The To-Do List: 5 Things to Try This Week

It’s Monday and we’re ready to take on yet another week. Although many of you are out enjoying the summer, most of us are probably stuck at work and praying for an escape. Whether you’re on vacation or not, here are a few things you can add to your to-do list to make this week just a little bit more special.

Eat clean: Summer is a wonderful time to overhaul your diet. With so many summer fruits and veggies bursting with flavor, ditching processed foods and incorporating more whole foods into your diet is a breeze. Need a little inspiration? Check out the blog A Black Girl’s Guide to Weight Loss.

Wear sunscreen: We’re black women, but that doesn’t mean we’re immune to sunburn and skin cancer. Before you hit the street, make sure you slather on sunscreen to keep your skin looking young while protecting you from the sun’s dangerous rays.

De-clutter your space: Didn’t get hit with the spring-cleaning bug? Don’t wait till next year to de-clutter your space. Getting rid of extra stuff not only keeps our homes clean, but it also helps us to think clearer and relax. Here’s a tip: Help others by donating your old clothes and electronics to charities like the Salvation Army.

Make a mid-year plan: We’ve hit the mid-year point, and while some of our New Year’s resolutions have long since fallen by the wayside, we’ve kept up with others. Just like all businesses, do a mid-year review, and give your life the once over. What have you accomplished so far this year? How can you make the second half of the year even more awesome? What else do you want to add to your list? Think about it and write it down — on paper.

Meditate: Between the summer cookouts, rooftop shindigs, and cocktail parties on the riverbank, things can get pretty hectic. To avoid summer burnout, don’t forget to take a few moments each day to center yourself and quiet your thoughts. If you’ve never mediated before, it may be hard to quiet your mind at first, but keep practicing. Soon you’ll be a pro.

That’s it for this week. What’s on your to-do list, Clutchettes? 

Hello, Hi-Lo Dresses

Yes, hi-lo is what you think it is. It means high and low. This summer, hi-lo dresses are super chic and super easy to shop for. First let me explain what makes this kind of dress different. We all know maxi dresses, right? If you answered no then you're definitely in the wrong place. Anyhow, a hi-lo dress is a maxi dress but shorter in the front and longer in the back. The length usually changes at an angle. It's very flattering on all body types so there are no excuses, ladies. Hi-los look great with a pair of chic platforms or wedges, and they can even look fabulous with flats. Talk about a simple and wearable trend.

Hi-los can be worn both formally and casually, it's really the shoes and accessories that will dress it up or down. They're also the perfect mix of long and short. Some people may not like full maxi dresses, so a hi-lo is kind of a "happy medium" per se between a maxi and a shorter ensemble. Personally, I love hi-los and I can't wait to wear my new one on vacation next week! I'm almost positive I'll be wearing it with my favorite pair of wedges, but I could decide to wear flats at the last minute. It's all about preference because both types of shoe will look great. Really, it's like any dress. If the shoe matches, wear it. But if it doesn't, step away! How's that for a little briefing on hi-los? They're flowy, they're fashionable and they're summer's favorite kind of dress. Hop on the style bandwagon and get one for yourself! The pictured dresses are from shopbop.com, but H&M, Forever 21, Francesca's Collections, Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's all have hi-los -- you can really find them anywhere. Start your search today, take a style risk and fall in love with this trend. Best of luck! We all have highs and lows, but we all should have hi-los.

Quiz: Which Reality Show Cast Could You Join?

It’s no secret that the ubiquitous reality shows on networks like VH1 and Bravo are infectious guilty pleasures. Most viewers watch with a satisfied detachment, understanding that most of the action and dialogue is scripted, and with a relief that the women featured aren’t us. But what if you did decide to join the cast of one of the popular reality train wrecks that gets folks going at the watercooler every morning after they air? What if the money for making a few appearances was so tempting you just couldn’t resist? Which show would be the best match for your attitudes toward life, love, and conflict?

If none of the answers seems to suit your personal attitudes or experiences, answer according to which situation you’d find most entertaining to witness first hand.

Take this quiz to find out.

Kimmy K Shows Off Upscale Look For InStyle UK Cover And Spread

Kim Kardashian Covers InStyle UK

Kimmy took her Cakes to the UK to cover In Style and talk about her curves and life. She also opens up about her time with Yeezy and their love connection. She also took some classy pics in some very form-fitting dresses. Really, though, what dresses aren’t form fitting for her? Take a look at the goodies.