Jolie&Jade Luxe focuses on streetwear femininity and features our version of classic wardrobe must- haves.The luxe collection is designed and produced in New York.
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The first visual project to be launched under Ms.T Entertainment is The Stripped Down Series! Get a glimpse of everyday people as we discuss intimate topics such as self acceptance, spirituality and how they choose to leave their mark.In Episode One of The Stripped Down Series we have a conversation with Mel the creator of the sisStar Loop, The Women Empowerment Event and her newest business venture The Empowerment Network Magazine.She discusses becoming a mother, wife and creating a ritual of self care through the support of community. Tune in, subscribe and watch Episode One of The Stripped Down Series. Look out for Episode Two dropping January.17, 2021
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The holidays are here and doesn't quite feel the same. With a changing world around us and stress at an all time high, when have we taken the time to care for ourselves? Most of us who celebrate the holidays usually shift our attention to what we can give to those that we love to show our appreciation for them. Although it is important to give our family and friends their roses while they are here it is up to us to make it a priority to give and show ourselves some love as well.
]]>The holidays are here and doesn't quite feel the same. With a changing world around us and stress at an all time high, when have we taken the time to care for ourselves? Most of us who celebrate the holidays usually shift our attention to what we can give to those that we love to show our appreciation for them. Although it is important to give our family and friends their roses while they are here it is up to us to make it a priority to give and show ourselves some love as well.
In the course of two years there are a few activities that have helped me get through this experience called life. I have learned the importance of balance, energy shifting and facing demons in order to move on from past traumas. I saw a post on social media that read "Remember, you are the most beautiful and expensive thing you will ever own." For me it was a reminder that above any thing or anyone I am my biggest investment. If I don't take care of myself I will not be able to accomplish or enjoy what my purpose here on earth is.
Self-care can start with activities that become a ritual for ourselves. The importance of self-care is not just for temporary gratification but can have long term benefits if practiced often. The word itself has become a buzz word and for some it may dilute the importance of taking the action of catering to yourself. The truth is when we lack giving attention to ourselves we can become irritable, physically unwell and experience burn out mentally and physically. I gathered a list of some activites that have assisted me with my well being, are easy to follow and inexpensive.
1. Journaling - Two years ago I learned about a book called ' The Artist way ' by Julia Cameron. This book was a gift from the universe. In my experience of using this book it assisted me with understanding my inner self, peeling back layers of emotions to get to the root of any particular feeling that I may be experiencing and manifesting what I most desired for myself. It takes you on a journey of self discovery in a way that I have never experienced. Each week there are different task to accomplish which leads you to finding out more about your identity. What I love the most about this book is its ability to help you establish a ritual of journaling. Journaling helps to get out all of your thoughts that you may not be comfortabe sharing with others but the freedom to just "get it out" on paper gives room for happier thoughts and clarity on what you feel is important for your well being.
2. Breathing Excerises- Many people experience different levels of anxiety whether it be temporarily or an ongoing challenge. However, the importance of breathing exercises have a huge impact on maintaining control of your emotional response to your environment. Neurophysiological studies have shown that breathing practices can reduce stress, attention deficit disorder and panic attacks just to name a few. There's an application named HeadSpace that has a library of breathing practices for specific needs. One of the biggest challenges in adulthood is feeling like we don't have enough time. HeadSpace allows us to give ourselves at least five minutes to clear our mind and gain mental balance throughout the day. Their guided exercises are an excellent way to get started on making it a habit to combat feeling overwhelmed before it consumes us.
3. Detoxing- Your body has the natural ability of removing toxins from your body, however, a detox containing fruits and raw vegetables helps the process along. From time to time I feel that I need to give my body a break from what isn't the most consistent or healthiest diet ( I'm still working on this) . So, when I feel that I need a reboot I go on a detox. My go to detox was introduced to me by a friend, the 10-Day Green Smoothie Cleanser. It is an easy to follow guide that provides your shopping list for ten days, what is needed for your daily smoothie, snack recommendations to have in between your smoothie and more importantly how to prep yourself before you embark on this journey. When detoxing I have felt more energy, less bloating and clearer thinking after the first three days. Part of self-care is ensuring that your body is functioning to its highest ability and by reducing inflammation, increasing liver function and improving digestion, you are making a lifetime investment. Go Green! Who knows you might love it more than you had anticipated.
4. Cardio- Throwing in cardio for 30 minutes can be a game changer. Since I am not a fitness guru I use old exercise videos to help me get my cardio in. It is scientifically proven that excerise can help increase blood flow to the brain, influences our reaction to stress and has a positive impact on parts of the brain such as our limbic system that deals with our emotions and memory.
5. Create- letting your inner child come out to play is necessary from time to time. You dont't have to be the best artist, seamstress or photographer in the world to have some fun with activities that interest you. Take some time out to create or do something that you always wanted to do to activate your inner child. Visual expression can assist in expressing and releasing trauma that we may have surpressed from childhood or adulthood. Creating serves as free therapy with lasting results.
Carve out some time to love yourself during the holidays and leave a comment on some of your favorite self-care rituals that gets you to your happy place.
]]>I am always researching different ways to help boost my immune system while navigating through the boroughs of New York, especially now with the spread of Covid-19. I introduced sea moss into my diet from a family owned business named Kadataph. I was pleasantly surprised by the difference it made in the way I felt after using it on a daily basis.
Not everyone is aware of what sea moss is or the benefits of it, so, let me give you a brief breakdown.
What is Sea Moss?
Sea moss has been used for years throughout different cultures as a remedy for issues such as inflammation, fevers and has been used to increase sperm count and mobility throughout the Caribbean. Sea moss is an algae that grows and can be found on the Atlantic coastlines of North America, Europe, and the Caribbean Islands.
What are the benefits of using Sea Moss?
The benefits of sea moss are incredible and assist in multiple ways to feel good from the inside out. It assist in some of the following listed below. I would also suggest to do more research to learn more about the full benefits.
1. Sea Moss contains 92 of 102 minerals that assist in your body functioning at its maximum capacity.
2. It contains vitamins C&E along with protein, manganese and selenium which assist in the growth and maintanence of hair, skin and nails.
3. Sea Moss contains magnesium and potassium which is needed to maintain a healthy heart.
4. Potassium helps to get rid of any inflammation of the mucous membranes in one of the airways or cavities of the body. It acts an an antiviral agent to rid the body of any infections as well.
Look Good, Feel Good Raffle!
Jolie&Jade has partnered with Kadataph to bring you the best in fashion and health. For the month of September with any purchase in store or online enter in our raffle to receive a FREE 16oz jar of Kadataph Sea Moss Gel. The streets are your runway look good and feel good while crushing it!
Make sure to sign up to our newsletter to stay tuned for the Stripped Down Series.
]]>We know that television and other media outlets brainwash us with what the ideal image of what beauty is. It is a vicious cycle that us as women go through and unconsciously pass down to the next generation. In the back of our heads we know that these images are unattainable but still we strive to be unicorns. We strive to stand out by fitting in, to be the perfect cookie cutter image that we see on social media, commercials, movies and so forth.
Today I saw another commercial from Dove. Their campaigns are dedicated to women loving themselves just the way they are. It's heartfelt, real and at times I wonder did they take a page from my storybook. This particular commercial titled 'Dove Hair: Love your Curls' struck a cord for me. It showed children talking about their insecurities with their hair. I remember a time when my niece felt this way about her own hair. She is young, vibrant, full of life and her hair which is curly, is a perfect reflection of what defines her. As a family we make sure to remind her of just how awesome EVERYTHING about her is. And so, my beautiful women it is our duty to break the cycle, to plant the seed for the next generation of beautiful girls. Tell them they are perfect in their own right, they are unique and they owe the world nothing else but to be happy with who they are.
Please comment and Share. Together let's change the idea of beauty. The following video is provided by Time Magazine.
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In regards to the question “what is it that I can do?” In my opinion the answer is simple, acknowledge your privilege. I understand how that concept may be broad and a bit confusing. To give a very basic definition of privilege- it’s systems and behavioral patterns that exist and are beneficial to a select group of people. It is in fact a field of study.
Privilege is part of the foundation of why we are constantly having to have the same conversations and tragedies occur decade after decade. We (black & brown people) have spent a majority of our lives answering questions as well as needing to read and learn how to navigate through this society that rightfully belongs to us as well.
In this new era, in this evolution and revolution to elevate this society to be a more humane one... to be more mindful... we need for the roles to shift. If you genuinely want change it’s time to step out the box and acknowledge and study your privilege.
We do not need people to promote change for one day and then turn around and flex their privilege the next. No. Those days are over. Everyone needs to be held accountable and everyone needs to be mindful of how they utilize their opportunities knowingly or unknowingly to oppress the masses.
Education brings about change and unfortunately we (black & brown) cannot reverse the train to update those who want to help in regards to what we have been repeatedly saying is happening within our community.
You have to educate yourself and then YOU have to meet US where we are at. So if you want to know how to change, it starts with research and if you still don’t understand research some more.
As I mentioned before, we have spent years reading, learning and researching how to navigate through this society but it’s a new day and now it’s time for you to become the student because CHANGE IS INEVITABLE AND WE WILL NOT BE SILENT UNTIL WE ARE ALL FREE TO JUST BE.
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For so many years Trader Joe's has been the go to place to find healthy food at great prices and who can deny they have pretty awesome snacks ( blue chips and 5 layered guacamole dip anyone?! ). Here's the thing, Trader Joe's is a one stop shopping destination for all those who are health conscious but for those who are not too concerned with getting the best price for organic goods, this is still for you.
In my addiction to beauty I've discovered through recommendations what this popular food chain brand has to offer and IT IS buzz worthy. My fave products from Trader Joe's are not only beauty must haves, they can be used for multiple use! Thank me later for helping to cut down your beauty expenses. NOW allow me to introduce my four beauty products that I love from Trader Joe's.
1. Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil has been a game changer in my beauty routine. I apply it to my hair, I use it as a moisturizer and every now and then I may take a table spoon or two for health purposes( to maintain healthy digestion) . What coconut oil has to offer for your hair is amazing. It strengthens hair follicles, promotes hair growth and adds shine. If you are trying to repair damaged hair caused by hot tools or chemical treatments ( relaxers or hair dyes) you should add this product to your routine. Hair is made up of protein filament ( a long chain of protein) and when dying or using chemical treatments your hair begins to lose protein hence hair loss/ breakage. Coconut Oil helps to reduce the loss of protein and maintaining a healthy head of hair. I would suggest using it when your hair is wet so it can penetrate into the hair shafts. How much you use on your hair depends on your hair type, so if you have oily hair just use a small amount through out your hair.
As I mentioned before coconut oil can be used on your skin as well. It acts as a great anti-aging treatment for the entire body. The properties (antioxidants) of coconut oil help to prevent wrinkling of the skin, flaking and sagging. When used after a shower coconut oil is a great moisturizer, as it penetrates into the epidermis (first layer of the skin) it maintains hydration through out the day and if used consistently you will see a difference in the texture of your skin. I wouldn't recommend it as a face moisturizer as it may be too rich especially if you have normal or oily skin; however, it is excellent to use as a body moisturizer.
2. Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is another great product that you can use for multiple use. It acts as a makeup remover, moisturizer and like coconut oil adds shine to your hair ( use on dry hair). Jojoba oil is great for acne prone skin because of its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Instead of using harsh acne treatments use this oil to get rid or prevent breakouts. For those of you who have oily skin.... THIS IS FOR YOU TOO!! I know you may be worried that this will cause you to look even more "dewy" than usual but honestly you have nothing to worry about . Our skin has a gland called the sebaceous gland that produces an oil called sebum ( the skins natural oil ), jojoba oil mimics sebum and assist in maintaining the balance of the skin's natural secretion of oil. If you have oily skin you have a greater chance of getting less fine lines because your skin is well hydrated , so embrace it!!
Jojoba Oil can also be used as a makeup remover. If you are struggling to remove waterproof eyeliners and mascaras even lip stains, they do not stand a chance with jojoba oil. Not only will it remove stubborn makeup it will also condition the lashes , promoting lash growth. You can take a small amount of oil and rub it all over your face. Use it all over your face to remove all makeup and then wash it off with your favorite cleanser. You're guaranteed to have a clean fresh face with no traces of makeup! Overall it's pretty good stuff. I like to call it the do it all must have beauty product and it has saved me tons of time in finding the right makeup remover that won't irritate or dry out my skin.
3. Lavender Salt Scrub
Heading into the colder seasons I like to find scrubs that will not only takes away that dull dry skin but to help moisturize as well. I have found (in my opinion) the best salt scrub ever at Trader Joe's! The Lavender Salt Scrub is A-MAZ-ING! It contains Apricot Kernel Oil which is beneficial to more mature skin as it promotes skin elasticity and suppleness. The Almond Oil contains antioxidants, the Green Tea Leaf has vitamins E, C and B. Green Tea Leaf acts as an anti-bacterial for the skin. In addition to these two ingredients, it has Avocado Oil. Avocado oil has a blend of vitamins A, C and E. This blend of vitamins help minimize the appearance of scarred skin and regenerates healthier looking skin. Last but not least it contains Lavender Oil which smells amazing and is so relaxing especially if used before bedtime ( I'm getting sleepy just thinking about it ).
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil has become my new best friend for many reasons. For your skin you can use this oil as a spot treatment. If you need to get rid of that one ugly pimple that decided it wanted to ruin your day, take a small cotton swab and dab a small amount onto the pimple at night. When used as part of your nightly routine it will help to get rid of the pimple faster than you letting it get its 15 minutes of fame.... on your face ( insert sad face).
Tea Tree Oil can be used to fight BAD BREATH! Just swish some tea tree oil and water in your mouth and BOOM! you have fresh breath. Trust me those around you will appreciate it. Add a couple of drops in a cup of water, swish it around and spit it out. DO NOT SWALLOW IT!!! Why does it work? It acts as an antibacterial killing those stinky germs in your mouth. In addition, it can help with inflamed gums and plaque. With visits to the dentist and adding this trick in between you will have happy and healthy teeth and gums.
For those of you who suffer from dandruff. Add two to three drops into your shampoo. Tea tree oil helps to open pores and cure dandruff. You can get back to wearing black and become less self conscious about dusting flakes off your shoulder. Ok ladies, are you ready to read about the best reason to buy this oil? Get closer to the screen and read carefully. Have you ever needed to do number two at your boyfriend's house but wouldn't dare because you know it just stinks. Well here's a secret, drop a couple of drops into the toilet bowel before using the bathroom and tea tree oil will eliminate the odor! By the way ladies unless your boyfriend thinks that you are a mythical creature, he knows that you take poops like every other human being.
Those are my top four fave products from Trader Joe's - The best kept beauty secret. Like, share and comment. I'm interested in reading what's your fave beauty must haves.
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BB creams have been around for quite some time now and people are still trying to figure out what's the big whoop de doo. I'm fortunate enough to work in an industry where I can try first and buy later if I love it. BB creams, also known as Beauty Balms, are a definite must have in your makeup kit. It serves as an all-in-one providing moisture, sunblock, light coverage and helps to diminish the appearance of blemishes.
BB Creams have been huge in the Asian market since 1985 and was introduced to the Western market in 2012 by brands such as Boscia, Smashbox, Clinique and Estee Lauder. Since its big debut it has become the beauty must have, especially for those women who are trying to achieve a flawless natural look. At this point you're probably thinking "where do I begin?" and it's OK. Here are two brands that are a must try and have given me every reason to rave about it.
Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream SPF 35
This BB cream is an all-in-one product. It protects, primes, hydrates and controls oil while giving you a flawless finish. This BB cream is great for the beauty lover on the run. It can be applied with your fingers and blends easily. It comes in eight different shades ranging from dark to light and every shade in between. In addition, it provides great skincare benefits by reducing fine lines and wrinkles in four weeks.
Urban Decay Naked Skin Beauty Balm Broad Spectrum SPF 20
This BB is an absolute miracle worker. While some beauty balms come in different shades, this one is a universal. Naked Skin Beauty Balm delivers anti-aging benefits while blurring out any imperfections. It reduces the appearance of pores, redness, fine lines and wrinkles while improving the overall firmness of your skin in eight weeks. The application is easy, and like most beauty balms can be applied with your fingers. This beauty balm will have you addicted after the first application.
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The eyes are the window to the soul, so we've all heard. Shopping for makeup is big business and shopping for a mascara is even bigger business if you ask me. The obsession with lashes might have started in the 60's when Diana Ross hypnotized her audience with those dark long lashes and even now the obsession continues with celebs like Solange carrying the torch of most wanted lashes. Working in retail, the common question that I've heard was "what is the best mascara?" and to be quite honest, there is no such thing as the best it is more about preference. This post is for the novices that are just as confused as the thousands of women that are entering 'Beauty Wonderland'. Like Alice, you've fallen down the rabbit hole and have entered an unfamiliar place with so many options to choose from you don't even know where to begin. Well, consider me your white rabbit and follow me. Read below for your brief guide to picking the right mascara.
Lengthening Mascara: Lengthening mascaras are great for those who have short lashes and need a little help getting those long, beautiful baby doll lashes. The bristles are straight and narrow and act as a comb for your lashes. Some lengthening mascaras contain fibers to act as extensions to give the appearance of longer lashes. Popular lengthening mascaras are; Benefit They're Real Mascara $24.00, Tarte Lights, Camera, Flashes Mascara $23.00, YSL Baby Doll Mascara $32.00.
Curling Mascara : Curling mascaras are the answer for straight lashes. These mascaras have curled bristles to help lift your lashes and give instant curl. Some mascaras contain polymers which assist in curling your lashes without having to use a eyelash curler to achieve your desired look. Popular curling mascaras are; Dior Iconic Waterproof Mascara $29.50, Eyeko Black Magic Mascara $26.00
Volumizing Mascara : Volumizing mascaras are great to achieve thicker and fuller lashes. It gives a more dramatic look and when layered on is sure to draw attention. The bristles are usually thick and dense which helps to create big, bushy lashes. Popular Volumizing Mascaras are; Diorshow Mascara $25.00, Smashbox Full Exposure Mascara $23.00, Too Faced Better than Sex Mascara $23.00
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