Something that I used to be in the habit of doing, that I actually need to get back into, is ending the week with a bouquet of fresh flowers. There’s something about having the presence of fresh blooms around that feels uber feminine — plus, the scent is pretty divine. And, as a bonus, when the petals begin to wilt, I’m able to repurpose my bouquets and turn them into all-natural beauty treatments.
Hey, I’m not kidding. If you’ve neversteeped flower petals before, you should definitely give it a shot. Although many of them have medicinal properties that you may find to be beneficial, today I’m coming from the angle of what 12 different kinds of flowers can do for your hair and skin — whether you use them as a hair rinse, skin toner or you purchase an extract or oil version of them. Whatever you decide, I can almost guarantee you that with consistent use, you will see a real difference; the best part is, it’ll be all natural.
So, let’s get into some flowers that are beautiful to look at and are wonderful when it comes to bringing out the best in your appearance, shall we?
1. Rose
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I doubt there’s a flower that’s more popular than a rose, perhaps because it’s the classic “I love you” bloom.When it comes to your hair, the properties of a rose are pretty impressive because it contains an astringent that can remove excess build-up (if you’re looking for a natural way to clarify your locks), it has anti-inflammatory elements that can soothe an irritated scalp and it can even help to reduce frizzing.Your skin will like roses because they are loaded with antioxidants, they help to fight off free radicals, they’re a great skin moisturizer and, in rose water form, roses are a gentle and soothing make-up remover.
You can learn how to make your own rose waterhere.
2. Hibiscus
A flower that is known for being a “feminine one” is the hibiscus. It’s popular in Asia and represents things like femininity, beauty, and love.
If you’re currently on a mission to get your hair as healthy as possible, this flower not only helps to keep your tresses hydrated, it can help to give them thickness and more volume too. As if that’s not impressive enough, hibiscus can reduce dandruff, decrease hair shedding, and even help to prevent split ends. If slowing down the signs of aging is what you’re after, the hibiscus flower has you covered in that department as well, mostly because it helps to prevent collagen from breaking down in your skin, which ends up bringing more elasticity to it.
In fact, hibiscus is so effective in that department that it’s earned the nickname “natural Botox.” Some other things worth noting about this flower are it’s a gentle exfoliant, it helps to reduce skin inflammation and it can aid in preventing oxidative stress from wreaking havoc on your skin.
A recipe to make a face and neck cream with hibiscus in it is locatedhere.
3. Sunflower
Sunflowers are full of vitamin E, oleic acid, and antioxidants. In oil form,they can help to reduce hair breakage, condition your hair, and soothe your scalp.Something else that sunflower oil can do is reduce some of the irritation that is associated with eczema, as well as treat acne since it can help to remove bacteria from your skin without clogging up your pores in the process.
4. Chrysanthemum
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Some of my favorite flowers to see during the fall (even though many bloom as soon aslate July or early August) are chrysanthemums. Your hair likes them because they have properties thatreduce hair loss and also encourage hair growth.As a tea, the antioxidants andanti-inflammatories in chrysanthemums can decrease stress levels, which can ultimately help to prevent breakouts and slow down the signs of aging skin.
5. Arnica
If you’re not familiar with what an arnica bloom is, it looks a lot like a daisy — only it’s completely yellow. Although it’s probablybest known as a pain reliever, it doescontain properties that help to reduce dandruff, reduce puffiness (especially underneath your eyes), and smooth out the appearance of wrinkles so thatyour skin is able to have a youthful and naturally radiant glow.
6. Moringa
In oil form, I’ve shouted out the moringa flower before (check out “Uncommon (But Totally Natural) Things That Are Great For Hair Growth”). Since it’s a great source of vitamins A and E as well as zinc, if you want to strengthen your strands so that you can retain more length, it’s a good idea to apply moringa oil at least a couple of times a week (especially to your ends).
Speaking of your ends, although there really is nothing that can “repair split ends” (it really is best to just cut them and then really nurture your remaining ends moving forward), moringa oil does have a way ofhydrating your hair and smoothing your cuticles, so that split ends are less of an issue. If you have dry skin, moringa oil can help toseal in moisture for longer periods of time. It also has a reputation forsoftening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well.
7. Passion Flower
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Honestly, since one of the best things that you could ever do for your hair and skin is consistently get a good night’s rest, if you like to soak in the tub before bedtime,add some passion flower petals to the water; they will help to decrease anxiety and ultimately improve your quality of sleep (just for the record, if you’re perimenopausal, they can help with hot flashes too). Beauty-wise, passion flowers can help to restore damaged hair and hydrate and soothe your skin.
Some recipes for how to make an all-natural body wash and hair serum are locatedhere.
8. Jasmine
Just as a random FYI, one of the sexiest scents that you can ever wear is jasmine. It’s sweet, it’s fruity, and it’s…decadently sensual; that’s why it’s known as an aphrodisiac. Yourhair will adore jasmine because it has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties that help tobring relief to dandruff as well as being able to strengthen your hair over time.Your skin will enjoy it, too, because it both tones and softens it (yep, you can definitely use jasmine as an all-natural skin toner).
9. Calendula
Last fall, a tea that I shouted out that’s great for your hair is calendula tea (check out “10 Teas That Are Great For The Fall Season — As Far As Hair Growth Is Concerned”). Yeah, if you’re looking for something that will give your curls more definition (because it reduces frizz), calendula is a sweet go-to. Your skin will also like this particular flower thanks to its antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties thatall work together to treat acne, protect your skin from damaging UV rays, and reduce the symptoms that are associated with eczema.
10. Tulip
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My all-time favorite flower is the tulip. I’m not 100 percent sure why, although I once read that it represents a “perfect deep love,” which is pretty cool. Anyway, because I enjoy them so much, I have done some research on them, and yep — they come withsome hair and skin benefits , too. Since tulips are considered to be a humectant and humectants pull water from the air into your hair and skin, if you’re looking for a natural way to remain moisturized, that’s one reason to try them out. Also, tulips contain the type of amino acids that help to build collagen in your skin; this means they are a bloom that can help to fight the skin's aging. Dope.
11. Lotus
Lotus flowers represent things like rebirth, strength, and grace — all are the kinds of words that seem very fitting when you’re trying to maintain natural beauty. That said, because lotus flowers are full of antioxidants that help to decrease oxidative stress, that’s good to know because that’s the type of stress that accelerates the graying process of your hair and is tied to certain forms of alopecia. Since lotus flowers contain anti-inflammatory properties, too, this is another bloom that’s effective at naturally treating breakouts.
12. Honeysuckle
When I was a little girl, something that I liked to do was find honeysuckles and literally suck on them. Although, in hindsight, I definitely should’ve washed those suckers off (chile), I do recall that they did have a subtle sweetness to them. If you have similar memories, did you know that honeysuckle containsboth health and beauty benefits? When it comes to your hair specifically, the properties in this flower can help to add moisture to your hair and prevent your locks from becoming brittle or developing split ends. Skin-wise, the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in them can bring relief if you’ve got eczema or psoriasis.
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A study once revealed that people who keep fresh flowers in their homes are not only more compassionate, they are less anxious and are happier, too. So, at some point this week (if you haven’t already), treat yourself by stopping by, shoot somewhere, and copping yourself a bouquet. Use the blooms for your mental health first — then upcycle them for beauty reasons. True perfection and the ultimate investment, if you ask me.
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It's kinda wild that, in 2025, my byline will have appeared on this platform for (what?!) seven years. And yeah, when I'm not waxing poetic on here about sex, relationships and then...more sex and relationships, I am working as a certified marriage life coach, helping to birth babies (as a doula) or penning for other places (oftentimes under pen names).
As some of you know, something that I've been "threatening" to do for a few years now is write another book. Welp, October 2024 was the month that I "gave birth" to my third one: 'Inside of Me 2.0: My Story. With a 20-Year Lens'. It's fitting considering I hit a milestone during the same year.
Beyond that, Pumas and lip gloss are still my faves along with sweatshirts and tees that have a pro-Black message on them. I've also started really getting into big ass unique handbags and I'm always gonna have a signature scent that ain't nobody's business but my own.
As far as where to find me, I continue to be MIA on the social media front and I honestly don't know if that will ever change. Still, if you need to hit me up about something *that has nothing to do with pitching on the site (I'm gonna start ignoring those emails because...boundaries)*, hit me up at missnosipho@gmail.com. I'll do what I can. ;)
There’s just something about HBCU Homecoming that just hits different. Whether it’s your first time stepping onto the yard since graduation or you’re a regular at every Homecoming tailgate, HBCU pride is undeniable. It’s a vibrant celebration that unites the legacy of excellence and tradition with the energy and resilience of Black culture.
The experience goes beyond a typical college reunion; HBCU Homecoming is a family reunion, a fashion show, a cultural festival, and a week-long turn-up that embodies what it means to be unapologetically Black and educated. For HBCU alumni, the journey back to the yard each year is rooted in a love and pride that’s hard to put into words but impossible to deny.
From statement pieces to tech must-haves, every item represents the intersection of Black pride and HBCU love, ensuring that you show up to the yard in style and with intention. So whether you’re repping your alma mater for the first time since graduation or looking for fresh pieces to express your HBCU pride, these essentials will have you standing out, because, at HBCU Homecoming, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing out.
Thread Goals
diarrablu Jant Pants in Alia Noir
High-waisted, wide-legged, and ready to shut down the yard, the Jant Pants by diarrablu bring a whole new meaning to campus chic. Handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal, these free-flowing jacquard pants are perfect for stepping onto the yard with style and ease—making them a must-have for any HBCU alum’s closet.
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag Classic Size in Olive
This all-in-one luxury bag isn’t a bestseller for nothing. The Silver & Riley essential is made of Italian calfskin leather and thoughtfully designed, as it can be worn in four different ways: a shoulder bag, crossbody, a top handle, and a backpack. Chic and elegant, the Convertible Executive Leather bag is “the bag that every woman needs in her collection.”
Renowned Women's Intuition Cotton Graphic T-Shirt
Renowned
Renowned’s Women’s Intuition Cotton Graphic T-shirt features a bold graphic print inspired by the power and essence of women’s intuition. With its striking design, this all-cotton tee is a vibrant thing, making it a statement piece that celebrates feminine energy.
Mifland Million M Mesh Crop Shirt
Talk about bold, the Million M Mesh Crop Shirt combines edgy style with comfort, featuring Mifland’s signature print on a semi-see-through mesh fabric. Show up and show out in sophisticated flair.
HBCU Love FUBU
Melanin Is Life Melanated & Educated - I Love My HBCU Hoodie
Show off your HBCU love with this piece that represents everything you gained from your alma mater: a top-tier education, a community that lifts you up, and a deep sense of esteem for yourself and your culture. Wear it loud and proud, because being melanated and educated isn’t just a flex—it’s a legacy.
HBCU Culture Spelmanite Sweatshirt in Navy
Spelmanites, rep your Spelman pride with this unisex crewneck sweatshirt, designed for ultimate comfort and a relaxed fit. Made from a cozy cotton/polyester blend, this classic sweatshirt is as durable as it is stylish—making it an ideal piece for any Spelmanite showing love for their alma mater.
HBCU Culture Howard Is The Culture T-Shirt
Rock the ultimate flex by showcasing your Howard U love with HBCU Culture’s Howard Is The Culture t-shirt. This unisex tee offers a comfortable, relaxed fit that’s perfect for celebrating your HBCU spirit without sacrificing style or comfort.
DungeonForward FAMU - Strike Bucket - Reversible
DungeonForward’s Strike Bucket Hat brings versatility and style to the FAMU Crown collection with its reversible design, giving you two looks in one. Featuring a sleek black snakeskin-embossed brim lining and a bold outline Rattler emblem, this hat is all about repping your Rattler pride in style.
DungeonForward Savannah State University - HBCU Hat - TheYard
The Savannah State University HBCU Hat by DungeonForward is more than just a hat—it’s a symbol of Tiger pride and a nod to the culture. Perfect for gamedays, tailgates, or just showing off your HBCU love, this hat lets you carry a piece of the yard wherever you go.
Tech the Halls
Anker iPhone 16 Portable Charger, Nano Power Bank
Stay charged up with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which features dual USB-C ports, a foldable connector, and a compact design, making it perfect for those HBCU tailgates and late-night parties you pull up to.
Drip Check
Wisdom Frame 14 Square Sunglasses
Elevate your look with these angular square-frame sunglasses by Wisdom, bringing an ultramodern edge to any outfit. The sleek design makes them perfect for blocking out the haters while you stunt on the yard.
Coco and Breezy Eyewear Fortune in Gray Turquoise
The Fortune Glasses in Grey Turquoise is a bold statement piece to any Homecoming weekend ‘fit that “embody our fearless and outspoken DNA.” With their color and edgy design, these frames by Coco and Breezy are perfect for anyone looking to stand out and express their unapologetic confidence.
Howard U Lapel Pin
Rep your Bison pride wherever you go with this Howard U Lapel Pin from Pretty AmbVision. Whether adding it to your jacket, shirt, or bag, this pin is the perfect way to showcase your love for your alma mater while rocking your HBCU love with honor and distinction.
Mifland Standard Rucksack Mini
The Standard Rucksack is designed to evolve like that HBCU pride—getting richer, bolder, and better with time. Durable, stylish, and built to last, this Rucksack by Mifland is a timeless piece equipped with versatile carrying options and fully adjustable back straps for ultimate comfort.
Stay Fresh, Stay Blessed
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask in Pink
Keeping it cute starts with beauty sleep. This luxurious silk mask is an essential for a reason. If protecting your skin and waking up refreshed is your priority, look no further than this Homecoming essential.
Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier Lemon Lime - Hydration Powder Packets
Stay hydrated and energized throughout Homecoming weekend with this Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier in Lemon Lime. Just add a packet to your water bottle, and bless your body with 2-3 times more hydration than water with every packet. Because staying hydrated is the key to popping up and showing out all weekend long!
Loop Experience Plus Earplugs High Fidelity Hearing Protection
Designed for your hearing protection, these sleek earplugs reduce noise without compromising sound quality—perfect for enjoying the band’s halftime show, late-night parties, and DJ sets. Whether you’re front row at the step show or hitting the yard, your ears deserve to be protected in style!
Black Girl Magic Glass Cup
Sip in style and celebrate your melanin with the Black Girl Magic Glass Cup. Perfect for morning coffee, your favorite iced drink, or showing off your HBCU pride on the yard—this cup is all about keeping it cute while radiating your endless supply of Black Girl Magic.
Glow Up & Show Out
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
What Homecoming weekend can be complete without an assist from this beauty find? Formulated to blend seamlessly into melanin-rich skin (no white-cast), protect your glow while you turn up with the Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30.
Sienna Naturals Issa Rae's Wash Day Ritual Set
Issa Rae’s Wash Day Ritual Set from Sienna Naturals includes the H.A.PI. Shampoo, the Plant Power Repair Mask, Dew Magic, and Lock and Seal to get your crown right. Whether you’re repping your coils or rocking a new color on the yard, these products restore and nourish your strands, keeping your hair healthy, strong, and Homecoming-ready!
54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter
Stay glowing from the tailgate to the after-party with the 54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter. Infused with African-sourced ingredients, this rich, multi-purpose butter is the answer to keeping your skin soft and radiant through all the festivities all Homecoming long.
Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil
Keep your lips looking luscious and nourished with the Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil. Perfect for adding an extra pop to your pout before hitting the yard or freshening up between events, this lip oil is a beauty essential for staying camera-ready all weekend.
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
Featured image by Visual Vic/Getty Images
Everything Jodie Turner-Smith Has Said About Life & Love After Divorce
Jodie Turner-Smith is very much everything. And we don’t say that lightly.
Her beauty, resilience, and talent are otherworldly. From her iconic role in Queen & Slim to her red carpet slays, she’s our queen. Being a celebrity is not for the faint of heart. Even if you try to keep your personal life on the down-low, the spotlight can be blinding. And even more so when it comes to love.
In 2018, Dawson Creek alum Joshua Jackson entered Jodie’s life. Rumors circulated that they first crossed paths at Usher's 40th birthday celebration, and subsequent sightings of them together at various events fueled speculation. Their relationship took a public turn in November 2018 when they attended the U.S. premiere of Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri as a couple. As time progressed, their bond became increasingly apparent through their appearances at award shows and other social gatherings.
In August 2019, the couple sparked wedding speculation when they were spotted acquiring a marriage license in Beverly Hills. Later, reports confirmed that they had tied the knot on August 18, 2019.
In 2020, they welcomed their daughter Juno into the world. In March 2023, Turner-Smith candidly shared with PEOPLE that she believes fulfillment comes from becoming the best version of herself for her child's sake. She wrote, "And I try to involve her in my life, not let work be this thing that exists outside of her, but that she also gets to be a part of. And so that she sees me being a working mother and being fulfilled and wanting to mother at the same time."
The world was astounded when Turner-Smith unexpectedly filed for divorce in September of last year, citing irreconcilable differences. Three months later, photographs surfaced showing Jackson holding hands with actress Lupita Nyong'o, raising questions about the timeline of events and the reasons behind the sudden split.
When speaking withGlamour, Jodie said, “Sometimes things we really want to work just don’t end up working and that’s okay. The most important thing is that you choose what’s healthiest for you and your family and definitely your children. There are so many different moments in our life where we look at ourselves and say, ‘Who am I and am I being true to that?”
Jodie is focusing on a new chapter in her life. Ahead, find everything Jodie has said about life and love after divorce.
Jodie on Moving Forward
Excited for the future, Turner-Smith and Jackson prioritize setting a positive example for their daughter, acknowledging when situations aren't functioning as intended.
During an interview with The Times, she shared, “The big takeaway is that this is about just as much love and joy as it has always been. This is only about taking a step forward into a better life for everybody involved.”
Jodie on Co-Parenting
Turner-Smith has said that she and Jackson are going through an "adjustment period" in terms of co-parenting, but that she's trying to get to the level of friendly exes. While the uncoupled pair is still working to smooth things out, she told Glamour, “It’s an adjustment period for anyone when they split up with someone, because you’re used to being with your child all the time.”
Jodie went on to say, “But nobody hands you a manual. Everyone’s trying to figure it out. Each parent has a different life, and especially if the reason why you’re splitting up is because you have different lives, it’s only further complicated by how you’re going to co-parent.”
Jodie on Focusing on Herself
Shortly after the announcement of her divorce, the actress took to Instagram sharing a quote, "Everything heals and grows when it is loved well. People, too."
Turner-Smith previously used quotes to convey her emotions during her divorce journey. Earlier in the month, the actress took to Instagram to share her perspective on love languages. "People don't always say, 'I love you.' Sometimes it sounds like: Be safe. Did you eat? Call me when you get home. I made you this."
Jodie on Battling the Innanets
The mommy mogul doesn’t bother responding to every single thing people say or think because it's a waste of time. Jodie told The Times, “At the end of the day I am not the only person in the world going through a divorce. There are millions of people in the world who are going through what I’m going through and that’s something that’s amazing about the internet, that sometimes it can offer you community.” And like Bishop GloRilla said, “At the end of the day, the day gotta end.”
Jodie on Dating
Like many of us, Jodie is over men. While she confessed to Glamour that she’s crushing on actor Steve Sanghyun Noh, the lead’s gorgeous husband in the Apple TV+ series Pachinko, she’s not currently dating. “Honestly, I think I love him,” she says, before quickly correcting herself, “I’m actually not dating, I’m over men.” In the meantime, she is searching for a cardboard cutout of Steve.
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