How to Have a Long Lasting Manicure

Every so often I treat myself to a salon manicure. This is usually during the summer or when I have to attend a special event. When I don't want to spend the money on a professional manicure, I have tricks that I use to do my own manicure at home and have it looking just as good as - and in some cases, better than - the one I paid for. The following tricks and tips will help you achieve great results at home too. 

Clean Your Nails    This sounds so simple but can be forgotten if you are not removing old polish. Swipe nail polish remover across the nail to get rid of oils and create a surface to which the polish will adhere better.

Buff and File Your Nails    Buy a good quality nail file and buffer that will let you smooth ridges, smooth the nail surface and impart a high shine to your nails instantly. It is also a good idea to keep your nails filed to a reasonable length to prevent breakage.

Apply a Base Coat    This will provide the foundation for a longer lasting, smoother polish finish. It will also help protect nails from discoloration that may occur with some darker polishes.

Apply 2 Thin Coats of Polish    Remove the excess polish from the brush and swipe the color up the middle of the nail. Follow with one swipe of color on either side of this to completely cover the nail. Resist applying more polish at this point. Let it set and then apply another thin coat using the same technique.

Apply a Top Coat    Buy a product that is marketed as a top coat and not just a clear polish. A true top coat polish should dry instantly and provide high shine while adding protection against chips. Apply one thin coat after the color and then reapply every few days for extra insurance against nicks and chips.

Tidy Up the Edges    Use a cuticle pusher dipped in polish remover and run it around the edges of your nails to remove any excess paint that may have missed it's mark.

Moisturize Your Hands and Cuticles    Ensure that your hands and cuticles are soft and smooth. This will keep them free from hang-nails and other unsightly snags. Apply a rich hand cream at night and keep a cuticle balm in your purse for daily use as well.

With these tip and tricks, you will have a perfectly professional-looking manicure done right in your own home for a fraction of the cost of one done at a salon.

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Heel Heights in Relation to Economic Trends

It's fairly common knowledge that women like to keep pace with the latest fashion trends. However, it probably is not common knowledge that fashion trends can sometimes take on a role of prognosticator.

An IBM study that was particularly focused on social media and fashion blogs revealed some interesting and unsuspected results. The study suggested that when women's shoe fashion trends toward lower heels, that may be a signal of an improving economy. IBM, in the study, tracked the trends in women’s heel heights. The study showed a seeming correlation between the heel heights of womens's footwear and the stability of our economy. 

The Current Economic Conditions

The Bureau of Economic Analysis defines gross domestic product as the output of goods and services. Quarterly statistics from the Bureau of Economic Analysis show that the United States' gross domestic product increased annually at an approximate rate of 3.0 percent in the fourth quarter of 2011. In the third quarter, however, the gross domestic product increased by only 1.8 percent, suggesting an upturn in the economy from third to fourth quarter.

In addition, the analysis of personal income in the United States for February 2012 showed  an increase by $28.2 billion, and disposable personal income increased by $18.9 billion.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis of private wages, payrolls from goods-producing industries, and payrolls from services-producing industries showed significant increases.  Such increases would seem to suggest that the economy is making a slow, but steady recovery.

Relationship between Women’s Heel Heights and the Economy

During the Great Depression, the low-heeled women’s shoes of the 1920’s were replaced by high heels and platform shoes. During the oil crisis of th 1970's. there was a trend from the low heels of the 1960’s back, once again, to the higher heels and platform heels. During the dot-com crisis of the 1990’s, women's low-heeled shoes were replaced by significantly higher heeled fashions and stilettos.

According to some consumer product experts, during a downturn of our economy, women's shoe fashions trend to higher heels. Some experts surmise that this may be because women turn to more showy clothes, shoes, and accessory fashions as as a form of fancy, whimsy, and escapism.

Heel heights trended to their greatest heights in 2008 and 2009, just as the economic crisis was beginning. Since fashion magazines and fashion bloggers are now showing a return to lower heels, the IBM study seems to suggest that the trend toward lower heels could be an prognosticator of a gradually improving economy.

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2013 Must-Try Hairstyles for Women

There's no time like winter break to do a little beauty experimenting! Your hairstyle is a great place to start because even small changes can make a big difference. If you're timid, try a temporary change, like adding a new accessory into your routine. If you're bold, consider bangs. Grab your comb, some hairspray, and a few bobby pins and don't forget to deep condition! Whether you like updos, braids, or major waves, you'll reemerge from vacation with a new look that you can soon be calling your signature this season. 

Long Blunt Bangs

If you already have blunt bangs, then you're halfway there-just keep on growing! But if forehead fringe isn't in the cards for you, go for clip-ins. Make sure they match your hair color as closely as possible and pop on a set. Look for ones made of real hair so you can style them as you would if they were natural. Should the length get in your way during classes, just brush them to the side for an equally flatting swoop.

Pink Streaks

Perk up winter hair with a touch of pink.  There are many ways to add streaks to your strands, but start by using spray-on versions of wash-out formula color at home to test out the look. Make sure to isolate the strands you want to color and pull back the rest so you don't end up with a complete head of cotton candy-colored hair. Begin with a few small sections-it's always easier to add more than to remove the hue and start again.

Mini Headband Braid

The hairstyle that goes along with the "headband" can be a bun, a ponytail, or even mussed waves. 

The size of this braid makes the look a snap to recreate at home because you're only working with a very little section. Use a bobby pin that's similar in color to your hair to discretely secure it into place behind your ear.

Low Ponytail and Side Bangs

This simple style is elevated by sleek side bangs. There's a retro feel to the sophisticated and elegant look that could dress up a t-shirt and jeans or accompany a prom dress. 

If you don't have fringe of your own, fake it by sweeping a section of your hair across your forehead and pinning it at the back. You can use a curling iron to get a bit of flip at the end of your ponytail or bangs. Complete the 'do with a shine spray to achieve a high gloss finish.

Strong Side Part

Wearing your hair parted all the way to one side of your head is quick and easy but also ultra-glamorous. 

Pick a side and start parting! You can go for major old Hollywood glamour with added volume or go for a beachy feel using a salt spray and a touch of teasing to achieve the more tousled look from the runway.

Strappy Leather Accessories 

Every look could use a little leather. For a simple take on the trend, look for a leather (or pleather!) headband. 

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Nail Trends for 2013

Whether you want something dark and sultry or bold and funky, you can find a new favorite nail color for the new year.

From neutral nail color to new technology, check out what's hot in nails for 2013.

Nail Techniques

French with a twist 

In 2012, we saw plenty of reverse French manicures with dark tips instead of the traditional white. For the new year, expect French manicures with a new, different twist. The sideways French manicure will be popular (a vertical split) as well as pale nails with a striking diagonal tip, half moon accent or other graphic shape in a contrasting shade.

Magnetic 

Magnetic nail color hit the scene in 2012 and will be going strong in the new year.  You can achieve a cool 3D look in an instant with magnetic nail color. Simply apply the lacquer and then hold the included magnet over each nail while the polish is wet. Add a top coat and voila! — shiny, 3D nails you'll love.

Ombre

Ombre hair color has been trendy for a couple of years now, and, in 2012, we were introduced to ombre nails. If you like this look, you are in luck because the trend will continue throughout the next year.

It looks professionally done if you have the patience for it, and all you'll need are two different shades of polish. Use a  top coat and a base coat, and find that having a makeup sponge handy can help to clean up any mess and tighten up the edges of the colors. 

• First, make sure that your hands are moisturized, clean and dry. That's the first step to any successful manicure and should be a standard practice.
• Apply your base coat and the base color. It is recommended to use two coats, depending on the polish used. This will show as the lower color on your nail, closest to the cuticle.
• Use a paper bowl to pour a small amount of the second color (the one that will appear at the tip of your nail), and dab a tiny amount on your makeup sponge. Do this slowly and carefully, never applying too much at a time. This will help to keep the mess manageable.
• This is important: Make absolutely certain that your nails are fully dry before applying the second color. Dip the makeup sponge into polish and dab the tips of your nails in quick, short strokes. Make sure to cover the end of your nail.
• The top coat becomes a blending tool with this style. It will act as a re-wetting agent to bleed the two colors together, and keep your color lasting and solid.

Nail Colors

Deep and dark

Black nail polish isn't just for Twilight fans and teenage goths. Dark nail polish is usually hot for winter, but this trend will even carry into spring this year. Dark shades we love include OPI's Suzi Skis in Pyrenees (a deep, rich blue-gray) and Essie's Licorice (a beguiling jet black cream).

Light and icy

On the other end of the spectrum, light shades of nail polish will also be trendy for the new year — especially in the springtime, of course. We like CND's Pink Lily as well as the new Zang Toi Spring Summer 2013 Collection for Zoya. This collection features three "Ice Princess" shades with subtle metallic tones of cool lilac (Julie), icy pink (Gei Gei) and shimmery yellow (Piaf).

Green, three ways

Green will be one of the hottest colors of the year in fashion — and in nails.

• Emerald — When emerald was named Pantone Color of the Year for 2013, we knew this rich hue would find its way into the beauty scene and it has. Many of your favorite nail lacquer brands will release emerald-y shades in 2013.
• Mint — Mint green has been popular in spring for the last two years, and we'll see more of the same in 2013. If you like pale shades of polish but want something a little different than girly pinks, then mint might be the answer for you.
• Accents — Bold color combinations are going to be on-trend all year. One of our favorites is jet black nails accented with brilliant green designs.

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2013 Fashion Trends

Last year yielded a few new trends we liked, some we grew tired of, and many we really never liked (hidden wedge heels inside sneakers just seem so masochistic). Suddenly not feeling your neon clothing anymore (or perhaps you've singed your retinas)? Fear not! Fashion is cyclical and you may want that bright chartreuse dress one day.

Hi-low Hemlines aka Mullet Dresses 

Celebs love showing off their legs, but this swooping hemline is having an identity crisis. Rather than a sexy mini or a flowing maxi, there's this weird, confused, hi-low monstrosity. It's like a rat-tail: we just want to snip it off!

Neon

This in-your-face trend has been popular for years, and when done in small doses (like the trim on a clutch) it can be playful and unexpected. But in 2012 people got way too comfortable wearing head-to-toe neon and outfits are starting looking like Halloween costumes. The clothes, the nail polish, the hair! Ahh, our eyes! We'd love to put these colors on mute. 

Spike Overload 

An outfit that's composed of at least 60% non-metal. Really, ladies. The clothing, handbags, and shoes covered in spikes are overkill and truly an accident waiting to happen. Don't say we didn't warn you. 

Top Knots

Yes, top knots were our easy, go-to holiday style, and they’re prefect for days when there's no time to wash. They're also an ideal 'do for the gym, the beach, running errands, and pie-eating contests (we're just guessing). Grab a bottle of dry shampoo and experiment with a new style this year. 

Tribal prints 

From ikat to cevrons to everything in between, this year's music festival gear was like a vomitous explosion of tribal prints (and coordinating arm parties, of course). We yearn for simple, crisp stripes, or dare we say solid fabrics. 

Fancy Pajamas

Yes, Rihanna's silk PJs and robe is a far cry from grungy sweats or Snuggies, but we still think jammies have no business outside the home, let alone on the red carpet.

Pointy Nails 

Sharp talons like Fergie's are a little intriguing, kind of scary, and difficult to maintain. We prefer our neatly filed round and squoval nails, thanks. 

Wedge Sneakers

Dresses and sneakers don't quite compliment each other like a burger and fries. Designer Isabel Marant and countless imitators decided to put a wedge heel on their kicks in an attempt to make them more formal. Well, it didn't really work, and now the only footwear designed to be comfortable and good for your feet is anything but. That's a fail in our book.

Sheer Outfits 

We felt like someone's grandma this year, wanting to go around and cover up all the women in sheer clothing. In 2013 we vow to leave more to the imagination. 

Splash News Peplums

The right style on the right girl is so flattering as it can slim the waist, hide a tummy, and enhance the hips. But not all trends are for everyone and we've seen too many peplums gone bad. Slapping a ruffle on the wrong place in a bulky fabric can actually add weight! Peplums are still hitting stores this spring, but let's avoid a fashion disaster.

Printed denim 

Jeans are typically an investment piece you wear every day. But be honest: how often are you really wearing your jeans adorned with leopard print, stripes, flowers, or polka dots? And might those patterns be more flattering on, say, an accessory? Thought so. 

Half-shaved heads 

Even Ke$ha has moved on from the under-shaved hairstyle, so let's all just grow it out. 

Illusion Dresses

Kate Moss, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kate Winslet were some of the first starlets to try Stella McCartney's "illusion" designs with strategically placed colorblocking designed to make women look thinner. Thing is, these ladies all have amazing figures to begin with, and up close those silhouette lines aren't fooling anyone. We hope this dress and all the knockoffs it spawned go the way of the ubiquitous Herve Leger bandage dress and slowly disappears. 

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Holiday Beauty Tips

It's the most wonderful time of the year! No, not the holidays--holiday parties! You may already have your outfits planned for the numerous get-togethers on your schedule, but have you figured out your statement-making beauty looks to go with them? We're highlighting the eye-catching beauty tips and trends that will make you truly sparkle this season. 

For work-related events - You don't want a look that's too out there--focus on sophistication with a touch of glamour. Always remember to apply moisturizer before any sort of foundation, ensuring a smooth base. Try an eyeshadow in either gold, brown, or silver, depending on skin tone, and stick to neutral lip shades close to your natural lip color. Vamp it up with eyeliner and a heavy coat of mascara on top and lower lashes. For hair, test drive the down 'do with a side-swept and modern version of a French twist. Be sure to try a tailored pair of printed pants with a simple tank and a tuxedo blazer for an authoritative yet festive holiday outfit.

For weekend night parties - Cat eyes are perfect for sexy and adventurous weekend looks. Starting with a clean eye, use a liquid liner to achieve this retro style--no need to line your lower lids. Try tousled and voluminous hair for a seductive vibe. We suggest a peplum mini dress in a fun metallic shade with black ankle booties instead of pumps, and feel free to accessorize with an embellished belt.

For daytime shindigs - Be daring with a bold lip--they're not just for the evening anymore! A sheer red for daytime, with the rest of your look clean and understated, of course, is the perfect way to take that beauty leap. For your hair, try a half-up style with volume for an effortless yet jazzed up feel. A cozy sweater with leather leggings are all you'll need to shine during any daytime event!

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Right Underwear for the Right Outfit

Think of underwear as the skeleton of your outfit. You don't ever see it, but it holds everything together. The poor choice of underwear can ruin even the most stylish outfit. For instance, a sleek, curve-hugging dress, no matter how elegant, would look improper if people could see your panty line. A classy backless top can be ruined by exposed bra straps. 

With more types of bras and panties out there than one can imagine, you can wear the right kind of underwear to suit your outfit.

For everyday jeans and T-shirts: Wear basic cotton undies and bra. Cotton ensures breathability while a bra free of bulky underwires will ensure  that the extra support won’t be visible under a tight shirt. For shirts int early thin fabrics or tight, white shirts, nude coloured seamless bras are your best friend. Hipster panties work best with low-rise jeans to avoid peek-a-boo mishaps. 

For physically active days: Hipster panties or boy shorts will give you the comfort you need by allowing you to freely move around as you please.. Avoid underwear such as thongs when playing sports because they won't give you the support you need.  Also, since you will be sweating a lot, natural fabrics such as cotton are recommended. Also invest in a good sports bra, it will give you the support you need while working out.

For formal wear: It's best to wear a thong for long dresses that hug the body, and regular seamless panties for shorter dresses. Seamless underwear is a godsend, as it gives the comfort of a regular panty without the annoying visible panty lines. Try Jockey No Panty line Promise boy shorts. For backless dresses, consider nipple tape instead of a bra to keep the outfit looking classy, but since nipple tape does not provide support, you can also wear a bra specially made for backless or cut out dresses. These are usually made with multi-way straps or like a corset with a low back. ANother options is the Free Bra, a strapless alternative to your regular bra that adheres to your skin, making straps and visible nipples a non-issue.

For nights out: If you plan to wear a slinky little black dress, or any sexy number that flaunts your curves, consider using a body shaper under your outfit such as Spanx or Jockey's Shapewear line.This will pull in all the little bulges you don't want showing when trying to look awesome!

For work: Seamless panties work great under pencil skirts and nude or grey bras blend well with your skin under white button-down shirts. If work allows casual dressing, wear a strapless bra for tops with thin sleeves. A wireless bra would work well with a tight t-shirt and hipster undies will stay invisible under your jeans' waistband. 

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Hairstyles To Try For Different Occasions

Tie it, make it wavy and other fun ways to dress up your hair!

Fishtail braid. The fishtail braid looks deceptively tough but is actually an easy braid to pull off. Tie hair into a low ponytail (use a ribbon, small clamp, or something you can easily remove after). Section the ponytail into two parts. Take a piece from the outermost part of each section, e.g. leftmost for the section on your left, rightmost for right and move it to the other section. Keep doing this alternately until you reach the end of the ponytail and secure with an elastic or a cute hair accessory.

Ponytail. Ponytails aren't just for the gym anymore—make it textured or messy with a little body on the crown, or keep it high and sleek, both of which are frequently seen in the runways and red carpet. For us regular girls, it's a great hairstyle for a night out or a date (pair it with smoky eyes and a nice top that shows off your nape). An artfully messed up ponytail can also give you a sexy just-got-out-of-bed look. 

Beach waves. These texturized waves are universally flattering and can help you look ready for any occasion. You can choose to have it done semi-permanently through a salon or do it yourself to revert back to your usual straight style. If you don't have too much time to spare, a volumizing spray or mousse applied before weaving hair into a braid can leave you with instant sexy waves a few hours later. If you have the time and the willingness to go through a few steps, a wide-barreled curling tong can help give you sexy, tousled locks.

Messy updo. A favorite among Koreanovela stars it seems, the messy ballerina bun is such an in-demand hairstyle that Korean beauty shops actually sell tools and contraptions to get this style done quickly. Wear the messy updo to the gym, a movie date, or for an early morning meeting (the messy updo also turns bad hair days into cute Korean actress hair days). Pull hair back into a high ponytail, secure and wrap the ponytail around in a bun, leaving a few tendrils along the nape. Secure bun with hair pins. 

Instant fringe. Not too sure about getting bangs? Perfect for parties or events, clip-on bangs (available at most department stores or hair extension shops) can add an extra oomph to your style without any commitment on your part. Just make sure to look for a shade that is closest to your hair color so no one can tell the difference. Comb it straight down for a fierce, haute couture look or brush it to the side for a sweet and feminine style.

Mini braids. Small braids worn randomly tucked in your hair look laid back and bohemian. These mini braids also accentuate your new highlights and also work well with the current ombré hair color trend. Wear this to a casual get-together or when you feel like letting your hair down but keeping it out of your face. 

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Tips n How To Add Color To Your Wardrobe

Tired of playing it safe in little black dresses? When you’re ready to explore the color wheel when it comes to fashion, here’s how to cheer up your wardrobe without looking like Rainbow Bright.

Little bright dress. Ready to break out of your LBD rut? Trade in your default little black dress for something in color. Yes, other hues can be stylish, too—just learn what flatters your skin tone (for example, certain browns and murky greens don’t do morenas any favors). It’s believed that colors can affect your mood and disposition, so don’t be surprised if you start feeling lighter and brighter along with your wardrobe!

Prep with pastels. If your wardrobe consists mostly of black, white, and 50 shades of gray, ease into the world of color by introducing pastels like blush pink, lilac, lemon yellow, spearmint, and powder blue. Even when used in the tiniest details of your look—in the camisole under your blazer, the piping on your dress, or the cardigan draped on your shoulders, the muted, sorbet hues instantly soften a severe minimalist palette.

Shoes that pop!. Nude pumps are a closet staple because they match practically any outfit, and are especially great with monochrome pastel looks. But for a delightful change, punctuate your power suit with brightly-colored heels for a pop of color! It’s sexy while still looking professional—be ready for the deluge of compliments.

Accessorize. Shy about wearing bright, attention-grabbing shades? Get your feet wet by using bold colors in small doses, like accentuating your all-beige outfit with a stack of multicolored bangles, a florescent skinny belt, or a chunky statement necklace (coral, turquoise or lime look great against black). Try unique accents, too, like a detachable Peter Pan collar in a contrasting color, or an Ikat-print purse instead of your classic designer bag.

Mix it up. Worried about matching the color of your shoes to your bag? Don’t let style challenges coax you back to head-to-toe black. These days, your bag and shoes no longer have to be matchy-matchy. Easy rule of thumb: when you want to avoid a color clash, keep the color accent on one piece (the bag or the shoes), then go neutral on the other. 

When you’re brave enough, you can start experimenting with color-blocking: mixing two or three different bold shades in one outfit for maximum impact—the key is to pick complementary colors. When wearing prints, pick up the colors in the print and repeat them in your accessories to tie your look together.

Prints. When you’re more comfortable with color, it’s time to play with prints! You can play it safe by pairing a printed top with solid shorts or dark rinse jeans, or kick it up a notch by wearing a brightly-colored top and printed pants—busy-print bottoms are all the rage this season. 

Ready to go all out? Surprise your friends in a printed jumpsuit or dress. It’ll be a welcome break from the monochrome suits hanging in your closet. Botanicals and tribal prints are your best bets and give a nice burst of color. But if you want to stick to your minimalist, clean aesthetic, pick geometric prints instead.

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How To Distinguish Fake Bags

The only thing we love more than a nice handbag is getting a deal on a nice handbag. But it's so easy to be scammed! Counterfeit purses are tempting, but the truth is they're illegal, cheaply made, and a waste of money. And while Coach bags are currently the world's most popular handbags, they're also the most-imitated. So how can you tell real from faux? Here are their six tips to avoid falling for designer imposter bags: 

Look out for obvious indicators 
Spotting replica handbags used to be simple; check the hardware, logos and material. Lightweight metal accents, slightly skewed logos and cheap materials are still the first lines of defense for warding off fakes, but with today's higher-quality knockoffs, it's a case of needing steps two through six as well. 

Seek brand-specific signs 
Know the signs to look for in the specific bag. For instance, Marc Jacobs' zippers are embossed with either RiRi or Lampo and all Louis Vuitton bags made since the early '80s have a date stamped somewhere on the interior. Brand fanatics spend time spotting knock-off bags to protect their favorite designers' integrity, so a quick search before you buy will reveal specific tells for each high-end brand. 

Beware of online trickery 
When buying a handbag online, make sure it's from a reputable source. If sites are based in China, specifically Hong Kong, proceed with caution, as the country makes up 88.8 percent of the goods seized for Intellectual Property Rights by the ACG. Also, check the descriptions and reviews for signs of inauthenticity. If customer reviews say the bags aren't the real thing, then they likely aren't. 

Find trustworthy resellers 
Just because a bag is sold online, it doesn't mean it's fake. Authentic and vintage handbags are often sold on eBay; buyers just need to be smart in researching the seller. If the deal looks too good to be true, it usually is. A Chanel bag will never be $50, so use common sense. Certified resale sites also offer discounts on authentic bags. 

Check for design flaws 
A Burberry or Prada handbag will not have crooked stitching or unfinished edges. High-end brands take ultimate pride in craftsmanship, so no imperfect bag would leave their factory for a legitimate retailer. The leathers and fabrics of authentic bags will always be perfectly stitched and lined up, never crooked or gapped stitched. 

Do your handbag homework 
Before you spend big money on a big brand, make sure to check out the designer's website and/or retail store to make sure the styles you're looking at even exist. The only noticeable differences in some high-end imposters are styles and colors that were never made by the particular designer. If you've never seen a zebra Hermes Birkin bag on a celebrity, then it was probably never produced. 

These tips should help you find great deals and avoid crummy knockoffs. If you can't afford the real deal, an authentic, quality purse from a lesser-known brand is better than fake leatherette Gucci bag that falls apart. Really. 

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Tips on How to Be a Beautiful Bride

 Want to be more beautiful on your special day? Follow this simple tips on how to be a beautiful bride on your wedding day:

Bridal beauty tip 1: Exfoliate

It’s often hard to keep up with a skin routine, especially while you’re planning a wedding. To compliment your moisturiser and ensure that your skin stays lovelier for longer, make sure you leave extra time to exfoliate daily. Skin continually produces new cells and, as the new cells appear, the dead ones tend to sit on top making it appear dry and dull. When this happens, there’s not much point in moisturising. Why waste your expensive body butter on dead skin cells? Try buttering up after you’ve buffed the old cells off, and you’ll be silky smooth by your wedding day.

Bridal beauty tip 2: Have sex

Getting down and dirty is the ultimate beauty booster. Just 15 minutes a day spent doing the deed with your husband-to-be leaves your cheeks flushed; your lips lusciously red; and your skin glowing and beautiful – what every bride should look like. Studies have shown that regular romps increase blood flow and bring essential nutrients and oxygen to the skin, which flush out harmful toxins and make us appear younger. Plus, the stress-busting effects of sex with bid farewell to any bridezilla tendencies.

Bridal beauty tip 3: Ditch the alcohol and cigarettes

You may think alcohol and cigarettes calm your wedding jitters, but they don’t do our skin any favours. Smoking allows a staggering 4000 toxic substances into the body during every puff, and too much alcohol causes skin to dry out and eyes to become puffy – not the best look for any bride. Quit smoking, and only drink in moderation to improve your skin’s elasticity and reduce puffy eyes. This is a sure-fire way to make you look beautiful in time for your wedding day.

Bridal beauty tip 4: Rest

The phrase “beauty sleep” is famous for a reason; sleep really does make you beautiful. While you may find yourself up late writing wedding invitations, lack of sleep leaves us looking and feeling a bit worse for wear. During periods of deep sleep our cells renew themselves, and if you have trouble getting your beauty sleep, try and relax. Add a few drops of aromatherapy oils to your bath, try deep-breathing exercises, and avoid caffeinated drinks before you head to bed – the perfect solution for a stressed bride.

Bridal beauty tip 5: Groom your eyebrows

Few things can change your look as quickly and drastically as nicely plucked brows. The right brow shape can really frame your face and compliment your favourite features, whilst bushy brows distract attention away from your best features. There are many different ways of removing your brow hair too: plucking, threading, tweezing and waxing – just find the way that suits you best and you’ll be wedding photo-ready in no time.

Bridal beauty tip 6: Strengthen your hair with protein

Glossy locks are the key feature to any bride, so to care for your tresses ensure you’re getting enough protein in your diet which reinforces the keratin in our hair to make it healthier and stronger. Boost the natural protein in your hair by eating protein-rich foods such as eggs, nuts, seeds, shellfish and meat for stronger, healthier locks. Not only will having stronger hair wow your wedding guests, but it will also make it easier for your hairdresser to achieve the perfect wedding hairstyle.

Bridal beauty tip 7: Enjoy the simple things

It’s a beauty tip that we’ve heard time and time again, but it’s true: we are what we eat, and being healthy on the inside makes us even more beautiful on the outside. This tip is pretty straight-forward; drink plenty of water to flush out harmful toxins in your skin and increase skin’s elasticity; get plenty of exercise to sweat out the toxins; and eat all of your fruit and vegetables for vital nutrients that will make your skin glow – simple, easy ways to boost your bridal beauty.

Bridal beauty tip 8: Wear mineral makeup

Don’t clog your pores up with a thick, heavy foundation that won’t allow your skin to breathe. Instead, opt for kinder ways to cover up imperfections on your wedding day such as mineral makeup or BB creams. Most mineral powders even help to prevent spots whilst BB creams moisturise your skin and even out skin tone without clogging your pores – the perfect bridal beauty solution.

Bridal beauty tip 9: Go for a brisk walk

A brisk walk is an excellent way to boost your circulation and get beautiful glowing skin. Walking improves your sleep, targets your inner bridezilla and helps to counteract wedding nerves. This will all reflect in your complexion as you appear happier and healthier. You might be able to get rosy cheeks from a pot of blusher, but you won’t get the beautifully natural glow of flushed, healthy skin by using a makeup palette.

Bridal beauty tip 10: Protect your skin

It’s important to protect your skin whatever the weather, particularly if yours is sensitive and you’re planning a wedding in the sun. Too much sun exposure can dry the skin out, causing it to look dull and flakey – not to mention the wider health implications of sun damage. Similarly, in colder weather when we rely on central heating, our skin will suffer just as much. To help prevent dry skin, make moisturising a regular part of your routine.

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Tricks for Slim-Looking Tummy

The secret to looking slender lies in shopping for the right pieces. We've got the best styles to keep in mind on your next trip to the mall! 

Shop for an Empire Waist 

This feminine ensemble has a fitted bodice that hits right below the bust and flows outward, camouflaging lumps beneath a flowy shape.

Seek Structured Silhouettes 

Ladies looking to still highlight their shape with a fitted frock should look for more structured pieces in thicker fabrics that keep everything in place. Avoid clingy, thin fabrics that reveal unwanted areas. 

Try a Peplum Style 

This trendy look hides rounded spots right above your hips with a pulled-in waist, tight skirt, and extra fabric that flounces outward from the middle to cover pudgy sides.

Emphasize Other Assets 

Those looking for an ultra comfy solution should shop for sleeveless maxi dresses. The long piece's loose fit draws attention away from your center and up to your bare arms and shoulders instead. 

Belt a Chiffon Piece 

The light feel of chiffon keeps trouble spots under wraps by not clinging to bumps and instead flowing over them. Top off the effect with a cinched belt wrapped around the tiniest part of your torso. 

Go for A-Line Looks 

A-Line skirts and frocks add to the illusion of a smaller middle section by hugging the spot right under your rib cage and grazing outward, drawing eyes away from your tummy. 

Work Magic with Stripes 

Vertical stripes are a classic trick for elongating your body and minimizing the appearance of bulges solid colors might garner unwanted attention toward. Chevron stripes' inward angle draws eyes down the center, streamlining your torso. 

Hide Under High-Waisted Pants 

Never worry about muffin tops spilling over your jeans when you opt for a high-waisted fit. Not only does it make legs appear longer, but firmly tucks your stomach away under its zipper. 

Whittle it with a Wrap Dress 

The flattering shape of this lady-like style flatters any body size. The tie winding around your middle creates the look of a smaller waist, while the V-shaped neck draws eyes inward for extra effect. 

Spanx are your Friend 

Don't be so quick to write off shapewear, it's the quickest trick to smoothing out lumps under clothes. Nowadays, some shapewear is designed to look like regular clothing, but with the same powerful, slimming construction. 

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