WORLD FASHION 2010

Steal the look: Kelly Ripa

2010-03-25T11:09:00.001-07:00

Kelly Ripa has it all: a hot husband, gorgeous children, fabulous career, killer figure, and here, a super chic out-and-about ensemble. You may not be able to steal her fairytale life, but you can steal this look.

Tank top

Kelly's look starts with a simple solid navy tank top. Try Old Navy's long layering tank in navy blue; its soft cotton material is ultra comfortable and it features a scoop neck similar to the one on the shirt Kelly is sporting. Best of all, you'll get a whole lot of mileage out of this super versatile piece. $8.50 from OldNavy.com.

Skirt

Kelly shows off her killer body with a skintight horizontal striped skirt. While this nautical-inspired piece definitely looks fierce on her, the combination of being super tight and having widening horizontal stripes can be a bit tough to pull off if you don't have a TV star figure so we have two options that will help to get the same look in a manner that us mere mortals can achieve:
Stick with the tight pencil skirt silhouette but do so with a more forgiving solid-colored one with this below the knee high waist cotton pencil skirt in marine from Express. $59.50 from Express.com.
Or stick with the horizontal stripes but do so with a less figure-hugging shape; this striped skirt from Forever 21 flows away from your body and has forgiving pleating as well. Just make sure for this look to ditch the basket weave belt that comes with it. $17.80 from Forever21.com.

Shoes

Kelly keeps it pretty simple with footwear choosing dark brown sandals with thick straps. J. Crew's Elodie Vachetta stacked-heel sandal in nutmeg has a similar shape and color. Plus its thick stacked heel is ideal for strolling down the street in style, not in pain. $198 from JCrew.com.

Bag

Kelly carries a black leather handbag that is almost as big as she is! One thing is for sure, with a bag like this, you won't have to leave anything you need at home. Try Lulu's black Soho handbag, which is almost identical to Kelly's bag, right down to the gold hardware. $34 from Lulus.com.

Necklaces

Kelly adds some interest to her simple solid top by layering multiple strands of silver necklaces. Make this easy to duplicate with one necklace that features multiple strands, such as this laser cut bead necklace from Forever 21. $5.80 from Forever21.com.

Sunglasses

Look like a true star by finishing off your look with oversized dark brown shades as Kelly does. These brown Merona plastic sunglasses with embellishment from Target have a similar oversized shape and chic aura. $16.99 from Target.com.

Steal the Look: Reese Witherspoon

2010-03-25T11:07:00.000-07:00

Reese Witherspoon epitomizes a stylish mom on the go. Here, she puts together an outfit that is both easy and quick to replicate. Here's how to steal her look for less!

Dress

Reese's look centers around an adorable tiered, floral dress. Those tiers create volume outside of your body and also run horizontally, so they are perfect at giving the illusion of more curves for those with more small, boyish figures. Look for a dress with a few large tiers such as Ruche's Crimson Fields Tiered Dress ($29.99) or the Daisy Ruffle Dress by Nick and Mo ($62).

If you're curvier, a tiered dress will not be as flattering; try one with large ruffles instead, like this Fairweather Fried Dress ($35).

Cardigan

Reese makes a sun dress more age and winter weather appropriate with a long, navy cardigan. J. Crew's Perfect Fit Cardigan ($.39.50) and ASOS Side Pocket Cardigan ($21.30 on sale from $39.05) are great options. You can easily locate a basic, navy cardigan at your local Target or Walmart as well. Or a fun remix on this look would be to swap the cardigan out for a casual blazer.

Shoes

Reese dons a pair of black shoes with a wooden wedge heel. Wedge heels are a big trend this spring and wooden platforms are both trendy and practical. Wedge heels are the best way to get the aesthetic boon of added height without sacrificing balance or comfort so they're perfect if you're going to be on your feet all day. Try Camper's Rachel Wedge ($99.99 on sale from $170) or Merona Maura Embossed Leather Wedges from Target ($26.99).

Bag

Reese totes a gorgeous quilted leather bag. We may not be able to afford a posh designer bag like Reese's but there are plenty of look-alikes on the market. Paradox's Studded Quilty Leather Cross-Body Bag ($98) has trendy studs at the quilted intersections. If you're looking for something more budget friendly, try ASOS' Lock Across Body Bag ($26.63), which is actually modeled after Lauren Conrad's signature Chanel quilted bag.

Sunglasses

No movie star ensemble is complete without sunglasses. Forever 21 has a huge selection of extremely inexpensive shades such as these ($5.80) that are perfect to polish off your look.

Butterflies, Petal, Stripes and Color! Orla Kiely Summer 2010

2010-03-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

Orla Kiely's Spring/Summer 2010 collection is full of fun with butterflies, stripes, petals and beautifully colored prints, we're dying to own them all! "The world of Orla Kiely is one where color, pattern, graphic control, texture and rhythm continually work and rework together." Orla Kiely's bright summer patterns splashed fashion's hottest runways and are continuing to show up all over the fashion world. Feeling ready for summer fun and perfect flirtatious nights? We are and we can't wait to do it with Orla!

Pakistan Fashion Week Spring/ Summer 2010

2010-03-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

Last week we had a chance to see the amazing creations at the China Fashion Week, and today we are getting a sneak peek at the Pakistani Spring/ Summer 2010 fashion week, which started on November 4th in Karachi, Pakistan. The organisers had to postpone the event twice due to security fears and the threat of ongoing militant violence. Nevertheless, the show must go on.
The looks above, randing from modern to very traditional, are by Pakistani designers Deepak Perwani, Zahid Khan, Adnan Pardesy, Pashmina Ahmed, Rizwan Beyg and Kash Hussain.

QUICK MAKEUP

2010-02-28T08:24:00.000-08:00

Get Beautiful From The Inside Out

2010-01-29T05:16:00.000-08:00

When it comes to having an amazing, lustrous, age-defying appearance there is one tenet you abso-freaking-lutely need to live by: Your skin is an external manifestation of your internal health.

Everlasting Beauty Can Be Yours

Yes, It Can! What makes my internal health stellar, you ask?

what you eat
how much you sleep
how often you poop
how much water you drink
how you manage your stress and emotions
how much exercise you get
how often you overindulge in alcohol or coffee
your level of self-confidence.

All of these factors combined 100%-totally-completely affect your outward appearance.

How to get everlasting beauty

So, if you want everlasting beauty, here’s 8 things you need to do:

Eat clean, organic, nutritious, unprocessed foods. Period. And, don’t forget to eat plenty of anti-aging-anti-oxidant rich foods such as avocados, flax seeds (the seeds, not the oil!), blueberries, goji berries, olive oil and walnuts.

Poop once a day. No silly, not by drinking three cups of coffee, by eating a healthy diet filled with fresh fruit and veggies and plenty of water. Take a probiotic supplement if you need to. My favorite brand is Culturelle.

Avoid refined sugars and white flours like the plague. These food products are processed and offer your body zero nutrients. A body fed zero nutrients has poor internal health and therefore, poor skin complexion.

Limit your caffeine and alcohol intake. These substances are toxic and make your insides toxic. If your insides are toxic, your outsides look toxic.

Sleep seven to eight hours per night. Sleep is imperative to optimal body functioning. If you don’t sleep enough you will definitely wrinkle up faster than you’re supposed to.

Express your emotions. Girl, get it out. Repressed emotions can cause all sorts of issues. And not to mention the stress you put your body through by holding on to these emotions will age you faster than you care to know, leaving you with worry lines and black circles under your eyes.

Have a stress busting daily routine. Whether it’s getting to the gym, pounding the pavement or taking deeeeeeep yogic breaths. Just do it!

And, most importantly, look into the mirror each day, staring deep into your own eyes and tell yourself, “I love you!” Say it with umph. Say it with pride. Say it over and over until you actually believe yourself. Confidence is the absolute key to everlasting beauty.

For more tips on ways to manage your health, decrease stress and age more gracefully, check out Chill Out & Get Healthy!

How To Look Your Best In Holiday

2010-01-20T05:14:00.000-08:00

So much can go wrong with a family Christmas card -- red eyes, poofy hair, shiny faces, bad lighting. That does not a fridge-worthy picture make! Take these tips from a professional photog to ensure you look your best in your holiday photos.

As the weather turns cooler this year, you're probably planning your family's perfect holiday photo session. These simple tips from Los Angeles-based photographer Andie Kallinger will ensure your holiday cards end up on the fridge and not at the bottom of the pile.

Be Yourself

Forego the matching khakis and white shirts and dress comfortably. Be bold with your wardrobe selection, if that's who you are. Let your clothing reflect your personal style. Your friends and family don't want to see a stranger when they open your card -- they want to see you! Whether your style is quirky, preppy, rock-and-roll or trendy, don't repress your inner fashionista on the day of our photo session.

A Belly Laugh is Better Than a Smile

Laugh! No, really laugh. Your holiday photo should reflect the joy in your life, not a rehearsed smile. Don't be afraid to be silly while you're taking photos. Natural smiles shine through when you're having fun. Tell a (short) funny story, lay a kiss on your neighbor, or mention a family “inside joke” to bring out the giggles.

Find the Perfect Setting

Choose a comfortable setting. For some, this may be a picturesque meadow, the bank of a babbling brook or the beach. For others, it could be your family room, your back yard, or even a train station. Don't feel pressured to follow the trends you see in holiday cards year after year. A unique piece of urban architecture, an old tree stump in the woods or a bright red swing at your local park can all serve as interesting photo backgrounds.

Look Your Best

With all of the factors involved in arranging a holiday photo session, it is sometimes easy to overlook primping the models. Every family member should schedule a haircut and, if necessary, color treatments one week prior to your holiday photo day. Also consider getting a manicure/pedicure one to two days prior. These little details will really stand out (and not in a good way) if they are ignored.

Don't Stress

Relax and shake out the stress, especially if you have young kids. Your relaxation will be contagious (the opposite is also true). Stand tall, take a deep breath and your shoulders will settle naturally rather than appear stiff. If you have young children, make your photo session an adventure, rather than a hectic obligation. If your family enjoys the experience, everyone will look forward to next year's holiday card.

What A Makeup Fun

2010-01-17T00:15:00.001-08:00

BOLD VIDOU

2010-01-17T00:06:00.000-08:00

Winter Sweaters For Warmer Climates 2010

2010-01-15T00:44:00.000-08:00

Whether you live in LA or Chicago, chances are you will be wearing a sweater or two this winter -- but you may be wearing them in new and different ways. Sweaters run the gamut this season, from sleeveless to dolman sleeves to ruffles and fringe. This winter, it’s all about detail, whether you really need to stay warm or not.

Great for layering

"Knits are amazing layering pieces to add to most anything in your wardrobe from denim to skirts and dresses," says Sonya Consentini, T.J. Maxx and Marshalls style expert. Try a long, sleeveless style that features feminine touches such as ruffles or fringe. Another option is to pair with a long-sleeved tee and jeans for a casual look.

Sonya says a cowl neck sweater (like this one from Esprit) in a jewel tone with a pencil skirt or pair of classic black trousers is a great office style. Cardigans have gotten longer this season and feature fun buttons, belting and a variety of colors. Pair the piece with detailed leggings and ballet flats.

in winter and spring...

The best season to include a light- or medium-weight sweater is during the transition from winter to spring and throughout the spring season. "I think one of the most classic and debonair looks is a bold sweater used as an accessory -- casually tossed over the shoulder and upper back, and tied in the front," offers celebrity stylist Okera Banks.

a warm-weather friend

The winter-inspired knit sweater is ideal for warmer climates. This cozy knit is warm but light enough for warmer days and versatile for multiple wears with a matching tank. To get more wear, look for special pieces that work for multiple looks, like a kimono that works from day to evening.

You gain four benefits when getting more wear out of your sweater in warmer climates: A great look; the option of a wardrobe change during your day; readiness for whatever the weather decides to toss your way; and most importantly, more value for your sweater dollar.

8 Style Secrets

2010-01-15T00:40:00.000-08:00

Is your wardrobe feeling a little stale? Then it's time to get out of last year's fashion rut and supercharge your style. With these simple ideas, you will be rockin' to a new, funkier fashion beat in no time and feeling hotter than ever.

Add a dose of color to a muted outfit (or winter's hot black/white combo) to instantly make it pop. Try a Rainbow Brite-esque headband, a vibrant pair of suede heels, a playfully colored patent leather bag or a lively scarf to give you an instant injection of "wow."

Legcessorize! This season, the world is your runway if you're rockin' tights. An easy way to update your look is to indulge in the oodles of tight options available including patterned, sparkly, beaded, feathered and crystal embellished -- the bolder and quirkier, the better! Just be sure to offset wild legs with other, tamer garments.

Test your fashion limits with wild animal prints (leopard, zebra, snake), edgy hardware (chains, zippers, studs) or flirty fringe -- all of which are sure to unleash that inner bad girl of yours, in the best of ways.

Sparkle from the inside out with dazzling sequins. Clutches, tops, belts, skirts and even shoes -- whether dressed up or down, anything emblazoned in sequins will elevate your look and your spirit.

Wake up a sleepy outfit with a loud-and-proud statement accessory. Decide on a go-to piece that can liven up any yawner ensemble. This could take the form of a bag, necklace, hat, scarf or shoe... no matter what it is, make sure it dares to showstop.

Strut a little fiercer with higher heels. If you are typically a flats girl, start with 3-inchers. If you usually go 3 inches, try 4. You will start to see the world on a whole new level!

Channel your inner Betty Draper. Thinking Mad Men times, pay homage to the ladylike era with classic skirt blouse combos, vintage dresses, luxurious fur accents, demure pearls, fun brooches and of course, matte red or bright coral lipstick.

Uplift your undies. We can't say it enough: A great tee-shirt bra (great as in lifting, enhancing and totally invisible) is the secret to looking your hottest in your favorite tee. Bulge-battling shapers can smooth out and lift up any of your trouble zones, from belly to hips to bum.

16 Tips to look trendy, not spendy

2010-01-15T00:33:00.000-08:00

Just like great songs, great closets need only be remixed to look and feel fresh. With a little bit of rearranging, a new perspective and a few inexpensive additions, you can rock and re-energize your tired old wardrobe.

16. Look at your wardrobe in a new way. Reorganize your closet so you can literally see it differently and therefore pair items together like never before. Reverse-engineer your organization method: If it was by color, consider organizing by type of article; if it was by type of article, consider organizing by casual versus glam.

15. Stop recycling outfits. Robotic fashion is lazy fashion, so commit to altering at the very least just one small element of each "go-to" ensemble to give it a fresh feel.

14. Let go of your fashion fears. Pair items that you may not have before, like tights with open-toed shoes (which saves you from storing those fabulous summer heels for the winter) or colors like purple and green. If it feels daring, go for it!

13. Host a clothing swap with your BFFs. Chances are, your girlfriends are experiencing wardrobe fatigue, too, so trading clothes with each other will give you all a needed boost.

12. Crash a boy’s closet. Got a boyfriend, male roomie or brother? Consider his closet your new home. With or without leggings or tights, his classic button-downs make for great belted shresses. Or snag one of his ties and a roll up a pair of his slim-fit jeans, coupled with a loose v-neck tee, a blazer, layered necklaces and some heels, to create the ultimate boyfriend look.

11. Crash your Grandma’s closet. What better way to get the trendy Mad Men-inspired look than to borrow directly from the closet of your grandma. Go hunting for the best in vintage dresses, fur stoles and tweed suits. This is sure to bring a smile to your wardrobe, your bank account and most importantly, to dear ol’ grandmama.

10. Go faux! That is, faux fur, leather and snakeskin belts, shoes, handbags and jackets. They look as good as the real thing but are much kinder on your wallet and your eco-conscience.

9. Don’t think of your coat as just outerwear. If you live in a cold climate, you practically live in your coat, so every winter calls for a new one, plus a coordinating scarf and gloves that you simply adore. This season, dare to try snowy white or bold and bright.

8. Boot up. Treat yourself to one new pair of to-die-for fall boots and give all of your tried-and-trues a makeover at your local repair shop. For less than $10, each pair will get a good-as-new tuneup.

7. Fall in love with layers. To get more mileage out of your closet, think about what can go underneath or on top. Pop a crisp white shirt over a turtleneck, a flowy blouse underneath a summer A-line dress or a pair of tights under a pair of denim cutoffs.

6. Develop new ways to wear old items. Use long pearl strands as belts, wear an ankle-length skirt as a belted strapless dress, tuck flare pants into boots to create a parachute look... Let your creative juices flow!

5. DIY. Take old jeans and add holes using a razor, swap out buttons on last year’s jacket to make it feel new, or dye a favorite summer shirt a cool wintry color.

4. Think Transformers when you shop. All new purchases should have the power to go from day to night, so think ballet flats, denim, jackets and dresses that can all be glammed up or down with the addition or subtraction of key accessories.

3. Get an LBJ. The new little black dress is a little black jacket... whether it is leather, tuxedo, or a boyfriend blazer, this piece will have staying power on your body and in your closet. Pair it with dresses, skirts and jeans for the ultimate in casual to glam versatility on a budget.

2. Stock up on a few key trend accessories that make a statement. This season, zero in on a mixed-metal necklace, a solid-color fringed bag, a wide belt or a few skinny belts, studded boots (ankle to thigh -- whatever suits you best), and bold tights. Colors that really pop: Purple and blue.

1. Shop for three-pack accessories. Headbands, tights and bracelets often co in rockin’ style and color combos that give you more bang for your buck.

Everyday Beauty: 10 Tips For Looking Your Best

2010-01-15T00:27:00.000-08:00

From the time your alarm clock sounds to when you snuggle up to slumber, looking your personal best may be an all-day ritual -- but it's an investment that will have you not only looking beautiful but feeling that way, too.

It is said that "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." But we think it's actually in the eye of the woman who gets the most sleep, drinks the most water and follows this daily regimen.

WAKE UP CALL

Slough and soak to soften. During your morning shower, exfoliate dead skin cells before using your favorite body wash. Keep showers quick and the temp not too hot to minimize oil loss. Pat your body dry with a soft towel, and, for the finishing touch, apply your favorite fragrant lotion, heated with a hairdryer. Let your skin drink up as much as it can for the ultimate in smooth skin... and while you are at it, drink a glass of water, too. The more hydrated you are on the inside, the more you will radiate on the outside.

Befriend concealer.
Brighten up your entire face with dabs of concealer. Use it on the inner and outer corners of eyes to mask dark circles, the outer sides of nostrils to cover deep pores and redness, and the sides of lips to fill in lines. Follow it up with a light blend of foundation plus moisturizer (both oil free with sun protection) to achieve a smooth, even skin tone. And always use clean makeup brushes!

Tame your brows.
Well-groomed brows are the key to a polished look. Regularly wax, thread or tweeze and perform maintenance as needed. If you are tweezer shy and only trust the pros, conceal stray hairs with a swipe of bronzer on your browbone in between appointments.

Experiment.
Seasonally (or more if you dare), replace your favorite color product, be it lip gloss, eye liner or shadow, with something new to feel re-energized.

DAYTIME DUTIES

Become a survivor.
Assemble your "can't live without it" kit consisting of three must-have beauty items such as lip gloss, mascara, blotting papers, concealer or a hairbrush. Create a few kits to stash in key places -- your desk drawer, your glove compartment and your purse for touch-ups.

A pinch goes a long way.
Pinch your cheeks and your lips just before you want to make a great impression. This teeny moment of pain will yield huge payoffs as both areas will fill with a natural rosy color guaranteed to make you glow.

Let your inner beauty shine outward.
All day long, be mindful of your stature. Stand up straight with your shoulders back. Walk tall and think positive thoughts. Offer up your happiest smile, complete with whitened teeth (skip the dark beverages or use a straw) and lips moisturized with lip balm and glistening with your favorite gloss.

SWEET DREAMS

Come clean.
No matter how tired you are or how close the sun is to rising, wash and moisturize your face before you hit the pillow to detox your precious pores of all of the dirt that has accumulated during the day. At the very least, start with baby steps: Tuck a pack of makeup remover wipes in your nightstand.

Preserve your perfect manicure.
Apply a clear topcoat every other night post-manicure to help your fabulous color polish stay chip free for as long as possible. Also, when doing dishes, using gloves will save your polish too... not to mention help you avoid the curse of dry, dishpan hands.

Bye bye, bedhead. Rule #1: Don't go to bed with wet hair -- it increases the risk of hair breakage. Rule #2: Brush your hair before bed with a clean hairbrush (give it a soapy water bath once a week). Rule #3: Add a few drops of your favorite serum to fight morning frizz.

Winter Makeup Tips 2010

2010-01-15T00:24:00.000-08:00

The layered look might work with your winter style, but not your makeup. Behold, the winter make-under! Take these tips for a fabulous winter makeup look that is fresh and natural.

'Fess up. You know the feeling. It starts to get a little cold out, the days feel a little bit longer, there's less sunlight and you start to hibernate. Suddenly, Netflix becomes your replacement for going out. Fret not -- it happens to the best of us. But as your social calendar becomes more low maintenance, you may find that you want to simplify your looks, too.

The remedy? The winter make-under. That's right, you'll look and feel oh-so-fresh in half the time and with little hassle. Here are some tips for how to rock the latest winter makeup trend: the fresh face.

Foundation and concealer

Ditch it. For real. OK, if you're one of those women who simply cannot leave the house without putting your "face" on, this may take baby steps. Au natural is better. Take a tip from the pros and go without the foundation and concealer. Be sure to wear sunscreen for those winter rays, though, so your skin stays protected. Try an oil-free moisturizer with SPF.

By adding moisture to your skin instead of a mask of makeup, you'll look fresh-faced and dewy. To add a healthy, rosy glow, swipe on a pinky-peach cream blush.

Pucker up

The winter winds can drastically dry your smackers. Want to have natural-looking lips that are soft, not chapped? (Hint: it's a loaded question -- we all do!). Start by getting rid of the heavy glosses and dark hues. Go light! If you get a simple tube of Blistex for your parched lips, your lips will get some natural TLC without you having to spend a lot of Benjamins on makeup.

The eyes have it

Ah, the smoky, sultry look. The contouring eye shadow, the false eyelashes, and yes, let's not forget the mega doses of mascara. Stop right there, girl! If you want a simple make-under, let your eyes shine through by going bare. How gross is it every night when you take off gobs of eye makeup? Keep it simple, sister. One simple coat of Maybelline mascara should do it.

Smells like Teen Spirit

Have you ever walked through the perfume section of a department store? So not fun -- the smells are too intense. This is why you, too, should steer clear of heavy scents in the winter. Most of your activities will be indoors, so nothing could be worse than piling your perfume on as everyone inhales (and sometimes chokes) on the scent. Our tip: keep it light, with a fresh, crisp smell. After all, you want to be an unforgettable woman, not a smelly one.

Ditch the Jersey hair

I'm from New Jersey, so I can say this. Jersey Shore hair is usually highlights, lowlights and everything in between, not to mention tons of hairspray and oodles of makeup. It's not only a waste of money, it's completely unnecessary. If you can't run your fingers through your hair without it getting stuck, there's no point. Use this time to restore your locks by simply washing, conditioning, and repeating.

Your homework for this winter: Go product-free for one week, at least. Who knows -- you might actually like it! At the very least, you will give your face and hair a much-needed break. Once you start downsizing your winter beauty regimen, you'll enjoy the au-natural look -- plus, all the time and money you save in makeup. Sounds like a win-win situation to us.

Top 4 Cosmetic Surgery Procedures For Moms

2010-01-15T00:20:00.000-08:00

You carried your children, watched your body morph into something miraculous and, at the end of it, came home with a precious new person in your life. While those fingers and toes and adorable nose are irresistible, you may not consider your own body after baby (or babies) anything to brag about. Find out the top 4 cosmetic surgery procedures for moms, including price and recovery times.

Sometimes no amount of dieting or exercising is enough to make your post-baby body spring back into the shape you once knew. For the moms who aren’t willing to live with the unrecognizable changes their bellies, breasts, thighs and beyond have endured, there are dramatic solutions.

Today, plastic surgeons offer Mommy Makeover packages that can include several procedures at once. There’s no need to be embarrassed about your altered shape. Yes, you got a beautiful baby by sacrificing your figure, but you aren’t being a selfish mom by wanting to focus on yourself.

Why go under the knife?

Noelle C., mom to two busy boys (ages three and one), chose breast augmentation for herself after careful consideration with her doctor. “After two babies, I wanted to do something for myself and my husband was more than happy to pay for it.” But she didn’t want to balloon into something unnatural – Noelle C. was looking for an alteration in proportion to her body. She just wanted to “regain what I had lost as a result of breast feeding, age and gravity.”

Find out if cosmetic surgery is the right choice for you by reviewing these four top procedures for moms.

Breast augmentation

If your breasts have lost their volume or are just sagging more than you would like, breast augmentation may be the right choice. After a one- to two-hour surgery you can walk away with either saline- or silicone-filled implants. It’s a permanent procedure, but sometimes breast implants do need to be replaced years down the road.

Though the surgery may be relatively short, recovery isn’t simple as Noelle C. can attest. “The hardest thing was not being able to lift anything over 10 pounds or raise your arms higher than 45 degrees for two weeks.” And that meant no lifting her chubby, irresistible toddlers! But proper recovery is crucial so sacrifices had to be made. From pain pills to sponge baths, Noelle C. was a mommy who needed her own mother for a few days. She says, “I knew I could not stay at home and not be ‘mommy’ to my boys so I decided to leave the kids at home with their father and went to my mother’s house so she could take care of me.”

She advises, “The most important thing is to have someone who will be able to do all the things for you that you're unable to do, especially for the first three to four days following surgery.” Hmm… sounds like heaven for any mom, minus the pain of course.

Side effects of breast augmentation can include temporary soreness, swelling, sensitivity and bruising. Most patients should be able to return to work in one to two weeks.

Average cost: $3,500 to 4,000.

Breast lift

If the thought of implants make you uncomfortable, a breast lift may be the way to go to recapture that coveted youthful look and shape. Perky doesn’t have to be a thing of the past – this procedure offers an alternative method to re-inflate sagging, droopy and poorly shaped breasts. Excess skin is removed, breast tissue is lifted and nipples and areolae are moved or even reduced in size.

Like augmentation, side effects can include temporary discomfort, swelling, bruising and also scars which will fade with time. It’s a procedure that can take an hour and a half to over three hours to complete but the good news is that the results are long-lasting. You can’t stop gravity completely, but you can put it on pause for a little while.

Most patients should be able to return to work in one to two weeks.

Average cost: $4,300.

Tummy tuck

Also know as an abdominoplasty, this major surgical procedure can take two to five hours from start to finish. Your surgeon will remove excess skin, may reposition your navel and will give your weak abdominal muscles new life by tightening the abdominal wall.

A scar is inevitable in a tummy tuck and recovery is slow – you can be back to work and mommy duty in one to three weeks, but it could be longer depending upon each individual’s physical condition. The results though can be a dramatically flatter stomach and narrower waist.

Average cost for these permanent results: $5,350.

Liposuction

Body contouring is the friendly term for liposuction, but the procedure isn’t glamorous by any means. Having fat sucked out of your body isn’t any prettier than it sounds – but the results can be amazing and instantaneous. If you’ve ever seen a liposuction on TV, it looks vicious, but there are newer methods that do reduce some of that violence by melting the fat first with ultrasound.

Keep in mind, liposuction is not an alternative to weight reduction. It can, however, be effective in removing stubborn fat that doesn’t react to diet and exercise. What this means is – don’t be surprised if your doctor recommends that you lose more weight before embarking on this procedure.

Depending on how much area you’re looking to have liposuctioned, the procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours. Bruising, soreness and even some numbness may occur but the final contour is usually evident by the three-month mark. You can be back to work in about one to two weeks but be prepared to wear a compression garment for up to six weeks to encourage your skin to contract and decrease the inevitable swelling. Average cost: $2,900.

The bottom line

Remember that no matter how minor some of these surgeries may seem in comparison to other types of cosmetic procedures, it’s a serious situation every time you go under the knife. Do your research. Be sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon and don’t be afraid to ask questions about everything from their reputation to the number of times they’ve performed the procedure. Be honest about your childbearing plans as well – if you want more babies, let it be known so the doctor can advise you well.

Yes, you might be chomping at the bit to banish those baggy clothes and reveal a new you, but you do have a little one (or ones) at home to think about – your health and safety are more important than ever. Go slowly so you make the right decision and, most of all, take care of yourself so you can take care of them.

**Details regarding cost, length of the procedure and recovery time are courtesy of The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. The price of each surgery will vary considerably by geographic region and does not include facility fees, anesthesia and other surgical costs.

New Year's Eve Dresses Under $100

2010-01-04T07:19:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is almost upon us and before you know it, you will be planning for New Year's Eve. If you are looking for a fabulous New Year's Eve dress but don't want to spend a fortune, check out these beautiful evening gowns and party dresses for under $100 each.

Beaded waist jersey dress

Believe it or not, this stretch jersey evening gown is under $75. The dress is highlighted by a waist of gorgeous beads and a slight train. You can get this JS Boutique gown on sale at Nordstrom right now.

Turquoise satin gown

Make a real statement with this gorgeous turquoise blue gown. It features a deep V-neck that is embellished with sequins and beads. This Sean Collection gown is 50% off at Nordstrom.

If you aren't looking for a full-length gown, you can find plenty of short party dresses with metallic fabrics, intricate beading and lively colors.

Hot pink and black dress

The "Susie" pink dress features a glitzy skirt with a lace peek-a-boo hem. This dress looks adorable when paired with long black evening gloves. Add a pair of silver strappy sandals and you'll be ready for a night out on the town.

Purple flapper dress

Fringe is definitely in and purple is one of the most popular colors in fashion. So, why not combine them both in this terrfic purple flapper dress reminiscent of the 20's. You can get this dress right now at eDressMe for $72. It's also available in a couple shades of blue.

Red party dress

Sophisticated Lady offers a number of holiday party dresses under $99, like this sexy red number for just $66.99. Their dresses all run a bit small, so order a half size up.

Pleated trapeze dress

This style is very easy to wear. The high neckline emphasizes the triangular trapeze shape of this pleated dress. Priced at just $98, you can't beat this deal on this ECI cocktail dress.

Metallic spaghetti strap dress

Metallic dresses are always popular for New Year's Eve. This one features a criss-cross empire bodice and full skirt. It's perfect if you are carrying a little weight in your midsection, as it doesn't cling. Get this sparkling party dress for just $85

Fashion Advice From Jeannie Mai

2010-01-04T07:15:00.000-08:00

SheKnows sat down with celebrity style expert Jeannie Mai, an experienced makeup artist, fashion expert and actress, who currently hosts the Style Network’s popular makeover series, How Do I Look?. We chatted about finding your personal style, what looks to avoid and how to look your best day in and out.

Fashion Tip #1: Use the trends to create your own style.

'I encourage gals to use trends to inspire their own style, don't follow ‘em!' says celebrity stylist Jeanine Mai. If you spend all your money on trendy pieces, you'll stick yourself in a style time warp, she cautions.

'Trends become what they are because somebody thought out of the box and did something thousands began to follow. Learn how to be that trendsetter. If you see a hot must-have, make sure you spend on the trends that can be versatile for work and every day and flow well with other things you own (the boyfriend jacket, skinny jeans, leggings). Then think out of the box by buying timeless pieces (button ups, pencil skirts) and pair them with pieces of your personality (patterned tights, belt buckles) to make your look signature.'

Fashion Tip #2: Spend Wisely

When you're watching your expenses closely, finding great fashion bargains is a must. But, you don't always have to look in the bargain bin. Think of your wardrobe as an investment, and look for pieces that are trendy this season but also timeless. Do they work well with what's already in your closet? Can you pair it with several different tops or bottoms and dress it up or down? Most importantly, is it high quality construction? If you answered yes, you've got a keeper.

{headline)Fashion Tip #3: Choose trends that fit your bodyBody type is a huge factor in which trends you can actually follow. Mai says blazers with emphasized shoulders work best on those with narrow or average shoulders. "The illusion immediately tapers any waistline," Jeannie says. Alternatively, fitted and double-breasted jackets are great for small busted or boyish-shaped women.

This season's must-haves

Mai says this year's ideal fashion pieces were the boyfriend blazer and the wrap dress. 'Both can be worn casually with flats, tights, leggings, or dressed up in heels. Both can be adjusted to suit any season. And both are ideal for any weight flux you're working with!' She calls the wrap dress 'the classic timeless trend for every woman, every size and every season.

How to LAYER ACCESSORIES

Forget about not mixing your metals, accessories these days are all about mixing and not-matching different sizes, textures and colors – think everything from chunky rings to piles of pearls. Jeannie tells us, 'Every woman needs an archive of the following accessory staples (in gold and silver): Long chain (at least 22 inches), short necklace (16 inches) with neutral colored or wooden charms, at least 2 chunky rings with in silver, gold, or a neutral color like amber or brown, hoop earrings, drop earrings in turquoise (these go with everything and brighten any face), and bangles. If you shop smart, you can buy all these accessories for under $100 through thrift shops, Forever 21 stores, Aldo stores, or even clearance racks at Nordstrom.'

How to wear leggings

Leggings have been big for several seasons now, and this trend isn't going anywhere. We love them – they are super-helpful for layering under spring skirts for winter, heels or boots, oversized shirts, or layering under long dresses to stay warm. Plus, they can be slimming and flattering to many figures! Jeannie’s advice: Invest in neutral shades of black, grey, and brown, and look for stylized leggings with riding patches of suede or leather, or fun shiny or sequined patterns for night.

How to wear CARDIGANS

Long or short, cardis are great and comfortable for any body type. Look for wrap style cardigans that flow below the waist to give a longer torso, and take it up a notch by throwing on a belt outside the wrap for a comfortable but fitted shape.

how to mix COLORS AND TEXTURES

Mixing metals has been Jeannie's hottest and flashiest fashion fave: 'Whether in fabrics or accessories, blending bronze and silver or gunmetals and golds is just haute.' Start simple with silver and gold mixed necklaces or bangles first, then move on to mixing metallic fabrics for night. It's a super way to shine!

Double-Duty Baby Products

2010-01-04T07:11:00.000-08:00

As a mother, you know how hard lugging around a heavy diaper bag all day can be. Forget about carrying beauty supplies for yourself, right? Wrong! In a beauty pinch, just open up the diaper bag and make those baby products work double duty. These daily baby essentials have some surprising beauty uses and are actually economical choices compared to their beauty counterparts that are made specifically for adults.

Baby oil

This standby baby product is great as a last-minute lip gloss and skin moisturizer. Caught with mascara-smeared raccoon eyes? Baby oil on a napkin or tissue can take care of the black mess in a hurry. Try smearing some baby oil on exposed skin while exercising in cold weather; the oil will help protect your skin from the elements as you walk, run or ski. As an added bonus, baby oil can help remove gum from your kid’s hair (or your carpet) and can help un-stick stubborn zippers.

Baby powder

If your hair is feeling limp or greasy, shake some baby powder into your hands and rub it into your scalp. The powder helps absorb excess oil and gives your hair some lift. Running a brush through your hair before you wash it will help remove the powder. This is a great in-a-hurry alternative to dry shampoo.

Baby wipes

Call these the diaper bag workhorse. Baby wipes are hypoallergenic, handy and efficient. Grab the fragrance-free variety to extend their usefulness. You probably already know these multi-tasking wipes can clean surfaces, phones and sticky hands, but they are also great for makeup removal or as a skin refresher on hot days. Reach for a wipe to remove lint or white deodorant marks from your clothes or to shine your shoes in a hurry.

Nipple salve

Nursing moms often keep a tin of nipple salve handy to help soothe dry or cracking nipples. But the natural oils, beeswax and shea butter often found in these salves makes for a rich eye or cuticle cream. Salves are also useful for chapped lips and hands.

Baby aspirin

These tiny little pills contain acetylsalicylic acid, a form of salicylic acid, which is a common ingredient in skin care products used to treat acne. This beta-hydroxy acid exfoliates the skin and unclogs pores, and its antiinflammatory properties help reduce the appearance of pimples. Just make a paste from crushed baby aspirin and water and apply it to pimples. Allow the mixture to dry and then rinse it off. Do a small patch test if your skin is sensitive, and consult your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing before using this treatment.

GOOD BY 2009

2009-12-30T21:28:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Life is too short so enjoy it, as well as u can.

Homemade Beauty Gifts For Christmas

2009-12-20T09:50:00.000-08:00

Whip up some holiday cheer

This year, as the Christmas invitations roll in, prepare your hostess gifts early to avoid a last-minute run to the store. Whip up some of these easy and inexpensive homemade products, add some festive Christmas packaging and enjoy the party! Your hostess will adore you.

Homemade Herbal Toner

Give the gift of radiant skin. Witch hazel is really inexpensive at the drug store and is a fabulous toner. Pour a bottle over your favorite herbs or fresh cucumbers, seal and allow the mixture to soak for a few days in the fridge.

Develop your own concoction using lavender, rosemary, cloves, basil or mint. You can also add a drop or two of essential oil for added fragrance. Strain and pour into plastic or glass bottles with your “custom” label and some Christmas flare.

Be sure to focus on quality rather than quantity because the toner will spoil if not used relatively quickly.

Homemade Bath Salts

Combine Epsom Salt with a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a relaxing soak. You can also add some dried lavender, lilacs or mini-roses for color.

Pour into little canvas bags and tie a raffia bow or Christmas ribbon around the top. Consider handwriting directions on a small piece of stationary:

Step 1: Add to hot bath.

Step 2: Lock door.

Step 3: Light candle.

Step 4: Pour a glass or wine or lemon water.

Step 5: Take 15 for yourself.

Homemade Tinted Lip Balm

Buy some small pots from craft or hobby store. Using a clean popsicle stick or spoon, scrape the contents of your favorite lip balm or salve into a bowl and add some crushed blush or mineral make-up.

A little goes a long way, so add the color sparingly. Mix and fill plastic or acrylic pots.

Print out cute labels on your computer and stick them on top. Then place them in a cute little box, wrap with some ribbon and a sprig of Christmas holly, and voila: you've made an adorable gift for less than $10.

Homemade Linen Spray

Help your hostess beautify her home with this delicious-smelling linen spray (for a fraction of the cost). Use a bottle that has a fine mist to ensure proper dispersion of the spray.

First, find a fragrance that you like by experimenting with essential oils. Popular choices are ginger, jasmine, neroli, sandalwood, lavender and rose.

Once you’ve found a good combo, add the oil to 1 part witch hazel or alcohol (you can even use Vodka) to 5 parts distilled or spring water.

Tie a sprig of lavender around the bottle.

Homemade Sugar Scrub

Everyone loves a good sugar scrub! Mix brown sugar with olive, safflower or coconut oil (just enough to add some moisture and help the sugar spread).

Next, experiment with vanilla, lavender, lemon zest, jasmine oil, peppermints crushed into a powder, even ground coffee. You can also squeeze the contents of a natural Vitamin E capsule into the mix (it’s a natural preservative), or just stick to the small batch rule. These scrubs are best when used on the body, not on delicate facial skin.

Want to make your hostess feel extra special? Put one of each of these treats in a decorative bag or wicker basket and get ready for a big Christmas hug!

5 Holiday Party Outfits Under $100

2009-12-20T09:36:00.000-08:00

As the invitations roll in this holiday season, you're probably staring into your closet hoping holiday-appropriate outfits will throw themselves on your bed.

It may not be that easy to pull off festive ensembles, but you can put together a variety of looks with minimal effort by using these simple tips (an added bonus: most pieces shown here are under $100!).

Adorn Your LBD

Your favorite little black dress can be a show-stopper by adding some eye-catching adornments. This velvet number by Dorothy Perkins ($50) is jazzed up with an Isabella Oliver wrap belt ($72), funky shoes by Doll House ($64), emerald earrings by Fantasy Jewelry Box ($50) and a sparkly clutch from TopShop ($74). Finally, this feather head band from Girl Props ($8.99) adds just the right amount of sass, while staying holiday-appropriate. Pick one statement piece, in this case, the head band, and keep the glitz to a minimum.

Love Your Leggings

Love them or loathe them, leggings are everywhere this fall and winter. Try a subtle departure from the typical black this holiday by donning a different hue like these navy leggings from Brown's Fashion ($91). This simple Clu tank ($97) is perfect under Splendid's long jersey turtleneck top ($50) and, together, they add just the right amount of coverage. These Cocoeve glitter pumps ($88) say, "celebrate!" and elevate leggings to holiday-appropriate status. Finally, grab a long necklace, perhaps Cara's($58), and a unique ring like this one by Coach ($78) to pull the whole outfit together.

Sweater Weather

A solid-colored sweater dress, like this one by ModCloth ($50), can be a valuable asset during the holiday season. Throw a long-sleeved tee underneath for warmth (Splendid tees like this one, $68, are nice and light) and grab some booties, like these from Rocawear($90), or your favorite tall boots if your dress hits at or above the knee. A large cuff bracelet adds color and interest. Zentosa's rose bracelet ($81) is a great attention grabber. Make sure the focus remains on the cuff by adding a simple but stylish clutch, like this one from TopShop ($66) and subtle pave studs by Nadri ($58).

Unexpected Print

Holiday attire does not have to be green, red and metallic. A great print can work equally as well, provided you add the right touches. This Arden B dress ($78) features an Ikat print that you wouldn't typically associate with holiday. But, add some shiny patent, like these great Jeffrey Campbell flats ($63) and a French Connection clutch ($74), and you are ready to party, holiday style. A pop of yellow from a cardigan like this one from American Eagle ($30) will make you stand out in a sea of green, red and gold.

Pencil It In

A pencil skirt is a classic silhouette that goes from office to cocktails to seasonal shin-dig. Here, Betty Jackson's version ($63) is paired with a simple long-sleeved t-shirt from American Vinta ($74) and a knitted cap-sleeve sweater by TopShop ($58). A metallic belt, like TopShop's ($58), adds a touch of sophistication, while an adorable peacock hairclip by Zads ($19) offers some whimsy. Minimal accessories, these gold hoops are by Melinda Maria ($115), and an unexpected shoe (these are green croco patent by Paris Hilton, ($93) make this outfit a party go-to.

5 Tips For Better Beauty Sleep

2009-12-20T09:27:00.000-08:00

If your skin's looking a little sallow, your sleep habits could be to blame. Deep sleep is a crucial time for bodily repairs to take place. So skimping on your REM cycle can leave your face droopy, discolored, and puffy. Of course, packing in eight wonderful hours of zzzz’s per night is not always easy. As powerful women, let’s face it: We’ve got it goin’ on. We’re managing households, families, careers, the works. But if we don’t make sleep and self care a priority, no one else will. Here are some tips for getting more quality beauty sleep.

First things first: There’s no prescribed amount of sleep everyone should have per night. Sure, you’ll hear "eight hours" tossed around, but according to the National Sleep Foundation, there is no specific magic number. Sleep needs vary with age groups as well as the individual. You may be at your absolute best with seven hours of full sleep per night, while someone else may need nine.

Set a bedtime.

Once you determine the proper amount of sleep per night for your body, adhere to a set bedtime. Often, we pack so much into our days that our heads hit the pillows later and later each night. The key is setting a bedtime and actually sticking to it. If this means you need to cut out an extra television show at night, by all means, do it. Once you get your body into a routine, you’ll be able to establish good sleeping habits. And that's what TiVo is for, right?

Avoid caffeine.

It sounds like a no brainer, but you might be surprised at how early you actually need to stop drinking caffeine in the day to have a restful night of beauty sleep. This is highly individualized, too, so determine your own body's clock through some trial and error. If you've had a few restless nights, think about when you had your last soda, coffee or double tall mocha-choca-latte. Those few sips might be robbing you of restful sleep.

Exercise.

Sleep experts recommend wrapping up your exercise at least three hours before bedtime. Actually, the best time to exercise is the late afternoon. Here’s why: Your body temperature is related to sleep. Since body temps rise during exercise and take at least six hours to drop, wrapping up your routine earlier will give your body time to cool off before hitting the sheets.

Limit distractions.

Any decorator will tell you to decorate the bedroom in soothing tones without too much clutter. That means no bills, computer, Blackberry or other distracting, worrying items. Keep your bedroom calm and clutter-free so your dreams will be the same!

Reduce noise.

Even quiet, rural neighborhoods can be noisy at night -- dogs barking, the occasional emergency siren. If you live in the city, these slight distractions probably sound like a welcome relief compared to the din of the city. Wherever you live, nighttime noises may be waking you just enough to prevent you from getting into the deepest levels of sleep. Consider getting a bedside fan or white noise machine to block out things that go bump in the night.

Above all, think of yourself as a properly functioning car. If you’re not sleeping sufficiently, there’s no gas in the tank. But with proper sleep, you'll have full energetic effect with glowing skin, bright eyes and eagerness to tackle your day. Sleeping Beauty was onto something!

Get YouthFul Hair

2009-12-20T09:20:00.000-08:00

As we age -- which is a good thing, given the alternative! -- there is no question that the right hairstyle, cut and color can help us look younger. Here, see if your hairstyle is making you look old and how to nab a more youthful look.

'The angle, layering and overall style of the cut will either camouflage or accent someone's best features and catch the eye,' says Elena Golesco of the New York Cosmetic Image Center in Great Neck, New York. 'As for length -- it's highly individual… long, short or medium can work. Again, it's the cut and styling, which has to be right for the individual woman, that makes all the difference.'

A Cut Above the Rest

The right cut will draw attention to your face and highlight your best features -- big, gorgeous eyes, full lips, great skin, etc.-- and it can also make up for facial flaws. 'Let's say you have a strong jaw line (a la Reese Witherspoon) and want to soften your overall look. Go for a cut with long layers and side-swept bangs,' says Elena.

Color Commentary

'I usually advise a client to go a lighter shade rather than a darker shade when hair is turning grey to brighten up the overall look,' says Beverly Zunke, director of color at San Francisco's Vim and Vigor Salon and former educator for Goldwell. 'I like to use a more translucent color to blend grey hair, which helps to soften the look as the hair starts to grow out. Using a matte color makes the regrowth more visible. I also add some lighter highlights throughout the hair, which helps with grey blending. Also, when covering or blending grey hair on male clients, I generally use a demi-permanent color which fades off over a period of a few weeks, instead of leaving a line of demarcation.'

Add Some Layers

Celebrity hairstylist Francky L'Official always recommends that women keep their hair between the chin and shoulders with light layers or soft waves around the face with mega volume. One of the most common signs of aging is when the hair starts to fall out and the texture begins to change. For this, Francky recommends adding extensions to create fullness and volume the hair once had. Layers apply to color as well: Francky says that lighter hair around the face with darker hair near the neck (think Barbara Walters) makes women look younger because it distracts from their aging necks and brings attention to their eyes and cheekbones.

Older and Wiser

'The older woman should also stick with simplicity when it comes to a cut such as a wedge bob,' says Don Bewle, long-term hair professional and founder of Eufora hair care. At least 70 percent of the hair should be one length because as we get older hair thins and heavily layered hair will only emphasize this. Also, if it is one length and shiny, light will bounce off of it giving it a youthful appearance.

If a woman is salt and pepper, go with reverse highlights. Have your stylist weave your darkest color throughout because it richens and brightens up hair, again giving it a youthful appearance. Your darkest color is usually found in the back. If you do this, you will only have to color once or twice a year, which prevents excess damage and drying from color that ages hair.

5 Beauty products that serve more than one purpose

2009-12-20T09:13:00.000-08:00

Your daily beauty routine can seem like forever when everything requires a separate application or product. Ugh. Save money and time by trying out some of these beauty products that serve more than more purpose.

Hourglass Solar Tan Self-Tanning Primer

We love this foundation primer from Hourglass so much that we have already included it in our seven best foundation primers roundup . This product practically defines double duty: not only does it serve as a grade A foundation primer to keep your foundation firmly in place all day long, but it also serves as a self tanner to give you a natural-looking sunkissed glow. Best yet, it doesn’t have the telltale smell you typically associate with most self-tanning products.

Murad Pomegranate Exfoliating Mask

Want the brightening benefits of exfoliating without harshly rubbing an abrasive scrub against your skin? This amazing mask from Murad has you covered. You get all the typical benefits you would expect from a face mask — softening, hydrating and balancing your skin — while it dissolves dead, dull skin to give you that refreshed glow you typically only expect to get from an exfoliating scrub.

NARS The Multiple

The gold standard in all-over color, NARS The Multiple adds shimmery color to your eyes, cheeks, lips and even body. Packaged in a creamy stick for easy application, The Multiple is a simple one-product makeup kit in and of itself for the on-the-go gal. While the product is available in many colors, the most popular is The Orgasm, a gorgeous peachy pink. $37

Juice Beauty Green Apple Extra Firming Body Moisturizer

Organic beauty company Juice Beauty has a treasure trove of products, but we have honed in on the company's green apple firming body moisturizer in particular. Not only does this moisturizer provide an intense dose of hydration, it also has revitalizing and skin brightening properties. Even more covetable however, this moisturizer also firms your skin and helps to diminish fine lines. It is a delicious-smelling way to hydrate and firm your skin.

WEN by Chaz Dean Cleansing Conditioner

Instead of a traditional shampoo and conditioner combo, switch to a cleansing conditioner from WEN, a stellar line of hair care products by celebrity hair stylist Chaz Dean. These cleansing conditioners cleanse your locks without harsh detergents or chemicals. But that’s not their only use, these products practically define multi-purpose; they can also be used as a body wash or deep conditioner. We are particularly smitten with the Sweet Almond scent, which has a fresh and lively mint aroma

How To Dress Sexy Yet Casual Too!

2009-12-13T09:34:00.000-08:00

In the summer, casual outdoor activities are extremely popular. Whether you are spending the day at the beach, a backyard BBQ or an outdoor concert, you can dress cool and casual yet also sexy. Follow these fabulous tips for sexy summer style at outdoor events.

What to wear to the beach

A swimsuit is the obvious answer. Be sure to wear a swimsuit that is appropriate for your body style. However, things don't end with the proper swimsuit. Accessories are key at the beach.

Sunglasses

Nothing screams sexy like a hot pair of shades. This season look for oversized sunglasses to add a bit of Hollywood glamour. Nordstrom offers a great selection oversized sunglasses in almost every price range. Whether you are looking for a bargain or a luxury buy, just make sure your sunglasses are bold and big.

Sheer cover-ups

When you get out of the water, you will want to put something on. Instead of covering up completely, put on a sheer cover-up to let some skin show. Cover-ups come in a variety of styles, including sarongs, pullovers and button down shirts. This sheer white Dotti Pleated Shirt Cover-Up is certainly chic and sexy. You can order it now at Macys for just $48.

What to wear to an backyard BBQ

A backyard BBQ doesn't sound sexy, but it certainly can be a great place to meet new people. Instead of showing up in a T-shirt and shorts, consider some of these fashionable options.

A summer dress

This Juicy Couture dress is a great example of a dress that's appropriate for a backyard BBQ party. It's casual and comfortable, yet still stylish and sexy. A dress that falls just above the knee in a spring color is an ideal choice.

Jeweled sandals

Instead of flip flops, select a pair of jeweled thong sandals. You can find a wide variety of flat sandals adorned with jewels, crystals, stones and other embellishments.

What to wear to an outdoor concert

The new guy in your apartment building invited you on a date to an outdoor concert! You are excited, but what should you wear? A concert is a casual event but that doesn't mean you can't dress flirty and feminine.

A feminine blouse

Instead of a T-shirt or bulky sweater, choose a feminine blouse with the ruffles. If the weather is expected to cool down you can always add a sweater later in the day. Tops with interesting necklines will draw attention to your cleavage. Add a couple layered necklaces to complete the look.