FASHION

My favorite makeup look this summer has been very natural.

With the summer heat, sweat dripping down my face, and my pores more susceptible to being clogged, I’ve shied away from heavy products.

Thick day creams; I’m good on it.
Full coverage foundations; I think not!

Honestly most days, I just like a little mascara, some lip gloss, and a quick swipe of one of my favorite highlighters. It gives you the perfect “I’m confidently glowing in this sun and my skin poppin’ look” and spares you skin from unwanted breakouts.

So, after cleaning out my makeup and recognizing the slew of highlighters I own, I got the idea to pass along some of the best I’ve used to date for you all to add a bit to your collection.

Nars Illuminator (Orgasm)

COST: $30

I don’t have these highlighters in any specific order, but I think this subconsciously came first cause it was one of the first liquid highlighters I started using.

It’s so smooth, perfectly pigmented, and has an amazing smell. (Odd pro, but it really does smell like citrus.) My favorite part about this product is that you can layers it a bit. With a tiny dab, you can add a sheer illuminance to your skin, or use a thicker layer for a more noticeable pop!

Makeup Revolution Liquid Highlighter (Liquid Champagne)

COST: $9

So clearly there is a big difference in cost here. Mainly due to the fact that NARS is a high-end brand and even their smallest travel sized items are on the pricey side.

Yet, fun fact, Make Up Revolution is actually completely cruelty-free and most of their products are vegan! (This highlighter falls under that category, pretty cool right?!)

It comes with a cute dropper and is great not only as a highlighter but also as an additive to your foundation. I like mixing my foundation, a bit of Clinique’s Moisture Surge Moisturizer, and this together to create a tinted moisturizer with an added glow!

ColorFX Glitter Drops (Aurora)

COST: $44

This highlighter also comes with a dropper as an applicator and for good reason. Out of all of these highlights, this is hands down the most pigmented.

That can be a blessing and a curse. If used properly, you will look like a blossoming unicorn from the fairy forest, get too glitter happy and you will look like that unicorn’s sparkling poop walking around on two feet.

Again, you can use this as a highlight, an addition to your foundation, or even use it as a cute pop to your eyeshadow!

This product is also cruelty-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, fragrance-free, and vegan!

Milk Highlighter (Everyday Dewy Highlighter)

COST: $24

Vegan. Smooth. Moisturizing. Multi-use.

This product is good for any skin type and its ingredient list explains why it smells so yummy! Mango butter, coconut oil, avocado oil and other cruelty-free products were blended up for this light reflecting concoction.

You can use one easy swipe and add a subtle glow or layer it up for a more intense look.

This is the only highlighter on the list that isn’t liquid, so if you prefer an easy stick applicator, this is for you. Don’t forget what’s inside though, it emulsifies easily and blends well.

Out of all four, I would say:
-Milk is perfect for every day as advertised and looks great even on a fresh face with no other makeup.

-Revolution is a wonderful choice and being that it’s $9, it is a great deal. If you are looking for a cheap version of NARS grab this one, or even the liquid highlighter from NYX.

-NARS is a boujee brand people love so if you can afford it, get it. It is a wonderful quality and leaves behind a sheer luminance you will love.

-ColorFX the priciest, yet the product that will last the longest. I was nervous to purchase this, but even 2 months into using it I am not even halfway through. A little goes a long way.

I hope you guys glow all summer long, enjoy these suggestions, and comment below what your favorite highlighter is!

Make sure to check out my post from last week on my favorite Aveda products for the summer!

PSA! Lil Mama has came all the way thru with this one! Alot of people don’t give her the credit she deserves and being that me and her are around the same age so I will always be rocking with her ! Like come on she is beautiful, smart and her recent video and song is straight fire! This summer my shoe game might just be looking like my boo game !

Enjoy this newness from this beauty!

Photographer: J Da Photog
Makeup Artist: Zeta Banx
Hair Stylist: Zeta Banx
Wardrobe Stylist: Zeta Banx

Name: Zeta Banx
Age: 25
Nationality: Black
Born/Raised: Philly, PA
Zodiac: Aquarius
Height: 5’1
Measurements: 34-24-35
Website: Onlyfans.com/zetabanx02
Social Media Links: Ig: @IAmZetaBanx SC: @ZetaBanx
Favorite Quote: Don’t just be grate, be grateful!

For those just seeing you for the first time. What can you tell us about yourself? I’m very friendly, like to have fun, and enjoy being wet.
What sets you apart from other models? I been modeling for over 17 years, from pageants to runway to commercial to urban n videos.
Sometimes modeling comes with a lot of baggage. Do you feel that you’ve been misperceived? No, I think I represent myself very well and I’m not interested in who thinks differently.
What do you hope to accomplish in the next 5 years? To have an accomplished business and working toward a family
Have you/or would you ever consider mixing business with pleasure? No
If you were looking for a relationship what type of person would spark your interest? I like a person with a great personality, beautiful teeth, good head on they shoulders and knows what they want.
What are the three most important things in your life? Family, Health and Work
If you could only choose one person, who is your inspiration and why? Marilyn Monroe, she G.O.A.T.
If you could change 3 things about yourself, what would it be? Nothing I love who I am and my growth.
What would you say is your best feature and why? My smile it shines even in the dark lol
What is playing in your (iPod, iPhone, Android, music device)/Favorite song (currently)? Post Malone Patient
How do you get into character for a photoshoot? I like to listen to music and think of if the camera was my man
What’s something that most people would be surprised to find out when they actually meet you? I’m short lol, it never fails.
Before we go do you have any last words? Thank you for letting me be apart of something great and thank you for everyone that supports me

Big Sean was down with the Adidas family since 2011, but he has since found greener pastures over at PUMA. Taking to social media yesterday, the G.O.O.D. Music rapper revealed that he’d signed with the sneaker company that is home to Rihanna, Kylie Jenner and more, writing:

“Excited to officially announce that I am now apart of the @PUMA family. I Decided that this was the best path for me creatively, and we’ve been hard at work making sure this first collection is something special. Let’s get it. #2018.”

I Had a chance to meet the wonderful Plus Size Model and creator, who goes by the name Bigsexz, omg she is killing the game. Bigsexz is not only beautiful but very down to earth, her brand is really on point. Couple weeks back she visited my hometown Chicago all the way from Detroit. She had a meet & greet @addictionsluxe 130 Madison St. Oak Park, Il after Bigsexz came in for an interview on Plus Size Pretty Radio which airs every Friday, from 8-10pm on www.que4.org Hosted By Nieisha Bibbs, life was spoke that night and I just know every woman should lend an ear and listen to what she has to say.

Kalif Johnson also was known as Bigsexz was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. BIGSEXZ4REAL earned the name Bigsexz because she is super curvy and always keeps it sexy. Bigsexz started her modeling career in 2015. Debuting in the “Ashley Stewart love your curves tour.” Following her runway experience, she went to do local Detroit fashion shows such as Walk, Dream, Curv Bella, and Stylez. Through these opportunities, she was endorsed to be the modeling face for Curv Bella then and Fashionn Junkiee.

A few months later, Bigsexz started two internet blog shows, “Statuesque” focusing on curvy girl conversation. and “Bigsexz from the D” where she interviewed local and visiting artist. But she didn’t stop there. She soon opened her photography company “Bigsexz Imagez” She wanted to learn both sides of the production not just the stage as a model but, behind the scenes. This leads her into her latest project the “Bigsexz from the D calendar” which showcases local designers and models. Then in 2017, she had the opportunity to be a judge in the ” Finding Ashley Stewart 2017 ” tour when Ashley Stewart came back to Detroit.  Through her journey she charmed and encouraged the plus size community, to be beautiful and love yourself, no matter what point you are in your life or what size you are!

Instagram @BIGSEXZ4REAL

Twitter @BIGSEXZ4REAL

Go Check Her Website Click Here 

Kirk Remekie is the CEO and founder of “Making It Look Kool” apparel also known as M.I.L.K. Kirk created M.I.L.K Apparel in 2016. M.I.L.K is a family brand geared towards sport, education and positive lifestyle. The goal for M.I.L.K is to become a household brand known for giving back to communities, schools, hospitals etc. Kirk is also the creator of “Making It Look Kool” which is also a vendor for the Dept of education currently providing Kool shimmer uniforms for a few schools. To help expand the brand we are currently involved in :

-DOE-Provide Kool shimmer school uniforms

-Sponsor local Community events

-Various Pop up shops & fashion shows

Social media @ www.milklifestyle.com, www.instagram.com/milkapparel , www.twitter.com/MILK_Apparel

Take a look at some of his pieces below and click on the website link above to purchase.

After a very public split from husband Carmelo Anthony, La La Anthony had everyone’s attention and wow has she gave them something to talk about!

First breaking blog headlines with her sexy vacation pics she shared with Instagram followers, Anthony had us all wondering what else she had up her sleeves.

Next, Anthony delivered a sizzling topless scene in the Starz series Power that got her all the attention she could handle, “I’m glad we’re talking about this, I want to address this once and for all. First of all, the problem is people don’t know how to separate La La from LaKeisha. That’s my character on Power, my character on Power is currently in a relationship with Tommy. When you’re in a relationship with someone, you have sex with them,” Anthony stated firmly on The Breakfast Club.

Now, Vogue Fashion has announced the launch of Anthony’s fashion collection exclusively offered in Lord & Taylor stores. Anthony’s collection offers all the things a girl loves about her jeans without all the things she hates, [“I love jeans that don’t pinch around the waist,”]. Vogue Fashion  The collection is offered in sizes 0 to 24, keeping all shapes and sizes in mind. It features five styles of jeans and a small assortment of tops and hoodies. According to Fashion Week Daily ladies have nothing to worry about when is comes to the look of Anthony’s collection,” The collection has been designed to incorporate stretch denim, novelty denim, distressed materials, zipper detailing, asymmetrical hems, frayed details, rolled cuffs jeans, along with fashion denim components.”

Anthony will be having her official launch party Wednesday September 6th at Lord & Taylor’s New York 5th Ave location.

Check out Anthony’s full interview with The Breakfast Club Here:

When your 20 year old daughter tells you “Daddy you have to listen to this artist….” with all of her enthusiasm, you have no choice but to drop everything and give her your undivided attention. The back story is that she was attending a listening party and she got there extremely early to find a young man setting up stage and lighting. As she engaged in conversation with the young man she became intrigued by his views and outlook on certain things. They ended their small talk without any exchange of names. She gradually attended the party to the progression of the featured artist for the evening. As they introduce the featured artist, she then made the connection with the moment of clarity. Louis Picasso was the gentleman from earlier setting up his own show. She was even more impressed with the quality of his music.

Come to find out, he’s well known in Ypsilanti Michigan and has a commendable following. With his latest single Gold, he’s booked for a few dates across the country including some dates in California.

It is one thing to know a person by their art…but to get to know the authentic person behind the art is something totally different altogether. When I speak to masterful musicians, I am so amazed by their humility and dedication to their craft. This conversation gave me hope for my daughters generation. So much is lost in translation based on age differences that when two people put aside those prejudices, they find they have a lot more in common than not. Speaking to this young man made it refreshing that he is in my daughters circle. And Oh! did I forget to mention she is helping with his artist management now?

Ladies and gentleman… Louis Picasso

OTT: I’m always interested in the inner workings of an independent artists journey considering I’m one myself. So tell us how did you get into music?

LP: As with a lot of musicians, my entire family is involved with music. Everybody sings, everybody plays and instrument, so I was kind of born into it. However, I didn’t start writing music until about 2008. It was like another way to express myself verses being out here doing a lot of wrong, music was my sole outlet.  Then about 2013 I started to take it more serious.  I started learning about music theory and the history of music and different genres of music I wasn’t listening to before…so that’s how it started.

OTT: Because there are limited paths to success in the music business today, I see you’ve taken the approach of a Lamar, Cole, or even names like Lupe and Badass. What brought about your eclectic sound?

LP: My approach to the music always zoned in on lyricism vs the beat which is not the approach most people take. The majority are moved by the beat or the flow. I took a liking to B.I.G. because of his wordplay. Biggie was the first album that I went through and fully dissected and I got that from my dad when I was in middle school. And I just admitted I was feeling my dad’s music so please forgive that crime. (It’s human nature to rebel against your parents music LOL) Yeah but I was really feeling how Biggie put a song together and from listening to more rappers like him and Nas, I noticed how they put different feelings and emotion into their stories. Because you see… when you’re creating, you really don’t know how it’s gonna come out, but through their influence, I learned how to trust my feelings and expression.

OTT: Tell us about your evolution as an artist and finding your own voice.

LP: Well it’s like you said up until 2008, my interpretation of music was from everything that I listened to prior, so in that, there is a lot of mimicking and trying different styles. It took a lot of changing man because you have to be true to yourself and your art, but you also have to produce something your audience will love and appreciate.

OTT: Great transition! Without giving away your business secrets lol, how did you develop your respectable following?

LP: Weeelll…hahaha, I was tired of being told no when it came to my vision. Necessity is the mother of creation and invention so I was forced to think outside the box when it came to my marketing and building relationships. I remember wanting to rock at certain shows and being told no. I remember wanting to record in certain studios and being declined. I got fed up and started doing it on my own. You have to have faith behind your ideas and your craft. Because if you don’t, you’re going to get discouraged and eventually give up. You can put tens of thousands of dollars into your project but without faith you don’t have much. This is why you have the Missy’s and Pharell Williams and Timbalands that are masters at what they do because they took the time to learn everything on their own and they were hungry for that knowledge despite the roadblocks.

The last show I got told no to, it left a bad taste in my mouth so I created what is called a Pop-Up show at Third Rail. That was my very first show and it sold out the first week based on how we promoted it and previewed it. Well before the show, people were impressed with our presentation which made them interested. That’s a key right there. Your presentation has to be so appealing that it makes people want to check it out. The buzz was so real that I just took that formula and applied it to every single show.  I put my all into and keep my faith in tact.

OTT: Being that you are from Michigan, what is your take on the house that J Dilla built and his contribution to your home state and just music itself?

LP: The first time I heard about Dilla was around 2008 and a producer friend of mind  let me listen to him and it took a while to get into my system because I wasn’t really into that boom-bap soulistic style. But one thing about music is you have to open your soul up to it in order to receive it and once I did, I really see the time and effort he took to learn music and develop his sound and it made a huge impression on me.

OTT: Let’s talk about your project now…what is GOLD?

LP: Gold….. I want to describe it as an opportunity. With this project I want Gold to pertain to worth as in worth of self not so much materialistic . I dropped Gold around April 1. I wanted to get a bunch of creators around the area and like put together an orchestra that would display to the audience the worth of these independent artist in the area. That is what I wanted to display on Gold and then again my entire album.

OTT: Lastly, where can old and new fans purchase your music?

LP: Apple Music man, they can purchase the single on iTunes and mostly all of your favorite other steaming companies. Please get the word out and it is definitely appreciated. They can see my videos on YouTube under Louis Picasso and they can follow me on Instagram under @LouisPicasso. Thank you for having me fam.

OTT: We appreciate you as well. Best wishes on all of your music endeavors.

@DJLAYNELUV

@StraightOfficialMag

@FleetDJs