Girly Things

7 Undeniable Reasons You Should Wear the Color Nude This Year

2014-07-16T02:32:00.000-07:00

If you follow the latest trends in fashion, you will notice that color preferences are rather changeable. Every year certain colors are considered to be the most popular and fashionable. In order to get with it we eagerly buy various clothes and accessories to wear these colors, but when some time passes we understand they are not relevant any more. Though, there are a few classic colors that will always suit you no matter what outfit you choose. For example, black is one of them and you can’t go wrong with it. However, the color nude has become the most preferable choice this year since you can see nude colors shades almost everywhere including clothing, cosmetics and home décor. This color will add elegance and charm to your appearance. So, don’t miss your chance to look beautiful this year and purchase some nude items to keep the style. Have a look at the following list and you’ll realize why the color nude is worth wearing this year.

1. Classic

Nude is a classic color and that is the main reason why it enjoys a great popularity this season. When you pick out this color, you won’t have to worry about your look because it will be excellent. The color nude can be a nice option for every place and occasion. Despite the fact that nude is a delicate color, it can be used on its own to emphasize your chic.

2. Simple

I think you can’t find any other color that is as simple as nude. That is another reason why you should stick to the color nude this year. Personally I like this color because it can be easily combined with other colors and tints. Besides, nude will give you a wonderful opportunity to experiment with different clothes and trends. To be stylish you don’t need to wear showy and bright dress. Simple things will make you look smart and natural at the same time.

3. Attractive

When it comes to garments and cosmetics, nude is believed to be one of the most attractive colors. Moreover, you are free to choose from the variety of its tones and create an unforgettable style. For instance, you may cover your nails with nude enamel and it will be a perfect match to your creamy blouse or jacket. This way, you will appear extremely attractive to everyone around you. Taking into account that this color is very simple in usage, you will draw men’s attention without any efforts.

4. Versatile

Certainly, nude is a versatile color as it fits everything. Due to this you should possess at least a few nude clothing items that will bring simplicity and versatility into your life. Make sure you have a nude dress or a pair of high-heeled shoes and a stunning appearance will be guaranteed to you. Don’t forget to buy nude eye shadow, lipstick and nail polish as well. Whether you go to a café or meet your friends at the night club, this lovely color will be suitable for your outfit.

5. Sophisticated

Bright colors are very good for casual style, but when you want to look sophisticated, nude can be the right choice for you. By using the color nude you will manage to express your exquisiteness and sophistication. Such details as a nude handbag, nude heels and nails are the best things to utilize for the desirable effect. It seems fantastic that one color can make wonders, but it is true!

6. Effortless

Without a doubt our life is very busy and we are constantly short of time so that it can be difficult to care for our beauty even when it concerns our clothing and cosmetics. Nevertheless, if you wear the color nude, you will feel very comfortable and confident without taking pains. Thus, this color is absolutely effortless. It can be worn by all women regardless their age, stature and preferences in fashion. So, why not switch to nude this year?

7. Sleek

For most of us fashion is associated with everything that is new, trendy and sleek. To my mind, nude comprises all of these qualities and it is truly the basic color for you this season. Wear your lovely nude dress paired with nude heels and add some nude shades to your makeup. This is the clue to your feminine and stylish image.

The color nude is supposed to be the hit of this year, that’s why you should try to add nude items to your wardrobe, cosmetic kit and to your home design. This color will provide freshness, simplicity and elegance to your style. Is the color nude appealing to you? Do you have anything nude in your home?

7 Under 100 Calorie Salad Recipes

2014-05-27T22:59:00.000-07:00

All we know that salads are easy, healthy meals for any occasion. Do you want something not plain, boring, and tasting like wet cardboard? I’ve got a great selection of under 100 calorie salad recipes guaranteed to please. All you have to do is to try these awesome healthy salad recipes and find the ones that you and your family like.

1. Green Beans Salad

It’s an easy and healthy salad that contains only 50 calories per serving (8 servings all in all) so let start cooking! You’ll need: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon parmesan, 5 green olives, ¼ chopped onion (preferably red), 10-12 cherry tomatoes, 500 grams frozen and trimmed green beans, pinch of pepper, pinch of thyme or oregano or rosemary, 30 ml water, 1 tbsp vinegar. Steam or boil green beans, dip them in cold water, strain and let them cool off completely then combine all vegetables (and onion) in a bowl. Use the other bowl to turn the rest of the ingredients (water, vinegar, spices, oil and cheese) into a well mixed dressing then pour it over the veggies.

2. Apple, Orange, Honey and Cinnamon Salad

This is a simple, very tasty dessert-salad, which will help you control your sweet tooth without having to give up that amazing feeling of happiness only a good sugar rush can provide. You’ll need: 1 apple, 1 orange, 1 teaspoon of honey, 1-2 pinches of cinnamon. Leave fruits in a fridge overnight. Peel the orange without splitting the wedges, core apple then take a very sharp knife and cut thin, round slices. Arrange your salad on a plate laying down apple rings first covering them with honey then top off with those juicy orange rings and a pinch or two of cinnamon.

3. Amaranth Leaves Salad

One cup (132 grams) of boiled strained Amaranth leaves has only 28 calories. It is also rich in Vitamins A, B and C, calcium, potassium, iron, zinc. Take Amaranth leaves, dress it with salt and freshly squeezed lemon juice; you can also add a few drops of olive oil or some salad dressing.

4. Cucumber and Onion Salad

It’s refreshing, tasty salad under 100 calories. You’ll need: 1 tablespoon vinegar (Apple Cider, Balsamico, or Rice Vinegar), pinch of pepper, 2 pinches salt, 2 and half cups of thin cucumber slices, ½ cup onions. Mix vegetables then put them aside making sure you’re using a plastic, glass or ceramic bowl (not the metal one). Combine salt, pepper and vinegar into another bowl; give them a good stir before pouring over the cucumbers and onions and giving them a light shake. Cover the bowl put it in the fridge for hour or two and your salad is ready for serving.

5. Corn Salad

Corn salad is really simple and delicious salad, which is easy to make and has only 85 calories per serving (1/2 cup). You’ll need: 500 grams (about 2 cups) cherry tomato slices, ½ cup light mayonnaise, you can also add ¼ cup mayonnaise and ¼ light yoghurt to make this salad even lighter, 6 cups corn kernels, 300 grams (about 1 ¼ cup) green peas, ½ cup red onion slices, 200 grams low fat cheese shreds. If you use frozen peas and corn, boil them and let them cool down. In case you’ll be using canned ones, just add the rest of your ingredients, season to taste and chill until serving.

6. Tropical Fruit Salad

Tropical fruit salad is another salad under 100 calories. Tasty, fresh and easy to make! This amazing salad contains about 600 calories all in all but is a large one which means you’ll get 6-8 servings out of it, each totaling 100 calories or less. You’ll need: 1 pomegranate, 1 medium mango, 2 cups of cantaloupe chunks, 1 medium nectarine peach, 2 kiwis, 2 cups pineapple, mint leaves, juice from ½ a lime. Clean, peel and cut everything into chunks, add pomegranate seeds, crushed mint leaves and lime juice, cover and leave in the fridge for an hour or two.

7. Spicy Jicama Salad

Spicy Jicama salad has only 33 calories per serving offering many opportunities for experimenting. But, first try a basic recipe before you decide to throw in an extra veggie, a bit of light dressing or your favorite spices. You’ll need: juice from ½ lime, 1 Jicama (medium), 1 teaspoon chili powder. Clean and peel your Jicama then slice it to get thin French-fry-looking sticks. Add chili powder and lime juice, give it a good toss, add a pinch of salt or other herb of choice and serve.

Salads under 100 calories could be so tasty and easy to make! These healthy low calorie salads are good for those who try to lose weight or eat healthy. Which of these low calorie salads are you going to try? Share your thoughts, please!

7 Ways to Make a Quick Soup That Tastes Super Delicious

2014-05-27T22:26:00.001-07:00

As we all are working women and every day keeps us very busy we can`t afford spending too much time in the kitchen. But we definitely want to eat delicious and healthy food spending less time for its preparation. My perfect way out is creating a quick soup recipes. When there are all natural and healthy ingredients and I needn`t spend hours at the stove it is just the job. So I am going to share some tips with you on how to create a quick recipe of an amazing home-made soup.

1. Your favorite spices

Your favorite herbs and spices will make a perfect addition to your quick soup. They will add aroma, flavor and special delicious taste. Everything will go: oregano, bay leaf, black pepper, sage, turmeric and parsley, whatever you like. But be careful and use no more than ¼ teaspoon. Otherwise, your soup will be more like boiled everything you have in one pan. Spices are necessary but in moderation.

2. Add onion

Onions are an ever present ingredient of a delicious soup. It will take you just a few minutes to peel it, wash, cut into quarters and put into the pot. You may choose to dice it but anyway when the soup is ready the quarters will flake apart. It always adds aroma and special flavor to any dish. Taking garlic is another option. You may use it instead or alongside with onion.

3. Buy a great stock

Having a home-made stock guarantees that your soup will be of natural and healthy ingredients. Unfortunately, sometimes we have to go for it into a store. Choose one of high quality and it is obligatory to read the list of ingredients. I usually take unsalted veggie broths with low sodium, they are nutritious and have better taste.

4. Frozen vegetables

Personally I find it inconvenient to buy all the fresh vegetables needed separately. More convenient option is to buy a bag of frozen ones. In the supermarket you will find many options with different ingredients so you may choose the one that suites your taste best. Most of them are already chopped all you have to do is just to defreeze. Another bonus is that such veggies may be stored (and must be stored) in the fridge for longer time than fresh vegetables.

5. Add any protein you like

Your soup without protein will taste unflavored so add some protein of your choice to it. This may be fish or chicken, beans or quinoa. These products are rich not only in proteins but also in fiber and essential nutrients. As it is your own quick soup recipe, you can use whatever you like.

6. A can of fire roasted tomatoes

Sure, this ingredient isn’t for every soup recipe, but if you choose to add it to your soup, I assure you, you won`t regret it. Roasted tomatoes will add flavor to your soup and will make it a little bit sweet without any sugar added. Organic tomatoes are usually tomatoes with no salt added, so read the list of ingredients before buying.

7. Use a slow cooker

Making soup in a slow cooker will take about 2 hours but you won`t have to be constantly near it stirring, controlling the heat etc. You may leave it and find another important thing to do. It is also better than waiting for the soup for half a day as most slow cookers with the soup recipes designed for them. If you don`t have one, you may easily use your stove and start cooking it uncovered on a medium heat for about 15 minutes and then make the heat lower, cover with the lid and continue cooking for another 15 minutes.

Quick soups may be delicious, believe me. Just remember and follow these easy tips and your soup will always taste fantastic without spending hours on its preparation. Feel free to experiment and after combining and cooking what you have in your fridge you will have an extremely delicious dish. Do you have your own secrets of cooking quick soups?

7 Best Colors to Wear to Work

2014-05-17T06:44:00.000-07:00

It’s such an important issue to choose the right colors to wear to work. While many of us wear neutral colors every day to work, there are many more colors to choose from. Sure, it’s all depends on what type of company you work for. If you want to look professional at work, take a look at this list of the best colors to wear to your work.

1. Brown

A neutral color that is perfect for the office is brown. It’s a professional color that can be easily enhanced with beautiful jewellery, a colorful undershirt, or a beautiful pair of different-colored (not very high) heels that add a bit of style, but look professional.

2. Navy

One of the most popular colors of the year and another great color to wear to work is navy. Perhaps, navy seems boring to you, however, this color signifies stability loyalty, and confidence. Try to pair a navy pencil skirt and a matching jacket with a cute neutral pair of pumps. It will help you look professional.

3. White

No matter where you go, white is always a wonderful choice. The best thing about this color is that it goes with almost everything. You might be afraid of dirtying it up and try to avoid wearing white. However, there is no reason to worry about it. Just carry baby wipes with you and you will always be ready in case you get a spill. Usually, I wear a white blouse under other color jacket or cardigan, and I try to avoid wearing white skirts or pants at the office because they are more vulnerable to getting dirty and much easier to see through. Wearing white outfit implies classiness, cleanliness, and confidence, which everyone finds both professional and pleasant at the same time.

4. Black

Black is your best friend at work, and it’s simply perfect to wear anytime. This color might seem boring at times, but if you choose stylish black fabrics, you will look absolutely professional and gorgeous. You can pair a nice pair of black dress slacks with a beautiful top and a stylish jacket or cardigan to match. You can also wear a black suit and spice it up with a cute pair of earrings.

5. Khaki

Yes, you read it right. Khaki is one of the best colors to wear to work since it shows that you are professional and easy to approach. Khaki works with practically all color schemes, as well as jewellery. Even if it is not real “khaki” material, and simply khaki colored, it is still a wonderful color to wear. It matches black, brown, navy, white, beige and red, therefore it is the perfect color to pair with other work colors.

6. Beige

If you are tired of white and navy, beige is another great color to wear to work. Beige signifies confidence and simplicity as well as implies you are easy to relate to. It’s not flashy and not an intimidating color, so you will look professional, confident, classy, and beautiful at the same time. You can wear a beige skirt, blouse, scarf, or jacket.

7. Red

Finally, red is another excellent color to wear at work, of course, if you wear it the proper way. When you wear too much read, it seems overdone, but when you wear a cute pair of red crop pants with a black blouse and a beautiful pair of black stilettos, you look stylish and professional. Red signifies leadership, confidence, and boldness. Just make sure you wear it the right way.

I personally purchase basic colors of clothes and then try to enhance them in different ways. I like to mix and match various items in order not to wear the same things every day. This is a wise way to look professional and utilize your clothes and your money. It’s better to avoid low cut necklines, flashy jewellery, shorts and skirts higher than two inches above the knee. Also, you must avoid wearing flashy colors such as bright pink and backless tops. It’s great to wear a nice scarf, belt with bright colors, small piece of jewellery, and small handbag. So, what are your favorite colors to wear to work?

Top 7 New Fashion Trends for 2014

2014-05-14T08:13:00.000-07:00

It’s hard to believe, but it’s 2014 already, and it’s time to think about new fashion trends for this year. In 2014, femininity is going to take priority over numerous fashion trends. Although it will change dramatically from fashion in years past, it doesn’t mean that you should trade out your whole wardrobe. You can simply try a few of these new fashion trends and update your closet for 2014!

1. Mid-Calf Skirts

Mid-calf skirts are one of the biggest fashion trends for 2014 that you may want to try. Renowned as tea skirts, mid-calf skirts are incredibly feminine and a great break from the shorter skirts most of us have grown accustomed to over the years.

2. Trouser pants

No matter what body shape you have, trouser pants are one of the best fashion trends in 2014. I enjoy wearing trouser pants because they are wide-legged and they help accent the shape of a woman’s body. Trouser pants are typically higher waisted and long. They are perfect for elongating the leg and can add a touch of elegance to any outfit.

3. Shift blouses

The good news for me and I hope for you is that shift blouses will be a popular spring item to wear and they are one of the top fashion trends for 2014. Shift blouses are much dressier than T-shirts, but they are cropped at the waist and they are usually made of materials such as polyester, linen, and certain types of cotton blends. Moreover, they have a wide collar that helps accent your neckline.

4. Cropped jackets

This year cropped jackets, especially collarless cropped jackets, are extremely popular. Paired with casual wear or office attire, they’re all over the runway now. I’m sure you will agree that cropped jackets are more feminine than blazers, and they add a nice touch to any outfit. They pair perfectly with pants, skirts, and some types of dresses.

5. Sweater material

Whether in a sweater, dress, or skirt, sweater material will be a huge trend in 2014. It’s also appearing in swimwears for summer 2014. Perhaps, I won’t buy such swimwear, but next time I go shopping, I will definitely choose several sweater pieces!

6. Pastel dresses

One of the biggest trends of the spring 2014 is pastels, especially pastel dresses. I personally prefer black dresses, but this spring I’m going to choose the pastels. Green, pink, yellow, lavender, and blue are all going to be huge this year, especially in the dress department. The best thing is that pastel dresses are great for the office. This year, avoid that boring black and opt for something a bit lighter in color.

7. Plaid

When it comes to picking up trendy prints, plaid is a top fashion trend 2014. No matter your personal style, you will certainly feel and look pretty in plaid. You can wear skirts, shirts, jackets, or pants. Plaid jackets, skirts, and shirts seem to be the most popular fashion offerings this year, but you can choose anything from pants to scarves.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to throw away your favorite fashion pieces from the past year. You can just add some fashionable touch to your outfits by trying a few of the fashion trends mentioned above. What do you think of these fashion trends? What are you going to buy next time you go shopping?

10 Great Beauty Habits to Try

2014-05-14T08:03:00.000-07:00

We all want to look our best every day, but sometimes we take on bad habits that keep us from it. We know we should avoid smoking, staying in the sun too long, and eating junk food, but that isn’t enough. Here are 10 great beauty habits you should work into your daily life.

1. Keep Makeup Light

Unless you’re going to the Academy Awards, there’s no reason to cake on the makeup, especially during the day. Not only does heavy makeup look unnatural, it’s bad for your skin. If you’re constantly clogging your pores with thick foundation and concealer, your skin will look tired and greasy. Clogged pores look dull and cause breakouts. Putting too much eye makeup on can cause wrinkles because you’re constantly pulling on the delicate skin around your eyes. Reduce the amount of makeup you apply every day, and consider taking 1 or 2 days off from makeup each week to give your skin a break.

2. Pat On Concealer

Concealer is heavy makeup that won’t look right if too much is smeared on. Pat it lightly into your skin, and always use your pinky finger when applying concealer around your eyes. This way you will get maximum coverage with the least amount of product.

3. Never Overdo Lips and Eyes at the Same Time

Sometimes you might want to make a statement. A smokey eye or new bright eye shadow colors can look great if it’s done right. Bright red lipstick or bright pink color can be equally attractive, but if you do both at the same time, your entire look will be off balance. Stick with one or the other.

4. Clarify Hair Once and a While

You could be having a week full of great hair days only to end with a day of limp, scraggly hair. The perfect shampoo and conditioner just don’t seem to work anymore. Clarifying your hair once and a while with a difference clarifying shampoo might be exactly what you need. Hair products have built up on your hair weighing it down. However, don’t use a clarifying shampoo more than twice a month because it can strip your hair of its natural oils.

5. Switch Products Every so Often

Sometimes you don’t need to clarify your hair. Switching hair products give a similar result without the drying effects. Have 2 or three different shampoos and conditioners on hand to keep your hair looking fresh. Do the same with other products such as skin care products or makeup. Sometimes your body just needs a change to start looking its best again.

6. Wash Off all Makeup Every Night

At night after a long day, it can be tempting to just fall asleep without washing the layer of makeup on your face. Don’t do this. Leaving the makeup on will not only stain your pillow case, it will suffocate your skin as well. It could cause acne and other inflammation. Clean your face every night with a good makeup remover or wash your face with a cleansing oil. Makeup removing clothes also work well and are easy to use.

7. Test Out Makeup Before Buying

If you buy a makeup product that doesn’t work for you, it would be wasteful to throw it out or stick it in the back of your drawer and never use it. Even if you decide to wear it anyway, you won’t look as great as you could. Whenever possible, test out makeup at the store before you buy it. If you can’t test it in the store, find a friend, maybe the one who recommended it to you, who already has the makeup and try it out. Test out foundation and concealer on the back of your hand. You can see how it matches your skin and test coverage and durability.

8. Wear Sunscreen

Age spots can be covered up with makeup, but wrinkles are hard to mask. Both signs of visible aging can be prevented or at least postponed by wearing sunscreen. If you don’t like wearing sunscreen, look for makeup with sunscreen in it or always wear a large brimmed hat when you go outdoors. Sunglasses are also important to protect your eyes from UV rays.

9. Use Scrubs and Clay Masks

Dull skin is most often caused by dirt and dead skin cells sitting on top of your skin. Use a scrub at least twice a month to gently scrub off the gunk that a regular cleaner can’t clear off. Use a clay mask once or twice a month to shrink your pores and draw out toxins. Bentonite clay is great for facial masks.

10. Follow a Healthy Diet

The most important beauty habit you can develop to keep your hair, skin, nails, and face looking their best is to follow a healthy diet. Drink 64 ounces of water a day, get plenty of vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and proteins, and keep the junk out of your diet whenever possible. A healthy diet starts from the inside.

Instead of focusing on your bad habits, develop new, healthy habits. Looking beautiful everyday takes work, but it can be achieved with great results without taking on much more work.

Acnezine Can Combat All Types of Acne Scars

2014-04-22T00:24:00.000-07:00

Scars caused by acne are much more common than doctors once believed; most people will have acne scars that are mild. However, some will have scars that look significant even to others. The best approach is prevention and to treat acne right away as sometimes even mild acne can cause scarring, this can minimize the risk of permanent acne scars. Acnezine is the best possible way to treat acne scars. Acne leaves behind different types of acne scars.

Acne scars result from two types of tissue response to the inflammation of acne: (1) increased tissue formation, and (2) loss of tissue.

Increased Tissue Formation

The scars caused by increased tissue formation are called keloids or hypertrophic scars. The word hypertrophy means "enlargement" or "overgrowth." Both hypertrophic and keloid scars are associated with excessive amounts of the cell substance collagen. Overproduction of collagen is a response of skin cells to injury. The excess collagen becomes piled up in fibrous masses, resulting in a characteristic firm, smooth, usually irregularly-shaped scar.

Keloids tend to "run in the family"—that is, there is a genetic predisposition to form keloids after tissue injury. African-Americans often have a predisposition to keloid formation. Some families also tend to form hypertrophic acne scars or thickened acne scars.

Acnezine, the natural medication for acne treatment serves a major role reducing such types of acne.

Acne Scars Resulting From Loss of Tissues

Acne scars resulting from loss of tissue are more common than scars resulting from increased tissue formation. There are several types:

Ice-pick acne scars get their name from their appearance. They may be superficial or deep, are usually small in diameter and have steep sides like an ice-pick wound. They may be hard or soft to the touch; the soft acne scars are usually more superficial and the hard scars deeper. The base of hard scars under the skin may be wider than the scar at the surface of the skin.

Depressed fibrotic acne scars are usually large scars that have sharp margins and steep sides. They are similar in appearance to deep chicken pox scars.

Superficial and deep soft acne scars are variable in size, and have sloping edges that merge with normal skin.

Follicular macular atrophy is more likely to occur on the chest or back of a person with acne. These are small, white, soft lesions, often barely raised above the surface of the skin—somewhat like whiteheads that didn’t fully develop. This condition is sometimes also called "perifollicular elastolysis." The lesions may persist for months to years.

There are many types of treatment to cure Acne. But Acnezine is a natural acne removal medication with no side effects!

Use of Hyaluronan Acid in Cosmetics

2014-04-22T00:09:00.003-07:00

Hyaluronic Acid is an ingredient used in many high quality products and has been linked to a role in tissue hydration and dehydration, lubrication, and other aspects of cellular function, along with other vitamins and nutrients in the body. Hyaluronic Acid has a half life in the body, in cartilage of two to three weeks, but only one day in the skin. When synthesis in the body declines people experience discomfort of the joints, wrinkles and many people report more frequent illness, leading many to believe that a constant supply of Hyaluronic Acid is beneficial. Some scientists believe that it creates a cushion effect between joints of the body and provides more elasticity in the skin, and a softer feel. Some scientists also believe that it raises the while blood cell count, helping to ward off infection.

Hyaluronic Acid was described as the goo muscle until the late 1970's, and was simply believed to be a carbohydrate polymer until that time. It was later discovered that it is one of the main lubricating components of synovial fluid in the body, abundant in extra cellular matrices, and that it contributes to the hydrodynamics of tissue, cell proliferation and movement. Naturally found in many body tissues, Hyaluronan Acid is often used in medical applications such as eye surgery - corneal transplants, cataract surgery, glaucoma surgery, and retinal detachment repair. It is also used to treat osteoarthritis in areas such as the knee. In addition to lubrication and cushioning of joints it has an analgesic effect, and positive effects of cartilage. In cancer treatment it is used as a tumor marker; particularly in breast cancer and prostate cancer. Use of Hyaluronan Acid in cosmetics is a relatively new use of this substance, but it has been approved by the FDA since 2003 and is becoming increasingly popular.

An interesting side note is the study of a village in Japan, featured on an episode of the ABC newsmagazine 20/20. People in this village tend to live to be much older than average, and ten percent of the villagers are 85 years of age or older. The diet of the village people is primarily sticky stanches like sweet potatoes, and it is believed by many people that these foods promote Hyaluronic Acid, which contributes to youthfulness due to the lubricating effects on joints, skin, and the eyes. While these studies have not been proven, many people find them of interest and research continues.

7 Amazing Jewellery Pieces You Can Make on Your Own

2014-04-19T05:50:00.000-07:00

Are you on a tight budget and you can’t afford to buy expensive jewellery pieces? Why not make your own ones? If you are a creative woman and you have some free time, you can make amazing jewellery pieces, even if you are not very skilled in making jewellery and you don’t have a bunch of pricey tools. Here is my list of seven jewellery pieces you can make on your own with almost no efforts.

1. Eye-Catching Earrings

Every lady can easily make her own eye-catching earrings. You can re-design the earrings you already have or go to arts and crafts shops and buy all the things you will need to make brand new earrings. Use plasteline clay, beads, gold, silver or copper wire or fabrics and leather. This fantastic activity is great for your style and good for your brain. Moreover, you can even turn this creative hobby into a part-time job and sell the earrings you don’t want to wear.

2. Elegant Beaded Necklace

You can use natural stones, pearls, gems or glass beads to make elegant beaded necklaces. If you are incredibly creative, you can even make something completely new. It’s also a great idea to try to recreate or modify a style which is already popular. There definitely is a creative genius hiding inside of you, you just need to unleash it.

3. Fantastic Name Bracelets

Even though I’m not sure if they are still popular these days, I just had to list them since name bracelets are not only jewellery pieces that you can make on your own for the sake of fashion, but also a creative and simple project for your children. When I was a teen, I used to make plenty of name bracelets for me and my friends. Take some plastic bottles and cut out flat strips, which you’ll use as a base. Now, wrap threads of yarn around, but make sure you use 2 different colors- one color as a base and another to form letters. Actually, if you are interested in making your own name bracelets, let me know and I will explain how to make them step by step.

4. Awesome Brooches

Made of beads, feathers, fabrics, leather or anything you can imagine – these awesome brooches are typically placed in the “jewellery” category and must certainly be treated as such. My best friend is fond of making unique brooches, and she always says it’s something that makes her happy. She turned her hobby into a way to earn money and now she runs a small but profitable business. Sure, you don’t have to make brooches in order to sell them, but you can make them because you enjoy wearing them. Plus, brooches make beautiful handmade gifts.

5. Unique Charms

Do you have a few charm bracelets but don’t have charms? Don’t be in a hurry to buy them; you can make your own unique charms. I have seen plenty of absolutely adorable doughnut and cookie shaped charms made from a special plasteline clay, they looked just as great as those pricey, brand-name ones. The thing is that this kind of plasteline is a bit different than the one children play with, so make sure you buy the right one. Once you get a special plasteline clay, just sculpt the shape, run a needle through it where you want the hole to be and then bake in the oven. Don’t forget to leave the needle inside to keep the hole from shrinking while baking. Use a clear nail polish to make your charm shiny.

6. Trendy Macramé Bracelets

Perhaps you know that macramé bracelets are astonishingly popular right now. If you are looking for new ideas for jewellery pieces that you can make on your own, making macramé bracelets is something you could certainly master. I often add silver elements or beads to my bracelets and love to invent new knotting patterns to keep my macramé bracelets fresh and unique.

7. Cute beaded rings

The best thing I like about this jewellery piece is that you can make a cute ring out of fishing nylon and little plastic beads only. If you have some beads, the nylon and some spare time, what are you waiting for? You can also combine beads with other materials such as elastic bands or wire. If you have enough free time you could even make a ring from scratch.

This list doesn’t actually end here! There are many more jewellery pieces which you can easily make on your own, you just need to get creative. So, ladies, have you ever made jewellery pieces? Do you have any other brilliant ideas you would like to share with us? Please, share them in the comments section. Personally I will definitely try them all!

10 Jewellery Essentials Every Woman Should Own

2014-04-15T21:05:00.000-07:00

Jewellery can really add instant glamour to any outfit, so it’s important to have the basic jewellery essentials. You will never know when you will need a pair of dangling earrings or bangles for a night out, so it’s better to keep them always handy. Check out a few jewellery essentials!

1. Long and short necklace

Layered long necklace is absolutely trendy right now. And that’s why it’s so necessary to have at least one long necklace that you like. If you are going to buy a long necklace, you will definitely have to buy a short necklace as well! You can wear them apart or layer them. Moreover, some outfits look perfect with short necklaces. Find necklaces that you can easily pair with your outfits.

2. Gold and silver necklaces

I like gold more than silver, but sometimes a silver necklace is important! I mean, silver will match many outfits. That’s why it’s necessary to have both silver and gold accessories in your jewellery box.

3. Stud earrings

You know stud earrings are very versatile! You can wear them every day since they are very beautiful. You can get glitzy stud earrings or ones that are shaped like stars or hearts or even plain gold or silver. They are inexpensive so you can pick up a lot of different pairs!

4. Dangling earrings

Dangling earrings are one of jewellery essentials that are perfect to dress up any outfit or for a night out. There are a lot of different kinds of dangling earrings, but most of all I love chandeliers! And you?

5. Statement ring

Although not all women like statement rings, they are still one of jewellery essentials! If you are a big fan of statement rings, do not wear more than one. A statement ring will certainly dress up any outfit!

6. Hoop earrings

I’m sure every girl likes hoop earrings! Just like dangling earrings, hoop earrings can jazz up all of your outfits. You don’t have to buy monstrous sized hoops, the small ones can work great! There are also a lot of different bedazzled kinds available on the market.

7. Bangles

Silver or gold bangle can add glamour to any outfit. They are typically sold in bunches so you may complete your look with only one accessory! I love bangles and I think every girl should have them!

8. Statement bracelet

No matter whether a statement bracelet is smothered in crystals or studded, your statement bracelet has to make a grand statement! This kind of bracelet must certainly be worn when dressing up for some special occasions!

9. Watch

Watches are glamorous and practical, and you could not go wrong with them! I absolutely like watches and I recommend you to purchase a beautiful watch (if you don’t have any) and wear it every day.

10. Anklet and toe ring

Anklet is perfect to wear in spring and summer. It’s dainty, cute and can add glamour to your overall look! Toe ring is usually overlooked accessory, but it is also perfect for spring and summer when you are showing off your feet in any way you can! I have a few toe rings and plan to buy one more!

Well, girls, what jewellery essentials do you wear daily? I personally love bangles, watches and rings! And you? Share your thoughts, please.

6 Best Jewellery Cleaning Tips

2014-04-15T20:53:00.001-07:00

You don’t need fancy jewellery cleaner to get your gold to gleam, your silver to sparkle and your gemstones to shine. All of us have different types of necklaces, earrings, and bracelets and it’s important to know how to care for them. Here are a few fab jewellery cleaning tips that will help your platinum, silver and gold pieces as well as gems shine and look like brand new.

1. Use clean 100% cotton cloths

Make sure you use clean cotton cloths when you clean your jewellery. Experts recommend using a new one every time, but having to buy a new cloth each time your numerous pieces of jewellery get dirty can be pretty pricey. I advise you to use paper towels! This tip always works great for me!

2. Don’t use toothpaste

Many people use toothpaste to clean their jewellery, and I’ve used it too, but the results were far from satisfying. Professional jewelers say that using toothpaste to clean your jewellery is a big mistake because toothpaste contains tiny but abrasive micro granules that can scratch and damage metals and stones.

3. Cleaning pearls and natural stones

Pearls and natural stones are very sensitive and those traditional cleaning liquids will greatly damage them. One of the best ways to clean natural stones is to use very soft toothbrush and water. Soak your stones in water, brush a little and leave them to dry naturally. To clean pearls use a mild detergent but don’t soak them. Use a wet cloth and your pearls will be as good as new!

Read also – 10 Jewellery Essentials

4. Cleaning gold and silver

All gold or silver jewellery can be cleaned using the standard store bought cleaners. Whatever silver or gold cleanser you choose, make sure you don’t use the brush since it can cause scratches. Just let your jewellery soak in the mixture and then rinse and polish.

5. Cleaning diamonds

Although diamonds are one of the hardest elements, it doesn’t mean that you don’t have to care for them. If your diamond ring is not as sparkly as it used to be, clean it using this easy recipe: just mix ¼ of a cup of ammonia with one cup of warm water and let your ring soak in it for at least 20 minutes. Then use the soft toothbrush to remove the remaining dirt!

6. Cleaning emeralds

Due to their soft, brittle nature, emeralds cannot be cleaned using the diamond cleaning method I’ve described above. If you don’t want your emeralds to crack, use only mild water. This cleaning method works great for all other gems.

Do you have any other jewellery cleaning tips? Share them, please!

10 Quick and Easy Fruit Desserts

2014-04-15T20:37:00.000-07:00

Fruit desserts often get overlooked since a lot of people think they’re not delicious. In fact, most fruits contain natural sugar that helps curb any craving for sweets without consuming unnecessary fats and calories. I like fruit and I’m for getting my daily dose of it any way I can. I use fruits in my smoothies, juices and desserts. Check out 10 easy, low-calorie fruit desserts that you and your family will definitely like.

#1 Fresh fruit and pudding

It doesn’t get much easier than this! Cut up two oranges, two apples, two bananas, and one pineapple. Put all the cut up fruit in a bowl. Prepare one package instant lemon pudding according to the directions on the box. (To make this an even lighter dessert, use sugar-free pudding.) Stir the fruit into the pudding. Enjoy!

#2 Frozen mixed berry sauce

This is a tasty sauce to use over ice cream, angel food cake, or yogurt. Toss one bag of frozen berries with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch. Microwave on high two minutes; stir. Microwave on high for about two more minutes, or until sauce is thickened.

#3 Strawberries dipped in chocolate

It doesn’t get much easier than this! You can choose milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on your taste. To make, wash the strawberries but leave their tops on. Prepare a sheet pan by covering it with wax paper. Melt your chocolate in a double boiler or zap it for a minute in the microwave. Be sure to stir frequently to avoid burning! Dip the strawberries in the chocolate, then place them on the wax paper. Refrigerate for an hour to cool.

#4 Baked apples

Bring out the sweetness of fresh apples by baking them. Choose four tart green apples. Scoop out the core of each apple, leaving a well in the middle of the fruit. Stuff each apple with 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1 tablespoon butter. Place in a shallow baking dish and sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes, until sugar begins to caramelize and apples are tender.

#5 Fresh fruit kebabs

Who doesn’t love food on a stick? Choose your favorite fresh fruits: pineapple, watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries, and grapes all work well. Cube the fruits, then place them on a bamboo skewer. Serve with nonfat Greek vanilla yogurt for dipping.

#6 Roasted peaches

Cut four ripe peaches in half. Placing peaches cut side up on a baking sheet, sprinkle each with a teaspoon of sugar and a teaspoon of lemon juice. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Serve with low-fat frozen vanilla yogurt.

#7 Balsamic strawberries

Somehow, balsamic vinegar just works with strawberries by bringing out the sweetness. Prep 1 lb of strawberries by hulling and slicing. Mix with 1 tablespoon sugar and stir. Let stand for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar over strawberries and stir again. Refrigerate for an hour before serving.

#8 Banana ice cream

Satisfy your sweet tooth by blending one frozen banana into “ice cream.” Top with chocolate syrup for a delicious treat that’s friendly to your waistline!

#9 Fruit salsa and cinnamon chips

This delicious, low-calorie fruit dessert is easy and quickly to make and it’s a wonderful treat for your family and friends. Mix diced strawberry, kiwi, and apples with 2 tablespoons of apple jelly and a tablespoon of orange juice. To make cinnamon chips, start with cutting up flour tortillas into triangles, paint each with a mixture of sugar, melted butter and cinnamon, and bake for 10 minutes.

#10 Fruit cups

Heat your oven to 325 degrees and grease 12 muffin cups. Melt butter and lightly brush one side of a wonton wrapper with it. Dip the buttery side into some brown sugar and press it down into each muffin cup. Then, bake until lightly browned, about 7 minutes. Add any type of fruit to whipped cream and place it into cooled wonton wrappers.

So, there you have it! Some of the best fruit desserts you can make right now with little effort. Do you have any other easy fruit dessert recipes? Share them with us please.

6 Easy Bite-Size Dessert Recipes to Try this Summer

2014-04-14T06:31:00.000-07:00

Bite-sized desserts are fabulously tricky and perfectly dainty making your mind think that you are consuming fewer calories. Bite-sized desserts come in different forms, even the bubbly liquids. Check out a few easy bite-size dessert recipes to try this summer.

1. Chocolate covered bananas

You will need: 2 bananas, 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, 1/3 cup of salted peanuts, 6 popsicle sticks. Place your chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water and stir until it melted. Now line a cookie sheet with a waxed paper and insert a popsicle stick in the cut-end of each banana piece. Dip bananas in chocolate, sprinkle with peanuts, and put on baking sheet. Refrigerate until firm, from 20 minutes to 2 hours.

2. Caramel peanut butter dip

Take 1/4 cup of smooth peanut butter, 3/4 cup of caramel sauce, 1 tbsp. of chopped peanuts and 1/2 cup of marshmallow fluff. Mix the peanut butter and caramel sauce until smooth, fold in marshmallow fluff and top with 1 tbsp. of chopped peanuts. You can serve it with a sliced apple.

3. Watermelon cups with mint and feta

You will need 16 watermelon cubes, 2 ounces feta cheese, 2 tbsp. of finely chopped mint, 2 tsp. of finely chopped shallots. Using a 1/4 teaspoon measuring spoon or a small melon baller, scoop out the center of each watermelon cube, keeping walls of each cube intact. Mash together the shallots, mint and feta. Finally, stuff the tops of the watermelon cubes with your mixture.

4. Kiwi popsicles

This is one of the easiest bite-size dessert recipes to try this summer, for which you will need sticks, 2 kiwi fruits, 1/2 chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of coconut oil. Peel, and cut in half 2 kiwi fruits. Put each circle on stick and put in the freezer. Melt your coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat, add chocolate chips and stir until creamy and smooth. Remove kiwi fruits from the freezer and dip them in the liquid chocolate, then put them back in the freezer for 10 minutes. Remove them again and dip them a second time. Put them back in the freezer for about 30 minutes.

5. S’mores strawberries

Sweet and healthy strawberries are a staple during the summer. So why not try this easy recipe? You will need: large strawberries, 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 1 jar of marshmallow crème (1 1/2 cups), 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips. Start with removing stems from strawberries and cutting out the center of each of them. Fill the decorating bag with marshmallow crème and pipe the crème into the center of every strawberry. Take a cooking parchment paper and line the plate. Put graham cracker crumbs in a small bowl. Microwave chocolate chips in a small microwavable bowl uncovered 30 seconds on High. Stir and microwave in 15-second increments until chips can be stirred smooth. Dunk your strawberries in melted chocolate, roll in graham cracker crumbs and place on plate, and refrigerate until chocolate is hardened.

6. Fruit cookies

You will need: 1 small package of Pillsbury sugar cookie dough, 8 oz. of softened cream cheese, 4 cups of mixed fruits and 1 large container cool whip. Cook sugar cookie dough as small cups at 350 for about 6-7 minutes. Make sure you do not overcook. Whip cream cheese, add in cool whip and whisk until smooth. Put in Ziploc bag, cut off the tip, pipe frosting onto your cookies and decorate with fruits.

What is your favorite bite-size dessert recipe? Share your thoughts, please!

Must-Try Healthy Breakfast Recipe: Clean Food Dirty City's Green Tropics Smoothie Bowl

2014-04-13T21:01:00.000-07:00

We're always on the hunt for easy, healthy recipes, and when we found the clean-eating blog Clean Food Dirty City, we had to ask for a recipe just for Glamour.com readers. Here, blogger Lily Kunin shares her delicious green tropics smoothie bowl with homemade granola recipe—we think you'll want to make it for breakfast, like, tomorrow (and quite possibly the next day too). Enjoy!

Smoothie ingredients:

1 fresh or frozen banana
1/2 cup frozen mango
1/2 cup frozen pineapple
2 handfuls of kale
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1/2 cup almond milk, plus more if needed
Squeeze of lemon

Instructions:

1. Pour 1/2 cup almond milk into blender, and then add the frozen fruit, kale, chia seeds, and lemon. Blend until smooth, adding more almond milk if needed.

2. Top with toasted goji-chia granola (recipe below), fresh fruit, and any other toppings you have on hand. Granola, unsweetened coconut flakes, pineapple, and chia seeds are pictured above.

Toasted goji-chia granola ingredients

3 cups gluten-free rolled oats

1/2 cup raw almonds, chopped

1/2 cup raw pepitas (pumpkin seeds)

1/4 cup chia seeds

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons raw almond butter

3 tablespoons agave nectar

1/4 cup goji berries (or any dried fruit you have on hand)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment and set aside.

2. Combine the dry ingredients (oats, almonds, pepitas, chia seeds, and salt) in a bowl.

3. In another bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, almond butter, and agave nectar.

4. Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir well until the oat mixture is evenly coated.

6. Once combined, spread the oat mixture evenly onto your lined baking sheet.

7. Bake for about 30 minutes, checking to toss the oats every 10 minutes. Remove from the oven once the oats start to turn a nice toasted, golden brown.

8. Once cooled, toss in the goji berries (or other dried fruit).

9. Top your green tropics smoothie with granola and store remainder in an airtight container to enjoy for future use.

Lily Kunin is the voice behind the NYC-based food blog Clean Food Dirty City. Inspired by the chefs in her family as well as her friends who are looking for easy recipes, her mission is to create food that is simple, clean, and flavorful. Follow her blog on Instagram @cleanfooddirtycity.

Isn't this smoothie bowl recipe just gorgeous? Will you be trying it out?

11 Recipes For Bookworms Who Love To Eat

2014-04-13T19:31:00.000-07:00

For when the words are so good that you need something more.

Lamb Stew with Dried Plums

spinachtiger.com / Via Spinach Tiger

What to read while eating it: Mockingjay (from The Hunger Games series) by Suzanne Collins

“I’m starving and the stew is so delicious—beef, potatoes, turnips, and onions in a thick gravy—that I have to force myself to slow down. All around the dining hall, you can feel the rejuvenating effect that a good meal can bring on. The way it can make people kinder, funnier, more optimistic, and remind them it’s not a mistake to go on living. It’s better than any medicine.”

Fried Green Tomatoes with Gutherie’s Sauce

dashofeast.com / Via Dash of East

What to read while eating it: Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg

“The food in the South is as important as food anywhere because it defines a person’s culture.”

Turkish Delight

sprinklebakes.com / Via Sprinkle Bakes

What to read while eating it: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

“It is dull, Son of Adam, to drink without eating,” said the Queen presently. “What would you like best to eat?”

“Turkish Delight, please, your Majesty,” said Edmund.

The Queen let another drop fall from her bottle on to the snow, and instantly there appeared a round box, tied with green silk ribbon, which, when opened, turned out to contain several pounds of the best Turkish Delight. Each piece was sweet and light to the very centre and Edmund had never tasted anything more delicious.

Poularde à l’Estragon

brytontaylor.com / Via Bryton Taylor

What to read while eating it: Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy

“The Tatar, recollecting that it was Stepan Arkadyevich’s way not to call the dishes by the names in the French bill of fare, did not repeat them after him, but could not resist rehearsing the whole menu to himself according to the bill: “Soupe printaniere, turbot sauce Beaumarchais, poulard a l’estragon, Macedoine de fruits …” and then instantly, as though worked by springs, laying down one bound bill of fare, he took up another, the list of wines, and submitted it to Stepan Arkadyevich.”

Sansa’s Lemon Cakes

livingbettertogether.com / Via Living Better Together

What to read while eating it: A Feast for Crows (from the A Song of Ice and Fire series) by George R. R. Martin

“Lemony lemony lemon cakes…and you can have as many as you like.”

Ernest Hemingway’s Favorite Hamburger

thehautemeal.com / Via The HauteMeal

What to read while eating it: A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway

“We ate well and cheaply and drank well and cheaply and slept well and warm together and loved each other.”

Salted Caramel Apple Pie

browneyedbaker.com / Via Brown Eyed Baker

What to read while eating it: On The Road by Jack Kerouac

” I ate another apple pie and ice cream; that’s practically all I ate all the way across the country, I knew it was nutritious and it was delicious, of course.”

Spaghetti Carbonara

yummy-books.com / Via Yummy Books

What to read while eating it: The Goldfinch by Donna Tart

“In my mind I went over all the meals we’d eaten in the days leading up to her death: our last visit to the Greek diner, our last visit to Shun Lee Palace, the last dinner she’d cooked for me (spaghetti carbonara) and the last dinner before that (a dish called chicken Indienne, which she’d learned to make from her mother back in Kansas).”

Sweet Seed Cake

poiresauchocolat.net / Via Poires au Chocolat

What to read while eating it: David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

“It was the pleasantest tea-table in the world. Miss Clarissa presided. I cut and handed the sweet seed-cake - the little sisters had a bird-like fondness for picking up seeds and pecking at sugar; Miss Lavinia looked on with benignant patronage, as if our happy love were all her work; and we were perfectly contented with ourselves and one another.”

Fresh New England Clam Chowder with Brown Butter Garlic Croutons

howsweeteats.com / Via How Sweet It Is

What to read while eating it: Moby-Dick by Herman Melville

“Oh! sweet friends, hearken to me. It was made of small juicy clams, scarcely bigger than hazel nuts, mixed with pounded ship biscuits, and salted pork cut up into little flakes! the whole enriched with butter, and plentifully seasoned with pepper and salt.”

Chocolate Babka

lovelifeeat.com / Via love.life.eat

What to read while eating it: The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clayby Michael Chabon

“Did you save room for my babka?” Bubbie said. “I always save room for dessert, Mrs. Kavalier,” Bacon said.

10 Most Beautiful Bridges in the World

2014-04-11T19:57:00.003-07:00

Bridges are more than just a way to connect 2 points. They are an opportunity for architects and engineers to collaborate on a beautiful structure that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The following 10 bridges are stunning works of art that have become landmarks in their own right, and millions of tourists flock to see them every year.

#1 Tower Bridge, London, England

One of London’s most recognisable landmarks, Tower Bridge is the star of millions of postcards, t-shirts, bags, and other assorted memorabilia, and no visit to London is complete without a photo on the bridge looking out over the river Thames. Londoners took a while to warm up to the bridge after it was first built, but now it has become a symbol of pride and a reminder of London’s rich Victorian history.

#2 Chengyang Bridge, Sanjiang County, China

The ‘wind and rain’ bridges are feats of architectural brilliance, and all are built without a single nail or bolt to hold them together. Built by the Dong people of China, these covered bridges are beautiful examples of Chinese architecture and are constructed using only stone and wood.

#3 Pont du Gard, Gard River, France

The Pont du Gard Bridge began life as an aqueduct system that transported water to the Roman city of Nemausus and is a testament to the incredible building skills of the Romans. Built more than 2000 years ago, the Pont du Gard descends only 56 feet over 30 miles and was able to deliver around 5 million gallons of water to the city every day.

#4 Rialto Bridge, Venice, Italy

The Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy has a unique arched shape and runs over the legendary Grand Canal. Singing gondoliers steer tourists gently beneath the bridge in the city’s famous gondola boats, and the elegant arches and white stones of the bridge make it an attractive addition to one of the most romantic cities on earth.

#5 Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy

This medieval bridge spans the Arno River and is one of the most stunning landmarks in Florence. The bridge is full of small shops selling jewellery, leather goods and other luxury items to tourists, and the haphazard way that the shops are stacked on top of each another only adds to the charm and appeal of this unusual marketplace.

#6 Brooklyn Bridge, New York

The iconic Brooklyn Bridge has an interesting history behind its construction, and its original designer John Roebling spent almost 15 years convincing the city council to let him realise his dream of building the world’s longest suspension bridge. Unfortunately, Roebling died before construction could begin so his son Washington Roebling took responsibility until he too became ill, and the bridge was eventually completed by Washington’s wife Emily.

#7 Helix Bridge, Marina Bay area, Singapore

This ultra-modern bridge constructed from glass and steel mesh continues to impress tourists from all over the world and complements the hi-tech city of Singapore perfectly. At night, the bridge is illuminated by electric blue lights which give it an ethereal quality, and literally hundreds of photos are taken of it each and every day.

#8 Millau Viaduct Bridge, Midi-Pyrénées, France

Built in 2004, this elegant structure has already become a symbol of great pride to the French population, and came about after a collaboration between a French engineer and an English architect. At 1125 feet, it is considered to be the world’s tallest bridge and runs through some of the most beautiful areas of the French countryside.

#9 Khaju Bridge,Isfahan, Iran

This beautiful example of Arabian architecture was built in the 17th century by Shah Abbas II, and is still a fully functioning dam that carries water to the gardens along the Zayandeh River. The centre of the bridge features 2 large pavilions that were originally reserved for the Shah but are now open to the public.

#10 Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, USA

Construction of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge took more than four years and $27 million, and the bridge has become one of the most recognisable landmarks of San Francisco. Spanning the Pacific Ocean since the year 1937, the bridge’s red hue has helped it to become one of the most photographed bridges in the world.

12 Birthday Gemstones and Their Meanings

2014-04-11T18:52:00.000-07:00

People have always believed that the birthday gemstones have special protective power. They are the best talismans for a person out of any other jewelry. It’s interesting to know that The American National Association of Jewelers has complied and agreed on the list of birthstones in correspondence to each month of the year. This list has been changing through the flow of time and the last correction was made adding Tanzanite for December. Moreover, the birthday gemstones don’t only bring good luck to its owner but also possess some other good qualities and that is what I’m going to tell you about.

#1 Garnet

People who were born in January have garnet as their birthday gemstone. As a rule, these stones come in deep red color or are rich purple, however, you may happen to see garnets of other colors. It’s considered to have numerous positive qualities, including the curative power. It has a healing effect for heart and lungs. In addition to that garnet is a talisman that ensures protection and success. This gemstone is also associated with purity, faithfulness and truthfulness.

#2 Amethyst

This beautiful and royal stone is the birthday gemstone for people born in February. The usual color of amethyst ranges from light purple to dark violet. The most outstanding property of this gemstone is healing. It helps with pains and headaches, insomnia and arthritis. People having amethyst as their talisman are usually associated with peace, stability and balance. Such people are known for their inner strength, calm disposition and being honest.

#3 Aquamarine

The next gemstone, Aquamarine, is for the next month, March. The name ‘Aquamarine’ is derived from Latin and means ‘seawater’. This stone is very beautiful and is loved for its calming sky-blue color, which can range from light blue to dark blue. This talisman protects its owner from stress and throat illnesses. It is known to have a soothing effect, so it is good to use for meditation. The stone brings peace to its owner and helps reach truth and wisdom.

#4 Diamond

Diamonds are surely the best friends for every girl but for April beauties they become special talismans. Typically, they are transparent but sometimes you may find colored diamonds too. Anyway, we love them for that special sparkling it has and for that special feeling they give us when putting them on. Diamond’s healing properties become apparent by its help with brain problems. This gemstone strengthens its owner’s clarity of mind and power of soul. It helps to keep balance and reinforce the inner strength.

#5 Emerald

People born in May are lucky to have emerald as their birthday gemstone. A true emerald is of dark green hues and totally transparent. The green coloring is very symbolic and for nature, renewal, fertility. Long time ago people used to believe that emerald would help to heal any illness connected with eyes, heart, spine. This gemstone is also considered to be a symbol of true love that binds the couple, hope, faithfulness. Some people find the emerald to be a tranquilizer for a troubled mind. It is also said to bring the wearer reason and wisdom.

#6 Pearl

June’s birthday gemstone is a gentle and modest pearl. True pearls are very valuable as it takes one 5-8 years to form. We all know pearls to be white color but they also may be of other colors, for example, black pearls are now very popular in modern jewelry-making. These gemstones are believed to be healing for stomach and heart. As for their positive influence on the wearer it must be mentioned that pearls enhance personal integrity and promote loyalty, truth, faith and purity. Traditionally, these gemstones are associated with feminine energy, beauty and purity.

#7 Ruby

People born in July have Ruby as their birthday gemstone. This gemstone is of rich and deep red color so that it is usually associated with fire, power and energy. Wearing rubies guarantees protection from infections and wicked thoughts. This gemstone stands for strength and confidence, good luck and success, as well as vitality.

#8 Peridot

The birthstone for August is a peridot. It has yellowish green color and probably because of that is believed to cure problems with digestive system, kidneys and liver. It has positive influence on psychological wellbeing as well. It helps to fight depression and to counter negative emotions. This gemstone is a symbol of dignity, truth and faithfulness, as well as of love and loyalty.

#9 Sapphire

September’s gemstone is a breathtaking rich and deep blue Sapphire. As a healing means, it influences the cardio-vascular system, fights inflammations, protects physical and mental wellbeing. This royal gemstone is believed to bring protection and fortune, it is a symbol of strength and spiritual power, as well as of kindness, wisdom, learning and mental strength. In addition to that, an interesting fact is that Sapphire protects its wearer from evil spirits and baleful looks, so it is a very powerful talisman.

#10 Opal

Opal is a birthday gemstone for people born in October. It may be of white or black color but with the iridescent brinks. This gemstone is typically associated with purity, innocence, hope and happiness. The main describing word for it may be inspiration, as it stimulates imagination, creativity and originality, and intensifies emotions. Opals bring confidence, will to live, strong desire and ability to love.

#11 Topaz

Topaz is November’s birthstone, which comes in various colors but golden yellow is considered to be the most valuable. Its positive effect on health consists in healing problems with digestive system, it stimulates metabolism and strengthens nerves. If you have Topaz as your talisman, it will bring you joy, true love and good fortune. This is a symbol of self-control and honesty, truth and forgiveness.

#12 Turquoise

The gemstone for people born in December is Turquoise. This blue-green gem is absolutely great, and it is one of the oldest protective amulets, which is thought to bring wealth, good fortune and happiness. The most fascinating feature of this stone, I think, is the ability to absorb wearer’s negative energy and transform it to help find wisdom, peace and to find connection with the universe. Apart from that, many cultures believe that Turquoise takes on all the characteristics of the wearer. This azure heaven gift from the nature stands for honesty, creativity, strength and renewal, truthfulness and success.

The properties of each gemstone have been noticed since ancient time and since then they have been analyzed and developed. Every birthday gemstone has something special about it and will open its powers to its wearer only. Do you believe that your birthday gemstone is the best talisman for you? Which one is yours?

Top 8 Weirdest Previous Jobs of Celebrities

2014-04-08T03:26:00.000-07:00

As a rule, previous jobs of celebrities are noticeably different from their current occupations. They take great pains to hide their past experience, but I don`t understand why. It`s understood that before their fame came they were ordinary people and had to earn money for living as all people do. But, I must admit, some of the professions, that celebrities were busy with, are really strange and unexpected, so here are some of them.

1. Brad Pitt worked as a chicken mascot for El Pollo Loco

Can you imagine that the most handsome man in the world was advertising fast-food at El Pollo Loco? It`s hard to believe but it is true. Every morning he put on a chicken suit and nobody could recognize his face. But that was just a period in his life and only few people know about it, including you.

2. Whoopi Goldberg worked as a mortuary beautician

Whoopi Goldberg is to be singled out among other extraordinary people as her previous job was really weird. Certainly she could choose working in a shop or in some kind of an office, but it was fine for her to make the deceased look nice. Personally I would ask Whoopi many questions about that and I`m sure you would as well.

3. Channing Tatum worked as a stripper

Playing a stripper in film Magic Mike was very convincing. Who could know that he already had some prior experience in this sphere? When Channing was just a guy, but not a heartthrob of all women around the world, he worked as a stripper. We all must confess that this experience had a good influence on his movie career.

4. Gene Simmons worked as a teacher in elementary school

It is really unbelievable that a great Kiss singer was teaching small kids. Knowing him, I think many parents wouldn`t agree to trust their kids to heavy-metal musician if they knew. But it was before his outstanding career and his pupils must have had a lot of fun with him. They are surely proud that Gene Simmons was their first teacher.

5. Matthew Mcconaughey worked a chicken coop cleaner

We should be really happy that this was only a temporary job for him, otherwise the world didn`t have such a talented actor. At that time he was an exchange student and, being in need of money, worked in an Australian chicken farm. When you are a student and some extra financial resources are needed the opportunities to choose from are not numerous.

6. George Clooney worked as a shoe salesman

This job is quite ordinary if to compare it with other mentioned here. But who knows, how many people were lucky to be served by George Clooney!? Imagine having him place a shoe on your foot or give you precious advice. That pair of shoe might be more precious and valuable than you could imagine.

7. Rob Stewart worked as a gravedigger

This celebrity also worked with the deceased before his musical career. Rob Stewart was a gravedigger. I don`t think it somehow helped him to get into show business but it is great that it was just a transition period in his life, which Rob is not eager to mention.

8. Christopher Walken worked as a lion tamer

Well, personally I am not surprised. Somehow I can easily imagine Christopher Walken training wild animals. This person is very strong-willed and charismatic, so without doubt it was a fascinating view when the stubborn man who never gives up went together with the king of beasts on the arena.

Every person has to do some undesirable or unordinary jobs in life, celebrities are also people and there are some dark shades in their past that they don`t want to light up. Their life has changed immensely since their youth till now and they are to be grateful for that precious life experience. Did you have a weird or terrible job in your life?

Cran-Quinoa Salad

2014-04-07T21:57:00.003-07:00

Who knew a detox diet could be so delicious?

Serves 4

Ingredients:

Salad:

1 cup uncooked quinoa

1/4 cup dried cranberries

2 scallions, finely chopped

2 cups mixed greens such as spinach and arugula

Dressing:

1/4 cup cashews

1/8 cup pine nuts

2 tsp miso paste

1/4 tsp agave nectar

1/2 cup water

3 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 Tbsp lemon zest

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper

1/4 tsp sea salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

COOK quinoa according to package instructions.

While quinoa cooks, COMBINE all dressing ingredients in a blender; process until smooth. Add water if dressing is too thick.

In a large serving bowl, COMBINE cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, scallions and mixed greens; gently toss with Caesar dressing to coat. Serve chilled.

Spring Steak Salad

2014-04-07T21:44:00.000-07:00

SERVES 6.

READY IN 30 MINUTES.

INGREDIENTS:

STEAK

2 fillet steaks (about 200g each), room temperature
1 tsp olive oil

SALAD

1 fennel bulb, shaved – use a mandoline if you have one (reserve leaves to garnish)
1 beetroot, peeled and shaved – use a mandoline if you have one (reserve any small beet leaves to garnish)
1 handful green beans or asparagus, blanched
1 cup frozen peas, blanched
1 cup frozen broad beans, blanched and peeled
½ cup flat-leaf parsley leaves
½ cup mint leaves
1 tsp sumac (optional)

MUSTARD DRESSING

6 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp grainy mustard
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

INSTRUCTIONS:

Heat a barbecue or heavy frying pan until very hot. Season steaks, drizzle with oil and cook over high heat for 3 minutes, turn and cook for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and rest for 5 minutes. Slice wafer thin.

Toss together all salad ingredients, along with sliced steak. Garnish with fennel leaves and small beet leaves if you have them. Season to taste.

Place dressing ingredients in a small jar and shake to combine. Drizzle over salad just before serving.

Tip

• This is a great way of stretching two steaks. You can, of course, cook more if you’d like it meatier.

• If you prefer, serve a steak for each person and the salad on the side.

• Feel free to add a few boiled new potatoes to bulk it up, or a handful of salad leaves such as rocket or watercress.

• A little feta crumbled on top would also be lovely.

Chicken & Sugar Snap Pea Stir-Fry

2014-04-07T21:36:00.001-07:00

Plump, shiny sugar snap peas are perfect for stir-frying, because they cook quickly and still maintain a slight crunch. Here, they pair with thinly sliced chicken and Asian flavors for a delicious weeknight meal that comes together in minutes.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 lb. (500 g.) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut crosswise into thin strips

3 1/2 Tbs. peanut oil

1 tsp. baking soda

2 tsp. cornstarch

Salt

1 Tbs. oyster sauce

3/4 lb. (375 g.) sugar snap peas, halved crosswise on the diagonal

Cooked white rice for serving

Soy sauce for serving

Instructions:

In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with 1 1/2 tablespoons of the peanut oil, the baking soda, and the cornstarch. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Remove from the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking.

Heat a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons oil. When it is hot, add the chicken, spreading it out as much as possible. Season with salt and sear for 1 minutes without stirring, then stir until opaque throughout, 2-3 minutes. Stir in the oyster sauce and cook for 30 seconds. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

Return the wok to high heat, add the peas, and stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 1 minute. Stir in the chicken and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Transfer to a platter and serve right away with rice and soy sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Eyebrows

2014-04-07T21:07:00.000-07:00

Since they frame your face, brows need a lot of TLC. Here are a few easy ways to keep your brows looking great between salon visits.

Start with a Good Pair of Tweezers

The right tools make all the difference.

Be sure you're using a good pair of tweezers. If you're like me and your hair is baby fine, you'll need extra sharp, tight tweezers.

A good set of tweezers doesn't have to break the bank; you should be able to get a solid set for approximately $8 or so.

Trim before Tweezing

Before you get tweeze happy, using your eyebrow brush, brush brows up and trim the very ends of long brows with brow scissors.

Repeat, this time brushing brows down.

This allows you to see exactly what you need to shape and helps prevent over plucking.

Pluck Immediately after Showering

Not an old wive's tale. After showering, follicles and hairs are softened so plucking is easier (less painful, too).

If your goal is to over pluck, using a magnifying mirror is the best way to make sure you do just that!

No one's going to be following you around with a magnifying glass to make sure you got every last little stray, so relax and use the regular mirror.

Your brows will thank you.

Not everyone can pull off the Brook Shields brows. Know what shape will work best for your face shape.

This is a great site to help you figure out what shape will work best.

How To Make A Fresh And Easy Spring Vegetable Soup

2014-03-31T19:53:00.001-07:00

This recipe from our spring vegetable correspondent is healthy, packed with protein, and – most importantly – delicious.

I know that last week I said I never wanted to look at another soup again.

But spring’s early days are cold where I live (in Ontario). A transitional food strategy is a good way to a) take advantage of some very early spring goods and b) get more greens in your diet.

We plant kale in the garden every year towards the beginning of May. In the months leading up to that, the plants we put in last year (but forgot to pull out of the garden — oops) begin to sprout new growth. So with no real effort at all, we get tender shoots of kale before spring really starts to kick in.

This broth-y and warming soup is a simple way to really enhance those first greens. It’s satiating without seeming heavy. The vegetables/greens are cut real wispy-like, so that they “cook” upon contact with the hot broth. I know that adding green tea to a soup sounds weird, but it adds a savory depth that makes this simple bowl all the more satisfying. The ginger is zingy and sharp, the tamari is salty, almost meaty, and the beans fill this whole bowl out with some protein.

First, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Then, add some sliced ginger, green tea, and a bit of tamari or soy sauce…

…and simmer for two minutes.

I recommend steeping the tea bags for no longer than two minutes, but if you like a bit more strength/bitterness, you can leave them in longer.

Meanwhile, chop the kale into small, thin slices.

Do the same with radishes and a shallot.

A knife works just as well if you don’t have a mandolin.

Divide the kale, beans, radishes, and shallots into four separate bowls.

Bring the broth back up to a boil and strain out the ginger slices. Then, carefully pour broth over each bowl.

Give them each a good stir so that everything is covered in hot broth. This will also instantly cook the veggies.

Top with plenty of fresh lime, cilantro, and green onions – and enjoy!

Spring Greens + Beans Soup with Ginger Green Tea Broth

Recipe by Laura Wright
SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

for the broth
4 cups vegetable stock
thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled + sliced
2 green tea bags
tsp tamari/soy sauce

for assembly
5-6 leaves of kale, stems removed + discarded
3-4 radishes
1 small shallot, peeled
2 cups cooked navy, cannellini or other beans

for garnish
1 lime, cut into wedges
handful cilantro leaves
2 green onions

PREPARATION

In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the vegetable stock to a boil. Lower the stock to a simmer and add the sliced ginger, green tea bags and tamari/soy sauce. Simmer for 2 more minutes before removing and discarding the green tea bags. Keep broth warm.

Finely shred or slice the kale leaves and place them on a platter. Then, thinly slice the radishes and shallot (with a knife or a mandolin) and place them on the platter as well.

Portion the beans, kale, radishes, and shallots among 4 bowls. Slice the green onions thin and place them on a serving plate with the cilantro leaves and lime wedges.

Bring the ginger green tea broth to a rolling boil. Strain out the ginger slices and pour broth over the bowls with the beans and vegetables.

Stir each bowl up a bit so that everything is saturated with the broth. Garnish with lime juice, cilantro and green onion slices.

DIY Ways To Ring In The Spring

2014-03-31T19:33:00.000-07:00

Easy decor projects to help you bring a little bit of sunshine into your space!

1. Strike it rich.

A little bit of gold paint turns just about anything, even used honey bottles, into standout end table accessories!

2. Sunny (painted) skies.

Add some sunshine to basic kitchen towels with some stencils and a few dabs of paint.

3. What’s new is old.

A little distressing makes standard glass candlestick holders look like a rare estate sale find!

4. Print, fold, decorate.

An array of colorful folded paper vases are just the spring pick-me-up your mantel needs!

5. Go for the green.

Spring is the perfect time to liven up your space with a little greenery.

6. Party all the time.

What’s better - a bowl full of confetti or a bowl MADE OUT OF CONFETTI?!

7. Indoor flower shower.

Ditch the crystal and make a chandelier our of cascading paper flowers instead.

8. A colorful welcome.

Turn colorful tee shirts into an eye-catching rug.

9. Art on a dime.

Paint a few plain canvas hangings in contrasting colors and create bold, abstract wall art.

10. Serve in style.

Make colorful spring cocktails pop with an equally colorful painted serving tray!

Beauty Tool Hacks Every Girl Should Know

2014-03-30T22:46:00.000-07:00

#1 Sticky Bobby Pins

If you have very fine hair or it just stays so straight your bobby pins fall out, try this quick tip. Using a paper towel and some hairspray you can make your bobby pins sticky, this will keep them in your hair for a longer period of time.

#2 Covering Dark Circles

Everyone gets dark circles from time to time and some of us were just born with them. A quick fix to conceal these has been to add dots of concealer but that might not being doing the job. Instead of dots, do a triangle shape with straight lines and poof! They'll disappear!

#3 DIY Lip Plumper

If you want plump lips but don't want to pay a lot, make your own. All it takes is a bit of peppermint oil and a tube of lip gloss. Put the two together and you've got an easy way to plump your lips in seconds.

#4 Quick Split End Mender

Noticing you have a lot of split ends but no time (or cash) to get to the salon? Put your hair into small twists and snip the stray hairs that stick out. Go slowly and be careful not to snip too close to the twisted bits of hair.

#5 Know Your Brush

You can get any style with any brush, eventually, but with some, it will take a lot of work. Different brushes do different things. Learn which brush is right for your desired style and you'll save yourself SO MUCH time and effort!

#6 Baby Powder Fake Blowout

Going to a hairstylist for a blowout is a fun treat for your hair. It would be nice to roll out of bed and go directly to the salon for this gorgeous look but the truth is that ain't nobody got time for that! So if you've only got 5-10 minutes, some baby powder and a curling iron, here's a more realistic way to get that bouncy look.

#7 Tin Foil Curlers

Want curls that will actually last you all day? Tin foil could be your new go-to styling tool. Simply create tiny ringlets and cover with tin foil. Go over the ringlets with your hot iron for a gorgeous head of curls.

#8 Rubber Band for French Tips

Want some gorgeous French tips but don't have the supplies? If you've got a rubber band and some nail polish, you have all you need to make this hack work. Simply use your rubber band and line it up to your nail tips. Paint the edge carefully and voila! Perfect nails!

#9 Smooth Lips

If you love your lipstick, dry, cracked lips will mess up your style. Using an old mascara wand (after it's been cleaned, of course!) or a toothbrush will get your lips looking lovely again. When paired with this lip smoothie recipe from The Beauty Department, you'll be ready to rock lip looks again in no time!

#10 Winged Eyeliner with a Spoon

If you're looking for a way to get that perfect winged eyeliner look, it could be as simple as opening a kitchen drawer. This easy eyeliner tutorial will help you get the perfect-looking eye every time. Even a novice can have that perfectly styled look in under a minute!