Here are the current trends and tricks that will keep you feeling and looking fine all summer long.

1. Oil up

For your summer perfume, pick an essential oil blend that contains peppermint. You'll smell fresh, plus peppermint oil cools the skin on contact.

2. Sparkle with a fan

Handheld fans aren't just relics of the Victorian era. They fit easily in your purse and can cool you down in a flash. (My Wedding Reception Ideas, $16)

3. Dress up your updo

A ponytail or bun is the perfect summer 'do, but the look leaves something to be desired. Dress up your simple style with a dazzling headband or barrette — either simple or sensational. (Nordstrom, $24)

4. Think outside the repellent

Bug repellent is a lifesaver, but it also leaves a sticky, smelly slick on your baby-soft skin. Consider making your own homemade repellent instead for a bug spray that smells and feels good.

5. Cinch a tee or tunic

Oversized fashion is in this year, which is great news for those of us who like a little air on our skin. Don an oversized tee or tunic and cinch it for a casual, formfitting and breezy look. (Free People, $78)

6. Tie a scarf

Dress up a simple summer tee with a loosely tied cotton or chiffon scarf around your neck — doing so will dress you up while concealing sweat. Bonus points if the scarf is bright and colorful. (Etsy, $19)

7. Rock the sheer

It's a good thing sheer is in this year. You can rock the sheer look in many ways, but we especially love the idea of stretching your gorgeous gams in a cool, sheer maxi or burnout skirt. (Zara, $80)

8. Layer from day to night

Don't fear layering a denim shirt or cotton cardigan over this season's latest halters and tanks. Denim and cotton are more breathable than a more typical blazer for work, and the simple layering will take you from your freezing cubicle to a hot summer night.

9. Keep your back open

Open backs are in, so enjoy the breeze on your bare skin. (Victoria's Secret, $50)

10. Love an undershirt

The undershirt is a counterintuitive fashion concept. Sure, it's another layer of potential heat. But it will also keep your top layer free of sweat — so make sure to wear one on the daily.

11. Distract with giant, breathable jewelry

Don't bog yourself down with large cuffs and necklaces that will make you sweat. Instead, choose colorful and lightweight pieces made from in-fashion mediums like fabric, feathers and wooden or glass beads. (Etsy, $68)

12. Ditch the blow-dryer

It's too hot to blow warm air all over your neck and face. Let your hair air dry with a texturizing product in order to channel your beach-worthy waves for work and play.

13. Wrap it up

Choose a swimsuit cover that can double as a summer dress at nightfall. This dress, for instance, works for the beach and for cocktails. (Victoria's Secret, $50)

14. Look sweet with straw

Don a straw hat this summer and you'll look like a classic beauty while keeping the sun out of your eyes. (Amazon, $6)

15. Embrace the shine

Your skin's summertime glow is the stuff of legend, so don't try to cover it up with a matte-based foundation. Instead, use a tinted moisturizer to let your glow shine through — you don't want to end up with a drippy mess on your skin.

16. Keep your hair up

Wick away sweat and solve your summer hair woes with a tied-up scarf. The scarf style looks great with hair down or up in a bun.

17. Swap your skinnies for shorts

Skinny jeans are a summertime disaster, since nothing is sweatier than non-breathable nylon pants. The good news? Just about any skinny jean outfit can look just as rad with a substituted pair of colorful short shorts. (Forever 21, $20)

Disclosure: This post is part of a sponsored advertising collaboration.

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1. Don’t play up both the eyes and the lips

We’ve been told this time and time again, and while a super-duper smoky eye doesn’t always look great with a fire engine red mouth, there’s nothing wrong with making a bold statement on eyes and lips. Here’s an example: If I’m wearing a hot-pink lip, I like to keep things fun and flirty by sometimes doing an ultra-thick, winged-to-the-sky liner on my eyes with false lashes. The eyes are still quite bold, but not overly dark, so it works and the overall look is dramatic and striking.

2. Apply concealer, then foundation

I’ve never really understood this thought process. Bobbi Brown does it this way yet for me, I like to see how much coverage my foundation offers first, then spot conceal any areas that still have redness or darkness showing through. For the undereye area, I like to keep this area bright so I don’t want to conceal and then cover it up with foundation that is darker. Make sense? The only thing I do like to do under foundation is color correct if necessary.

3. Only use products for the purpose intended

Says who? Some of my favorite cream blushes are lipstick, favorite eyeliner brushes are paintbrushes and favorite cheek highlighters are eyeshadows. Make sure to read the labels but many products are safe to use on eyes, cheeks and lips! Get your money’s worth and get creative.

More: 7 Ways you should be using cotton balls but aren't

4. Always prime before foundation

Remember 10 years ago when no one had ever heard of primer? Me too. If you have dry skin like me, a good moisturizer is one of the best primers you can use. While I occasionally like to use a primer to fill in pores or fine lines, it’s only something I reach for on especially muggy days or special occasions. For everyday use, I’m not 100 percent sold that primers are a must have.

5. Match foundation to your neck

While you do want your face and neck to match, with no tell-tale line of demarcation on the jawline, your neck is rarely the same color as your face. Think about it — your neck is protected by your face most of the time. The area of your body that receives a similar amount of sun as your face is actually your chest. I like to make sure my face and chest know each other better than my face and neck. You can easily blend foundation down the neck a little to adjust and make up the difference.

More: 10 Makeup hacks that will make you a beauty genius

6. Let mascara dry in between coats

This is personal preference but like clay, I find mascara is easiest to work with when still wet. I like to apply mascara by working from the out to in. I apply first to the outer corner lashes, working inwards and then go back to the outer corner for my second coat. I use the wand to shape and define my lashes while the mascara is still pliable and wet. Depending on the formula, I find that when applying wet mascara over a dry layer, it oftentimes drags dried bits through to the ends, creating clumps and spider legs. No thank you!

Shiny shoes

Image: WENN.com

Be bold and let your sole glow in shiny metallic shoes footwear this summer. No matter your choice of metal; gold, silver or rose gold; shiny footwear is all the rage for anyone who wants to stand out in style. I love my gold kicks. They add just the right amount of flair to any look. Whether you pick sneakers, flats or pumps, there's no denying you will shine in this trend.

A.L.C Aimee Linen Tank (Otteny, $106); Miss Selfridge Ribbed Pencil Skirt (Houseoffraser, $12); Nocturne Pora Necklace (Luisaviaroma, $471); Mary Katrantzou Powder blue leather cross-body bag (Harveynichols, $1,500); Maddie Tassel Loafers (ASOS, $57); Patent blucher shoes (Zara, $70); Michael Kors Lace Up Sneakers (Bloomingdales, $135)

Anything fringe

Image: WENN.com

There are real fringe benefits to be had with this shoe trend this season. Foot fringes are the perfect way to step into the 70s trend that is so huge this season. Take a look around and you'll see any off-duty model or cool girl rocking this style from head to toe. Not to to mention the fact that they're the unofficial requirement of every festival happening this summer. Plus they're fun to shimmy around in.

Aztec Jacquard Shift Dress (Topshop, $135); Just Cavalli Fringe Shoes (Zappos, $562); Fringed High Heel Sandals (Zara, $100); Fringed Ankle Wrap Sandal (Forever 21, $23)

Gladiator Sandals

Image: Brain To/WENN.com

Get ready to strap up and step out in what's sure to be one of the hottest shoe trends this summer, gladiator sandals, another festival essential. They work with anything and are a simple and sexy way to show of those legs. Bonus: They also elongate your frame for a longer, leaner look. Whether you choose to battle the trend in a high-strung pair or low and simple ones, you'll be a style titan this summer.

Roll-Tab Sleeve Chambray Short Jumpsuit (Saksfithavenue, $76); Tallie Black Shoes (Heels, $55); Fergie Savannah Gladiator Sandal (Nordstromrack, $66); Figtree Gladiator Sandals (Topshop, $85)

Fun and fancy flats

Image: Sharppix/ WENN.com

Just say no to flip flops and boring ballet slippers and opt instead for fun and fancy flats. This season offers an array of flat footwear that are just as fierce as any pump. So leave the heels at home and frolic around town in fashionable flats that wont clash with your style and will keep you cute and comfy on the go.

Zip Back Bardot Top (Missselfridge, $35); One Teaspoon Freebirds Jean (Abercrombie, $150); Keen of Hearts Clutch (Modcloth, $50); Sam Eldeman Leni Evil Eye Espadrilles Flats (Lordandtaylor, $55); Mara D'Orsay Flat (Solesociety, $55); Patent Toe Blutchers (Zara, $70)

This post is part of a sponsored advertising collaboration.

A glimpse into what those favorite pairs says about our personality.

1. The ballet flat

You're all about getting things done and like to feel like you're ready for everything, whether that be a mile-long walk to happy hour or an unexpected client meeting. You most often find yourself reaching for the simple classics of your wardrobe and have a bit of a uniform when it comes to your everyday outfits. In your friend circle you're the most trustworthy and dependable one; you're looked to for advice because you're seen as rational and wise.

Get the shoe: J. Crew Cece Ballet Flat (J. Crew, $125)

2. The pump

You're ambitious, organized and driven. You're the friend who can make things happen because you're well connected through networking and always have a clear point of view and plan. You're confident and pulled together and view obstacles as a challenge rather than a problem.

Get the shoe: Kate Spade New York Licorice Too Pump (Nordstrom, $298)

3. The casual sneaker

You've got that effortlessly cool thing going on. You don't stress about style yet still always look pulled together. You're likely to be found in your neighborhood coffee shop where the baristas know your order by heart thanks to your "regular" status. You always have a serious case of wanderlust and love to travel. You're all about experiences over things and believe in having fewer, better things when it comes to your closet.

Get the shoe: Converse Chuck Taylor Shoreline Sneaker (Nordstrom, $50)

4. The wedge

You're bright and bubbly and your style reflects just that. You believe in dressing happy and having fun with mixing prints, colors and textures. You're all about looking pulled together and wouldn't be caught dead in the athleisure trend or running weekend errands in a T-shirt and flip flops. You're always connected with an Instagram A-game and never without a smartphone in hand.

Get the shoe: Dolce Vita Jodi Leather Wedge (Nordstrom, $180)

5. The athletic shoe

You're likely to be spotted with a green juice in hand after sweating it out with your very favorite SoulCycle instructor. The gym is your stress relief and you believe in working hard and playing hard; life's all about balance and you think that there's nothing better than eating all of the brunch after your Saturday morning workout. You're ultra motivated and have a positive outlook on life which often inspires those around you.

Get the shoe: Nike Free 5.0 TR Fit 5 (Zappos, $110)

6. The fancy heel

You are all about having fun and enjoy being spontaneous; you're always up for your next adventure and believe life's too short to not live it up. You're never one to pass up a night out and love to be the center of attention because of the energy it gives you. You're a social butterfly and are always tapped into what's happening in pop culture. You love what's new and on trend, from restaurants to fashion and think routines are way too boring.

Get the shoe: Stuart Weitzman Nudist Suede Sandals (Shopbop, $398)

Disclosure: This post is part of a sponsored advertising collaboration.

The day to night item:

Do you ever pack unnecessary items that you never end up wearing or using? I always try to pack multi-purpose items; whether it's a maxi dress that easily transitions from daytime casual to evening formal, or a leather jacket that's the perfect cover-up for day or night, making extensive use of each piece is a great tip. This way you won't clutter your suitcase with the unnecessary.

The statement piece:

Pick a special piece to pack that you will love to wear not only because it will make heads turn, but because it makes you feel special and beautiful. This way you won't become bored with any of your multi-use items. Try a statement lipstick or shoe.

Destination appropriate:

Remember the phrase "blending in with the locals"? Having a clear vision in mind of my destination location and vibe, I can pack items that make sense. Do some research on the place your about to visit to get a feel for what people wear and the lifestyle. Wearing black in the city, or not getting too fancy in the countryside are examples of having location know-how. This way you will always feel comfortable and happy with what you packed!

Get the look: Suitcase, Superga, Statement heel, Leather jacket, Day to Night top, Sunglasses, Lipstick, Day to night bag

Get the look: Dresses, Ancient Greek Sandals, Nude Heels Aquazzura, VS white dress, Topshop evening dress, Mara Hoffman bikini, Illesteva sunglasses, One Teaspoon shorts, La Roche Posay SPF, Scarf, Dior mascara, Black crochet top, Small beach bag, Weekend bag, Arm cuff

Get the look: Boyfriend jeans, Long dress, Suitcase, Lack of color hat, Espadrilles, James Perses Jacket, Day Bag, Sunglasses, Hand chain, Anklet, Shampoo and conditioner

Disclosure: This post is part of a sponsored advertising collaboration

Among the 200 pairs of shoes on display at the V&A are a sandal decorated in pure gold leaf from ancient Egypt and a futuristic-looking shoe created using a 3D printer.

Image: Victoria and Albert Museum/Facebook

More: 13 Ways to make high heels more comfortable

The collection spans 2,000 years of footwear, examining how our relationship with shoes has evolved over time, featuring shoes worn by famous feet and many historic designs — many of them for the first time.

Also on display is the contemporary Sargossa stiletto, which founder Nanna Liv claims to be the most comfortable high-heeled shoe in the world. Liv's secret to optimum high-heeled comfort, without scrimping on style? A combination of the softest leather, medical grade memory form, shock-absorbing cushioning, a bouncy spring pad and the perfect position, width and heel height.

Image: Sargossa

Wherever you are, you can get involved by snapping a pic of your favourite shoes and tagging it on Instagram with the exhibition hashtag #vamShoes. Every month, the V&A team will choose their favourite to win a pair of tickets to the "Shoes: Pleasure and Pain" exhibition, as well as lots of other lovely shoe goodies.

Visit "Shoes: Pleasure and Pain" at the V&A from June 13 2015 until January 31 2016; entry £12 (concessions apply) 

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6 Classic types of shoes and what they say about you
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This beauty DIY is not only a great way to carry multiple lip colors in one slim package, but also to make the most of that last bit of lipstick at the bottom of a tube. Plus, once you're armed with a myriad of colors, you can get creative and mix up your own custom shades!

You will need the following supplies:

• A clean pill case. These can be found in any pharmacy or drugstore. Choose one with as many compartments as you'd like. Just think, with the weekly ones, you'll have a different lip color for every day of the week! I like to have several four-compartment ones to create color-specific palettes. You can create a nude palette, plums, pinks, reds, etc.
• A non-serrated knife or cutting instrument. X-Acto knives or cosmetic spatulas work well for this.
• Lipsticks of course! Don't count out the ones that are almost gone because you can actually scrape out quite a bit inside of the barrel!
• Alcohol. I use 91 percent isopropyl alcohol. You'll use this to sanitize your lipstick prior to slicing for your palette.
• Labels. You'll need these to label each lip color with the brand and color name.
• A lip brush. You can apply the color with your fingers but a lip brush allows for a more precise, mess-free application. Plus, you'll feel more like a makeup artist working out of your palette.

Directions:

Step 1:

First, untwist your lipstick and either dip or spray with alcohol to sanitize it. Wipe with a tissue.

Step 2:

Next, with your knife, carefully slice off a piece of the lipstick. Feel free to just slice off about half for your palette so you still have some in your tube too. Hey, double your money!

Step 3:

Now taking your knife or spatula, squish the lipstick into one of the compartments of the pill case. Use your knife to smooth the surface and fill the corners.

Step 4:

Repeat this process with the other lip colors you'd like to fill the remaining compartments.

Step 5:

Using a tissue, wipe the border of the compartments to clean it up.

Step 6:

Write the brand and shade name of your lipsticks on your labels and apply to either the top or bottom of your pill case.

Step 7:

Apply with a lip brush. Don't be afraid to mix a few lip colors together to create your own signature shade!

Having given birth to her now 9-year-old son at 19 years old, Florida native Altrichia Cook was on the hunt to find swimwear that would hide her pregnancy scars while vacationing in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Struggling to find a high-waisted suit that catered to her needs, Cook couldn't beat them, so she joined them. Bringing fabric to a tailor, Cook ended up working alongside the woman to create a swimsuit of her own design and preference.

What started out as a simple solution for herself soon blossomed into a full-fledged business. Another social media success story in the making, Cook's swimsuits gained popularity after the designer posed in her creations for Instagram. Friends and family began bombarding Cook with questions on where they could purchase these fabulous designs, and from there she launched Allusions by A. Lekay in 2013.

Though the swimsuit brand developed as a result of one teen mom's vision of a bathing suit that would make her feel sexy and do so without the worry of revealing her pregnancy scars, her swimwear is not only made for women with scars to cover. In fact, Cosmopolitan magazine’s July 2015 cover star Nicki Minaj salutes her country clad in an Allusions by A. Lekay original. Looking patriotically flawless, might I add.

Currently, Allusions by A. Lekay designs come in four collections: Fantasy, Mirage, Optical and Reality. Swimsuits are available for purchase online and customers are able to choose the style of their suit along with fabric options to mix and match. The company prides themselves on their objective to bring 100 percent customer satisfaction by providing unique swimwear that can be worn by women of all ages with comfort and confidence.

It really goes to show you never know what will come about once an idea takes form. All it takes is one small idea, a lot of determination and a hint of style.

And now, popular vloggers are fighting back with videos showing that makeup is a fun thing — and that wearing it doesn't mean you're insecure about your looks.

More: Mom designs swimwear line to hide pregnancy scars

“I’ve been noticing a lot lately that girls have been almost ashamed to say that they love makeup," Dutch YouTube star Nikkie from NikkieTutorials says in her new video, The Power of MAKEUP. “Nowadays when you say you love makeup, you either do it because you want to look good for boys, you do it because you’re insecure, or you do it because you don’t love yourself.”

That's not true for many makeup lovers — and to prove it, she took some inspiration from RuPaul's Drag Race and did one side of her face in full (fabulous) makeup, the other bare-faced.

More: 6 Makeup rules worth breaking

“By no means do I want to say that if you have insecurities that you should just slap makeup on, feel better, and just never be content with your own self,” Nikkie adds in the video. “I just want people to know that makeup is fun and there are no rules.”

One of Nikkie's fellow vloggers, Stephanie Lange, posted a similar video calling out the nasty comments she gets about her makeup preferences.

"These examples are just some of the comments that I get regarding my face both WITH and WITHOUT makeup," she wrote in an Instagram post of about makeup shaming.

More: Teen makes her own stunning prom dress, sends inspiring message

"I am so sick of people being made to feel like they're 'ugly' without their makeup on, or that they're wearing a 'mask' if they do dare to put makeup on. NO — people don't wear makeup because they're insecure, or because they're naturally 'ugly'. (sic) People wear makeup because it's fun, and it's a form of self expression (sic). I AM SICK OF PEOPLE BEING MADE TO FEEL LIKE THEIR BARE FACE IS UGLY, OR TO BE SHAMED FOR WEARING MAKEUP."

Whether it's wearing makeup or dying underarm hair, the message is clear: Do what you want with your body, period.

Remember the days of county fairs and kid parties when you would gather around a huge round table and fill open containers with beach sand dyed bright colors? You’d drizzle a bit through a funnel into a plastic bottle, sometimes molded into a shape, resulting in the colorful trophy you’d place on your bedroom shelf. Sand art was pretty cool back then, and it’s pretty cool now; as a hairstyle.

Unless you’re using a temporary powder or spray in which the color will wash out with one rinse, coloring your hair is quite the commitment and requires frequent upkeep. A mermaid blue hairdo looks pretty awesome until that tropical ocean blue fades into a light green shade.

Salon Pravana has found the solution to every multicolored hair dilemma. The hair care brand launched its latest in-salon demi-permanent coloring product Vivids Locked-In this summer, providing customers with long-lasting, layered coloring that will not transfer onto other colors or blonde strands.

More: How to chalk your hair

Dyes come in silver, yellow, orange, red, pink, magenta, violet, green, blue and wild orchid. With a variety of colorful dye, the artistic opportunities are endless. Think My Little Pony meets Kesha. Flawless.

More: How to get long-lasting hair color

Watch as Pravana hair artist Rebecca Taylor transforms a client's hair into a sand art creation and decide for yourself whether the sand art hairstyle is right for you.

1. Strapless chiffon dress

With all the weddings you'll undoubtedly be attending this summer, you'll need a staple outfit. This Donna Morgan strapless chiffon dress comes in 26 colors, and can be easily dressed down for a brunch with friends or dressed up for a special occasion. ($40)

2. Patterned jumpsuit

Jumpsuits are all the hype this season and you'll find tons to choose from at this sale. This Diana von Furstenberg jumpsuit will make you look fierce and confident. ($142)

3. Miniskirt

This Michael Kors Miniskirt will look great at the office or on a night out. Throw on some red lipstick and you'll be unstoppable. ($22)

4. Linen wrap

Thrown on over a casual outfit of shorts and a tee, or over a dress, this Green Dragon linen wrap can bring any outfit to the next level. ($30)

5. Strap sandals

Casual sandals are a must for summer, and luckily, these Lucky Brand sandals are just $30.

6. Patterned shorts

Instead of plain denim or solid colors, patterned shorts are a staple this summer. These Nikki Rich shorts amp up an otherwise casual outfit and are only $20.

This post was brought to you by Nordstrom Rack.

More on summer trends

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In the interest of full disclosure, allow me to get this out of the way: I hate Birkenstocks. I hate them with a fiery, burning passion. I've never owned a pair, nor would I have a clue how to style them. They're just so... earthy, which I realize can be a very positive thing where style is concerned, but I've personally always gravitated toward shoes that are quixotic in their design, which probably explains why I don't have black sandals in my closet but own three pairs of green shoes (in my defense, they are all wildly different shades of green).

I'm open to change and growth and I would be lying if I said I'm not inspired and fascinated by some of the interesting and fresh ways fashion bloggers are incorporating this New Age look into their modern wardrobes. You can deny their appeal all you want, but these style mavens are proving that Birkenstocks are one of the hottest footwear trends this season.

White Birkenstocks/Rolled-up denim

There is positively nothing outdated about this lovely lady's skinny rolled-up jeans, oversized vest and super-cute white Birkenstocks. By keeping all of her other pieces sleek and modern, she shows how Birks should look in 2015.

Stripes, shorts and gold

Proof that it pays to think outside the brown Birkenstock box. A classic summer pairing — denim cut-offs and a striped shirt — get a dose of casual elegance with gold Birks.

More: 9 Super-cute spring shoes you can actually walk in

Utilitarian chic

Love how this stylish lady paired simple black skinny jeans, a T-shirt and an Army jacket with black Birkenstocks — there's absolutely nothing "hippie" about this cool statement.

Beachy Birks

There's so much to love in this retro look: denim on denim, wide-brimmed hat, oversized boho bag. Her traditional Birkenstocks pull this laid-back beach look together.

More: Revamp your shoe collection without breaking the bank

Wedded bliss Birks

You know you're in for a fun wedding when the bride wears white Birkenstocks with her gown. You should probably prepare yourself to dance the night away and take a midnight dip in the ocean.

Hot-pink Birks

Today's Birkenstocks needn't be beige or brown, unless that's your preference. Updated hues include hot pink, silver, mocha, green, pearly rose and about a gazillion other cool hues.

Vintage Birks

Who said Birkenstocks can't look tough? Add a denim jacket, shorts and a fierce attitude and these versatile shoes will follow suit.

Sugar and spice

And for anyone who didn't think it was possible to wear Birkenstocks with a sweet summer dress — this woman's ethereal pink maxi dress benefits from instant earthy sensibility, thanks to her neutral Birks.

The photo is a perfect nod to the truth. That is: We don't wake up looking like a million dollars. It takes a lot of work to get glamorous and dolled up. She's still beautiful, of course. Because that is natural. But it's not a glamorous look. See below:

As Tyra said in her caption:

You know how people say #nofilter but you know there's a freakin' filter on their pic? Or maybe there's a smidge of retouching going on but they're lying and saying it's all raw & real? Well, this morn, I decided to give you a taste of the really real me. I wanted to smooth out my dark circles so badly!!! But I was like, "Naw, Ty. Show 'em the REAL you." So...here I am. Raw. And there YOU are...looking at me, studying this picture. Maybe you're thinking, "Whoa, she looks ROUGH." And if you are, great! You deserve to see the REAL me. The REALLY real me.

Beautiful, right?

Sometimes, the truth is more beautiful than the lies. I mean, of course Tyra looks amazing when she is at a red carpet event. And she looks fantastic all done up and perfected. But she also looks beautiful in the morning. We all do.

More: Teen makes her own stunning prom dress, sends inspiring message

That whole "no makeup" thing is how I spend a majority of my life. I just don't have time or reason to use it most days. Sure, I could look better with makeup, but you know what? I am OK with not always looking perfect. It's real. It's honest. And somehow, seeing that Tyra wakes up looking pretty normal makes me feel a whole lot better.

Makeup-free selfies aren't going to cure cancer. They aren't going to save lives or help pull children out of poverty. But they do serve a purpose. They help real women (i.e., women not in the spotlight) recognize the truth: We are all "real." We all get zits. We all look pale. We all have dark undereye circles and morning breath and flyaways that never seem to quit.

And it's OK. Beauty isn't about makeup and lighting and couture. It's about us, open and naked in the world and sharing that with others. Real beauty. It's a thing.

More: The Mamafesto: The problem with policing what girls wear to prom

The company — launched in 2011 to bring non-toxic baby products to the masses — just announced that it's launching the beauty line later this year. The line is still shrouded in secrecy, but the first promo shot posted on Instagram, featuring models Carolina Sanchez, Kendall O’Rorke, Leelee and Melissa Ingram, makes us think it'll be full of products that'll fit women of all backgrounds and skin tones.

More: Vloggers strike back against makeup shaming with powerful video

Just because we don't know much yet doesn't mean we can't hypothesize about what we can expect. I scoured over her various interviews to get her views on what she looks for in beauty and makeup. The trend? Natural and non-fussy, of course.

More: Genuis DIY lip palette combines your fave shades in one case

"I'm glad to see that fresh, natural beauty is front and center on the runway and in real life," she told Cosmopolitan U.K. in 2014. "I like playing up my natural skin tone by brushing bronzer across my hairline, nose and the apples of my cheeks — wherever the sun naturally hits — and finishing with a peachy lip gloss. The golden glow totally makes you feel like a goddess."

More: 24 Amazing beauty products chosen by women like you

"I look for ingredients that won’t clog my pores," she added to Lucky. "Usually products with natural ingredients [doesn't make my skin react badly]."

Alba hasn't commented on when the line will be available other than to say it'll be this fall. It can't come soon enough.

Although we know they have different types of coverage and they cater to different complexions and skin types, is one healthier for your skin than the other?

Many experts now believe that wearing foundation may actually be better than going makeup-free in some cases, believe it or not. But for one key reason.

"I believe wearing foundation is better than going makeup-free as it pertains to SPF," said Brianne Grebil, skin care and SheKnows expert. "Foundations are formulated to stay on the very superficial layers of the skin, thus they are unlikely to actually damage the skin or cause harm."

Grebil reassures that there are pros and cons to both powder and liquid foundation but points out that the SPF in liquids are usually stronger and go on more evenly.

More: 6 Makeup rules worth breaking

In order to achieve the full level of SPF stated on powder foundation, you would have to cover your face heavily, which poses an issue for women who use powder foundation and desire the lighter coverage it gives them. So, to achieve full sun protection with powder foundation, Grebil strongly recommends using additional sunscreen underneath your makeup.

Although liquid foundations have a higher SPF, they may contain chemicals such as avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate and helioplex, which Grebil advises against. Read the label for zinc oxide which is the sunscreen ingredient mostly used in powder foundation, and what Grebil suggests to look for in liquid, too.

But what about when it comes to clogging our pores?

More: What you should know about moisturizers with SPF

Most believe that any kind of foundation will clog your pores, but if your skin tends to be dry, powder is not the right choice. Luckily, celebrity esthetician Renee Rouleau says, "As long as you're using makeup that's appropriate for your skin type, you shouldn't run into any problems with clogging your pores."

So, whether it's powder or liquid that works best for your skin, stick with it as long as you have the SPF down (and you're washing your face every night).

1. Blot t-zone oil with coffee filter paper

If you're prone to oily skin, use coffee filter paper to gently blot away. It's perfect for when you're stuck in the office on a humid day.

2. Reduce a bruise with mouthwash

Injuries happen especially if you have children or a large dog, but they can be really unsightly. If you just got a baseball to the arm or your child was a little rough during dinner, rubbing mouthwash on your bruise can help reduce its redness and swelling.

3. Brush eyeshadow in your part to make it appear thicker

If you want to add volume to your hair, but you don’t have time to wash it with a volumizing shampoo and blow dry, just use eyeshadow. Brush a matte shade that's just slightly off your hair color on your part and it will help add depth.

More: 10 Makeup hacks that will make you a beauty genius

4. Dry your hair with a T-shirt

Cotton T-shirts are way more absorbent and will dry your hair faster than a towel.

5. Use cornstarch for dry shampoo

If you ran out of your go-to dry shampoo, don't freak out! Apply cornstarch and brush through your hair. It won't have the same refreshing smell as your dry shampoo, but it will do the trick.

7. Make your nails shine with baking soda and peroxide

If your nails are looking dull but you have zero time to visit the salon, give yourself a quick at-home mani. All you need is a little baking soda, peroxide, warm water and a nail scrub brush.

8. Fix your split nail using a tea bag

By using a section of a tea bag as a patch and holding it to your nail with clear polish, you've quickly saved your manicure and time.

More: 15 Ridiculously simple life hacks to organize your home

9. Conceal with triangles for dark circles

If you stayed up way too late to watch the latest episode of Game of Thrones or you were trying to get a baby to sleep, dark circles under your eyes are a dead giveaway. Rethink the way you apply concealer and apply in triangle shape away from the eye instead of dotting.

10. Apply baby powder for thicker lashes

If you long for longer, thicker lashes but don't have time to apply fake ones or have the patience to get eyelash extensions, apply a bit of baby powder before your mascara for the next best thing.

11. Use a glue gun to hem pants

You just found the perfect pair of pants for tomorrow's meeting, but they're a little long. Generally, time would allow you to leave this problem to the professionals, but you can tailor them temporarily with a glue gun.

More: 15 Genius life hacks to help organize your bathroom

12. Put your jeans in the freezer to make them smell clean

Washing your jeans after each wash? Who has time for that? Instead, place them in the freezer which will freshen them up in less time.

13. Spray your tights with hairspray

No one likes to wear tights, but sometimes they're a needed part of the wardrobe. If you want to avoid getting runs and making a huge fashion faux pas, lightly spray your tights with hairspray.

However, today, I think we may have finally gone too far. 2015's ideal body type is almost a Frankenstein-like combination of all the ideal body types from the previous decades. With celebs like Beyoncé and Kim Kardashian at the forefront of beauty, today's "standards" have become almost mythic in their absurdity.

More: Fitness vlogger takes on the 'perfect' body myth in new video (VIDEO)

Yes, I know Beyoncé and Kim are real, flesh and blood women, but they're also insanely wealthy women who can afford to get countless expensive procedures to keep up their "ideal" bodies. Moreover, they spend a significant portion of their lives training and dieting — something which most normal women can't take the time to do. As a result, these large-breasted, tiny wasted, large butt-ed, thigh-gapped glamazons are making us feel as far from the "ideal" as the original Disney princesses.

One Cosmo writer notes that this path toward the unattainable started back in the '80s with Jane Fonda's workout tapes, which made women think if they did them, they'd look just as fit as her. While I agree the fitness craze definitely catapulted beauty standards into the stratosphere, the obsession started long before the turn of the 20th century.

After hoop skirts came the corset/bustle look, which is essentially what Kim Kardashian is doing today, only she's using her God-given glutes instead of a metal cage. While corsets may have been dangerous shapewear — breaking ribs and encouraging anorexia — I don't think it's any more dangerous than posting pictures of the #BellyButtonChallenge everywhere. Today, we simply have more ways of showing people what "standards" they're not meeting, and offering absurd diets and fitness regimes as remedies. At least back then you had legitimate tools to help you achieve them. Today, either your body has it or it doesn't.

More: I 'waist trained' after my 5th baby and the results were dramatic

As a result of this truly impossible body ideal, people are turning more and more to plastic surgery — or what I like to call the medical corset. Dr. Stephen J. Greenberg, a top plastic surgeon currently starring on Bravo's Secrets and Wives, told Cosmo, "Women are asking for larger, but more natural-looking breasts as well as enhanced buttocks, rounder hips, and slimmer thighs." Simply put, they want Kim Kardashian's body, but they want it to look like they achieved it without surgical help.

Dr. Greenberg says the requests for fat removal from one area only to add it back to another are higher than ever — if they were using fat from other women, it would literally be Frankenstein-esque. These types of surgeries could wreak havoc on your body. Plastic surgeon Dr. David Hidalgo told Cosmo, "There are potentially damaging physiologic consequences, including restricted breathing from interference with normal movement of the diaphragm, pooling of blood in the legs which could encourage clots to form, and interference with function of the gastrointestinal tract." Sounds a lot like the effects of the constricting methods from 100 years ago, doesn't it?

More: Side butt plastic surgery is not the answer to body 'perfection'

It's already been proven that cartoon characters like Ariel and Jessica Rabbit wouldn't be able to stand upright if they were real on account of their tiny waists and large breasts and hips. So why are we heading further and further down that road?

Doctors in Australia say that a 35-year-old woman there had to spend four days in the hospital after she had muscle damage, swelling and nerve blockages in her legs. All from squatting for several hours while wearing skinny jeans.

Oh lord.

"We were surprised that this patient had such severe damage to her nerves and muscles," said Dr. Thomas Kimber of the Royal Adelaide Hospital in Australia, in an email to the AP. And what's terrifying is, this could happen to anyone.

More: 10 Makeup hacks that will make you a beauty genius

In this case, the woman apparently was helping a friend pack up her house and spent a lot of the day squatting. The jeans compressed her muscles and led to numbness and an inability to walk. And it's not the first time they have caused issues. Tight jeans are known to cause nerve lesions in the groin. Still, this severe muscle damage is new. And should probably serve as a warning. If you are going to squat, maybe do so in leggings, sweatpants or boyfriend jeans.

This is yet another example of the way that fashion can actually harm people. Look at high heels. There are so many injuries each year from heels and yet people persist on wearing them. Trends all over the world cause pain and disfigurement and have for years (Lotus feet, anyone?) and yet we still practice many of these customs today.

So let's keep some things in mind: Skinny jeans are meant to have a little give. Sure they don't look right when they sag (believe me, I learned this the hard way), but they also need not cut off your circulation to look good. I have plenty of skinny jeans that have a lot of give and still look great on and tucked into boots. Let's be smart, ladies. If you are going to be active, maybe skinny jeans are not the best choice. Maybe that's the day for elastic and spandex and workout clothing.

More: 'Shoes: Pleasure and Pain' is a must-see for every stiletto lover

We don't need to suffer for beauty. That's a lie. Let's not fall for it

Step 1

Spritz medium-sized sections of hair with lightweight spray gel or mousse.

Step 2

Twist sections loosely and pin onto base of hair.

Step 3

Twist and pin in any direction, no particular pattern. This will give you a messier curl. Let sit as long as possible.

Step 4

Release pins and finger through (do not brush).

Voilà!

Finish off with hair wax or pomade for an extra "piecey" look.

Next: Heatless curls with a headband >>

Step 1

Wrap a loose, cloth-covered headband around the top of your head along forehead. Be sure there is a small "pouf" of volume at the crown of your hair. The headband will sometimes naturally push up, creating the volume. This is a good thing, as it sets the volume for the style. Pull out bangs if you have any.

Step 2

Apply mousse to hair.

Step 3

Take the section of hair around your face and twist loosely as you tuck the hair into the headband.

Step 4

Repeat this process until all your hair is tucked into the headband. Wait one hour.

Step 5

Lift off headband and gently shake hair out.

Next: Heatless curls using hair clips >>

Step 1

Divide hair into four sections: top of head, back of head and two on the sides (for looser curls, just divide hair into two or three sections). Twist sections and pin.

Step 2

Wait 1-2 hours (or sleep with them overnight).

Step 3

Take out and lightly finger through.

Next: Heatless curls with sponge curlers >>

Step 1

Slightly dampen hair. Roll hair into curlers (make larger sections for bigger curls and smaller sections for tighter curls). Sleep with curlers in.

Step 2

The next morning take out and brush through. Finish off with a smoothing/shine serum. Hair should look fluffy and shiny!

More: 13 Beauty hacks every busy woman should know

1. Swoon Beauty Universal Lip Gloss Scoop & Applicator

Founder Keisha Wright was on a girlfriends' getaway in Aruba when she noticed the applicator on her favorite Bobbi Brown lip gloss could no longer reach the remaining product at the end of the tube. In a pinch, she resorted to using a hair pin to scoop up the stranded gloss, but her frustration spawned an even better solution: this combo scoop and applicator featuring a non-porous, flexible head. Its extra-long neck ensures it can get to the bottom of things regardless of the brand. (Getswoon.com, $12)

2. The Spatty Extend Your Beauty Combo Set

You may recall seeing speech pathologist Cheryl Rigdon's product-saving creation featured on Shark Tank, and while none of the investors bit at her invention, we'll gladly plunk down the cash for a set of our own. The BPA-free silicone spatulas function just like the kitchen tool they resemble, only their heads are scaled down to fit through small openings (like the neck of your foundation bottle). The Spatty comes in two lengths — six and 12 inches — both of which are included in this combo pack. (Target.com, $10)

3. Every Drop Beauty Tube Squeezers

While problem-solving beauty brand Every Beauty offers its own curved lip gloss scoop ($5) and doe-footed cosmetics spatula ($5), these reusable squeezers uniquely target beauty products that come in tubes. Simply snap the band shut over the top of any tube, then slide it downwards to push out every particle of product. The set includes four sizes to fit anything from hand cream to toothpaste to hair gel. (Everybeautybrand.com, $5)

4. MakeUpMiser

What sets this beauty spatula apart from the competition is its curved, hollowed-out head, designed to contour cylindrical bottles and scoop out product spillage-free. The eight-inch-long tool comes in a set of two different sizes, so you can dip into wide and narrow openings with ease. Bonus: The flexible tip doubles as a measuring spoon for loose powders. (Makeupmiser.com, $10)