Out of all of the athletic bottoms on the market, people sleep on just how essential a good pair of high-waist workout pants really is. Not only do they look great, but the pants are pretty much assured not to slip down (at least, not the way low-rise and regular options do) and expose your behind. It should also be mentioned that they are flattering on all shapes and sizes and allow women to feel a bit more comfortable in crop top workout shirts if they so choose to wear them to the gym. Still, the cost of high-waist pants can be high, and the designs can be dull. But never fear, a cute and affordable selection is here! Check out five pairs of high-waist workout pants that you should add to your collection of fitness clothes ASAP. 

1. Live In High Waist Leggings by ZELLA – $41

2. Lole Sierra Leggings – $35

3. Old Navy Go-Dry High-Rise Compression Crops for Women – $30

4. 90 Degree by Reflex High-Waist Capris – $12

5. Adidas Standard 19 7/8 Tights – $42

The post #SaveTheCrack: High-Waist Workout Pants appeared first on MadameNoire.

My husband and I weren’t able to take a real honeymoon last year after paying for our wedding so for our first anniversary this summer we wanted to go big. We’ve traveled all throughout Europe and the Caribbean and even to Asia but one place we haven’t been is Africa, so we settled on Mauritius. The island country is known for its beaches and wildlife and it also has a lot of history so we felt like we’d be able to get the best of both worlds during our 10-day stay. What we didn’t expect is for my sister and mom to decide they were going to pack up and join us.

Two weeks ago I told my mom about our trip as an FYI in passing and immediately she started asking me all these questions about Mauritius and saying things like “You know I’ve always wanted to go to Africa.”

“I know mom. You and Bree should totally plan a trip; you know she loves to travel.”

Bree is my younger sister who’s still figuring out life three year’s post-college from my mom’s spare bedroom. That sounds like shade, but I have to give it to the girl, she works hard and spends her money on experiences like travel, and she’s young enough to do it so why not?

Why not must also be the thought my mom had when she called me a week after our casual convo and told me excitedly, “Bree and I are coming with you!”

“Coming with me where?”

“With you and Alan — to Mauritius!”

“What are you talking about?”

“After we got off the phone the other day I mentioned you all’s trip to Bree and how I’d be too scared to travel that far alone but with the four of you I’d feel right at home. So, I booked flights for us for the same dates you two will be there.”

“Mom —

I didn’t have it in me to tell my mom feeling right at home was exactly what I didn’t want my one-year anniversary vacation to feel like. She was so excited about this brave new adventure that I just made up an excuse to get off the phone and told her we’d talk about details later.

I had a nice, strong drink waiting for my husband when he got home that night and he immediately knew something was up.

“What happened?” he asked half-playful, half-serious.

I told him how my mom and sister basically hijacked the honeymoon we never had and likely still won’t have one year after tying the knot and how frustrated I was at what my mom did and the fact that I couldn’t bring myself to tell her she was wrong.

He assured me things would be fine and that we just have to make sure my family stays in a separate hotel and lets us have us-time, but considering the habitual line-stepper my mother is, I’m not convinced things will go that smoothly. What should I do?

The post Travel Trials: My Mom And Sister Are Coming On My Anniversary Vacation appeared first on MadameNoire.

Solange's honeymoon snaps are amazing! Have you seen them yet? http://t.co/TnafPy1Of0 pic.twitter.com/BXqQNR0tsY

— LOOK magazine (@Lookmagazine) December 2, 2014

Solange & Alan

"@shakiraevanss: In love with Solange's honeymoon pics pic.twitter.com/mZZfMl9x8C"

— Beyoncé My Life (@B_onC4) December 4, 2014

Samira & Lauren

Kevin & Eniko

LeBron James Kisses His Wife Savannah Brinson During Their Honeymoon in Italy—See the S ... - http://t.co/CzvS8E9Bo6 pic.twitter.com/qLoG9abvfc

— GeEkY GoSsiP (@GeEkYGoSsiP_) September 19, 2013

LeBron & Savannah

Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade Honeymoon Photos: So Much Fun in ... - http://t.co/EeCAofTTVM pic.twitter.com/EK50TL8jjD

— Cindy Hamlet (@HamletCindy) September 12, 2014

Gabrielle & Dwyane

Gabrielle Union & @DwyaneWade 's Honeymoon Pix! http://t.co/y7Mo4QcGgT @itsgabrielleu pic.twitter.com/iVAz6bNFpx

— theJasmineBRAND.com (@thejasminebrand) September 12, 2014

Eudoxie & Ludacris

John Legend & Chrissy Teigen Honeymoon in Makdives! Top Ten Hottest Celebrity Vacations http://t.co/KaLCbXF2yd pic.twitter.com/JPV7paS41V

— Katrina M. (@mymommyflies) February 7, 2015

Chrissy & John

Adrienne & Israel

Ciara & Russell Wilson Show Off That Honeymoon Glow https://t.co/P24HmqWaHU #Celeb_News pic.twitter.com/rRO9nvGagw

— Babious (@babiousB) July 8, 2016

Ciara & Russell

Meagan & DeVon

Denise & Anthony

The post Brazil, St. Barts And…Disneyland? Off The Beaten Path Celebrity Honeymoons appeared first on MadameNoire.

Muddy Waters born

One of my favorite memories of us. She would have been 89 today. #andstillirise #mayaangelou

A post shared by Oprah (@oprah) on Apr 4, 2017 at 8:40am PDT

Maya Angelou was born

MLK delivered his speech against the war in Vietnam

MLK was assassinated

Adam Clayton Powell dies

Hank Aaron ties Babe Ruth's home run record

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A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce) on Apr 4, 2017 at 12:04pm PDT

Jay and Beyoncé got married

4-4-14 ❤️

A post shared by Kandi Burruss (@kandi) on Apr 4, 2017 at 11:08am PDT

Kandi and Todd got married

We celebrated. @missjillscott Birthday like a muthafuga Sat. night. Do you here me? 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A post shared by THE UNICORN (@erykahbadu) on Apr 2, 2017 at 10:19pm PDT

Jill Scott's birthday

4.4.1973 Kelly was born. 4.4.2017 Kelly ReBorn. Happy Birthday to me! #IDontThinkYaReady4ThisKelly Photo by Derek Blanks @mrdblanks Hair by Slyce Alexander @slyce_alexander Makeup by Christian Alexander @geishaboii_ Wardrobe Styling by Grover Dubose @gdesignme Hair Extensions provided by SBS Virgin Hair Celebrity Collection @sbsthebrand

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Apr 3, 2017 at 9:04pm PDT

Kelly Price was born

The post April 4: Today In Black History appeared first on MadameNoire.

So many times, when stories of domestic violence make it to the forefront, people always wonder why the woman stayed so long, why she didn’t report him or call the authorities. But sometimes when the authorities get involved, they diminish the severity of the situation or disregard it entirely.

That’s what happened to Latina Verneta Herring, a 35-year-old mother in Florida. And it cost her not only her life but her 8-year-old son’s as well.

Herring called the local police to report her boyfriend Allen Dion Cashe. They told her to stop making false allegations. Hours later, Cashe kicked in Herring’s front door and shot and killed she and her son, injuring four others in the process.

Herring and Cashe had gotten into an argument earlier that day at a gas station. Later, they traveled to her house where the arguing continued. Police showed up at Herring’s house and placed Cashe in the police car. He was released shortly after because the authorities said there was no criminal activity. And that’s when police told her to stop making false claims.

“Just stop calling 911 and making accusations that you don’t know about,” a second officer said.

Later, Cashe himself called police. One officer believed he did so because he believed that he would hurt Herring. Hours later, he killed Herring and her son.
Herring was pronounced dead on the scene and her son died later at the hospital.

Herring’s father and her 7-year-old son were injured during the shooting and are said to be in stable condition. After fleeing the scene, Cashe also shot two bystanders.

The arrest report said that Cashe confessed to the shooting because he was mad that she stole his car keys.

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.

Let’s click on to buy Sunglasses.

The post Woman And Son Killed After Police Told Her To Stop Calling Them appeared first on MadameNoire.

Just For Me^® has been around for years with the catchy tune that you are probably singing right now as you read this!

They’ve released some new products that are perfect for you to get your little curlies’ hair healthy, tangle-free, soft, and stylish!

Yolanda Renee shows you step-by-step how to achieve this fun look with her daughter Taylor.

It’s really simple. Start with a twist out using Just For Me^® Leave-In Conditioner and Moisture Rich Styling Smoothie.

The Leave-In Conditioner hydrates your little curlies hair and is infused with coconut milk, shea butter, vitamin E and sunflower oil.

Step 1: Create a center part all the way to the back.

Step 2: Smooth those edges using the Just For Me^® Moisture Rich Styling Smoothie and some edge control on the perimeter of the hair. The smoothie cream helps soften her hair and keeps the frizz down.

Step 3: Smooth the hair with a soft bristle brush and secure with an elastic band.

Step 4: Head to school looking fly with this super easy everyday look!

Look out for more cute hairstyles for your little curlies this Spring.

The post From Twist Out To Puffs In 5 Minutes With Just For Me® appeared first on MadameNoire.

She sends you flyers and e-vites every day

She always wants the shareable item at the restaurant

She always asks, “What’s the rush?”

She is over your regular restaurant

She wants “a view” and “ambiance!”

She tells you how romantic her friend’s partner is

She brings up road trips and vacations a lot

She buys herself flowers

She lights candles for casual Tuesday night dinner

She’s been buying lingerie and showing it to you

Her movie choice is always a love story

She keeps talking about when you met

She is trying to drag out foreplay

She says, “Can we not talk about work?” a lot

She’s been pushing for a staycation

She is trying to bring back make out sessions

She wants to run errands together

She wants to exercise together (and somewhere pretty)

She sits on your side of the booth

She is bailing on your boring, non-romantic plans

The post Signs She Desperately Needs You To Be More Romantic appeared first on MadameNoire.

Every year, it seems we learn about yet another student who’s been accepted into all eight Ivy League Universities. And for the past couple of years, those students have been Black. And we’re happy to report that this year is no different.

This time, the student blessed with this distinct honor is 17-year-old senior Ifeoma White-Thorpe from New Jersey’s Morris Hill High School. White-Thorpe was accepted to Brown, Columbia, Dartmouth, Yale, Princeton, University of Pennsylvania and Harvard and Stanford University.

When she opened the last e-mail from the last of the schools, she was on edge.

She told WABC, “I was shaking, I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, oh my gosh,’ like this might be eight out of eight and I clicked it and it said ‘Congratulations’ and I was like, ‘Oh my goodness…”

Ifeoma’s mother, Pat White-Thorpe was not surprised to learn of her daughter’s achievement.

“She has always been a hardworking girl,” White-Thorpe said. “Last month, she was one of the 2017 Coca-Cola Scholars and that is one of 86,000 students in the United States. They choose 150 students and she was one of them…As a little girl, she was a great writer,” she added. “I remember when she was in kindergarten. She spoke on behalf on behalf of the kindergarten class and it blew our minds away.”

And she’s continued on that path. In 2015, Ifeoma was named the winner of the national Selma Speech and Essay Contest and currently serves as president of the student government association.

In her free time, White-Thorpe volunteers at a food bank and homeless shelter and also for the American Heart Association.

She plans to study biology to eventually become a cardiologist.

We’d say she’s well on her way.

Congratulations to Ifeoma!

The post New Jersey Teen Accepted Into All Eight Ivy League Schools appeared first on MadameNoire.

Just recently, Nike made headlines, but in a good way, for announcing that they were expanding their clothing sizes to 3X. Kate Hudson’s popular company Fabletics just announced that they’re doing the same. The online subscription retailer of women’s athletic wear is hoping to expand their clientele by expanding the sizing options, and according to customers, including prospective ones, it’s about time.

Hudson told SELF that she always wanted to offer Fabletics clothing to women of all shapes and sizes, but once the demand for increased sizes jumped, she knew it was time.

“[Consumers] would say things like, ‘You don’t have it in my size,'” she said. “And we obviously wanted to invest in that because that’s what our whole brand is about, just getting everyone on board.”

It wasn’t a quick project, though. The actress said that the company worked for some time to get the right product offerings together. Everything from bra straps to seams were tested on a variety of women to ensure comfort and support. And unlike some companies who offer clothing that looks a particular way when extending product options, the Fabletics clothing for women of a larger size will be the same exact clothing offered to everyone else. It will be the same fun and fresh prints and designs — just in more sizes. As Hudson stated,  the company didn’t want to offer extended sizes just to say they did, but rather, make women of all shapes and sizes look and feel fantastic.

“We didn’t want to just do it for the sake of doing it, we wanted to make it right and have happy girls.”

Followers of the successful company already seem to be happy with the new additions to the April collection, which are all available at under $70. And even if you don’t have a Fabletics membership, you can check out what the company has to offer in plus-size options at their retail locations across the country.

The post Fabletics Has Extended The Sizes Of Their Activewear To 3X appeared first on MadameNoire.

Black models have stopped having to hide the fact that many times they are the ones who have to bring their own foundation to a photoshoot or touch up their faces after a makeup artist fails to properly match them. But of equal importance are the voices of those makeup artists who get it. Those who understand the undertones of dark skin, and realize skin tones don’t stop at caramel,and know what makeup to use so that lighting accentuates Black skin and doesn’t make it look discolored. Makeup artists like Ohio native Christopher Michael who is responsible for these beautiful images of model Kimberlyn Parris shot by Franchesca Andre and Gustavo Torres.

Here, Michael tells us about his background, how he created this look, and what you need to know about breaking into the industry and beautifying Black women.

MadameNoire (MN): Tell us a little bit about you your experience working in the industry.

Christopher Michael (CM): I’m an NYC transplant via Cleveland, Ohio, which is where I got my start in makeup as one of my electives in college, taking a Theater Makeup Course. I parlayed that into doing makeup for everyday women. I have been working in fashion and entertainment for a little over a decade, and have worked with countless celebrities such as Beyoncé, Naomi Campbell, Angela Simmons, Tyra Banks, Diahann Carroll and Kimora Lee Simmons to name a few.

MN: So many Black models have complained about makeup artists not knowing how to work with their skin. What are the dos and don’ts of applying makeup on African American skin?

CM: When it comes to Black models and their skin, I highly suggest studying undertones! Know that there are over 50 shades [of skin], research products, test them out to see if they turn to ash on dark skin, find shades that cover without oxidizing. Lots of times dark skin has several undertones so you have to be careful when selecting foundations.

MN: How can we recreate the look you created on Kimberlyn?

CM: To create Kimberlyn’s look I used a walnut foundation and evened out her skin. I then applied bronzer to warm her skin and give her a glow. I also applied bronze highlighter to make her skin more luminous. I then played with her eyes by applying a purple shimmer eyeshadow and encircled her eyes to add warmth and make them pop. Then I applied lashes and lots of mascara. I applied black eyeliner to her waterline to make her eyes more dramatic. Then I used a warm bronzer as blush and a soft, nudish lip to keep the focus on her eyes.

MN: When did you know this was your calling? 

CM: I knew this was my calling after my Theater Makeup class ,when the teacher taught me the basics I would do women’s makeup for a whopping $25.00 and I got a following. I would look at fashion magazines and compare my work and I felt that I could do just as good if not better. So I moved to NYC and gave it try! I was here with a vengeance to succeed!

MN: What is  it about the craft that keeps you going? 

CM: What I love about my craft is the countless women I come across and being able to present them with an enhanced version of themselves. Most people didn’t know they could look like what I create them to be.

MN: Any career advice for a novice ? 

CM: My career advice for novices is to study, study, study, try to assist a seasoned artist whose work you admire, invest in your tools– brushes –it truly makes a difference. Also research products and constantly be willing to learn. When working with a celebrity, know you are there to enhance their beauty not change it! Celebrities usually have an image already and you are to stick to it. Know their image is a part of their livelihood. Know it’s not about you.

Photo: Francesca Andre/Gustavo Torres

Make up: Christopher Michael

Hair: Jamila Walrond

Model: Kimberlyn Parris

The post A Q&A With The Makeup Artist Determined To Bring Out Black Women’s Beauty appeared first on MadameNoire.

Now that it’s spring, the beauty products you were relying on during the coldest months of the year just won’t cut it. Not to mention that your skin needs to be replenished after hiding underneath all of those layers and getting on the scale-y side. You can lather on all of the lotions and oils you want before you head out of the door, but moisture really starts in the shower. While quite a few soaps strip the skin of its natural oils, Tom’s of Maine introduced a new line of body washes and beauty bars that do the complete opposite — they add natural oils to your skin.

The natural moisturizing body washes, which only cost $6.99 for a 12 oz., come in three refreshing scents: creamy coconut, lavender tea tree and orange blossom. The scents are light, but they’re equipped with some of your favorite oils (you know, the ones you usually put in your hair). The coconut option contains virgin coconut oil, the lavender tea tree is equipped with raw shea butter, and the orange blossom provides your skin with Moroccan argan oil.

As for the beauty bars, which sell for $3.99, they are pretty great cleansers coated in the aforementioned oils. But aside from the coconut, orange blossom and lavender tea tree scents, there is also a morning mint option with shea butter that smells amazing and makes the body feel it’s at its cleanest.

What all of these products have in common is that they’re all gentle on the skin (though I recommend being careful with the lavender tea tree when you’re washing your lower ladybits). They’re also all natural with no artificial fragrances or preservatives, and while they are rich and creamy, they don’t have to create the kiddie suds you’re used to in order to get the job done. Most importantly, they leave the skin soft, smooth and quenched, and when you step out of the bath you don’t even have to apply your moisturizers — but it’s always recommended that you do (better to be greasy than ashy). And just in case it means something to you, Tom’s of Maine products are never tested on and don’t contain ingredients pertaining to animals. They’re also sold in 100 percent recyclable packaging and 10 percent of company profits go back to “supporting people and the planet.”

I’m loving them, and change up my choice of scents daily since I’ve been taking multiple showers a day lately (I’m a two-a-day workout fan). They’re great additions to a rotating cleansing collection and can be found through retailers like Walmart, Target, Vitacost and Lucky Vitamin.

The post Tom’s New Body Washes Give Skin All The Argan, Coconut And Shea It Could Ever Need appeared first on MadameNoire.

Experimental musician and visual artist Lawrence Lindell’s latest creation looks to make social change by empowering young Black boys and girls.

“From Black Boy With Love” is Lindell’s children’s book, which he published in late March, in dedication to “all the girls of color across the world who have been made to feel uncomfortable in their own skin.” The book was written and illustrated by L.A.-based Lindell, who told The Huffington Post he was tired of seeing Black children berating others with darker skin. “The first thing they go for when teasing each other is hair, body shape and skin tone,” Lindell said. “’You ol’ nappy-headed, Black-a– charcoal looking girl,’ ‘with yo ugly fat a–.’ We have to change the narrative that the more melanin you have means you’re uglier, and that natural hair is bad or improper.”

“From Black Boy With Love” is available on Lindell’s website. We connected with the author and illustrator by e-mail to get more insight on his project.

MadameNoire (MN): What prompted you to write “From Black Boy With Love”?

Lawrence Lindell (LL): Originally, I did one drawing titled “Brown Girl”‘ for my girlfriend, who has shared her stories about growing up and how her darker skin and curly hair were made out to be something bad. Then I started thinking about my mom, my sisters, my aunts, nieces, and cousins. So I made this for them and for all girls of color!

MN: What do you hope young boys take away from this?

LL: That speaking life into girls doesn’t make you weak or “thirsty,” but we should also be speaking life into them, not because we want something from them, but because they deserve it the same way we deserve to have life spoken into us. Take care of each other.

MN: Why is it targeted to young boys?

LL: It’s not. LOL That’s just the angle everyone took. This book is first and foremost for girls of color, I made the characters boys as an example and alternative to how we should be speaking to our girls and women. The boys are the latter part of the message. This book is for the girls first!

MN: You mentioned the book is an “alternative” to what you learned as a young boy. What sorts of things did you learn that you wanted to reverse?

LL: That it’s okay to treat women as property. Someone’s body determines their worth. Boys will be boys. All that crap! And it’s sad because we don’t go around saying disrespect girls and women, I learned this behavior for observation and praise. I was in downtown L.A. and I had to be about 4 or 5. I grabbed a mannequin’s breast and my family laughed about it and just said “well, at least we know he is all boy.” Seems harmless and cute, but that’s the kinda stuff that turns into more harmfulness later. What I feel they should have said was “keep your hands to yourself, unless you have permission to do otherwise.” I was 5, I didn’t need to be belittled or yelled at, but instead taught the proper way to do things.

MN: How are you marketing the book?

LL: LOL, I’m not. Black and brown women are. I originally premiered the book with Afropunk and only intended to do a run of 50. The message was so well received and became so high in demand that I decided this book was officially bigger than me and to give it my full attention.

MN: I know you are an artist, but do you also teach art for a living as well?

LL: I tour with my art studio. I travel the country and table at Zine and comic book fest, selling my comics, illustration books, and merchandise. Then I work at an elementary school during the week.

MN: Do you mentor young boys?

LL: I do, but not in an official big brother way, I just speak to young and old men I meet, share my perspective and insight and lead by example. It’s important because if we don’t do it, no one will, and on that part, I’m specifically speaking for Black men. We have to take care of our own, the world has proven they don’t care about us, they are not for us and couldn’t give a damn if we live or die.

MN: Why is this an important lesson to teach young boys?

LL: Because, unfortunately, men have the power. That will change, but right now the world is catered to men. If we teach them out the gate that girls and women are to be respected just as much as men, we might be able to stop the violence and abuse that women have to go through on a daily.

MN: What’s next for you?

LL: I go on tour in May. First stop is Chicago for Chicago Zine Fest. I have a few books in the works, but right now “From Black Boy With Love” is my focus. I also, really want to do some readings and talks at schools and after-school programs!

The post Lawrence Lindell’s “From Black Boy With Love” Empowers Young Black Girls–And Boys appeared first on MadameNoire.

Pepsi: We're sorry. Me: *Money Mike voice* Don't be sorry, hoe. Be careful.

— Awesomely Luvvie (@Luvvie) April 5, 2017

@brokeymcpoverty She's an adult who got paid plenty and read the script first. "Pepsi used people of color as props, but at least poor Kendall is ok."

— Tim Sullivan (@t_t_t_timmy) April 5, 2017

If only Daddy would have known about the power of #Pepsi. pic.twitter.com/FA6JPrY72V

— Be A King (@BerniceKing) April 5, 2017

Between Nivea's "white is purity" ad and Pepsi's "Black soda matters" ad I think it's time to open my "Ask A Black person" consulting firm.

— Travon Free (@Travon) April 5, 2017

pic.twitter.com/I21nQl68cY

— Pepsi™ (@pepsi) April 5, 2017

#PepsiLivesMatter So the truth is Trayvon Martin should've been drinking a Pepsi instead of Arizona pic.twitter.com/WbUWfcqTNC

— Icy⚓Píráte⚓ (@Icymindfreak) April 5, 2017

Coke: " class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" />I'd like to buy the world a home and furnish it with love" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> Pepsi: Give a cop a Pepsi so he won't shoot you.

— Charlie (@notcharchar) April 5, 2017

I forgot my @pepsi those nights we got tear gassed and pepper sprayed. Guess @pepsi would apologize to Ferguson police for that, though.

— Brittany Packnett (@MsPackyetti) April 5, 2017

The #Kardashian & #Jenner clan always miss the mark. Just because you're getting the D doesn't mean you're getting the point. #Pepsi

— Tricia S. (@latricialicious) April 5, 2017

idk why Pepsi thinks a simple apology will fix this lol y'all gotta pay off Morris Brown's debt or solve Tupac's murder or something @pepsi

— Jonathan (@jnthnwll) April 5, 2017

This brave girl did not risk her life so some 21 year old model and a soda company could make money. #Pepsi pic.twitter.com/zX6I1MOKDP

— Liv. (@thefandom_fan) April 5, 2017

The post Here’s Why Pepsi Had To Pull That Kendall Jenner Protest Ad appeared first on MadameNoire.

Have you ever noticed how expensive running shoes are?

Whether they’re being shown off in women’s health publications or you’re actually looking for options in the mall, running shoes these days often average around the price of $100. But as pointed out in a study by the folks at Run Repeat, “expensive running shoes are not better than more affordable ones. In fact, inexpensive running shoes are better rated than expensive ones.”

With that in mind, you should know that DSW is currently having a sale, lasting through tomorrow (April 6), that offers $10 off items over $49, $20 off items over $99 and $40 off of items over $199. There’s no time like the present to pick up a pair of otherwise expensive shoes. And while some fitness essentials you have to fork over more money for to get quality, sometimes it’s better to save where you can. Check out five pairs of sturdy running shoes you can get for an affordable price — for a limited time only. Take $10 off of the list price for the styles you see below.

1. Nike FS Lite Run 2 Lightweight Running Shoe – $56.25

2. Skechers GoRun 400 Lightweight Running Shoe – $49.94

3. Asics Gel-Excite 4 Running Shoe – $59.95

4. Adidas Energy Cloud V Lightweight Running Shoe – $59.95

5. Reebok Twistform 3 Lightweight Running Shoe – $59.95

The post 5 Pairs Of Highly-Rated Running Shoes You Can Get For Under $50 Right Now appeared first on MadameNoire.

As usual, Easter Sunday has nearly snuck up on us again. But while you may have forgotten the day the lord rose from the dead, aka April 16, is just 11 days away, we’re sure your mother who expects you to be beside her in the front row pew at church has not. But don’t worry if you haven’t exactly been dwelling in the house of the Lord recently — or you just want to stunt on the Saints come Easter morning== we have seven dress that will have you looking resurrection Sunday sharp in no time. And you’ll still have money for your tithes.

Floral print dress-$69.90

Floral Shift Dress -$69.95

Glamorous Tall Scarf Print Tee Shift Dress-$43

ASOS CURVE Floral Print T-Shirt Bodycon Dress-$68

Vesper 2 In 1 Pencil Dress With Lace Cape Overlay-$94

The post 7 Easter Dresses Jesus Would Want You To Have appeared first on MadameNoire.

Kim Kardashian and Long Black Weaves

Khloe Kardashian be rocking the timberlands! pic.twitter.com/yKvkub7KxD

— Ree✖⚓❤ (@KrayKrayMissy) August 16, 2014

The Kardashians and Timberland Boots

Iggy Azalea and Big Booties

Kendall Jenner takes bold braids to a new epic level: http://t.co/IMPn41xorh pic.twitter.com/Cgp7X8CfNg

— Marie Claire (@marieclaire) April 2, 2014

Kendall Jenner and Cornrows

#FlashBackFriday. Unforgettable Award Show Hair. Rihanna and 'The Doobie' #Rihanna #Hair #Extensions #Weave pic.twitter.com/ONvgBo9kaq

— SO IN (@so___in) April 4, 2014

Rihanna and Doobies

Here’s Why Marc Jacobs Using White Models To Sport Faux Locs In His Fashion Show Is NOT OK https://t.co/pXTaB3N63R pic.twitter.com/kTjaLSb4zV

— Stardom101 Magazine (@Stardom101Mag) September 17, 2016

Marc Jacobs and Locs

FYI: Our Culture is not a trend. Fact:These are Bantu Knots, NOT mini buns. ‍♀️ pic.twitter.com/aVpvkZ0SIM

— WOKE (@OverCoverBlack) March 13, 2017

Bantu Knots

@Carinnna_ they also called an undercut a "hair tattoo" .....hOW?????? cosmo really had thought lol they g2g pic.twitter.com/Dm6ayYA1AP

— lil honeypot (@lillyshewan) February 11, 2016

The Undercut

See every photo from #Beyonce's epic (and mostly nude) pregnancy shoot: https://t.co/NN7el3u78a pic.twitter.com/wbxVaNLqx0

— CR FASHION BOOK (@CRFASHIONBOOK) February 3, 2017

Beyoncé and Natural Hair

Urban Channel Tie Cap ? This right here is a Do-Rag since 1930 pic.twitter.com/GEy1OOZSSA

— Out of Service (@BASSWAVESOUND) September 20, 2016

Do-Rags

Baby Hair trend reaches Paris runways. @FKAtwigs and @katyperry credited for bringing it back. | pic credit:@ELLEUK pic.twitter.com/XIFuMtoAA2

— StyleSeat (@StyleSeat) August 3, 2015

Katy Perry and Baby Hair

The post From Baby Hair To Bantu Knots: 11 Beauty “Trends” That Have Been Attributed To The Wrong People appeared first on MadameNoire.

Looking for an easy way to create a bun for your little ballerina? Yolanda Renee gives you the quick way to have your daughter looking like Misty Copeland using Just For Me^® Natural Hair Nutrition hair care products.

Step 1: Start with moisturized hair using the Just For Me^® Natural Hair Nutrition Moisture Rich Styling Smoothie. This smoothie cream rich with coconut milk, shea butter, vitamin E and sunflower oil helps soften her hair and keeps the frizz down.

Step 2: Use a donut to help create a bun. (Tip: You can take an old dark sock and cut a slit across at the toe. Take one end and roll it outward to create a donut.)

Step 3: Slide the ponytail through the donut and push it down.

Step 4: Smooth the bun down and secure with an elastic band.

Step 5: Secure with bobby pins.

Step 6: Add a flower for extra cuteness!

She’s ready for Alvin Ailey!

Check out more tutorials coming up using Just For Me^® Natural Hair Nutrition hair care products.

The post Bun It Like A Ballerina With Just For Me® appeared first on MadameNoire.

Pastels are a big trend in makeup right now, not just because it’s Spring but because women are realizing yellows, powder blues, and lilacs aren’t just for clothes, they also make great eye and lip accents. Not convinced? Ask L’Oréal Paris Celebrity Makeup Artist Sir John who has beat the faces of Beyoncé, Naomi Campbell, and Priyanka Chopra just to name a few. We had a chance to get some intel from him on the biggest trends of the season and Sir John told us exactly which colors will work best for brown skin and how to get over your fear of bright colors. He also gave us an amazing tip for making foundation look more natural. Check out his how-to advice below.

1. What are the biggest makeup trends for Spring?
Tinted eyeliner from the Infallible Paints collection paired with a tinted mascara like the Voluminous Cobalt Blue is so impactful for Spring. Smudging your shadow and liner underneath the eyes is super trendy too –it gives off rocker vibes and is a nice pairing with the pastel hair trend going on.

2. How can women with darker skin tones rock the pastel makeup trend?
Honestly, pastels work on everyone in different ways. Deeper complexions look great in sky blues and lavenders. The biggest thing though when rocking pastel color is you need to anchor it with a deeper color. For example, if you do a pastel eye, add a black liner and a lot of black mascara. Or, if you are doing a pastel pink lip, take your time and line with a stone pink or mauve liner to “contour” the lip and add some dimension.

3. What’s one infallible lip paint and eye paint that looks good on everyone?
The Infallible Lip Paint in Spicy Blush is perfect for everyone. It sort of mimics a lip color and is a nice daily nude. For more of a statement, the Sultry Sangria shade is also nice. For the Infallible Eye Paints, try Shady Violet for sure! It is such a fun shade to rock. If you want something a bit more neutral, the Nude Fishnet is awesome.

4. What tips do you have for becoming a pro at making your eyes pop?
The best way to make your eyes pop is to master the art of “lifting your eyes.” You do this through proper application of tightlining and also using mascara the right way. I always recommend curling lashes and then going in with a nice mascara like Voluminous – it’s a makeup artist’s favorite and gives a great lash to anyone. Also, when applying product to your eyes, always make sure you are doing a fresh look. You don’t always have to go full on pastel blue eye, you can rock a little pop of color and then experiment more and more as you practice your technique. Also, as mentioned before, starting with tinted eyeliner is a great starting point to adding a pop of color to the eyes.

5. What tips do you have for women who are afraid of bright colors?
Liner for sure! A tinted eyeliner is the perfect non-committal way to embrace bright colors. Anyone can do this and you can rock it at work or any time of the day. My favorites are the Infallible Paints Liner in Wild Green or Silkissime colored liners.

6. What’s the biggest mistake you see women make when it comes to their makeup?
Not applying foundation properly! When you apply your foundation, you should actually have your face still be a little damp from your moisturizer. If you don’t do this, then the foundation sits on top of the skin and doesn’t blend as well. My biggest thing is making foundation look like a second skin, so when you apply when skin is a little damp from moisturizer, it helps with the blending process. Also, you should do your makeup in the best light possible – like by a window with great light versus in the bathroom. Bathroom lighting – especially in NYC apartments – is the worst! You often can’t see how your makeup is blended.

The post How To Rock Pastels And Bright Makeup On Brown Skin, According To Sir John — Beyoncé’s Makeup Artist appeared first on MadameNoire.

Saturday shenanigans with him ...

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Feb 4, 2017 at 8:44am PST

“I am excited about my relationship with Terrell. I wasn’t looking for love. Neither of us was. I’d been in the same relationship since I was 16. We were both dating other people when we met. I was having a GREAT time dating, being single and having “suitors” after nearly 24 years of marriage. We were friends first and developed an incredible bond inside of that friendship and at some point it changed for both of us. It was unexpected but we both knew that something changed so we decided to give love with a friend a chance to thrive. I'm glad we did.”

In glam and I get a knock at the door. He knows I love lilies and roses. Thank you baby... #GrammyWeekend #Grammys2017 #HeLovesMe

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Feb 12, 2017 at 12:30pm PST

Happy Valentines Day to the man who makes me smile everyday @mrtbabers ❤❤❤

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Feb 14, 2017 at 6:42am PST

❤️

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Feb 20, 2017 at 10:07am PST

Repost... Preshow selfie .... The energy was great backstage AND onstage! #shreveport

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Feb 25, 2017 at 10:56pm PST

❤️❤️❤️ Sunny days with HIM

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Mar 3, 2017 at 12:39pm PST

Being silly... #US @mrtbabers

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Mar 4, 2017 at 9:30am PST

So he sends me stuff like this and I smile until my face hurts.... @mrtbabers ... love ❤️ him

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Mar 15, 2017 at 6:56pm PDT

About last night... coupling and celebrating with @mrtbabers for the homie @jermal22 @mccoy_angela88 @lammanruckerofficial Kelly Rucker @tgc2herstory and the whole crew #goodtimesgreatpeople

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Mar 18, 2017 at 9:40am PDT

Lazy Sundays... @mrtbabers

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Mar 19, 2017 at 11:18am PDT

And the winner is ..... yep, you guessed it! My #MCM @mrtbabers @trexx36 in the words of @officialswv He's my #ManCrushEveryday

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Mar 27, 2017 at 12:25pm PDT

Holding me and holding me down today behind the scenes at today's photo shoot...

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Apr 1, 2017 at 5:46pm PDT

Atlanta never looked more beautiful than it did today. #PreBirthdayCelebrating #April4th On 4/4 I'll be 44. #HappyBirthdayToMe @mrtbabers @trexx36 @mccoy_angela88

A post shared by Kelly Price (@mskellyprice) on Apr 2, 2017 at 7:22pm PDT

The post Ok Girl: Kelly Price Introduces Her New Man Terrell appeared first on MadameNoire.

Have you ever considered cutting your hair off completely? If you need some inspiration, look no further than playwright and The Walking Dead star Danai Gurira.

This week the beauty attended a gala at the Tisch School of the Arts, where she graduated in 2004, and showed off a completely shaved head (as in no sign of hair whatsoever). The 39-year-old has been wearing the style for a little while now for her role as Okoye in Marvel’s Black Panther. Gurira was recognized, alongside fellow alumnus Andre Holland (c/o ’06), for her talent and success since leaving New York University as she was awarded the Big Apple Award for Artistic Achievement.

As far as her role in Black Panther, Gurira’s character of Okoye is said to be bald in the comic series, so she cut off her hair to ensure that her appearance mimicked the way those behind the film want the Dora Milaje member to look. The cast, including Lupita Nyong’o, Michael B. Jordan, Sterling K. Brown, Angela Bassett and star Chadwick Boseman are currently filming in Atlanta. Black Panther is set to make its way into theaters in February 2018.

Gurira has worn an array of hairstyles for her on-screen work, including a head full of faux locs as Michonne on The Walking Dead. When asked about her thoughts on that wig, which appear to be incredibly hot, Gurira told Entertainment Weekly “The Michonne wig transforms me. It makes me her. I put it on, I don’t see me anymore.”

This bald and beautiful look also helps her transform into Okoye, and it doesn’t hurt that she rocks it oh so well.

Images via Getty 

The post Could You Rock It? Danai Gurira Goes Bald And Beautiful For Black Panther Role appeared first on MadameNoire.