Source: Marcus Yam / Getty Many enjoy watching gender reveals on social media and seeing the reactions of the parents-to-be as well as the family get excited. The Washington Post reports that Dennis Dickey an off-duty Border Patrol agent wanted to do an exciting gender reveal party for his wife, but it ended in a wildfire. This fire happened in April of last year and now Dickey will spend five years on probation. Sign Up For Our Newsletter! Close Thank you for subscribing! Please be sure to open and click your first newsletter so we can confirm your subscription. Email Submit He also has to pay over $8 million in restitution. Dickey filled a target with colored powder and when it exploded was supposed to come out either blue or pink. This target that was also filled with Tannerite and reports say it’s highly explosive. RELATED: Mass Shooting At Baby Gender Reveal Party This fire spread very quickly over 47,000 acres and it took nearly 800 firefighters to control it. Although, Dickey admitted and took responsibility for starting the fire he also was changed with violating U.S. Forest Service as well as causing a fire without a permit. Dickey signed an agreement to begin paying $500 a month for the next 20 years. RELATED: 74-Year-Old Man Found Alive In D.C. Senior Complex 5 Days After Fire RELATED: Black Firefighters Say They’re Harassed With Racist Slurs, Threats And Even Feces [ione_media_gallery src=”https://rickeysmileymorningshow.com” id=”1944308″ overlay=”true”] The Latest : How Black Tony Is About To Make Money Off Of Rickey Smiley’s House [EXCLUSIVE] Lauryn Hill Cancels Houston Shows Hour Before Showtime And Hit With Lawsuit [EXCLUSIVE] Tichina Arnold Talks About Her New Show With Cedric The Entertainer And Leaving A Legacy Of Good Work [EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW] Cardi B Was All Smiles And Style Turning Herself Into The Police How Scientists Discovered The Identity Of Black Woman Buried More Than 150 Years Ago Earl Thomas Of The Seattle Seahawks Gives His Team The Middle Finger [VIDEO] John Legend Announces His First Christmas Album; Tour Comes To ATL Nov 20th Lil Pump Cancels His Harvard Dropout Tour Dates, Might Have To Do A Bid Border Patrol Agent Causes Wildfire During Gender Reveal Party #ReecQOTD FT. Monyetta Shaw – How Do You Co-parent Successfully – Life after Ne-Yo – and mor.
FayesVision/WENN.com Amber Rose Calls Out Brands Jacking Her Style Amber Rose is fed up with folks hating on her “hoeness,” but for some reason loving it when it’s packaged differently with other faces attached. Amber says she’s noticed a lot of other brands and artists making taking ownership of negative labels cool outchea…however when she takes the word “ho” back from those who would weaponize it against her and flips it to point out patriarchy and slut-shaming, somehow it’s a problem for folks. She even mentions ‘Ye’s song “I Love It,” which outright says to a woman “you’re such a f*ckin hoe, I love it” and is a top stream most-watched Youtube video. This is not about the Artists and Talent in these videos. I am extremely frustrated. Every single year I put my blood, sweat and tears into my slutwalk. I did not create the SlutWalk movement. I did, however bring it to the forefront for this generation. People remind of this daily, through their deliberate attacks and evil comments. It becomes extremely frustrating when brands are “inspired” by the movement and curate my actual life story and use it as a marketing tool. The Amber Rose SlutWalk and SlutWalks all around the globe, do not receive the attention or support they deserve. I do interview after interview to bring more awareness about the equality issues we deal with as women and people….. Body shaming, Fat shaming, slut shaming and victim blaming. I take a lot of punches and a lot of scrutiny and I’m cool with that cuz I do it for the greater good. I also DON’T do it for the recognition AT ALL but God Damn Bruh smh. I remember a few years back I used to put #MILFIN and #MILF on all of my post to only see a music video about milfs that I was not invited to be in… cool. I get it, I was an Actual Stripper, I’m not worthy then I show up to the VMAs with my team with outfits that say slut and faggot etc and I go online and see huge brands take that and run with it and still no phone call. Two men made a song that said “you’re such a fucking hoe I love it” but if I refer to myself as a hoe, take back any derogatory label and turn it into a positive or be confident in my sexuality in anyway mufuckas need 30 showers and I’m literally the evilest person on earth yet everyone wants to take my fucking swag but look down on me? Shits annoying af But I’ll continue to be A trendsetter and help women – The Real Bad Guy Now, Amber knows good and damn well she was never going to get a phone call for Fergie’s “Milf Money” video when her ex-boyfriend’s wife was on set. But other than that, looking at the evidence here — especially the Deisel ad and the last commercial — we can completely see where she’s coming from on big companies jacking her “own what you are” style. However, we’re thinking Iris Bonner, painter and designer of “These Pink Lips,” who created the look in question is really the one who should be upset here. What do you think? Does Amber have a point? Getty/WENN
Source: Patricia Schlein/WENN.com / WENN They say numbers don’t lie. If that’s the case, Drake and Cardi B are at the top of the Rap game as they have the most nominations for this year’s BET Hip Hop Awards. The 6 God earned a leading 11 nominations. Some of the awards he’s up for include Lyricist of the Year, MVP of the Year and Album of the Year for his latest project, Scorpion . Right behind Drake with 10 nods of her own is Cardi B, who won Best New Hip-Hop Artist at last year’s show. The “Bodak Yellow” rapper is up for awards in Best Hip-Hop Video, Hot Ticket Performer and Hustler of the Year, among many others. The Album of the Year category is occupied is sure to be debated as besides Drake and Cardi B for Invasion of Privacy , the rest of the nominees are J. Cole ( KOD ), Migos ( Culture II ) and The Carters ( Everything Is Love ). The Lyricist of the Year category will also be discussed as it includes Childish Gambino, Drake, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar and Travis Scott. The BET Hip Hop Awards are back in Miami at the Fillmore Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theater and go down Saturday, October 6. If you don’t make it to the shoe, it will premiere on Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at 8:00PM ET/PT on BET. Check out the full list of nominations below. Best Hip-Hop Video Cardi B – I Like It Feat. Bad Bunny & J Balvin Childish Gambino – This Is America Drake – God’s Plan Kendrick Lamar – Loyalty Feat. Rihanna Migos – Walk It Talk It Feat. Drake Hot Ticket Performer Cardi B Childish Gambino Drake Kendrick Lamar Travis Scott Album of the Year Cardi B – Invasion Of Privacy Drake – Scorpion J. Cole – KOD Migos – Culture II The Carters – Everything Is Love Video Director of the Year Benny Boom Dave Meyers & The Little Homies Director X Eif Rivera Hiro Murai Karena Evans Lyricist of the Year Childish Gambino Drake J. Cole Kendrick Lamar Travis Scott MVP of the Year Cardi B Childish Gambino Drake J. Cole Travis Scott Producer of the Year Ben Billions DJ Esco DJ Mustard Metro Boomin Pharrell Williams Best Collabo, Duo or Group 21 Savage & Offset & Metro Boomin – Ric Flair Drip BlocBoy JB – Look Alive Feat. Drake Cardi B – I Like It Feat. Bad Bunny & J Balvin Post Malone – Rockstar Feat. 21 Savage The Carters – Apesh*t Single of the Year Apesh*t – Produced By Pharrell (The Carters) God’s Plan – Produced By Cardo, Young Exclusive and Boi-1da (Drake) I Like It – Produced By Craig Kallman, JWhiteDidIt and Tainy (Cardi B Feat. Bad Bunny & J Balvin) Nice For What – Produced By Murda Beatz (Drake) This Is America – Produced By Donald Glover & Ludwig Goransson (Childish Gambino) Best New Hip-Hop Artist BloBboy JB Juice Wrld Lil Baby Rich The Kid XXXTentacion Best Mixtape BlocBoy JB – Simi Future – Beast Mode 2 Juicy J – Shut Da F* Up Lil Wayne – Dedication 6: Reloaded Zoey Dollaz – Sorry Not Sorry Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse 21 Savage – “Bartier Cardi” (Cardi B Feat. 21 Savage) Cardi B – “Motorsport” (Migos Feat. Cardi B & Nicki Minaj) Drake – “Look Alive” (Blocboy JB Feat. Drake) Kendrick Lamar – “New Freezer” (Rich The Kid Feat. Kendrick Lamar) Nicki Minaj – “Big Bank” (Yg Feat. 2 Chainz, Big Sean & Nicki Minaj) Impact Track Childish Gambino – This Is America Dej Loaf & Leon Bridges – Liberated Lecrae – I’ll Find You Feat. Tori Kelly Meek Mill – Stay Woke Feat. Miguel N.E.R.D – 1,000 Feat. FUTURE DJ of the Year Calvin Harris DJ Envy DJ Drama DJ Khaled DJ Mustard Made-You-Look Award (Best Hip-Hop Style) Cardi B Migos Nicki Minaj Remy Ma Travis Scott Best Hip-Hop Online Site/App ALLHIPHOP Complex Hot New Hip Hop Worldstar XXL Hustler of the Year Cardi B DJ Khaled Drake Jay-Z Kendrick Lamar Travis Scott
Meghan Markle has had it, folks. She doesn’t know what to do with herself, almost literally. In this time of desperate need, anger and confusion – as she gets attacked by her awful father left, right and in between – The Duchess of Sussex can only think place to go… … home. According to the latest issue of Life & Style, Markle is planning an emergency trip home to Los Angeles to spend time with her mother, Doria Ragland. She remains very tight with this parent, even while the other parent speaks to every news outlet he can find about how terrible and ungrateful Meghan is as a daughter . “She’s at a breaking point. She needs to escape from the craziness,” an insider explains to this tabloid, adding of Prince Harry’s better half: “Meghan is living in fear of what her father is going to do next.” Can you blame her for thinking this way? Thomas Markle has often said that he has no way of contacting his daughter. His solution, therefore, is to give one disgusting sound bite after another, saying that Markle will “deprive” her future kid of time with the kid’s grandfather, for example… … and taking full credit for all Markle has become. “She became the woman that she is today thanks to everything I did for her,” Thomashas said. “Did I get any recognition for it? Any thanks? She doesn’t even speak to me now. How cold is that?” Markle, as you might expect, can scarcely handle such attacks any longer. Writes the Life & Style source: “Apart from Harry, Doria is the only person Meghan feels she can trust. “She’s holding a crisis meeting with her mom, who has some insight into her ex-husband’s behavior and is hoping to help Meghan figure out how to handle him.” At this point, though, let’s be honest: Who knows how to handle an off-the-rails Thomas Markle? Thomas has lived a quiet and secluded life in Mexico. He didn’t attend the Royal Wedding due to heart problems and Markle responded in an understanding manner. But he’s decided to turn on his child in the months since for some reason, leaving Meghan confounded and heartbroken. “She’s really struggling to come to terms with the fact that the man she once adored and looked up to has stabbed her in the back,” the insider says, adding that Meghan’s husband supports the trip home: “Harry and Doria have spoken on the phone about their concerns for Meghan’s well-being. “Harry agrees that Meghan needs some quality time with her mom.” View Slideshow: Meghan Markle: 19 Cruelest Things Her Own Family Has Said About the Duchess
Source: Photography by Danielle James / Hello Beautiful I approach a cute restaurant with turquoise benches and tables, a pink sign letting you know where you are located: Pagoda Cafe . The trees provide shade to customers and I instantly notice a woman with a full blown out afro, dressed in a blue and white kimono effortlessly placed over a black dress. It’s hot and we meet under the cool shade. She smiles widely and introduces herself, “I’m Ericka.” I smile back, introducing myself and invite a hug, which she warmly accepts. “This is beautiful,” I slightly murmur, looking around at 1430 N Dorgenois Street. With what seems to be hyper hearing, (she has an active and stylish 5-year-old son named Christopher Jr. or “Deuce”), she responds, “Isn’t it? I come here almost every day. That’s why I chose this place.” Ericka was born and raised in the 7th Ward, her family is from the 7th Ward, “ It’s the same neighborhood that my dad and his siblings were born and raised. Some of my fondest memories start off with my siblings and me walking to my grandparents home (MaGen and Big Daddy, so southern) to hang out with our cousins.” Ericka’s kimono blows in the wind as we walk to the end of the cafe to take a few more shots. She reveals she purchased it on Amazon, “They have such great finds.” We talk about how her style has changed pre and post-Katrina. Katrina. The name that fills almost every conversation for some point in New Orleans. “Katrina taught me not to put so much stock in material things because they are replaceable.” Clothing to Ericka, is something that is fun, a way to express her personal style.” She’s a print girl. “You will usually find me wearing at least two prints at a time. Leopard print, and black and white patterns are my version of a neutral: they go with floral prints, stripes, solids and more.” Today, Erica is wearing only one print, but a poppin’ pink lipstick by MAC called Bunnybeams that goes with her pastel pink nails. We talk about trends she’s into, including African wax prints, and she casually adds, “It’s a lot more popular now than when I first started rocking the trend several years ago.” I see you, trendsetter. Find out more about Ericka, New Orleans, and how Katrina influenced her style with our exclusive interview below. Name : Ericka Ann Garnett Windon Nickname : My family only gives me nicknames…EB, ChooChooburger Age : 34 Location (Which Ward/Area are you from) : 7 th Ward Occupation: Attorney, and Fundraising and Development Professional HB: Define your personal style: I am a wife, a mother to a 5-year-old boy, and I work full-time, so it’s easy for me to fall into that busy mom trope of putting everyone else first. Between family commitments and my career, shopping for myself falls to the bottom of my list. But I make my wardrobe work with a bit of creativity and repurposing. If a dress or blouse has a plunging neckline or a zipper, I extend its usefulness by wearing it backwards for a new look. I love borrowing my husband’s bowties or pairing his oxford shirts with shorts and heels or thigh high boots for a feminine take on menswear. When I do shop, I invest in basics that will last: jeans, soft simple tees, an LBD, the perfect pant in a few color options, a moto jacket, and a trench coat. I tend to spend a bit more on my basics and then round those items out with interesting pieces such as an eye-grabbing print, a pop of color, or cool accessories. HB: How has New Orleans influenced your style? New Orleans culture is so rich, vibrant, and eclectic and that’s typically reflected in what I choose to wear. What I love about New Orleans fashion is that there is no one trend or style. Everyone is free to dress the way they like and wear whatever makes them feel good. My grandmothers, Genevieve (MaGen) Baptiste Garnett and Annie Mae Smith, are my biggest style influencers. MaGen taught me how to shop and what to invest in and Ann taught me how to be resourceful. Source: Photography by Danielle James / Hello Beautiful HB: What is your favorite hairstyle and why? My fro! It’s thick and unapologetically kinky, curly, and big. The fro takes work, but when it’s good, it’s really good. My hairdresser, Blair Harris, also keeps me looking fly whether it’s styled in a fro, braids or a blow-out. HB: Is there anything you lost in Katrina (clothing or accessories related) that you still wish you had? I wish I had one of the hats my maternal grandmother, Ann, made or her antique sewing machine and table, especially since she recently passed away. Ann was a skilled seamstress and milliner. She made all of my pretty dresses when I was a kid, and she taught me how to sew. I can still smell the spools of fabric in her sewing room, and I will never forget the sight of her happily sewing while humming to some tune. My grandmother lived in the lower 9 th ward, so she lost everything for the second time (the first being hurricane Betsy) in Katrina. The lower 9 is the neighborhood she and my late grandfather chose to raise their family, and it’s the neighborhood where they and their children forged lifelong friendships. I haven’t been back to the 9 th ward since the storm. HB: How has your style changed post-Katrina? My post-Katrina style is both adaptive and flexible with a touch of creativity. I like to take trends and make them my own to suit my mood and my personal aesthetic. I can also take something outdated and make it fresh again; I owe that to rummaging for bargain replacement clothes. HB: What’s one thing that people may not know about the fashion and style in New Orleans? We wear lightweight, breathable clothing because it’s so hot. When the temperature hits south of 70 degrees, we’re breaking out our finest winter wear. HB: Why did you choose this location for the shoot? I was born and raised in the 7 th ward. It’s the same neighborhood that my dad and his siblings were born and raised. Some of my fondest memories start off with my siblings and me walking to my grandparents home (MaGen and Big Daddy, so southern) to hang out with our cousins. Therefore, it was only fitting for the shoot to be done in the 7 th Ward. Bayou Road is home to some of the coolest minority-owned businesses in the city, such as the Community Book Center, a 34 year old African and African-American bookshop and community center; Coco Hut Caribbean Restaurant; and my favorite coffee shop, Pagoda. I live in an adjoining neighborhood, so Bayou Road is nothing but a quick bike ride or a leisurely stroll away. HB: What is something that most people don’t know about the specific Ward you reside? In the mid-1800s the 7 th ward was settled by a large population of free people of color. As a result, the neighborhood became a hub for music, culture, and innovation. The 7 th ward nurtured jazz greats Jelly Roll Morton and Lionel Ferbos, groomed civil rights activist A.P. Tureaud, and continues to churn our talent such as, Mannie Fresh, Tyler Perry, Frank Ocean, Luke James, Anthony Mackie, and Tyrann Mathieu. I currently live in the 5 th Ward in Mid-City, a few blocks from Bayou St. John. I love it here because I can get everywhere rather quickly. We frequently use the Lafitte Greenway Pedestrian and Bike Path to take us from the bayou to the French Quarter, and there are quite a few restaurants, hangout spots, and green spaces within walking distance. It’s pretty family friendly and you will always get a good morning, a good evening or a good conversation from local New Orleanians. HB: What is one thing you never leave the house without? Lipstick in a bold color, because my son loves when I send him off with a kiss on his hand; it’s like his very own badge of honor. DON’T MISS:
Source: Photography by Danielle James / Hello Beautiful I approach a cute restaurant with turquoise benches and tables, a pink sign letting you know where you are located: Pagoda Cafe . The trees provide shade to customers and I instantly notice a woman with a full blown out afro, dressed in a blue and white kimono effortlessly placed over a black dress. It’s hot and we meet under the cool shade. She smiles widely and introduces herself, “I’m Ericka.” I smile back, introducing myself and invite a hug, which she warmly accepts. “This is beautiful,” I slightly murmur, looking around at 1430 N Dorgenois Street. With what seems to be hyper hearing, (she has an active and stylish 5-year-old son named Christopher Jr. or “Deuce”), she responds, “Isn’t it? I come here almost every day. That’s why I chose this place.” Ericka was born and raised in the 7th Ward, her family is from the 7th Ward, “ It’s the same neighborhood that my dad and his siblings were born and raised. Some of my fondest memories start off with my siblings and me walking to my grandparents home (MaGen and Big Daddy, so southern) to hang out with our cousins.” Ericka’s kimono blows in the wind as we walk to the end of the cafe to take a few more shots. She reveals she purchased it on Amazon, “They have such great finds.” We talk about how her style has changed pre and post-Katrina. Katrina. The name that fills almost every conversation for some point in New Orleans. “Katrina taught me not to put so much stock in material things because they are replaceable.” Clothing to Ericka, is something that is fun, a way to express her personal style.” She’s a print girl. “You will usually find me wearing at least two prints at a time. Leopard print, and black and white patterns are my version of a neutral: they go with floral prints, stripes, solids and more.” Today, Erica is wearing only one print, but a poppin’ pink lipstick by MAC called Bunnybeams that goes with her pastel pink nails. We talk about trends she’s into, including African wax prints, and she casually adds, “It’s a lot more popular now than when I first started rocking the trend several years ago.” I see you, trendsetter. Find out more about Ericka, New Orleans, and how Katrina influenced her style with our exclusive interview below. Name : Ericka Ann Garnett Windon Nickname : My family only gives me nicknames…EB, ChooChooburger Age : 34 Location (Which Ward/Area are you from) : 7 th Ward Occupation: Attorney, and Fundraising and Development Professional HB: Define your personal style: I am a wife, a mother to a 5-year-old boy, and I work full-time, so it’s easy for me to fall into that busy mom trope of putting everyone else first. Between family commitments and my career, shopping for myself falls to the bottom of my list. But I make my wardrobe work with a bit of creativity and repurposing. If a dress or blouse has a plunging neckline or a zipper, I extend its usefulness by wearing it backwards for a new look. I love borrowing my husband’s bowties or pairing his oxford shirts with shorts and heels or thigh high boots for a feminine take on menswear. When I do shop, I invest in basics that will last: jeans, soft simple tees, an LBD, the perfect pant in a few color options, a moto jacket, and a trench coat. I tend to spend a bit more on my basics and then round those items out with interesting pieces such as an eye-grabbing print, a pop of color, or cool accessories. HB: How has New Orleans influenced your style? New Orleans culture is so rich, vibrant, and eclectic and that’s typically reflected in what I choose to wear. What I love about New Orleans fashion is that there is no one trend or style. Everyone is free to dress the way they like and wear whatever makes them feel good. My grandmothers, Genevieve (MaGen) Baptiste Garnett and Annie Mae Smith, are my biggest style influencers. MaGen taught me how to shop and what to invest in and Ann taught me how to be resourceful. Source: Photography by Danielle James / Hello Beautiful HB: What is your favorite hairstyle and why? My fro! It’s thick and unapologetically kinky, curly, and big. The fro takes work, but when it’s good, it’s really good. My hairdresser, Blair Harris, also keeps me looking fly whether it’s styled in a fro, braids or a blow-out. HB: Is there anything you lost in Katrina (clothing or accessories related) that you still wish you had? I wish I had one of the hats my maternal grandmother, Ann, made or her antique sewing machine and table, especially since she recently passed away. Ann was a skilled seamstress and milliner. She made all of my pretty dresses when I was a kid, and she taught me how to sew. I can still smell the spools of fabric in her sewing room, and I will never forget the sight of her happily sewing while humming to some tune. My grandmother lived in the lower 9 th ward, so she lost everything for the second time (the first being hurricane Betsy) in Katrina. The lower 9 is the neighborhood she and my late grandfather chose to raise their family, and it’s the neighborhood where they and their children forged lifelong friendships. I haven’t been back to the 9 th ward since the storm. HB: How has your style changed post-Katrina? My post-Katrina style is both adaptive and flexible with a touch of creativity. I like to take trends and make them my own to suit my mood and my personal aesthetic. I can also take something outdated and make it fresh again; I owe that to rummaging for bargain replacement clothes. HB: What’s one thing that people may not know about the fashion and style in New Orleans? We wear lightweight, breathable clothing because it’s so hot. When the temperature hits south of 70 degrees, we’re breaking out our finest winter wear. HB: Why did you choose this location for the shoot? I was born and raised in the 7 th ward. It’s the same neighborhood that my dad and his siblings were born and raised. Some of my fondest memories start off with my siblings and me walking to my grandparents home (MaGen and Big Daddy, so southern) to hang out with our cousins. Therefore, it was only fitting for the shoot to be done in the 7 th Ward. Bayou Road is home to some of the coolest minority-owned businesses in the city, such as the Community Book Center, a 34 year old African and African-American bookshop and community center; Coco Hut Caribbean Restaurant; and my favorite coffee shop, Pagoda. I live in an adjoining neighborhood, so Bayou Road is nothing but a quick bike ride or a leisurely stroll away. HB: What is something that most people don’t know about the specific Ward you reside? In the mid-1800s the 7 th ward was settled by a large population of free people of color. As a result, the neighborhood became a hub for music, culture, and innovation. The 7 th ward nurtured jazz greats Jelly Roll Morton and Lionel Ferbos, groomed civil rights activist A.P. Tureaud, and continues to churn our talent such as, Mannie Fresh, Tyler Perry, Frank Ocean, Luke James, Anthony Mackie, and Tyrann Mathieu. I currently live in the 5 th Ward in Mid-City, a few blocks from Bayou St. John. I love it here because I can get everywhere rather quickly. We frequently use the Lafitte Greenway Pedestrian and Bike Path to take us from the bayou to the French Quarter, and there are quite a few restaurants, hangout spots, and green spaces within walking distance. It’s pretty family friendly and you will always get a good morning, a good evening or a good conversation from local New Orleanians. HB: What is one thing you never leave the house without? Lipstick in a bold color, because my son loves when I send him off with a kiss on his hand; it’s like his very own badge of honor. DON’T MISS:
Source: Julie Dermansky / Getty Situated between Arkansas and the Gulf of Mexico, New Orleans, Louisiana is truly America’s city. Often dubbed the Birthplace of Jazz, its culture, people and resilience are truly the soul of America. From the food (an amalgamation of French, Spanish, and African) to the rich history, unique fashion and unmatched vibe of the city, NOLA is in a class of its own. It was our love for the city that drove us to create this series, WARD GIRLS . Through it, you’ll meet dynamic girls and women of all ages, from the various “wards,” or neighborhoods, of New Orleans and learn about the uniqueness of a city that extends far beyond the French Quarter. Source: Photography by Danielle James / Hello Beautiful In her long and rich history, NOLA has rightfully earned the reputation of a place of resilience. 13 years ago, Hurricane Katrina demolished the area, but it could not destroy the city’s spirit. Should you ever speak to her residents, New Orleanians will tell you that hurricane season is simply a reality they must face. Boarding up your home, evacuating or even choosing to stay are decisions that are, unfortunately, a way of life. It takes a certain panache and spirit to face the idea of a storm leaving you with absolutely nothing and, naturally, it forces you to look at your valuables as being more than any material possession. WARD GIRLS takes a look at the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina from a perspective of style and fashion. We wanted to examine how losing everything can impact your relationship to clothes, your thoughts on style, and sense of presentation and self. Source: Photography by Danielle James / Hello Beautiful WARD GIRLS is more than a documentary – it’s 360 digital experience. Check out the editorials to get to know women from several of the WARDS, watch the documentary for a visual experience, and check out all the original photography showcasing the style of these strong women whom were built to last.
Source: Julie Dermansky / Getty Situated between Arkansas and the Gulf of Mexico, New Orleans, Louisiana is truly America’s city. Often dubbed the Birthplace of Jazz, its culture, people and resilience are truly the soul of America. From the food (an amalgamation of French, Spanish, and African) to the rich history, unique fashion and unmatched vibe of the city, NOLA is in a class of its own. It was our love for the city that drove us to create this series, WARD GIRLS . Through it, you’ll meet dynamic girls and women of all ages, from the various “wards,” or neighborhoods, of New Orleans and learn about the uniqueness of a city that extends far beyond the French Quarter. Source: Photography by Danielle James / Hello Beautiful In her long and rich history, NOLA has rightfully earned the reputation of a place of resilience. 13 years ago, Hurricane Katrina demolished the area, but it could not destroy the city’s spirit. Should you ever speak to her residents, New Orleanians will tell you that hurricane season is simply a reality they must face. Boarding up your home, evacuating or even choosing to stay are decisions that are, unfortunately, a way of life. It takes a certain panache and spirit to face the idea of a storm leaving you with absolutely nothing and, naturally, it forces you to look at your valuables as being more than any material possession. WARD GIRLS takes a look at the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina from a perspective of style and fashion. We wanted to examine how losing everything can impact your relationship to clothes, your thoughts on style, and sense of presentation and self. Source: Photography by Danielle James / Hello Beautiful WARD GIRLS is more than a documentary – it’s 360 digital experience. Check out the editorials to get to know women from several of the WARDS, watch the documentary for a visual experience, and check out all the original photography showcasing the style of these strong women whom were built to last.
Summer is here! And if you are like me, I like to wear less makeup in the summer because I don’t like it sweating off (makeup slipping is the worst). Being in the heart of the heat (New Orleans), I met up with pro makeup artist Sheria Williams. Williams’ was confident we could achieve a light look that would have my skin looking flawless and use products that would not slip to sweat and heat. Real talk: this look lasted me from the afternoon all the way through the evening. I was in that NOLA heat, I went dancing…and I only had to apply some more transluscent powder as a touch up around 9PM. Source: Amanda Edwards / Getty A natural, light beat has been trending on the carpets for the past few years now. Yara Shahidi is a big fan of the look, known for a dewy glow and a glossy lip. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful Follow our steps below and learn how to achieve this look! Start with clean skin. You wouldn’t start painting a picture on a dirty canvas, so why would you do this with your face? I had my oil and moisturizer on from the morning, so Williams’ used Neutrogena Makeup Remover Hydrating Cleansing Towelettes ($5.39, Target.com ) to take off everything from my face. The towelettes have hydrators and soothing cucumber and aloe extracts to help your skin feel extra moisturized. I like it! Foundation and Contour. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful While I normally use a primer, Williams’ did not. I thought my makeup would slip without this, but surprisingly it didn’t (you’ll find out why at the last step). She did contour my face, even though I have high cheekbones and a defined face. She explained that contouring helps bring depth to your face. She used LA Girl HD Pro Concealer ($2.38, Walmart.com ). This concealer is cheap and a favorite of many. Williams’ purred, “It goes on sooo creamy!” Even Real Housewives Of Atlanta star, Kandi , loves it and keeps it in her bag ! She used MAC Studio Fix SPF 15 Foundation ($30.00, MACcosmetics.com ) for the rest of my face. To me, it wasn’t even the foundation she used but how she applied it. She stippled my face. Stippling is when you pat the foundation on your face instead of rubbing it in. It also allows your foundation to stay pigmented and give you maximum coverage. I’m confident this is what gave it the airbrushed look. Powder. After she applied the foundation, she set it with Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder ($38.00, Sephora.com ). I believe this is the best setting powder on the market and worth the almost $40.00 investment. All of #TeamBeautiful loves this setting powder. In the Summer, I also love Too Faced Peach Perfect Mattifying Setting Powder ($32.00, Sephora.com ). Don’t be detered by the light color, it blends well into all skin tones. I like this setting powder because it has an extra oomph in preventing shine. Brows. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful She gave me a natural brow (because, summer) and used Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz Pencil ($21.00, Ulta.com ). Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful The major key to natural brows is first brushing your brow hairs up (pictured above), then following your natural brow line and using short strokes to emulate hair. How to do your brows are an entire tutorial on their own, and we have one for you here . Eyes. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful For my eyes, she used Milani Waterproof Liner Pencil ($6.97, Walmart.com ). You can use your favorite natural eyeshadow palette for a look. Try Maybelline The Nudes ($8.09, Target.com ) that has beautiful browns, golds, and nudes suitable for every Black woman. Add some lashes for oomph! Williams’ used Salon Perfect Be Natural Multi Pack Lashes ($8.44, Walmart.com ). For under $9.00, this gives you five sets of lashes in the pack. What a deal! You can also try Ardell Natural Lash – Black 110 ($4.99, Ulta.com ). Lips. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful For my lips she lined my lips with MAC Cosmetics Lip Liner in Cork ($18.00, MACcosmetics.com ). This is a great shade for brown girls, you can also try Chestnut , if you are darker or want a bit more of an intense brown. For my lipstick, she used Milani Amore Matte Lip Cream in Adorable ($7.97, Walmart.com ). Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful Beauties, tag @HelloBeautiful or your Style and Beauty Editor (me!) @TheIslanDiva if you try out this look. I want to see it on you! Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful See more of Sheria Williams’ makeup looks or to book an appointment in NOLA (heyyy, Essence Festival is right around the corner), here . You can find her company RI-Make Faces Artistry, here . DON’T MISS: LET’S MAKEUP: How To Achieve A Natural Brow Just In Time For Summer LET’S MAKEUP: Naturi Naughton’s Shares Her Must-Haves And Launches New Lip Line LET’S MAKEUP: Here Are The Beauty Products You Need For Dewy Skin Like Chloe x Halle [ione_media_gallery src=”https://hellobeautiful.com” id=”3002466″ overlay=”true”]
Summer is here! And if you are like me, I like to wear less makeup in the summer because I don’t like it sweating off (makeup slipping is the worst). Being in the heart of the heat (New Orleans), I met up with pro makeup artist Sheria Williams. Williams’ was confident we could achieve a light look that would have my skin looking flawless and use products that would not slip to sweat and heat. Real talk: this look lasted me from the afternoon all the way through the evening. I was in that NOLA heat, I went dancing…and I only had to apply some more transluscent powder as a touch up around 9PM. Source: Amanda Edwards / Getty A natural, light beat has been trending on the carpets for the past few years now. Yara Shahidi is a big fan of the look, known for a dewy glow and a glossy lip. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful Follow our steps below and learn how to achieve this look! Start with clean skin. You wouldn’t start painting a picture on a dirty canvas, so why would you do this with your face? I had my oil and moisturizer on from the morning, so Williams’ used Neutrogena Makeup Remover Hydrating Cleansing Towelettes ($5.39, Target.com ) to take off everything from my face. The towelettes have hydrators and soothing cucumber and aloe extracts to help your skin feel extra moisturized. I like it! Foundation and Contour. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful While I normally use a primer, Williams’ did not. I thought my makeup would slip without this, but surprisingly it didn’t (you’ll find out why at the last step). She did contour my face, even though I have high cheekbones and a defined face. She explained that contouring helps bring depth to your face. She used LA Girl HD Pro Concealer ($2.38, Walmart.com ). This concealer is cheap and a favorite of many. Williams’ purred, “It goes on sooo creamy!” Even Real Housewives Of Atlanta star, Kandi , loves it and keeps it in her bag ! She used MAC Studio Fix SPF 15 Foundation ($30.00, MACcosmetics.com ) for the rest of my face. To me, it wasn’t even the foundation she used but how she applied it. She stippled my face. Stippling is when you pat the foundation on your face instead of rubbing it in. It also allows your foundation to stay pigmented and give you maximum coverage. I’m confident this is what gave it the airbrushed look. Powder. After she applied the foundation, she set it with Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder ($38.00, Sephora.com ). I believe this is the best setting powder on the market and worth the almost $40.00 investment. All of #TeamBeautiful loves this setting powder. In the Summer, I also love Too Faced Peach Perfect Mattifying Setting Powder ($32.00, Sephora.com ). Don’t be detered by the light color, it blends well into all skin tones. I like this setting powder because it has an extra oomph in preventing shine. Brows. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful She gave me a natural brow (because, summer) and used Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz Pencil ($21.00, Ulta.com ). Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful The major key to natural brows is first brushing your brow hairs up (pictured above), then following your natural brow line and using short strokes to emulate hair. How to do your brows are an entire tutorial on their own, and we have one for you here . Eyes. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful For my eyes, she used Milani Waterproof Liner Pencil ($6.97, Walmart.com ). You can use your favorite natural eyeshadow palette for a look. Try Maybelline The Nudes ($8.09, Target.com ) that has beautiful browns, golds, and nudes suitable for every Black woman. Add some lashes for oomph! Williams’ used Salon Perfect Be Natural Multi Pack Lashes ($8.44, Walmart.com ). For under $9.00, this gives you five sets of lashes in the pack. What a deal! You can also try Ardell Natural Lash – Black 110 ($4.99, Ulta.com ). Lips. Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful For my lips she lined my lips with MAC Cosmetics Lip Liner in Cork ($18.00, MACcosmetics.com ). This is a great shade for brown girls, you can also try Chestnut , if you are darker or want a bit more of an intense brown. For my lipstick, she used Milani Amore Matte Lip Cream in Adorable ($7.97, Walmart.com ). Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful Beauties, tag @HelloBeautiful or your Style and Beauty Editor (me!) @TheIslanDiva if you try out this look. I want to see it on you! Source: Danielle James / Hello Beautiful See more of Sheria Williams’ makeup looks or to book an appointment in NOLA (heyyy, Essence Festival is right around the corner), here . You can find her company RI-Make Faces Artistry, here . DON’T MISS: LET’S MAKEUP: How To Achieve A Natural Brow Just In Time For Summer LET’S MAKEUP: Naturi Naughton’s Shares Her Must-Haves And Launches New Lip Line LET’S MAKEUP: Here Are The Beauty Products You Need For Dewy Skin Like Chloe x Halle [ione_media_gallery src=”https://hellobeautiful.com” id=”3002466″ overlay=”true”]
