Living Life; In beauty and style

Time to LASH out

2006-05-16T04:17:00.000-07:00

Here's how to fatten, fake and flaunt them with style!
- pic by robertrootes

1. Always curl your lashes before applying mascara.

2. To bulk up less-than-luscious lashes, dust translucent powder over them before you apply mascara to build them up.

3. Next, use your mascara wand to set the curl. Keep your eyes open and look down, then place the brush along the tops of your lashes. Slowly twist the wand back towards yourself, moving downwards - it'll grab your lashes and the mascara will hold the curl in place.

4. To finish coating, position the brush on the underside of your lashes and push back up, wiggling the brush at the base and stroking upwards. Repeat three or four times.

5. For a truly pro-finish, use a lash comb from the base of your lashes to the tips for a perfectly even effect. Invest in metal lash prongs as it won't clog like plastic ones.

6. Most celebs have make-up artists enhance their lashes with individual falsies. Squeeze a little lash adhesive onto the back of your hand then using tweezers, pick up an individual falsie and dip into the glue. Repeat with more falsies and position several at the outer edges of each eye for a seriously flirtatious flutter.

Lash Extensions (Is it worth Investing?)

Temporary (2-5 days)

- If you're not into fiddling with falsies, get a pro to do all the work for you!

Permanent (3-5 weeks)

- Single silk fibre lashes are glued onto the ends of your own lashes. It only takes an hour. Your first visit will cost around AUD$150 and the lashes last for three to five weeks, after which you can get a top-up with infills for about AUD$50-$60 for a 20 minute session.

Beauty Shopping

2006-05-14T04:21:00.000-07:00

Nuts about beauty products? Here's some buying tips you should know first!

1. Make sure you know what type of skin, hair and nails you have before you set out. Ask an expert if you're not sure: a facialist, hair stylist and manicurist can determine them for you.

2. List any known sensitives you have and the ingredients that cause them, so you can check labels and eliminate any likely toublemakers!

3. Write down the things you NEED and those you WANT: This helps you to set a budget and resist them temptation to make impulse buys.

4. If you're shopping for new makeup, particularly foundation and blusher, go with clear skin, and use cotton buds to apply and never put your fingers in pots for risk of infection.

5. Use tissues instead of toe separators. Roll them into a thin barrel and weave between your toes before you apply polish.

6. Go for cotton squares instead of cotton balls, as they won't leave those annoying wool fibres on your nails.

7. Lanolin is a great alternative to foot or cuticle creams, as it acts as a barrier for dry hands and feet, and softens the cuticles.

8. Avoid metal emery boards as they can rip and tear the nail.

9. When buying polish, always choose a basic red and a pale pink. These two shades will never go out of fashion.

10. Don't be tempted to buy whatever is on sale! Remember, know what you WANT =)

11. Sectioning clips are a good investment, especially if you have long hair, as it will save on blow-drying time - you can concentrate on small areas at a time.

12. Look for products that perform two or more functions and buy smart.

13. Skincare is all about protection and maintenance, so ensure you start everyday with a zinc oxide-based sunscreen.

14. To avoid (further) damage, always apply sunscreen not only to your face but to other areas exposed to the sun on a daily basis, like the decolletage and the backs of the hands.

Tips fr Denice
15. Vaseline is a GREAT product for this cold season. I use it to soothe chapped lips, keep brows neat, mix with powder eyeshadow to make a creamy/glossy look and more! =)

Pout & Proud

2006-05-14T01:03:00.000-07:00

For femme fatale without the killer attitude, Try a slick of Lipgloss in a bold shade!
- pic by nordstorm.com

The Modern Minx

According to Jeanine Lobell, make-up artist and creator of cult brand Stila, "More than any other piece of make-up, lip-colour can alter your mood." Bold red lipstick is the ultimate boost, but can be difficult to wear. So if you want the colour without the fuss, we have tracked down this clutch of cute, wearable and easy-to-apply gloss pots. When seeking out your perfect red, you need to test the colour on your lips, not your hand, as the shade of your dace differs from that of your body. To apply, place dots of colour in the centre of your lips and then, using your little finger, work towards the corners of your mouth. If you want a more precise finish, use a square-ended lip brush.

Tip fr Denice:
- Using lip brush with your lipstick/gloss/pot for application helps the item to last longer and ban any wastage =) Great if you're investing in luxury brand lippies!

10 Rules of Hair

2006-05-13T23:45:00.000-07:00

The 10 golden rules for creating (or faking) luscious locks!
- pic fr londonhair.com

1. WASH LESS
- 'Don't over wash your hair," says 2005 Australian Hairdresser of the Year, Oscar Cullinan. 'Only shampoo every other day or you'll strip the natural oils which give hair shine.'

2. GO NATURAL
- Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a cup of water and the juice of half a lemon, then massage into hair after washing to correct your hair's pH level and give it shine.

3. TREAT YOURSELF
- 'Use treatments regularly to help keep the cuticles in tact,' says Oscar.

4. IRON MAIDEN
- For instant shine, cheat and use a straightening iron to smooth strands.

5. SMOOTH IT OVER
- 'Hair that's curly or wavy has an uneven surface so it doesn't reflect light as well,' says nu:u 'hairologist' Michael Brennan. Smooth it up with a sleek shampoo.

6. BRUSH UP
- Invest in a good quality brush. It massages your scalp as you brush and will distribute your natural oils through your hair.

7. SWALLOW THIS
- 'Eat foods with high vitamin E and Omega 3 fat content, like nuts and fish, to keep your hair sleek,' says Oscar. Or u can cheat in capsule form of these vitamins =)

8. SPRITZ IT
- For a truly luxe lustre, spray your locks with hair shine. It will leave your hair scented too!

9. BRIGHTER BLONDE
- As blonde hair tends to be drier than other colours, it doesn't reflect as much light so it can look dull. When your hair's dry, use a treatment product to brighten it up.

10. GLOSS 'N' GO
- 'For a sleek finish, work a little serum into your hair,' says celebrity hairstylist Andrew Collinge.

A tip fr Denice's experience
- When blowdrying, keep it in one direction to avoid frizz
- Then finish off with a 1/2 a cent of serum for max shine.

Asian Beauty Tips

2005-06-16T07:31:00.000-07:00

- by Michelle Smith

The eyes are the most enchanting Asian feature and so special attention should be paid to them. Remember this: black mascara and black liquid eyeliner are your best friends. If you have a fair amount of lid, then you may escape the use of eyeliners and mascara, but to enhance your almond shaped eyes, you can't do without these essential tools.

Skin tone is a big factor when choosing hues for foundation, eye makeup and lipstick. Lighter shades will create a "washed out" look, while intense hues will add dramatic effect and bring to life the eyes and cheekbones.

Use foundation and powder with a yellow undertone. Although many Asian women believe they need to wear pink makeup shades to counteract their natural skin tones, this creates a very unnatural, outdated look. Using yellow-based products do not make Asian women look more yellow, but rather they produce a natural, flawless look that is modern and beautiful.

Eyeshadow: The most important factor in deciding what colour and how to apply eye shadow is to take into consideration the amount of fold you have above the eye lid. If you possess a fair amount of fold, then you can boldly apply dramatic colors such as black, deep purple, deep turquoise (really stunning) and navy blue for night time wear and utilize the technique of multilayering colors. Colors that are especially flattering for daytime wear are bronze and light colours applied close to the lashes while more intense colors are blended on top.

Asian Hair: Most hair-color products on the market just don't work well on Asian hair. More often than not, any amount of lightening turns out brassy; even black comes out looking unnatural much of the time because it's a difficult color to match. Your best bet is to go to an experienced colorist. If you decide to try it at home, remember that thick hair tends to absorb dyes fairly quickly, and very dark hair is especially resistant to bleaching, so always do a strand test to get the timing right.

Lastly, hope this helps!

Fashion FengShui (Part 1)

2005-06-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

- Picture by colourfulkids.com

I thought this would be an interesting topic... i'll research more if there's an interest in this.. hehee... Anyway, the following Essential Feng Shui™ philosophy and principles will help you begin to look at personal appearance through Fashion Feng Shui™ eyes.
- article by Fashion Fengshui™ International

Everything is ALIVE
Chi, the Universal life force, animates every one and every thing in our world giving us a whole new perspective on the people and possessions that surround us. If you consider your surroundings to be alive and talking to you all the time—think about what your clothing is “saying” to, and about, you? Do your clothes speak your truth? Is your wardrobe authentic to who you are? Do your clothes cheer you, or jeer you? Does your appearance affirm your goals?

Everything is CONNECTED
Every one and every thing is connected by a “worldwide web” of energy. Therefore, your actions and attitudes affect every one and every thing else in the world—and vice versa. Connect with the people you meet, places you go and pastimes you pursue, by mirroring their energy in your appearance. Do your clothes reflect your surroundings? Are you dressed appropriately for every interaction and occasion? Is your wardrobe functional? Does it support your desired lifestyle?

Everything CHANGES
Nature is in a constant state of change. You witness it in the cycles of seasons, the ebbing and flowing of the tides, and the waxing and waning of the moon. Change is one thing upon which you can always rely. When you change, you align yourself with the energy of the moment, so should your clothing. Do your clothes align with the current you? When is the last time you made changes to: Your self? Your personal style? Your living or working environments? Is your wardrobe attuned to the present moment you? Do you or your clothes require updating?

Live with what you LOVE
The state of your surroundings affects your state of mind. Surround yourself only with your favorite people and possessions. Memories and associations make your wardrobe come alive—make sure they are all positive ones. Wear only clothes that make your heart sing! How do your clothes make you feel? Do you LOVE them? Do they love you back? Do some of your clothes drag your energy down (like a "ball and chain")? Do some lift it up (like a balloon)? How do you think they affect your life?

Put safety and comfort FIRST
Avoid filling your environment with “hazardous furnishings," i.e. anything which, does not contribute to your personal safety and comfort. Small nuisances, such as uncomfortable clothes, missing buttons, unruly zippers, and drooping hems deplete your energy. Do you perform wardrobe audits? Do you regularly identify which garments to keep, sweep,or tweak? Are you living with clothes that are not as perfect as you? How does this affect your energy?

Organise and express YOURSELF
Feng Shui maintains that your environment displays your consciousness and your consciousness creates your environment. Your wardrobe should be in ideal condition, if you expect your life to be. Is your wardrobe in a state of disorganization or dis-repair? If so, is it a reflection of a like-mind set? Or, could it be manifesting the same in your life? Do your clothes display your inner magnificence?

Doctor WHO? Doctor YOU!

2005-06-06T01:14:00.000-07:00

- by New Woman May'05

Hate going to the doctor then getting charged for their so-called-minute-worth of consultation fees then having to bring in the receipts back to medical claims? well.. here's some tips to check your health! but seriously, if you do feel ill.. pls go to the doctor right NOW...

1. Check your pulse
Taking your pulse is a great way to find out how fit you are. The best time to take it is first thing in the morning before you've done anything to raise it. Hold your left wrist out infront of you with the palm facing up, then place the first and second fingers of your right hand on your wrist below the thumb. Count the number of beats for 20 seconds, multiply by 3 to get the beats per minute (bpm) then check it against this...
Under 55 bpm: Your heart's in top condition
56 - 65: You're heart's having to work quite hard so more exercise, please!
90+: Get off your bum, you couch potato!

2. Pinch your hand
To check your hydration level, pinch the back of your hand for two seconds then release - if the skin doesn't spring back into place immediately you need to get guzzling water immediately! Aim for 2 litres a day.

3. Do a pee
In the next ad break, nip off to the loo to check the colour of your wee. Basically, the darker it is, the more dehydrated you are. First thing in the morning, it's likely to be quite dark; if it goes dark again later in the day, you need to drink more water. Blood-streaked or cloudy urine can indicate problems like kidney stones, bladder infections or even sexually transmitted infections, especially if you also have a burning sensation.

4. Cut a hole
To check if you're short-sighted, poke a hole in a piece of paper with a pencil and hold it to a few centimetres from your face. Look through the hole and try to focus on an object 10 metres away. If you can see the object more celarly through the hole then you could be suffering from myopia and should book an eye test, says optometrist Ron Detwiler. If you already wear contact lenses or glasses, use this test to see if you need stronger ones.

5. Rubber neck
The area where the lymph glands (part of the lymphatic system, which produces white blood cells to help fight infections and disease) can be best felt is in your neck. Simply run the palm of your hand around the whole of your neck down to your collarbone. As a rule, if a painful swelling appears suddenly, it's usually the result of an injury or ear or throat infection, whereas if it's painless or has gradually grown over time, it could indicate something more serious and should be checked out.

6. Check your breath
Nearly 10% of adults in Australia have regular bad breath and 75% have occasional bad breath, says the Australian Dental Association. So check your breath, rub your fingers over your teeth and gums and sniff. If the smell makes you squirm, it's time to visit your dentist as this is one sign of gum disease.

7. Open your eyes
Get out your compact mirror and examine your eyes. Firstly, the whites should be white! If they're yellow you could have jaundice and associated liver problems. If you have bags under your eyes, you may need to cut down on alcohol and fatty foods. And the inside of your lower eyelid should be a rosy red colour. If it's pale, you could be anaemic - the best sources of iron are meat and green veggies like watercress. Also, the tannic acid in tea interferes with the absorption of iron into your body, so don't have a cuppa with your meal or for two hours after eating.

Scent Sense (Part 2)

2005-06-04T00:54:00.000-07:00

Style Conscious
Living in the latest designer apartment complex, dining at the 'in' restaurants - they probably even look a little alike!
HIS: Giorgio Armani Armani Mania, $132
Sleek, smooth and refined, the modern crisp scent of green mandrin blended with vetiver and cedar makes him feel masculine and modern.
HER: Giorgio Armani Armani Mania Pour Femme, $92
A little bit like the perfect bottle of wine, this scent is perfect for her right now - smooth, sweet, crisp and delicate, like a pretty floral bouquet.
Why they work
He loves the ergonomically designed bottle as much as her inner label addict loves the fact that they match.

Free Spirits
This Zen like couple are blissfully happy and completely at home in their incense filled eco friendly house doing a morning yoga session together.
HIS: L'eau Par Kenzo Pour Homme, $80
The clean, serene feeling reminds him of surfing - zesty lemon, green pepper and lotus flower makes him feel fresh and very 'in the moment'.
HER: L'eau Par Kenzo, $80
Just like a beautiful big deep breath of fresh air, with a watery feel, thanks to frosted mint, lotus flower and pink pepper - tranquil and calming.
Why they work
Both just a little bit out of the ordinary, but together, they make the perfect pair.

Star-crossed Lovers
'Till death do us part' describes this couple down to the ground - they can't bear to be parted for more than a minute!
HIS: Penhaligon's LP No:9 For Men, $110
Old fashioned and hot, hot, HOT! Blended from traditional aphrodisiacs including clove, cinammon, nutmeg, rosemary and bergamot.
HER: Penhaligon's LP No:9 For Ladies, $125
Unbelievably heady and seductive, he can't help but want to breathe it in! Jasmine, patchouli and amber make up this irresistible magic elixir.
Why they work
These two lovers must do everything the same... and that includes wearing lusty love potions!

The 'IT' couple
They're cool without even knowing it - think Cam & JT, but they know the value of good designer accessories.
HIS: Versace Jeans Couture For Men, $120
Understated, despite its flashy appearance. Citrusy mandrin, sexy sandalwood and patchouli make it effortlessly cool.
HER: Versace Jean Couture, $120
Casual but sexy, this scent is fresh and glam without trying. Pretty florals like orange flower, iris and jasmine make it shine.
Why they work
They really appreciate each other and adore these simple scents - and probably have a laugh together about the OTT bottles!

Stylish Sophisticates
Sophisticated and chic - think Charlotte and Trey - they both order steaks medium rare, love a good chardonnay and are always home in time to watch their favourite TV show together!
HIS: Burberry Brit For Men, $84
Ginger and cardamom make this interesting and unusual, with a definite dash of nutmeg - subtle enough to stay under the collar!
HER: Burberry Brit, $95
Slightly predictable vanilla with a hint of spice, but the surprise comes thanks to pear and sugared almond to give a lolly like sweetness
Why they work
Like their matching cars, shoes and wallets, these two wouldn't dream of their fragrances not matching each other!

The Power Couple
They're the couple that know what they want, go after it and get it - and only the best will do.
HIS: Gucci Pour Homme, $96
This smells of pure man - so strong and powerful you wouldn't want to get in his way. Inspired by Tom Ford, pepper, ginger, amber and woods give it its fiery feel.
HER: Gucci Eau de Parfum, $155
Something smells expensive! Heady deep musks, vanilla and orange blossom overwhelm the senses, leaving her feeling like she's entrenched in luxury!
Why they work
No wonder they always get what they want - both scents are not for the faint hearted, but would turn each other on.

Scent Sense (Part 1)

2005-05-29T03:34:00.000-07:00

- picture from perfumeemporium.com

Is it true that couples who sprays together stays together?
- by New Woman 004
We know our blokes are (Visa) card-carrying metrosexuals these days, but are we really cool with the idea of them smelling like us? YES! Years ago it may have been kitsch to wear matching scents, but today it's all about the complementary ingredients in our coordinated colognes! Oh, and the bottles look so cute together in the bathroom...

Best Friends
Probably high school sweethearts and definately best mates, this couple is always smiling, laughing and having fun.
HIS: Clinique Happy for men, $60
Blokey without being too gron up, it's got a soapy, clean fresh feel - mandarin, lime and grapefruit, balanced with the watery freshness of sea air.
HER: Clinique, Happy $52
She's positive and perky, so the ruby red grapefruit, bergamot and pretty petal scent appeal to her upbeat nature.
Why they work
The farmiliar, fresh scent of citrus in both scents will remind them of each other - and they couldn't imagine it any other way!

The Dynamic Duo
Up at 6am on Sunday for an hour's jog, these two love the rugged, great outdoors...
HIS: DKNY Be Delicious Men, $87
Smells like an appletini! Coffee's been added to the mix of tart and ripe apple... and it reminds her of a farm in a bottle.
HER: DKNY Be Delicious, $108
Like an apple plucked straight from the tree, it's juicy, sweet, innocent and happy rolled into one. Apple, cucumber and grapefruit are to blame - with hints of rose and violet for that farm-fresh feeling!
Why the work
Dreaming of escaping to the country, the morning fresh scent of apples continues to inspire them.

The Bride & Groom
The two who 'just know' they'll be together forever - and are about to tie the knot to prove it!
HIS: Vera Wang For Men, $125
Crisp green mandrin leaf, nutmeg, leather and warm tobacco - it's so irresistible she'll be racing down the aisle.
HER: Vera Wang, $120
Like an elegant bridal bouquet of Bulgarian rose and gardenia, with a romantic edge thanks to sheer musk - fit for a princess!
Why they work
Utterly unforgettable, both scents are so distinct they'll have the power to evoke emotional memories for one another. By a bridal designer no less - who else could capture the essence of the big day?

The First Daters
Kind of shy, and on their best behaviour - full of promise and hoping for the best!
HIS: Ralph Lauren Romance Silver, $96
The fresh cabernet grapes and crushed leaves mixed with patchouli remind her of something she'd like to get to know a lot better...
HER: Ralph Lauren Romance, $66
Not unlike a bubbly glass of champange - fun, sweet and giggly! Like the sweet little posy he might pluck from the neighbour's garden for her.
Why they work
Both scents spark interest to make them lean in a little closer to take another whiff.. and make the first move!

Big Flirts
A wink here and there, constant hand holding and eyes only for each other - these two are naughty, fun and flirty!
HIS: Thierry Mulger A Men, $86
She'll crave the smell of this on him - like the icing on a cake, a hint of peppermint and coffee makes it like a tasty treat.
HER: Thierry Mugler Angel, $142
It's sweet and secy - a drizzle of honey, a splash of chocolate and sticky sweet caramel are enough to make him melt...
Why they work
Like kids in a candy store, the melt-in-your-mouth caramel and chocolate in both scents make them constantly want more of each other.

Soul Mates
They're the couple who are so alike they talk the same, have a similar style and finish each other's sentences.
HIS: Marc Jacobs Men, $80
Like his classic white shirt, he loves it as much as she does - a familiar homey scent thanks to musk and spices, enhanced with aphrodisiacs fis and patchoili.
HER: Marc Jacobs Woman, $95
A lush, rich gardenia blend that can go from being innocently sweet to rich, sensual and sexy in seconds.
Why they work
They'll love the familarity of their signature scents, and appreciate the way both scents can be worn as a casual or a sensual scent.

That's it for now... there's anothe six perfume set.. it'll be online tomorrow (hopefully).. *off to uni now for group meeting!

Every woman should have...

2005-05-29T02:59:00.000-07:00

- picture from Ralph Lauren

Not sure what to buy? The following are great 'investments' and they can form endless mix and match with your current wardrobe! Here's what every woman should have...

The wide leg pant - A crisp pair of pants is always a yes! Wide leg pants hides the chubby thigh, giving illusion of longer legs when worn with heels. Make sure the length of the pants just skims your toes when wearing heels.

The wrap dress - These are always in fashion. The patterned dress can be worn over jeans/pants for a casual chic look or just itself for work. This is great as it helps hides the unwanted bumps while still showing off your curves!

The coat - It's critical not to buy coats which are too long or too short! The 3/4 length ones are just right as it skims over the hip area to help conceal. Oh, and also, when wearing light coloured coat, pls wear darker clothing underneath as this gives the illusion that you're smaller under the coat! cheers!

The suit - A great suit is a must! It's guaranteed to make you feel purposeful. Be warned.. stripes and checkers do NOT mix (yes, i've seen it before and it's not a flattering sight!)

The little black dress - In short,.. for work, for evening: adaptable timeless chic! You can never have too many LBDs.. ;)

The white shirt - Keep this look crisp, simple and invest in a new one every year... be careful with white though.. keep a spare in the office if you're wearing one to work.. just in case.. =)

That's all for now... *currently researching 'investing in handbags'

some inserts taken from Harpers Bazzar May'05

How to trim your own fringe

2005-05-28T23:46:00.000-07:00

- Linda Evangelista, from perfectpeople.net

- by Julien Farel, from Vogue
Farel, owner of Julien Farel Salon in New York City, had been cutting hair for 20 years. His clients include Lauren Bush, Kate Moss, Linda Evangelista and Paris Hilton.

A fringe can be difficult to maintain - it can be tidy one day and overgrown the next. Some salons don't charge for touch-ups, but many women find it more convenient to trim their fringe at home. Just remember: you are not a hairstylist. Always take your time, and don't do anything drastic.

Get sharp
This may sound obvious, but don't try to trim your fringe with paper-cutting scissors. They're too big and too dull and set you up for a mishap. You can find reasonably priced salon scissors at any beauty store. Even straight manicure scissors are a better alternative.

Stay dry
It's best to trim your fringe when it's dry. When hair is wet, you run the risk of making it too short or having it fall badly. When your hair is dry, you can see exactly where - and how much - to cut.

Be blunt
For a simple, straight-across fringe, separate the hair into three sections; middle, right and left. Taking one section at a time, lift the hair out in front of you and twist it. (You should look as if u have a unicorn's horn.) Carefully snip off about three centimetres, and repeat with each section. And remember, it's better to make several small passes than one big mistake. If your fringe is still too long, retwist and recut as needed.

Know all the angles
Although a blunt fringe shows mistakes, a side-swept one is tricky too! And there's no way to make it easier - just take it slowly, arrange the hair where you want it to lie, cut along the angle the fringe falls, and hope for the best. Fortunately, this can look good even if it's not perfect.

Visit the ER
If you have an Edward Scissorhands moment, go directly to the salon. Your stylist should be able to salvage the situation for you.

It's all in the Eyes

2005-05-28T22:59:00.000-07:00

- by Elizabeth Waverley, picture from Gucci

Not everyone is born with the perfect face. If you asked your friends most of them would say they felt their eyes were too close together, too far apart, too squinty or... well you get the picture. (I personally think my eyes are too close together).Thankfully we live in a day where makeup can do all sorts of optical illusions. Here I list a few simple techniques using eye shadow & eyeliner to create several illusions based on your needs.

To make your eyes look...

closer together. Most eyes look better when the emphasis is on the outer corner of the eye (or the 'v'). But emphasizing the inner corner will make eyes look closer together.Start by sweeping a light shadow over the whole eye area. Then dust a medium color on the inner half of the eyelid & blend outward to create a natural finish. Next, line from the inner corner of the eye to the middle & then blend outward.

further apart. If your eyes are less than an eyes-width apart, you can create the illusion of being wider set by keeping the inside corners of your eyes light & the outer edges darker. To do this, sweep a concealer one shade lighter than your skin at the inner corner of the lids. Blend well & don't forget the gray shadowy areas on the side of your nose. Take a matte eyeshadow in a medium-to-dark shade & stroke it outward & slightly upward from the middle part of your lid. the outer half of your lid. Take eyeliner & start the line just a bit in from the inner corner of your eye, tapering the line up and out, just a bit past the outer corner of the eyes.

bigger. The key to making eyes bigger is to focus on light shades. Dark ones will make eyes appear even smaller. Sweep a light shade over lid, then shade the outer corner of the lid & the crease with a darker shade. Line the outer upper & lower lids with eyeliner making sure to taper a bit outside the eye (elongating it). Lastly, a dab of white or cream shadow in the middle of the browbone will make eyes pop. (A word of warning: make sure brows are perfectly plucked, otherwise stray hairs will stand out as if lit by klieg lights).

less droopy. You can lift down-turned eyes with makeup. Apply shadow to the outer corner of the lid, extending color up & out like a feline shape. Add a light highligher color to brow bone & skip the eyeliner -- it will only accentuate the 'droopy' contour. Apply mascara, concentrating on the inner corner of the eye. Lastly, you can try smudging a silver show on the inner corners of the eyes to help 'lift' them.

less deep-set. Those with deep-set eyes have prominent browbones. To downplay browbone, sweep a light or medium-tone shade on lid, then shade in a slightly darker shade above the eye crease. Apply eyeliner from the inside of the eye, making it thicking in the middle of the eye & then tapering it towards the outer part of the lid. Lastly, apply light highlighter shade to browbone.

And lastly, here's a great eyeshadow & eyeliner trick for Asian eyes... Since the eyelids of Asian women can seem to disappear when the eyes are open, you can add definition by sweeping a medium-toned shade across the lid & browbone. Dust under the brow with a light highlighter shade to accentuate the brow bone and then use a pencil liner to line the upper & lower lash lines. Make sure line is very fine & natural looking.

The C word (Part 2)

2005-05-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

- by Madison

The Anti-Cellulite Diet

Can eating better reduce cellulite? US Dermatologist Howard Murad says it's critical to choose foods that can help reverse inflammation of connective tissue and boost collagen formation. In his new book The Cellulite Solution, outlining an eight week assult on cellulite (including creams and exercise). The verdict? "The diet can't hurt and may indeed help," says Sydney nutritionist Zoe Bingley-Pullin. Want to give the plan a shot? All you have to do is...

((The good news)) Eat More...

- Soy, cauliflower, spinach, oranges and tomatoes, which all contain skin-strengthening lecithin.
- Cold water fish (wild salmon), nuts (walnuts and almonds), olive oil and canola oil. They're rich in essential fatty acids, which help repair skin tissue.
- Poultry, skim milk and eggs. Dr Murad says they have collagen-boosting amino acids.
- Bright fruits and vegetables (blueberries, strawberries, carrots, papaya) and green tea. Their antioxidants are said to stave off tissue damage.
- Broccoli, peas and lima beans, which supposedly help fight inflammation.

((The bad news)) Eat Less...

- Butter, margarine and partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (which are found in many packaged snack foods).
- Red meat and pork.
- Processed, high-fat cheese.
- Sugary snacks such as biscuits, cakes and sweets.

All of thse are said to contribute to tissue inflammation, which makes cellulite look worse! Zoe Bingley-Pullin also recommends drinking more water, so that you consume two or three litres of plain water or herbal tea per day. And that's a big NO to soft drinks, coffee and alcohol.

*sigh.. i guess the bottom line is, nothing good is really good for you.. hehee...

If in doubt, CONCEAL

2005-05-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

- picture from Red Earth, some article insert taken from style101.com

Confused about the different types of concelers out there? Hopefully it'll be less confusing after reading this. Hear's the start of Concealer101. =)

Basically, colour concelers are designed to hide any flaws, blemish or discoloration!

Yellow - dark spots
For under eye circles as it combats blue tones, incl shadoes and fine blood vessels near the surface of the skin. Aging spots and what nots falls into this category as well.

Beige or orange - shading
It helps correct shading on the face. As you get older, discolouration appears below the lip, on sides of face around the eye area and the most obvious around nose area. Always use this one shade lighter to your skin tone.

Green - redness
This conceler comes in handy if you've got 'stray' pimples (like me). To apply this, you've to be careful coz if the blemish is raised or has a flaky scale over it, you must blend well enough so the green can't be seen. If you've got bluish-red bruises, green concelers works best!

Pink or lavender - freckles
This is used to normalize yellow coloured imperfections such as dark spots on bronze skin tones. Also, if you've got yellow-brownish bruises it can be covered up with this colour.

Some rules to remember

- Layering or cakey concealers can sometimes make the blemish stand out more. Use your best judgment to apply.
- Concelers are the inbetweens; between base and foundation. Don't forget to apply a powder foundation over it to help set.

De-stress (Part 1)

2005-05-27T23:02:00.000-07:00

- by Polly Blitzer for InStyle (June'05)

1. MAKE LISTS - using a support network is a great way to manage stress; "Get together with a group of girlfriends who have 'been there, done that' and talk openly about your concerns," says Brook Ramage, managing director of The Golden Door Australia.

2. BREATHE DEEPLY - Activities that involve deep breathing can help you achieve a state of profound rest, says Dr Herbert Benson, president of the Mind/Body Medical Institute in Massachusetts. The mind is more alert and your potential for creativity is greater.

3. BLOW OFF STEAM - "Laughter, exercise, music, massage, sleep and even crying are all ways to relieve stress," says Dr Deepak Chopra, founder of the Chopra Centers for Well Being, in California and New York.

4. CONFRONT YOUR STRESSORS - "Talk and think through what you're feeling," says Dr Chopra, "or you'll end up treating the symptoms, not their cause."

5. EASE YOUR SPINE - One of the great stress reliving yoga poses is the simple child pose, says Brigid Walsh of The Golden Door Health Retreat, Queensland. One a mat or carpeted floor, kneel, sit back on your heels and bring your forehead to the floor in front of your knees, letting your arms relax beside you with your hands near your feet. Breathe normally.

6. USE VISUALISATION - If an anxiety attack comes on, picture a simple image such as that of a tranquil ocean. Focus on it until you can perceive the details completely, says US psychotherapist Jo Ann Lederman.

7. COUNT IT OUT - Close your eyes, focus on your breathing, and tap each finger from one to 10 and back, says LA psychotherapist Greta Anger. If stressful thoughts intrude, start again.

8. BE A DIPLOMAT - "Criticism and controlling advice from relatives and friends can lead to guilt and resentment or anger," says Lederman. Dr Judith Orloff, clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California, LA, recommends "firmly asserting yourself while showing respect and appreciation for others' input".

9. GET YOUR ZZZs - "Anxiety leads to insomnia, which leads to further anxiety," says Dr Vahid Mohsenin, director of the Yale Center for Sleep Medicine in the US. Avoid stimulants such as coffee, chocolate, tea, sugar and excercise within three hours of bedtime, says Dr Yosef Krespi, a New York-based sleep-disorder specialist.

10. TAKE IT IN YOUR STRIDE - Don't expect perfection on the big day. Have helpers on hand to deal with any problems, and try to go with the flow.

The C word (Part 1)

2005-05-27T21:58:00.000-07:00

Yes.. the word every woman fears.. Cellulite! Aaaarrggghhh... Here's a bit of an intro to the future we can't escape.

What is cellulite? - by Celluliteexpert.com

Cellulite is a common term used to describe superficial pockets of trapped fat, which cause uneven dimpling or “orange peel” skin. It appears in 90% of post-adolescent women and is rarely seen in men. Common but not exclusive areas where cellulite is found, are the thighs, buttocks, and the abdomen.

Who gets more cellulite? - by Madison (June'05)

The answer is surprising. Since cellulite occurs just beneath your skin - not deeper down where access fat is stockpiled - even stick-thin types can develop dimply thighs. However, cellulite can look far worse on heavier women. Getting to a healthy weight (but not below it) will probably improve your appearance. Avoid crash diets too as these can often be a cause of cellulite. Sudden weight loss or weight gain will make cellulite look worse.

Quick fix for Panda eyes

2005-05-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

- by Greta Breedlove (The Herbal Home Spa, Storey Books, 1998).

I was so surprised by the single kitchen-cupboard ingredient that this calls for--it's not a cucumber, and you’re sure to have one on hand. Raw potato slices will help tighten baggy, puffy eyes. It can lighten under-eye circles. Potatoes contain an enzyme called catecholase, which is used in cosmetics as a skin lightener. Follow these 4 simple steps!

1. Slice 1/4 potato to fit over your eyes.
2. Cut 2 slices or, if you prefer, 5 to 10 very thin slices, several for each eye.
3. Spritz eye area with water.
4. Lying down, place the potato slices on your eyelids and leave in place for at least 10 minutes for best results.

Pump up the Volume

2005-05-27T05:16:00.000-07:00

- by Madison (June'05)

Brigitte Bardot

Yes girls, BIG hair is BACCKKK... Here are some simple DIY bugger-proof tips to pump up your hair. Enjoy!

+ Either hot or velcro rollers are perfect for instant volume. "Just leave them in the hair for 20 mins then shake your head upside down for bouncy curls," says leading hairstylist Shane Henning.

+ For extra volume, apply a root-lift product or mousse to the crown of your head before blow-drying. ((Beauty Devotee uses Root Boost Mousse by Catwalk)) Alternative suggestions are Pantene Pro-V Root Lifter Volumizing Spray Gel or Garnier Fructics Style Volume Injection Mousse

+ Rough up your roots with a blow-dryer. Turn your head upside down and blast your roots on high heat. Then point the blow-dryer nozzle down the hair shaft and blast with cold air to stop frizz and flyaways.

+ If you have fine hair, choose a shampoo and conditioner formulated for adding thickness. These will help to give texture as well as body to your hair.

+ Gently backcomb the areas of your hair that normally fall flat; this will give height and lasting volume. For backcombing, always use a tail comb (one with a rod as a handle) as its teeth are close together, making it easier to fluff up the hair.

+ Don't overload hair with too many styling products - you'll only end up weighing it down and making it greasy!

+ For instant low-maintenance volume, tip your head upside down and spray with a firm-hold hairspray and comb through with fingers.

Be sexy without looking sleazy

2005-05-26T14:16:00.000-07:00

-by Beverly Smith

Women strive to make themselves look sexy and attractive and this is a fun and exciting endeavor. But the key is to be sexy without looking sleazy!

To achieve this, just add a couple of unexpected accessories and some sensual essentials. There are a lot of ways to express your sexuality, not just by donning a micro skirt. Here are a few tips on how to add sensuality without sacrificing your modesty and class.

Put on red lips. Remember, nothing does the job better than red, no matter what you think. It will add a splash of color and a stylish alluring vibe. For young girls, yes, sexy girls are fine – shimmer merry lip gloss is good, older women should choose matte red that best suits their skin tone (blue-reds for darker skin; orangey hues for olive; true reds for blondes).

A nice pair of sunglasses will add mystery and a cute look, as well as protect your eyes. Add a hat. Think of Sarah Jessica with all her hats and panamas! It is a perfect way to get a major sex appeal. You can start with classic shapes, such as fedora or beret.

Experiment with shoulder-duster earrings, they work great for the after-dark look, especially when combined with bare shoulders and updos. Wear metallic. It has a great luminous effect.

Things we do for beauty

2005-05-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

Whoever says beauty is only skin deep MUST be a man! We women do so much more than skin deep, all in the name of BEAUTY. To name a some..

1. waxing/shaving/trimming
2. once a week exfoliate
3. priming skin
4. everyday make up
4.1 base
4.2 foundation
4.3 conceling
4.4 highlighting / bronzing
5. tanning salon / self tan
6. manicure
7. pedicure
8. twice a day of cleansing, softening, luminating, hydrating face
9. once a week hydrating
10. curling lashes (note: one slip n u could lose half your lashes! so be careful!)
11. every three months eyelash/brow tinting
12. every six weeks trimming hair
13. every year updating hairstyle
14. every three months redoing highlights/colour to hair
15. ugh! don't even get me started on clothes!
16. there's more... to be continued...

If you've done 10 out of the above, then this site is for you! Aren't there loads to remember? Thus, this website is dedicated to those wanting 'shortcuts' and quick access to styling tips ^_^