“Toto, I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore.”

Have you been to the Mall lately? If you shop, you know a trip to the Mall can be an all day event. Last week my girlfriend and I went on an expedition to the International Mall in Tampa. Our intent was to buy make-up, but we also went there to gather information and to learn about the differences between mineral foundation vs. regular foundation. To do so we each decided to get some neat makeovers. Our first stop was Macy’s, which was having an end of summer shoe sale. Of course, after buying a couple pair of sandals, we made our way over to the make-up counter. I enquired about the make-up and asked if I could try some on. The Macy’s counter person said we could, “but only with the purchase of two items or more.” Disappointed and feeling somewhat snubbed, we exited Macy’s and walked out into the Mall.

Rainbow

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

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HandsOne urban myth is that you can assess a person’s health by the color and shape of their nails. False. No one can make a diagnosis of a disease by looking at someone’s fingernails and toenails. Another common myth is that eating large amounts of Jell-O will make nails longer, stronger and more beautiful. Sorry, this too is false. Gelatin used to be made up of animal joints and cartilage. Now it is primarily made up from pigs skin. Sorry to disappoint, but because nails are made up of keratin, Jell-O offers no medicinal benefits whatsoever. Beware of dry climates and inexpensive nail polish remover. These can be the cause of unhealthy nails too. A well-balanced diet of foods such as soybeans, vegetables and leafy greens is important. And drinking water right out of the tap is also very good because unfiltered water is rich in minerals such as zinc and iron. The trick to healthy looking nails is to trim regularly; try a little body butter on those cuticles, then try pushing back on each one for a quick manicured look. Then apply some non-greasy moisturizer to complete our routine. Finish up by polishing with the latest seasonal colors. This fall, it is neutral shades of beige, the perfect colors to compliment the deep, rich tones of autumn’s clothes closet. You’ve heard the saying, “To change her mind is a woman prerogative,” so choosing a color to match your outfit can also be a nice touch. Switch it up for a more casual look with some trendy metallic colors, and of course there’s glitter polish for that special evening event. And always…Feel free to de-stress by stopping by the salon. Relax and have a girl’s day by treating yourself to that much deserved manicure or pedicure. You will feel wonderful and meet nice new friends. An old wives tale I learned at my salon goes something like this. When you are in love your nails grow strong. When you’re in love your nails grow long. When you’re not in love your nails grow little. When you’re not in love your nails grow brittle. Just do it. Get nailed!

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Red LipstickIf you’re seeing red this fall, you’re right. Move over summer, it’s time to move on! No more watermelon pinks or seashell corals. The new colors are hot off the press, in stores just waiting for you to try on. If you like it hot and spicy you are already half way there. Red, maroon and burgundy lip color will definitely make it to your lips this fall. The colors are bold this season and ready to make a splash, so don’t forget to cool them down with the latest new green eye shades. To experiment, buy an eye shadow (packet) that has a couple shades to choose from. Brush on subtle hues of moss and seafoam. There’s also olive, forest green and even apple if you’re feeling a little daring. Lesson number one: Always remember to apply it correctly; darker color on the bottom and a lighter color to accent the lids. Don’t be afraid. These colors will look great on you, especially if you have green eyes. To shoot for a nice, refined and sophisticated look, go easy on the red lipstick. Too much can make you look like a Christmas tree. Applying lipstick is easy. The trick is to blot your mouth when you’re through. This gives the lip a more subdued, finished look. Another lesson I’ve learned is glossy, shiny lipstick is not for women of a certain age. The gloss tends to run, leaving stains all around the lip area. It is important to moisten the lips area before applying lipstick. Try a little body butter to soften the skin around the lips area. Then apply your favorite lipstick. The color will stay on twice as long and you definitely will shine in your new fall look. Now that’s hot!

Photo: Google Images

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What’s old is new again. That’s right. Animal prints are back, bigger and bolder. Don’t be afraid; it’s not that leopard skin jacket you remember… Hanging in the old coat closet. This year the style is daring and eclectic. “The leopard is changing its spots.” Yes, bold prints can be worn- and not just with solids. It is a brave new world this time around. For a night on the town, try a little leopard top with a polka-dot skirt. Now that’s fierce! Just make sure the colors don’t clash.
To achieve that classy look, stick to neutral colors; darks and lights go well together. Just about anything goes, except of course, mixing and matching the jungle prints together. That’s a definite faux pas! Stick with one animal at a time. We don’t want to look like we live at the zoo, or have joined the circus.Animal Print Shoes

Animal accessories are available too: Belts, shoes and purses. I have a cheetah hat that I wear when the weather gets cold. Remember, even in the winter months those UV sun rays will damage the skin. Cold weather can dry and chap skin, so add a little extra lemongrass shea butter cream under your sunscreen before applying make-up. Embrace your wild side! Beat the drum! Sound the horn! The natives are coming! You’ll be daring and classy in the latest version of animal print. Have a gro-o-o-owling good time this season.

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Is Facebook your destiny? Do you have a favorite picture of yourself you would like all your friends to see? Here are a few tips for taking that special picture.

Let’s make your assets work for you. If you like your eyes, find a shadow you love and use it. For a fresh look, glitter shimmers are in the local stores. They are easy to apply. Try placing a tissue under the eye for falling sparkles. Remember, we want our eyes to shine not our cheeks. Then wipe the cheeks clean and there you have it, eyes that are bright and shiny. For glowing skin, wash your face then apply toner to minimize pores. Follow up with a moisturizer such as a nice lemongrass shea butter cream then apply your favorite make-up. Then you will be set to snap that perfect Facebook shot.

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SwimsuitThat‘s OK.  There are many memories this past summer we can hold on to; others we might as well try to forget.  Like how hard it was scoping out and purchasing that “perfect” swimsuit.  Not to mention what it took to fit into it.  It seems nothing says summer like suntans and sundresses.  The sun is healthy.  Knowing  just how much sun is enough, without harming the skin, can be difficult. Experience is the key to achieving that rich, golden, Island Girl tan.  Let’s go to the rule book:

Rule #1 – Never go out without sunscreen.

Rule #2 – Wear a hat if you have one.  

It can be trendy and functional. Sunbathing is healthy and looking good is the best way to feeling good.  Sundresses are the all rage.  Try a dab of body butter for a little extra shimmer on your legs and decollete area.  No one ever said being a little bad could look so good, but a lasting impression can say a million words, so don’t give up your summer tan. Make it last and last with moisture rich shea butter cream to hydrate the skin. Memories last a lifetime.  Celebrate the end of another season.  Have fun in the sun next year after choosing that perfect suit and knowing all eyes will be on you.  Not only will you feel great, you’ll look good too! But for now, Good-bye, fun in the sun. See you next year!

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