FOR HER

Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Divine Blush $38

Pat McGrath is not afraid to push beauty boundaries. This is unmistakable in her popular Mothership Eyeshadow Palettes, which are everything. McGrath’s Skin Fetish blush has an ultra-silky finish and comes in a range of flattering shades that compliment any skin tone.

Black Girl Sunscreen $15.99

This formula boasts no eye irritation and no acne breakouts. It layers well with my other skincare and dries completely sheer. It leaves your skin noticeably moisturized and never oily. It’s the perfect stocking stuffer.

Honey Pot Bath Bombs $14

Hopefully, you’ve already tapped into all of Honey Pot’s other feminine products (which are loudly loved by rapper Saweetie). These bath bombs smell so good and will elevate any bath routine with cocoa butter and honey. It’s a spa day at home.

Brown Girl Jane Discovery Set $30

Brown Girl Jane celebrates global culture through fine fragrances that uplift beauty and well-being. The perfect gift to explore the collection and find your favorite combination. The packaging is beautiful and they were named as Refinery 29’s Beauty Innovator of the Year.

Mary Louise Skincare

Each product is a tribute to the wisdom of ancestors, offering a blend of heritage-inspired ingredients and modern skincare innovation. Yes, please!

FOR HIM

Savoir Faire’s Soul Café Fragrance $135

When he hugs you and you get wrapped up in this warm scent, you’ll be so happy that you gave him this. With notes of tobacco, bergamot, blood orange, black pepper, patchouli, private musk blend, amber wood, oud, lavender, Arabic coffee, and firewood, he will smell delicious from beginning to end.

Bevel Pro All-In-One Clipper and Trimmer $279.99

All the men in my life have a beard, and it’s a must that they keep it looking solid. But they don’t have the tools specifically designed for Black facial hair. This holiday season, give him the tools he needs for his facial hair to look its absolute best. Bevel was one of the first brands ever designed specifically with Black hair in mind and they are still at the top of the game.

Bordeaux Watch by SPGBK Watches $79.99

The most valuable thing a man has is his time. Thank him for spending his time well with a new watch. This is actually a unisex watch. The Black-owned North Carolina-based brand has a wide array of colors, with casual and formal options that match anyone’s style.

Navigator Duffle by Leather Made Co. $520

If you’re already talking 2024 travel plans with your better half, nothing inspires that desire to travel like brand-new travel gear. This holiday season, give him the travel bug with Made Leather Co.’s Navigator Duffle bag, currently available in black, cognac, and natural.

Tier Hoodie/Sweatpants $250

Another unisex item that is cozy yet upscale. Tier has structured hoodies and sweatpants that are 100 percent terry-cotton and come in a variety of colors. These comfortable hoodies and sweatpants come in a handful of colors.

FOR THE KIDS

Big by Vashti Harrison $14

Big comes from the illustrator of Sulwe, Hair Love, and Little Leaders and follows the journey of a young girl wrestling with her size in a world that doesn’t fully accept her as she is.

Naturalistas Fashion Dolls $10.99

My nieces love Barbie dolls, yet sometimes it can be frustrating shopping for the perfect doll that they can see themselves in. The Naturalistas Fashion Dolls is a line of toys created by Black female entrepreneur, DeeDee Wright-Ward. These dolls are meant to encourage kids to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their coils, curls, and naturally textured hair.

Upbounders Fun Outside Floor Puzzle $8.99

The best puzzles give kids the opportunity to challenge their minds. The Little Likes Kids Fun Outside Floor Puzzle is something the whole family can enjoy together. This 48-piece floor puzzle is easy enough for kids 3 years old and up to put together on their own as they sharpen their memory and cognitive skills.

Ready Set Go! Bundle $57.95

These tiny books pack a big punch by tackling heavy topics in a kid-friendly way. Designed to make talking about everything from sharing to bravery more engaging for young minds, this bundle will take their little library to another level.

Hopps Skateboards $69.95

Founded by the professional skateboarder Jahmal Williams, this high-quality deck will make the rider in your life feel like the next big thing at the skate park. Made of 100% Canadian Maple, this skate deck is made to last.

The post The Black-Owned Holiday Gift Guide appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

At BGN, we understand not everyone is interested in ballin out on a day that only comes around once a year, investing their hard earned cash on expensive merch and cheap thrills. This holiday gift guide is curated to help shoppers get the most bang for their buck, with the most exceptional anime gifts for buyers on a budget. Instead of putting yourself through financial stress, here are the best anime-themed gifts you can buy for $25 or less.

1. Top Animes of All Time Scratch-Off Poster

Where to buy: Amazon.com

Enno Vatti’s 100 Anime Scratch-Off Poster will inspire your loved one to breeze through their ever-growing anime watch lists. This advent calendar-style poster is a fun, interactive way to keep track of anime bucket lists while also motivating you to discover new anime heroes.  

2. The Anime Chef Cookbook: 75 Iconic Dishes from Your Favorite Anime

Where to buy: Amazon.com

This cookbook is for the foodies who want to bring their favorite tantalizing anime recipes to life. Featuring delectable bites from shows like Haikyuu!!, and Laid-Back Camp, this anime-themed recipe book is a holiday gift that otakus can cherish for years to come. 

3. Anime Inspired Bracelets

Where to buy: Etsy.com

Help your loved one sport their love of anime in style with these anime-inspired bracelets from KireiTrinkets’s Etsy store. For only $17.99, shoppers can choose between one of their handcrafted beaded bracelets or customize one that reflects their fandom. 

4. Crown Anime Bonnets and Durags

Where to buy: Crownlimitedsupply.com

If you want to keep your loved ones’ waves, kinks, and coily tresses tucked tight under something stylish, check out the Anime Crown Durag and Bonnets collection. The headwear is highly reviewed and reportedly fits most heads so they can sleep peacefully knowing their ends are in good hands.

5. Anime Sock Bundles

Where to buy: Crunchyroll.com

Instead of getting your favorite anime fan separate gifts, get them one of Crunchyroll’s decorative anime holiday bundles. This bundle includes an anime-themed mug, ornament, and pair of socks, all for the low price of $19.99. 

6. Anime Themed Makeup Brushes

Where to buy: Amazon.com

The WeChip Store on Amazon.com has a variety of makeup brushes for beauty anime lovers who want to beat their faces in style. Shoppers can choose between five- and eight-piece brush sets with intricate metal designs inspired by anime like Sailor Moon, Demon Slayer, Attack on Titan, and One Piece. 

7. Anime Themed Tea Cups

Where to buy: Boxlunch.com

These ceramic anime-themed tea cups come with a matching saucer and stirring spoon so anime lovers can sip their tea with elegance. With pastel designs inspired by Studio Ghibli and Sailor Moon, anime lovers can bring cozy slice-of-life vibes to their homes this winter with a nice relaxing cup of tea for just $24.90.

8. Anime Themed Ramen Bowls

Where to buy: Boxlunch.com

BoxLunch’s collection of ramen bowls comes in a variety of shapes, sets, and anime themes to adhere to practically every fandom you can think of. For as low as $19.90, anime lovers can enjoy ceramic ramen bowl sets with matching accessories.

9. Anime Kitchen Kits

Where to buy: Boxlunch.com

Add a little spice to your favorite anime lover’s home with these anime-themed kitchen sets. With oven mitts, towels, and potholders designed after popular fandoms like Naruto, Pusheen, and Sanrio, these are sure to be a hit for the holiday season. (Bonus: these are on sale for December across the site!)

10. Anime Mug Sets

Where to buy: Boxlunch.com

BoxLunch is full of exclusive anime box sets that are guaranteed to win the hearts of die-hard anime fans. For as little as $19.90, shoppers can secure a mouse pad and mug bundle with vibrant designs inspired by anime like Fate/Grand Order, Demon Slayer, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Puella Magi Madoka Magica.

11. Anime Pajama Pants

Where to buy: Hottopic.com

If you want your favorite anime fan to snuggle up this winter in style, check out these officially licensed anime-themed pajama pants from Hot Topic. With unisex sizes ranging from XS to 3X, you can secure a pair for the whole family.

12. Anime 3D Mugs with Lids! 

Where to buy: Hottopic.com

These 3D ceramic mugs from Hot Topic are irresistible to One Piece, Naruto, and Sailor Moon fans who want to sip their drinks out of something more decorative. Featuring vividly detailed designs of Artemis (Sailor Moon), Kurama (Naruto), and Gum-Gum Fruit (One Piece), these figural mugs come complete with lids to prevent spillage.  

13. Anime Inspired Perfume

Where to buy: Etsy.com

Etsy’s Scentsuki is a unique fandom gift shop that sells perfume inspired by anime characters. For as little as $5.25, shoppers can select handmade perfume oils modeled after characters from anime including Attack On Titan, Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, One Piece, and My Hero Academia. 

14. Anime Planters

Where to buy: Etsy.com

If your anime lover is also a plant mom (or dad), then one of PropsAndPop’s anime-themed planters may be the perfect gift to support those green thumbs. The California-based shop sells adorable concrete planters that also double as candle holders and desk organizers so they can be repurposed in more ways than one.

15. Anime Candles

Where to buy: Etsy.com

These anime-themed candles come highly reviewed with customizable creations that buyers can’t wait to gift for Christmas. With fragrances inspired by characters from anime like Death Note, Jujutsu Kaisen, Black Clover, and Tokyo Ghoul, this holiday gift can be yours for the low price of $15.

16. Anime Funko Pops

Where to buy: Amazon.com

You can never go wrong with gifting a Funko Pop to your favorite anime fan. With their affordable prices and wide range of options, receiving one will always be appreciated, even if your loved one already has one (or ten.)

17. Manga

Where to buy: Barnesandnoble.com

Gifting your anime lover a manga is an inventive way for them to experience their favorite series in a more detailed light. The manga can act as a companion to their favorite anime, providing further insight into storylines and character development that don’t always make the final cut of an anime series.  

18. Anime Coloring Books

Where to buy: Amazon.com

Rylan Lolo is a group of independent publishers who create anime-themed coloring books for otakus of all ages. Their collection features 11 anime-inspired books whose coloring pages are filled with titles ranging from Anime Fashion to Creepy Kawaii, all for the price of $7.99.

19. Anime Graphic Tees

Where to buy: Hottopic.com

Hot Topic is famous for its wide selection of vividly designed graphic tees. With sales going on site-wide, you can scoop up one of their signature graphic tees for your favorite anime fan so they can wear their fandom loud and proud. 

20. Anime Enamel Pins

Where to buy: Boxlunch.com 

Boxlunch’s collection of anime-themed enamel pins is the perfect stocking stuffer. Their exclusive designs are the perfect compliment to your otaku’s accessories and show their fandom in a small, subtle way.  

21. Anime Christmas Ornaments

Where to buy: Etsy.com 

Etsy’s 3DaesignStudio is the place to be if you’re looking for high-quality custom anime-themed Christmas ornaments. For $8, you can secure one of their handmade 3D-printed products modeled after your favorite kawaii characters from Sanrio, Pokemon, and Studio Ghibli. 

22. Anime Skins

Where to buy: Animetowncreations.com

If you’re looking for a stocking stuffer, consider getting your beloved anime fanatic one of Animetowncreation’s bold anime skins. For as low as $9.99, shoppers can cop one of their high-quality anime-themed skins for everything from credit cards to next-gen video game consoles.

23. The Boy and the Heron

Where to buy: Fandango.com

If your anime fan prefers events to objects as gifts, treat them to a showing of Studio Ghibli’s latest film, The Boy and the Heron. The film premiered nationwide on December 8, 2023, and is already considered a masterpiece. 

24. Custom Anime Portraits 

Where to buy: animefyme.com

If you’re looking for aesthetics, consider one of Animefyme’s custom anime portraits. The site takes an uploaded photo and translates it to a digitized anime portrait with art styles inspired by popular titles like Chainsaw Man and Spy X Family.

25. Anime Model Kits

Where to buy: Amazon.com

If your anime lover is a DIY’er, consider gifting them one of Bandai’s exclusive anime modeling kits. From Gundams to fighting scenes in Dragon Ball Super, the Amazon shop has plenty of high-quality anime replicas to choose from.

The post Holiday Gift Guide: 25 Anime-Themed Gifts under $25 appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

To understand why this blew up, it helps to know what Pantone actually is. Pantone is an international color authority best known for creating the Pantone Matching System (PMS), a standardized guide that ensures designers, printers, and manufacturers across the globe can accurately reproduce specific hues. When Pantone names its Color of the Year or highlights an annual palette, it directly influences product design, seasonal trends, and cultural aesthetics. From runway collections to home decor to tech accessories.

This year’s Pantone palette leaned into soft neutrals and airy pastels. At first glance, the selections seemed harmless enough. There were serene shades meant to evoke calm during a period of global uncertainty. But the inclusion of Cloud Dancer, a near-white tone, triggered instant backlash. For many online, the issue wasn’t the color itself but the context around it and the broader implications of choosing a nearly white shade as a dominant visual theme in a moment when conversations about inclusion in fashion and design are more present than ever.

Threads users specifically pointed out that Pantone’s description of Cloud Dancer as a color embodying “purity,” “renewal,” and “lightness” hit an uncomfortable nerve. Commenters argued that the language echoed long-standing associations between whiteness and virtue while positioning darker tones as less desirable or less aspirational. Some designers of color noted that industry trends already skew heavily toward aesthetics coded as Eurocentric, and this palette felt like a continuation of that bias.

The memes came quickly and hilariously, depending on who you ask.

But the meme economy also exposed a deeper tension about race and privilege. Some jokes leaned into stereotypes or dismissed the criticism with a flippant “it’s just a color,” which many felt ignored legitimate concerns about how whiteness is often centered in visual culture.

Pantone hasn’t issued an official response to the controversy, but the conversation has already reshaped how influencers, brands, and creatives think about color trend forecasting. The uproar surrounding Cloud Dancer proves once again that color is never just visual but it’s cultural, political, and personal. And in 2025, people are demanding palettes that reflect the full spectrum of lived experiences, not just the lightest parts of it.

The post Pantone’s 2025 Color Drama: Why “Cloud Dancer” Ignited a Heated Conversation appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Each crossbody celebrates the spirit of its princess muse, whether it’s Cinderella’s timeless elegance, Moana’s adventurous heart, or Snow White’s classic charm reimagined into chic, wearable accessories perfect for everyday outings or special occasions.

More than just themed handbags, the line highlights how Disney princesses continue to influence fashion, with Loungefly leading the way in merging fandom and function. The collection represents an evolution in princess-driven accessories, showcasing fresh, fashion-forward collaborations that appeal to both lifelong Disney fans and style-conscious shoppers alike.

With its whimsical details and elevated design, the Disney Princess Crossbodies Collection offers fans the chance to carry a piece of magic wherever they go.

All are currently available at Loungefly.com.

The post Loungefly Unveils Enchanting Disney Princess Crossbodies Collection appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

From bold, hand-crafted statement pieces to sleek, modern interpretations adorned with vibrant gemstones, these designs captivate with their beauty. Every piece reflects a narrative of culture, strength, and creative expression.

This year’s trends celebrate both tradition and evolution, offering designs that stand out on runways, red carpets, and everyday wardrobes. They prove that Black-inspired jewelry is more than a trend; it is a movement in style.

Bold Gold Pieces with Cultural Motifs

In 2025, bold gold jewelry leads fashion with designs grounded in Black culture and heritage. These pieces go beyond luxury, serving as symbols of identity and legacy. Bold gold pieces featuring intricate cultural motifs, such as Adinkra symbols, Ndebele patterns, and Ankh crosses, are taking center stage in contemporary fashion. Yellow gold’s warmth and brilliance make it perfect for expressing meaning and power.

Study.com notes that the Ankh symbolizes eternal life, evolving from ancient Egypt into a global icon of hope and spirituality. For millennia, it adorned pharaohs and temples. Today, it stands out in gold jewelry, particularly yellow gold, as a symbol of divine power, solar energy, and ancient wisdom. These radiant motifs are redefining modern jewelry as a celebration of ancestry, spirituality, and enduring beauty. 

Beaded Jewelry Gets a Luxe Upgrade

The FunTimes Magazine reported that the history of African beadwork is deeply rich and diverse. Beads served as adornment and vital trade items, often called “trade beads.” Originating globally, they shaped Africa’s commerce and culture. Techniques like peyote stitch and loom weaving create pieces holding profound cultural and historical significance beyond decoration.

However, what was once seen as casual or bohemian, African-inspired beaded jewelry is experiencing a luxurious revival in 2025. Designers now use semi-precious stones, pearls, gold accents, and glass beads to elevate the craft. From Maasai necklaces to Yoruba waist beads, these pieces honor cultural artistry while becoming red carpet and editorial staples.

Sapphire Blues Add a Royal Touch, Notes Leibish

Known for their association with wisdom, royalty, and spiritual clarity, sapphires have long been revered in various African cultures. Their presence in modern pieces adds a regal essence while maintaining cultural depth. From bold rings to ornate chokers and headpieces, sapphire accents contrast beautifully with gold and dark skin, enriching designs.

So, what is a sapphire? You will probably want to know if you are a novice. It is a precious gemstone admired for its beauty and versatility. They are precious gemstones often linked to blue but found in many colors. Made mostly of corundum, they rank just below diamonds in hardness. Symbolizing truth and protection, they are perfect for jewelry that blends beauty, durability, and meaningful elegance.

Leibish states that sapphires are both mined and manufactured for decorative use. On the Mohs scale, they measure 9 in hardness. This ranks them as the third hardest gemstone, following diamonds and Moissanite.

Afrocentric Designs Take the Spotlight

These designs take inspiration from Africa’s diverse visual languages, which feature bold shapes, tribal patterns, and symbols like Sankofa birds and cowrie shells. Crafted in brass, wood, or gold, they act as cultural affirmations. Afrocentric jewelry reclaims narrative and blends adornment with heritage. From runways to streetwear, they redefine modern luxury and command attention.

OkayAfrica reported that Angélique Kidjo attended the 67th Annual Grammy Awards on February 2, 2025, in Los Angeles. She wore a glittering black suit with a vibrant multicolored silk scarf. A gold Africa-pendant chain necklace honored the motherland, adding cultural pride and warmth to her ensemble. 

Layered Chains Become Everyday Staples

Rooted in hip-hop and Afro-Caribbean style, these chains showcase diverse textures, weights, and symbolic pendants. They express individuality and cultural pride. From chunky Cuban links to delicate rope chains with Africa-shaped charms, layering adds depth and meaning to daily wear.

Their versatility allows them to pair seamlessly with streetwear, business attire, or evening wear. This makes them a favorite for those wanting both style and impact. Layered chains have evolved into timeless symbols of personal and cultural identity.

So, what’s the trick to keeping layered necklaces in place and achieving that effortlessly polished look seen on Gigi Hadid and Rihanna? According to jeweler Rachel Gindi in InStyle, the key is pairing pendants of different shapes in a way that complements each other. Mixing a pendant with a chain or an initial necklace creates balance. Adjusting chain lengths can give even your well-worn pieces a fresh, on-trend vibe. 

Mixed Materials Bring Texture and Contrast

Designers now combine traditional elements such as cowrie shells, wood, and woven fibers with modern accents like polished metals, resin, and gemstones. This fusion creates striking contrasts. The natural and industrial textures embody both heritage and innovation. Each piece tells a layered story, rich in culture and contemporary artistry.

Whether it’s a brass cuff wrapped in Ankara fabric or a necklace with obsidian beads and gold links, each piece stands out. This fusion challenges conventional design while honoring cultural heritage. The textures create striking visual interest. Every combination results in a distinctive artistic expression with unmatched depth and meaning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I care for bold or oversized jewelry pieces?

Store bold or oversized jewelry separately to prevent scratches, and gently clean with a soft cloth after wearing. Protect them from moisture, fragrance, and strong cleaning agents. For intricate designs, use a soft brush to remove buildup and maintain their shine.

Is it okay to mix traditional African styles with modern outfits?

Yes, mixing traditional African styles with modern outfits is more than acceptable; it’s a rising trend. Pairing heritage-inspired jewelry with contemporary clothing creates a distinctive, expressive look. This fusion honors culture while showcasing identity, creativity, and confidence in everyday fashion.

Which gemstones are trending in Black-inspired designs?

In 2025, Black-inspired designs feature trending gemstones like sapphires, garnets, onyx, and emeralds. Valued for rich colors and cultural symbolism, these gems stand out. Designers prefer ethically sourced stones that embody heritage, spirituality, and strength, which enrich traditional and modern jewelry.

Honoring Heritage Through Bold Expression

Black-inspired jewelry in 2025 goes beyond trends, which serves as a celebration of cultural identity, artistry, and resilience. Designers and wearers alike embrace a blend of tradition and innovation. Each piece becomes both a personal statement and a cultural tribute. 

Whether for daily wear or special occasions, it affirms pride in heritage. As fashion evolves, these bold designs lead, inspire, and redefine true style.

The post Black-Inspired Jewelry Styles That Are Dominating 2025 Fashion appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

The four artists banded together to create their own bourbon after Harold Perrineau expressed his interest in continuing their camaraderie and working relationship past The Best Man, its sequel, and the limited miniseries The Best Man: The Final Chapters, which aired on December 22, 2022. Perrineau came up with the idea and discovered Bespoken Spirits, a cutting-edge, Earth-conscious craft whiskey producer known for its sustainable production methods. Soon, the rest of the cast of The Best Man joined in.

Lee and Chestnut were immediately on board with Perrineau’s idea, while Diggs, who rarely leaves his own comfort zone, eventually joined after being motivated by the appeal and the maturity the four of them bring as Black men in the world of spirits. In fact, he joked about his personal evolution going from Zima Clearmalt — a clear, vodka-containing, and slightly carbonated alternative to beer — to fine bourbon.

Thus, we can comfortably say that his personal evolution resonates with a sense of growth tied to the characters Chestnut, Perrineau, and himself, portrayed in The Best Man. Malcolm D. Lee is the film’s director, but he also made a brief appearance in the movie. Sable bourbon is crafted using a mash bill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley, resulting in a bold 94°P (94-proof) deep golden-brown spirit whose tasting notes feature the aroma of burnt sugar and nutty marzipan.

Thanks to Bespoken Spirits’ innovative approach to aging and flavor profiling — which earned the company more than 200 awards in just three years — Sable bourbon delivers rich flavors of dark chocolate fudge with mocha, complemented by an oak-forwards and medium spice finish. The gents from The Best Man were very involved with the flavor profiling process, bottle design, and even the name, with “Sable” meaning “black,” symbolizing the depth and richness of their friendship.

For those who haven’t seen The Best Man, the movie follows Lance, Harper, and Julian (Chestnut, Diggs, and Perrineau, respectively) as they reunite for Lance’s wedding. Harper, who is the best man and an author, realizes that his debut novel might stir up secrets from their past, creating tension among the group. With the wedding approaching, the trio must mend their old wounds and navigate the complexities of their friendships to support one another and ensure that the big day goes as smoothly as possible.

Of course, with The Best Man being a comedy-drama with a wedding theme, hilarity ensues. The movie was a commercial and critical hit upon its release in 1999. Its success helped launch the careers of Taye Diggs, Nia Long, Morris Chestnut, Regina Hall, and Terrence Howard into the stratosphere, who gained significant recognition and opportunities in Hollywood following the film’s release. Not only that, but it also solidified Malcolm D. Lee’s reputation as a talented director.

What contributed to the film’s success is the representation of young, upwardly mobile Black men, which was completely different from the stereotypical roles associated with the majority of Hollywood depictions. All the characters were fresh out of college and trying to figure things out and find their footing in the grown-up world, and this representation resonated well with Black audiences as well as more mainstream viewers.

The launch of Sable Bourbon arrived alongside the 25th anniversary of The Best Man, so the actors took the opportunity to organize a photo shoot to promote their project. They also hired stylist J. Bolin to perfect their style for the event. During the promotional shoot, Malcolm D. Lee also hinted at new storytelling projects he’s currently working on. Perrineau, however, added that there’s a secret agenda behind the liquor, and it involves intoxicating Malcolm so that he’d write another chapter in The Best Man series or films.

Sable Bourbon is available online at the brand’s website at a suggested retail price of $60 per 750mL bottle (25-ish fl.oz.) and is currently being shipped out to retail locations across the United States. If you’re interested in learning more, you can check out the Sable Bourbon and Bespoke Spirits on social media. On the other hand, if you’re interested in watching The Best Man, the movie is currently available on Prime Video, where you can rent or buy a digital copy. 

The post ‘The Best Man’ Cast Reunites with a New Venture: Sable Bourbon appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Air Fryer

It’s 2024 so at this point, everyone and their mom should have an air fryer. There are even some people that have gone as far as having multiples so they can cook several things at once. The must-have kitchen appliance has so many benefits from its quick and easy cooking options to the many health benefits that come with using this method over frying with oil. This year marks some of the lowest prices that air fryers have reached since their initial introduction on the market back in 2010. Here’s one to check out from Amazon. It makes the perfect Christmas gift for a friend or family member that may not have one yet.

MacBook

This item on our list is a big one, seeing how Apple rarely does discounts that fall this low under the retail price. MacBooks are a great gift idea for anyone who may need a laptop for school, work, or to edit content if they are a creator. These can get a bit pricey but don’t worry, Walmart has a steal if this is something you’ve had your eye on for a while. They have a super rollback deal for a 13-inch MacBook Air for $649 with 256GB of storage. Apple’s best selling laptops typically run upwards of $1,000 so to have one under $700 with that much memory is not a bad purchase. 

Beis Luggage

If you’re looking for a new set of luggage, you might be in luck if you’re quick, as Beis is having their annual Black Friday sale. Shay Mitchell’s highly successful brand of travel bags and accessories rarely does big discounts, but as an early Black Friday sale, she is giving customers 25% off. But that’s not all, as there are still bigger discounts to come the day after Thanksgiving that are still a mystery. The company’s sale is so popular that Mitchell has implemented a sorting system that will randomly move buyers through a queue (Adidas adopted a similar system for their hyped Yeezys during their prime). If you don’t want to wait for the chaos of the online waiting game, snatch your items now with the 25% off and roll through the airport in style (the girlies know a Beis luggage when we see it).

Instant Pot

Just as we mentioned the need for an air fryer earlier, an Instant Pot is also a need. We’ve all used a crock pot to simmer a delicious dinner for 6-8 hours and waited patiently as our food was being slowly prepared. Imagine that same, slow cooked tender quality but in a fourth of the time? Instant Pots are fantastic for pressure cooking a meal that would typically take hours in just under an hour to an hour and a half. This is perfect for parents who have their hands full and need something quick after picking the kids up from school or fitness folks who want to meal prep in record time. There was a point in time where these were hard to come back and sported a hefty price tag. Amazon has your back with one for $69.99, so if you don’t have one, there’s no better time than now.

Keurig

Now I personally already have one of these, but for this low price and how compact it is, I want another. Walmart has an Express Single Serve Keurig for $29.88 in several different colors to match any kitchen or coffee bar. This is the perfect gift for a college student or for your office if you work from home and don’t want to make that trip to the kitchen for a refill on your cup of Joe. The price is so affordable that it’ll be a great purchase for a White Elephant exchange or Secret Santa.

Dyson Vacuum

For all the clean queens out there, a bomb vacuum is a necessity to get the deepest clean. Dyson has their Digital Slim vacuum on sale for 50% bringing the price down to $249.99, with hefty discounts on the rest of their line up as well. It’s one of the most popular cleaning tools for a reason, as they are heavy duty and extremely powerful. If you know anything about this brand, you know how pricey they can be so Black Friday is the best time to knock out one of these bad boys if it’s been sitting in your cart all year! Now if only there was a fire sale on their Dyson Airwrap.

TV

You can never go wrong with a new TV as technology is always advancing and people somehow always want it to be bigger. Whether your husband has been hinting at one for his man cave or you want a mini one for your kitchen, TVs are always a hot ticket item when it comes to Black Friday because there are so many options at a variety of price points. After scouring the internet, one of the best deals is Best Buy’s Hisense 65 inch QLED Smart TV for $349.99. For that price and size, it’s only a matter of time before it sells out as that’s an extremely competitive figure for all the boxes you’re checking off.

The post Black Friday Is Here! 7 Items You Should Snag appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

For those that aren’t really all that familiar with the ’90s rap scene, Christopher Wallace, better known as the Notorious B.I.G. or Biggie, was among the first rap artists to start wearing Timberland boots. In fact, he’s often credited as one of the artists who helped popularize Timberland footwear and turn it into a staple of urban fashion, particularly in both hip-hop and popular culture. Thus, the new collaboration features the iconic Timberland 6-inch boot in two iconic styles, representing Biggie’s impact on both fashion and music.

The collaboration introduces the Original Timberland boots in wheat and black colorways, with detailed elements that incorporate the iconic visuals from Biggie’s 1994 Ready to Die album. This mostly refers to the cover and some lyrical details that are incorporated into the Original Timberland boots’ design. The Ready to Die cover features an infant sporting an afro, which is meant to represent the artist, against a white background, with his name and the name of the record written at the top and bottom, respectively.

The same depiction of an infant is now featured on the shoe’s tongue, while one of the hang tags features the representation of the original album cover, since the 30th Anniversary re-release of Ready to Die features a cover different than the original. The other hang tag features a gold-toned crown inspired by Biggie being regarded as the “King of NYC.” But that’s not all; the overall design of the boot hasn’t changed much as Timberland’s designers wanted to keep the details subtle and in line with Biggie’s style and the cover design.

However, that doesn’t mean that the subtle details stopped at the tongue and hang tags. The soles at the heel, as well as the padded collar (boot cuff) of the Original Timberland, now feature the “The Notorious B.I.G.” laser etched and embossed into the material. The Timberland logo featured at the side of the heel, usually laser etched or embossed into the material, is replaced with a solid gold-colored metal badge that depicts the brand logo. Another major difference between the original boot and the Notorious B.I.G. × Timberland collaboration is the lace lock.

While the original models don’t usually ship with a lace lock (a branded accessory that sits horizontally at the bottom of the laces, near the toe area), Biggie’s version of Timberland boots does feature one per boot. The lace tag also has a Timberland logo pressed into it, while the eyelets (grommets) remain unchanged when compared to the original. What has changed are the laces; the new laces feature aux tips (also known as the 3.5mm TRS audio connectors) as the aglets.

Aux tip aglets are a nice touch that symbolizes the direct and personal experience of enjoying music before streaming became the norm. Back then, in the mid-90s, people used to listen to music on cassette or CD players. Ready to Die was primarily released on audio cassettes, so people would plug their stereo headphones into their Sony Walkman cassette players to listen to the record on the go. Biggie’s second album, 1997’s Life After Death, was primarily distributed on CD, and people used to carry portable CD players (Discman) to listen to the album.

In fact, the whole experience of listening to music was much more personal in the ’90s, when music players had a limited number of songs, and we would create our own mixtapes to carry around and listen to. The options were limited, but the lack of choice didn’t introduce decision fatigue; instead, it offered a more immersive, satisfying, and intentional listening experience, not to mention the freedom from all the algorithms and machine curation.

The marketing campaign for the Notorious B.I.G. × Timberland collaboration will also feature the avatar of the Notorious B.I.G., which is actually a hyper-realistic model of the late rapper created through advanced motion capture and AI technologies. On top of that, Timberland will also support the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation’s program surrounding reading literacy by funding book drives for local children and families.

The Foundation was founded in 1997 by Christopher’s mother, Violetta Wallace, in honor of the memory of her son and as a vehicle for giving back to the community. The organization focuses primarily on education through scholarships, grants, mentorship programs, tutoring, books, and enrichment programming, allowing children to realize that the Sky is the Limit. The Notorious B.I.G. × Timberland booths have already gone on sale as of September 27, 2024.

The post 30th Anniversary of Notorious B.I.G.’s ‘Ready to Die’ Sees Big-Time Collaboration with Timberland appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

So, it didn’t take long before anime entered the world of fashion. Following the release of Astro Boy’s anime boots by MSCHF Sneakers, the world went wild for anime fashion. Soon after, Red Wing Shoes released their Super Mario boots —technically not anime — after which Naruto collaborated with Crocs and ASICS, and One Piece collaborated with Puma. The latter was a rather impressive shoe range, with designs inspired by Blackbeard, the Red Hair Pirates, Luffy, and Whitebeard. Now, the time has come for Hunter x Hunter to enter the world of fashion… Again.

After collaborating with luxury bag designer Samantha Vega, Hunter x Hunter, a rather popular anime show, has now entered a new collaboration with Reebok. The aforementioned collaboration featured a smartphone pouch, wallet, shoulder bag, handbag, multi-case, and several other items as well. Now, the time has come for Hunter × Hunter to receive its own exclusive line of trainers, and it’s up to Reebok to deliver.

The recently released collection features five unique sneaker designs, each embodying the essence, personalities, and traits of respective key characters from the Hunter × Hunter anime, from the vibrant energy of Gon Freecss to the menacing aura of Hisoka. Thus, the sneaker collection reflects the depth of character design in Hunter × Hunter, which is brought to life by Reebok’s craftsmanship and sneaker-making technologies.

Gon’s Reebok LX2200 model, for example, mirrors the protagonist’s adventurous spirit, taking after Gon’s iconic green uniform. This model is the second most affordable in the entire collection, priced at $120. Killua’s Reebok Club C 85 model is actually the most affordable one, with its price tag sitting at $110. Its white and purple design is inspired by his swift and sharp personality — though there’s more to Killua than meets the eye. He’s also a very dangerous individual.

Next up is Hisoka’s Reebok Instapump Fury, featuring pastel hues and elements like playing cards, Bungee Gum, and his signature teardrop tattoo. Also known as Hisoka the Magician and Grim Reaper, he is one of the main antagonists of Hunter × Hunter. Despite this model being the priciest in the entire collection with a tag of $200, at the moment of writing this model has been sold out. Netero’s design takes after Reebok’s Beatnik sandals; they represent Netero’s strength and wisdom, priced at $130.

The Hunter Association sneakers are based on the Reebok Nano X3 Adventure model, and their design, which also incorporates the association’s logo and classic color scheme, represents its unity. All models are priced between $110 and $220. Some of them are already out of stock, which is a bit surprising considering that they just arrived on the market. There are also a few apparel items, like T-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts. You can get them all through Reebok’s online store.

For those who aren’t in the know, Hunter × Hunter is an anime television series based on the manga of the same name, which aired from 1999 to 2001. Its narrative focuses on Gon Freecss, who discovers that the father he had always been told was dead is actually alive and well and an elite member of humanity — a famous Hunter. Despite the fact that his father had left him with his relatives to pursue his own dreams, Gon decides to follow in his father’s footsteps, find his dad, and eventually become a Hunter in his own right.

However, the original manga was adapted once again in a rebooted Hunter × Hunter anime airing from 2011 to 2014. The new version featured updated animations, faster pacing, and more modern production values while also having virtually no fillers. It covered more of the manga compared to the original series, including those arcs that weren’t even written during the original series broadcast.

It’s worth mentioning that the reboot of the series was prompted by the manga’s continued success, as well as market demand. The second adaptation was marked by a massive success among the fandom, owing to the additional material available for adaptation. It also introduced the franchise to a new generation of fans, and it’s often credited with significantly increasing the franchise’s popularity worldwide. Even Reebok called it one of the greatest anime of all time while detailing its collaboration with Hunter × Hunter.

Popular anime releases continue to headline the latest in fashion and appeal, with various companies launching new collections each day. The products aren’t limited to fashion and appeal only; consumer electronic accessories inspired by anime are currently a booming market. All that is left is the ODM gear from Attack on Titan; however, that’s not only wishful thinking but also a dangerous mode of transportation. So, would an Attack on Titan electric scooter be a good replacement? Asking for a business-owner friend.

The post Hunter x Hunter Sneaker Collection Worth Way More Than Its Weight in Nen and Purchase Price appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

It’s safe to say that for most Black women, getting their hair braided, pressed, washed, and straightened was not a luxury but a lifestyle. Whether at the hair salon or sitting in someone’s living room on a folded chair, getting one’s hair done by a professional or someone’s auntie is part of Black culture.

However, this aspect of Black culture has become controversial. Women have recently shared on social media about their bad experiences with hairdressers and style influencers. With many women expressing their unhappiness, we must ask the question: Are Black hair salons and stylists moving away from the sanctity of doing hair for the community? Has the focus of hair care been taken over by the opportunity for profit? Let’s talk about it.

The Cultural Importance of Black Hair Salons

During the segregation era, Black women weren’t allowed to go to white-owned hair salons; additionally, many white-owned hairdressers didn’t know how to style Black-textured hair. Thus, Black women started forming their own salons.

Yet before the time of hair salons and even today, Black women used less formal ways to get their hair done. The women who paved the way for professional stylists were known as kitchen hairdressers. These were the friends, aunties, cousins, hustlers, and artists who would do people’s hair from their homes or clients’ homes. 

Faye Dant, the founder and executive director of Jim’s Journey: The Huck Finn Freedom Center, sent a message to BGN to share her memories of growing up with a mother who would style women’s hair in the neighborhood. “My mom was a kitchen hairdresser,” she shares. “I’ll never forget the smell of burning hair. The ladies would pour in and there was plenty of laughing, lots of gossip. Mom sent the ladies home, ready for Saturday night out or Sunday morning church.”

My childhood memories are similar to Dant’s. I remember my mom dropping me off at a random home to get my hair done. When she returned to pick me up in the afternoon, my hair would be braided, and we didn’t have to worry about managing my hair for at least four weeks. 

As I got older, I started going to salons and valued the experience. I grew up in a predominantly white neighborhood and had friends whose hair didn’t look like mine. Going to salons meant I could be around people who had hair like mine and knew how to style it.

At the salons, people were friendly and talkative. Occasionally, someone would randomly start singing and dancing, and there was always gossip to share. One of the best parts was leaving the shop and getting compliments from everyone on how good my hair looked. It was a place where I didn’t feel like an outsider, a four-walled place where I felt connected to my Blackness. 

But now, this fond experience is changing. It may be because of the cost of living or the impact of social media. However, going to the salon nowadays will not only cost you an arm and a leg, but your hairdresser may arrive two hours late.

How Things Are Changing

Hair salon clients have spoken about their struggles when visiting the hairdresser. Their biggest complaints are about unprofessionalism and overcharging.

Unprofessionalism: Many women, including myself, have had experiences going to the hair salon for a 10:00 a.m. appointment and waiting until 10:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., or later for a stylist to work on our hair. Even though stylists are notorious for starting late, people on social media have shared that stylists are not just starting late but also showing up at the salon late. It’s one thing for a stylist to start late because they were working on a previous client. It’s a different issue when a stylist arrives at the salon after the scheduled appointment.

Reddit user pedagogue_kayth shared her opinion, writing, “In the age of Instagram, it is easier to book an appointment… but I am repeatedly floored at the BS that comes afterward. I booked an appointment weeks ago for 10:00 a.m. and did not get in the seat until 10:50 a.m…no apology…no discount off my service for the hour wait. Yet, when the customer is late, we are expected to pay a late fee or cancel the appointment.”

Overcharging: Back in the day, no matter which hairstyle you had, it usually came with a wash and dry. If you were a frequent client, you might even get a hair trim added for no additional charge. However, some salons are slipping in extra charges such as late fees, booking fees, detangling charges, and even hair length or hair type charges. 

Where’s the Middle Ground?

Several things seem to be going on simultaneously in the space of Black hair care and services. One is that influencers have infiltrated the space. It’s very easy to find a braider or stylist through social media. These stylists show off elaborate hairstyles, such as micro braids that go down to the floor and flawless weaves. All the social media hype has influenced the prices of specific styles. However, just because someone posts that they do hair doesn’t mean they are professional. 

The other area is prices. Doing hair is an intensive process. However, for many women, having their hair a certain way isn’t merely for fashion or a night out. Many women must keep their hair straight or in a weave to fit expectations at work. Also, braids are a protective style and can be considered necessary for certain hair textures. According to a survey, Black women reported spending 25% or more of their monthly budget on their hair.

So where is the balance? In my opinion, the clients and the stylist need to give a little to support one another. Stylists who are serious about their work must continue to uphold a level of professionalism and charge rates that are fair to themselves and their group of clientele. Additionally, clients have to be careful who they choose regarding their hair. While someone may look skilled on Instagram, their professionalism may differ. 

Ultimately stylists have the right to charge what they want for their services, and clients can choose to pay the fees or find someone new. 

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