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Hair

Hair of the Week: Alicia Keys “Halo” Crown Braid

Hair of the Week Alicia Keys Halo Crown Braid

We love a stylish braid because this hair look is so great for black hair. It serves as one of the protective hairstyles which means your strands will be protected from harm while fashioned in this style. For instance, your ends are safely tucked in keeping them from rubbing against something or the elements so that they do not fray or split.

Moreover, besides being deemed safe for tresses it is also versatile for day and nighttime wear. Hairstyles that can be worn day or night will save you time and much needed energy! Plus, if taken care of this particular style should last at least a few days before needing to be refreshed or restyled. Sweet!

We spotted Alicia Keys with her own version of the Halo aka crown braid. Alicia chose to have her crown braided and wrapped around down into a single braid. A great version in order to look like a laid back goddess.

So then, how do you make this style your own? Here are two great tutorials that will help you get the look!

Do you prefer to braid than twist to achieve this hair look? Then you will want to check out this one:

Okay, but what if you are horrible at twisting and braiding is like well, don’t even think about it LOL. There is an even EASIER way to get this look by using a braid extension. If you have two left hands so to speak then here is the simple way to create the crown dutch braid:

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

Fashion

Accessories Report: Giambattista Valli Fall/Winter 2015 Oversized Shades

Accessories Report Giambattista Valli Fall Winter 2015 Oversized Shades

Just in case you missed some of our Fashion Week posts earlier in the year we will be recapping a few things over the course of the next few weeks to get you in diva form for the upcoming seasons. Do you love accessories as much as bees love their honey? Girl so do we and we loved what we spotted coming down the catwalk during the fall/winter Giambattista Valli 2015-2016 runway show.

Accessories Report Giambattista Valli Fall Winter 2015 Oversized Shades3

The stunner shades models wore gave a brand new meaning to the expression, “Go big or go home.” Models were adorned with sunglasses that seemed to take up 70% of their faces. We didn’t mind the ginormous size because some of the fashions modeled had a floral theme. So then, to us it was like the bumble bee meeting up with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

PARIS, FRANCE - JULY 06:  A model walks the runway during the Giambattista Valli show as part of Paris Fashion Week Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2015/2016 on July 6, 2015 in Paris, France.  (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

Photo: Pascal Le Segretain

Think big when when shopping, here are a few of our favorite oversized shades:

Accessories Report Giambattista Valli Fall Winter 2015 Oversized Shades4

Valentino Oversized Round Acetate Sunglasses $360

Accessories Report Giambattista Valli Fall Winter 2015 Oversized Shades5

Balmain Oversized Round Plastic Sunglasses/Black $89.99

Accessories Report Giambattista Valli Fall Winter 2015 Oversized Shades6

Emilio Pucci EP0030 015 Black Oversized Round Sunglasses $255

 

Accessories Report Giambattista Valli Fall Winter 2015 Oversized Shades7

Valentino Oversized aviator-style sunglasses $361

All styles are available now at shopstyle.com

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

Beauty

Beauty Question: Is Mineral Makeup Safe?

Beauty Question Is Mineral Makeup Safe

Beauty Answer: This is a very wise question to ask because it involves making sure that our biggest organ on our body remains well-protected… our skin. More and more organic and “healthy” beauty products are on the rise because of recent discoveries of harmful ingredients in major products. Nevertheless, never assume that just because a product totes itself as being safe that it really is; always do your research before purchasing.

With that said not all mineral makeup products are good for you. There are some that contain a powdered form of titanium dioxide which can be quite dangerous to the body if inhaled. Now when titanium dioxide is in a cream based formed it is much safer because the solid form helps to prevent it from being inhaled. However, when titanium dioxide is inhaled as a powder the effects can be compared to those exposed to asbestos. Yikes!

Portrait of a beautiful young African woman against a yellow background.

Many exposed to asbestos for a short period of time are normally okay. Nevertheless, frequent exposure and after some time usually decades later the harmful effects become apparent and some even develop lung cancer. Now let’s that apply that to the using of mineral products with unsafe ingredients. A little exposure may not harm you, but most women apply makeup daily and reapply throughout the day. That is a lot of exposure which could do a lot of damage down the road. So then, always read the ingredients list carefully so that no matter what type of makeup you are purchasing you are protecting yourself and your health.

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

Beauty

Do You Really Burn More Calories With Strength Training?

Do You Really Burn More Calories With Strength Training2

If you really want to maximize your burn you will want to begin a strength training program if you have not already added it to your fitness routine. Women tend to shy away from picking up weights out of fear of becoming or looking too bulky. It is true that exercise alone has numerous benefits that the body is sure to appreciate. These being:

  • lower cholesterol
  • decreased stress levels
  • lower blood pressure

Woman Working Out --- Image by © John-Francis Bourke/Corbis

Photo: John-Francis Bourke/Corbis

Moreover, getting moving period helps to boost metabolism and allow the body to begin building and producing lean body mass or muscle. Nevertheless, if you really want to send your metabolism through the roof strength training is your go-to option. Why is this the case?

Researchers have discovered that the more muscle mass that an individual has the faster their metabolism will be. Just how much of a difference will having more muscle make? Studies have shown that twenty to thirty percent of the calories we burn daily is determined solely on muscle mass. Therefore, more muscle gained through strength training which focuses on building muscle will mean a bigger burn.

Do You Really Burn More Calories With Strength Training

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

Fashion

Summer Fashion That Works For Fall: Off The Shoulder Top

Summer Fashion That Works For Fall Off The Shoulder Blouse7

Buying essentials that can last more than one season will not only make your wallet fatter, but will make styling much simpler. One piece that will still be good to go come fall is the off the shoulder blouse. Right now this top is most likely being paired with short-shorts or a mini due to the heat. Nevertheless, once the temperature starts to fall some only a few tweaks will be necessary to transform the look for autumn.

Summer Fashion That Works For Fall Off The Shoulder Blouse2

Denim will never fail you when it comes to rocking this top. Jeans are the perfect vehicle to make your off shoulder tops fall ready. Keep things causal yet sexy thanks to the hints of skin.

Summer Fashion That Works For Fall Off The Shoulder BlouseSummer Fashion That Works For Fall Off The Shoulder Blouse6

If you want to make your look a little more dressy try pairing your off shoulder top with a pencil skirt. Curves will be instantly noticeable driving the sassy appeal meter upwards. Add a side split for even more head turning appeal.

Summer Fashion That Works For Fall Off The Shoulder Blouse4

As it it gets colder most feel its impossible to display curves like they once did in the summer heat. Combat this by wearing your top with high-waisted pants which will give a sexier illusion without being too exposed.

Summer Fashion That Works For Fall Off The Shoulder Blouse3

Whoever said you couldn’t wear white after Labor Day didn’t know how to have some fashion fun! Yes, even after the holiday ends white pants and an off shoulder top is oh tres’ chic!

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Growing up in California you quickly learn that there is no such thing as fall LOL it’s still hot! So for those of us you leave in warmer climates continue to wear those shorts by try wearing a pair with embellishment. Also, if you want to infuse some Cali flair into your ensemble, tie a side knot in your off the shoulder top and you will fit right in.

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

Fashion

Fall 2015 Shoe Trend: Pointed Toe Heels

Fall 2015 Shoe Trend Pointed Toe Heels

There were a few choice words that came to mind that we are unable to repeat when we noticed a particular shoe trend coming on the horizon. Oh it is not that we do not absolutely love the style of this particular shoe it is just that our cute little manicured toes loathe them. If you guessed pointed toe shoes then you have scored 10 points in the shoe game department.

Fall 2015 Shoe Trend Pointed Toe Heels3

Pointed toe heels are a trend that is rolling over from spring on into the fall and winter seasons. Givenchy, Christain Louboutin and Coach all have designs with the pointy flair. To survive this shoe trend without experiencing too much pain aim for pointed toe heels where the point does not stop right where your toes will be resting.

Fall 2015 Shoe Trend Pointed Toe Heels2

Moreover, you may even consider going up just a half a size. This small change can also afford you and your toes a little more wiggle room giving you more comfort. Therefore, enjoy rocking this trend later this year and without needing crutches.

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

Ad Campaigns and Fashion Editorials

NFL Player Victor Cruz Stars in Givenchy Fall/Winter 2015 Ad Campaign

NFL Player Victor Cruz Stars in Givenchy Fall Winter Ad Campaign3

We were already pumped up for the upcoming NFL season after this past weekend’s football festivities aka NFL Hall Fame Ceremony. However, being the fashion addicts we are seeing football meeting fashion had our style radar way up! NFL superstar Victor Cruz and owner of his own streetwear brand is lending his good looks to Givenchy.

NFL Player Victor Cruz Stars in Givenchy Fall Winter Ad Campaign2

Dang! Uhm… hi Mr. Cruz… 😉

Cruz can be seen in Givenchy’s ad campaign for fall/winter 2015. The suits he wears for the campaign are tailored to absolute perfection. We believe all men should own at least one pinstripe suit in their wardrobe. The style is sophisticated, luxurious and timeless making any man look like an instant classic. If your favorite guy is fighting you on the pinstripe suit tip just tell him it was good enough for The Godfather!

NFL Player Victor Cruz Stars in Givenchy Fall Winter Ad Campaign

We tip our hats and martinis to Ricardo Tisci for choosing such an influential celebrity in the realm of men’s fashion for the Givenchy campaign. The exquisite ad was lensed by photography legends Marcus Piggot and Mert Atlas. It’s a great look for Givenchy and can’t wait to see more style from Victor Cruz in the future.

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

Fitness

Black Women Fitness: Serena Williams Splits Warm Up

Black Women Fitness Serena Williams Splits Warm Up

When we saw these photos our mouths literally dropped to the floor. Yes, we have fitness goals, but Serena shows how to really take things next level! In the pics Williams shows off her extreme flexibility which we are sure is one of the major reasons she dominates on the court. In a caption for the photos Serena even writes, “Proceed with caution.” Oh we will Serena, trust us we will LOL.

Flexibility is one of the most important yet often neglected aspects of fitness. Why is flexibility so important anyway when it comes to having a knockout physique? Here are three reasons why you should not ignore working on being more flexible:

1. Increases blood flow to the muscles.

2. Helps to improve performance in physical activities.

3. Decreases risk of injury since joints are encouraged to move their full range of motion.

So then, flexibility will protect you from needing a doctor after dance class and help you to be a better athlete. Nevertheless, being more limber is not always an easy task. We all have different ranges of flexibility which is why it is good not to compare ourselves to others. However, what are some ways that can help to improve the situation?

  • Warm Up– Never go straight into your workout, warm up first in order to prepare your body for more work. By the time you are done warming up you should be lightly sweating.
  • H20– Drink plenty of water because dehydrated muscles will not stretch to their full range of motion.
  • Be Still-Save static stretches for after your workout and remember not to stretch to the point of pain when holding positions.

There you have it girls some tips to help us all beast like Serena in the athletic department. None of us may win Wimbledon or a Grand Slam but who says we can’t look like we did! Keep up the good work Serena you inspire us to be more fit.

Black Women Fitness Serena Williams Splits Warm Up2

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

Hair

Make Your Hair Grow By Eating These Foods

Make Your Hair Grow By Eating These Foods

By now most of us are aware that the products we use on our hair can promote hair growth. However, what we put in our bodies is equally important.  Eating a healthy diet is the foundation to new hair, skin and nail growth. Keep in mind though that no matter what you eat, if you were born with thin, fine hair you will not suddenly start growing thick hair. Another note of caution is that taking dietary supplements that promise to thicken your hair or make it grow faster may go wrong. There have been cases where taking an excess of a supplement, such as vitamin A, has actually caused hair loss instead of growth.

Make Your Hair Grow By Eating These Foods2

Here are five foods you can eat to help your hair grow healthy and strong:

1. Salmon – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon contributes to good scalp health and prevents drying of the scalp which can cause dull looking hair.

2. Dark Green Vegetables – Broccoli, spinach and kale are good sources of vitamins A and C which help produce sebum. Sebum is the oily substance naturally produced by the hair follicles and acts like a hair conditioner.

3. Nuts – Walnuts, cashews, pecans and almonds are all great sources of zinc. You don’t want to have a deficiency of zinc because that can lead to hair shedding so be sure to include plenty of nuts in your diet.

4. Poultry – Chicken and turkey are rich sources of high quality protein. Having inadequate or low-quality protein can result in brittle hair and in extreme cases can even cause loss of hair color. Besure to give your hair plenty of protein through poultry.

5. Whole Grains – Hearty whole grains such as whole-wheat bread and fortified whole-grain breakfast cereals are high in zinc, iron and B vitamins. As an added bonus, whole grains can give you a boost of energy when you are feeling drained in the afternoon and still need to make it through the rest of the work day.

Make Your Hair Grow By Eating These Foods3

Fashion

Get Your Man Right: GQ Mag’s Fall/Winter 2015 Fashion Editorial

Get Your Man Right GQ Mag's Fall-Winter 2015 Fashion Editorial5

If Bae would like a little advice as to how to look like he just walked out of the Monte Carlo with Agent 007 showing him the sights ( tell him that, he’ll love it), then there is a special GQ issue he’ll enjoy flipping through. Gift your man with GQ’s September issue which includes a nifty fashion editorial highlighting the best of men’s fall/winter 2015 couture. The editorial includes designs by Armani, Gucci, Boss and Prada just to name a few.

Some of the looks that we took note of were by Boss, Ralph Lauren and Versace. Boss and Ralph Lauren both showcase models wearing a turtleneck top and tailored jacket. This is perfect for the guy that does not always like to wear a tie or just has a hard time matching them to his suits. The guesswork and stress of coordinating is eliminated and a guy still gets to keep the sauve factor going.

Nevertheless, Versace had us talking over our cups of coffee due to the boldness of putting a man in a fur. If your man has a boisterous personality and doesn’t mind taking fashion risks then this look will bring out his style passion. Check out some of the editorial to inspire your man’s fashion juices to get flowing.

Get Your Man Right GQ Mag's Fall-Winter 2015 Fashion Editorial Get Your Man Right GQ Mag's Fall-Winter 2015 Fashion Editorial3 Get Your Man Right GQ Mag's Fall-Winter 2015 Fashion Editorial2Get Your Man Right GQ Mag's Fall-Winter 2015 Fashion Editorial6Get Your Man Right GQ Mag's Fall-Winter 2015 Fashion Editorial4

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