Three Ways to Finding the Right Bra Size

Three Ways to Finding the Right Bra Size

Ever had that moment when you're shopping at your favorite clothing store, you find that one perfect top and you go to try it on only to see that the top doesn't exactly fit your body like you imagined it would?  

It's happened to all of us. There are several reasons why this can happen, but one detail that we often, if not always, overlook is the bra that we are wearing. Let's face it: Your bra can either make or brake the look of your tops (and dresses). Having the right size bra on makes all the difference in how a top fits, looks and feels.

Now that we have uncovered the possible culprit, let's see whether or not we are in need of a proper bra fitting. 

I want you to take a few second to answer the following questions:

• -When was the last time you had yourself measured for the correct bra size?
• -Do your bra straps dig into your shoulders or rib cage?
• -Does your bra ride up your back?
• -Is the front of the band too tight to get a finger under?
• -Do your bra cups feel slightly empty or too full?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then the likelihood is that you are not wearing the right size bra. You should not assume that the size you were two or three years ago is the same size you are today. Your body will change, as will your bra size. If you have lost or gained weight, chances are that you will need to change your bra wardrobe.  

To help you change your bra wardrobe here are three ways to finding the right size bra for your particular body shape: 

GET FITTED BY A LINGERIE SPECIALIST 

You should be fitted by a lingerie specialist at least once a year or, preferably, after every noticeable growth or even reduction to your breasts. One of the most popular retailers to go for a quick fit is Nordstrom. Most Nordstrom locations have a Certified Fit Specialists in the Lingerie department. 

MEASURING YOURSELF AT HOME

You can take rough measurements at home which will give you a good idea of what your size should be. A simple way of doing this is by following these very simple steps:

1. First stand up straight and wrap a tape measure around your ribcage, under your breasts. Pull it firm but not tight.

2. To measure your cup size, wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, and again pull it firm but not too tight.

3. To the measurement around the ribcage, add five and round it up to the next even number. This will give your band size.

4. Now, calculate the difference between the band size and the cup measurement to get your cup size. If the amount you get when you calculate for your band size is equal to that of your cup size, after you have added five, then your cup size will be A.

-Up to one inch difference is cup size B
-Up to two inches is cup size C
-Up to three inches is cup size D
-Up to four inches is cup size DD
-Up to five inches is cup size E
-Up to six inches is cup size F
-Up to eight inches is cup size G

TAKE A QUICK QUIZ 

True&Co has a handy tool called "Fit Quiz" where you are asked several different questions regarding your breast shape, size and how your current bra fits you.  Once you reach the final question, you are directed to your very own virtual showroom. True&Co will show a list of their bras that they believe to be a good fit for you based on your quiz answers. 
Side note: If any of the bras in your showroom are found on True&Co's "We Made Too Much" page, you can save 40% off those bras using code TOOMUCH40 at checkout.  There will also be a tab on the left side of the screen that will give you the exact bra size(s) that matches your frame - this will certainly come in handy when going out to purchase a bra at your local retailer. 

Give the Fit Quiz a try and find the right bra size for you.

There you go. Three simple ways to finding out your bra size. 

Although the correct size is of utmost importance, there are a few other things you should know. As you try on different types of bras, make sure: 

• the area in between the two cups comes into contact, laying flat against your chest.  
• don't allow the straps to support your breasts unaided. 
• the bra should hold the whole breast in each cup with no bulging or spillage, as well as not having excess space in the front part of the cups. 
• the bra should rest evenly against the ribcage, with sufficient room to slip two fingers in at the back. Your breasts should be supported totally, and stay in place even if the straps are slipped off the shoulders.

Hopefully these tips will help you with finding a bra that fits giving your breasts the best support system possible.

Have you ever had a professional bra fitting?  Do you have any tips to finding a good bra? 





photo credit: View from a Window via photopin (license)

Ultimate Hair Tutorial: CW's Jane the Virgin Female Characters

Ultimate Hair Tutorial: CW's Jane the Virgin Female Characters

Today's article is dedicated to everyone who is a fan of  CW's Jane the Virgin.  If you don't know what this series is about, or if you have not had the time to watch it yet, you can get caught up on everything by visiting the CW website. 

A few months ago, in honor of the show's fall season finale (back in December 2014) on set stylists Michelle Rene Elam, Department Head Hair, and Tena Parker Baker, Key Hair, shared their backstage secrets for achieving the cast's signature hairstyles. 

Here's how to recreate the hairstyles of  the show's female characters: Jane, Petra, XO  and Rose. 

Gina Rodriguez / Jane by Michelle Rene Elam

Gina’s character Jane is very natural, busy, no fuss and full of life. So we keep her style true to that essence; alive and fun. She works a lot so her hair undergoes a bit of stress. 

To keep it healthy and top shape I use heat protectants, mostly White Sands Liquid Texture Firm Thermal Styling Spray and then Paul Mitchell Pro Tools Neuro Unclipped 1.25" Styling Cone to set her whimsical locks. She has a copious amount of hair, so I often flat iron the roots with my T3 Singlepass styling iron to keep it snug to her head. 

Maintaining her hair through the day requires different options depending on the humid or dry weather, how long the day of work is, and how many hair changes we have. I keep Moroccanoil treatment oil and White Sands Orchids Oil close by to tame any wildness and give that extra sheen. 

Some days Oribe Supershine Light Moisturizing Crème is needed when her hair is extra tired. I seal her with Aerogel Styling Spray or Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Medium. When she wears a ponytail, I use a wooden dye brush with holding spray to tame down any strong little guys popping out. Her hair is very particular of shampoos so whether traveling or home she carries it with her, Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo & Seaweed Bath Co. Balancing Argan Shampoo.

Yael Groblas / Petra by Michelle Rene Elam 

 

Yael’s character is very kept, represents money and all that it can buy, even though this is not always the whole truth (stay tuned for some upcoming flashbacks). 

Her hair is tender but very healthy; she is a pro at keeping on top of all that her hair needs to maintain health, making my job smoother. I use Living Proof Restore Target Repair Cream on her ends, then mist her hair all over with White Sands Liquid Texture Firm Thermal Styling Spray to protect and smooth during the blow dry while using a T3 anti-gravity 2.5" Barrel Ceramic Brush to create smooth volume. Her style is a specific mix of noir 1920’s & 21st Century mod glam. 

To create this style and help last all day, I set her using a 3/4 - 1” marcel iron angling it at 2:00/7:00 all the way around. A big bone comb and Mason Pearson brush keeps the flowing shape. 

On humid outdoor scenes I keep Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray handy and in heavy fog I even toss on a rain cap! Her flashbacks are fun as she gets to sport more natural shapes; longer and playful. We add real hair extensions or a halo design extension piece to help create these looks.

Andrea Navedo / Xo by Tena Parker Baker

Andrea's character is young at heart and just wants to have fun. Her hair likes to hug her beautiful face, however we want to see her jazzy eyes so there's a few tricks to achieve this. 

I use White Sands Liquid Texture Firm Thermal Styling Spray on wet hair. Using the T3 Tourmaline Hair Dryer, I aim the air around the hairline with a natural boar bristle brush and sweeping it away from her face. Then I continue smoothing her natural waves with the Anti-gravity 3" Barrel Ceramic Tourmaline Brush to keep her hair damage free and a glossy finish. 

Andrea’s swift flowing curls sweep away from her face using T3 body Single Pass Twirl 1.25" Iron, then Oribe Texture Spray to lift her roots. Her style is maintained throughout long days with White Sands Orchids Oil and Aerogel Styling Spray, keeping shine, shape, and soft hold along with a Mason Pearson brush forming the soft waves.

Bridget Regan / Rose by Tena Parker Baker

Bridget's character is the ultimate trophy wife, or so it seems; she's hiding behind many fascinating stories. 

Her natural red curly locks wow even us whom have seen it all. I spray each strand coating well with White Sands Liquid Texture Firm Thermal Styling Spray.

During the round brush blow dry, I use T3 Body Waver to work volume into her heavy luxurious hair. Set is designed with 1.75" Professional Iron then I polish it off with White Sands Orchids Oil for shine and humidity protection. 

Bridget's style has to be brushed frequently so using Aerogel Styling Spray holds it perfectly yet allows free flowing looks from many strokes of the brush.

Photo Credits: The CW  

Follow the hairstylists: 

Michelle Rene Elam: Department Head Hair - Twitter @Zesteforlife & Instagram zesteforlife

Tena Parker Baker: Key Hair - Twitter @IAMHAIRBYTENA & Instagram tornadotena

Now it's Your turn:  Which female character from CW's Jane the Virgin has your favorite hairstyle?  

Fashion Hack: What's Your Style of Sexy?

Fashion Hack: What's Your Style of Sexy? 

This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links. 

 

With Valentines Day two weeks away, it's either now or never.  The time has come to purchase that one piece of lingerie that will make February 14th - or any other day - a special occasion. 

Instead of giving you a long list of  lingerie recommendations (don't worry, there will be a future article on that coming soon) this time I want to not only make it fun, but super simple and stress-free.  I say "stress free" because with so many different lingerie options to select from , it can get a little over whelming. 

Not this time, though. 

Just in time for Valentine's Day you can take the "What's Your Style of Sexy" quiz featured at True&Co., to find the perfect lingerie to go with your alter ego.  All you have to do is answer a few fun questions and  True&Co. will show you suggested styles based on your quiz results.

Hey..I mentioned this was fun, simple and stress free, right?   I took the quiz and guess who my alter ego is?   Check it out:

Yaaasss! I love this character - she's ballsy, her demeanor oozes confidence and intelligence.

To go along with my new alter ego, Mrs. Smith, these are the style recommendations provided by True&Co:


Gramercy Plus


Tribeca


Christy


Honestly, I cannot pick which style of sexy is my favorite. I love all three styles - I'm purchasing all three this weekend. 

Now, it's your turn.  

Fashion Hack: What's Your Style of Sexy?  

Are you a Katniss, Carrie or Mrs. Smith?  To find out who your alter ego is head on over to True&Co. and take the quiz. 

After you get your quiz results (and after you've purchased your favorite lingerie** ;) ) take a minute to head over to the True&Co. blog - there's a chance for you to win a $2500 shopping spree just in time for Valentine's Day! 

**Shipping deadlines for Valentine's Day are as follows:

Regular Shipping Deadline: 02/04
Two Day Shipping Deadline: 02/10
Overnight Shipping Deadline: 02/14




PS.  Please don't forget to come back to this post and share with me who your sexy alter ego is...I'm dying to know!


photo credit: ohsarahrose via photopin cc

Fall Beauty Trends and Healthy Skin Tips using Neutrogena #NTGbeautifulInsideOut #Ad

This is a compensated campaign in collaboration with Latina Bloggers Connect and NEUTROGENA.

Fall Beauty: Smoke Signals by latinflavadesigns featuring Neutrogena

During these last few days of August, all I have been thinking about is how much fun transitioning into the upcoming Fall season is going to be. I truly love summertime and the heat, but there are two Fall beauty trends that I cannot wait to wear again in the next few weeks:

Classy Smokey Eyes -

I cannot help it. I am a die hard smokey eye fanatic. I cannot wait to wear a dark smoked out eyeliner. So, once the temperature gets a little cooler, I will be bringing out a few powder shadows and eye pencils in black, brown and dark purple.

TIP: Use both eyeshadow and eye pencils in similar shades to create a velvety look. Just dip an angled brush into the powder, then go over the line you created on your eyelids using the eye pencil. The final touch is to smudge out the color with a dry brush.

Dewey Pink Blush - 

Blush is one of those makeup products that once applied, it automatically brings life to your face. Wearing a flesh-toned pink blush looks more natural on the skin, especially during the crisp Fall weather. For me, the easiest way to get this “flushed” look, is by applying a cream blush in pink, followed by a swipe of  Neutrogena's Healthy Glow Blush & Bronzer Duo in Rosy Glow.

TIP: When using a cream or gel blush, apply a powder blush in a similar shade on top. This will prolong the wear of your blush for an all day romantic look.


I am sure that there will be more beauty trends that I will end up trying, but even before thinking about what makeup I will wearing, I always make sure that my skin care routine is helping my skin stay clear from breakouts.

In order to keep my skin (which is oily and acne prone) clear, I have been using Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash. This wash is gentle but very effective at deep cleaning pores while treating breakouts with every use. I tend to use this wash immediately after removing any dirt or makeup with Neutrogena's makeup remover cleansing towelettes.

TIP: Neutrogena's Oil Free Acne Wash contains salicylic acid, an ingredient needed for acne treatment. Although the formula is gentle for everyday use (morning/night), anyone who may be allergic to aspirin (such as myself) should limit their use to once every few days.

Right before going to bed, I always take a few minutes to apply an anti-aging serum or lotion. Neutrogena's Rapid Wrinkle Repair moisturizer is lightweight (will not clog your pores) yet helps remove the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The consistency is perfect – not too thick or too watery.

TIP: Make sure to apply your night time serum/moisturizer to your neck and chest area. The neck and chest area tend to show signs of aging before our faces do!

By the time morning arrives, my skin feels soft, supple and looks refreshed. After washing my skin, I am then ready to sit down and work on my makeup. On most days, I only need three products:

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Primer 
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Liquid makeup in natural beige 
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Brightening Eye Perfector in light.

TIP: The best aspect of these three face products is that each contain SPF. Most people are under the impression that SPF is only need in the summer months, but that is not true! You need to protect your skin from the sun every day! 

Once I have applied these three essentials, I am confident that my skin is radiant and ready for any type of beauty trend I choose to wear for that day, no matter what season we are in.

I hope you found this article helpful. A very special thank you to Latina Bloggers Connect and Neutrogena for supplying us with these amazing products! 


Now it's YOUR turn: Are there any Fall Beauty Trends you are excited to wear? Do You have any tips on keeping Your skin healthy during the seasons? Let us know in the comments!

Back to School : Beauty 101 : Tools of the Trade

The next few mini-posts are going to be to all the wonderful ladies who are getting ready for the new school year.

Going back to school usually means you will be spending time at the department stores shopping for supplies, stocking up on pencils, notebooks and paper..... buying new clothes, shoes and hair accessories.

Although you may have all the school essentials taken care of, today I want to help you refill your beauty supply kit with a few must have essentials that are sure to help you move forward onto the fall season.

The most important part of your beauty supply kit are going to be your key makeup tools. There are five "tools of the trade" you are going to need:

Back to School Beauty 101 - Tools of the Trade

1. Foundation Brush or Beauty Blender - these are key for getting flawless coverage. Tip: when you use a foundation brush, swirl the product in circles to avoid streaks.

2. Kabuki Brush - this is perfect for applying blush, bronzer, or powder.

3. Fan Brush - using a fan brush is ideal for applying a tiny bit of highlighter to the tops of your cheeks.

4. Eyelash Curler - look for a curler that has a flat "bite" so you can get as close to the lash line as possible. Crimp lashes three times: at roots, mid-eyelash and tips.

5. Eye-shadow Brush - try to look for a full brush with close-set brushes as this will help you apply color all over the lid. A second brush you will need for eye-shadow is a blending brush, one that is preferably domes shape.

Special Bonus: 
Get the Precision Grip Teardrop Blender {here} for under $5! 
All the brushes in the pic-collage can be purchased by clicking the Sigma Banner below - Don't forget to use the coupon code: B2S2013 for your discount! 

Now it's YOUR turn: What are Your top favorite "tools of the trade"? Let us know in the comments!

Stay tuned for more Back to School : Beauty 101: Tips coming this week. Next we are sharing our tips to getting a better shave!

Summer Lookbook - Casual/Date Night Outfits and Giveaway

Happy July 1st, Dolls!

Can you believe that a new month has arrived? I have been asking myself all day today, "Where the heck did June run off to?" Hopefully I am not the only person who feels this way, right?

Well, since it is the start of a new month, how about we begin July with a Summer Lookbook and Giveaway?

A few weeks ago, I received a special gift from my dear friend Michelle Herscu, owner of Apricot Collection, a unique online fashion brand dedicated to women.  For the past several months, I have been working with Michelle as a Fashion and Beauty Brand Ambassador.  I have had the pleasure of writing a few articles focusing on the different fashion pieces she has in her collection. One of the pieces Michelle has is the Bold Tangerine Skirt by Pink Martini.

When Michelle sent me this skirt to review for you, I immediately thought of creating two simple yet put together outfits - a casual everyday outfit and a second look that would be perfect for a summer date night outing.

The Bold Tangerine Skirt is a perfect summer staple - the fabric is lightweight and breathable. Please note that the skirt, although it is long in length, if you are taller than me (over 4 ft 9 in) then the skirt may be a tad shorter ;)

Take a look at the Summer Lookbook: Casual/Date Night Outfit Clip we put together for You:





Casual Day Outfit::

• Bobi Light Weight Jersey V-Neck Tee
• Bold Tangerine Skirt by Pink Martini 
• London Rebel Satin Flat Sandals - (Sorry you can't see them ;( I am 4'9 and the skirt covers my feet!!) 

All my Accessories are from RocksBox:
Stilla Pendant in Gold
Ngunge Ithathatu Bangle

Wondering what RocksBox is all about? It is a fabulous company that offers their members a subscription where you can receive three pieces of jewelry to try out for up to 60 days! During that time you can either buy the items or send them back and get another new box sent to you with three new pieces! Nice, right??

To check out RocksBox, click HERE.

Date Night Outfit:

• I did not remember exactly where I bought the black sequin tee from (yes, I have had it that long!) but I did find one that could work with this skirt, by C&C California
• Bold Tangerine Skirt by Pink Martini
• Straight Up Sassy Heels - These are sold at my e boutique. You can find them listed under "Fashion" on our SHOP page HERE. 

Now, let's move on to the best part of today's post: The Giveaway Details!

This Giveaway event begins today, July 1, 2013 and ends on July 15, 2013 at 11:59 pm EST.

Enter the Summer Lookbook Giveaway here:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good Luck!! Tell your friends so they can enter too!!

Disclosure: This lookbook and giveaway are being sponsored by Apricot Collection. Please visit their fashion website here - https://apricot-collection.com

Bridal Season 2013 - Apricot Collection - Wedding Guest Edition

It's mid-June - the weather is getting warmer and the nights are lasting longer. Do you know what this means? It means that Bridal Season 2013 has arrived!! That's right, if you have not noticed yet, but Bridal Season is in full effect with outdoor and evening wedding ceremonies.

Are you ready?

Whether you are on the official guest list, or just someone's "plus one", it is of the utmost importance to know what kind of outfit to wear to a summer wedding.

The following three beauty-sets were designed for that same purpose: To give you an idea of three staple outfits that will certainly help you to standout in style.

Beauty-Set #1 - Little Navy Dress

Apricot Collection - Wedding Guest Special
with
Stella & Dot, Moyna, Badgley Mischka

Papillon Hot Navy Dress {Apricot-Collection}
Stella & Dot Flower Pendant {Stella & Dot}
Stella & Dot Flower Studs {Stella & Dot}
Badgley Mischka Navy Suede Pumps
Moyna Clutch


Beauty-Set #2 - Coral Bloom Dress

Apricot Collection Wedding Guest Special
with
Stella & Dot, Tasha, Corso Como

Nougat London Coral Bloom Dress {Apricot-Collection}
Stella & Dot Fiona Earrings {Stella & Dot}
Stella & Dot Bello Bangle {Stella & Dot}
Corso Como Coral Pumps
Tasha "Pearlier Box" Clutch


Beauty-Set #3 - Belted Safari Dress

Apricot Collection - Wedding Guest Edition
with
Aldo, BCBGMAXAZRIA, Stella & Dot

Papillon Belted Safari Dress {Apricot-Collection}
Stella & Dot Eden Studs {Stella & Dot}
Stella & Dot Sidewinder Ring {Stella & Dot}
BCBGMAXAZRIA - Estie High-Heel Sandal
Aldo - Bovian Clutch 



Now it's Your turn:  Do you have any weddings to attend this bridal season?  Which beauty set did you like the most?  Let us know in the comments! 


PS. Stay tuned for more bridal related posts coming this week! We will also have a LookBook and fashion giveaway from our sponsors Apricot-Collection!  Please come back as there will be tons of info updated on the blog during the next few days!! 

Four Neutral Makeup Products Every Woman Needs

This post is sponsored by Starlooks

One of the worst things that can happen to any woman is having their makeup fade during the course of the day. Many of us have had this happen: You leave the house feeling confident and beautiful knowing that you applied your makeup perfectly. Then by the time your lunch hour comes around, you take a look at yourself in the mirror, noticing your t-zone is oily, the mascara you applied on your lower lashes has smudged, not to mention that your lipstick has completely disappeared leaving you with a ring of lip-liner around your lips ....YIKES!

NO ONE should allow that to happen...E.V.E.R.

So, to avoid this type of beauty faux-pas from occurring, make a point of using these four neutral makeup products every woman needs:

1. Translucent/Nude Mineralized Powder

Applying a translucent white powder over your t-zone right after you have applied your foundation and concealer is essential. The loose powder will help combat shine by mattifying the skin. Another reason why a translucent loose powder is recommended is because it is completely transparent, invisible. Every woman can use this loose powder no matter how fair or how dark your skin may be. Lastly, a mineralized loose powder will create a velvet finish on your skin, allowing your makeup to appear flawless and most importantly, natural.

2. Sensation Mascara Primer

Using a mascara base or primer helps give your eyelashes a boost. Applying this primer helps sooth and moisturize your lashes in addition to helping improve lash growth. Most importantly, a high quality mascara primer will provide a smooth, clump free base for long-wear mascara application holding the mascara in place ON your lashes, NOT your skin.

Please Note: The link for the Sensation Mascara Primer is for the April Starbox, not the individual item. The Mascara Primer's cost is $15. 

3. SPF Lip Balm

Sporting crusty flaky lips should be considered a capitol sin. The ultimate way in avoiding this all together is by using a clear lip balm that contains SPF. Regular application of lip balm {morning and night} will help keep your lips delicate skin hydrated, moisturized, and supple. Applying a coat of lip balm also serves as a primer for your lipstick and lip-gloss.

Please Note: The link for the SPF Lip Balm is for the April Starbox, not the individual item. The SPF Lip Balm cost is $5. 

4. Tender Gloss Lipstick

Once you have coated your lips with lip balm, the next step is lipstick. One recommendation would be to use the Tender Gloss Lipstick in Basic. This shade is practically transparent with a soft nude hue which comes in handy when you want to sport a nude lip. Having this type of lipstick is also great when applied on top of bold colored lip shades, matte lipsticks and lip stains.


There you have it. Four neutral makeup products every woman needs to have in her makeup collection or portable makeup bag. Trust me, once you get comfortable and accustomed to taking a few extra minutes to learn how to properly use these four neutral makeup products, you will see A.M.A.Z.I.N.G. results!

Now it's YOUR turn: Taking a closer look at this list, is there any makeup product you feel should be added to this post? Let us know in the comments!


Disclosure: These makeup products were in the April Starbox from Starlooks. As an affiliate I receive their monthly beauty box to test and review. Please note: Links attached to the products listed are NOT affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase from this site, I DO NOT get a commission. As always, all photos and opinions stated in this site are 100% my own. For a more detailed disclosure policy, please refer to our Disclosure Page listed at the top of this post. Thank you!

How To Style the Black & White Trend for Spring 2013

TGIF Dolls!

It's has certainly been "one of those weeks" where the days have literally meshed together in a total blur. In my humble opinion, when this happens the only activity that seems to help bring back the motivation is indulging in a little bit of retail therapy.

Today's fashion beauty set is inspired by one of the iconic trends seen on the runways during Fashion Week: Black & White Trend.

Girl of the Moment: Black & White Trend
with
Stella & Dot, OXMO , Nella - Bella

Item pricing and Where to buy:

Tetiana K Back Bow Top - Back Bow | Apricot Collection - $49 {new arrival}
OXMO Polka Dot Dress - Polka Dot | Apricot Collection - $17 {sale}
OXMO - Little Black Dress | Apricot Collection - $19 {sale}

Accessories:

Stella & Dot - Tempest Necklace | Stella & Dot - $208
Stella & Dot - Fiona Bib Necklace | Stella & Dot - $128
Nella - Bella - Nu Retro Black | Apricot Collection - $125


To see the entire fashion post covering this same beauty set  for our partners at Apricot Collection, please visit their blog {HERE}


Now it's YOUR turn:  What are some ways you like to unwind from having a hectic work week?  Let us know in the comments! 

Get the Look: Beautiful Hair with Pantene Pro-V

This week's "get the look" featured post is going to be all about getting shiny beautiful hair. Last Wednesday, February 20th, some of the top Latino artists in entertainment gathered at the American Airlines Arena in downtown Miami, Florida for Univision’s annual prestige awards, Premio Lo Nuestro. Among these stars was the beautiful actress/singer Maite Perroni, advocate of Pantene’s Beautiful Lengths program.

Maite’s beauty glam look was created by Gabriel Samra, celebrity hairstylist for Pantene. Gabriel used the New Pantene Pro-V Stylers Collection. So as you can imagine by looking at the photo below, as soon as Maite walked the red carpet she instantly became a global trending topic on Twitter.

Does Maite not have the most beautiful healthy looking hair? I personally love it - especially the length of her hair. I cannot wait until my hair grows to this length; but enough about me ....

Let's take a look at how we can achieve Maite Perroni’s Red Carpet Look by following the three steps that celebrity hairstylist Gabriel Samra did to get this look:

1. Step 1: To start the transformation, Gabriel blow-dried Maite's hair using a big round brush to straighten from root to tip.

2. Step 2: Once dry, her hair was then separated in top and bottom layers, clipping the top layer to keep it out of the way. Then, the bottom layer was sectioned in 2-inch sections and sprayed with Pantene Pro-V Stylers Heat Protection Spray to protect the hair from heat damage and enhance its shine. Using a flat iron, Gabriel straightened each section from root to tip, taking 3-5 seconds per section. Once the bottom layer of her hair was completely flattened, he repeated the above steps to the top layer.

3. Step 3: For the finishing touches, a comb was used to smooth and put hair in desired place. Finally, Gabriel sprayed Pantene Pro-V Stylers Flexible Hold Hair Spray throughout Maite's long hair because its flexible hold maintains hair’s natural movement and makes the look seem effortless!

This seems simple enough, doesn't it? All you need to have are a few essential tools {blow dryer, flat iron, big round brush, comb, Pantene Pro-V Stylers Heat Protection Spay and Pantene Pro-V Stylers Flexible Hold Hair Spray} and you can create this same Red Carpet Look everyday.

For additional beauty tips, please visit Pantene {here} or follow them on Twitter @PANTENE and use hash-tag #WantThatHair

Now it's YOUR turn: Have you tried any of Pantene's New Pro-V hair products? Let us know in the comments!

Don't miss out on any "Get the Look" beauty posts! 
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Tick, Tock...It's Put on your Shoes Day!

                                                                             

Do you know what day today is?  Believe it or not, today is National Put on your Shoes Day! That's right today we are celebrating one of my favorite accessories: SHOES.

Most women (especially those of us who are under 5 ft tall) will admit that if there is one type of shoe every woman needs in her wardrobe would be a great fitting pair of stilettos. The stiletto has always been a confident shoe; lending a measured contour and sleek sexiness to any ensemble. Which is one of the main reasons why every woman should own a pair.

One of my new favorite stilettos are known as the CLOX

In my opinion, the CLOX stiletto can be considered as high fashion and extremely trendy.

According to its designer, Mia Maric, this stiletto, "tells a story of movement, merging time and rhythm to the footsteps of the ambitious and socially mobile woman of today. As beautiful as all women are, most women balance their time, their space, between life as the rock of their home, as a lover and friend, and a colleague outside of the home in our fast-moving society. This just happens to be a science, an art, a statement that is a woman's alone. And as such, the CLOX Stiletto holds strong, yet with poise and class, tracking time perfectly as its owner wears the stiletto moving about her day to create an extra moment for herself, in style."

How is that for some stiletto inspiration?  Although the CLOX was designed with a certain view point, I believe that every women's favorite shoe (or accessory) helps her make that exact statement:  That she is strong, poised and most important classy!


Now it's Your turn: Would you wear these stilettos? Does the designer's vision resignate with you? Please share your thought with us in the comments - we love hearing from you! 

Starbox by Starlooks - Makeup Program You Won't Believe!

Okay Beauties, with a show of hands, who here loves getting makeup delivered to their doorstep? *Raises both hands while jumping up and down*....

One of the easiest (and affordable) ways of receiving and trying out new makeup samples is by joining beauty sites that offer their members a monthly subscription. I am sure, that most of you a quite familiar with this new concept as there are plenty of companies that have this service.

Today's post is about one makeup company - Starlooks - that has so graciously provided us with their November 2012 Starbox. The Starlooks November 2012 Starbox arrived in this adorable cheetah print box wrapped in a gold bow.

Inside the Starbox, were a few things other than the eye makeup which we will be talking about further in the post. There was an introductory card that explains exactly what products the monthly box contains along with suggestions on how to apply the eye makeup. For those who like to see the makeup in photos, Starlooks  has a LOOKSBOOK available on their website where the monthly makeup is featured in different photos applied on models, allowing you to see exactly how the makeup can be worn.

This month's eye-shadow quad is being referred as the "prime look". A prime look consists of shades that can be worn by ALL skin-tones as a base for the overall eye makeup look. The colors in this quad are the following (beginning at the top left corner going across)

Hint of rust - Midnight in Mongolia

Coffee bean - Void Echo

Of the four shades, which are all in the brown family (except for Void Echo) the only matte color is Coffee Bean. The other three can be considered as metallic or glittery shades.

Beginning with the Hint of Rust, this color can be applied as the highlighting shade under the brow. Followed by applying Midnight in Mongolia over the lid; Then apply Coffee Bean directly into the crease and blending with the other two shades.

To complete the eye look, using an angled brush apply a thin layer of Void Echo along the upper and lower lash lines...and viola!

No eye makeup look would be complete without the application of mascara, right? That's where the 3-in-1 Mascara Guide/Applicator comes handy. By using this as a guide, you will always avoid getting little flakes of mascara on your skin! Love that!

What does a girl need to fully complete her makeup look? Lipstick, of course!

But not just any ordinary lipstick... A tender gloss lipstick in pearl. This lipstick was in the exact shade of my lips so this color can easily be used to create a nude lip. Tip: If you are rocking a nude lip (like this pearl color) remember to wear a dramatic smokey eye for added color.

My findings:

The eye-shadows are in the same shade family which can be useful in applying single shades all over the lid or applying two shades together to create a two-toned smokey eye. These are great for everyday wear.

Using the 3-in-1 mascara tool as a guide is pure genius! It's extremely effective at keeping the mascara wand on the eyelashes with no flakes falling under your lash lines.

The lipstick/gloss glides on very smooth with a fair amount of shine and coverage. The pearl shade provides a nice silky glossy finish - a perfect nude lip!

If I were to rate the Starlooks November 2012 Starbox - with a rating of 1 to 5 (1 being highly dislike and 5 being extremely satisfied) I would have to say that I rate this box a solid 5 - Yes, I am completely satisfied with these products! Which is one reason why I want to recommend Starlooks to all of our wonderful Beauties.

However, there is another HUGE reason why you should look into joining Starlooks now. There is a special offer during the month of December: There is going to be a featured product: a $99
Fifteen Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette for ONLY $15!

That's an amazing value, isn't? The Fifteen Shade Pro Eye Shadow Palette can be for you or given to another Beautie as a Gift! Pre-orders for the December Starbox subscriptions are now being offered. To reserve your December Starbox simply go to Starlooks and subscribe. Or if you would like to reserve a December gift subscription - call 1 (949) 679 0679.

For more detailed information about Starlooks Starbox subscription program - please visit their website / twitter / facebook page / youtube channel 

Now it's your turn: What are your thoughts about Starlooks makeup subscription program?  Have you reserved your December 2012 Starbox yet? 

Disclosure: The November 2012 Starbox was provided as a complimentary box for this review post. All opinions and photos are 100% mine. 

Getting Your Home-Office Organized with Dotmine

Running a business from home has its benefits - that's a given. However, working from home can also have major setbacks; one of them being structure and organization. Without the structure of an office outside of our homes, it is easy to scatter anything work related all over the house. However, having an organized home office will make for a faster and more pleasant workday.

Here are a few ideas to get you and your home office organized:

1. Once you have your designated office space, you should have all of the office essentials - your computer, paper, files, pens, ect. - within reach. Doing so avoids wasting time having to walk around the house looking for the things you need; it will be much easier having all your papers and files in one central location.

2. Now that everything has its place, create an "in-box" and an "out-box". These boxes should be used for the projects that need your immediate attention; using the out-box for all of your completed work. At the end of the day, empty out the out-box by placing it in files or shredding it, if it's something that is no longer needed. The inbox should have the work that you need to complete the very next morning.

3. Get yourself a detailed daily planner.   Having a user friendly day planner is a MUST have for everyone - even if you work outside of the home.  My recommendation : a dotmine day planner.

Not only are they stylish but these planners have everything you need to help you be more organized:

• A seventeen month planner (The one I have covers August '12 - December 2013)
• Four Master Scheduling Planning Guides for Fall/Winter/Spring/Summer Seasons - This worksheet can help you coordinate your weekly schedule (meetings, special events, or project deadlines).
• Each month has its own calendar so you can easily keep track of the days during the month.
• In between each monthly calendar, there are individual weekly schedules.

These are my favorites because the weekly plan can actually be torn out of the planner itself which makes it easier to carry along with you if needed, especially if you have a few meetings scheduled for the same day.

• On the side of the weekly planner there is also a shaded margin designated for making lists - this can be used to make a list that outlines your workday. Having this to-do list will bridge the gap between your motivation and productivity - in other words, seeing what you need to get done will motivated you to finish everything on that list. As if that were not enough, at the very bottom of each weekly schedule there is a motivational quote to help guide you through the week. I love that!
• In the rear portion of the planner, you will have a "notes" page as well as a few pages available to list important contact information for clients, teachers, customers, schools, family members, ect. Having this section included in the planner certainly makes it easier to find someone's contact number right when you need it.
• Included with the dotmine daily planner is a sheet of small stickers.

These stickers have cute little figures on them for birthdays, date nights, games, recitals, bill due dates, house/car repair dates, vacations, anniversaries and appointments.

These are great visual reminders to have posted throughout the planner. You can place each sticker on their particular date and just by looking at the sticker, you're immediately reminded of what needs to be completed that day.

4. While having a detailed planner (such as this one from dotmine) will keep you organized, it is also important to allow yourself a little "breathing" room during the day - this will help you in those moments when unexpected circumstances arise. Your "breathing" room does not need to last for long periods of time, but having this room to breathe will allow you to adjust your day accordingly without loosing your cool!

Following these four steps will help you maintain the structure and organization you need to run a highly successful business without having to leave your home.

To see the wide variety of daily planners offered by dotmine, please visit their website / pinterest / facebook / twitter

Now it's Your Turn: How do you like to keep your work office organized? Which dotmine planner do you like best? 

Please let us know your thoughts in the comments - We enjoy hearing from you!

Disclosure: I received the above products through Sublime Media Connection in exchange for an honest review. In no way was I asked to give a positive review. All photos and opinions stated in this article are 100% my very own.