Queen Latifah unveils new fragrance

There doesn't seem to be too much left on Queen Latifah's  to-do list. After all, once you've amassed a resume with Oscar-nominated actress, singer, rapper, author, spokesperson and role model on it, what's left?

How about developing a signature scent? The idea was certainly appealing to Latifah, who was actively involved in the creation of "Queen," a line of fragrances, lotions and body butters just unveiled at Macy's stores across the country. And although she is the face of Cover Girl cosmetics and happily touting her perfume, Latifah is still about girl power, from the inside out.

"I have always believed that beauty really does start on the inside. It's like a state of mind, a state of love if you will," she said.

Her energy and verve is infectious and among the reasons close to 500 fans gathered at the Almeda Mall Macy's two hours before her 3 p.m. meet-and-greet. She had just minutes to chat a bit about her newest gig before thrilling her loyal subjects.

Q: Your reach spans all facets of entertainment and fashion. Why a fragrance now? 


A: I love fragrance and the idea of having one of my own, that was tailor-made for me and my own sensibilities, I thought it was a fantastic idea — ego aside.

Q: There are a lot of celebrity fragrances out there. What was your involvement like with the creation of Queen?


A: Initially a lot of the ingredients smelled nice, but they weren’t how I wanted to be represented for my first fragrance — they were a little too mature or a little too sweet. I tried about 50 different scents before I decided on the warm and sexy fragrance that is Queen. I wanted the bottle to represent the strength of a woman: loving and strong, compassionate and sensual. The raised heart on the face of the bottle expresses what I always say, “Love steps out first."

Q: You are a frequent red carpet walker. What styles do you like and what would you like to see for curvier women?


A:  For the red carpet, I choose looks that are sophisticated and polished. I like gowns to express my inner confidence: strong fashion statements that are modern and memorable.

Q: Who are your favorite designers?


A: In the photo for the ad campaign for Queen fragrance, I wear one of the most fabulous gowns ever - made especially for me by Romona Keveza in my favorite color, red.

Q: What are some words that describe you?


A:  Confident. Sensual. Strong. Loving. Sexy.

• fragrance, Macy's, Queen
• Queen Latifah

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