Is Black Face Black Skin?

When America’s Next Top Model aired Episode 9 of Cycle 13, about biracial cultures, Tyra Banks faced heavy criticism for using poor taste in portraying race.

Tyra’s photo shoot meant to capture the beauty of biracial or mixed peoples of different cultures. Each of the six models was assigned two different nationalities, then makeup and clothes worked their magic. Innocent, right? Nope. The charge? Blackface.

Blackface was theatrical makeup used by whites in the 19 ^thcentury to portray blacks. Whites used burnt corn or black shoe polish to darken their faces and exaggerate their lips, depicting blacks in demeaning and humiliating stereotypes like “happy go-luck” darky and “coon.” That was Blackface’s context. That was never Tyra’s.

Her shoot celebrated the beauty of brown skin, mixed heritage and diverse cultures. Tyra showed the world how unique, how intriguing, how diverse black skin really is. Blackface? I don’t think so.

Thanks Tyra.

Beware Idols

"Beware idols." Sound biblical advice? Yes. Good marital advice? Apparently so. It's being reported by numerous newspapers and Star Magazine that former American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino is dating a married who, after meeting Barrino, left his wife and children. The alleged man, Antwaun Cook, met the singer while working at a TMobile store and then upped and left his family to move in with Fantasia.

It's sad to see this happen between "regular" people, non-celebrities who for whatever reason leave their families and marriages to be together. But when celebrities do it, it has a touch of "the rules don't apply." This guy may be more than in love or in lust, he may be star struck and he may be seeing dollar signs. And to top it off, Fantasia needs to remember what so many have learned the hard way: when you meet someone who leaves their spouse for you, how much can you hold onto them yourself?

A Long way from 21 Jump Street...

Well ladies, wait no longer. Fellas, keep your ladies away from the magazine rack. People magazine has voted actor Johnny Depp as the Sexiest Man of 2009. Those of us who remember the 80's will remember when this guy wasn't the smooth and swaggering pirate or the hat-wearing, French-living thespian. We remember when he was the baby-faced detective undercover in high schools in 21 Jump Street.

I even remember when Freddy Krueger took Depp as one of his first victims in the original Nightmare on Elm Street!

So what makes this guy so sexy?

He isn't buff and cut. He isn't tall or charming. However, having been around women who love Depp (and I think that includes my wife), it's his laid back way. He carries himself like he really just don't give too much of a damn about anything. He's not the guy that would chase a girl, carry her books, text her to ask her out. He's the kind that would just say "We're going out" and if the girl was cool with it, cool. If not? He didn't give a second thought. This is also the way of the bad boy that dated your girl in high school or college. Maybe we could learn a thing or two from Gilbert Grape.

Congrats Johnny

Oprah is on her OWN

After much debacle, world renowned talk show Queen, Oprah Winfrey, has called it quits. Many fans came out to be apart of history when she announces her news to the world today that she will end her contract with ABC in September of 2011. Giving 25 years of her life to the world, Oprah will now pursue headlining her "OWN" network. Many will miss spending early mornings with the influential television host. Flair TV congratulates Oprah on her decision and wishes her the best!

Congrats to Our Featured Writer: Chad Hunter

Flair TV's very own featured writer Chad Hunter was a guest on Garrard McClendon Live recently. Hunter had the opportunity to spread the word about his increasingly popular radio show and blog: “Real Talk with the Innerwife.”

(View Chad In Action)

Chad Hunter is an author & host of the weekly BlogTalkRadio show “Real Talk with the Innerwife.” He has contributed to AskMen.com, Demand Studios, Baton Rouge Parenting and written for Garrard McClendon of CLTV’s Garrard McClendon Live. Hunter has been featured on Iseecolorlive.net, a live on-air show from Michael Baisden’s social network and Alan Roger Curry’s “Mode One” talk show.

Congrats Chad!

Some of that White House Magic

Many congratulations are in order to French-born, New York-based designer Sophie Theallet for winning the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America)/Vogue Fashion Fund design award on Monday night. If her name doesn't ring a bell immediately, the designer's young label caught the eye of a very fashionable First Lady, Michelle Obama, who has worn Sophie Theallet's clothing on more than a few occasions in the past year.


Theallet is also known for going against the norms in the fashion world as she only choose to cast black models for her 2009 Spring runway show. The designer, who describes her look as "Bohemian luxe", has won 200,000 and a year of mentoring from the CFDA/ Vogue. This should be a sign of great things to come for Ms. Theallet in the future. Need proof? Just see last years recipient, Alexander Wang.

Are you Ready?

Tonight is part two of the season finale of Project Runway. The season began with 16 designers and now they are down to the final 3.

We have Irina Shabayeva, the New York-based designer who is definitely not there to make friends. In the last episode, Irina was forced to revamp her T-shirts as she had been using copyrighted material. But, she has always been in the top and she is in it to win it.

Then there is Carol Hannah Whitfield, the young designer from North Carolina, who has constructed beautiful dresses. Bad luck struck Carol Hannah in the last episode when she became sick with a stomach virus. Can she can pull through and take the prize?

And Althea Harper, the designer from Dayton, Ohio and she has been consistent with her designs and pretty low-key. Could she be the dark horse and pull an upset?

Who are you rooting for?

Face of Courage

Charla Nash’s story is so overwhelming to hear! This woman has endured so much within less than a year. In February Charla was brutally attacked by a chimpanzee that her neighbor boarded as a pet. After a plea of help from her neighbor to catch the escaped house mate, Charla arrived to the home. However, before Nash knew it Travis, the chimpanzee, viciously attacked her. The attack left her face completely mauled and with a new way of life. Watching this story on Oprah was compelling and inspirational. Although, many may rudely protest but there is a new face of courage and that is one of Charla Nash.

Texting Ban to Come to Illinois

We’ve all done it in the car. Messing with the radio, getting way too involved in a song, dabbing on mascara, and yes, using the cell phone – all while driving.

But all that pales in comparison to the mother of all distractions, right? Texting while driving! Well, along with New Year resolutions, Illinois will ring in a texting-ban on January 1, and texting while driving will be illegal, as in 18 other states, like Connecticut and California.

Virginia Tech conducted a study measuring the length of time drivers took their eyes off the road to send or receive a text. Ready? Nearly five seconds –enough time to cover more than the length of a football field at about 55 mph.

But “Distraction” knows no boundaries. So, cut back on eating, don’t apply makeup, control the kids, and give the cell a break.

Basically, when driving, do one thing … Drive.

BLACK OR WHITE? : Sammy Sosa's New Change

Losing 30 pounds in 3 weeks, new extreme hair cut, or botched plastic surgery; neither of these issues was the topic when Sammy Sosa presented himself during an interview this week. It seems Sosa has gone a shade lighter, on his skin that is, and everybody can not help but to take notice.

Sosa explained that the transition is due to a “bleaching cream” that he is using for skin softening. The disgust associated with being a beautiful shade of dark is overwhelming in many ethnic communities. Tyra Banks has had many shows surrounding the controversial issue but for the first time we are stunned by the blatant display of self loathing by a highly recognizable public figure. What do you think of his change?

Movie Review: Precious (Based on the Novel 'PUSH' by Sapphire)

Oprah, Tyler Perry, Mo'Nique, Mariah Carey, Paula Patton
This movie has been stamped with the seal of approval from all the of powerful urban movers and shakers. Since the moment Oprah raved about it on her show earlier in the year, many movie goers waited with anticipation for Precious to hit theatres. The creators had many intrigued with the appeal of providing a movie that portrayed African-Americans in pivotal roles, since The Color Purple or Beloved. The movie Precious has stepped up and done a fantastic job at doing just that!

PRECIOUS is based on the novel ‘PUSH’ by Sapphire and is described by Lionsgate as "vibrant, honest and resoundingly hopeful film about the human capacity to grow and overcome."

Set in Harlem in 1987, it is the story of Claireece “Precious” Jones (Gabourey Sidibe), a sixteen-year-old African-American girl born into a life no one would want.

Viewing the movie after reading the intense novel, it was confirmed that reading the book first would be more of an emotional experience in order to truly grasp the plight of the main character. Although supporting actress, Mo'Nique, was phenomenal in carrying the plight of the main characters struggles, a sense of connection with some of the characters became quite hard. However, if it was the creator, Lee Daniels, and author, Sapphire, intent to make you feel compelled to appreciate your life, love, and faith then this movie deserves an award.

Rihanna & Chris Brown: Were her initial reactions wrong?

R & B singer Rihanna stated in recent interview with British newspaper "The Daily Mirror" and ABC's "Good Morning America," that after the assault that broke both headlines and the relationship between her and fellow singer Chris Brown, she "went back." The singer now views her return to Brown after the beating in which he assaulted her, as being "wrong."

The incident was shocking to the public and, from the tone of the interviews, also Rihanna herself. We all can think of someone who is in a destructive relationship and keeps going back. What do you do in this situation when it's someone you know? While it's a knee-jerk reaction to tell them to get out, statistically, abusive relationships become a yo-yo of the abused leaving the abuser only to return. So does it become a wasted breath, especially when you could end up the "bad guy" for standing against the abused's "lover?" Did Rihanna's return to Brown make her weak or just human?

*photo: ABC/Ida Mae Astute

Beyonce Honored by Billboard

The beautiful and talented Beyonce Knowles is being honored by Billboard with The Woman of The Year Award. She'll be honored on October 2 in New York at the 2009 Billboard Women in Music Event for her successes, innovations and accomplishments over the past year.



“Beyoncé is multi-platinum artist and a multi-talented woman who clearly embodies the qualities of excellence and achievement that the Billboard Woman Of The Year Award was created to honor,” said Bill Werde, Billboard’s Editorial Director, about Beyoncé, who is the only performer in the 51-year history of the Billboard Hot 100 to top the chart for 10 weeks or more with a group and as a solo artist. “She has not only influenced pop culture with her hit songs and signature dance moves, but has inspired women everywhere with her unique style, business savvy and dedication to charitable causes.”

The Billboard Women in Music Event celebrates the most powerful and talented women in the music business. Its also in conjunction with the Women In Music Power Players List which honors women executives who are paving the way in the music industry.

Chrisette Michelle

This young lady said she's learning something new about her vocal chords everyday; a testament to her creativity and total dedication to her craft.



If you don't have Chrisette Michelle's new album, go this instant a get it. It is amazing. We love Miss Michelle here at Flair so here's her video and single off of her Epiphany album, What You Do.

Go check it out! Video for What You Do

Must Haves

Ok so summer is ending and I feel it is my duty to give you a list of "must-haves" in your closet for the fall. I'm not going to ramble on so here ya go!!

You must have a black jacket. It is imperative to the life of your wardrobe. It must be funky, fashionable and functional. Keep it hot with some sexy boots and a fab bag.

The Jacket

The Bag

What we be, ladies, without a sexy handbag. I say go big don't be afraid of this trend. Fashion and functionality go hand and hand. You can throw everything into a monster bag. You know how much stuff we carry unnecessarily sometimes. Don't try to match the bag with what your wearing. Spruce it and find a fun color to make your look pop.



The Cardigan

I don't care what color you have it in or how many you purchase. Ladies!!! For the love of all that is righteous in the world make sure have cardigans in your closet. Cardigans are classic. They fit very feminine at the waistline and are comfortable to boot. You can even wear a sexy tee underneath. They are versatile because you can wear them at work or just on the go.



The Jeans

Nothing is more sexy than a form fitting jean. No your body type ladies and what works for you! The jeans I recommend are the Julie jeans (pictured below). They are comfortable and flattering. The skinny's that you can cuff are a must have. They run 37 inches. I'm a tall girl so I'm loving that. If these are a little out of your price range, check Forever 21 they have inexpensive, great style skinny's to rock with your boots.

The Boots

I don't think I need to say anymore where the walkers are concerned. THEY MUST BE FIRE!! In case you are wondering about the gorgeousness below. Those would be thigh-high Louboutin's. I know. I dropped a tear too. Do what you can with the budget you are working with, just make sure the boots are the hotness!!



So there you have it. The hottest must-haves for fall. Go get your Flair on!!

Jigga's Concert Live Courtesy of Fuse TV

Ok so everybody is on pins and needles waiting for Jay-Z's highly anticipated Blueprint 3 album. I know I am!!

He has an upcoming concert at Madison Square Garden in NYC...sold out quickly I'm sure, but don't fret because Fuse TV will be airing the concert live.



Fuse TV released a statement on Monday confirming that it will air Jay-Z's concert to celebrate Blueprint 3's release. The concert will also benefit the New York Police & Fire Widows' & Children's Benefit Fund, September 11.

It will air live September 11. Check FUSE for more details.

It's going to be fire!!

Queen and Common: Just Wright

Miss Flair girl herself, Queen Latifah and Chicago's own - in all of his sexiness - Common are set to star in a film together opposite Paula Patton (Idlewild), Miss Clair Huxtable, Phylicia Rashaad and Foxy Brown Pam Grier.





The romantic comedy, Just Wright, is about a physical therapist that falls for a basketball player she is helping to recover from a career-threatening injury. The 2 rapper/actors as been spotted on the set in NYC. The film is directed by Sanaa Hamri look out for it to hit theaters in 2010.

Naptural: Happy to be Nappy

I was recently watching an episode of the Tyra Banks show and they were discussing natural hair versus relaxed hair. There has always been this divisive line in the African American community where this issue is concerned. Can I get a job with natural hair? What will people think of me if I wear my hair natural?



Well being that I've been natural for 5 years I can just tell you that it is the most freeing experience. Noooooo....I'm not bashing the sister's with relaxed hair. Everyone's hair experience, whether relaxed or natural, is different. What I've been noticing is more and more African American women wearing their hair natural. For so many years black women have been so uneducated about hair care. Whichever way you decide to rock your tresses you must take care of your hair.

Here's a little tip most people don't know so get ready.

HAIR IS DEAD!!

Hair consists 90% of a biological polymer, α-keratin, and about 10% water, which modifies its mechanical properties. This α-helically coiled protein is further wound into supermolecular coiled-coil microfibrils, many of which are held together with a protein glue to form long macrofibrils, which are packed inside dead hair cells about 100 µm long by 3 µm across. Several of these associate to form one strand of hair, which is covered with tiny surface scales.

Hair that is outside of the scalp is dead. All of the shampoos and conditioners that contain vitamins and minerals serve no purpose for your hair or scalp. You can't make anything dead healthy. Think about it!! Shampoo and conditioner are not absorbed through your skin and who's going to drink shampoo and conditioner? HA!
There are some shampoos and conditioners that are pH balanced so they will assist in maintaining moisture and will also keep the hair clean.

THE BIG CHOP

When I went natural. I came home took some kitchen shears and chopped it all off. Now I don't recommend anyone do that go to a professional so that they can cut your hair properly, but for me it seemed right at the time. For all you natural hair-wearers the key is moisture and conditioner. Your hair is drier so it needs an agent to help ease some of the breakage. Also wrap your hair in a silk scarf when you go to sleep. Trust me! The cotton pillowcases are pulling more of your hair out than naturally should come out.

HOMEMADE CONDITIONER

After researching to find the perfect conditioner I created my own.

3 teaspoons of Olive Oil
2 teaspoons of honey
1 teaspoon of a leave-in conditioner that works for you
A few drops of Rosemary Oil
2 teaspoons of Vegetable Glycerin (You can find it at your local health store)

I absolutely love this combo. It makes my hair super soft and moisturized so go forth all my naptural and relaxed queens and learn your hair type and what works for you!!

Saph-FIRE

Summer is coming to a close, but being on point has nothing to do with the season.
For those of you ladies, and fellas, who where make up let me share a little secret. Saphirre is in.



Above is Maybelline's Sapphire Ice. All of the purple hues are not out of style yet. Purple is vibrant, fun and flirty. It will definitely make you stand out.

The eyes can be accessories of course. Get whatever mascara works for you to lengthen your eye lashes. Then Add the Sapphire Ice. It has a bit of shimmer and shine to make your eyes pop.

Remember the eyes are the windows to the soul!! You might as well make them look pretty.

Will You Be There Tribute

I don't know about you but I am still not over the fact that Michael is gone. What I love more than anything is that the black community has been showing the King of pop so much love since his passing on June 25 of this year.

Michael said he wanted to be immortal through his music. Mission accomplish. His music and legacy will live on forever as the tributes & rememberance continue.

Whitney Houston, Usher,Wyclef and other artists are set to remake Michael's "Will You Be There" tribute. All of the proceeds from the track will go to the Larry King Cardiac Foundation and another charity.



We know Michael was the greatest entertainer that ever lived but he was a humanitarian and not only did he give inspiring music to the world, but embodied the spirit of giving.

R.I.P to the King

Here's Michael performing "Will You Be There Live"