Blaq Vixen Beauty

The reason behind this new series is to prove that you can still be professional and feminine (as long as you abide by your service's dress and appearance regulations) while in uniform. I've only served in the Navy and Air Force but I've always managed to maintain my femininity - whether it be through a new hairstyle, wearing a French manicure or wearing lip gloss with a hint of sparkle.

Maybe the latest issue of Glamour arrived in your mailbox? If so, then maybe you've read Cindi Levie's "Courage is Beautiful?" I loved how they displayed women from all the branches reading Glamour magazine. However, I especially enjoyed seeing female Hospital Corpsmen stationed with the 3rd Medical Battalion posing with the magazine as well as Airmen applying blush and nail polish while on deployment! Didn't matter if it seemed trivial at the time; I was just happy to see servicewomen not forgetting that they're a woman first, a Sailor, Soldier or Airman second.

Then there was the "Back-From-Iraq Makeover" article in which three Army officers received makeovers from Glamour's pro beauty and fashion teams. While I applauded Glamour for giving these lucky ladies the chance to be pampered and primped, I think that Glamour should have selected women from all of the branches - both officers and enlisted. Furthermore, I would've been happier had they included women of color to be hooked up!

Call me inspired because I asked on Twitter: "Wouldn't it be nice of all women returning from Iraq received makeovers (if they wanted them)?" As Rashida B. said, "You'd be surprised, everyone knows someone who's loved one is over there." And she's right. I'm sure we all know someone who loves getting perfume, facial masks and bath salts in their care packages. But what about taking that to a national level - a sort of Look Good...Feel Better program for our returning soldiers. To prove that your femininity is still there, ready to be awakened with lip gloss, lashes and legs!

So welcome to the introduction of my "How to Stay Feminine in Uniform" series! I hope this helps you or someone you know to stay girly but professional in the military.