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TBT: “U Will Know” Was The Greatest Moment In Male R&B History

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In 1994, virtually every R&B and soul singer in the industry came together under the name Black Men United to record the song “U Will Know” for the soundtrack to Jason’s Lyric. It was a collaboration that rivaled the size of Michael Jackson’s 1985 “We are the World,” except, as the moniker notes, every single contributor to “U Will Know” was a Black man.

The uplifting track was written by D’Angelo and featured vocals from such independent artists and singing groups as Aaron Hall, After 7, Al B. Sure!, Boyz II Men, Brian McKnight, Christopher Williams, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Damion Hall, El DeBarge, Gerald LeVert, H-Town, Intro, Joe, Keith Sweat, The Rude Boys, Portrait, R. Kelly, Silk, Sovory, Stokley Williams of Mint Condition, Tevin Campbell, Raphael Saadiq, who also played bass, and Usher. Lenny Kravitz also played guitar.

It was a monumental moment in musical and Black history, and one we haven’t even come close to seeing replicated since, and may never again. These days, it’s hard to even get two singers in the business to collaborate on a track, let alone more than 30. And though we can’t say what happened behind the scenes when recording this track, the fact that so many distinct voices are able to shine on the song at just the right time is a testament to the true spirit of unity behind this collaboration.

If you don’t remember the auditory excellence of this track or need to be reminded of the perfection of Tevin Campbell and Brian McNight’s pitch, take a listen to “U Will Know” in the video below in this throwback Thursday tribute.

The post TBT: “U Will Know” Was The Greatest Moment In Male R&B History appeared first on MadameNoire.


Has The Immigration Ban Caused An Increase In Mental Health Services?

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Immigration Ban

Last week, graduate students at the University of Southern California petitioned the university for enhanced mental health services. They requested these services for “Muslim, refugee, immigrant, international and other marginalized student groups” in response to the president’s immigration ban and other executive orders that affect the student population. Is this a reasonable ask? In a word, yes.

The primary motive behind the immigration ban and the emotion it evokes are the same: fear — fear of being deported; fear of being permanently separated from family members; fear of going back to a country where the threat of persecution and even death are present. And that fear has a huge impact on mental health.

Fear is the body’s response to uncertainty and adversity. It has well-known physical components like sweating, rapid heartbeat, and nausea. Longer term effects of fear include stress, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. Research indicates up to 20% of women (8% of men) who experience a traumatic event — like the enacting of the immigration ban — are likely to develop serious emotional problems. This could mean an increase in the number of students seeking psychological services for relief.

People exposed to fear on a long-term basis can develop anxiety, a lingering feeling of fear, dread and worry about an unknown event in the future. Anxiety is a serious condition, the major treatment for which involves confronting your fears through psychotherapy. In the case of immigrants in this country, the fear will only be eliminated by removing the ban. Though there are legal and legislative actions being taken to overturn the ban, the outcome of these activities remains uncertain, and that uncertainty is an additional source of stress. While mental health support cannot affect the president’s executive order, it can provide tools to help minimize some of the effects of anxiety.

Though some people reject the term, PTSD can also be used to describe the mental and emotional issues taking place in the immigrant community. PTSD is caused by exposure to a life-threatening event. It can also be triggered by a sustained traumatic event.

Many immigrants and refugees came to the United States to flee a despotic government or other threat. Those situations in immigrants’ home countries could have themselves caused the symptoms of PTSD. Compounded now with the real threat of returning home to the same tragic activities, these symptoms could be more intense.

On the USC campus, an increase in PTSD and associated conditions from the affected student population could certainly cause an increase in demand for therapy and other mental health services on campus.

With daily executive orders and countless bills being raised in Congress, this administration proves to be a source of uncertainty and change. Many people are affected by the changes in policy made by the President, and these changes will have a negative impact on some citizens. It is important to remember that our mental health can be impacted by political developments and that we must take proactive steps to maintain it.

The post Has The Immigration Ban Caused An Increase In Mental Health Services? appeared first on MadameNoire.

The 6 Best Products To Help You Get Your Skin Together From SheaMoisture’s Many Collections

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No one ever gets it 100 percent right with their skin, but the key to at least keeping it together is having the right arsenal of products. One of my biggest issues as someone with dry-sometimes-oily-other-times skin is products that do more drying than moisturizing, as well as ones that leave me feeling incredibly greasy. But I don’t have that issue with SheaMoisture products.

Over the years I’ve tried a variety of their products that cater to the skin. Just recently, I tested the new Dragon’s Blood & Coffee Cherry, Kukui Nut & Grapeseed Oil and 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Daily Hydration lines. But instead of doing a standard review, I thought it would be best to share how they stack up among the brand’s many other popular skin products. Here are six of my favorites that you should try, old and new (which you can pick up on SheaMoisture.com, in Target, Ulta and on their accompanying web sites).

Shea Moisture's Collections

100% Coconut Oil Daily Hydration Overnight Face Oil – $9.99

It’s the perfect product for those with dry skin. You can use the daily hydration cleanser before applying this product prior to going to bed. When you wake up, your skin will be soft and supple — as long as you didn’t apply too generously. If you have especially parched skin, this oil can be used in the morning and at night.

African Black Soap Clarifying Facial Wipes – $5.99

It’s tough these days to find facial wipes that cleanse the skin without burning the eyes. But with the help of African Black soap, tea tree and calendula oil, not only is the skin not left irritated, but it’s also left fully cleansed and soft. No need to follow these wipes with a face wash.

Dragon’s Blood & Coffee Cherry Instant Rebound Mask – $12.99

Another new product from one of the newest collections, the Dragon’s Blood & Coffee Cherry instant rebound mask is the perfect one to refresh skin that gets tore up from a very busy lifestyle. Made with black currant and borage oils, the rebound mask has a velvety feel and, per the usual, leaves the skin feeling silkened. You could put a moisturizer on after usage, but due do the creamy and cool feel of the mask, you likely won’t need it.

 

Kukui Nut & Grapeseed Oil Youth-Infusing Hydrating Toner – $9.99

Rich in Vitamin A, C and E, the kukui nut is an oil that helps your skin tackle premature signs of aging. And who doesn’t love grapeseed oil, avocado and all things olive? This alcohol-free toner has it all, working to remove impurities and dull skin.

Raw Shea Butter Facial Mask – $14.99

Perfect for the most dehydrated skin, the raw Shea butter mask helps combat everything from dermatitis to eczema and more. It’s creamy and the ideal weekly mask for a face that’s been covered in makeup, heavy products, oils and even sweat over a span of seven days.

Coconut & Hibiscus Spot-Correcting Moisturizer – $10.99

This moisturizer just might be the lightest product of the bunch, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t penetrate and leave skin feeling smooth. It’s also important to mention that it lightly helps (it doesn’t work miracles, though) correct dark spots.

The post The 6 Best Products To Help You Get Your Skin Together From SheaMoisture’s Many Collections appeared first on MadameNoire.

Faith Evans Talks Breaking Up With Stevie J, Lil Kim, Duet Album With Biggie & Memories With Him

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There’s something so endearing about Faith Evans. She just seems like such a down to earth, around the way girl. Today, she sat down with “The Breakfast Club” crew to talk about her new duet album with her late husband, The King & I. The conversation was very natural and actually addressed a couple of questions we’ve been dying to know the answers to like her newfound relationship with Lil Kim, why she had to break up with Stevie J and the memories, both good and bad, with Biggie. Check out highlights from the interview and the full video below.

How she feels about the fact that Biggie’s murder is still unsolved, twenty years later.

To be quite honest me and Miss Wallace feel like we know what happened. The criminal case itself, I don’t think that’s something to heal from. He’s not here so that’s never going to change not really something you heal from. We just decided not to continue paying money to make them admit that they know what happened. There’s no closure in that sense, we just have to move on and live with the great memories of Big that we have.

I still feel like there’s a huge part of my life that’s gone. 

Her son

CJ when he did Notorious–when he played his dad in the movie I think that was probably a crash course in everything Big for him. Every time we’re here he stays with Cease in Brooklyn. So he kind of gets to experience some of that. But I think between that and the fact that he’s always been really close with Miss Wallace it’s not really many questions–at least that I know of that he has or has had. He’s kind of been really realizing things over time. And I’m like ‘Yeah, your dad was really the sh*t.’ 

The duet album

I told Miss Wallace, actually back when Natalie Cole put out that Unforgettable project, I was like ‘One day that’ll be really dope if I could do something like that. But it was really just a thought to be quite honest. I never moved on it. Then, a few years ago my attorney was like ‘Remember you wanted to do that project with Big? Let’s go meet with the people who got the masters and do some business.’

It was so much fun just to be able to be creative with Biggie vocals and do whatever I want to as a creative person myself, it just came together in a way I never imagined it could. I feel like his spirit was definitely there every session. Toward the end of recording, I felt like he just tapped me. I just broke down crying in the corner by myself, like ‘I think he just told me he’s proud.’ 

I do joke with him some times I ain’t even going to lie. When things happen or if experience things, I be like ‘I know you clowning me right now.’ But it wasn’t emotional until that particular time when I just felt like, I think he’s telling me he’s proud. I just was playing the music back for some people in the studio and everybody was just enjoying it and I just felt a tap on my shoulder. 

On Lil Kim

Well I don’t know if we’re friends because we don’t really talk or communicate that much outside of when we see each other for work. but it was certainly a big deal for me for her to be receptive to my well wishes. Because I was in that place a long time ago. But I think she said recently that she just wasn’t ready to receive it. So I understand but she’s in a different place. She’s a mom and obviously, she’s grown past holding a grudge for whatever reason. But when Big died, for me, all that went out the window. 

On Mary J. Blige feeling a way when Puff brought her on board. 

I always heard those things but that was never confirmed. They did tell me that I needed to take her voice off of my album because of some issue I never knew about but I thought that was something between him and her. But I’m kind of glad I don’t know what that was about. On my first album we did a song together called “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore.” And then, at the time, the general manager of Bad Boy, called me like six months after my album came out and said, “Mary wants her voice off your album, you need to call her.” I was like, “No I don’t! I didn’t do nothing to her. So what am I going to call her for? I don’t know what happened. They didn’t tell me what happened so why are you telling me to call her.’ So I just re-recorded the record, which I hated without her on it. But you know.

We used to hang out, go to the tunnel, she gave me a few garments. Big cut up one of my favorite things that Mary gave me one time. It was a Coogie two piece dress and it was like a big A line jacket with a skirt. It was real cute. We got into an argument cuz I put his bag outside because I didn’t want him to make his flight and he cut up all my clothes. 

On Stevie J 

Envy: I didn’t know that was your boo! 

He’s not anymore. When he was here we weren’t together either. 

Charlemagne: That’s not what he said!

But then the day before that he said something else, somewhere else.  So who knows what was going on in his mind at that time.

I never took Stevie serious actually. But I think probably in the last ten years, I would say, ‘Is he trying to flirt? Let’s go.’ I never saw him like that. We’ve been– I have always had plenty of male friends. Never dated any of them. I always would check on him, just really sincerely his friend. And when I kind of felt like he was trying to come at me probably the first time, I’m like ‘Is this nigga staring at me?!’ Like ‘Eww he’s acting weird.’ And my friends be like, ‘Girl you used to run away from him when you thought he was like…’ Cuz I’m like ‘ I don’t want to feel like that. I don’t want to think that way about him because I know he know better than that.’ But earlier last year

I just felt like I was never fully convinced. I just felt like I’m not sure that you’re really ready. I was mature enough going into it. I know that there is a 50-50 chance that it won’t work out. I’m also smart enough to see when it’s time to fall back and I did. 

Charlamagne: I think you just wanted to hit. 

Well I did. I did a few times and I ain’t heard no complaints. I just don’t like the drama. And I think he might be a little bit addicted to the drama. 

–I don’t know what made me even finally say ok. He convinced me, I’m ain’t even going to lie. Cuz I kept brushing it off. Like ‘Get out of here!’ And then I’m like ‘I’m not about all of the craziness. I’m in a whole different place. And if I’m going to be in a relationship, it’s gotta be a serious one.’ And I think probably for a few months he went through the the whole convincing and not getting a real response even though I was brushing him off. And he was like ‘I love you. I want to be with you.’ I’m like ‘I love you too but I don’t know if I want to be with you.’ I still love him. I love him as a friend. 

But I know him outside of the tv show. I always be asking him ‘What are you doing? What made you even do that?’ I feel like there’s a part of that that may be attractive to him. 

On the Tupac and Biggie beef and how she got caught in the middle of it.
I always got the impression that Big was really hurt that he would be manipulated to feel that way about him,.
Charlamagne: In “Brooklyn’s Finest” I always thought he said, ‘If Faith had twins, he would probably have Tupac’s. So that was a shot at you.
Yes, it was! Here’s the tea. I remember one day, this is when I was pregnant with CJ, and I had to take Big to the doctor for something and him and Cease were in the car with me and I’m driving. And Big played me this Jay Z song and I don’t remember if Big’s verse was not on it, because I know for a fact that that line wasn’t on it. But when I heard the actual song a couple of moments later, actually my manager she called me ‘You heard this song?’ I said, “Ima kill…’ She said, ‘You ain’t got to because I’m going to get Big!’ Number one I was pissed but then I was like ‘Why would he do that?’ It’s not like he ever questioned who I was…
I never said nothing to Big about it until after CJ was born. I was looking at him and he was holding CJ and I was just looking at him with that look of disgust like, ‘What are you going to tell your child? That’s on record.’ And he just started crying, ‘I’m sorry. I was under pressure. People was just talking sh*t.” But the funny thing is I was pregnant with twins at first. CJ was a twin and the second one didn’t develop.
Charlamagne: Did he know that when he said that?
Yeah, he knew it! Big would do stuff like that, take an inside joke and put it in a rhyme and make it seem like something real.
Charlamagne: I wouldn’t give my enemy that.
I took it serious. Why would you ever say that? Ain’t like you ever said it to me. Step to me like that then. He never made me think he didn’t believe me. I just had to take a jab on the chin in the name of Hip Hop. I wanted to sue. My attorney was like, ‘Do you really want to go through that? Is it really worth it? You could be spending money forever just because somebody said something.’ But I was like ‘I don’t want that to cause no issue.’
Charlamagne: Did you lose respect for Pac after that?
Absolutely. I didn’t really know him though. He seemed really cool at first but I didn’t totally understand the bigger picture and I didn’t know that I was being used in a situation that was bigger than me.
Charlamagne: What would their relationship be like If Big were still alive
I do believe that we would have done a project like this or have been trying to do a project like this, knowing how my mind works. We probably would have tried to get together and work it out a few more times if we didn’t end up together. But we would definitely be best friends, for sure.

What’s next for her.

I’m actually doing a biopic on my memoir too. So that’ll be out later this year. I’m an executive producer on it and I’m working really closely with the screenwriter. I like to be very tactful but honest.

 

 

The post Faith Evans Talks Breaking Up With Stevie J, Lil Kim, Duet Album With Biggie & Memories With Him appeared first on MadameNoire.

No Pain No Gain: The Funniest Workout Fails Caught On Camera

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Okay, if we're being honest, the idea that someone could be in the gym taping you as you exercise isn't really cool. However, that's yet another incentive to ensure that your form is correct, you understand how the machine or exercise tools you use work and that you pretty much have an idea of what you're doing before you break something -- like your own bones. Some gym mistakes are just dangerous, others, though, are pretty hilarious. That's probably why there are numerous social media pages dedicated to such comical moments. Here are a few that are sure to make you laugh as well as get it right next time you go for a workout -- you never know who's watching. https://www.instagram.com/p/BRZ2O5FFIWF/?taken-by=theshaderoom https://www.instagram.com/p/BJBFVQjBTpz/?taken-by=gymfailss&hl=en https://www.instagram.com/p/BHoo1JIAMfo/?tagged=workoutfails https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ5jJcjFKSW/?taken-by=gymfuckery https://www.instagram.com/p/BQWWtJNAjUz/?tagged=workoutfails https://www.instagram.com/p/BQiEq3ogs2V/?taken-by=gymfuckery https://www.instagram.com/p/BQEcCP_jb_v/?taken-by=iggymfails&hl=en https://www.instagram.com/p/7sIExEEsm2/?taken-by=gymfailss&hl=en https://www.instagram.com/p/6XavXIksoi/?taken-by=gymfailss&hl=en https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ_RWzihMR1/?taken-by=gymfailnation&hl=en https://www.instagram.com/p/BPgMZZnF39u/?taken-by=gym.fails&hl=en https://www.instagram.com/p/BQva_1zhccc/?taken-by=gymfailnation&hl=en https://www.instagram.com/p/3JJ5sdksr6/?taken-by=gymfailss&hl=en https://www.instagram.com/p/ge1cagEsue/?taken-by=gymfailss&hl=en https://www.instagram.com/p/BP6TE8cjQJH/?taken-by=iggymfails&hl=en

The post No Pain No Gain: The Funniest Workout Fails Caught On Camera appeared first on MadameNoire.

Too Cute: T-Boz Shares TBT Picture Of Her Adopted Son

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A couple of weeks ago, I don’t think I knew that T-Boz had adopted a child. But a stumbled across an old interview from her and found that she had. It was news to me even though the adoption happened in late 2015. According to a TMZ  article at the time, the adoption came out during the $40 million lawsuit with Perri Pebbles Reid over the TLC biopic.

The news of the adoption came out when an attorney asked T-Boz if she’d had any communication with Chilli about the lawsuit. T-Boz admitted that she’d only spoken to Chilli to share news of the baby.

The child, who T-Boz named Chance is the second for her. She also has a 16-year-old daughter with rapper Mack 10. T-Boz shared pictures of both of her children on International Women’s Day. Check them out below.

#internationalwomensday I found these from the original photo shoot!!! I can’t imagine life without my children and to think they told me I could never have kids!!!! Well #GodIsGood and I’m living proof #miracles happen everyday day! STAY STRONG WOMAN AND BELIEVE IN YOURSELVES! It’s a shame more of us don’t support one another but instead jealously and envy becomes the evil that rules…. we tear one another down instead of build each other up! It starts with you! Be a better YOU!!! #TBoz #Tlcarmy #TBeezy #TLC @chaserolison

A post shared by T-Boz (@therealtboz) on

Adorable!

The post Too Cute: T-Boz Shares TBT Picture Of Her Adopted Son appeared first on MadameNoire.

What’s All The Hype Around Ingested Collagen And Your Health?

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For a long time collagen was associated with plastic surgery and the “non-medical” side of medicine. People would whisper collagen because they were usually talking about having it injected into their forehead to cover up unsightly wrinkles and lines. But first of all, there’s no shame in having a little bit of the stuff put in your face to shave off a few years and second off, collagen comes in many forms other than a needle. Don’t forget that collagen naturally exists in all of us, so it isn’t some foreign, unnatural substance. As a matter of fact, thirty percent of the protein in your body is collagen, so it must not be that bad. Now people are ingesting in via beverages, supplements and more. Here’s what all the hype's about with ingested collagen. [caption id="attachment_270197" align="alignleft" width="500"] Shutterstock[/caption]

It prevent osteoporosis

Your body has special cells that build bones; collagen boosts the production of those cells. People who take a collagen supplement have a lower risk of developing osteoporosis than those who don’t. [caption id="attachment_422762" align="alignleft" width="420"] Shutterstock[/caption]

It naturally fight crows feet

If the idea of having a needle stuck in your face terrifies you, you could simply take a collagen supplement in the form of hydrolyzed powder. Taking a little every day for a couple of months could greatly reduce the lines around your eyes. [caption id="attachment_588046" align="alignleft" width="519"] Shutterstock[/caption]

It improves joint health

Part of the reason many people develop joint problems as they get older is that their body produces less collagen, which can lead to inflammation. Taking a regular collagen supplement can boost the cartilage tissue around certain joints and make it easier to move without pain. [caption id="attachment_719073" align="alignleft" width="380"] Shutterstock[/caption]

It can regulate your hormones

Collagen can maintain a healthy balance of several important hormones related to our longevity and happiness, like testosterone, insulin, the human growth hormone and estrogen. If you are reaching menopause, talk to your doctor about taking a supplement to keep your hormones from getting out of whack. [caption id="attachment_702246" align="alignleft" width="419"] Shutterstock[/caption]

It can reduce cellulite

Collagen’s job, when it comes to fat, is to essentially hold fat cells in place, creating that smooth outer surface we admire on people who don’t have cellulite. When one doesn’t have enough collagen, they can develop cellulite. [caption id="attachment_717203" align="alignleft" width="420"] Image Source: Shutterstock[/caption]

it might improve sleep

The amino acid glycine, found in collagen, can improve the quality of your sleep and prevent you from feeling tired throughout the day. It could be a good alternative if you’re tired of taking sleeping pills. [caption id="attachment_715504" align="alignleft" width="420"]black woman healthy eating exercise Shutterstock[/caption]

It can boost your metabolism

Glycine, an amino acid in collagen, delivers blood sugar to your muscle tissue, helping you feel more energized and, in turn, do more! Taking this supplement could help you in your weight loss efforts. [caption id="attachment_717156" align="alignleft" width="420"] Image Source: Shutterstock[/caption]

And improve your smile

Collagen is not only paramount in forming healthy, strong teeth but also in developing healthy gums and jaws.   [caption id="attachment_620401" align="alignleft" width="500"] Image Source: Shutterstock[/caption]

And maintain healthy arteries

Many people do not know that your arteries are composed mostly of collagen. Not having enough of it could be a cause of hardened arteries. [caption id="attachment_701869" align="alignleft" width="420"] Image Source: Shutterstock[/caption]

It prevents sun damage

One study found that taking collagen supplements can protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet B and ultraviolet A exposure. [caption id="attachment_704629" align="alignleft" width="420"] Image Source: Shutterstock[/caption]

it flushes out your liver

If you can’t stand one more juice cleanse then try a collagen-based broth cleanse. The glycine in collagen can detox your liver; plus collagen soup is delicious. [caption id="attachment_483135" align="alignleft" width="420"] Image Source: Shutterstock.com[/caption]

It fights leaky gut

Leaky gut syndrome is what it sounds like; toxins make it out of your intestinal wall and into your bloodstream, which can be quite dangerous. This occurs when there is a lack of collagen in our intestinal walls; taking the supplement can prevent this. [caption id="attachment_696398" align="alignleft" width="420"] Shutterstock[/caption]

It makes for stronger hair

People usually talk about keratin when they discuss strong, healthy hair, but collagen also plays a role. In fact, collagen contains an amino acid that can prevent baldness. [caption id="attachment_407153" align="alignleft" width="500"] Shutterstock[/caption]

And tougher nails

If your nails are constantly breaking, cracking and developing those little white lines, maybe it isn’t calcium that you’re missing in your diet; maybe it’s collagen. Collagen is a part of the makeup of those claws. [caption id="attachment_335201" align="alignleft" width="378"] Shutterstock[/caption]

Eating it prevents waste

You can usually get cow bones from your butcher for very little money. These are loaded with collagen! But most of us don’t ask for them, and the butcher just throws them away.

The post What’s All The Hype Around Ingested Collagen And Your Health? appeared first on MadameNoire.

“Save Loose Change!” Certified Financial Planner Reshell Smith Talk Money Management For Parents & Kids

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Reshell Smith is a Certified Financial Planner and author based in Orlando, FL. As the founder and CEO of AMES Financial Planning, LLC where she helps individuals transition from financial chaos and clutter to financial independence and freedom, she firmly believes that everyone should have the opportunity to live the life they desire, especially families of color. Here, Smith shares some valuable tips on how Black families can teach their kids about saving and spending.

Madame Noire (MN): How should parents decide on an allowance amount for their kids?
Reshell Smith (RS): I have found that the most successful strategy is to give children allowance based on their age. A seven-year-old would get $7 and a 9 year old would get $9. This is an easy, clear cut strategy for parents and for kids. There is no confusion about how much a child deserves or what a child thinks he should get.

MN: What are some creative ways to get a child to save?
RS: Save loose change! I love the idea of saving loose change because it gets the whole family involved. Find a jar, preferably a clear jar, that everyone can put their change in. Using a clear jar helps with the psychology of this strategy because the kids can see the change filling up the jar. Towards the end of the year, have the entire family take a trip to cash out and see how much was saved. Another strategy is to have your child set a goal at the beginning of the year. For example, have your child set a goal of saving $75 by the end of the year. Then add an incentive. If they reach their $75 goal, offer to add $25 to make it $100. Kids love to hear one hundred dollars!

MN: Should parents allow their kids to do what they want with their child support?
RS: No. Child support should be used to take care of the child’s needs and some of their wants. Responsible parents are in the best position to make the decisions on where that support money goes. Experts say it costs a middle class family over a quarter of a million dollars to raise a child to age 18. Child support will help cover those costs and children should not decide where that money is spent –or saved– unless the custodial parent gives them a portion to use as they desire.

MN: How did your son become interested in the stock market?
RS: I would love to say that he discovered the stock market on his own, but that’s not true. He has been hearing about the stock market since he was born. By the time he was born, I had already been in the financial industry for at least 10 years or so. His interest started to peak at about age 9 and that’s because he was looking for ways to make his own money. We started with saving “loose change” and we have worked our way into the stock market. Right now, I help him make a small deposit each month. It’s usually just enough to buy a few shares of whatever he wants. So, of course we started with a shoe company.

MN: Give us three tips to help moms empower their kids to be entrepreneurs.
RS: Encourage them to set goals and work hard to accomplish them, when it’s appropriate let them make their own decisions, and allow them to implement some of their ideas so they can get an understanding of what success or failure means to them.

The post “Save Loose Change!” Certified Financial Planner Reshell Smith Talk Money Management For Parents & Kids appeared first on MadameNoire.


Is This Petty? My Boyfriend Expects Me To Be His Personal Chef

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As taxing as it can all be, I can honestly say that I enjoy cooking.

dating cooking

I love to see ingredients come together, batters rise, meats brown and veggies sauté. I’ve almost become like an X-Men character these days, ready to show off my culinary ability at the mention that someone is coming over or that my husband has a special request. As of late, I’ve been trying out new recipes, particularly native Nigerian ones to see what I can do since that’s what he loves. (My egusi soup is a hit, as is the jollof rice and dodo gizzard, the moi moi gets positive reviews, but we both agree that my meat pie is a bust). To see myself now, it’s funny to think about the fact that I sternly made it clear the night I met my husband that I’m no man’s cook.

I had just bought an oven mitt covered in Ghanaian wax-printed batik and taken my purchase straight from the store to dinner, ironically, at a Nigerian restaurant to meet a girlfriend. It was on this day, five years ago, that I met my husband. One of the first questions he asked of me, when he saw the mitt, was if I cooked. Thinking that meant he was going to expect me to be his personal chef if we hit it off, I said, “Yeah, I can cook if that’s what you’re asking. But I’m not about to be cooking like that.”

While his reaction was a light laugh and a playful placement of his hands in the air as if to say, “Hey, hey, hey, I’m just asking, lady,” there are men who expect the women they date (not married to) to throw down in the kitchen for them. However, this often becomes a thing that men take for granted in a relationship.

For instance, I have a girlfriend who has been with her boyfriend for years, and she’s an even better cook than me (she’s also a terrific baker). But while she goes out of her way to make him the dishes he likes and fancy designed cakes for his birthday, he’s not very grateful. When she cooks meals, he often starts eating before her. And while she finishes up frying, sauteeing, baking, or whatever she’s doing in the kitchen, he puts his plate in the sink, leaving her to wash dishes as he heads back to the couch to watch TV. When she asks him to wash dishes for her, he begrudgingly agrees to, but won’t do the pots: “That’s just too many and they should probably soak so you can wash them better later.”

Chai!

I also recently read in a relationship thread about a young woman who doesn’t cook well. She didn’t think that it was a big deal as she can make a few basics (spaghetti, fish, etc.), but when she shared this with a guy she was interested in, they both got a rude awakening.

While entertaining one another on a date, he asked her if she cooked and she responded with “Not really.” When he inquired as to what she meant, she jokingly said that she couldn’t cook to save her life. She thought it was funny, but she realized that he didn’t find anything humorous about such a revelation. “How do you not know how to cook?” he asked, as though being a woman came with recipes stored in the frontal lobes. She went on to say that it’s just not something she’s very good at. His response? “I just think it’s important to know how to cook. How do you expect to eat when you get married?” She facetiously replied, “Takeout.”

As it turned out, her lack of culinary skills was either part of one small problem too many or one major one, because she found herself trying to reach him more than he was looking to get in touch with her following that date.

So I guess my question is, how important is being able to cook for a woman looking to enter into a relationship? Is it petty to not want to turn into anyone’s personal chef just because you can boil and fry a few things and he all of a sudden is expecting you to do it every time he comes around?

As always, it’s important to set boundaries early on. While I do enjoy cooking, fresh into my relationship, I wasn’t doing it. We were getting to know each other — I wasn’t competing on MasterChef. I preferred to be taken out on the town as I felt that putting together a home-cooked meal was reserved for someone truly special. But even when you do, it should be recognized as a gift of sorts. It shouldn’t be constantly expected, even in marriage. And if you do decide to go out of your way to cook, your partner should be able to muster the strength to wash a few dishes and pots after the fact.

As for the last situation, I do think it’s important that people go after what they truly want, and if a man wants a future wife who can get her Julia Child on, that’s his preference. However, considering that he didn’t even give her a chance to try anything before he started going ghost, that’s not cool. Not to mention, he didn’t offer to teach her anything down the line (not even jokingly), which tells me that he’s either incredibly impatient or can’t cook his damn self. And I’m sorry, but if you can’t even make anything out of your own meals, you shouldn’t be expecting culinary perfection out of anyone else…

But as always, that’s just my opinion. What say you? Is it petty for a man to expect his girlfriend to cook for him often? 

 

Image via Bigstock 

The post Is This Petty? My Boyfriend Expects Me To Be His Personal Chef appeared first on MadameNoire.

Vegan Chapstick For The Consciously Chapped

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Food is the first thing that comes to mind when most people hear the word vegan, but the lifestyle isn’t just about not consuming animal products in an edible way. It extends to the clothing one wears and making sure the products used on the face, hair, and body are cruelty-free and haven’t been tested on animals. I lasted just a little bit more than a week when I attempted a vegan diet last spring so I know how hard it is to find products that fit the strict criteria. But I’ve done the research for you when it comes to vegan chapstick and created a list of brands that offer great options for the consciously chapped.

vegan chapstick

African Water Mint & Ginger Shea Butter Lip Balm

vegan chapstick

Lip Service Lip Balm ($9.95)

vegan chapstick

HURRAW! Lip Balm

vegan chapstick

Coco Rose Lip Conditioner ($22)

vegan chapstick

Stick O’ Joe Nourishing Lip Balms ($4)

vegan chapstick

Yes to Coconut Naturally Smooth Lip Balm ($2.99)

vegan chapstick

Eco Lips Bee Free Vegan Sweet Mint Lip Balm

 

The post Vegan Chapstick For The Consciously Chapped appeared first on MadameNoire.

Atlanta Star Zazie Beetz Cast As Superhero Domino In Deadpool Sequel

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Because there can never be enough Black men and women showing up and showing out as superheroes, you will be happy to know that actress Zazie Beetz has been cast in the upcoming Deadpool sequel. And she wasn’t cast in any old role, but rather, that of mutant superhero Domino. The character, which is part of the X-Men spin-off (of sorts) X-Force, has probability-altering powers and is quite the lethal marksman and fighter. Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds is the one who announced the news, doing so on social media yesterday:

Instagram Photo

Instagram Photo

You may not know her name like that, but you likely know Beetz from her role as Vanessa, aka, “Van,” the on-again, off-again girlfriend of Donald Glover’s character “Earn” and mother of his daughter on Atlanta. (The episode revolving around her meeting up with an old friend and smoking weed before a spontaneous round of drug testing at the school she teaches at is one my favorites.) Aside from the Deadpool sequel, she stars in a film called Slice with Chance the Rapper.

As for the Domino character, there have already been slight rumblings of criticism of her casting. Per the usual, White comic book fans were expecting a White actress to take the role since the Marvel character is drawn as a very pale woman with jet black hair. Beetz is brown with a pretty amazing head of natural hair. But there have already been images drawn of what artists and comic book fans think the actress will end up looking like.

Instagram Photo

Not to mention that Beetz won’t have to worry about any negativity. As she told Jezebel late last year, she doesn’t mess with the Internet:

“I think the internet is the devil. [Laughs] I really do think it’s the birth and death of all of us and I find myself addicted to it,” she said. “And I’m not even—since the show is on, I haven’t been on Facebook. It’s a little bit overwhelming and I don’t know how to totally navigate through all of it yet, but it’s all positive. I see how the internet has changed my habits and changed my sort of will to be motivated and my creativity and left me feeling empty and worthless. Every night I used to read or draw or write and I don’t do those things anymore. I feel like I have this urge to numb my mind and I go online for that. I don’t really want to add noise for myself and get a Twitter account. I don’t know. I don’t have a publicist yet, so maybe someone will convince me one day, but I’m a little bit resistant to that.”

And it’s best that she was resistant, because Beetz kept her head down and focused on working. You now see how that turned out.

As for when you will get to see her kill it (literally) in this sequel, we’ll have to wait a little bit. Deadpool 2 isn’t expected to be released in theaters until March 2, 2018.

 

Images via WENN and Instagram 

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Beyoncé May Be Pregnant With Twins, But She’s Reportedly Not Slacking On SoulCycle Workouts “Almost Every Day”

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As the cult Pinterest saying goes, you have the same 24 hours in a day as Beyoncé. If you can’t eek out at least 30 minutes to be active, you should know that the star, currently pregnant with twins, is reportedly finding enough time and energy to go hard at SoulCycle classes in L.A. That’s right. Beyoncé doesn’t know the meaning of rest.

Beyonce fitness

According to sources who spoke with Us Weekly, the star has been a consistent presence as of late at SoulCycle classes in the Hollywood area. “She’s been taking a class almost every day,” an alleged “insider” told the magazine.

It’s reported that Beyoncé usually has Jay Z come with her (it’s unclear if he’s actually partaking in the classes as well) and that they’ve been going to classes several times a week. On March 8 though, International Women’s Day, she was seen riding with Kelly Rowland at a studio in West Hollywood. The class, taken in the evening, was reportedly attended by other big names, including Jenna Dewan Tatum (Channing’s wife), Usher and Lee Daniels. And the fact that Rowland posted this post-workout image at the aforementioned studio on that very day could confirm such star sightings:

Instagram Photo

Not to mention that even writers for The Huffington Post have written about encountering Beyoncé in SoulCycle studios (and losing their sh-t), so it’s not a far-fetched idea.

So how does Beyoncé manage to get into a SoulCycle class without creating a raucous? For one, you know long-time security guard Julius is probably there ready and waiting to lay someone out. But aside from that, class attendees told Us that the singer and Jay Z sneak in after the lights are down and often leave early.

And interesting enough, the teacher whose classes Bey reportedly frequents, Angela Davis (who has traveled with Oprah Winfrey on her The Life You Want tour), actually has Jay Z’s Magna Carta Holy Grail listed as “Music I’m Loving Now” on her official SoulCycle instructor bio page.

With that being said, if you live in Los Angeles and ever wanted to try SoulCycle, or, you know, meet Beyoncé, the West Hollywood studio needs to be your new hangout. Oh, and when trying SoulCycle on the east coast, keep an eye out for Michelle Obama, too. As we previously told you, she’s been spotted in public classes recently in D.C.

The post Beyoncé May Be Pregnant With Twins, But She’s Reportedly Not Slacking On SoulCycle Workouts “Almost Every Day” appeared first on MadameNoire.

Buy Black Friday: The Artwork Of Zahira Kelly

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Yesterday, I wrote about Afros in San Juan and stumbled across the name Zahira Kelly. It was one that looked familiar to me so I decided to check out her artwork. What I found was that, like Valerie Moreno, Kelly's mission is to increase visibility and representation of AfroLatinas. And y'all, this Domicana's work is pretty fly. So impressive, that I decided to share a few pieces that stuck out to me. Check them out on the following pages. And then, dig into her entire collection, here.
First, she created an entire bilingual, coloring book to discuss the lack of representation.
The depiction of The Virgin Mary as a Black woman.
Or this one.
"My body is mine."

this necklace design was hand-drawn. #wearableart shopzahirakelly.com #latinxscreate #afro #latinegra #afrolatina

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Reminds me of La Gordita in Colombia, expect much flyer.

shopzahirakelly.com indie art prints, jewelry, apparel& more. #latinxscreate

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So.Pretty.

"40s & fascinators". also on prints, tees& totes. shopzahirakelly.com

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"im too good for you". support my art at patreon.com/bad_dominicana

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"i cant believe i gave you all this for free", model: @yallahs. support my art at patreon.com/bad_dominicana

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"you never deserved this glory", model: @yallahs. support my art at patreon.com/bad_dominicana.

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You can purchase Zahira Kelly's work at ShopZahiraKelly.com or support her as an artist, here.

The post Buy Black Friday: The Artwork Of Zahira Kelly appeared first on MadameNoire.

Puppy Preciousness: Celebrities And Their Other Little Ones

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[caption id="attachment_787179" align="alignleft" width="1068"] Photo: WENN[/caption] Precious pooches reign supreme in Hollywood. Some of the world’s hottest celebs absolutely adore their four-legged friends and aren’t afraid of showing them off to the world. From wrinkly Bulldogs to stately Doberman Pinschers, celebrity pups span the gamut, but all have one thing in common: They are the apples of their owners’ eyes. Here's a look at some of our favorite celeb puppy pairings.

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Kevin Hart (with Roxy and Riggs)

Comedian Kevin Hart has his love for dogs no secret, particularly his two Doberman Pinschers Roxy and Riggs. A mainstay on his Instagram feed, Roxy and Riggs have as much personality as their owner and may even have some Hollywood aspirations of their own. While on the red carpet at the 2016 Oscars, Hart joked with Ryan Seacrest that, “My dogs are aspiring to do big things in the business. They’re fans of crazy dogs on Animal Planet.”

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Ciara (with Tyson and Texas)

There is nothing that isn’t absolutely enviable about Ciara. She is gorgeous, successful, stylish and has an adorable hubby in Russell Wilson. And to top it all off, she has two sickeningly cute multi-poos named Tyson and Texas. If she wasn’t so likable, we’d really have an issue with this dog lover’s awesome life.

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Usher (with Scarlett)

What we would give to be able to plant ourselves in Usher’s bed like adorable goldendoodle Scarlett has in this photo. These two crazy kids were brought together after Usher spent a whopping $12,000 to purchase the pooch at the Pencils of Promise charity auction back in 2012. And given the smile on Usher’s face, we take it it was money that was very well spent.

Chrissy Teigen & John Legend (with Puddy, Pippa and Penny — Puey not pictured)

We’re far from surprised that model, actress and our pretend best friend Chrissy Teigen is a huge dog lover. Her vivacious personality and playful spirit seem to be the perfect match for a house full of adorable pups. Over the years, Teigen and husband John Legend have welcomed several furry friends into their home, with the current roster standing at Puddy (a Bulldog), Pippa (a Frenchie), Penny (a three-legged Frenchie) and Puey (their newest addition, a Bulldog). We can only imagine how fun a weekend in the park is with this bunch.

Wiz Khalifa (with Vincent — Max not pictured)

Equipped with his own Instagram handle (@TheAmazingLifeOfVincent), Vincent is rapper Wiz Khalifa’s wonderfully precious French Bulldog. Vincent is the OG in Khalifa’s life, his ride or die pup before he brought Max into the picture in 2016. But there doesn’t seem to be any friction between these wrinkly sacks of awesomeness and Wiz seems happy as can be with his little guys.

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Trey Songz (with Kane Songz)

What is it with incredibly sexy men and adorable puppies? Well that pattern continues strongly with R&B crooner Trey Songz and his little man Kane Songz. If his Instagram is any indication, this little Frenchton seems to live quite the charmed life. Pictures of him hanging with his dad, beautiful women and rocking some pretty cool swag (custom threads and an awesome Casper bed are just the tip of the iceberg) checker his @kanesongz handle.

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Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (with Hobbs)

As big and burly as Dwayne Johnson is, there is no denying the soft spot he has for dogs. In 2015, Johnson made headlines when he dove into a pool to save his Bulldog puppies Hobbs and Brutus from drowning. Unfortunately just a few weeks later, Brutus would succumb to complications from eating a toxic mushroom. The loss broke Johnson’s heart, but he hasn’t lost his passion and love for animals.

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Shemar Moore (with Shug and Mo)

There really isn't much that can be said about the delicious Shemar Moore that hasn't been said a million times over. He is hot. He is sexy. He makes our hearts go pitter patter. And the fact that he adores his puppies Shug and Mo is the icing on one terrific sundae.

Ezekiel Elliott (with Ace)

Ezekiel Elliott is on fire these days. Not only is he coming off of a phenomenal rookie season with the Dallas Cowboys, but he also managed to charm the pants off of casual sports fans as well with his fun-loving, laid-back personality. And yet another mark in the reasons we love Ezekiel column? His head over heels love for his dog Ace.

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Pusha T (with CJ)

Though we might be a little surprised that rapper Pusha T went with such a frou frou, fluffy little dog, we knew that he would pimp out this pup with all the swag its little body could handle. But even though he's a fan of dressing up CJ, the shot above shows just how much he loves his little one.

The post Puppy Preciousness: Celebrities And Their Other Little Ones appeared first on MadameNoire.

She Get It From Her Mama: Blue Ivy’s Cutest Fashion Moments

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[caption id="attachment_787877" align="alignleft" width="1068"] Photo: Ivan Nikolov/WENN.com[/caption] It's difficult to imagine a scenario where Blue Ivy wasn't going to be the most fashionable celebrity kid out there. Like really, was the first daughter of Beyonce and Jay-Z going to ride the struggle bus to style town? Definitely not. But even despite the high bar that was set pretty much when she came out of the womb, Blue Ivy has dazzled us with some incredible fashion moments. While we're eagerly awaiting the arrival of two new Carters into the world, let's take some time to look back at some of Blue Ivy's most adorable style moments.

2017 NBA All-Star Game

Blue Ivy stole the show at this year's NBA All-Star game. Not only did she look adorable on the sidelines hanging with her parents and eating cotton candy, but she also showed up on the style front. She may have looked casual with two pigtail braids and a jean jacket, but Blue was also proudly rocking an $1800 Gucci dress on the sidelines. Why, you ask, would she wear Gucci to the All-Star game? Answer: Because she can!

The 2017 Grammy Awards

It may have been may been a big night for Beyonce (with a stunning performance and a few new statues to add to her collection), but Blue Ivy impressed big time with a bubblegum-pink Gucci suit. The suit was paired perfectly with a ruffled shirt (a tribute to Prince's iconic look) and a stunning $2500 Swarovski and pearl accented purse.

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Halloween Pt. 1

Halloween with the Carters is always an event, but even we were taken aback in Fall 2016 when Bey, Jay and Blue dressed up as Barbie and Ken. While her parents may have been the main attractions in this look, Blue Ivy still knows how to make her fashion presence known in a sparkly pink skirt and embroidered leather jacket.

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Halloween Pt. 2

And as if look 1 wasn't enough, Beyonce had to take it up a few notches when she, Blue and mother Tina dressed up as Salt 'n' Pepa. Heading off to cousin Angie Beyince's 80's and 90's themed party, the Knowles women put all other attendees to shame in their well-coordinated and completely on-point looks.

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2016 MTV VMAs

If there had been one truly shinning moment in Blue Ivy's five years of fashion awesomeness, we would have to say that it came during the 2016 MTV VMAs. When Blue and Beyonce hit the red carpet in stunning Marchesa creations (Blue's retailing for about $11,000) we were floored. It was the perfect balance between a truly stunning piece of fashion and fun age-appropriate-ness (we loved her sparkly kicks paired with the dress).

Beyonce's Pregnancy Shoot

While the focus was most certainly on Beyonce's swollen belly, we were as equally impressed with Blue Ivy, whose simple leotard and understated beaded braids looked casual yet stylish.

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Just A Stroll

Ugh, these two can't even look ordinary when they're strolling around outside.

Holiday Celebrations

While waiting to ring in the new year at the Versace Mansion in Miami, the Carter family stunned in a few  showstopping looks. Even at such a young age, Blue Ivy knew how to turn on the charm and style to wow all those around her.

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Welcome To France

We're not going to lie: We're not typically fans of super matchy looks between mothers and daughters. But we had to make the exception with this look from Bey and Blue. While in France, the duo rocked matching green floral dresses from Gucci and pink shoes. Too cute!

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Just Being Them

Whether at an awards show or just gallivanting around town, Bey and Blue always stun us with their style, their sass and, most importantly, their fun with each other. They are the ultimate embodiment of mommy and daughter goals!

The post She Get It From Her Mama: Blue Ivy’s Cutest Fashion Moments appeared first on MadameNoire.


(Temporarily) Long Hair Don’t Care: 10 Celebrity Men Who’ve Rocked Extensions

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Who says that only women wear hair extensions? Granted, it's not super common just yet, but more and more men are adding on to their hair in innovative ways. Men, like the rest of us, particularly celebrity men, occasionally like to change it up from the standard short cuts, and sometimes they have to do it for work. From loc extensions to long locks for movie roles, these celebrity men were able to whip their hair back and forth -- with a little help. Click on through to see how they looked during such hairy explorations.  

Chris Brown

Brown's Kriss Kross-inspired locs were cute, but short-lived. Two weeks prior to obtaining them, his hair was quite short. And just like that, all of a sudden we looked up and he was running his fingers through his hair. He rocked these little locs while promoting the album Fan of a Fan with friend (and fellow extension wearer) Tyga. Iman Shumpert men hair extensions

Iman Shumpert

The NBA star's hair is always the talk of the town thanks to the colorful ways he's worn his signature high-top fade. But people really had a lot to say when he tried his hand at loc extensions.

Tyga

To have a cameo in Barbershop: The Next Cut, Tyga, for some reason, had to wear these curly hair extensions.

Matt Damon

Damon had to change up his hair for his role in the box-office dud The Great Wall, and the actor said the process to get his hair done and to take care of it was a bit much. "I'd never done that before—700 extensions [and] it took 12 hours," he told E! News. "The tiny glue [extensions], which is weird. And then I lived with it for five months...The kids loved it. The kids were into it for like a week and then they kind [sic] forgot about it. I got good at doing the hair ties, just to get a ponytail up." https://www.instagram.com/p/BQo_2IvFSeF/?taken-by=jasonderulo&hl=en

Jason Derulo

People have been calling Derulo out on his Instagram page for going from a fluffy mohawk to these pretty long locs. However the singer obtained them, we're not going to lie, the look is actually kind of cute on him.

Daniel Radcliffe

The former Harry Potter star had to wear this luscious bob for his role in the horror film Victor Frankenstein back in 2015. "I don't know how anyone deals with them. The stress, you have to wash them! If you don't, they get really rank," Radcliffe said to ETonline. "You have to wash them in a very delicate way, because otherwise, they're all going to fall out."

Fetty Wap

The rapper had everyone talking when he decided to forgo a short cut for these loc extensions. However, Fetty used them to transition into actual locs, which he currently wears.

Chris Hemsworth

I can't tell you if it was truly Brad Pitt's long and luxurious hair in Interview With the Vampire, but I can tell you that it was not actor Chris Hemsworth's hair in Thor. Those long, golden locks were installed for the films.

James McAvoy

To play a young Charles Xavier in X-Men: Apocalypse, the Scottish actor had to rock extensions. They were bearable, but he said he had issues with the hair when it was time to take a shower. "One [hair-extension] comes out and you're like [gasp!]" he told ETonline. "I had that a couple times." Mickey rourke men hair extensions

Mickey Rourke

There's not much about the actor that hasn't changed. When it comes to hair, he's been wearing all sorts of looks over the last few years, from extensions to wigs.   Images via WENN, Twitter, Instagram 

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Do Men Dump Women Because Their Boys Don’t Approve?

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I just stumbled across a tweet that first gave me pause, then struck up a memory and then made me wonder if any of you had similar stories or experiences to share. So the tweet, read as follows.

I saw a couple of responses to it from other men, who denied the claim. Someone mentioned that he’d never read it in his rule book. Another man said that his only concern from his friends was that they hadn’t had sex with his new boo. (Ray J’s “She Smashed the Homies” immediately popped into my head.) But before I saw any of these responses, the tweet reminded me of a story that was passed on to me in college.

I went to a PWI, so you either know or know of most of the Black people on campus. That familiarity can also extend to your personal business and dating relationships if you’re not careful. Which is how a friend of a friend discovered this dude, who we’ll call Nathan, was dating– or talking to–a woman we’ll call Mystique.

Let me paint this picture. While we were only freshmen on campus at the time, it doesn’t take but a few months to scope out all of the potential prospects. And Nathan was one of them. He was boyishly handsome, funny, artistically gifted and pretty intelligent as well. I know I looked and I know I wasn’t the only one. Like something out of a high school movie, Nathan wasn’t just popular with the ladies, he was well respected with the men on campus as well. I only saw Nathan in passing though, so much of what I know about him today, I would learn years later, before we graduated.

But back to our freshman year, a friend of a friend reported that Nathan was seen increasingly around campus with Mystique. This wasn’t like a friendly hang. These two weren’t going on group dates or outings, they were by themselves and for a young man like Nathan, not only did this signify something, it was news to be shared and reported. And this news was pretty much verified. This friend of a friend was very close to Mystique and she was able to confirm that our eyes were not deceiving us, that we were really witnessing a budding romance.

Things were progressing so nicely with Nathan and Mystique that it was time she meet the friends. Meeting the friends is not as much of a production as it can be in the real, grown up world. In college, you essentially live with your friends, so you’re bound to run into them sometime. But since Nathan and Mystique had been able to keep things on the low for so long, this was a big deal, particularly with Nathan’s reputation on campus.

If you’re thinking that the introduction to the friends marked a turning point in their relationship, it did. They turned a corner and found that they had come to the end of the road. Things ended so suddenly and so abruptly that the friend of a friend had questions–or really one question, in particular, what happened?!

Mystique wasn’t exactly sure either but she did believe his friends played a role. After they’d met and she asked what they’d said about her, Nathan admitted that they said that they didn’t picture him with a girl like that. But at the time he kind of laughed it off like it was a non-issue and certainly not something for her to worry about. So she didn’t. But when Nathan started taking more and more time to reply to her texts, or when he’d cancel plans at the last minute, before disappearing all together,  she could only assume that the friends had something, if not everything, to do with it.

Sad story really.

But it made me wonder if this whole phenomena of dudes dumping women because their male friends don’t approve happens in real life. Have you ever seen or heard of such a thing?

Veronica Wells is the culture editor at MadameNoire.com. She is also the author of “Bettah Days.” You can follow her on Facebook and Twitter @VDubShrug.

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Kerry Washington To Produce Britt Bennett’s The Mothers For The Big Screen

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I must have read Britt Bennett’s The Mothers in a single weekend. From the very first page, you’re trying to determine what the hell happened. The story deals with a young, teenager, Nadia, trying to cope with the her mother’s suicide. And in the midst of all of it, she finds herself caught up in a couple of scandals. And the reveal is worth the wait. The writing is so vivid and the story so compelling that it only makes sense that it be adapted into some type of movie.

And apparently, that’s exactly what’s happening. Not only is it coming to the screen, Kerry Washington is set to produce it with Simpson Street Productions, the same company that was behind the HBO film Confirmation. 

Bennett, whose debut novel landed on The New York Times’  Best sellers list, will write the screenplay and executive produce the project.

Warner Bros. is set to adapt the book into a film, the first Simpson Street feature film for the company.

Can’t wait for this!

Veronica Wells is the culture editor at MadameNoire.com. She is also the author of “Bettah Days.” You can follow her on Facebook and Twitter @VDubShrug.

The post Kerry Washington To Produce Britt Bennett’s The Mothers For The Big Screen appeared first on MadameNoire.

Take A Look At H&M’s New Unisex Denim Line

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These days, it’s all seems to be about defying gender and being inclusive. Whether it’s gender neutral bathrooms or fashion ads featuring trans models. And now, H&M has joined the ranks, creating a new unisex jean line, Denim United.

“It is very natural for us to launch a unisex collection as fashion is constantly evolving and intersecting and today we see there are no boundaries in democratic style,” said H&M spokesperson Marybeth Schmitt. “Fashion should always be inclusive.”

The Denim United line features everything imaginable like overalls, oversized tunics, neutral colored hoodies, shorts and large jackets with the popular, distressed look, of course with a jean fabrication.

Denim United will launch exclusively on H&M’s website on Mar. 23. Take a look at the looks from the new line below.

 

 

 

 

The post Take A Look At H&M’s New Unisex Denim Line appeared first on MadameNoire.

Curls Natural Hair Care Line Is Now Available At CVS

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When it comes to natural hair care lines, there’s plenty on the market. But we recently got our hands on Curls, an organic curl care for women and girls embracing their natural curls, and fell in love. Not to mention, the entire line is made of certified organic ingredients and are free of sulfates, parabens, mineral and petroleum oils. So, it’s honestly the best of both worlds: primping and pampering your tresses like never before.

While Curls was exclusively available on their website, alongside nationwide retailers like Target and Sally’s Beauty Supply, they’ve further expanded their reach. Now, more than 7,200 CVS locations across America will carry a selection of the brand’s products, including Crème Brule Whipped CURL Cream, Goddess CURLS Botanical Gelle, Lavish CURLS Moisturizer and Passion Fruit CURLS Control Paste. There’s also products from the Blueberry Bliss Collection.

“My initial goal in creating CURLS was to give curlies everywhere that perfect product to give them beautiful and healthy hair,” said CURLS founder Mahisha Dellinger. “In today’s economy, it’s important to me to offer our affordable yet results-driven products at accessible retailers like CVS.”

So ladies, rejoice because Curls is now just a simple stop to your local CVS away.

 

The post Curls Natural Hair Care Line Is Now Available At CVS appeared first on MadameNoire.

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