JUNE 2021 $143 RETAIL VALUE
Style Guide Give Looks Every Which Way With Your
Plan, Accomplish, Celebrate, Repeat
Kaftan Dress (in this box!)
e m i t r e m Sum F ly
edition
Shake Sumt hin’
At-Home Brunch Recipes
Inside the
Summertime T
FLY
he vibe this summer is carefree. Sunny skies and brighter days are ahead, no turning back. Things are finally looking up. It’s your time to shine! Outside is calling your name, sis. But not so fast! Real friends don’t let each other break free from the quarantine looking tired and worn out. You’ve been inside for way too long. Reintroduce yourself to the world in true Brown Sugar fashion. The Summertime Fly edition is an instant confidence booster with the hottest styles to suit your aesthetic. Get your summer sexy on with our must-have essentials specially curated just for you! Oh and by the way...this summer is getting whatever body you give, okay? We love to see it!
Reigny Days Kaftan Dress, $54 (1 OF 6) This gorgeous kaftan dress drapes beautifully over any figure. Style it with a swimsuit, pair it with your favorite jeans, wear it as a shirt dress, or keep it cool and casual for your work from home flow. One Size Loose fit/relaxed (40" width, 60" length) You'll receive 1 of 6 designs: Caribbean Glory, Botanical Beauty, Soul Sisters, Sunrise Goddess, Tribal Vibez, or Melanin Goddess.
See page 6 for tips on how to wear.
JUNE 2021 It’s the Melanin or Peace Love Melanin Tie-Dye Tank, $22 (1 OF 2)
We Promise You: 5-6 Items at an $85 value
This month’s value:
Ride the wave this summer and just go with the flow. The Peace Love Melanin and It’s the Melanin tanks are giving Black Girl Zen. Show a little skin and wear it with your favorite distressed denim or highwaisted shorts. Made with 50% cotton and 50% polyester.
$143
Came Thru Drippin’ $22 (1 OF 6 DESIGNS) Nothing like a nice relaxing shower after a long day... that is until you get out and realize the moisture brought out the frizzes. Protect ya edges and the nape of your neck. The Came Thru Drippin’ Shower Cap is great for bath time and holding your hair in place while you apply makeup. You'll receive 1 of 6 designs: Caribbean Glory, Botanical Beauty, Soul Sisters, Sunrise Goddess, Tribal Vibez, or Melanin Goddess. 100% waterproof nylon. Care instructions: Machine wash cold. Do not bleach. Line dry. Do not iron.
Beach, Please! Sun Hat, $25 (1 OF 5) Block out the sun and negative vibes this summer. This floppy beach hat will instantly brighten your mood. Take it along on vacation or wear it with a sundress at your next outdoor event. You'll receive 1 of 5 designs: Brown Skin Beauty, Must Be the Melanin, Queen Things, Throwing Shade, or Sunkissed. Avoid water and clean with a soft bristle brush. Made with straw cotton.
Eyes on the Prize Sunglasses, $20 (1 OF 5) Time to throw some shade in the most stylish way! These Brown Sugar approved sunglasses are gorgeous in every season. They’re giving a designer feel at a fraction of the cost. Comes with an Izzy & Liv soft string polyester pouch to store and prevent scratching. You’ll receive 1 of 5 styles.
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At-Home
Brunch Recipes By Girl Tyler
B
runchin’ ain’t easy in a pandemic. Sure, the restaurants around you are probably open for business, but it’s just not the same. Who says it has to be? Go bigger! Host your own brunch. Invite the girls over for a Sunday fun day or prepare these dishes together over a video chat.
1. Berries & Cream Smoothie Bowl Here’s what you’ll need: 1 c. frozen strawberries, ½ c. yogurt, ¼ c. milk, 1 tbsp. maple syrup, ¼ tsp. vanilla extract, ½ c. cornflakes, 5 sliced strawberries, ¼ c. blueberries, 2 tbsp. almonds, 1 tbsp. pumpkin seeds, 1 tsp. chia seeds. Blend the strawberries, yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour into a bowl and decorate the top with the cornflakes, strawberries, blueberries, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds. Drizzle a little extra syrup to top it off!
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2. Breakfast Casserole Here’s what you’ll need: 1 c. shredded cheese (go for pepper jack if you want an extra kick!), 6 eggs whisked, 6 diced bacon slices, 2 bread slices cubed, ⅓ diced red bell pepper, 2 chopped green onions, 3 tbsp. whole milk (almond milk works too!), ½ tsp. minced garlic. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Stir in the ingredients, while seasoning with salt and black pepper, until well-combined. Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the eggs are set.
3. Mini Pancake Skewers Here’s what you’ll need: 1 large egg, ¾ c. whole milk, 1c. buttermilk pancake or waffle mix, 1 tbsp. melted butter, ½ c. blueberries, ½ c. strawberries.
4. Virgin Orange Pineapple Mimosa Here’s what you’ll need: ¼ c. orange juice, ¼ c. pineapple juice, 2 cans of ginger ale. Combine the orange juice and pineapple juice then pour into 4 glasses. Top it off with Ginger Ale. Garnish with orange and/or pineapple wedges. (Need something a little stronger? Lose the ginger ale and reach for the champagne, sis!)
Put the fruit to the side for now. Using a medium bowl, beat the egg then pour in the remaining ingredients. Mix until well combined. Heat a nonstick pan or griddle and coat it with a bit of oil (or butter). Using a tablespoon, drop the batter into the pan. Do 2 or 3 at a time depending on the size of your pan. On a griddle, pour up to 8. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until buttles form. Carefully flip the pancakes and cook until golden brown. Place the mini-pancakes on the skewer (4-5). Top them off with the berries.
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Style Guide
Give Looks Every Which Way
With Your Kaftan by Saeeda Ruffin
E
very so often an uber versatile piece of clothing comes along and takes the world by storm. Do y’all remember the wrap dress? Yes, Honey, it was all of that, and if you were like the rest of us, you styled that dress every which way, like a true fashionista. From fabulous to fun, you could do it all with those wrap dresses. Well, Sis, this time around, there is the Kaftan. The Kaftan has come for the smoke and will have you taking chic to a whole ‘nother level. You’re probably getting hyped already thinking of the possibilities that the Kaftan offers. Expect this one to be the real deal. Like the wrap dress, you can take your Kaftan from beach balling to babe-watch with a little styling trickery. It’s mad exciting thinking about how amazing you will look in this beautiful piece. Without a doubt, your Kaftan will become a staple of your vacation gear. This must-wear clothing wonder has made a believer out of many around the globe who have experienced its natural, flowy elegance first-hand. Here’s your super easy Kaftan styling guide to give you the tips and switch-up ideas that will have you rocking your Kaftan with fierceness:
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Bring That Shoulder Action So, a super simple way to upstyle your Kaftan is to pull it off the shoulders. You can either pull it to one side with one shoulder out, or put both of them on display. Not only is this look crazy sexy, it gives the Kaftan a more chic look. You can pair the off-shoulder style with a belt and you have just created one of the most elegant little dresses ever!
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Everybody Gather Around There is something classic and sexy about gathering a garment in the middle. Whether it’s a shirt or a Kaftan, the effect of gathering the fabric so that it seems to have a central focus takes the outfit to fashion icon status. To make this look work for your Kaftan, you will need an elastic hair band. It’s super simple, yet the end result will be an incredibly fly look. Take the hair elastic and gather the middle of the Kaftan like you would a ponytail. Wrap the hair elastic around the fabric twice as if you’re making a ponytail. Then, wrap once again but do not pull the fabric all the way through. This will create a loop (small opening) that you should be able to put your finger through. Then, take the excess fabric that is left over from the banded area to cover the looped part. This will create a cute little covered knot right in the center of the Kaftan, allowing it to be adjusted to a shorter length or to create a tighter fit.
Hi-Low It Your Kaftan doesn’t have to just be the same length all the way around. You can Hi-Low it for a sweet style. Put on a belt and pull the front of the Kaftan up to the length that you think will look absolutely fabulous. Pair this look with leggings or jeans to take things up a notch.
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TWO Ways To Shorten Things Up There are two quick and easy ways to shorten your Kaftan. The first is to use hair ties. Create a ponytail on either side of the waist area by gathering the fabric the same way that you gather hair for a ponytail. Then, affix the tie around the gathered fabric. You can do this on one side or on both sides. Doing this will also expose those sexy side splits. So, if you want to show some leg, pony the sides and let those legs do their thang! The second way to shorten your Kaftan is to put a belt around your waist. Then, pull the fabric up to shorten the Kaftan to your desired length. Using this fashion trick, you can actually create a whole ‘nother look by turning the Kaftan into a cute little dress or top! This will also make the Kaftan appear a bit more form fitting, which is awesome for petite sistas.
Strap Some Magic On It Take your Kaftan from free form to fierce by attaching stringed beads onto it to create straps. You will need to start by affixing stringed beads or any type of material that you think will make a fabulous strap. Measure out the stringed beads to a length that will compliment your Kaftan. Then, using those tiny safety pins, attach the new “straps” to the front and back of the top of the Kafkan over each shoulder. You can even add another strap that hangs off of the shoulder for an even flirtier look. So, Sis, you can pair these straps with the shortened Kaftan mini dress for the most phenomenal fit ever! This is a fashion-forward trick to switch things up.
There is absolutely no losing with this Kaftan. It just hits 100 no matter how you style it. So, fix it, flex in it, and use these style strategies to make your Kaftan amazingly fabulous!
THERE'S MORE! Visit the Izzy & Liv Blog (www.izzyandliv.com) for Kaftan how-to videos!
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Plan, Accomplish, Celebrate, Repeat by Saeeda Ruffin
E
very day brings its share of challenges and victories, and let’s be honest, we all encounter difficulties at some point. Ultimately, how you respond to the curveballs that are thrown your way, as well as the triumphs (YAY!), determines how they affect your life. You can easily let the negatives overshadow the positives; or you can refuse to allow them to unravel everything you’ve worked so hard for. Nothing is more empowering than overcoming an obstacle, Sis. So, how can you promote positive vibes and kick all that negativity to the curb? The answer is simple: Plan. Accomplish. Celebrate. Repeat.
PLAN Keep your plans realistic and do not forget to plan for the “unexpected”. Strategic planning will give you that sense of being in control that you need to succeed. When you don’t plan for the “unexpected”, it’s normal to panic when things go off script. So, while you’re planning your projects or events, take time to make note of things that can possibly go wrong and create a contingency plan for those obstacles and distractions. Things seldom go exactly as planned, but that doesn’t mean they can’t go well, or even better than planned. When the “unexpected” happens, don’t fall apart — regroup and remind yourself that you’re in control. You’re ready for this!
ACCOMPLISH Your ability to execute is super important. When your skills, your management ability, and your patience are tested, that’s when your Black Girl Magic is on full display for the world to see. So, when your plan comes together and you’ve executed it to perfection, stand back and shine like the rock star you are.
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CELEBRATE After you have done the impossible or even if you simply accomplished that nagging task that you set out to do, remember to give yourself some dap. Celebrate yourself and your accomplishments big and small! If you always wait for others to give you the credit you deserve, or a pat on the back, it may never happen. Nope. Don’t let that keep you from celebrating the obstacles you have overcome or that perfectly executed plan. Do something special for yourself — then prepare to quickly move on to the next challenge. Cheers to you!
REPEAT What’s next? How about another chance to put your prowess to the test? Yes Sis. Keep moving onward and upward. Every chance you take to better yourself, your skills, and your life will benefit you and give you an even greater feeling of self-worth — and that’s something you can’t buy! So, get your mind in gear, plow through the obstacles, and rack up those wins. You deserve every single one!
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beauties Izzy & Liv customers truly are THE BEST! We LOVE seeing your social media posts sharing your boxes each month. Here are a few highlights from April 2021.
Congratulations to last month’s WINNER! Shakeema W. was randomly selected from sharing Brown Sugar love on social media to WIN her free box. Thank you to everyone who shared! Stay in it to win it and don’t forget to share this box using hashtags #brownsugarbox #izzyandliv for your chance to win next month’s giveaway. BONUS: Join our Facebook Group: The Brown Sugar Lounge, for a SECOND CHANCE to win a free box.
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Shake Sumthin’ Playlist By Girl Tyler
O
utside is open for business (well, kinda)! It’s time to hit the streets to celebrate life and a new season filled with endless possibilities. You deserve a good turn up! The Shake Sumthin’ playlist is equipped with the twerk essentials needed to get you pumped for your summer shenanigans. Whether you’re going on a road trip, getting flewed out, or doing a kickback at the crib, we got you covered from pregame to the main event. Throw back in a circle, make it clap, and live your best life this summer! • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Twerk by City Girls ft. Cardi B. Say I Yi Yi by Ying Yang Twins She Twerkin by Ca$h Out Shake That Monkey by Too $hort ft. Lil Jon & The Eastside Boyz Donk by Soulja Boy Risky by Saweetie ft. Drakeo the Ruler Rump Shaker by Wreckx-N-Effect No Limit by G-Eazy ft. A$AP Rocky & Cardi B. Wobble Wobble by 504 Boyz Dance (A$$) Remix by Big Sean ft. Nicki Minaj Rock Yo Hips by Crime Mob Baby Got Back by Sir Mix-A-Lot Up & Down by Saucy Santana ft. Mulatto Pull Over by Trina Clappers by Wale ft. Nicki Minaj & Juicy J Pour It Up by Rihanna Low by Flo Rida ft. T-Pain Ayy Ladies by Travis Porter Simon Says by Megan Thee Stallion ft. Juicy Bandz A Make Her Dance by Juicy J ft. Lil Wayne & 2 Chainz No Hands by Waka Flocka Flame ft. Roscoe Dash & Wale Push It by Salt-N-Pepa I Need a Hot Girl by Hot Boys & Big Tymers Ms. New Booty by Bubba Sparxxx ft. Mr. Collipark & Ying Yang Twins What’s Your Fantasy by Ludacris ft. Shawna Buss It by Erica Banks Get Low by Ying Yang Twins ft. Lil Jon & The Eastside Boyz My Neck, My Back by Khia Pop That by French Montana ft. Lil Wayne, Drake & Rick Ross Up by Cardi B. Back That Azz Up by Juvenile ft. Mannie Fresh & Lil Wayne
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Frequently asked questions
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Can I change my size preference for future boxes? Yes, you can do so inside your Brown Sugar Box account on izzyandliv. com, or you can email us at support@izzyandliv.com to update your preferences for you.
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When will I be billed for next month’s box? You will be rebilled on the 1st of the month for the next box. You will not be billed for the next box until after the box from the current month has been shipped/ delivered.
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What is your cancellation policy? Your subscription can be cancelled at any time in your Brown Sugar Box Account Settings at izzyandliv.com. If you’ve already been billed for the next box (1st of the month), your cancellation will take affect the next billing cycle. To cancel your subscription, login to your account and click on the Subscription tab, then click “edit” next to your subscription. You can also email us to request that we cancel for you.
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Can I exchange or return items in my box? We cannot accept returns at this time for Brown Sugar Box items, but we welcome your feedback to improve. Email us at support@ izzyandliv.com to share your thoughts. We value your feedback and our mission is to make every Brown Sugar Box more than worth your while! Your feedback will help us to make sure we make this box amazing and valuable as it can be. As far as the item(s), you can always gift them to a friend, coworker, or family member- these items make GREAT gifts! Can I skip a month without cancelling? Yes, you can skip a future month delivery and not be billed for it, without having to cancel your entire subscription. Once logged into your Brown Sugar Box account at izzyandliv. com, you will need to open the “Delivery Schedule” tab. There you will see all upcoming deliveries for your subscription. To skip a delivery you just need to click “Skip” to the right of each relevant delivery. This will only skip that one delivery. To skip multiple deliveries you will need to click “Skip” next to each relevant one. Alternatively, you can email to have us skip deliveries for you.
How can I share photos or unboxing videos with you? Yes! We live for customer feedback & reviews! Just post your pics or video on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube etc. and hashtag #brownsugarbox, #izzyandliv and @izzyandliv. You can also leave a photo review on the Brown Sugar Subscription page! If you make a blog post email us with the link. If your social media is private we will not be able to see your post, so feel free to email us to let us know where to check it out! Something went wrong with my order/ delivery what should I do? Should you have an issue with your box items (damage, received wrong size, etc) you must notify us at support@izzyandliv. com, with photo(s), within 7 days of receipt of your package. After 7 days, we will not be able to process requests related to this month’s box. If your box was returned due to consumer error, please reach out to customer service for reshipment at an additional cost.
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I have feedback or questions, who do I contact? We can be reached at support@izzyandliv.com
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Magical T hin gs ARE HAPPENING IN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP
You should be there… Members Only Lounge www.facebook.com/ groups/izzyandliv