Summer Beauty Help

Harsh sun, humidity, chlorine, and salt water can do a number on your skin and hair.  We all need a little help when it comes to summer repair.  Here's some help on some of the worst summer beauty disasters.

1.)  Dry, Dehydrated Skin

If your skin is like ours, the sun sucks the moisture right out of your skin, leaving it dry and scaly.  In addition to our favorite regular daily body moisturizer, we use a balm that is rich in cocoa butter.  You can also try straight cocoa butter.  In a pinch we have even used Vaseline (gotta love it).  It's greasy but gets the job done.

L'Occitane Ultra Rich Body Cream $21

2.)  Too Much Sun

Unfortunatly it is too little too late for the burn, but you can prevent the wrinkle-causing damage created by sunburn by using an antioxident rich serum.  Try Olay Definity Self Repair Serum.  To reduce the redness, a moisturizer containing soy will reduce inflamation.  

Fresh Soy Face Cream $38

3.)  Faded or Brassy Hair Color

 If your hair is blond use a color-depositing conditioner like Redken Blonde Glam Perfect Platinum Color Enhancer.  If you are a brunette or redhead, use a mask to help rehydrate and get your natural shine and color back.  

Pureology Essential Repair Restorative Hair Masque $42

4.)  Over Did It On the Self-Tanner

Anyone who has used self-tanner has been here:  orange or streaky skin.  Try an exfoliating body wash to smooth out the skin and get rid of any excess bronze residue.  Baking soda on a washcloth rubbed into the streaky areas will work just as well.  Be careful not to rub yourself raw!  I will admit that I have used nail polish remover and it actually worked pretty well.  Use this method with caution and not on your face!

Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish $38

Beauty DIY Tips!

Love this video that gives you quick Beauty Do It Yourself tips that every gal needs to know! Not only does it save you money but time as well! Check it out now!

How to get the Milkmaid Braid look

Going right along with the braid trend that has taken over has been the addition of the milkmaid braid. Celbs are loving this look and have been for awhile.

Mary Kate Olsen

Sienna Miller

Nicole Richie

The name is actually quite fitting because that is what you look like:  a milkmaid!  Don't let that discourage you.  It is an easy, casual alternative to the classic ponytail and is almost easy!  It can also be made into dressier look so it is great for a fast evening updo.  Gotta love a versatile hairstyle!

•Step 1

Untangle the hair and split into two sections.  Each section will have its own hair braid.  You may secure the top of the braid with an elastic ponytail holder, but it isn't necessary.

•Step 2

Work one hair braid into each section of hair.  Hold the hair to the opposite side while you're braiding, so that when it is wrapped, it lies nice and flat.

•Step 3

Repeat this process on the opposite side of the head, making a second hair braid.

•Step 4

Wrap each braid around the head, crossing over the back center part.

•Step 5

Tuck the ends of the braids in underneath themselves, so that the elastic bands don't show.  You might want to secure the braids with a bobby pin placed underneath the braid

***Compliments of Ehow***

If that is too confusing, check out this video.  It gives you some more options.

Brazilian Blowout

The new trend is sweeping salons all over and everyone is talking about the Brazilian Blowout.  As wavy/curly haired gi rls ourselves we are excited about this new technique that takes all frizz and curl out of your hair. It lasts up to 12 weeks and no flat iron is necessary!  Think about waking up, showering, and then letting your hair dry...no flat iron, no curling iron, just get up and go!  Not to sound too much like an infomercial but here is what makes the Brazilian Blowout better than any of the others out there:  no harsh chemicals!!!  That means smoother hair.  Take a look for yourself:

Click here for a salon closest to you!

How to get Pretty Beach Waves

This is a great summer look that can go very wrong! Here is a great how-to on this very popular look!

twilight hair

In case you live under a rock, the third installment of Twilight comes out in theaters today.  In honor of it's release, we are getting inspired by the ladies of Twilight.  Even if you aren't a fan of the series, you can appreciate and learn from these gals (yes, even Kristen Stewart has her moments).

Bella/Kristin Stewart

To get this Bella hair look, use a medium barreled curling iron to curl your hair in sections.  Take two small sections of hair from the front, loosely twist them them and pin them back with bobby pins. 

Pre-Joan Jett mullet haircut, Kristen had great hair (who knew?).  To get this look begin with wavy hair if possible.  Add in extra curl by wrapping two inch strands around the barrel of the curling iron without using the clamp.  Finish with a cream such as Bumbles and Bumble Grooming Creme to give it a more piecy look.

Alice/Ashley Greene

If you have a pixie cut like Alice, use reworkable styling putty like Shu Umeura Art of Hair Shape Paste on the ends of your hair.  Use a flat iron to straighten your hair and make the ends flip up and out.

In real life, Ashley has a take on the bob:  a little below her chin with a few layers in the front.  Use a serum to cut down on fly-aways such as John Frieda Frizz-Ease Serum.  Blow dry or flat iron your hair strait. 

Rosalie/Nikki Reed

Rosalie's hair is very achievable.  Beginning with straight hair, use a large barrel curling iron to give yourself some loose curls on the lower half of your hair.  If you want some extra hold, try Tresemme 24-Hour Body Root Boosting Spray.

Nikki has long hair with some long layers in the front.  If you have naturally straight hair you can simply blow dry as usual and finish with a flat iron for a more polished look.  Wavy hair may take a little more work with the flat iron.  Finish with a spray such as Citre Shine Shine Mist.

your best sunscrean

We all love a great tans ladies but we most defiantly do not welcome the burns, pain, and peeling that we often battle to get the great tan.  Much worse than a harsh sunburn are the wrinkles that inevitably follow years down the road.  Do we really need to tell you to use sunscreen?  We don't want to see you ladies putting on that oil with a SPF of 7.  Friends don't let friends burn and prematurely wrinkle.

Best Overall

This sunscreen get raves from both consumers and experts.  They love that it feels lightweight and it contains antioxidants which can help prevent sun damage.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch $8.92 at Walmart

Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin but don't want to fork over the big bucks (which is often the case), turn to baby formulas which are both strong and lack the irritating ingredients that adult formulas often contain.  This one by California Baby is fragrance and chemical free.  Its goes on smooth and is waterproof as well.

 California Baby No Fragrance Lotion $19.99 at California Baby

Acne Prone

Gels are great for those who tend to break out because they aren't heavy.  This sunscreen by Bull Frog is not only light but stays put because it was designed for surfers.

Bull Frog Surfer Formula Gel Sunblock $10.50 at Amazon

Sweat-Proof

This sunscreen "goes on like a lotion and dries like a powder" which allows you to still have good grip when you are playing volleyball on the beach (or flipping through magazines).  It also has complete UVA and UVB protection.

Banana Boat Sport Performance Sunscreen $10.99 at Walgreens

Fast Application

Spray on formulas are great for reapplication but make sure you don't miss any spots!  You still need to rub this in.  This Coppertone is waterproof and has a twist and lock top so it doesn't accidentally fire off in your beach bag.

Coppertone Continuous Sport Spray $7.99 at Drugstore.com

 Heavy Duty

This heavy duty sunblock has a SPF of 90!  Standard rub-on lotions are better than spray-ons when you are looking for thorough coverage.

 Coppertone Ultraguard Broad Spectrum $8.99 at Drugstore.com

Remember these general tips when it comes to your sunscreen:

1.)  Waterproof doesn't mean that it doesn't need to be reapplied.  Put on another layer every 2 hours or when you exit the pool or ocean.

2.)  Apply your sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes prior to getting out in the sun.  It allows it time to absorb before you start to sweat it off.  In fact, we apply ours in the buff to make sure we don't miss any spots along our bathing suit lines.

3.)  EVERYONE needs sunscreen ALWAYS!  That means sunny or cloudy, fair or dark skin, or whether or not you have a "base tan".  No exceptions!

topshop makeup line

We love Topshop for their affordable and trendy clothes.  Anyone who combines affordability with our fashion favorites, we are definitely fans of!  They have become a celeb favorite too thanks to the likes of big names like Kate Moss.

(We love you Kate!)

Expanding into makeup now, Topshop has given us an affordable and cool line that has embraced the latest trends.  Neon has not always been a favorite of ours, but so many others really know how to rock it...and this is the place for the hottest neon colors for your eyes!

Amazon Shadow in Sunstar $16.00

Amazon Crayon in Sunshower $14.00

For the less brave, they have some great colors for an everyday look too.

Amazon Shadow in Moon Dust $16.00

Eyeshadow Duo in Rocky Road $12.00

And don't forget those lips!

Amazon Lip and Cheek Tint in Berry $12.00

Polish in Melba $12.00

Have you tried any of these products?  We want to hear from you!

Super Easy Summer Hairstyles

Front Braid
 We love this look and wear it all of the time.  It's very boho chic and easy to do.  There are several takes on it but this is our favorite. 
Do It Yourself:  Make a deep side part and take a 1-2 inch section of hair from where your part begins.  Divide this section into 3 sections and french braid across your hairline.  Pin it in place behind your ear.  Done!

Side Braid
 This braid looks best when worn a little messy, so it is perfect for the summer days and nights when you just want to throw your hair up off of your face. 
Do It Yourself:  Gather your hair over to one side and and braid your hair so it rests on one shoulder.  To make this look even cooler and messier, divide your three sections into varying sizes (small, medium, and large) and then braid as usual.

High Bun
 This is a great way to get sticky, frizzy or otherwise annoying hair up out of the way while still looking totally chic.  Use a headband like Jessica Alba did or go bare.  We love the idea of wearing two very thin headbands or rapping a thin ribbon a couple of times around as a headband. 
Do It Yourself:  Begin by putting your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head.  Divide your hair into a few sections (three or four).  Twist and wind strands around the base of your ponytail and secure into place with bobby pins.  Depending on the thickness of your hair, you may need to tease the sections to achieve a bigger, less puny bun.  We find that it stays in place better when your hair is a little dirty or teased and roughed up. 

Half Up
 This is super easy and looks equally great worn in a casual or dressier way.
Do It Yourself:  Simply take the front section of your hair (the part that frames your face) and gather it back into one section.  Keep the section up high toward the crown of your head like JLo did to keep this look a little more fresh and ponytail-like.  Secure it into place with an elastic.  To make this do look a little more fancy, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to cover it up and pin it in place with a bobby pin.

Beachy Waves
 Depending on your hair type, this look may be super easy or take a little more work.  With a little trial and error, you can find what works best for you on your own hair. 
Do It Yourself:  Begin by applying an anti-frizz serum to damp hair.  We always feel that hair looks it's best when it can dry naturally but we don't all have endless time to hang around and wait so we are forced to break out the hairdryer.  Work in sections and scrunch hair gently as your dry.  Using a diffuser will create less frizz.  Using a 1-2 inch barreled curling iron, take random sections of hair and wrap them around the curling iron (don't use the clip).  Alternate the direction that you wrap the curls around the barrel.  Shake your head to tousle the waves but avoid touching it too much as it will create frizz.

Messy Ponytail 
This is a more modern take on the traditional ponytail.  The texture and slight volume gives it a sexy finished feel rather than the I-just-left-the-gym look.
Do It Yourself:   Begin by spraying texturizing spray on damp hair and let air dry.  This is yet another style that looks better when hair is dirty.  Back-comb and tease hair at the crown of your head for a little lift (don't over do it!  You aren't wanting a dramatic poof).  Gather your hair and place your ponytail at ear level.  Loosen a few pieces around your face if you want.

summer proof your makeup

As the summer months are creeping up on us we are breaking out the sandals and tank tops but we can't forget about our summer makeup.  If you are like us, you like to keep it simple and low maintenance in the summer.  Using minimal products mean less time sweating in the bathroom and more time enjoying the nice weather and longer days.  Here are our best tips to keep your face in place and get you out the door quicker!

1.)  Skin:  First and foremost, don't forget to prep your face with a good moisturizer with an SPF of 30 or higher.  Neutrogena makes several great ones including their new line of Spectrum with Heliplex360 (SPF up to 100!).   If you are super concerned with your makeup staying put, use a primer.  It will help hold makeup in place.  Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer is a great one to try.  If you use a foundation in the winter months, consider switching to a tinted moisturizer.  They are lightweight, sheer and give you a very natural finish.  Laura Mercier is considered the gold standard when it comes to tinted moisturizers.

 Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer $42 at Sephora

2.) Eyes:  For eyes we recommend switching to a waterproof mascara in your brand of choice.  We have always been partial to Maybelline.  Avoid using cream eye makeup in the summer months.  It comes off quicker than powder and you definatly don't want your eye shadow running down your face.  If you really want your eye makeup to stay put, try an eye primer under powder eye shadow.  This gives something for your powder to "stick" to.

Estee Lauder Stay In Place Eyeshadow Base $15 at Estee Lauder

3.) Cheeks:  A great tip to keep your blush in place is to first apply a gel or cream blush and then blend a powder blush on top.  The gel or cream will sink into the skin and the powder will set it in place.  Simple, quick, and stays put!  Check out our previous blog on how to apply gel or cream blush if you are a newbie.  Tarte is a popular gel blush among makeup experts and celbs.

 

Tarte Cheek Stain $30 at Sephora

4.)  Lips:  Save the heavy, dark lipcolor for winter and fall.  They can be a little overkill for summer when the vibe should be more light and fun.  Just because you are going light on your makeup doesn't mean you need to skip the lips.  Applying even a tinted lip balm can give your lips a hint of color and make you look finished.  Some even have a built in SPF.

Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate $3 at Burt's Bees

General Tips:

-  Summer is the perfect time to experiment with color.  Rich hues have their place, but for summer go for lighter more vibrant colors.   Not only do they look more summer-esque but they brighten the face, making you look younger (hello!).  If you aren't sure what colors you would like to try, go for a palate which will give you several colors to play with, mix, and test out.  Just remember to keep it age appropriate and don't go overboard.  Pick one feature to add a pop of color to and keep everything else neutral.

Stilla Pro Artist Palette #1 $28 at Sephora

- Go sheer!  A great way to lighten up your makeup is to switch to sheer versions of your favorite products.  The great thing about sheer makeup is it is most often mistake proof.  It goes on super light so you can keep applying if you want it to be a little darker, or just do one layer for a hint of color.

Sonia Kashuk Ultra Shine Sheer Lip Gloss $8.99 at Target

-  If you feel the sweat coming on, avoid using powder as a way to cover up the shiny.  This will only make your makeup look cakey.  Instead invest in some blotting papers that will keep you nice and matte.  It's just as simple and easy to do.

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets $5.99 at Drugstore.com

LOST!

So we have to admit that we love to get LOST every week with Matthew Fox.  Hello Jack!  In addition to our love of all things fashion, we also love the crazy and confusing ABC hit Lost (did we mention its starring Matthew Fox?).  With only two episodes left in the series, our minds have been preoccupied with all things Lost.  Which made us think...if we were stranded on an island what would we miss the most (besides our kiddos and hubby of course!). Creature comforts!

Cool Shades: Out of the several pairs we own, we love a comfortable and light pair that looks great with almost everything!

Ray-Ban Active Lifestyle $119.99

Make-up Must Have:  Brows shape the face and is the #1 mistake that many women make (over tweeze, under tweeze etc...). That is why we take care of ours and make sure they look good.  Enter our favorite quick brow filler...

Bobbi Brown Natural Brow Shaper $19.00

Skin Care Must:  We have shared with you before how important it it to take care of your skin and we practice what we preach!  Moisturizing and protecting the face is a daily addiction for us both!

Oil of Olay Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15 $7.69

Comfies: When we are at home relaxing we love to be comfy and cute!  No rolled up sweats and over sized t-shirts here.  Instead we raid the PINK line at Victoria's Secret.

MVP Yoga Pant $32.50

Favorite Tee $16.00

Smellin' Great:  We are girls after all and as much as wish we could pull a Matthew McConaughey and go au naturel we still like a great parfum (and deodorant for that matter!)

Clean Clean parfum $38

What fashion/beauty creature comforts would you miss? Leave a comment and let us know!

cool makeup find

We are always in search for ways to make our life easier aren't we? GPS, DVR, NOOK, IPOD, flat iron's, microwaves...and on and on and on. We are not sure about you guys, but sometimes our beauty routine is time consuming and lets face it, some days we would rather pull a "Hollywood starlet" and hide behind an obnoxiously large pair of sunglasses.

Exhibit A

Unfortunately wearing shades inside just ain't happening in our every day lives. Why not embrace a smart and ingenious makeup invention? We were so excited to come across these smart and efficient makeup pencils we couldn't wait to try them...one by Avon and one  by Cover Girl which equals AFFORDABLE! Yippee!!

This pencil pretty much covers your whole face! One side for lips and cheeks the other side for your eyes. It's small enough to throw in your bag and whip out for a mid-day refresher.

Jillian Dempsey for Avon Professional-Multi Pencil $8.00

We have all seen and heard how great a smoky eye can look but we all don't end up with this result...

 Enter our next great find! A pencil that blends the essential colors for this look that makes it fast and easy! You can go for a dark evening look or a lighter day one with so many colors to choose from.

Smoky Shadow Blast $8.00

Let us know what you think of these products, we want to hear from you too!