Noni Rose, Serena Williams and Jada Pinkett-Smith. Take a look at some of these sapphire inspired looks and have a Happy Birthday!

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Savvy Cuisine: Strawberry Shortcake

I love,love,love (did I say love) strawberries and one of my favorite quick deserts is "Strawberry Shortcake". All you will need is three items that you can find at any grocery store. First you need pound cake, (you can buy a loaf or the cake already cut in slices). Next you will need frozen strawberries, (I like these because they have a little sugar added). And the last item you will need is fat free whipped cream, (so you can eat as much as you want).Not only is it quick and easy, but it's inexpensive and a dessert that the whole family can enjoy. It's berry good!

* Strawberries
* Pound Cake
* Whipped Cream

On the Cover: Gabourey Sidibe

Oscar nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe has been chosen as one of Elle Magazines up and coming 25-somethings to watch in Hollywood. This 27 year old actress became an over-night success after her outstanding performance in the movie Precious. After much controversy concerning her weight, many people in the fashion industry (along with Howard Stern) said that she would never be on the cover of a top fashion magazine. We'll all they have to do is pick up the October issue of Elle and they'll see just how wrong they were. Congratulations Gabby! You are so "Precious"!

Birthstone Style: Peridot Pizzazz

If you were born in the month of August, your birthstone is the Peridot. This vibrant stone is the color of a lime with it's origin being connected to volcanic activity. The word Peridot means "gem" in Arabic and it was called "gem of the sun" by Ancient Egyptians. The Peridot signifies individual strength and it promises growth in the near future. This color adds a a hint of pizzazz to anything you wear especially if you choose a dress like Beyonce from the House of Dereon Spring 2010 collection. Take a peek at these other lime flavored looks and have a Happy Birthday in Style!

More Max Studio...

Savvy Snack: Healthy Hummus

I have to admit I have really bad eating habits. So I have been on the search for healthier snacks. Over the past few months I have fallen in love with Greek food and if you want to eat something simple, and loaded with protein, potassium, and fiber then you should eat some hummus. Hummus is actually chickpeas or garbanzo beans blended with olive oil, garlic and other spices. You eat it with pita bread or you can serve it as a dip along with carrots and celery. Hummus can be purchased in the deli section of your grocery store or you can just make it yourself.

Here's a basic hummus recipe! Enjoy

Ingredients:
* 1 16 oz can of chickpeas or garbanzo beans
* 1/4 cup liquid from can of chickpeas
* 3-5 tablespoons lemon juice (depending on taste)
* 1 1/2 tablespoons tahini
* 2 cloves garlic, crushed
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation:
Drain chickpeas and set aside liquid from can. Combine remaining ingredients in blender or food processor. Add 1/4 cup of liquid from chickpeas. Blend for 3-5 minutes on low until thoroughly mixed and smooth.

Place in serving bowl, and create a shallow well in the center of the hummus.
Add a small amount (1-2 tablespoons) of olive oil in the well.
Serve immediately with fresh, warm or toasted pita bread, or cover and refrigerate.

Recipe courtesy of About.com

On the Cover: Halle Berry

Savvy Sistah Halle Berry will be "On the Cover" of the September issue of Vogue. Sometimes it's hard to believe that she's 43 years old, her beauty is truly timeless. Although she has been called one of the most beauty women in the world, she has also had a tumultuous life. Make sure you go pick up the issue on August 24th to find out more about what she feels about being a mother, her career and the failed relationship with her ex, Gabriel Aubury.

On the Cover: Iman, Naomi & Liya

Essence is celebrating 40 fabulous years and they chose Savvy Sistahs Naomi, Iman and Liya to grace the cover. Make sure you pick up the September issue to read about the "40 Fierce and Fabulous Women Who Are Changing the World" and more.



Photo courtesy of Essence

On the Cover: Kimora on Ebony

Kimora, Djimon Hounsou and new baby grace the cover of Ebony for February! She truly looks happy, you can tell that Djimon is good for her and is a good father figure for her girls.

Looking good! Ms. Fabulous

Savvy Shoes: Mirror Mosaic Ankle Boots

"Mirror Mirror on the wall, I need a stylish pair of ankle boots that I can wear to the ball". Ok, you may not be Snow White and this is not a fairy tale, but trust me these peep toe boots are a dream come true. Just think when you put on these ankle boots with a mirrored silver mosaic design all the attention will be on your feet. Every step you take in these 4.5 inch heels will reflect the stylish diva that you truly are. Price: $478.00 at Net-a-Porter.com

For more information: click the link

RIP Eunice W. Johnson " The Fashion Icon"

It was truly sad to hear about the passing of Savvy Sistah Eunice W. Johnson, the wife of Johnson Publishing founder John H. Johnson and the creator & producer of the Ebony Fashion Fair.
I met Mrs. Johnson for the first time in 1995 after she called me for a meeting after receiving my head shot & resume from one of her assistants. At that time I was Miss Black Illinois and I was introduced to her assistant at a fashion show. I had know ideal that Mrs. Johnson was interested in me doing something with the Ebony Fashion Fair. I went in and auditioned for her and a month later I was on the road as a commentator for the Ebony Fashion Fair. The tour really helped me to discover a hidden talent that I didn't know existed at the time and to this day I'm still doing live presentations, voice overs and commentating shows because of that opportunity.

She truly helped open many doors for men and women of color in the fashion industry and she will always be remembered as a "Fashion Icon".

Click the link for more information on this fashion trailblazer.


Photo courtesy of Ebony Archives

Birthstone Style: The "Ravishing Red" Garnet

Happy Birthday Savvy Sistahs, if your birthday is in January your birthstone is a "Garnet".This gemstone is found in many different shades although it is commonly known as a red gemstone. It was first mined in Sri Lanka over 2500 years ago and comes from the Latin word granatus, meaning "grain or seed". The name garnet comes from the close resemblence to the pomegranate fruit seeds. So even if your birthday isn't in January you can still carry a hip handbag, wear a sassy cocktail dress or step out in trendy shoes that compliment the exquisite sparkle of the garnet. Check out how stunning this shade looks on Savvy Sistah Vivica A. Fox and it'll look the same on you!