The Power of Color: 9 Women Who Nail It Every Time
MICHELLE OBAMAFirst Lady of the United States Mrs. Obama is a dynamic First Lady and partner to our nation's first Black president, Barack Obama. However, the Princeton University and Harvard Law School graduate continues to make her role as First Lady a memorable one. Though she may receive more press for herfashion influence, Mrs. Obama seems to much rather prefer using her clout for good to launch and support initiatives like Let's Move, which promotes exercise to battle childhood obesity and healthy eating, especially within underserved communities. POLISH PICK: Who's The Boss. This color is bold and engaging, just like Mrs. Obama. In addition to crafting a legacy of service, she has undoubtedly become a style icon, influencing designers and fashionistas worldwide. This color is perfect for anyone who appreciates a chic yet classic look.
If you've ever belabored over choosing what others might consider an insignificant detail, you're not alone. Forty-one percent of women change their nail polish at least once a week. While most men (and some women) may overlook this minor detail, there's more to the decision process than most would expect. “Nail polish is a fashion accessory that has become not only a staple but, a statement,†says H. Ginger Johnson, co-founder of Ginger + Liz Colour Collection. “Some women take great pride in their nail polish brand and color selection.†Officially launched in January 2010, Johnson's New York City-based company offers a line of nontoxic and vegan-friendly nail lacquer. With nearly 40 provocative colors, the nail polish line is available at salons and boutiques in major cities, such as New York, Washington, D.C., Atlanta and Los Angeles. Johnson and Sara “Liz†Pickett (the other half of G+L) give those using their products an opportunity to express who they are. And for good reason says Pickett: "Because what color you wear can also be a small yet impactful reflection of the type of person you are." To show the true power of color BLACKENTERPRISE.COM let Johnson and Pickett try their freshly manicured hands at picking the perfect hues for some of the most influential and notable women in business, entertainment, sports and politics. —Jennifer Ogunsola and Tennille M. RobinsonAll images courtesy of ThinkStock, Getty & Gingerandliz.com more
MICHELLE OBAMAFirst Lady of the United States Mrs. Obama is a dynamic First Lady and partner to our nation's first Black president, Barack Obama. However, the Princeton University and Harvard Law School graduate continues to make her role as First Lady a memorable one. Though she may receive more press for herfashion influence, Mrs. Obama seems to much rather prefer using her clout for good to launch and support initiatives like Let's Move, which promotes exercise to battle childhood obesity and healthy eating, especially within underserved communities. POLISH PICK: Who's The Boss. This color is bold and engaging, just like Mrs. Obama. In addition to crafting a legacy of service, she has undoubtedly become a style icon, influencing designers and fashionistas worldwide. This color is perfect for anyone who appreciates a chic yet classic look. more
OPRAH WINFREYCEO, Harpo Productions Inc. As the supervising producer of The Oprah Winfrey Show and head of Harpo Productions, Winfrey runs a multimillion-dollar company that spans the media spectrum—including television, print, radio, and film production. Currently in the 25th and final season of her syndicated TV show, Winfrey rang in the New Year bylaunching The Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). POLISH PICK:Not On the First Date. A classic demure shade yet still eye-catching, this color can help deliver a look of sophistication. Strategically conservative about her business ventures, Winfrey commands global attention with every move she makes. more
URSULA BURNS CEO, Xerox As the CEO and chairwoman of Xerox, UrsulaBurns is the first African-American woman to run one of the largest publicly traded companies. Burns (No. 14 on the BE Titans: 40 Most Powerful African-Americans in Business list) has been with the company since 1980 when she started as an intern. Today, she's the driving force behind taking the $22 billion copier and printer company to new heights. Her prowess puts her in political circles as well; Burns is working closely with President Obama to improve science and math education in U.S. public schools. POLISH PICK:Royal Flush. The cherry cola color is versatile, appropriate for the boardroom and client dinner parties. Not too distracting, it hits the mark in adding a sophisticated touch yet calming edge to the occasion. A shade like this lets someone like Burns focus on the more important things (while looking good doing it). more
ELLEN JOHNSON SIRLEAF President, Liberia Known as Africa's “Iron Lady,†Sirleaf was elected in 2005 as the 24th President of Liberia. The first and only female Head of State in all of Africa, Sirleaf is an advocate for democracy, peace and justice. With her financial background, Madam President has been able to make many strides in boosting economic wwwelopment in Liberia. In 2007, Sirleaf was awarded the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom. POLISH PICK:Boss Lady. This scarlet/sunburst red is truly one of a kind. The energy from this color exudes confidence and passion. The Liberian leader is in a class by herself. Need we say more? more
DANA “QUEEN LATIFAH†OWENSRapper/Actress/Singer/Entrepreneur Owens has starred in over 20 films that combined have grossed more than $1 billion. Her body of work—spanning television, film and music—has earned her awards and recognition for being such a versatile entertainer. But the queen's reign isn't only in front the camera; the businesswoman owns a New-Jersey based production company, Flavor Unit Entertainment and is a spokesperson for CoverGirl cosmetics; with her own line, CoverGirl Queen Collection, which targets women of color. POLISH PICK: New Money. This bluish teal green crème lacquer is meant to be worn with confidence. Whether performing or hosting an awards show, a poised Owens is always ready, willing and able to handle whatever comes her way. And with the shade being reminiscent of royalty, it's definitely fit for anyone who sees themselves as a queen. more
SERENA & VENUS WILLIAMS Tennis Champions/Businesswomen Ranked among the world's best, the Williams sisters changed the face of tennis. But their off the court game is equally fierce. Both serve up a keen business sense allowing them to remain on top as a dynamic duo and individually. Venus is a best selling author (Come to Win, Amistad; $26); released a computer game (Venus: The Case of the Grand Slam Queen); and launched both a fashion line (EleVen by Venus Williams) and a full-service interior design firm (V Starr Interiors) based in the Palm Beach, Florida area. Meanwhile, Serena also looks to find her place in the fashion industry with an apparel line, as well as a handbag and jewelry line—Aneres and Signature Statement, respectively. But her dream job is to be a certified nail technician; Serena plans to launch her own nail collection. The sisters are also are part-owners of the NFL's Miami Dolphins. POLISH PICK: Goin' Back To Cali. A vibrant, neon pink that is sure to turn heads. This color works well for the Williams sisters, highlighting their willingness to take risks in business and play. It takes confidence to rock a shade as bright as this one—we're sure these ladies can pull it off. more
VANESSA & ANGELA SIMMONSCo-founders, Pastry Footwear Two words: savvy and stylish. These two “sole†sisters are the daughters of hip-hop legend Rev. Run, a member of the pioneering hip-hop group Run-DMC. In 2007, the sisters started Pastry Footwear within the Run Athletics empire ran by their business mogul uncle Russell Simmons. The shoe line has grown to now include children's wear, junior apparel, dress shoes, handbags and accessories. Their sweet success is quantified with $50 million in annual sales. (WATCH: The Simmons sisters talk about Pastry's sweet success.) POLISH PICK:Boy Toy. This fun and flirty robin egg blue shade with an aquamarine base fits the personality and style of independent young women like the sisterpreneurs, Vanessa and Angela. Must haves to pull it of: an outspoken attitude and willingness to not take yourself too seriously all the time. Certain colors exude power, prestige and confidence, and as with these women, finding the shade that works best for you can go a long way by helping to highlight your personality. more