Getting the minimum five daily servings of fruits and vegetables is neither as difficult nor as time-consuming as you might think.
In this video, howcast.com gives you eight tips and strategies on how to easily incorporate fruits and vegetables into your daily diet.
Some of our favorites include:
* Adding pureed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots and celery to store-bought pasta sauce, mashed potatoes, or canned soup.
* Using Romaine lettuce or other greens in place of a tortilla wrap.
* Serving one-pot dishes, such as baked pasta, chili or soup in hollowed out bell peppers or squash halves.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Winter Skin Care Tips
We may sweat more, shave more, and soak up more sun in warmer months, but with the winter comes a whole new tricky set of beauty issues we must contend with. Slathering on head-to-toe moisturizer may seem like the solution, but preventing dried out, flaky skin involves a little more work. Dr. Ava Shamban, a Santa Monica, California based dermatologist, has provided 10 simple tips to ward off low-temperatures, gusty winds, and dry heat. Follow these basic rules and you’ll stay silky smooth all over till spring.
1. Opt for oil-based moisturizers
“Dr. Shamban says the main switch in your winter skin care regimen should be selecting an oil-based moisturizer, so look for one that contains avocado or almond oil. These “will lock the moisture in your skin and build a protective layer on the top surface,” says Dr. Shamban. “Water based moisturizers can be damaging to your skin, especially during cold climate, because the water freezes in your skin.” Apply liberally whenever your skin feels dry.
2. Don’t forget your sunscreen
Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean the sun isn’t strong, especially when it can reflect off snow. Dr. Shamban suggests applying an SPF 15-30 to your face (and hands if they’re exposed) about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply if you’re spending the day outside.
3. Use a humidifier
Heat can dry out more than just your sinuses. With added moisture in the air, your skin won’t be as flaky.
4. Avoid very hot water
It may feel good, but Dr. Shamban says you should never shower, bathe or wash your face with extremely hot water. “It can not only break the capillaries in the face, but also break down the lipid barriers in the skin, which will lead to a loss of moisture.” She says adding a few drops of Jojoba or almond oil to a bath can nourish and hydrate dry skin.
5. Hydrate skin while it's damp
Applying moisturizer immediately after taking a shower or washing your face will help lock-in moisture.
6. Never ever lick your lips
Stash soothing lip balms in your purse, car, and desk to keep lips from chapping. Dr. Shamban says you can also apply few drops of olive oil mixed with few drops of honey to your lips for few minutes to hydrate.
7. Swap your liquid foundation for a cream formula
Liquid foundation can actually freeze! “One of the benefits of using cream is that it will give your skin an extra protective layer and help keep the moisture in your skin,” says Dr. Shamban.
8. Don’t ever leave the house with wet hair
Have you ever had your hair freeze in the cold? This will cause damage to your scalp and hair can actually break off, so it may be better to shower in the evening. Since hair can get dry and damaged just like our skin, protect it by conditioning more in the winter and blow dry hair on a cooler setting.
9. Wear a hat to prevent a dry scalp
Besides keeping you warm, a hat will hold in moisture and protect your scalp from dry air and flaking. Make sure your hat is not too tight and made of breathable material.
10. Give your hands extra love
“The skin on our hands are extremely thin, which means they already have a limited amount of moisture,” says Dr. Shamban. Apply moisturizer frequently, especially after washing your hands, and avoid cotton gloves, which absorb moisture and stay wet.
1. Opt for oil-based moisturizers
“Dr. Shamban says the main switch in your winter skin care regimen should be selecting an oil-based moisturizer, so look for one that contains avocado or almond oil. These “will lock the moisture in your skin and build a protective layer on the top surface,” says Dr. Shamban. “Water based moisturizers can be damaging to your skin, especially during cold climate, because the water freezes in your skin.” Apply liberally whenever your skin feels dry.
2. Don’t forget your sunscreen
Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean the sun isn’t strong, especially when it can reflect off snow. Dr. Shamban suggests applying an SPF 15-30 to your face (and hands if they’re exposed) about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply if you’re spending the day outside.
3. Use a humidifier
Heat can dry out more than just your sinuses. With added moisture in the air, your skin won’t be as flaky.
4. Avoid very hot water
It may feel good, but Dr. Shamban says you should never shower, bathe or wash your face with extremely hot water. “It can not only break the capillaries in the face, but also break down the lipid barriers in the skin, which will lead to a loss of moisture.” She says adding a few drops of Jojoba or almond oil to a bath can nourish and hydrate dry skin.
5. Hydrate skin while it's damp
Applying moisturizer immediately after taking a shower or washing your face will help lock-in moisture.
6. Never ever lick your lips
Stash soothing lip balms in your purse, car, and desk to keep lips from chapping. Dr. Shamban says you can also apply few drops of olive oil mixed with few drops of honey to your lips for few minutes to hydrate.
7. Swap your liquid foundation for a cream formula
Liquid foundation can actually freeze! “One of the benefits of using cream is that it will give your skin an extra protective layer and help keep the moisture in your skin,” says Dr. Shamban.
8. Don’t ever leave the house with wet hair
Have you ever had your hair freeze in the cold? This will cause damage to your scalp and hair can actually break off, so it may be better to shower in the evening. Since hair can get dry and damaged just like our skin, protect it by conditioning more in the winter and blow dry hair on a cooler setting.
9. Wear a hat to prevent a dry scalp
Besides keeping you warm, a hat will hold in moisture and protect your scalp from dry air and flaking. Make sure your hat is not too tight and made of breathable material.
10. Give your hands extra love
“The skin on our hands are extremely thin, which means they already have a limited amount of moisture,” says Dr. Shamban. Apply moisturizer frequently, especially after washing your hands, and avoid cotton gloves, which absorb moisture and stay wet.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Petite Women Fashions
Dresses for Petite Women
When shopping for the most flattering dresses for petite women, those ladies in the 5'4" and under market should keep some pointers in mind to present an unforgettable image. If you're shorter than average, you know how frustrating it is to find the perfect outfit and then see that it's too long or boxy for you. Shopping in the Petite department of stores and at specialty petite boutiques will eliminate much of your sizing problems, but there are still some key areas you'll want to pay attention to in order to make yourself appear taller.
petite dress
Best Dresses for Petite Women
Here are some important aspects to look for when shopping for dresses:
* V-neck: V-necklines are naturally flattering to many different body types and petites are no exception. The reason this is such a good neckline for shorter women is because of the vertical interest the V-shape creates; it draws the eye up and down. It also shows off your neck, so whether you have a swanlike neck or not, this particular neckline gives the illusion of a long, lean neck.
* Vertical details: Stripes that travel the length of your dress or other interesting details that run the center of your garment create a taller appearance. Like the V-neck, this draws the viewer's eye up and down.
* Wrap style: The main reason wrap dresses are so universally flattering to many body types is the built-in V-neck as well as the diagonal direction that creates a waistline for women who don't have small waists.
* Knee length or shorter: You want your legs to look long and lean; the more leg that shows, the taller you'll appear. Dresses that hit at your knee or slightly above are the most flattering for petite types. You don't want to go too short, however. If you wear a micro mini in an inappropriate environment, you run the risk of looking like a little girl playing dress up.
* Ankle length: If you prefer longer hems, you should go very long, all the way to the floor. In the summer, breezy cotton sundresses that fall to the ankles can be paired with espadrille sandals or other heeled, casual footwear.
What to Avoid
Petite Fashion Gallery
* Calf length: Dresses that hit the middle of your lower leg cut off the long look you're trying to attain.
* Wide belt: Wide belts can work, but only when their color is harmonious with your dress. If you sport a black dress and want to accessorize with a wide belt, make sure the belt is black as well; a wide white or red belt will cut you in half, essentially taking away from the taller illusion you're trying to convey.
* Different colors: A dress should be monochromatic or have a monochromatic pattern to best flatter the petite frame. Petite women should avoid dresses that are one dramatic color on top and a completely different color on the bottom. Like the wide belt, this tends to cut the body in half.
* Horizontal stripes: Very few women can pull this look off and petite women should avoid any variety of horizontal stripes. These side-to-side stripes draw the eye horizontally rather than vertically, which is not what you want.
Where to Shop
petite handbook Petite Fashion Tips
Consider these retailers for the latest looks in dresses for petite women for professional, dressy and casual occasions:
* Petite Sophisticate
* JCPenney
* Nordstrom
* e dress me
* Talbots
* Ann Taylor
When shopping for the most flattering dresses for petite women, those ladies in the 5'4" and under market should keep some pointers in mind to present an unforgettable image. If you're shorter than average, you know how frustrating it is to find the perfect outfit and then see that it's too long or boxy for you. Shopping in the Petite department of stores and at specialty petite boutiques will eliminate much of your sizing problems, but there are still some key areas you'll want to pay attention to in order to make yourself appear taller.
petite dress
Best Dresses for Petite Women
Here are some important aspects to look for when shopping for dresses:
* V-neck: V-necklines are naturally flattering to many different body types and petites are no exception. The reason this is such a good neckline for shorter women is because of the vertical interest the V-shape creates; it draws the eye up and down. It also shows off your neck, so whether you have a swanlike neck or not, this particular neckline gives the illusion of a long, lean neck.
* Vertical details: Stripes that travel the length of your dress or other interesting details that run the center of your garment create a taller appearance. Like the V-neck, this draws the viewer's eye up and down.
* Wrap style: The main reason wrap dresses are so universally flattering to many body types is the built-in V-neck as well as the diagonal direction that creates a waistline for women who don't have small waists.
* Knee length or shorter: You want your legs to look long and lean; the more leg that shows, the taller you'll appear. Dresses that hit at your knee or slightly above are the most flattering for petite types. You don't want to go too short, however. If you wear a micro mini in an inappropriate environment, you run the risk of looking like a little girl playing dress up.
* Ankle length: If you prefer longer hems, you should go very long, all the way to the floor. In the summer, breezy cotton sundresses that fall to the ankles can be paired with espadrille sandals or other heeled, casual footwear.
What to Avoid
Petite Fashion Gallery
* Calf length: Dresses that hit the middle of your lower leg cut off the long look you're trying to attain.
* Wide belt: Wide belts can work, but only when their color is harmonious with your dress. If you sport a black dress and want to accessorize with a wide belt, make sure the belt is black as well; a wide white or red belt will cut you in half, essentially taking away from the taller illusion you're trying to convey.
* Different colors: A dress should be monochromatic or have a monochromatic pattern to best flatter the petite frame. Petite women should avoid dresses that are one dramatic color on top and a completely different color on the bottom. Like the wide belt, this tends to cut the body in half.
* Horizontal stripes: Very few women can pull this look off and petite women should avoid any variety of horizontal stripes. These side-to-side stripes draw the eye horizontally rather than vertically, which is not what you want.
Where to Shop
petite handbook Petite Fashion Tips
Consider these retailers for the latest looks in dresses for petite women for professional, dressy and casual occasions:
* Petite Sophisticate
* JCPenney
* Nordstrom
* e dress me
* Talbots
* Ann Taylor
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Teen Skirts
Different Types of Teen Skirts
No matter size, nor shape, there is a skirt out there to help maximize your assets and minimize any flaws.
* The A-line skirt is aptly named because the shape of the skirt mimics the letter A. It sits small and slim on the waist before gradually skimming the hips and thighs. The length of the A-line usually sits at, or just below, knee level. Since this style skims rather than clings to the body, it's perfect for anyone wanting to conceal their hip or thigh area.
* The pencil skirt looks great on everyone, but because it has a slightly tapered bottom, it works especially well on a curvy figure. These skirts excel at showing off every curve and should fall just slightly above or below the knee. This style also works well on either a long or short torso.
* The tube skirt is similar to the pencil skirt, but is longer and usually stops at the ankle. This is also an ideal cut for a curvaceous figure while remaining an especially popular style in teen skirts.
* The asymmetrical skirt has an uneven hemline with one side hanging slightly higher than the other. If you'd like to conceal the tops of your thighs while still looking fashion forward, then this is the style for you. Keep in mind that the fit should neither be too loose, nor too tight.
* The column tends to look best on tall and leggy frames, but will also work on a more rounded figure. These skirts are quite long, falling to the ankle or just below it.
Helpful Skirt Shopping Tips
When shopping, keep the following guidelines in mind to ensure that you come home with the right skirt:
How to Shop Key Factor Significant Because
Quality Take a look at the fabric and stitching. Is it made of a durable material? Does it require dry cleaning? Are any zippers or hooks coming undone? If it's a classic style, (like an A-line) you may want to keep it in your wardrobe for long term usage. Answering these simple questions will help you decide if it's a keeper.
Cut and Length Cut refers to the type of skirt, (if it's a tube, pencil skirt, etc.) and depending on the occasion, the length may give you reason to pause. High heeled boots and tights make it easy to wear minis in the winter, but the same can't be said for tube skirts in the summer (an A-line skirt may be more practical in the summer).
Color Black goes well with everything, as does grey and blue, but red, beige and green work surprisingly well with most tops and topcoats. Don't be afraid to experiment with color.
When Sitting No matter the length, it is very important to sit, cross and uncross your legs in your skirt before buying. There is a difference between form-fitting and "I can't breathe". Also, while wearing the skirt on, raise your hands above your head. This lets you see exactly how high the skirt may ride up, thus saving you from any potential embarrassment.
No matter size, nor shape, there is a skirt out there to help maximize your assets and minimize any flaws.
* The A-line skirt is aptly named because the shape of the skirt mimics the letter A. It sits small and slim on the waist before gradually skimming the hips and thighs. The length of the A-line usually sits at, or just below, knee level. Since this style skims rather than clings to the body, it's perfect for anyone wanting to conceal their hip or thigh area.
* The pencil skirt looks great on everyone, but because it has a slightly tapered bottom, it works especially well on a curvy figure. These skirts excel at showing off every curve and should fall just slightly above or below the knee. This style also works well on either a long or short torso.
* The tube skirt is similar to the pencil skirt, but is longer and usually stops at the ankle. This is also an ideal cut for a curvaceous figure while remaining an especially popular style in teen skirts.
* The asymmetrical skirt has an uneven hemline with one side hanging slightly higher than the other. If you'd like to conceal the tops of your thighs while still looking fashion forward, then this is the style for you. Keep in mind that the fit should neither be too loose, nor too tight.
* The column tends to look best on tall and leggy frames, but will also work on a more rounded figure. These skirts are quite long, falling to the ankle or just below it.
Helpful Skirt Shopping Tips
When shopping, keep the following guidelines in mind to ensure that you come home with the right skirt:
How to Shop Key Factor Significant Because
Quality Take a look at the fabric and stitching. Is it made of a durable material? Does it require dry cleaning? Are any zippers or hooks coming undone? If it's a classic style, (like an A-line) you may want to keep it in your wardrobe for long term usage. Answering these simple questions will help you decide if it's a keeper.
Cut and Length Cut refers to the type of skirt, (if it's a tube, pencil skirt, etc.) and depending on the occasion, the length may give you reason to pause. High heeled boots and tights make it easy to wear minis in the winter, but the same can't be said for tube skirts in the summer (an A-line skirt may be more practical in the summer).
Color Black goes well with everything, as does grey and blue, but red, beige and green work surprisingly well with most tops and topcoats. Don't be afraid to experiment with color.
When Sitting No matter the length, it is very important to sit, cross and uncross your legs in your skirt before buying. There is a difference between form-fitting and "I can't breathe". Also, while wearing the skirt on, raise your hands above your head. This lets you see exactly how high the skirt may ride up, thus saving you from any potential embarrassment.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Seventeen Fashions
ast Saturday morning, Seventeen fashion intern Sara and Style Council girls Kara and Claire were sent on a special mission. On a freezing fall day in NYC, the girls headed over to the H&M store at Rockefeller Center to check out the much-anticipated launch of the Lanvin for H&M line.
What did they find when they got there at 7am? That loyal H&M customers who wanted to get a piece of Alber Elbaz's infamously luxe Lanvin line at affordable prices had been waiting overnight for the opening.
Sara, Kara and Claire got a chance to peek inside the stores before the shoppers and snapped shots of the detailed frocks- which earned them a couple glares from the people on line- eep!
What did they find when they got there at 7am? That loyal H&M customers who wanted to get a piece of Alber Elbaz's infamously luxe Lanvin line at affordable prices had been waiting overnight for the opening.
Sara, Kara and Claire got a chance to peek inside the stores before the shoppers and snapped shots of the detailed frocks- which earned them a couple glares from the people on line- eep!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Designer's Bag
Behind the Brand
Diego Della Valle is the name behind the Tod's Brand. This native Italian drew up the concept for Tod's' casual styles during the several visits to the United States he took as a youth. His father, Filippo Della Valle, had already founded a shoe factory in the 1970s and, beforehand, the family has been immersed in a small shoe business. It was apparent from the beginning that Diego's future would be found in footwear. Considering that weekend wear in Italy typically consisted of very upscale attire, Diego sought to introduce a sense of casual luxury into his culture.
The first successful Tod's item turned out to be the JP Tod's driving shoes that featured 133 pebbles along the soles. These shoes were an immediate hit amongst the Italian upper class. From this point on, Tod's began to expand its luxury merchandise to handbags, luggage and accessories, as well as shoes.
Like many high profile designers, the Tod's brand has been carried around and promoted by celebrities such as Cameron Diaz, Julia Roberts, and Samuel L. Jackson. At this moment, Tod's is looking to expand into the status of a luxury clothing designer, and the company is showing excellent potential for such expansion.
Characteristics of Tod's Handbags
Tod's is a luxury brand. But unlike the wild and garish styles of fellow Italian designers such as Dolce & Gabbana and Fendi, Tod's takes more of a minimalist approach to fashion. Since the design philosophy carries an essence of upscale casual, embellishments are often subtle and bridled. At most, certain Tod's handbags will exhibit the severity of Prada.
Expect:
* High-quality Italian Leather
* Gold detailing
* Minimal Pockets
* Careful Styles
* Buckle Embellishments
Leather may be smooth or distressed, but Tod's handbags always feature superior quality materials that are accompanied by a hefty price tag. The price of Tod's handbags typically runs between 1200 to 1500 US dollars.
Tod's Styles
Tod's offers it all. Styles generally cover the usual range of:
* Satchels
* Shoppers
* Shoulder Bags
* Handbags
* Clutches
Tod's handbags also include two styles labeled the "Media" and the "Piccola" which offer a generous amount of space. The Piccola features a boxy frame, whereas the Media displays a shape almost similar to the Birkin bag.
Although Tod's does design a certain amount of clutches, these handbags may not be the best to consider for extremely upscale affairs. Once again, Tod's is a name defining casual luxury, so items worthy of a black tie event will not be found in the Tod's repertoire.
Diego Della Valle is the name behind the Tod's Brand. This native Italian drew up the concept for Tod's' casual styles during the several visits to the United States he took as a youth. His father, Filippo Della Valle, had already founded a shoe factory in the 1970s and, beforehand, the family has been immersed in a small shoe business. It was apparent from the beginning that Diego's future would be found in footwear. Considering that weekend wear in Italy typically consisted of very upscale attire, Diego sought to introduce a sense of casual luxury into his culture.
The first successful Tod's item turned out to be the JP Tod's driving shoes that featured 133 pebbles along the soles. These shoes were an immediate hit amongst the Italian upper class. From this point on, Tod's began to expand its luxury merchandise to handbags, luggage and accessories, as well as shoes.
Like many high profile designers, the Tod's brand has been carried around and promoted by celebrities such as Cameron Diaz, Julia Roberts, and Samuel L. Jackson. At this moment, Tod's is looking to expand into the status of a luxury clothing designer, and the company is showing excellent potential for such expansion.
Characteristics of Tod's Handbags
Tod's is a luxury brand. But unlike the wild and garish styles of fellow Italian designers such as Dolce & Gabbana and Fendi, Tod's takes more of a minimalist approach to fashion. Since the design philosophy carries an essence of upscale casual, embellishments are often subtle and bridled. At most, certain Tod's handbags will exhibit the severity of Prada.
Expect:
* High-quality Italian Leather
* Gold detailing
* Minimal Pockets
* Careful Styles
* Buckle Embellishments
Leather may be smooth or distressed, but Tod's handbags always feature superior quality materials that are accompanied by a hefty price tag. The price of Tod's handbags typically runs between 1200 to 1500 US dollars.
Tod's Styles
Tod's offers it all. Styles generally cover the usual range of:
* Satchels
* Shoppers
* Shoulder Bags
* Handbags
* Clutches
Tod's handbags also include two styles labeled the "Media" and the "Piccola" which offer a generous amount of space. The Piccola features a boxy frame, whereas the Media displays a shape almost similar to the Birkin bag.
Although Tod's does design a certain amount of clutches, these handbags may not be the best to consider for extremely upscale affairs. Once again, Tod's is a name defining casual luxury, so items worthy of a black tie event will not be found in the Tod's repertoire.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Baby Dolls
DOLLS PRICE GUIDE: MODERN BARBIE DOLLS
BLONDE FASHION MODEL BARBIE in LUNCH at the CLUB
DOLL: Blonde Fashion Model #1 (aka "Lingerie" Barbie") in Lunch at the Club Outfit
SIZE: 11 1/2"
MARKS: Head: COPYRIGHT MATTEL INC. 1958. Outfit:: Barbie® Fashion Model™ Collection (tag)
DATE OF PRODUCTION: 2000
CHARACTERISTICS OF DOLL: Doll comes in a plain ecru box and wears a nostalgic-looking bra, panties, and stocking with garters set, plus white heels. Outfit includes blue suit, pink body suit, pink hat with navy netting, gray "fur" stole, flowers, black patent purse, black stockings, and spectator pumps.
PRICE: #1 Lingerie/Silkstone Blond Fashion Model Dolls $200 to $250 at online auctions.
OUTFIT: $60 TO $75 NRFB at online auctions such as eBay.
COMMENTS: Doll is one of the "Limited Edition" dolls for modern Barbies in 2000 "limited" to 35,000 worldwide. Outfit is similarly limited.
MARKET REPORT: This doll has increased significantly in value since 2000, since it ws the first doll in the very popular Silkstone / Lingerie Barbie series.
BLONDE FASHION MODEL BARBIE in LUNCH at the CLUB
DOLL: Blonde Fashion Model #1 (aka "Lingerie" Barbie") in Lunch at the Club Outfit
SIZE: 11 1/2"
MARKS: Head: COPYRIGHT MATTEL INC. 1958. Outfit:: Barbie® Fashion Model™ Collection (tag)
DATE OF PRODUCTION: 2000
CHARACTERISTICS OF DOLL: Doll comes in a plain ecru box and wears a nostalgic-looking bra, panties, and stocking with garters set, plus white heels. Outfit includes blue suit, pink body suit, pink hat with navy netting, gray "fur" stole, flowers, black patent purse, black stockings, and spectator pumps.
PRICE: #1 Lingerie/Silkstone Blond Fashion Model Dolls $200 to $250 at online auctions.
OUTFIT: $60 TO $75 NRFB at online auctions such as eBay.
COMMENTS: Doll is one of the "Limited Edition" dolls for modern Barbies in 2000 "limited" to 35,000 worldwide. Outfit is similarly limited.
MARKET REPORT: This doll has increased significantly in value since 2000, since it ws the first doll in the very popular Silkstone / Lingerie Barbie series.
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