Martine Thompson

United States

Writer at Freelance

Articles

An Insider’s Guide to Black Los Angeles (and Beyond)

1 week ago | wmagazine.com | Martine Thompson

Alta Adams. Courtesy of Alta AdamsWe may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article. Ever wish you could text the most stylish people in the world to ask them for their lists of things to do in the places they know best? Here are insider travel tips for those who would never be caught dead in a tourist trap.
8 Black-Owned Beauty Drops That Deserve The Hype | Essence

3 weeks ago | essence.com | Martine Thompson

What if your beauty products did more than moisturize? What if they held memories? Reflected culture? And even elevated your mood? These drops don’t just work—they mean something. They’re the skincare pens, the candles, and the perfumes that feel equivalent to a wink, a deep breath, or a hug from someone who really sees you. Let’s raise a glass to Black-owned beauty and wellness brands that not only offer quality, but deliver an experience, too.
Ms. Tina Knowles on Her Memoir 'Matriarch,' Bringing Her Granddaughters on the Cowboy Carter Tour, & Mothering Beyoncé & Solange Differently

1 month ago | wmagazine.com | Martine Thompson

Ms. Tina Knowles. Photo by GettyWe may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article. It’s a gift when a woman shares her story, and even more when she reminds us that one’s identity doesn’t have to be subsumed by roles like mother or wife. Behind the scheduling, the doting, and tending to others’ needs, there’s a version of you that existed long before—and despite everything, she’s still there: wise, whole, and worthy.
Why More Black Women Are Going Blonde In 2025 | Essence

1 month ago | essence.com | Martine Thompson

When I was 19, I went to a college party with my friend, who was also a Black girl. As we mingled with strangers—as one does—we ended up chit-chatting with two random white guys. One guy was friendly and easygoing, but his friend, let’s call him Party Guy, seemed visibly uncomfortable making small talk with us. He was the kind of guy who acted like being friendly and respectful to someone he didn’t deem desirable would surely translate as flirting—or worse, romantic interest.
How 'Sinners' Celebrates the Rich Tradition of Black Vampire Stories

2 months ago | elle.com | Martine Thompson

In Sinners, blood isn’t just life—it represents memory, resistance, grief, and desire. It flows thick and slow through the Delta heat of 1932 Mississippi, where twin brothers Stack and Smoke (both played by Michael B. Jordan) open a juke joint that pulses with rhythm and energy. They think they’re creating a sanctuary, a space to dance, to dream, to forget. But what they find is older than music, older than the land itself: vampires, hidden in plain sight.
'Sinners' Celebrates the Rich Tradition of Black Vampire Stories

2 months ago | yahoo.com | Martine Thompson

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."In Sinners, blood isn’t just life—it represents memory, resistance, grief, and desire. It flows thick and slow through the Delta heat of 1932 Mississippi, where twin brothers Stack and Smoke (both played by Michael B. Jordan) open a juke joint that pulses with rhythm and energy. They think they’re creating a sanctuary, a space to dance, to dream, to forget.
Coffee Table Book "Fresh Sets" Is A Treat For Nail Art Lovers - Essence

2 months ago | essence.com | Martine Thompson

For Tembe Denton-Hurst, a fresh manicure isn’t just a beauty routine—it’s a ritual that marks her transformation into her most confident self. While she appreciates intricate nail designs, she prefers efficiency—a quick, grounding session to reset amidst her packed life. Between writing about beauty, penning her debut novel Homebodies (with a second one on the way), and curating the book-centric Substack Extracurricular, Denton-Hurst knows how to juggle passion and purpose.
Evalyn Denis On Doing Doechii's Microbraids - Essence

2 months ago | essence.com | Martine Thompson

Saturday night, Doechii took center stage at Billboard’s Women in Music event, radiating her signature power and grace as she accepted the Woman of the Year award. Known for her head-to-toe glam and dynamic performances—Doechii consistently inspires others to embrace fun and creativity in their own looks. The latest addition to her style repertoire? Microbraids swept into a relaxed updo, with a few strands framing her face effortlessly.
Black Women Perfumers On The Power Of Crafting Fragrances | Essence

Mar 21, 2025 | essence.com | Martine Thompson

Oh, the sweet possibilities of a great perfume. It’s an unseen accessory that can preserve memories, awaken the senses, and even disarm people with its delightful (or off-putting) smell. For years, Black women have been quietly shaking up the fragrance space, crafting avant-garde, thought-provoking, and captivating scented art. Not to mention, all of this is often done from the sidelines, yet never lacking in impact.
13 Hydrating Body Butters Taking the Skincare Spotlight

Mar 18, 2025 | wmagazine.com | Martine Thompson

Is the dry, late-winter air leaving your skin parched? Body butters are the perfect solution to your problem: thick, rich, and packed with hydration, they lock in moisture and keep skin soft year-round. You might be wondering, what’s the difference between body butter, body lotion, and body cream? Lotion is light and quick-absorbing—perfect for a no-fuss daily routine. Body cream is thicker, and great for combination-to-dry skin. But body butter?