Hello Beautiful » Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor

Valentine’s Day Brunch Ideas That Will Impress The Loved Ones In Your Life

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:00:24 +0000

Whether you’re looking to impress that special someone or planning on ditching the romance and hanging with friends, here’s a perfect Valentine’s Day plan for you. Try something different this V-Day and invite your favorite couples or your besties to a Valentine’s Day brunch.

Kahlúa has partnered with Food Network Chef Marcela Valladolid to come up with some simple brunch tips and recipes, sure to amaze your friends and/or significant other. You can find it all on the Delicioso Brunch Club application tab on www.facebook.com/Kahlua, but we have a sneak peek below for you.

· Throwing an anti-Valentine’s brunch? Instead of bringing dates, have your guests each bring the coffee they love to share with the group and have a comparative coffee cupping.

· Valentine’s is all about the heart. Serve lots of warm dishes to heat up the soul like Pineapple-Cajeta Empanadas. But don’t go overboard – make it potluck and buffet-style to avoid spending too much time in the kitchen and give yourself more time to enjoy those you love!

· Who says V-Day has to be red overload? Accentuate your spread with color schemes that YOU love.

· Make sure your guests bring a variety of dishes, so everyone’s tastes are met. There should be something sweet & savory, something for the light eaters and something for the salt-lovers. Ask your guests about any dietary restrictions or allergies, and ensure there are vegetarian options, if called for. These extra steps go a long way in your host duties.

What would be a brunch without a cocktail? You can’t go wrong with this Cupid Kahlua Kiss drink recipe:

Cupid’s Kahlua Kiss

2 parts Kahlúa

4 parts soda water

Ice

Maraschino Cherry

Pour Kahlúa into a highball glass filled with ice. Add soda water. Top it with a cherry and serve.

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Beyonce Sizzles In Body-Hugging Sequined Dress [PHOTO]

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:15:36 +0000

Looking simply stunning, new mom Beyonce made her second appearance in two nights on Tuesday, stepping out for hubby Jay-Z’s benefit concert at NYC’s Carnegie Hall.

Bey rocked a Monique Lhuillier dress with Gucci shoes, a Chanel purse, and Lorraine Schwartz jewelry. Both pieces of jewelry were the perfect combination for her manicure inspired by newborn daughter Blue Ivy.

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Make It Last Forever: Jay-Z And Beyonce

Work it girl!!

Style Trend: Oversized Studs

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:30:25 +0000

Studs have always been a go-to accessory thanks to their simplicity and sophistication, but this season try taking it up a notch and make a bold statement with the latest trend: oversized studs. The great thing about this new trend is that, unlike chandeliers, they aren’t heavy and won’t weigh your earlobes down.

Smooth and Hammered Stud Earrings $10.74 at asos.com

Oversized Sundial pave/leather stud earring $25 at BaliCatina

Oversized Black Diamond Studs $70 at baublebar.com

Faceted resin stone stud earrings $5.37 at asos.com

Oversized Black Panther Stud Earrings $12.80 at bluedame.com

5 Must-Have Headbands To Jazz Up Your Hair

The 8 Nail Polish Colors Of 2012 You NEED To Know

EYE CANDY: Super Bowl 2012 Hotties

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:43 +0000

Ladies whether you’re a diehard fan of the sport or just go to the parties to pose, your Super Bowl Sunday just got a whole lot hotter. We’ve rounded up some of the sexiest men that will take the field in this week’s championship game. Check out the hotties and tell us who’s your favorite:

Who do you think will win the Superbowl? CLICK HERE

A Woman’s Guide To Sports: Breaking Down The NFL

5 Sexy Lingerie Pieces For Valentine’s Day

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:15:00 +0000

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we have rounded up 5 sexy underthings to heat things up on this special night and any other night of the year!

Caged Mesh Cutout Chemise $48 at fredericks.com

Red Bow Bustier- $74 at victoriasecret.com

Natori “lipstick” pink bra and panty set $19.99/9.99 at natori.com

Lace Up Bra and Thong Set $23.95 at yandy.com

Playboy Kelly Push-Up Babydoll $37.99 at lingeriediva.com

“Have the best Valentine’s Day ever with Playboy Intimates’ “Dress Me in Poetry” Facebook App! Create your lingerie wish list and send it to your sweetheart. They’ll receive a list of your favorite items, a custom-made poem, and a discount code for our online shop. One lucky list maker will win their entire wish list!”

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How To Survive Valentine’s Day As A Single Lady

Recipes That Will Score A Touchdown This Super Bowl Sunday

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:00:51 +0000

Hosting a Super Bowl Party this year? If so, offer your football fans plenty of good food to munch on while cheering for their favorite team.

Super Bowl Sunday is not the time to think about your diet, this is the one day that we throw caution to the wind. Whether you tune in for the game, the halftime show, or the commercials, you won’t miss one minute of the action if you keep things simple with make-ahead dishes and easy buffets.

Here are some easy recipes to serve your guests:

Hooters’s Buffalo Wings

Prep. Time: 1:45

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp. black pepper
20 chicken wing segments
1/2 cup butter OR margarine
1/2 cup hot sauce (see Notes, below)

-In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and peppers.
-Coat chicken entirely in the flour mixture; refrigerate coated wings for 1 hour; coat chicken again with remaining flour mixture.
-In a 2-quart saucepan, heat butter and hot sauce just until butter melts; turn heat to low and keep warm on stove top.
-Deep-fry chicken, 8 – 10 pieces at a time, in 375 degree oil (vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil) for 13 minutes, turning once or twice.
-Drain chicken on a wire cooling rack for 30 seconds, then immediately toss fried chicken in buffalo sauce mixture and remove with a slotted spoon.
-Repeat with remaining chicken.

Adjusting the spiciness of the sauce: As is, the recipe produces a medium sauce. To change the amount of spiciness, simply adjust the butter-to-hot sauce-ratio:
Mild: Use 3/4 cup butter and 1/4 cup hot sauce.
Hot: Use 1/4 cup butter and 3/4 cup hot sauce.

(I use this recipe every Superbowl Sunday and my guests always ask for more.)

Click here for more great Superbowl party recipes.

Who do you think will win the Superbowl? CLICK HERE

Check out our NFL Eye Candy below:

Take a look at some of the hot men who took the field in the 2010 & 20111 Super Bowl:

Aretha Franklin Reacts To Don Cornelius Death

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:30:20 +0000

Music legends and fans are mourning the loss of Soul Train host and creator Don Cornelius. The Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin released the following statement:

“It’s just so sad, stunning and downright shocking and a huge and momentous loss to the African-American community and the world at large. Don Cornelius single handedly brought about a melding and unity of brother and sisterhood among young adults worldwide and globally with the unforgettable creation of Soul Train.”

Aretha Franklin

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Celebrities React To Death Of Don Cornelius

GALLERY: Historical Firsts For Black Women

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:00:07 +0000

In honor of Black History Month, we’ve highlighted some of the first Black women who were honored for their achievements.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: Rosa Parks

GALLERY: Top 10 Girl Groups In Black Music

If you want more Black History, take a look at how we’re celebrating Black pop culture throughout the decades

Top 8 Female Performances In “Soul Train” History [VIDEO]

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:30:17 +0000

With the recent passing of “Soul Train” creator Don Cornelius, we take a look back at some of our favorite female performers who brought grace and style to the “hippest trip in America.” The series was created by Don Cornelius, who also served as its first host and executive producer, and aired first-run episodes from 1971 to 2006.

Rufus featuring Chaka Khan- “Sweet Thing”

Aretha Franklin- “Rock Steady”

Freda Payne “Band Of Gold”

The Emotions – “Best Of My Love”

Janet Jackson -”Young Love”

Jody Watley – “Looking For A New Love”

Labelle – “Lady Marmalade”

Teena Marie – “I Need Your Lovin’

Celebrities React To Death Of Don Cornelius

Michelle Obama: “The President Sings To Me All The Time” [VIDEO]

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:00:56 +0000

President Barack Obama loves to serenade his wife Michelle Obama by singing songs from Al Green, Marvin Gaye and other R&B great, the First Lady revealed Tuesday night.

‘He does have a beautiful voice, and he sings to me all the time,’ Michelle Obama told ‘The Tonight Show’ host Jay Leno.

The president showed off his skills recently when he sang a bar of an Al Green song during a fundraiser at the Apollo Theater in New York City.

The First Lady dazzled in her high waisted mint green J. Crew skirt, a gold-flecked sweater and a pair of low, pointed-toe heels for her TV appearance.

Watch Michelle Obama Show Off Her Dance Moves On iCarly [VIDEO]

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Valentine’s Day Gifts For The Guy In Your Life

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:00:32 +0000

While you may want the chocolate and a day at the spa for Valentine’s Day, the man in your life is hoping for something besides the boxers with hearts! Take this opportunity to show him how much you care by gifting him with something that reflects his lifestyle.

Tissot T-Sport Watch $266 at tissot.com

Cognac leather wallet- $75 at jcrew.com

Dragster Fantasy Ride $149 at xperiencedays.com

Aran Fisherman’s Scarf $89.50 at rugby.com

iPad Case $168 at coach.com

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Valentine’s Day Gifts For The Woman In Your Life-All For Under $50

7 Must-Have Jackets You Need Right Now

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:15:33 +0000

Every fashionista knows the right jacket tops off an outfit while keeping you stylishly warm. With the recent shift in the weather pattern, here are some wearable pieces to carry you through the season.

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Valentine’s Day Gifts For The Woman In Your Life-All For Under $50

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:00:26 +0000

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to say those three special words to a girlfriend, friend, co-worker or your sister, show them that you care with these fun Valentine’s Day finds for under $25:

GUESS Earrings, Red Crystal Double Heart Earrings $25 at macys.com

Deborah Lippmann Three Times A Lady 3-piece Nail Lacquer Set $42 at beautyhsn.com

Silver Plated Solid Heart Bottle Stopper $15.95 at wineschwag.com

Red Gloves $19.99 at modcloth.com

Love Hearts Makeup Case $34.95 at beauty.com

Valentine Madeleines $22.95 at williams-sonoma.com

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5 Trendy Necklaces To Jazz Up Your Winter Wardrobe

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:00:28 +0000

A statement necklace adds the perfect finishing touch to an otherwise simple outfit. The bigger, the bolder, the better! Beaded or embellished, layered or twisted, long or short; a statement necklace can be worn with shorts, jeans, mini dresses or long gowns.

Piza Necklace $205 at nastygal.com

Box Chain Disc Necklace $71.62 at asos.com

Body Necklace $55 at balicatina

Plastic Spike Collar Necklace $26.86 at asos.com

Seed Bead Fringe Necklace $8.80 at forever21.com

7 Wool Pieces For Winter For Under $100

5 Throws To Keep You Warm This Winter

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:45:33 +0000

Now that the temperature has dipped, a throw is a great addition to keep you warm while snuggling up on a cold winter night. Just drape it over the corner of your sofa to create an intimate and inviting touch.

Scallop-Knit Throw $69.99 at potterybarn.com

Chloe Throw $79 at westelm.com

Faux-Fur Throw $79.99 at westelm.com

OFELIA Throw $19.99 at ikea.com

City Chenille Throw $ 35.99 at overstock.com

6 Must-Have Rugs For Your Floor This Winter

How To Add Sparkle To Your Home

5 Lamps For Your Bedroom, All Under $100

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:00:32 +0000

A bedroom should have soft lighting to help create a warm and comfy environment. Choosing the right bedroom lighting can be overwhelming,but there’s no need to panic, I’ve rounded up 5 lamps to help set the mood,that won’t break the bank.

6 Quick Tips On How To Make A Bed

Make Your Dorm Room Feel Like Home…On A Budget

Weekend Project: Paint Your Closet

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 14:00:49 +0000

There's nothing like opening a door and being surprised. A brightly painted closet interior is one of these, and it's such an easy weekend project that we have to wonder why we don't see this more often. Here are some painted closets to inspire you: Read more..

5 Must-Have Headbands To Jazz Up Your Hair

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:30:59 +0000

Hair accessories are the best way to put a jazz up a boring hairstyle that requires little effort. A pretty headband works just as well with everything from a sweater and jeans to a dress.We’ve rounded up some of our faves that won’t break the bank:

Multi-bead medallion headband $6.50 at charlotterusse.com

Tasha ‘Night Flower’ Headband $18.90 at nordstrom.com

Disc Crown Head Band $10.64 at asos.com

Fur Knit And Plait Headband $18 at

Loose Leaf Headband $19.00 at urbanoutfitters.com

3 Things To Consider Before Getting Ombre Hair Color

7 Stylish Ways To Keep Your Head Warm This Winter

6 Must-Have Rugs For Your Floor This Winter

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:15:23 +0000

If your floors are starting to feel as cold as the temperature outside, it may be time to consider adding an area rug. Area rugs are a quick and inexpensive way to add texture and warmth to a room. Here are 5 rugs that will help you feet feel cozy and warm:

Hand-tufted Rojan Wool Rug- $210.99 at overstock.com

Silver Pebbles Rug $399 at cb2.com

Alexa Zebra Animal Print Black/ White Rug- $79.99 at overstock.com

GISLEV Low Pile Rug -$19.99 at ikea.com

White Flokati Area Rug -$79.99 at ikea.com

Medallion Rug $99.99 – $639.99 at westelm.com

How To Add Sparkle To Your Home

5 Inviting Comforters & Duvets For Your Bed This Winter

How To Add Sparkle To Your Home

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 22:00:10 +0000

Whether your home is elegant or casual and laid-back, every girl likes a bit of shimmer and glitz.From sequined pillows or throws to metallic candle holders, here are 5 simple ways to bring in a bit of bling to your home.

Chiasso Silver glitz pillow $58 at chiasso.com

Footed Mercury Hurricanes $19-39 at westelm.com

DIY: Create this conversation piece with mirrored tiles

Glass Links Chandelier $299 at zgallerie.com

Martini Side Table $129 at westelm.com

The Must-Have Color To Introduce In Your Home In 2012

5 Inviting Comforters & Duvets For Your Bed This Winter

How To Decorate With Throw Pillows

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 19:00:25 +0000

If you craving a change in your living room this season and want a quick instant makeover without spending big bucks, why not add a throw pillow or two.

Here are some tips on how to decorate with throw pillows:

1) Choose a variety of fabrics such as prints, stripes, graphics and solids. Mix small patterns with large prints.

2) Fill empty corners in your living room with over-stuffed pillows.

Click here to find out how to clean your living room in 6 minutes.

3) Group the pillows in odd numbers such as three or five, the traditional grouping of two is so yesterday.

4) Add a splash of color by mixing in a few small throw pillows among the larger ones.

Find out how to decorate a room for $25.

7 Must-Have Coats To Keep You Warm This Winter

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 15:00:44 +0000

With all the great new fashion trends for this winter season, nothing makes a statement like a fabulous coat. Keep in mind you need to take into consideration the shape of your body as you want the coat to fit properly. Take a look at our top 7 style inspiration from ombre to luxurious faux fur.

How does she run in those heels?

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FANTASY FRIDAY: Valextra Isis iPad Clutch

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 18:30:40 +0000

Trek around town with your iPad in tow, in this luxury clutch.The clutch actually comes with a shoulder strap that is adjustable to wear cross-body. You can fit a slim card holder in there, as well as your iPhone.

At Barneys New York for $1,310.

FANTASY FRIDAY: Ruthie Davis Turquoise Patent Leather Booties

FANTASY FRIDAY: Heavy Metal Chair & Side Table

5 Inviting Comforters & Duvets For Your Bed This Winter

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 22:00:54 +0000

With the temperature taking a big dip here in the northeast recently, most of us were probably not prepared for the frigid air that hit us once we called it a night and climbed into our beds. Here are 5 warm and inviting comforters and duvet covers that will keep you warm this winter.

The Must-Have Color To Introduce In Your Home In 2012

Does Your Clothing Style Define Your Decorating Style?

5 Ways To Add Color Into Your Wardrobe

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:45:34 +0000

We all know that black is slimming and oh-so versatile, but guess what,it gets boring in no time. Give your wardrobe a quick pick me up by adding a few colorful pieces and watch the winter blues go bye bye!

Oasis ruched shirt
£15 - debenhams.com

Scotch Soda parka jacket
€168 - scotch-soda.com

American Vintage cropped pants
$50 - stylebop.com

Vince Camuto stiletto boots
$159 - shoptheshoebox.com

MICHAEL Michael Kors michael kors tote bag
$80 - net-a-porter.com

J Crew facets jewelry
$30 - jcrew.com

Corduroy Skinny Jeans: Get This Hot Winter Trend

The Top 9 Makeup Colors You’ll Want In 2012

FANTASY FRIDAY: Ruthie Davis Turquoise Patent Leather Booties

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:00:35 +0000

Does your wardrobe have a case of the Winter blues? Well, add some pop to your shoe collection just in time for the New Year with these attention-grabbing Ruthie Davis turquoise patent leather bootie.

Amp up the glam and give your party outfit room to shine and let the compliments roll in!

$1,195.00 at endless.com

FANTASY FRIDAY: Gianmarco Lorenzi Crystal Pumps

FANTASY FRIDAY: Heavy Metal Chair & Side Table

The Must-Have Color To Introduce In Your Home In 2012

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 14:00:34 +0000

If you’re one who stays on top of the latest trends, you probably will want to know what color will be hot when it comes to decorating your home in 2012. Pantone who is one of the major color trend setters for fashion and home décor, has come out with the must-have color to incorporate in your decor and the winner is…Pantone #17-1463 Tangerine Tango.

According to Pantone, Tangerine Tango as a spirited reddish orange will continue “to provide the energy boost we need to recharge and move forward.

Here are 3 ways to incorporate Tangerine Tango in your home:

Add a pop of color with a tangerine lamp shade

Try adding a tangerine love seat or throw pillows

Incorporate this color by incorporating accessories

Does Your Clothing Style Define Your Decorating Style?

5 Lamps For Your Bedroom, All Under $100

5 Must-Have New Year’s Eve Clutches

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 15:00:52 +0000

New Year’s Eve is right around the corner and if you need a clutch or evening bag to jazz up your outfit, here are five clutches that will do the trick.

Menbur Clutch- $70.53 at amazon.com

SANTI Sequined Clutch- $107.50 at endless.com

Suzy Smith Sequin Party Clutch Bag- $27.27 at asos.com

Giambattista Satin Bow Clutch – $9.99 at macys.com

Lulu Townsend Oval Clutch- $59.95 at dsw.com

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How To Twist Your Hair Into A Quick, But Chic Bun

How To Create A Bowlful Of Ornaments

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 14:00:31 +0000

If you live in an apartment like most of us do, you know having space for a Christmas tree is somewhat of a luxury. When there is no mantle to hang your stockings or tree to string lights, here is a simple way to decorate for the holidays when space is at a premium:

1) Place holiday balls in a either a glass bowl, oversized martini glass or pitcher. You can get mirrored ornaments from your local 99 cents store as they add a nice touch.

2) Add a set of pre- lit lights strings in the bowl

3) Place additional ornaments in vases and place throughout your home.

Hassle Free Holiday Decorations

7 Unique Personalized Gift Ideas For The Holidays

Holiday Gift Guide: 7 Fun-Filled & Healthy Gifts For Your Kids

Deborah Bennett, Senior Editor — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 18:00:14 +0000

Looking for some good Christmas gift ideas for your children? This holiday season promote healthier habits for your kids by giving them healthy fun-filled gifts. We’ve rounded up 7 gifts that will keep them entertained and healthy for a long time.

Evenflo® ExerSaucer® Jump & LearnSRP: $99.99 at walmart.com

Cars 2 Play Shave Set- $9.99 at Rite Aid, Walgreens, CVS, K-Mart, Super Value & Meijer’s

Disney Princess Hair Care Set $10 at target.com

Method Handsoap Foaming Hand Soap $8.98 at amazon.com

Princess Cocoa Mug Set $7.00 at walmart.com

Evenflo® Jump & Go™ Racer Doorway Jumper $49 at walmart.com

Disney Fairies Cosmetic Train Case $29.99 at toysrus