Scaly Lips

We often suffer from scaly lips especially during the cold season. The trick is to exfoliate your lips with a toothbrush and slather it with a petroleum jelly. The toothbrush exfoliates lips while the petroleum jelly leaves lips extra soft. Repeat a couple times a day until your lips are no longer scaly

Secrets to Beautiful Skin

Written and contributed by: Natalie Hogarth

Beauty Tip: What is the single best thing you can do for your skin?

Quite simply - wear sunscreen. Ultraviolet radiation damages the skin and can lead to wrinkles, premature aging, age spots, and cancer. Take extra precautions to make sure your skin is not exposed to the sun's rays. Use a natural sunscreen, or a moisturizer that contains sunscreen (at least SPF 15) everyday.

What is the second best thing you can do for your skin?

Drink lots of water. That means at least 8 glasses of water a day. Drinking water is one of the best ways to keep your skin healthy. Water helps to hydrate the skin and move waste and nutrients through the system.

Beauty Tip: Things you do daily for your skin.

Aside from the sunscreen and the water consumption, exercise, rest, and good nutrition lay the foundation for beautiful, healthy skin. A proper diet is not only good for your overall health, it also helps to ensure that your skin will receive all of the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that it needs to maintain and repair cells.

Ways to combat the dry skin that comes with age.

Older skin has fewer sweat and oil glands than younger skin. Dry skin may be caused by frequent baths, certain cosmetics or medications. Avoid using harsh soaps when bathing, and if possible, cut back on the number of baths or showers each week. A sponge bath with warm water may help to clean and revive skin without stripping the skin of its valuable moisturizers. Whenhe foundations for a healthy skin care regimen. Continue moisturizing throughout the day to keep skin healthy. Your hand you do use soap, try using a natural very mild soap that does not contain any dyes, parabens or perfumes. Follow up the bath with a moisturizing lotion concentrating on problem dry areas. A good all natural moisturizer is one of ts and face are particularly susceptible to daily damage, and may need to be moisturized several times.

Wearing Headbands is a New Hot Trend

Retro fashion is making a come back. Be it evening parties or lunch dates.
You can style curly or wavy hair with narrow head bands.
For evening parties, you can spruce up with crystal studded headbands.
Curly and frizy hair can get through a bad hair day, leaving you fuming. Set right your hair, with a headband.

The Essential Skin Care Routine

Written and Contributed by Natalie Hogarth

It doesn't need to be elaborate but these 3 steps are essential? You can add additional laying steps such as applying a toners or an exfoliant as your skin demands but these 3 are the essential steps.

1. Cleanse: Wash your skin thoroughly on a daily basis to remove the dirt, debris, pollutants, and perspiration that accumulates on a daily basis. If you have dry or sensitive skin, use only warm water to wash your skin and use a mild natural cleanser every few days. If you have normal or oily skin, be sure to wash with a gentle cleanser on a daily basis.

2. Moisturize: Unless your skin is very oily, you will want to use a moisturizer everyday to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Your skin needs moisturizer all year long as both the indoor winter heat, and summer sun can be equally damaging to your skin.

3. Protect: Use a sunscreen when possible, regardless of whether or not you plan on spending much time in the sun. The sun's rays are very damaging and if you get in the habit of applying sunscreen.

What is the difference between a moisturizer and a serum?

They are two different products and serve different purposes. A moisturizer hydrates the skin with humectants and prevents water loss.

A serum contains high concentrations of specific ingredients like antioxidants that helps maximize absorption. Serums aren't designed to be moisturizing although some contain a humectant like glycerin so check the ingredients on your serum. Otherwise you will need both - the serum first and then the moisturizer.

How to combat excessive perspiration

Try Secret Platinum Protection because it contains a high percentage of aluminum zirconium a very effective antiperspirant ingredient. If that over the counter product doesn't help then investigate a prescription called Drysol with 20 percent aluminum chloride. If the prescription doesn't help then you can investigate getting Botox injections under the arm. The injection blocks the signal that trigger sweat production. If you only sweat when you are nervous then try Garment Guard Shields, which are also helpful.

Nail Care

What is one of the best things you can do for your nails?

Drink water ! Brittle nails can be attributed to dehydration so make sure you are getting enough water.

Common Nail ailments - How to avoid brittle nails?

Drink water and make sure if you are going to be working with soaps and detergents to wear rubber gloves? Also you make be surprised to learn that some skin care products and perfumes have alcohol in them which can dry out your nails.

Beauty tip :

Try enjoying a glass of milk to improve your nail strength You could also try soaking your hands in milk for five minutes to strengthen nails and hydrate skin. Milk is loaded with lactic acid, a natural alpha-hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates dead skin, and its high calcium content will strengthen fragile nails.

How to avoid peeling nails?

Your nails could be coming in contact with harsh astringents so try an oil rich soap or cocoa butter.

How to make your lipstick last longer?

To keep your lips going all day, first pencil all over lips with a soft lip pencil. (A shade that is similar to the lipstick you are going to be applying) Apply lipstick over and blot.

Eye Foundation

Why do I need eye foundation?

Everyone should use eye foundation because it makes your eye make-up last longer, prevents creases in your eye shadow and prevents smudges. This is especially important in the summer months when you tend to sweat more and due to allergies your eyes may be itchy and watery.

How do I apply eye foundation?

Use either the supplied wand or make-up sponge to apply across the eyelid an up to the eye brow? Eye Foundation tends to be thicker then most foundations - so keep in mind a little goes a long way.

Dry Skin Relief

Some causes of dry skin:

• Cold weather and low humidity
• Central heating can make air dry which can cause dry skin.
• Ageing - Lower estrogen levels, thinning skin, and the fact that our skin can not produce enough oils are some of the reasons our skin is more prone to dryness as we age.
• Dry skin affects people who have skin type I or II more frequently.
• In some cases dehydration, malnutrition, diabetes, eczema or low thyroid hormones can cause dry skin.

Treating dry skin:

• When you shower use lukewarm water and don't take long showers or baths.
• Apply moisturizer while skin is still damp to seal in moisture.
• Use mild soap and avoid perfumed soaps.
• Use a humidifier at home.
• Avoid skin care products that contain alcohol.
• Use moisturizers which contain emollients. Emollients, such as urea and mineral oils, soften skin and provide a barrier to keep moisture in and harmful agents out. Your moisturizer should also have lipids (fat or waxes) such as cholesterol, lecithin or glycerol.
• Dry skin can cause flaky and rough skin. To get rid of the layer of dead skin use a gentle exfoliant containing alpha hydroxy acid or beta hydroxy acid.
• Wear sunscreen.
• Apply moisturizer frequently.

Summer Short Layered Hair Styles

Regardless of the season you'll have the chance to flaunt the beauty of your asymmetrical haircut. The summer layered short hair styles adopt some of the tendencies of past seasons and also manage to bring various new inventions to perk up the hair styling repertoire. Pick the look that would suit your hair texture and mirrors your refined sense for cute hair dressing tricks. Feel free to experiment with the classy as well as groovy designs until you spot the one that would make you feel the queen of summer for the hot days.

Messy Layered Short Hair


Using simply your fingers and a drop of gel or mousse to tousle the well-defined and tamed strands is one of the latest trends of hair styling. Indeed the Boho and more relaxed style is created with less effort than any other pop hairdo. First and foremost ask a hair guru to grant you with the voguish uneven steps and sections be it placed in the front or back section. Messy layered short hair styles revive the alternative looks as well as banish the moth-eaten rules of hair styling.

There's no need to get rid of the flyaway instead fake the static effect with the help of the best hair styling products and add some definition to the choppy hair ends. It is not a rule to sport only high brow and defined hair styles for the summer. Instead reflect the breezy allure of the windy weather with your purposely tousled and messed haircut. Enhance the tresses with volume by going for asymmetrical and more layers. Whereas the longer ones will soften the trend and would help you sport a more classy do.

Natural Beauty Tips

Not everyone wants a complete makeover as some like to preserve a more natural appearance. Let's face it, many men are attracted to the low-maintenance, "girl-next-door" look and accomplishing that can be just as challenging as looking model-perfect.

So, how do you achieve a desirable look without the heavy use of cosmetics and makeup? Our natural beauty tips and advice will help you do just that, and put you on the path to a beautiful, unaffected, you.

Practice a Healthy Lifestyle

Natural beauty is akin to an overall healthy appearance. Start with a better lifestyle. Your own attitudes and daily life reflects in how you look to others. Take care of your body and it will take care of you.

Eat a proper, well-balanced diet. Food that's good for your body helps your internal organs function properly and shows on the outside as well. The trick is to read the labels carefully and eat healthy foods with minimal preservatives. Good nutrition is key to your outward appearance and longevity.

The best skin in the world will not overcome a flabby body. Get in good physical shape if you've been slacking off. Set some reasonable fitness goals to get your body fit and trim. Begin with short-term goals and set new ones once they're achieved.

Skin Care Tips

Water plays a crucial role. For radiant skin, stay hydrated to keep your skin soft and supple. Seal in water externally after a shower by applying lotion to damp skin.

Look for all-natural, organic and herbal recipes for basic skin problems. Whether it's dry skin or blemishes, you can target the areas that need it most, foregoing chemicals that can be irritating to your skin.

As you age, you'll hit some bumps along the way. Care for your skin as you do your most prized possession and you'll see the benefits quickly, as well as years from now.

Don't want leathery skin? Lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by reducing exposure to the sun's dangerous rays. When enjoying outdoor activities, apply a sunscreen with SPF of at least 15 and re-applying when necessary.

Wearing Makeup, Naturally

If you wish to wear makeup, utilize only the best cosmetics brushes and beauty tools to enhance your finest features and cover flaws. This allows you to apply only the amount that is needed while blending in any excess color.

Apply a tinted moisturizer or sheer foundation with a damp sponge. Either one will allow your natural skin tone to show through while covering minor imperfections.

Creme or liquid blush blends more naturally than powder. Apply to the apple of your cheeks, outwards, into your hairline to prevent makeup lines.

Don't want to overdo your eyes? You can now enhance your own eyelashes without adding clumps or colors. New, clear mascara is available to separate your lashes and give them luster and shine.

Reduce Stress

Stress is an unfortunate fact in today's fast-paced lifestyle and often reflects in your skin and eyes. Make it routine to relax and pamper yourself, daily if possible. This will give you time to slow down and plan the following day.

Become aware of the facial expressions you often make when stressed-out. If you raise your eyebrows often, you could very well end up with permanent wrinkles on your forehead. If you squint because you don't understand something, lines between your brows may become evident.

The Art of Scarf Wearing

In women's fashion, there is one accessory that is often completely overlooked, yet can offer endless possibilities for changing the look of many different pieces in your wardrobe. That accessory, of course, is the scarf. Scarves have been a part of women's fashion for many decades, in fact there are representations of fringed rectangles of fabric found in Chinese sculpture dating as far back as 1000 b.c.

In the 1950s wearing a scarf was something that evoked an air of Hollywood-style glamour, and sophisticated elegance. Film stars such as Lana Turner, Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly wore scarves in the same way that stars today wear fake tan. They would walk from planes with sunglasses and scarves on looking amazing and mysterious and created a whole following for the garment. Scarves are worn less in this way today but are still an important part of a woman's wardrobe.

Scarves are made from a variety of fabrics and also a variety of styles - traditionally scarves were made from silk or wool but the advent of man made fibres have made scarves a bit less likely to be made from natural fibres. Scarves come in many sizes and shapes, and many are designed for specific uses. There are bandanas, large shawl-like scarves, square scarves, rectangular scarves, and triangular scarves. Some scarves have hemmed edges, some have fringed edges, and others (mainly those made from man made fibres) have fused edges.

Scarves can be worn in a variety of ways: you can wear them as head coverings, shawls, accent pieces, belts, and even as garments. They can be tied, pinned with a piece of jewellery, or secured with specially designed scarf pins. Below are several ways of wearing scarves.

Covering the head is one of the traditional purposes for which scarves have been used. This can be for traditional or cultural reasons, to protect the head from the cold or to protect a new hair do from the ravages of the wind.

One of the less traditional ways of wearing scarves is to use them as garments. A scarf can be used as skirt or even as a blouse. It is also a great thing to wrap round your shoulders if you are a little bit chilly

Perhaps the most popular use for scarves is as a fashion accessory. A scarf can completely change the look of a plain garment, and can add a touch of softness and femininity to a suit. They are versatile because they are available in many colours and shapes and also because they negate the need for jewellery.

By Fiona Neo Muler

Why You Should Never Buy a Fake Handbag

Fake handbags are getting more and more popular by the year because let's face it, who doesn't love a bargain? Some of the counterfeit bags are becoming so good that sometimes even fashion professionals have a hard time telling the difference. Aside from the fact that counterfeiters steal from the hard work of fashion professionals worldwide, the main problem lies in the fact that fake handbags are illegal so supporting such businesses opens up a pandora's box of consequences.


Replicas Are Reprehensible
According to the IACC (International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition), 18% of the counterfeit products seized by United States customs were fashion-related items. Knockoff handbags, clothes, shoes, and other accessories are becoming more than just a thorn in the side of the fashion industry. The IACC has also stated that fake products rob the U.S. of more than $200 million a year because counterfeiters don't pay taxes or licensing fees on their products. This means that the innocent tax payer is left to cover this loss by paying even more taxes than usual.

Keep in mind that when you buy knock-offs you are inadvertently supporting terrorists, gangs, and organized crime syndicates because these are the people usually found at the forefront of the black market. If that isn't enough, counterfeit products are also dangerous to your health because knockoffs are produced and sold with absolutely no regulation.

For example, a pair of fake sunglasses can claim to provide full UV protection but with nobody there to make sure, it can be a complete lie. Knockoff sunglasses have also been known to have weak, shatter-prone lenses which can really hurt you if you're not careful.
We can all agree that high fashion is very expensive and most of us cannot afford to constantly spend thousands of dollars on handbags and other fashion staples. The best solution is to become a sale junkie and always be on the lookout for authentic goods which have been reduced in price. Just one real Louis Vuitton handbag is much better than a closet full of fakes.

By Acline Wyle

Stress Relief

How to manage stress

Maybe you just moved or started a new job, or maybe you just always have too many things on your to-do-list; stress is caused by many things and is all too common in our lives.
Change in our life can cause stress and anxiety, especially if we perceive this change as negative.
Unfortunately stress can cause physiological effects such as muscle tension, stomach aches and even headaches.

Tips to reduce stress and its side effects:

Progressive Muscle relaxation: Lay down in a quiet place, close your eyes, and breath in deeply and exhale slowly. Next tense a muscle group, such as your thigh muscles, for about 10 seconds and then relax them. It is best to start with your lower extremities and work your way up. Repeat this with other muscle groups; sholders, feet, legs, stomach and up to your head.


Meditation: Meditation is a focusing of the mind, and for many it brings peace, serenity and stress relief. Two prevelant forms of meditation are mindfulness meditation and transendental meditation.
Yoga: Besides helping manage stress, yoga helps tone muscles, improve flexibility, and improve posture


R and R: Take time to rest and relax. Be sure the rest after a lonf stressful day at work and on the weekend. Hobbies and sports are a great way to relax.


Excersise: Studies show excersise is an excellent way to reduce stress.


Keep a diary: If you have persistent worrying thoughts, write them down in a journal. This will help you put the thoughts aside.


Aromatherapy: Lavender, jasmine, frankincence, myrrh, camomile and orange essential oils are used for relaxation

Identify Why You Smoke and What Motivates You to smoke

Identify why you smoke and what is motivating you to smoke?

We all know that smoking is bad for you but this article is not designed to make you feel bad about being a smoker. It is designed to help you understand why you smoke and understand what motivates you to smoke.


Which one of these smoker profiles describes you?


Impulsive smoker - Are you an impatience quick tempered person who is motivated to smoke when you are feeling deviant. You could have identified yourself as a rebel at one point in your life. For you smoking is pure pleasure like drinking alcohol or having sex. To quit you need to think first and act later. Start by figuring out what is really important to you and taking more responsibility for your actions. Once you commit to quitting you will quit for good.


Compulsive smoker - You light when you are feeling deprived or depressed. You are the type of individual that allows others to push your buttons which results in you getting upset easily and seek comfort in cigarettes. When you can't have them you feel empty and emotionally fragile. You admit that you have an addictive personality and may also worry about gaining weight if you quit. The first thing you need to address is your sensitivity. Learn to take things in stride and understand that you are not going to please everyone all the time. Work on understanding that without a cigarette your body will still function and there is no energy drain except in your own mind and you can over come your fear of being smoke free.


Creative smoker - Are you an artist, writer, entrepreneur. If so it is a good bet that you use cigarettes to boost your confidence and isolate yourself in your own world. Lighting up has becomes a conditioned relaxed response when you enter your creative zone. You tend to be sentimental and the harsh realities of life threaten you and dampen your spirits. It is time for you to start to believe in yourself. You, not cigarettes can bring out your creative ability. Enlist friends and family to help support you and separate yourself from peers that smoke - if only for a short time.


Passionate smoker - You are an intense achiever. You are often motivated to smoke when you feel disenchanted. You expect a lot for others and you are often disappointed by unmet expectations. That is often when you seek comfort in cigarettes. You must be patience with the world and the people in it. Try not to get annoyed with other and concentrate on having more realistic expectations.


Cocky smoker - You have the sense that nothing touches you and you invincible and you can smoke with impunity but you will eventually pay a steep price. You are far to cavalier about the consequences of your habit and how deluded you are about the ease of quitting. Quitting will test your fortitude and resolve. In order to quit you must understand what a formidable opponent you are up against.

Be Careful of Diet Pills

Be careful of diet pills.

Just because something is sold over the counter does not mean that it is safe. In studies of diet pill one leading brand had a daily dose of what is equivalent to 30 cans of soda. Such high levels of caffeine can cause insomnia, tremors, stomach problems and headache. In addition to that some pills when tested have tested out to contain very high levels of chromium a mineral that helps regulate insulin and may aid in weight loss. In some cases there was up to 42 percent more chromium listed then on the label which can cause side effects like dizziness, flushing and even kidney failure.
The bottom line is to think twice before taking weight loss supplements.

Dress for Your Figure

By Anna Lynn C. Sibal


How should we dress to flatter our figures?
It depends on what type of figure we actually have, and there are basically six types of figures.


The skinny type. The skinny type is, well, skinny. Skinny women are those whose bodies are thin, angular, and yes, with very little fat in them. What skinny women would want is to create the illusion of curves, and this illusion of curves is achieved by creating bulk through layering clothes ? vests over tops or dresses over trousers. Aside from layering, wearing clothes with extra details like ruffles, pleats and gathers also add bulk to the body and make it seem curvier.


The top-heavy type. Top-heavy women are women who have bulkier upper bodies and busts that are bigger than their hips. What they would want is to create a balance by playing down the upper body. This can be done by wearing dark tops, or tops that have monochromatic prints, and then pairing them with light-colored pants or skirts. Wearing necklines that give the illusion of length, such as V-necks, will also help tone down the bulky torso.


The bottom-heavy type. Bottom-heavy women are those who have hips that are bigger than their upper bodies. Women with these body types ought to draw the attention away from their hips by wearing light-colored tops that enhance the cleavage and pairing them with sober, dark-colored skirts or pants. The eyes can be further drawn to the torso through the use of chunky necklaces, dangling earrings or long chains around the neck.


The long and lanky type. Women with long and lanky bodies have more flesh than the skinny ones; they are also generally taller. But they have the same concern: how to create the curves that they do not have. The layered look also works for women with this body type. Wide skirts or pants with wide legs in light colors will also work, but never pair them with tops with a low cut.


The petite type. Petite women are those whose bodies are short, lean and thin, but straight. They are small-breasted and do not have waists. These women would need to create the illusion of a waist by wearing a bold belt that greatly contrasts with their tops or their dresses, or full skirts.


The curvy type. Women who have curves should feel good no matter what the sizes of those curves are. Curves are beautiful, and they should be enhanced by clothes that skim the body, like wraparound dresses or blouses, or clothes with fabrics that drape the body. Baggy clothes should be avoided because they only add unwanted bulk.

Top Beauty Foods

In addition to antioxidants helping fend off heart disease and cancer, while keeping our immune systems, the mind and eyes in good shape they also are know as beauty or power foods.


The United Stated Department of Agriculture has put together a list of the 20 foods with the highest concentration of antioxidants.

The USDA's list:

1. Small red beans
2. Wild blueberries
3. Red Kidney beans
4. Pinto beans
5. Cultivated Blueberries
6. Cranberries
7. Artichokes
8. Blackberries
9. Prunes
10. Raspberries
11. Strawberries
12. Red Delicious & Granny Smith apples
13. Pecans
14. Sweet cherries
15. Black plums
16. Russet potatoes
17. Black beans
18. Plums
19. Gala apples
20. Walnuts

Foods that didn't make the top 20 but are also packed with healthy minerals and antioxidants include avocado, asparagus, broccoli rabe, and - dark chocolate.
There's another measure, called Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), which determines how foods absorb. Foods high on this list include kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, beets and many of the same berries that have high TAC.

The perfect food ?

Foods with deep rich colors signify a very strong concentrated dose of antioxidants. And we have studies that show us that berries, in and of themselves, help prevent bladder infections and Alzheimer's, age-related brain decline. Berries have fiber, but the also have vitamins and minerals, and they're low in calories and they're sweet. So they're perfect."
Beans, dried or canned, are wonderful. Canned beans are just as nutritious.
One way to get a lot of antioxidants in one sitting is through a delicious salad. People think of salads as lettuce and tomato, but you can make so many interesting salads with so many personalities by mixing all sorts of healthy foods together.

How to Wear Skinny Jeans

By Cynthia Nellis

Skinny-leg jeans look great on models and celebrities, but can real women pull off this runway look? Sure, if you follow a few guidelines:

• The most slimming look comes from skinny jeans in a dark blue or black wash.
• You don't have to go with skin-tight jeans to get the look of the trend: jeans vary from super-skinny (usually about a 10" leg opening) to a kinder, straight-leg cut (about 14" leg opening).
• One of the key elements for pulling off skinny jeans is to balance it with volume on top including dolman-sleeve tops, bell-sleeve tops or tunics.
• Disguise heavy thighs by wearing a longer, belted tunic over skinny jeans.
• Cover up thick calves by tucking skinny jeans into tall boots.
• Wear heels with skinny jeans for a leg-lengthening look; pointy-toed flats also work.

Breast Cancer Prevention

By Beverly Smith

According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 213,000 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in American women last year. The good news is that there are several strategies that can help reduce the risk.

Consider the following lifestyle changes:

Stay physically active. Regular physical activity (at least 30 minutes 4-5 days a week) has been shown to protect against breast cancer.

Limit alcohol. There is a strong link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer. The type of alcohol consumed appears to make no difference. To help protect against breast cancer, limit alcohol to less than one drink a day or avoid alcohol altogether.

Maintain your health care. Early detection is key: in addition to monthly self examinations, women between ages 20 and 39 should have a clinical breast exam performed by a health care professional at least every three years; women 40 years of age or older should have annual breast exams and mammograms.

Supplement wisely. vitamin D, folic acid and antioxidants all may help decrease risk.

Reduce exposure to xenoestrogens. These chemicals with estrogen-like activity are found in common pesticides and industrial pollutants and as hormone residues in meat, poultry and dairy products.

Avoid exposure to radiation. Limiting the number of chest x-rays, especially at a young age, may decrease the risk of breast cancer.

Talk to your doctor. If you have close relatives with breast cancer, your personal risk is increased. Let your doctor know your family history, and discuss other ways you can help to prevent breast cancer. 

Plus Size Clothing

Fashion aids for bulging bellies

By Anna Lynn C. Sibal

No matter what anyone says, we women are born beautiful. The softness of our features, the gentleness of our curves, and our nurturing nature have been the subject of many an artist in paintings and sculptures, and in music and literature. We women are the muses that have always been the driving forces of art and life. And we still are.

We women are born beautiful. We, however, are not perfect. Admittedly, there are still some blemishes that we need to cover up, like a mole, a scar, a birthmark, a pimple, pockets of fat in our body, and other things like that. We are beautiful, but we are not perfect. And so we try to enhance our best features and hide the unflattering ones away.

A usual problem that most women have with their bodies is a bulging belly. Let?s face it: our bodies are made to retain fat for child-bearing purposes, and the fat is usually concentrated on our hips and bellies. There are so many workouts and diets out there that are designed to get rid of the fat in these areas, but it takes time and special effort to cheat the design of Mother Nature. Some of us have succeeded with flattening our bellies, while some have not.

If you are one of us, a woman with a pouch on her abdomen, what is the best way to hide that pouch? Why, with our clothes, of course! Here are ways to hide that unsightly pocket of fat on our abs.

Tops. When choosing the right top, whether it is a blouse, a shirt or a tee, the one thing we have to remember is to avoid those with elastic waists, or those made from Lycra or any stretch fabric. They will only draw the eyes more to those unwanted curves on our torso rather than hide them. We can also leave the last couple of buttons on our button-down shirts open. It is kind of sexy to look at, and it does not squeeze the belly too much. Also, avoid tucking your tops into your pants. Wearing jackets where the hem ends at the hips will also work wonders in hiding that bulge.

Pants. For slacks, the most flattering ones that will also hide the condition of our bellies are those made of tailored cotton. Zippers should also be at the side; zippers at the front only show unwanted bulge. For jeans, go for the long and lean ones, as well as the straight, narrow or slightly-tapered ones that create the illusion of length for the body.

Skirts. Stay far, far away from flimsy fabrics and pleated skirts. They will only make your pouch and curves more pronounced. Instead, try full skirts, mini-skirts or A-line skirts that can keep your belly in. Semi-stretchable denim skirts work well, too.

Belts. Keep your belts big, wide and chunky. Also, wear them slung around the hips instead of at the waist. Narrow belts will only make the bulge seem bigger.

Hiding your belly with clothes will work well. But if you really want the bulge to go away, do your exercise regularly and rigorously.

Easy Makeover

Olive Skin
Use a tinted moisturizer instead of regular moisturizer but if you have dry skin you use tinted one at the top. To conceal your dark under eye circles. Use a yellow-toned concealer to blend nicely and cover it with a loose powder. Apply powder on your forehead and other shiny part of your face. Use a sheer, berry or plum color lipstick on your lips. You will sure look great.

Fair Skin
Use a moisturizer and foundation with SPF 15. They will protect your skin against the sun. Apply translucent powder to set your foundation. Then stroke peach blush on your cheeks. You can use the same one to line your eyelids too. Apply extra coat of mascara and use a sheer red lipstick for a quick finish.

Rosy Skin
Cover your blemishes and your uneven skin tones with a concealer same shade with your skin. Then apply a berry shade liquid gel blush with your fingers on your cheeks. Put on brown mascara onto your upper and lower lashes. Before applying your lipstick use a tinted balm but if you have rosy lips, apply clear gloss.

Dark Skin
Use an oil free make up. Apply foundation using your fingers or sponge. Use a powder that will match your skin to set the foundation. Then a stroke of brownish red blush will look great on you. Finish it with a coffee or copper colored lip gloss on lips.

What is true beauty and how to truly be beautiful

Good looks is the charm and magnetism in a person which give an individual a feeling of pleasure and contentment. It is the combination of sharp features with a proper face-cut that makes an individual appealing. A beautiful person is admired and respected. Splendor is a real reward of God, for which we must regularly thank the almighty.

A person is considered to be completely gorgeous if he/she is beautiful from inside and outside, which means the outer pretty and lovely looks are not enough you need to be pretty from inside, you should have a pure and beautiful heart along with a beautiful face. There are some other things that sum up to your attractiveness like your charm, elegance, beam gesture, intellect, personality and elegance along with a healthy body, charming youth, complexion and ideal symmetry.All these things with a clean heart which holds warmth for others is said to be a really wonderful human. An individual with all the above mentioned attributes makes him truly wonderful. Your behavior basically is what makes you beautiful. It is usually said that the first impression is the last impression which is true for external beauty too, but then again it is a sensible proverb that all that glitters is not gold now even this contradicts to what is said before. Anyways, thousands of individuals have thousand statements towards the gist of beauty every one unique and right to their perspective. But lastly what goes with all this is beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder.

To be practical enough, the physical beauty is most primarily appreciated; it is later on that we come to identify the inner qualities of that externally beautiful individual. As already mentioned, the outer perfection with a pretty face is a perfect beauty which distributes a large amount of benefits in this selfish world. Right from the childhood where a beautiful and a good-looking child is appreciated and liked, then during the school days, wonderful students get a unique approach from teachers comparatively and naturally in college it is every time a beautiful person that pulls the crowd. Now when you are in 30's and 40's, your charisma still attracts the people, you are still seen upon when in high standard parties. It is obviously a real boon to be born beautiful.

Some people are born wonderful while others can look wonderful with the help of a huge range of make-up tips available to improve each and every feature of your face. A female mostly should look pretty as beauty creates a females confidence and adds glamour to a man's life. A attractive female tends to get more consideration and love from the male governing world. Make-up makes a female look pretty and feel good. Make-up is meant for females and she truly adores doing make-up, but if you truly wish to look a absolute wonderful female it is necessary that you understand the vital essentials of make-up and do it perfectly well. You can obtain a bright and lustrous complexion by using a combination of perfect colors and cosmetics that helpassist you cover and hide any roughness in your facial skin. This will also increase your moral and you will feel more positive when you are anywhere out among a huge crowd where beauty forms an impression.

Women and girls love to do make-up and it their essential desire to look beautiful and as it is rightly said: a woman without make-up is like food without salt. There is a greatstrong feeling of contenment after a perfect make-up, you can hide the flawsmistakes and roughness on your face, and you can highlight your skin texture with perfect strokes of make-up. All this and [a lot more can be done with make-up. To close up in a sentence, a perfect make-up increases your personality and largely builds your assurance. But it is reasonable if you respect and love yourself as what you are, be satisfied with what God has given you, try to develop your inner beauty as your inner beauty is going to last always, outer beauty fades away with time!

Julia Aidan

Choosing a Perfect Holiday Dress!

The holiday season has officially arrived, and along with food, gifts and other festivities there will be parties and galas galore! Once again, we have tracked down the industry’s top fashionistas to ensure you appear every ounce of the stunning goddess you were meant to be.

In this interview I had the pleasure to speak with couture dress designer Yochi Ben, whose gorgeous fashions have graced the editorials and created quite the stir amongst both celebrities and style lovers alike!

BBS: When it comes to creating a show stopping silhouette, fabric with a good drape that smoothes over curves is essential. What fabrics do you recommend for a flattering drape?

YB: Silk charmeuse, or any other soft fabric with a similar texture and weight work best. Remember, for a beautiful drape, you do not want use heavy fabrics which add “weight” and ‘bulk” to the body.

BBS: What are the most important things to consider when buying a holiday dress?

YB: Weight, height and thickness will determine the best style of the dress to flatter a woman’s body shape.

BBS: As a designer you create dresses that uniquely fit your client’s body shape. What styles would you recommend for both curvy and slim silhouettes?

YB: In my opinion, everyone has a “special” dress waiting to be designed and worn that would make the woman feel classy and sexy regardless of her body shape.

If she is top heavy or has a wider bottom with a defined waist, I would accentuate her waist and bust for a feminine silhouette. Leg length is also a very important factor. A woman with shorter legs and a curvy silhouette may look and feel better with a fitted top and lightly flowing longer bottom.

If she is thinner and proportioned then I may design a body skimming dress that accentuates all of her curves.

BBS: What inspires you as a designer to create stunning dresses that have been featured in editorials and worn by celebrities?

YB: It is my passion and drive. I love to see my clients walk into a room or out of a limo and everyone looks at her and can’t help but stare and say “she looks amazing”. I get a lot of satisfaction and pleasure from that and it inspires me to design the next “wow” dress.

BBS: How can readers seeking custom design dresses for this holiday season contact you?

YB: They can contact me directly via www.yochiben.com or alternatively at the contact details listed below!

Yochi Ben Designs

www.yochiben.com

Skirt Styles For Every Shape

Skirt Styles


Warm weather is finally here and its time to kick your wardrobe into gear with the best skirt styles to flatter your shape! Whether you’re looking to minimize curves or create them, here are our quick tips to get you started…

Curvy. An A-line skirt that hits just above, or just below the knee is a timeless classic that naturally flatters a curvy silhouette. This skirt style is narrowest at the waistband and then widens towards the hem, allowing the fabric to lay smoothly over curvy hips and thighs.

Asymmetric styles also look fabulous on a shapely body-line. These styles are typically cut on the bias and for you fashion novices out there, designers cut fabric on the bias to ensure that it lays flat on a curve. A clever trick that we applaud? Absolutely.

Common asymmetric styles include sarongs and wrap skirts.

Thin. When it comes to adding shape to a silhouette, the sky is the limit. I love how a pencil skirt with a tapered hem causes one to pause in surprise at the suddenly shapely bottom that appears. Or, how a tulip skirt adds the right amount of curves and shape to straight hips and thighs.

Look for styles with drape and volume such as flare cuts, pleating and ruche details to flatter your silhouette. Avoid shapeless, boxy cuts as these styles will only emphasize the straight lines of your body.

Tall. Balancing the vertical height of your silhouette is all about hemlines. Long legs look great in skirt styles that hit just above or below the knee. It’s the perfect hem length for showing off your legs without exaggerating their length.

Petite. Petites will benefit from a higher hemline, as this will visually lengthen your body’s leg-line. Shop for skirt styles that range from just above the knee to fashionable minis.***

How to Select the Right Maxi Dress

Kenzo SS'10 RTW

In contrast to last season’s body-con styles, designers have shifted gears and proven that maximum coverage is both stylish and sexy. Sweeping skirts and long sleek dresses flooded the catwalk for Spring/Summer 2010, and the style populous is very pleased.

The maxi dress is a “figure-friendly” trend that can be worn by every body-type, and we’ve got the right tips on selecting the perfect cut for your shape.

Petite: Style details that bring the eye up will visually balance the length of the maxi dress with your height. Soft ruffles and ruche details along the bust line, V-necklines, and empire waistlines, are a simple way to achieve this. Buying a maxi dress in a solid color is a fail-safe option, but don’t limit yourself. Small-scale prints look great on a petite frame, and will not overwhelm the silhouette.

Thin: Shop for maxi-dress styles that are cut closer to the body to define your silhouette. Alternatively, a flattering silhouette can be created by wearing a belt with your maxi to instantly create a defined waistline. Maxi dresses with tucks, ruffles, tiers, and ruche details will add volume and shape to your slender silhouette. Experiment with bold colors, prints, and asymmetric neck-lines to up your wow-factor.

Curvy: When it comes to curvy silhouettes, I love the versatility of a maxi dress for playing up, or disguising curves. Maxi dresses that are fitted along the bodice and drape loosely from the waist, will enhance a curvy bust-line while disguising a full tummy, hips and thighs. In contrast, a belted tunic styles work well to minimize a fuller upper body while adding definition to the waist.

Own It. Maximize the appeal of this trend by topping off your maxi dress with the right accents. It’s generally accepted that these styles can be worn with minimal jewelry, ballet flats, and summer sandals. But why not try something new?

Try balancing out the fullness of a loosely draped maxi dress with a structured jacket. Or, swap out the gladiators for a pair of distressed leather boots. Alternatively, why not bring the drama by pairing a sleek maxi dress with a wide-brimmed hat?

Style is what you make it, and this season’s maxi dress trend is no exception. ***

Photo Credit: Kenzo SS’10 RTW, Courtesy of Style.com

Your Most Flattering Neckline

When it comes to choosing a T-shirt, blouse, sweater or dress, it’s the neckline that is likely to make all the difference between a look that flatters your figure and one that accentuates your less-than-perfect parts. “Often, when an outfit doesn’t work, it’s because of the neckline,” explains Houston stylist and fashion show producer Todd Ramos.

On the other hand, choose the right cut, and you’ll appear taller, slimmer and more stylish. How to create this magic? You have to factor in your bust size, neck length, height and even face shape. Here’s a guide to discovering which necklines work for you.

Sweetheart, Scoop Neck, V-neck and Square Neck
The collarbone and decollete region is one of the most alluring parts of any woman. Wearing an open neckline that shows it off is going to make most women appear longer and leaner, says Ramos. Lower, open necklines like a sweetheart (which is shaped like the top of a heart), scoop, square or V-neck tend to look good on almost every body type and size. “They bring attention to your face and elongate your upper body, especially if you’re petite or have a short neck,” says Ramos. Just make sure you don’t reveal too much.

* Tip: If you’re not well endowed, sweetheart and scoop necklines are best at creating the illusion of curves.

* Bottom line: Great for everyone, unless you’re top heavy or have an especially long neck.

Crew Neck and Boatneck
If you have a long neck, narrow face, small chest or sloped shoulders, a high neckline — one that rests on or very near the collarbone — is your best bet. Crew necks and boatnecks draw the eye out to your shoulders so you appear more balanced and proportioned. In this case, the more substantial neckline gives the illusion of square shoulders, a shorter neck, a fuller face and more ample bust.

* Tip: If you’re pear-shaped, look for dresses in this cut to balance your upper and lower body.

* Bottom line: Crew necks and boatnecks balance out narrow necks, faces, shoulders and small chests. But on the flip side, these necklines can make you look bigger than you are if you have generous curves, a short neck or broad shoulders.

Cowl-necks, Mock Necks and Turtlenecks
By choosing the right amount of coverage, you’ll find there’s no need to shiver in the name of beauty. A true turtleneck that hits a couple of inches below the chin will whittle away your height, making it best for those who want to offset a long neck or face. A cowl-neck, which is a looser version of a turtleneck, naturally drapes at the chest, creating a vertical line that elongates the body. A mock neck hits slightly lower than a turtleneck and serves as a good midpoint if you can’t part with your more covered-up sweaters.

* Bottom line: Trade turtlenecks for mock necks or cowl-necks unless you have a long face or neck.

A Universally Flattering Neckline
Whatever size you are, a halter will flatter your figure. “It gives support and lift to a big bust,” says Ramos. If the halter has a built-in bra, it can create curves where there are none, which is why you see a lot of halter-style bathing suits and wedding dresses. If your arms or shoulders are your trouble spot, Ramos advises topping the halter with a fitted jacket.

The Neckline to Avoid
Strapless clothing may be on every rack in every store, but stylists agree it’s a hard look to pull off — unless you’ve got flawless proportions and a yoga bod like Jennifer Aniston. “A strapless cut can make top-heavy women spill out, and tall, thin women look giraffe-like,” says Ramos. The silhouette may, however, be a boon to petite women, helping them look taller.

Tweak Unflattering Necklines
If you wore crew necks before you figured out it’s not your most flattering neckline, work the scissors. “Cut a crew neck a few inches straight down the middle,” says Ramos. A T-shirt may fray a little, but that’s in vogue, he says. And if you cut a sweater, a few minutes in the dryer will prevent it from unraveling.

With any lower necklines, there’s the risk of going too low and looking inappropriately sexy. Whether your top goes too deep or a V-neck is not your best look, try it over a camisole or slim-fit collared shirt before you toss it. “Layering can breathe new life into a too-revealing top,” says Ramos.

Holly Crawford is a Houston-based freelance writer who has contributed to numerous magazines and Web sites, including Glamour, InStyle, Allure, Cosmopolitan, Shape and Elle online.