Labor Day is everyone’s favorite holiday, next to Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, and the holiday is not complete without drinks!

Made for women (men can enjoy as well), these X-rated signature cocktails are sure to be a hit, whether you’re on a Labor Day getaway or celebrating the long weekend at home with friends and family.

If you’re hoping to keep that summer body, X-Rated low calorie drinks are strong on taste but low on fat, which is why celeb Vixens like Gabrielle Union, Ciara and La La Anthony can be found sipping them often!

Whether you’re a Vixen making them for yourself or a Gent making them for your girl, click through to see X-Rated Fusion Liquor Cocktail Recipes below.

Enjoy!

Margarita Bliss (serves 4)
 Created by Travis London

2 cups X-Rated Fusion Liqueur

1/2 cup sparkling water

1 cup zero calorie sweetener

Juice of 1 lemon

1 cup blackberries, pulsed in blender

6 slices of fresh ginger

1/2 cup Cabo Wabo Blanco

1 cup ice

Place all ingredients (except tequila and ice) in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Stir to make sure all the sugar is dissolved and remove from heat to allow to cool. Once cooled down remove ginger slices and place in blender with tequila and ice. Pour into chilled and rimmed margarita glasses. Garnish each with a picker of lemon and ginger slices.

Lime in the Coconut Created by Shane McKnight
Stay-cation with friends? Kick back and indulge in this refreshing drink, a perfect mixture of SKYY Infusions Coconut, along with lime and mint flavoring.

1 1/2 oz. of SKYY Infusions Coconut Vodka

3 oz. of Coconut Water

3/4 oz. fresh lime juice

8 mint leaves

Combine mint and SKYY Infusions Coconut in mixing glass and muddle gently. 
Add ice, lime juice and coconut water and shake quickly for 1-2 seconds. 
Transfer into 12 oz. highball service glass with same ice and mint leaves. Garnish with grated coconut and fresh lime wheel.

X-Rated Brazilian Created by Travis London
Having drinks with the girls? Shake up this exotic cocktail for a fun girls night in.

1 oz. X-Rated Fusion Liqueur

1 oz. Sagatiba Pura Cachaça

2 oz. Guava juice or nectar

Juice of half of a lime

Cherry apple wheel slice for garnish

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine all ingredients and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with cherry apple wheel.

X-Rated Dream 
Created by Travis London
Need a quick, low fat dessert cocktail? X-Rated Dream blends ice cream and liqueur to bring you the perfect solution, while keeping it “skinny.”

1 oz. X-Rated Fusion Liqueur

3 oz. Low Fat French Vanilla Ice Cream

½ oz. Fat Free Half and Half

Place all ingredients in a blender and pulse until smooth. Pour into a chilled and rimmed martini glass.

It makes perfect sense for Obama to be capitalizing on any and all press given that it is election year, and when targeting the women vote, the fashion glossy seems like an obvious choice. However, many critics are wondering if Obama is being smart by continuing to align his political career with pop culture and fashion.

While we do have a hip Prez that proudly wears designer suits, listens to Jay-Z, kisses his wife in public, has rap songs dedicated to him and plays basketball with White House Staffers, how cool is too cool?

Following the backlash from critics regarding his appearance on Jimmy Kimmel and some staunch political analyzers questioning his interviews with ESPN Magazine, Entertainment Tonight and People, do you think that sitting with Glamour was a smart political move?

Let us know your opinion!

Oh, and President Obama, if you happen to read this, we would like to formally invite you to sit down with us for a Vixen and Gents chat!

A few years ago when Beyoncé bragged about switching Jay-Z’s ties to Purple Label, women around the world followed suit, chanting the new “Upgrade U” anthem and rushing to department stores to restyle their men from head to toe.

Three months ago, when VIBE Vixen posted on J. Lo upgrading new boyfriend Casper all was well. But for something that was just so acceptable has somehow become a victim of the double standard. See Sunday’s episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians.

Kanye West–the rapper, producer, filmmaker and most recently, fashion designer–decided to enlist the services of his stylist to clean out his girlfriend Kim Kardashian‘s closet and purchase a new wardrobe for her taping of Oprah‘s Next Chapter. For some, this would be a dream come true, the come-up of all come-ups, but for others, this was the unthinkable.

As the episode aired, females on Twitter ranted about Kanye being tacky, uncalled for and questioned why Kanye would do this. They compared the (already rich and fashionable) Kim to Amber Rose, clowned Kim for being made over by her man and accused him of being overbearing (and homosexual).

I personally didn’t see the issue. Yes, I thought it was hilarious that he uttered, ‘‘[You're] getting on best dressed lists now. You’re stepping into this territory,” publicly deeming Kim’s previous wardrobe as unbecoming, but I never would have considered such a kind gesture as anything other than just that.

The facts are that Mr. West is rich and can afford to makeover all of his girlfriends. (It was rumored that Alexis Phifer, Brooke Crittendon, Amber Rose and Selita Ebanks wardrobe were all made-over); Kanye West is known to be fly, sometimes questionable, but always on the cutting edge of fashion. Kanye saw that his girl was not being respected within the world of fashion and decided to, for lack of a better phrase, “upgrade her.”

So what’s the big deal? Is the issue because it’s KimYe, the new celebrity couple that you either love or hate? Could Yeezy’s gestures simply be a labor of love? Can men not want their ladies to look nice? But most importantly, is it tricking if you got it?

I feel as if this happens all the time, amongst the wealthiest and poorest couples. How many wealthy men give their girlfriends access to their credit card and allow their girl to purchase whatever they desire? How many blue collar men avoid establishing a savings so they can routinely purchase their girlfriends the new “it” shoe and bag of the moment. How many basketball wives, ex-wives and real housewives do we have to watch get chose and upgraded (every week!) before we realize this man-likes-to-upgrade-his-woman phenomenon is nothing new but indeed the new American way.

Many men like their woman to be the envy of all women and have no issues financially supporting that. If Kanye wants Kim to match his fly (fellas, learn how here), I support it.

Vixen and Gents, we need to hear your feedback on this one, so please weigh in! Tweet us at @VibeVixen and @ByronLinnell or leave your comment below.

Rihanna has done it again. The 24-year-old switched up her image, keeping the media and fans on their toes. The self-proclaimed bad girl is now using that same BadGirlRiRi Instagram handle that once showcased her outlandish lifestyle, love for strippers and admiration for drugs to lead a daily devotional she affectionately dubbed #DevotionNavy.  

Is she becoming ChurchGirlRiRi?

As models prepare to rip the runway, sip the runway with Hennessy’s signature recipes created to help guide your transition from summer to fall. Thanks to mixologist Jordan Bushell you can enjoy enjoy fresh beverages and celebrate the cognac brand’s new limited edition V.S. bottle collaboration with graffiti guru Futura.

In celebration of street art (fashion included), take a peak at our gallery to see this upcoming fashion season color trends and cocktail recipes!

CITRUS CRUSH

Ingredients
2 oz. – Hennessy V.S
1/4 oz. – Campari
1 Dash of Grapefruit Bitters
1/2 oz. – Lemon Juice
1/2 oz. – Fresh Pink Grapefruit Juice
1/2 oz. – Fresh Orange Juice
1/2 oz. – Agave Nectar
Orange Twist

Glassware
Rocks Glass

Garnish
Orange Twist

Instructions
Add all liquids to shaker tin and shake with ice
Fine strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice
Garnish with orange twist

BRANDY PUNCH

Ingredients
1 liter – Hennessy V.S
1 1/2 liters – Water
5 oz – Glenmorangie
2 cups – Simple Syrup or 3 Cups of Sugar
4 oz – Lemon Juice
2 oz – Grand Marnier
4 oz – Hibiscus Grenadine
1/2 Pineapple Sliced
2 Oranges Sliced into Wheels
1 Package – Raspberries

Glassware
Punch Glasses

Garnish
1/2 Pineapples Cubed
2 Oranges Sliced into Wheels
1 Package of Raspberries

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl with a large ice block

SUMMER BLUEBERRY

Ingredients
1 1/2 oz – Hennessy V.S
1/2 oz – Lemon Juice
1/2 oz – Lime Juice
1/2 oz – St Germaine
Handful of Blueberries
2 Sprigs of Mint

Glassware
Rocks Glass

Garnish
Handful of Blueberries
2 Sprigs of Mint

Instructions
Take a handful of blueberries and 1 mint sprig and muddle them in a shaker tin
Add all liquids with ice and shake until well chilled
Take a hawthorn strainer and strain over ice into a rocks glass
Garnish with a few blueberries and a mint sprig

Recently the New York Times ran an article about four heterosexual men who live together in NY and have been doing so since their college days at NYU, 18 years ago.

Now, at 40 years old, they each have girlfriends, no kids, never been married and choose to work various jobs instead of starting careers, which makes splitting the rent so alluring. At 40-something, something about this seems strange to me about grown straight men living together, but living in New York does require a certain hustle.

Leave your answer in the comment section!

To celebrate Laz Alonzo‘s shiny new title, American Airlines and BlackAtlas.com threw an event in New York to announce the partnership. The private invite only event was hosted at the Studio Museum of Harlem with a special performance by Melanie Fiona, Rakiem Walker Band and DJ Cosi spinning for the crowd.

New York urban elite, socialites and industry execs do not like to miss a party, and this party was one for the society pages. Publicist Christina Rice welcomed guests and notables, including Jennifer Williams, Al Reynolds, blogger Necole Bitchie, fashion designer KiKi Peterson, Chuck Creekmur, model Chasity Saunders, celebrity dentist Catrice Austin and more.

The event was catered by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson‘s Harlem restaurant, Red Rooster, and guests stayed cool while sipping on the complimentary cocktails.

With a room full of New York’s movers and shakers, we can only wonder exactly what conversations were had.

Flip through the pages for more photos.

As you prepare new goals and resolutions for 2013, everyone should also be cleaning out their wardrobe and finding new gear for the New Year. Fashion forward individuals have relied on thrifting for ages to keep their wardrobe updated without breaking the bank and in today’s economy the art of buying vintage and used clothing is something that all should be comfortable with. For the majority living in major cities, events and parties happen often and finding new clothes for every public appearance becomes costly. Turning to thrift stores to find unique pieces will not only help you stand out, but will also help your checking account and credit look just as great in the process.

While the art of buying used isn’t always easy, finding good bargains can be done with three simple tips.

One, It’s All In The Name. It’s important to know the difference between vintage and consignment boutiques and thrift shops because that difference affects the price. Vintage and consignment boutiques usually means a higher price. A vintage or consignment shop is where your favorite socialites and stylists shop to find handbags, belts, suits, gowns and dresses by top designers. While shopping vintage is great for special occasions, vintage boutiques aren’t always great for finding steals and bargains.

Some shops do have great vintage looks at affordable prices, such as B.O.R.N. boutique in Harlem.

Second, Chain Thrifts are your Friend. Thrift Shops are where the bargains are, but it comes at the price of sifting through old, tattered clothing to find that diamond in the rough. Every trip doesn’t guarantee a find, but with patience, a good cleaners and a great tailor, there is something to be found.

Salvation Army, United Way and Good Will thrift stores receive a large amount of donations because of their legacy. Like with everything else, people go with what they know so when individuals are looking to clean out their closet, they often call on these organizations to donate their gently worn items. Several of these chains also partner with several major retailers who donate out of season, unopened and items that can’t be sold to these stores weekly. While merchandise at chain thrifts are often sorted by color instead of sizes, making shopping cumbersome, the likelihood of coming across new garments and everyday pieces to expand your wardrobe can happen frequently.

Third, Shopping in Better Neighbors Makes for Better Finds. Shopping in affluent neighborhoods makes for a better shopping experience. Their stores not only tend to be better managed and organized, their clothes are often a reflection of the individuals living in those neighborhoods. While stereotyping is often not a good thing, when it comes to thrifting it certainly can make a huge differences.

Take these tips as you prep your wardrobe for the New Year and leave some of your thrifting tips in the comments.

- Byron Edward

PHOTO CREDIT: Dex R. Jones
Model Credit: Shana Donielle @ www.kneehighsandlove.com

Every generation has had its share of not-so-sweet females artists, and the new bad girls continues to push the envelope. While today’s “it” girl takes the cake (cake, cake…), she certainly isn’t the baddest of them all. However with new technology and social media, what being bad is, has certainly become more visible and impacting  both younger and older fans.

Vixen has taken a look at the evolution of the bad girl to see what it was and what it has become.

Etta James

The late Etta James–blues, soul and R&B legend–was a no-nonsense artist who was unapologetic and quite honest. She was arrested several times for her addiction to and use of heroin. The six-time Grammy Award winner lived life to fullest and certainly remains a legend with an impressive career.  Her blond hair, sexy clothes and vulgar mouth certified her as the 70′s bad girl.

Vanity of Vanity 6

Vanity–the front runner of Vanity 6, a girl group founded by Prince–took radio airwaves to the next level with the song “Nasty Girl.” While in today’s society the lyrics to “Nasty Girl” would be completely acceptable–”That’s right, it’s been a long time/Since I had a man that did it real good/If you ain’t scared, take it out/I’ll do it like a real-live nasty girl would”–during that time, these raunchy lyrics challenged what was acceptable sexual conversation for women, all the while providing Vanity 6 with a chart-topping hit. Lead singer Vanity was later replaced, but her use of sex appeal certainly gives her the title of the 80′s bad girl.

Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson, while managing to maintain a sweet conversational whisper and innocent demeanor, has definitely earned the title of the 90′s bad girl with a sex-charged image and lyrics. With a catalogue of songs such as “Warmth,” “Anytime, Anyplace,” “Sexhibition,” “All For You” and “What’s It Gonna Be,” the Jackson cub left both females and males wondering exactly how nasty Ms. Jackson was. If you didn’t know Janet Jackson was a bad girl by her music, then you certainly found out during Super Bowl XXXVIII when Janet Jackson revealed her nipple to millions of viewers.

Rihanna

Now well into the millennium, the face of the image of the bad girl has evolved and Rihanna has taken the cake. Images of her drug use, videos, nude photos and hyper-sexual lyrics have completely washed away the good girl image that the Caribbean beauty once displayed in “Pon De Replay.” Her success only proves the being bad leads to #1 hits, breaking of records, millions of fans, movie deals, endorsement deals and countless awards.

While right or wrong, being bad never looked so good. Looking back at past female music legends proves that women in music have relied on being “bad” just as much as their vocals and talent.