Biracial Latinos?

So reading around the web and I came across this video from Mun2 about the challenges of being a biracial Latino from a celebrity perspective. http://24wired.tv/27044/biracial-actors-discuss-the-challenges-of-being-black-and-latino/

I feel like I struck gold!!

I know that I am one of the million of Dominicans/ Latinos that always get asked "Are you black? Are you Spanish mixed with Black?" ALL OF THE TIME. (Let's not talk about explaining that Spanish people come from Spain.) It was a relief to find that people like Soledad O'Brien to Laz Alonso, face the same questions routinely.

It makes me happy to see that this discussion is not taboo, or at least getting further away from it. I believe that growing up here in New York has made me embrace my Afro Latina roots and the opportunity to explore the qualities that nationalities share in reference to race. The more we talk about it the more we can form a tighter unity and bond as a people.

- @MariposaDRG

Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony reunited for Latin Competition Show 'Q'Viva!'

We all know that marriage these days seem to be facing more challenges than ever, and divorces are nothing but ordinary... But that doesn't mean you can't work together! Well, at least for J.Lo and Marc Anthony that will be no problem. According to Hollywood Reporter, the two stars will be letting all eyes watch as the cameras capture open exchanges of their relationship while searching for the next big Latino talent, starting January 28 on ¡Q'Viva The Chosen!on Univision. The show will then air in English on Fox at a later date.

The two will be followed traveling around Latin America in search of new talent not through a contest... BUT through a scavenger hunt-like search in clubs, beaches, and events where the local people display their talent. It also sounds like it will have a touch of that reality TV influence since during their travel they openly discuss their relationship. I, for one am definitely curious to tune in! Here's a clip: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/jennifer-lopez-marc-anthony-release-193517

-- @MariposaDRG

Bojanini Art

Its here! It finally arrived! My very own Bojanini piece! Ana Cristina Bojanini Safdie was born in Barranquilla, Colombia and has studied in Los Angeles, Houston and Barranquilla. I fell in love with her work when my brother introduced me to it in Bogota this past August. She makes frames, pillows, lamps, tables, etc. I ordered a cheese plate (see image on left!)

I love art! If you are interested in seeing more of her work, check out her site www.Bojanini.com

-C

@ClaudiaDeCali

Adriana Castro nominated for Rising Star Award

Colombian designer Adriana Castro has been nominated for the Fashion Group International’s Rising Star Award in the category of Accessories!

Most recently Castro received the 2011 Miami Award in the Women’s Handbags category and also had the honor of opening the 3rd Bogota International Fashion Week. Her accessories and handbags of exotic animal skins that include alligator, ostrich and python have been seen on some of the hottest celebrities in Hollywood like Eva Longoria, Jennifer Lopez, and Kim Kardashian.

Five of her designs were hand picked by stylist Patricia Field to accessorize the cast of “Sex and the City 2.” Her designs have also been featured in Vogue.

A python hobo could easily run you about $2500, but totally worth it! Some accessories like belts and wallets are a little less straining on your pocket.

This is the third straight year that Castro has received this nomination. Lets hope this time she brings it home! Suerte!

Check out more of Castro's designs at https://adrianacastroonline.com/bio.php and follow her on twitter at @adrianacastro

-C

@ClaudiaDeCali

NYFW 2012

Its about that time... MB NYFW 2011!!! How excited are we? My favorite part is being able to support fellow Latinos! Latin designers bring something so unique, so special, its as if they have their own personal salsa they add to their shows! This year I plan to attend Carlos Miele's and of course Juan Carlos Obando... my fellow paisa! One show I never miss is Custo Barcelona. I actually visited their boutique in Bogota and it was love at first sight!

I want to be lucky enough to sneak into Carolina Herrera's show, mi mejor amiga! Ha! I always planned on her custom making my wedding dress! Algun dia!

Well, if you are lucky enough to attend any of these shows, make sure you know the tickets worth! Many women will sell their Louboutins and Gucci python hobo's just to be SEEN in the spot! Suerte!

For a list of all the Latin designers showing at NYFW 2012 check out http://www.mbfashionweek.com/

Classy Condoms?!

Its bad enough some people don't want to waste $4 on some regular Trogans... now we have a choice of the Original Condom Company fancy slippery little suckers. These luxury boxes come in two sizes: the Pocket, priced at $13.50 for three condoms, and the Regular, which costs $20 for a package of six condoms. These condoms are made in France promote “safe sex with elegance, chic and eco-aware.”
Guys, if you want to impress your lady this holiday, whip these condoms out and she'll fall in love with you all over again... not only are you into safe sex, but bougie safe sex? THAT'S a plus! HA!
Check out the first luxury condom! http://www.theoriginalcondom.com/

-C

@Claudiadecali

All I Want for Christmas is...

A 24K gold facial of course! Equinox spas in selected cities are now offering the signature spa
facial which includes a detailed skin analysis, custom facial and décolletage massage. The 24K Gold Collagen Mask caps off the treatment to moisturize, firm and whiten the skin. Some that have tried this facial say that even after one treatment, their face feels firmer and fresh! How much will this facial set you back? Only about $165, a small price to pay for the ego boost you will get from feeling 20 again! Equinox spas located in New York and Los Angeles are currently offering this one of a kind facial. Get it while your pockets got it!
http://www.equinox.com/Spa/

-C

@Claudiadecali