Showing posts with label Beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Beauty. Show all posts

Friday, June 29, 2012

How to Make Your Nails Look Great ?

Today I'm going to be talking about nail care and how to really get your nails looking great! We all know the importance of keeping our bodies healthy, but we often forget to take care of our finger and toe nails. With just a few simple tips, your nails can be looking great in no time!





Always choose a file, don't clip!
Filing is better for your nails than clipping your nails. It's going to keep your nails trim while not totally breaking them, like clipping your nails would. This will allow your nails to grow and be healthier overall. But keep in mind: always file in one direction and not in a back and forth motion!

Use a Base Coat
A base coat is a great way to condition your nails while painting them. Again, this will help your nails grow and become stronger and look healthier overall. Plus, it makes your nail polish look better and last longer!

Use an Acetone-Free Nail Polish Remover
Besides being horrible for the environment, acetone is really bad for your nails. It dries them out and eventually can turn them a yellow color. Choose acetone-free polish remover to get your nail polish off without damaging your nails.

Use a Cuticle Cream
You know how annoying those pesky little hangnails are? Well a cuticle cream or balm can help prevent those by moisturizing your nail bed. Apply one every other day to keep your nails looking great and hangnail-free!

How to Remove your Makeup ?

Leaving on makeup longer than necessary can clog pores, especially if it is thick makeup or there is a lot on. Removing makeup as soon as you are finished with it is key to keeping gorgeous skin, especially overnight. However, it can be tricky to make sure all of it is gone. 

And we cannot imagine going to bed without removing my make-up and washing my face. Certainly both removing your make-up and washing your face shouldn’t be seen as a burden. Instead it should be an automatic part of your pre-bedtime ritual. You brush your teeth before going to bed…right??  You need to remove your make-up at night so that your make-up doesn’t sit on your face and clog your pores. Not removing your make-up at the end of the day will mean going to sleep with lots of free radicals, caused by pollution that is clinging to your make-up, on your skin. These free radicals contribute to early aging and cellular damage. As you go about your day dirt, residue, and pollution all collect on your face. You need to remove all of those pollutants before going to bed.



Steps

1. Remove any eye makeup. Use a gentle makeup remover just for eye makeup. Regular makeup remover can irritate the eyes. Make sure you get most, if not all, of any eyeliner and mascara you had on, as well as some eyeshadow.

2. Steam your pores. Drape a towel over your head and hold it over a sink of hot, steaming water. This opens your pores and dislodges your makeup easier for cleansing.

3. Remove your lip color. Apply a small dab of petrolatum jelly to your lips, and gently rub it in with a tissue. Fold in the tissue, and blot the lips.

4. Use a gentle face wash. Most of your makeup should come off on this stage. Be sure the face wash is gentle and you don't scrub harshly. Your skin has been covered in makeup all day and it needs to breathe!

5. Remove any eye makeup that ran while you washed your face. It's pretty common to see a bit of mascara or eyeliner under your eyes, and very easy to remove with a dampened cotton swab.

6. Close your pores with a splash of cool water. Rub in some moisturizer to soothe your skin.

7. Pat your face dry with a towel and rub in a light moisturizer. The rigor of the applying of makeup and removal of makeup can dry out your skin in irritation. Soothe this with a light moisturizer.

Tips

If you don't have eye makeup remover, baby oil on a cotton ball works really well (just make sure to rinse the oil off afterward to prevent break-outs)

Always use a noncomedogenic moisturizer. They don't clog pores.

Alternatively, you can skip the step to remove eye makeup, especially if you don't have mascara on, because the steam will dislodge most of the makeup.

For a more relaxing treatment, try adding orange or eucalyptus scents.

You may also use the HydraMitt which is a microfiber mitt that removes makeup in seconds by using warm water only. It's also very gentle on your eyes and will not scratch your skin like your typical microfiber cloth.

Some olive oil on a soft tissue will work, too.

Warnings
Do not start by washing your face, this dries out the skin and does not get off most of the makeup.
Do not over exfoliate the skin or use abrasive products. These can damage the skin and leave it looking dull and wrinkled.

Things You'll Need

Eye makeup remover
Facial wash
Facial moisturizer
Vaseline

Beards - You Should Have It !!

As a man, you may not put too much thought into the type of beard you're sporting. In fact, you may not put in any thought at all about it. But after you see these nine must-have celebrity facial hair styles, you'll start thinking a lot more about what's on your face. Because, hey, what woman doesn't love a celebrity look-alike?

Going Full Circle


Circle beards -- a mustache that grows around the sides of the chin to meet the beard -- can come in many sizes, but they're all about the shape. If you want a thicker and more natural look, follow Josh Brolin's example. If you prefer to look a little more clean-shaven, opt for a thinner, pencil-like mustache.

What Time is It?


It's 5 o'clock somewhere -- like on your face when you're sporting this shadowy look. Although many men try their hardest not to let their stubble show every day, this scruffy look has become a favorite for celebrities like Joe Jonas. Added bonus: The ladies dig it.

A Hot Mess



Sometimes messy facial hair is a "do," if done right. If you want to give off a laid-back, too-cool-to-care facial hair vibe, the messy beard (as seen on Ryan Gosling, shown here with Rachel McAdams) is the way to go. It lets you keeps things casual and sexy, while still looking completely office-appropriate.

Get the Goatee


Your goatee may not get as much publicity as Brad Pitt's, but it will definitely turn some ladies' heads. Keep it short for everyday occasions, and try pairing it with a thin, clean-cut mustache for a more refined look.

Got Soul?


You may not want to be as "soul-full" as Olympic medal winner Apolo Anton Ohno, but that doesn't mean this look isn't right for you. Draw some extra attention to your chin with a soul patch, the more daring version of the goatee.

Keep it Light



If you want to rock a full beard but aren't willing to take the time to grow it out, a lighter beard like Ryan Reynolds' is the perfect alternative. Let your beard grow for a few days -- just long enough for the hair to be soft, but not long enough to become thick and bushy.

Keeping Up Traditions


Sometimes it pays off to be traditional, like when you want to rock this time-honored beard seen here on Jake Gyllenhaal. To get the look, let your hair grow to a medium length. Keep it clean by sprucing up the "lines" (the area below the bottom lip with no hair) every day.

A Full Dose



Sometimes you've just got to go all out. And if you've got the guts, why not grow out a full beard, like Zach Galifianakis? This macho style looks best when it covers the entire bottom portion of your face, so don't leave room for lines

The Long Haul


While most men choose not to go so extreme when looking for their best beard, you’ve got to give it to these International Alpine Beard Competition contestants: It takes talent. But if you decide on this look, just don't be surprised when kids start referring to you as Santa.


Grooming - Tips Every Men Should Know

After waking up



Most men were taught to comb their hair after waking up, wash their hands before eating and brush their teeth after every meal. But in addition to these basic grooming habits are a few more primping imperatives. Make these a part of your daily routine and be the best fresh-smelling, well-moisturized, healthy gentleman you can be.

Clean and Trim Nails



Dirty and unkempt fingernails can give the impression of poor hygiene. Trim all your nails to the same length and clean underneath them to remove dirt. If the skin around your fingernails is dry or peeling, moisturize it with a few drops of olive oil, then rinse after 10 minutes.

Wash Face Daily



Nearly every beauty magazine she reads tells a woman to wash her face daily, but men should also follow this advice. Use a gentle facial cleanser at the end of each day to remove the dirt, dust and oil that can accumulate on your face.
Groom Unwanted Facial Hair



Humans are naturally hairy creatures, but that doesn't mean you have to be beastly: Don't neglect your nose hair. Trim it at least once a week to prevent the hairs from protruding from your nostrils. Use the nose hair trimmer to remove excess hair in and around your ears as well.

Floss Daily


Your dentist recommends daily flossing for good reason. Flossing removes plaque and any remaining food particles from between your teeth, leaving you less vulnerable to cavities and gum disease. Floss at least once per day and follow up with a mouthwash.

Wear Lip Balm



Even if your lips feel moisturized, it's wise to apply a thin coat of lip balm before you head out the door. Women typically wear lipstick, gloss or balm, making them three times less likely than men to get lip cancer, says the American Cancer Society's Vilma Cokkinides in the "Men's Health" article "The 50 Best Grooming Tips + Products for Men." Change your odds for the better by wearing lip balm. Reapply it every two hours when you're in the sun.

Use Shaving Cream



Not only does shaving cream show which areas have already been shaved, but it also serves as a lubricant and moisturizer for your face. Apply a thick coat to an already wet face before shaving. You'll have fewer cuts and reduce the potential for painful razor burn. Use an aftershave or moisturizer following your shave for even smoother skin.

Condition Hair




In addition to shampooing your hair at least every other day, don't forget to condition. While shampoo washes away dirt, environmental contaminants and product buildup, conditioner supplies the hair with moisture, making it look and feel healthier. If your hair is especially dry or brittle, use a leave-in deep conditioner at least once a week.




Thursday, June 28, 2012

How to Wear Accordion Pleats ?

What is ultra-feminine, timeless and more than deserving of a spot in your regular wardrobe rotation? Accordion pleats! Although at first glance these sharp, small pleats may not seem like anything special, trust me when I say that they’re the next big thing! Whether you prefer skirts or dresses (or both!), accordion pleats will instantly become a statement piece that you’ll want to wear again and again. Dress it up with a blouse or pair it with a lightweight t-shirt; either way, you’re bound to look glamorous.

If you’re still on the line with accordion pleats, here’s some inspiration that I think will change your mind!




From Prada and Christian Siriano to Carven, accordion pleats made a major showing in spring 2012 runway shows.

1. How many dresses do you see with accordion pleats nowadays? Leave the low necklines and super short hemlines behind this season. Not only are accordion pleats the ultimate accoutrement, but they’re also extremely classy. Take one look at the pastel floral frock by Prada above, and tell me you’re not in love...sigh.


2. Flowy, effortless and relaxed, this chartreuse maxi skirt by Siriano is absolutely stunning. See how incredible it looks when paired with an everyday tee?

3. Saving my favorite for last, feast your eyes on this printed accordion pleat skirt by Carven. While you may be hesitant to don both pleats and zany prints at the same time, the end result is so worth it! 



It’s unanimous, accordion pleats are a major “DO” and will be sticking around!

Oh, the things that we learn from fashion bloggers. When it comes to hit or miss fashion trends, go directly to the tastemakers themselves. Once every other blogger is sporting a certain trend, you know that it’s either up-and-coming or about to hit mainstream. Based on the gorgeous pleated maxi skirts and dress above, it’s safe to say that everyone is on the pleats bandwagon!

1. Bee (Blair Eadie) does no wrong! Mixing a vibrant purple pleat maxi with a yellow-green top and leather jacket, this look is fierce!

2. Go monochromatic like Annabelle, and wear variations of one color. Accessorize with a sequined clutch and a statement necklace for an easy-to-style ensemble!

3. I never thought I’d say this, but I’m yearning for a highlighter yellow skirt! Emily pulls off this blinding hue so flawlessly that I’m speechless.

4. Based on Juley’s red, white and blue accordion pleat dress, I’d say that the Fourth of July came early this year. For this look, no commentary needed, it’s that fab!






In the details, just look at the endless possibilities when it comes to styling your accordion pleat skirts.

More pleats! If you’re going to invest in one pleated item this season, make it a skirt. From skirts that fall slightly above your knees to full-on maxis, there’s a fit for everyone. Add some character to your accordion pleats by knotting a belt or tucking in a sheer collared blouse. If you’re feeling minimalist, opt for an outfit entirely in pastel hues. Or maybe you want something more eye-catching…hello mellow-yellow maxi!

As much as I love my dresses, one benefit of skirts is that they’re more conventional. Just check out these options:

- Pleats + floral
- Pleats + stripes
- Pleats + silk
- Pleats + a casual t-shirt
- Pleats + a leather jacket
- Pleats + slouchy sweater
 
Try pleats on for yourself, whether it is on a skirt, dress, or a top. These pretty little pleats are much more flattering than the big boxy ones that we are so used to seeing, and they come in ethereal and flowy fabrics such as chiffon and silk, making them ultra-feminine. 



Smoking-Hot New Yorkers Dish Their Best Fitness Tips

Everyone's looking to slim down in the summer — for the beach, for the bikini, and for the cute new bartender down the block. And while we might be experts at say, wardrobe essentials, we don't claim to have our fitness game on lock. So, we turned to some of NYC's toned tastemakers to find out how they get their compliment-worthy bods.

From their favorite local juice bars to the ab workouts that promise to get you that washboard stomach in no time, these go-to tips from real-life New Yorkers are actually effective. Click through to feel the burn…from your desk chair. Just scanning the article counts as a workout.

Robyn Lawley, model



"Even as a plus-size model with Wilhelmina, I still watch what I eat, especially during the summer. My trick is to eat smaller portions rather than cutting out the foods I love so much (because as soon as you take the cake away from the kid, he/she will want it twice as much). Portion size is the biggest problem right now — many people don't know what a healthy portion of pasta, meat, or anything else is meant to be. I find that you can enjoy the foods you love, but just don't overdo it. Simply put: moderation is key. To supplement this, I work out with a trainer three times a week and include both cardio and strength training as part of my regimen."

Alejandro Ingelmo, designer



"My favorite juice bar is JuiceGeneration, the best flavor is the coconut acai. My current fitness obsession is CrossFit — I go four days a week, and the other days I spin at SoulCycle. My trainer at CrossFit, Ryan, has me do a cycle of five pull-ups, 10 pushups, and 15 squats, for as many rounds as I can do in 20 minutes. I just did my first CrossFit Challenge, called the Civilian Military Combine. You do burpees, box jumps, and kettle bells, and then run a six-mile course with obstacles throughout. It was amazing."

Lauren Bruker, SoulCycle Instructor



"My favorite workout is push-ups! I try to do at least 40 a day when I feel like my body needs a quick fix. You can do 10 in the morning, 10 at the office, 10 before a date...it's a nice way to break up the day! My go-to food is eggs. I love this amazing food. They're packed with protein, affordable, and delicious — you can eat them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!"

Jackie Warner, fitness expert



"My favorite diet foods are oatmeal, grapefruit, eggs, and, of course, water! For protein powder, I recommend my own — it is all natural, no sugar, no artificial flavors, and has antioxidants. My favorite ab workout is the plank: elbow to touch plank, drop plank, then straight leg drop. For cardio, I do 20 minutes on the treadmill — walk uphill at level 12 for two minutes (speed 3.5), run for two minutes (speed 6.5/7), then a one minute cooldown (speed 3.5). Repeat four times."

Chris McNally, stylist, RRL



"My secret weapon for an insane workout is a great warm-up. Forget the boring 10-minute job and grab a medicine ball and do balance work instead. Doing so before you start your normal workout routine is key, because it works on your core. Focusing on aligning the spine and keeping the abs tight will help you keep good form throughout your entire workout. After a killer workout my favorite spot to grab a protein shake or smoothie is Internal Yoga Natural Foods on 13th Street, they have the best juice bar in the city.

As far as snacks go, grab a handful of almonds and a bottle of water when you're hungry. Having about 12 to 15 almonds will give the boost you need to make it through the day. But the most important part of this snack is the water — it will expand your stomach and make you feel full longer. I also try to incorporate what I've learned from playing sports as a kid into my workouts and on the weekends. If I'm headed to the beach I'm always packing a football or a frisbee — a quick game of catch will keep those calories off. Working out should be fun so that you don't get discouraged. Results take time, so have fun and remember, it's progress, not perfection."

Rebecca Goodman, Equinox



"I am a total group-fitness junkie, and my latest obsession is Jaime Morales' Core Shaper and Total Body Shaper classes at Equinox Greenwich Avenue. Jaime's energy is totally infectious, and his classes are the perfect way to kickstart the day. Those core moves are key to being bikini-body ready. I have recently become addicted to kale in any form: kale chips, kale juice, kale salad. Juice Generation (at select Equinox locations) has possibly the best kale salad in the city, and their "Hail to Kale" juice (kale, watermelon, apple, lemon) is so delicious and refreshing on a hot summer day."

Misha Nonoo, designer



"My favorite juice bar is Melvin's Juice Box (the juice bar offshoot of Miss Lily's), as it's so close to my office, and does a delicious green juice called 'Body Good.' I also love Pilates Proworks on 14th Street for their brilliant TRX Pro Suspension training classes, which are unique and challenging. I did them for a month in the run up to my wedding and saw great results!"

Jeanann Williams, PR consultant



"I go religiously to classes at Body by Simone. Simone broke away from Tracey Anderson and started her own gym just a few short blocks from my house. Her cardio dance classes will transform your body and it's fun. The BBS Method creates long lean muscles and builds core strength. A lot of Aussie trainers and amazing energy from everyone at her studio. Sign up for semi-privates with a friend, it's great to share it with someone and keep each other committed. My sister-in-law and I train together. Exercise for endorphins, it makes you happy.

I live for Organic Avenue. A couple days drinking their juices and you will feel like a new person, completely reenergized and fresh. It's a quick fix before any special occasion, a few days on the juice gets you feeling svelte and fresh-faced. Even adding one of their green juices from time to time to your regular diet will get your energy levels up.

I also take a great combo of vitamins that a health fanatic friend tipped me off on: Soluble Iron, Soluble Magnesium, a Pro-Biotic, and Coconut Oil pills. I get all at Whole Foods. But overall, good health for me lies in keeping it simple — fresh, organic foods, and lots of water."

Sarah Howard, beauty blogger


"Pilates is my go-to, it's all about your core. Anything that increases my heart rate, i.e. real exercise, is not for me. I'm more of a strengthening and lengthening type of girl. Someone once told me that you can grow up to an inch from Pilates, and since I would be most pleased with an extra inch in the vertical direction, I was instantly hooked. In between classes, there's a great core exercise that anyone can do at home. It helps with posture and that coveted eight pack. Lay on a foam roller, knees bent, feet on the ground, arms straight out behind you. Slowly lift your leg toward your stomach to meet your right arm. Return both to their starting position and do the same on the other side. Reps of 10 on each side should do the trick."

Samantha Yanks, editor in chief of Gotham and Hamptons



"In Manhattan I love Chaise 23 — all the workouts are done in a chair! It sounds lazy, but you really feel it after the Reinvention class. Remorca has training down to a science. They are the only gym on the East Coast to use the same professional Polar technology as pro sports teams. But that doesn’t mean you’re just a number. Remorca’s trainers are big on connecting with their clients and forming a workout “community” in their gym.

In the Hamptons I love Provisions — I leave Flywheel Sports in Sag Harbor and go to their café for a quick smoothie and to pick up veggies for lunch by the pool. All of Provisions’ fruits and vegetables are organic, and they support our local East End farms."

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

The Perfect Hairstyle for Your Personality


Your hairstyle should most definitely reflect who you are as a person. Whether you are a perfectionist or a fashionista forever on the hunt for latest trends, let that be known through your hair! From Flower Fionas to Go Getter Glorias, we have come up with a hairstyle that represents you. The question is, which girl are you? Try these on for size:


Party Penny. Are you always down for a good time? Do you like to be the center of attention? These woman use their hair to get attention. Whether it be a subtle hue of pink or a daring dash of blue (think Katy Perry), these girls know how to have fun.



Va Va Voom Victoria. Are you flirty? Sexy? A Victoria Secret model? Well if you are, you know that the quickest way to a man’s heart is through long, luscious waves. Think Jessica Rabbit; this style will accentuate your curves.



Flower Fiona. Ladies of Coachella rejoice; this is the style for you. Tuck some daisies into your long, messy braids or opt for a a simple feather in your hair. If you consider yourself a free loving, tree-hugging hipper chick, braid it out girl!



Perfect Patty. Has anyone ever told you have a type A personality? When asked in a job interview what your biggest weakness is, do you respond with being a perfectionist? If so, this look is for you. Try pinning you hair up tight in a high bun. And since you are a perfectionist, I would suggest getting yourself a hair donut or creating a sock doughnut for a high set, perfect bun.



Rebellious Rebecca. These girls don’t follow the rules. These are the out-of-the-box thinkers always pushing everything to the limits. Smokers, rockers, artists unite; rock rebellious locks look like “it” girl Alexa Chung.



Go Getter Gloria. Do you go after what you want? Consider yourself someone always looking for more? Think female Ari Gold. These woman are entrepreneurs, lawyers, doctors, go-getters! Try wearing your hair ultra-short if this is you; pixie cuts exude confidence.




Monday, June 25, 2012

Sunglasses Trends Spring/ Summer 2012

Spring has spring and the glare of sun seems to shine extra strong, but we have you sorted in that department. Sunglasses not only protect your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun but also brings a fashion statement to every outfit.

This season, the shape and frames of glasses are the trend, introducing the reto-influenced styles or as we know it as the 70s look which comes into fashion every year. FashionCherry has noticed that our favourite celebs like Nicole Richie, Beyoncè and Kim Kardashian’s eyewear ranges from aviators to cat eye shades. But we say by far the best was Josh Hutcherson who was spoted rocking heart-shaped sunglasses at the ‘NewNowNext’ awards. Sunglasses can suit both men and women it all depends on the shape of your face which will determine the shape and style of sunglasses you would pick. Ladies with rounded faces should choose angular style glasses to break the round features, whilst sypherical glasses are flattering for ladies with a squared jaw line, as it softens angles in the face.


Colourful Plastic Sunglasses
If you love colour and plastic frames, why not have some fun with them? Go for bold and funky shapes like the heart-shaped ones below, or play it safe and go for simple styles like Eva Longoria and Kylie Minogue. Use colour to express your personal style, taste and personality.










Cat Eyes.
Effortlessly raises your cheek bones and gives you instant model status. This style flatters most face shapes, and works particularly well on oblong-shaped faces by breaking up the lengthiness. It's have been very trendy for a few seasons already and will remain as hot during Spring/ Summer 2012. Eyewear in this shape comes in different colors and décor and can be very playful or more austere.










Sporty Sunglasses
Sporty sunglasses are making their way back into the limelight this Spring. Models from Chanel ‘sported’ the look at London Fashion Week 2012. If you are daring enough, you can opt for sporty sunglasses a la Lady Gaga or, if you prefer a more understated look then opt for sunglasses like Sean Paul.











Gradient Sunglasses
Gradient sunglasses are very popular and will be a big seller for 2012. The gradient effect looks great in all frame shapes from cat eye to aviator style. Gradient sunglasses have been very popular in the celebrity world. Kim Kardashian, Katy Perry, and Miranda Kerr have all been seen wearing this style.










Round glasses are classic and worn by a lot of celebrities. For this season round sunglasses won’t be that simple. Frames and lens will be in different hues and frames can come with patterns or jewel-encrusting.Beyoncé has been sseen going for a stroll with daughter Blue Ivy and her mom Tina in New York City with a pair of beautiful round glasses.







Retro Sunglasses
One of the most universal and all face shape-flattering sunglasses trends include the retro sunnies which come in endless shades and designs. From the oversized glasses in ombre or mono-colored variations as well as further punked up with versatile and colorful frames all bring back a tint of glamor from some of the most prolific decades of fashion history as the 60s and 70s. Choose the roundish or more angled designs depending on your preferences and face shape. Skim through the most inspiring collections that furnish you with an infinite range of sunglasses to choose from.





Edgy Sunglasses
You're not just an ordinary girl, therefore make sure you also choose the most visionary sunglasses from the runway that were inspired by some futuristic trend or others which fuse the classy designs with out-of-this-world details in order to make these accessories memorable. Those who won't shy away of sporting unique sunnies will have the opportunity to pile up a multitude of pieces that are decorated with additional embellishments and adopt a more new world-orderish approach towards structure and colors. Take a closer look at these fab examples to make sure you know where to look for these accessories when eager to complete your personal collection of faddish sunglasses.



What’s your favourite sunglasses trend for spring? Pick one now !