BLACK GIRL Unlimited Break. The. Box.
stacks on stacks What’s this newest accessory trend?
twist outs take 2 Cool Recipes for
Hot Cocoa
Preview Edition January 2014
BLACK GIRL Unlimited Break. The. Box.
CEO/Founder and Editor in Chief Jaleith Zakiya Gary Creative Director Taneisha Duggan Fashion & Style Director Gabriella Editor Asha Janelle
Hair & Beauty Hair Editor Sabrina Larive Beauty Editor Brettnee Nelson, MUA
Lifestyle Food Editor Kyla Sweetz
Faith Editor B Leah
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Contributors AprilKJ, Brey G., Chera Dee, Jaria, J.A.S.,Kimberly Marie, Missy G., Nieka
The
Girls
(from R-L) Jaleith, Chera Dee, J.A.S., Brey G., Brettnee Nelson MUA, Sabrina Larive, Asha Janelle, Gabriella, Kimberly Marie, Kyla Sweetz, Taneisha Duggan, Missy G., Jaria, B. Leah, AprilKJ, Nieka
bREAK THE bOX with Black Girl Unlimited! Black Girl Unlimited (BGU) is an online magazine designed with four things in mind: promoting dOPE Black female images; creating and nurturing a community of sisters; providing the BGU Girls with strategic platforms for brand expansion; and giving our readers quality content to live life as a Black girl, unlimited. The BGU Girls are a blessing to this project and I know firsthand that they are beyond pumped to share their knowledge and experiences with you, give you advice, and invite you to become a BGU Girl, too! Stay tuned throughout the year because each monthly publication will be saturated with insightful articles, trendsetting fashion and style, practical life applications, and ways to bREAK THE bOX! For 2014 we will focus on expanding the BGU Girl Team, building community, nurturing sisterhood, reaching young girls, and supporting Black female owned/run businesses and leaders. We are accepting inquiries to join our team, partner on projects, and speak to young women and girls. Black Girl Unlimited is an experience and a lifestyle. So far, it has been more than I ever imagined it to be and I thank God for being a part of this, which tells me that it will only get better. Are you ready to live your life as a Black girl, unlimited? bREAK THE bOX, Jaleith Zakiya Gary Founder/CEO & Editor-In-Chief
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J&M Event Design “Jazzing Up Your Moments”
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The New Winter Layers Content
Jan. 2014
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5 Adult Recipes for Hot Chocolate Make it Last...and Last Spend Thrift
1407 STYLE
the new winter layers Piling on the Jewels By Asha Janelle
w
inter is in full swing ladies and it’s time to layer up. But this is not about your warm weather necessities (gloves,hats, scarves…). Layering up your necklaces, bracelets, and even rings is a big trend right now and the saying “Less is More” is out the window! Here are a few tips to keep you looking on trend.
Layering
necklaces is all about the length. Longer necklaces elongate your torso and make you look long and lean. Start off with a short necklace about 12-16 inches, which hits around the collarbone. A nice delicate chain with a little charm is sweet and dainty and a great beginning layer. Next layer on a longer necklace, or like our girl (inset right) try something with a little heft!
Bracelets
Having an arm full of bangles was everyone’s definition of layering bracelets. You could also hear the person wearing them from miles away. Your arm candy doesn’t have to just be a pack of 30 thin round bands. Take those pieces and break them up. Start off with a focal piece, like a bold watch. Watches are a great base piece and can help you stay on time (well only if you are actually using it to tell time and not just for looks, #GUILTY). Then add on some unique pieces like beaded bracelets, cuffs, or even charm bracelets. And don’t forget to add back in your classic bangles!
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Layering rings has never been easier with stackable bands and midi-rings. This look can draw attention to a great manicure and stand alone as your statement accessory. Start with a favorite ring that will be the star of the show. Layer in the supporting cast like really thin bands that can stack up on a few fingers or go boho and put one on each finger. Midi-rings make achieving this trend even easier. They’re like a white tee--perfect as a base and can take on a lot of layering without having you feel like you’re Mr. T.
Rings
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make it last ...and last 2 Ways to Stretch A Twist Out By Kimberly Marie
T
here is nothing more fabulous than a fresh twist out. You unravel your twists, to reveal perfectly textured tresses. Unfortunately, this fresh look lasts only a few days for most. Turn the page for 2 ways you can stretch that twist out all the way until your next wash day or just a few extra days.
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TIP #1 1. Turbans, Scarves
Instructions:
You would be surprised what you can do with a hair accessory. The focus isn't so much on your old twist out, but more so on the hair accessory itself. Turbans, Scarves + Head Wraps are perfect when your twist out is on it's very last leg or if you're just not up for retwisting your entire head of hair again.
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To achieve this look you will need: •A
Turban or a very thick headband/scarf if you don't have a turban • Moisturizer
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3. 4.
Make sure the turban is large enough to cover the front portion of the twist out. This where sometimes the style gets frizzy, so the turban will hide that. Moisturize your hair with your favorite moisturizer. One of my favorites is Shea Moisture's Curl + Style Milk. Sometimes misting a little water over your hair first and then sealing it also helps redefining the twist out pattern. Fluff hair. Place the Turban over your head. Make sure all of
your hair is securely under the turban. Fluff the hair that is on the bottom portion that is left out of the turban for maximum fullness. The bigger the better! 5. Rock it out!
Learn better by seeing? Watch IslandEssence turn that turban out!
Source
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may we suggest . .Head warmers
Floral wraps...
. .Classics 17
TIP #2 A Simple Bun w/ Headband
Instructions: 1.
Buns are the go to style for any natural with a lengthy crop. It gives you a protective yet fashionable style, plus it's quick! Adding a thin headband to this style, polishes this look and adds a pop of color (or not if you want to keep it basic with black). The goal isn't to have a sleek bun, but a messy tousled bun.
Make sure your hair is thoroughly moisturized.
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Tame edges if needed using a good pomade or some clear alcohol free gel.
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What are your go to styles when your twist out is on it's last leg? (Leave your idea on our Facebook page and find other tips from your fellow BGU girls!)
Place headband over head and secure in place.
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Pull remaining hair loosely to the top of your head, securing
To achieve this look you will need:
with a hair tie. 5.
• Headband
Create a messy bun with the remaining
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Hair Tie • Moisturizer • Hair Pins
hair left out. Use hair pins to secure hair. 6.
Rock it out.
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1. IRISH HOT CHOCOLATE 1 oz Bailey's速 Irish cream fill with 1 Nestle速 hot chocolate packet Pour Bailey's Irish Cream into a coffee mug then fill with prepared Nestle Hot Chocolate. Top with whipped cream and marshmallows. Source
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2. SPICED AND SPIKED Ingredients 4 cups whole milk 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick 2 star anise 1/2 lime, zested 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg 11 1/2 ounces semisweet chocolate chips 6 to 8 tablespoons bourbon or brandy Lightly sweetened whipped cream, for garnishing, if desired Directions In a 2-quart saucepan, combine all the ingredients except the chocolate, bourbon and cream. Heat over medium low heat, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes. Do not allow the mixture to boil or it will bubble over. Add the chocolate to the pan and continue to cook over low heat, stirring or whisking until all of the chocolate has melted. Continue to cook the cocoa for another 10 minutes to allow all of the flavors to blend. Remove the cocoa from the heat, add the bourbon or brandy to the pan, and stir to combine. Serve the cocoa in warm mugs, topped with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired. Source
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3. NUTELLA HOT COCOA Ingredients 1 cup whole milk 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons Nutella 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup hazelnut liqueur, such as Frangelico 2 tablespoons brandy Directions Place milk, Nutella, and 2 tablespoons of the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat and whisk until the Nutella has melted and been incorporated. Reduce the heat to low, add 3 tablespoons of the hazelnut liqueur and the brandy, and stir to combine. Heat until hot (do not boil), then turn off the heat. Place the remaining 6 tablespoons cream in a medium bowl and whisk until nearly stiff peaks form, about 2 minutes. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon liqueur and whisk until just incorporated. Transfer the hot chocolate to heatproof serving glasses, top with a dollop of whipped cream, and serve. Source
Give your hot cocoa an extra kick to keep you warm this winter
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4. WHITE HOT CHOCOLATE Ingredients 6 tablespoons Ghiradelli Sweet Ground White Chocolate 3 ounces (2 shots) whipped cream vodka 2 candy canes, crushed, plus more for garnish 24 ounces steamed (or warmed) milk Whipped cream Directions 1. Place 1½ tablespoons of the ground white chocolate in four 8-ounce mugs. Add ½ of a shot to each mug and stir together with the ground chocolate. Sprinkle in a quarter of the crushed candy canes and stir. 2. Slowly pour the hot milk into each mug. Top with whipped cream and more crushed candy canes, if desired. Source
5. KAHLUA FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE Ingredients 3/4 cup sugar 5 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder 4 teaspoons natural unsweetened cocoa powder 2 pinches of salt 2 1/2 cups water, divided 2 cups half and half 3/4 cup chilled heavy whipping cream 1 1/2 tablespoons (packed) golden brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon (scant) vanilla extract 3/4 cup Kahlúa or other coffee- flavored liqueur
(con’t) Directions Whisk first 3 ingredients and pinch of salt in medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in 1 cup water, whisking until smooth. Cook over medium-high heat until sugar dissolves and mixture just begins to boil, whisking often, about 3 minutes. Remove pan from heat. Add 1 1/2 cups water and half and half; whisk to blend. Transfer to pitcher. Pour espresso mixture into ice cube trays, filling cubes almost to top (mixture will make about 45 ice cubes). Freeze espresso mixture in trays. DO AHEAD Can be made 1 month ahead. Store espresso ice cubes in resealable plastic bag and keep frozen. Using electric mixer, beat cream, brown sugar, vanilla, and pinch of salt in medium bowl until peaks form. Cover; chill. Place 6 glass coffee mugs or other glasses in freezer 15 minutes. Working in 3 batches, place 14 espresso ice cubes and 1/4 cup Kahlúa in processor. Blend until thick and smooth, about 30 seconds. Divide between 2 chilled mugs; place in freezer. Repeat 2 more times with espresso ice cubes, Kahlúa, and chilled mugs. DO AHEAD Can be made 1 hour ahead. Keep frozen. Spoon sweetened whipped cream atop frozen mocha lattes and serve.
CUPS FOR YOUR COCOA
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Spend !"#
By Breyonne Golding
Everyone has their own reason why they begin thrifting for clothes, whether you are searching for a “different� look wanting to stand out from the crowd. Into vintage clothing and find modern options pretty boring? Maybe you are naturally frugal (or on a budget) and you love the thrill of finding a good bargain.
Heck, you could be all three like me! Either way thrifting if done correctly (yes there is a wrong way) can alter your entire shopping experience, I believe for the better. There are several types of thrift stores to choose from but for now, whether you are new to this or returning here are a few pointers to get you started!
Ready, Set, Go‌ Thrifting can be an overwhelming experience if you are not prepared. First, before you head out you should know what you are searching for. Do not pigeon hold yourself to those expectations but it helps to have some idea. Definitely keep an open mind because you never know what you will find. Second, know your stores and the type of items they sell. When I am looking for work attire I prefer certain brands (Ann Taylor, Banana Republic etc.) thus I only shop at select stores that carry these brands. The same strategy goes for finding vintage items. Knowledge of the stores will come over time, but you should ask what day new stock/shipment come in and does the store offer sales (you would be surprised). Third, remember you are going to be handling used items so bringing hand sanitizer or tissues may come in handy. Last but
Cash Money
The Devil is in the Details
If you enjoy shopping like I do then you know all too well how attached one can get to clothes during a regular trip to the store. The items catch your eye, you begin to imagine the potential outfits, you try them on, get excited and then you hit the cash
In a regular store, we rarely pay attention to an item outside of the price, the color and the size because it is assumed the clothes are new. Fair enough, but when thrift shopping attention to detail is required! It is worth your time, efforts and money to examine, inside and o u t , ea c h item you select. The things you want to look for are: c l ea n l i n ess (if it smells funny or is dirty leave it alone), materials & fabrics, brands (if your into that), were alternations made to the item, and signs of over-wear or damage (tears, stains etc.).
register. However, by then you have fully convinced yourself that you need every item you have picked up. To avoid this emotional habit I set a budget limit of what I want to spend and I try to bring that amount in cash. Buying with cash reveals how attached you are to your money and helps you to make rational decisions with your purchases.
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Bonus tip: Bring a tide-to-go pen with you to see if certain stains can be removed!
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall This tip is a simple but physical try on every potential item that you may purchase. You want to be sure your clothes fit you the way you want them to, so don’t be lazy. Plus, most thrift stores are not chain with several locations in which you can return purchases, if they have a return policy at all.
Just Keep Swimming, Just Keep Swimming Thrifting is also about the search, the dig, the discovery of that special item. It’s the modern day treasure hunt. Thrifting takes time, you may have to go to several stores before you find what you are looking for. It is recommended that you go often especially if you are looking for something specific.
To Love or not to Love The number one rule to thrifting is having the discipline to only purchase the items that you absolutely love! It is extremely easy to get carried away and leave each store with tons of clothes. Here at Black Girls Unlimited, we do not want you to become a clothes hoarder. Ask yourself questions can assist you in your true desire for that item. If you doubt or really question the item it is best you place it back on the rack.
Search all the sections in each store, items get shifted around throughout the day and can be racked in the wrong place.
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Plus, depending on your body type or the style you are shooting for maternity, boys, teens and/or men items may capture your attention. ast, make an effort to shop at stores outside of your town or city every now and then. Different place plus different population equal more selections. The Golden Rule The golden rule with any clothing is wash before wearing, especially with thrift items. You do not know where the items can from or who wore the items last!
Live to Thrift for Another Day Shopping should be FUN! It should be an adventure. One day you may find a real treasure something rare and special to you. Another day you not find anything worthwhile. Do not be discouraged that is the apart of the thrifting experience. Remember be discipline enough to get prepare, examine the items, if you Love it get it, if you Doubt it don’t and keep on thrifting!
Where to !"#:Connecticut St Marks United Methodist Church Thrift Shop 195 South Main St East Windsor, CT 06088 352 622-3398
Goodwill Glastonbury Store & Donation Station 2709 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT 06033 Phone: (860) 657-8195
Repetitions Thrift Shop 114 Woodland St Hartford, CT 06105 860 714-4125
Goodwill Newington Store & Donation Station 45 Costello Road, Newington, CT 06111 Phone: (860) 594-8887
Marine Corps League Thrift 6 S Grove St Meriden, CT 06451 203 639-8387
Goodwill Westport Store & Donation Station 1700 Post Road East, Westport CT 06880 Phone: (203) 259-3943
Trusted Servant Thrift Store 537 Washington St Middletown, CT 06457 860 344-0853 St Raphael Auxiliary Thrift 1386 Chapel St New Haven, CT 06511 203 789-3312
For thrifting locations near you visit Goodwill or Savers (Share your favorite thrifting spots on our Facebook page)
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Credits
Jan. 2014 Cover photo credits: Photographer: Jorge Wong Make-up: Midee Ekpo Models: Feyi Stylist: Ugo Pg. 7 Pg. 8 Pg. 9 Pg. 10 Pg. 11 Pg 12: Top, Bottom Left
Pg 13. Row 1: Pictures 1, 2, 3, & 4 | Row 2: Pictures 1, 2, 3, & 4 | Row 3: Pictures 1, 2/3, & 4 | Row 4: Pictures 1, 2, 3, & 4 | Row 5: Pictures 1, 2, 3, & 4 Pg 16 Pg 19-24: Pinterest Pg 25-29
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