Make Me Beautiful

Memorial Day is here and that means it’s the unofficial start of summer. That means it’s a good time to update your makeup cases, weed out the old stuff, toss out things you will never use again, and then replenish your stock.

If you’re the type who likes to do your nail care at home, don’t forget to clean out your nail polish supply. Those little bottles of nail polish don’t last forever, and should be tossed out every two years or so.

After you’ve ditched all those old polishes, start your summer out right by painting your nails one of the new shades from Essie ’s summer collection . They have six bright shades sure to get you in a summery mood:

• Risky Business: a glam red with a hint of shimmery tangerine
• My Place or Yours: a classic but dynamic rose
• Guilty Pleasures: a happy pink strawberry color
• Movers and Shakers: a sassy bold pink
• Secret Stash: a drama-queen’s favorite–bright fuchsia
• Escapades: a shiny, showy red-coral shade

My fave? Guilty Pleasures, which sounds just right for yours truly!

Once you pick your favorite shade, be sure to follow my tips for giving yourself the perfect at-home mani/pedi.

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Finally, the Thanksgiving of the Spring/Summer season! I already took advantage of the opportunity on Thursday (when Bloomies had their Girls Night Out) and snatched this cardigan I’ve been eying for a long time at more than half price off. But in case you still haven’t been out and about, here are a few of my favourite sales picks from online boutiques: I am loving the vibrant colors and the flirty ruffles on these dresses from Catherina Malandrino (left) and Julie Haus (right). They are the perfect summery party dresses!
Something more classic, there are these two party picks from Cynthia Rowley (left) and Velvet (right). The thing about the Velvet dress though is that it might be more perfect for fall/winter, since they’re long sleeved and black- even though black is perfect year round.
Something more glam, I like this sequins top from Vanessa Bruno (left). It is simple, matte but still glam. And these gold heels from Kors is also great. The peep toe makes it summery and the heels are just right and not too thin for a night of dancing.
In the daytime, we have this looks from Marc by Marc Jacobs (left). I love the retro preppiness of that block patterned polo. And I like how the shorts are tailored. Then there is this colorful top from Catherine Malandrino (right), which just looks super fun!
I love this pink top from Foley + Corinnna. I have something similar in black, but this shade just looks so much more fun! And this Karen Zambos dress (right) is simply adorable. I can imagine someone walking along a beach/resort-like area wearing it. Oh and its patriotic too!
Speaking of patriotic, so are these strappy sandals from Marc by Marc Jacobs (left). I’ve actually been eying these for some time too. I love the bright colors, the solid heels and the platform, which makes me think that they will be comfortable to walk in while still giving me height. They’d be perfect as my casual summer sandals for daily use. My concern is that the straps will hurt (they are thin after all) and since I’ve not seen it in real life, I fear it would not measure up to my expectations. And what if I get tired of them after a few weeks? They’re not exactly the most “classic” style. Though it is 50% off now and the deal is actually quite good……..

Another fun platform to look at are these Chloe’s (right). They actually look more comfortable, considering the thick straps and all.
More casual shoes (both by Marc by MJ)! I have these red heels in white from last last season and thats why I’m loving the elegant peep toe style. They even seem to have improved the sole too! The material they used for the sole of the white heels last season was just not a good choice for summer shoes. Very absorbing and suffocating. Meh. (Though to solve that problem, you can always just add a pair of fragrant insoles in from Summer Soles ). Then there are these flip flops. Not sure if its worth getting Marc by MJ flip flops, but I saw a girl wear it in the elevator the other week, and the color is just great!

Happy Memorial Day everyone!

Image Source: Intermix Online and Shopbop

Popularity: 5% [?]

It’s back! “Summer Romance” is one of the fashion trend this summer season with its melting softer and more feminine look. From floaty, fairy light, sheer fabrics, feminine ruffles to bows and subtle flesh tones, it will definitely sweep you off your feet.

Celebrities are wearing them and you can wear them too. Check the Net-A-Porter site to get that latest celebrity-style.

Bookmarkz

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Reviewer: S.K.Y.

Brand: Jergens
Name: Natural Glow Express Body Moisturizer
Size: 120 mL
Price: $9.99 CAD / $7.99 USD

Shade Tried: Medium/Tan

In my continued attempt to hide my hideously white & scarred legs I’m trying this new product. Things I always look for in a self-tanner: whether it works, leaves any streaks or splotches, and if the results are a natural and looking tan.

From Jergens’ website: “Jergens natural glow express Body Moisturizer is the quick way to a natural-looking summer glow. With this breakthrough moisturizer you will begin to see colour after the first use. When used daily you will get more than a full shade of natural summer colour in just three days.””

To Purr About:
- very sweet scent, but not as chemically as other skin tinting moisturizers/products that I’ve tried
- noticeable tanning in 1 day
- does not irritate my extremely sensitive skin
- reasonably priced

Claws Out:
- may leave streaks if you’re not careful – probably not the best for evening tan lines unless you’re a pro at application techniques
- scent is very strong & lasts very long
- a bit on the sticky/syrupy side

Final Comments:
I guess there’s a fine balance with everything - this product is VERY effective in giving you colour, but therefore leads to streaking if you’re not careful in applying it. The sweet scent is a bit strong for me, BUT since I got such amazing results in such little time I don’t have to put up with the smell for more than the prescribed 3 days. I was very impressed by the noticeable and quick results of this product – I’m not dark tanned, but it’s a major difference between my pasty white legs & my nice medium tone now. I’ll probably have to use it once a week to upkeep the nice looking tan, but it’s totally worth it.

Update: after a few days of not using the daily tinting moisturizer to upkeep my tan as suggested – I have very streaky legs. Hmmmm…..I can’t hold this against the product because it did what it said it would do, but I wanted to make a note of it.

Rating (out of 5):

If you have a product that you’ve tried and would like to write a review, send me an email! Details on how to submit a review can be found in the left-hand sidebar.

image: jergens.ca

Popularity: 5% [?]

We can’t all be blessed with normal skin. Unfortunately, for many of us, oily skin is our struggle. On the positive side, those with oily skin have skin that doesn’t show the signs of aging as quickly as other skin types. So, when life gives you lemons, create lemon juice and water to apply on oily skin. Rinse with warm water.

Oily skin can occur at different stages in your life; adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause. Hormones can play a role in oily skin. Oily skin is characterized by large pores, dullness, a grease-like appearance, and roughness. The sebaceous gland produces excess oil thus giving the skin the shine associated with oily skin. Washing the face several times a day can make the situation worse, causing the gland to produce even more oil. Choosing the right skin regimen and makeup for oily skin is not as difficult as it might seem.

Identifying Your Skin Type

It is important to know your skin type. Examine your face closely. Do you see large pores, flakes, or redness? Each can indicate a different skin type or be indicators of oily skin. Take a tissue to your face and blot. Did you absorb oil? If your self-examination reveals large pores and oil on the tissue, you could have oily skin. The redness can be from excessive washing or sensitive skin. I have combination skin. It is very oily with large pores in the t-zone and dry around my cheeks. If you are still unsure, consult a dermatologist or aesthetician.

Taking Care of Oily Skin

Caring for your skin now will provide benefits for the future. Your skin will thank you five years from now. Know how to take care of you skin, both inside and out. It is important to drink water so that the skin remains hydrated. Taking vitamins, especially vitamin B2 and B5 will also help your body. These vitamins can help the skin look more radiant and improve paleness.

Products for Preparing Oily Skin for Makeup

When cleansing, use an oil-based cleanser since it will help dissolve oil better. Do not use harsh cleaners that leave the skin feeling tight. This tightness will restrict oil flow and lead to clogged pores later. Also, massage the face when cleansing to avoid pushing dirt and oil into the pores. Scrubbing will clog the pores. Rinse with warm water to help dissolve oil. Use a mud or clay mask one or two times a week.

Read labels. Look for products that are for oily skin. Avoid products that contain alcohol since alcohol dries the skin. Petroleum based products such as mineral oil contain too much oil and can further clog pores. Use astringents containing acetone. Acetone dissolves oil better. Moisturizers need to be oil-free. You may only need to moisturize certain areas such as around the eyes. Mature skin will need to moisturize the entire face.

I find that applying cucumber juice before applying makeup helps my skin’s appearance. Witch-hazel will do the same. Both are excellent ways to create a more balanced ph for the skin. You may even want to spritz lavender water on your face several times a day. It is a good hydrator for oily skin as well as providing antiseptic properties.

Makeup for Oily Skin

Read labels. There are some items that should be avoided and some items that you should look for in makeup for oily skin. There are certain makeup companies that are known for their work in designing products for specific skin types. I recommend Clinique . It has a reputation for excellent care and products. I also like Jane Iredale Cosmetics . This is a mineral based line used by many dermatologists.

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Laura Brighton is a wrinkle cream researcher, reviewer and evaluator for various online publications.

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Liv, I have mixed feelings about the leggings. Methinks it’s time to pack them away. Fishnets would have looked good.

Two lovebirds. Lindsay and her BFF Samantha Ronson. I have close female friends but I never nuzzle them. Well not like that.

Don’t bend over or we will get an eyeful. Where’s a pair of Lindsay Lohan brand leggings when you need ‘em?

Milla Jovovich, Katie Holmes, Suri? Nope. It’s Marcia Cross!

Gwen, Gavin and Kingston. If she has a girl, will she name her Marley?

I know she loves Jamaica.

There’s her O face. O for Oscar that is! Julia Roberts and her baby, Henry.

popsugar photo

Kat Von D. Those shoes look way comfy.

Charlize Theron, another gorgeous, genetically blessed woman.

Look, I love Dita like all the other glamoristas but that skirt looks like baseball stitching.

just jared photo

Celine Dion with a full size Marie Osmond porcelein doll.

Colon exam?

Gynecological exam?

Its hospital chic! Leave it to an Olsen to head out in public in a robe and scrubs.

Love the bag that Ashlee Simpson is carrying. Perfect for hiding that baby bump.

Ummm….not sure about the dress. But since its Natalie Portman, she can do no wrong. Her dresses for the Cannes Film festival cost more than what I spend on my clothes in twenty years.

Floppy bows belong on secretaries in stuffy offices who wear culottes and glasses on chains. Not on Madonna!

That outfit is way not attractive on her. Those romper onesies with crotch snaps are for two year olds in diapers.

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Summer handbags, it is a time to get you to a nice and attractive handbag for this coming summer season. Except jewelry, a handbag defines the personality and style of woman.

This indispensable and defining accessory and inspires the manufacturers to design their collections that capture the essence of a woman.

These handbags meld local materials with classic and trendy shapes and shades. These are available in Clutches, hobo’s in floral, totes, and attractive colors. Buckles, fringe, and Ruffles, All are the main types of summer bags.

Today, every one prefers to look a different personality from others. Most of the women want to be hot and fashionable, and nice looking handbags are the most suitable option for you to show that how stylish you are in terms of dressing sense.

This summer, the trend of hot handbags is all over world. This season it is all about expressing your individuality. Big handbags are hot.

Neutral colors are in right now, as are metallic colors. Mostly makers agree that black and white accessories are good for this summer season.

Floral or beads with Tiny clutches are the most fashionable. Oversized totes of wicker and straw have been seeing by all over the world.

Summer Handbags feature bright bold hues like yellow and white, Inspired by top designers and Hollywood celebrities.

Here are some that are most trendy handbags that have selected the top 4 summer handbags. Find Summer Handbags at great summer prices.

• Sun Sheen Handbag

• Grainy White Tote Handbag

• Twin Handle Satchel White Summer Handbag

• Pocket Hobo Grainy White Handbag

These stylish bags inspired from vintage bags, 1960’s fashion etc. are designed to make your personality special and this bold basic summer handbag will give you yellow fever; the price won’t make you break a sweat.

Specialized styles are very famous these days, like dog purses, hobo purses and initial purses with a variety of materials such as leather and suede, gold and silver mesh, soft cotton, even glamorous sequins and rhinestones.

In this summer, let them world know that you are different from others, and hot handbags is the most important part of your fantabulous outfit.

Source>>

Popularity: 3% [?]

When the Lanvin flats became a hit back a year or so back, with people like Nicole Richie, wearing it everywhere in different colors, I did not see the attraction. They honestly did not look any different from standard flats and I did not see where the $500USD price tag came from. They don’t even have heels!
Out of curiosity though, I tried on a pair of red patent Lanvin flats (similar to the one above) the other day at Barneys- and I think I’m finally understanding where the price tag comes from. Even though it is about as thin as any other flats, they are REALLY comfortable. Like amazingly so. Seriously. I noticed the difference right after I tried it on. The sole was cushiony- like sneakers! I don’t know how they do it. Even in patent leather, the scrunchy thing is super soft. Now I know what all the rave was about.

Still though, the price is a bit steep for flats. Maybe if they were $300.

Image Source: Barneys

Popularity: 5% [?]