By Dr. Yakini 
Ladies, it's official: Michelle Obama is the First Lady of American fashion, style, and grace! In the history of the United States there has ever been so much talk about the First Lady of the United States. With the exception of Jackie O, no one has really cared too much about what she wore, and certainly not what she said or how she interacted with her husband and children. Yet, each and every outfit First Lady Obama chooses to wear is under scrutiny by the media. Each magazine cover she graces is examined, re-examined and then discussed. Television appearances are closely monitored and can be found as topic of conversation in a blog or message board the very next day. I believe the reason is quite simple: Michelle Obama is fabulous! Mrs. Obama is not only attractive, poised, and quietly confident, she is also an intellectual force to be reckoned with. In case you have forgotten, besides supermom, wife, and public servant, Michelle holds the following credentials:
- Graduated Cum Laude from Princeton University with a Bachelor of Arts (1985)
- Earned her Law Degree from Harvard University (1988)
In this article I celebrate the fabulous lady we know as Michelle Obama by compiling the magazine covers she has graced over the last few years.
Lady Obama poses with Oprah Winfrey on the cover of the April issue of Oprah magazine (on stands March 17).
It's the first time Ms. Winfrey has invited somebody to appear alongside her instead of appearing alone. Obama dons a Michael Kors dress and Dear Cashmere cardigan, while Winfrey wears a dress by Rachel Roy New York. 
The New Yorker’s biannual Style Issue hits newsstands this week with a Michelle Obama cover and brief First Lady fashion commentary.
On the cover of People Magazine Michelle Obama wore is wearing the Tracy Reese Guipure Lace Kimono Dress in Dried Azalea.
Michelle Obama appeared on the cover of the March issue of the country's premier mainstream fashion magazine, Vogue, making history once again as the second president's wife to appear on the cover. Mrs. Obama wears a magenta silk sheath dress by Jason Wu, who also designed her inaugural gown.
Above Lady Obama appears in a J.Crew salmon wool cardigan, top, and tweed skirt.
Michelle Obama at the Hay-Adams Hotel in Washington, D.C. Narcisco Rodriguez dress.
For the Vogue photos she opted to wear labels by designers she has worn before: Wu, who made her inaugural gown; Narcisco Rodriguez, the designer of that Election Night dress; and J. Crew, which she and her children have famously worn.
Lady Obama gracing the August 2007 cover of Ebony Magazine
Michelle Obama on the cover of Essence Magazine.
Michelle Obama graces the cover of Newsweek on two separate occasions
September 2008 cover of Radar Magazine
First Lady Obama will be the subject of the latest chapter of Bluewater Productions' ongoing "Female Force" comic series. The book will follow Obama from her youth on the South Side of Chicago to her community, civic service and private-sector career successes through the 2008 presidential campaign and election day. The book is scheduled for release in April 2009..
Finally, in Glamour Magazine's American Icons issue, Alicia Keys poses as Michelle Obama for Glamour Magazine, noting of our First Lady, "She has worked hard for everything she’s accomplished, and done so with grace and humility. So many women and girls can identify with her story."
By Dr. Yakini
Congratulations to President Barack Obama! It is indeed a great day in our nation as President Obama assumes the role of commander in chief, shattering a racial barrier in the United States!
As always, our new First Lady was powerful and exquisite on President Obama's arm. It's evident that Lady Obama isn't afraid to take risks and express her own personal style, while still respecting the conservative tradition of her position as first lady.
I absolutely loved Mrs. Obama's inaugural fashion choices on Inauguration Tuesday. Her bold and unusual choices combined classic and conservatism with a modern edge, which I believe is a reflection of many women in this country today. Her silhouette is a classic one, but the color and fabrics are always modern.
Enjoy these images of the First Lady's Inauguration Fashions, courtesy of The Huffington Post.
Saturday, January 17th: The birthday girl boards the Whistle Stop train tour in a wool, faux wrap A-line coat. 
Revealing a purple ensemble on board the train.
Sunday, January 18th: Michelle arrives at "We Are One: Opening Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial" in Washington wearing Narciso Rodriguez, who also designed her election night dress.
Arriving with Barack at the "We Are One" concert in Narciso Rodriguez
Monday, January 19th: Michelle volunteers at Operation Gratitude
Monday, January 19th: Michelle in J. Crew at the Kids' Inaugural concert
Tuesday, January 20th: Michelle Obama arrives at the inauguration ceremony wearing a matching lacy brocade and coat suit dress by Cuban-American designer Isabel Toledo and green gloves by J. Crew.
I love that she chose to wear lace, which is such a huge trend this fall, but interpreted in her own way.
Revealing the cardigan that was beneath the coat at the luncheon  Michelle Obama chose a white chiffon one-shoulder gown by Jason Wu as her Inaugural Ball Gown. Wu, 26, who was born in Taiwan and works in Manhattan, has been compared to Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera. But that Park Avenue sensibility is often tempered with a touch of youthful whimsy.  "First of all, how good-looking is my wife?" asked President Barack Obama at the first of 10 official inaugural balls. Mrs. Obama also wore diamond drop earrings and a diamond cuff bracelet to match the sparkle of the beaded gown. CLICK HERE to return to the Homepage.
By Diane DiResta
Glass ceiling or partners in sabotage? While the glass ceiling exists, very often we undermine our own success by how we communicate in the workplace. We’ve learned to dress for success but have we learned the language of success?
When Catalyst, a non-profit organization dealing with women’s issues, asked. “What holds women back from top management?” Fifty-two per cent said “Male stereotyping and preconceptions of women.” When they asked “How can women succeed?” Sixty-one per cent said “Developing a style with which male managers are comfortable. ” It seems communication style is vitally important.
Here are ten ways women weaken their image and what they can be do about it.
1. Too much head nodding--When women nod, they mean “I hear you,” “I understand. ” However, men interpret head nodding as agreement with their ideas. Too much head nodding will be perceived as weakness and may result in miscommunication. Continual head bobbing creates a subliminal message of submissiveness.
2. Uptalk--A rising inflection at the end of a sentence sounds tentative, as if posing a question. This is a real credibility killer. Women will not be taken seriously with this vocal pattern. To speak with authority practice bringing the voice down at the end of a sentence. American intonation patterns use a downward inflection to declare or demand and a rising inflection to question or indicate uncertainty.
This is not true for all cultures. In Canada, India, Pakistan, France and China it is more commonplace to hear the voice rise at the end of a sentence. This pattern is sometimes used by American men in the South or by Generation X. It is not effective for either sex.
3. Weak Language--Tag lines-Some communicators make a statement and then ask for validation. “This is a good idea, don’t you think? or “We have the best team, right?” Tag lines weaken conviction and authority. Eliminate them.
Modifiers--Words such as some, just, only, hopefully, and guess, minimize the message and the messenger. “This is just a thought. ” “I’m only a beginner,” “Hopefully, I’ve done a good job,” “I guess I have a question,” are weak statements. They signal a lack of confidence and tell the listener that it’s not very important. Constant apologizing is not appropriate and will have the same effect. Weed out wimpy words and replace them with powerful language. This is most commonly a female pattern. It's time to sound confident and full of conviction.
4. Allowing interruptions--Men jump in and say what they think. They tend to interrupt more than women. Women are more likely to allow themselves to be cut off and lose credit for their ideas. Instead, they can say, “I’m not finished,” “ Please hold your questions,” “These interruptions break everyone’s train of thought” or continue talking and finish your point.
5. Not speaking up (Waiting to be called on)--Still waters may run deep but in our business culture, people who don’t speak up are perceived as not knowing anything. Commit to making one contribution at every meeting. It may be as simple as underscoring a point or adding to what's been said. Some women wait to be called on or have difficulty taking the floor. It may be necessary to interrupt to have your say. Do it. You must be heard to be a counted.
6. Dressing too sexy--A visual impression takes seven seconds or less. Clothing and appearance are a visual shorthand. Women who wear spiked heels, low cut blouses, heavy make-up, and micro-mini skirts are communicating sexual availability rather than career mobility. To succeed in the workplace, women must dress the part. You don’t have to sacrifice femininity, but don’t appear too flashy. The goal is to look professionally attractive. To achieve advancement, dress one level above your present position. If you are a supervisor, dress like a manager. On the opposite end of the continuum, executive women may dress too frumpy. At senior levels it’s no longer what you know but who you are as a leader. If a woman executive doesn’t look the part, she’ll lose respect and credibility.
7. Too soft spoken--A soft or breathy voice may sound sexy but it indicates insecurity or lack of confidence. Breathe from the diaphragm and project the voice so that every person at the meeting can hear. If they have to strain to listen, they will tune you out. A speaker loses conviction when ideas are presented in a soft voice. Confident women project their voices.
8. Allowing others to take credit for ideas--A common complaint of women is that men take credit for their ideas. When this happens women must learn to speak up and claim their contributions. “Excuse me, I just said that a minute ago. ” or “How is that different from what I just proposed?” Do not sit quietly while someone intercepts your idea.
9. Weak Body posture--Cute gestures such as shrugging shoulders, not making direct eye contact, standing with one leg crossed at the ankle and a weak handshake will weaken one’s visual impact. Men naturally take up more space. Hold your ground. Stand tall and sit up straight, make direct eye contact, and ground your energy. Channel nervousness by using hand gestures about the waist. Act like you belong. You have a right to be there.
10. Avoiding public speaking. This is one of the biggest mistakes women can make in their careers. Men don’t have a glass ceiling. Public speaking is an opportunity for visibility and equal exposure. Confront your fear, get some coaching, and get out there and shine. Diane DiResta, President of New York based DiResta Communications, Inc. helps executives to speak with authority and connect with passion to achieve business results and with women who want to make it in a man’s world. She is the author of Knockout Presentations: How to Deliver Your Message with Power, Punch, and Pizzazz (Chandler House Press). and Conversations on Success (Insight Publishing) To subscribe to a free online newsletter visit http://www.diresta.com.
|
By Julia Sophina
After Marilyn Monroe’s confession that Chanel No. 5 was "all she wore to bed," women around the globe began to realize the importance of choosing a signature scent. After all, what better way to add glamour, individuality, and that touchstone of frou frou we all need in our lives? Choosing the scent you like enough to be your signature fragrance can be challenging, but Julia Sophina offers the following advice for finding the perfect one for you!
Image (left) source: BenjaminFretwell.com
It's important to separate yourself from the pack. You need to stand out, and there are a number of ways to accomplish this goal. Many people show off their unique personality through dress, hairstyle, or shoe selection. For something a little more understated, but just as powerful, consider selecting a scent that will immediately identify you to the people you come in contact with everyday. At first, they won't quite know why they're having these powerful, memorable feelings. With time, however, they'll come to associate that certain wonderful fragrance with you. After all, scent is supposedly the sense most strongly linked to memory. Once that connection is made, it won't easily be forgotten.
How can you figure out which scent best matches your style and personality? A large part of the equation is a simple "smell test". Go into any local department store, and try on a number of different perfumes. Pick the one that you like the most, and give it a trial period. Wear it to work, out to the bar, and in other social situations where you'll be in close contact with others. It's wise not to mention that you're trying a new perfume. Let their opinions come to you. That way, you'll know that you're getting honest feedback instead of superfluous compliments.
This first perfume doesn't have to be the signature scent that you're wedded to for eternity. Now it's time to think about the other aspects of the scent. What does it represent? You would be surprised by the subconscious thoughts and ideas that perfumes can trigger in others. A strong perfume will immediately take another person aback, demanding their attention. This could have a mixed result; do you really want to create such a strong impression before you've even had the chance to introduce yourself? Perhaps you'd be better served by something a little less powerful, a scent that flies under the radar until the prey is within reach. Likewise, are you after a more fruity scent, or something that is a bit more masculine?
The scent alone shouldn't be the only consideration for deciding on your signature scent. Perhaps equally important, what is the price tag attached to the bottle? You don't want to get addicted to a perfume that you'll only be able to use sparingly. Consider that your signature perfume is just that: a statement that will make people think of you, and you exclusively. That's why picking something out of your price range is shortsighted. Instead, consider a slightly less expensive option that won't break the bank each month.
Choosing your signature perfume should be a fun process, and an expression of exactly what makes you an individual. Remember that you don't have to settle on the first scent that you come across. Take your time, and experiment with different options that best express your personality. As months turn into years, this scent will become a lasting part of your image to the world, and one that people will look to for evidence that you've graced the room with your presence. How you smell is just as important as how you look. In fact sometimes it can be more important. Smell has a way of affecting people in ways looks never could. Have you ever smelled a pillow or clothing that had the perfumes of your mate on it? Scents bring back memories and feelings in a powerful way. Moreover, a little whiff throughout the day of the perfume you love can do wonders for your spirits!
Find your signature scent at Unique Perfumes, featuring a wide range of perfumes, from Christian Dior perfume to Vera Wang perfume.
CLICK HERE to return to the Home Page. |
By Dr. Yakini
Congratulations to Senator Barack Obama for becoming the Democratic Nominee for President! Of course, behind every great man is a fantastic woman. Mrs. Obama has been influential, not only in the political realm, but across the fashion scene as well. Today Girly Home Webzine® celebrates Mrs. Obama's fabulous fashion sense, from day to evening, through a collection of my favorite images of our presumptive first lady.
Lady Obama is fabulous in more ways than one! In addition to being a naturally strong and confident woman who holds degrees from Princeton and Harvard Law School, she has also been hailed as the modern day, black Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. She is a striking image of femininity whose intelligence and savvy have put gloss and backbone into her husband’s bid for the White House. Writes the New York Daily News, “Like it or lump it, the personal style of each candidate’s wife has become an important part in establishing individuality, likability, and power."
Mrs. Obama is a sophisticated woman who embraces life with an unfettered sense of 'joie de vivre'. This is evidenced by the fun she has with fashion, making varied apparel choices that signal this woman never sees anything in life as constant. That’s change! And that is the essence of what fashion, and politics, is all about.
Vanity Fair’s style connoisseurs deemed Mrs. Obama ready for the crown of the world’s best-dressed woman for her ensemble of a Maria Pinto purple shift, with a black Azzedine Alaïa belt, worn when her husband claimed the Democratic presidential nomination on June 3, 2008. “She’s our commander in sheath,” the magazine said.
Michelle Obama stands on stage, in a gorgeous turquoise, three-quarter-sleeve, 50's inspired sheath in double-faced wool, with her daughters Malia and Sasha during day one of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) at the Pepsi Center August 25, 2008 in Denver, Colorado. The pendant is not part of this design but taken from Lady Obama's own jewelry collection.
Presumptive Democratic Presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama and Mrs. Obama walk off the campaign plane August 23, 2008 in Springfield, Illinois. Obama is on his way to campaign with his vice presidential pick Sen. Joe Biden. Once again, Mrs. Obama is fabulous in a floral, lavender faux wrap knit dress.
Senator and Lady Obama, in a floral Radzimir kimono dress, after he accepted the Democratic Party's invitation to become its Nominee for President on August 28, 2008. The dress is part of New York designer, Thakoon Panichgul's, Spring 2009 collection.
 
When Mrs Obama appeared on the popular US daytime talk show, The View, wearing this black and white Donna Ricco dress from White House/Black Market that retails at $148, the sundress sold out overnight and made the designer a household name.
Classic, classic, classic seems to be Lady Obama's motto, pictured here with husband Barack in an orange shift and signature pearls.
Michelle Obama takes the stage in bold horizontal stripes when addressing about 900 people at the National Partnership for Women and Families annual luncheon June 20, 2008 in Washington, DC. Obama expressed her support for the organization and talked about the challenges of being a working mother.
A tribute to Jackie O? Lady Obama sports a vintage-style round collar at a benefit luncheon held at the New York Historical Society on June 26, 2007.
Mrs. Obama pairs her standard oversized pearls with a red, puffed-sleeve jacket on Super Tuesday in Chicago.
Known for mixing high with low and classics with trends, Lady Obama solidified her fashionista status when she was recently seen in one of fall's hottest trends: ruffles: Sporting a ruffle front Maria Pinto blouse, Mrs. Obama looked like she could have walked directly off the runway at Bill Blass, Moschino, Erdem or even Lanvin, where ruffles were all the rage for Fall 2008.
Mrs. Obama is simply stunning in winter white during a Vanity Fair magazine shoot for a piece on the Obama campaign in 2007.
Mrs. Obama pictured above in black and white with her signature, black Azzedine Alaïa belt.
Lady Obama's penchant for belts was again on display at the Waldorf Astoria in June 2008.
Mrs. Obama proves to us that a classic houndstooth print never goes out of fashion.
A fan of skirt suits, Mrs. Obama introduces her husband at a campaign appearance in Manhattan in March. This classic, pin striped ensemble features a nipped-in waist.
Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama celebrating his victory in the South Carolina primary in January 2008 with Lady Obama, pretty in pink, by his side.
Mrs. Obama applauds at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago on June 15, 2008, looking very "Breakfast at Tiffany's," in a classic A-line dress and matching cardigan.
Michelle works the crowd in khakis at a February rally in Los Angeles.  Mrs. Obama accessorized with both a belt and pearls at a Hollywood fund-raiser in February. With Mrs. Obama is Jennifer Aniston. At left is Morgan Freeman.
With her 5'11" statuesque height, Mrs. Obama becomes resplendent in the evening. Presumptive Democratic Presidential candidate Senator and Lady Obama for an elegant evening out.
At a Chicago charity event in 2005
Mrs. Obama is simply lovely in a light blue, satin sheath with her brother, Craig Robinson, at a charity event in 2007.
The Obamas enjoying the 36th NAACP Image Awards at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles, CA on March 19, 2005.
Lady Obama in a striking azure halter dress at a fund-raiser hosted by Oprah Winfrey. At right are hip-hop mogul/entrepreneur, Percy Miller, and the always stunning Oprah Winfrey.
Mrs. Obama accessorized her asymmetrical gown with layers of silver necklaces at a fund-raiser for her husband, held at Calvin Klein's New York home on June 17, 2008.
Maria Pinto (left) is the woman behind many of the possible First Lady's signature looks. The bell sleeves, the tailored suits, the simple color palettes, all created by a Chicago-based designer who will open her first boutique in the "windy city," June 2008 according to blog "Runway to Retail."
Tom Julian, president of a New York City-based brand consultancy, laments, "I'd put her in an Oprah sphere in terms of influence." Julian predicted that Mrs. Obama will change the face of political fashion in that she could be the first first lady to wear both high and low-end fashion. It turns out it may not only be time for a political change, it may also be time for a change of clothes when it comes to first ladies.
She will bring affordable American sportswear to the forefront, and this is very appealing to the Middle American woman voter. She's modern–-a boomer, a woman of color with a real shape. It will be interesting what she picks as a signature piece, and I predict that it will be in the sportswear realm." Julian also says he would not be surprised to see her embrace some black designers such as Kevan Hall and Tracy Reese, to tell a modern American fashion story during the upcoming election.
Dr. Yakini is a clinical psychologist and freelance lifestyle writer living in Brooklyn, NY. She owns and edits Girly Home Webzine®, the online magazine for ladies living siddity in the city.
CLICK HERE to return to the Home Page.
By Janice Wee
Marilyn Monroe made that phrase famous. Decades later it still makes a lot of sense. But why do smart women covet diamonds so much? What do diamonds really say to a woman?
 - Reason #1: Diamonds are a girl's best friend because they are so beautiful. Brilliant, colorless diamonds light up her finger. White diamonds look beautiful with outfits in every color.
- Reason #2: Diamonds are forever. There are lots of beautiful things around. Why diamonds? Roses are beautiful, but they fade. Dresses are gorgeous but, with time and gradual wear, that beautiful dress may not look the same as it once did.
- Reason #3: Diamonds are precious. Sure, moissanite may be pretty to look at, but moissanite is man-made. Diamonds are rare, natural stones. The diamonds that girls love are of the highest quality. The lower grade diamonds may be used in tools, but women value the quality of the diamond.
- Reason #4: Diamonds are romantic. Especially when he is proposing to her with a diamond worth three months of his salary. It means sacrifice for love on his part. The fact that he loves her enough to save that sum to buy that diamond for her is a very romantic gesture that she will remember for years to come, each time she sees that diamond on her finger.
- Reason #5: Diamonds say that her man can provide for her very well. From the days when men went out and hunted/gathered to feed the family til today, when most men work to bring in the money to support the family, women love feeling cared for. In many cultures women look to marry a man who can provide for them and give them a sense of security. If a guy can afford to give her diamonds, it shows that he can also provide for her daily needs and for that of her children.
- Reason #6: Diamonds are an investment. A kiss will not pay the bills. A rose isn't going to pay for her mortgage. Diamonds are assets that continue to appreciate with age, rather than liabilities that lose value with age. Diamonds can last forever and have more intrinsic value than cars and houses.
- Reason #7: Diamonds are a girl's insurance. While there are certainly insurance policies on paper, that promise to pay for her old age, medical bills, etc., diamonds are a lot more beautiful. She holds and sees them. She wears them. Everyone admires them. Yet a collection of diamond jewelry assures her that, in times of emergency, a single diamond can be sold for enough money to get her through a rough time.
Janice Wee is the webmaster of Buy Diamonds, which gives you tips on how to get the best diamond within your budget.
CLICK HERE to return to the Home Page.
Following a super successful six-week preview, the self professed "Queen of All Media" has been given the greenlight by Fox to take her show national. The Debmar-Mercury-distributed program will appear in mid-2009 on stations in all 18 of Fox's markets.
"Doing the daily show for the past six weeks has really been one of the most exciting times in my life," notes Williams. "It has given me the chance to be myself while living out my dream and connecting with my fans on a whole new level."
Ms. Wendy has a bright, fabulous, and charismatic personality, and it's been a real pleasure to watch her in action on this show. Congratulations from Girly Home Webzine®!
CLICK HERE for tickets to the show.
CLICK HERE to return to the Home Page.
Tyra Banks pays homage to Michelle Obama in the September issue of Harper's Bazaar.
 Another day at the Oval Office. Dress, $148, Banana Republic. Necklace, $40,000, Mastoloni Pearls. Bracelet, $1,700, Alwand Vahan. Children's wear: Dress, Lucy Sykes New York. Menswear: Clothing, Ermenegildo Zegna. Watch, Michael Kors. Fashion editor: Jenny Capitain Television personality and former supermodel Tyra Banks will be seen in the upcoming issue of Harper's Bazaar (out August 19) posing as Michelle Obama.
"When Barack won the nomination, I just started bawling," Banks, 34, says in the issue. "I started calling all these people, and everybody was talking to me like I was crazy. They’re like, ‘Well, he hasn’t won yet,’ but I’m like, ‘Yes, he has, because he’s gotten this far.
"So what gives me tears is if Barack Obama wins, kids are going to say that a black man can be president, too," she goes on. “I think it will give so many people – black, Latin, Asian, even white people that feel forgotten – hope. I did not think I would see it in my lifetime, and I’m only 34.”
Of course, Barack (who turned 47 Monday) couldn't have done it without his wife, she says. "With Barack Obama, his becoming president is them becoming president because Michelle was there from the beginning," Banks says. "Without Michelle, he wouldn’t be there.”
Enjoy a sneak peek from this fabulous photo shoot!
 Like mother, like first daughters. Dress, $5,990, Oscar de la Renta. Saks Fifth Avenue; 800-330-8497. Necklace, $390,000, Chopard. 800-CHOPARD. Sandals, $695, Ralph Lauren Collection. ABC, it's as easy as 1, 2, 3. Dress, $650, Diane von Furstenberg. 646-486-4800. Earrings, $15,425, Cartier. 800-CARTIER. Shoes, $420, Michael Kors. michaelkors.com. Necklace, stylist's own. Purple reign. Gown with shawl, $995, Badgley Mischka Platinum. Neiman Marcus; 888-888-4757. Earrings, $3,000, and necklace, $12,000, Mastoloni Pearls. mastoloni.com. Bracelets, $1,300-$2,500, Alwand Vahan. Clutch, $3,295, Judith Leiber. 212-223-2999. Sandals, $535, Jimmy Choo. 866-J-CHOO-US. Tommy Hilfiger. 646-638- 4812. Belt, $395, Yves Saint Laurent. 212-980-2970. Pearls, $12,000, Mastoloni Pearls.
The graduates. Gown (on bed), price upon request, Vera Wang. 212-628-3400.
Models: Roman Watson, Ariel, and Kylah; hair: Sher Rae for oribe.com and Kérastase Paris; makeup: Valente Frazier; manicure: Myrdith Leon-McCormack; production: William Carducci for Urban NYC; set design: Mark Chandler; bedding: Frette; casting: JD Casting. CLICK HERE to return to the Home Page.
Courtesy of The Black Socialite
Both of these adorable dolls will make the Centennial Celebration of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. even more special this year!
Mattel will debut the limited edition 'AKA Barbie' - created in honor of the Centennial Celebration of the sorority next week. The doll will be reportedly available for sale on the Barbie Collector's site and Walmart stores nationally towards the middle of July. She's a cutie and will probably sell out quickly!
Currently available is 'Ivy Rose' - an elegant doll dressed in pink and green gown with a sweeping up-do (top picture). This beautiful doll was presented as a gift to Grammy Award attendees this year according to The Chicago Sun-Times.
Several years ago I purchased the first Byron Lars Barbie designer doll from my sister as a birthday present. I also have a few friends who are serious collectors of Black dolls. If you are looking for a fun hobby (personally or to share with young girls in your family), collecting dolls may be for you! Read more at The Black Socialite: Covering the Lifestyles of Black Socialites.
This website was founded by a Super Socialite insider who enjoys having fun and making the world a better place! She lives a fabulous life and encourages others to do the same. This blog includes some of her junkets and musings about Black socialite life. If you are a member of the tribe or aspire to become one, this rich, dishy recipe should delight, entertain, and educate you!
By Dr. Lona Smith  People are finding love later in life. Getting married in your 30's and 40's is a wonderful thing! You know yourself and who you are and who you want to be with. You already have a fabulous career that you love and are making big bucks. You are not looking for a spouse to give you an identity or fill up your empty life; you are looking for a life partner who appreciates all of the wonderful qualities you have and can enhance your life by adding to your already busy and wonderful "Sex and the City" lifestyle. By the time a modern day couple gets married, they each have their own stock portfolios, 401(k)s, condos, BMW's and other chic toys to go with their fast-paced lives. The problem is that divorce is as common as marriage in today's society. Have you just met your true love and had your first marriage? You have a 41% chance of getting divorced. Is it your second marriage? Don't get attached because you have a 60% chance of divorced. If it's your third marriage, you might as well throw in the towel right now because you have a 73% chance of getting divorced! Marrying later in life has its benefits but we have a great deal more to lose in a divorce. 30-year-old Reese Witherspoon has surpassed Julia Roberts as the highest paid leading lady in Hollywood . She makes $29 million per movie, while philandering hubby Ryan Phillipe makes a paltry $2.5 per movie. She had no prenup when she married Ryan Phillipe. Even though Ryan flagrantly cheated on Reese throughout their marriage, under California community property law, she must fork over half of her money to him in the divorce.
Starter marriages are de rigour in modern society. Women are educated, have glamorous careers and earn their own money. What happens when a starter marriage fails and the woman is the bread winner? Women with high powered careers often have to pay their ex-husbands hundreds of thousands of dollars in alimony. "Ladies, protect yourselves. Without a prenup a court can give half of your money to your ex-husband," warns Dr. Lona Smith, the foremost expert on prenuptial agreements. In community property states like California , Texas or Washington , your husband can take half of your income, whether he deserves it or not.
Even if he cheats on you, hooks up with your best friend, or is the husband from hell, he can be legally entitled to your salary. You work hard for your money and need to protect yourself in case you get divorced. "A prenup is a safety net in case a divorce occurs. If no divorce occurs and you have a prenup, you will know the assets and debt your partner has before marriage, you will see how they fight when it comes to money, and it will strengthen your relationship," says Dr. Lona Smith, a well-regarded authority on prenuptial agreements.
If you are a divorcée, you already know how messy divorces can be and what can happen. Get a prenup to avoid further heartache. If you have children from a previous marriage, keep your money for your children. The worst thing you can do is marry a cad and have him take his younger girlfriend to the Bahamas using your daughter's college money. Sure, it would be wonderful if this marriage would last forever and you could become lucky in love for good. But in the event that this marriage will not last forever (as 60% of second marriages do not, and 73% of third marriages do not), see a lawyer immediately and protect your assets by getting a prenup.
If you are a high powered, corporate attorney and are married to a sweet travel agent who makes a lot less than you, get a prenup. If you are a woman with considerable assets, who marries a man who's only considerable asset is his baseball card collection, then get a prenup. You can hope for the best that your musician boyfriend who delivers pizzas for a living will get signed to a big record label and make it big. However, when you get married, don't rely on hopes and dreams to take care of your financial future and bank account. Losing $50,000 can definitely hurt the average person. Thus, if you are a normal woman who is marrying a man who makes considerably less than you, you may need a prenuptial agreement far more than a celebrity. Although you love your husband, have a happy marriage, and expect to grow old together, it doesn't hurt to be prepared. Hope for the best but expect the worst. The bottom line is before you get hitched, be smart and get a prenup.
Dr. Lona Smith received her doctorate degree in clinical psychology and is a frequent speaker on the topics of Prenups, Engagements, Marriage, and Relationships. She can be reached through www.prenuping.com.
CLICK HERE to return to the Home Page.
|
