Naomi T. Grant 11/1/23 Naomi T. Grant 11/1/23

How To Improve The Appearance Of Your Skin

If you are looking for the ultimate skin care routine, I got you covered. This will be unlike any other skincare routine I have shared because I am going to get into the star ingredients to look when creating the ultimate skincare routine for both the day & the night to give you YOUR BEST looking skin! I must admit, I hate the term ANTI AGING. I find nothing wrong with aging at all. It is a blessing to age gracefully and that is what I want us all to aspire to do. I will be sharing how to have the most radiant, hydrating, moisturized skin you have ever had. I will help you know exactly what you should be looking for when purchasing products as well as give you recommendations for which products will work best for your skin type. If you have struggled with dullness/dryness, fine lines & wrinkles. This is the post for you.

STEP ONE - CLEANSE:

What does your cleansing routine look like? Do you ever go to bed without washing your face? Don’t be scared now, be honest! You may not be giving your skin the TLC it deserves and it’s okay. If you understood why cleansing the skin daily both day and night is so important; you may understand why skipping this step can cause more damage than you know. Without properly cleansing our skin, our skin care products are not able to truly work to its highest capacity. If it isn’t able to penetrate deep enough to actually work and we are essentially taking the products we paid for and not even getting our money’s worth! Also, if you are someone who has issues with their pores appearance, if you have enlarged pores and you would like to help improve them, cleansing your skin correctly can kept decongest your pores and improve its appearance.

The first step to getting your skin clean after a long day without stripping it from its natural oils is by starting with using a cleansing oil or cleaning balm to break down the dirt, sunscreen or makeup on your face. Some cleaning oils that I have tried and really enjoyed are DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Face Cleanser $15, La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil $17, ChanelL’Huile Anti Pollution Cleansing Oil $55 and Tatcha Camellia Cleansing Oil 2-in-1 makeup remover & cleanser $22-$50. Cleansing oils are meant to be used on dry skin and it melts away your makeup, sunscreen or dirt from the day. Cleansing Balms do the same as a cleansing oil, it just has a different texture and often times is used to break down makeup due to it typically being a faster way to break down a face full of long wearing makeup. Some cleansing balms that I’ve tried and really enjoyed are ELF Skin Holy Hydration Makeup Melting Calm $11, Byoma Melting Balm Cleanser $15, and Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Balm, Fenty Skin Melt Awf Jelly Oil Makeup-Melting Cleanser $34 is very unique because it’s like a cross between the cleansing oil and the cleansing balm. I also love the packaging!

Although cleansing balms and oils aren’t necessary every single time I cleanse my face. I usually use them at night after a long day and in the morning I will usually cleanse my skin only with a liquid face cleanser. I have tried many face cleansers, I am always on a quest to find my new favorite face cleanser. One way that I have improved the appearance of my skin is by using face cleansers with an AHA or BHA in it. AHAs stand for Alpha Hydroxy Acid and BHA stands for Beta Hydroxy Acid. They both help promote the skin’s natural exfoliation process. It breaks down and remove layers of dead skin cells that build up on the surface and emphasize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by exfoliating the skin chemically. When you add a face cleanser with an AHA, you reveal smoother looking and softer skin. Your skin is getting mildly exfoliated after getting rid of that layer of dead skin cells, your skincare products that you layer on your skin after you cleanser, it is able to penetrate much deeper. This allows your products to work much better, faster and more effectively.

Now that we have spoken about why AHA’s & BHA’s are important to have in your cleansers. Let’s get into what to look for when we are purchasing our cleansers. There are many types of AHA’s and the most popular are Glycolic acid and Lactic Acid. We can talk about these acids in depth at a later time but to keep it brief, Glycolic Acid is a great exfoliant and Lactic acid is a great for hydration, collagen stimulating and smoothing texture. The most popular BHA is Salicylic Acid and it is typically used to target rough or bumpy skin and unclog pores. It is extremely useful for acne prone skin. I must add a disclaimer, these are active ingredients meaning they may cause some irrational to the skin as they mildly exfoliate your skin. Use just a few times a week as your skin gets adjusted to it. This is also why I encourage trying these ingredients out in cleansers because you will be washing them off. PRO TIP: make sure you are cleansing your skin for a minimum of 60 seconds to make sure these active ingredients are actually able to work on the skin before you rinse it off and go to the next steps! Here are some cleansers that I would recommend, Glossier Cleanser Concentrate AHA Clarifying & Exfoliating Face Wash $21, Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta AHA/BHADaily Cleansing Gel $15-39, ExfoliKate Cleanser Daily Foaming Wash with AHA $22

STEP 2 SERUMS:

After your skin is double cleansed, this is when you will add your serum. Now if your goal is to have beautifully hydrated and glowing skin, you can use a serum with Hyaluronic acid or Niacinamide. Here are some of my favorite hydrating serums. Good Molecules Highly Potent Hyaluronic Acid Serum $12, La Roche-Posey Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid $40, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum $15.70, Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum $20-$290, a new buy for me The Ordinary Multi-Peptide +HA Serum $31, and lastly one of my absolutely favorites; Fenty Skin Fat Water Niacinamide Pore-Refining Toner Serum with Barbados Cherry $34.

For your nighttime routine, adding a serum with a Retinol which works to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, I would highly recommend Versed Skin Gentle Retinol Serum $22, Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night $55. Again, this is something I would use just a few times a week while my skin gets used to it. It’s always important to note that when you use a retinal, you will need to use an SPF in the day time to keep your skin protected because your skin will become very sensitive when you add retinol to your skincare routine.

STEP 3: EYE CREAM AND MOISTURIZERS:

After using your serums, we now want to lock it all in by adding some moisturizers. Eye creams and face creams/moisturizers are a great way to treat any under eye issues and seal the deal on our serums. Although eye creams aren’t necessary for everyone, if you have dark circles under your eye or have fine lines and wrinkles; an eye cream will be a great way to improve the appearance the appearance of them. Some eye creams that I have and recommended to people over the years Ole Hendriksen Banana Bright Illuminating Eye Cream $44, this is incredible for dark under eye circles. Naturium Multi-Peptide Eye Cream $16 and Cera Ve Renewing Peptide Eye Cream $19. The skin around your eyes is the thinnest layer of skin on your whole entire body, this makes it more prone for fine lines and wrinkles. If you want ti improve the appearance of it, it is important to not only treat it but also keep it moisturized and eye creams are a great way to give it the concentrated TLC it deserves. Eye creams are essentially just a more concentrated moisturizer specifically formulated for the under eye.

After applying your eye cream if you are using it, this is the best time to add your face cream or moisturizer. Depending on your skin type you may need a face cream that is heavier or more hydrating. Some face creams that tend to be well received by the masses are Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream $24 (great for normal to dry skin), Benefit Aqua Bomb Hydrating Moisturizer $38 (great for normal to oily skin) La Roche Posay Toleriane Double Repair face Moisturizer $16 and a new fan favorite BYOMA Moisturizing Rich Cream $16. Lastly, if it is is the daytime, don’t forget to top it off with your SPF. All of your other skincare steps will mean nothing if you don’t protect your skin from the suns UV rays. The sun’s UV rays will make your hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and fine lines much worse. I can dive deep into sunscreen at a later time but find something that works best for your skins complexion.

RECAP:

Start with a Double Cleanse with a Cleansing Oil or Cleansing Balm then your face cleanser of your choice. Preferably one with an AHA/BHA. Apply a serum that is appropriate for either day time or night time and follow up with a moisturizer. SPF will follow if you are applying your daytime skincare routine.

SHOP SHEAOMI

Naomi T. Grant 10/4/23 Naomi T. Grant 10/4/23

Zara Fall Jackets

Review: Must-Have Fall Jackets at Zara

As the leaves start to change and the crisp autumn air sets in, it's time to update our wardrobes with cozy and stylish fall jackets. And when it comes to finding the perfect outerwear, Zara never disappoints. This season, Zara has outdone themselves yet again with an irresistible collection of fall jackets that combine fashion-forward designs with impeccable quality. Here's a closer look at why Zara should be your go-to destination for fall outerwear.

First and foremost, Zara excels at capturing the latest trends and translating them into wearable and affordable pieces. With their fall jacket collection, they have managed to infuse classic styles with modern touches, making each jacket a true fashion statement. Whether you're looking for a bomber jacket, a tailored blazer, or a long trench coat, Zara has got you covered.

One of the standout features that I adore about Zara's fall jackets is the attention to detail. From unique buttons to intricate stitching, each jacket is crafted with precision and care. It's these small embellishments that elevate the overall aesthetic and make these jackets look far more expensive than they actually are. The quality of the materials used is also remarkable, with sturdy fabrics that provide warmth and durability.
When it comes to versatility, Zara truly excels. Their fall jackets can effortlessly take you from a casual day out to a dressy evening event. With a range of colors, patterns, and textures to choose from, there is a jacket to complement any outfit or occasion. Whether paired with jeans and a cozy sweater for a casual outing or draped over a little black dress for a night out, these jackets are sure to turn heads and garner compliments.
Another great aspect of Zara's fall jackets is their inclusivity in terms of sizing. They offer a wide range of sizes, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect fit and feel confident in their fall look. This commitment to inclusivity is something that sets Zara apart from many other brands, and it's definitely something to celebrate.
Lastly, the affordability of Zara's fall jackets is remarkable. With their reasonable price points, you can indulge in multiple styles without breaking the bank. The value for money is unbeatable, especially considering the high quality and on-trend designs that Zara consistently delivers.
In conclusion, Zara has once again proven that they are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to fall jackets. Their collection combines fashion-forward styles, impeccable attention to detail, and affordability - making it a winner in my book. Whether you're in need of a new jacket for the season or looking to update your wardrobe with some on-trend pieces, Zara is the place to go. Head to their stores or browse their website today, and you'll find yourself spoilt for choice with their stunning collection of fall jackets.

Naomi T. Grant 10/4/23 Naomi T. Grant 10/4/23

Jeffrey Campbell Visionary Mid Calf High Heel "Toe" Booties

my review on the Jeffrey campbell visionary mid calf high heel toe booties found at Bloomingdales

Product Review: Jeffrey Campbell Visionary Mid Calf High Heel Booties
Being a shoe enthusiast, I recently stumbled upon the Jeffrey Campbell Visionary Mid Calf High Heel Booties during a casual shopping trip to Bloomingdale's. And let me tell you, these beauties are an absolute must-have for any fashion-forward babe!
From the moment I laid my eyes on these boots, I was captivated by their stunning design. The sleek, mid-calf silhouette paired with the high heels exudes a unique sense of sophistication and elegance. The attention to detail is evident in the fine craftsmanship, making these boots a true work of art.
But it's not just their appearance that won me over; it's their incredible comfort as well. With every step, I felt a cushioned support that made walking a breeze. The well-padded insole and sturdy heel ensured that my feet remained comfortable throughout the day, even during extended periods of wear.
Another standout feature of these booties is their versatility. Whether I paired them with jeans for a casual outing or added a touch of edge to a dress, these boots effortlessly elevated my overall look. They made me feel confident and fashion-forward no matter the occasion.
Furthermore, the Jeffrey Campbell brand prides itself on ethical and sustainable practices, which is something that aligns with my values as a conscious shopper. Knowing that I am supporting a brand dedicated to ethical production methods gives me even more reason to celebrate my purchase.
In conclusion, the Jeffrey Campbell Visionary Mid Calf High Heel Booties deserve all the praise and recognition. They effortlessly blend style, comfort, and durability, making them an ideal addition to any footwear collection. Whether you need a statement piece for a special occasion or a versatile everyday shoe, these booties from Bloomingdale's will undoubtedly meet and exceed your expectations. Trust me when I say, you won't regret investing in these incredible heels!

You can shop these booties by clicking this link

Jeffrey campbell fall boot high calf toe boots

Naomi T. Grant 8/22/23 Naomi T. Grant 8/22/23

TARGET WILD FABLE BRA TOP & CARDIGAN

Target’s Wild Fable line has some of the cutest trendy pieces for such an affordable price. I recently found the cutest bra and cardigan set in 3 colors! Here are links to these pieces and I hope you love them as much as I do.

GREEN BRA TOP $16 & I’m wearing a size L

GREEN CARDIGAN $26 & Im wearing a size M

BLACK BRA TOP $16 & I’m wearing a size L

BLACK CARDIGAN $26 & Im wearing a size M

PURPLE BRA TOP $16 & I’m wearing a size L

PURPLE CARDIGAN $26 & Im wearing a size M

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Naomi T. Grant 6/16/23 Naomi T. Grant 6/16/23

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush Try On Makeup Tutorial

Hey loves, Check out my latest Youtube video where I try out the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush. Below are links to all the products I tried in the video. Enjoy!

Soft Pinch Liquid Blush (In Order Shown In Video)

Grace - Bright Rose Mauve (matte) https://rstyle.me/+wI8FG_86_Ja7q8VKxs...

Love - TerraCotta (matte) https://rstyle.me/+qH4s97zY42KDtLo2FO...

Faith - Deep Berry (matte) https://rstyle.me/+_GhDbmLxvZc2IyZJuT...

Happy - Dewy Cool Pink (dewy) https://rstyle.me/+clBMWwnbrjwvTWoZsT...

Grateful - True Red (dewy) https://rstyle.me/+FCJtDBFLNEvB-bbEK8...

Lucky - Hot Pink (dewy) https://rstyle.me/+vvXlN-49ZVwjxGGskd...

Joy - Muted Peach (dewy) https://rstyle.me/+Dk-IWE-NZKjfajnXYp...

Believe - True Mauve (dewy) https://rstyle.me/+tUHXZqkQEAGDH0vxxP...

Hope - Nude Mauve (dewy) https://rstyle.me/+lGQUcP1FZraecZWT8s...

Encourage - Soft Neutral Pink (dewy) https://rstyle.me/+2O60KHYXwY9Pm_NMgF...

Worth - True Rose (dewy) limited edition https://rstyle.me/+20797FS8idH959d3ud...

Virtue - Beige Peach (dewy) limited edition https://rstyle.me/+Z8cA1_ChPOzIQgJ7-Y...

Naomi T. Grant 5/23/23 Naomi T. Grant 5/23/23

Valentino Beauty Born in Roma Intense Perfume Review

Unleash Your Magnetic Presence with Valentino Beauty Born in Roma Intense Perfume

Hey my fragrance aficionados! I am thrilled to delve into the world of Valentino Beauty's Born in Roma Intense perfume. Prepare to be captivated by this bewitching floral-amber fragrance that embodies passion, intensity, and the duality of life. Join me as we explore the exquisite notes and unique bottle design that make this perfume a true masterpiece.

Valentino Beauty Born in Roma Intense perfume is a fragrance that immediately steals the spotlight. As a warm floral scent, it embraces the senses with a captivating blend of vanilla, jasmine, and benzoin. From the very first spritz, the aroma unfolds in an enchanting embrace, leaving a lasting impression on both the wearer and those lucky enough to catch a whiff.

The intoxicating combination of vanilla and jasmine takes center stage in this fragrance, creating a magnetic allure that is impossible to resist. The richness of vanilla adds a touch of indulgence, while the delicate floral notes of jasmine evoke a sense of elegance and femininity. The benzoin brings a warm and comforting depth to the composition, further enhancing the fragrance's allure.

Beyond its captivating scent, the Valentino Born in Roma Intense perfume boasts a bottle design that is truly a work of art. Inspired by Roman architecture, the edgy pyramidal shape is a testament to Valentino's iconic fashion aesthetic. The rock stud embellishment, a symbol of the brand's boldness and modernity, adorns the black leather and vivid pink contrast, reflecting the perfect balance of punk and romanticism.

This fragrance is a celebration of full self-expression and embracing life with intensity. It is designed for those who dare to be bold, extravagant, and unapologetically themselves. With each spritz, Born in Roma Intense becomes an extension of your personality, amplifying your presence and making a statement that is both poetic and powerful.

In conclusion, Valentino Beauty Born in Roma Intense perfume is a fragrance that embodies the essence of living passionately and extravagantly. Its magnetic floral-amber composition, featuring vanilla, jasmine, and benzoin, creates an addictive and captivating allure that lingers in the air. Combined with the iconic bottle design inspired by Roman architecture, this perfume is a true masterpiece.

For those who crave a fragrance that reflects their fierce individuality and embraces the duality of life, Valentino Beauty Born in Roma Intense is the perfect choice. Unleash your magnetic presence and make a lasting impression with this luxurious and empowering scent. Experience the poetry, boldness, and romanticism that Valentino Beauty has masterfully captured in this extraordinary fragrance.

Shop link here

Videography & photography by The Gold Room Studios LLC

Book Here

Naomi T. Grant 5/22/23 Naomi T. Grant 5/22/23

Discover Radiant Skin with MUTHA No. 1 Serum

Welcome back, my beauty lovers! Today, I am thrilled to share my experience with the MUTHA No. 1 Serum, a true gem in the realm of skincare. This clinically tested, do-it-all serum has become a staple in my routine, offering remarkable results and ingredients. Join me as we dive into the wonders of MUTHA No. 1 Serum and explore who would benefit most from this transformative product.

Review: MUTHA No. 1 Serum is the epitome of a game-changing skincare treatment. With its potent MUTHALOAD® Core Technology, this serum harnesses the power of meticulously chosen ingredients to create healthier, more luminous skin. The inclusion of four molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid ensures deep hydration, leaving your complexion plump and nourished.

What truly sets this serum apart is the remarkable Rice Peptide Complex and Rice Kefiran. These ingredients work together to promote a renewed and rejuvenated complexion. As I incorporated MUTHA No. 1 Serum into my routine, I noticed a significant improvement in the texture and firmness of my skin. Fine lines seemed to diminish, replaced by a revitalized and youthful glow.

The addition of stabilized Vitamin C (THD) is a testament to MUTHA's commitment to effective skincare. This form of Vitamin C surpasses others in terms of potency, offering 50x more effectiveness. Not only does it combat pigmentation, but it also stimulates collagen production and shields the skin from UVA/UVB damage. The long-term benefits of this powerhouse ingredient are undeniable.

As a beauty blogger, I am often asked who would benefit most from a specific product. In the case of MUTHA No. 1 Serum, I confidently recommend it to individuals seeking a comprehensive skincare treatment. Whether you struggle with dryness, uneven skin tone, or the visible signs of aging, this serum caters to all your needs. Its bio-fermented blend ensures maximum absorption and enhances the overall results.

Conclusion: MUTHA No. 1 Serum has exceeded my expectations in every way, proving to be an indispensable addition to my beauty routine. From its carefully selected ingredients to its clinical efficacy, it truly delivers on its promises. If you're searching for a trustworthy serum that protects, hydrates, and repairs, look no further. Embrace the transformative power of MUTHA No. 1 Serum and experience the joy of radiant, healthier skin.

Click to Shop Link Here

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Naomi T. Grant 8/2/22 Naomi T. Grant 8/2/22

Empties: Skincare Edition

Skin care products that I’ve used from start to finish. Which ones I loved & which ones I would purchase again!

Often times I share some of my latest purchases with you guys on my YouTube channel and also on my Instagram. However, I don’t always follow up with my thoughts on the product after using the whole thing. I find that this is a common thing I see with influencers. We try so many different products, that often times we’re not finishing products completely through unless we were absolutely in love with them!

Even before my influencer days and I worked in the world of beauty at Sephora & Chanel. It was rare that I would not finish a whole product through before and even expired. I had to try so many things just to get a basic knowledge on stuff in order to sell it to a client. It wouldn’t really allow me to use a product authentically like a client would. Most people have a few products in their skin care routine that they use until it’s completely done. Then they either re-purchase it or decide to try something new. So I decided to do the very same thing. This was very hard for me because I love beauty and skin care products so much that I often times try multiples of the same type of products at the same time to see what I like best. For example I often times have 3 to 4 facial cleansers at a time however I only have one face lol!

Over the course of the past few months I decided to stick to a very small skin care routine use the product straight through and give you guys my final opinion of the products. Here are the 5 items that I have used in my skin care routine from start to finish and here are my thoughts on them.

Let’s start off with a product that I don’t think I ever spoke about before and it is the Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum. I purchased from Target for $21. Retinol is a product that I think everybody should introduce into the nighttime skin care routine if you want to help improve with your skin texture, and slow down aging. This product is very gentle and I had no issues with introducing this product into my skin care routine. This serum goes on very smooth and it is very moisturizing. I would purchase this product again in the future. I think that this is a great retinol serum for someone who is just starting to introduce retinol into their skin care routine and doesn’t want a product that might be too strong and caused them to have any irritation.

Next product that I am absolutely obsessed with it is E.L.F Skin Holy Hydration Face Cream . I purchased this from Target for $13. This product has hyaluronic acid, plus peptides. It is great for dry, oily and combination skin types. I have tried some of the MOST EXPENSIVE face creams on the market (Yes, I have tried, purchased & repurchased the La Mer Moisturizing Face Cream for over $200) and I would have to say that this face cream competes with some of the top face creams out there. It is hydrating, it is not too oily and leaves the skin looking so healthy. It also works amazingly under makeup. This product is a 10 out of 10, I highly recommend and I have purchased it again lol (see what I did there!)

Next product is from a indie brand that has recently been sold and SEPHORA and is Topicals Faded Cream. I purchased this from their website for $38. This product is great for evening out your skin tone & lightning dark marks! It has so many amazing ingredients which I will list below:

-Tranexamic Acid: Helps reduce the look of dark patches and post-blemish marks.
-Niacinamide: Reduces the look of discoloration and uneven skin tone.
-Azelaic Acid: Visibly brightens the skin tone, improves the evenness of skin texture, reduces the look of blemishes, and offers antioxidant support.

However it has a horrible smell! When using this product please use it during your night time routine. You would use this product in place of a serum. (This will go after your toner and before your face moisturizer) This product did work to help even out some of the dark marks that I have around my mouth which I’ve struggled with for years. It didn’t erase it completely, but it didn’t lighten it a lot ! Overall I think that it’s a great product for a great price point and I think that if you use it consistently (which I did not) you will see results very fast. I used this product maybe twice a week.

I actually used a new face wash that I think is a MUST HAVE. It is La Roche Posay Purifying Foaming Face Wash. This product was purchased at Target for $15. This face wash is just simply great. No fragrances. It cleanses well without stripping your skin of it’s natural moisture. It has a nice foam but not overwhelming. Its just great, great size and great price. I will be puracshing this again. This is also the first product that I’ve tried from La Roche Posay. Have you tried anything from this brand? Let me know down below in the comments.

Lastly, this is a product that I have purchased maybe 3x’s now and it’s the Fenty Skin Fat Water Pore-Refining Toner Serum. I love to use this product on my skin right after washing my face and then I go in with the rest of my skin care routine. This product really has help with brightening and lightning my complexion and allows my skins have a beautiful natural healthy glow. I found using a product like this really helped with balancing out my skin.

Naomi T. Grant 3/9/22 Naomi T. Grant 3/9/22

Berry Kisses - MAC POWDER KISS

Lately, I’ve been trying to wear more color in my makeup. I usually am a neural kind of woman. I love a never natural beat & a nude lip. Every now & then, it’s good to shake it up a bit.

I’ve been really enjoying a lipstick from MAC Cosmetics. It is from their Powder Kiss line in the shade Burning Love. The color is a cross between pink & plum. I love to pair it with a brown lip liner (Crestnut by MAC or Trendsetter by Morphe) and it’s such a beautiful pop of color without doing too much.

The formulation of the lipstick is what stood out to me the most. It has a soft matte finish. It has a similar feel of a classic powder lipstick however it is so smooth and silky. It has great moisture and hydration on the lip whist also being very pigmented. I highly recommend! Shop below if you’re interested.

MAC Cosmetics Powder Kiss in Burning Love

What are some of your new favorite lipsticks? Let me know down in the comments, I’m on the market for some newness!

Naomi T. Grant 10/30/21 Naomi T. Grant 10/30/21

Designer Bags Under $500

I love handbags as a way to dress up and accessorize an outfit. I’ve been enjoying adding some great handbags to my collection this past year and I have found some really amazing handbags for under $500! There are so many designer brands that get overlooked, and I want to highlight some handbags that I think would really elevate & excite your wardrobe. We are trying to turn heads this fall/winter season! Let’s get into some of my favorite picks!

MARC JACOBS SNAPSHOT BAG $295 - $395

I currently own this handbag and I love it so much. It’s such nice leather, it’s very sturdy, and durable. Whilst also remaining super stylist and fashionable. If you are new here, you may not know how much I live a crossbody handbag. I am a mother of a very busy 4 year old boy and I need my hands to be free when we are out and about. This bag is great for that and most of the bags that I will include will be crossbody handbags.

Another thing that I enjoy about the Marc Jacobs SNAPSHOT handbag, there are so many color ways. You can a bag any any color, and you can change the straps on the bag if you wanted to spice up your bag. I love the versatility of these bags & it’s very hard not to buy multiples of this bag. This has to be one of my most worn handbags for that reason. This is the Snapshot bag that I have and the on that is pictured on me above.

Here are some other color ways that I think you may enjoy as well. I love these colors & I think they all will look great in the fall.

OTHER COLORS:

METALLIC PURPLE/GREY , BURNT ORANGE , WHITE/RED PLAID , MULTI SNAKE SKIN , ALL WHITE , ALL BLACK , GRAFFITI SPRAY , BROWN TEDDY , BLACK TEDDY , BLACK/ TAN NET

This is how I styled my Marc Jacobs Snapshot Bag! -$295

Marc Jacobs J Link - $404

This bag is a DREAM! This bag has that very structured leather like the last Marc Jacob handbag that I mentioned. What I love about this bag most is the top handle. I love the detail, the rope detail is so edgy & cool at the same time. Also, it has a cross body strap that I really like as well.

Here are some other colors that I also loved.

WHITE & TAN: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fp9d4pcu89p

TAN, BLACK & ORANGE: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fp9d77cu89p

Tory Burch Kira Chevron glazed mini - $398-$428

This bag is such a great CLASSIC flap crossbody bag. The color is prefect for fall. Great neutral but also bold enough if a color to actually make your outfit pop! The glazed leather really elevated the color without making it took like plastic and tacky. If you are looking for a great designer bag to get your designer collection, this is a great option.

Here are some colors that I know you will love just as much as I do:

FIG - https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fwmy6kcu89p

BLACK https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fwmy64cu89p

CROCHET - https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fwmzabcu89p

Coach Tabby Pillow Bag - $395-$495

This bag took social media by storm during the pandemic. This Coach bag design wasn’t new to the coach brand, however this pillow effect was and everyone fell in love with it. The leather is so soft and subtle. at the bag comes with both a removable top handle and a cross body handle. The bag also comes in two different size (mini 18” and small 26”) and retail for $395 and $495 respectfully. What made these bags so special was the colors that it came in. These were limited edition and some were exclusively sold through specific department stores. Once sold out, they were no longer in production. I was able to get the Pillow Tabby 18 in Ivory . Although I have the mini tabby, I also had the Pillow Tabby Small 26” Grey , I did sell the bag because the color didn’t suit my wardrobe. I have to say out both sizes, the 26” bag is a better size. I can fit my everyday basics in the 26” Tabby Pillow bag ( card holder wallet, phone, keys, mask, small hand sanitizer), this makes it a great everyday bag. In the 18” Tabby Pillow bag, I cannot for both my wallet and phone with all my other essentials in the bag. I have to carry much is making it more practical for the evening. Make your decision on the size that works best for you based on your lifestyle. For me, I do more things in the daytime than the evening so, a bag that fits my everyday essentials is very important for me. I will link the colors and sizes that are currently available on the Coach website below.

Tabby Pillow 18” - $395

Ivory , Pink , Gold , Limited Edition UpCrafted Design

Tabby Pillow 26” - $495

Ivory , Black

I made two reviews on the Tabby bags on my Youtube Channel. Check them out below.

Kate Spade Smile Faux Fur Shoulder Bag - $198

I recently got this bag just in time for the fall and its so cute and cozy. It honest feels like a fuzzy pillow or sweater! I absolutely love the shape and style of the bag. The Kate Spade Smile is such a great size and trendy shape. I’ve seen so many brands create bags with this half circle shape. It adds some interest to your outfit due to the unique shape. Another thing that I truly love about this bag, is the different colors that It comes in. I believe anyone can find a bag from this collection that fits your own personal style.

I can fit my card holder wallet, my iPhone 12, my face mask, my small hand sanitizer and my keys in this bag with no problem at all. It may look like a small bag, but it is mighty!

Click here to shop my bag

Here are some other colors:

Crushed Watermelon (Pink) , Loquat (Yellow) , Pink Foliage Plaid , Leopard Calf Hair , Gingham , Yuca (Mint) , Black , White , Croc Embossed Leather (Deep Green) , Croc Embossed Leather (Burgundy)

Thank you so much for reading and I hope you are able to find some cute and affordable bags for this fall season!

Naomi T. Grant 10/15/21 Naomi T. Grant 10/15/21

Fall Shopping Guide : H&M Edition

My favorite season of all is Fall/Autumn. I love to layer my pieces. I also love the idea of being able to mix some pieces from other seasons with my fall pieces to be able to get the most out of my wardrobe.

Naturally, every fall, I pull out some pieces from the previous year and then I decide what my wardrobe needs before I go shopping. Every year I try to add in a few pieces (and get rid of a few things also) to make my wardrobe more exciting & fresh! I try not to focus too heavily on what’s trendy & what other people deem as fashionable and cool; however I do like to add pops to newness into my wardrobe to help me get excited about pieces that I may not be too excited about anymore. In this post, I will be sharing on some wardrobe essentials for the fall from H&M. Enjoy!

Knit dresses:

Knit dresses are so versatile, comfy and also very classy. You can wear it in a work space, then wear it out after work to Happy hour or date night! Knit dresses can be dressed up with heels or high heeled booties, or dresses down with sneakers. You can also style basic knit dress with a waist belt & it will give this basic dress more character, make it look more luxurious & just overall reinvent the piece. H&M has some lovely knit dresses, all under $40! Here are some options linked down below.

Collard Knit Dress (available in Cream, Black, Grey) - $34.99

Collared Knit Dress in Black H&M - $34.99

Rib Knit Dress - $24.99

Colorful/Printed Knit Dress - $34.99

Cerise/patterned : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5jpccu89p

Black/Flames : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5jwmcu89p

Sleeveless Knit Dress - $34.99

Taupe : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5j6tcu89p

Rib-Knit Dress/Vest - $19.99

Cream: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5ka7cu89p

Black: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5kc3cu89p

Knit Sweater vest

Sweater Vest are a staple in my fall wardrobe. Nothing says fall is here more than a cute knit! Knit vest are a great for layering as well. Here are a few of my favorite knit vest at H&M.

Knit Sweater Vest - $34.99
Cream: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5kpfcu89p

Oversized Knit Vest - $24.99

Cream : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5ktwcu89p

Affordable Luxury Find!

Cashmere-blend Turtleneck Vest - $129.00

Taupe : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5myqcu89p

Brown : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5mzecu89p

Knit sweater

This is honestly such a wardrobe stable that I don’t even need to get into much detail about why it’s important to have in your wardrobe. However H&M has some of the nicest and affordable knit sweaters. Here are some of my favorite options.

Knit Sweater in Brown - $24.99

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5m8ecu89p

Off the shoulder sweater : $19.99

Light beige - https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5nc7cu89p

Brown/Beige Melange - https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5ngicu89p

Black Melange - https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5nhzcu89p

Knit Sweater (I bought this style last year & I love it) - $24.99

Cream : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5nk2cu89p

Light Khaki Green : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5nntcu89p

Knit Cardigan

Knit Cardigans are such a great wardrobe stable. Cardigans are a great to fall-ize a summer piece by layering it on top. Cardigans are also very elegant. Depending on how it is styled, it can make you look like a millionaire 🥳

Rib Knit Cardigan with bedazzled buttons - $19.99

Light beige : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5nwpcu89p

Black : https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu5nyncu89p

Knit Front Wrap Cardigan - $24.99 in Grey

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu6nc8cu89p

Knit Wrap Cardigan in Grey for $24.99. Nice twist to your classic cardigan.

Rib-knit Cardigan - $29.99 in Cream

And added bonus, there is a matching bra top to match Rib-knit top - $17.99 in Cream https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu6qfycu89

Boxy Cardigan - $34.99 in Brown https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu6qz8cu89p

Boxy Cardigan $34.99 in Brown. Amazing essential to have in wardrobe! Especially as a brown skinned women.

Blazers

Blazers are some on my favorite wardrobe stable. They are the easiest piece to wear to elevate any outfit. You can always dress It up or down: You can wear a classic color or a bold colored blazer. You can go as classic or as bold as you would like. Here are some great finds that I would recommend from the H&M website.

Green Oversized Blazer - $49.99

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu62xrcu89p

Bold colored blazer, easy way to add some color to your neutral fall wardrobe for only $49.99

Double breasted blazer - $49.99

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu65vqcu89p

This blazer is a must have for any fall wardrobe. Double breasted blazers are very elegant & can instantly elevate any outfit!

Padded Vest

padded vest are a new trend that is not so new to many people! Personally for me it is not my favorite trend of all of the fall trends however I know that I can be styled in a really cool way especially when wearing streetwear! Here are some of my favorite pics from the H&M website.

Padded Hooded Vest - $59.99

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu66bgcu89p

Stand up collar Puffer Vest $34.99

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu66fjcu89p

Shirt jacKets or Shacket

This is probably one of my favorite wardrobe items for the fall! H&M does a great Shacket for a great price. They are always very warm! Here are some of my favorite options

Blue Plaid Shaket - $59.99

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu66s3cu89p

Cream Shacket - $59.99

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu68tncu89p

Wool-BlEnd coats

Here are some of my favorite picks friends this wardrobe stable! Also, I suggest getting one size down. These coats run big.

Tie wrap coat - $59.99

Tan: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu68efcu89p

Brown: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu7g6qcu89p

Ivory: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu7g9icu89p

Black: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu7ha6cu89p

CheLsea boots

Chelsea boots are such a great staple for your fall wardrobe. They are also comfy & can be worn in wet, unpleasant weather.

Black & Tan Platform Chelsea Boots - $49.99

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu7f7gcu89p

Cream Platform Chelsea Boots - $49.99 (Chloe Betty boot dupes)

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu7gc3cu89p

Premium Black Leather Platform Chelsea Boots - $119.00

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fu7gpscu89p

Black & Tan Platform Chelsea Boots - $49.99

Cream Platform Chelsea Boots - $49.99 (Chloe Betty boot dupes)

Premium Black Leather Platform Chelsea Boots - $119.00

I Hope you all enjoyed!

This is it for my H&M Fall/Autumn Fashion Guide! Comment which pieces you are interested in getting yourself. Make sure you subscribe to my mailing list to be notified when I publish a new blog post. There will be weekly uploads on my website so please stay tuned.

Linked below is my latest H&M haul. I take you guys with me in store & I try out some pieces. I hope you guys enjoy that as well! Thanks for reading & watching, talk to you soon.

Naomi T. Grant 6/19/21 Naomi T. Grant 6/19/21

Practicing Self Care With Your Body Care Routine

One thing that I prioritize is my body care and skincare routine. Taking the time to take care of your skin is a great way to practice self-love. After becoming a mother, my life no longer was all about me and my needs. It’s very easy to be lost in that kind of selflessness that comes with motherhood; no matter how wonderful it may be. My skin started to suffer, my skin was extremely dry and I developed eczema. I had never suffered from these issues before. I had always had very soft and hydrated skin. I recognized that my body was reacting to the lack of care that I had been giving it. The ways that I handled and dealt with stress, how, what and when I ate, my negative thought, and overall feeling about myself had been taking a toll on my body and how it started to look. I started to incorporate easy ways to transform my skin over time.

One of the biggest things that helped my skin retain its moisture and hydration was exfoliating my skin. Many people don’t realize the importance of gently removing dead skin from your body. Your skin may be dry because it has a layer of dry dead skin on it which is stopping your skin from holding on to moisture. I created a Body Polish for my Sheaomi Body care line to help me not only exfoliate my skin but also moisturize my skin at the same time while I showered. Its key ingredients are shea butter and organic cane sugar helps to exfoliate, disinfect and moisturize the skin all at one time. With one extra step in the shower, I truly started to transform my skin with that one simple steps, and then to seal the deal, I started to moisture my skin with another product that I created. My Whipped Body Butters are created with Shea Butters and other essential oils to deeply hydrate and moisture the skin. The natural ingredients in my products work to help nourish even the most sensitive skin types. I created these products to truly enhance and improve my skin and I am glad to say that I have improved the skin of so many of my customers as well.

It’s so important to prioritize yourself and pay attention to what your body is telling you. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Your confidence and self-esteem improve when you know that you take great care of yourself. You’re more connected to yourself and you’re more likely to continue to do small acts of self-love that will blossom into a life filled and love for yourself.

You can shop my Whipped Body Butter, and Body Polishes by clicked the links provided in the blog post.

Naomi T. Grant 2/3/21 Naomi T. Grant 2/3/21

BLUSHES FOR THE BROWN SKIN HOTTIES!

I have to be honest here…for years, I didn’t even wear blush! Finding blush was so difficult I found it easier to just skip blush instead of looking like a clown. When working at Sephora, the best selling blush was Orgasm by Nars. Although this blush could work for me if I apply enough of it, bright pink blushes just weren’t something I felt most confident pulling off.

As more & more brands have created more products for people of deeper skin tones, finding blushes have become so much easier. Blush is a great way to add color to your face to help brighten your appearance after you even out your skin tone with foundation. It helps to add color & even can help sculpt your face if applied properly.

Here are some of my favorite blushes for people with brown skin. These blushes can work for women of medium, dark & deep skin tones. These options may come in many different colors & hues, don’t be afraid of color. Our skin is built to handle color so rock these blushes with confidence boo!

High-End Blushes

NARS:

TAOS - soft red with a golden sheen powder blush; great for medium & dark skin tones

AROSED - satin deep burgundy powder blush; great for dark & deep skin tones

DOMINATE - shimmering deep plum powder blush; great for dark & deep skin tones

ORGASM X - shimmering deep coral with gold pearl powder blush; great for medium & dark skin tones

FENTY BEAUTY:

Ruby Richez - metallic brick red (this is a highlighter but I would use as a shimmery blush); great for dark & deep skin tones

Drama Cla$$ - soft violet cream blush ; great for dark & deep skin tones

Daquiri Dip - soft coral red cream blush ; great for medium & dark skin tones

Summertime Wine - soft berry with shimmer cream blush ; great for dark & deep skin tones

Ginger Binge/Moscow Mule - soft copper sheen / supercharged copper shimmer (this is a highlighter but I would use as a shimmery blush by mixing the colors) ; great for dark & deep skin tones

Bordeaux Brat - radiant berry cream blush/highlight stick ; great for dark & deep skin tones

Riidiic - golden papaya cream blush/ highlight stick ; great for medium, dark, deep skin tones

MAC COSMETICS:

Rosy Cheeks - shimmery midtown muted blue fuchsia powder blush; great for medium, dark, deep skin tones

Wrapped Candy - shimmery plum powder blush; great for dark & deep skin tones

Film Noir - rich warm chocolate powder blush (can be used as a bronzer & blush) ; great for dark & deep skin tones

Raizin - golden reddish-brown powder blush; great for dark & deep skin tones

Rosy Does It - radiant smooth jewel tone purple cream blush ; great for medium, dark, deep skin tones

CHARLOTTE TILLBURY:

Walk of No Shame - two toned berry-rose and champagne powder blush ; great for medium & dark skin tones

SURRATT:

Rougeur - shimmer deep berry powder blush ; great for dark and deep skin tones

Brilliante Idee shimmer bright orange powder blush; great for medium & dark skin tones

Classique - shimmer warm magenta powder blush; great for medium, dark, deep skin tones

COVER FX:

Sweet Mulberry - shimmer and powder duo rich berry ; great for dark & deep skin tones

RARE BEAUTY:

Grateful - matte bright rose mauve liquid blush; great for dark & deep skin tones

Faith - matte deep berry liquid blush ; great for dark & deep skin tones

Affordable Blushes

E.L.F

Caribbean - berry putty cream blush ; great for dark & deep skin tones

Dark - powder blush trio ; great for medium, dark & deep skin tones

NYX

Red Riot rich berry powder blush; great for medium, dark & deep skin tones

Boom & Boom - deep plum powder blush; great for dark & deep skin tones

Risky Business - bright rose powder blush; great for dark & deep skin tones

Juvia’s Place

The Saharan Vol. II Blush Palette - shimmery powder blush palette with 6 shades; great for medium, dark & deep skin tones

I hope you all found this post helpful. Don’t be scared of color & if you happen to apply too much color than you are comfortable with; you can always add translucent powder on top of it to mute the color a bit. This is a great way to set your cream and liquid blushes as well.

Make sure to comment, and share with someone who might find this information helpful!

Naomi T. Grant 1/29/21 Naomi T. Grant 1/29/21

The BEST Nude Lipsticks, Lip Liners & Lip Gloss for BROWN SKIN!

Finding nude lipsticks, lipgloss & lip liners were such a struggle for me back during my days working for Sephora (2015-2017) I worked in a location in Manhattan NYC that didn’t get many brown skin clients so they figured it wasn’t necessary to have the store stocked in a large range of shades. This was quite embarrassing when Naomi Campbell came into our store (Meatpacking) during Fashion Week. Her assistant came in before she did, I was thrilled to see a black woman come in & I introduced myself. I told her I was available to assist her if she had any questions. She soon called me by my name to assist her and another women she was with. That women was THE Naomi Campbell! She knew what she wanted. The brand and shade and guess what… WE DIDN’T HAVE IT IN STOCK! We didn’t have her shade in stock & we had a great conversation about the lack of inclusivity. It was a wonderful experience but made me realize that at the time, no matter how much money you had, how successful you become; if you were black (had brown skin), you were reminded that you weren’t worthy of beauty products.

Several things have changed since then. So many black owned brands are now in mainstream stores such as Target, Ulta, Sephora & more. 2020 brought a lot of struggle and pain, however, that made many people interested in supporting black owned companies which also included black owned beauty brands. Many mainstream beauty brands have also made it their mission to be more inclusive. This has lead them to increase their shade ranges and even hire more people of color in leadership positions to help with their diversity issue. These changes are still recent, but it has allowed people like myself be able to have access to more variety when it comes to beauty.

In this post, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite lipsticks, lip liner and lipsticks for brown skin people, as well as make it mission to continue to speak about the importance of inclusivity in all industries including the beauty industry that I am a part of.

The best Lip Liner for brown skin:

MAC Cosmetics CORK , Chestnut

MAC Cosmetics Eye Kohl Costa Riche (Yes, it’s a eye liner but works great as lip liner too!)

LA Girl Chocolate

Mented Cosmetics Dark Night (now sold at Target) Brown Bare, Mented 5

KKW Beauty Nude Lip Liner Nude 3

Makeup Revolution Satin Kiss Lipliner TGIF

NYX Lip Liner Espresso

NYX Slide On Lip Pencil Urban Cafe

Juvia’s Place Lux Lip Liners Scorpio , Kola , So Rare

UOMA Beauty Bad Ass MF Matte Filler Lip Liner Simone

Sephora Collection Rouge Gel Lip Liner 16 Mesquite , 17 Molasses

Charlotte Tillbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner Foxy Brown

Huda Beauty Lip Contour Matte Pencil Vixen

Best Lipsticks for Brown Skin

Marena Beauty Rouge Tarou Nude - Honey , Praline , Toffee

Juvia’s Place The Nude Velvetty Matte Lipstick Kebi , Toffee , Me

KKW Beauty Classic Icon Creme Lipstick Classic Icon 1

MAC Cosmetics Lipstick Matte Velvet Teddy , Soar , Down to a Art , Mehr , Whirl , Taupe

MAC Cosmetics Powder Kiss Lipstick Turn To The Left , Teddy 2.0 , Brickthrough , Impulsive

Mented Cosmetics Semi Matte Lipstick - Nude Lala , Foxy Brown , Brand Nude , Brown Babe

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick Mink , Toast of NY

Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick Spiced Edition

Best Lipglosses For Brown Skin

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Cream Fenty Glow , Cookie Jar , Honey Waffles

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Lumizer Hot Chocolit, FU$$Y

MAC Cosmetics Lip Glass Bittersweet Me , Spite , Lust , Dangerous Curves

Pat McGrath Lust: Gloss Flesh 6, Sunset Rose , Divine Rose , Wicked Whisper , MINI LUST : Lip Gloss Trio

NYX Butter Gloss Ginger Snap , Praline , Bit of Honey

I hope you all enjoyed this post! I hope this serves as a guide to help all my brown skin beauties find the best beauty products no matter your price point. As you may notice some of these products may be sold out. Make sure you try to get notified when they are in stock. This shows the power of our dollar.

Many of this brands buy smaller quantities of products created for brown skin because they don’t see us as their “target demographic” sadly they don’t realize that if you include is & create products for us; we will support. I made sure to include plenty of black owned companies in this post so that we can support the brands who specifically create products for us.

Be sure to use the links included in this post. I do received a small percentage of the sales. It really helps out my brand a lot. It allows me to continue to create some great content with you all. Be sure to watch my YouTube video where I share how I create these great Nude lipstick combos for you. If there are any lipsticks, Lipliners & lipglosses that I didn’t include that you love, feel free to comment them down below! Happy shopping!

Naomi T. Grant 1/27/21 Naomi T. Grant 1/27/21

My Favorite Red Lipsticks For Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day will be here in just a few days & if you’re still on the hunt for some great red lipstick options, I got you! I will list some of my all time favorite red lipsticks, liquid lipsticks & lip pencils! Even if you keep your makeup very minimal for Valentine’s Day, adding a pop of color on the lips is a great way to make your look stand out! I also want to mention most of these are LONG LASTING! I want your lipstick to last all day do matter what your lips get into 😉

Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint in UNCENSORED - This liquid lipstick has a GORGEOUS pigment, it looks amazing on all skin tones and it’s LONG LASTING! So you eat and kiss all you want without having to reapply. It’s also very comfortable on the lips which is an added bonus.

Lip Bar Vegan Matte Lip Liqueur in Boy Trouble - This is also a liquid lipstick that has a orange undertone. Great twist on the classic red lip, it’s bold & vibrant and also very comfortable on the lips. This is also a black owned brand, and you can find Lip Bar products at Target stores & online.

Dior Rouge Dior Matte Lipstick 999 - This one is for my luxe babes! This is for someone who just loves the finer things in life, they love anything that’s classic & elegant. This is for you, this matte lipstick is very pigmented, creamy & has the classic Dior packaging. This makes a statement when you take it out of your bag (especially if it’s a Lady Dior bag LOL) to apply it!

NARS Velvet Matte Lipstick Pencil in DRAGON GIRL - This is a tried & true lip color for me, it’s very very nostalgic! Before matte lipstick‘s were very trendy in the mid 2010’s, this is what I wore. I won’t be surprised if this was the first item that I ever bought from Sephora! This is a very vibrant bold red, it’s long lasting because it’s a pencil lipstick but is creamy enough to comfortably be applied on the lips!

Pat McGrath MatteTrance Lipstick Pave Celestial Divinity Collection in ELSON - Now this is LUXURIOUS HUNNY! This lipstick has this price tag for a reason. The packaging is not one to play with. This lipstick has a blue undertone which I find it great from dark & deep skin tones. This lipstick is great for anyone who loves all things extra & all things glamorous!

Mac Cosmetics Lip Pencil in Cherry - Lastly, I would love to give you guys a great lip pencil option. Most of us all know about Ruby Woo by MAC but another great lip pencil by MAC is Cherry! I think it suits brown skin much better than Ruby Woo & matches well with almost every red lipstick that I have. Great universal red lip pencil.

I hope you guys found this helpful, if you’re looking to create a full makeup look for Valentines Day, check out my Valentines Day Makeup tutorial on my YouTube Channel. I’ll post it down below.

What are some of your favorite red lipsticks? Comment them down below! Also make sure to subscribe to my mailing list to get notified every time that I post.

Naomi T. Grant 1/26/21 Naomi T. Grant 1/26/21

Amazon Current Favorites / Lifestyle Must Haves / Amazon Gift Guide

Holiday season may be over but it’s never too late to get some last minute gift for your loved ones. In todays post I’ll be sharing some great last minute gifts that you can get for your loved ones that I think everyone will love & that won’t break your bank account. I have gifted loved ones these gifts as well as gotten gifted some of these items myself.

Mug Warmer : This is not only great to keeping your hot drinks like coffee, tea & mulled wine warm but I actually is great way to warm your candles without using fire. Not only does it allow you to use our favorite candles without the fear of having any accidents that can cause a fire (yes, it may sound dramatic but some people do have that fear & that is why they don’t like candles in their home) but it also burns your candles down very slowly allowing your candles to last MUCH MUCH longer! If you have a candle that didn’t burn all the way out, you can use this mug warmer to get the most out of your candles. This gift is under $20
La Jolie Muse Scented Candle : To make the last gift extra special you can add a nice luxurious candle that doesn’t have that HUGE luxury price point. These La Jolie candles have the most beautiful packaging. These candles look like they can be sold for double the price at many of the high end department stores that we all shop at during the holidays. This is a nice way to treat you or a loved one to a luxury candle without spending too much money. The candle also comes in a beautiful gift box. This gift is under $25
Cocktail Shaker Bar Set : This gift is great for a loved one who enjoys creating yummy cocktails. Someone who during pre pandemic times, loved going to bars. Someone who even loves to cook, this is the perfect gift for them. This comes with 15 pieces & to make this gift even more personal, you can also gift them a cocktail recipe book. Both of these gifts are under $40 each.
Initial Necklace : This gift is not only very trendy right now but super sweet and personal. You can gift someone with not only their own initial but also a initial of their children. I love wearing my initial necklace with the letter “J” for my son. It makes me feel like he’s always close to me even when we are apart & in normal days, it was a great conversation starter when I used to do makeup on my clients. This gift is under $15
Zodiac Necklace : This is a great gift for someone who is very much into horoscopes and is always telling you random horoscope facts. Not only is this gift extremely thoughtful & personal but its also super affordable. This gift os under $10
Fuzzy Cross Slippers : This is a great gift fir anyone is working remotely which is many people! If you know someone who keeps up with the trend they will really enjoy these slipperier
Marbled Phone Case : These phone cases are just so cute, it also works to also protect your phone because it is very thick as well. To make this gift extra sweet, you can add a Marbled AirPod Case to make this the best gift combo. Its stylist, trendy, comes in many colors and it protects your luxury electronic devices. These gifts are both under $20 each
New York Design At Home : This is a great decor book for anyone that you know who loves home decor and design. This is a great gift for someone know has a new apartment or new home. Coffee table books are such a great way to add a great

I hope you all enjoy these amazing lifestyle items. I truly enjoy these items & I know you will too. Also check out my latest YouTube video to hear more about some of my current amazon favorite items.

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Make sure to subscribe to my mailing list & my youtube channel as well as share if you enjoy!

Naomi T. Grant 8/12/20 Naomi T. Grant 8/12/20

FENTY SKIN IS HERE & HERE'S WHAT I THINK!

“That Rihanna reign just won’t let up!” (The navy knows what it is!) Fenty Skin came and SHOOK THE TABLE in the beauty world! Honestly, Rihanna can do no wrong in my eyes. She is dominating the beauty & fashion world and I just love to see it. When Fenty Skin launched, I knew I had to try it. I love skincare almost as much as I love makeup! Good makeup doesn’t exist without having good healthy skin. I was also impressed by how inclusive the launch was. I knew she would have women of all skin tones but she also included men in her promotional video! Given my experience working in the beauty and skincare industry, I know that men buy skincare! However, I know that many skincare products aren’t marketed to men. It is an assumption that men don’t care for skin care and don’t want to be bothered with too many grooming steps but that’s not the case. Men like many women, just want products that are easy to use and that work. So this review is for anyone out there who just wants a skincare line to understand that not everyone wants to do a million steps to get good looking skin. Oh, & I would love to add that this line is vegan as well! I personally have tried skincare from all kinds of brands. From indie brand, drug store to high end. I have tried it ALL so my review will be based on a few things.

Obviously, the quality! Does it live up to the cost & does it actually do what I says it does.
The packaging. Is it easy to use? Is the quality of the packaging worth the money for the item.
The target market for this item. Who I would recommend the product for based on what the products claim to do.
How does it compare to similar items on the market for similar price points.

Before I give you my final thoughts, I will tell you what each item is and I will tell you what the website claims these products do and then give you my personal opinion on how they perform. Fenty Skin launched a 3 step skincare product routine (you can use them separately if you chose) that can be used day and night. The first item in this 3 step skincare routine is their, Total Cleans’r Remove-It-All Cleanser. It is a daily cleanser that you can use to also remove your makeup. (I will give you my thoughts on how well it removes makeup later in this post) The formula starts out like a creamy-gel like texture and with water turns into a decadent lather, “that won’t strip skin or dry you out.” Now I’m going to pull the list of “active” ingredients from the website and post below. This is what makes this product stand out from other products on the market.

Made with:

✔ Barbados cherry (acerola): Every cherry is loaded with more vitamin C than an orange to help brighten

✔ Ginkgo biloba: A tree commonly used in ancient Chinese healing techniques; helps control oil and clarify skin

✔ Green tea: Rich in antioxidants to help defend against environmental stressors

✔ Fig: A desert-loving fruit that’s rich in antioxidants

✔ Quince: A rare fruit—think apple meets pear—that thrives in rough, dry climates; infused with minerals to help condition

As you can see from the items listed above, this product has a lot of products that are rich on antioxidants and what that means is that it will help decrease the risk of sun damage. The sun is the biggest cause of premature aging for the skin. Major antioxidants are found in vitamin A, C & E. Vitamin C is commonly found in skincare products however the Barbados cherry claims to have more antioxidants than vitamin C. This is very impressive! This cleanser is very creamy & actually very conditioning on the skin while also doing a great job at removing dirt, sweat, etc. on the skin. I found that this product had a great lather. I really enjoyed that about this product. I love seeing my cleansers lather up. It makes me feel like it’s really working into my skin.

Another thing that I want to add is the scent. It has a mild vanilla scent which is fine for me. Scents are commonly found in high-end skincare products. They don’t bother me as long as it isn’t overpowering and I found the scent to be very enjoyable and added a bit of luxury to the experience. Because YES, Skincare should feel like an EXPERIENCE HONEY! Overall I really enjoyed this facial cleanser and would recommend this for anyone looking for a great everyday cleanser that leaves skin moisturized but gives you a deep clean. I want to talk about its claims on makeup removal. I wear heavy makeup and I found that I needed to double cleanse (which I always do to remove makeup). If you use this twice, it will remove your makeup very well. I still would recommend if you wear full coverage, long-wear makeup; to use an oil cleanser first and then use this cleaner to really remove your makeup properly. If you wear a minimal amount of makeup, cleaning your skin once should do the job for sure!

The next step is their Fat Water Pore-Refining Toner Serum. This product claims refine the look of pores because as we know, you cannot change the size of your pores. It also claims to reduce the look of dark spots, evens skin tone & fights shine without stripping skin. It’s also oil free so it’s a noncomedogenic, which just means that it’s doesn’t clog the skin. Now let me share what key ingredients are in this product.

Made with:

✔ Niacinamide (a form of Vitamin B3): Helps reduce the look of dark spots, even skin tone, and fight excess shine

✔ Barbados cherry (acerola): Every cherry is loaded with more vitamin C than an orange to help brighten

✔ Australian lemon myrtle & witch hazel water: Help reduce oil and refine pores

✔ Japanese raisin tree: It’s been used for over 1,000 years in Asia as a recovery treatment from long nights of partying; helps detoxify

✔ Cactus flower: Thrives in the desert; helps hydrate

✔ Green tea & fig: Rich in antioxidants to help defend against environmental stressors

The ingredient line up on this product is quite impressive. Niacinamide is the new product of 2020. Niacinamide is a water-based vitamin that works with your skin's natural substances to help improve the look of pores, tighten those lax pores, improve uneven skin, soften fine lines & wrinkles, as well as brighten the skin. Niacinamide is especially great for people with oily skin! Niacinamide works great with other active ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol, peptides, AHA’s, BHA, Vitamin C & other kinds of antioxidants. It’s water-based so it absorbs amazingly on the skin and works well under a lot of these active ingredients. This is important because if you already have a skincare regime using any of these active ingredients, you can add this into your skincare routine without any issues and you may see some faster skincare results.

Now that I filled you in on their star ingredients, I want to let you know how I feel about this product. I have to say I have never tried anything like it. It is a cross between a serum, a toner and an essence (because of the way it is applied) but It feels very light but feels great on the skin. You are suppose to just apply this on the palm of your hands and apply onto your skin. This product is thicker than an essence or toner which usually has a water like texture and has to be used with a cotton round. It feels like a cross between a serum & an essence/toner. After I use this product, my skin looks instantly hydrated and healthy! It doesn’t feel heavy or sticky on the skin which I really liked because I’m very particular on how skincare feels on my skin. I have to say this step really does put 3 steps in one! It is a toner, serum & an essence all in one step. My skin gets those active ingredients that will help improve my skin over time while also leaving my skin looking and feeling amazing!

The last step to this skincare routine is the Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen. This product claims to have light as air hydration with invisible sun production. Defends & brightens skin while reducing the look of pores. It also comes with a refillable packaging. You can get a refill on the moisturizer without buying the whole packaging again. I have to add how much I love that this product helps reduce waste buy having this packaging. Now let me post some of the key ingredients of this product.

Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen refill and case

Made with:

✔ Kalahari melon: A wild watermelon that’s rich in antioxidants and vitamins; helps hydrate

✔ Niacinamide (a form of Vitamin B3): Helps reduce the look of dark spots, even skin tone, and fight excess shine

✔ Hyaluronic acid & aloe: Help hydrate, soothe and condition

✔ Baobab: An African tree that bears nutrient-rich superfruit; helps hydrate

Now here are my thoughts. All of these products have a scent but this product in particular has the strongest scent. Now, personally, it doesn’t bother me. However, fragrances are one of the biggest irritants for the skin. So if you are someone who breaks out easily with fragrances in their products, I won’t recommend this.

Now fragrance aside, I am really impressed by this product. I have used it more than once and love not only how it applies on the skin but also how hydrating, bright and healthy my skin looks after application. It is oil-free which is a bonus for me because I have combination skin and tend to get oily in my T-zone. Therefore having an oil-free moisturizer is truly the best thing for me. On top of that, it has sunscreen. Now I have no issue using sunscreen in my daily skincare routine but I know many people do. Finding the right sunscreen that works great on your face is a challenge for many people. Most sunscreens are oily and don’t work well under makeup. Also, some sunscreens leave brown skin looking chalky and unflattering. This moisturizer doesn’t do this at all. I felt very good wearing a nice outfit with no makeup & just these skincare products on my face because it made my skin just look really freakin good and healthy!

Now let’s talk price point. I would have to say the price point in my opinion is good for the packaging and the quality of the products. Especially because the products are unlike anything I’ve tried before I definitely think that is worth the price because every product has a very unique formula. I’m on the fence on how I feel about the moisturizer with the refillable packaging because the price difference isn’t that much! To buy the product with the packaging and the refillable is $35 and to buy just the refillable product is only $30. Call me crazy but if it was $28 I think that would be a better price! I enjoyed the cleanser (retails for $25), I am someone who loves a good facial cleanser and I have tried many cleansers in the $20-$30 range and this is really great compared to some of the similar products (FRESH Soy Facial Cleanser, etc)! I have to say that I can see myself purchasing the cleanser over and over again until I find something else that I like. The Fat Water (retails for $28) alone kills my skincare routine time in half so I can see myself purchasing it again if I see improvement in my skin over time after using it.

Now it’s time to get into the target market and who I would recommend these products to. I think these products would be amazing for someone who is struggling with finding a skincare routine. These products are great for someone who really just wants to start taking care of their skin and wants to do it in a few easy steps. The target market for these products I think is young adults, people who don’t quite have a clear understanding of skincare and what they might need for their skin. I also need to add that these products work great on every skin type. Whether you have oily, dry, normal, combination skin, this line works to hydrate and balance the skin. If you are someone who has a very in-depth skincare routine using the active ingredient, you may not be amazed by the product line. Most people who have an in-depth skincare routine already have a cleanser, some sort of serum and already have a moisturizer & sunscreen to seal it off. However, if you’re not crazy about some of the products that you already have in your skincare line up, I would say try swapping out one of these items for whatever item you find that you’re missing in your skincare routine because I think you would like it a lot! I think that the skincare routine is easy to understand has great active ingredients that claim to do great things for the skin. And it is marketed very well and is extremely easy to use!

I also need to add how much I love the packaging. Everything is packaged in a way that reduces waste because you don’t need to use any of the products with a makeup wipe or apply cotton round. Also, none of these items has an open and close closure. You have to twist it open and closed which makes it a MILLION TIMES easier to use and lessens the likelihood of the product spilling while traveling or while it sits on your sink/shower.

This is all that I have to share on Fenty Skin. I hope you all enjoyed this in-depth post on my review of the Fenty skin launch. Fenty Skin is currently only available on the Fenty Beauty website. I will be posting a YouTube video showing how these products perform. Stay tuned for that. When it is posted, I will link that video down below with this post. I hope you all found all of this information helpful & will talk with you all very soon!

Naomi T. Grant 7/14/20 Naomi T. Grant 7/14/20

This or That : NARS Foundations

One of my favorite foundations on the market is NARS Luminous Long wear Foundation. NARS as a whole just gets complexion eye well. They have some of the best complexion products, with the best undertones and finishes. NARS origin was an artistry brand and they create some great items for makeup artists to add in their kit. However, if you want makeup products that give you a flawless, professional makeup look; you have to try their complexion products.

In this post and as well as the video linked below, I did a review on NARS Luminous Longwear Foundation compared to the Sheer Glow Foundation. I had never tried the Sheer Glow Foundation on myself but I have heard so many great things about it. I wanted to see if it would top the Luminous Longwear Foundation. I tried them both in the same shade (my shade is New Caledonia) and they both look the exact same color on the skin, amazing undertone. They both blended beautifully. I have a neutral undertone and find most foundations for brown skin have too much of an orange undertone. This foundation shade however is PERFECT!

One thing that I noticed that was different was the finish. Although they both claim to have a glowing skin-like finish, however, the Sheer Glow had a very natural skin-like glow to the finish. Although it is medium/full coverage; it does have a natural skin finish. It also has a natural skin glow, so if you want your skin to like natural skin BUT BETTER, this is a great option. The Luminous Longwear Foundation sets into a light powder finish. This is what allows it to last all day long. It does have a natural skin look, but it’s more polished. This is a great foundation for a full face makeup application. I also recommend if you are going to have your makeup on all day, this is a great pick. I use this foundation on my clients who are doing a photoshoot or a wedding. It looks great on camera and in person.

Although I don’t think Sheer Glow will replace my favorite Luminous Longwear Foundation, I think they both hold a purpose. I will use them both, and now regret trying Sheer Glow because now I love it. The only downside to the Sheer Glow foundation is that it doesn’t come with a pump. I hate that I have to purchase it separately. It's very inconvenient and messy when applying it, however, it’s not the end of the world. Just wanted to mention that one con to this product.

I hope you guys found this review helpful & for more details, check out my YouTube video posted below. Also, make sure to subscribe to my channel. I am almost at 1k subscribers and I am so excited to soon be able to get my videos monetized! Thanks again for checking out this post and stay tuned for more regular content!

Naomi T. Grant 6/24/20 Naomi T. Grant 6/24/20

Black Lives ALWAYS Matter

We in the black community have a responsibility to make sure our stories, our struggles & our voices are heard. With all the racial and civil unrest happening in our country, the world has been awakened to the struggles that we as black people have never been able to escape. The senseless murder of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, may be a shock to many but it is all too familiar for black people. We have sadly become numb to this. Racism affects everything we do as black people. It haunts us, however, we still are proud of who we are black people. We never fold! We always fight and find ways to prevail through the hardships.

Now is the time to educate yourself. If you had the privilege of not being directly affected by the issues that black people face every day in this country; now is the time to acknowledge your privilege and use it for good. Black people cannot fight this fight alone. We need non-black allies. There is so much power in using your voices for change, share resources, have those uncomfortable conversations with your family & friends. Protesting is important and it works! If you can’t protest, donate your money to help bail out protestors who have put their freedom and lives at risk to fight for justice for those who can no longer fight for themselves. Also, donate what you can to foundations that always work tirelessly and endlessly to get justice for black people in this country. Sign petitions! It’s free (you can donate money if you chose) and it takes seconds to sign! I will link all resources down below. This movement isn’t a trend. It won’t fade away, we can’t stop fighting. The time for change is long overdue.

Where To Donate:

Grassroots Law Project - grassrootslaw.org

Black Vision Collective - blackvisionsmn.org

Reclaim The Block - reclaimtheblock.org

NAACP Legal Defense Fund - naacpldf.org

Know Your Rights Camp - knowyourrightscamp.com

American Civil Liberties Union - aclu.org

Minnesota Freedom Fund - minnesotafreedomfund.org

Breonna Taylor Memorial Fund - gofundme.com/f/9v4q2-justice-for-breonna-taylor

George Floyd Memorial Fund - gofundme.com/f/georgefloyd

The Bail Project - https://bailproject.org

Petitions To Sign:

Justice For Breonna Taylor

Justice for Ahmad Aubrey

Justice for George Floyd

Justice for Elijah McClain

Movies / Series To Watch:

When They See Us
13th
Fruitvale Station
Just Mercy
The Hate U Give
Malcolm X
Blackkklansman
Detroit
12 Years a Slave
Selma
The Help
Do The Right Thing
Hidden Figures
The Best of Enemies
The Birth of a Nation
Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner
Loving
Marshall
Da 5 Bloods

Books To Read:

So You Want To Talk About Race - Ijeoma Oluo
The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness - Michelle Alexander
White Fragility - Robin Djangelo
Between The World And Me - Ta-Nehisi Coates
Stamped From The Beginning - Ibram X. Kendi
Racism Without Racist - Eduardo Bonilla-Silva
Their Eyes Are Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

Naomi T. Grant 6/24/20 Naomi T. Grant 6/24/20

Buy Black! Black Owned Makeup Must Haves PT 2

Hey my loves,

Here is the Part 2 to my black owned beauty brands that I recommend you all try out. Once again, I have a Youtube video that talks about all these brands and products in depth. If you all are interested, please check it out. I will feature all the items below as well. All the items listed are items that are either their most popular items or items I want to try or have tried & loved. Support black owned businesses by shopping these black owned brands. Enjoy & Buy Black

Brands & Items Featured:

Danessa Myricks :

Vision Cream Cover

https://www.danessamyricksbeauty.com/product/vision-cream-cover?attribute_size=Full&attribute_pa_shade=n01

Evolution Powder

https://www.danessamyricksbeauty.com/product/evolution-powder?attribute_pa_color=4-5

ColorFix

https://www.danessamyricksbeauty.com/product-category/colorfix

Illuminating Veil

https://www.danessamyricksbeauty.com/product/illuminating-veil?attribute_pa_shade=desire

Beauty Bakerie:

Flour Setting Powder