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Super Sexy Hairstyles for curly girls
how to perfect your
Sidewalk Strut
stripper tips:let your
body talk
laz alonsoravaugHn
naomi campbellevelynlozada
+are you usingthe s-word?!
the
BeAuty
ISSue
“i’M still GOiNG tO Be Me”
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PERSONAL
NoteCONTENTSFEBRUARY | MARCH 2013
We’ve made it simple to shop for a guy on any female-focused holiday. Just pick up the gifts we tell you to! But before you go on a shopping frenzy, takes notes on which wines to buy, which curls are vixen-approved and how to perfect you runway-ready sidewalk strut.
Compound University vocalist RaVaughn steps from behind the spotlighted singers to find her own success. And in our VV.Com exclusive, we investigate the shame placed upon date-happy women in the biz.
Reality’s sometimes hard to face for Evelyn Lozada, but she opens up about what makes her struggles unique and beautiful.
A stripper gives pointers on how to bring the seductive art to your love life.
Spark 2
Features 9
Cover Fixen 13
Clutch 19
• 2 Beauty Bar
HOW TO ACHIEVE RED CARPET-READY CURLS
Bea
uty
Bar
Growl Power
Get the look
Flirty But Fierce Sleek And Sexy
2
From voluminous and sexy to defined and springy, whip your curls into shape with one of the hair products we co-sign!
Voluminous hair isn’t exclusive to blown-out and teased styles. Brandy rocks this modern-day curly fro with to-die-for shape and body.
If you’ve got a mane of kinky-curls in need of hydration, you’ll love this look. The secret to Elle’s long locks is a product that delivers moisture, stretch and hold. No product is better suited for the job than Miss Jessie’s Silk Stretching Crème™. Work this rich crème through soaking wet hair and finger-style each curl. Drag down each thoroughly dried ringlet with your fingers to add the length needed to achieve the songstress’ playful style.
Heat tools can be the undoing to your natural corkscrew locks if you’re not careful. After a bout with your favorite hot-tool, be sure to reintroduce moisture to your hair to avoid breakage. For a quick fix, spread Miss Jessie’s Rapid Recovery Treatment™ from the scalp to the roots of sectioned hair; assist the recovery process and don a heat cap for at least 10 minutes. The succulent Shea butter and avocado cream oil will restore much needed moisture to your ‘do. Watch your curls bounce back in a snap after a dose of the hydrating recovery treatment.
A waterfall of enviable, perfectly coiled curls will be sure to turn heads.
Grant a sabbatical to your sweet spirals once in a while and opt for silky straight tresses á la Gabrielle Union.
The key to B-Rocka’s colossal coif is frizz-control and weightless curl definition. Start with clean, damp tresses and smooth Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls™ into sectioned and detangled locks. Choose this lightweight styling lotion over a heavy cream to add bombshell body to your coils. For added Vixen-worthy volume, dry your ringlets upside down with a diffuser until your curls take shape.- —Andrea Monique
• 3 Beauty Bar 1 Guy 1 Girl
Bow DownMrs. Knowles-Carter first set the tone with “Cater to U,” a melodic cut about tending to yourking’s needs. Is submission the answer to a happy, functional relationship or is it just a mask forsubservient culture?
HIM:How do we define submission? I know married couples where submission is a woman giving complete, 100% power to her husband. He can do anything he wants with that power because the woman has relinquished the power in that relationship. There are other couples I know where submission isn’t necessarily submitting all of the power to the husband; it’s just giving the husband consideration over certain things. Ultimately, there are different value sets. If you have the wife completely submitting to the husband and that means she’s relinquishing not just power and control over herself but what her value system is, then she in turn is empowering a bully. The key to any successful relationship – romantic, platonic or business – is not independence, and it’s not dependence; it’s interdependence. Don’t have that conversation about submission if you’re not having higher-level conversations around negotiation or compromise or communication and problem solving, which are the things that truly determine whether or not you’ll have a healthy ongoing relationship. –Paul Carrick Brunson, modern day matchmaker, co-host of #LoveTown on Oprah Winfrey Network, and author of “It’s Complicated (But It Doesn’t Have To Be)”host of #LoveTown on Oprah Winfrey Network and author of “It’s Complicated (But It Doesn’t Have To Be)”
HER: Being born with a penis is not a leadership skill. When women hear ‘submission,’ the image we conjure is some oppressive and lazy man barking instructions and demands; no sane woman is about that life in 2013. I interviewed a group of men in their 20s and 30s and some called submission outdated. Others said by requiring submission, they’re saying they want a woman who won’t cause unnecessary conflict, values his input and is willing to listen. Others concluded that women should listen to men because well, they are men, and by “virtue” more logical and there is a “natural order” of hierarchy between a man and woman. The guy that requires this partner to submit needs a therapist to help address his insecurities, not a girlfriend to stroke his ego. He also needs a Bible. Very few have bothered to pick up the Good Book and read Ephesians 5:21, which is about husbands leading wives. In turn, those husbands are supposed to be lead by God. Notably, the verse doesn’t talk about ungodly men, boyfriends or random guys who pick up the tab at the Cheesecake Factory leading anybody anywhere. –Demetria L. Lucas, author of “A Belle in Brooklyn: The Go-to Girl for Advice on Living Your Best Single
Life” —Stacy-Ann Ellis
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Strut
Closet Freak
Are Your Steps Runway-ready?
Are your sidewalk ‘fits runway-approved? Andrea Brennin taps Wouri Vice for the keys to walking the streets with model grace.
Sure the world class stylists and seasoned makeup artists give fashion models an edge over the everyday woman, but confidence is key. “It’s the most worthy accessory to wear,” says the mastermind behind Alicia Keys’
early urban-chic fusion style. If you want to know how to put your best foot forward like Naomi Campbell and Chanel Iman, try some Beyoncé-sized bravado on confidence for size. Instead of trudging down the street looking at the ground, pick up that chin and sizzle down the sidewalk. Whether you’re rocking last season’s fashions or the latest from Michael Kors, remember these crucial pointers: Keep your chin parallel to the ground. Your neckline will look instantly slim and the world will see your gorgeous mug. Secondly, inhale deeply and adjust your shoulders. Act as if two imaginary strings are holding you up. Now, it’s time to just put one foot in front of the other. Simple, no? If you’re rocking heels, lock your knees locked to avoid wobbly legs. Before making your sidewalk debut this spring, assess what trends to rock. Celebs have been steadily mixing runway fashions with street influences. Obviously, Rihanna champions this trend, often pairing designer duds in baggier male-inspired cuts with sexy Christian Louboutin pumps. If you find Rih-Rih’s high-end taste intimidating, consider looking at Brandy for some fashion inspiration. Stylist Wouri Vice believes Brandy’s ensemble choices during her Two Eleven promotion run was the perfect mix of runway and sidewalk. “Brandy has a very high-end appeal, yet she still makes things chic and
approachable in her own way.” So steal B-Rocka’s casual coolness by wiggling into a sexy maxi dress or skirt, two style staples Vice assures us are here to stay. “These 2 items are marks of femininity. They will never go out of style, just have to be used with care. Not to be confused and mixed with the wrong silhouettes.” Take a cue from the fashion elite and turn the ground underneath you into your own catwalk.
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Closet Freak
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A BeautifulWorld
Global skin care legacies prove beauty is in the eye of the traveler. Here, a tapestry of destination ave birthed our favorite beauty therapies —Deena Campbell Morocco
hawaii
Thailand
Where to Stay When Getting Liquid Gold:
Where to Stay When Getting Liquid Gold:
Where to Stay When Getting Liquid Gold:
Between pristine white beaches, green valleys and costal cities of Morocco lies a miracle-worker otherwise known as argan oil. Made from the nuts of argan trees that are almost exclusive to the region, argan oil has been known to protect the skin, minimize fine lines, restore elasticity and improve skin tone. Americans have seen it in
Fifteen degrees north of the equator lies the 50th largest country in the world. Known as the “land of smiles,” Thailand has earned a reputation as the spa capital of Asia and it stems from the balance of four basic elements—earth, fire, wind and water. The Thai massage, filled with rhythmic applications of force on pressure points, and traditional Chinese herbal body scrubs laced with turmeric and jasmine rice are healing practices that have trickled into American spas.
Romance and natural wonders aside, Hawaii is home to fruits that contain vitamins and minerals that are apart of our daily skincare routine. The eight islands are home to bananas—peaking June through October—that provide potassium to rejuvenate body’s circulatory system; avocados—best September through April—that are great for body butters; and pineapples that contain a host of hydroxy acids.
Splurge: Delano Marrakech, Rue du Temple, Marrakesh 40000. Steal: Dar Ayniwen Villa Hotel, Tafrata Palmeraie de Marrakech.
Splurge: W Retreat Koh Samui, 4/1 Moo 1 Tambol Maenam, Surat Thani, Thailand Steal: Baiyoke Boutique Hotel, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi Bangkok starwoodhotels.com ,baiyokeboutique.baiyokehotel.com
Splurge: Kahala Hotel & Resort, 5000 Kahala Avenue, Honolulu.Steal: Marriott Courtyard Waikiki, 400 Royal Hawaiian Ave.marriott.com, kahalaresort.com
Jet Set
Jet S
et
• 6 Wine Guide
POUR IT UP
Red Wines
White WinesChardonnay
pinot Noir
Sauvignon Blanc
pinot Grigio
Cabernet Sauvignon
For The Seasoned Vixen
For The Sophisticated Vixen
For The Party Vixen
For The Chill Vixen
For The Sexy Vixen
Origin: Burgundy region, Eastern France.Known as America’s number one selling white wine. Flavor: Wide range--from buttery oak to fruit flavors such as apple, pear and citrus. Often described as “dry.”Food Pairing: Poultry, pork or seafood dishes with a heavy cream or butter base
Carneros Sangiacomo Vineyard, 2010
Origin: Burgundy, France. Often described as one of the most elegant wines from France.Flavor: Dry, but fruit forward. You’ll most often taste strawberry, raspberry and blackberry.Food Pairing: Poultry with creamy sauces and/or spicy seasonings.
La Crema, Sonoma Coast, 2011
Origin: Bordeaux region of France; translates to wild (“sauvage”) white (“blanc”)Flavor: Wide range of flavors; from mineral tones to citrus/tropical mix depending on how aged it isFood Pairing: Very food friendly- you can drink it with just about anything!
Manta, Vaule Valley, Chile, 2011
Origin: Alto-Adige and Veneto, ItalyFlavor: Slightly bitter with a light taste of grapes; best served chilled Food Pairing: Seafood; avoid acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruit
Russiz Superiore, 2005
Origin: Bordeaux, France; nicknamed “The King of Red Wine Grapes”Flavor: a balanced mix of fruits (plum, cherry, blackberry, blueberry), warm spice and vanillaFood Pairing: Red meats, hearty pastas, cheese and dark chocolates
The Show, California, 2010
Win
e G
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A glass of fermented spirits is often a saving grace at office parties, family functions and bad dates. wine is a mood changer, but few know where to start when it comes to picking the perfect choice among a slew of selections. truth is, tasting wine requires a pallet capable of identifying a myriad of aromas and flavors—something advertisers don’t tell you. before you find yourself blind ordering drinking instead of blindly ordering anything, consult this fool proof guide.—NICOLE BROWN
• 7 Wine Guide
Dear Heart, please stop getting involved in
everything, your job is to pump blood that’s it.
word game crazy? For top celebrity Vixens, yes. dropping witty, hilarious and often puzzling gems, these twitter-loving ladies have us hanging on their every character.
What She Say?
Wha
t She
Sa
y?7
“1 of the toughest & most difficult lessons I learned as an adult was learning to say
“I’m sorry but I cannot afford that...”
the REST of the world thinks people in La are NUTS! yes it is 55 degrees today.... but I SWEAR its colder than hookers heart outside :(
U give, then u get, then u give it
the fuck backA letter to a friend:
Don’t be afraid to give things time. Don’t be
afraid of change. What is true…will ALWAYS remain. J
Women hit on me more than men
SMH LOL!
I just did my nails,
And while i am
Usually really
Good at it--- they
Look like doo doo.
My weave smells like apples and
witchcraft.
In no way do I want Harry. No offense. I’m sure that’ll
be a story now 2. I’m happily engaged. Just got saucy with a
cardboard cut out.
Who picks the 8 people that pick the 8 people that pick
the stuff that goes on Wikipedia ? And who
picks them?
i <3 strippers omg
Had a dream about 2 ants that I personally knew.
I accidentally washed them down the sink.
So sad. Woke up & an ant was crawling on my arm.
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8Bo
om
Box TONAL TEASE
Boom Box
Jessie ware is lost in her emotions.
“Your words alone could drive me to a thousand tears,” she sings on “Running.” “Am I ready to run? Am I ready to fall? I think I’m ready just to lose it all.” By the end of her 2012 debut album Devotion, so are you. The UK bred singer-songwriter–whose sensual vocals marry Sade and Teena Marie with futuristic synths, warped cymbals and the pitter-patter of drums–is officially our latest musical crush. Even Harlem swag champ A$AP Rocky is thirsty for a collaboration with the 28-year-old Ware. She carries her voice across Devotion’s 11 tracks with a sultry, late-night softness. You can hear her confidence peeking out bit by bit. Breathy, subdued echoes, electric guitar strums and doo-wop falsettos all coexist on her critically-adored project, which was nominated for the coveted Mercury Prize. When the BRIT Award double nominee (Best Female Solo Artist; British Breakthrough) isn’t crooning in whispers, powerful yet delicately delivered harmonies depict everything from embracing love to seeking freedom from it. Devotion is unwinding music at its best, beckoning fora dim, candle-lit setting. The even-paced album singles “Running” and “Wildest Moments” drive the project, both cannonballing into love on a whim. However, “Sweet Talk” is the album’s sassy snake charmer. Guided by teased cymbals and soft pianos, the song is reflective of the minimalist sound Ware uses to bait her fans-in-the-making. It’s just as hypnotic as its lyrics suggest: “You give me the sweet talk,” she coos, “and it works for me.” It works for us, too. —Stacy-Ann Ellis
Pack your bags for an emo trip with london Singing sensation Jessie Ware.
• 9 Venus vs.Mars
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PLAYING FOR KEEPS
Playing for keeps and braving that trip down Lover’s Lane? Be a genuine MVP. From R&B sensation Mýa to NBC Deception’s Laz Alonso, several of our favorite entertainers,sound off on the simplest sentiments and essential components it takes tocapture their hearts. —Kamille Cooper
what’s your idea of the perfect date?
MÝA: Amusement park, shooting range, go-karting or anything outdoors and physical
that entails no heels—followed by great convo over great food.
ADRIENNE: There’s nothing cooler than the person paying attention to the details. One time I had a guy take me to the circus. It sounds crazy but I loved it because it was so thoughtful. I thought it was so dope that [he] overheard me saying something I wanted to do and on [his] own went ahead and did it.
ROMEO: My last 1st date will be my perfect date. When that day comes, I’ll holla back at you.
LAZ: For me it’s just having fun with the person that I’m with—laughing, cracking jokes, enjoying each other’s com-pany. It could be something extravagant or just at home cuddled up watching a reality show and cracking jokes at the people on TV and at each other.
what’s the most romantic thing the opposite sex has ever done for you?
MÝA: I was once given a piggyback ride for about a mile when I sprained an ankle. I felt like a princess being rescued by a prince in a fairytale.
ADRIENNE: A surprise trip for my birthday, but I didn’t know where I was going. We get to Miami and out of no-where all of my closest family and friends popped up at the gate. He flew out my cousins, my sister, her husband and it was 10 of my closest friends to go to Turks and Caicos. Hands down one of the most memorable birthdays ever.
ROMEO: After a long day of filming, she got the spa to bring their massage table, chair and oils up to my suite. As I walked into my room I noticed red roses all over the floor, dim lights and my favorite candles (Nature’s Wick Vanilla Dolce) burning. She made this long rainy, cold October day feel like Valentine’s and she cancelled her photo shoot just to make my bleary day a little better.
LAZ: Actions speak louder than words. Doesn’t have to be anything extravagant, just the fact that you thought about me. That’s more than enough.
MYAH adrienne
romeoadrienneMya laz‘
• 10 Venus vs.Mars
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what’s the biggest misconception someone you were dating has had about you?
MÝA: I’ve been pegged as the “looks like I can’t cook” type. Well, that misconception changed when he got his first plate—which turned into several plates.
ADRIENNE: Most guys will have the idea that I’m high maintenance. I’m actually the exact opposite and somewhat frugal w ith my money. I hate when men spend too much. I would want my man to be smart with his money and save it for something that is going to count and matter.
ROMEO: “You must treat every girl like this?” That’s my freaking pet peeve! Anytime a girl says that, it’s a wrap. I feel that if someone feels that way, then she’s not the one anyway. “The One” will never compare herself to another [woman]. You have to have self-confident, ladies, especially when dealing with a celebrity. No time for insecurities. You chose me and I chose you.
LAZ: People always think that I have women knocking at my door and clawing at my feet. Because they think that’s the case, they don’t do it. I constantly have great women that will write me off because they think that I already have a plethora of women anyway. What they don’t realize is that I don’t. That’s why I’m single. Biggest turn on?
MÝA: A man that loves, respects and values his mother.
ADRIENNE: I like a man that dresses like a grown man. I don’t like men that dress like boys. A man in a suit? I’m sold.
ROMEO: Good hygiene. Scratch that, great hygiene.
LAZ: I like summertime. It’s just sexy to me. There’s a lot of skin, heels and short shorts. Women feel sexy and look sexy, and it’s the time of year when women do the least because it’s humid and hot. It’s when you catch women in their most beautiful state.
Best gift you’ve ever gotten from a significant other?
MÝA: Unconditional love.
ADRIENNE: Buy me a purse and shoes and I am not impressed. I like more thoughtful things. A guy once gave me a hard cover picture book [filled with photos] of us. It was beautiful, filled with quotes and I loved that.
ROMEO: Material things aren’t a big deal to me, so when one of my exes wrote me this heartfelt two-page letter of not only forgiveness but accepting my friendship to her regardless of our status, there was no better gift that could’ve been given on Christmas. Friendship is priceless.
LAZ: I love to eat (laughs). I am your typical caveman. If you cook a nice meal for me my eyes will turn into hearts. If you can really cook, I might turn into a stalker (laughs). And make a lot because I want to take it for lunch the next day.
Favorite scent you enjoy on the opposite sex?
MÝA: His one of a kind natural scent. Good gage of hygiene and what a future together might smell like (laughs).
ADRIENNE: Bond No. 9 Wall Street Cologne. It smells like a strong man, but it’s clean.
ROMEO: I love those soft vanilla and jasmine smells with a [note] of candy that makes you want to bite a woman. She can’t go wrong with anything from Victoria’s Secret or Dior’s J’adore L’Absolu or a simple Marc Jacobs, like Daisy. No Creed can do you wrong and every girl should own Chanel N°5 Eau Premiere.
LAZ: Non-funk (laughs). Let’s keep the funk in the music that we listen to, that’s it.
top physical Features you like on the Opposite Sex?
MÝA: Intense & honest eyes, strong masculine hands (never softer than mine). A few scars I also find to be quite intriguing. [They] tell a deeper story.
ADRIENNE: I cannot date a guy with small lips. I like very full lips. And I couldn’t date anybody shorter than me.
ROMEO: I’m a sucker for eyes and legs. If you have nice legs, you’re good. Legs don’t lie.
LAZ: Posture. When a woman feels good about herself you can read it in her body language.
Adrienne - Chelsea Lauren/Getty Images North AmericaMya - Ziggy Zaggy ProductionsPhoto Credits
laz - Jennifer Cooper PhotographyRomeo Kristin Anderson
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• 11 Venus vs.Mars
Vix
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Outspoken songstress raVaughn is no one-hit wonder. after fine-tuning the demos-turned-chart-toppers for other artists, the newest Compound signvee
is selfishly claiming her own success at last.
FreedomTHE OFElementBY ADELLE PLATON
It took a failed audition on American Idol for RaVaughn Brown to finally cut a reality check. The R&B songstress—now signed to Ne-Yo’s Compound University label—plucked up the courage to try her chops for the TV singing competition only to be shut down in the first round. “It’s a million people, you’re sitting in the stadium for hours, super-hot and sweaty so I sang,” she recalls. “The judges were like you have a nice voice, but you’re just not ready and I wanted to be like I’m not ready, but I’m singing and traveling with Keri Hilson.” The Manhattanville College alumni and choir
singer has been trying to shine in her own self-made spotlight since shopping demos and providing backup for the likes of Brandy and Natasha Bedingfield. After linking up with a writer named Storm and Sam Waters (former member of Color Me Badd) via MySpace, RaVaughn paved the wax for such hits as Keri Hilson’s “Energy” and Natasha Bedingfield’s “Love Like This.” Now, with a yet-to-be-named debut album in the works, RaVaughn reflects on the struggles that birthed her confidence, inside and out.
Vixen Chat
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So the last time we saw you, your hair was a different color! why did you change it?raVaughn: I get bored reallty fast and I’m obsessed with my hair. I like to change it up. I
can’t throw it up in a bun ‘cause it’s short [so it’s either] change the color or add a bang. This is the longest I’ve had short hair. Every time I say I wanna change my hair or get a long weave, everyone’s like, “No, RaVaughn, this is your look!”
do you have a set fashion look right now?I actually started working with a stylist Marcus and we kinda found my style together. I incorporated my own personal style with a little high-fashion ‘cause I’ve never really been into name-brand stuff. He knows all of that and I’m like whatever’s cute, I’ll wear it. I’m into leather and I like wearing black [because it] always looks good.
what other physical changes have you made while preparing for the release of your debut album?I lost 45 pounds, not for the industry but just for me. I saw a picture of myself and was like, This is not ok. I stopped eating fried foods and I got back on an exercise regimen just to feel good about myself and feel comfortable in what I’m in so I don’t have to worry about tugging my shirt down.
do you like to exercise?I hate it with a passion! If I never had to exercise, I wouldn’t. I hate my sister because she doesn’t get fat and can eat whatever she wants. She’s a size 0 amd can eat all her food, my food, my brother’s food and be good. But I was blessed. I’m top-heavy and she’s not.
what kind of brands do you go to to help with that problem? {asks Stylist}Marcus: Right now, her jacket is Malandrino. Her lace piece is American Apparel and the skirt is Urban Outfitters.
How did meeting Ne-yo come about?A producer that I worked with named E-man called me in to do a demo and he didn’t tell me who the writer was. I went and it was Ne-Yo. Writing with Ne-Yo, who is one of the greatest songwriters of our generation right now, I felt like these people know what they’re doing so I want to follow in their footsteps to greatness.
you also worked with Babyface. is there a learning curve working with someone as experienced as him? I let him go. I’ve learned so much from watching other people write. I’ve worked with Marsha Ambrosius, Andrea Martin, just so many people, and it’s been such an incredible experience. Ne-Yo will listen to a song, write a song in five minutes and [say], “Here, this is how it goes.” And I’m like are you serious right now? Whatever you have, give it to me ‘cause I need that. I wanted to let other people who have been so successful in the industry teach me. I went in and I didn’t try to step on anybody’s toes.
Growing up, was there a certain point where you were just like, “Now i really have to make it, failure’s not an option?”
I’ve always had that mindset of, I have to make it, like, I have to be somebody, I’m here to be somebody. At one point I kind of went through a stage of depression. My sister Ryan was acting, doing things like the “Get Rich or Die Tryin,” video, the TV show Lincoln Heights, a ton of commercials, so I kind of went through a phase of a little jealousy, like I’m supposed to do it first then my sister, you know? I started acting first, doing musical theater and she wanted to do it ‘cause I was doing it. That was when I was like 12 or 13. It would kill me.
did you ever talk to your sister about it?Yeah, we’ve talked about it
and we actually live together now. She was in her junior year of college [at the time] and we laugh about it now. She was just like, ‘I was hating on you [but] I still looked up to you even though I was doing those things. I still wanted to be exactly like you.’
How did that make you feel when you heard that? Crazy! I was like ‘Really? What was I doing that you wanted to do?’ I don’t have any older siblings so the people I look up have been cousins or really close family friends that are older than me, so I guess it’s really different having an older sister to look up to. My sister is actually in the School of Cinematic Arts and Film in Los Angeles and she’s doing a wonderful job, writing treatments for videos, working under Shonda Rhimes and all that ton so she’s coming right behind me. One day she could be able to direct my videos.
Vixen Chat
we have to be a
unit in order to take it
to the next step. why not
work together?
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• 13 Vixen Chat2 PIECE SUIT AND HEADBAND-
EKATERINA KUKHAREVA
STYLING : JASON SKY HAIR : qUEEN
MAKEUP : LATRICENAIL ART : KANDI YAMZ
• 14
What do you reveal about one of
entertainment’s most open books?
Evelyn Lozada lets us dig deeper
MORE THAN SkIn Deep
By Niki mCGlOSterphotogrAphy By ADAM Secore
• 15
I DIDN’T FEEL LIKE AN UGLY DUCKLING. I WASN’T BULLIED AND NOBODY TORTURED ME
ABOUT ANYTHING ON MY BODY.
Since her running start on VH1’s Shaunie O’Neal-prepped meal ticket, every detail of her life is entertainment. A messy domestic run-in with her ex-husband, former NFL star Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, sent the 37-year-old spiraling, forcing a Mi-chael Jackson-esque look in the mirror. Around the same time, Basketball Wives opponents refused to band behind the profanity-spewing TV staple that they chalked up as a bully receiving her karmic return. Then there was that whole PR-perfect Iyanla: Fix My Life stint that led some to believe that the Bronx-bred Latina had changed, and others to think that she had duped them yet again. ”It’s crazy how it all worked out,” says Lozada of the timing of the soul-searching opportunity. “It was one of the hardest interviews but the most helpful. I still talk to her to this day.”
Now back in the mix for BBW‘s fifth season, she’s been filming nonstop (outside of the days she gave us face time for this cover). Miraculously she does catch
her breath every now and then to build a healthy busi-ness portfolio: a follow-up to her fiction book series The Wives Association (a Nikki Turner collab due out this summer), an endorsement from youthH20 water and extending her E by Evelyn Cosmetics line. Above all, her almost 1.2 million Twitter herd still sees her as a reality TV queen. “I’m always going to be opinion-ated; that’s just who I am,” she admits. “Listen, I’m not ever in life going to do some of the things I did last season, but I’m still going to be me. You don’t ever know what will come out of my mouth.”
Today, it’s not about her unfiltered persona. On her day off, she’s ecstatic about her one-day vaca from the lens. ”I’m not filming today,” she says. “I’m just happy to be at home in my sweats, my hair up, and relaxing all day.”
Time to pull back the layers.
VIBE Vixen: When did you first feel beautiful?Evelyn Lozada: Growing up around my family, I always felt I looked different. I started feeling myself when I was probably about 10 or 11. I definitely didn’t feel like an ugly duckling. I wasn’t bullied and nobody tortured me about anything on my body. But I think I started finding myself when I was in high school.
That’s when the confidence kicked in.Yeah. I lived in a primarily white neighborhood in Queens. But when I moved to the Bronx, it was a little tough because I wasn’t hip. I was a
little culture shocked. But by the time I got to eighth grade, I got it together. When I went to high school, I started feeling that security.
When do you feel the most beautiful?When I’m all natural. I don’t do that a lot because I’m filming.
You’ve never shied away from talking about your daughter, Shaniece. Do you feel you’ve given her the tools to feel beautiful?I’ve never been one of those parents who tell their children, “Oh, you’re getting fat.” I tell her how beautiful she is every day. I’ve always been very open,
talking to her about sex and things she needed to know.
Unlike the public, she personally experienced what you went through with Chad. What was that like?She has truly been my rock through all of this. She’s been with me since the day of, and for three months, we were together. I was having anxiety, so I slept next to her; we were connected at the hips. She stepped up to do things that I mentally didn’t want to do. Whether it was running errands or whatever, she held it down. I was a little gone because it was traumatic for me.
It’s almost difficult to chat with Evelyn Lozada and bury the thought of Vh1 bugging the conversation for Basketball Wives fodder. Her words are friendly, kind with a hint of calculation and practice—scripted—begging the question: Is this the real Evelyn?
• 16
ORIGINAL CHIFFON DRESS- GAURAV GUPTA
• 17
iyanla was one of the first people to reach out. Granted, i didn’t want to talk about it, but i had to sit with her.
LEATHER JACKET WITH LACE SLEEVES- MUUBAA
BODYSUIT- BLEU/ ROD BEATTIE EARRINGS- CARA
• 18
Of course. But it led to your talk with Iyanla. The timing of it seemed both essential and brilliant.Because of all the controversy with the show. She was one of the first people to reach out. Granted, I didn’t even want to talk about it, but I had to sit with Iyanla. I knew that even though she was going to be tough with me, she was going to try and figure out why I accepted [Chad’s behavior].
People still wonder how much her words changed your life.I’m still going through the healing process. After I did that interview, I never talked about [the abuse] ever again. But I do reality TV; not talking about it doesn’t make sense. When we started filming [Basketball Wives] again, I started talking about it. I’m very emotional probably every episode because I’m dealing and filming and going through my healing process at the same time.
Folks are anticipating a new Ev on this upcoming season.I had people saying, “Stay the same. I need to see all that feistiness.” I’m still going to have my little quotes; this is just who Evelyn is. And at the same time, I need to learn to handle certain situations. But if somebody is coming at me, I’m going to protect myself. It’s not like I’m going to be super perfect because I was on Iyanla and now I’m Mother Mary, because that’s not what it is. But at the same time, instead of going from zero to 1,000, let’s really think before we speak and not get physical. I just have to remind myself of that. It’s a daily thing for me because sometimes you’re tested.
And people are watching so much more intently now. That said, do you see yourself ever
wholeheartedly loving or caring for Chad again? In such a public way…We don’t speak. This is best for the both of us right now. But I think that we’ve gotten some kind of closure. I will forever love Chad and care about him and wish him the best. I don’t have one bitter bone in my body about what happened. For me
to be able to move on with my life and find love again, I can’t hold on to that baggage. I pray about it every day; I pray for him every day. I hope when he finds whoever he’s with next, he chooses to do things differently.
Since you’ve been able to put that behind you, are you anxious to date again?I’m starting to get in that space where I’m open to it. I want to
get married and have my twin babies. [Laughs]You and Chad met on Twitter. Would you ever do that again?I’m not opposed to it, but I’m definitely doing a background check on you!
Well, what’s your dream guy like?Somebody that’s loyal, very respectful, God-fearing. I really look up to Meagan Good and her husband, DeVon [Franklin]. I heard him preach, and this man had me in tears. I was like, “Wow, this is a man.”
So, someone designed by God and who knows how to run a household.Yes, all of that. And good credit. [Laughs]
Well, until that guy comes, you’ve got business to think about! I hear you’re expanding E by Evelyn Cosmetics.Yeah. We’re going to add new palettes, more lip gloss, nail polish. Right now, there are pigments, eye shadows, brushes and a skin-care line. I really love nail polish and having designs on my nails, so we’re going to add those products on the line as well.
In about five years, where do you want to see your beauty brand in competition to others?I’m working on my clothing line, so I envision so many things. Kind of like what J. Lo did. She’s done so many great things. If I could take a page out of her book, I’m good.
And when the reality TV wave passes?I would love to do production, turning my book into TV features and continue to work in fashion. I want my brands to be big. Global status.
i will FOreVer
lOVeCHad aNd
Care aBOut
Him aNd wiSH
Him tHe BeSt.
• 19 Aphrodisiac
LIKE A STRIPPERA
phr
od
isia
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role play
tip him
be above average
just enough
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Most girls think that guys have to pay for everything, but I would pick up dinner and the tip. You don’t have to do it all the time but treat him once in a blue and he will probably be like, “Wow she’s independent, I like that.”
Give him a lap dance once you’re home.Don’t take anything off, let his mindgo all out. Have him sit down and relax. You can probably give him a massage,rub his feet, back, his hands. Kiss him up, tickle him, dance on him and see where itgoes from there.
Put on something sexy, maybe some candles, soft music. I say dress up in a nice little costume. Keep your heels on and tease him. He doesn’t even have to give it up, just tease him. Let him work for it (laughs).
Just let your body talk.
THE EXTRAMILEGet a grip at these twerk-worthy locations.
PoleLaTeaz (Atlanta)Learn how to work your Georgia Peach with classes in lap dance tutorials, leaving you satisfied with the calories you’ll burn. Not to mention new moves that’ll make top-tier dancers jealous.
Flirty Girl Fitness (Chicago)Blow into this Windy City’s flirtatious arena as you learn a few pole tricks, chair seduc-tions and have a fun time with your girlfriends while getting into shape (or tipsy at their private bar).
Pole Fitness (Miami) Want to learn how the ladies at King of Diamonds use their bootylicious bods to wow gen-tlemen fans? Okay, maybe not all those bone-breaking tricks, but Pole Fitness can assist with the basics before you become the next Blac Chyna. If you want to get your body toned for South Beach, schedule a class to swing into shape.
Foxy Fitness And Pole Training Studios (NYC)Release your inner vixen at this pole dance studio located in midtown Manhattan. You will work up a sweat with muscle toning moves, but there is still fun to be had and results to make even the dancers at Club Perfections in neighboring Queens a little envious.
Aphrodite Pole Dance Fitness Studio (Los Angeles)The tag line “You need to come play” should be enough for you to enroll in a class at Aphrodite, as instructors not only teach you how to confi-dently turn your freak on and shed that initial awkwardness.
Bandz’ll make the average Vixen dance, but it’s about flipping hunnids-worthy stripper moves into a sexy evening for your man’s inner Juicy J. Camille augustin drops by NyC’s perfections Gentleman’s Club to ask lynn “Cream pie” Sutherland how it’s done.
I felt like Taylor Swift on stage after ‘Ye interrupted her shine. Thecountry-pop queen’s classic lost-look expression appeared once I realizedI knew nothing of I strip club etiquette. Oh, and my sexy turn-up was turnt waydown. How was this tgoing to play out? Most importantly, where was I going to find a stripper who’d willingly reveal their stripper gems? I envisioned a Player’s Club atmosphereupon entry but Perfections presented a different,lessintimating experience. Shout out to my father fordropping me off. (Thankfully,v he opted out of coming inside with me dousing the already-growing awkwardness). After learning a few things during theinterview, trying these out myselfwouldn’t hurt. Sorry, dad.
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CROSSOVERAPPEAL
Vixen Salute
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EN S
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Vix
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Salu
te
IT’S HARD TO IMAGINE no-nonsense
vet Naomi Campbell taking a break from the
elite model game to play judge on new-age crazy
reality TV. But within the unique structure of
Oxygen’s newest spectacle The Face—where she
can potentially stick it to her peers Karolina
Kurkova and Coco Rocha by grooming models
to follow in her stilettos—it’s clear the phone-
throwing cocoa goddess, fueled by adversity, is
reaching another stratosphere of bossy business.
Beginning her climb to supermodeldom
at the rookie age of 15, the in-demand young
Brit blazed a career that spans incredibly
across industries: She’s had her mug splashed
across 1000-plus mag covers, lent her acting
chops to critically acclaimed shows (New York
Undercover, The Cosby Show) and used her celebrity
to build charities, mainly targeted toward fighting
poverty and women and children.
Though the upcoming chapter of
Campbell’s fashion legacy may be filled with
the pageantry of ushering in v, her newest chess
move still positions her as Queen. Checkmate.
—Niki McGloster
