I couldn’t resist! How cute is that Owl Contact Lens Case from ModCloth! ModCloth.com has so many great gifties that don’t cost a fortune. Here we put together some sweet travel accessories for a holiday getaway.

Owl Contact Lens Case

The cute contact lens case has screw-off eyes for your contacts and solution. Inside the case is stamped with left and right so you’ll always keep your lenses straight. This little guy also comes in blue, pink and green! Don’t forget you should swap out your contact lens cases for fresh ones every three months, so get one of each for all your favorite holiday colored contacts.

Looking  Up Travel Case

Up, up and away! The cosmetics bag is made from coated canvas, and features a fleet of colorful hot air balloons adrift in a sea of fluffy clouds. Inside,  you’ll find a lined interior with handy pockets. I like the fact that the material is coated, which protects from damp counter tops but you still get the wonderful texture of cotton. It’s also 12-inches long–a good size–which means you can carry plenty of essentials all in one place.

Floral Thermos

You can’t have too many of these! A travel mug in a colorful pattern puts you in the mood for adventure minus the waste of paper cups from your daily latte. If you don’t like the floral inspired design, check out ModCloth for more mugs.

Traveling Translator Tote

I saved the best for last. I had to get this trek-inspired, faux leather tote in here somehow. It’s one of those pieces I keep coming back to look at because of all the great details! Both sides are decorated with topographic maps and striped air mail piping. I love the letter-shaped, exterior pocket. It’s got a stitched birdie patch and the embroidered text, “Something for the Weekend.” Inside has sky blue lining and extra pockets. Plenty of space for a weekend getaway. The chestnut handles sling easily over the arm or over the shoulder. Want it!

Which ModCloth travel accessories did we miss? There are so many, I had to choose, but let us know your picks!

Over 38 million Americans wear contact lenses. If you wear glasses, the freedom and flexibility to ditch your glasses for good is compelling. But as promising as this sounds, many contact lens wearers lose their enthusiasm and stop wearing contact lenses because of discomfort and irritation. If your lenses do not fit properly, you can experience red, swollen, gritty or dry eyes.

The first step to healthy eyes when wearing contact lenses is an eye exam and fitting with an eye care professional. If you have allergies or work in dusty environments, if you smoke, or you are taking other prescription medications, your doctor can counsel and prescribe the best contact lens solution for you and your lifestyle.

The next step is understanding the different contact lens types, with special attention to new oxygen friendly contacts that allow more oxygen to pas through the lens to the cornea and therefore promote eye health and wearing comfort.

Soft contact lenses are made from plastics containing water. The water transmits oxygen to the cornea, the only organ in the body that does not receive oxygen through blood vessels. Gas permeable (GP) contacts are rigid long lasting lenses that provide better vision than soft contact lenses. They are also less expensive but take some time to get used to.

Silicon Hydrogels

Since 1999, a new soft contact lens has been available to the public that delivers six times more oxygen to the eye than traditional soft contacts. These are the silicon hydrogel contact lenses made from a material that offers a new level of comfort and convenience to contact lens wearers.

Silicon hydrogel soft contacts offer a number of benefits:

• Longer wear time, in some cases up to 30 days. This includes continuous wear(during night and day)
• Few eye health problems, such as infection
• Less discomfort or “drying” when compared with traditional soft contacts

Not all silicon hydrogel soft contact lenses are approved for 30-day wear however. Currently only two brands, Focus Night & Day by Ciba Vision, and Pure Vision by Bauche & Lomb are approved for wear during the day and while you sleep. Despite the eye health benefits, silicon hydrogels are also more expensive than conventional contacts, which may make them unsuitable for some wearers.

Here’s a list of top-selling silicon hydrogel contact lenses:

• Focus Night & Day by Ciba Vision: approved for 30 day continuous (night and day) wear
• PureVision by Bausch & Lomb: approved for 30 days continuous wear
• Acuvue Oasys: approved for 2 week daily wear (removed nightly for cleaning) use or 6 night extended wear, designed for people who have dry eyes
• O2 Optix by Ciba Vision: approved for 6 days continuous wear or 2 weeks daily wear
• Acuvue Advance: approved for 2 week disposable lens and has not yet been approved for extended wear.
• PureVision Toric by Bausch & Lomb: toric lens approved for 30 days extended wear
• Acuvue Advance For Astigmatism: toric lens approved for 2 week daily wear

Finally, make sure you choose a cleaning solution that is compatible with silicon hydrogels. You doctor may recommend: Aquify, Optifree Express, and ClearCare multipurpose solutions.

Please note: contact lenses, even if worn for cosmetic reasons, are medical devices that should be worn under the prescription, direction, and supervision of an eye care professional.

Spice up your little black Christmas dress or New Years Eve mini with richly tinted colored contact lenses this season. Our holiday guide to colored contact lenses profiles the richest, most dramatic colors, lenses with bling and showstopping colors for light eyes.

For Dark Eyes

Brown Hair, & Medium to Dark Complexion

Try Freshlook Colorblends Green for a subtle transformation or Gemstone Green for richer color. Play them up with darker eye make-up, full lashes and barely there lips for a smoldering gaze.

Dark Hair, Dark Complexion

Add some bling to your eyes with these Gold Glitter contact lenses from ExtremeFX. Gold lenses- These fun lenses have subtle golden sparkles that add shimmer and depth to your eyes.  While not recommended for light eyes, these lenses need a dark background to really shine!

Another idea is to try violet, like Freshlook Colorblends Amethyst.  Add some high sparkle gloss to your lips to complete this polished look.

Dark Hair, Light complexion

You’d look stunning in blue!  Try Triple Color  Blue contacts. These opaques are a bright shade of blue that will intensify your gaze. Remember, dark eyes are the hardest color to change and usually require an opaque lens to create any noticeable difference.  Lighten and enhance your eyes with smoky eye makeup to really get some attention.

For Light Eyes

Brown Hair, Light to Medium Complexion

Try an opaque grey lens such as Freshlook Colorblends Gray,  Triple Color Gray and Freshlook Colorblends Sterling Gray. Any one of these opaque grey lenses will work on dark eyes too and combines with a dark outer ring for eye definition.  For a dewy, serene makeup look, try lining the bottom ledge of your eye with white eyeliner.

Light Hair, Light to Medium Complexion

With this coloring, why not try something a little different?  Try Allure lenses from Coastal.com or Equinox from VisionDirect. These clear contact lenses feature a dark ring around the iris. The effect is a bigger brighter looking eye that is totally natural looking.  Use a shimmery white eye shadow and black liquid eyeliner with this lens to make your eyes pop.

Red Hair, Light to Medium Complexion

If you have red or auburn hair, try any of the Focus Softcolors for light eyes. Shades of green, aqua and blue will look studding on you. Another brand of this style of enhancer lenses is Freshlook Dimensions. Use neutral eye shadows for sleek and sophisticated or shimmery light shadows for a glam look.

Do you open a certain drawer in your bathroom (you know the one), and say, “Will somebody PLEASE save me from myself?”

For most of us, buying makeup is a hit or miss affair and it doesn’t take long before you’ve got ten different tubes of lipstick, a rainbow of eyeshadows, eyeliners and mascara, nail polish, moisturizers, cleansers, contact lens cases…the list goes on and on.

Here are some ideas for organizing cosmetics so you can find what you need for every day wear, and then what you need for special occasions.

Throw Out Old Cosmetics

The first thing you have to do is empty out your cosmetic drawer(s) and separate out old makeup that is well past its prime. Old makeup is a haven for bacteria and health experts suggest replacing cosmetics regularly. Contamination occurs mostly through the eyes lips and fingers, so eye makeup in particular, such as eyeshadow and mascara, are susceptible to bacteria.

Basic makeup replacement schedule:

• Mascara: replace every three months
• Moisturizers: replace every six months
•  Foundations: replace every year if you use a sponge to apply (or less than that if you use your fingers)
• Eye and lip pencils: replace every year if you use a sharpener and don’t wet with saliva or water
• Powders: replace every year Lipstick and lip balm: replace every two years
• Contacts lenses and colored contact lenses: replace according to the manufacturer wear schedule. Disposable contacts are usually good for a couple of weeks and extended wear contact lenses can last up to a month. Don’t’ continue to wear contacts past their expiry.

Organize Infrequent Use Cosmetics

Pull out the skin care products, and makeup you use on a daily basis and set aside. Go through what’s left and separate lipsticks, powders and blushes, skin creams, nail polish, and so on into separate containers.

You can find inexpensive clear acrylic storage containers or plastic baskets that are ideal for this purpose. Store these infrequently used but still good cosmetics in a cool dry place, preferably not in the bathroom. A plastic drawer unit in your closet for example works well. Label your containers on the top and sides.

Organize Daily Use Cosmetics

The trick to keeping your cosmetics drawer under control is to only keep items in there that you use on a daily basis. Instead of grouping them into like categories like lipsticks, nail polish and blush, organize daily use cosmetics by function. Put the skin and foundation products together, the eye color products together, and the lips and cheeks products together. These groupings roughly correspond to the order you put your face on in the morning.

For example, you can organize daily use cosmetics in three clear plastic cosmetic bags. First, your skin and foundation kit includes your moisturizer, foundation and concealer, pressed or loose powder.

Next, your eye makeup kit includes everything you need to do your eyes, including tweezers, eyelash curler, eyeshadow and eyeliner, and mascara.

Lastly, a lips and cheeks kit includes your favorite lipstick and lipgloss, lip liner, lip moisturizer, and powder or cream blush. The same principle applies to your daily hair kit, nail kit, and so on.

With your day to day cosmetics organized this way, you can really do a five minute face without rummaging around for various tubes, creams, bushes, and applicators.

Off-the-shelf cosmetic organizers include clear acrylic trays divided into small compartments, counter top caddies, and drawer organizers with sliding trays to double up on the storage space available. If you have some counter space to work with, mini drawers work well too.

Please note: contact lenses, even if worn for cosmetic reasons, are medical devices that should be worn under the prescription, direction, and supervision of an eye care professional.

Here’s what they had to say:

One of the biggest questions we’re asked every year is: What type of Halloween contact lenses are most popular? This year, as well as last year, is the crazy white contact lens.

It’s a completely opaque contact and so it covers your eye color. All you can see is your pupil. The reason it’s popular is because it transcends a lot of different costumes, from zombies to vampires. You could put one in one eye and have the other black. You can really have a lot of different options with your costume with that lens.

Another really popular question that’s come up is for those who want to stay ahead of the costume curve this Halloween: What are some other styles that are really popular in Halloween contact lenses? There are three that come to mind: Vampire Blood, The Ring and Beserk. All of these lenses are great ways to replicate zombie or vampire costumes from shows like “The Walking Dead” or “Vampire Diaries.” Of course, we can’t forget “Twilight.” Edward.

For a more technical question, of course we’re asked are our Halloween contact lenses safe? The answer is 100% yes. They’re FDA approved theatrical grade lenses. Of course, if you have any questions regarding them, the material, the solution they’re stored in, you can give us a call at any time. You can, of course, always talk to your doctor about them.

You’re wondering, why do I need a doctor’s prescription? Even if you have 20/20 vision, unfortunately it’s just required by federal law. Everyone’s eyes are different. So we want to make sure they fit you perfectly. Once again, if you have any questions, we totally recommend you talk to your eye doctor or just give us a shout.

When you’re going to make a trip to your doctor’s office to get a prescription written for your Halloween contact lenses, it’s important to bring the right information. Instead of having to memorize all the technical jargon, we suggest you just print off the product page, or even better yet, pull up your iPhone, find it on our site, and show it to your eye doctor. You’ve got all the information right there.

We want to make sure that you get your Halloween contact lenses as quickly as possible, so we ensure that all of our lenses are in stock and ready to ship as soon as you order.

Just picture it. You just spent two hours doing all of your Halloween makeup. You have your Halloween contact lenses in. You’re ready to go to your party, but now you’re wondering can I actually drive there with my Halloween contact lenses in? The answer is yes. Just keep in mind if you’re wearing the cataract lenses, which is a type of lens that actually covers your pupil, we highly recommend you do not drive with those in. By highly recommend, I mean don’t.

If you’re Mr. or Mrs. Popular this Halloween and have a multitude of parties to go to, you might be wondering, can I wear my lenses to each and every one of them? Well, the answer is probably. We recommend that you can wear them between six to eight hours at a time. Of course, if they’re at all feeling uncomfortable, we highly recommend that you take them out  right away. You can always consult your eye doctor or of course give us a call.

Lastly, once you’re all Halloweened out, you might be wondering, do I have to actually throw away my lenses? Thankfully, the answer’s no. Halloween contact lenses can be stored up  until a year. You just have to ensure that you store them in a proper contact lens case. Use the prescribed solution. Also keep in mind that a contact lens case should be replaced every three months.

That’s it for me. I hope that I’ve answered all of your questions. Of course, if you have any other spooktacular questions, always feel free to give us a call because we’re here for you.

Here’s our review video of the top Halloween lenses for this year’s stagger and drool, Halloween 2012. There are a few old stand-byes, and some new lenses.

To make getting your Halloween lenses super easy, make sure you have a doctor’s prescription. You need one even for costume or cosmetic lenses. Hey, in the U.S. it’s the law! Never share Halloween lenses with your friends. Store them properly in clean contact lens cases and solution.

Apparition

Also known as Banshee. A red and yellow cat eye lens that is very popular and versatile.

Cat Eye White

A classic.

Berserk

Our pick for a zombie lens. We like the blood shot effect of the red rim.

The Temptress

Looks sexy in the picture right? This Halloween lens is also creepy because it’s so pale. The pink bits can look bloodshot.

Vampire Blood

This is a subtle red vampire lens. We like it for Volturi vampires from Twilight. If you want bright red eyes, go with Blood Zombie.

Vampire Gold

THE CLASSIC Twilight lens we’ve recommended for three years. Here’ s our review and video.

Black Wolf

The manufacturer changed these Halloween lenses somewhat so it is actually more yellow orange than the picture. Still awesomely cool though.

Crazy White

Also known as White Out. If you can’t decide which Halloween lenses to get, choose these ones. Super versatile for zombies and vampires alike!

Cataract

Also known as Blind Eye. Some people don’t want to actually “see” in their costume…as the name implies you don’t get vision out of this lens.

Black Hole

Love this for alien or demonic possession.

Blood Zombie

A great vampire lens so don’t know why it’s called Blood Zombie. Indistinguishable from Red Vampire.

Ghoulish Green

We love these Halloween lenses because they are pale and creepy, and slightly different from just a plain white lens. Looks like it should glow…but it doesn’t.

Blue Angel

Formerly called Dark Elf. Very cool for people who love blue lenses.

The Creeper

A reptilian cat eye lens.

Click here for more facts about Halloween lenses.

Thinking of taking a bite out of Halloween this year? We recommend NOT waiting until five minutes before your Halloween bash to get your vampire fangs fitted.

This great video from fumsmusings gives you the easy step by step for fitting Scarecrow Vampire Fangs. These are the fangs we recommend every year and sell the most of through our partner BuyCostumes.com.

Here what you need to do, including a few steps you won’t find in the Scarecrow fangs instructions.

1) Scarecrow fangs come in their widely recognized coffin packaging, but inside you get a handy little plastic case for storing your fangs. When you first open the box, check each tooth for rough spots. Press them up against your eye teeth to see if any of the outside edges rub uncomfortably against your gums. If there are any touchy spots, just take an emery board or nail file and gently file the outside edge of the tooth.

When the edges are smooth, and you’ve checked them for comfort against your own teeth, you’re ready to mix the adhesive.
The adhesive comes in two parts: individual capsules and a small vial of liquid glue.

2) Using the plastic storage container, carefully open one capsule and empty the powder contents into it. Next add five drops of liquid into the powder. Using the stir sticks provided, mix around the compound until you get a mushy, chewing gum like ball of adhesive.

3) Using a cotton swab, ensure that the plastic fang is dry and your own tooth is dry.

4) Using the stir stick, scoop out the adhesive and carefully fill the inner cavity of the fang. Gently press the fang against your tooth. Don’t worry of some of the glue oozes out around the edges. Leave the fang in place for about five minutes, allowing the adhesive to set and mold to your tooth. Don’t wiggle it too soon!

5) After five minutes, give it a light jiggle and the tooth should come off easily.

6) Next, with either nail clippers or small scissors, carefully trim the egdges of the fang where excess glue is showing. Then take your nail file again and file the edges down until the edges are smooth once again. That’s it!

7) Do the same for the  other fang, using a  second capsule and five drops of liquid adhesive. You’re all set!

Of course, since this is Color Me Contacts, don’t forget to pair your fangtastic new smile with vampire contacts. Our favorites are Vampire Gold, named for the Twilight Vampires a la Edward Cullen and friends.

If you’re more vampire classic, go Vampire Red.

Daaaaaaaaaah-ling!

More great tips:

We also recommend this vampire makeup tutorial from fumsmusings as well. Check it out!

Where to Buy Scarecrow Fangs

Scarecrow Fangs are faved for being realistic and looking easy to apply with dental material that molds to your tooth inside each fang cap.

To buy vampire fangs in both regular and small lady like sizes, we recommend BuyCostumes.com.

Don’t forget, you can use these fangs over and over again.

Lady wearing stunning colored contacts that match the teal colored background.

Now that you’ve decided to buy colored contacts online, what’s the process? Remember, contact lenses are considered medical devices and should be worn under the prescription and supervision of an eye care professional. But, if you stay within those health safety guidelines, there’s no reason why you can’t try different colors and styles.

Plus ordering your colored contacts online will save you money and get your contacts to you faster–shipped overnight right to your door in some cases. Click here for more information on shipping deals, rebates and special offers.

Step 1: Get a Prescription

First step is to have an eye exam and get a prescription from a qualified eye doctor who will measure the diameter and curve of your eye, and recommend the brands of contacts that fit your eyes best. If you need vision correction, your doctor will provide you with that information as well.

You don’t have to worry about all of this stuff, but your prescription will have the following information for OS (Left Eye) and OD (Right Eye):

• PWR or SPH: The amount of vision correction needed. + = correction for farsightedness. – = correction for nearsightedness. Plano is 0.00 (no vision correction)
• BC or Base Curve: Curvature of the back of the contact lens in millimeters. Should match the curvature of the eye. Low number = steep curve, High number = flat curve
• DIA: Diameter of the lens in millimeters. Determines where the lens sits on your eye.
• CYL: Cylinder. Measurement to correct for astigmatism. Needed for toric lenses
• AXIS: Measurement to correct for astigmatism. Needed for toric lenses
• Add: Add power measurement needed for bifocal lenses. Doesn’t apply for colored contacts
• Color: Color of lens
• Brand: Brand name of lenses

Based on all of this information you can see why it is a good idea to get prescription for your color contacts.

Step 2: Choose an Online Retailer

Choose a reputable online retailer, such as AC Lens, and browse the list of colored contacts until you find the ones you’re looking for.

Look at online retailers that sell brand names, have the contacts you want in stock, have a secure payment system and allow you to pay online or by phone or fax. They should also have a customer service department with a “real person” you can talk to with questions. Also check the return policy on unopened lenses or damaged products.

Step 3: Enter Your Prescription

After you find your lenses, enter your prescription information in the online form. All the base curves and available powers for that specific colored lens should be listed. Enter your eye doctor’s contact information or provide a copy of your prescription by fax or email. Even if you have perfect eyesight and our purchasing non-prescription color contacts you need to enter a prescription. This is the big difference with clear contacts. You would not order a pair of clear contacts if you had perfect eyesight.

Note: Canadian customers do not have to provide doctor’s information or a copy of the prescription. This is only if you are ordering online from a Canadian retailer. If you order from a US retailer you will need to provide the information.

Step 4: Verify Your Prescription

The online retailer will verify your prescription with your doctor and then send you an email letting you know when your order has shipped and when to expect delivery.

Please note: contact lenses, even if worn for cosmetic reasons, are medical devices that should be worn under the prescription, direction, and supervision of an eye care professional.