We caught up with the Brittney — who is filming (as of April 2013) the indie film “Skin” — to talk self style and the pros and cons of maintaining the tough demands of Hollywood.

The Fame Life: You moved to Los Angeles to take advantage of the resources towards your acting career. How did you come to that big decision and was there any fear with such a move?
Brittney: When I was approaching my final year in college, I knew I had to have a game plan, and I knew that if I really wanted to have a successful career in Entertainment, I HAD to move to a bigger market, no question about it. So what better place than Hollywood! I originally was supposed to make the big move when I graduated, but doubt struck me as I didn’t have any money saved up. So I made a goal to give myself one year to save up to move, and EXACTLY one year later, I kept my word to myself and made the move. Of course I was scared; I was leaving my comfort zone… My family, friends, and a great job, to go chase the unknown. It was the biggest leap of faith I’ve ever taken.

Body image plays a big role in the TV world of acting. How have you dealt with that and other weight issues on a personal level?
Living in LA has made me realize that your appearance is EVERYTHING! When it comes to acting and being on screen, talent serves a very small percentage of the total package. Fortunately, I haven’t had a lot of issues in regards to my weight; I’ve always been naturally thin. However, being thin still isn’t good enough. You have to be thin, toned, and have extreme sex appeal in entertainment. There have been times that I was told that I was too skinny. So to keep up with my competition, I had to change my eating habits, work out at least three times a week, and make sure my hair and makeup is on point no matter where I go.

What inspires Ms. Brittney Qúianna the businesswoman and who inspires Brittney Q. Hill the person?
What inspires Brittney Qúianna the business woman is the understanding that it’s not all about me. Nothing is better than being able to fulfill my dreams and purpose while inspiring others. I don’t believe acting or modeling is my purpose, it’s just my platform. But I do believe I’ve been placed in a position to be a POSITIVE role model in an industry that is thought of as everything but “Good.” I want people to see me and know that you can still be successful without having to compromise who you are spiritually, mentally, physically, etc. As for what inspires Brittney Q. Hill the person, my family. Everything I do is for them.

What is your secret to maintaining good skin?
It’s definitely been trial and error for me. Maintaining good skin has always been a challenge for me. I have really oily skin, so blemishes come all the time. What’s worked best for me is making sure to remove all make up at the end of the day no matter how tired I am, and then using an exfoliating facial cleanser with a Clarisonic brush. It gets all the residue out of my pores and removes all dead skin. At night I make sure to apply a Retin-A serum which tightens and brightens the skin; and during the day I use an oil free moisturizer with a low SPF for protection against the sun.

Do you feel like what you eat affects your skin at all?
Absolutely! For me, sugary foods make me break out, as well as too much caffeine. I try to avoid sweets unless it’s for a special occasion, and I drink as much water as possible.

What is the one product that you can’t live without?
Moisturizer. Keeping the skin moisturized and replenished is the key to looking youthful. I think your skin takes the most stress because it’s constantly exposed, and it’s the first thing people notice about you, it’s your outer layer. It’s important to keep it hydrated and beautiful.

What are some of the little things women (and some men) forget about doing before stepping out to a party or event?
I think the difference is always in the details! For both men and women, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of networking, make sure you carry some discreet breath mints and lipstick (or chapstick for gentlemen) to stay fresh. And a nice perfume or cologne doesn’t hurt. Also remember, you are constantly branding yourself, so never ever leave the house without your business cards!

Where is one destination you still need a stamp for on your passport?
Rio de Janeiro!! I actually plan on attending the next 2016 Olympic Games there. Can’t wait!

What are your summer must haves?
Bright neon color nail polish, plenty of ripped bleached shorts and a variety of wedged heels! I’m by the beach so I’ll be showing plenty of leg this summer!

What are 3 things you absolutely HAVE to HAVE to walk out the door with for an event outing:
Definitely my iPhone, MAC lipstick and business cards!

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Stripes

(Oscar De La Renta, Michael Kors, TopShop)

Strips are literally everywhere! From the runways of Lanvin to Michael Kors, this trend will add a cool and casual touch to your spring wardrobe. Weather you decide to choose horizontal or vertical stripes, thats strictly up to you but remember to choose wisely. Horizontals will make you look wider while vertical stripes will elongate your body.

Ruffels

(Gucci, Gucci, Chloe)

Ruffles are not only girly and fun but super fabulous! If you are looking to make a stunning statement this spring, pick up a few pieces and remember, with this trend bigger is better!!!

Black and White

(Givenchy, Alexander Wang, Jason Wu)

When someone thinks of spring, floral prints and pastels usually comes to mind but not in 2013! This year, designers are all about black and white (ok, some floral and pastels too but you get my drift). This trend is extremely sleek and easy to pull off. Wheather you are at the office or on a hot date, this trend will carry you through.

Leather

Leather in the spring? Absolutely! A luxe leather piece is essential to your spring shopping list. This sturdy fabric comes in ligher weights and rich colors just for warmer weathers. Oh and remember, leather is an investment item so not only will they be great for the spring but they are also great trabsitional pieces for the other seasons as well.

Prints

Regardless if its animal, floral or global, prints are a must have in every fashionistas wardrobe this spring. You can mix and match them for a funky look or if you are a little more reserved, wear just a print dress or one piece with a solid item.

Cropped Tops

(Derek Lam, Peter Som, Balenciaga)

If you’re a fitness nut or just simply blessed with great abs, cropped tops are for you! You can rock them with anything from boyfriend jeans to high waisted skirts. Fab!

Bermuda Shorts

(Rag & Bone, DKNY,  Chloe)

These slouchy shorts are ultra chic and very flattering. They are perfect for fashionistas of every shape and size. Paired with a cute top and your favorite flats for a very cool spring look!

Flats and Low Heels

(Peter Som, Marc Jacobs, Peter Som)

Ok lets be honest, high heels will always be sexy (I am definitely a fan of those 5 inch stunners) but back in style again in a big way are flats and low heels. What I love about these heels are the fact that they provide a nice option to have especially during the daytime. They come in all colors and pattern so they will compliment any spring outfit. So why not leave those uncomfortable high heels for night time fun and choose a more practical and comfortable shoe (still stylish!) for the day?

Short Suits

(Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Matthew Williamson)

This look was all over the runways here in New York. It’s very versatile and office-appropriate, and the best part? It comes in all price points!

 Sheer Panel

(Chado Ralph Rucci, Christopher Kane, Emilio Pucci)

And last but definitely not least, the sheer panel trend. This look is ultra feminine and gives you a sexy look and a beautiful silhouette without being too sexy. Sheer panels can be found in pants, dresses, tops etc. Paired with a solid piece, this look will work for both days and night.

So now that you know what the top trends are, it should make it easier for you to update your wardrobe and enter Spring…fashionably. Till next time

I’ve often found it useful, especially during stretches of professional or personal frustration, to think of my life as a long strand of pearls. Each precious little orb is connected to the next one, and to the next. Let’s say each pearl represents a desire, or a goal to meet. The only way to keep your life moving forward is to seize life by the pearls.

How can this strand-of-pearls metaphor work for you? Envision something you really want to be or do, and make that the last pearl at the end of a strand. And the great thing is, you can wear lots of different strands of pearls.

We are all subject to the same risks despite the differences in us.

The Fame Life: What’s the biggest misconception people have about operating a boutique store, regardless of specialty?
Samantha: That it’s easy lol. I think people think that it’s a fun and fabulous job and it can be but it’s so much work. I am always working.. Regardless if I’m in my store or not. I’m always answering emails, sending out packages, doing the accounting, marketing, etc..it’s never ending. Also dealing with some customers can be trying at times.

What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of owning a boutique is that I am my own boss. I make my own hours and come and go as I please. I also love being surrounded by fashion all the time. Can’t beat that!

If you could only buy one new piece of clothing for the fall, what would it be?
A great pair of high boots.

How does style change you from the outside in?
Depending on what I’m wearing affect my mood..I love comfort and usually dress comfortably but when I’m glammed up, I feel beyond fierce.

Name an item of clothing that would put you into a state – of – horror if you were FORCED to wear it. I’m talking out of the house… To work, meeting with friends on a date…
Flared pants..I hate them!! I really, really do lol

Many women can’t make peace with the size on the tag. Why is it so important to give up waging that inner battle?
Oh I see this a lot! What women have to understand is that no 2 company or designers use the exact same measurement. I can wear a 6 from one store and a 10 in another. On top of that, you have to take into consideration the country that the clothes were made in. Italian sizes differs from French and so forth. It’s best to go up or down a size for the best fit instead of being stuck at a number you think you should be and wearing an ill fitted garment.

What’s the craziest thing you ever did to get a guy to notice you?
Honestly I’m shy and a little introverted so I always wait to be noticed or for a guy to approach me. I’m never the pursuer lol.

What are some of the little forgotten things women (and some men) forget about doing before stepping out to a party or event?
To pack small essentials such as mints, small perfume/cologne, tissues, powder, etc. When you are going to an event, you want to make sure you have these items just in case you need to freshen up a bit.

Five items that MUST be in your handbag AT ALL TIMES?
Lotion (anyone who knows me knows I have serious OCD with lotion), lip stick, business cards, my Mac Powder, and a notebook (with a pen..I know that’s technically 6 lol).

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For nearly 30 years, no black woman was cast as the lead of a major network drama. That’s all changed within the last 18 months, as two shows with black female stars now appear on prime time, and more appear to be in the pipeline.

She has been deserving of this for such a long time, but there’s always someone else who gets it. Well now it’s Meagan’s time to shine!

Now NBC has been trying to push Meagan Good for a long while. Is this their chance to finally do it? My answer is yes. This will elevate both her and Kerry Washington (of ABC’s series “Scandal”).

Now honestly, Meagan Good has everything NBC looks for in a top actress. According to most broadcast nets, a lead actress needs general acting talent, good delivery, and some sex appeal. I believe that Meagan has all of these qualities.

As far as it comes to the battle for ratings I think it’ll be a great sell point: Meagan is one of the most talented actresses in the “Black Hollywood” community.

Something I am afraid of though is that there might be the perception of Meagan’s show coming off as a copycat of the ABC series, which is not the case.

I know the ‘community’ wants to start a feud between Meagan and Kerry, but they are insulting her and us because I know I’m not the only one who wants her pushed right?

Let me sum it up.

Meagan Good is an amazing actress who deserves a push. She has just received a spot on primetime television on the biggest network and is looking to win it.

She is just ready to break out, but if NBC is just temporarily putting her in there to push viewership to a choice between Meagan and Kerry then that is just like a big slap in the face to Meagan. Basically I hope the show gets pushed sooner than later.

Whether its a backless dress or a J.Lo-style plunging neckline that creates a head-turning effect, there’s always a need for a little backup when it comes to making sure all of our goods stay–well–in the right places.

So we’ve put together a few essentials to have on hand so you can tackle the problem before it ever becomes an issue. Here’s our list of products that can help prevent that ever-dreaded wardrobe malfunction. Hollywood’s most fashion-forward stars depend on some of these gadgets and tapes on the red carpet, and you can too!

After all, it’s not easy getting glam!

And oh, how caring he is—the most understanding man and the best listener you’ve ever met. He sends you flowers, calls to check in with you throughout the day, just because. He places you on a pedestal so high you can touch cloud nine. He satisfies your needs—at least one or two of them—until he’s forced to leave skid marks in your doorway to get home to “them.”

In his eyes, you’re perfect. Not quite perfect enough to immediately leave his wife and sweep you off the market so no other can have you, but perfect enough to be his mistress for like ever—or until his wife figures out he’s cheating—whichever comes first. Of course this isn’t an issue because you didn’t want a monogamous, committed relationship with a man who puts you first anyway or you have had trouble keeping men who are not married. God forbid both of you have kids. Sheesh.

Do you believe that you can achieve the happiness you are seeking out of a relationship with a married man? That question is almost rhetorical, since if the answer were yes, then you would not be seeking advice to begin with.

If a married man knew how to handle a woman, and the relationship, would not his own marriage be happy? Often, a married man seeking a woman will comment that they are not happy in the marriage. To put it bluntly, happiness is what you make it. If that man put forth the effort into his marriage that he is putting into finding a new woman, things might be different.

Simply, if that man knew how to handle his relationship, why would he have a problem with his wife? What makes you so sure he is serious into you at this time?

By saying the kind of things you want to hear, they trap your imagination and make you a product to satisfy their lust. Think about this. If honesty in a relationship is important to you, then how could you be dating a married man? While he is dating you, everyday he must lie and deceive his wife. At what point would you begin wondering if he is lying to you? Before you comment that he would not, think about it. God forbid you are giving out relationship advice or participating in blog discussions criticizing others relationships.

One thing that is common in extra-marital relationships is the married man sets all the rules for the relationship. Are you willing to lose your individuality and personal freedom for someone that may not be able to be there when you need them? The reality is you will never have personal freedom. He will set all the rules and let you know when you can call or see him. In the meantime, you will wait as the world, and honest men, pass you by.

If two of the top criteria for finding a partner are honesty and reliability, then how does a married man fit into the picture? Love should never include dishonesty. If your partner is in a relationship and has to lie or sneak away to be with you, then love does not truly exist. If the relationship is purely sexual, then how do you expect to survive in a full relationship?

Even better, these theories that others have of women who date married men are “bulls@#t” in your eyes. But in reality, these are things that people have already declared in their minds upon hearing excuse #46549 why your ‘boyfriend’ wasn’t able to make it to your social gathering:

You have low self esteem… and you’d like to keep it that way. Let’s face it, nothing says “I hate me” more than to willingly accept the second-class stepchild status you’ll be relegated to for the entirety of your relationship with this man.

You’re no “ho”—hos do it for free. You’re so right. There’s another term for women who do it for pay. Hey, he’s wining and dining you, buying clothes and jewelry, paying a bill or two (maybe even the mortgage). Way to blow the kids’ college fund. It’s all good though because fair exchange is no robbery. Just be thankful you can’t put a price tag on character. That would really suck.

You just want sex and don’t want or need a commitment. Hmph. Too bad his wife did. Still, it’s great that you found someone who gives you exactly what you want. Thank goodness you’ll never need more.

The unexpected doorbell ringing at 10pm. Perhaps he’ll leave after his wife after she finds out about your affair and throws his stuff out onto the street, you know, kind of like quitting your job after you got fired. Then you’ll have a real prize on your hands. A man who can appear at your doorstep with some of those belongings thrown out to him, as he is now ready to devote his attention to you full-time.

You, did want him enough to date him, right? If so, what’s wrong with him finally ditching his wife to wear off his wedding ring tan with you full-time? Is it still worth the game-playing, even if the single men on the market ‘play too many games?’

If so, that’s too much work for a come-up.

The question now becomes what will this accomplish. She is entangled in a feud/love triangle with Budden and his latest trophy piece, keeping her eye away from the bartending scene, which I believe is personally a good thing. But the reality TV attention can only last for so long, so what then?

For me, I’m still seeing the same cookie cutter reality cast member that is on any other series. I still see her as being made to be better than the rest of the divas on the reality series who only loses when it’s time to show their backsides in a butt shaking contest. Technically the only ones to outright beat her cleanly are….am I really writing this?

My biggest complaint of Tahiry comes in the personality and chairsma department, which she has never been to in the Reality Star Superstore. Although it’s early, she seems to be having the same problems whether as a publication model or TV stallworth and that’s with making people care enough whether to like her or hate her beyond being another face who’s best asset is her backside.

It will also be interesting to see what this does to other urban models moving forward. The scene is now seriously weak with Tahiry and Mizz DR being the only faces. Whether she admits it or not, a hibernation is inevitable, sooner rather than later. With Tahiry’s sudden reality fame, she could become the oldest and longest tenured urban model and true savior, getting a final run, ala legendary urban vixen Esther Baxter.

Whatever happens, it should be interesting. I’ll say this though, reality TV star Tahiry Jose is much more interesting than urban model vixen in at least one sense: I can outright laugh at her now with no problems.

Consider your exes – would you ever consider getting back together with any of them? If you don’t even have to think about the answer, and it’s a resounding NO, then ask yourself what was so wrong with them. Are you the partner who usually does the dumping? Or the one who always is the one to break up first? Sometimes finding fault in every single guy you date can signal your desire to avoid intimacy. Compare your own behavior and characteristics with those you feel strongly about in your partner – perhaps you may dislike those characteristics because you see them in yourself.

Saying No the Nice Way

When it comes to matters of the heart, there is nothing more painful than unrequited love. Even if you are the one who doesn’t reciprocate the emotions, it can still be a hard situation to handle. If you aren’t interested in a suitor, you don’t want add insult to injury. Although the truth is going to hurt, lessen the blow by following some of these helpful hints. Be honest. Let him know you just aren’t feeling it. Turn him down gently by explaining that although he is a great guy, you don’t think of him in a romantic ways. If you feel it necessary, play the friends card. Explain that you don’t want to jeopardize your friendship. In some cases, you may want to do a self-deprecation act. Point out all of your faults and list the reasons you wouldn’t make a good partner. Whatever you do, don’t lead him on.

Do not give him false hopes or empty promises that the situation could change in the future. Sometimes saying “no” nicely just isn’t enough. If the courtship continues, be firm. Make it clear that a relationship between the two of you is going nowhere fast. What if he still doesn’t take “no” for answer? Desperate times call for desperate measures. Cut ties with him. Don’t take his calls. Ignore his texts. Avoid him at all costs. You don’t want to add fuel to the fire — so put some serious distance between you and him. When killing him with kindness doesn’t work, it’s time to get serious. Shut it down before it becomes a problem.

And it is, after all, safer and much better for your relationship to keep the fantasies in your head than acting on them. The problem with fantasies comes when they overtake one partner’s desire for the other. And if a fantasy is absolutely necessary in order for one partner to become aroused or have an orgasm, then it’s definitely a problem. The object of your fantasy might be someone you know in real life, which can be a problem if you are willing to act on the fantasy and cheat on your partner. Examine the way your fantasies play out – do they involve aspects that are missing from your relationship? If that’s the case, then your relationship could be in trouble. Perhaps acting out your fantasies in a role-play fashion can spice up your relationship and ultimately save it.

Maybe the Sex just isn’t working?

Sex. You’re doing it wrong. At least that’s what some women are dying to tell their partners. Even the most experienced of men may make a mistake or two in the bedroom from time to time and some end up fumbling more times than their favorite football team.

Many women pride themselves on their ability to convincingly fake an orgasm, thereby putting an end to less-than-satisfying sex.

There are plenty of reasons women pretend to be satisfied. Maybe it’s not happening for real because they’re tired, distracted, anxious or stressed out. Some women have pain during intercourse or have never experienced a climax, so they fake to put an end to an act that just isn’t that enjoyable. (Guys fake it too, by the way, and for the same reasons as women.)

Some experts say it’s OK to fake, but only on very rare occasions. Sexologist Isadora Alman compares it to throwing a frozen lasagna in the oven because you don’t feel like making dinner, or wearing the same clothes you did yesterday because you don’t have time to shower. Those time savers are forgivable every so often but certainly not every day.

Kerner adds that he can think of a few times when pretending is permissible. If you’re sleeping with someone you never plan on seeing again, faking is OK to get the act over with. It might also be all right if you’re with a new partner. “Many women do not orgasm the first few times they sleep with a guy,” he says. “If it’s your first time having sex with a guy, maybe, just maybe, I’d cut the woman some slack.”

But isn’t faking good for a relationship sometimes, if only to preserve your man’s ego? Absolutely not, Kerner and Alman say.

“Guys are not going to freak out at getting some sexual feedback,” Kerner says. “They’re a lot more likely to freak out if they find out you’ve been faking it.”

Alman says the only path toward a real orgasm is to talk to your partner about it – especially if you find yourself faking regularly. Wait until you’re not in bed, she says, and express what you need to climax.

“A lot of men will see this as an indictment,” she says. So she suggests reassuring your guy by saying something like, “It’s not that I don’t love you. It’s not that you’re not a good lover or I’m not satisfied with the size of your equipment.”

If you know what satisfies you, Alman says, gently suggest that your partner try it – whether you need a vibrator, a bit more foreplay, whatever. Once your partner sees the difference in how you respond, he should take the hint. And if you’ve never had an orgasm, be honest. An attentive partner will be happy to help you figure out what does work.

After all, you’re not going to get what you want unless you ask for it.