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

DIY makeup remover pads are easier than you think

0
0

Materials: 

  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tablespoon baby shampoo or gentle shampoo
  • 1 small jar with lid
  • Round cotton pads

Tools:

  • Small mixing bowl
  • Spoon

Directions:

Step 1: 

Step 1: Place your cotton pads in your jar

Place your cotton pads in your jar. Fill it up to the top, but don't overstuff it.

Step 2:

Step 2: Pour your 3 ingredients

Pour your 3 ingredients (water, baby shampoo and extra virgin olive oil) into a mixing bowl.

Step 3: 

Step 3: Mix your newly made makeup remover

Mix your newly made makeup remover solution with a spoon.

Step 4:

Step 4: pour your makeup remover solution into your jar

Slowly pour your makeup remover solution into your jar. Pour only enough solution so the pads absorb all the liquid. If you have some extra solution left over, you can store it for next time.

Step 5: 

Step 5: Time to test it out!

Time to test it out! I've used my favorite waterproof eyeliner on my hand here, and with a few swipes from my new DIY makeup remover pads, it comes right off!

Travel tip:

If you're on the go, you can travel with these DIY makeup remover pads by simply placing them in a zip top bag.

More great beauty DIY ideas

DIY beauty recipes we love!
DIY cranberry body butter
Homemade vanilla sugar body scrub


7 Lingerie models who are rocking body diversity

0
0

Do they look different than "typical models?" OK, but now we're assuming there's something wrong with not looking like a model, or that they somehow don't belong up there on that catwalk.

Body image talk is funny that way.

Let's just say these women look like your friends, your sisters, your coworkers or the barista at Starbucks, women whose job isn't to be pretty or skinny, but they are anyways, and they have pleasant bodies, and they are naked sometimes, as we all are.

These particular women worked the runway at New York's Lingerie Fashion Week, which, if you didn't know, is a pretty cool event that showcases all manner of unmentionables, from top designers to up-and-coming indie undies.

They also showcased some rad body diversity, which is something we all can get behind. These women are not out of place, nor would we call them "regular." They are not better or worse than other women. They're women of different colors, shapes, sizes (and gestations!) in underwear at a fashion show. That's it. And honestly, it's pretty dang nice to see, isn't it?

For more info on Lingerie Fashion week, visit their Facebook page or website.

Secrets in Lace Blue

Lingerie Fashion Week Model

Photo Credit: Lingerie Fashion Week

Affinitas and Parfait Model

Photo Credit: Lingerie Fashion Week

You Lingerie Pregnant Model

Lingerie Fashion Week Model 2

Photo Credit: Lingerie Fashion Week

Lingerie Fashion Week Model 3

Freaky femme Joker makeup tutorial for Halloween

0
0

And as it turns out, creating elaborate Halloween makeup only requires a trip to the drugstore and these nine steps.

Supplies: (You can find all of these items at your local costume shop and pharmacy)

  • Paintbrush
  • Eyeshadow brush
  • Cotton balls
  • Makeup sponge
  • Matte black eyeshadow
  • Black, white and red face paint
  • Liquid latex

Directions:

Step 1:

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 1

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

With black face paint or eyeliner, draw a line where you want your smile to go. This will also help keep both sides even.

Step 2:

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 2

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Paint on latex above and below your line. Do not use a nice makeup brush because it will have to be thrown out once it dries.

Step 3:

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 3

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Lay small strips of cotton on top of the latex, creating an extension of your upper and lower lip.

Step 4:

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 4

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 4

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Using more liquid latex, paint over the cotton, blending the edges outward. Let the latex dry.

Step 5:

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 5

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Using a sponge and white face paint, dab a light layer of white all over your face and neck.

Step 6:

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 6

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Using an eyeshadow brush, darken all around your eyes and up into your eyebrows. Fade the edges out. Use your finger to smudge a few places around the edge of the eyeshadow.

Step 7:

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 7

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 7

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Using black face paint, line your eyes and paint small lines at the edge of the eyeshadow.

Step 8:

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 8

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Using black face paint, darken the middle of the scar to create more depth.

Step 9:

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 9

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Freaky femme Joker makeup: Step 10

Photo credit: Stevie Calabrese

Using red face paint, paint your lips and the dry latex. Use your fingers to smudge the makeup at the edges of the latex.

Freaky femme Joker makeup:Finished

More Halloween inspiration

Use this clever trick to create stunning mermaid makeup
The absolute best Maleficent makeup tutorial
Zombie Disney princess makeup will make your skin crawl

If you're looking for a miracle skin care product, this is it

0
0

My smooth skin turned red with angry and vindictive patches of acne. Once my daughter was born, I was certain my skin would revert back to its youthful glow — but my sleeplessness only added wrinkles and dark spots to the patches of zits and gaping pores. The joys of motherhood.

I tried everything to troubleshoot my skin problems: astringents, toners, gentle cleansers, non-comedogenic moisturizers and makeup. Nothing helped. And then, a girlfriend told me that her dermatologist prescribed a miracle ointment that completely erased a two-inch dark patch on her face within a month. She told me that this miracle drug — which she called Retin-A, but is actually known medically as retinoic acid or tretinoin — is clinically shown to improve acne and wrinkles, too.

It took me all of two days to make an appointment with my dermatologist for my own dose of miracle ointment. He prescribed a version of retinoic acid for my persistent acne. Once I made it past two weeks of dry and flaky skin, I noticed my skin appeared smoother and my crow's feet disappeared. After a month, my pores grew smaller and a glow returned to my skin. After six weeks, the acne was gone for good.

My results were drastic, but unsurprising. "Retinoic acid is absolutely an anti-aging and skin care wonder," explained dermatologist Dr. Marina Peredo. Apparently, the drug is a prescription-strength vitamin A derivative that is known to increase cellular turnover. When cells turn over quickly, pores can eliminate the debris and oil that are known to produce acne. "Cell turnover also increases blood flow to the skin and stimulates collagen production, which makes skin firmer, reduces wrinkles and diminishes sun spots and acne scars, too," she said.

Want to give retinoic acid a try? You'll need to make an appointment with your dermatologist for an evaluation, since full-strength treatments are not available without a prescription. Dr. Peredo explained, however, that there are two over-the-counter derivatives of retinoic acid that you can find in drug store beauty products, called retinol and retinaldehyde. "They help prevent and correct the signs of photo-aging much in the same way as prescription products, but the results are not as rapid," Peredo stated.

Do yourself a favor, ladies, and pick up a version of retinoic acid that works for you. There's no need to look for another miracle product, because this is it.

More about skin care

What's the deal with charcoal cleansers?
DIY individual shower soap jellies
Take that, acne! My new solution for difficult, oily skin

15 Celeb hair and makeup looks that prove fall has taken over

0
0

1. Best slicked back hair

Best slicked back hair: Lily Collins

Photo credit: Euan Cherry/WENN.com

Best slicked back hair: Lily Collins 2

Photo credit: WENN.com

Lily Collins gave us another reason to crush on her serious beauty game when she stepped out with her hair worn in this sexy slicked back style.

2. Best red lip

Best red lip: Janel

Photo credit:Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty images

The Dancing With The Stars competitor seems to have picked up a few beauty tips backstage at the show because Janel's juicy red lip definitely made us reconsider our go-to neutral hues.

3. Best braid

Best braid: Kerry Washington

Photo credit:Neilson Barnard/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty images

Kerry Washington did her Scandal cast proud when she promoted the show's new clothing line wearing this stunning twisted braided 'do.

4. Best glowing skin

Best glowing skin

Photo credit: Andres Otero/WENN.com

We know it's cliché, but Jena Malone was simply glowing at the St. Vincent premiere. Seriously, girl, can we get the number of your makeup artist, like stat?

5. Best blowout

Best blowout: America Ferrera

Photo credit:Joseph Marzullo/WENN.com

America Ferrera's laid-back, shiny blowout had just the right amount of bounce and definition for us. We'll definitely be asking for "the America" at the salon next time.

6. Best sparkly eye makeup

Best sparkly eye makeup: Hillary Duff

Photo credit: Derrick Salters/WENN.com

Her music comeback is in full swing, and Hilary Duff has been making gorgeous appearances all over the country. One of our fave looks? This pretty shimmery eye makeup she wore to premiere her new music video.

7. Best half updo

Best half updo: Gabourey Sidibe

Photo credit: Adriana M. Barraza/WENN.com

Gabourey Sidibe made us do a major double take with this curly half updo. The key? Those subtle blue streaks.

8. Best eyebrows

Best eyebrows: Zendaya

Photo credit: Apega/WENN.com

The topknot Zendaya sported to a recent movie premiere definitely caught our attention, but we were most mesmerized by the actress and singer's killer eyebrows.

9. Best shiny hair

Best shiny hair: Lucy Liu

Photo credit:Joseph Marzullo/WENN.com

There's not much room to improve upon Lucy Liu's perfectly shiny straight locks, if you ask us. We'll give them an A for amazing.

10. Best overall makeup

Best overall makeup: Gabrielle Union

Photo credit: Johnny Louis/WENN.com

Attending a sports event didn't stop Gabrielle Union from getting all dolled up. The actress looked quite naturally beautiful with a simply stunning makeup look.

11. Best sexy beauty look

Best sexy beauty look: Kristen Stewart

Photo credit:JD/WENN.com

Kristen Stewart gave us some major date night beauty inspiration when she decided to wear her hair in a sexy, tousled style and opted for a sultry smoky eye.

12. Best short hair

Best short hair: Karen Gillan

Photo credit: Michael Wright/WENN.com

Well, it looks like we've found our next haircut to try! Thanks Karen Gillan, we're totally taking beauty inspiration from your effortless locks.

13. Best curls

Best curls: Salma Hayek

Photo credit:WENN.com

Curly gals everywhere jumped for joy when they saw Salma Hayek's perfectly coiffed style. We think she looked lovely, don't you?

14. Best special event beauty look

Best special event beauty look Eva Longoria

Photo credit:WENN.com

For an appearance on Extra, Eva Longoria pulled out all the beauty stops with sideswept waves, a pretty pink pout and a beautiful smoky eye.

15. Best retro beauty look

Best retro beauty look: Reese Witherspoon

Photo credit:Ivan Nikolov/WENN.com

Well hello, gorgeous! Reese Witherspoon nailed the retro beauty look with pin curls, rosy cheeks and long lashes at a premiere in New York City.

More celeb beauty and style

15 beauty looks you just gotta see
Cate Blanchett's best updo ever
Bella Thorne nailed the perfect blowout and we know how

For every girl who has ever felt ugly

0
0

So, you don't feel pretty, eh? I know. I know that feeling. That soul crushing feeling that you are in some way not enough, that you are overlooked or that you will always be chasing a new incarnation of the pretty, bubbly, popular girl you envied in high school.

You know what? I give you permission to feel that feeling. It's OK. Go ahead. I won't tell you you're silly. I will not fault you for how you feel. Feelings aren't rational, so I won't try to rationalize them. But they must be dealt with.

I was never the popular girl. I was the smart girl, the athletic girl, the responsible girl. Not geeky, per se, but driven. Not invisible, per se, but not really noticed in the way those Hollister-clad, bright-eyed, effortlessly friendly cheerleaders were. Life seemed just OK for me. If only my hair could have been a little longer and straighter, my figure a little less muscular and a little more lean, my personality a little more open... but life was OK.

Then, slowly but surely, I grew up — as we all do. I built my career, and built up my confidence. I grew into myself and my body, refining my tastes as I became more myself. I cared a whole lot less about what people thought of me, so I began developing a sense of style that included voluminous hair, high heels, bright-pink lipstick and floaty dresses. Because I loved those things. I learned to communicate with people better, fighting my introverted tendencies, even though I still felt awkward and closed off inside sometimes. Regardless: I was growing. I felt like I was becoming the best version of myself — the one that was always in there, hiding, just waiting to break free.

And what you put out into the world, people tend to reciprocate. I started to feel more "noticed." Here and there, people would comment on a scarf I was wearing, or my sunglasses, or the color of lipstick I had on. Guys I met would frequently call me "classy," something I took pride in, because it was exactly what I hoped to be. I felt great that they'd noticed something about my style I carefully curated; I was like an artist selecting paint swatches to reveal their innermost thoughts and emotions without saying a word.

Pretty quickly, though, I started to feel boxed in — defined by the attention or compliments I got. If I didn't get them, it chipped away at my self-worth, just like this Reddit user who recently posted a letter about feeling ugly. She describes how her girls' night feeling "pretty" quickly soured when she didn't receive the attention she'd been hoping for.

I can understand. Sometimes, as I grew into myself, I'd forget what getting dressed up was really about: feeling good about myself. Feeling like myself. If you don't accomplish those things, you fail.

I remember once picking out a dress I really loved one day, and before I left the house, looking in the mirror. It was different — dark blue with flowers, a little retro and definitely a style risk paired with bright-pink lips and matching sandals. Part of me wanted to change before I left. Insecurities welled up inside me. Are people going to like this? I thought, before suddenly and instinctively allowing my brain to stomp that idea out.

I wore the dress. I have no idea if people liked it — I can't remember. But I loved it. (I still do. I still have that dress.) I suddenly realized I didn't want to be a dark-haired Barbie doll, anyway.

I really enjoy dressing up and playing with makeup, so I have fun with my style most days — but I've learned along the way that I needed to do it for me. Just me. Because I truly enjoy being girlie. The minute you focus on others' reactions to you, that becomes your motivation for looking "pretty," then you start defining your worth by how much attention you get, how many compliments you get, or who notices you on a night out (like that anonymous Reddit user, whose letter tugged at my heart).

Here's the thing: It doesn't matter what you look like to the outside world. Getting "pretty" has everything to do with feeling like the best version of yourself. Otherwise, it means nothing. If others don't like it, who cares? The surface doesn't matter if the person doesn't take the time to look deeper, because it's not who you are. It's what you live in. You are so much more than the clothes you wear or the makeup you put on. You are smart, brave, insightful and articulate. Remember that.

Most people won't see those qualities with a passing glance on a night out. Even if you're all dolled up. Even if you look your prettiest. Even if everyone notices you. Your invisible qualities are your most precious assets — look for someone who makes you feel pretty for all the right reasons. Who delves deeper. It means so much more than a guy thinking you're pretty at a club on a random night out.

So, you don't feel pretty? That's OK. We've all felt that feeling. So feel it, sweetheart. But then get back up and live your life for bigger, better reasons. It's not always easy. But at the end of the day, pretty for the sake of being pretty is overrated. It's fun, but it's fleeting. Be beautiful instead.

I'll even tell you the secret to true beauty. It's easier than you think. Just live. Laugh often, love others, look for the best in people and finally be the person you always wanted to be.

Be beautiful. It's simple. You already are.

More hot topics in beauty

Weird Halloween spa treatments offered around the U.S.
Lily Collins made a crop top look classy and we’re obsessed
5 Fall fashion essentials you should add to your closet ASAP

3 No-sew hacks that make old sweaters into must-have accessories

0
0

Supplies:

  • Old sweaters
  • Scissors

Directions:

DIY sweater leg warmers

Leg warmers are perfect to wear with leggings and for lounging around the house. And an old sweater is the perfect material for them. With just a few snips you can turn your old sweater into some cozy leg warmers for the winter season.

Step 1: Preparation

Lay your sweater on a flat surface and make sure all the seams are lined up.

Step 2: Make your cuts

Snip the arms off your sweater just after the seam.

Step 3: Finish the ends

Give the end where you cut a few stretches, this should cause the sweater to roll back on itself and create a rolled seam.

Step 4: Wear them

Rock your new sweater leg warmers.

DIY sweater circle scarf

Now that you've made those cute leg warmers, don't just toss the rest of that sweater. With the remaining body of the sweater you can make a cute circle scarf that doubles as a snood on those extra cold days.

Step 1: Make a long cut across

With the remainder of your sweater, make a long horizontal cut just under the armpits.

Step 2: Stretch

Give your sweater a stretch at the end where you cut it, and this will roll back the edge and prevent it from fraying. You might have a little bit of fraying at first, but it should stop after a wash.

Step 3: Get cozy with your new scarf

Just slip your circle scarf over your head and wear it around your neck.

DIY sweater headband

This DIY is perfect for mock-neck and collared sweaters. You can make yourself a cozy headband to keep your ears warm and your hair out of your face. Perfect for playful days in the brisk fall season.

Step 1: Prepare

Lay your sweater flat and inspect how the seams are sewn together in the neck area. You'll want to be sure your cut includes the seam in your headband. This will give it a sturdier frame and prevent it from stretching out.

Step 2: Cut

Carefully cut along the neckline of your old sweater.

Step 3: Even it all out

Take a moment to trim all the edges to be even and remove any of the frayed bits. Your headband should include the seam around the neck.

Step 4: Try it out

Slip the headband over your head and wear it for your next outing.

This post was sponsored by Marie Callender's Desserts.

More crafty ideas for you to try

Upgrade simple vanilla candles with a cinnamon stick DIY
12 Ways to make over your home with a Sharpie
Turn seashells into beautiful candles with this easy DIY

Survey says your hair is falling out, but is it all a marketing ploy?

0
0

The survey, which questioned 2,000 Brits, was sponsored by L'Oreal to promote their new Serioxyl haircare line for — you guessed it — women with thinning hair. So it's not much of a surprise that they came to the conclusions they did. But that doesn't mean the results still aren't interesting. For instance, one in four women said they'd rather be celibate than bald. Wait, what? I mean, you can always wear a wig but no sex ever again? Yikes.

Assuming that women aren't losing hair at a faster rate than our ancestors, why are women so likely now to think their hair is thinning? I blame Ariana Grande. The tween starlet is known for two things — her pop songs and her crazy hair extensions. In fact, she's worn so many extensions for so long that she had to issue this disclaimer after people kept criticizing her signature Barbie-esque waterfall ponytail:

"My real hair is back to brown and I wear extensions, but I wear it in a pony tail because my actual hair is so broken that it looks absolutely ratchet and absurd when I let it down. So as annoying as it is for y'all to have to look at the same hair style all the time, it's all that works for now [...] And trust me, it's even more difficult for me to have to wait forever for my natural hair to grow back and to have to wear more fake hair than every drag queen on earth combined."

See, I think we may actually not know what real hair looks like anymore. Thanks to the ubiquity of wigs, weaves, extensions and, of course, Photoshop there's a real misunderstanding about how healthy hair should look and move. We see bountiful (enhanced) manes on the red carpet, in glossy photos, on TV and even in real life as more and more girls clip, glue, sew and clamp extra hair onto their scalps.

Having thinner strands of hair and fewer of them is simply a part of the aging process, like wrinkles and sagging skin. By age 70 the vast majority of us will have significantly less hair. But unlike wrinkles and aging skin, up until now hair loss hasn't gotten as much attention as something women need to fix to not look like old hags. What used to be a little-known market, hair-regrowth and thickening lines are now top sellers. Is this simply a matter of creating the need to fill it?

Women explained their hair loss by saying it was due to stress from work, dieting, shock or trauma, and damage from hair extensions/weaves. Interestingly we largely have control over three out of those four things — and none of them can be fixed by changing your shampoo.

You may also like

Color-changing nail polish detects date rape drugs
Why can't women find their own vaginas?
New study says you can treat cancer and still keep your boobs


8 Camel coats that will breathe life into your wardrobe

0
0

It stands out without being too much for everyday wear, and who doesn't want stylish convenience in their world? I can assure you that this piece goes with just about anything you put on and to make matters better, there are many styles out there. The camel coat, whether it's a wrap coat, oversized, cocoon style or a classic cut, isn't necessarily trendy, but you may catch some unconventional elements paired with it. Take sneakers for example; it really does make sense when you do it right. So whether you decide to rock it with denim skinnies, leather pants for edginess or a ladylike skirt, your camel coat will take your look to the next level.

Check out eight styles all under $300.

1.

Double Breasted Camel Car Coat (Jones New York, $189)

Larger lapels and minimal buttons on this version gives it a masculine, yet classic look. This coat is great if you want to travel in something comfy, or even for work wear.

2.

Wool Blend Coat in Camel (H&M, $99)

Get into the belted coats this Fall. It certainly elevates this long, streamlined coat and would look so stylish with a pair of pumps.

3.

Coat in Relaxed Oversized Fit (Asos, $171)

Relaxed fits are easy to throw on and so in style right now. This has cool factor written all over it.

4.

Camel Notch Lapel Long Sleeve Double Breasted Coat (Sheinside, $43)

This double breasted coat has the perfect shape and I love how the buttons are lower than your average coat. You can dress it up with a feminine dress or make it edgy with a pair of jeans.

5.

Apt. 9 Hooded Wool Blend Coat (Kohls, $132)

A casual toggle coat will never go out of style. Buying it in a camel hue makes it more interesting and chic. Hooded style coats are also great for the colder temperatures.

6.

Collarless Blanket Coat (Topshop, $170)

Although this black piping trimmed coat lacks shape, it is very on trend this season and can be worn with just about anything. It has a cool retro look, but the 3/4 sleeves make it more modern.

7.

Sezane Hopper Coat (Sezane, $306)

When a white or faux fur collar is added to the mix, it lends a funky element to your look. You can't go wrong with an all black ensemble when wearing this coat.

8.

Stefanel Coat in Camel (yoox.com, $239)

Mod coats are so adorable. Wearing a single breasted, swing coat with multi-pockets will be oh so stylish this season. The turtleneck style collar allows for neck warmth and you can skip your scarf!

Flat hair? It's a thing of the past with this tutorial (VIDEO)

The most adorable mustache nails you'll see this Movember

0
0

Movember mustache nail art: Materials

Materials: 

  • Base coat
  • Light color nail polish
  • A black Sharpie marker
  • Top coat nail polish

Directions:

Step 1:

Movember mustache nail art: Step 1 Prep nails

Prep your nails with a base coat and a light color polish. Wait for your polish to dry completely.

Step 2:

Movember mustache nail art: Step 2 start mustache

Use your Sharpie marker to draw 2 small round circles in the center of your nail. Then dot 2 little points on the outside of your 2 circles.

Step 3:

Movember mustache nail art: Step 3 finish mustache

Draw a half circle from the left side of the circle and connect it to the small dot. Then draw another half circle starting on the right side of the left circle to the small dot. Do the same to create the right side of your mustache.

Step 4:

Movember mustache nail art: Step 4 fill in mustache

Then use your Sharpie marker to fill in your mustache.

Step 5:

Movember mustache nail art: Step 5 finish nails

Now just repeat steps 1-4 on the rest of your nails! Once you are done, seal your new mustache nail art designs with a top coat.

More easy nail art ideas

DIY nail sticker tutorial is like adorable nail art for dummies
Look closely — this nail design has a sexy undercarriage
The best DIY remedy for chipped nail polish

America Ferrera shows us how to make fall sweaters look cool

0
0

Why we're obsessed

America Ferrera

From elegant red carpet gowns to comfy casual styles, America Ferrera has the fashion spectrum down pat. The actress caught our eye in this cozy yet polished outfit and we'll definitely be copying it this fall.

How to style the look

The beauty of this look is its sheer simplicity, so resist the urge to overcompensate with loads of accessories. A versatile bootie and a cute pair of earrings will ensure endless style envy.

Get the look: America Ferrera

  1. C Wonder Black Stretch Curvy C. Denim (cwonder.com, $118) 
  2. Jg Hook Cable Knit Sweater in Dark Red (chadwicks.com, $50) 
  3. Lavish by Tricia Milaneze Single Ball Earrings (shop.lavishjewelry.us, $45) 
  4. Adam Tucker Pelican 14 Booties in Black (shoebuy.com, $159)
  5. Rodan & Fields Proactiv+ Complexion Perfecting Hydrator (proactiv.com, $30 monthly for the full three-step set) 
  6. Escada Joyful Eau de Parfum (Ulta, $68) 
  7. Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish (Target, $8)

More get the look

Nina Dobrev's Parisian chic ensemble
Kelly Rowland's sexy suit
Lily Collins' cool crop top

Technology is taking over our dresses, and the results are amazing

0
0

"Tech-inspired fashion is becoming all the rage," says Ali Levine, stylist and fashion expert from Fox's Hollywood Today Live. "Luxury fashion is getting smart with LED and tech-inspired couture. Designers and brands are — literally — seeing their name in lights. We're seeing everything from Tron-inspired suits to inflatable garments that change shape when you walk."

If clothes that meet technology are on your must-have list, you'll probably be as excited about these cool styles as we are.

1. Climate dress

Climate dress

Photo credit: Diffus Designs

The Climate Dress by Diffus Design is an interactive dress that senses the CO2 concentration in the air. Based on the level of pollution it senses, it creates diverse light patterns with its over 100 LEDs — varying from slow, regular light pulsations to short and hectic. (Similar to how I feel after eating too much Mexican.) This is one of my fave dresses of the bunch, since it's an aesthetically pleasing reminder that when it comes to the environment, we really need to get our shit together.

2. A little black (solar) dress

A little black (solar) dress

Photo credit:  Wearable Solar

The only thing better than a little black dress is a little black solar-powered dress that can charge your cell. I mean, we multitask a good 23 hours a day, why shouldn't our clothes? Dutch designer Pauline van Dongen incorporated 72 flexible solar cells into the dress, which generates enough power to charge a phone by 50 percent with an hour of sun exposure. Cha. Ching.

3. Sophisticated dresses

Sophistimicated dresses

Photo credit:  Moon Berlin

There's only one word to describe MOON Berlin's line of wearable tech fashion: Dayuuum. Specializing in fashion and accessories for evening, business and special occasions, its first ready-to-wear collection will be launched internationally this year. The lighting effects in their clothing line are subtle and sophisticated, yet uber-bold.

4. Thunderstorm dress

Thunderstorm dress

Photo credit: Rainbow Winters

Up next is the Thunderstorm Dress by Rainbow Winters, aka badassery at its finest. It's made with bespoke holographic leather and sound-reactive, animated electroluminescent panels. As the volume rises, the dress illuminates to create "visual music." Grrr, baby!

5. Petal dress

Petal dress

Photo credit: Rainbow Winters

Also by Rainbow Winters, the Petal Dress is not only super cute, but super versatile: The fabric is screen-printed with a color-changing ink. When it's exposed to the sun, the molecular structure of the ink changes to a new color. Once it's dark out or you're back indoors, BAM — the fabric's back to its regularly scheduled programming.

6. Paparazzi dress

Paparazzi dress

Photo credit: Ying Gao

Perfect for celebs who just want their damn privacy, this dress by designer Ying Gao knows when you're being spied on. It uses complex sensory technology that makes the dress move, change shape and light up when it's being looked at. The idea is that when a photographer's trying to steal a shot of you, the dress morphs and glows in an attempt to ruin the photo. (I'll take two!)

7. Skirteleon

Skirteleon

Photo credit: CuteCircuit

The Skirteleon (skirt chameleon) by CuteCircuit is like a mood ring for grown-ups. It's a skirt that adapts to the mood and activities of the wearer by changing color. The only drawback to this look? Forgetting you're wearing it as you're trying to win a fight with the boyfriend. Womp, womp.

8. Twitter dress

Twitter dress

Photo credit: CuteCircuit

No tech-dress roundup would be complete without mentioning the Twitter Dress by CuteCircuit, especially since they're the Grand Poobah of wearable tech. Created for Nicole Scherzinger, the dress's popularity triggered CuteCircuit to roll out this functionality into many of the pieces within their couture and ready-to-wear lines — all run from a single app. The "Q" app by CuteCircuit allows the user to change the color patterns and animations of their garment so you can make the look truly one of a kind. Say it with me now: Oh. Em. Gee.

9. Personal space dress

Personal space dress

Photo credit:  Urban Armor

Introverts of the world, get ready to dance a jig of glee: Not only is this dress what we've always dreamed of and more, but we can make it ourselves! Like, for real. The Personal Space Dress by Kathleen McDermott is a mechanical dress that helps to create more — you guessed it — personal space for its wearer. It uses sensors that detect when someone is interfering with your bubble and expands its hem using a repurposed umbrella mechanism. Genius, no?

More fashion tips

10 Most awkward fashion trends of the 20th century
Fashion trends: Just because celebs do it, doesn't make it right
How Fashion Week trends trickle down to the masses

How to revamp an old shirt into a sexy, sporty tee (VIDEO)

0
0

It's game day. A sacred time where the bathroom breaks are limited and the chips are close at hand. You don your luckiest of T-shirts, invite over your few friends who know when they are allowed to talk, and settle in. Just as your running back catches the ball you leap into the air... and tear the sleeve of your shirt on the fork you were triumphantly holding over those nachos just seconds ago.

Your favorite comfy T-shirt's life does not have to end when it gets a tear. Give it some fashion resuscitation with a couple of minutes and some scissors and you will be back to cheering on the team before halftime is over.

Instructions:

1. Cut an upside down "T," Making sure to leave at least 6 inches at the bottom.

2. Cut the center piece into 3 pieces.

3. Braid.

4. Cut the side pieces into 3 larger pieces.

5. Cut those pieces into 3 pieces and braid.

6. Tie those pieces into the big braid.

7. Cut sleeves off.

8. Cut shoulder piece into 3.

9. Braid.

10. And tie to back piece.

More beauty how-to videos

Tutorial: Create mega volume in your hair
Easy DIY side braid tutorial
How to make a clear clutch

Innovative denim technology you have to see to believe

0
0

Stain repellent white jeans

Stain repellent white jeans

Photo credit: Joe's Jeans

Any gal who's ever spilled red wine while wearing white jeans knows how difficult it can be to get stains out. Last spring, Joe's Jeans set out to make white jeans a bit less of a laundry hassle when they released Spotless, a collection of white jeans they claimed would repel stains. According to DenimHunt, the collection resists water, coffee, soda and other liquids, thanks to "an innovative wash treatment that repels spills." And it seemed to have had some success, as many media outlets showed. Now if only we could get a creepy guy-repelling pair of jeans...

Yoga jeans

Yoga jeans

Photo credit: James Twiggy Dancer

Say Namaste to jeans you can do yoga in. James Jeans recently unveiled their newest denim innovation, the James Twiggy Dancer, and we're getting comfy just thinking about it. So what makes these jeans so special, and can you really do downward dog in them? Well, we're glad you asked. The brand worked with ISKO to give the Twiggy Dancer a denim base that stretches with you but also keeps its shape, so you're able to move around as much as you'd like without worrying about tearing your pants. Now excuse me while I get into warrior pose to test these babies out.

Moisturizing jeans

Moisturizing jeans

Photo credit: Wrangler

When Wrangler debuted their "Denim Spa" collection last year, the name immediately piqued my curiosity. I don't know about you, but "denim" and "spa" aren't two words I usually use in the same sentence, so the concept had me intrigued. According to the Huffington Post, the skinny jeans were supposed to moisturize your dry legs thanks to a fabric infused with skin care superstars like shea butter, aloe vera and apricot kernel oil. An added bonus? The line's Smooth Legs moisturizing jeans claimed to reduce cellulite too. There was much debate over whether the denim actually stood up to the test, but I've still got mixed feelings about these kind of genius, kind of gross jeans.

Antimicrobial jeans

Antimicrobial jeans

Photo credit: DL1961

Whether you're going away on vacation for a week and only want to bring one pair of jeans or just haven't gotten around to doing your laundry lately, we've all worried about denim odor at one point in our lives. So when I heard about denim that features Silvadur antimicrobial technology, I was interested to say the least. Up until now, DL1961 denim has only offered the technology in their men's and kids' styles, but this spring, the line is unveiling it in their women's denim. The "intelligent" microbial control system gets to work when it senses unwanted bacteria and helps fight off odors so they can stay fresh longer. The payoff? Fewer washes and a long-lasting shape, shine and feel.

Scented jeans

Scented jeans

Photo credit: Colette Fragrance Jeans

We told you about scented jeans this summer when they first came out, but we figured they earned a spot in this quirky roundup based on their badass scratch and sniff nature. The Colette Fragrance Jeans hail from Portuguese denim brand Salsa and promise 20 washes filled with a fab fruity scent. Each skinny cut pair comes in a different fruit-inspired washed-out white color and features its very own fruity scent. I don't think my adult self really longs for pants that smell like my favorite fruits, but I do know my closet would have been a scary, fragrant wonderland if they had these things when I was a kid.

More fashion

Innovative bra technology we love
Insanely cute boots you don't have to sell a limb to pay for
Celebrity style inspiration for less


5 Maternity style tips that are perfect for fickle fall weather

0
0

Not to mention, while pregnant our body temperatures are naturally higher so we tend to get a little hotter more quickly than normal.

At nearly seven months pregnant, I am here to share with you a few of my own tips for looking chic while accommodating the fickle fall weather.

Tip #1

Pull on a pop of color to make a neutral ensemble more snappy. It can be too easy during pregnancy to reach for drab pieces in an effort to stay comfortable. A maternity top with side ruching and jeans with a stretchy waistband are surprisingly cozy and nestle a bump perfectly. Blazers are especially nice to have stocked in your closet because they don't even need to be maternity to be wearable throughout the entire pregnancy.

Tip #2

Stock up on a few dresses with an empire waist. If you work in an office all day long, like I do, these will become your new favorites. They are extremely comfortable and make it easy to forget there's even a growing bump. I love choosing ones with a cute print or pattern and wrap a slim belt over the top for an added detail. Throw on a matching cardigan for a little extra warmth and you have an easy outfit that quickly transitions from day to night.

Tip #3

Rethink your non-maternity pieces for mixing and matching during pregnancy. I will bet there are already a few non-maternity items in your closet that are still wearable during pregnancy. A tunic is a perfect example because the front and back are cut longer so it works great for covering a bump. Stretchy pants and leggings are also a definite must-have too because they easily accommodate a growing bump and are extra comfortable as well!

Tip #4

Another key to dressing successfully for the season is covering up in chic layers. Grab a cute maternity dress and favorite denim jacket for instant warmth with the ability to remove the top layer if it gets too warm. Pair boots with dresses for a hint of added style and throw on some tights to help keep you covered during those extra cool nights.

Tip #5

Dress up a casual outfit with a few key accessories. There's nothing I love more than wearing a cozy, cotton top with casual boyfriend jeans. When heading out the door, however, throw on a comfortable sweatshirt blazer, drop necklace and leopard print shoes to give a casual outfit a more polished appeal.

Splurge vs. steal: How to get the hottest winter fashion for less

0
0

Photo credit: Vanessa Rodriguez/ Stylishlyme; Splash News/ WhoWhatWear; TopShelf Clothes

Plaid

As seen on: Mary Kate Olsen, Reese Witherspoon and Jessica Alba.

Why I need them: Plaid is always a must. It is such a classic pattern that pairs well with denim and neutrals. It is always fun mixing and matching colors, as well as playing with dimension.

What I saved: $248 saved by the thrift.

What I gained: Built in softness, character and vintage styles.

What to look for when thrifting: Make sure to check for holes, broken buttons, and loose threads. All can be fixed, but it better be built into the price.

Wide brim hats

As seen on: Olivia Palermo, Kourtney Kardashian and Beyonce.

Why I need them: You can keep your head warm through the winter months, as well as look stylish at the same time!

What I saved: $58 saved by the thrift.

What I gained: Huge array of hat selections, broader color palette, hats add mystery and always tell a story. I like that mine has an added allure and a cute embellished chain surrounding it.

What to look for when thrifting: Hats are great thrift buys because older ones are usually made of quality materials and are able to maintain integrity over the years.

Ankle booties

As seen on: Rachel Zoe, Alexa Chung and Katie Holmes.

Why I need them: They wear well with skinny jeans, leggings, skirts and dresses. The shorter style is more modern than the average tall boot, and the more embellishments, the better!

What I saved: $276 saved by the thrift.

What I gained: Boots should look broken in; thrifting means someone else has done the work already, and leather is tough so usually thrift boots are in good shape and soles, if distressed, are easy to replace.

What to look for when thrifting: Water marks and discolorations can be hard to remove; make sure you love the spots on your shoes at purchase.

Disclosure: This post is part of a collaboration with Savers and SheKnows.

Photo credit: WENN

9 Beauty products you don't need (like, at all)

0
0

Yeah, not so much. That's just what the cosmetics industry wants you to think. If you're looking to streamline your beauty routine and stop wasting prime medicine cabinet real estate on products that are totally unnecessary, here are nine you can skip out on (while saving some major coinage).

1. Toner

Toner is essentially obsolete: Back in the day, when soap left a mild residue on your skin, toner was what you used to wash your face after washing your face. Now that many cleansers are formulated not to leave a film on your skin, you can nix toner from your repertoire.

2. Moisturizers for specific body parts

Skin is skin, so there's no reason to use a separate moisturizer for your neck, face, hands or feet. Now that that's out of the way, splurging on a hand cream because you lurv how it smells, or a foot cream in an attempt to get your beau to finally give that foot massage he promised, is totally your prerogative.

3. Anything with the word "cellulite" on it

Anti-cellulite creams don't firm your body or reduce cellulite long-term. While the caffeine in cellulite creams might give your skin a boost by improving blood flow and hydrating, really the only way to nix future cellulite woes is through good diet and exercise.

4. Shaving cream

Shaving cream's known for helping you get a closer shave, but you can get the same results using your body wash or hair conditioner.

5. Makeup primer

Word on the street is you're supposed to apply primer after you moisturize and before you apply foundation in order for your makeup to stay in one place, but where is your makeup going to go exactly? A good moisturizer will get the job done just as well — you know, unless you plan on hanging pictures on your face.

6. Lip exfoliators

Lip scrubs are supposed to get rid of dryness and flakes and leave your lips super smooth — but are totally unnecessary. All you have to do is take a clean mascara wand or toothbrush and lightly brush your lips for a smooth pout.

7. Foot masks

While they're the perfect excuse to put your feet up and take a trip to Shondaland, foot masks that rejuvenate tired feet aren't any more effective than a dose of hot water and moisturizer — and are often triple the price.

8. Split end terminators

Oodles of serums claim to repair split ends, but unfortunately they only tame the frizz temporarily, creating the illusion of smoother hair. The only way to get rid of split ends is to cut them off — otherwise, they'll continue to travel up the hair shaft and damage your hair even further.

9. Facial mists

Water plus spray bottle. Bam.

More beauty advice

6 Ways to stretch your beauty dollar
Seasonal skin shift: Prepping your skin for colder weather
Winter makeup habits harming your skin and your image

Crazy cool nail art you can create with common office supplies

0
0

Stationary nail art supplies

Materials:

  • Sharpie permanent markers
  • Hole punch reinforcements
  • Tape

Directions:

1. Perfect nail art pens, aka Sharpie permanent markers

We know how hard it is to work with a tiny nail brush. Keeping it steady and with just the right amount of polish is sometimes just impossible. But a Sharpie marker? Now this is something you're used to using! Sharpie permanent markers make awesome nail art pens. They come in every color imaginable and you can get them in the super-fine point to make all those fine lines and details. Plus they dry ultra fast which is an extra bonus. If you make a mistake, a little bit of rubbing alcohol takes it right off without removing your base coat. Once you're done designing your nails, seal it with a top coat and you're ready to go.

Make perfect polka dots every time with a Sharpie

Make perfect polka dots every time with a Sharpie

Just hold your marker perpendicular to your nails. Start off by doing a vertical line of dots down the middle of your nails. Then stagger the dots when you create the vertical line on the left or right side.

Get creative and make some fun patterns

Get creative and make some fun patterns

This fun pattern is actually created by using the polka dots as a baseline grid. This will give you a guideline on where to make your patterns. Just connect the dots in random ways to form patterns and fun designs.

2. A salon French manicure at home

In the past, the only way to get a perfect French manicure was to make a trip to the nail salon. Well not anymore! With a little help from hole punch reinforcements, you can make those salon French tips at home in a matter of minutes.

Step 1: Mark off your tips

Step 1: Mark off your tips

Paint a base color of polish if you'd like, and when it is completely dry, apply the reinforcement to your nail and line up the curve of the reinforcer with where the nail starts attaching to the finger, leaving the tip of the nail exposed. Make sure the reinforcement is flush against your nail and there are no bubbles.

Step 2: Paint those tips

Step 2: Paint those tips

With your nail polish or Sharpie marker in my case, paint your tips.

Step 3: Remove the reinforcements

Step 3: Remove the reinforcements

If you're using nail polish, remove the reinforcement while the polish is still wet. This will ensure that you have a crisp line. If you wait for it to dry, sometimes it ends up pulling off the nail polish in one piece. Once you are done and your tips are dry, finish off your new French manicure with a top coat.

3. Perfect geometric designs

Do you ever wonder how to get those perfect geometric designs on your nails? Well with a little help from some Scotch tape you can easily recreate them yourself. Using tape is a great way to mark off areas you don't want to paint and get that perfect crisp line.

Step 1: Mark off areas

Step 1: Mark off areas

Paint your base coat and let it dry completely. Make sure it is thoroughly dry because you don't want your tape lifting off any of your polish once you remove it. Cut your tape into strips or any shape you'd like to make and apply it to your nails leaving the areas you want to paint exposed.

Step 2: Paint your design

Step 2: Paint your design

Apply your polish, or use a Sharpie to paint exposed areas. You can choose to use different colors and get creative with your exposed areas.

Step 3: Remove your tape

Step 3: Remove your tape

Before your polish is dry, carefully remove the tape to reveal your new pattern. Once it is dry, you can apply a top coat if you're happy with your design, or you can apply more tape and create another layer for a more intricate design!

More creative nail art ideas

DIY peel-off base coat makes removing glitter polish a cinch
The secret to neon nail polish
DIY nail sticker tutorial is like adorable nail art for dummies

Clear up your acne with urine (yes, pee cures pimples)

0
0

Let me explain. There is a whole branch of the health industry devoted to the idea that your urine has healing powers. Urotherapy is used to cure everything from cystic acne to wrinkles to gut problems. This requires you to either put your liquid gold on your skin or, oh yes, drink it. People do this. Urophagiacs (I made that up. It sounded nicer than pee-lovers) claim that pee has minerals and nutrients that your body can put to good use.

At first glance, this doesn't seem like such a far-fetched idea. It's just pee. I mean yeah it's kind of gross but Bear Grylls showed us all we could drink it to no ill effect if we were ever stuck in the desert and my toddler proved that getting it all over my skin is really no big deal. Plus, it's free and when's the last time you could say that about a beauty treatment?

Doing it also seems pretty simple. Most sites recommend using a cotton ball or simply a wad of toilet paper and get it a little wet during your first morning pee (first-morning urine is supposed to have more urea concentrated in it) and simply wipe it around your face. I'll give you a moment to picture that. People differ about how long you should leave it on with some saying you just use it like a base layer and put your lotion or makeup or whatever right on top while others say you shouldn't leave uric acid on your face all day and should wash it off after 30 minutes or so.

There are lots and lots of enthusiastic stories on the internet about people using urine therapy to get better skin, shinier hair and even curing cancer. It's often touted as a beauty secret passed down through generations of remarkably young-looking women. It definitely seems to work for some people. In an essay for Jezebel.com writer Vivian Manning-Schaffel decided to try it out:

"I wield the wet, magic wand under my nose and it smells like… pee. It smells like pee. After sipping coffee to steel myself, I dab it all over the immense eruption on my face I've affectionately named Vesuvius. Surprisingly, it tingles for the next hour, like something is actually happening to Vesuvius. A few hours pass and I marvel at how easily I managed to forget I was harboring actual piss on my face. Plus, at the end of this trial period, Vesuvius was noticeably smaller. I went at it with a fresh batch, this time dabbing some miracle flow to my laugh lines. After a few hours, the pee-skin felt remarkably soft. Vesuvius did not shrivel up and die completely, but was somehow reduced from burgeoning volcano to mere molehill."

Sounds pretty good but I don't suffer from cystic acne and lotion makes my face feel "remarkably soft" as well so I went in search of any kind of evidence that wasn't anecdotal. Not surprisingly, there isn't much in the way of actual research. The American Cancer Society reported that two small studies showed no improvement in cancer using urine therapy.

They caution, "Individuals have reported that drinking or injecting urine or applying it directly to the skin is safe and not linked to any harmful side effects, but the safety of these practices has not been established by scientific studies. There have been reports of nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, and diarrhea after drinking one's own urine, especially during the first few days. Some medications are excreted into the urine, and by drinking their own urine, patients can accumulate toxic levels of these drugs."

In the end, it seems like there might be some benefit but the science doesn't back it up yet. Anyone want to give it a whirl, er a whiz, and let us know how it goes?

More on health and beauty

8 Reasons you should pee in the shower today
The (less gross) miracle ingredient that finally cured my adult acne
9 Beauty products you don't really need

Viewing all 4293 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images