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Cream blush and I haven’t always been the best of friends. In my years of testing products, I’ve attended countless launch meetings and watched tons of tutorials for creamy color formulas meant to give your cheeks a “flushed and dewy” look. Still, I could never get into them. I’ve found that most cream formulas leave a shiny, greasy finish. Some of them are too sheer and melt right into my complexion, while others jack up my foundation, concealer, and anything else underneath. It’s why I steer clear of the creamy category and stick to powder blush pans and palettes.

Despite my weary history with cream formulas, I was intrigued when details about the new Bite Beauty Whipped Blush hit my inbox. For starters, the compact powder pink packaging was cute enough to make me do a double-take. The color offerings were also enticing. I was instantly drawn to the fine flecks of shimmer in each shade, so I gave them a try.

The Bite team sent me three shades of the new blush, and I twisted open Mojito, a shimmery coral, to test first. A quick squeeze of the pearly packaging pumped out a thick whipped-cream like formula. I applied three dots along my cheeks in an upwards direction and knew the real test was application. I skipped my fingers and went with a clean, damp sponge to blend it in. After a few dabs, I was genuinely impressed with the opacity and finish of the product, which woke up my face with color and a hint of shimmer. I usually always follow blush applications with a layer of highlighter, but this allowed me to forgo the step. This will come in super clutch if you’re traveling this summer, especially once that hot-girl tan settles in.

The tiny pod not only eased my doubts about cream blush but made my makeup routine much quicker. Am I going to start swapping out every power blush in my collection with a cream one? Not necessarily. But this one has definitely set the bar.

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Wende Zomnir‘s love of Prince goes back to when she was a child in the ’80s. Like millions of devoted fans, Prince was “everything” to the Urban Decay founder. “My sister and I were completely obsessed with Prince,” Zomnir tells Refinery29. “His music, the way he dresses, the way he did his makeup — we tried to copy him in every way.”

Fans and observers would concur: Prince was legendary, and the impact that artists like him leave behind stay with fans forever. A makeup collection honoring the late performer has always been on Zomnir’s wishlist. Today, that dream is a reality: The Urban Decay x Prince limited collection is here, and features two palettes, kajal eyeliner, a highlighter, powder, and a multitasker brush, all outfitted in Prince’s “love” symbol. Fans can sign up to pre-order the collection on May 21 before the full vault is available on on May 27 at UrbanDecay.com. All items in the line will be available at all online retailers on June 6.

The collection is where eclectic meets everyday wear: Each palette is decked out with pans of purple, Prince’s signature shade, and other shimmery colors so you can get funky. You’ll also get to pick from a multi-purpose illuminator that goes on smooth so that you can layer it under or over makeup. Kohl eyeliner might make it into your daily makeup routine, or you can smoke it out like Prince did on stage if you’re feeling extra. There’s room for experimenting with looks or hanging onto each item as a collectible.

In today’s world, celebrity beauty collaborations can feel like fast fashion. Zomnir knew that precise attention to detail would be critical in delivering a collection, two years in the making, in Prince’s honor. “This wasn’t a situation of slapping assets on products,” she says. “We were able to work with his friends who helped us bring something beautiful to life.” The brand got direct support from Prince’s Estate to craft and curate every detail in the collection, down to its stunning campaign imagery starting Prince’s muse Damaris Lewis as the face. “We have been talking about this with the Estate for a long time, and it became a matter of finding the right timing,” Zomnir explains. “It’s been an ongoing conversation because it always felt so right.

While Prince’s Estate remains unsettled following the star’s death five years ago, the team played a significant role in making sure he was celebrated in every facet of the collection. “The coolest part of working with the Prince Estate is that we got to tap into his artistic camp,” Zomnir says. “We got to work with his creative director Trevor Guy and his muse and dancer Demaris Lewis, and his photographer Randee Saint Nicholas shot everything for the campaign.” Prince’s legacy is also present throughout each product name, with hues named after his biggest hits like “When Doves Cry” (reflective ivory) and “Raspberry Beret” (a shimmery Bordeaux).

For Urban Decay, makeup is just one component of why this collaboration is important. Zomnir hopes that beauty enthusiasts come for the pigmented colors and blendable formulas, but stay for the gifts from Prince’s decades-long career. “People are going to go back to the music and back to the photos and appreciate how he dressed, how he did his makeup, and how he was all about owning who you are,” she says. “Back then, that was a crazy ideal, and now in 2021, it’s considered standard. Prince really opened that door for self-expression.”

It’s a full-circle moment for Urban Decay, a brand that has been championing self-expression through makeup since the mid-’90s. “When we [Urban Decay] came on the scene, it was no longer about aspiring to look like this perfect blonde-haired, blue-eyed white woman,” Zomnir says. “We helped people aspire to be like themselves, and Prince did that for me and generations of people.”

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In 2019, California became the first state to pass The CROWN Act to make natural hair discrimination illegal. Since then, the bill has gained much-needed momentum, and numerous state legislations are following suit. Now, Tennessee is the latest state to put The CROWN Act in motion. 

State senators unanimously passed the bill, which stands for Creating an Open and Respectful World with No Racism, with a vote of 28-0. The bill will now go to the Tennessee House of Representatives for a vote. Under the proposed law, employers and schools will be prohibited from discriminating against Black people who choose to wear their hair naturally or in protective styles.

Senator Raumesh Akbari led the charge and celebrated the vote on Instagram. “My mom is known as ‘The Hair Doctor,’ and growing up, I saw so many people find dignity & self-respect in being able to wear their hair naturally,” Senator Akbari shared. “No one should be shamed or denied opportunities because of their natural hair, and that’s what the #CROWNAct is all about.”

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Tennessee isn’t the only Southern state making strides to end hair-based discrimination. In July 2020, Virginia became the first Southern state to make The CROWN Act law. Louisiana State Senate also passed The CROWN Act on May 3, moving the bill to the House for deliberation. Louisiana Senator Troy Carter, who championed the bill, shared that he hopes the House passes it “quickly.” According to local news, the bill will go into effect if passed by the House on August 1.

The CROWN Act should be up for very little debate: Black people have been subject to discrimination, bias, harassment, and even death — far too many times — on the basis of physical appearance. Implementing The CROWN Act across the United States is a step in the right direction to creating a safer, more equitable world for Black people, and we’re looking forward to seeing more states get on board.

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There’s been no shortage of celebrity beauty lines lately. Pharrell, Jennifer Lopez, and Priyanka Chopra (to name a few) have all tapped the skin and haircare categories for their significant forays into the beauty space. Rihanna and Selena Gomez have created their lanes in the makeup aisle as well. Like it or not — Hollywood’s elite are fulfilling their dreams as beauty entrepreneurs, and a popular rapper is the latest to join the beauty founder club.

Lil Yachty, née Miles Parks McCollum, took to the ‘gram to show off his latest venture: Crete, a gender-neutral line of “nail paints.” In the announcement, Yatchy showed off his new collection, outfitted in sleek matte black bottles. “I’d like to introduce my new nail paint line @crete__co …. FIRST COLOR DROP MAY 21,” he wrote in the caption. “ALL GENDERS. FOR YOU, NOT THEM.” A few slides over, Yatchy showed off a gray and black tonal manicure with a spade design, hinting at the colors in his first drop.

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The Michigan Boy Boat rapper isn’t new to rocking nail polish and is one of many male artists giving a fine-painted middle finger to society’s traditional gender norms. Bad Bunny, Lil Nas X, Jaden Smith, Harry Styles have all openly embraced nail art, proving that painted tips — whether clear or decked out in smiley faces — are for anyone. 

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Yachty’s Crete line got a ton of support from eager fans and celebrities alike. “Packaging is mean,” rapper A$AP Ferg commented (and we concur.) “GO OFF,” Justine Skye wrote. Comedian Zoie Fenty also commended Yachty for staying true to himself. “NAIL POLISH IS FOR ANYBODY WITH NAILS. (Congrats Yachty) keep being you,” Fenty wrote. We couldn’t agree more. So now that we’ve got that out of the way, the only questions that remain are: What colors will he launch? And will it chip? Our tips will be ready when Crete drops.

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Like any other physical transformation, the natural hair journey is a deeply personal, revealing, and rewarding one for most people — even your favorite celebrity who has probably tried every hairstyle under the sun. Take Megan Thee Stallion, for example, who recently shared an update on her curly hair journey. Cardi B also revealed that she plans on starting a hair-care line inspired by her DIY hair recipes. Sza is the latest performer to let us in on her natural hair routine.

The Good Days singer shared a now-viral clip of her strands sans extensions captioned: “One time for the 4c Gorls.” In it, Sza showed off her silked-pressed hair in a sleek ponytail by celebrity stylist Whitney Eaddy, who has been guiding the singer on her hair journey. “Her NATURAL hair is thriving,” Eaddy wrote on Instagram. “Getting to know you & your crown has been a pleasure.”

Eaddy, who met Sza in 2019, revealed that she and the singer went through a series of length checks and trims before getting to her current style. “She really wanted to focus the HEALTH & fullness of her natural hair,” Eaddy wrote. “I’m literally so proud of our progress.” According to the stylist, Sza also used Juices And Botanics products on her hair throughout her journey. Eaddy also revealed to Ming Lee Simmons that she used the Black-owned brand EapHeat to straighten Sza’s ponytail.

SZA is making me want to straighten my hair for the first time in 7 years … Mhm, maybe in the colder months. SZA’s hair looks so nice.

— Agu Nwanyi (@ichizoba) April 27, 2021

sza and this natural hair, i love it

— ble🤎 (@cx_asia) April 27, 2021

Devoted fans immediately pressed the songstress for more details on her hair care regimen and raved about her style. “SZA is making me want to straighten my hair for the first time in 7 years,” one Twitter user wrote. “Sza looks GREAT with any hairstyle & color,” said another, emphasizing the versatility of Black hair. While we’re fans of Sza however she styles her hair, we’re pumped to see her glowing and thriving on her natural hair journey.

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Even in the pandemic, the Oscars remain one of the most significant events where Hollywood’s elite brings their Sunday best. Regina King is no stranger to stunning on the red carpet, but her look at this year’s Academy Awards was one for the books. The actress, who has been serving looks virtually all season long, made it to multiple best-dressed lists with her statement butterfly sleeve gown.

King, who has been rocking a variety of protective styles for award shows this year, opted for a razor-sharp bob chopped by Larry Sims. King’s makeup artist Latrice Johnson created a deep gray smokey eye using Clinique products to coordinate with the tones of her metallic gown.

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Fans of King’s Oscars glam took to social media to praise the star, and some were even inspired to copy her hair. “It’s so stunning and sharp,” one Twitter user — who knows a good bob when they see one — wrote. If you’ve been debating a dramatic pandemic haircut, King’s Oscars look might be the push you didn’t know you needed.

Regina King is killing it—the dress, the hair, the makeup, everything. #Oscars

— Dr. Sara Webb-Sunderhaus (@webbsusa) April 26, 2021

My head is too enormous for it and I haven’t had straight hair in a decade but I need Regina King’s bob

— Malice Walker (@humblecore) April 26, 2021

EVERYTHINGGGGGGGG about Regina King’s vibe is PERFECTION. The fit! The color! The hair! The styling! We don’t deserve her. #Oscars

— KT Lindemann (@KTLindemannMN) April 25, 2021

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Even in the pandemic, the Oscars remain one of the most significant events where Hollywood’s elite brings their Sunday best. Regina King is no stranger to stunning on the red carpet, but her look at this year’s Academy Awards was one for the books. The actress, who has been serving looks virtually all season long, made it to multiple best-dressed lists with her statement butterfly sleeve gown.

King, who has been rocking a variety of protective styles for award shows this year, opted for a razor-sharp bob chopped by Larry Sims. King’s makeup artist Latrice Johnson created a deep gray smokey eye using Clinique products to coordinate with the tones of her metallic gown.

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A post shared by Latrice Johnson (@makeupbylatrice)

Fans of King’s Oscars glam took to social media to praise the star, and some were even inspired to copy her hair. “It’s so stunning and sharp,” one Twitter user — who knows a good bob when they see one — wrote. If you’ve been debating a dramatic pandemic haircut, King’s Oscars look might be the push you didn’t know you needed.

Regina King is killing it—the dress, the hair, the makeup, everything. #Oscars

— Dr. Sara Webb-Sunderhaus (@webbsusa) April 26, 2021

My head is too enormous for it and I haven’t had straight hair in a decade but I need Regina King’s bob

— Malice Walker (@humblecore) April 26, 2021

EVERYTHINGGGGGGGG about Regina King’s vibe is PERFECTION. The fit! The color! The hair! The styling! We don’t deserve her. #Oscars

— KT Lindemann (@KTLindemannMN) April 25, 2021

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Andra Day has been open about the fact that she almost turned down the leading role in The United States vs. Billie Holiday, the very role that landed her an Oscars nomination for Best Actress. On the red carpet, the singer and actress told Giuliana Rancic that she initially doubted her ability to take on the job because she didn’t begin her career as an actress. Judging by her on-screen performance, and her impeccable red carpet looks — including her stint at tonight’s Academy Awards — it’s safe to say that Day was the best woman for the job.

The star walked the red carpet in a head-to-toe look with “winner” written all over it. Celebrity makeup artist Porsche Cooper created bronzed, sun-kissed skin for Day using Chanel products, which she revealed on her Instagram. “Only rolling out the crème de la crème for this shining star!” Cooper wrote. Day’s hairstylist, Tony Medina, used the Schwarzkopf Osis range to define and style her natural curls into a side-swept updo. 

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While it was hard to ignore Day’s gilded gown and skin to match, the subtle details on her nails were the icing on the cake. Manicurist Jolene Brodeur gave her client a “classic with a twist” nail set for her red carpet. “Andra loves a good ’90s vibe for her nails,” Brodeur says. “The cutouts with the dramatic French ‘V’ works with the cutouts in her dress.”

Brodeur used OPI Infinite Shine in Movie Buff (a milky nude) as the base of Day’s look and Alpine Snow to paint a geometric V-shaped accent on the tips. She finished the Oscar-worthy manicure with a subtle gold decal on her ring finger to top off her *chef’s kiss* look. Zoom in on it below.

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Keke Palmer has been nothing short of an open book on social media, especially when it comes to her beauty experiences. In December, the actress opened up to her 10.4 million Instagram followers about having polycystic ovarian syndrome, and the effects the condition has had on her skin. “Polycystic ovarian syndrome has been attacking me from the inside out my entire life, and I had no idea,” Palmer wrote. “My acne has been so bad that people in my field offered to pay for me to get it fixed.”

Palmer revealed that she tried various solutions for her acne, including Accutane and changing her diet, and she even recalled the painful moment a doctor suggested a measles vaccine. Since her candid post, the star has continued to take her supporters on her skin-care journey, posting an acne-coverage makeup tutorial and providing an encouraging update on her Instagram this morning. “It’s taken me quite some time to get here,” Palmer wrote next to a side-by-side photo showing a recent image of her skin. “In my Virgo eyes there is still much more to be done, but I can’t tell you how much this progress has meant to me.” 

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Palmer, who became the first-ever creative advisor for Refinery29 Unbothered this week, shared that the biggest lesson she’s learned thus far is that only you get to decide what’s best for you. “No one can do that for us! Not a doctor, not a pastor, not anybody,” she wrote. “It wasn’t until I started taking what I heard and paying attention to how it affected me that I started to see progress.”

Palmer’s sound advice got love from her friends and supporters alike, who complimented her journey and, of course, asked her to drop her secrets. “LOOKING GOOD! Can’t wait to hear what you’ve been doing!” celebrity makeup artist AJ Crimson said. “Look at that progress! Whatever you are doing is working! You have gorgeous skin!!!! Always have. Even when it’s misbehaving. Thank you for sharing your journey… I relate, and I love you!” actress Logan Browning commented.

Palmer’s photos are proof of the power of trusting your body’s process, and it’s even more evidence of how refreshing transparency is — no matter where you are on your skin-care journey.

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A few moments into my Zoom call with Jennifer Hudson, I felt like she was the missing member of my girlfriends group chat. Hudson was radiant in a white gown, with her box braids tied up in a bun, while I sat clad in matching sweats cornered in my New York City apartment. We gathered virtually to discuss her latest project: an endorsement of Olay’s best-selling Regenerist moisturizer with SPF. The subject was familiar. Too often, Black women are left disappointed — even feeling betrayed — by a sunscreen that looks chalky or doesn’t blend well on our complexions.

The aesthetic failures of countless sunscreens on the market steer many people with deep skin tones away from SPF altogether, leading to serious health risks. Studies indicate that Black women are significantly less likely to use sunscreen on the face and other exposed skin regularly compared to other racial groups, and research also shows that late-stage melanoma is more prevalent in Black patients. That’s why experts stress prevention measures, like regular skin checks, and committing to diligent sunscreen uses as the best precautions for early detection.

Emphasizing the importance of representation in sunscreen, a famously unsexy category, might seem silly, but its impact can’t be overstated. “I learned how critical sun protection is for our overall health,” Hudson says. “It’s one part of life we can’t escape.” Having Black women like Hudson vouch for a sunscreen that isn’t only flattering on her complexion, but accessible to millions of people, could literally mean the difference between life and death.

The Olay formula in discussion, which retails for $38.99 at drugstores nationwide, features all the fast-absorbing hydrating properties and nourishing ingredients of the OG whipped lotion, with SPF 25 for added protection. “I love it because it has everything that’s good for your skin built in,” Hudson says. “It’s lightweight and works well under makeup which is a bonus.”

Hudson, an award-winning performer, is no stranger to being pampered in the finest skin care and painted in the best makeup, but she says that having access to easy, effective products has made life at home much easier. “When I’m at home on mommy duty, I need to make sure I have solutions that provide the nutrients I need and simplify my routine,” she says. “When you’re super busy, you don’t have time to be selective and pick through multiple steps.”

For Hudson, this past year has required learning how to do nothing at all, a feeling she admits is occasionally met with discomfort as a person who was once always on the move. “I get frustrated sometimes, like what am I supposed to do with this small window of time when I have nothing to do?” she says. “But I think the pandemic has given many of us a sense of stillness where we have to allow ourselves just to be.”

Hudson says the biggest life lesson she’s learned thus far is the power of being honest to herself and those around her. “There are some days when I feel like I don’t want to get up, and others where I’m ready to take on the world,” she says. “I’ve learned that we can’t control everything, but we can permit ourselves to feel. There’s beauty in embracing that.”

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Anyone with platinum blonde hair will tell you: The color is a commitment. So, if a day of double-process dyeing at the salon isn’t in the cards for you, a wig is an easy way to try out the look. Yaya Ogun, the star of Hair Me Out’s latest episode, opted for a platinum blonde wig to change up her style without spending hours in the chair with foils on her head.

“I’ve never done real color before,” Ogun says, explaining that she’s only ever experimented with shades of brown. Bright blonde was a far cry from what she’s used to, but it didn’t stop her from taking the plunge. Millicent Reid, a wig expert based in Los Angeles, helped Ogun with her transformation, installing an icy blonde wig (think Saweetie) on her client. To start, she braided Ogun’s hair down into straight-back cornrows. “I used the hot comb because I want the braids to lay very flat,” Reid explains.

Once Ogun’s hair was braided down, Reid used makeup on the wig’s lace to help it blend into her client’s complexion, then secured it using Bold Hold Glue. “This is an adhesive glue that is going to stick the lace to her skin,” Reid explains. To ensure a safe hold, Reid bonded the glue to Ogun’s skin using a blowdryer. After the wig installation was complete, Reid styled Ogun’s baby hairs and created soft curls. “This is probably the biggest physical change I’ve ever done,” Ogun says. “It’s boosted my confidence. I feel super leveled up.” Click play to see her transformation in full.

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Every Sunday before school, my mother would sit me down and braid my hair in cornrows. I would wear the simple, straight-back braids for a full week, until the next wash day rolled around. My story is similar to many young Black girls, but even though cornrows have been around for centuries — way before hair color fads and over-the-top Instagram styles became a thing — the classic braided look continues to evolve.

Cornrows are frequently misconstrued, misrepresented, and appropriated on runways, in magazines, and IRL, but when done right, the style is both fashion-forward and culturally significant. And thanks to tons of talented hair braiders and stylists, there are endless iterations with intricate patterns, bright colors, and fun accessories.

The great thing about cornrows is that they're super practical, no matter how you style them. You can wear your braids for weeks with minimal styling, protecting the hair from damage and maximizing growth. If you want your next protective style to involve cornrows, there are many different designs to consider. Ahead, we've rounded up some of our favorites to take to your stylist or DIY.

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How To Make Your Box Braids Look Even Cooler

Cornrows Were All Over Fashion Month

21 Styles Great For Transitioning To Natural Hair

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Since the tragic passing of her husband and daughter, Kobe and Gianna “Gigi” Bryant, Vanessa Bryant has been an open book about grief. In addition to speaking fearlessly about her loss, Bryant has continued to keep her family’s legacy alive through various work, charitable causes, and sharing special moments on Instagram.

In June 2020, Bryant revealed two tattoos honoring her husband and daughter: a shoulder piece of a message from Kobe to her and a written piece in her daughter’s handwriting. “So happy I can see my Gigi’s handwriting every day ❤️ #mambacita,” she wrote in a video showing her tattoo’s progress. Soon after, she also got the names of her husband and children tattooed along her foot.

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A post shared by Vanessa Bryant 🦋 (@vanessabryant)

Today, Bryant shared another intimate ink moment with her 18-year-old daughter, Natalia, and their go-to artist Nikko Hurtado, who gave her a cursive tattoo of Gigi’s nickname, “Mambacita.” Bryant’s Instagram posts confirm that she got multiple tattoos during the session, but she hasn’t revealed all of her final artwork. “All my tatts are single needle to keep the lines clean,” she wrote. “8 hours to decide on the font. Tatt took 5 mins.” Bryant’s eldest daughter also got two new pieces of ink, including the word “muse” on her middle finger and an inner wrist piece that she showed in progress.

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Many tattoos have unique meanings and purposes for those who get them, but it’s always powerful to see the art form used to honor loved ones. Bryant’s latest work is proof.

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If you were a kid in America in the early- to mid-2000s, you know just how important Lizzie McGuire was to pop culture at the time — Lizzie, played by Hilary Duff, was basically our BFF in our heads. Though the Disney+ reboot of the hit series is no longer happening, we can still take a trip down memory lane thanks to a new collaboration with ColourPop Cosmetics.

Today, the brand announced an upcoming collection inspired by the iconic character, and it’s certified cute. “Grab your ankle bracelet, hair crimper, and butterfly clips… it’s time for some outfit repeating!” ColourPop wrote in an announcement shared to Instagram. Available to shop on March 26, the five-piece collection includes a 12-pan eyeshadow palette, lip scrub, plumping lip gloss, glitter gel, and powder blush in cool-toned pastels and shimmer colors. You can also expect quirky shade names — like “Dear Diary” and “Don’t Freak” — based on the sayings and phrases we memorized from the show.

✨Simply Fearless! and Certified Cute! ✨

⭐️ The Disney Lizzie McGuire Collection Launching 3/26 at 10 am pst on https://t.co/5C9dbszKrN!

💜 12 Pan Palette
💜 Lip Scrub
💜 4 Lip glosses
💜 2 Glitter Gels
💜 2 Pressed Powder Blushes#DisneyLizzieMcGuireandColourPop pic.twitter.com/xkoEhEy7Uk

— ColourPop Cosmetics (@ColourPopCo) March 22, 2021

The news quickly gained steam on social media, with fans expressing their excitement to stock up when it drops. “You telling me ColorPop Cosmetics is about to make my childhood fantasy come true?” one Twitter user wrote.

No..it can’t be…you telling me ColorPop Cosmetics is about to make my childhood fantasy come true? A Lizzie McGuire line???? *screams in 12 year old me* pic.twitter.com/TPb81ZrVf5

— Please. (@onnitK) March 22, 2021

In an Instagram comment that now has over 1,400 likes, someone suggested card-carrying ’90s babies get early access to the Lizzie McGuire lineup. “Like senior access?????” they wrote. Suffice to say that this collection is what nostalgic makeup dreams are made of.

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If there’s one thing we’ve learned about Zendaya through her roles, red-carpet appearances, and photoshoots, it’s that she has a chameleon-like knack for transformation. We saw it most recently in the Netflix film Malcolm & Marie, where she takes on the role of Marie, the stunning yet sullen girlfriend of Malcolm (played by John David Washington). The two graced a new W Magazine spread to discuss their recent project and respective careers, and to showcase their undeniable on-screen chemistry in a new format.

For the shoot, Zendaya and her team brought to life a series of stunning looks inspired by the 1950s and Slim Aaron’s iconic image of C.Z. Guest, a wealthy socialite. The star’s longtime stylist Law Roach discussed the many pieces that went into bringing the shoot to life in extraordinary detail, from her dresses to her blonde hair. Roach told W that Zendaya’s blonde wig was a “very important” part of bringing this persona to life for the images.

According to Roach, Zendaya’s teased blonde updo, styled by Kim Kimble, was designed to directly reference traditional white-women stereotypes. “The entire outfit—the jewels, the gorgeous gown, the stilettos—they don’t make the same statement without the blonde hair,” he told the publication.

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It isn’t unusual for Zendaya and her team to utilize beauty to create stunning looks and make statements. She recently attended the Critics Choice Awards with a half-braided updo to honor the late Cicely Tyson, and in November 2020, she donned a pearl headwrap and graphic eyeliner to channel Donyale Luna, the first Black woman to cover Vogue. Like a true artist, Zendaya embraces every opportunity to play dress-up to tell stories, and she’s creating her own history of stunning — and meaningful — beauty moments in the process. 

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aimee simeon, Khareem Sudlow

#DMTBeautySpot #beauty

We didn’t expect anything less than classy, boujee, and straight-up beautiful from Megan Thee Stallion for her first time at the Grammy Awards. Of course, the rapper — who’s nominated for a total of four awards tonight and has already won two (including Best New Artist, making her the first female rapper to win the honor in 22 years) — didn’t disappoint.

For her chic center-parted updo on the awards-show red carpet, Queen Stallion’s current stylist Kellon Deryck styled his client’s strands using Dyson tools to protect her natural hair. “Megan’s hair is naturally curly, so I love to use the Dyson Supersonic Wide Tooth Comb to help shape and style it out her hair,” Deryck explained in a press release. “It’s a great tool to help shape and lengthen textured hair as it’s drying.”

After drying with the Dyson Supersonic Professional Edition, Deryck turned to Creme of Nature Argan Oil Heat Protector Blow Out Cream to protect and style Megan’s strands. He tightly curled Megan’s tendrils using the Dyson Corrale Straightener, which gave her the ultimate ’90s prom-queen look. For maximum red-carpet shine, Deryck finished his client’s updo with Creme Of Nature Argan Oil Anti Humidity Gloss Shine Mist, which adds a soft, glossy sheen without weighing down your hair.

Priscilla Ono did Megan’s makeup for the big night and kept it classic with a gunmetal smoky eye. Ono overlined Megan’s lips with brown liner and topped it off with a neutral gloss. The look was a simple yet stunning slay — perfectly fit for a two-time Grammy Award-winning artist and all-around savage.

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aimee simeon, Khareem Sudlow

#DMTBeautySpot #beauty

Tisha Thompson earned her education in accounting, but the Atlanta-based entrepreneur always had a passion for beauty. “Makeup was my side job,” Thompson tells Refinery29 of her time as a makeup artist for MAC Cosmetics. “I used it to earn extra money to put myself through school, but it also became a creative outlet for me.”

After graduating from college, Thompson moved from artistry to the corporate world, where she worked her way up the ranks at PÜR Cosmetics. Ascending to her eventual role as Vice President of Marketing and Innovation didn’t happen overnight, but it earned Thompson seats at critical tables in her career. “I started to notice that there wasn’t a lot of representation and accessibility at the time in the clean beauty space, and it was reflective of the industry as a whole,” she says. “It motivated me to try to diversify the space and develop products that could work for everyone.”

When Thompson says “everyone,” she isn’t exaggerating: Under her leadership, PÜR launched a massive 100-shade foundation range in 2019. “I was in the shower one day, and the idea of doing something transformative and shocking in the space hit me,” Thompson recalls. “I’d had enough of unacceptable shade ranges.” The epiphany led to a widely successful, industry-changing launch that further solidified Thompson’s personal mission — to make the beauty industry a more consciously inclusive place. “It wasn’t my brand, but I knew it was a step in the right direction,” she says. “But I still wanted more.”

That desire motivated Thompson to leave the company and start LYS Beauty, which launched earlier this year as the first Black-owned clean cosmetics line at Sephora. “We deserve to have clean products that work, and I think there’s an opportunity for us to get the shelf space we deserve,” she says. From her own experience as an avid user of clean cosmetics (and after 15 years working in the industry), Thompson knew firsthand of the limited options for safe, brown skin-friendly foundations at affordable price points, so she spent months fine-tuning a formula before building the rest of her brand around it.

LYS Beauty launched with 35 shades of Triple Fix Foundation and a matte bronzer, primer, cream-to-powder blush, setting powder, and lip oil. “I wanted to have all of the items you would need to achieve a quick, flawless face,” says Thompson, “so I started with six items as the foundation of the collection.” Each product is currently rated over four stars at the beauty mega-retailer.

Beyond diversifying the clean beauty market, Thompson wants to be a voice of empowerment in the makeup aisle, where so many people leave feeling unheard and excluded. Her products are intentionally named with self-love affirmations to serve as a reminder of how badass and beautiful you are every time you flip open a compact; the name of the brand is actually an acronym for Love Your Self. “I wanted LYS to have gentle reminders that make you feel seen and accepted,” Thompson says. “The beauty industry can feel so negative sometimes, but it’s supposed to make you feel better, not bad about yourself in the end.”

LYS Beauty is poised to be one of the buzziest new brands at Sephora, and the positive reception is proof that there are still many gaps to be filled in the beauty world, and founders on a mission to close them should be celebrated. “I know that a lot of things aren’t easily handed to many Black founders,” Thompson says, “but don’t be afraid to step out and ask for what you want.”

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Lately, a scroll through Instagram can make you feel like it’s Chloe and Halle Bailey‘s world, and we’re just living in it — which doesn’t sound too bad at all. The duo known professionally as Chloe x Halle has been on a roll lately, delivering stunning music videos, working on new projects and movies, keeping us thoroughly entertained with their Tea Time Instagram lives, and becoming beauty ambassadors for the first time.

Today, Neutrogena named Chloe and Halle as its newest faces, making them the first-ever sister spokespeople for the brand. The gig is their first foray into the beauty world and a fitting one, at that: Chloe says that she grew up sharing Neutrogena products with her sister, who is younger by two years. “Now we get to say we’re a part of a brand we’ve always used growing up, and I’m so happy that we can do it together,” Chloe tells Refinery29 via Zoom.

Chloe and Halle’s first assignment as beauty ambassadors supports the new launches from Neutrogena’s Invisible Daily Defense Sunscreen line, including a serum with SPF 60+, SPF 50 face mist, and SPF 30 and SPF 60+ facial lotions. “Having a sunscreen that blends in with our skin, doesn’t show a white cast, and is invisible is really important to us as Black women,” Halle says.

The sisters’ shared love of Neutrogena goes beyond its more recent products. Halle, who admits she neglected her skin at the beginning of the pandemic, has been following an intentional regimen to fight breakouts. “I have been diving into my skin care, especially after releasing our album and performing a lot,” she says. “My skin is very oily and I have acne, so I live by the Stubborn Acne Treatment to make sure it stays on point.” In an exclusive behind-the-scenes clip of their new campaign, Chloe revealed that the Neutrogena Skin Balancing Cleansing Cloths are her current go-to.

Even though most of their work requires time in front of cameras, Chloe x Halle’s new role is anything but superficial — it goes back to their upbringing and relationship as sisters. “I am so grateful for our family because we were raised to love the skin we’re in,” Chloe says of how this new partnership aligns perfectly with their overall mission to empower women to be their best selves. “I’m honored to be able to show how this brand can serve and be inclusive to everyone and all skin tones, and to show that taking care of yourself can be fun.”

Though the sisters are currently spending time apart while working on individual projects, they say that finding time to bond over beauty — in person and virtually — strengthens their relationship. “When we’re together, we always like to do spa days and make those beauty routines a fun thing,” Chloe says.

Products aside, the most beautiful part of Chloe and Halle’s bond is the way they uplift one another. “I think Halle is so stunning and effortless — she never really has to try,” Chloe says of her younger sibling. “Her approach to beauty has taught me that less is more, even though I love a good face beat.” Halle says that her older sister, who she calls a “beauty guru at heart,” reminds her of the importance of self-care. “Ever since we were younger, I’ve always seen Chloe put effort into taking care of herself, and that has always inspired me to put that time into caring for myself,” she says.

Through their various projects, it’s clear that Chloe and Halle’s love and admiration for each other comes from a genuine place — as does their enthusiasm for working with Neutrogena, a brand they’ve both appreciated for so long. “I’m happy we’re part of a brand that aligns with our values and what we believe in,” Chloe says. “Beauty is really about loving who you are inside and spreading that outwards.”

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Long, glossy dirty-blonde hair has been Gigi Hadid’s signature look for a while now, so when she switches things up, we notice. The model and new mom has recently made a few subtle changes, including taking curtain bangs for a spin in December, but her latest look is her most transformative yet.

On Friday, Hadid returned to the runway for Versace’s Fall/Winter 2021 presentation, where she debuted bright ginger-red hair — and we’re not talking about a wig. Celebrity colorist Panos Papandrianos is responsible for Hadid’s new hair color, which he dyed back in February. “She is dedicated to everyone responsible for the Queen’s Gambit,” the model wrote on her Instagram Story, referring to Beth Harmon’s hair in the hit series. “Ginger for Gigi,” Papandrianos wrote of his client’s look, alongside a video of Hadid showing off her new color.

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While drastically different for Hadid, the vivid auburn shade is a bold way to say “I’m back,” as she goes back to work after giving birth to daughter Khai last fall. Most model hair changes that happen during fashion month don’t last long beyond the runway (remember Kendall Jenner’s stint as a platinum blonde?), but this is one that might have real staying power.

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Connecticut just became the latest state to advance The CROWN Act, prohibiting natural hair discrimination in schools and workplaces. The Senate reached a unanimous decision on Monday, and the bill will now go to Governor Ned Lamont’s desk, where it is expected to be signed into law.

Gov. Lamont reacted to the news on Twitter, writing, “This measure is critical to helping build a more equitable society, and I look forward to signing it into law in the coming days.” Representative Tammy Exum was one of many who championed the bill, stressing in an interview with NBC Connecticut that Black women face more scrutiny based on their hair. “Unfortunately, when you have hair that isn’t straight and when you have skin that’s Black or brown, it isn’t simply hair. It’s judgment,” she said. “I look at the hair of those around me and just accept it as is. It doesn’t speak to their ability, their competency, their performance, or their knowledge.”

This measure is critical to helping build a more equitable society, and I look forward to signing it into law in the coming days. https://t.co/8IAY9KB4VW

— Governor Ned Lamont (@GovNedLamont) March 2, 2021

Connecticut will join Virginia, California, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Colorado, and Washington as states officially prohibiting natural hair discrimination in schools and workplaces. The CROWN Act, which stands for Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, seeks to foster safe environments for Black people who wear their hair naturally and in other protective styles like braids, Bantu knots, and locs. The bill is currently pending approval by the United States Senate after being passed by the House Of Representatives in September. 

Connecticut implementing the bill marks another pivotal stop on the road to ending natural hair discrimination and dismantling racial inequity in the United States — but it doesn’t end there. The CROWN Act still hasn’t been filed for consideration in a number of states, including Nevada, Nebraska, Idaho, and more. To help pass The CROWN Act in your state, you can sign the online petition or get in touch with your local representative to demand change.

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aimee simeon, Khareem Sudlow