January 2013 Starlooks Starbox Review

Joyful Thursday Dolls!

Is everyone looking forward to getting this weekend started? Here in the offices we are excited about several things that we have in the works, but today is going to be dedicated to sharing Starlooks first StarBox of 2013.

Exactly two months ago, we started working with Starlooks by receiving and reviewing their monthly beauty subscription boxes. . If you are not familiar allow me to explain: Starlooks is a company that offers their members a monthly box subscription, named Starbox. Included inside the Starbox are different cosmetic products {ie..eye-shadows, lipstick, mascara, makeup tools, ect.}. To get a better idea of what the makeup looks like, please take a peek at our post on the November 2012 Starbox {HERE} and December 2012 Starbox {HERE}.

Now that you have an idea where this post is going, let's dive into it, shall we?

The January 2013 Starbox is all about achieving beautiful trendy eye looks. In order to get sexy seductive eyes, you need a few things: easy gliding eye liners and a good quality dome brush. This month's box had three (3) items that fit this description to the "tee".

This 858 Dome Brush is 100% pure, cruelty free pony hair which is extremely soft to the touch. Having a Dome Brush like this one, makes picking up eye-shadow product very easy as well as applying the shadow onto your lids. Another method of using this dome brush is by creating a "cut crease" using a darker shade of color. 

Next, we have the basic of the basic: a Brown Eye Liner Pencil. The eye pencil applies very smoothly with a creamy finish. The color is a deep chocolate brown that works well with creating your basic smokey eye. The eye liner pencil is smudge proof and can be used in both upper and lower waterlines creating depth to your overall eye look.

The third eye product is my favorite so far! It is called Diamondline Eye Liner in "Fancy". The reason why this eye pencil became my instant favorite is not only due to the color {which is a sparkly emerald} but because it is ultra smooth and creamy. Applying the liner can be done in one single stroke making it perfect for everyone to use it. Other than the amazing brightness in color, the eye liner is waterproof - SCORE! Another great feature is its versatility: it can be applied as a liner {on either top or bottom of eye}, it can also be applied to the entire lid as an eye-shadow {which was the first look I did} as a single color, or can also be applied as a base color combining it with other shades. The emerald color would look amazing with shades of brown on the lid...

Wearing a gorgeous eye look can certainly be extremely flattering, but there is always room for "something else"....

The Starlooks Blush Compact in Cuty Peach is the ideal shade to adding a warm Spring glow to the cheeks. The blush is very color saturated with gold pearlecense which adds a touch of highlight to your cheek bone. I recommend using a stipple brush when applying this blush to the cheeks - due to the high pigment a little tap of color goes a very long way.

The last item that was included in this box was a complete surprise....

This Emerald beaded bracelet by Abby Rose Design is simply adorable. Each piece of jewelry created at  Abby Rose Designs is handmade. What caught my attention about the bracelet was that there is no clasp attached to the ends - you simply put it on your wrist, gently squeeze it closed and that's it! You have a simple yet elegant piece of arm candy!

If you were wondering about the over all price point of the January Starbox, it's total value is $63. However, if you are a subscriber the box will cost you $15!

Today I only showed you one way of wearing the Diamondline Eye Liner only because we have been experiencing dreary dark weather here in Columbus which means that taking
high quality makeup photos has been quite challenging! But, do not worry. We are currently working on this and will be updating the blog with more makeup photos using these Starlook products - So please stay tuned for more!

Until then, to take a closer look at Starlooks and what they have to offer, please feel free to check them out on facebook / youtube / twitter and their website.

To see other bracelets and jewelry created by Abby Rose Designs, please visit their shop on Etsy {HERE} If you find a piece you like, use coupon code STARLOOKS at checkout for FREE shipping on your order! 

Now it's YOUR turn:   Are there any specific makeup looks you would like to see in our upcoming second Starlooks post?     If so, please let us know in the comments!

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Disclosure: We received a complimentary January 2013 Starbox for the purpose of this review. All photos and comments are 100% my very own. In addition, we have entered into a new partnership agreement with Starlooks where we will be continuing to feature a review on their monthly Starbox subscription. For a more detailed disclosure policy for this blog, please take a moment to read all the details on our Disclosure page.

Is our society Killing the Kiss? {VIDEO}

photo credit: pixmac

Let me ask you a serious question: Do you have a preference when it comes to men and their facial hair? Do you like a clean shaven look or a man with stubble on his jawline? Even more personal yet, do you like to kiss a man with facial hair?

In my opinion, I would have to say I enjoy kissing both ways. My dear husband, Mr. Man usually wears a very thin beard which is always nicely trimmed and "out of the way", so to speak. Now on the other hand, if he has been a little on the ornery side, he will surprise me by shaving it completely off. Why? Well, because he knows very well that if I see him with no facial hair my heart just melts!

The reason why I am sharing this information with you is because of an very interesting {and quite amusing} documentary put together by Gillette. Yes, we are all familiar with Gillette razors and how amazingly effective their razors are, but they have taken the issue of facial hair and kissing to a an entire new level.

Check out the short video below: "Are We Killing The Kiss?" - The Documentary

After watching all the compelling information provided in Gillette's documentary, the question still remains: Is our society killing the KISS by making the "scruffy lazy look" such a hot trend? What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments!

PS. For more fun information please visit Gillette's Kiss and Tell website {HERE}

Get the Look: Covergirl Glam Makeup worn by Sofia Vergara

Did you watch the SAG Awards this past Sunday? I was not able to watch the entire award ceremony, however I did catch pieces here and there. As you can imagine I was very happy to see that Modern Family won for Best Comedy. The show has so many talented actors, how could they not win?

As if you have not noticed yet, Modern Family is one of my favorite TV shows. Trust me, in order for me to consider a show to be a "favorite" entails a lot! I am not the TV watching type of person. I am a bookworm by nature, however, every once in a blue moon I will make an appearance in the family room by sitting next to Mr. Man and Lil Diva.

Now let's get back to the SAG Awards, shall we?

Not only did Modern Family win an award, but Sofia Vergara also won Best Beauty. Did you see the stunning white Donna Karan gown she was wearing? Gasp! And how about her COVERGIRL glam makeup look? I have two words to describe Sofia - Simply Flawless!

Makeup artist, Kayleen McAdams, shares how she applied Sofia's COVERGIRL glam makeup look step by step:

· Quote: “I wanted to do something fresh and new on Sofia. Her white dress gave me a bare canvas for her face, and I was able to bring an element of color with a purple eye shadow. We have never done a bright color shadow for an award show so this was our first!”

1. I started by applying COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation in Classic Tan (#860) all over Sofia’s face, and then used COVERGIRL + Olay Pressed Powder in Medium along her T-Zone to set the product so it would last all night.

2. I then applied Cheekers Blush is Classic Pink to make her look bright and fresh.

3. With the eyes, I applied SmokyShadowBlast in Purple Plume all over the lid and then smudged Queen Collection Vivid Impact Eyeliner in Cabernet all along her top and bottom lashes.

4. I finished the look with three coats of Very Black Clump Crusher by LashBlast Mascara.

5. On the lips, I applied LipPerfection Lipliner in Beloved over the entire lip and then topped with the LipPerfection Jumbo Gloss Balm in Rose Twist to give a hint of glossy sheen.


All you need are a few essential COVERGIRL makeup products and you too can get the COVERGIRL Glam Look for your next special night out.

By the way, have you tried the NEW LipPerfection Jumbo Gloss Balm yet?  I haven't yet, but I am very excited to get one or two, on my next shopping trip. The gloss comes in 16 different shades and are fortified with shea and mango butters {ingredients that are crucial for taking care of our lips during these cold winter months} making these glosses a must have makeup item, right?  

Now it's YOUR turn:  Have you joined the COVERGIRL online community?  Find them here: 
facebook / twitter / youtube / instagram/ pinterest/ and COMING SOON: #COVERGIRLbus (to a city near you!) 


Disclosure: The links included in this press release are NOT affiliate links. These are only used for the purpose of showing our readers the correct makeup product used by the makeup artist to "get this look". 

Getting Healthy Skin is not Impossible

Have you ever felt self-conscious about your skin? Do you find yourself comparing your skin with other women, thinking that their skin appearance is better than your own?

If your answer was yes, please do not feel ashamed - I often find myself doing this exact same thing! However, this habit can be changed. How? The easiest way is to first learn how to take care of your skin. Yes, most of us have a skin care regimen, but are we really taking good care of our skin? or are we just applying skin products hoping for the best results?

The good news is, obtaining youthful skin can be achieved. To find out more on this subject, please take a look at an article I wrote for the Lovely Pink Diva : Healthy Skin Care - 3 Easy Steps ....{HERE}

Want to read more about skin care tips? Take a look at these three related posts:

Take Care of your skin this winter
The Powers of adding a Exfoliating Cleanser to your Skin Care Routine
Get rid of Tired Puffy Eyes in Two Steps


Now it's YOUR turn: How do you take care of your skin? Let us know in the comments!

PS. Don't forget! Valentines Day is a little over 2 weeks away! Get your Spice Box before then! {Watch this VIDEO}

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Fearless Friday - Our first Video Unveiling!

Happy TGIF and Fearless Friday Dolls!

Speaking of fearless Friday, today we are sharing our first video review with you. Think of it as a Part Two of our Spice Box post review we shared a few weeks ago. The entire post can be found {here}.

Our editing team thought that we should give you an inside view of all the samples and products that were sent in December's 2012 Premium Spice Box so you to get a closer look at everything Spicy Subscriptions offers their members via the spice box subscriptions service.

I hope you enjoy the video and find it suitable to share with your friends!

PS. Don't forget! - Subscribe to get your very own Premium Spice Box at the low cost offered by Spicy Subscriptions right in time for Valentines Day.  {HERE}  Use CODE {latinflavadesigns} for an EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL BONUS that will be added to your Spice Box!!
Hope you all enjoy your Friday and Have a FAB weekend!

xoxoxo,
Mia

Take Care of Your Skin This Winter

As we continue moving forward through this dreadfully cold winter season, there is one part of our bodies that needs a little extra tender loving care: Our Skin.

Dry, itchy skin affects more than 80 percent of women and can be most prevalent during the cold winter months - when humidity and temperature drop - making skin particularly vulnerable to dryness and cracking.

photo credit: freedigitalphotos.net

It can happen to the best of us but with a few basic "know-hows" dry flaky winter skin can easily be prevented. If you have a problem with dry skin, consider the following:

* What personal care products do you use?  Sensitivity to fragrances and dyes commonly found in soaps, lotions and even deodorants can be a frequent cause of skin irritation. Look for personal care products specially formulated for sensitive skin that are hypoallergenic and free of dyes and perfumes.

* Make the switch. As the temperature dips, your skin craves more moisture. Remember to replace lightweight summer lotion with lotions that have a higher concentration of emollients (lipids), which help skin seal in and retain moisture.

A good daily facial moisturizer to use is Olay CC Cream - Total Effects Tone Correcting Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15.  To moisturize the rest of your body, I recommend using Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion.

* Get vapor relief. Cranking up the thermostat in winter creates more dry heat, which can leave skin parched and lead to itchiness. Use a vaporizer, which produces hot steam, or humidifier, which produces cool mist, to add moisture to the air.

I recommend using a smaller sized vaporizer that can easily be placed next to the bed during the night, such as this one from Sunbeam - Sunbeam 1388-800-001 Sunbeam 1388-800 Warm Steam Vaporizer.

An important detail to keep in mind when using any type of vaporizer or humidifier, is to thoroughly clean and disinfect the entire unit regularly to prevent harmful particles from building up. This is especially important for people with mold allergies.

* Keep it cool. Chilly winters may make a long hot shower or bath sound enticing, but hot water can actually wash away skin's natural oils, leaving it extra dry and itchy. Instead, take warm showers and pat skin dry. To lock in moisture, apply body lotions containing ingredients like petrolatum and glycerin which work to keep skin hydrated.


Now it's YOUR turn:   How do you like to take care of your skin during the winter months?   Do you have any favorite lotions you like using?   Let us know in the comments!

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10 Commandments of Blush - Beauty Infographic

It has been a few weeks since there was a "wordless-Wednesday" beauty related post, so we have decided to share this beauty infographic with you today.

What beauty topic are we discussing? The 10 Commandments of Blush.

Applying blush can certainly take your makeup look to the next level - no doubt about it. However, as easy as doing this step may seem, there are a few important details that you need to keep in mind BEFORE application. Let's take a closer look at these 10 commandments to find out more, shall we?

Source: styleunited.com via Mia on Pinterest

Now we know which steps are crucial when applying blush and achieving that "rosy glow" we all desire to have.

If you enjoyed this beauty infographic, take a look these two:

10 Commandments of Foundation
10 Commandments of Lipstick

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Now it's YOUR turn: How do you like to apply your blush? Do you have any tips to share? Let us know in the comments!  

Sofia Vergara looks easy, breezy, beautiful at Golden Globes 2013

Were you among the millions watching the 70^th Annual Golden Globe Awards?  Was there a favorite Celebrity "look" that made it onto your Get the Look list for 2013? 

This year, my top #1 Celebrity "look" is Latina Covergirl, Sofia Vergara. It seems to be that Sofia's style and elegance just gets better with each new Awards Ceremony.  This past Sunday during The 70^th Annual Golden Globe Awards, her overall makeup look was completely flawless.  

{photo credit: courtesy of P&G/COVERGIRL (Getty)}

Sofia was nominated for Best Actress in a TV Comedy Series and her show ‘Modern Family’ was also nominated for Best TV Comedy Series.  Sofia is wearing an up-and-coming designer and is bedazzled in Lorraine Schwartz jewelry, and was accompanied on the red carpet by her son Manolo, owner of Nuevon on YouTube.


Here is the inside scoop from Kayleen McAdams on how to create Sofia Vergara’s Golden Globes 2013 Look: 

According to the Make Up Artist, she "wanted to do a brick red lip on Sofia – something a little deeper and more interesting than a classic red lip. Old Hollywood glamour is a trend for awards season, so Sofia and I did our own twist on the look!”

Step #1 - MUA  applied Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation in Classic Tan (#860) all over and set it with COVERGIRL + Olay Pressed Powder in Medium.

Step#2 - MUA then applied a light dusting of Queen Collection Natural Hue Bronzer in Brown Bronze and Cheekers Blush in Sierra Sands, a warm blush, on the apples of the cheeks.

Step #3 - MUA wanted to give Sofia's eye a wash of shadow, so she  used only one shade, Eye Enhancers 1-Kit in Brown Smolder, and softly blended it over the entire lid.

Step #4 - MUA  applied LiqulineBlast Liner in Brown Blaze along the bottom lash line and extended it past the lash line to give a slight wing.

Step #5 - To finish off the look  three coats of Clump Crusher by LashBlast Mascara were applies on top to really emphasize the lashes, followed by one coat on the bottom.

Step #6 - On the lips, MUA applied Queen Collection Lipcolor in Into the Red straight from the tube, blotted and added another coat to make it last all night.  The MUA gave Sofia the lipstick to keep in her clutch so she could touch herself up throughout the night.

To see each COVERGIRL product used to create Sofia's Golden Globe Makeup Look, please click on the product name to be directed to the product's detail page. 

For more inside scoop on all things COVERGIRL, make sure to LIKE  FACEBOOK PAGE  / FOLLOW TWITTER and PIN on  PINTEREST

Now it's YOUR turn:  What's your opinion on Sofia Vergara's Golden Globe Makeup Look? Do you think you can follow these easy six steps to recreate this look?  Yes - No- Maybe ?   Let us know it the comments! 

Girls Night Out with Primp & Prep by Hpnotiq

This post brought to you by Hpnotiq. All opinions are 100% mine.

When was the last time you made preparations for a "girl's night out?"  Has it been a while?  If I were to answer this question, I would have to say that it has been a very long time. It's true! One of the last times I actually had a girls night out was during the winter season of 2009. I know I should be ashamed, shouldn't I? But I am not!

The way I see it, planning a girl's night out has changed so much since then. Here's the reason why I say that. We all have heard of Hpnotiq correct?

 

Of course, we have! Now, let me ask you this: Have you heard about their new Primp & Prep section on their website?  

In a nutshell, Primp & Prep  is dedicated to get you and your friends prepared for a night full of excitement and good times.  I like to think of it as a fun outlet to let loose a little while listening to dance music from their Pandora music player. Everyone can let their hair down music up!  Music always helps get you in the right mood! 

Additionally, if you or a girl-friend find yourself having a hard time figuring out which outfit to wear, you can also browse the style fashion and beauty tips listed. When browsing the site, you'll notice that Primp & Prep will help you achieve some of the trendiest celebrity styles seen on Kelly Rowland, Blake Lively and others.  I find that to be a great addition to their site, especially for younger aged women. 

Primp & Prep certainly has a lot to offer us ladies, however they have taken the men into acount as well.  The site also features tips for men on how to catch the attention of a lady they may want to meet. 

It doesn't end there. Sometimes it's nice to have a small "taste" of spirits before leaving the house.

This section of the website just happens to be my favorite. I like having an easy resource to go to when I am making cocktails for myself or for my girl-friends. There are a number of great cocktail and drink recipes you can refer to if a drink is needed while you and your friends get prepared. Having a little teaser before arriving to an event can certainly help cut the edge off - especially if you had a busy day beforehand!  Of the cocktails listed my top favorites are: Harmonie Mojito, The Gin Blossom and Blue Breeze {seen in above photo}. 

As you can tell, Primp & Prep has absolutely everything you and your friends would need to make sure that your girls night out is a complete and total success!  So, the next time you begin planning for a night out, take the time to visit and browse the Hpnotiq website and more importantly: dance and have fun! 

EXTREMELY IMPORTANT! 

You MUST be 21 years or older to drink alcoholic beverages and as always, please remember to drink responsibly.  

Gig Spotlight - What I want in my Bag 2013!

Beauties, the weekend is here! Are you excited? I hope you are!  I am super excited to share this beauty post with you. What's the topic today?

Today's topic comes courtesy of Gig Bloggers and their bi-weekly beauty prompt of "what I want in my bag 2013". The main guideline was to select our top #5 beauty products that we are currently lusting over. Putting this list together was super easy for me because it just so happens, I am always making small lists of items that I want to buy throughout the year as a small treat just for myself.

We all do that, right? Please don't tell me I am the only one that does this! Well, if I am, so be it!

Gig Spotlight - What I want in my Bag 2013! by latinflavadesigns featuring meredith wendell

You will notice that there are more than five (5) items but I just had to add a photo of Meredith Wendell Satchel in Navy Blue. I mean if I am going to have a list of things I want {or shall I say, need} I have to have a new handbag to put them in, right?

Okay...now we got that covered, let's talk about what's going inside the bag:

• 1. Sigma - Paris Palette Limited Edition : Of course, since this is limited edition, I have to have it before its completely sold out. More importantly though, this palette has everything you need to create gorgeous makeup looks. I like that!
• 2. Olay CC Cream – Total Effects Tone Correcting Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15 - It's time that I get over the coveted BB cream craze {or perhaps not!} and give the new CC cream a try. I am all for trying new creams from Olay - their creams are really good.
• 3. Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System - Other then being named like me, I have heard so many great things about this product that I just want it! Every time Clarisonic is featured on QVC, I find myself immediately drawn in and completely immersed in the show... I have my daughter to blame for that!
• 4. H2O Plus Marilyn T-Teasing Brush - Over the years the texture of my hair has changed so much that I find myself needing to tease it in order to create added volume. I don't tease my hair everyday but for special meetings I like the idea of my hair having a little more umph to it.
• 5. clear days ahead Trial Kit by Philosophy - With age come raging hormones..not fun! As a teenager, this was never an issue but NOW? Huh, that's another story! So yes, this trial kit along with the Clarisonic should help me maintain my skin clear from blemishes...poof!

Now it's Your turn: If you had to make a top #5 beauty lust list for 2013, what items would you want? Please share your lust list in the comments, we love hearing from you!

Easy Do It Yourself Manicure

Today's easy do it yourself post is going to kill two birds with one stone. How? Well, it just so happens to be Day 9 of the Latina Lifestyle Photo Challenge and today's daily prompt is nail art. {To see what the photo challenge is about and join in on the fun click HERE}. 

Now that one bird has been whacked {poor birdie!} let's get our stones together and tackle this Easy Do it Yourself Manicure post.

Putting makeup on or dressing up for a special occasion is very easy, but has it ever happened to you that when you're all dressed up, some broken or badly manicured nails ruin your image? Most likely this has happened to you, it's happened to all of us. It's hard to get a manicure every week, and also expensive. That's why in this article we're sharing with you the best tips we know of to do your own manicure at home and always have impeccable hands.

1. START AT THE BEGINNING

Set a day of the week to dedicate a few minutes to your hands. That way it will be easier to always keep them impeccable. For me, for example, I know that Sundays are my day of "beauty at home"; I take advantage of the day to take care of my hands, apply a facial masque and then fix my hair. I set apart some hours every week to dedicate them to me. It's great. Try it! What's more, you deserve it.

2. WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO A MANICURE AT HOME?

To do your own manicure at home, you don't need much more than the following tools:

Orange stick:
Orange Wood Stick Cuticle Pusher Manicure Lot of 100
The orange stick removes the cuticle and the dirt from your nails. They are very economical and are very useful. I also use them to remove nail polish from around the fingers when I accidentally paint outside my fingernail contour. Just soak the orange stick in nail polish remover and quickly remove the edges.

Nail clipper:
JMK 06820 Nail Clipper Set - 3 Piece
It's better to file your nails to shape them, but sometimes it's necessary to cut them to equal lengths. Use a nail clipper instead of scissors.

File or emery board:
Tweezerman Nail File Collection Pack of Emery Boards, 0.7 Ounce
Invest in a good, long-lasting file. The best ones are made of cardboard. Choose a size that you like and keep it. Also, there are some files that are stronger on one side than on the other. These are the ideal kind because that way you only have to buy one.

Nail buffer and polisher:
FPO Lil' Whistler 3-Way Nail Buffer 3.25"
Usually files have one side to file the nail and another to give it shine. If it's not the case with yours, obtain a nail buffer and polisher. These smooth out your nails if they're peeling.

Transparent treatment nail polish:
You need to choose something that works well with you. If your nails are always breaking, you need a nail hardener, of if they're dry, you need a moisturizing treatment. Usually any pharmacy will have an entire treatment range at very accessible prices. This nail polish also serves as a transparent nail polish when you don't feel like painting them.

Cuticle oil:
Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil Nail Treatment
This is one of the best buys you can make to have impeccable hands. These oils soften and moisturize the cuticle. If you are not very good at cutting your cuticles, you can skip this step by using this product.

Colored nail polish:
Choose the colors you like and that coordinate with the image you want to project. For example, if you have a special dinner, paint your nails a wine red. It looks very nice, especially if your nails aren't too long. Or, for example, if you have a business lunch, paint your fingernails a porcelain tone; it's very elegant and discrete. If you feel like adding a touch of color and fun, paint your nails a dark pink. Why not?

Protective/strengthening polish:
This foundation will help your colored nail polish to last longer and will also add a nice shine to your polish.

Exfoliating lotion:
Veris Dead Sea Natural Cosmetics - Nourishing and Moisturizing Hand & Nail Cream
You can use a body exfoliating lotion or else you can make a natural one with sugar and olive oil. Try it it's amazing! This is one of my most ancient tips. I don't remember where I read it or from whom I learned it, but the truth is that I use it every week and I love it! All you need are two teaspoons of white sugar and four tablespoons of virgin olive oil (if you prefer, you can use moisturizing body oil, but olive oil has worked well for me. Mix together well and apply to your hands, rubbing them gently. Don't forget the fingers and the nails. You can also use this exfoliating lotion on your forearms and elbows; then rinse yourself with lukewarm water. Your hands will feel soft and like new!

Moisturizing hand cream:
Buy a good moisturizer for your hands, one that adapts to your needs. For example, if your hands crack easily or you have dark spots...buy what you need.

Nail polish remover:
Super Nail Non Acetone Polish Remover, 16 Ounce
The ones that are especially good are those that don't contain acetone, as this is very aggressive and many people are allergic to it.

3. Now that you have all your supplies, follow these simple steps: 

1. Remove all nail polish from your nails.

2. Cut your nails to an equal length.

3. File your nails and use the buffer to leave them smooth.

4. Use the orange stick to eliminate any leftover dirt and to softly remove the cuticles (I don't recommend cutting the cuticles at home, as I think this is very difficult and a job best left to professionals. I know that some of you do this. If you already do this and you're happy with the result, continue doing so. If not, just try to soften them with cuticle oil.)

5. Exfoliate your hands. Follow the advice we gave you previously. You'll see the result immediately.

6. Dry your hands well. This step is very important. If you've exfoliated your hands with olive oil and you don't dry your hands off well, especially the nails, the nail polish will not last long. Remember to dry yourself carefully.

7. Paint your nails. Follow this order: treatment foundation, colored nail polish, another coat of colored nail polish, and protective/strengthening nail polish. I know, it's a lot of coats, but remember that you want your nails to look perfect all week long.

8. Moisturize your hands. Lastly and once at least an hour has gone by (yes, one hour if not, after all the effort, your nails will be immediately ruined when you apply the moisturizer), moisturize your hands carefully. You will feel like new!

Here are a few extras for you: 

Paint your fingernails while you watch TV or listen to music or read a magazine. Take some time to relax, and take advantage of it while the polish dries.  You can follow the majority of these steps on your feet as well. The exfoliating cream is great for your feet...

Once a month, you should cover your hands in a moisturizing face masque and put on some cotton gloves. Sleep in them, and the next day your hands will feel like new.  Do this manicure every two months. It's a pleasant luxury, and that way your hands will need much less care, especially the cuticles.

Whenever a cuticle acts up, apply oil on it. You will see how upon moisturizing it, it will immediately soften and won't bother you.

Remember: Our hands are an important part of our personal image. Don't neglect them!

Now it's your turn:  How often do you like to give yourself a manicure? 

Spicy Subscriptions Monthly Beauty Spice Box {Review}

Happy Monday Beauties! It's the first day back to work after the much needed winter break! Well, we are super excited to be back at the daily grind. Can you guess why? Other than missing all of you {of course!} we get to share some pretty awesome news about a special partnership we have with a monthly beauty box provider....EEEK!!

Before spilling all the juicy and spicy {hint, hint} details about this monthly beauty box, I wanted to share a little background story with you. My husband and I have been together since 2009 {although it feels more like 50 yrs!} and we have one daughter who is turning ten this week. Like most families we are extremely close to one another - when we are home we like to spend every minute together.

However, there are times when a couple needs to have their "alone time". In our case, it is sometimes quite difficult being that we only have one child. You would think, now that she is heading towards her almost "pre-tween" stage this would be the opposite, but it's not. My hubby {who adores our daughter more than he adores me!} lovingly likes to refer to her as "CB".

I would like to think  you know what I am referring to! Anywho...

During the winter break I spent my days with my daughter giving her my undivided attention and once my husband arrived home from work - everyone was pretty much on their own, so to speak. My husband would make it a goal to play with our daughter in hopes that she would get agitated and stay in her room from exhaustion {which worked wonderfully, might I add!}.

I know that you are most likely thinking, "well, that's just mean!". I hate to disagree, but in this case, I have to! Both my husband and I were excited to try out some of the spicy goodies that came inside the much anticipated monthly beauty box sent by Spicy Subscriptions.

Spicy Subscriptions is a monthly beauty box provider whose goal is to add spice to the boudoir. Now, the contents inside a Spice Box can be used by anyone, whether you're married or single. In my opinion, that's a plus! As you can see in the photos above, the December 2012 Spice Box contained quite a few FULL SIZE products along with a few samples.

Let's break it down one item at time:

• ini-Mals - {FULL SIZE} This is a waterproof messager with a soft jelly stimulator on the top. The stimulator has bunny ears that flickers and vibrate when in use.
• Dona Kissable Body Drizzle in pomegranate martini- {FULL SIZE} As the name states, this body lotion is to be used as a tasty treat. The lotion is superfruit and aphrodisiac infused - this allows the lotion to condition the skin as well as provide flavor.

• Pink Lubricant - {SAMPLE} This creme lubricant is non staining,glycerin free and contains pure water mixed with creme emulsifiers along with a touch of silicone. The texture is ultra soft and velvety.
• Masque Sensual Flavored Gel Strips - {2 SAMPLES} Chocolate & Mango flavors - these gel strips are designed to melt on the tongue masking or blocking any flavors related to the forbidden zones.
• Aloe Cadabra Peppermint Tingle - {SAMPLE} This personal lubricant is 95% organic - main ingredients include organic aloe vera gel, vitamin E oil, and organic flavoring extracts.
• Good Clean Love - {SAMPLE} This product is also 95% organic - there are NO petrochemicals, parabens, and glycerin. This lubricant is 100% vegan!

There were two BONUS products in this Spice Box:

• Personal Lubricant for Women {SAMPLE} This brand is recommended for women with sensitive skin. Contains NO silicone, glycerin or oil.
• JO H2O Flavored Personal Lubricant  {FULL SIZE} - Other than being silky in texture, this lubricant is watermelon flavored. Product is non toxic, non staining and latex safe.

Before I get into my personal findings, let me ask you a question: What other monthly beauty box provider, that you know of, gives this many products in ONE SINGLE box? {keep that thought in mind!}

My Findings:

When I opened the Spice Box, I was beyond amazed. There were three FULL SIZED items included with the samples - which were sent in pairs; in other words there were two samples a piece. So that means that there were a grand total of twelve items inside! Now, that is what I like to call a "real monthly beauty box!"

The Mini-Mals is adorable- the top is shaped like a bunny with ears. It's about the size of your hand, very light-weight and when in turned on does not make a lot of noise. Plus, it's waterproof - which is nice for those who like to be discreet.

Of all the different lubricants, Dona Kissable Body Drizzle and Aloe Cadabra are the top favorites. The body drizzle smells and tastes just like a jolly-rancher with hints of sweet and tangy notes. On the other hand, the Aloe Cadabra was tingly and refreshing. The peppermint flavors give a very cool and refreshing sensation. It was not sticky or sugary.

The other items have not been used as of yet. Honestly, there was so much product to try, we would definitely need more time so I can give you my honest feedback on the other samples! But once I have a chance to take them for a test drive I will come back and update this post.

Of all the monthly beauty box subscriptions floating around online, I HIGHLY recommend the Premium Spice Box subscription. If I had to rate this service, it would get FIVE STARS with no questions asked! The total value of the Spice Box I received and reviewed is about $42 - but the actual cost of the box is only $20.95 with FREE shipping.

Now, here's the best part of this partnership:

For everyone of our readers and friends who Sign up for a Spicy Subscription {HERE} using CODE {latinflavadesigns} will get a SPECIAL DEAL on your Spice Box!! After joining and using your code, please send an email to info@spicysubscriptions.com to let them know you learned about the Spicy Box through LatinFlava Designs. 

Yay!! Now you can join in on all the SPICY fun by receiving your very own Spice Box delivered straight to your doorstep!

Don't wait too long to get your monthly beauty box subscription started because Spicy Subscriptions currently has a great Valentines Day Savings promotion going on now. Trust me, YOU WANT this Spice Box in time for Valentines Day! You can check it out {HERE}

Now it's YOUR turn: Please visit Spicy Subscriptions and join! Don't forget to use CODE {latinflavadesigns} so you can receive your special deal on your subscription!  


Disclosure: Spicy Subscriptions and I have agreed to a partnership where I received a complimentary Premium Spice Box for this review. All opinions and photos are 100% my own. To read our complete disclosure policy please refer to our Disclosure Page at the top of this website. Thank you!

An Inside Look: Fashion and Beauty Resolutions for 2013

photo credit: pixmac.com 

Earlier this week we talked about how starting a new year helps us reevaluate certain aspects of our lives. Before the new year started, I am sure many of us were thinking of what areas we wanted to focus on changing, whether it be in our personal or business lives. One of the first resolutions that I am sure we all have in common is wanting to live a healthier lifestyle. To help you get an idea of how you can achieve becoming healthier, please feel free to read more on this subject {HERE}.

Another resolution or goal that is worthy of mentioning revolves around this website. Let me explain.

The Daily Fashion and Beauty News was created at the beginning of 2012. Now that a year has passed, during the last few weeks we have taken a few days to sit down and brainstorm - focusing on what our readers are interested in. The first task we accomplished was creating a vision board and a blogging "to-do" list. I can honestly tell you that our list of resolutions/ideas is long and very detailed.

Concentrating on these resolutions created with this blog in mind, I wanted to share some of these with you. Why? Simple. You are an extremely important and critical part of my blogging life, therefore I want to get your honest opinion and feedback being that without you this website would really be nothing. YOUR opinion MATTERS the MOST! 

So, to get things started, here are a few topics that are going to be featured during 2013:

• Product Reviews {personal favorite beauty products, apparel purchases, spa treatments, books, nail polish, ect.}
• DIY Posts {do-it-yourself skin/hair care posts}
• Get the Look {makeup tutorials, outfit/style features, collage trends, shopping posts}
• Battle of the ..... {similar to Battle of the Beats these posts will be comparison articles on similar brand products}
• Lifestyle {topics covering health and fitness, home decor, food posts}

Now it's Your Turn: In addition to these ideas, what do YOU want to see featured here on the blog during 2013?

This week only, get the 11 piece Studio brush set for just $2.13 with any $20.13 purchase. Use code BRUSH2013 1/1 - 1/7

Your Better Life starts this New Year 2013!

Happy New Year Beauties! It's the first day of 2013!!

There's something about starting a new year that gets everyone {young or old, male or female} in such high spirits, that it becomes very captivating. A new year is a new beginning - a fresh start - a time to work on our personal goals and resolutions. Many of us {myself included} have made a resolve to make sure that this new year we begin on a healthy note.

Making the resolution of becoming a healthier person involves many things, such as, making changes to our diets, drinking more water {this is my #1 goal!} and more importantly, beginning a new work out routine. Creating a realistic exercise routine can seem daunting, however having a resource available to guide you during your workouts can certainly help keep you on track.

That's when Your Better Life comes into the picture.

Your Better Life is a website dedicated to help you attain your personal health goals. There are several programs and challenges that you can join. For example, during the past few weeks I have been trying out their "In a New York Minute" pilot challenge. The focus of this challenge is to help the user remain physically active while at work during a four week period.

You maybe thinking to yourself, "How am I supposed to work out, if I am at the office?" Easy.

When you join the "In a New York Minute" {or any challenge} the system gives you certain activity options that can be completed during working hours. You can take a break-time walk for 15 minutes {during your lunch hour, perhaps}, desks stretches, drinking eight glasses of water, motivating a co-worker or friend to join you on your walk, and by taking the stairs instead of riding the elevator.

I told you that it would be easy, right? I wouldn't lie to you! Okay, now that you have a short list of activities, what's next?

After you complete any of these daily activities, you log back into Your Better Life website to submit which activity was completed on which day, allowing you to easily keep track of your progress. This way you can determine where you are in the challenge. There are several "trackers" available to help you monitor your activity, fitness, nutrition, hydration, and weight. That covers basically everything that you need in order to stay on track with your health/fitness routine!

One last important point to point out about the Your Better Life wellness site is, that you are not alone. There is an option included in the Challenges where you can find a "Buddy". I personally like the idea of having someone to "workout" with {even if it is only virtually!} because it helps with your motivation, and helps you become more accountable which in the end will certainly help you obtain your new years resolution..in a New York minute!

For more detailed information about the Your Better Life please visit their website {HERE}. You can also read about the creator and founder of Your Better Life, Tom Watson {HERE}.

Disclosure: I participated in the You Better Life Campaign through Sublime Media Connection in exchange for an honest review. In no way was I asked to give a positive review. As such all opinions are 100% my own. To see a full detailed disclosure for this website, please visit my Disclosure page.

Now it's your turn: What are some of your new year's resolutions/goals? Is getting healthier one of them?