Former “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Kandi Burruss has been on quite a journey. After her R&B group Xscape split in 1998, Burruss went on to co-write the Grammy-winning hit “No Scrubs” for TLC. Her songwriting credits also include collaborations with artists like Ariana Grande, Ed Sheeran, and Pink.
She’s made her mark on Broadway, producing the Tony-nominated “The Piano Lesson,” the upcoming revival of “The Wiz” in 2024, and a highly anticipated “Othello” in 2025 featuring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. Burruss, who won “The Masked Singer,” also produced “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone,” which starred Taraji P. Henson and Cedric the Entertainer. She recently wrapped up her role as Angelique in the musical “And Juliet,” set to preview on March 30.
“This isn’t just a play; it’s an experience,” Burruss, now 49, mentioned in an interview. She emphasized the talent of director Debbie Allen and the cast, hinting at something really special ahead.
Burruss describes herself as a “sweatsuit and sneakers kind of person,” but her wardrobe, styled by Danielle Hawkins, reflects as much flair as her career achievements. Right now, she’s gearing up for her annual spring break theme park trip in Florida with her children. So, what’s on her packing list?
“Crush’s swimsuits are quite sexy; I always receive compliments on them, especially with all the jewels they come with,” she shared.
“This bracelet is understated yet stunning. It stacks well with a watch or can stand alone beautifully,” she added.
“I’ve always loved aviators. Some designer shades look great in pictures but can feel over the top in real life. These are different—they really enhance whatever you’re wearing without trying too hard.”
“I’m really proud of Kandi Coated Cosmetics,” she said about her brand launched in 2018. “Our lipsticks, especially Heartbreaker, have a smooth application and bold colors that we absolutely love.”
“This suit I’m wearing is sophisticated yet super comfortable, it fits beautifully, and makes you feel really put together,” she explained.
“My AP Watch is a classic. Anyone who sees it on my wrist recognizes it,” she remarked confidently.
“It’s versatile for errands during the day or as a clutch for dinner. I love it so much that I have it in four colors. The leather feels incredibly soft, almost like a pillow,” she mentioned.
“This product makes my skin glow for days after using it,” she added.
“I probably have way too many Wolford bodysuits. Honestly, I don’t even know the number; let’s just say I have enough for a separate drawer. They provide the best silhouette and work with practically everything—jeans, skirts, tailored pants, blazers—you name it.”
“This moisturizer is incredibly hydrating; my skin feels like butter after using it,” she noted.
“I can wear these shoes and walk around the theme park all day without a problem,” she shared.
“‘Off the Hook’ really takes me back to a time when we were evolving as women and artists. I’ll always have a soft spot for this album because it captures that era and marks a moment of self-discovery for me,” she reminisced.
“I tend to mix luxury makeup brands with more budget-friendly options, and this one has never disappointed me,” she commented.
“The long-lasting, warm scent—combining vanilla, musk, and amber—has become one of my signature fragrances,” she filled in.
Finally, she mentioned, “This book was a huge help when I first entered the entertainment industry. It changed my perspective on managing money.”
