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https://www.essence.com/fashion/cowboy-carter-fall-winter-2024-looks/

WWD via Getty Images By Robyn Mowatt ·Updated April 1, 2024

Beyoncé’s COWBOY CARTER is a moment in which the generational icon embraces her roots in a way that we’ve never seen before. She is unafraid to unleash what directly links her to the past generations of her family, her Southern lineage. These depths she dives deep into allow her to reclaim her heritage uniquely. The rollout of her latest compilation was injected with nods to Western culture, emphasizing cowboy hats, oversized buckled belts in assorted tones, and the use of the American flag. On the album cover, the striking horse points to the importance of equestrian culture not just out West but also in major Southern cities like Houston, Texas. 

High fashion elements are also included as a part of this cowgirl era–this arrived in the form of fitted leather chaps also seen on the album cover which accentuated her curves. In a separate image, a white tank top also took on a new meaning when paired with denim chaps from Louis Vuitton’s newest menswear collection by Pharrell Williams. This distinct rollout shot fused a laidback item with a significant piece signaling this might be the icon’s most fashionable era yet. 

Below, we’re keying in on five standout tracks from COWBOY CARTER and pairing them with looks from designers we love.

“TEXAS HOLD EM“ Model on the runway at Louis Vuitton Men’s Fall 2024 as part of Paris Men’s Fashion Week held at Jardin d’Acclimatation on January 16, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Giovanni Giannoni/WWD via Getty Images)

“TEXAS HOLD EM” is a cutesy and energetic bop that got fans invested in COWBOY CARTER when it was first revealed. It also presents Bey’s experimentation within the Americana music market. Pharrell Williams took the cowboy aesthetic for a spin in his Fall/Winter 2024 collection. One look in particular aligns with this single–a tan suede collared button-up and dark brown leather trousers. The gold-tone buckle belt was a killer addition to this outfit.

“LEVII’S JEANS“ PARIS, FRANCE – FEBRUARY 29: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY – For Non-Editorial use please seek approval from Fashion House) A model walks the runway during the Schiaparelli Womenswear Fall/Winter 2024-2025 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on February 29, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Estrop/Getty Images)

This laidback track in which Bey croons about her affinity for her life partner and husband Jay-Z, featuring Post Malone, is deserving of a look that feels not too flashy. Schiaparelli’s Fall/Winter 2024 presentation by Daniel Goldberry included a nearly all-denim outfit. The spin on the Canadian tuxedo featured a denim jacket with golden buttons and a matching midi skirt. Grey shades, a light blue boxy handbag, and chic maroon pumps were the finishing touches on this outfit. 

“JOLENE“ PARIS, FRANCE – FEBRUARY 29: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY – For Non-Editorial use please seek approval from Fashion House) A model walks the runway during the Schiaparelli Womenswear Fall/Winter 2024-2025 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on February 29, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Estrop/Getty Images)

Since “JOLENE,” a standout off of the album, ethers into a bit of dark energy, an all-black outfit is most fitting. Within Schiaparelli’s latest runway show, there was a look that spoke to this track. The outfit consisted of a semi-transparent floral top, oversized satin trousers, and a sleek belt. Cowboy-inspired pointed-toe shoes are a striking accessory that adds a hint of minimalism. 

“RIIVERDANCE“ NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 12: A model walks the runway at the Laquan Smith fashion show during New York Fashion Week: The Shows on February 12, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by John Lamparski/Getty Images)

This would have been an off-kilter single, but sadly it wasn’t chosen. “RIIVERDANCE” is sultry, eloquent and well-produced. There are some soul and funk elements all over this track moreso than country elements–with that being said the ‘70s are calling us. In LaQuan Smith’s most recent collection, which was presented at NYFW in February, there is a sequined mini frock that speaks profoundly to the flow of this staple on the album. 

“SWEET HONEY BUCKIIN“ NEW YORK, USA – FEBRUARY 12: A model walks the runway during the Sergio Hudson Ready to Wear Fall/Winter 2024-2024 fashion show as part of the New York Fashion Week on February 12, 2024 in New York. (Photo by Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images)

Once “SWEET HONEY BUCKIIN” cranks on the album is nearly done. This track has some hints of the bass-heavy beats that derived in the Southern states. Since Sergio Hudson has roots in the South, Ridgeway, South Carolina to be exact, a bustier-centric look from his last collection is most fitting. Bey loves showcasing her décolletage so I immediately thought of Hudson’s February ready-to-wear line. The crisp leather bustier is the center of the look and it’s paired with a brown lengthy dress. Brown suede boots top off this classic ensemble. 

TOPICS:  beyoncé laquan smith Louis Vuitton Schiaparelli sergio hudson

The post 5 Songs On Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” And The Runway Looks Each Embodies appeared first on Essence.

https://blackgirlnerds.com/the-team-behind-the-ministry-of-ungentlemanly-warfare-on-this-unbelievably-true-story/

BGN interviews the cast and crew of the Lionsgate film The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare.

Featured in the interviews are: Henry Cavill, Eiza González, Alex Pettyfer, Hero Fiennes Tiffin, Babs Olusamokun, Cary Elwes and Jerry Bruckheimer.

Based upon recently declassified files of the British War Department and inspired by true events, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is an action-comedy that tells the story of the first-ever special forces organization formed during WWII by UK Prime Minister Winston Churchill and a small group of military officials including author Ian Fleming. The top-secret combat unit, composed of a motley crew of rogues and mavericks, goes on a daring mission against the Nazis using entirely unconventional and utterly “ungentlemanly” fighting techniques. Ultimately their audacious approach changed the course of the war and laid the foundation for the British SAS and modern Black Ops warfare.

Interviewer: Jamie Broadnax

Video Editor: Jamie Broadnax

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare premieres in theaters nationwide April 19th.

https://www.essence.com/beauty/beauty-secrets-how-to-contour/

Mario Castello/Corbis/VCG/ Getty Images By India Espy-Jones ·Updated March 29, 2024

“Contour is a staple in the beauty world,” Fenty Beauty Global Makeup Artist Priscilla Ono tells ESSENCE. “It’s a technique that defines and sculpts the face by using light and dark shades to accentuate, create, and enhance.” After foundation, contour is a great way to add dimension to your makeup look. However, “not everyone has the same face shape,” Ono says. Learning the best sculpting techniques for yours is the key to giving yourself a face lift, as opposed to walking outside with harsh lines.

Although contour “is not a one-size-fits all approach,” less is certainly more with this makeup step. From finding shades to complement your skin tone, to blending well and avoiding over-contouring, following Ono’s do’s and don’ts can take your look from flat to fierce in just a few swipes.  

Below, Ono walks us through her secret to defining and sculpting the face.

Apply contour after foundation

“After foundation, take the contour and apply it directly to the areas of the face you want defined. I will usually start by lifting the cheekbones, then go around to the temples to define the face, and then add a little under the jawline and chin.”

“My favorite product to contour with is the Fenty Beauty Match Stix Contour Skinstick. I like it because the product glides onto the face so effortlessly, and the easy-to-use stick format is perfect for a targeted application. The creamy formula is also super easy to blend and stays put without creasing or caking.” 

Make sure to properly blend

To blend you can use a shaping brush, concealer brush, or even your fingertips. “You can even contour the sides and tips of your nose, bring it into your hairline, and more. It’s truly like art– playing with light and shadows to create shapes,” she says. “Sometimes I will use a sponge because it’s less time-consuming than a brush, and it is easier to blend.”

What to avoid 

“You should avoid using a shade that is too dark or warm for your natural skin tone. It’s also important to remember that less is more and to contour only as needed. You want to focus on a more natural lift and definition, rather than a harsh line. Blending is key! Also, avoid over contouring. Only contour the areas that need it. Not everyone has the same face shape, so this is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Just ask yourself what areas you want to define,” she says.

“For example, I have a small forehead, so I skip contouring this area. Another thing to note is that you should avoid using the same shade to contour your face and nose. I like to use a cooler, more subtle ‘bone tone.’” 

TOPICS:  celebrity makeup artist

The post Beauty Secrets: How To Contour With Priscilla Ono appeared first on Essence.

https://www.blackenterprise.com/how-unclutter-your-mind/

What happens when we have too many programs opened up on our computers? The computer starts to operate at a slower pace. The same applies to our mental computers—our minds. We live in a time where it’s commonplace to have a plethora of things going on simultaneously. However, it still doesn’t take away from the fact that we are human and one of our most basic needs to function is to have a peaceful mind. The reality is this—the more cluttered our minds are, the more cluttered and chaotic our lives will be. Having a clear mind set is vital to us thriving not only in business, but in life. The truly successful life is a balanced life.

Keep your environment clean