Kelly Bensimon Introduces Her Jewelry Line

Kelly Bensimon introduced her 2011 Summer jewelry at Cindy Barshop's Completely Bare Salon in New York last night, June 30, 2011.

Credit: Getty Images (Cindy Ord)

Cindy Barshop Fires Back At Former Employee

Photo Credit: Wire Image (Navarro)

Cindy Barshop is speaking out against a disgruntled former employee who claims that she was fired for being black saying that the employee is the real racist -- and it's hurting her business.

The newest Real Housewives of New York star filed a suit today saying that the employee was fired for "disciplinary and other work performance problems, including client complaints."

She also said, "In an effort to mask her own deficient work performance and serial on the job screw-ups, Collier, in a racist fashion, asserts that her race, national origin and skin color were the basis for her termination."

Cindy Barshop's Interview With TV Guide

Downtown denizen Cindy Barshop — single mom of twins and owner of the Completely Bare spa empire — is the latest addition to the Big Apple brigade, and she is so keeping it Real.

TV Guide Magazine: You have two baby girls and a business. Why add TV to your workload?

Barshop: I'd just given birth and I am the type who always likes changes. So I think it was a little bit of "baby brain," and a little bit that I enjoy new opportunities.

TV Guide Magazine: Who did you click with?

Barshop: I stayed with my brunette tribe. I immediately clicked with Jill, and I get Kelly. [Laughs] Her whole quirkiness and fun... She's like "granola" good.

TV Guide Magazine: What kind of drama did you get caught up in?

Barshop: A lot. I thought I wasn't gonna have any drama, so I guess Bravo's brilliant because when they mix these girls together — there's a lot going on. Morocco is where most of the separation happens.

TV Guide Magazine: Is there a moment where fans will be like, "We love Cindy"?

Barshop: I think it's when I finally stand up to somebody who nobody usually does.

TV Guide Magazine: How do you think your girls will feel when they're old enough to see you on the show?

Barshop: I think they're going to be proud of me. On reality shows, nobody [looks] perfect. But I think they portray you for how you are. At least, I hope it comes off that way!

The Real Housewives of New York City airs Thursdays at 10/9c on Bravo.

Credit: TV Guide (Damian Holbrook)