You’ve got to try this…!

It’s a new year so why not try something new! Are you into beauty products, new foods, or how about a new destination? Well, I’m here to give you a look into what’s new and why I think you should give it a try too. 😉

1. TABITHA BROWN’S VEGAN TRUFFLE GARLIC SPREAD available at Target

Now I’m not a vegan but I love trying options that I could possibly substitute with better choices and my friends know that I love me some truffle. So I was immediately sold on this option because truffle makes everything taste better.

It’s similar to an aioli and its not very strong which is nice. It’s fluffy and light and goes well on a burger, (vegan or not).

It’s available for purchase at Target stores where available. Because this was a popular drop/collaboration a lot if not most of the items have sold out already. But grab it if you find some!

https://www.target.com/p/vegan-truffle-garlic-spread-8-1oz-tabitha-brown-for-target/-/A-86259679

2. GOLD DAISY EARRINGS from H&M

These were a cute find at my local H&M store here in Chicago. There were not a new jewelry drop from the collection but it was clearance item and I couldn’t resist. They are new to me. Lol. Because of them being a clearance item, I can only imagine they’ve sold out online but you never know. You might get lucky.

I love a great gold statement earring to dress up if not add to an outfit. These were $6 when I bought them but are usually $12.99. I highly recommend for my fashionistas and stylish bloggers for these earrings are a true staple and don’t cost much.

https://www2.hm.com/en_us/productpage.1087448001.html

3. HONEY VANILLA CHEERIOS at Jewel Osco

It’s giving a new flavor! Ok, so Cheerios is like Doritos; they come out with a new flavor pretty much every season and you can never know what flavor they will come out with next.

This Honey Vanilla flavor though is amazing – it’s sweet and hearty because it’s Cheerios, hello! The vanilla flavor doesn’t overpower the cereal and will make you want a second bowl for sure.

You can buy it at Jewel Osco or at stores where cereal is sold.

4. ORTEGA MINI TACOS SHELLS from Jewel Osco

It’s Taco Tuesday and I looooovvveeee a good taco shell variety option. I’ve been an Ortega girl since I was young and they never disappoint with their products. This time around they offer a mini taco for my taco lovers so we don’t feel guilty about eating 3… or 7!

I purchased these mini shells at Jewel Osco as well and loved that they are so small. They’re pretty much bite-size tacos. Make sure to grab you some the next time you go grocery shopping and have fun with it!

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Top 5 dessert destinations in Chicago you must try

If you didn’t know already, Chicago is one of the food capitals in the country. And when it comes down to dessert, we bring it to a whole ‘nother level. From ice cream experiences to puffy waffles cones, we’ve got you covered.

STREETERVILLE

1. Museum of Ice Cream – Chicago

Located at 435 Michigan Ave. Suite G, Chicago, IL 60611

Operating hours: Mon, Wed-Fri 11 am -7 pm Sat 9:30 am – 7 pm Sun 9:30 am – 7:30 pm

Museum of Ice Cream – Chicago is the franchises’ fourth location and made its grand debut on July 16, 2022. The frozen treat experience includes ice cream themes throughout the museum, a dessert/cocktail bar, and a pool of sprinkles. Yes, a pool of SPRINKLES (non-edible of course). If you love ice cream then this is just the place for your sweet heart to taste different forms of the delectable dessert and make sure you try the ice cream hot dog!

Reserve your tickets on museumoficecream.com

LAKE VIEW

2. Intoxicakes

Located in the Sundae Shop at 931 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago IL

Visit website for operating hour details

I don’t know about you but drinks and desserts are my favorite combination. Intoxicakes is a Black-owned dessert destination that you can find in Lake View inside of the Sundae Shop. Offering everything from intoxicated brownies to cupcakes, you can’t help but indulge in the deliciousness. Now this dessert business is a catering service but they do order pick-ups on Saturdays. Visit their website for more details.

3. Drip Dessert Lounge

Located at 851 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL

Operating hours: Sun, Tues & Wed 3 – 10 pm Thurs 3 – 11 pm, Fri & Sat 3 – midnight

New to the Lake View area, Drip brings the sauce when it comes to dessert. Specializing in their fondue dips and fun palette of dessert bases, you will get a cool experience by personalizing your treat. From chimney cones to a deconstructed sundae, make sure you try their housemade flavors and creations. For more of their menu, follow @dripdessert on Instagram.

LAKE VIEW EAST

4. CRMD

Located at 2951 N. Broadway Ave., Chicago, IL 60657

Operating hours: Mon – Thurs 4 – 11 pm , Fri & Sat 4 – midnight, Sun 4 – 10 pm

Hey there sexy, I mean, ice cream! Although CRMD is a family-friendly ice cream shop in Lake View East, you can’t help but notice the fun wordplay within their atmosphere. Try their colorful flavors of ice cream like Black Vanilla and Fruity Bites. And don’t forget the cone! Ask for a puffle. You’ll thank me later. #GetCrmd #Lickitrealgood

5. Kilwins

Located at 5226 S. Harper Ave., Chicago, IL 60615

Operating hours: Daily 2 – 9 pm

This fudge and ice cream shop has made quite the comeback for a legendary ice cream name here in Chicago with Black mother-daughter duo, Jackie and Janel Jackson. As a Black-owned franchise, Kilwins Hyde Park has been bringing ice cream and culture back to the neighborhood. You will find everything from fudge-covered cookies to homemade ice cream flavors. Grab a scoop when you’re in the neighborhood and leave with a smile!

Chris Brown to release music video for “Under the Influence” upon success on single

R&B artist, Chris Brown’s music remains trending as social media takes us back to music from his ninth studio album, Indigo.

The original album was released June 28, 2019, as an extended cut version was released in August. Indigo: Extended included ten additional tracks making the album 42 songs long, including his newly popular single, “Under the Influence.”

But remember the viral dance studio video on YouTube last year by choreographer Nicole Kirkland? Yeah, this is that song. Not far after that, the single began to start its own trend among social media platforms. The rest is history; literally.

In this generation of social media influencers, you can never underestimate the realm of a comeback. As TikTok users created a variety of videos, “Under the Influence” made quite an appearance in content all over the country and Chris Brown was definitely paying attention.

Topping the charts every week over the summer on Apple Music, the single was officially certified platinum at 318 millions streams on Spotify this week as reported by Rated R&B.

So in celebration, Brown thanked his fans via Instagram. And to our surprise, also announced a music video release to the single very soon. You can watch the tease to the “Under the Influence” trailer video here.

Let’s hope there’s more to come including more videos from the “Warm Embrace” singer.

Issa Look at the Emmys

It’s AWAARRDD SEAASSSOONNN!!! And I am here for all the looks that were served so fiercely and colorfully by the attendees. Before the week is over, I just wanted to give my top 10 favorite looks of the night, so here they are:

1: LIZZO in Giambattista Valli

Lizzo looked STUNNING in this beautiful tulle dress designed by Giambattista Valli in vibrant red. It’s giving volume, it’s giving boss girl, it’s giving “look at me I’m here”. She’s such an inspiration to me, especially when it comes to fashion because she’s not afraid to wear what she wants or not wear anything at all. I just love her courage and fierce nature. So you better watch out for the BIG GRRRLS because we’re winning! Literally. (Congrats to LIZZO on her first Emmy win for Outstanding Competition Program!)

2. ISSA RAE in Sergio Hudson

There’s nothing I love more than a bold black and white moment on the red carpet because you don’t see it as often. Issa Rae stunned as she always does in a white and black (or black and white) gown designed by Sergio Hudson. As amazing as she looks, you can’t help but be convinced that you need this in your life. The stunner of the evening, Issa Rae just illuminates confidence and you better not forget it.

3. ROSARIO DAWSON in Christian Siriano

Blushing as pink as her dress, Rosario is just a delight as she floats down the red carpet in this soft pink gown designed by Christian Siriano. Loving the fun tulle moment up top and the peek of skin underneath for her mid-section. Definitely a sparkle of a moment for sure.

4. QUINTA BRUNSON in Dolce & Gabbana

This was such a moment! Quinta just gives off queen vibes in this stunning chocolate embellished gown by Dolce & Gabbana. As brown skin girls everywhere are probably in awe by this dress, Quinta made sure to empower those watching as well serve every inch.

5. SHERYL LEE RALPH in Brandon Blackwood & Hair done by Moira “Fingaz” Frazier

Sheryl literally took my breath away in this black velvet dress that was a first-time dress made by the handbag designer Brandon Blackwood. But that’s not all. She sparkled from head to (pony)tail with gems spread all throughout her hair done by hair stylist Moira “Fingaz” Frazier. Keeping it chic and classic in black, the first-time Emmy winner couldn’t have been more beautiful.

6. MOLLY SHANNON in Christian Siriano

It’s not an award show moment without some color and color is what she gave. Molly Shannon looks spicy in her hot pink gown by Christian Siriano. The actress served up a look and gave us a silhouette we can’t forget. One of my favorite looks because of the deep V and ruching around her waist. Such an amazing dress.

7. ZENDAYA in Maison Valentino

Now this was an after-party look favorite of mine and Zendaya never fails to surprise me with these stunning looks. She is wearing a sleek bright red gown by Maison Valentino. I thought she would have decided to wear something from the pink collection dropping with Valentino but this was an amazing surprise.

8. LEE JUNG-JAE in Gucci

One of my favorite actors currently from Netflix’s “Squid Game”, Lee Jung-jae, arrived oh so handsomely in his studded Gucci suit. Serving his version of tall, dark and handsome he still gave us a pop of color underneath his black attire. Winning his first Emmy award for Outstanding Lead Actor, Lee Jung-jae continues to amaze us even in his style.

9. TOHEEB JIMOH in Dior

Men’s fashion really came through tonight and Toheeb Jimoh proved it with his white velvet suit by Dior. Eye-catching with an additional piece along his waist, Toheeb definitely stepped up and showed out changing the game.

10. SARAH CATHARINE PAULSON in Louis Vuitton

Ok, so this look won and lost at the same time so that’s why I saved it for last because it’s penalty the best thing I’ve ever seen. It’s geometric, it’s girly and apparently it’s a collab with Louis Vuitton. I love a look that challenges the fashion b boundaries and Sarah Catharine Paulson did just that with this midnight satin look. You go girl.

This year’s 74th Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony was hosted by SNL actor Kenan Thompson this past Monday at the Microsoft Theater located in LA, where it aired on NBC at 8 p.m. ET.

They call me “Author”

Yes, yes. You read that correctly. I… am writing…a book. Most people would publish a memoir as their first book, or a book giving advice. But me? Nah. I want you to read about just how fucked up my dating life is and how I can’t believe I’ve been single for eight years (going on nine). I promise I’m probably going to be one of those 50-year-old women sitting at a restaurant alone, watching yet another wedding proposal sipping on my fifth glass of Rosé.

29 First Dates Gone Wrong is my baby. She’s going to give you some insight on how dates went, how I met some of these men, and just flings that I’ve had in general. Think of it kind of like a journal entry that you’re reading about your sister or your best friend. I’m going to have you all wondering ‘how does this girl do it?’ Or better yet, ‘how could men treat her like that?’, because I swear it’s not me.

I hope my readers find my material relatable and I even hope to inspire some women to focus on self-love and finding balance within their lives. And that being celibate isn’t really that bad. (Who am I kidding, I am DYING over here. I can’t even remember the last time I cuddled.) Sometimes we can’t have it all but it’s nice to dream about it isn’t it? So coming soon to you Spring of 2023.

“Yesterday I held the door for myself.”

When’s the last time a man actually asked if you needed help assisting with the door as you carried in five bags of groceries, or let you go first off the elevator? Right, it’s been too long. It seems the world of classy gentlemen have now shriveled down to just, well, men.

I can’t help but notice that this behavior is somewhat our fault ladies. Yes, we have been becoming more independent and driven, and we’re basically Wonder Woman in all areas of our life. But let’s take a moment to actually be kind to the men that notice a woman is in the room and want to be chivalrous. We can’t expect our knight in shining armor if we make him fall off the horse he came to pick us up in.

Gender roles have been changing in relationships a lot more often too. Women are asking men out, taking them out on dates and showering them in gifts. We’re beginning to spoil them as much as they do us. Call me old-fashioned but well shit, I am. It’s cool that women are becoming more dominant in their relationships but don’t expect me to kneel on one knee now. I respect the women that do though. I just have a different vision of how my next relationship will be. I picture a not-so-perfect gentleman but good enough to my standards where he loves to surprise me, is romantic, and funny.

Then there’s the challenge of actually teaching men how to be gentlemen because they weren’t taught growing up. I sometimes wonder, do you treat your mother like this? Or would you want someone to not show this level of respect to your daughter or sister? And of course, there’s the ladies that didn’t learn etiquette growing up which is another problem. We shouldn’t expect men to do everything for us and not show a lick of gratitude. Learn to appreciate the time and effort that they put into making us happy. (The ones that are actually fully committed to you and only you) We can’t live the lives of city girls forever.

At the end of the day, men still want to feel appreciated and wanted when it comes down to being involved in our lives. Let them be dominant sometimes and be the man of the house. It’s okay to still have our feminine energy and be a strong woman too, I’m not knocking that. It’s also okay to be a little ghetto but still be a classy, well-respected lady as well. But come on, girl we gotta do better. And fellas, I think my car door is waiting for you to so handsomely open it.

Thank you.

Grad problems, got a job yet?

Finally got that degree.

But now what? Well of course, in my mind I expected, ‘oh yea, I’ll have my dream career job right at graduation welcoming me with open arms and a desk’. Just like I imagined being married at 25 and having a condo and being married by 30. But hey, life just doesn’t work like that now does it?

Since April, I’ve been attempting to perfect my résumé, I’ve edited my cover letter about 20 times, had three interviews and received 13 rejection emails.

Am I starting to feel discouraged and that my life is going no where – hell yes. But it’s not, and I’m here to tell you that instead of waiting for jobs to hire me I’m going to create my own work for myself.

As a writer who is experienced in social media, digital media, and editing, I’d say the opportunities I have are endless. Making myself a brand and trying to sell my elevator pitch comes with the territory as well. The journey hasn’t been easy though, I’ll tell you that.

So here’s a little advice to my fellow graduates if you choose to follow your heart and wait for that dream job after college:

1. Keep applying yourself and keep applying for jobs because you never know who is willing to hire you with or without the experience and skillset for the position. 2. Perfect your online resume and job search profiles especially if you are using sites like ZipRecruiter, LinkedIn, or Indeed. Make sure it showcases your best skills and talents you have to offer and your most recent work. 3. It’s ok to cry. You won’t get every job that you interview for and that’s ok. That just means something bigger and better is coming for you so scream in your pillow, eat a big bowl of ice cream and wait gracefully.

I will say one of the struggles of trying to find a job in your field is making sure you stand out from other applicants. Be proud of your work and brag on yourself a little. They are interviewing you to find out why they need you, so tell them and then show them.

Hey, grads I just want you to know I love you and you’re doing great you bad bxtch.

Pretty + , Where To Shop for Plus Size Fashion

We live in a decade where the fashion industry is finally realizing that women who have a little extra need to look cute too. I am a plus-size woman who has shopped in numerous retailers and constantly see larger sizes being sold out. As a former retail manager, I can tell you from experience that some companies only stock a few large sizes and that’s it. So what are we to do? Where are we to shop? I used to be afraid to shop at plus-size retailers because although I am considered plus-size, I’m not exactly shaped like a plus-size woman. There’s no ass and hips over here.

So ladies, I think I’ve found a solution to our problem. I’ve going to give you a couple brands where I find some of my pieces and hopefully you can find something you like. Fashion is made for everyone, even those with an extra number added to it.

  1. SHEIN Curve + Plus

One of my favorite online retailers right now is SHEIN, and I’ve been faithfully shopping with them since 2016. They’ve been around since 2008 believe it or not and is based out of China. This is one of the retailers where you will find a lot of trending styles on social media and celebrities for a cheaper price. All my finds on SHEIN have been classics so I’m sure you’ll find a favorite. They have every item you can think of from Plus lingerie, clothing, and swimwear. Depending on the fit of the item, customers usually leave reviews to let you know how it fits and if you should order up a size or down.

Gabby’s Picks

Photos provided by shein.com

2. Fashion to Figure

Fashion to Figure comes to us after a retailer by the name of Lane Bryant filed bankruptcy a few years ago. Founded in 2002, this plus-size company is manufactured in the U.S. and brings numerous options from clothing to accessories to our closets. A great place to find essential and fashionable pieces no matter the size because they range in from sizes 14 to size 28.

Gabby’s Picks

Photos provided by fashiontofigure.com

3. PrettyLittleThing

Yaassss Queeens! PrettyLittleThing has been advertised all over social media platforms and even has collaborations with celebrities such as Doja Cat, Meg tha Stallion, and Big Latto. A UK-based company, PrettyLittleThing was founded in 2012 and now has an office based here in Los Angeles. They drop fashion pieces on the daily and always have a great promotion going on. Student discounts can even be used on your purchase. The PLT Plus selection offers jumpsuits, sleepwear, and wide fit shoes.

Gabby’s Picks

Photos provided by prettylittlething.com

4. ELOQUII

Eloquii is surprisingly owned by Wal-mart if you didn’t know and was founded in 2012. I just started shopping here about a year ago because I never knew about this store until recently. I started to see it advertised more on Facebook especially after some locations like Torrid and Lane Bryant closed their locations in my downtown area in my city. What’s cool about this website is that they carry a lot of workwear, business casual, and dressy pieces which I feel like is missing from fashion industry in plus-size fashion.

Gabby’s Picks

Photos provided by eloquii.com

#plussize #plussizefashion #fashiontofigure #eloquii #prettylittlething #shein #shoppingproblems #beauty #fashiontrends #socialmedia #hacks #skirts #dresses #widefit #leopardprint #article #blogpost #fashionfinds #populartrends #fallfashion #fashionforward #denim #jeans #jumpsuits #swimwearplussize #plussizemodel #biggirlfashion

Keto is Cute

I’ve just started my keto journey , (again) and let me say it has been quite a scary journey. I recently just got diagnosed with high blood pressure and pre-diabetes so this has been a real eye opener for me. Upon my research and talking with my doctors and nutritionists, we’ve agreed that keto can help reduce my blood pressure but I still must remain cautious with the amount of fat I intake and remember not to starve myself during it.

So I wanted to recommend and share some of my top picks for my Keto diet and why I chose to try them.

  1. Lewis Healthy Life products

I’ve been looking around for bread substitutes and Lewis products have pretty much saved my life with this one – especially during the summertime because I love barbecues. Their keto products include hot dog buns, loaves of bread, and hamburger buns. My nutritionist recommended that I eat more whole wheat and they provide a low carb 100% whole wheat option as well.

Photo provided by Healthy Life Products

2. Truffle Pig Ketchup

I LOOOOOOOOVVVVVVEEEEEEE truffle and I love a good sauce and condiment to dress up my meat from time to time. This, this right here was definitely a hit. I found this product at Walmart and it’s a little pricey for a small jar of ketchup BUT it’s so worth it.

Photo provided by Walmart.com

3. Zero Sugar Coca Cola w/ Coffee

You didn’t think you’d have to give up your favorite drinks did you? Girl, no. Drink plenty of water of course but if you ever have a taste for something sweet, there are zero sugar options. I found this drink at Jewel while I was keto shopping and it tastes amazing. It’s one of my guilty pleasures on my keto. I also found zero sugar mango-flavored Pepsi.

Photo provided by Kroger

4. Gotham Greens

When I first started my keto journey I was like oh man, I can’t eat bread so how will I find ways to eat my favorite things like tacos and burgers? Thankfully Pinterest helped me out a lot and a lot of the boards gave suggestions for lettuce burgers and tacos. Gotham Greens is a great brand for greens because they have a wide variety of sizes that you could use for tacos, sandwiches, burgers, and more.

Photo provided by Gotham Greens

5. Butterball Turkey Burgers

Now I love a good burger and since it’s summertime I had to put you all onto my favorite turkey burgers by Butterball. I chose the Sweet Onion flavor because it’s very juicy and savory but you can add your own seasoning to your liking as well. They are kept in the freezer and you do not have to thaw them as they can be broiled, grilled, or prepared in a skillet. I think they taste best off the grill. Yum! It’s keto-friendly and packed with protein and flavor.

Photo provided by Butterball

All the items I have listed above can be found in Target, Wal-Mart, or Jewel-Osco but if you don’t have one of these stores near you, choose alternative options at local grocers in your neighborhood. I will be posting more haul videos for food products that I find in grocery stores so stay tuned! Enjoy lovelies ❤

#ketofriendlymeals #ketoiscute #cocacola #gothamgreens #healthylifestyle #choices #highbloodpressuremeals #diabetes #howtolowermybloodpressure #newtoketo #targethaul #ketohaul #walmarthaul #jewelosco #finds #favorite #toppicks #items #foodrecipes #foodsuggestions #letseat #itsnotnotwine #socialmedia #influencer

Benefits of Wig-Wearing as a Millennial

Ladies, Ladies. Now I know there are those women out there that are like “Um, wigs are for old people.” Well I’m here to tell you no, honey…it’s for everyone. Even your daughter is wearing your lacefront. I used to work at a beauty supply store and I fell in love with working in the wig section and I helped sell wigs for all types of woman – young, old, disabled, you name it.

Let me start with how I first became fond of wig-wearing though because I too thought wigs were for the aunties or grannies. I had a horrifying experience in high school where I became bald at the age of 14. Thankfully my grandmother took me to the beauty supply were we bought me a wig. There began my introduction to the wig industry.

As years passed, I began to experiment with colors and styles, textures and types, and soon enough I became OBSESSED. I will say the celebrity influence helped out a lot with feeling more comfortable wearing wigs; and I’m not talking about just Nicki Minaj. It’s like it became more common on tv, in movies, and in the music industry especially within the Black community.

Enough about me though, let’s talk benefits because that’s what you’re reading this for right? Here are some reasons why wigs are beneficial for Millennials:

  1. Protective Style (If done correctly)

Anytime you wear a wig it is highly recommended that you wear a wig cap. It helps protect your hair against pulling or snagging that may be caused by the wig. I do also recommend that to braid your hair or slick it back into a ponytail to ensure that your wigs lay flat because if not it will look like your hair is bulking underneath the wig.

They come in three colors that best fit your skin tone for your scalp for the wigs that may show lace so buy whichever may seem fit for your liking and they’re only a dollar.

2. Endless Styles

I, Gabrielle London via YouTube

The options are ENDLESS ladies! I can be curly-haired today and have a straight bob tomorrow. I can attend a girls night out with my body waves and go to the beach in braids or twists next weekend. I can go dark with black for work and wear my spicy red style for my date right after. You can choose whatever you like, however you like. There are wig experts at beauty supply store locations that can help you find the perfect wig for you, or you can watch the wonderful ladies of YouTube that post wig reviews so that way you can see which wig is worth buying. Beware some wigs do not fit all, so it’s best to ask if a wig is big head friendly or not. Trust me, I know from experience.

3. Convenience & Cost-Effective

I don’t know about you but there have been many occasions where I have needed a quick look for a party or a trip and I just didn’t have the bands($$) to get a sew-in or a lacefront wig glued or sewn in my head. So I would like to thank the creators of half-wigs and full-cap wigs because you are literally my lifesavers. Also, I don’t have to spend that much on the actual wig itself. I can go get a nice wig (temporarily because synthetic wigs don’t last that long), for like $25-$50, which isn’t that bad honestly. Now if you end up liking three styles and can’t decide on which one you want so you end up buying all three, then you might have a problem..

4. Customization

Did you know that one of the greatest things about a wig is that you don’t have to wear it straight out the package? Yes, girl it is all about the customization. You can alter the wig to your liking without feeling bad about it. You can add you some baby hairs, create a bang, and more. It’s too long, then cut it. It’s too curly then straighten it. If it’s to shiny, throw some baby powder on it and call it a day. Some women pluck the parts of a wig to make it look more realistic and add makeup to the lace to match their skin tone. Now if you aren’t into synthetic wigs there are human hair choices available as well. These wigs you can not only customize with length and texture but color as well. You can not dye all synthetic wigs, although some can take to color.

Make sure to follow me on Instagram @vinessagabriellelondon and subscribe to my Youtube channel for wig reviews that I post myself!

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