Monday, August 31, 2009

Urban Paper Loft September Give-a-way!


So happy to announce my first give-a-way! Win a set of Urban Paper Loft "Urban Girls" Note Cards for you and a friend.
Visit http://urbanpaperloft.com/default.htm (bottom of page) to enter!

Friday, August 28, 2009

Beauty Review - e.l.f. Cosmetics


A note on beauty reviews. I'm only reviewing products by brands that don't test on animals. I love me some beauty stuff but love the litte critters more. The cool news is that there are plenty of great brands that have made decisions to not do animal testing. Like e.l.f.


Everything isn't about money, but the first thing I have to mention about e.l.f.'s Hypershine Gloss is the price..let's just say it is extremely inexpensive. Inexpensive enough that you can buy not just your favorite color, but one in each color. Inexpensive enough that you can buy one in each color for your office, on-the-go cosmetic bag and a set to leave at home. But better yet, the formulas are great. They go on smooth, have shine thats last for quite a while. Add multiple layers to deepen the color and use a lip liner to modify the shade. Did I mention the price?...

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Urban Paper Girl - Zalika Perkins


Urban Paper Girl is our new feature that spotlights incredible women that you should know.

I've known Atlanta artist Zalika for several years and always admired not only her unique style, incredible talent but also her abundance of positive energy.



How long have I been painting? What are your other creative pursuits?
First of all, I've always been a creative person. I use to make doll houses and mini sculptures. I was always drawing or fooling with watercolors. My father was a painter so that may have had something to do with it. For high school, I went to a math and science magnet school that offered no art classes, so I really got into writing poetry and short stories. My Freshman English teacher accused me of plagiarism because she did not believe a 12 year old could write on that level.I reconnected with painting when I was 15 and was enrolled in a summer art program. That is why I decided to major in painting at Howard University. So in addition to painting, I have a thing for writing. As a matter of fact, I did a lot of poetry readings back in the day .

What inspires you?
Oh, so much gives me inspiration! My dear son, Mahari. A good book or movie. Music- from afrobeat to hip hop. Ummm, Black people throughout the world from the ghettos of DC, Southern India to Soweto, dancing, meditating, being in the forests, fly clothes!

Describe yourselfin three words?
Effervescent, Evolving, Ethereal

If money where no object, I'd be....
on a world tour with Mohammad, my man. No seriously, I'd be traveling, I'd have boutiques, a magazine (like Oprah) only it would be for rebels like us. I'd have a school, some really nice coastal homes. I'd have exchange programs between the children of African and the children here (Let them see how similar they really are).

My art can be found at http://lotusofwadiarts.blogspot.com/



We're looking for movers, shakers, beauty mavens, fashionistas and entrepreneurial women to feature on our blog. If this sounds like you (or someone you know) shoot me an email to kia (at) kianicole.com with a picture, a link to your website or blog and a quick bio. We'd love to feature you here!

Monday, August 24, 2009

Gotta Have It- Music Minis

I love these Music and DJ minature jewelry pieces from Darkcloud Silver.

Friday, August 21, 2009

Beauty Review - Lush Cosmetics





The sweet, lemony goodness of the Lush's Bohemian Soap bar conjures up memories of one of my favorite things on this earth-my Aunt Ginny's lemon pound cake --instantly taking me to a very happy place. The bright citrus fragrance is wonderful and the soap formula is absolutely delicious as well. All natural and vegan, the bar is sure to lift your spirits and brighten your day.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Fashion News -Watercolor Prints




As the fall collections hit stores, I'm excited by all the beautiful prints and colors that I'm seeing. Definitely not the boring browns and plaid's that are typical of cooler weather ensembles, I've spotted an array of new hues for fall including deep plums, reds oranges and vibrant blues hitting stores. I'm especially loving the watercolor prints that seem to be everywhere:


Thandie Newton in water color print dress


Here's a Polyvore board that really nails the look:
This dress and skirt remind me of something Michelle Obama would wear, classy, with an unexpected twist:
Malia Abstract-Print Dress & Kathy Sweater: Bergdoff Goodman

Here are two more casual takes on the look:

Dress: The Limited, T-shirt: Three Dots

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Troy Davis Update


In 1991 Troy Davis was convicted for murder of a Georgia police officer. Davis has insisted on his innoncence -- and most of the witnesses who originally testified against him have recanted their testimony-many stated they were initially coerced into testifying against. Yesterday, after a 15 year fight by his supporters, the Supreme Court has finally mandated a new hearing be held for Davis to allow new evidence to be submitted. This is great news for Davis and his supporters. But his fight isn't over. Be sure to visit Amnesty International for more information and ways you can stull be involved in Davis' fight for justice.

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Beauty Review



















I am a big fan of Tea Tree Oil. It's an all around healer - great anti-bacterial, great for aches and pains and terrific on skin in general. So it's easy to understand why The Body Shop's new Tea Tree line of products are already on my favorites's list. This week I purchased the foaming cleanser and the day lotion. Both have a light, clean scent (Tea Tree has a slightly antiseptic smell that is very natural and unoffensive). The foaming cleanser is very foamy -which I love!It feels soapy going on - but isn't at all. The lotion is light and both really left my skin feeling taunt, clean and cool.

Friday, August 14, 2009

Upcoming Fashion News




We have a new fashion editor onboard. Stay posted for updates!

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Are You An Urban Paper Girl?...




We're looking for movers, shakers, beauty mavens, fashionistas and entrepreneurial women to feature on our blog. If this sounds like you (or someone you know) shoot me an email to kia (at) kianicole.com with a picture, a link to your website or blog and a quick bio. We'd love to feature you here!

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Mos Def Upcoming Dates:



















In the South
Wed 8/12 Charlotte, NC Amos' Southend
Thu 8/13 Charleston, SC Music Farm
Fri 8/14 Atlanta, GA The Tabernacle Sat
8/15 Miami, FL Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

Monday, August 10, 2009

Coming to a City Near You



















Happy Natural Day! See the website for dates and events.

Two reasons..


... to rock a natural. Splendid looks from Solange Knowles and model Tolula Adeyemi

New Eric Roberson Album


I've never been able to figure out why soul artist Eric Roberson hasn't had more main stream success. He is immensely talented song writer-he's written for everyone including Jazzy Jeff, Musiq Soulchild and Jill Scott. Not to mention he is a solid vocalist and has a unique style and a huge indie-soul following. I'm excited that has new album is coming out-August 25. For more info visit his blog, where you can pre-order the album.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Yes, I am a Rattler.


So on more than one occasion, I have been told that we FAMU alumni can be a bit cult like..and well, ... I'll take that-we are a bit full of ourselves, I'll admit. But if you attend the best...I'll stop there ...lol ..but be sure to check out the Victoria Secret Pink Collegiate line, including, ours truly. There are also a lot of cute lounge wear and such for back to school.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Miller Urban Entrepreneurs



October 1 is the deadline to enter the Miller Urban Entrepreneurs Series. Submit your business plan for a chance to win $10,000 towards your business start-up costs. Details here.

Arise Magazine




The last year has found me growingly disappointed with the few magazine choices available in book stores and newstands. Many of the smaller publications have folded-including some of my favorites, leaving a dwindling variety of options-especially those small art-related magazines or those featuring black women in fashion and style. So I was so happy to discover Arise Magazine on my last trip to Barnes and Nobles this weekend. I snagged a copy of their fourth issue. With the tagline, Africa's Global Style and Culture Magazine, this oversized publication was full of intriguing editorial, global fashion and music information. I was thrilled with the variety diversity of models, quality writing and overall feel of the mag. So check it out and let me know what you think.

Art Beats and Lyrics


If you live in Atlanta, be sure to check out Art Beats and Lyrics this weekend, 8/8/09 at W Hotel. My dear friend Jasiatic of Createtress Photography will be showcasing her photos. Art beats and Lyrics is a traveling urban experience with some of the most exciting, emerging hip-hop inspired visual artist displaying work, as well as music and more. See you there!

By way of introductions...

I'm Kia.
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