TOTAL LIFE PROSPERITY

Is it OK to wear White After Labor Day?

Total Life Prosperity — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:48:05 +0000

Is it ok to wear White after Labor Day?

I can’t believe it’s September already!!! Where did the summer go?! Labor Day is approaching and the recurring question again this year: Is it ok to wear White after Labor Day? My answer is YES! Who follows the No White After Labor Day rule anyway? We all know Lisa Raye never follows this rule. White has become her signature color. The actress says she loves white because ” its easy, clean, crisp, fresh, and alive. It became easier to wear it because it catches your eye and doesn’t waste brain power on what colors go with what. ”

CLICK ON THE IMAGES TO VIEW LARGER

So where did this rule even come from? Supposedly you shouldn’t wear white because white reflects light and heat making you cooler in winter. Others suggest the rule stems from a class issue given to newbie rich folks in order to “fit in.” With the holiday weekend approaching are you asking yourself: Can I wear White after Labor Day and still be fashionable? According to Suze Yalof Schwartz, executive fashion editor-at-large at Glamour magazine: YES! You can wear white after Labor Day. She says: “Don’t put away white denim.” Pair white jeans with a chunky sweater, a blazer, or leather boots.

Try Gap low rise boot cut jean

To step up your work chic, try a pair of Banana Republic Winter-White or off White pants

In addition to white jeans and pants I’m a fan of white/cream/off white peacoats

I fully intend on breaking the NO WHITE after Labor Day rule again this season! I still warn that no matter what time of the year I am a firm believer that you should NEVER wear white to a wedding unless you’re the bride! NO EXCEPTIONS!

Will you wear White After Labor Day?

Operation: Flawless Skin

Total Life Prosperity — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 04:01:30 +0000

I’m on a mission towards completely flawless skin without blemishes, bumps, or spots! My skin isn’t bad now but as of lately I’ve noticed recurring, mini-break outs that drive me crazy. As much as I love trying new products I figured for the upcoming fall season I should try some natural alternatives. Up first is the raw honey and brown sugar exfoliant.

Raw Honey + Brown Sugar Facial Exfoliant Recipe

Designed to remove dead skin cells, brighten dark marks, and even out the skin tone. All you need is raw honey and brown sugar. I used Trader Joe’s Organic Raw Honey ($5.99) and regular brown sugar.

To make the exfoliant mix one table spoon of raw honey with one table spoon of brown sugar into a thick paste. After washing with Black Soap I applied the mixture to my face. I massaged the scrub on my face for about 5 minutes and let it sit for about a minute. The honey and sugar mix had a sweet smell to it. I removed the scrub using a face towel. Be sure to remove all the honey left overs then rinse with cold water. I used a dime sized amount of Grapeseed Oil as a moisturizer. This inexpensive, home scrub left my face feeling more refreshed and not as tight as the St. Ives Apricot Scrub that I’ve been using for years. I plan on doing this special treatment twice a week.

Raw Honey + Brown Sugar Facial Exfoliant recipe courtesy of The Mop Top Maven

More skin care tips to ensure flawless skin for fall

Apply sunscreen everyday with SPF of 30 or more. All summer I’ve been using Neutrogena Age Shield Face sunblock lotion and plan on using that well into the fall/winter months.
Incorporate a brightening/fade cream to fade some dark spots. I’ve used Ambi Fade Cream before but not consistently so I plan too apply it twice a day (morning/night)
Get more sleep…at least 7 hours. I notice when I go to bed before 11 I look and feel so much better in the morning
Stay hydrated by drinking more water

How are you going to change your skin care regimen for fall?

Falling for Fall Nail Colors: MAC Earthly Harmony review!

Total Life Prosperity — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 04:01:20 +0000

MAC Earthly Harmony

It’s still summer but I could not wait to try new fall nail colors! Up first on my list was MAC’s Earthly Harmony created by manicurist Jin Soon. I’d described this color as a grayish-taupe with light reflecting bronze sparkles. I used 2 coats plus a top coat and it gives off a matte color with a touch of shine. When I tweeted the pic of my manicure I noted that it reminded me of OPI “You Don’t Know Jacques” with a touch of sparkle! This new high gloss formula also contains conditioners and UV protection. This is a great color that would look good on a variety of skin tones for the upcoming fall season!

where to buy: online or at MAC Counters $13

Tell me what you think of MAC Earthly Harmony!

Faith Friday: I Speak Life

Total Life Prosperity — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:00:07 +0000

HAPPY FRIDAY TOTAL LIFE PROSPERITY FAMILY!

This week I heard all sorts of disturbing news from those around me. In the midst of everything I deal with on a daily basis I still have peace and that alone is enough to be thankful for. While none of the negative situations directly affected me, I still felt like people were losing the battle not only in their minds, but also in the realm of their mouths. I heard nothing but negativity. I was reminded of this quote posted on the Total Life Prosperity Blog Facebook Fan Page:

“A mind ill with negative attitudes is more dangerous than a sick body, for its sickness is always contagious. Don’t associate with those who are afflicted with the mental sickness of constant negative thinking.”

Soon after my iPod was on shuffle and played Donald Lawrence “I Speak Life”. The song that reminded me how powerful it is to speak positive over my life and the lives of others. We all need encouraging and this song did it for me!

Remember death and life are in the power of your tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. (Proverbs 18:21) I’m off to St. Louis for my best friend’s wedding!

Have a great weekend!

Neiman Marcus Beauty Best and Brightest Fall 2010 Event + Pics!

Total Life Prosperity — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 05:44:34 +0000

Beauty Best and Brightest 2010

The Public Relations Manager over at Neiman Marcus invited myself along with other beauty bloggers, and writers to the Beauty Best and Brightest Fall 2010 event. I must say it was a beauty and makeup junkies dream! Product specialists from several luxury brands shared all the details about their latest products and what makeup trends, and colors to expect for the upcoming fall season. In between beauty tutorials, mini-makeovers, and product presentations I enjoyed champagne and delicious hors d’oeuvres including the best cherry tomato topped with hummus I’ve ever tried! I was very impressed with all of the product representatives. They were extremely knowledgeable about all of their products. I have to admit I was overwhelmed with information. I should have taken notes! But I plenty of reading material to look over for later. Check out my pics from the event!

La Prairie presented their latest award-winning perfume bottle design fully blinged out in bright rhinestones! I tried their Cellular Radiance Emulsion cream and it felt absolutely amazing on my skin and it smells great too! This luxury collection combines state-of-the art science with utter luxury such as powerful Caviar extracts, sea proteins, and even 24 carat to transform and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

Bobbi Brown showcased the new fall Black Velvet Collection which is all about giving you an edge in 5 minutes! The new and limited edition eye kohls come in 3 colors (Black, Black Plum, & Black Chocolate) and all work well to acheive fall’s smudged, dark eye shadow trend. I tried the new creamy lip color in Black Cherry. I usually don’t wear dark lips but for fall its all about the lip color! Black Cherry was a long lasting, rich color that moisturized the lips without staining.

Le Metier Beaute was one of the new blossoming skin care lines that is projected to double in size this fall. The shadows were very pigmented and as you can see, the shadows come in a unique pallet meant to layer.

Clarisonic products seemed to be more geared toward anti-aging but it’s never too soon to start preventing wrinkles! He recommended that I try the compact Mia along with my daily cleanser for a spa-like treatment at home.

I picked up a new Laura Mercier foundation to try. *Expert makeup tip: apply foundation with fingertips for a more natural, even tone

Christian Dior will have a collectors’ item this fall. Each hand pressed eye shadow compact will be individually numbered and accompanied with matching lipstick!

Another product worth mentioning is Chantecaille Fragrance. Petalia smells amazingly delicious! I wear perfume every single day and I can never smell myself even when others compliment me but this one is different. It might sound strange but I can can actually smell myself and I love the romantic fragrance. It’s on the pricey side so until I make the $175 splurge, I’ll enjoy the free fragrance trio!

I love trying new nail colors but I’m always skeptical since most polishes chip within a few days. Try this tip from celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann:

NEVER skip base or top coats! While these steps take a little longer she insists they will add days to your wear!

I’ll have to watch the how-to video on how to achieve the perfect at home manicure. The rep also added that for fall 2010 nail color is the new must have accessory! In the meantime get more tips at www.deborahlippmann.com

While the Chanel rep discussed the new Bleu de Chanel cologne for men (which retails for $59 and $79) I had to ask her about Les Khakis de Chanel. Ladies, if you love the colors as much as I do, you might want to stalk visit Chanel.com on/around September 10th when the line is set to launch. She was not able to confirm if the polishes would be available to at all Chanel counters. She believes those colors will only be available in New York and online. I’m keeping my fingers crossed! But there’s more good news to share! The Mac 2010 Nail Colors are in stores now! Before the event I was able to snag a bottle of the Earthly Harmony I was raving about earlier this week. Make sure you get yours this weekend because I’m certain this color will sell out!

I walked away with a green suede, fall Neiman Marcus Beauty Bag full of products and materials from Christian Dior, Jo Malone, La Mer, Lancome, Guerlain, Estee Lauder, Bobbi Brown, NARS, Clairisonic, and more! When I got home I was like a kid on Christmas opening my beauty swag bags! I was uber excited that two products on my radar to purchase were in my bag: NARS Orgasm Illuminator and Frederic Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream. Other beauty bloggers have been raving about both so I’m glad I get to try for free! This is really just a brief overview of the event! I walked away with so much information for the upcoming fall season. I can’t even begin to tell you about all the new beauty and skincare products I have to test out. The pictures speak for themselves!

Check out all the amazing goodies I received!

The Lancome Raspberry Pop Sparkle gloss is such a fun color. Here’s a closer look!

As you can see I have so many new products to tell you all about! I will be using EVERY single product received so stay tuned for more detailed reviews!

Get Cute in Vicky’s PINK NFL Collection for Football Season

Total Life Prosperity — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 14:15:15 +0000

Victoria’s Secret PINK NFL Collection

Just in time for Football Season Victoria’s Secret releases tees, sweats, hoodies and tank tops, and panties all a part of the PINK collection. The assortment of officially licensed merchandise in a partnership with the NFL that features the names and logos of 13 teams. The teams featured are: the Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys, Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots, New York Giants, New York Jets, Oakland Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, San Diego Chargers, Washington Redskins and Carolina Panthers. The collection is available in select Victoria’s Secret stores in each of the teams’ markets and online.

I don’t have a “team” that I’m a fan of but I might have to purchase some of the Redskins gear since I plan on attending a Washington Redskins game this season!

SHOP your favorite team gear at VictoriasSecret.com

Falling for Fall Nail Colors!

Total Life Prosperity — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 02:25:42 +0000

Fall/Winter 2010 Nail Colors!

This year, Global Creative Director of Chanel Beauty, Peter Phillips, has created Les Khakis de Chanel, a collection of 3 must-have colors for Fashion’s Night Out. Chanel’s line Les Khakis de Chanel comes in three different tones of khaki — Khaki Rose, Khaki Burn, and Khaki Vert.

Starting September 10th, Les Khakis de Chanel will be available for $25 per bottle in Chanel boutiques, on Chanel.com and in select department stores. $25 is a little pricey for polish but I have to try it! A cheaper option is Mac’s Fall/Winter lacquers that sell for $12 a bottle. (Mac Nail colors: Earthly Harmony, Imperial Flower,Ming Blue, Jade Dragon, Concubine, and Rain of Flowers)

Just off these images I’m sold! I cannot wait to try Chanel Khakis in Vert and MAC Earthly Harmony!

What fall nail colors are you looking forward to?

Faith Friday:Faith & Relationships

Total Life Prosperity — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:08:05 +0000

HAPPY FRIDAY TOTAL LIFE PROSPERITY FAMILY!

This week I want to encourage every reader on their journey towards Total Life Prosperity. We are all believing and trusting God for something…whether it be new opportunties, jobs, restored relationships, companionship, better finances, health, etc. As a Christian I know iron sharpens iron so hopefully someone will be encouraged this Friday. In a previous post I highlighted a story about Pastor Issac Pitre’s divorce and how God reconciled his marriage after 6 years to his ex-wife Denisha Pitre. I received alot of offline feedback and questions ranging from: Why did they get a divorce? What do you think about pastors preaching about marriage yet they are divorced? Why did they get back together? How did it happen? etc. Honestly, I don’t care to know the specific details. The how’s, whys, and my opinion surely doesn’t matter…the only thing that I care about is God getting the glory now that their relationship has been restored. Stories like this rarely get told. Since this blog prides itself on promoting wholeness, I will continue to promote the goodness of God in my life and in the lives of others. The couple recently sat down with DayStar and answered some more questions about their divorce and why they decided to remarry.

Watch their video testimony!

I encourage everyone to listen to his sermon: It’s Not Your Faith, It’s Your Fight . This sermon blessed me tremendously and I’m sure it will do the same for you.

Have a great weekend!

Style Spy: Peace Images

Total Life Prosperity — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 22:00:43 +0000

Peace Images Uni Shoulder Chain

Oh where would I be without Twitter! It really is an endless source of information for someone like me that loves researching new things. Today fellow blogger Misha aka The Fab Chick sent a Twit Pic of a cute ring she was wearing by Peace Images. My inquisitive self clicked on the link to the designers webpage and began to browse her items. As I was looking, I kept asking myself where have I seen her designs before?! Then it hit me…several of my facebook friends from home (St. Louis) have been rocking her earrings for a while now! As I continued to browse through her items I saw something very reminiscent of the Armor Jewelry body chain I posted back in May. The items aren’t the exact same but you can get this shoulder chain look for a lot less by Peace Images! What’s even better than the price, is she will custom-create this specially for you upon ordering and she offers several colors including silver, gold, or gunmetal. For the price iDig it!

You Decide! Armor Jewelry or Peace Images?

Peace Images jewelry can be purchased online or Follow Camille on Twitter twitter.com/peaceimages

Makeup for less: NYX Cosmetics

Total Life Prosperity — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 03:12:18 +0000

NYX Cosmetics

One of my Twitter followers recently asked if I knew anything about Burberry makeup. She wondered if it was worth the price. I’m sorry to report that my love for the “berry” as I call it stops at boots, handbags, and clothes. I have no idea about their makeup. I did a little online research and came across a great review about their new line but I’m not completely sold for the price and I’m not sure if it’s for “us”. There is a more affordable makeup line that I think more women of color could benefit from if they just give it a try and that’s NYX Cosmetics. Take a few of my favs for example:

Products featured: Lip Glosses L-R Honey, Mauve, Sand Dune; Liner in Chestnut; Shadow: Golden/Rust/Walnut Bronze

NYX on Me

glosses: L-R Mauve, Sand Dune, Honey

Shadow L-R: Golden/Rust/Walnut Bronze

I highly recommend brown beauties to invest in NYX cosmetics. The colors are very pigmented and super affordable! 3 glosses + 3 eye shadows +1 lip liner = $18 <—WOW!!! I also recommend the eye brow/liner pencils. One of my other favorites is the White Pearl 918 (not pictured) which works well for me as a base when I want shadows to appear brighter. NYX is sold at most Asian Beauty Supply stores or you can find it online.

Beauty Rating: