Quantcast
Channel: Beauty, Hairstyles, Fashion Trends & More | SheKnows
Viewing all 4293 articles
Browse latest View live

Tutorial: Water spotted nail art technique

0
0

Water spotted nails

Water spotted nails

Supplies:

  • Navy polish
  • Metallic green polish
  • Jar of lukewarm water
  • Paper towel
  • Stiff paintbrush or old toothbrush
  • Acetone or hairspray
  • Scotch tape
  • Toothpicks

Water spotted nails

Instructions:

1

Begin with a metallic green base coat. This will be the color of the 'water spots.' Tape off the area outside of the fingernail for easy cleanup (or remove excess polish with a cotton swab and nail polish remover).

Water spotted nails

2

Drop 2 to 3 drops of navy polish onto the surface of the water. (Don't drop from too high or the polish will sink to the bottom.) Dip your brush in acetone and flick it with your finger over the polish like you would do for splatter painting. It should create a cool burned out effect on the polish.

Water spotted nails

Water spotted nails

3

Decide which area of the pattern you want on your nail and dip the nail in that area, making sure to dip it in parallel to the water's surface to pick up the design well. While the finger is submerged, use a toothpick to collect the extra polish from the surface. Repeat for each finger.

Water spotted nails

4

When all the fingers are done, remove the tape and clean up any extra polish from your fingertips. Give it a top coat and you're done.

Water spotted nails

More nails



Newest in-your-face makeup trend is actually no makeup at all

0
0

Woman not wearing makeup

Photo credit: AMR Image/iStock/360/Getty Images

There's a new trend sweeping the Instagrams of both celebrities and regular folks. From supermodel Karlie Kloss, known for her natural beauty, to Nicki Minaj, known for her over-the-top wigs and makeups, women are posting pictures of themselves wearing no makeup at all to show their "real" selves. It's become such a thing that it even got its own feature in The New York Times.

And it has certainly ruffled some feathers. After being called "ugly as f***," noted fashion blogger Leandra Medine, took to her site, The Man-Repeller, to explain why she chooses to go bare-faced all the time. "I'm not making a statement," she says. "The reason I don’t wear makeup is because I am lazy. More important than that though, I am comfortable with how I look. I don’t hate what I see when I look in the mirror. Even if legions of others don’t agree."

Not everyone is as comfortable as Medine, though. While the range of makeup that women wear varies quite a lot, for most of us wearing some makeup is just part of getting dressed. Often we don't feel "done" without it. Everyone has at least one friend who won't even go to the gas station without foundation, lipstick and fake eyelashes. But all this may be changing thanks to the new #nomakeup bare-faced trend.

For some women it's just a matter of simplicity. Actress Sutton Foster says she ditches the stage pancake in her everyday life because she says, “I’d rather spend my time doing other things than staring at myself in the mirror.”

Makeup adds just one more layer — figuratively and literally — of complication that many women are deciding they just don't want to deal with anymore. In the past, this type of exasperation was often mocked as "letting yourself go" so it says good things about society that we are beginning to see going makeup free as practical instead of a white flag.

Sutton Foster not wearing makeup

Photo credit: Walter McBride/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Yet for others it's a symbol of power. It's long been the standard that while Steve Jobs could get away with wearing jeans and turtlenecks to board meetings, female Silicon Valley CEOs like Sheryl Sandberg not only have to have trim figures, expensive outfits and jewelry but also wear a full face of makeup to be respected.

It's even worse in politics. Remember the horror Hillary Clinton was subjected to for daring to look "old" and not try to cover it up with a million creams and shadows? Skipping makeup is a subtle but in-your-face way (sorry, couldn't help it) of saying they're not playing the game anymore and they'd like to be valued for their contributions not looks.

And of course there's the fashion crowd — although here's where it gets a little dicey. Lots of celebs have been posting #nomakeup selfies but rather than being practical or political, it seems to be more about saying "Look how beautiful I am anyhow!" Soft lighting, Instagram filters and "tightlining" (a trick for applying makeup that amps up your eyes while still looking like you're not wearing makeup) are all routinely used to buff up these #allnatural beauties.

Rather than destroying the beauty stereotype, they're almost reinforcing it by saying women now not only need to look gorgeous when they're glammed up but also first thing in the morning before they even roll out of bed.

But who says you have to choose? I don't bother with makeup on the school run or at the gym but I'll admit eyeliner and mascara do give me a boost of confidence at work or going out. Plus I think makeup is fun. I collect vintage dresses and love recreating classic pin-up looks, bold red lipstick and all.

In the end, I think this is really about learning to make what choices you feel best about and then not having to apologize for them. No woman should feel like she has to wear makeup to be beautiful or successful and on the flip side I don't think women should be mocked for being "high maintenance" if they do decide to go all out.

More on beauty

A device that prints your own makeup — yes, seriously
Marathoner mocked for running full glam in false eyelashes and jewelry
Study confirms that men like you with less makeup

Finally! We found the real culprit for why nail polish chips

0
0

Chipped nails

Photo credit: Mary Ann Lacy Bridant Moment Open/Getty Images

We caught up with celebrity manicurist Lisa Jachno of Labnails to discuss why so many women deal with terrible, chipped manicures. "Working with your hands a lot will definitely chip your nails," she said. "But if the manicure isn't done properly, this will cause rapid chipping as well."

Manicures: You're doing it wrong

Think back to your most recent visit to the salon. Most manicurists start the process by soaking fingernails in sudsy water before shaping the nails and applying color. Unfortunately, soaking the nails at the beginning of the manicure can actually contribute to rapid chipping. "Wet manicures cause chipping because the nail absorbs water and expands," Jachno explained. "Your nail polish will lose its bond with the nail if the nail shrinks back to its normal size after the polish is applied." Serious bummer, since this can translate into a gnarly, chipped manicure within just a few days.

The miracle of dry manicures

Cut the water from your manicure routine to get longer-lasting color. "You should be able to get five to seven more days out of a dry manicure," reported Jachno. Not only that, you'll shave at least 10 minutes from your routine if you do it yourself.

So what's the trick? Jachno provided us with these steps for a successful dry manicure:

  1. Whatever you do, don't soak.
  2. Remove polish. Because, duh.
  3. File your nails into your favorite shape. Keep 'em short to prevent chipping caused by run-ins with walls or computer keyboards.
  4. Apply cuticle remover. Let it sit for one minute to soften the skin, just like a water soak.
  5. Exfoliate. Jachno recommends The Buffy brush to delicately remove overgrown cuticles.
  6. Wipe away. Use an alcohol spray to make sure sloughed nails and cuticles are clean and prepped for color.
  7. Apply polish. You know the routine — base, color and topcoat for optimal coverage.
  8. Keep it fresh. Jachno suggests that your reapply top coat every two or three days to make sure your dry manicure lasts a full week.
Now, use your knowledge for good and quit raining little chunks of chipped nail polish all over planet Earth.

More nail care trends

Fan-icures: Nail art inspired by football teams
4 ways these sheer tints by OPI make nail art easier
How to remove glitter nail polish

Get the look: Keira Knightley's edgy chic outfit

0
0
Get the look: Keira Knightley's edgy chic outfit
Photo credit: David M. Benett/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Why we're obsessed

There's something so effortlessly elegant about a flirty maxi dress worn under a tough black leather jacket. It's the best of both worlds and awesome fashion juxtaposition, if you ask us. Simply put, Keira looks put together and cool.

How to style the look

The mix of a leather jacket with a polka dot maxi is enough of a contrast, so keep your accessories minimal. A textured clutch and simple pumps will be enough. Make sure you wear your hair in no-fuss beach waves, too.

Get the look: Keira Knightley's edgy chic outfit

More styles we love

Get the look: Hilary Duff's street style
Get the look: Drew Barrymore's pregnancy style
Get the look: Zooey Deschanel's pretty polka dots

Kale just invaded skin care with this veggie-infused face serum

0
0

Woman holding kale

Photo credit: Jessica Peterson/Getty Images

organic, citrus + kale serum

That someone is Éminence and that product is a natural, organic, citrus + kale serum, or as the internet has dubbed it, the ‘salad serum.’

This liquid (it’s not leafy, don’t worry) boasts the ability to brighten your skin, lighten sun damage, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and prevent inflammation. It also contains spinach, broccoli, avocado, lemon and grapefruit (which I swear is a near-identical juice recipe I’ve had before).

After reading about this kale serum, I checked out other Éminence products and it is a veritable feast of food products. At a quick glance I saw guava, blackberry, red currant, tomato seed, even yam and pumpkin. I got off their site when I saw something called a Mimosa Champagne Tonique because by then I was just hungry and thirsty.

I like to think that somewhere this is what our ancestors were doing to keep their youthful glow.

The kale serum is not out until June, so until then, we’ll just have to stick to kale smoothies and salads.

More beauty trends

The newest makeup fad is actually no makeup at all
A device that will print your makeup — yes, seriously
Why one-piece cut-out swimsuits are ridiculous

Gorgeous lipsticks for everyday wear

0
0

Applying lipstick | Sheknows.com

Photo credit: Kick Images/Photodisc/Getty Images

Finding the right lipstick for your skin tone that is perfect for everyday wear can be tough. We've enlisted the help of celebrity makeup artists Raquel Campbell and Sonia Kashuk to help round up some of the best ones for your pout depending on your skin shade.

Fair skin lipstick | Sheknows.com

Fair skin

When it comes to pale porcelain-like skin, soft pinks are the best choice. "Look for rose-like shades that will give you a glam look without overpowering your beauty," says Campbell. Try: Maybelline ColorSensational Lipcolor, Peachy Scene 525 for a great pink pout and Velvety Matte Lip Crayon in Candy Nude for a lovely nude lip.

Medium skin lipstick | Sheknows.com

Medium skin

You want to reach for warm shades. Kashuk advises, "Medium skin tone looks great in brown-based shades with a bit of warmth." This type of color will contrast nicely against your skin tone. Try: ILIA Lipstick in In My Room to create a nude lip and Laura Mercier Crème Smooth Lip Color in Sienna for a dark smooch.

Yellow skin lipstick | Sheknows.com

Yellow skin

"If this is your skin tone, you want to choose a lipstick with a coral or burgundy base," says Campbell. These shades will contrast your skin perfectly to not bring out the yellow in your face that might make you look sickly. Try: Clinique Long Last Lipstick in Merlot for a pink lip and Bobbi Brown Creamy Matte Lip Color in Jenna for a dark one.

Olive skin lipstick | Sheknows.com

Olive skin

Here you want to play up the honey tone in your skin. Kashuk suggests you look for lipsticks with rich colors and warm orange undertones. Try: NARS Satin Lipstick in Honolulu Honey for the perfect nude lip and Velvety Matte Lip Crayon in Poppy Nude for a vibrant pout.

Brown skin lipstick | Sheknows.com

Brown skin

Almost any lipstick shade goes well with this skin tone. You can go as bright as you want or as muted as you want. Try: Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids in Vivid Rose for a super-bright lip or Satin Luxe Lip Color with SPF16 in Currant for a dark smooch.

Dark brown lipstick | Sheknows.com

Dark brown skin

Reach for lipstick with a berry undertone. This will really go with your beautiful shade of skin. Try: CoverGirl Queen Collection Lip Color in Berry Bling for a dark lip and Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color in Berry Raspberry for a vibrant pink lip.

More makeup tips

Beyond the blush brush: 6 Other makeup tools you need
4 Top lipsticks for a luscious pout
5 New beauty must-haves

10 Beauty grams: E-notes for the beauty-obsessed

0
0
Women applying makeup together
Photo credit: Tom Merton/Caiaimage/Getty Images

1

Real friends know to commemorate
life's important milestones

Real friends know to commemorate life's important milestones.

2

For the loved one who really gets your hobbies

For the loved one who really gets your hobbies.

3

Because a real man lets you have a real beauty budget

Because a real man lets you have a real beauty budget.

4

AKA the foundation of any great friendship

AKA the foundation of any great friendship.

5

So your relationships are built on proper expectations

So your relationships are built on proper expectations.

6

Put this in the “Just Because” card category

Put this in the “Just Because” card category and remind someone you care about to smile and also that their smile lines will be OK thanks to modern beauty technology.

7

Been there

Friend going through a tough time? Shoot her a note of encouragement.

8

Friend going through a tough time?
Shoot her a note of encouragement

Been there.

9

The truest of all house blessings

The truest of all house blessings.

10

Hey fellas, here's a card she'll
actually hang up at the office

Hey fellas, here's a card she'll actually hang up at the office.

Eat your heart out, Hallmark.

More on beauty

Why I think cut-out one-piece swimsuits are ridiculous
Study confirms that men like you with less makeup
Thigh gap to finger trap: We are measuring beauty all wrong

Was Angelina Jolie's makeup blunder hilarious or just human?

0
0

Angelina Jolie's makeup blunder

Photo credit: Jim Spellman/WireImage/Getty Images

People everywhere were astounded when the Angelina Jolie showed up to the Normal Heart screening seemingly unaware of how strangely her makeup was photographing and soon all the attention was on her "problem" rather than her world-famous beauty. Gossip sites called it a "disaster" and cackled with glee that even the queen of Hollywood could fall victim to such a rookie mistake as showing up with visible high-definition makeup powder all over her face and chest.

But what's with all the mean-girl behavior? The translucent powder is designed to look invisible to the naked eye but make skin look smooth and pore-less under intense lighting and cameras. Unfortunately, if you're in a hurry or if your makeup artist is having a bad day and it doesn't get blended properly, the reflective particles can catch the camera's flash and show up looking like you've had flour thrown in your face.

Angelina Jolie's makeup blunder

Photo credit: Jim Spellman/WireImage/Getty Images

Seeing as Jolie is a busy mother of six, wife, humanitarian, ambassador, director — oh and she does a few little films here are there — it's completely understandable that she might end up rushed. I think it's great she was out to support husband Brad Pitt's new film even as she is in the midst of her own publicity tour for Maleficent. Not to mention she looked stunning in her black dress.

The incident highlights a big problem with the way women sometimes talk about other women. We want to see our sisters succeed — but only so far. I've had plenty of my own makeup disasters. (In middle school I thought if I wore blue eyeliner and blue mascara that would magically make my brown eyes look blue. It didn't.) And I can understand why it feels good to see someone who is normally so perfectly put together end up in the same boat as the rest of us. Being a celebrity doesn't make her less human, even if she seems supernatural sometimes.

But in the end it doesn't do women any good to pull down those above us in an effort to make ourselves feel better by comparison. Rather we should be looking around to see who we can lift up because if we all did so, there'd be no limit to how high we can rise. And we'd all see we're doing a lot better than we think.

Angelina Jolie's makeup blunder

Photo credit: Ben Gabbe/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

More on makeup

Marathoner mocked for running full glam in false eyelashes and jewelry
Study confirms that men like you with less makeup
Moms turn makeup duties over to husbands, kids


3 Bold daytime makeup tutorials to rock your look

0
0

3 Bold daytime makeup tutorials to rock your look | SheKnows.com

Looking to spice up your makeup routine? We've got your back, girl. Try these three tutorials and learn how to rock brighter colors every day.

Bold eyeliner

1

DIY Bold eyeliner: Pick a color

Choose a fun eyeliner color you've been drooling over... and never been brave enough to wear.

2

DIY Bold eyeliner: Use eyeliner pencil

Take your eyeliner pencil and draw a sideways "football" shape, starting at the inner corner of the eye, drawing outward. (Tip: the eyeliner should extend out past the outer corner of your eye making a "cone" shape at the end).

3

DIY Bold eyeliner: Fill in lines

Fill in the lines, going over several times to make sure it's filled in well and looks bold. (Hint: Keeping the bold eyeliner only on the top ensures it's "daytime appropriate" and doesn't overpower your face).

4

DIY Bold eyeliner: Curl lashes

Curl lashes and apply mascara as usual.

5

DIY Bold eyeliner: Use soft pink or peach blush

Brush on a soft pink or peach blush.

6

DIY Bold eyeliner: Finished

Last, swipe on a soft gloss and your look is complete.

Bright eyeshadow

1

DYI bright eyeshadow: Use one color over eyelid

Lay down one eyeshadow color over the entire lid. (Tip: Choose something "on trend" for the season.)

2

DYI bright eyeshadow: Extend past crease

Extend the eyeshadow out past your crease and slightly past the outer corner of the eye.

3

DYI bright eyeshadow: Apply under eye

Apply the same eyeshadow under the eye too. You can drag it all the way across the under-eye or just keep at the outer corner (as I've done here).

4

DYI bright eyeshadow: Apply mascara

Apply mascara as usual.

5

DYI bright eyeshadow: Dust on blush

Dust on a blush complementary to the eyeshadow color. (Example: I used a peach blush since I'm wearing a warm-toned eyeshadow. If you were wearing a green, purple or blue eyeshadow you would wear a pink blush.)

6

DYI bright eyeshadow: Finish with sbdued lip color

Finish with a subdued lip color. I used a warm nude to complement my warm shadow and blush. Keeping within the same tone family makes this bold eyeshadow wearable during the day. This way, the makeup won't scream at you, you'll just look soft and trendy.

Extreme cat-eye and bold lip

1

DIY Extreme cateye and bold lips: use soft eyeshadow

Begin by laying down one soft eyeshadow all over the lid.

2

DIY Extreme cateye and bold lips: Draw an angled line with black eyeliner

Next, take an angled brush loaded with potted black eyeliner (or you can use liquid liner) and angle the brush toward the end of your eyebrow. Lay down the eyeliner at the midway point between your eyebrow and the outer corner of your eye. Draw an angled line at this point and bring it back to the outer corner of your eye.

3

DIY Extreme cateye and bold lips: Connect lines

Next, starting at the inner corner of your eye, draw a thick line connecting the inner corner to the outer corner.

4

DIY Extreme cateye and bold lips: Fill under iline

Fill in the skin underneath the line so that your eyeliner is a thick solid, angled line. (Tip: If any part of the liner is uneven, simply re-dip your brush and slowly go back over the uneven area with a steady hand.)

5

DIY Extreme cateye and bold lips: Drag out eyeliner

Drag a small amount of eyeliner on the outer corner of the under-eye. Be sure the liner on the under-eye and upper lids meet.

6

DIY Extreme cateye and bold lips: Apply mascara

Apply mascara as you normally would.

7

DIY Extreme cateye and bold lips: Brush on soft pink or peach blush

Brush on a soft pink or peach blush.

8

DIY Extreme cateye and bold lips: Finish with bright lipstick

Finish with a bright lipstick to complete this girly rocker look.

More makeup tips

Quiz: What's your makeup personality?
5 New beauty must-haves
Top 8 Double-duty products

These temp tattoos might be the coolest summer accessory yet

0
0

Flash Tattoos

Photo credit: Flash Tattoos

These two magical words are what have kept me from inking something permanent on my body, despite my grand illusions of a sexy tat (usually inspired by something rad someone put on Pinterest that I probably could not pull off at all).

But there’s great news for us tattoo wannabes: Flash Tattoos, jewelry-inspired temporary tattoos. It’s like the best of both worlds: a tattoo design in a non-permanent, pretty metallic.

Flash Tattoos

Photo credit: Flash Tattoos

Essentially you choose the Flash Tattoo style that you like best, and then you get three to four sheets of various metallic designs in that style for you to mix and match. Hello, pool party, beach trip, music festival or selfie.

The collections are really fun and vary from the NIKKI, with dramatic and edgy black and gold designs, to the LENA with more simple. delicate patterns in silver and gold, all the way to the GOLDFISH KISS which is described as tropical ‘beach bling.’ Women aren’t just wearing these in the standard tattoo spots (wrist, back of neck, hip bone) but also as faux jewelry, on their necks and to resemble bracelet stacks or anklets. It’s a beautiful hybrid of body accessory domination. Also did I mention how glimmery and shimmery they are?

Flash Tattoos

Photo credit: Flash Tattoos

To apply, it’s just like the temporary tattoos of our youth: cutting them to size, removing a plastic sheet and applying water. And they last four to six blissful, blingy days.

So now, you can pretend you’re a wild child and experiment with that tattoo you’ve been sketching instead of waking up in a few years full of regret and sick of explaining what that one word on your rib cage means to you.

Flash Tattoos

Photo credit: Flash Tattoos

Bonus: They cause tan lines, so the rocking temporary tattoo design can leave a fun mark even after it wears off. It’s the tramp stamp that keeps on giving.

Flash Tattoos

Photo credit: Flash Tattoos

More beauty trends

Kale just invaded skin care with this face serum
A device that prints makeup — yes seriously
Gorgeous lipsticks for everyday wear

Target has a new skin care line and the secret ingredient is wine

0
0

Robert Mondavi winery

Photo credit: Kevin Hauge/iStock/360/Getty Images

You know what they say: A glass of red wine a day keeps the doctor away. And it also keeps your skin looking young and fresh, according to Lydia Mondavi, the cosmetics and beauty industry expert behind brand new wine-inspired skin care line, 29 by Lydia Mondavi for Target.

The line, which just hit shelves in March, was created exclusively for the renowned retailer as part of their new luxury skin care category and is already making major waves. "From the beginning, my priority was to create a collection of products that benefit the skin by utilizing a natural and sustainable eco-friendly ingredient," she told us. "I focused on an ingredient I know well, grapes, because the grape seed extract is the most powerful antioxidant to protect skin from free radical damage and the signs of aging." In fact, it’s 50 times more powerful than vitamin E and 20 times more powerful than vitamins C and D at shielding your skin against sun damage.

Lydia’s link to wine is actually one that spans back several generations. Her husband Robert Mondavi Jr. is the grandson of Napa Valley winemaking legend Robert Mondavi and also a winegrower himself. So if anyone grasps the power of grapes it’s definitely her.

29 by Lydia Mondavi for Target.

Photo credit: A Bullseye View

Most of the products in the Target collaboration (there are 12 total) are multifunctional, double duty products. "For example, the Secret of the Vine Serum Extract is a firming and tightening serum; however, it penetrates down into the subcutaneous levels of the skin for maximum hydration, therefore serving as a lightweight moisturizer as well," she points out.

Other favorites of Lydia’s from the line include her Replenishing Toner & Pore Purifying Treatment Pads (they’re the bomb for travel), D’Vine Day Cream SPF 30 (it can be applied over your makeup without smudging it) and must-have lip treatments, which personally, I’m obsessed with.

"First Crush Lip Scrub is like a mini facial for your lips," Lydia explains, "while Wine Blot Lip Balm SPF 20 is packed full of potent grape seed antioxidants and SPF to nourish and protect your pout all day." Both had my perpetually chapped lips feeling insanely smooth in no time flat. And that’s like a mini miracle in itself.

The line ranges in price from $10 to $35 and all products can be found on Target.com now or in stores nationwide.

More beauty news & tips

The best beauty products for psoriasis
Nasty workout habits that ruin your skin
Why you look so dang tired

Celeb Hairstyle of the Week: Mel B

0
0
Mel B's ponytail
Photo credit: Joel Ginsburg

Who else loved watching Mel B on America's Got Talent last season? I sure did. Everyone's fave former Spice Girl has attitude, talent and style to boot and it's always fun to keep up with her beauty looks.

At a recent promo event for AGT, Mel swept her hair up into a wavy ponytail with loads of volume. I asked Justine Piecuch, stylist at Salon Capri, to share her tips for scoring the flirty 'do. Have fun styling, ladies!

Get the look

"This look is fabulous morning, noon or night. It's great for second-day hair or can really set a statement for an evening look. It's edgy, fun, and best of all, easy," Justine says.

  1. It's best to style this on day two hair. If you want to work on clean hair that's absolutely fine, though. The best length to work on is shoulder length or below. If you have short hair, add in temporary extensions for more length and volume. Editor's note: Get Mel's moisturized, piecey locks with a great shampoo/conditioner duo. We love R+Co's Atlantis Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner.
  2. Create a deep diagonal side part in the bangs. Blow dry (on dry hair) in the direction you'd like them to go. You can do a final spray at the end to hold these into place.
  3. With a flat boar's hair brush and a very light hairspray, gather hair into a ponytail. Brush out any bumps, and once everything is in place, secure with elastic.
  4. In the pony, using a 1/2-inch or smaller curling iron, start curling every piece. Grab small sections to create as much mass as possible.
  5. Once all hair is curled, pull curls apart with your finger or a wide tooth comb. Using the wide tooth comb, gently backcomb the hair to give even more volume.
  6. Take a piece of hair underneath the ponytail and wrap around the elastic to hide it. Secure underneath with a bobby pin.
  7. A beach spray will fully complete this look. Add more volume by layering the beach spray. If you don't have a spray on hand, any volumizing powder will work, too.
  8. When finished, in the back take a look at your head in the mirror. If you like how everything looks, secure it with a hairspray. Hold the bangs in place while you spray. Most importantly, have fun and make a statement.

More 'dos we adore

Bella Thorne's half updo
Cate Blanchett's glam faux bob
Nina Dobrev's wispy bun

Friday's Fashion Obsessions: Zooey Deschanel and Kiernan Shipka

0
0

Friday's Fashion Obsessions: Zooey Deschanel and Kiernan Shipka

Photo credit: Steve Jennings/WireImage/Getty Images, Robin Marchant/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Zooey Deschanel

Looking pretty as usual, Zooey Deschanel hit the red carpet this week in a vibrant green cap sleeve dress. The best part about this look? It's one we can all afford without splurging too much.

Zooey Deschanel

Photo credit: Steve Jennings/WireImage/Getty Images

Whenever we're in the mood for girly, vintage style, we abandon all sense of shame and start Google stalking Zooey's recent red carpet appearances. The funny lady has such a unique, defined sense of style and knows just how to dress for her shape, after all. Here, Zooey paired a vintage-inspired, figure-flattering dress with polka dot tights, black peep toe pumps and tousled curls. We think she looks ladylike and classic, don't you? The shape works so well for Zooey's curves, that color really brings out her eyes, and even though the dress is vintage inspired, Zooey makes it look modern.

The final verdict? File this one under your dress wish list, ladies.

Shop the look: Stop Staring! Billion Dollar Baby Seafoam Dress (Zooey's exact look) (jbrclothing.com, $154)

Shop the look: Stop Staring! Billion Dollar Baby Seafoam Dress (Zooey's exact look) (jbrclothing.com, $154)

Kiernan Shipka

It never fails — every time Kiernan Shipka steps out for a red carpet appearance, she kills it. The Mad Men star perfected the casual chic look this week in this long-sleeve shirt and shorts combo.

Kiernan Shipka

Photo credit: Robin Marchant/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

There are some style stars we just keep coming back to for more and Kiernan is one of them. The teen is style wise beyond her 14 years and she always looks polished, even when she's wearing a simple ensemble such as this one. Her long-sleeve top is casual enough, but its striped pattern and cute collar add some pizzazz. Another place Kiernan wins style points? Her choice of bottoms. Unlike many of her peers, Kiernan opted for a respectable pair of shorts (not too long, not too hoochie). A pair of neutral strappy heels, a cute clutch and a flirty ponytail were all the fashionista needed to pull together the perfect laissez-faire look.

The final verdict? These days, a lot of offices have pretty relaxed dress codes, so if you're in a creative field, you could even rock this look to work. Just make sure the hemline on your shorts isn't too short.

Shop the look: Banana Republic Sateen Short in Black (bananarepublic.gap.com, $50)

Shop the look: Banana Republic Sateen Short in Black (Banana Republic, $50)

More fashion obsessions

Mindy Kaling and Katharine McPhee
Jamie Chung and the cast of The Other Woman
Emma Watson and Cameron Diaz

Blake Lively is winning the Cannes Film Festival red carpet

0
0

Blake Lively at Cannes Film Festival in 2014 wearing Chanel

Photo credit: Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Blake Lively has been out of the spotlight for a moment, mostly because she's been spending quality time with her hotter-than-Hades husband of two years, Ryan Reynolds.

Blake Lively at Cannes Film Festival in 2014 wearing Gucci

Photo credit: Venturelli/WireImage/Getty Images

Blake Lively at Cannes Film Festival in 2014 wearing Gucci

Photo credit: Anthony Harvey/FilmMagic/Getty Images

Blake Lively at Cannes Film Festival in 2014 wearing Gucci

Photo credit: George Pimentel/WireImage/Getty Images

She's back in a big way now, first on the red carpet at the 2014 Met Gala — and now at the Cannes Film Festival. The actress first stepped out at the opening ceremony of this year's festival in a burgundy Gucci dress with a thigh-high slit, but it's the dress that she wore to the premiere of her new film Mr. Turner that really caught our attention.

Blake Lively at Cannes Film Festival in 2014 wearing Chanel

Photo credit: Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

The 26-year-old star wore an iridescent gown from Chanel's Spring 2014 Collection that has a silhouette unlike anything else we've seen this year. The plunging dress cinched at her waist with a corset-like back and plenty of intricate detail and sparkle. She paired the dress with a white shawl, pink pumps by Sophia Webster and jewels by Lorraine Schwartz.

Blake Lively at Cannes Film Festival in 2014 wearing Chanel

Photo credit: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

She kept the focus on her dramatic dress with loose waves, smoky eyes and a pale pink lip. Then again, she typically wears her trademark blond strands in loose waves.

Blake Lively at Cannes Film Festival in 2014 wearing Chanel

Photo credit: Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

"I always like very natural hair and makeup," she told The Huffington Post in 2013. "I don't like hair too coiffed or done. I like looking like you can end the night running barefoot through a fountain in Central Park."

Don't fix what's not broken, Blake.

Tell us: What do you think of Blake Lively's Chanel dress at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival?

More celebrity red carpet style

Was Angelina Jolie's makeup blunder hilarious or just human?
Friday's Fashion Obsessions: Mindy Kaling and Katharine McPhee
Celeb Hairstyle of the Week: Kate Mara

The body image video that will bring you to tears — and leave you totally inspired

0
0

Marcy Guevara

Photo credit: Juan Guevara

I’ve never felt ugly, but fat? I’ve felt that every day of my life. I wasn’t born hating my body, but can pinpoint the day that I became aware of my shape, of the fact that some people were more “ideal” than others. I was cast as Ursula in the daily lunchtime reenactment of The Little Mermaid. It was kindergarten and I was 5.

Despite feeling fat, I went on to get a degree in broadcast journalism and believed that if I was serious about a career on television I had to lose a significant amount of weight. I believed in the thin beauty standard. In 2010 my entire world changed. I learned that there was an entire industry of plus-size fashion where I could make a career and be fat. There was irony in having success from the one thing I always hated about myself.

Embrace the documentary by Taryn Brumfitt

Photo credit: Taryn Brumfitt

Taryn Brumfitt can relate. "You are fat. That's what I used to say to myself when I looked in the mirror," she says in the body image documentary project called Embrace she launched on Kickstarter this week. Brumfitt went viral after posting what people saw as a groundbreaking before and after picture of herself. The before was a picture of her body transformation after entering a body-building contest. The after photo was more supple, it was softer. It wasn’t award winning, but it was beautiful. Brumfitt believed that her "after" was beautiful.

Why was this so radical? Because it challenges the way women (and some men) view their bodies. "I did have the perfect body, or near enough," says Brumfitt of the transformation. "And you know what? Nothing changed. Nothing changed about how I felt about my body."

Our society is obsessed with celebrity and beauty, and it isn’t just here in the U.S., of course. Footage from Brumfitt’s trailer, shot in Australia, shows that women around the world are being conditioned to hate their bodies. Brumfitt’s challenge is to make a documentary that starts helping women embrace their bodies — the vessels that hold their soul, birth their babies, create cures and invent creations.

Can it be done? Can we change the way women see their bodies? Brumfitt isn’t the only one who thinks the answer is yes. Women like Dr. Carolyn Becker, licensed clinical psychologist and associate professor at Trinity University, strive to teach women to limit “fat talk” and spend the minutes, hours and days they spend complaining about their bodies doing something positive instead.

Embrace the documentary by Taryn Brumfitt

Photo credit: Taryn Brumfitt

There is a huge connection between our head and our wardrobe. Why is it that before a job interview we run out for a new shirt? How is it that those simple threads give us a new sense of confidence in an instant? Give a woman a new wardrobe and watch her conquer the world. It seems superficial, but clothes are so much more than just coverings for our skin. I ponder this when I do makeovers and segments about dressing for your body type and finding the perfect fit. You know what I wish I could sell instead? The belief that you look good. The belief that you are worthy. The belief that what you see in the mirror is valuable.

The stories Brumfitt plans to feature in the Embrace documentary are those of women who aim to feel more beautiful after a mastectomy, more lovely with stretch marks and more fulfilled with a few wrinkles and a bit of cellulite. Can you imagine what our girls would look like and feel like if we changed what beauty means?

Marcy Guevara

Photo credit: Juan Guevara

Brumfitt is not alone in her mission to help educate and inspire women towards change. There are countless nonprofits, organizations and movements that have this same mission (I even launched one myself as part of a grad school class). Never before has there been such sensitivity towards this topic, as we become more and more inundated with media, technology and the newfound selfie obsession.

It's a larger conversation about self-esteem, empowerment and confidence that will never end. With leaders like Brumfitt, we can start talking and changing the conversation to embrace the bodies we have. Today.

You can support the making of this documentary here.

More on body image

Woman's rejected weight-loss photo sparks body image debate
Is thin-shaming just as bad as fat-shaming?
Bikini mom bares postnatal stretch marks


Dakota Fanning brings back the Britney Spears “Oops... I Did It Again” red jumpsuit

0
0

Dakota Fanning New York premiere of her new movie Night Moves wearing a red jumpsuit

Photo credit: Dennis Van Tine/Future Image/WENN.com

Bo Derek's braids. Farrah Fawcett's bikini. Britney Spears' red jumpsuit.

There are just some looks most people shouldn't even try to pull off, 'cause they won't even come close. Well, everyone except Dakota Fanning, that is.

Dakota Fanning New York premiere of her new movie Night Moves wearing a red jumpsuit

Photo credit: Dennis Van Tine/Future Image/WENN.com

The 20-year-old actress arrived at the New York premiere of her new movie Night Moves on Tuesday night wearing a red Roland Mouret jumpsuit that looked like a high-fashion homage to the red leather jumpsuit Miss Britney Spears wore in her iconic 2000 video for "Oops… I Did It Again."

Oops… I Did It Again GIF

Original source

Did she manage to rival the original? Uh, yeah.

We almost expect the talented actress to drop her black Prada bag and break it down in a Britney-esque dance break.

Dakota Fanning New York premiere of her new movie Night Moves wearing a red jumpsuit

Photo credit: Mike Coppola/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Sadly, it didn't happen. Instead, she headed to an after party at Beauty & Essex with co-star Peter Sarsgaard.

Dakota Fanning New York premiere of her new movie Night Moves wearing a red jumpsuit with Peter Sarsgaard

Photo credit: Dennis Van Tine/Future Image/WENN.com

Fanning has definitely grown into her own fashion-wise. Designers like Marc Jacobs clamor to get her in their designs because she knows how to take a few fashion risks while still keeping it classy. Still, she doesn't think she's a fashion icon of any kind. Instead, she gives that title to her younger sister, actress Elle Fanning.

"She’s very uninhibited and will try pretty much anything," Fanning told Glamour in 2013. "Even the way she dresses — she dresses totally for herself. She risks being made fun of… by me, which I sometimes do, because I’m an older sister! But I totally admire her and think she’s very cool."

Dakota Fanning New York premiere of her new movie Night Moves wearing a red jumpsuit

Photo credit: Dennis Van Tine/Future Image/WENN.com

We think you're the one who is cool, Dakota... and you totally worked that red jumpsuit.

More on celebrity style

Get the look: Nina Dobrev's business chic outfit
The too-cool makeup trend Zoe Kravitz just triggered
Stars show off summery style at Cannes Film Festival

Score Katy Perry's super sexy V Magazine cover makeup

0
0

Katy Perry and Madonna ins June 2014 V Magazine

Photo credit: Steven Klein for V Magazine

If you follow magazine cover releases as much as we do, you've likely heard about Katy Perry and Madonna's June 2014 V Magazine cover, styled by Arianne Phillips. But have you seen the risqué photos yet? We have, and they don't disappoint. Both singers are known for their sexy personas and fashion risks, and their provocative cover poses are pretty much par for the course.

Katy Perry and Madonna ins June 2014 V Magazine

Photo credit: Steven Klein for V Magazine

The mag teased us all with the bold shots this week, and although we have to wait until May 26 to score a copy at newsstands, we've got a few shots to hold you over in the meantime. Even better, celebrity makeup artist Sammy Mourabit, who created Katy's bold cover makeup look, was nice enough to share the step-by-step breakdown and inspiration for the COVERGIRL spokesperson's look: "My inspiration for Katy Perry’s V Magazine cover was the iconic Bettie Page. I wanted to pay homage to her bombshell beauty look, giving Katy that va-va-voom factor!"

Betty Page

Photo credit: Harold Lloyd Trust/Archive Photos/Getty Images

Get the look

Face

  1. Sammy started by touching up Katy's t-zone area with COVERGIRL’s Ready, Set, Gorgeous Foundation in Buff Beige #205.
  2. Next, Sammy used a dab of the Ready, Set, Gorgeous Concealer under Katy's eyes, on the outer corners and around the nose.
  3. Finally, Katy's cheek bones got a sculpting effect thanks to truMAGIC Sunkisser and Luminizer as well as a hint of Bombshell ShineShadow in Gold Goddess.

Eyes

  1. Sammy started off by focusing on Katy's brows. COVERGIRL’s Brow and Eyemaker Pencil in Midnight Black and Brown provided shape and created a dramatic effect that was crucial to this bold makeup look.
  2. To achieve an eyeliner fading effect, resulting in a sexy eye that reflects light well, 2 Bombshell ShineShadows (Ooh La Lilac and Copper Fling) were mixed together.
  3. The inner corner of Katy's eyes got brightened up with Flamed Out Shadow Pencil in Crystal Flame next.
  4. For the finishing touches, Sammy skipped false lashes, instead opting for a coating of Bombshell Mascara in Very Black. Step 1 helped separate lashes, then Step 2 was used for the outer upper corners of lashes for a more dramatic and intense effect.

Lips

  1. Sammy mixed 2 COVERGIRL Lip Liners, Sublime #200 and Passion #215, together to find the perfect red-prune color.
  2. Next, Katy got a deep red finish thanks to a dab of LipPerfection in Hot #305.

More celebrity beauty tutorials

Get the look: Blake Lively's Met Gala hair
Get the look: Dianna Agron's Met Gala hair
Get the look: Charlize Theron's Met Gala hair

Professional work outfits for when it’s 90° plus

0
0

Young businesswoman wearing a trendy summer outfit

Photo credit: Alija/iStock/360/Getty Images

Obligated to wear a suit to work? Instead of thick wool pants and a heavy blazer, try a simple white sleeveless blouse tucked into a beige stretch cotton pencil skirt, and keep the matching jacket on hand for morning meetings or just to warm up indoors. Open-toe pumps, pretty pearl earrings and a summer-ready satchel will ensure you’re dressed for success (and the warm weather).

Polished Summer Work Outfit

J. Crew Thompson Blazer (Jcrew.com, $178); J. Crew Pencil Skirt (Jcrew.com, $110); H&M Sleeveless Blouse (HM.com, $18); Victoria's Secret Peep-Toe Pumps (Victoriassecret.com, $59); Rebecca Minkoff Mini Perry Tote (Shopbop.com, $260); Henri Bendel Debutante Pearl Stud Earrings (Henribendel.com, $48)

Jersey wrap dresses are by far our favorite summer staple. Not only do they look pretty and polished at the office, but they’re very figure-flattering, easy to throw on in a rush and non-clingy too, which means you won’t be working up a huge sweat on your commute. Step into some open-toe sandals to help you beat the heat while still staying chic. And, of course, remember to stash a cotton cardi in your desk for those days when the air conditioner is on full blast. A cute and colorful laptop briefcase is the ideal summer accessory to complete your look.

Summer Work Outfit

Eliza J Polka Dot Jersey Faux Wrap Dress (Nordstrom.com, $118); McKlein River Forest 15.4-in. Laptop Briefcase (Kohls.com, $190); Pour La Victoire Tifara Sandals (6pm.com, $176); Dorothy Perkins Pale Blue V-Neck Cardigan (Dorothyperkins.com, $28); Athra 14K Gold-Plated Aqua & Smoky Resin 4-Stone Ring (Jcpenney.com, $50)

When it comes to your warm weather work wardrobe, why not take a look on the bright side? This bold colorblock skirt will keep you cool as a cucumber in sweltering hot temps. Plus, unlike a fitted pencil skirt, it provides plenty of breathing room so your legs don’t get all hot and bothered. Style it with a thin (but definitely not see-through) tee and metallic pointy-toe flats for a sophisticated office look that’s playful and professional all at once. A beaded statement necklace and intense coral lipstick will let everyone know you mean business.

Bold Summer Work Outfit

Colour Block Midi Skirt (Frontrowshop.com, $50); T by Alexander Wang Classic Jersey T-shirt (Theoutnet.com, $43); Halogen Kylie Flat (Nordstrom.com, $53); You Bijou Necklace (Modcloth.com, $25); VC Signature Roma Hobo (Shoptheshoebox.com, $230); TOPSHOP Lips in Ditsy (Topshop.com, $16); Vince Camuto Two-Tone Asymmetrical Pyramid Hinge Bracelet (Lordandtaylor.com, $18)

Hot summer days call for easy-breezy outfits. To avoid looking like you stepped straight off the beach though, opt for cool cotton-linen pants in a dressier style, like these high-waisted chambray-hued trousers, paired with a summery silk top and on-trend nude and gold T-strap wedges. Because darker colors tend to absorb more sunlight, and in turn, make you feel hotter, it’s best to stick with clothes in paler hues whenever possible. Grab a lightweight blazer to throw on over top of your tee in case an impromptu meeting with your boss pops up or a client wants to take you to lunch. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Summer Work Outfit

MSGM Cotton-Linen High-Waisted Pants (Stylebop.com, $245); Tibi New York Silk Printed Blouse (Boutique1.com, $310); ALDO Chiesina Wedges (Aldoshoes.com, $100); Isabel Marant Lisa Stretch-Cotton Twill Blazer (Theoutnet.com, $192); Charles & Keith Structured Tote (Charleskeith.com, $79)

More work wear

Nautical-inspired work outfits to bring the beach with you
Get the look: Nina Dobrev's business chic outfit
Beauty essentials to freshen up your work bag

Nail art tutorial: A new take on the ombre nail design

0
0

Middle ombré nails

Middle ombre nails

Supplies:

  • Pink polish
  • Maroon polish
  • Hot-pink polish
  • Top coat
  • Tape
  • Makeup sponge

Middle ombré nails

Instructions:

1

Begin with a pink base coat and tape off the outside area of your nails. (Or you can clean up extra polish with a cotton swab and nail polish remover.)

Middle ombré nails

2

Paint a gradient color block about the same length as your nails on the makeup sponge. Start with the maroon in the middle, then add hot-pink on either side of it and then medium pink on either side of that. You will need to do 2-3 coats to make sure there's enough polish on the sponge.

Middle ombré nails

3

Press the sponge onto your nail, rocking from side to side to coat the whole nail. Let it dry for a minute and add more polish to the sponge. Then repeat the stamping motion a few more times for greater opacity, moving the placement of the sponge a bit each time to enhance the gradient effect.

Middle ombré nails

Middle ombré nails

4

While the polish is still wet, paint the top coat over the nails to blend the colors together even more. Remove the tape and you're done.

Middle ombré nails

Middle ombré nails

More nails

Snow leopard print nail design
A nail art tool kit for beginners
Speckled egg custom polish with glitter

Take that, acne! My new solution for difficult, oily skin

0
0

First Aid Beauty's Skin Rescue Collection

Once I discovered facials at the end of college, though, my skin started to change its tune. After a few years of dedicated monthly facials, my skin began to turn around for the better, breaking out less and healing faster. That's not to say I still don't get my fair share of pimples — I do, quite more often than I'd like.

These days, my skin care goal is the prevention of future acne, and of course, the treatment of any current lingering blemishes or acne spots left over from breakouts past. As a beauty editor, I've tested my fair share of acne products and if I'm being honest, have been disappointed in most of them. It takes a special product to tackle the task of my combination, sensitive, acne-prone skin — seriously, some days I swear it gets blotchy if I look at it the wrong way. And did I mention, I prefer products formulated with safe ingredients? Yeah, you can imagine my skin's plight.

With the change in seasons the past few months, my skin has been a bit moody, so when the lovely folks at First Aid Beauty sent me their new Skin Rescue Collection, I was excited to try it. I've been a fan of the brand for years now — their safe ingredients and innovative products are truly fabulous — so since this line was dedicated to oily, acne-prone skin, I was even more eager to put it to the test. The collection consists of a cleanser, mask and face pads, all ranging from $24-30, and is ideal for gals with large pores, oily or acne-prone skin.

As with all skin care products I test, I eased into the collection to see how my skin would respond. I started off with the Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser with Red Clay. Everything from the packaging to the scent was pleasant, and red clay was a new ingredient for me, so I was intrigued to see if my skin would play nicely with this red cleanser. The good news? It did. Over the past few months, I've noticed my skin is less tight and dry after cleansing, thanks to the product's gel consistency. With that success under my belt, I decided it was safe to try the other products.

The Skin Rescue Purifying Mask with Red Clay is a peel-off mask that detoxifies, reduces pores and controls excess oil, and let's just say it does what it claims. I've started incorporating this baby into my skin care routine once a week, and my skin is always soft, smooth and glowing afterwards. Last month at my facial, my facialist actually asked me what I'd been doing to my skin at home to make it behave so well, and I was excited to share my find with her.

Last but not least, the Skin Rescue Blemish Patrol Pads combine tea tree oil with salicylic acid and Evermat to mattify skin and ease inflammation in a gentle way. They're the perfect option for the busy gal who has little time to indulge in skin care masks but still wants to treat her acne.

More product reviews

Dolce & Gabbana The Brow Liner
Skinceuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 
Yes to Carrots Intense Repair Hand Cream

Viewing all 4293 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images