HOT Stilettos!

A few of my favorite heels!

Innocent $110, www.guess.com

Jimmy Choo Metallic Slingbacks $665, www.saksfifthavenue.com

Convert $59.99, www.guess.com

HOT Animal Print!

Chic & sexy leopard!

 Fedora $10.80 www.forever21.com

High Waist Leopard skirt ( 75% rayon, 21% nylon, 2% spandex) $17.80, www.forever21.com
            

Jeweled Flats $22.80, www.forever21.com

HOT Finds!

Great bargains for under $20!

Rhinestone Stud Hoop Earrings $6.80, www.forever21.com

Fab Rose Petal Print Dress $13.50, www.forever21.com

Peace, Love Bracelet $19.99, www.chicos.com

Hot Man: Darrin Henson!

Best known for his role as "Lem" on Showtime's now defunct series Soul Food, actor, dancer, chorographer Darrin Dewitt Henson is not exactly what you think. With four movies Tekken; My Place, My Horror; Hustle & Blood Done Sign My Name scheduled for release this year, the attractive thespian reveals what turns him on...being nude, popcorn, R&B singer Keri Hilson, Denzel Washington and more. Read on!

PrettyHotChick: Do you miss being on Soul Food?
Darrin Henson: No because I am still on Soul Food – it is still playing! Do I miss the people were on the show? Yes we are still really close, we talk all the time and we celebrate each other’s careers, our present successes together. We still are a family. Hopefully in the future someone is smart enough to put together a Soul Food film which would feature the cast from the TV show. It would be kind of historical to have Soul Food go from a movie turned into a TV series back into a film again.

PrettyHotChick: Which came first, dancing or acting?
DH: The dancing came first. I danced as a child just naturally because there was a lot of dancing in my house. Then the dancing spawned into choreography probably when I started working with Salt-n-Pepa. We were doing a video called “What a Man” and “Shoop”.  There was a choreographer that was in charge of the dancers and I didn’t really like the choreography that much – it was feminine and I didn’t like the way it felt on my body. And with my personality, I wanted to be in charge. I wanted to be the one choreographing. I was just frustrated with the dance steps that I was doing and it kind of forced me into becoming a choreographer myself because I no longer wanted to do these kind of moves. So that’s when I started to putting choreography together and started pitching myself as a choreographer.

PrettyHotChick: How did you get started as an actor?
DH: This first thing I've ever done as an actor was Broadway. There was a gentleman, Shaba-Doo Quinones (a.k.a Adolfo Quinones) who was famous for the movies Breakin’ and Electric Boogaloo. I did a TV show called the Donohue years ago and Shaba-Doo was on there. I looked up to him – he was larger than life to me. I just followed him throughout New York after the show was over. I followed him back to his hotel and where he went to eat. I was just asking all of these questions because he was this famous choreographer that had become an actor as well.  And I guess he took a liking to me because he made a call on my behalf to the director of this play, Stand-Up Tragedy, out of the Mark Taylor Forum in LA and said I know this really young guy who would fit perfectly in this role. I read for the part and booked the show. That was my very first acting gig.

PrettyHotChick: What is your dream role?
DH: I want to do a movie with Denzel Washington where I play his brother. And I'd like to play a soldier. I would also like to play a detective on a TV series.

PrettyHotChick: List two or three things that your fans would not know about you?
DH: I box. I practice Marshall arts and I eat popcorn about 4 days a week. I have to eat movie theatre popcorn – I don’t like microwave popcorn. I have to go to the movie theatre to buy popcorn. I will drive up to a movie theatre run in buy popcorn and leave. I do it all the time.

PrettyHotChick: Your personal style – what are you most comfortable in?
DH: Well, I like walking around naked to be honest. I just feel comfortable doing that. But, I believe a man should have a suit on when he is out at a function. A nice suit, a nice tie and a nice pair of shoes. 

PrettyHotChick: What is your definition of a hot chick?
DH: Keri Hilson – that’s a hot chick to me – no doubt!  She is just sexy! She is beautiful. She has a great voice and she is turning me on!  I think Queen Latifah is beautiful and sexy. She just has this beauty and this swagger – she is stunning!  I also think Beyonce is sexy – she is strong, confident, she has her thing together!  Beauty stems from inside levels of consciousness. Beauty is what a person holds in their heart for themselves and man-kind. Beauty shines brightly and outwardly toward others. It is a person who has sympathy and empathy. Someone who is fearless. 

PrettyHotChick: Are you single, are you dating?
DH: I am actually dating someone I found recently. A really wonderful person. She's independent, which is beautiful.

PrettyHotChick: How do you balance personal & professional life?
DH: It’s about enjoying the pleasures of life with the person you choose. Now if that other person is busy, then I am happy because that means she is fulfilling her desires and her needs of what she needs to do in her life for herself and then we both applaud each other on our own successes. I’ve always been a person who likes to travel, so sitting down is not for me at all times.

PrettyHotChick: What is your favorite book and CD?
DH: I have many – it just wouldn’t be fair to say I have a favorite book. There is a book I enjoy Life Lit By Some Large Vision. It is about Ossie Davis’s writing and speeches and the foreword is by Ruby Dee.  CD: “The Best of Lionel Ritchie”. I love T-Pain; Classical - “Twenty Years of Narada”. I love Ledisi.

PrettyHotChick: Advice to women who are searching for Mr. Right?
DH: Know Thy Self. Get a relationship with yourself. Because if somebody approaches you, you will know if they are right for your life.

-Stacey Williams-Bethel

HOT Halters!

It's the season to bare arms!

Lace corset top $88.50, www.victoriassecret.com

Ruffled Poplin Halter $68, www.whitehouseblackmarket.com

Belted Corset $49, www.victoriassecret.com

HOT Bargains!

Great finds for less than $35!

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 Maria Lace Top $22.80, www.forever21.com

Braided Platform Sandals $19, www.spiegel.com

Urban Tote with Sequins, $34.95 www.nyandcompany.com

HOT Damn!

Celebrity hits & tips!

Halle is casually chic in her cute new bob!

Bey is the epitome of sophistication in this white stunner! Love those shoes!

Is that Lil Kim on the left? Damn! Has she gone a little too "Hollywood" with the plastic surgery? I'm just saying...

10 Ways to Radiant Skin!

1. Always wash your face!

Cleansing is very important before you go to bed as well as in the morning so why not use a facial cleanser that not only cleans your skin but also has an added benefit?!  Try BLACK OPAL’s Daily Fade Cleanser to gently exfoliate and help improve your skin’s tone and radiance.

2. Exfoliate your body! 

When you exfoliate, you are sloughing off dead skin cells that make your skin look dull and at the same time, you are making way for the fresher skin cells underneath to shine through.  Pick a gentle exfoliator with micro-beads that buff away dry, flaky cells to reveal new, more even-looking skin.

3. Stop picking at your face! 

Sometimes it’s hard to resist but don’t pop your pimples, as it can actually push bacteria deeper into the skin and cause more inflammation.  Cleanse with a warm wash cloth to open pores and release dirt. Sleep with a spot treatment on to combat blemishes through the night.

4. Always wear SPF! 

Rain or shine, your daily facial moisturizer should contain SPF. Try BLACK OPAL’s Daily Fade Crème SPF 15 for a daily moisturizer that not only protects you from the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays, but also evens out your skin tone and fades dark spots with its Hydroquinone-based formula.

5. Get plenty of rest! 

You should be getting at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night because a lack of sleep will ultimately show up under your eyes as dark circles or bags. Since there will always be a night or two where you won’t be able to get a full night’s rest, try BLACK OPAL’S Total Coverage Concealing Foundation. This 2-in-1 concealing foundation works to cover and even skin in one, dermatologist-designed formula.

6. Simplify your routine. 

There’s nothing more frustrating than being late to work so why not use as few body products as possible in the morning? If it’s even-toned skin that you desire, try the BLACK OPAL Maximum Strength Fade System. This 3-step system fades dark spots and evens skin tone in as little as 14 days!

7. Moisturize at night. 

Applying your creams and serums before bed gives your skin a chance to absorb the products over an extended period of time, uninterupped. This also gives the products you’re using a chance to work to their full potential on your skin without interference by sun, sweat, or close-fitting clothing.  You’ll wake in the morning with softer more radiant skin.

8. When in doubt, add some color. 

Do you ever feel a little “blah?”  I find that most women feel completely renewed with just a little color on their lips and cheeks!  Try BLACK OPAL’s True Tone Vitamin Rich Lipstick in shades like Sheer Plum, Wine Not and Honeysuckle for a little extra something!  For your cheeks, try the Color Fusion Mosaic Powders.  This multi-toned face powder comes in five different shades with a high pigment level to ensure long-lasting application, with out appearing ashy.

9. Exercise your mind and body. 

Physical exercise is a must – activites like jogging or bike riding release endorphins in the brain which boost positive energy and help make you feel happy.  It’s also important to exercise mentally. Try to read 2-3 books a month to really “work out” your brain. Reading before bed is a great way to prepare for a good night sleep.

10. Eat your fruits and veggies daily! 

Simply put, a daily dose of fruits and vegetables in every color, especially green, does the body good and your skin will thank you for it by displaying a sexy glow! By the way, don't forget to drink lots of water to enhance your skin's sex appeal!

- Corey Huggins

HOT Hair!

This ageless shoulder-length style with a side bang is flattering on all face shapes!

Actress Salli Richardson

First Lady Michelle Obama

Actress Viola Davis

HOT Makeup!

Hot Chick beauty tools!

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Bare Escentuals Pussycat Eyes $39, www.sephora.com  

Benefit BAD Gal Eyeliner $18, www.sephora.com

A favorite of film stars Vivica A. Fox, Taraji P. Henson, Meagan Good...Illusions Lustre Lipgloss $10, www.illusionsbeauty.com

Nars nail polish in Midnight Express, www.sephora.com

HOT Look!

Flaunt your femininity with these womanly wares!

Flirty Drop Waist Dress $65, www.victoriassecret.com

Designer Cubic Zirconia Ring $36.99, www.target.com

Merona Split Box Clutch $14.99, www.target.com

Baby Phat Lina Pop Sandals $80, www.babyphat.com

The Mane Idea!

Celebrity hairstylist Tippi Shorter has worked with everyone from Alicia Keys to Jada Pinkett-Smith, bringing her innovative hair styles to the forefront of the entertainment industry. With an impressive list of dedicated clients, as well as being a spokesperson for Pantene hair products, Tippi Shorter reveals her secrets to hot hair!

PrettyHotCHick: Tell me three (3) essential hair products every woman should own.

Tippi Shorter: Every woman should have a good conditioner. I recommend using Pantene Naturals Breakage Defense. Also, Tresemmé Shine Spray, and Luster’s Hair Stick to smooth your edges.

PrettyHotCHick: How often should you wash and trim your hair?

T.S.: This all depends on your hair texture. The more oily your hair, the more often you should wash it. African-Americans in general should not wash their hair every day because our hair is usually dry. I would say once every 7 days is best. As for trims, I would say every 2 months.

PrettyHotCHick: There are a lot of hairstyles out there right now that we all have admired. How do you know which style is best for you?

T.S.: First you need to find out the shape of your face. Is it oval, heart-shaped, pear, round, etc.? Find pictures of people with similar facial structures as yours as compare styles that they have, to the style that you want. Then ask yourself, 'would this style look right on me?' I believe each style should be personalized for your face.

PrettyHotCHick: Who is someone you admire for their beauty style?

T.S.: Mary J. Blige. Her evolution is amazing! She is fearless when it comes to hair color and styles.

PrettyHotCHick: What is the best beauty advice you can share with our audience?

T.S.: Don’t get too caught up in trends. Stay with what works best for you. If you really want to go for a new look, switch little things first before doing something drastic, for example, like changing your hair color.

For more information about Tippi Shorter, visit her website at www.tippishorter.com

- Tia Price

HOT Tops!

Show a little skin with these shoulder highlighters!

Cowlneck top $48.50, www.victoriassecret.com

Gathered off-the-shoulder tee $59.50
www.victoriassecret.com

Asymmetric ruffled top $78.50, www.victoriassecret.com

Silk tie-neck blouse $28, www.victoriassecret.com

HOT Heels!

Bring out your warrior princess with these strappy cuties.

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Guess Ankle Strap Sandasl $110, www.victoriassecret.com  

Fandango $89, www.ninewest.com

Steve by Steve Madden Platform Sandal $110, www.victoriassecret.com

Kentaro $89, www.ninewest.com

Report Strappy Cork Sandals $225, www.victoriassecret.com

HOT Damn!

Celebrity hits & bits: Jeans R Us!

Rihanna out and about in NYC with gal pal. Beauties, forget about the saying that the best way to get over a man is under another…it is a temporary high, trust me! The better way is to move on with your life and have fun, one pretty thought at a time! And a great bag doesn’t hurt!

Vivica A. Fox looking hot in her cute & casual ensemble in NYC! Love the little black bag and studded boots!

America’s Next Top Model Eva Marcille and beau Lance Gross glowing at Brave New Voices premiere. They make such a cute couple! Lovin’ Eva’s look - the jewelry, cropped leather jacket & soft makeup!

6 things that enhance your hotness and turn people on!

Confidence! You are who you think you are. Live it! Breathe it! OWN IT! Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and you are the most important observer. Remember, how the world responds to you is up to you. So go ahead and carry yourself like a beautiful woman. If you believe it, others will too!

Be your lover for life! Create a never-ending romance with yourself by caring and nurturing your mind, body and spirit. For example, write yourself a love letter or poem, treat yourself to an exotic getaway, dine alone at a sultry restaurant, visit museums, read erotic books, search the Internet for various topics that you’ve always wanted to learn more about or buy yourself flowers. When you know your worth and pamper yourself, the very essence of who you are is strengthened, fulfilled and powerful.

Speak two languages…Body and English! Ladies, a woman's middle name should be sensuality. It is an important part of who you are - that is the secret of the world's most desirable women. And remember, sex appeal is more than physical attractiveness. It is your body language - how you feel, speak, walk, sit, stand, gesture and move. As Eartha Kitt once said, “You don’t move just because you want to go from this point to that point, the body has to be using the words as well as you vocally use the words.”

Feminine Chic. Accentuating your positives and flirting with your womanly curves in fashionable styles and colors that complement you, gives you an air of unmistakeable appeal.

Live Pretty! A hot woman is never without a good mani & pedi, lush lashes, soft skin, delectable lips, radiant tresses, a bright smile, great-fitting clothes, cute jewels and shoes as well as her daily dose of fresh fruits and vegetables and some form of exercise. Remember, nothing stops your hotness!

A seductive scent. Nothing mesmerizes the senses and conjures up delightful thoughts than a yummy scent!

- Alicia Marie Rivers

For more info on how to enhance your hotness, email me at alicia@prettythoughtsofahotchick.com and check out The Pretty Thoughts of a Hot Chick: Foxy Little Notions for Our Minds, Bodies & Souls! Available now at www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.target.com.

HOT Florals!

Accent your wardrobe with one of the season's hottet trend!

Jessica Simpson Floral Print Pump $89, www.victoriassecret.com

Patent Chain Link Floral Belt $19,www.newport-news.com

Dream Angels Heavenly Bloom Solid Fragrance Cocktail Ring $30, www.victoriassecret.com 

Gelsi Flower Flat $109, www.anntaylor.com

HOT Bargains!

Stylish inexpensive finds.

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Christie Flare pants in stretch cotton $39.50, www.victoriassecret.com 

Croc-embossed stiletto pumps $29, www.newport-news.com

Croc-embossed tote bag $25,www.newport-news.com

Twist-front pink flare dress $24 www.newport-news.com

HOT Jewels!

Glamourous pearls of wisdom.

Have a kind heart to radiate beauty.

Embrace your femininity!

Let the peace be with you.

Do what you can and let it be.

*For more information including prices on these beautiful pieces from Alejandra's Pearls, call 212-631-5898 or visit www.alejandraspearls.com

Spring Cleaning Your Finances!
 
This spring, if your closets are more organized than your finances, view it as a sign that it's time to take action. Lisa Caputo, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Women & Co., and Linda Descano, CFA, President and Chief Operating Officer, offer these tips to help spruce up your finances and put together an action plan towards better financial health. For help getting started, visit www.womenandco.com. Women & Co. offers easy-to-use financial tools such as a document organizer, goal-setting worksheets and much more.
  

1. Gather your financial records. Pull together your financial statements (e.g., bank, credit card, brokerage), your insurance and legal documents (e.g., life insurance, will, healthcare proxy), and your personal records (e.g., birth certificate, marriage/divorce certificate, property deed). Create a filing system and put a copy of your important papers either in a fireproof box at home, a bank safe deposit box, and/or with a trusted lawyer, relative, or friend. 

2. Get the big picture. Use your financial statements to calculate your net worth, which will tell you the difference between what you own (assets) and what you owe (liabilities). Once you have a picture of your overall net worth, determine your cash flow, which will help you identify areas where you could be saving and/or investing more.

3. Set financial goals. Short-term goals are those you’d like to accomplish within one year (e.g., pay off credit cards); mid-term goals, within 5 years (e.g., make down payment on a new home); and long-term goals, 5 years or more (e.g., save for retirement).  Write these down to help you clarify and prioritize your financial goals.
 
4. Allocate your money. Once you know your financial goals, allocate your money accordingly. This will help you determine how realistic your financial goals are, how long it may take to meet them, and what adjustments you may need to make now to achieve your goals in your desired time frame. Review expenses monthly and evaluate your progress regularly.

5. Check your financial reputation. Your credit score is a picture of your financial health in the eyes of lenders.  Check your credit reports as they could have errors or discrepancies that could limit your access to credit.  Resolve any errors and if you have any over-due payments, work towards paying them down as soon as you can.  The three organizations that issue the most commonly referred to credit reports are:  Equifax (www.equifax.com), TransUnion (https://www.citibank.com/womenandco/pages/articles/youdo_idtheft.jsp?rowvar=24##) and Experian (http://www.experian.com/). 
 
6. Protect yourself. If you don’t have a will, living will, or health care proxy, speak to an attorney to help ensure that your assets are handled according to your wishes. Dealing with these issues today can help you and your loved ones breathe easier in the future.
 
7. Stay informed and engaged.  Periodically review your goals and objectives at least once a year, as they will likely shift over time as life circumstances change. Finally, if you need help, don’t be afraid to ask. Talk with a financial advisor or visit www.womenandco.com which provides access to a suite of financial education resources and a vibrant community of financially-minded women.

About Women & Co.
Women & Co. is a financial resource program from Citi, dedicated to helping women achieve their financial goals. Women & Co. provides members with education on a vast array of financial and investing topics, which members access through www.womenandco.com, where members can read newsletters, listen to audio conferences, and find out about Master Class seminars in major metropolitan areas.

HOT Contrasts!

The always chic black & white combo!

Lightweight tunic-length layering tank $15, plaid scarf $12 & tiered skirt $39, www.newport-news.com

Sleeveless polka dot tie-neck top $29, www.newport-news.com

Embellished slingbacks with rhinestones $39, www.newport-news.com

Floral-print flare skirt $39, tunic tube top $19, floral corsage $6, www.newport-news.com

HOT Neutrals!

Glam pieces for almost everything.

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For the sexiest bare lips ever, slip on VS Very Sexy The Beauty of Brazil Lipgloss with SPF 15, $15, www.victoriassecret.com

Gucci large Jackie $2995, www.saksfifthavenue.com or www.neimanmarcus.com

Off-the-shoulder sweater $49, www.newport-news.com

Keller $89, www.ninewest.com

HOT Damn!

Celebrity bits.

Is Rihanna trying to send a power message with her new tattoos and star earrings? I'm just saying...

What the hell??? Quite a few tabloids reported that Janet was "fat" again. Now, if this is "fat" perhaps they need to borrow Janet's glasses. On another note, I am feeling the red and black color combo!

Actresses and identical twins, Tia & Tamera Mowry are a vision of loveliness in bomshell makeup, lush locks, sleek dresses and understated jewelry. Why don't we see more of them? I'm just saying...

Hot Chick Beauty Do's & Don'ts!

1. DO focus on your favorite attributes.

2. Don't let doubts cloud your mind.

3. DO exfoliate at least twice a week to remove dead skin, unveiling a radiant glow and sinfully smooth skin.

4. Don't stress. Do what you can and have faith.

5. DO get your rest. Sleep.

6. Don't pick your pimples! Instead, apply a warm towel to bump and press gently for 5-7 seconds. Repeat 2 or 3 times. Pat dry. Then apply Neutrogena's Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Gel. The warm compress will bring impurities to surface faster while the Fight & Fade Gel heals blemish and treats discoloration. 

7. DO nourish your body daily with fresh fruits & vegetables.

8. Don't neglect to moisturize your eyes, lips, elbows, feet, hands and knees at bedtime.

9. DO drink more water.

10. Don't get addicted. Limit your alcohol, caffeine and sugar consumption.

11. DO brighten your smile. Add Arm & Hammer's Whitening Booster to your toothpaste 2-3 times a day.

12. Don't walk out your door looking and feeling less than hot. You are who you think you are! Remember nothing stops your hotness!

For more hot chick tips, check out The Pretty Thoughts of a Hot Chick: Foxy Little Notions for Our Minds, Bodies & Souls! Available at www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.target.com & www.iuniverse.com

"It isn't the eyes, lips, hair or body that is so beautiful. I just know how to use them !"

The Pretty Thoughts of a Hot Chick:

Foxy Little Notions for Our Minds, Bodies & Souls!

Available now at:

www.iuniverse.com,

www.barnesandnoble.com

www.amazon.com

www.target.com

*For media/press inquiries, speaking engagements, appearances or sponsorship opportunities, contact:

Michelle A. Pascal

Michelle@mapunlimitedpr.com

RECENT PRESS:

www.uptownlife.net

www.essence.com

www.ambermag.com

www.mahoganybutterfly.com

www.uptownlife.net

www.uptownlife.net

www.missmajorsubstance.com

www.glamaddicts.wordpress.com

HOT Topic

According to the gossip blogs, allege pics of Rihanna and Chris Brown in what appears to be intimate moments between the two former lovers, have been leaked to the media. Reports claim that she is nude and in one photo (above) she is partially clothed and standing in front of a mirror that reads: "I Love You. I Miss you. Robyn." Now, some folks have trashed Rihanna, calling her names, saying that her career is over, blah, blah, blah. People please! For those who have negative things to say, I ask..."And you've always been Ms. or Mr. Innocent? You've never done anything that other people would mock, whisper about or judge?" Right...I thought so! Take a look at your reflection before you cast your stones. Besides, this photo is beautiful. I'm just saying...

HOT Chick of the Week! Fereda Ali, 32 Brooklyn, NY

""I know my self worth. I don't accept anything but the best and never settle for less. The motto I live by is "if the shoe fits, wear it but if it's too tight, take it off"."

Perfect nuggets of inspiration that a women could use just when she needs!

The perfect pick-me-up for summer!

Goddess Chic!

Alicia Keys is heavenly in her black & white dress and sparkling accessories!

HOT COVERS

Summer is off to a glam start with these fashion, beauty, health & fitness bibles!

Cece's Word!

(Or somethin like dat..tee tee...LOL!)l

Girls, I saw this photo and forgot what I wanted to gossip about. Damn, a fine-ass man can do that to you every now and then. God Bless, actor Laz Alonzo!

Got a tip or ya just want to vent, holla at me: cece@prettythoughtsofahotchick.com

XOXO,

CECE

HOT HAIR SALONS

in New York City:

Oneika Johnson, 646-232-8959, 174 St. Nicholas Avenue, (at 119th St.) New York, NY 10026

Specializes in: Extentions, braids, all aspects of hair weaving including fusion as well as natural hair care.

Wellington Hair Spa, 212-206-7962, 119 West 23rd St., #501, New York Citywww.wellingtonhairspa.net

Specializes in: healthy hair, cuts & weaves

Tina Pearson Salon, 212-717-2753

www.tinapearsonsalon.com

Specializes in: healthy hair, short cuts, weaves, layers, elegant up-do's

Red Creative Art Concept Studio, 718-221-5581

www.redcreativeartconceptstudio.com

Specializes in: natural hair

Khamit Kinks, 212-965-9100

www.khamitkinks.com

Great for: natural hair

Indra Salon, 212-395-8556

www.indranyc.com

Specializes in: weaves, relaxers & cuts

Turning Heads Day Spa, 212-828-4600

www.turningheadsdayspa.com

Specializes in: braids, weaves, relaxers, cuts & color

HOT SPOTS

in New York City:

Cafe Noir (32 Grand St, NYC, 212-431-7910, www.cafenoir.com). A sultry joint that'll remind you of of a little island retreat!

67 Orange Street (2082 Frederick Douglass Blvd, NYC, 212-662-2030). This sexy new lounge in Harlem is a great spot to mix and mingle! My favorite cocktails: Sexy Bison & Raspberry Truffle…Yummy!!!

Tillmans Bar & Lounge (165 west 26th Street, NYC 10001, 212-627-8320, www.tillmansnyc.com). Cool vibe. Beautiful people. Great music. Favorite dessert: Tillmans Toasted Strawberry Shortcake!

Philipe (33 East 60th Street, NYC 10022 (212) 644-8885, www.philipechow.com) - A favorite of some of your favorite celebrities, this sultry Asian restaurant is one of the best! Our favorite dishes include: Chicken Satay, an Crispy Salmon and Chef Chow's Lettuce Wraps.

BAR 89 (89 Mercer Street, NYC 10012 (212) 274-0989) - Perfect spot for catching a solo after-work drink or as a weekend hang-out spot with friends. Make sure you order a plate of their tasty buffalo wings while you’re there.

ZOE (90 Prince Street, NYC, 10012, 212-966-6722, www.zoerestaurant.com). The perfect place to take your lover or girlfriends for a delicious meal and tasty drinks! Favorite dish: Seared Canadian Salmon. Favorite drink: Hemingway Daiquiri (white rum, maraschino liqueur, fresh squeezed grapefruit & lime juices). They also have a terrific selection of wines! 

RED BAMBOO (140 W. 4th Street, NYC 10014 (212- 260-1212) – In the mood for something healthy? Red Bamboo serves a healthy portion of delicious vegan foods and organic drinks that will have you feeling guilt- free for seconds.

SPUR TREE (176 Orchard Street, NYC 10002 (212) 477-9977) - Feeling Irie? This lounge is reminiscent of an intimate island hut somewhere along the Caribbean coast. Weekends are best if you’re looking to mingle, but make sure to get there early. This place gets packed quickly!

THE RIVER ROOM (Riverside Drive at 145th Street, Harlem 10031 (212) 491-1500) - If you’re looking for ambiance, look no further. The River Room offers spectacular views of the Hudson River with wall-to-ceiling glass windows, and an outside patio that is perfect during the summer month. Located inside the Riverbank State Park, this spot offers valet parking if interested and live jazz on certain nights. Make sure to call ahead for the schedule.

SEA (114 N. 6th Street, Brooklyn 11211 (718) 384-8850) - This restaurant/bar is definitely worth the trip to Williamsburg. Posing as a trendy “date spot” and the perfect place to lounge around with friends, you can’t go wrong. Sea also offers a variety of Thai appetizers and drinks under $10. If you can’t make it to Brooklyn, check out their smaller restaurant in Manhattan.

HOT TV SHOWS:

1. The Mentalist (CBS) - "I am addicted to this show! The storylines are great. It truly keeps you guessing and the star, Simon Baker is hot!

2 . Keeping Up With the Kardashians (E) - "Kim, Kris, Kourtney & Khloe...these chicks have no problem speaking their minds...wild family drama!"

3. Chelsea Lately (E) - "This chick is a hot mess!"

5. The View (ABC) - "The Hot Chicks of Daytime TV is always on point with the hot topics!"

6. The Cougar (TV Land) - "Young men vying for an older woman's attention. Plus host, Vivica A. Fox is a glam goddess!"

7. The Real Housewives of New Jersey (Bravo) - "These chicks crack me up!"

HOT Jewels

Whether it's worn around the neck or wrist, pearls have been making one hell of a sophisticated yet sexy fashion statement! And as every hot chick knows, like our First Lady Michelle Obama, style is how you decide to speak to the world.

Tips on caring for your jewels.

1. Your jewelry is alive, so please be gentle. 
Being gentle doesn't mean your pieces are fragile, it's just a matter of being careful. Do not be too hasty and throw your pieces down on the counter or impatiently tug at a clasp. At this point try to do some jewelry yoga--take a deep breath and take the extra minute to 
place them down gently.

2. Remember that pearls especially do not like to be sprayed with perfumes and oils. Perfume can, over time, strip the pearl's nacre which is the substance that gives a pearl it's shine (sounds painful). Perfumes and oils also reduce the overall appearance of precious  stones, so be careful applying oils and lotions with your stones as well. If your hands need lotion, take off your ring (for a second and put it somewhere super safe or keep it in sight) before you apply 
lotion or oil.

3. Place your piece in its case, pouch or other storage compartment. When you finish your day, you typically go home.  So think of your piece in the same way, it wants to go home and lay down comfortably in its bed, pouch, case, vault, etc.

4. Always keep your pieces in a dry place. Keep them away from the sink or the sweating bottle of water. The silk or cotton thread that is typically used to string your pieces prefer to be dry. Keeping the string dry prolongs the life of the string and subsequently the life of your piece. However, like most people who live, sometimes you do not stay dry, so please see the next tip.

5. Summertime is upon us and as the song says, "the livin' is easy, fish are jumpin' and the cotton is high" and if you happen to ride the wave of life and forget that you are wearing your favorite necklace or bracelet as you frolic about in the pool or in the ocean, remember that chlorine and sea water are natural foes to silk and cotton. So, if that happens, please rinse the piece in cold water very briefly and then place it on a dry towel and gently pat out any extra water and let it dry.

"Love them and they will give you pleasure."

For more info or to find your own treasures, visit www.alejandraspearls.com

HOT Pick!

Make yourself a glowing, tasty treat for your lover! Hey, I want you to have a great sex life too!

Booty Parlor Dust-Up Kissable Body Shimmer $28, www.victoriassecret.com

Introducing Queen HOT Chick:
Adrienne Davis, Miss Black New York USA 2009

Beauty, brains and a terrific sense of humor…entrepreneur and former Wall Street analyst Adrienne Davis is “Miss Black New York USA 2009” Davis, a 25 year-old Ohio native with a Bachelor of Arts (Magna Cum Laude) in Finance from Clark Atlanta University, currently resides in Brooklyn, New York. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and former Cincinnati Bengals Cheerleader, she has previously modeled in print ads, swimsuit calendars, and for several make-up artists. Upon graduating in 2006 she moved to New York City to take a job as a Wall Street analyst, and in 2008 she founded Addison Group Holdings LLC, the parent company of her online clothing store Studio A Boutique and her fragrance company Brown-Eyed-Bandit Fragrances. As Miss Black New York U.S.A. 2009, she receives a one year modeling contract with Skyy Models, a professional photo shoot with renowned photographer Michael Benabib, and over two thousand dollars in cash and prizes. She also moves onto the 2009 Miss Black U.S.A. Scholarship Pageant, representing the state of New York, in addition to becoming a national spokeswoman for the “Fifty Million Pound Challenge,” Dr. Ian Smith and State Farm Insurance’s national weight loss challenge to African Americans.

Here she shares her secrets to hotness:

Best finance advice: Budget! Go through expenses and monthly income. Look at rent, Con Edison, etc. Look at what you can change – weekly mani and pedis, hair clothes etc. Don’t buy anything new unless you have to, shoe repair, etc.

7 beauty items she cannot live without: Foundation: Mary Kay Beige 400 – evens skin tone; Mascara – Mary Kay’s Lash Lengthening – makes u look awake; Lipgloss – Mary Kay’s Sweet Raisin – looks best on African American skin tones; Carol’s Daughter Lisa’s Har Elixir – smells like peppermint; Rat tail comb; Flat iron ½ in.; Silk scarf at bedtime

Best beauty lesson learned: Take care of your skin. Have a regimen of cleasing, exfoliating and moisturizing.

Best life lesson learned: It’s a humbling experience to walk into a room and everybody’s beautiful!

Miss Black U.S.A. Scholarship Pageant “provides educational opportunities to outstanding young women of color, celebrates scholastic achievement, and promotes education and leadership by providing scholarship opportunities to its winners.” The organization is also “committed to addressing health and education, two leading social issues in the African American community, with the winners of the official Miss Black USA state
pageants using their civic platforms to promote awareness of these issues during their reign.” The 2009 Miss Black U.S.A. Scholarship Pageant takes place this July in Washington, DC.

Pageant Tips
Pageantry is a competition. Many women compete in pageants for a variety of reason but they all have one common thread.  Winning the Title.  I’ve selected tips on how to focus on winning.  These tips can be used for every pageant system from your local pageant to Miss America to Miss Black USA.

1. Visualize Success – Prior to the competition imagine your name being called as the newly crowned queen.   Visualization is one of the most powerful tools.  Every successful person visualized their success.  Read The Power of Focus by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, & Les Hewitt
2. Understanding the system – Each pageant system is designed differently. Some systems want to crown spokeswomen and some want to crown supermodels. Know the system. Talk to the director and the employees. Google information about former winners. If she did mostly speaking engagements then make sure that your questions and answers are top notch. If she has done mostly modeling then get ready to travel. Most important, KNOW THE SYSTEM.  GOOGLE EVERYTHING
3. Practice makes Permanent – Bottom line. This is a competition and you can not win if you don’t practice. Practice your on-stage walk, your on-stage interview. Find a coach to evaluate your strengths and weakness. Practice your weakness at home.
4. Glam Ladies – Search high, search low. Find the best clothes that fit your body. Learn what fabrics works best with your body shape. Don’t count out color. Color can make or break your outfit. Start as early as possible. Don’t wait to the last minute. You won’t find what works best for you.
5. Those pretty whites – Invest in your teeth.  The number one thing that most people notice is a pretty smile.  Brush daily, floss, and use a whiter. The drug store has professional whitening brands that can be used safely at home.
6. Money, Money, Money – Pageantry can get expensive. Coaches, entry fees, clothing, hair, make-up, pictures, etc. These items can add up very fast.  Write out and stick to a budget. Set a realistic budget to meet your goals.

Your uniform maybe a glamorous gown, with professional hair and make-up but make no mistake. Winning a pageant takes dedication and work. There will only be one winner. Will you be the winner? Good Luck!

-Quintina Austin

Miss Black New York State Director

www.beautys-ink.com

HOT Ring!

Express yourself !

Sterling Silver Love Ring $19, www.target.com