Photo by Flickr mbtrama

Your wedding is the most special day. You’ve spent time and money on finding the perfect dress, now it’s time to hire a makeup artist for your wedding. Paying attention to this detail will ensure you have the most memorable photographs. Plus, your makeup artist spends a lot of time with you on the morning of your big day. You want to make sure you’ve hired someone who will give you and your wedding party what you want and that you’ve worked out the details well in advance.

Here are the top tips for how to hire a makeup artist for your wedding:

• Book in advance

Just like venues and photographers get snatched up for popular dates, so do makeup artists. Do no let this be one of your last minute tasks.

• Ask friends

Use your friends and acquaintances for referrals. Just looking at photos is not enough to find you a great makeup artist. There are so many details that go in to what makes working with them a satisfactory appointment and these are things that only fellow brides can tell you about. Ask if they were satisfied with their makeup and how they felt the process went.

• Ask to see a portfolio

You want to see something professional looking and have photographs from wedding photographers. The portfolio should include a large number of brides. Also ask to see black and white. Makeup photographs differently for black and white. There should be close up photographs, as well as show indoor and outdoor lighting.

• Ask about her experience

You want to make sure that she does bridal makeup on a regular basis. Most professional makeup artists are working every Saturday and Sunday during wedding season. Ask her where she went to school or where she was trained. You do not need to be certified to be a makeup artist but you want to ensure she has experience.

• Trial run

If your prospective makeup artist doesn’t offer a trial run, move on to someone else. This is absolutely important. The trial will only be for you, not your bridesmaids. At this appointment she should be giving you some last directions about things like skincare and eyebrow grooming.

Accentuating Her Derriere: It all started when Pippa Middleton appeared at the Royal Wedding with a dress that made her famous. One of the biggest styles for brides this spring are dresses that are tight around the behind. An absolutely stunning dress we’ve fallen in love with is a dress by Madeline Gardner. With a lace shoulder and intricate skirt detailing, this gown exudes elegance.

Short & Sweet: There’s no way to go wrong in a flirty, fun dress for spring. The Donna Morgan Chiffon Dress from Nordstrom is just the ticket! With a beautiful ruched sweetheart bodice, this dress plays up the natural curves in your body. The flowy skirt keeps things comfortable, but chic.

Long & Regal: Another bridesmaids option is a longer gown. However, this gown by Mori Lee, has quite the chic twist. The one shoulder stopper has a wrapped/pleated bodice and slightly cascading skirt. With it’s deep (almost red) coral, it’s perfect for a spring wedding!

Believe it or not, between April and June, most weddings or wedding preparation takes place. Dresses, bridesmaids and color palettes are at the fore front of wedding details, while honeymoons, menus and table seating come in at a close second. Every wedding detail is carefully exacted. Just one question: what about the bride-to-be? What can she do to prepare for her wedding?

As the bride, all eyes are on you. In essence, you are the center of the universe, for the day anyway. From your hair to your makeup or from your hands to your feet, you want to look your best, feel your prettiest and bask in the glow of your special moment; and now you can. Ready for your wedding?  Here are five beauty tips that will help you shine on your special day.

Dove® Clear Tone Anti-Perspirant/Deodorant is the first and only U.S. deodorant designed to reduce red and dark marks and even skin tone. The special ingredient?  Calendula Sunflower Seed Extracts coupled with Dove® moisturizers help accelerate the natural skin renewal process. In other words, it evens out the skin under your arms. Strapless wedding dress, here you come!

Custom Nail Solutions Nail System is a swanky alternative to acrylic nails. Why? Because these nails are customized for your hands, are reusable and are very easy to remove. There is no drilling, filling, and these nails are virtually indestructible. No more fumes. No more weak nails. Just perfectly manicured hands every time.

Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips are phenomenal! In as little as two hours, you can get a whiter, brighter looking smile that is sure to make any bride-to-be blush. The whitening strips are easy to apply and the best thing is the strips do not leak. The bonus? No heat sensitive teeth!

Neutrogena Body Clear® Body Wash is the product I must have if I plan to wear strapless, backless or halter tops or dresses. Its refreshing and clean-rinsing body wash that treats and even helps prevent body breakouts. Whether the acne is on your decollete or limited to your back, this gentle body wash can help get rid of the acne.

StriVectin-EV Even Skin Brightening Serum begins to transform your skin in as little as two weeks! Skin tone appears brighter and skin begins to feel softer. By eight weeks, you will notice that pigmentation normalizes as dark spots visibly fade. I used this product to get rid of the unsightly spots left on my nose from my metal-framed glasses. Four weeks and viola, no more dark spots.

Whether you’re getting married in 21 days or 6 months, with a little bit of planning and some great skin products, you can get the glow you want without all the hassle.

Although no gift could ever repay her for all she has done for us (and if your mother is anything like mine, she wouldn’t let you anyway), Mother’s Day provides the perfect opportunity to shower her with tokens of love and appreciation (and other fine things). 

Jewelry for the Fashionista

1. Classic Tagua Bracelet in Turquoise, The Andean Collection, $26.00. This beautiful bracelet made from natural materials in the Andean region of South America comes can be worn alone or stacked with any of the other various colors offered.
2. Multi-Colored Necklace, The Andean Collection, $55.00. The hand-dyed acai beads in this necklace make a bold statement with their vibrant colors. This is the perfect necklace for your new summer dress!
3. Sterling Silver Charm Bracelet, Pandora, $75.00. Add a personal touch to this bracelet with charms picked out specifically for your mom. She will love it!
4. Dangle Pearl Earrings, Pandora, $45.00. These earrings fit in perfectly with this season’s pearl trend! They are classic and elegant and can be worn for years to come.

Wardrobe Basics andMust Haves

1. Snap-to-bra-cami, Cleava, $19.95-$24.95. I love this simulated tank! It easily snaps to your bra to cover plunging necklines and cleavage. Remember all those cute shirts or dresses you couldn’t wear before because they were just a little too revealing? Problem solved!
2. Spring/Summer Pareo, Chicos, $49.00. This versatile ombre pareo can be used as a cover-up, head tie, shoulder wrap, or scarf.
3. Trendy Yellow Tote, Target, $34.99. Target offers affordable, stylish totes and bags to compliment your fashionista mother’s Spring/Summer wardrobe.
4. Wedge Sandal/Flip Flop, by Yellow Box, $44-$90. I love these wedge sandals found on Amazon. They are perfect for the warm weather, comfy and casual, and will add sparkle to any outfit.

Fun Makeup and Beauty Treats

1. Eye Shadow, Urban Decay, $38. Any girl would love to open this box full of decadent eye shadow colors and a vial of my favorite primer potion!
2. Lip Balm, Silly Girls, $12.50. This lip balm adds serious moisture and shine! Comes in a sexy little tin perfect for your purse and leaves lips feeling silky and smooth.
3. “Totally Happy” Mother’s Day fragrance gift set, Clinique, $58. Smells like citrus and flowers! Set includes spray, body cream, roller-ball, and cosmetics bag.
4. Massage gift card, Beauty Brands, $41. Every mother could use a massage! (If you don’t have a Beauty Brands close to you, visit the local spa for a gift card.)

Happy Mother’s Day and happy shopping, ladies!

**Writer received some products for review. Opinions are 100 percent my own.

Photo by Flickr giena.It

Your wedding is a day you want to remember and you achieve this through photographs.  Whether you’re hiring a makeup artist or you’re doing your own makeup for your wedding, there are some insider tips you need to know.

• No glittery lotions

When choosing a moisturizer, lotion, or powder for your big day stay away from glitter.  Stay away from shimmer.  Anything that catches the light can actually make you look like you’re sweating when it appears in a photograph.

• Carefully apply self tanner and bronzer

Self tanner and bronzer can make you look orange even with your best efforts.  However, a photograph can amplify the color.  Make sure that the color is even all over.  The hardest part is to make sure that the face, neck, and chest are all blended together.

•  Apply makeup in natural light

Take the mirror out of the bathroom and set it up next to a window.  Many couples take photographs outdoors.  Doing your makeup in natural light will ensure that your makeup is strong enough without being too dark.

• Use water resistant mascara

Water resistant mascara will ensure that your mascara stays on instead of smudging if you get teary or sweaty.  Some women find that waterproof mascara stings their eyes.  Water resistant will still get the job done, just don’t get caught in the rain.

Photo by Flickr Victor Bezrukov

• Think hard about fake lashes

Many makeup artists promote fake lashes since they look great in photos, and they do.  However, they can feel very heavy.  If you’re not used to wearing fake lashes you will feel that your eyelids feel droopy.  This may translate into your eyes looking sleepy in photos.

•  Check the ingredients in your foundation and powders

Check your foundation and powder for an ingredient called titanium dioxide.  It’s an ingredient that’s commonly found in products that  have sunscreen.  In photos the flash will catch the makeup and it can make you look very pale.

• Keep lipstick and powder on you during the day

Touchups are a necessity during the day.  The most important pieces of makeup to keep with you during your wedding day are lipstick and powder.  

Mother’s Day is in approximately 9 days, 23 hours and a dwindling amount of minutes, but who’s counting, right? I don’t know about you, but Mother’s Day always tends to sneak up on me without so much as a whisper. With all that moms do, it’s hard to keep track of things. But nothing jolts me back to reality than being asked: “Mom, what do you want for Mother’s Day?”  Yikes!

If you’re like me you answer, “oh honey, whatever you get me will be fine.” But one look into those eyes confirmed what I already knew: they weren’t buying it.

It seems that my darlings, much like your darlings, friends and family, are looking for more than just the run-of-the-mill schpeel about how we’ll love anything they give us. They, much like us, want to step outside of the norm and shower us with gifts that will not only make us smile, but also touch our hearts.

Want a dream vacation or getaway? Do you have a favorite dessert, clothing store or flower? Well, let your friends and family know about it. Trust me they will appreciate it and so will you.

Retail Me Not, the largest online coupon site in the United States,  conducted a Mother’s Day poll about what kind of gifts moms like to receive on their special day. Did you know that 34 percent of moms said they preferred a gift card on Mother’s Day? Hello Nordstrom’s, it’s been too long!

Additional poll results say massages are a popular spa gift for 41 percent of mothers while only 2 percent say they’d like to receive candy. Of course, if by candy you mean Shari’s Berries, you may want to rethink your gift choice. Oh. My. Word. Did you see those those strawberries AND cheesecake?!

Other poll favorites include a fancy dinner (38% of moms), a scrumptious brunch (32%) and breakfast in bed (7%). Now, I could be grasping straws, but I’m pretty sure that breakfast in bed in Hawaii would beat out a fancy dinner any day, but that could just be me.

Now that you have a working knowledge of what most moms look for on Mother’s Day, all you have to do is find what makes her smile. Still hoping to find a gift that will really knock her socks off?

Head on over to Retail Me Not’s  7 Days, 7 Ways to Win promotion. With prizes like $100 gift cards to Nordstrom’s or 4-carat Sapphire and Diamond pendants by Ice.com, Mom is sure to have a smile on her face. You’ll never win if you don’t enter. Don’t delay! The promotion is only from May 3 – May 9 with new prizes and deals offered daily. You wouldn’t want to miss out on winning gifts from PC Gifts, ProFlowers, Red Envelope and Food Network Magazine would you? I didn’t think so.

NOTE: The identity of all mothers is protected. Any likeness or similarities in gift preferences, breakfast in bed requests in Hawaii and repeated references to Nordstrom’s is purely coincidental. (wink, wink). No, really it is. Your mothers have not participated in this poll to gently smack prod you toward getting them what they really want for Mother’s Day. Lastly, Retail Me Not is not a front company for mothers looking to take over the world, one great gift idea at a time.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored article. All opinions are my own. 

Flickr Creative Commons - Jerine Lay

Lipstick is one of those essentials you don’t want to leave home without, one of the must have beauty items for your purse.

With this season’s fashion trends and colors ranging from bright florals to pretty pastels to bold and vibrant geometric shapes, there are a multitude of lipstick shades to choose from.

Some of the top picks floating around the Internet and sitting pretty on department store make up counters are variations of coral, hot pink, and orange. And of course, classic red finds its way into every season.

Flickr Creative Commons - Courtney, Outdated Productions

I am doing a happy dance because orange is on the list of favorites. I’m just hoping I will be bold enough to wear it on my lips.

Lancome - Rouge in Love, Madame Tulipe

Our mothers gave us a few choice things throughout our lives – a fun childhood, unconditional love, and the ability to cook like a gourmet chef. Along with those wonderful things, our mothers have also blessed us with a gorgeous canvas of a face, and have taught us how to effortlessly apply lipstick like a pro.

Charm your mother all over again this Mother’s Day with a fresh, lovely face that mirrors hers!

Start with a clean face. We’re loving the all-natural Fresh Farmacy soap-based cleanser from LUSH Cosmetics. Polish off your skincare regimen with the Eau Roma Water Toner and Skin’s Shangri La Moisturizer.

Prep your skin with some concealer. Take the Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer and dab under your eyes, on any red spots, and any uneven skin tone. This will prepare your face for your powder foundation. Powder foundation is important as this will keep your face natural and light, without that cakey feeling. Try the Bare Minerals Powder in your exact shade to contour your face.

To keep everything bright and peppy, sweep a gorgeous champagne color on your lids to add just the right amount of color. What you want to do is bring out the natural beauty you mother has given you! Again, we’re turning to Bare Minerals for their eyeshadow duo in The Top Shelf.

We’ll skip eyeliner for this look, however, if you’d like just a bit of smoke, you could grab a black eyeliner and tight-line your eyes to make your lashes seem denser. Our next step is to add a bit of drama with false lashes. Find your favorite natural lash kit and cut your lashes to your eyelid size. Using your glue, apply to the strip and wait 30 seconds for it to get tacky. When placing them onto the end of your eyelids, try your best to keep them as close to your natural lash line as possible. Wait about a minute and voila! Lashes galore! To keep everything looking clean, take a liquid eyeliner and run it over any seen glue.

Go for a sassy flush with MAC’s Powder Blush in Frankly Scarlet. Apply just along the cheekbones and a bit on the nose. When you’re content with the application, pick a light shade for your lips. We recommend the beautiful Barbarella Sheer Lipstick from NARS. It’s spring, it’s fun, and it’s versatile enough to share with mom!

Don’t forget to spritz a flowery scent into the insides of your wrists and your hair! Our forever favorite is Marc Jacobs’ Daisy! (Isn’t the bottle just divine? We smell a Mother’s Day gift!)

Hello, Spring! What better way to celebrate the sunshine than with gorgeous, trendy dresses for your special occasions? From sultry lace mini-dresses to sassy florals, there’s a dress for almost every single outing in your agenda. Warm weather won’t be the only thing everyone will notice.

Spring Events will always pop up. From Mother’s Day to special brunches to classy outdoor picnics. Take advantage and show off your legs with the Zip Front Floral Printed Dress. It oozes fun, but remains edgy with it’s funky hem. Or feel windblown in the Embellished One Shoulder Dress in Coral. Both outfits are flirty, but not too over-the-top for these cherished events.

Formal Occasions are a hit or miss. A wedding reception with an open bar? Score! A wedding ceremony on wet grass and soggy dirt? Fail. Save face in either situation with the Chiffon Halter Maxi Dress – a gorgeous Bohemian dress that will drape beautifully over your legs as you peruse the dessert cart! If flowy dresses aren’t your thing, you may want to consider the Tie-Waist Halter Dress in Fuchsia Pink, a definite show stopper that will leave heads turning.

Date Nights never get old. From an old-fashioned dinner and a movie to dancing insanely at a new bar, it never hurts to get gussied up for yourself (and your man!). The little black dress is reinvented in the French Connection T-Dani Crepe Dress. From it’s demure front to it’s sexy, laced back, it’s safe to say there is nothing dull about this look. If you’re looking for something a bit more girly, look no further. The Paprika Chiffon Bandeau Dress in either black or cream makes any night a fun night. Pair with stiletto pumps and a simple clutch!

Photo by Flickr lululemon athletica

These are not your regular beauty gifts.  These are for everyone who wants to go the extra mile for mom.  You’ve got time left to plan, so don’t worry.  Let us percolate your gift giving brain waves with these very thoughtful ideas for mom.

• For the busy mom

For the mom who’s constantly pulled in a million different directions (aren’t they all) it’s not enough to buy a gift or gift card for mom.  You’re going to have to actually schedule the gift.  This mom needs some serious pampering.  She needs a day at the spa.  Steal her daybook, call her boss, cancel her play date and surprise her with an appointment that’s already booked.  Bonus points for you if you’ve dealt with childcare and drive her to the appointment yourself.

• For the mom who has everything

One time we gave my grandmother a frame with our pictures in it and she gave us the frame back.  Apparently she had all the frames she needed.  If your mom has everything under the sun already, I still have an idea for you.  Try a custom blended fragrance.  Many department stores are offering this service now.  You can also google independent fragrance boutiques in your area, and if all else fails order online.

Photo By Flickr Fing'rs

• For the mom who wants to spend more time with you

If your mom wants some mother-daughter time more than an actual gift, plan a day together.  I recommend a manicure and maybe add in brunch.  If you want to get extra fancy, take her to high tea.

• For the mom who never spends money on herself

Mark my word, if this is your mom then her makeup bag probably consists of mostly dust.  You know when your makeup is so old that everything is broken and just falls out into the bottom of your makeup bag.  Do something special for her by replacing her makeup.  Pay careful attention to shades and formulas.  If possible, stage a mission impossible adventure and steal her makeup bag, get to the mall and home before she notices it’s missing.

To all of you moms out there – Happy Mothers Day!

Photo by Flickr: Justin Hargrove

“Green” clothing and sustainable fashion choices can be a controversial subject. Just like growing food, growing materials to make into clothing comes with environmental consequences. Also, consider the production process. How much water and energy does it take? How much waste is produced?

There’s no definitive answer on what’s best, but here are the most popular and most available “green” fabrics:

• hemp – the outer part of the plant, called the bast fibres are uses for making hemp textiles
• bamboo – the fabrics are made from the bamboo leaf and parts of the trunk
• organic cotton – cotton that is grown from plants that have not been genetically modified and without the use of pesticides or other toxins

At a time where frequent oil spills, chemical dumps and an abundance of waste and garbage threaten the environmental integrity planet, it’s great to know that there are eco-friendly options available to the style conscious. Such options are safer, healthier and greener for the planet and its inhabitants. Celebrate Earth Day 2012 in style with these eco-friendly products.

Levi’s Water<Less Jeans- Levi along with its partners have altered the process for coloring their jeans and have thus far saved more than 170 million liters of water and counting. By committing to use less water in the denim process, Levi and partners are hoping to help provide more than 1 billion people with access to clean water. Plus these jeans are uber cute! Two words: curvy jeans.

Fashions by Carrie Parry – don’t you just love when designers actually make and design clothes for the average gal? Carrie Parry not only created a line for the beautiful, flawed and style savvy woman, she also created a line of vibrant, eco-friendly fashions. Her fabrics help support indigenous artisanal communities, such as the Panchachuli Women Weavers in the Indian Himalayas.

Photo by Pinterest Alice Wrenn

You’ve heard the saying: diamonds are a girl’s best friend? Yes, well it’s true. Surely, you didn’t think I was going to protest did you?

Aside from the sparkly gems that seem to make us ooo and ahhh with the best of them, a gal’s closest friend would definitely have to be her purse. Why the purse? Simple, it’s our makeup-first aid-kitchen sink-snack bar-tote along that we cannot live without.

If you’re like me, then you know the contents of a woman’s purse consists of a little bit of everything and a few what-the-heck’s along the way. Regardless of the size, color, or designer of the purse, we tend to have a eclectic assortment of goodies, treasures and lint to spare.

Here are few of my favorite must-haves that no purse should be without.

1. Lint roller – I cannot tell you how many times I’ve  donned a little black dress only to discover that my cute black Mizrahi looked like a linty-furry mess! Trust me, lint rollers save lives.
2. Tissue packs – Do you get teary-eyed at sunrises, cute babies, or funny photos on Pinterest? Tissue packs help keep your eye-makeup in tact and raccoon-eyes at bay.
3. Wallet cards – we all need a pick me up just about every day. Why not slip your favorite saying, photo, or wallet card into your purse. It’ll put a smile on your face when you least expect it, and when you definitely need it.
4. Tweezers – if you’re a diy kind of gal like I am, then having a schnazzy pair of tweezers on hand is a must. You never know when you need to pluck an unruly eyebrow hair or pull a splinter from your finger. I carry the Japonesque slant tip.
5. Travel-size toiletries – they’re not just for flying! If you’ve ever been in a rush and  forgotten to use deodorant, brush your teeth or lotion your skin, then you know how important it is to have toiletries on hand.
6. Lip color – some days I forget to don any makeup, which I don’t mind all that much these days thanks to the geniuses at StriVectin who keep my skin looking fabulous. But I absolutely, positively, must have lip color. Reds, browns, and nudes are my favorites to have on hand. Psst. They also double as a light blush or eyebrow highlighter.
7. Nail accessories – these include all or any of the following: nail files, nail clippers,  or cuticle cream. We live in a world where sanitizers and hand soaps are king; but they wreck havoc on nail beds and cuticles leaving them looking dry, cracked and ragged. I find that chapsticks or lip balms like Beecology does wonders for cuticles!

Well, there you have it! My top 7 purse must haves. What are some of yours? Share in the comments below.

With all the talk of colors and hair accessories and makeup tips and even nail art for this season, one may have feared jewelry had been forgotten. Well, put those fears to rest, sister. It takes more than fabric to get a girl ready for the runway (and the grocery store).

Fun pieces of ornamental must-haves are popping up everywhere. It won’t take much research to find the perfect piece of jewelry to complete your new Spring look.

Flickr Creative Commons - Jennifer C

• DOWN BY THE SEA – Remember the sea-inspired fabrics? Jewelry is no exception to this fashion craze. Cool blues and sea-foam or mint green are among this season’s favorites.
• JUNGLE TRENDS - Yes, my safari-loving friends, ethnic jewelry rocks for Spring and Summer.
• HEIRLOOM – While pearl jewelry continues to defy time, pink is the trend this season.  Pink pearls, you say? Yes, I think I will.
• FANCIFUL - Chandeliers earrings. One-, two- or even three-layered earrings, which are very trendy this spring, come made of both precious metals and less expensive equivalents, with amazing jewels or plastic elements in them.
• LAYERS – and layers, and layers of necklaces.
• FLOWERS – and flowers, everywhere. I’m sure you’ve already spotted flowers in places other than fabrics. And if you are a fan of The Voice, you will recognize this pretty red blossom http://www.facebook.com/RaeLynnTheVoice

This season seems to defy the rule of less is more, so don’t be afraid to mix and match some of your new treasures with what you already have at home.

“Jewelry takes people’s minds off your wrinkles.”  ~Sonja Henie

Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie

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Shea Moisture is all the rage when it comes to showing off your luscious curls and infusing them with the wonders of shea butter and exotic oils for sexy, touchable curls. Shea Moisture is lightweight, has a delish fragrance and is ideal for curly, kinky or wavy natural hair. $9.99 Photo by Target

Whether you’re looking for the best buys in makeup or the biggest bargains in hair, you’re sure to find the beauty buy for you.

Sephora by OPI has created a spectacular spring nail polish collection by partnering with Betsey Johnson. The designer brings her signature bright and sparkly look to nails with seven exclusive colours.

OPI for Sephora Limited Edition Betsey Johnson Collection

• Forever Wild (opaque black grape)
• Alley Cat (opaque fuchsia)
• Cartwheels On The Catwalk (opaque sea green)
• Pushing Your Luck (opaque red)
• XOX Betsey (opaque sandy nude)
• Sparkling Personality (multi-colour silver glitter)

You can buy these colors as a single bottle for $9.50 or as a set of six for $24.50.

There’s one more extra special polish in the collection. It’s My Pink! is a hot pink that’s scented with Betsey Johnson’s signature Too Too Fragrance.

What if you already have bottles and bottles of polish? Use the colors you already have to create something new and fun for spring.

Polka dots are very easy for any beauty junky to do. Leslie from Polish Art Addiction is a true nail art professional. She has tons of great tips plus some nail art that you will just drool over it’s so pretty.

To create the polka dots Leslie uses this utensil that she ordered online.

Try ordering them off of amazon.

What are some of your favorite nail art looks that you’ve seen on Pinterest lately?

Have you attempted any nail art yourself?

And if your makeup routine (and your skin care) has become just that – dull and routine – maybe it’s time to get a fresh start.

Keep Your Face Fresh

• ORGANIZE – Start with organizing your beauty and skin care products. It’s good to be aware of what you have, what you need to refill, and what is expired or old.
• TAKE CARE OF YOUR SKIN - It’s important to know your skin type and tailor a beauty regimen to fit your needs. If you your skin is not being taken care of properly it will affect what you put on top of it, no matter how expensive or how good the makeup is. A good regimen will include a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer with other special treatments as needed (mask, exfoliator, night cream, etc).
• HYDRATE – Remember, what you eat and drink also affects your skin. It is essential you stay hydrated with plenty of water so your skin doesn’t get too dry.
• GET THE PEFECT SHADE – Once you begin the application of your makeup, check to ensure your foundation properly matches your skin color. A great way to do this is by sitting next to a window and using the sunlight for lighting. To keep your face fresh and natural looking, it is important for your foundation to be as close to your natural color as possible.

You might not be ready to wear:

• the wet on top and dry on the bottom look (reminiscent of not showering for a while)
• colored matte spray paint (reminiscent of having a bucket of paint fall on your head)
• black feather-nest-like look as seen at Jason Wu

Yes some looks are just better left to the models and muses. However, there were definitely some worthy looks that us regular ladies can wear.

Here are some spring hair accessories you might be ready to experiment with:

• Barrettes as seen at Sonia Rykiel

You can use the barrette to hold back a low pony tail. Or try parting your hair on the side and pinning the wider side just above the ear, parallel to the ground.

Photo by Flickr KellBailey

• Scarves as hair bands as seen at Marc Jacobs

Wear these in the traditional hair band spot or wrap from the nap of the neck and tie on top (a la Amy Winehouse).

Photo by Flickr Lucia..

Rosette Chiffon Dress - Target

From monochromatic sea-inspired tones to a high-octane dose of flower power, colors for this season’s trends are varied and plenty.

My favorite, though, compliments a few items already in my closet. Michael Kors Spring 2012 Show brought the wild side to the runway. Inspired by his love of Africa, Michael commented in an interview that his Spring line is filled with “all the texture and color you find in nature.” Yes, I still get excited over animal prints and shades of brown.

Michael Kors Animal Print Trench Coat

If your shopping trips are like mine and include less designer pieces and more designer-inspired bargains, I think I have found something we both may like. Looking for affordable new color trends for Spring? With Target’s addition of designers like Jason Wu and now this month’s guest editor, Stylist Brad Goreski, the diva on a budget won’t have to choose between style and paying her bills on time.

Brad offers up some amazing looks in Target’s On the Dot Style Magazine.

Belted Long Trench Coat - Target

Scallop Trim Woven Dress - Target

Scoopneck Button Front Dress w/Belt - Target

Photo by Flickr >WonderMike<

Talk about bringing beauty sleep to a whole new level. Let’s talk about silk pillowcases. Those that have them, swear by them. But are they worth the extra cost? You can find a silk pillowcase starting at around $40 and they increase in cost to as much as $700.

Here are the reasons that you might want to shell out the cash on silk:

• no creases on the face

To the die-hard silk fans this is the number one reason. For anyone who gets those long, dark, deep wrinkles lines during the night, this could be all you have to hear. I know those creases can last for hours, if not until lunch time. The silk slides more and allows your face to glide over the surface. In contrast, cotton will will pull and fold and thus the creases.

• doesn’t pull your skin & helps brittle hair

These benefits continue on from the last point. Pulling at your face can promote wrinkles, and I don’t mean the ones mentioned above. The roughness of the cotton can pull at your skin and over time that will deepen the lines on your face. This roughness applies to your hair as well. Hair stylists highly recommend silk pillowcases to anyone with brittle or thinning hair.

Photo by Flickr Clarkston SCAMP

• leaves hair better styled

I don’t know of anyone that loves spending time styling their hair. The quicker the better. Again hair stylists recommend silk to extend the life of a hair-do. The silk will help to reduce frizz, static, and knots.

• allows moisture to stay in face and hair

If you have dry skin you’ll do anything to keep your face moist. Cotton is known to wick moisture away from the skin. Silk is less absorbent and will leave your moisturizer where it belongs – on your face.

At the end of the day, yes the silk does offer some benefits, but you’ll have to decide for yourself. Some of us swear by Creme de la Mer $200 face cream and some of us are devoted to a jar of $15 Oil of Olay.  To each their own!

And where it used to be thought of as only appropriate for cold or cooler temperatures, suede is now considered fashionable in any season.

So, no need to pack up those suede shoes just yet!

Suede these days has become a big player in Spring runway collections and now the appearance of suede in stores usually means that spring is right around the corner.

One designer in particular has me drooling over his suede pumps. I was born for Italian luxury. I can feel it.

by Gianvito Rossi

And who could resist these blue suede shoes? (You were waiting for that, weren’t you?)

by Gianvito Rossi

“Well, you can knock me down, step in my face, slander my name all over the place. Do anything that you want to do, but uh-uh, Honey, lay off of my shoes. Don’t you step on my blue suede shoes” (Elvis Presley – Blue Suede Shoes).

But what happens if your suede shoes DO get stepped on or rained on or just plain ol’ dirty?

Since you’re wearing them in every season now, chances are you’ll need to know how to clean your suede shoes. Keep these tips handy.

Tips for Cleaning Your Suede Shoes

• Clean off mud, using a nail file or similar for hard to remove pieces. After allowing mud to dry, brush suede with a stiff nail brush.
• Remove scuffs with a softer suede brush.
• Spot clean with a pencil eraser.
• Flush off water stains by barely wetting entire shoe and using a soft sponge to rub gently.
• Stuff shoe with tissue paper to keep shape while drying.
• Spray with a suede protector.
• (Visit source for more details.)

Caught in the Rain

Remember, the only season you shouldn’t wear your suede shoes or boots in is the rainy season. But if you (and your shoes) somehow get caught in the rain, make sure you dry the suede by patting a clean towel on your shoes to absorb the water. Allow the shoes to finish drying naturally.

Protecting Your Suede Shoes

Don’t forget to protect your shoes before their debut appearance on your feet and after each cleaning. You can pick up a bottle of suede guard or protector and nourishing spray when you make your purchase. Your local retailer can give you the specifics on when and how to apply.

Photo by Flickr TORIMBC

Whether you’re going on a first date, a valentine’s night out, or a wedding anniversary, you can ramp up the sexy factor with some playful eye makeup. Here’s how to do eye makeup for two sexy date night looks. Pick either the cat eye or the gold smokey eye.

Cat Eye

Obviously this look is all about the eyeliner. The classic cat eye is usually done with black liquid liner, but there are variations depending on what’s easier for you.

• Liquid Liner

The easiest way to use liquid liner is to buy a liquid liner pen. Using a pen is already a natural movement. Now instead of scribbling on a notepad you’re drawing an elegant swooping line. Start from the outside and draw in. Make the liner thicker on the wing, and thinner as you draw towards your inner eye.

Try out: Maybelline Eye Studio Master Precise Ink Pen Eyeliner

Photo by Flickr vancouverfilmschool

• Cream Liner

To use cream liner you’ll need a liner brush. The easiest brush to use is an angled liner brush. This will help to facilitate the winged line. When picking up the cream product start with a very little bit of product. In fact, wipe a little bit of product off before applying. You can go on top with a bit more if needed, but it’s always hard to wipe off.

Try out: Makeup Forever Aqua Cream

• Powder Eyeliner

This isn’t the most popular product out there. But I feel it’s much easier to use for anyone that has a wobbly hand or is new to a cat eye. Some ladies just like the matte look that powder gives. Again, use an angled liner brush and start at the outside of the wing and bring the line in, tapering as you move towards the inner eye. Most powder eyeliners can be used wet or dry. If using wet, wet the brush instead of the powder so it doesn’t get too messy.

Try out: Aloette Powder Eyeliner

Pair your cat eye with a nude eyeshadow that sweeps all over the lid and up onto the brow bone. You can choose a red lip or nude lip.

Next choice for your sexy date night makeup is gold and bold.

Gold Smokey Eye

Photo by Flickr Bel Maciel

This look is very similar to a traditional smokey eye. Instead you’re going to pick out some metallic eyeshadows. Use the a nude or very pale gold under the brow. Choose a medium gold or bronze to apply all over the lid. Then pick out a deeper shadow for the crease and outer lid. Blend and blend and blend, then finish with a brown kohl pencil to line the top and bottom lash line.

Try out: Sephora Collection Colorful Duo Eyeshadow in Hot Brown

SOS Novelties 3-in-1 Soy Candle

Lotion. Massage oil. Candle. This deliciously scented soy candle is perfect for setting the mood. Use it cold as a lotion or emollient, warmed as a silky massage oil or simply light it and let the alluring aroma put your mind elsewhere. The 3-in-1 candle is body safe, paraben free, all-natural and eco-friendly.  It glides on smooth (even cold), leaves your skin feeling silky and smells delicious (think pina colada meets watermelon). Two words: yes, please.

Red by Mary Kay and Strawberry by Arbonne

Red. It symbolizes power, love, confidence and seduction and is the perfect shade for a lipstick. If you’re looking to jazz up your appearance, or try something bold then Red and Strawberry are just what the beauty doctor ordered. Vibrant, long-lasting, smooth and simply beautiful, Red or Strawberry are sure to please.

Chocolate Truffle Body Scrub Polish

A definite must have on Valentine’s Day. Decadently scented Peruvian Cocoa powder, pure white cane sugar, Shea butter and and natural Cocoa butter.  This body scrub not only exfoliates your skin but polishes it and encourages cell-turnover. If you’re looking to glow this Valentine’s Day, then this scrub is just what you need. Also, try adding a dab or four of Arbonne’s sheer Glow Highlighter. It illuminates, smooths and leaves your skin looking radiant.

Body Butter by Asili

Shea and Cocoa butters, emollient-rich Soybean,  and sweet almond & Macadamia nut oils. This all-natural, handmade body crème is sure to help you keep your skin looking supple and youthful. Body butters can be customized to address specific needs and concerns.

Try one of these easy styles to send a message to that special someone in your life.

The Ponytail

According to professional hairstylist, Kate, “There is a big difference between the “I’m going to the gym” ponytail, and The Ponytail.”

Kate - The Small Things Blog

In her video tutorial, Kate lists these steps to help you achieve perfection:

• Start with hair already styled with curling iron and product
• Use a jaw clip to secure a small section of hair at the crown to ensure a little extra lift (clip will be removed after wrapping ponytail)
• Loosely gather remainder of hair and pull into a ponytail
• Wrap with a clear ponytail holder and remove jaw clip
• Fluff, adjust and spray as needed
• Watch the end of the video as Kate reveals her secret trick for giving her ponytail a little extra fluff.

Two other ponytail options

To get my accessories in order, I had to turn to the organizing expert in my life, my sister Elissa. Actually, all I really had to do was take a look around her room. She’s the Martha Stewart of storage and organization. While I tend to mock her for what I deem an obvious obsession with neat-freakery, I could not deny the four creative ways she organized various accessories.

Storage Bins

When I hear the words storage bin, the words that come to mind are drab, clunky and absolutely void of personality. I think of the kinds of bins I keep tucked away in the attic or basement which serve no purpose other than to house my keepsakes. Was I wrong!

These simple, yet colorful 4-drawer storage bins are perfect for housing your accessories. As you can tell from the photo, the fabulous Elissa has her jewelry housed in small plastic containers. Easy, affordable and it works!