STARS ON BEACH

SUPERSTAR DUA LIPA SHINES AS A TRUE FASHION ICON ON THE BEACHES !

2026-06-14T12:37:45.269-04:00

The first time I saw and heard the British singer Dua Lipa was in a video on TV. It doesn't happen often, but the way she moves, her elegance, her beauty, her beautiful mezzo-soprano voice and her catchy music simply left me speechless. A real instant "wow" effect !

Right away, I wanted to know more about this phenomenal artist.

First, her appearance, which struck me as somewhat exotic, could be explained by her true origins.

Born in London on August 22, 1995, Dua Lipa holds Albanian and Kosovar nationality due to her parents’ origins.

Hence, her beautiful caramel complexion, along with her jet-black hair and eyebrows...

Her father, Dukagjin Lipa (born March 5, 1969), a marketing director and lead singer of the Kosovar rock band Oda, and her mother, Anesa Lipa (born June 28, 1972), a travel agent, left the city of Pristina, Kosovo, in 1992 to move to the United Kingdom, escaping the wars in Yugoslavia.

Dua, their eldest daughter, was named on the suggestion of her Bosnian maternal grandmother. In Albanian, Dua means “love” or “I love.” It’s a charming and fitting name, especially now, seeing how adored this young woman is by such a vast audience around the world.

Before signing with the American label Warner Records in 2014 and releasing her debut studio album, *Dua Lipa*, on June 2, 2017, the popular singer-songwriter worked as a model for the ASOS website at just 16 years old.

This experience was short-lived, as she quit when one of the site’s managers suggested she lose weight. However, her modeling training, height (1.73 m), weight of around 58 to 60 kg, and measurements (36-26-35 or 91.5-66-89 cm) showed her that she truly had the talent and physique for the job, something that would later be confirmed.

In 2013, at just 18 years old, Dua appeared in a commercial for the show "The X Factor," adding acting to her list of talents—a skill that would prove valuable later in her entertainment career.

The rest is history: an incredible musical journey filled with platinum records, hugely successful tours, five Brit Awards, an MTV Music Award, an American Music Award, an iHeartRadio Music Award, and three Grammy Awards.

She holds Guinness World Records for selling the most tickets to a live concert by a solo female artist in 2020 and for having the most monthly listeners on Spotify for a female artist in 2021.

Her modeling career kicked off in 2017-18 with a partnership with MAC Cosmetics for a lip gloss line, and appearances in Patrizia Pepe’s autumn/winter and spring/summer campaigns. Since 2021, her influence in fashion, beauty products, and luxury brands has skyrocketed, alongside an even more remarkable rise in the music industry.

In 2021-22, she is a global ambassador for the PUMA brand, in particular for the Flutur collection (sneakers, clothing, accessories.

The following year, things took off ! Dua became the muse and official face of the Libre perfume for the prestigious Yves Saint Laurent Beauty house, starring in international campaigns from 2023 to 2026.

She is also welcomed as a creative collaborator and muse of the famous designer Donatella Versace. She created the "La Vacanza" collection with her and participated in numerous campaigns (ready-to-wear, bags, red carpet looks).

In 2025-26, Chanel named her ambassador for haute couture products and accessories, including Chanel 25 bag. Dua made an appearance and caught attention at the Paris Fashion Week 2026 shows. She also teamed up as co-creator of a skincare line with Augustinus Bader in the beauty and well-being category.

The Queen of Pop also serves as a global ambassador, showcasing Bulgari’s jewelry, Nespresso coffee, and Evian water. And the list will probably keep getting longer...

The singer behind the super hit "Houdini" is also making waves in the swimwear industry, and not just as an Instagram sensation with 90 million followers. She creates, models, and promotes swimwear through her collaborations with Versace, making it one of the most prominent aspects of her fashion influence.

Multiple photos and videos often show her in swimsuits on several of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It makes you think she’s always on vacation, but she insists she works all the time !

The truth is, between shows on her major musical tours, she enjoys swimming with her loved ones.

The "Versace x Dua Lipa" collection features bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, and full beach sets with matching mini-skirts, light shirts, sarongs, and seaside ensembles. It offers a variety of shapes, styles, motifs, colors, and textures.

In short, Dua Lipa is one of the most brilliant artists of her generation. Her versatility is incredible. She’s not only the queen of pop music, but also a talented actress, an original designer, and a highly sought-after luxury ambassador.

Her recent wedding to British actor Callum Turner in London, followed by celebrations in Palermo, Sicily, with nearly 300 guests, was truly amazing. However, it’s fair to say the people of Palermo didn’t exactly enjoy being overrun and felt offended by the horde of wealthy visitors who came to disrupt their peace.

BEACH, BIKINI, WATER SPORTS AND SYDNEY SWEENEY GO WELL TOGETHER...

2025-10-28T11:24:00.000-04:00

For "Stars on Beach," the renowned actress Sydney Sweeney makes an ideal subject. Growing up near Lake Pend Oreille, on the Wahington-Idaho border, she naturally embraced beachside relaxation and water sports in a bikini. She always cherishes her favorite moments, especially when she's splashing around in the water.

She shared the tale : «I grew up on the water, always running around in a bikini. If I wasn't swimming in the lake or the ocean, I was skiing or attempting to surf. So there was always a part of me that wanted to create something that truly felt like me».

This is why the Emmy-nominated star wanted to work on a project that truly reflected her authentic self in a stylish way. So, when Francesca Aiello, the founder of the bikini brand Frankies Bikinis, reached out to collaborate on a swimwear collection called Love Letters, Sweeney was thrilled. «With Francesca and her incredible company, we really created something special».

Sydney Sweeney focused on both style and functionality while designing her swimsuit collection with Frankies Bikinis. She aimed to create outfits suitable for every setting. In an interview with Glamour magazine, she said, "If I'm at the beach, I want tiny little straps and cute colors. If I'm at the lake, I want support so I can jump off any rock without worrying about my boobs falling out."

Over the years, fans have enjoyed plenty of bikini moments from their favorite actress. The star regularly shares photos on Instagram, showcasing a variety of swimwear styles. From vibrant floral patterns to daring D-ring designs, it seems there's no look she hasn't explored.

Sydney, who turned 28 on Sept. 12, often posts beach photos on social media, showcasing year-end snapshots and birthday celebrations with a variety of swimsuits and stunning coastal views. She recently relocated to an oceanfront estate in Florida, near the Keys, where she's been seen soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean.

She has shared videos of herself kitesurfing, including a few wipeouts, showcasing her adventurous spirit and love for challenging water sports. At her Florida home, she’s also been riding jet skis and banana boats.

She said something about water-skiing : «It's a rare moment when I can actually just hear myself breathing, where everything else goes quiet» (...) «You get tired really fast. I see such a change in my body after an entire summer of skiing. My arms are stronger, more sculpted. My abs are rock solid».

Sydney Sweeney has a complicated and often tense connection with water, the beach, and swimsuits, largely because of harassment from paparazzi. Although she enjoys vacations by the water, her privacy has been deeply invaded by photographers who target and exploit her in swimwear.

She recounted how paparazzi in kayaks hid in the bushes near her oceanfront home and stayed there for hours, refusing to leave.

In an October 2024 interview with Glamour, Sweeney shared unsettling experiences with photographers who harassed her and her family at their Florida home. : «They said, "If you tell her to just come outside in a bikini, I'll take pictures and then I'll leave you alone"».

The harassment resulted in her location being exposed, with tour boats cruising past her house and guides announcing, "This is Sydney Sweeney's house." She expressed her frustration, saying, "It’s turned into a star tour in my front yard... I should be able to feel comfortable and safe in my own home."

Sydney Sweeney has used swimsuit posts to challenge body-shaming and advocate for body positivity. In December 2024, after facing a wave of negative comments on social media about her bikini photos, she responded powerfully. She shared a montage of the harsh posts paired with a video of her boxing training for a role, captioning it, "Christy Martin Strong."

Sydney shared her journey of embracing her body. As a teenager, she felt insecure and "ostracized" about her appearance, even considering a breast reduction at 18, but her mother convinced her otherwise. She used to hide her figure under oversized clothes. Now, she radiates confidence and hopes to inspire young girls by showing them that their bodies are beautiful and empowering.

SUPERSTAR BILLIE EILISH GIVES THE WORLD A RARE LOOK AT HER BIKINI STYLE ON A BEACH IN BARCELONA.

2025-06-26T12:28:00.000-04:00

It is surprising, as she is widely recognized for her signature oversized style, influenced by her struggles with physical appearance and body image.

Only two years ago, in an interview with Vogue magazine, she discussed how the body shaming and negative comments she endured in the past continue to affect her, even to this day. She achieved fame at the age of 14 due to the extraordinary success of her song "Ocean Eyes" in 2015.

However, she struggled to cope with her sudden fame, experiencing a prolonged adolescent crisis. She did not perceive herself as beautiful, describing herself as chubby and poorly proportioned.

Sensitive to public scrutiny and negative comments about her appearance and unusual behavior, she endured a prolonged period of depression, often isolating herself by staying confined to her parents' house in Los Angeles.

This era of profound darkness, despite the remarkable successes of her early musical career, was mirrored in the somber themes and melancholy present in her songs. Feelings of illness and persistent suicidal thoughts tormented her mind to such an extent that she was convinced she would not live to see her 17th birthday. Fortunately, her mother lessened the demands of her rigorous touring schedule and ensured she had access to therapy.

And one day she awoke to the realization that she had become excessively isolated, prompting her to make a concerted effort to engage in what she refers to as "human activities." Going out with friends, playing sports with them, having fun, was beneficial for her. Laughter became her therapy.

Despite enduring ongoing online scrutiny, Billie Eilish remains committed to the journey of self-acceptance. While she has repeatedly acknowledged the impact of hurtful comments on her well-being, she continues to work on prioritizing her own emotions over the opinions of others, highlighting the significance of self-love and resilience.

She recently said : «the older I get, there really have been many periods of doubt and fear and feeling so much pressure, and then when more people knew me, more people had something to say. It was hard to remember to trust myself or even believe in myself sometimes. It's still a process. I think I'm doing pretty good.

I've also always been very strong-willed and very much myself, so I do think that plays a part. I am undeniably who I am, and I have absolutely no other choice, and sometimes it feels like a burden - but I happen to also like that girl. Although it does feel at times definitely inescapable. I will say I've really grown to like who I am a lot at this point. Thank God. With exceptions...»

Billie Eilish, of Irish and Scottish heritage, has grown significantly since her challenging teenage years. She firmly rejects being confined to a single label or a stereotypical, prejudiced category. «Over time it's kind of become a thing "Billie Eilish, the creepy, weird, scary girl". And I don't like that. It's lame. I just don't want to stay one thing.»

Eilish is truly an original artist. Her vocal style is unparalleled, and her stage presence is remarkably distinctive, especially for a young woman. She shattered the mold and defied the stereotype that defined the "sexy" singers of the preceding generation.

But as much in her clothing style as in her musical style, she is not one-dimensional. She acts according to her desires while staying authentic to herself and the experiences that have shaped her since birth. She is adamant about preserving an air of mystery regarding her personal affairs, particularly her romantic life.

Having emerged from the isolation of her adolescence, Billie utilized her celebrity and the significant influence of her remarkable musical career to actively engage in causes close to her heart, striving to transform a world in need of change. «There could have easily been a world without me, but since I'm in the world, I am going to try to help people and be impactful and change things that have been in place for so long and are so outdated.»

She has been outspoken about environmental issues, particularly raising awareness of climate change.

She is an active advocate on social media, promoting animal rights and veganism.

She criticized the sexual exploitation of young women, particularly by men in positions of power over them.

Eilish aligns herself with the U.S. abortion rights movement and expressed her anger when Texas enacted its anti-abortion laws in 2021.

She advocated for a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict.

Last year, she, along with her brother and artistic collaborator Finneas, endorsed Kamala Harris for the 2024 United States presidential election.

Billie has frequently addressed the topic of women's rights in her speeches and statements. She wrote and produced the 2020 short film "Not My Responsibility" in response to body shaming directed at her and the double standards imposed on women's appearances.

Her struggle against body shaming empowered her to overcome this challenge. This is why we started witnessing her confidently appearing in public wearing a bikini, as seen two years ago on her friend Annabel Zimmer's Instagram account and again last year during the Fourth of July celebrations.

She has once again made headlines in Barcelona, donning a red string bikini during her vacation as she prepares to resume her European Tour, "Hit Me Hard and," next month.

Here she is performing the song that made her famous (Ocean Eyes) with Lana Del Rey, who was a big influence in her career.

ELLE MacPHERSON AND KATE UPTON AMONG SI MOST FAMOUS STARS ON THE WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES.

2025-05-24T17:40:00.000-04:00

The renowned Sports Illustrated magazine faced challenges in achieving success following its inception in August 1954. It was only about ten years later that it became profitable for its owners, thanks to a few innovations.

One of them had a significant influence in 1964 when the magazine's editor, André Laguerre, released a special edition featuring photographs of models in bikinis.

Originally published annually in February, and subsequently in May starting from 2019, this special issue has grown in significance and has become the renowned "Swimsuit Issue." It consistently achieves the highest sales and garners the most attention, whether through positive or negative comments.

It is important to note that during the mid-1960s, the wearing of bikinis was only starting to gain social acceptance. Prior to this period, particularly in Puritan-influenced America, such attire was deemed scandalous and immoral, even two decades after its invention in France in 1946 (refer to my blog «BIKINI AND POM POM GIRLS» Regarding this topic⇾ https://bikiniandpompomgirls.blogspot.com/2025/03/history-of-bikini-difficult-times-in.html).

Moreover, it is frequently asserted that the widespread popularity of Sports Illustrated's "Swimsuit Issue" significantly contributed to the acceptance of the bikini in the United States. Subsequently, Sports Illustrated will also launch and market its own line of swimwear.

Initially, people—particularly feminists—struggled to comprehend why SI officials were sharing these photos of bikini models. They argued that such "provocative and sexist" images were inappropriate for a sports magazine or any other publication, for that matter.

The renowned fashion journalist Julie Campbell, known for her role in the contentious "Swimsuit Issue," viewed it merely as a showcase for "taller and healthier California women." Admittedly, the connection to the themes of Sports Illustrated seems rather tenuous.

Highly profitable for Sports Illustrated, generating tens of millions of dollars in advertising and sales, the special swimsuit issue no longer provokes, as it did in its early days, a substantial number of unsubscribes and negative reviews. It has transitioned into video format and is now accessible in a digital version.

Its annual launch has become a global advertising event, and despite feminist criticism, it does not appear to be disappearing anytime soon.

The Special Edition Swimwear has celebrated its most favored figures over the past six decades. Elle MacPherson (above) holds the record with five appearances in its pages, spanning the years 1986, 1987, 1988, 1994, and 2006.

She is closely followed by Kate Upton, who has appeared in four editions (2012, 2013, 2017, and 2024).

Five other top models claim three appearances in the pages of the famous sports magazine :

Daniela Pestova

- Christie Brinkley (1979, 1980 and 1981);

- Cheryl Tiegs (1970, 1975 and 1983);

- Kathy Ireland (1989, 1992 and 1994);

- Daniela Pestova (1995, 2000 and 2006);

- Tyra Banks (1996, 1997 and 2019).

AFTER THE END OF THE ERAS TOUR, VACATION ON THE BEACH FOR TAYLOR SWIFT ?

2024-12-11T14:32:00.000-05:00

After 149 performances spanning 21 months, Taylor Swift's Eras Tour concluded in Vancouver, Canada.

The 34-year-old American singer shattered all records, grossing $2.2 billion—nearly twice as much as the second-highest-grossing artist tour by Coldplay, which earned $1.14 billion since March 2022 with their Music of the Spheres tour set to extend into 2025). The Eras tour drew 10 million attendees.

Following such a tour de force, the superstar certainly merits some rest and a well-earned vacation. Might we soon spot her on the beaches of a tropical country enjoying herself? Or will she opt to wait for her boyfriend, the football player Travis Kelce, to join her as he did last March?

It may still be a long time coming, because the Kansas City Chiefs, with their current 12-1 record and status as reigning champions of the NFL's American Conference West Division, have a strong chance of reaching the Super Bowl again this year in February, especially after securing the title for the past two years.

Taylor Swift is not frequently photographed on beaches worldwide, unlike other international jet-set celebrities. She has maintained a level of discretion in this aspect. Moreover, the few photos that have been released, and became very popular, were typically of low quality. The most recent photos of this nature emerged last March from the Bahamas, capturing the blonde celebrity swimming with Kelce.

I'm not among the "Swifties," even though I acknowledge Taylor Swift's immense talent. Like many music enthusiasts, I perceive her success as disproportionate when compared to other prominent figures in show business. How, then, can we explain the phenomenon of "Swiftmania"?

Music and marketing experts, along with academics who teach courses on the topic, have provided some insights into this unique phenomenon.

Initially, Taylor Swift began her career while still young and has achieved consistent progress throughout the years.
She is a multifaceted artist, excelling as a singer-songwriter-composer and dancer, talents that are uncommonly found in one individual, regardless of gender, but especially rare for a woman.

She has had a prolific career, releasing eleven albums over 18 years and embarking on six global tours.
She has crafted her songs across a variety of musical styles, including country, folk, electro-pop, and R&B, enabling her to connect with a broad audience.
She has received numerous accolades, among them 14 Grammy Awards.

She has documented her life experiences, including her romantic endeavors, through her music, resonating with her audience who often see reflections of their own lives in her narratives.
She courageously confronted adversity, (including disparaging remarks from Kanye West), and surmounted her challenging relationship issues, earning the admiration of her fans.
She has managed to forge a unique connection with her fans, particularly through her "friendship bracelets."

Album to album, show to show, Taylor Swift consistently surprises her audience with her ability to reinvent herself.
By sharing stories of her personal life, she creates a narrative that enthralls her audience, leaving them eager to discover what unfolds next.
Her approach to engaging with her social networks is a significant asset in forging a strong connection with her followers. She has emerged as a representative figure of her generation.
Ultimately, she represents the latest iteration of the American Dream.

2024-03-01T18:10:00.000-05:00

SUPERMODEL STEPHANIE SEYMOUR ON THE BEACHES : THROUGH THE DECADES...

Last fall, Vanity Fair magazine had the brilliant idea of rewriting fashion history by bringing together the 21 most famous supermodels from the 1950s to the 1990s. The photo shoot featured big names, especially those who made a name for themselves in the 1990s, a decade considered to be the golden age of the fashion industry, with great designers or brands such as : Versace, Chanel, Lagerfeld, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, and Ralp Lauren.

Vanity Fair's guests for this dreamy photo shoot include supermodels Iman, Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer and Stephanie Seymour, true super stars of the 1980s and 1990s, whose fame went beyond the realm of fashion.

The photos taken by Luigi and Iango for Vanity Fair show these G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) in their best light, and prove that, even in their fifties, they have lost none of their talent and beauty.

Through the years, some of these supermodels have lauched their own clothing lines or their parfumes. This is the case of Stephanie Seymour. In 2017, she founded the lingerie line RAVEN & SPARROW line which features high end vintage inspired pieces designed for comfort, ranging from camisoles and rompers, to silk robes and nightgowns.

In fact, Seymour has a personal collection of original vintage clothing amassed throughout her career that spans four decades. It is a part of her net worth estimated at 110 million US dollars.

The little Stephanie already wanted to become a model when she was only five year old. She was born in San Diego, California, on July 23, 1968. At the age of 14, she was hired by the modeling agency ELITE and fell in love with her boss John Casablancas, 42, who was married to model Jeanette Christiansen.

It was the early beginning of a rather tumultuous love life that led her to spend time in the arms of guitarist Tommy Andrews (1989 to 1990, with whom she had a child), Warren Beatty, Guns N' Roses singer Axl Rose (1991 to 1993), and business man Peter Brant, whom she married in 1995 before filing for divorce in 2009.

At the time, her husband blamed her for having problems with drug and alcohol use. Finally, the divorce petition was canceled, Seymour reconcile with him in 2010. She had three children with Brant, who already had five from a previous marriage.

Stephanie Seymour has starred in a few films (Pollock, 2000) or TV series (Crazy, an episode of Law & Order : Criminal Intent, 2002). She appeared in major fashion magazines such as : Vogue, Sports Illustrated, and Vanity Fair.

Seymour once caused a scandal by posing nude for PLAYBOY (1991 and 1993), and Vogue (1992). She repeated the experience for INTERVIEW (2013) and LOVE (2017).

Stephanie was one of the first angels for VICTORIA'S SECRET in 1997. The previous year, it was the prestigious brand ESTÉE LAUDER that made her its new face.

In 2021, she had the pain of losing her son Harry, who died of an accidental drug overdose. She's struggled to get over it and says her grandchildren (her husband's, and her first son Dylan's whom she had with Tommy Andrews) helped her through it.

Stephanie Seymour has worn a lot of clothes from top brands, including lingerie and swimsuits. Here's a sneak peek at her looks on the beaches when she has posed for magazines or when papparazzi photographed her when she was on vacation...

In SPORTS ILLUSTRATED, 1991.

Stephanie Seymour, in a swimsuit, 2002.

In Maui, Hawaii, 2014.

On the beach of St.Barthelemy, 2022.

ALESSANDRA AMBROSIO'S FAVORITE FASHION ? BEACHWEAR !

2022-07-20T15:08:00.005-04:00

In more than 20 years of career, super model Alessandra Ambrosio has been dressed by the greatest fashion designers of the world.

One might think that her favorite fashion is chic and sophisticated clothes. Not at all : «In my personal life, I keep things simple. I'm a Brazilian girl, even though I now live in LA, so swimsuits and simple beachwear is my style. I love the beach, love the water. I love fashion but I don't have to go crazy with buying items. I'm happy with what makes me comfortable.»

In fact, the 41-year-old beauty queen wears a bathing suit more often than a dress. She has her own line of beachwear (Alessandra Ambrosio by Sais, a division of Rosa Cha). Of course, the fashion star, who started her career at fifteen with Dilson Stein (Elite), - the same man who discovered Gisele Bündchen and Caroline Trentini -, has many admirers, and women who want to imitate her.

But she warns them of the danger of becoming fashion slaves : «If what we wear makes us feel confident and relaxed then it feeds in to how we are in the world. But that doesn't mean we should obsess because then it becomes a source of anxiety. I think we can enjoy trying on looks and sseing how it feels. If it doesn't work, move on. If it does, then enjoy. But of course it's not everything. Life is about family, friends, love. Fashion should be the icing on the cake, not the be all and end all.»

Now in her forties, how does she feel about her modeling career ? «I think I've developed an inner confidence. I didn't expect modelling to last, but here I am still doing it and loving it. So, that has made me feel that I can embrace my look at every stage of my life.»

For a model, maintaining and preserving your beauty in order to stay at the top of your job requires a lot of effort and precautions. It's not easy to keep yourself in good physical shape, especially as you get older. Ambrosio doesn't always succeed but she takes it with philosophy : «So many times, I haven't felt ready for shoots. I'm like, why didn't I work out more ? But it's life.»

If she loves the sun and the beach, Alessandra is aware that the heat can be a danger. She makes sure to protect her skin by applying good quality sun lotion often and abundantly.

She frequently wears a hat to shield the fiery rays of the solar star.

Her mother and her grandmother always reminded her of the importance of staying hydrated : «When you are dehydrated, you see it on your face and when you've had your share of water, it glows. Nothing is better for your skin than drinking a lot of water and green juices. I also love fresh coconut water bought on the beach.»

Born on April 11, 1981, in Erichim, Rio Grande do Sul, to parents of Italian, Polish and Portuguese ancestry, Alessandra Ambrosio is, according to FORBES, one of the highest paid models in the world. Its annual revenues have exceeded seven million dollars.

Perhaps the highlight of her career was her 17 years (2000-2017) - a longevity record for the brand - being part of the Victoria's Secret Angels. In 2012, during a show of the brand, she wore the famous "Floral Fantasy Bra", a bra valued at $ 2½ millions.

If Alessandra Ambrosio is an inspiration to many young women who admire her, what have been her own role models ? She responds by naming the legendary icons : Brigitte Bardot, Grace Kelly and Marilyn Monroe, «because they carried themselves with confidence and a sense of fun. They also embraced a timeless look.»

But to admire is not to copy. She insists on the importance of staying authentic and having fun in what you do.

Here are some of Alessandra Ambrosio's best looks, on the Glass Animals hit "Heat Waves", which broke the record for most weeks on the Billboard 100 chart.

🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈

KATY PERRY : FROM THE BEACH TO THE STARS.

2022-03-31T10:27:00.000-04:00

A PERFECT FIT FOR STARS ON BEACH.

It's hard to find a better topic that fits with the theme of this blog : show business stars and their presence on the beaches.

Our star today ? Katy Perry : one of the biggest superstars on the planet. Not only because of the dominant place she has carved out for herself in the field of music thanks to her immense talents as a singer-songwriter; but also a star by her remarkable beauty, her flamboyant style, her impressive personality, and even as a very successful businesswoman (shoe line, fragrances, Popchips, mobile app game).

She is one of the world's best paid entertainers. According to FORBES, her net worth = $ 330 million.

AN ACCLAIMED AND AWARD-WINNING SUPER POP STAR

Some statistics to demonstrate the incredible popularity of the 37-year-old American singer, who makes crowds run during her large-scale shows ? Here are some of them :

One of the best artists of all time with more than 143 million records sold worldwide (18 million albums + 125 million singles;
All of her albums with Capitol Records have surpassed more than a billion streams on Spotify;
Nine number one songs (including three certified diamond), and three number one albums on the U.S. charts;
Many Guinness World Records :

* Most followers on Twitter (> 100 million); She is still the most followed female artist on this network;
* Highest annual earnings for a female Pop Star ($ 135 million, in 2015);
* First female to have five No. 1 singles from one album (Teenage Dream);
* Largest TV audience for a Super Bowl half-time performance (118½ million);
* Biggest selling digital artist.
* Seven multi-platinum records in the span of just five years (2008-2013);

Fourteen People's Choice Awards;
Fourth best artist of all time in the field of pop song, according to Billboard;
Five Billboard Music Awards;
Five American Music Awards;
A Brit Award;
A Juno Award;
First artist with a video with more than a billion "views" on Vivo (Roar), she added another one later (Dark Horse);
Among the artists who accumulated the most income from 2011 to 2019, according to FORBES;

And the list could go on and on.

A BEACH STAR

Katy Perry beach star ? Certainly ! Perry, whose real name is Elizabeth Hudson, was born on October 25, 1984, in Santa Barbara, California. She grew up near the beach of this beautiful place.

One of the most important influences that forged his musical career was the Beach Boys' album "Pet Sounds". Her big hit "California Gurls" (co-written with Snoop Dog), which has sold more than five million copies, is reminiscent of "California Girls", a classic of the Beach Boys, even if the two songs have in common only the lyrics : "I wish they all could be California girls" (Beach Boys), and "I wish you all could be California girls" (Snoop Dog/Perry).

Katy Perry told Jimmy Fallon : «Pet Sounds is one of my favorite records and it influenced pretty much all my songwriting. All of my melody choices that I make are because of Pet Sounds».

Two of the original Beach Boys said they like Perry's California Gurls song. Brian Wilson appreciates the melody and the reference to his band. About Katy's interpretation, Wilson said : «I love her vocal. She sounds very clear and energetic».

Mike Love, the other Beach Boy who commented Perry's song, added a bit of humour : «I think she's really clever. We have a lot in common now : we both have done songs called "California Girls" and we've both kissed girls and liked it» (...) «My band has always accentuated the positive, and hers is a positive message about California Girls, so what's not to like».

CHILDHOOD, PARENTS, AND SANTA BARBARA

Katy Perry's parents were "Born Again Christian" ministers. Unlike most Santa Barbara residents, they were not rich. They imposed very strict education and morals on their children. For example, apart from church songs and gospel, all other musical genres were forbidden to them.

Here's what Katy Perry once said about her childhood, her parents, and Santa Barbara :

«I didn't have a childhood».

«I grew up not really having anything, so the idea that I can take care of my family and my friends now is a really cool bonus».

«I was raised in a super sheltered atmosphere where we didn't watch anything besides Trinity Broadcasting Network -which was called TBN- or the Fox News channel».

«Everyone related to me in my circle was from church : church friends, church school, church activities. All my friends weren't allowed to watch MTV or go to PG-13 movies or listen to the radio, so I didn't really know anything different. That's how I was raised».

«I wasn't going to great schools, because my parents didn't believe in public education. They wanted the education to be influenced by their religion, so I was going to these halfway education-slash-Christian schools that were like pop-up shop-style education».

«I grew up listening to gospel. That was the only thing I had reference to because that was what my family was involved with».

«My dad would give me $ 10, which is a lot of money when you're 9, to sing at church, on tables at restaurants, at family functions, just about anywhere».

«My parents were strict, but it was the world I lived in. I had no idea there was a world outside».

«I came from a lot of intolerance and prejudice, which aren't necessarily healthy to evolve as a human».

«I think that parents grow up with an idea of what they want their kids to be like, -and then their kids grow up to be people of themselves, of their own».

«People love the idea of a good girl gone bad, thinking that my parents were so strict and disowned me, but that actually wasn't the case. Even though they don't necessarily agree with some of the things I do, they love me as their daughter. That's always been their perspective».

«I never took part in the rules and hatred that sometimes go along with religion. But if my parents are happy with what they believe, then I'm happy to stay out of their way. We agree to disagree».

«When I was younger, I used to be a part of the surfing and skateboarding community».

«I left for L.A. when I was 17. Santa Barbara was boring to me back then. Now all I want to do is be bored in Santa Barbara, because it is a beautiful place ! But when I was young, I felt a little trapped on an island -my family isn't well-off, and it was kind of tough to be hanging out with millionaire families that live there».

«I'd go to the farmers' market in Santa Barbara, and I'd put out my guitar case, and I'd test out these little ditty songs that I would write, and I would get a couple of avocados, a bag of pistachios, and, like, fifteen bucks. That was a lot of money for me».

«Santa Barbara is my hood. I mean, it's not much of a hood, but it is definitely like my hood. I claim Santa Barbara like I claim my family. I'm going to be married and buried there».

A FANTASTIC CAREER, WITH VERY HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Growing up loving to sing but with a unique reference to gospel, Katy Perry wanted to pursue a career in gospel music and be as successful as Amy Grant. But her debut album (Katy Hudson) released in 2001 was commercially unsuccessful.

At 17, she moved to Los Angeles and adopted a new stage name, Katy Perry, from her mother's maiden name. She recorded an album titled "Fingerprints" while signed to Java Records and then Columbia Records before being dropped. The album was never released. Another failure for the young Katy...

Success came when she signed a recording contract with Capitol Records in 2007. The following year Katy Perry became famous with her album "One of the Boys", containing her first big hit "I kissed a Girl". The rest is History ! Here's some of her thoughts about her fabulous musical career which was influenced by many great artists like the Beach Boys, the Beatles, Queen (Freddie Mercury), Alanis Morissette, Gwen Stefani, Björk and Madonna.

«I just want to make it clear that I come from very humble beginnings, and I worked for everything».

Ever since I was younger I wanted to be on stage, singing my songs in a glittering costume. And that happened and is still happening. I have to remember that this is what I wished for and be grateful because there are 500 other girls right behind me that are ready to snatch it up».

«Jagged Little Pill (Alanis Morissette 1995) was the most perfect female record ever made. There's a song for anyone on that record; I relate to all those songs. They're still so timeless».

«I think people appreciate a songwriter who shows different sides. The whole angst thing is cool, but if that's all you've got, it's just boring. Everything I write, whether it's happy or sad, has a sense of humor to it».

A FLAMBOYANT STYLE, A STRONG PERSONALITY AND WHAT A SEXY BODY !

«I was never really attached to a clique, and I wanted to be in all the different groups; I was never a one-group kind of person. I think that's still part of my personality today».

«I always made do -if I had five dollars, I'd go to the thrift stores on State Street and get my vintage cardigans and pencil skirts. Thank God for the body, because that '40s look really worked on me».

«I'm kind of a more sunshiny person myself».

«People don't want just vanilla. They want 31 flavors. I couldn't do what Rihanna does. I couldn't do what Gaga does. They can't do what I do».

«My style icons were Gwen Stefani, when she was in No Doubt, and then Shirley Manson in Garbage».

«I don't follow trends. I'm just not into what everyone else is wearing. I have my own look, which I call "Lolita Meets Old Hollywood Glam».

«I still want to be as approachable and relatable as possible -when I meet fans and they're crying, I'll say, "Calm down, there's nothing to cry about"».

(following her single "I Kissed a Girl") «Girls now keep asking for a kiss. After every show on my tour I stay behind to do an autograph signing. But about a dozen women will want a snog. I just sweetly say, "No, thank you". If I kissed everybody who asked I'd probably go away with something I don't really want».

«There are a lot of things that are personally uncomfortable to show, especially me without makeup and completely bloated or crying. But I've realized that it's time for me to show my audience that you don't have to be perfect to achieve your dreams. Because nobody relates to being perfect».

«I'm really critical of my posture, it makes a big difference. And I try to suck my belly in. Everyone should do that whether you're on a red carpet or not. Even if you're just going out to dinner with your boyfriend you should try and suck it in».

«I'm kind of a good girl -and I'm not. I'm a good girl because I really believe in love, integrity, and respect. I'm a bad girl because I like to tease. I know that I have sex appeal in my deck of cards. But I like to get people thinking. That's what the stories in my music do».

«I don't have a Kate Moss body, but I'm very proud and happy with mine».

«Besides my big boobs, it is probably my hourglass shape that is my best feature. I play off of that a lot. I like that I have a lot on top and a lot on the bottom».

«I don't care what people say about my relationship; I don't care what they say about my boobs. People are buying my songs; I have a sold-out tour. I'm getting incredible feedback from my music».

___________________________________

BEACH STAR GEMMA ATKINSON : THE WORST ADVENTURE OF HER LIFE...

2021-06-11T12:58:00.000-04:00

Since she left her modeling career to devote herself mainly toher roles as a film and theatre actress, we hear much less about the very sexy Gemma Atkinson.

It is true that she has given so many interviews to journalists during her life that she would not have much new to teach them about her. The beautiful 36-year-old Englishwoman, who a few years ago set sales records for her famous calendars showing her very lightly dressed, continues to appear in minor or B-movies, which do not really attract attention. Among these, FEVER, shot in India, whose screenplay and dialogues were written by Rajeev Jhaveri.

The former star of the TV series HOLLYOAKS also continues to be involved in charity or animal welfare. A few years ago, the so-called 'Gem', in the United Kingdom, announced that she would help TIGER TIME, an organisation founded by David Shepherd, aimed at protecting tigers in Asia and Russia. "I was shocked to learn that there were only 3,200 wild tigers left on the planet," Atkinson said, explaining why she decided to support the cause.

If Gemma loves tigers, there are animal species that she appreciates much less. In 2007, while participating in the reality show GET ME OUT OF HERE I AM A CELEBRITY, in the Australian jungle, Atkinson had to pass several tests during this SURVIVOR with English sauce... One of these tests was to "negotiate" with hundreds of cockroaches spread on the bodies of the participants. Probably the worst sensation experienced by Gemma during her life: "In the jungle, I found myself with cockroaches in my armband", she says. "It was horrible!" We have no difficulty believing it! Wassssshhhhhh... It seems that it stings in cursed these critters! Poor Gem!

Finally, the native of Bury in greater Manchester, took fifth place in the standings of this competition which put the nerves of the participants to the test. Gemma was very happy when she was eliminated from the race! She had had more than enough of wilderness life. Finding a way to get food was not the least of his challenges during those hard days spent in a hostile environment.

Curiously, through, these irritating adventures and these privations of all kinds, it is for her "famous" chest that this top model of female lingerie feared the most. By losing a lot of weight during his stay in the jungle, Atkinson was afraid that his feminine attributes, assets of "size" in the exercise of his profession, would suffer the unfortunate consequences of his weight loss.

These sudden concerns for the size and beauty of her bust paradoxically contradicted statements she had made some time earlier in interviews with men's magazines. She then told reporters that she did not understand the English nation's obsession with her chest... The huge British star, who has since got back in shape by attending the gym, has attracted more attention in 2016 because of a (gallant?) date with the famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo...

In 2017 Atkinson starred in the horror film Cain Hill, alongside Emmerdale co-star Michael Parr and Kingsman 2 actor Tony Cook.

From 1 February 2017 to May 2018, she co-hosted the Key 103 breakfast show with Mike Toolan.

She presented the Hits Radio breakfast show alongside Gethin Jones and Comedy Dave for the first year of Hits Radio's broadcasting.
Atkinson now presents the drive time slot across the Hits Radio Network with Wes Butters.

Atkinson is engaged to Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Gorka Márquez. On 1 February 2019, she announced on Instagram that they were expecting a baby. Atkinson gave birth to a baby girl, Mia, on 4 July 2019. She and Márquez announced their engagement on 14 February 2021.

SHAKIRA : «WE ALL HAVE A RESPONSABILITY TO GIVE BACK».

2020-12-16T14:45:00.013-05:00

When you dream of sunny beaches, you think of those of the South Seas... When we think of a luminous star radiating over the whole world, and which can brighten the beaches of our dreams even more, it could well be Shakira, the queen of Latin music, whom we would see coming out of the Caribbean Sea to inhabit our thoughts...

Yes, this dream is very plausible, given the immense popularity of this electrifying artist who grew up in Barranquilla, on the northwest coast of Colombia, a place bathed by the Caribbean Sea (where Shakira has her monument -pictured below-).

Even today, many years later, while living in Spain, Shakira must still love the beach and dance with the waves of the ocean.

We read, or we sometimes hear, that in an individual's life, everything is decided before the age of five. This is true in the case of Shakira : « I had no doubt in my mind. I had visions of what was gonna happen to me since a very early age ».

Yet, in a disadvantaged country, undermined by a long armed conflict; on a continent that produced virtually no international stars, what were the chances of success of little Shakira ? Null...or pretty much nil... That's how much the little prodigy has merit to have achieved this incredible feat of strength !

It was at the age of four, in 1981, that Shakira had her great "revelation". His father took her to a restaurant serving Middle Eastern cuisine. There, it plays doumbek, a drum typical of traditional oriental music that accompanies the famous belly dances of women from Arab countries.

Hearing this music, little Shakira spontaneously starts dancing on the restaurant table. It's already decided : she wants to be a performer and put on a show !

It must be believed that this ardent desire, this fierce will, were very strong, because to realize her dream, Shakira will have to overcome many obstacles that seem insurmountable in the situation where she was.

First, it has been mentioned, its environment does not favour its ambitions. Also, at this age, she's shy.

At school, she likes to sing but she is rejected from the choir because it is said that her high-rise tone of voice rings "like a goat" !

Hyperactive and quite dissipated, she is regularly expelled form her class. It's funny how she'll get her revenge later, using that extra energy to electrify the crowds, on the biggest music stages around the world !

During these school years, her passion for dance, music and songs is growing and growing. She already has this strength of character and this personality trait that will always correspond to her : she is such a hard worker and a fierce perfectionist !"

Between the ages of ten and thirteen, Shakira is already known as "the belly dancer girl" at her school. She gradually became known in her region by participating (and winning !) in competitions or performing at certain events.

Monica Ariza, a producer of a local theatre, finally noticed her. Convinced of the extraordinary talents of her young protégé, she managed to get her auditions at Sony Colombia. Unfortunately, the director of the famed record company is not so impressed with the reenage singer. He even states that it is "a lost cause".

This is not the opinion of another Sony executive, Ciro Vargas, who will eventually convince the record company's management to sign a contract for three albums to Shakira. It's quite a feat ! Imagine ! She's barely thirteen !

Her first two albums were not commercially successful. But she's not discouraged. She is learning English. She's working hard. She continues to forge her style and perfect it. It is inspired by the music of several cultures : South American, Andean, Indian, Arab, African, United States.

When success finally arrives, with her third album (Pies Desclazos - Barefoot), Shakira realizes her other great childhood dream : to make a lot of money to help educate the poor children of her country.

At only 18 years old, she created a Foundation, named after her first successful album, to carry out this project so dear to her heart.

When she was a child, her father once took her to a park near her home. Shakira then sees the misery of the children who frequent the place. She doesn't know them. They're poorly dressed and they have nothing to do. They don't go to school like her because their parents are too poor to pay for their schooling.

Shakira with Gabriel Garcia-Marquez

This sad show touches Shakira right to the heart. She feels a strong sense of injustice in the face of this social inequality. She will soon realize that, without education, these children have no chance of success in life.

Hence, the need to create her Foundation that continues to grow now, thanks mainly to her personal fortune ($ 350 millions today). This charity helps many children around the world.

If to become the one that the New York Times calls the "Titan of Latin Pop", Shakira had to work very hard and face many trials, none of them being harder than the one that affected her at the end of 2017. After suffering from a haemorrhage in her vocal cords, she loses her voice.

Overwhelmed, she fears she will never be able to sing again. It sinks into a deep depression. Her voice, she says, is her identity.

Frightened, she cannot bring herself to accept the operation that doctors recommend to her. She's trying everything to heal : hypnosis, meditation, even going to Lourdes to get holy water.

When she finally recovers her voice, this Catholic by birth believes in divine intervention, a kind of miracle.

This experience makes her appreciate her job even more and she is convinced that this ordeal has made her a better singer. Once finally healed, when she resumes her Eldorado Tour, she is amazed. She remembers : « Every night on stage was a gift ».

This year, COVID-19 forced her to take another break. She took the opportunity to take more care of her family, made of professionnal soccer player Gérard Piqué, who is the father of her two sons : Milan, seven, and Sasha, five.

Like everyone who becomes a parent, her priorities have changed. She does not want to neglect her career but, thinking of her family, she declares : « There are things that are more important than personal and professionnal success ».

She adds : « Being a mother is the hardest job I've ever done. I'm never sure I'm doing it right. I'm always second-guessing myself. I love being a mother but it's challenging to keep the balance -to not let motherhood prevent you from reading a good book, going out with your boyfriend-husband, having an adult conversation ».

In 2020, even if the entertainment world is on hold because of coronavirus, Shakira's popularity is undeniable. On the web, she is still the most « googled » artist. The musician of the year ! Nothing seems to be able to stop it ! Not even COVID-19 !

80 millions albums sold later, Shakira continues to collect and earn a multitude of honors, trophies, awards, number one hits on the world charts, record popularity and album sales. Monuments or statues are even erected in her honour.

Her influence is immense. Big names in music like Beyoncé, Rihanna, Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber say there're inspired by her. Not to mention a large number of Latin artists who say they are proud to follow in her footsteps.

When Shakira is asked to explain her phenomenal success, she replies : « I think it's my energy and love of life that has been the real key to my fame and success » (...) « I love to shake my hips, my hair and my boobs. It's all about having fun and sharing your spirit with other people » (...) « I have never had one moment of stage fright and performing has always been a huge thrill and source of enjoyment for me. It's part of my personality ».

Singing in two widely used languages, English and Spanish, certainly does not harm to understand the vast extent of her audience. Just like the multi-cultiralism that characterizes her works and her style : « I'm a fusion. That's my persona. I'm a fusion between black and white, between pop and rock, between cultures -between my Lebanese father and my mother's Spanish blood, the Colombian folklore and Arab dance I love, and American music ».

Shakira has this great gift of feeling music all over her body : « I listen to music through my body. Even when I'm mixing songs in the recording studio, if I don't move, I know that there's something wrong. I say "Do you see them moving ? Do you see my hips moving ? It's not working". Hips don't lie », she adds, referring to the title of one of her greatest hits.

Her inspiration often comes to her in waves. Powerful waves, sudden creative rages during which she must quickly put on paper the words and musical notes of her compositions. Lyrics and notes that she will sing and then play on guitar and percussion.

Despite her great love for her craft and the stage, she will not encourage her children to imitate her : « I don't think I would want my children to enter into my profession. There's a lot of stress and so much competition. There are easier things you can do with your life ».

The beauty of her songs and performance on stage is a reflection of her own body beauty. When asked about her beauty secrets, Shakira, who usually appears on stage naturally, barefoot, almost not wearing make-up, says simply : « Less is more, staying hydrated, rested, and lots of vitamin C » (...) « Beauty comes from self confidence, being positive, feeling energy and loving and caring for oneself ».

And how does she explain the flexibility of her body when she performs her famous belly dances, which have become one of her trademark ? Few people know that : « I'm double-jointed. I can put my legs over my head, which freaks people out » !

When praised for her generosity and charitable work, she declares : « It doesn't matter if you are a musician, a business leader, a president or a student. We all have a responsability to give back » (...) « Music has given a voice to many generations, and I think we, as artists, can be a part of creating a better world ».

Here are some Shakira looks. Of course on her super hit « Hips don't lie »

You might also like : the continuation of the bikini story on my blog BIKINI AND POM POM GIRLS. https://bikiniandpompomgirls.blogspot.com/2020/12/the-most-beautiful-girl-in-world-to.html

In this article, the invention of the bikini and the beginning of its adoption by women thanks to movie stars who began wearing it in the 1950s. Pictured above : Jayne Mansfield.

KENDRA WILKINSON TO GET RID OF HER HUGE BREAST IMPLANTS BUT NOT OF HER CHEATING HUSBAND...

2015-07-19T23:18:00.000-04:00

It's a typical Hollywood story... So it's about actors and fake. And it's a bit crazy too ! Crazy because it seems that it's also one of the most popular subject in America right now. Yea, no kidding, former Playboy model Kendra Wilkinson is ready to get rid of her famous breast implants but not of her cheating husband Hank Baskett ! Last year, there were allegations that this guy, a former National Football League player, and father of the two Kendra's children, had an affair with...transgender model Ava Sabrina London ! Hum...knowing the hot-blooded Wilkinson, it was sure that this story would be dynamite ! Furthermore, in the last episode of the TV show THE MARRIAGE BOOT CAMP, Kendra's costars called her relationship with Baskett a fake one... Well, fake boobs, fake relationship, fake model, fake show; it's too much fake to swallow...at least for me !

Of course, Wilkinson was furious (or is it fake ?) and she defended her marriage to 32 year old Baskett by using somewhat of a coarse language. No surprise there... On the social networks, the sexy blonde sent a message about her man : «This is the love of my life... A true man. I believe in forgiveness and I believe in him. I take my vows very serious and won't let people's beliefs get in my way of what I know» (...) «Everyone that truly knows Hank Baskett knows the truth, and everyone who doesn't, creates their own ideas, n that's o.k., but don't f--k with me and what I love and stand for. Love the support but all the other 2 cents can kiss my a--».

AVA SABRINA LONDON

Last spring, Kendra Wilkinson, -who became famous at a young age, thanks to her nude photos in Hugh Hefner's erotic magazine and by starring in the TV series THE GIRLS NEXT DOOR (2005-2010)-, said that she wanted to shed her Playboy image. She thought that one way to achieve this goal was by removing her huge breast implants. She explained : «I love Playboy but now it's time for people to see me as a real mom and wife who lives in celebrity la-la land but deals with all the drama.» (...) «My body used to please men but my body is for me now and it is to please me.» So...adios lingerie shoots and nude magazine covers showing her voluptuous curves...

Wilkinson weighed 120 pounds (55 kilos) during her modeling career but gained 55 pounds (25 kilos) throughout her pregnancies. During her second one (her daughter Alijah), Kendra was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. She had to change her lifestyle for a more healthy and active one.

The former sex symbol went on a low-carb, ketogenic-inspired Atkins diet, like other celebrities such as Kim Kardashian. She declared : «If guys don't like my body now, that's actually a good thing that means I'm shedding the Playboy image. When I see guys saying oh you're fat, I'm like "yes ! I'm glad I don't turn you on anymore because I don't want to do that anymore !".»

What does her husband think about the change ? Wilkinson says that he loves her body and that he is happy about her new-found confidence. Then, why did he went out with Ava Sabrina London ? Bahhhh...too complicated...

Well, sorry, boys and men... To remember how sexy Kendra Wilkinson was, I assume that we will have to keep our old photos and magazine covers showing her great body.

A J-LO BOOTY FOR CHRISTMAS ?

2014-11-25T18:25:00.000-05:00

A few years ago, I was watching a stand up comic show on TV. The guy was giving advices to men in the audience about their relationship with women or girl friends. He was inviting them to pay attention to what their darling was saying because there are many pitfalls in the questions they ask, even when they have an innocent look on their face. For example, when your wife or your girl friend ask if you think that she is a little bit too fat, don't answer, said the comic with his arms up and with terror in his eyes. "That's a trap ! Shut your mouth !" Well, it seems that times have changed. Back then, women were obsessed by their weight. They wanted to be stick-thin like their favorites top models. They would have killed you if you have told them that they had a big booty ! Now, the trend have changed. Big is beautiful ! It seems like every female wants a booty ! That's crazy ! They go to their doctor and tell him that they want a booty like the one Jennifer Lopez has (photo), or the Kim Kardashian one, or the Nicki Minaj model... They are willing to pay $ 10 000 and up to $ 13 000 to get what they want. If you ask the woman of your life what she wants for Christmas, maybe she will beg you to give her a J-Lo booty !

To have a bigger butt, women can do anything, these days : working hard in gym classes, have a plastic surgery, buy padded panties. They are happy when men turn around and look twice at their plump posterior. A few years ago, a man would have done that and he would have been slapped in the face by feminists ! According to some psychologists, Latin American influences are the cause for this new popular "fashion". The last severe economic recession has something to do with it. In uncertain times, people look for security and men are attracted to women's hips and the buttocks for security and reassurance. Women respond to this.

Well, I don't know about that "deep psychological" reason. I think a better explanation for the "big derriere" phenomenon is the influence of pop stars like Rihanna, Beyonce and even the new comer Iggy Azalea, for the younger females. Jennifer Lopez was one of the first show business stars to stand up and react to critics who thought that her generous curves were not "ideal". «There's nothing wrong with me or my shape or who I am», J-Lo told them, «you're the one with the problem !» Today, "Jen" thinks that she was right : «...when you can really believe that, all of a sudden other people start believing too.» And they did in dead, if you consider the present popularity of bigger butts !

At 45, and after giving birth to twins, a few years ago, it's a struggle for J-Lo to stay in good shape. How she looks is always on her mind but it's more difficult to control her weight now. «Mentally, I'm always thinking about that. I'm OK looking this way, but at the same time that very ambitious, determined girl inside me is like, "Come on, let's be in the best shape ever and really show everybody." Then the other side of me thinks : "Let's just relax on the beach chair".» Many folks did not agree though, some months ago, when they saw her showing and shaking her booty with Azalea in the video created for her "Booty" song. Jen was angry. She said that it's not because she is a mom and in her mid-forties that she can not be sexy.

If Lopez was a precursor of the big butt revolution, the mania was really started seven years ago by the TV show «Keeping up With the Kardashians». Kim (pics above), the most famous member of the family, frequently posts shots of her backside to her 21 million Instagram followers. Recently she even posed naked for a magazine. Last year, the desire for big buns intensified with the release of the music video «Anaconda» that showed Minaj in a pink thong. Within 24 hours, it was viewed a little less than 20 million times, a record for music video site VEVO. Since that day it has racked up more than 300 million views ! And the song has been on the top of the Billboard charts too, right behind another anthem for curvy women, Meghan Trainor's «All About That Bass.» «I'm bringing booty back», Trainor sings.

IGGY AZALEA

Would you believe that butt enlargement is such a rage that women are dying for it ? Yes, it's true. Some are so desperate for cheap options that they risk their lives, going to charlatans that inject silicone, and even bathroom caulk, into their buttocks. Deaths have been reported in Miami, New York, Las Vegas and Jackson, Mississippi. Other patients who had this kind of surgeries found themselves with lumps, bumps and uneven butt cheeks. Those who are afraid of plastic surgery can try to "enhance" their derriere by attending workout classes or buying workout videos. The demand is strong. There is lot of money to be made for those who can offer services or products to satisfy this fast growing clientele.

KATE UPTON : THE ULTIMATE BEACH BABE !

2014-08-21T11:51:00.001-04:00

The amazing and popular model Kate Upton became famous in 2011 thanks to her appearances in the SPORTS ILLUSTRATED SWIMSUIT ISSUE. As a matter of fact, "Sports" has illustrated all her life. First of all, Kate, born June 10, 1992, in St.Joseph, Michigan, is the daughter of Shelley Davis, a former Texas State tennis champion, and Jeff Upton, a high school athletics director. "Made", and raised, -after her family moved to Melbourne, Florida- by sports lovers, it was natural for Kate to like it too. Before becoming a model at age 15, the Upton's sweet heart was a junior equestrian champion in the United States. It's in the "Sunny State" of the south-east that this splendid blond American darling developed her special relationship with the beaches. Because in Florida, beach is a way of life, it's where you have to be, especially if you are beautiful.

More of a tomboy when she was a child, Kate had to be patient before some female attributes made their appearance on her body. But when they did, it was almost all at once, it was very suddenly, and, wow !, it was pretty spectacular ! Her breasts, especially, were not those of a teenager, but those of a full grown woman. With such a curvy body, you would not have bet that Upton would be accepted by the bosses of the modeling industry. She was not the typical overly-skinny model that is normally on magazine covers. But, in 2008, when Kate attended a casting call in Miami for "Elite Model Management", she was signed by them the same day. They would discover rapidly that this attractive teenager was not only different from the other young models, because she was not as thin as them, but she was also mentally different. Not the kind of shy or docile one...

Right from the start, Upton wanted to do it her own way : «I started modeling at a young age, at 15, but before that I was doing competitive horseback riding and my mom always encouraged me to take things into my own hands. She told me that I'm in charge of my career and in charge of my success. I dealt with a lot of things in the horseback riding industry and I took that knowledge and put it into modeling. I think having success in horseback riding at a young age showed me that success is possible at a young age. A lot of agents say, "wait for your time, wait for your time", but I believe in creating your own time. Also, because many models are so young, agents speak to them in a very intimidating way and bully them into doing things, but I'm not one to be bullied.» Things have changed since then. Kate learned that she can not always get what she wants : «now it's out of my hands, -it has kind of been rolling on its own-, but at the beginning I was micromanaging every little step.»

Well aware of her somewhat exceptional statute, as a "rounder" model, Upton said that she wanted to be an inspiration for all those girls and women who don't fit in the beauty standards of the modeling industry. According to what she thinks, Kate says that you don't have to suffer and be miserable because you feel you have to be skinny to be beautiful, successful and happy in your career or in your every day life. Upton adds : «I wanted to inspire them by going through it and making it out the other end. Everybody goes through hard times, regardless whether they didn't get the job that they wanted or if they are criticized for their body, so I think they can relate to that and people are rooting for me. Me being criticized is more on a global level, but it still hurts just as much for any girl if she's at school being criticized or at work being criticized».

Cause, even though the fashion industry has celebrated her and put her on their biggest covers, many observers or journalists have noticed that, up to now, Kate Upton has not been in an advertising campaign for one of the big fashion brands. That's why they say that, even if she is very popular, Kate is not a great model, yet... At least, as they view it, she's not among the most shining and respected stars of modeling, even if she's only 22. Others even think that Upton's career may be in jeopardy if she continues to lose control of her weight like she did some times before, and as it appears on many photos where she looks fat (see pic above). Kate responds to these critics by saying that, so far, she is proud of her success. If she is not already at the top with the most famous models, if her success is more on the commercial side, Upton explains that it's not because she doesn't get many offers in fashion campaigns. She just can't do it all. The model of the year, in 2013, at the 10th Annual Style Awards at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York, Kate mentions that she has other interests too, like acting : «the more my career grows, I think that people will see that I have a lot more to offer and a lot more to give, but I want to do it right and that's why it's taking me time. I'm patient about it.»

About her supposed weight problems, Upton replies : «I'm not going to starve just to be thin. I want to enjoy life and I can't if I'm not eating and miserable» (...) «My curves are natural. They're not going away, no matter how I try.» (...) «I wish I had smaller boobs every day of my life as I would love to wear spaghetti tops bra less or go for the smallest bikini design.» But, at the end, Kate, who is presently in love with pro baseball player Justin Verlander, (there are even gossips about her being pregnant), declares that she loves her body and feels very confident with where she is and who she is as a person.

Early in her career, Kate Upton has been pegged as a bikini girl but she does not want to be doing bikini shoots her whole life. She became celeb because of them but, for her, it's important that this work translates into acting or other areas. Because she appears very sexy and almost completely naked on many of these photos, Upton has been criticized by some people, especially in social media. A blogger has even called her : «thick, vulgar, almost pornographic.» She's been compared to Marilyn Monroe. As a matter of fact, it's true. When you analyze her pictures, it seems that Kate tries to imitate the legendary Hollywood blonde. Maybe it comes from those who direct the shootings. They want to recreate and exploit this Marilyn look, because, even more than 50 years after her death, Norma Jean is still the ideal beauty and the phantasm of the American men. "Playing" Marilyn is a natural for Kate Upton. She loves to play. Playing is at the center of her personality : playing games, playing sports, playing roles in movies, playing a bombshell, playing with the imagination of men who dream to see her naked. For this pin up girl, who's name appears at the top of the hot list of many men magazines, it's a fun game to drive people crazy by exposing her sexy body. She does it on purpose : «I like my bikinis very small, and I also like, uh, nude-colored bikinis because people double-take, they think I'm naked on the beach.»

Yes, it seems that Kate Upton enjoys her power to excite men, but, unfortunately for them, she pretends that she will stay away from being photographed naked. Being shot nude, like famous models Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell and Lara Stone, is out of question for Kate. Here is why : «For me those photos are art. Your body is art, your body is beautiful, and to be photographed in that way is amazing and it's received in a very positive way. But with Social media and the Internet and not so great blogs and the attention like that, I don't think that my pictures would be received in the way that I'd want them to be received. That's why I've stayed away from them. I really appreciate those photos and I think those women are beautiful and I think a woman is beautiful, but I think Social media and the Internet have prevented me from putting myself out there like that.»

Anyway, Kate Upton came so close -an inch or two of tissue, or a very fine layer of body paint- to be photographed naked, that it does not really make a big difference. I think that she may have been the hottest teenager being shot in bikinis, in recent years. But if Kate doesn't take care of her weight problems, her career on the beaches, as a model, is near its end, even though she is still in demand. Being more and more interested in shooting movies (she appeared recently in the movie THE OTHER WOMAN, photo above) or doing other things, Upton would move without regrets over these beach "adventures" that were so important and lucrative for her. All these wonderful bikini pictures will not disappear. Men will look at them for ever. By doing that too intensively, they may be dazed and see candles. And if they look intensively at Kate Upton's marvelous blue eyes, they will see A SKY FULL OF STARS (see video below).

HOLLY MADISON : «I'M A PIG !».

2014-07-30T19:03:00.002-04:00

In the rich countries of the world, how many women have spent their life ten pounds away from happiness ? Well, maybe we should say "twenty pounds away from happiness" when those ladies obsessed by their weight are older than 40 years of age... Beauty is so important when you are a female. It almost defines you as a human being. In other contemporary societies, like the ones in Africa; and 300 or 400 years ago, in Europe; you are or you were a beautiful woman if you have or had a curvy and round body. If you were fat it was because you were rich enough to buy a lot of food. Then, in these harsh times, you were among the happy few. And you were proud to show it ! Times have changed...

Now, if you are a woman in the show business in North America or in Europe, you must not be overweight. It's not good for your image and image is almost everything. They call it "show" business for good reasons. Ordinary women want to look like the stars they see on TV shows, in films, or in fashion magazines. They dream or they are jealous of their fame and their wonderful body. They feel miserable because they lack the will or are unable to exercise and eat less or better.

Not all the stars in Hollywood or on Broadway are slim or in perfect shape. For one, former reality show star Holly Madison, has experienced many problems with diets and overweight. She became a mother last year but, even before that, she said that she was not ashamed when she had failed to make the necessary efforts in order to be in her best shape and look like...the PLAYBOY girl she was from 2003 to 2009. «If I could have a Barbie body», she once said, «which has no cellulite, I totally would. I would like to have a flatter stomach, but that won't happen either. I'd rather be overweight and curvy than super thin with no curves. I'm proud of my body». Easy to say when your name is Holly Madison !

Madison became a star thanks to her talent, and...cosmetic surgeries ! She does not hide the truth. Holly had a breast augmentation and her bust measurements went from an A-cup to a D ! The one who was born Holly Sue Cullen, on december 23, 1979, in Astoria, Oregon, knew what she was doing when she had this surgery. In 2011, she took a $ 1 million insurance policy on her breasts with Lloyd's of London. It was three years after she almost became Hugh Hefner's wife. Then, she was starring in a topless show called "Peepshow", at PLANET HOLLYWOOD, in Las Vegas. She explained : «I though I'd cover my assets». About her one million insured breasts, she added : «I think its kind of funny. I think they're getting the credit they deserve. They're my primary money makers...»

We can say that she has a good sense of humor ! She knows that it's crucial for her to look sexy but, sometimes she likes to forget her diet, whitout feeling guilty ! Being overweight does not prevent her to wear her little bikini on the beach ! Maybe, unlike other stars, Madison does not become obsessed or sick about her weight because, as a student at Portland State University, in her younger years, she majored in both theater and psychology. She learned how to deal with her personnal problems. «I love chicken fingers. I love French fries. I love desserts. I'm not just into dessert or just into savoury food. I love it all. I'm a pig. I love food». She loves animals too and she assumes who she is ! The former "Girl Next Door" is not the typical dumb blonde. In 2006, she wrote articles for a friend's magazine ("The Coolest Little Pet Magazine") and in April 2007 Holly was featured nude in a PETA advertisement, with the tagline «I'd Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur». Of course it was not new or difficult for Madison to pose in her birthday suit ! When Holly was performing for PLAYBOY, she also worked behind the camera as a photo editor. Later, when she had her own reality show (HOLLY'S WORLD), she was also a co-producer.

Only fools don't change their mind. During her love affair with Hugh Hefner, Madison said that she wanted to marry him and have his children. In an interview with PEOPLE, on March 4, 2009, after the end of this relationship, Holly stated : «I'm never dating anybody again. I don't need a man. I'm really happy with myself and being with my friends... I'm focused on forwarding my career. I'm working on producing my own shows.» One year later, she was dating Jack Barakat, a member of the band ALL TIME LOW. It did not last very long. In 2011, she met Pasquale Rotella and fell in love with him. In 2013, he became her husband and the father of their daughter, Rainbow Aurora Rotella. Life changes, weight and priorities too...

BEACH TIME AND YOU ARE OVERWEIGHT ? DON'T PANIC !

2014-07-22T14:41:00.002-04:00

Summer is here and it's holiday time ! The temparature is hot and you feel the appeal of the beautiful beaches along the coasts. You have been waiting for this for a long time. You were dreaming of it while you were suffering at work. Best time of the year ? Not for everyone... In the weeks preceding this wonderful period of liberty and fun, a lot of people -especially women between 20 and 60 years of age- are in a panic mode because they are (or think they are) too fat and will not look good if they go to the beach wearing their new and costly bikini. Of course, they bought it a little bit smaller, being sure to lose some pounds along the way to vacations. They have planned to exercise more and eat less to have a terrific body when they would be almost naked in public, on the beaches. For many reasons they did not follow their plan or their diet, they cheated, and now they feel guilty and ashamed. They even cry because they dreamed that they would look as good as their favorite movie star or singer.

Well, don't be so angry at yourself. Don't be sad and afraid to go to the beach because you are heavier than you would like to be. Unlike the stars who are photographed by paparazzis even when they go on private vacations, no one will notice that you have some weight to lose. More than one half of all the Americans are fat, anyway... Many popular singers, dancers, or actors who look great on stage, in movies or on TV shows don't look good when they only wear a swim suit.

There are almost as many opinions about beauty as there are viewers or judges. At a moment or another, a commentator or someone in the show business has said that stars like Kate Upton, Jenifer Aniston, Jessica Simpson, Christina Aguilera or Jennifer Lawrence were fat. Sometimes it was true but it's always a question of perception.

In this blog, we will take a good look at stars who like to go to the beach. They want to take some rest or to be seen. It can be important for their health. Or they are simply in search of exposure to become the talk of the town and publicise their projects, their products or their image. Paparazzis and journalists always like to know who is with them or what they do at beach parties. Ordinary people are interested to read these stories in magazines.

Perfect human bodies are not so common on the beaches. Here are some pictures of beauties on the sand. While Calvin Harris sings his hit SUMMER. Enjoy !