

Thankfully, more and more fashion and beauty brands are embracing black women of all shades. Sure, you have numerous hair care companies to keep your kinky curls looking their luscious best and Rihanna has you fully covered with her all-inclusive Fenty line of beauty products, but what about fashion—specifically shoes?
If black women are aware of anything within the fashion and beauty space, it's that all things are not created equal, especially when it comes to nudes. What's nude on a woman of a different race, a biracial woman or black women on the lighter end of the color spectrum, is not nude for a WOC with a deep ebony complexion. Luckily, one woman and her new brand of nude shoes are changing the landscape one pair of shoes at a time.
Meet Kahmune, a U.K shoe brand founded by Jamela Acheampong that has shoes that represent the entire color spectrum for WOC. The shoes retail between $200-$250 and are available in four styles: a pump, sandal, flat and a mule. The collection offers 10 different shades from fair to deep, and each shade is named after a city, such as Juba, Rio, Bogota, Goa, and Enugu.
xoNecole caught up with Jamela Acheampong, who opened up about her innovative shoe line, how Kahmune, what the future holds for the brand and more!
What made you want to create Kahmune?
Jamela Acheampong: I've always been a pretty tenacious female - aggressive, stubborn, driven, all things others have chosen to call me over the years. When I was on Instagram one night back in 2016, I saw a "nude" themed outfit I wanted to mimic but quickly realized purchasing the same products I saw would result in it simply being a tan outfit on me, not a skin-tone one. There were so few options for my dark complexion and I found myself having to search "nude for dark skin," "black girl nude," and other ridiculous iterations to find products it was clear were not available in my shade. I decided in that moment not to wait around and hope someone else would recognize the problem but to fix it myself. That's how Kahmune was born!
"I decided in that moment not to wait around and hope someone else would recognize the problem, but to fix it myself."
When you initially launched Kahmune, what did you hope the response would be?
I think in the beginning I just wanted people to get it - to understand where I was coming from and to be just as passionate as I was about filling the gap in the market. I knew there were a lot of women out there, particularly women of color, that would resonate with the brand's mission, but I also wanted women in general, of all skin-tones, to take a second and think about the term "nude."
Why does a word that's intended to imply naked have a designated shade? How come only a fraction of women out there have skin tones that match said shade? Why hasn't this been an issue that's been tackled already? Do we not all deserve to have our skin tones acknowledged?
It's been great to see comments on social media and get emails like, "I never realised this but so true" or "I've been saying this for years." It's a concept that seems so simple to me. If the beauty and fashion industries are making skin tone accessories then they should be making options for all skin tones, no? I'm humbled that the brand was so well-received, and the response was so positive. Women want true nudes!
Are there any future plans in the works to expand your product range to include different shoe designs?
Yes, of course! If I had it my way, I'd already be offering 10-15 designs but I recognize that I have to start small. We currently offer four styles. I will be introducing one more style, a suede slide, this spring. The pump is currently available in two heel heights, and I hope to introduce a third more work friendly one this spring. At the moment, all styles can be pre-ordered for up to 30% off as I am currently crowdfunding to raise funds for the next round of production. Those who order the heeled sandals will have the power to decide what it looks like at the end of the campaign. As much as this is my brand, I think it's important to listen to my customers and I make a note of all of the feedback I receive regarding designs.
Additionally, I'm offering limited edition leather credit card holders and tote bags available exclusively through the campaign. What woman doesn't love a good bag to go with her shoes? The campaign runs until May 3 and we hope to start shipping out orders end of May/Early June. (Those interested can reserve their pair at bit.ly/KahmuneDiscounts.)
What can we expect from Kahmune throughout the rest of 2018 and beyond?
2018 will be the year of Kahmune In Real Life. What I mean by that is I want to give as many members of "The Kahmunity" as possible the opportunity to see, try, and match the shoes in person. I recently returned to the U.S. to host a series of launch parties for the brand and will be spending the remainder of 2018 here working on spreading the word about our nudes. We completed a successful launch in New York City and have plans for Los Angeles, Washington DC, and Atlanta. Always open for suggestions for new cities as well! I also hope to launch our first pop-up shops this year and am very much looking forward to introducing some new styles for the fall. I'm starting with shoes for now but who knows what products I'll introduce in the future! I'm not limiting myself to anything. If we hit our crowdfunding goal, I plan on introducing limited edition bodysuits. If those go over well, they may become something we offer all year round. I want Kahmune to grow to become the number one destination for skin tone garments and accessories for ALL women, regardless of skin tone or body type. Dark or Fair, it's time we all had the opportunity to celebrate our skin tones and it's my hope that women all over the globe will support Kahmune so that we can make it happen.
"I want Kahmune to grow to become the number one destination for skin tone garments and accessories for ALL women, regardless of skin tone or body type."
We are totally down for this representation of #BlackGirlMagic and can't wait to fill our closets with some nude shoes that perfectly enhance our melanin!
For more Kahmune, follow the brand on Instagram. Also if you are interested in helping this self-funded brand reach their profit goal, check out their Indiegogo campaign.
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- KAHMUNE (@kahmune) | Twitter ›
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- Nude Heels for Light to Dark Skin - Kahmune Has 10 Nude Heels for ... ›
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- Fashion Brand To Know: Kahmune - Inspired in the City ›
'Sistas' Star Skyh Black On The Power Of Hypnotherapy & Emotional Vulnerability For Men
In this insightful episode of the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker talked with Sistas star Skyh Black, as he opened up about his journey of emotional growth, resilience, and self-discovery. The episode touches on emotional availability, self-worth, masculinity, and the importance of therapy in overcoming personal struggles.
Skyh Black on Emotional Availability & Love
On Emotional Availability & Vulnerability
“My wife and I wouldn't be where we are today if both of us weren't emotionally available,” he shared about his wife and Sistas co-star KJ Smith, highlighting the value of vulnerability and emotional openness in a relationship. His approach to masculinity stands in contrast to the traditional, stoic ideals. Skyh is not afraid to embrace softness as part of his emotional expression.
On Overcoming Self-Doubt & Worthiness Issues
Skyh reflected on the self-doubt and worthiness issues that he struggled with, especially early in his career. He opens up about his time in Los Angeles, living what he calls the “LA struggle story”—in a one-bedroom with three roommates—and being homeless three times over the span of 16 years. “I always had this self-sabotaging thought process,” Skyh said. “For me, I feel therapy is essential, period. I have a regular therapist and I go to a hypnotherapist.”
How Therapy Helped Him Heal From Self-Doubt
On Hypnotherapy & Empowering Self-Acceptance
Skyh’s journey is a testament to the power of tapping into self-development despite life’s struggles and being open to growth. “I had to submit to the fact that God was doing good in my life, and that I'm worthy of it. I had a worthiness issue and I did not realize that. So, that’s what the hypnotherapy did. It brought me back to the core. What is wrong so that I can fix it?”
Watch the full podcast episode below:
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Pack A Travel Case With These 12 Items For Amazing 'Summer Vacation Sex'
It’s kind of funny that while I’m literally in the process of writing this article, the Los Angeles Times published “How to get lucky on your family vacation” hours prior. LOL. Although this year marks a bit of a dip in the amount of Americans who plan on taking a summer vacation (because this administration ain’t making coin-keeping easy, y’all) — it’s still being reported that around 53 percent will do so in the name of rest, relaxation and spending quality time with their loved ones.
And for many, the loved ones category absolutely includes their bae. And if that is the case, that probably means that sex is somewhere on the menu.
Yep. I actually read one survey (that consisted of 2,000 people) that said folks tend to have twice as much sex while they are on vacation than they do when they’re at home. It makes sense too when you factor in that you have less to do (unless you’re traveling with those folks who act like you need an itinerary for every damn thing — and we all know one…SMDH), which makes you less stressed out, which makes it easier to feel sexy and to want to get sexual.
And so, in the spirit of that indeed being the case, I want to make sure that you carve out a corner of your suitcase or carry-on to include at least half of the following 12 things that are on this list — things that can help to make “summer vacation sex”…that much hotter, y’all.
1. Edible-Grade Sunscreen
It can’t be said enough that, no matter how melanated you may be, your skin needs sunscreen. Not only to protect yourself from the risk of skin cancer (which 1 in 5 Americans will get in their lifetime) but from premature aging that can come from sun damage too. That said, if the urge arises to have sex outside somewhere, I did find some edible-grade sunscreen, in case you’re either worried about what sex in the sun will do to your skin or how all of the chemicals in sunscreen will affect your (digestive) system. The company is called Sky & Sol and you can read up on them here.
2. Flavored Lip Balm
If you’ve ever wondered why your lips are so susceptible to being chapped, it’s because they don’t contain any oil glans to keep them moisturized. This is especially important to keep in mind when the weather is extremely cold or hot because that can do a real number on the sensitive skin that your lips are made out of. That’s why it’s essential to stay well-hydrated and to also keep some lip balm in tow. Lip balm is especially designed to moisturize your lips, reduce chapping, exfoliate, soothe irritation and protect your lips from UV damage. As a bonus, lip balm will also help to keep your lips super soft and kissable; especially if you get the flavored kind. #wink
3. Condoms
I’m still out here, literally shaking my damn head, that reportedly, only one-third of men and one-fourth of women use condoms (and even many of those folks don’t do it consistently). It can’t be said enough that if you’re not in a monogamous (married) or exclusive (dating) relationship where you both are getting regularly tested and are on some other form of birth control (unless you want to get pregnant) — you absolutely should be using condoms and, as a woman, you should not solely rely on your partner to have some that are ready and available.
Not just because you should be responsible for your body and health but because not all condoms are made equal, so you should bring along some that you prefer/enjoy. If you’d like a lil’ help picking those out, check out “These Are The Kinds Of Condoms Your Vagina Would Actually Prefer.”
4. Crotchless Swimsuit
Packing some sexy lingerie? I certainly hope that goes without saying. If you’ve got a hot tub around, though and you want to “get it in” without getting totally naked (so that nosey people won’t see every damn thing), you do know that there are some crotchless swimsuits out in these streets, right? An example of one is here. Of course, you can always do what Beyoncé said in “Drunk in Love” and just move ish over to the side but…I’m just giving you another creative option…if you wanted one.
5. Blindfolds
If you’d like to cultivate an atmosphere of mystery or anticipation, a simple blindfold will do the trick. There is another reason why I think they are great for summer vacation (sex) trips, though — if your hotel room doesn’t come with blackout curtains and you want to have a quickie or two without the room being so bright, putting on a blindfold can solve that “problem” too.
6. Waterproof Sex Toys
Who said that you have to wait until you get to your hotel room to engage in some foreplay? If you bring a couple of sex toys around, you can tease each other practically anywhere — and if they are waterproof, that includes in the ocean or pool. Some, you can pair up with your smartphone in order to stimulate your partner from just about anywhere. Whew, chile.
7. Homemade Sex Toys Too
Speaking of sex toys, you’d probably be amazed at how many things in your house can double up as one. A spatula or wooden spoon is great for spanking. A necktie, some tights and a pair of clothespins work well for BDSM (use your imagination, sis). An electronic toothbrush is its own vibrator. A string of (lubricated) pearls in between your thighs? Girrrl…GIRL. Oh, and cop a silicone ice tray that comes in different shapes.
When you are rubbing ice in the shape of fruit, flowers or even animals over each other’s bodies, you’ll be surprised by how the combination of the cold with the texture of the space of the ice will stimulate you (make the ice out of juice instead of water for an extra sweet treat!).
8. Portable Charger
I don’t know what took me so long to get a damn portable charger but it’s one of the best things that ever happened to me. What I personally purchased is the ANKER Zolo Power Bank, 20,000mAh 30W High-Speed Portable Charger. I can throw it in my purse, it charges fast, I can use more than once before needing to recharge it; plus, it complements most devices. A great thing to keep in mind, so that your sex toys don’t end up going out on you while you’re…wherever you are.
9. Massage Oil Candle
Going through security at the airport can be a HEADACHE. And while, how long it can take, oftentimes varies on the airport you’re at and the time you are traveling (you can read more about that here), the process is going to be especially annoying if they have to go through your bags. Since you can currently only pack a quarter-sized bag of liquid products on your carry-on, my two cents would be to leave the massage oil at home and pack a massage oil candle instead.
That way, you can still engage in some temperature play (check out “Hot Sex: 10 Super Sultry Reasons To Bring Wax Play Into Your Bedroom”) while you’re on the road without going through any security hassle hang-ups. Some edible massage oil candles are located right here.
10. Wine Cooler Sleeve
Say that you end up going on a wine tasting tour while you’re on vacation and you end up purchasing a bottle or you simply want to toast with some champagne but you’re not sure how to store the bottle. Did you know that there are wine cooler sleeves that are lightweight, portable and will help to keep your bottles cold without condensation for hours on end? A brand that comes highly recommended is here.
11. Rose Petals
I think there are a few reasons why rose petals are oftentimes used to create a sexy mood. Red symbolizes love and passion. Rose petals are soft to the touch. The scent of them is considered to be an aphrodisiac as well. For all of these reasons, bring along some fresh rose petals for your hotel bed. If you put a damp paper towel in something like a small Tupperware container and then place the rose petals inside of that, they won’t dry out quickly which will make them feel great once you’re ready to start rolling around in them (you can also keep them in your hotel room’s fridge to further extend their shelf life).
12. Mints
Morning sex. Outdoor sex. Whatever kind of sex — it’s always going to be better when your breath and his smell good. And just so you don’t have to lug around a big bottle of mouthwash, pack some mints. Altoids are always going to be my number one draft pick — yet go with whatever are your personal faves. They’re the perfect hack for unbelievable summer vacation sex. Wouldn’t you agree? Enjoy!
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