Quantcast
Channel: how to please a man – MadameNoire
Viewing all 1752 articles
Browse latest View live

The Morphe Ready, Set, Gold Palette Is Nothing Short Of Amazing

0
0

Morphe may be known for their amazing makeup brushes, but their latest product has us in absolute awe. Earlier this week, they unveiled the Morphe Ready, Set, Gold palette and it’s already a certified staple.

The palette is dynamic and features 35 different shades, so every gal can find her perfect match. There’s 15 metallic hues, which give you an ample amount of shimmer, and 18 flat mattes that offset the bright metallics with darker, moodier shades.

And as expected, the internet went haywire when the palette was unveiled, acquiring over 52,000 likes in less than 24 hours. “I need this palette asap,” wrote one user. Ditto, girl. Ditto!

 

As of now, the palette is still available (but don’t wait too long cause we’re sure it’ll sell out sooner than later) for just $22.99. Head over tomorphebrushes.com to purchase yourReady, Set, Gold palette.

The post The Morphe Ready, Set, Gold Palette Is Nothing Short Of Amazing appeared first on MadameNoire.


This Video Of Xscape Singing Proves They’ve Still Got It

0
0


Earlier this month we were all shocked with the news that R&B quartet Xscape would be reuniting after nearly two decades of tension.

Kandi, Tiny, and sisters Tamika and Latocha Scott made the announcement on local Atlanta radio station V103 with Big Tigger, citing that they’ve “got too much history not to be able to come together.”

“For this to have happened, this is a great moment when it come down to sisterhood and just the things that we built,” Latocha added. “I’m actually happy that my sisters have come back together and we’re about to do some big things. Everybody’s been asking about it and now we’re here.”

And now that the ladies have put their differences aside, they’re ready to release new music and show the world they’ve still got it. On Sunday (March 26), Kandi posted a video of herself, Tamika and Latocha not singing but SANGIN’! After a meeting, the ladies decided to see if the magic was still there and belted out Fred Hammond’s “Give Me A Clean Heart.” We’ve got four words: they’ve still got it.

“I have so many wonderful blessings coming down on me right now & my group #Xscape is one of them,” Kandi captioned the video.

Tiny is noticeably missing in the video, but Kandi made sure to share that she was rushing to the airport and missed this part of the meeting.

Are y’all feeling their cover?

The post This Video Of Xscape Singing Proves They’ve Still Got It appeared first on MadameNoire.

Celeb Stylist Larry Sims Talks Gabrielle Union’s Lob, Halle’s Curls And Other Spring Hair Trends

0
0

You may not know him, but you know Larry Sims’s work. The celebrity hairstylist is behind the looks of some of your favorites, including Kerry Washington, Victoria Beckham, Gabrielle Union, Zendaya Coleman, Mary J. Blige and Queen Latifah. The man knows hair. So we talked with the talent about spring hair trends, including styles and colors that are worth trying, the dos and dont’s of doing your hair at home and how to embrace your curls this season.

spring hair trends

MadameNoire: What are some of the hair trends that women should give a try now that it’s spring, and which stars can we look to for inspiration on how to wear them?

Larry Sims: I think it’s all about embracing whatever looks good on you, and playing around with your natural texture and maybe adding an edgy meets sexy flare to it. I’ve seen pixie cuts – Scarlett Johansson’s look is super on-trend right now. Another trend that is still hot is the LOB, or the long bob. I recently cut Gabrielle Union’s hair into a LOB and she looks awesome. It’s a very versatile and fresh look for spring.

As you switch your body products for spring, are there any lightweight hair products we should be on the lookout for as well?

What we need to do is incorporate products that add moisture back into our strands. I recommend the Schwarzkopf GLISS Ultra Moisture Collection that helps replenish dry strands, and the Schwarzkopf GLISS Oil Nutritive Collection to nourish hair, but also deeply repair a stressed hair structure. To finish it off, I would use Smooth ‘N Shine’s Instant Repair Spray-On Polisher to help detangle and smooth frizz and also add that beautiful shine; it helps protect against UV rays too!

Curly hair was a big part of the beauty conversation after Halle wore her natural curls to the Oscars. Some women of color didn’t believe it was her hair (many thought her mane was a wig). So how do you pull off the right wild and free ‘fro look without leaving any questions as to whether or not it’s your hair?

Let me start by saying Halle’s hair is always beautiful! When you go as big as her, I suggest implementing a lot of natural texture in the final look. All you need to do is brush it out or run your fingers through it. This look shows what we all know – natural hair is never perfect in terms of texture, so it’s ok to show slight imperfections throughout.

What are your thoughts on women trying to trim their own hair? What types of things would you say women shouldn’t do on own their own at home as they get their hair ready for spring?

Unless you’re a trained professional, I don’t suggest trimming your own hair. Especially if you don’t have the right tools. Leave the trimming to your stylist!

What colors are on-trend to try as highlights and a full dye?

Bold reds and oranges, or pastels including pinks, violet and light gray. If you’re looking for something more subtle, bronze, jet black, or brown with caramel highlights will never go out of style.

You’ve worked with so many stars. Who is your favorite to experiment with in terms of styles?

I love when any of my clients let me experiment because that means they truly trust me. I’ve experimented with Lupita Nyong’o, Tracee Ellis Ross, Mary J Blige…they’re all open to new looks whenever I do their hair.

 

Images via WENN 

The post Celeb Stylist Larry Sims Talks Gabrielle Union’s Lob, Halle’s Curls And Other Spring Hair Trends appeared first on MadameNoire.

Is Wearing Your Bonnet In Public Tacky?

0
0

My sister loves her bonnet. So much so that she’s created a hashtag for the life she leads. #BonnetLife. Most Black girls know how far a good bonnet can go in preserving the moisture in your hair, preserving your style and the strength of your hair as well. Still, the assumption is that bonnets will be worn in the privacy of your own home. So you can imagine my mortification when my sister decided that she would have continental breakfast, in the lobby of our hotel, wearing her beloved bonnet. We were in Savannah, Georgia celebrating my birthday and my sister just didn’t want to take it off before we went downstairs.

While it certainly wasn’t something I would have done, I admired the fact that my sister didn’t care about the opinions of others enough to let it deter her from moving as she wished.
I took a picture of the moment and put it on my Instagram.


I was reminded of the moment as I was scrolling through Dr. Rachel Ross’ Instagram page this morning. First, she posted an image of a woman in front of her on the plane wearing a bonnet. Though you couldn’t see the woman’s face, I thought the post was a bit cruel and unnecessary. But then she followed it up with a video of herself speaking about the bonnet situation. And in the caption, she explained that she even went so far as to ask the woman about her decision to wear the bonnet and the two had a lengthy conversation about image, particularly among Black women.

See what she had to say.

Update on bonnet-gate…so here’s the delimma, bonnets protect your hair, but they are so unattractive that they actually prove to be a distraction.  So, I grew up in a house with old school southern parents…and it was unheard of for us to leave the house with a bonnet on, and I certainly never saw my mom do it.  They grew up during segregation, and that type of thing was unheard of.  So, naturally my core is old school.  So fast forward to present day.  I feel like my life is a privilege.  Everything from the people in it, to the experiences.  A first class ticket is a luxury and so is the plane ride.  Sooo many people will never even fly.  I spent the last 24hours submerged in HBCU college life.  For eight hours I sat next to civil rights icon Dr. C.T. Vivian and listened to his stories of images , triumph, and tragedy… Image is so very important to the way you experience the universe and vice versa.  Studies even indicate that when you look good, you feel better.  So I asked this young sociology professor why she chooses to glide through life wearing a sleeping bonnet, her answer made me sad.  It made me sad because she teaches young people everyday and her response lacked hope.  It made me sad because I understand the struggle to be accepted by the mainstream, and the reality breaks my heart everyday, and it made me sad because maybe she’s right.  She said, “because no matter what I do, they see me the same way.  So why should I even try?” It was like a dagger straight to my gut..We chatted for at least five minutes and had a very pleasant conversation.  We both thanked each other for the sisterly exchange.  Just real dialogue.  Hopefully through conversation we both learned from each other.  It made me happy to note that she was comfortable in her own skin.  Happy to note that she could float through airports and hotel lobbies unbothered about her appearance. But it’s kind’ve like knowing you can’t win a race, so you decide not to even try.  I’m sure that’s not the best approach for me, but I get it.  For a split second, I almost felt silly for spending so much time trying to get these lashes right this morn😊…hmmmm almost..

A post shared by Dr Rachael Ross (@drrachael) on

I see both points of view. I understand how image can directly affect the way people both perceive and treat you. But I also understand what that professor was saying as well. As a Black woman, your skin is already going to cause some people to mistreat or look down on you before you ever open your mouth. Furthermore, someone who is willing to disregard or dismiss you because of a bonnet likely has a bigger problem than you do wearing it out in the street. Simply being a human being, existing in the world with other human beings should warrant respect, regardless of attire. And maybe that professor is not entirely interested in engaging with people who would judge her for a bonnet. In which case, wearing one on the plane would help her to avoid exactly that type of attention.

What do you think about wearing bonnets in public? Is it tacky or is this a “to each her own” type of situation?

The post Is Wearing Your Bonnet In Public Tacky? appeared first on MadameNoire.

This Is Us‘ Sterling K. Brown Is A Hottie With A Body, In Case You Didn’t Know

0
0

From the moment he woke up from adolescence as a grown, very buff and emotionally damaged man in Moonlight, the consensus has been, “Damn! Trevonte Rhodes is fine!”

He’s also in pretty amazing shape. Case in point: his recent Calvin Klein ad.

Instagram Photo

The actor got in tip-top shape years ago running track and field at the University of Texas-Austin. He was a sprinter at the university from 2008 to 2012. Since stepping into the spotlight, Rhodes’s body of work (get it?) has received quite a bit of attention, including from fellow stars.

Another flourishing actor, Sterling K. Brown, star of This Is Us and The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story (and don’t forget Army Wives!) is currently working alongside Rhodes in the new Predator sequel.

Instagram Photo

He shared a shirtless selfie on Instagram over the weekend citing Rhodes as his inspiration to keep it right and tight. Fans couldn’t help but notice the image and commented on the fact that Brown is actually pretty ripped himself.

Instagram Photo

Collective jaws dropped, with fans saying everything from “dear Lord! I dropped my phone looking at this man lol” to “Goodness f–kin gracious,” which I found particularly hilarious.

But before you get too excited, as we previously pointed out, Brown is married to This Is Us co-star Ryan Michelle Bathe. You can’t see all of this goodness underneath the button downs and sweaters he wears on the hit NBC series, but yes, Randall got it going on! Age is just a number, and we can all agree that Brown makes 40 look good.

The post This Is Us‘ Sterling K. Brown Is A Hottie With A Body, In Case You Didn’t Know appeared first on MadameNoire.

10 Tweets In Celebration Of #MuslimWomensDay

0
0
Today, Refinery 29, MuslimGirl.com, Huffington Post, Teen Vogue, MTV and a host of other media outlets have joined forces to celebrate the first Muslim Women's Day, at the close of March, Women's History Month. The need for the specific recognition couldn't come at a better time. With the Trump administration spreading hate at every turn and intentionally targeting Muslim countries with his bans and everyday citizens going out of their way to attack Muslim communities, Muslim women need this celebration. And apparently the internet was ready for it as well. Check out some of the information shared today in an effort to celebrate Muslim women.

The post 10 Tweets In Celebration Of #MuslimWomensDay appeared first on MadameNoire.

Mitch Brooks And Cadene Russell’s Presidential Love Story

0
0

The phrase Black love gets tossed around so often you may not pause and give examples of it the proper attention deserved, but we're always thrilled to see Black men and women standing by one another's side, and we're even more touched when we see them embracing in demonstration of the unconditional love they have for each other as partners.

That's just one of the reasons we fell in love with Mitch A. Brooks IV and Cadene A. Russell's engagement photos. The DC-based couple has been together for three years and is slated to tie the knot this summer at the National Museum of Women in the Arts July 15. After a proposal you only see in the movies -- we're talking a surprise helicopter tour -- Mitch, 32, proposed to Cadene, 29, on Christmas Eve 2015, adding another beautiful chapter to their love story. While no words are needed to see the love Mitch and Cadene have for one another, we reached out to the pair to learn more about how they met, when they knew each other was the one, and how a season of prayer and fasting solidified their union. This is their presidential love story. 1. How did you meet? Cadene: Mitch and I like to think that we can thank President Obama for our chance meeting! Just kidding, sort of! But after moving to Washington, DC in 2010, I served on the executive board of a campaign fundraising organization supporting President Obama's Re-election Campaign. Mitch, a corporate executive, is also an entrepreneur and co-founded an organization that continues to host special events in DC and around the country. I met Mitch on Barack Obama's birthday, August 4, 2011, when Mitch was coordinating a fundraising event for President Obama’s re-election campaign in partnership with the organization in which I served. According to Mitch, I loved him at first sight! I tell a completely different story! But I will say that there was something special about him from the very beginning that even allowed me to eventually be open to getting to know him and ultimately fall in love with him. 2. When did each of you know the other was the one? Mitch: I knew Cadene was special after one of our early conversations in the Fall of 2011. Cadene and I met at Union Pub on Capitol Hill one weekday evening after work. It was an unscheduled and random meet-up. We enjoyed a few drinks and had a casual, but candid, conversation about our backgrounds, family, life goals, and passions. We actually sat and talked for several hours late into the night until after the venue closed. Not wanting the night to end, we walked around her neighborhood within just a few blocks of the Capitol building and we spent the rest of the night talking and learning more about one another. I walked away from that conversation and time together saying to myself, “She is special. She is beautiful inside and out.” I knew that’s how I wanted to think about my wife. I knew she was definitely going to make a great wife and partner for someone. The question was, “Are we right for each other. Not only the right person, but the right season (time).” We dated on and off for the next few years but neither of us were in a hurry to get in a relationship. I knew she was the one, absolutely, during my fasting period shortly before my proposal planning. Cadene: There have been so many moments in our relationship that continue to prove to me that Mitch is the man for me that I really can’t pinpoint one or even the earliest moment. Mitch is funny, thoughtful, gregarious, and fiercely loyal. But before I knew Mitch, when I was in my teens, I prayed that my future husband would be all of those things. I prayed that he would be a strong and God-fearing man who would love me as Christ loves me. And Mitch’s presence in my life is a testament to the fact that God never fails me. I am lucky to be the recipient of his compassionate, selfless, sacrificial friendship and love. And he has proven to me year after year that he is everything I prayed for years ago. 3. Tell us about the proposal  Cadene: A few weeks before Christmas, Mitch told me that he had a surprise for me for Christmas. So while we were in Florida with my family for the holidays, he said we'd be heading to Miami for a date night. On Christmas Eve, we left my parents' home and Mitch drove us to an executive airport just outside of Miami. After arriving, and for the next almost 40 minutes, we were taken on the most breathtaking helicopter tour of Miami and the surrounding beaches just before sunset. After we landed and as I was just about to walk away from the helicopter, Mitch stopped me and started telling me that he loves me and wanted us to begin our lives together. He got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife! Of course, I said yes! In the midst of a few tears I could see professional photographer Cendino Teme off in the distance taking photos and the Miami Helicopter staff congratulating us (they were in on the surprise)! We ended the night with dinner at Prime 112 and a toast at EPIC Hotel in Downtown Miami to celebrate! Mitch: I knew that I wanted to marry Cadene in February of the year I proposed--February 14 to be exact. It was the date of our one year anniversary and, of course, Valentine’s Day. I started planning for the engagement ring around that time. I had been fasting and praying during the Christmas season of the year before. A large part of my reason for fasting was I felt strongly that Cadene had everything I was looking for in a wife, but I wanted God to tell/show me that he approved. I felt strongly that it couldn’t just be my decision. It had to be God’s decision and I needed him to communicate that to me clearly. For 31 days, I fasted and prayed with the love and support of Cadene. She had no idea what I was praying about-- but she supported my fast and fasted with me. After my fast, I felt strongly that I heard his voice and got approval. In February, we took a trip to NYC during Valentine’s Day weekend and during that weekend my “gift” to Cadene was to shop for engagement rings that she liked. That started the planning process for me. That summer, I worked with my friend who is a celebrity jeweler to take all of the different elements that Cadene liked about Harry Winston and Tiffany’s diamonds, and put it into one ring. That Fall, I stopped in Miami after returning to the US on an international flight to ask her father, mother, and brother for their blessing. I knew that I wanted to propose sometime between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve and the rest is sweet history. 4. How did you choose the locations/theme for your engagement photos? We wanted to have our engagement photos embody our relationship story and represent who we are as individuals and as a couple. We knew we wanted to incorporate Washington, DC in the shoot, but wanted to do it in a unique way that we haven’t seen before. Additionally, we wanted our engagement photos to embody the same vibe and energy that we desired for the wedding. So we came up with two themes: Spring Love & A Presidential Love Story. Our first engagement shoot location was on the Tidal Basin in DC among the cherry blossom trees. This look was “Spring Love,” inspired because the cherry blossoms, a symbol of love and joy, are a true staple of spring in Washington, DC. Our second engagement shoot location was at Mason & Rook, A Kimpton Hotel, in downtown DC. Our wedding is a black-tie adults only affair and we wanted to convey this experience through a classic and elegant set of photos-- think James Bond meets Barack and Michelle at the White House State Dinner. We really believe our engagement shoot unquestionably matches our own style and is especially reminiscent of our courtship. 5. Tell us about the big day Mitch: On our big day will be surrounded by approximately 150 guests in a space filled with love. We want to have those we love, individually and collectively, celebrate our union and love together. We wanted to convey that in as many ways as possible on our wedding day. Whether we have 10 people at the wedding or 1,000 people at the wedding-- the energy, passion, and spirit of the wedding would be overwhelmingly the same. That’s the goal. Our big day is being planned by Yodit Gebreyes Endale of Favored by Yodit Events. 6. What are your hopes for your marriage? Mitch: My hope is to grow as a man, husband, and father. Cadene: I look forward to many more years of love, laughter and fun. See more of Cadene and Mitch's engagement pics on the next pages. Photo Credit: Lauren Cowart Photography

The post Mitch Brooks And Cadene Russell’s Presidential Love Story appeared first on MadameNoire.

Ashanti-The Ghanaian Swimwear Line Fit For Queens

0
0

While nothing going on outside your window right now may suggest it’s spring, we know two things that will: the date on the calendar and Ashanti Swimwear’s spring collection.

Ashanti is a family-run, Ghanaian-owned African swimwear line whose kente prints are inspired by the Ashanti region of Ghana. And the swimwear’s designs are as unique as the method being used to bring it to the masses: crowd-funding. While the 100% swim-proof line made from high-quality 4-way stretch fabric to mold to various body shapes already comes in five sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL) and fits cup sizes A-E, the brand’s co-founders already have concrete plans to expand just nine months after the first fabrics for the line were sourced.

“This first three months (since our first fashion show in Accra) has taught us so much about our community and audience,” said 23-year-old co-founder Yasmeen who launched the brand with brother Dexter, 27. “We are definitely expanding our sizing structure to plus size and also we will be selling the tops and bottoms of bikinis separate as most people are completely different sizing up to and on the bottom.”

The brother and sister have less than three days to hit their goal of $62,000 to make those expansion dreams come true; but the products offered now will still no doubt have the masses looking like queens when they hit the beach this summer. Our own Senior Editor tried the YAA one-piece swimsuit which she called “Perfect for a hot tub with bae.”

“It fits really nicely. The material is soft and nothing rides up. While it does show a bit of skin, you’re still quite comfortable in the suit.”

Check out the full collection below. To donate to Ashanti’s crowd-funding campaign, click here.

YAA– The Ghanaian Akan name for our Thursday born Queens. £159.99

ABENAA– The Ghanaian Akan name for our Tuesday born Queens. £99.99

 


AKUA – The Ghanaian Akan name for our Wednesday born Queens.  £149.99

EFIA- The Ghanaian Akan name for our Friday born Queens. £159.99

 

 

ESI – The Ghanaian Akan name for our Sunday born Queens. £119.99

AMA- The Akan name for our Saturday born Queens. £129.99

The post Ashanti-The Ghanaian Swimwear Line Fit For Queens appeared first on MadameNoire.


Need Some Hair Inspiration? Three Black Women Developed An App For That

0
0

It really is a shame that Black women are just learning how to properly take care of our hair as grown women. But for so many of us, who had so little interaction with our natural textures, this education is necessary.

And these days, when there’s a need, there’s an app for that.

Three software entrepreneurs Priscilla Hazel, Esther Olatunde and Cassandra Sarfo, from Ghana and Nigeria, have developed an answer for the questions Black women have about their hair as well as places to find inspiration.

The app they’ve created is called Tress.

The women spoke to Blavity about the inspiration for creating the app.

Cassandra said, “As black women, we change our hairstyle all the time. It’s something we’ve been doing our whole lives. When one of the co-founders  went on Instagram and saw a hairstyle she liked, she wanted to know the specifics of that hairstyle,” co-founder Priscilla shared. “She asked us and a few of her friends, but none of us were sure of the specifics. It made us start thinking that this is something we do every day. We stop people on the street and ask about their hair, or we take pictures from TV and the Internet trying to figure out new styles, products and prices. We wanted a platform that allowed people to post their hairstyles so that other users could benefit from it.”

The women launched a version of the app in Ghana first. Once they realized that users were enjoying it, they decided it was time to expand and brought it to Silicon Valley. There, they participated in an eight week fellowship that helped them strengthen their audience.

Esther said, “In a software world, it’s really great to have something you can attach your personality to, because we realized that the hairstyles are part of our culture as black women. Something we talk about even amongst our mothers, aunties, friends. We needed one platform where we could all go to not only find inspiration and new styles, but receive tips and interact with top stylists in my local area. That’s essentially what we’re trying to achieve with the Tress app.”

The women also want to inspire other Black women with the creation of their app, hopefully with the notion that the options in STEM are endless.

They also aim to start hiring others to work with them soon.

“We would like to start hiring soon and get great engineers that are women. It’d be great to have a company that’s killing it and ran by women,” Esther said.

You can learn more about the app here.

 

The post Need Some Hair Inspiration? Three Black Women Developed An App For That appeared first on MadameNoire.

Working (Out) From Home: 5 No-Equipment Workouts To Do At Home That Work 5 Essential Body Parts

0
0

Many of us work out with a goal in mind. If a summer bikini body is your goal, you’re already well aware that you only have a few months left to make some magic happen. However, with the spring season comes the possibility of a lot of rain, and gloomy weather makes us less and less likely to get out and get active to meet our goals.

no-equipment workout

But instead of becoming couch potatoes, you can do quick circuit workouts in the house that help you strength train using your bodyweight. Here are five circuit ideas you should try for the body parts you’re looking to focus on. We recommend doing each move for 30 seconds (both sides of the body for balance), only taking a rest when you’ve completed all five movements. When you have, give yourself a 60-second break and complete those moves two more times for a total of three reps — five if you’re feeling gully. No equipment, no gym, and if you like, no clothes (but definitely a sports bra) necessary. Click the exercise name for a video demonstration.

Abs

Cross-Legged Crunch

Lay on your back. With one leg crossed over the other, place the hand of the opposite arm behind your head. So, if you cross your right leg over your left knee, lift up your torso and crunch your right elbow towards the bent knee. After 30 seconds, switch sides!

Dolphin Plank

Get into a traditional plank, but get down on your forearms.

Mountain Climber Twists

You assume the traditional mountain climber position, but instead of running, alternate, turning your right knee in toward your left armpit, your left knee toward your right.

Bird Dog Crunch

Get on your hands and knees. From there, extend the opposite arm and opposite leg out, holding for a second before bringing them back to their starting position.

Bicycle Crunches

Start out on your back. With hands behind your head, alternate: Bring your left elbow to your right knee, your left right elbow to your left knee.

Butt

 

Side Kick Squats

With your hips back and your legs spread shoulder-width apart, put your body weight on one leg and extend the other leg out. Return to the starting position and do it for 30 seconds before switching legs.

Hip Bridge

Lie on your back and bend your knees, keeping your feet flat on the floor. Raise your hips up off of the ground, forming a straight line from shoulders to knees. You can either hold that position for 30 seconds or lower your body down toward the floor before coming back up and repeating.

Curtsy Lunge

Step your right leg behind you to the left so that it crosses behind your bent left leg. Hold the pose briefly before returning to standing. Switch sides after 30 seconds.

Lateral Sliding Squat

Using a towel, paper plate or pretty much anything that slides, prepare to get into a squatting position. Send your hips back, and slide your right foot out (as far as possible) out, on top of the sliding object, while slightly bending your left knee. Pull your right foot back in slowly while returning to standing position. Repeat and be sure to change legs.

Fire Hydrants

As you get down on your hands and knees, bring your right knee out to the side and return it to starting position while keeping your hands on the ground. Continue doing the move for 30 seconds and then switch to the opposite leg.

Arms

Cobra Push-Up

If you know yoga, you know a lot about the cobra move. After lying flat on your stomach, place your palms on the ground next to your chest. As you keep your lower body down on the ground, push your upper body up off of the ground and proceed to do push-ups from that position.

Tricep Dips

You can use the floor, a bench, a (stable) table or a couch. Wherever you choose to do it, with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, put your hands behind you and have your fingers pointed toward your body. Lift your hips up off of the floor (or chair, or table or couch), bringing them up, arms straightened, and then slowly bend your elbows, lowering your body back down — not completely to the floor (or chair, table, etc). Repeat.

Plank Taps

Stand in a traditional plank, or if that is too difficult, bring your knees down to the ground. As you balance on your hands, tap your right hand to your left shoulder, left hand to your right, alternating.

Pike Push-Ups

As though you were getting into a downward dog position, lift your hips and make your body into an upside down V. Bring your hands outside of your head, bend your elbows and lower your upper body until your head almost touches the floor. Push yourself back up until your arms are straight and repeat.

Inchworms

With your feet slightly apart and while standing up straight, bend forward and place your hands on the ground. Keep your feet in place, but your use your hands to walk your upper body down into a push-up position. Once you do that, use your hands to walk yourself back to a standing position. Repeat.

Back

Supermans

Flat on your stomach, raise your arms, legs and chest off of the floor at the same time, holding the position for three seconds before returning to the ground.

Hip Hinges

Start by standing up straight. With your knees slightly bent and your spine neutral, hinge forward until your chest is parallel to the ground. Slowly return to a standing position.

Reverse Snow Angels

Flat on your stomach with your legs straight out, arms to your side and toes pointed down, raise your hands a few inches off of the ground, engage your back and bring your arms out to the side, then above your head (thumbs almost touching) and back. It’s like you’re making snow angels without putting your arms on the ground.

Bent Knee Reverse Plank

Sitting on the ground, place your hands on the ground right behind your hips (with the your fingers pointed at your feet) and bend your knees. Lift your hips up high and hold.

Knee Rolls

Lying flat on your back, bring your knees together. As you extend your arms out to the side, rotate your hips and back in the direction your knees go, from far left to far right.

Legs

Wall Sits

Standing a few feet away from a wall, place your back on it. Afterward, slide your back down until you look like you’re literally sitting in a chair, spine straight, knees bent 90 degrees. Keep your back, shoulders and head flat against the wall and hold.

Single Leg Lunges

With the tip of your right foot behind you on a couch, stool or chair, propel your left foot and knee into a forward lunge. Bend your knee down and come back up while keeping the opposite foot on the chair. Switch sides after 30 seconds.

Plie Squat Jump

With your legs apart and your toes turned outward (and your back straight), squat. From there, bring your feet together quickly as you jump before separating them again, landing softly back down.

Bodyweight Squats

It’s a traditional squat, folks. Keep your weight on your heels, torso upright and send your hips back as you go into your squat. Your knees shouldn’t be beyond your toes. After going down, return to a standing position. Holding a squat is tough work, but you can also bounce when you go down for more of a challenge.

Single Leg Raises

Lying flat on the ground with your hands to your sides or underneath your bottom, lift your legs in the air. Bring one foot down at a time, keeping them from completely touching the ground. Lift your chosen leg back up and repeat with the other leg.

 

Image via Bigstock

The post Working (Out) From Home: 5 No-Equipment Workouts To Do At Home That Work 5 Essential Body Parts appeared first on MadameNoire.

Dating During A Divorce: Is A Marriage Really Over The Moment One Files For Divorce?

0
0

When someone files for divorce, it usually means that they’re at their wit’s end when it comes to what they can do about their marriage. But does a filing necessarily mean that both parties have the green light to automatically go out and date other people? They can, but should they?

Tiny TI Bernice Burgos

I ask that question because of all the fuss over whatever is going on between rapper T.I. and model/Instagram star Bernice Burgos. Rumors swirled that the two were getting to know each other better (again, whatever that means) after they were spotted leaving emojis on one another’s photos. There were also reports that they were actually spotted out together in Los Angeles.

Of course, T.I. is in the midst of divorce proceedings with estranged wife Tameka “Tiny” Cottle, so it’s hard to say he’s doing anything wrong. She filed for divorce in December, and while they haven’t even shown up to court dates to make this thing happen (and have been spotted with their children together like a happy family), they haven’t called off the plans to end their marriage. Still, to those who know them, they seemed to be attempting to make things work. Maybe that’s why Tiny publicly bashed Burgos on social media over the weekend after someone asked her about T.I.’s flirtatious relationship with the woman. When asked how Tiny keeps her cool considering how public T.I. and Burgos have been with their flirty emojis, she responded by saying, “I ain’t losing no sleep over no pass around b—h! Bless him & her too!”

Burgos has since responded by basically saying that she and T.I. are just friends, and she couldn’t break up a home that was already broken beyond measure:

Instagram Photo

But what really stuck out from her whole response (and she’s since responded a few more times in video form) to the slandering of her name was Burgos’s insistence that once a person files for divorce, the marriage is a failed one and both parties are more than allowed to move on and spend time with new people. That created quite the conversation on social media with people debating the idea that until a divorce is finalized, two parties are still married and shouldn’t date.

This is, when you think about it, much different from a separation situation. When two parties separate, they are still legally married (and might be staying married for all types of reasons, including religious). The consensus for most has been that you shouldn’t start dating during that time. The likelihood of reconciliation is high, so it doesn’t mean husband and wife are really over until they file for divorce and agree that it’s actually over. But what does it mean when one person files for divorce and the couple didn’t come to an agreement that they wanted a divorce? And considering that the person who didn’t want the divorce is the one who seemingly moved on, what’s the big deal, right?

Well, it’s kind of a big deal, not just emotionally, but in terms of the law. Depending on the state you live in where you’re filing for divorce, dating before your divorce is finalized can be considered a form of adultery. Things like adultery can affect your divorce case, hence Tiny saying the following after hearing everything Burgos has had to say:

Instagram Photo

And if you ask me, dating sounds like the last thing a person on their way out of a marriage should be focusing on — especially if their spouse is the one who said they want out. Some time needs to be spent figuring out what went wrong and what works needs to be done to ensure things go right, even if it’s with someone else, in the future.

Also, to be completely honest, it’s unfair to a third party, like Burgos, to be brought into a situation as complex as divorce. Hence another issue with dating while someone is going through a divorce. It gets ugly. While Tiny is taking her anger out on the wrong person, she has every right to feel some type of way, especially if he ever gave the impression that he might have wanted to fight for his family. Not to mention that the whole comment about the inability to break up an already broken home from Burgos sounds like something someone doing something they shouldn’t would say. Just saying. Still, considering that she spent years married to someone who allegedly spent a lot of time cheating, can Tiny really be surprised that he moved on so fast?

But what do you guys think? Since she filed for divorce, are they both free to date and do whatever they please? Would you?

 

Images via Splash and IG

The post Dating During A Divorce: Is A Marriage Really Over The Moment One Files For Divorce? appeared first on MadameNoire.

Bridal Jumpsuits That Will Leave You Asking, Who Needs A Wedding Dress?

0
0
I love a good jumpsuit. I wore a custom creation the day of my traditional wedding, which was the day before my "white wedding": https://www.instagram.com/p/BL0MEoVjshJ/?tagged=vanddforever&hl=en But I'm not alone in my appreciation of a good jumpsuit, even for something considered especially formal like a wedding. Writer Lauren Morelli wore one the day she said "I do" to our beloved Samira Wiley. Hers was made by designer Christian Siriano and was quite the bejeweled dream: https://www.instagram.com/p/BSGsAsqg3SH/?taken-by=whododatlikedat&hl=en But we are not the only women who have enjoyed the comfort and chic look of a jumpsuit on our wedding day. Solange, of course, really set the trend on fire: https://www.instagram.com/p/BCmEy4NyXQ0/?tagged=solangewedding Check out a few other ladies who dared to stand out and get some bridal inspiration that might make you think twice about going the wedding gown route, and instead, leave you opting for a pair of pants. https://www.instagram.com/p/BNPeYfEjz7i/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BR-zoDDD1z5/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BPN7X6ojZ0Y/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BSD1l6bgbXE/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BQizdK8DoF6/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BBaVS7wEAPu/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BPe3Hjzh00P/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BPGO37Cjh7Q/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BOOwrCLA72h/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BOIbRl7BX2h/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BFcgPZvSqDz/?taken-by=posh_amazon https://www.instagram.com/p/BLhCGWDj_xq/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BJKjkTBDHou/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BIxF0g_jc8D/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BGW04cHgQ4x/?tagged=bridaljumpsuit https://www.instagram.com/p/BPVTcdlgATg/?taken-by=danielataboisbridal And if you're looking for someone with chic bridal jumpsuit designs, Brooklyn-based designer Daniela Tabois is pretty talented! https://www.instagram.com/p/BPVuuS1Aghg/?taken-by=danielataboisbridal

The post Bridal Jumpsuits That Will Leave You Asking, Who Needs A Wedding Dress? appeared first on MadameNoire.

Bill O’Reilly Couldn’t Deny Maxine Waters’ Trump Comments, So He Insulted Her “James Brown Hair”

0
0

If you’re looking for a clear sign of weakness in a person, you will find it if when faced with truth they can’t deal with, the individual decides the best response is to hurl an insult. I talked about this last year when I spoke on the number of people, including politicians, who resorted to comparing Barack and Michelle Obama to monkeys. And just as those individuals felt the need to stoop so low because they were threatened, so has their favorite Fox Noise News ringleader, Bill O’Reilly.

Maxine Waters Bill O'Reilly

While appearing on Fox & Friends this morning, O’Reilly responded to comments made by Rep. Maxine Waters of California when she was speaking on the House floor on Monday. In front of her constituents, Waters spoke about Trump’s supporters, who she said display anything but patriotism in the way they treat, and allow the president to treat fellow Americans.

“We have suffered discrimination,” she said. “We have suffered isolation and undermining. But we stand up for America, oftentimes when others who think they are more patriotic, who say they are more patriotic, do not. When we fight against this president and we point out how dangerous he is for this society and for this country, we are fighting for the democracy. We are fighting for America. We’re saying to those who say they’re patriotic but they’ve turned a blind eye to the destruction that he’s about to cause this country, ‘You’re not nearly as patriotic as we are.'”

Where is the lie?

There wasn’t one, and that’s probably why instead of coming up with an intelligent refutation, all O’Reilly could do was try to make a joke of Waters, specifically her hair.

“I didn’t hear a word she said, I was looking at the James Brown hair.”

In response to this clear diversion tactic, the Fox & Friends hosts, aside from Ainsley Earhardt, laughed. Earnhardt tried to faux defend Waters, saying she thinks the 78-year-old is attractive — how did they get there from an impassioned speech on the House floor? Anyway, O’Reilly agreed, but said, “It’s the same hair.”

There were no real rebuttals to her commentary, with the O’Reilly Factor host saying that she’s “a sincere individual. Whatever she says she believes.” But that, along with an invitation to appear on his show, was about it.

When they can’t deny you, they deflect. Never forget.

Image via WENN 

The post Bill O’Reilly Couldn’t Deny Maxine Waters’ Trump Comments, So He Insulted Her “James Brown Hair” appeared first on MadameNoire.

Apollo Wants Millions In Divorce Settlement, Says Phaedra Tried To Hide Assets

0
0

At this rate, Apollo and Phaedra’s sons will be in college by the time they work out their divorce. First, she claimed they were divorced. Then he filed, proving that they weren’t. There was some more back and forth and most recently, a judge threw out Phaedra’s divorce judgment because it was unfair to Apollo.

The judge said he was troubled by a number of things, including Phaedra intentionally misspelling Apollo’s name on the documents. The judge also took issue with the fact that Apollo was led to believe that he would be allowed to attend divorce proceedings from prison. That was never an option. As such, Apollo was not informed of the final hearing and had no idea that the divorce was final.

Naturally, Phaedra, through her representative, had something to say about it.

Steve Honig told TMZ, “It’s very confusing why a man who is engaged and enjoys frequent visits with his fiancee would work so aggressively to avoid ending his marriage. Regardless, Phaedra is reviewing her options with her attorney to determine the most efficient path toward ending this marriage so she can move forward and focus on raising strong, health and happy children.”

But it wouldn’t Apollo and Phaedra if that were the end of the story. Now that Apollo has a chance at renegotiating the terms of their divorce, he’s asking for something different. He’s expressed suspicions that Phaedra is withholding some of the assets they both attained during their marriage and Apollo feels entitled to his cut.

Apollo wants to ensure that the property is split fairly, property that includes the multi-million dollar home they shared while they were married, millions of dollars in personal property and several businesses.

Apollo also wants joint legal custody of their two sons.

Do you think he deserves all of this?

The post Apollo Wants Millions In Divorce Settlement, Says Phaedra Tried To Hide Assets appeared first on MadameNoire.

5 Questions Every Woman Asks Herself While Getting Waxed

0
0

Yesterday I got waxed for the first time in almost four months. Actually, I did sugaring, which is a slightly less painful, more natural type of hair removal, but the premise of the procedure was still the same — hair was being ripped from the most sensitive area of my body without abandon: my vagina.

As I lay on the esthetician table with my legs in a butterfly doing the opposite of what would make the process run smoothly — sweating — I found my mind wandering, mostly pondering the same questions with every tug of hair, anticipation of pain, and final snatch. When I was done, I texted a couple friends to see if they were still keeping up appearances between their legs, and that’s when I realized we all pretty much ask the same questions in the midst of a Brazilian.

  • Why am I doing this? I literally stared up at the ceiling, doing my best to pull my vagina taut, while going through an existential crisis. Who am I? Am I a woman who has to keep a bare va-jay-jay? Is there more to life than hairless vaginas? Can God hear me when I ask him to give me peace while voluntarily undergoing this torture?
  • Who came up with this? Like fo’real, who was the first person to let someone rip the hair off their vagina? And whose idea was it? If it was a man in 17th century Europe I’m going to be pissed. FYI, my research is ongoing.
  • Is anyone even going to see this? You know, besides me?
  • And will they appreciate it? If a man even says anything along the lines of “why don’t you have any hair down there?” after what I just went through I will smooth go off.
  • Why did I wait so long? See prior question about whether anyone else was going to see it as part of the explanation for this question. But the other reason I asked is because, at some point, when you wait so long to be waxed, it’s pretty much like your first time all over again when you finally go back — i.e. painful AF. But when I kept up with my monthly appointment, I was in and out of that waxing room in 15 minutes without a sweat, literally.

I genuinely like the look and feel of my nether regions when hairless, and with summer — and my summer vacations — upon us I figured it was time to get back into practice. But I’d be lying if I said while laying on that table I didn’t think about just saying eff it and having a Miranda “Sex & The City” movie situation. You know the one where she puts on a bathing suit and Samantha asks her, “Geez, honey, wax much?” In the midst of my ordeal yesterday when the answer to that question was clearly no, being asked that seemed much better than the things I was asking myself.

The post 5 Questions Every Woman Asks Herself While Getting Waxed appeared first on MadameNoire.


DIY Workout: Exercise Equipment Every Fitness Enthusiast Could Use At Home

0
0

exercise equipment

So you’ve been working out a bit more and now you’re at the point where if you don’t get out and get moving, you feel bad about it. But it’s not everyday you can pound the pavement, nor do you always have the time and energy to make it to a class or the gym before closing time. That doesn’t mean you can’t get a good workout in, though. When YouTube videos just won’t do and you want to work a little bit of everything at home, it pays to have some exercise equipment within reach. Check out 10 pieces of equipment that are great for a little cardio, some strength training, extensive stretching, and overall, just a darn good workout.

1. UFC Leather Non-Weighted Jump Rope in Tan – $14.99

2. Zenzation Athletics 5-Pound Ankle/Wrist Weights (Set of 2) – $19.99

3. Hers Kettle Bell Kit – $39.98

4. Giantex 30″ Fitness Aerobic Step Adjust 4″ – 6″ – 8″ Exercise Stepper With Risers – $26.99

5. Champion Sports Leather Medicine Ball – $27.21

6. Gaiam Resistance Band Kit – $14.98

7. Blafitance Foam Roller for Muscles – $18.99

8. Gliding Discs by Aardvark Fitness – $12.99

9. Premium Exercise Mat – $26.34

10. Neoprene Dumbells – $5.99-$16.99

The post DIY Workout: Exercise Equipment Every Fitness Enthusiast Could Use At Home appeared first on MadameNoire.

This Is Her: Susan Kelechi Watson’s Best Looks

0
0
Susan Kelechi Watson is quickly becoming one of our favorite TV wives and mothers, thanks to her role as Beth Pearson on "This Is Us." On the hit NBC series, we rarely see Watson dressed up, but when she hits the red carpet she is certainly something to see, from her toned figure to her diverse hairstyles, and those gorgeous dress and pant suit silhouettes. With "This Is Us" being the actress' breakout role, we know there are many fabulous fashion moments to come, but for now let's look at all the great ones Watson's had so far. [caption id="attachment_823180" align="alignnone" width="700"] The screening of NBC 'This Is Us' at The Tenth Annual PaleyFest Fall TV Previews presented by The Paley Center For Media
Featuring: Susan Kelechi Watson
Where: Beverly Hills, California, United States
When: 13 Sep 2016
Credit: Nicky Nelson/WENN.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_823179" align="alignnone" width="700"] 2016 Summer TCA Tour - NBCUniversal Press Tour Day 1
Featuring: Susan Kelechi Watson
Where: Beverly Hills, California, United States
When: 02 Aug 2016
Credit: FayesVision/WENN.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_823178" align="alignnone" width="700"] 2017 NBC Universal Winter TCA - Day 2
Featuring: Susan Kelechi Watson
Where: Pasadena, California, United States
When: 18 Jan 2017
Credit: Nicky Nelson/WENN.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_823181" align="alignnone" width="700"] Susan Kelechi Watson attending the Paley Center for Media's 34th Annual PaleyFest Los Angeles - This is Us - at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood, California.
Featuring: Susan Kelechi Watson
Where: Los Angeles, California, United States
When: 18 Mar 2017
Credit: Nicky Nelson/WENN.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_823182" align="alignnone" width="700"] NBC And Vanity Fair Toast the 2016-2017 TV Season at NeueHouse
Featuring: Susan Kelechi Watson
Where: Los Angeles, California, United States
When: 03 Nov 2016
Credit: Nicky Nelson/WENN.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_823183" align="alignnone" width="700"] Susan Kelechi Watson attending the 22nd Annual Critics' Choice Awards at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.
Featuring: Susan Kelechi Watson
Where: Santa Monica, California, United States
When: 11 Dec 2016
Credit: Michael Boardman/WENN.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_823188" align="alignnone" width="730"] 48th NAACP Image Awards Arrivals at Pasadena Conference Center - Arrivals
Featuring: Susan Kelechi Watson
Where: Pasadena, California, United States
When: 11 Feb 2017
Credit: Nicky Nelson/WENN.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_823189" align="alignnone" width="700"] Screening Of NBC's 'This Is Us' Finale at Directors Guild Of America - Arrivals
Featuring: Susan Kelechi Watson
Where: Beverly Hils, California, United States
When: 14 Mar 2017
Credit: Valerie Brooks/WENN.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_823190" align="alignnone" width="700"] NBC Universal Midseason Press Junket at the Four Seasons Hotel
Featuring: Susan Kelechi Watson
Where: New York City, New York, United States
When: 11 Mar 2017
Credit: RWong/WENN.com[/caption]

The post This Is Her: Susan Kelechi Watson’s Best Looks appeared first on MadameNoire.

Aja Metoyer, Dwyane Wade’s Baby Momma, To Join Cast Of Basketball Wives LA

0
0

My highlight tho mua always @andrewvandevon baby is *ain’t no filter bih *

A post shared by AjaMetoyer (@aja_metoyer) on


I can still remember the office conversations we had when the world learned that Dwyane Wade had fathered a child with another woman while he and Gabrielle Union were on a break. Dwyane held a press conference calling his son a blessing. Wade’s son Xavier was quickly dubbed the “break baby,” Union was questioned by paparazzi in airports and many of us wondered what we would do in a similar situation.

Well, Gabby and Dwyane worked it out, got married and seem to be enjoying their marriage. Afterward, unless you were following Aja Metoyer, Xavier’s mother, we didn’t hear too much more about the little boy.

But all of that might be changing now that Xavier’s mother is going to be joining the cast of “Basketball Wives LA.”

The news has been confirmed by Hip Hollywood and a couple of telling Instagram posts that seem to show Metoyer preparing for filming.

Go on and get that kitchen @andrewvandevon !! Get you a make-up artist that can do both!!

A post shared by AjaMetoyer (@aja_metoyer) on


There’s a strong likelihood that Dwyane Wade will have a strong gag order in place, ala Dwight Howard, still, it will be interesting to see this mystery woman outside of her Instagram page.

What do you think about Metoyer coming to the show? Will you watch to see what she’s all about?

The post Aja Metoyer, Dwyane Wade’s Baby Momma, To Join Cast Of Basketball Wives LA appeared first on MadameNoire.

Travel Trials: My Friend Always Hooks Up With Men Abroad

0
0

Dee has always been one of my favorite friends to travel with because she’s completely low maintenance, always down for anything, and super spontaneous, but lately her behavior on our trips has left me feeling a little uncomfortable.

I could care less what another woman chooses to do with her body, which is why Dee’s hookups abroad, which everyone in our group is quite familiar with, never bothered me. But I also never had to witness her hookups first hand like they did. That was until our past two trips when Dee brought men back to the hotel room and villa where we were staying.

The first time she did this was in October when we were staying in a villa in Mexico. I came downstairs and, to my surprise, was greeted by Dee and a male stranger eating breakfast at the kitchen island. He made his exit stage left within 10 minutes and I was so caught up in her story about their rendezvous that I let the issue go.

But Dee pulled the same move two weeks ago on our spring break trip and I was pissed because we were sharing a hotel room together. It was a suit so our beds were divided by a living room, but when I woke in the middle of the night to panting and bed knocking I felt like I was in college again, and not in a good way.

The next morning I kind of exploded on Dee. While the only point I was trying to make was that I didn’t feel comfortable with men I didn’t know being in my room without my knowledge, she flipped out on me, saying I was judging her. She was a little bit right, only because it had crossed my mind that her repeated travel hookups probably weren’t the safest thing to do. But I also let it slip that some of our other girlfriends have declined travel invitations because they don’t want to be caught up in her hookups.

Dee and I got on with our trip pretty okay after that argument but we haven’t talked much since our return. I don’t want to lose my travel buddy, but I also don’t want to be privy to her random romps anymore. What should I do?

The post Travel Trials: My Friend Always Hooks Up With Men Abroad appeared first on MadameNoire.

10 Curvy Women Who Were Criticized For Losing Weight

0
0
When people are introduced to you and know you in one way, when you flip the script and change your look, it either stimulates excitement or encourages criticism. The following women on this list (okay, with the exception of maybe one), were known for having a little more meat on their bones, but when they slimmed down, people had a lot to say. Check out 10 women who were criticized for losing weight.

curvy women weight loss

Jennifer Hudson

The actress and singer looked great with weight on her and still looks stellar with a slimmer frame. But when she initially lost weight, a lot was said about her body, from her head to her chest, and it wasn't always nice. But as she told Redbook in 2012, "I’m at the weight I want to be. But I hear all the time, 'Don’t lose any more weight, you need to stop.' People are under the impression that I’m still losing but I’m not." Lena Dunham

Lena Dunham

The Girls star recently started shedding weight, and her critics, per the usual, had a lot to say about it. "I got all these people saying, 'You're a hypocrite. I thought you were body positive. I thought you were a person embracing bodies of all sizes," she told Ellen DeGeneres. "And I was like, 'I do,' I just understand that my body's changed. We live a long time, things happen." She continued, "I was frustrated about it because it really is evidence that as a woman in Hollywood, you just can't win." Mo'Nique

Mo'Nique

You know you're going to get a fair share of criticism when you write a book called Skinny Women Are Evil: Notes of a Big Girl in a Small-Minded World and then lose a heap of weight. But as she told Hot 97, she lost the weight for her family -- not for anyone else. "My family is the secret. I’m 45 years old and I have babies," she said. "I want to have the opportunity to know their babies. Going at the rate I was going, I was going to lose that opportunity. I would be neglectful to my family because of my self neglect." Ashley Graham

Ashley Graham

Last summer the new "It" model, considered a plus-size model, was criticized for appearing to have lost a few pounds. When people asked her why she was "changing" herself on social media, she hit back saying, "People come on my page and body shame me because I’m too big, because I’m too small, because I’m not good enough for their standards. But at the end of the day I’m good enough for me. Angles will make anyone look bigger or smaller and I just happen to know mine." Star Jones weight loss

Star Jones

It wasn't the weight loss as much it was the way Star Jones lost her weight that seemed to rub her fans the wrong way. Despite being very public with her weight loss ups and downs, she kept the gastric bypass surgery she had to herself for quite some time. "It really ticked them off," Jones said on Today about her fans. "Because I was so public with all other aspects of my life I think the audience felt betrayed in some way. And I completely understand that. The reason I say I don’t regret that...is it really worked for me. It allowed me to get emotionally safe and secure." raven symone

Raven-Symoné

While she was still a co-host on The View, Raven-Symone opened up about the time she was told by producers of her former show, State of Georgia, that she had lost too much weight. "On State of Georgia they had me wear a fat suit," she said. "Because they said I wasn't the size they wanted me to be." Emma Stone

Emma Stone

Okay, she wasn't necessarily "curvy," but roll with me. If you've seen Superbad, then you probably noticed that Emma Stone, now an Academy Award winner thanks to La La Land, had some baby fat on her. In an interview with Seventeen in 2014, she mentioned that she'd noticed the criticism of her once she started shedding pounds. "It can be really challenging in today's world for anyone—especially girls and women—to feel good about their bodies," she said. "No matter how things look from the outside, we can all be super critical of ourselves and of our image in the mirror. I've seen articles or comments that have addressed my weight, or 'caving to pressure to be thin.'" Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington

While the actress hasn't spoken openly about what people may think about her weight loss over the years, there have been people, and sites (like this one) that have asked if Washington, who stepped on the scene with a little more meat on her bones, lost too much weight. Toccara Jones

Toccara Jones

"I think it's just about being healthy and about being fit," Jones said about her weight loss to, get this, Yvonne Orji (of Insecure) back in 2011. "I think some of your fans do get a little upset with you, but it's really about loving yourself. I think that they embrace that. I think that's why they love you in the first place because you embrace who you are. And as long as you continue embracing who you are, they're going to fall in love with you again. They're just tripping right now but they'll be right back." Khloe Kardashian

Khloe Kardashian

After years of being labeled as the least attractive Kardashian sister by harsh critics, once Khloe Kardashian lost weight, she was still being called out, but this time, for losing too much weight. "I need to remember the date today!" she tweeted last year. "Never would I have ever thought I would be in the media for being 'too skinny.' What on earth?!?! She continued, "First I'm too fat and now I'm too skinny. I love this game!"   Images via WENN 

The post 10 Curvy Women Who Were Criticized For Losing Weight appeared first on MadameNoire.

Viewing all 1752 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images