Black Talk Classic Collection: Timeless Style with a Bold Voice

I made the Black Talk Classic Collection for my store DUO MODERN because this is how I talk, how my family talks, and how so many Black folks still talk to this day. When you really think about it, it’s funny. I say so much wild, crazy, real stuff, I thought: why not put it on tees, hoodies, and tote bags? That way, when we see each other out in the world, whoever’s wearing it, we laugh, we nod, and we know—we from the same tribe.

DUO MODERN “YOU MAD” Unisex Cap

This collection is Black Magic. It’s that inside joke, that code switch, that language we speak at home that doesn’t always make it into the boardroom. It’s culture, pride, and everyday style—wrapped up in pieces you can wear anywhere. And now I want everyone who can relate to rock it too.

DUO MODERN “You Better Come Get Your Friend” Unisex T-shirt

When it comes to fashion, some pieces don’t just follow trends—they set the standard. That’s exactly what the Black Talk Classic Collection is all about. This line combines timeless designs, cultural pride, and modern fashion statements that speak volumes without saying a word.

DUO MODERN “You Better Come Get Your Friend” Tote Bag

Whether you’re shopping for a classic graphic tee, a statement hoodie, a stylish tote bag, or an everyday essential with style that lasts, the Black Talk Classic Collection was created for those who want fashion with meaning.

Why Shoppers Love the Black Talk Classic Collection from DUO MODERN

  1. Timeless Streetwear Meets Culture
    Each piece is designed with classic cuts, versatile colors, and bold graphics that never go out of style, while also reflecting culture, identity, and pride.

  2. High-Quality Everyday Essentials
    From cotton tees to cozy hoodies, caps that complete the look, and tote bags perfect for on-the-go living, the Black Talk Collection makes it easy to dress with comfort and confidence.

  3. Perfect for All Seasons
    Whether you’re looking for summer fashion staples, fall layering pieces, or year-round classics like tote bags and tees, these styles stay in rotation.

  4. Statement Fashion That Speaks
    More than just clothing, this collection is about self-expression, empowerment, and confidence. It’s designed for people who want their wardrobe to say something without having to explain.

Don’t miss your chance to refresh your wardrobe with pieces that never go out of style. From bold graphic tees and luxe hoodies to stylish Black Talk tote bags that carry your world with ease, this collection is built to last and designed to inspire.

You’ll find the Black Talk Classic Collection waiting for you.

This isn’t just fashion. This is us. This is community. This is laughter, pride, and love stitched into every piece. And yes, we are a Black Owned Family Business who appreciate ALL of our customers. Did I share, we offer FREE SHIPPING!

👉 Shop the Black Talk Classic Collection today only at DUO MODERN—because style should speak your language.

DUO MODERN Bags: The Trendiest Tote Bags You Need Right Now

When it comes to style and functionality, nothing beats a good tote bag. Whether you’re carrying your laptop to work, packing your essentials for a day out, or just looking to add a bold statement to your outfit, DUO MODERN bags are designed to turn heads.

At DUO MODERN, we believe bags should do more than just hold your things—they should express your personality, your vibe, and your voice. That’s why our collections feature trendy designs, bold statements, and versatile styles that make every outfit pop.


✨ Why DUO MODERN Tote Bags Are So Popular

Tote bags have become one of the most searched fashion accessories in 2025, and here’s why:

  • They’re practical – spacious enough for daily essentials.

  • They’re sustainable – a reusable alternative to plastic bags.

  • They’re trendy – influencers, stylists, and everyday fashion lovers are making them part of their look.

  • They’re versatile – perfect for work, school, shopping, gym, or travel.

DUO MODERN takes this everyday essential and transforms it into a fashion statement.


👜 Shop DUO MODERN Bag Styles

1. Namaste In My Lane Collection

Bold, unapologetic, and full of personality—this collection features both a Tote Bag and an Adjustable Tote Bag, perfect for those who love options. Whether you prefer the roomy standard tote or the sleek adjustable version, this collection says: stay in your lane, I’m in mine.

2. “You Better Come Get Your Friend” Tote Bag

The bag that makes a statement before you even say a word. Spacious, durable, and bold—this tote is for anyone who loves to mix streetwear fashion with everyday function. Perfect for errands, coffee runs, or weekend outings.


3. Trendy Oversized Tote Bags

Made for the girl (or guy!) who carries it all. With extra room, sturdy handles, and an urban street-style aesthetic, our oversized totes give you that effortless, I-woke-up-like-this look.


4. Adjustable Strap Totes

Sometimes you want to throw it over your shoulder, and sometimes you want it crossbody. Our adjustable totes are designed with versatility in mind—perfect for work commutes, shopping trips, and travel days.


🌍 How Customers Are Styling Their DUO MODERN Bags

Our community has been rocking DUO MODERN bags in so many ways:

  • Streetwear casual – paired with oversized tees, joggers, and sneakers.

  • Elevated chic – styled with blazers, trousers, and minimal sneakers.

  • Weekend vibes – dresses, sandals, and our bold totes for the perfect grab-and-go look.

Whether you’re into Y2K aesthetics, minimalist streetwear, or bold statement fashion, DUO MODERN bags fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.


🔑 Why Shop DUO MODERN?

✔ Trendy, bold designs you won’t find anywhere else
✔ Built for style + durability
✔ Perfect for gifting (birthdays, holidays, or “just because”)
✔ A brand that stands for individuality and modern streetwear vibes


👉 Ready to Find Your New Favorite Bag?

Your perfect everyday tote is waiting for you. Explore DUO MODERN’s trendy statement bags and upgrade your style with a piece that speaks louder than words.

Shop DUO MODERN Bags Now

Elevate Your Beach Game With DUO MODERN Mona Lisa Beach Towel

DUO MODERN Beach Towel from the “Rich Girl” Collection

Dripping in luxury, style, and vibes, this towel is your must-have accessory for poolside lounging, sitting in the desert, or any beach escapes. The perfect blend of art-inspired design and ultimate functionality—because who says you can’t lay in style while catching rays?

DUO MODERN Co-Founder Brandy Gomez-Duplessis showing what the “Rich Girl” Beach Towel looks like

Below are additional items from DUO MODERN “Rich Girl” Collection. With still more to come.

DUO MODERN Premium Pillow from the “Rich Girl” Collection

Shop now with us at DUO MODERN and bring timeless elegance to your next getaway!

Private Online 20% Off Sale At Bloomingdale’s

Aloha Bloomingdale’s Insider!

We are holding a very special event Online that’s available only our private subscribers. Because you’re my virtual friend I figure I would share this with you.

Starting Friday May 6th through Sunday May 8th, take 20% off Women’s RTW and Shoes Advanced. Only a select Advanced Contemporary Brands are included in this event.

Reply by going to my Storefront that you’d like to shop the event and I’ll send you a special promotional code you can use at check out! This is a ONE TIME USE promotional code so make sure to gather all your goodies in your cart before you check out as you won’t be able to use the code twice!

This is a great time to purchase those trendy and fashionable items for the Spring from designers like Alexander Wang Shoes, Anine Bing, Cinq A Sept, Cult Gaia, Faith The Brand, STAUD shoes and more! Scroll down to view some of my favorites and check out my Storefront for more inspiration.

Here’s the link to my Storefront: https://stores-bloomingdales.com/brandyg

Mahalo 🤙🏾🌺🌸 Happy Shopping! 🛍🛍🛍

What’s In A Celebrity Makeup Artist Bag From Oahu Hawaii

Being that I’m a Beauty Editor for Caribbean Posh magazine, I get to try out so many different beauty and skincare products. Companies send me a lot of products to try and I definitely use them all. Some I like and some not so much.

Posh Summer Sizzle Issue 2019 FINAL25 (1)

My makeup bag is always full of products from prestige luxurious brands, drugstore brands and indie beauty goodies. I love them all! If I look fly in it then, I’m wearing it. Now that I’m living on Oahu, I like to use products that will be great for my skin and body. Always a Caribbean girl at heart, I’m sure a few Caribbean products made it on my list.

1.Serucell KFS Serum

2.Entitled Beauty Long Wearing Liquid Lipsticks

3. Honua Hawaiian Beauty Water

4.RMS Beauty The Ultimate Makeup Remover Wipe

5. Beuti Skincare Beauty Sleep Elixir

6.FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation

7.Black UpBlack Up Two Way Cake Compact Powder

8.SMASHBOX Photo Finish Foundation Primer

9. L’OREAL Paris Voluminious Mascara in Carbon Black

10.Beauty Blender

 

 

Honolulu Hawaii Makeup Artist & Lifestyle Blogger Brandy Gomez-Duplessis has 22 years of experience in the Beauty & Entertainment industry. Brandy is located on Oahu island in Ewa Beach but you can find her working doing makeup in Waikiki, Waipahu, Waikele, and Kapolei. Being a top influencer & blogger don’t be surprised to see her writing beauty articles and taking selfies for her 60K followers on Instagram on the beautiful beaches in Honolulu…and YES, there are black people living in Hawaii. 

I Fell In Love With The North Shore In Oahu Hawaii

img_6198-1Since we’ve been here in Oahu Hawaii, all we keep hearing about is The Northshore, so today we decided to take a trip to The North Shore to explore what all the fuss has been about. And I’m so glad we did, we found a hidden gem of gorgeousness…is that even a word (lol). But that’s what we found on The Northshore.

The drive alone was so peaceful and the beautiful trees and views of the mountains was spectacular. It has a very country vibe and energy. You know that feel where you would want to stick your barefoot out of the windows and let your toes enjoy the amazing breeze. Maybe corny but that’s how I felt. I just wanted to take off all this fancy and expensive jewelry, remove my bra, pull my hair back and just enjoy the freedom.

We drove to a town called Haleiwa, it’s the largest or one of the largest commercial spot on the North Shore of the island. It’s a popular spot for residents and tourists, definitely a lot of tourists from what we saw. Maybe because it’s still the crowd from the 4th Of July weekend. The crowd was just as thick as Luxury Row in Waikiki so I must come back on a slower day.

We saw lots of surfers and stand up paddle boarding taking place. Food trucks for days it was bumper to bumper to even get a spot so eventually we just pulled over and walked around the old plantation town. Lots of great colorful small owned shops, galleries, surf shops lined both sides of the streets. So many great treasures I saw for the house and for great gifts for everyone on the mainland. The vibe was like an old-school Volkswagens roll past tourists with custom-made boards hanging from the hatches.  We did see a restaurant called Haleiwa Beach House   that we want to check out, the menu was of my liking and the decor was ME (lol).

It’s a bohemian and chic kind of town and I was here for it and look forward to revisiting in a few weeks.

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Linny Morris

It’s a bohemian and chic kind of town and I was here for it and look forward to revisiting in a few weeks.

 

Honolulu Hawaii Makeup Artist & Lifestyle Blogger Brandy Gomez-Duplessis has 22 years of experience in the Beauty & Entertainment industry. Brandy is located on Oahu island in Ewa Beach but you can find her working doing makeup in Waikiki, Waipahu, Waikele, and Kapolei. Being a top influencer & blogger don’t be surprised to see her writing beauty articles and taking selfies for her 60K followers on Instagram on the beautiful beaches in Honolulu…and YES, there are black people living in Hawaii. 

Connecticut Celebrity Makeup Artist Prep For Danbury Fashion Week

Celebrity Makeup Artist Brandy Gomez-Duplessis looking at tear sheets

As Danbury Fashion Week’s first annual fashion show in Danbury, Connecticut is near, Celebrity Makeup Artist and Beauty Expert Brandy Gomez-Duplessis sits in her Executive Suite at Hotel Zero Degrees in Danbury, getting inspired by hair and makeup looks for her glam team. Gomez-Duplessis is a hidden gem that lives right here in Connecticut. She has worked and lead numerous fashion shows from Mercedes Benz Fashion Shows in New York and MiamiNew York Fashion WeekHarlem Fashion Week and Project Runway. This weekend she will be backstage at Danbury Fashion Week guiding her hair and makeup team to trendy and eclectic looks to complement the local designer’s collections.

“I wanted to be a part of Danbury Fashion Week because this is my community” When PJ Prunty President/CEO  of Greater Danbury Chamber Of Commerce shared with me that Meagan Neville from Workspace Collective was in talk about putting together Danbury Fashion Week I instantly knew I had to be on the committee,” Brandy Gomez-Duplessis said.

Founders Of Entitled Beauty Cosmetics Brandy Gomez-Duplessis and Johnny Luoma

Another fun fact is that Brandy Gomez-Duplessis’ and her business partner Johnny Luoma’s, makeup line Entitled Beauty Cosmetics will be the Official Makeup Sponsor for Danbury Fashion Week. Their Bold Liquid Lipsticks will be perfect for the runway this weekend and their Spotlight Highlighter will have the models glowing radiantly.

Entitled Beauty Lipstick

On Saturday, Danbury Fashion Week’s fashion show will be a new and unique experience for Fairfield County, Connecticut residents to come out to see. Tickets are on sale and you can purchase your online at Danbury Fashion Week.com

Danbury Fashion Week Model Call Today

DFW Model Call

CALLING ALL MODELS to Danbury Fashion Week Model Casting! Bring your best runway walk today, June 30th to 261 Main St from 12-5pm! They are looking for models of all ages, shapes, and sizes to cast in the Runway Show on July 28th.

Go to www.danburyfashionweek.com/models to print out the model release form. Fill out the information on the form to bring with you on the day of the casting along with a full body photo.

Models that will be selected to be in the show will need to be available for the following dates:

7/16 Meet & Greet // Orientation

7/23 Dress Rehearsal

7/28 Fashion Show

Contact Meagan or Joseph if you have any questions on their website. Follow Danbury Fashion Week on social media.

Danbury Fashion Week Facebook page

Danbury Fashion Week Instagram page

 

Connecticut Makeup Artist Share Wedding Day Pics In A New York Castle

Friday I spent my day just hanging out you know in a castle, cuz that’s how I roll. Despite the horrible rain storm I had a grand time once inside the Whitby Castle with my New York bride Kimberly and her friends. Kimberley was such a trooper she handled the rain storm like a pro, she was so relaxed and chilled the entire day.

For her makeup look she originally requested something very very natural, she’s a no makeup kinda of lady. But on her wedding day she was ok with me bumping it up just a little and for her second dress change I gave her a red lip with body makeup and highlighting and contouring. She received so many compliments on her makeup that she felt good about letting me take her out of her comfort zone for her dress change. While I was doing her makeup Kimberly shared with me that I was the makeup artist for her neighbors wedding in New York as well. I knew that Kimberly found me through my New York client Nancy but I didn’t know she was a past bride neighbor, what a small world.

 

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Enjoying the wedding with my client Nancy

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Cocktail hour begin