1.) The Homegirls.

More often then not, in a black hair commercial, you’ll find a group of women – the homegirls. Whether they’re in the bathroom getting ready for the club, out on the town, or even sitting around at lunch chatting and catching up, there will typically be at least two or three women involved. Somehow, the scene is always set against the tune of some bland, repetitive, hip-hop beat. And the conversation, though light and fun, is always discreetly laced with the most stereotypical black girl slang. Maybe I’m just out of the loop, but I can’t recall the last time I used phrases like “the bomb”, “I’m about to hook you up”, and “played out” amongst my friends. And all the neck rolling, gum-popping, and hair flipping to get a point across?! What’s up with that, America? Is that really how “we” act, as a whole? I can’t deal.

2.) The Same Look.

Though there are usually several women in the commercials, there is seldom much variety amongst the models’ looks and the hair styles that they wear. You can pretty much bet your last coin that all the women will have straightened hair of a dark brown or black hue. Now I can’t quite decide if this is because the products being advertised cater towards these specific looks, or if it’s because we’re to believe that straight, dark hair is more favorable than curly or colored hair. But I don’t like it, either way. I honestly can’t recall the last time I saw a commercial where women with natural or more unique hairstyles were represented, though these are the women I see out and about everyday. And I won’t even delve into the point that women who are clearly wearing weaves are often used to promote products that claim to strengthen and protect our own hair. Now, I’m currently and quite proudly wearing a partial sew-in myself, so this is in no way an anti-weave rant. However, if the products are supposed to make our natural hair fuller, healthier, and more shiny, the last thing I want to see is 8 ounces of Indian Remy being flipped and blown around, disguised as the results of a quality product. False advertising.

3.) The Problem.

From what I’ve noticed, black hair commercials almost always present a dilemma. Whether it’s “nappy” roots, fuzzy edges, or split ends – there is always some sort of problem to be corrected. Of course, I fully understand that products are created to correct specific hair concerns. However, why is it that we never see advertisements for basic, everyday products such as shampoo or deep conditioners. Are we, as black women, really only running to the haircare aisle when we need to zap new-growth with a relaxer or slick down “edges” with the latest, greatest gel or pomade?! I’d certainly beg to differ. While women of other ethnicities are regularly being offered quality products for routine maintenance and upkeep, it seems as though many of the ads geared specifically towards women of color are looking to fix our hair, as if it were a burden of some sort. It’s no coincidence that the vast majority of our commercials are for do-it-yourself relaxers. Where are the ads for natural haircare products? I’ll wait…

Check out a few examples we’ve gathered of black haircare commercials, past and present:

The Good

The Bad

The Ugly

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Are these commercials simply for entertainment, or perpetuating racial stereotypes? Are eyebrow-raising ads doing quality products any justice?

Here are a few suggestions on how to revive your look:

Phase One: Understanding the Problem

The first step toward solving any problem is, of course, admitting that there is a problem to be solved. But more importantly, you must fully understand the root from which it stems. There are a plethora of factors that may be causing you to feel “blah” in the style arena as of late. Could any of the following be keeping you down?

• Hectic Schedules: Woman are infamous for wearing a dozen hats at once. On any given day, we’re playing student, employee, boss, socialite, wifey, mommy, and friend. With so much to do, who has time to be getting all cute, right?! Ehhhh, negative.

• Finance Woes: Everyday we’re reminded of how poor the economy is. But reality sets in the hardest on the 1st and 15th; rent, car note, credit card, tuition, utility, groceries, gas, and cell phone bills are all sucking your account dry. Sometimes your paycheck is gone before you even see it. When this is the case, recreational shopping is usually the first “luxury” to fall by the wayside.

• Bad Weather: The last thing you want to do on a rainy or hundred-degree day is get dressed. And on the contrary, when it feels like twenty degrees below Antarctica outside, there aren’t enough garments in your closet to prepare you for the frigid air that’s gonna smack you down as soon as you step out. It’s no secret that weather impacts our mood, and, consequently, how we decide to present ourselves.

• Weight Gain/Loss: Does this sound familiar? “Until I lose this last ten pounds, I refuse to set foot in a mall. I’m gonna get into that size 6—whatever it takes.”  No? What about this: “I need to thicken up! Until my thighs and booty get bigger, I will not be wearing jeans. I’m gonna get my curves.” Regardless of the verbiage used, we women often punish ourselves when we’re unhappy about our weight and shape. As a result, our frames get draped in unflattering threads, we deprive ourselves of fashionable outfits, or we simply give up until that target weight is achieved.

• Relationship Troubles: For some girls, relationship hardships, a recent break-up, or being single for extended periods of time seems like the end of the world as we know it! As sad as it is, many often lose confidence and motivation when they are not rewarded with the attention and approval of a spouse. This, ladies, is a problem.

Phase Two: Getting Over It!

Once you come to terms with the reasons you’ve been in your style slump, it’ll hopefully become evident that you deserve better than to punish your personal appearance during turbulent times. As cliche as it sounds, the better you look—the better you feel! And it’s much easier to get through a hard day with a smile on your face when you know that you’re putting your best foot (and face) forward. Besides, you never know when you step out what new people and opportunities may present themselves throughout the day; stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. Try the following pick-me-ups to change your attitude towards getting dressed in the morning:

• Seek Inspiration: It’s possible that you’re simply becoming bored with your current style of dress. So, seek out inspiration for a new look! Pick up a magazine, take a trip, or even visit a vintage/ thrift shop to borrow ideas from the past. Take note of the things that catch your eye, and interpret these ideas into your wardrobe. Fret not if it’s something out of character, or outside of your comfort zone, because you’re allowed to switch it up and play with your look! Who gon check ya, boo?!

• Add a Pop of Color: Color, color, color—I cannot stress enough how color can lift your spirits, whether in beauty or fashion! If you’re used to wearing all neutrals or black, add a neon accessory to spice things up. If you’re that chick who keeps her makeup au’natural, smack on a hot pink lip! If chosen properly, the right pop of color will bring your head high and put that extra pep in your step. Try it out, try it out . . .

• Ac-ces-sor-ize!: Believe me when I tell you: we could wear the same three garments all week, but with the right accessories, nobody would ever even notice! Accessories have the power to transform a look in a matter of seconds, and give us that extra boost of confidence. Invest in a statement necklace, pair of costume earrings, or a show-stopping bag, and see how much better you feel.

• Pull Out Ole’ Faithful: Nestled deep in the back of every woman’s wardrobe is “Ole’ Faithful.” That garment that must have been sketched and sewn by the Gods because it fits like butter against your beautiful silhouette. Often, it’s a pair of jeans that makes your backside look better than ever before—Ha! Who needs squats when you’ve got that pair of Joe’s? Or maybe it’s a dress that gives you an instant breast-lift and tummy tuck because your shape never looked better! On those days when you’re out of it, pull out Ole’ Faitful and let it take the wheel.

• Please Don’t Stop the Music: Turn up the volume and make getting dressed and prepped a party in the a.m.! Blast the music that puts you in your best mood—be it Beyonce, Madonna, Lil Kim, or Yolanda Adams—hey, whatever works. Dance around your room, jump on the bed a couple times, and go crazy in the closet! Just watch the time, ya hear, ’cause I refuse to take the blame when you get fired for tardiness from shaking your rump to Rihanna a few extra minutes . . . ; )

- Chelsea Smith

5 Reasons to Wear Pretty Panties

* Clothes Look Better: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—all it takes is the wrong pair of underwear to ruin a completely perfect outfit. How sad it is when a girl leaves the house in a nicely fitted dress or flawless pair of jeans, only to find out later that the imprint of her illl-chosen undergarments stole the show? Ladies—panty line was SO 2002! Or what about cutesy tops that are forced to compete with not-so-cute back fat bulge from a too-tight bra (don’t worry—it happens to the best of us), or even a loud print that peeks through the fabric? Bras and panties are powerful tools (for more reasons than one) and should be used wisely to make the most of your outfit. The right fit and style can take pounds off of your figure, detract from problem areas, and enhance your lovely feminine assets.

* Wardrobe Malfunction: I have this one amazing skirt that’s made by Isaac Mizrahi for Target. Got it back in ’07 and it’s undoubtedly one of my favorites: bright, multicolored, bold graphic print, free-flowing fit. I mean really, it’s everything! But for some odd reason, whenever I wear this skirt I always end up walking outside, there is always a randomly strong gust of wind, and it always finds a way to fly up when my hands are too full to do anything about it. You may think I’m joking but I have several friends and strangers alike who have witnessed the scandalous phenomenon over the last few years. I say this all to say that if I didn’t wear pretty panties, these numerous Marilyn Monroe moments could have been sheer horror. But, instead, there were laughable “uh-oh” and keep it moving kinda deals. Whew! You too can stay prepared for unexpected wardrobe malfunctions by keeping your underoos cute. So whether you bend down and experience a little peek-a-boo, or forget a button in you blouse—there’s nothing to worry about.

* In Case of Emergency: Hate to be a somber Susie, but sometimes misfortunate events occur that can put you in a very uncomfortable and vulnerable situation. God forbid you be in an accident or suddenly fall ill and have to be rushed to the emergency room, because you will not be able to avoid those dreadful butt-less teal robes. They’re simply not optional. Now I’m well aware that your panties are the very least of anyone’s concerns when you’re on the brink of coughing up an organ. But really—that sinus infection will go away. Dr. McDreamy’s vivid memory of your off-white, baggy, “time-of-the-month” bloomers? Maybe not.

* Time for Some Action: *All minors, please leave the room . . . Now. (loll)* Alright, we all grown in here? Good. Listen—things happen. Boy meets girl. Girl sees boy. Boy looks good. Girls feels tingly. Then—sha-pow! Time for some action. Okay, fine, let’s take a less shameful approach (I pinky promise I’m not a first-date “sha-pow” advocate). Girl goes out. Girl bumps into boy. Boy is long-lost love from years past. Girl invites guy over to catch up. Then—sha-pow! Damn, it happened again. o_O The moral of the story: big boys and girls do unexpected things. Many of which leave clothing scattered on the floor and undergarments very visible. Don’t get caught up wearing that one bad bra with underwire poking out the sides and draws with the lazy elastic. NOT a good look.

* Make You Feel Good: Arguably the most important and rewarding cause for wearing attractive undergarments is how they make you feel. A cute new set from Vicky’s secret has magical powers, I tell ya! You get dressed in the morning, slip them on, and automatically feel ready to conquer the world. Your shape seems to be at its best, boobs perkier than ever before, and backside just as cute as can be. There’s no doubt in your mind that you’re that girl. Single, boo’d up or married—no matter—because this is a sexy that no man can define. And throughout the day, whatever may come your way, you know that you’re giving Tyra and Heidi a run for their money—underneath it all . . .

- Chelsea Smith

Whether its a new ‘do, mani/pedi, brief massage, or wax, beauty services are a therapeutic ritual that we eagerly look forward to at the end of each pay period. Our stylists become stand-in girlfriends and confidants, getting us through personal situations just as they get us through bad hair days. They keep us looking our best and feeling even better, and to show them our gratitude—we tip accordingly.

Tipping Standards, According to CNN Money*

• Hairdresser: 15-20% (Unlike in previous years, it’s now acceptable to tip an owner rendering services, unless otherwise noted.)
• Shampoo Person: $2
• Manicurist: 15%
• Spa Service (massage, facial, etc.): 15-20%

* These figures are an average suggestion, and subject to your own personal discretion.

But every so often you have an ill experience that leaves you wanting to run out of the salon in a rage, barely paying the bill—let alone leaving a penny more of your hard-earned coins. So what do you do? To tip or not to tip? Now, unless the circumstances are extremely extenuating, I am a firm believer that a tip is in order upon completion of any service. I understand that those who rely on tips are making a very minimal—if any—hourly wage. So I’d be hard-pressed to justify not leaving them anything for over an hour’s worth of labor. But if you do happen to have a negative experience, be it a rude stylist, bad cut, or over-extended wait-time, you have a couple different options.

How to Deal With Bad Service

Request Another Stylist: If you have an inkling at the on-set of your appointment that things are headed downhill (due to attitude, communication barriers, etc), politely request another person to complete your service. Though the original person may not be too happy with this decision, you’ll be glad you followed your instinct and opted for a better person to get you glammed-up.

Ask for a Re-Do: If you’ve held out through the appointment, only to find out that you were not completely satisfied with the results, don’t hesitate to ask for a re-do. If you find that the color is not dark enough, cut not short enough, roots not straight enough—politely let them know. Explain what your initial expectations were in contrast to the result you received, and the stylist should be more than willing to correct the issue. Be sure to request such fixes immediately, though; don’t wait two weeks to decide that your hair was not styled properly and expect them to feel that it’s their fault by that time.

Tip Less: In the case of an extended wait, frequent breaks, or a subpar styling job, you may simply opt to tip less than the norm. As always, I recommend being courteous and respectful, and briefly explaining (via note or otherwise) how they may have improved the experience for further reference. Do not, however, punish the person rendering your service for something they specifically had no control over. For example, during my brief stint as a waitress, I once had a guest leave a nasty note on the back of a receipt that said, more or less, “You would’ve gotten this [measly*] $5 if that hostess wasn’t so damn rude in making me wait [during peak business hours for a whack 'ol salad and Coke that I could've stayed my evil ass in the house for*].” Gee, thanks lady. [*My two-cents, lol]

Speak to a Manager: Sometimes you simply have to call on a person with more control. If you are completely dissatisfied with the service, ask the receptionist if you can speak with a manager or business owner. Pull them aside, out of the salon if need be, and fully voice your concerns in a calm, yet serious, tone. Make it clear that the experience could very well discourage you and friends from revisiting the establishment, and that you’d hate for them to lose business or credibility due to one avoidable mishap. Most often, when given sincerely and respectfully, complaints to the higher-ups will result in discounted future services, or even a full refund.

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. To avoid awkward exchanges, revisits to the salon, or lengthy discussions with upper management, try the following suggestions, beforehand.

Tips to Making the Most Out of Your Salon Service:

Make an Appointment, and Honor It: The last thing you want to be is that girl who tries to sneak a walk-in and wonders why she gets thrown to the newbie and receives so-so service. Story of my life in the nail salon, since a pedi is usually the cure to a unexpectedly stressful day. To avoid feeling like the guinea pig during your day of pampering, make an appointment and get to it on time to ensure that your go-to person doesn’t get backed up and throw you to the wolves. If you’re not sure who to choose, call (or come in) well in advance to find out who’s specialties best suit your specific needs. You don’t want to find out the hard way that the person you selected is not comfortable with short hair, can’t do nail art to save their life, or has never applied a relaxer. Uh-oh!

Know What You Want: It’s very hard for a person to perfect the look you’re going for if you have no idea what it is. Granted, we don’t always know how to verbalize exactly what it is that we’re going for, nor do we always know what’s best for us. But it certainly helps to bring pictures as a point of reference for the professional. Be able to point out what you do and don’t like in each picture, and they will likely be able to mesh the good things to reach a great final product.

Keep Distractions to a Minimum: It’s quite easy to miss an error in your service if you’re too busy running your mouth on the phone (telling the whole salon your business, at that) or trying to figure out where your toddler ran off to (she’s wiggled her entire body into the vending machine by now). Pay attention to what’s going on, especially in the beginning of your cut, manicure, or what have you. Make sure that they’re doing exactly what you requested before it’s too late and the error is irreversible.<

Feel free to share any bad salon experiences you’ve had, and how you handled them.

- Chelsea Smith

“Just like a star cross my sky…” Corrine Bailey Rae gives organic, pure face. Just like her airy songs, Corinne’s makeup is about a strong and undisguised illumination that can come from a wand of Nars cream blush, but truly comes from within. Appropos for a date night–giving him just enough. If you want that “I’m don’t ever try hard” look, consider these tips from our makeup guru Chelsea Smith.

Follow these steps for a Corinne Bailey Rae look!

Eyes:
Covergirl “Eye Enhancers” in Country Woods, ($4), Drugstore

Covergirl “Lash Blast”in Black, ($6.38), Drugstore

* After priming the lid, apply the lightest (third) shade from the inner corner of the eye and take it to the middle of the lid. Use the second grayish brown shade on the outer half of the eye. Use a fluffy brush to blend the two colors so that there is a gradual darkening, which creates the illusion of depth. Complete the look by lining the lid with a black liner and applying a generous amount of mascara to both top and bottom lashes.

Cheeks:
NARS Cream Blush in Cactus Flower, ($26), NARS

* What it is: A moisturizing cream-based formula that provides a sheer flush of color and long-lasting, natural luminosity.

* Using a slightly damp sponge, gently pat the product onto the apples of your cheeks. Yes, you will likely have to make a cheesy smiling face to find the true “apples”, but that’s okay – we all gotta do it! Build up cream to your desired intensity of color, then use clean fingertips to blend the product out into the skin so that there are no harsh edges.

Skin:
MAC “Mineralize Skin Finish” in Comfort, ($28), MAC

* Whether you choose to go with bare skin, tinted moisturizer, or full-on foundation, complete the look with “Mineralize Skin Finish” for a beautiful bronzed glow like Corrine’s. Use a large fluffy powder brush to pick up product, and tap off any excess. Dust lightly over the entire face, giving particular attention to areas such as the bridge of the nose, cheekbones, and chin.

Lips:
Korres “Lip Butter” in Mango, ($10), Korres

* What it is: All-natural, creamy lip balm infused with shea butter and rice wax for maximum hydration. Provides a natural pop of color, and can also double as a cheek stain! Gotta love an all-in-one beauty find. ; )

It’s a common beauty misconception that smoky-eyed looks must be achieved by using dark, nearly black shades. On the contrary, ladies like Keri Hilson, Keshia Knight Pulliam, and Yaya DaCosta show you that an equally sultry look can result from using an olive eyeshadow. Olive is a universally flattering shade that works great for most complexions and eye colors. Furthermore, its subtle enough to be worn from day to night, without you looking overly made up. Follow these steps to get your smoky olive eye:

• Apply your green shadow of choice to the lid and under your lower lash line. Use a medium-sized fluffy brush to blend and gradually fade the product out towards the crease.
• Highlight your brow bone with a cream shadow that has a hint of gold to it. The highlight should be subtle and faint.
• A crease color for a look like this is optional. But as you can see in the pic of Keri, a muted brown shade complements the look nicely without taking away from the green. If you choose, use the same fluffy brush to apply a deep brown into the crease, creating depth and warmth.
• Complete the look with a black kohl liner on your lower water line, your blackest black mascara, and your fave nude lipgloss!

This look can be achieved at any pricepoint:

LOW

NYX Cosmetics: Mermaid Green (101), White Pearl (27), Dark Brown (06), $4.00

MED

MAC: Humid, Ricepaper, Espresso, $14.50, MAC Cosmetics

HIGH

GUERLAIN: Bronze Dore (481) $59 for complete Palette, Sephora

- Chelsea Smith

From Coco and Creme — Who’s to say that pink lips are only for the Spring and Summer? As far as we’re concerned, a pop of the pretty hue is a great go-to way to bring your face to life during any season. On days when you’re not necessarily in the mood for the hardcore foundation/concealer, eyeshadow/liner ordeal, take a cue from Chanel Iman. Keep skin clean with just a subtle hint of blush, put on your favorite mascara, and let a hot pink pout steal the show!

Here are a few options you just might fall in love with:

1. Maybeliine ColorSensational Lip Color in ” Party Pink (155)” $5.99

2. Christion Dior Dior Addict Lipcolor in “Pink Lust (763)” $26

3. Illamasqua Intense Lipgloss in “Frenzy” $20

4. MAC Amplified Lipstick in “Girl About Town” $14.50

5. Tarina Tarantino Gem Gloss in “Neon Vanity” $19

6. NYX Round Lipstick in “Louisiana” $3.60

- Chelsea Smith

“No one who is as fat as Mike and Molly can be healthy. And obesity is costing our country far more in terms of all the related health problems we are paying for, by way of our insurance, than any other health problem, even cancer.”

” . . . yes, I think I’d be grossed out if I had to watch two characters with rolls and rolls of fat kissing each other . . . because I’d be grossed out if I had to watch them doing anything.”

” . . . I find it aesthetically displeasing to watch a very, very fat person simply walk across a room—just like I’d find it distressing if I saw a very drunk person stumbling across a bar or a heroine addict slumping in a chair.”

” . . . I have a few friends who could be called plump. I’m not some size-ist jerk. . . . But . . . I think obesity is something that most people have a ton of control over. It’s something they can change, if only they put their minds to it.”

Really, Maura?! All I could do is shake my head in shame upon reading blow after blow, each line more callous than the one prior. Ironically enough, she concluded the post by asking for the agreement and feedback of readers:

“What do you guys think? Fat people making out on TV—are you cool with it? Do you think I’m being an insensitive jerk?”

YES! You absolutely are. And the commenters (nearly 800 of them by now) sure let her have it.

Since the article was originally posted, Maura has added an updated apology and retraction of her statements. In this eye-roll-inducing letter, she speaks of how her harsh comments were likely rooted in her own struggles with weight and history of anorexia. And while I sympathize with that little tidbit of information, it’s really too little, too late. What’s been said cannot be taken back, and the hurt and offense she caused to not only overweight individuals, but loyal Marie Claire fans in general, has already been inflicted.

What are your thought’s on the article? And who should be held responsible—the author for writing it, or the magazine for publishing it?

From Coco + Creme — What easier way to switch up your look than to tweak your hairstyle? And what easier way to tweak your hairstyle than to spice things up with a bang?! Bangs are a quick and fun way to turn a blah haircut into something special, and, nowadays, the typical side-swept layered effect isn’t your only option. With the resurgence of the bowl bang, Coco chicks all over the globe are making a bold statement and framing their faces in a way that screams confidence; “Look at me! Oh yes, I’m that girl.” Long gone are the days when a mushroom cut and bowl bang were punishment for little boys and girls who’s parents clearly weren’t concerned with their child’s street-cred on the playground. Because, as we saw during times like the mod sixties and pin-up girl forties, a blunt bowl bang can, in fact, be chic and edgy.

Would you rock a bowl bang?

Get your daily COCO fix for the latest urban fashion and beauty news, how-tos, designer profiles, plus-size fashion and more!

For many families, a baby name is the least of anyone’s concerns during this exciting time. It was decided long ago that you and your spouse would keep the family tradition going strong by passing on the names of your elders. [Sidenote: Both of my middle names belong to my grandmothers, so I’m all too familiar with this one.] Or perhaps you’ll just take the safe route. I suppose there’s nothing wrong with another little Ashley or Brittany, Justin or Anthony – right? I guess.

But for others, the naming process is the time to finally express one’s innermost most creative desires. The world is yours and you’ve made up your mind that you’re gonna get funky with it! If your baby is going to be the superstar that you always dreamed of becoming, he or she will have to have a name that sets them apart from the rest. Uh huh, they’re going to be unique, alright.

Sometimes, though, things don’t turn out so great. Not for the child, at least. Here are a few common “uh-oh” errors that occur in our community when it comes to naming our newborns.

The 7 [Potentially] Deadly Sins of Baby Naming:

Now on a more serious note, as entertaining as the conversation of baby names can get, the social implications of these decisions are very serious and long lasting. Keep in mind that your child will have to spell this name everyday for the rest of their life. Is it something that can be sounded out, or even remembered for that matter? Also, I’m sure you remember your grade school days. Children are very cruel, so let’s hope we’re not giving our kids a name that will make them the constant subject of humility and shame. And of course, as little boys and girls become grown men and women, they will need to find a job. Will this name be the cause for instant résumé rejection or discrimination in the workplace? Some things to think about.

We all know that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover – or title, in this case. But the sad truth is: people do it everyday. If you or anyone else you know has been set up in the name game, let’s stop the cycle here and help a baby out! They’ll appreciate you for it in the long run.