

As a darker-toned woman, the sad reality is, many of us are left out of the realms of brands' thoughtfulness when it comes to offering a diverse shade range.
Thankfully, nowadays, more brands have sought to be inclusive in relation to women of the darker persuasion. And while we can definitely say that not all brands are onboard with expanding their shade range, we can say that it is slowly becoming easier to find brands to support that DO.
Here are 7 brands that actually are working to be inclusive, and places you can gladly spend your #coins.
Fenty Beauty
Y'all know we couldn't do this list without including a brand that helped spark many conversations in the beauty industry. Even though Rihanna's coveted line was not the first line to be inclusive, it definitely made people discuss what a brand looks like when it tries to include more people (also as a reminder, the initial foundation launch had 40 shades). Rih even said, "Fenty Beauty was created for everyone: for women of all shades, personalities, attitudes, cultures, and races. I wanted everyone to feel included. That's the real reason I made this line."
Lancome
With Lupita Nyong'o as its poster child, Lancome is a brand we can definitely stand behind—especially with 40 shades of foundational magic. The amazing thing about Lancome's foundation range is it gives you full coverage and a long-wearing feel. Oh, and did we mention that the formula took eight years of research to perfect? Anything that requires time and effort is something we definitely have to support.
L’Oreal
While we love a good splurge at Sephora, it's wonderful to see drugstore brands be inclusive and mindful of multiple budgets. At only $11, the L'Oreal True Match Foundation comes in 33 shades, and gives you a natural finish with a formula that is safe for all skin types. Yasss!
Make Up For Ever
Another brand that gives us shade after shade of #BlackGirlMagic. With 42 shades ranging from Alabaster to Dark Brown, Make Up For Ever has a medium coverage foundation that has perfected its formula for 4K technology. Simply put, it'll make you look flawless and natural on camera and out on the town with your friends.
black|Up
Though some may wonder if black|Up is as inclusive as other brands out there, considering it only offers 15 shades in its foundation line. But you have to take into account that the brand is specifically made for women of color. It's a French beauty brand that highlights and formulates its foundation specifically for the needs of darker skin tones, so there is no need to worry about having a full-coverage foundation with misdiagnosed undertones. The brand has various shades with different undertones, making it easier to have a shade for everybody.
MAC
Yooooo, their Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation has 46 shade colors. That's crazy, but honestly, every brand should seek to have the same. It's a powder foundation that does the job of a foundation and a powder. So if you're going for full coverage glam, you'll achieve that in this diverse line that really shows that everyone CAN have representation in the makeup industry.
NARS
NARS stole our hearts with their radiant creamy concealer, but honestly, their natural radiant longwear foundation is turning heads. With 33 shades available, it's a lightweight foundation that promises 16 hours worth of wear. Oh, and let's note that the impressive collection offers at least 15 shades exclusively for brown skin. Now THAT is impressive.
What brands are you loving for their shade inclusivity?
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- 10 best foundations for dark skin | The Independent ›
'He Said, She Said': Love Stories Put To The Test At A Weekend For Love
At the A Weekend For Love retreat, we sat down with four couples to explore their love stories in a playful but revealing way with #HeSaidSheSaid. From first encounters to life-changing moments, we tested their memories to see if their versions of events aligned—because, as they say, every story has three sides: his, hers, and the truth.
Do these couples remember their love stories the same way? Press play to find out.
Episode 1: Indira & Desmond – Love Across the Miles
They say distance makes the heart grow fonder, but for Indira & Desmond, love made it stronger. Every mile apart deepened their bond, reinforcing the unshakable foundation of their relationship. From their first "I love you" to the moment they knew they had found home in each other, their journey is a beautiful testament to the endurance of true love.
Episode 2: Jay & Tia – A Love Story Straight Out of a Rom-Com
If Hollywood is looking for its next Black love story, they need to take notes from Jay & Tia. Their journey—from an awkward first date to navigating careers, parenthood, and personal growth—proves that love is not just about romance but also resilience. Their story is full of laughter, challenges, and, most importantly, a love that stands the test of time.
Episode 3: Larencia & Mykel – Through the Highs and Lows
A date night with police helicopters overhead? Now that’s a story! Larencia & Mykel have faced unexpected surprises, major life changes, and 14 years of choosing each other every single day. But after all this time, do they actually remember things the same way? Their episode is sure to bring some eye-opening revelations and a lot of laughs.
Episode 4: Soy & Osei – A Love Aligned in Purpose
From a chance meeting at the front door to 15 years of unwavering love, faith, and growth, Soy & Osei prove that when two souls are aligned in love and purpose, nothing can shake their foundation. Their journey is a powerful reminder that true love is built on mutual support, shared values, and a deep connection that only strengthens with time.
Each of these couples has a unique and inspiring story to tell, but do their memories match up? Watch #HeSaidSheSaid to find out!
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7 Spring-Themed Journal Prompts To Help You Bloom Into Your Dream Life
Spring symbolizes a rebirth and this rebirth is usually associated with nature. However, it can also take place in our minds. It can give us a renewed mindset and motivation regarding our goals, especially if the first quarter was rough.
As the sun emerges once more and the flowers start blooming, it’s the best time to reflect and grow into the person you were destined to be. One effective way to nurture your inner growth and embrace the vibrant energy of spring is through journaling.
Journaling is a wellness practice that can unlock creativity, emotions, and mental clarity. While it’s recommended to practice journaling daily or weekly, certain journal prompts can be tailored to suit different situations and times of the year.
Below are 7 journal prompts that can help you reflect and grow this spring.
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What intentions do you want to set for the next three months?
Include how you plan to stay aligned with them.
What brings you joy and lightness right now?
Describe how you can create more space for those moments.
What seeds do you want to plant and nurture this season?
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What does renewal mean to you?
Include how you can invite more opportunities for renewal in this season.
What personal growth have you experienced over the past few months?
Describe the moments you are most proud of.
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Spring is a balance of rain and sunshine. What contrasting emotions or experiences are you navigating right now?
Create solutions for each emotion.
Describe a time you felt truly energized and alive.
What are some things you can do to bring more of that feeling into your daily life?
If you're looking to go deeper into your mindful practice or to journal around a supportive group of individuals, then check out my virtual and in-person Bloom & Flow Spring Journaling Workshop.
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