Even Vogue Celebrating Return Of Curvier Model: Meet Lara Stone.

Lara Stone. She could be the new face of the modeling industry, or rather, the new body to admire and copy.

Lara Stone is a size 4. For most women around the globe, a size 4 is tiny, especially when your height is 5'10'. But in the super skinny world of modeling where the runways feature a long string of very tall size zeros, Lara is certainly a breath of fresh air. She actually has the appearance of breasts and hips.

And Vogue Magazine has taken notice, and we applaud them. We were flipping through the January issue last evening, when we saw the same photo of Lara Stone, with the caption reading: 'The Shape of the Future.'

Well, it's about time. Sure, a size 4 is still rather small, but it sure beats the emaciated look of the zeroes filing down the runways.

The Dutch model is 22, and we love how Vogue has described her striking looks: "a beguiling mixture of tough and naive---imagine Sandra Bernhard crossed with Grace Kelly."

And despite her curves, she's getting a lot of work, like ad campaigns with huge names---Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, Givenchy. And Lara, who was named by her mom, a Dr. Zhivago fan, has walked the runway for just about every big designer.

Maybe the fashion heads see her as a curious oddity of sorts. She sticks out on the runway, as the current size zeroes walk along with her. And Lara feels the sting of the bias against heavier models, as she explains to Vogue:

"When you're a model, nobody calls you fat. 'What they say is curvy, but you know they mean fat."

And she recalls a recent incident where a female stylist took out a tight corset dress and told Lara to put it one for a photo shoot. She obviously couldn't fit into the dress and found the situation to be quite rude. "It's not an easy kind of rejection, because it's very personal," Lara says. "It's you, your body. You take it to heart."

It's been a tough year, once again, for the fashion industry, who have been courting the stick skinny models. Designers would argue that long, angular bodies wear clothing better. You remember the Ralph Lauren flap last October, with a print ad heavily photoshopped to create a super-slim silhouette? The model, Filippa Hamilton, eventually lost her job modeling for Lauren. Filippa was upset about the excessive photo re-touching and spoke out. She claims she was reprimanded for being 'fat.' We have learned that Filippa wears a size 4.

We can only hope that the curvier models will become more of a presence on the runways and back in the ad campaigns in the year 2010. Photographers like the famous Mario Testino appreciate the fuller figure. "I have never thought of Lara as fat," Mario explains. "It is just a matter of different shapes. It reminds me of when I started to work with Gisele(Bundchen); everyone used to think that she was too voluptous. Look at where she is now!"

Gisele, pre-baby weight, is also a size 4.

Let's face it, the modeling world will always feature super tall and super slender, young women. And yes, clothing does look its best on that type of silhouette. But when a body is so thin that bones are sticking out and gaunt faces are ruling the runways, then maybe it's time to return to some kind of normalcy. And if that means a small size 4, that's a huge turn around.

VS Model Creates Cleavage With Lots Of Padding And So Can You

According to one Victoria's Secret model, you can create cleavage. It's called padding, and sometimes, several layers of it.

British model, 22-year-old Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, apparently, confides that what you see in the famous Victoria's Secret catalogue layouts, is a little smoke and mirrors. In other words, the VS models are not so stacked as most male admirers would have you believe.

Rosie, one of the models who recently strutted down the runway for the annually televised Victoria's Secret fashion show, started chatting with the British newspaper, The Times UK. And she admitted that there's lots of padding involved, at least for herself, to create the legendary cleavage the VS models are celebrated for. Look at the photo of Rosie in the black bra and panties. She could have fooled us.

Oh, how we love an honest and gorgeous celebrity!

“I do believe in chicken fillets,” Rosie Huntington-Whiteley says. “I’m not saying you have to use them, but if anyone knows me and sees me in a photoshoot, well, there are friends in there. I’m not a fan of that whole push-up look in the day. But, of course, you do need a lift with a sexy dress, so do what you’ve got to do, girls — shove them in there. I’ve been known to have three in at a time for shoots — plus padding."

Two of the best lingerie makers for instant cleavage: Victoria's Secret (of course) and Frederick's of Hollywood. Both companies sell tons and tons of bras, in just about every style, fabric, and color out there. From push-ups to deep plunges to water and gel-filled to padded to seamless to underwires to convertible and strapless, there's a bra with built-in cleavage waiting for you. And the prices are decent. You can get 2 for $40, 2 or more for $19.50 each, some on sale for $14.99 each. Do check both VS' and Frederick's websites.

You can shop by size:
From small sizes, like AA and A. To full figure sizes like DD and DDD.

And at Victoria's Secret, you can even shop by 'swell.' From Level 1: Subtle Lift. Level 2. Moderate Lift. Level 3: Dramatic Lift. Level 4: Extreme Lift. And Level 5: Ultimate Lift.

We're assuming that at Level 5 for the ultimate lift, they're talking dangerous curves. Pass at your own risk, ha!

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley also tells The Times UK that a tanned body makes for a sexier body:
“I won’t do a lingerie shoot unless I’m tanned,” Rosie says. “I think most women will admit that they look better when they’re brown. I fake tan — but I don’t recommend sunbeds — and at work, they’ll put body make-up on.” Indeed, her fellow VS babe Selita Ebanks confessed to wearing “about 20 layers of make-up on my butt alone” for her walk down the runway.

And when she's not modeling for VS, you'd be lucky to even catch her in a bra:
“I don’t wear bras that often. If I do, I don’t like push-up bras — though they’re fun for the bedroom, I think”.

To read the entire article, let's go across the pond here.

The Real Housewives Only Admit To Botox, Breasts, And Juvederm

We think Bravo TV's 'The Real Housewives' of Orange County, New York, New Jersey, and Atlanta, are all pretty darn honest, well, to some degree, at least.

According to what we recently learned, most of the 'housewives' admit to Botox and a couple to Juvederm, and 9 of the shapely stars admit to having breast implants. Jill Zarin says she had a breast reduction.

We think it's pretty refreshing when a celebrity admits to a few nips and tucks, although Botox and Juvederm are hardly considered an invasive procedure. Instead, these are minor cosmetic enhancements. The only housewife who would admit to any real face work, is Lynne Curtin of the Orange County housewives. The 53-year-old brunette recently had a facelift, and it was all captured on the Bravo reality show, and aired last week. We suspect there's been a little more than just one facial plastic surgery procedure within those 4 shows, but no one's talking, and that's okay, too.

We have to laugh, however, at 'The Countess,' LuAnn De Lesseps of the New York Housewives. The 44-year-old 'The Countess' told People magazine, that "yoga handstands--not Botox--keep her skin wrinkle-free." Well, she does have a nice complexion.

Here are 'The Real Housewives' who have admitted to Botox and/or Juvederm:
Bethenny Frankel (39)
Ramona Singer (53)
Jill Zarin (46)
Kelly Bensimon (41)
Jacqueline Laurita (39)
Danielle Staub (47)
Vicki Gunvalson (47)--both procedures
Tamra Barney (42)
Gretchen Rossi (32)
Lynne Curtin (53)--both procedures
Alexis Bellino (32)
Kim Zolciak (31)

Botox is widely accepted as a minor cosmetic enhancement procedure. And Botox is celebrating its anniversary: 7 years in a row, as the most popular cosmetic injectable.

Let's look at the numbers. 11 million Botox procedures and counting, thus far. Heck, someone is having the stuff injected. Both women and men alike. And the Botox routine is quick and easy. Minimal pain, and within 7 days or so, wrinkles and frown lines around the eyes and forehead are temporarily smoothed away for 3-4 months. The result is subtle and attractive when done correctly.

Those numbers indicate, that not only are The Real Housewives of Orange County, New York, New Jersey, and Atlanta, getting the sting of the Botox needle. Many women younger and older, are undergoing the quick, once every 3 months cosmetic procedure.
And by the way, Botox shots cost about $300-$500 a site. In other words, the crow's feet would be one site, or the lines in the middle of your forehead, one site, and so on.

Juvederm is considered a cosmetic filler or dermal filler injection, that can last up to a year. Juvederm is made of hyaluronic acid and is injected into facial wrinkles and folds to smooth skin and plump it up. And Juvederm can also be injected into the lips for a more plump effect. The cost per injection is typically around $300, like Botox.

Well, we suppose that yoga headstands can do a world of good, like The Countess suggests, but for most women looking to quickly erase some wrinkles and smooth out some deeper lines and folds, Botox and Juvederm hit the mark and hit it right.

Washing Face With Virgin Olive Oil Seems Wrong But DHC Works

It does seem rather bizarre to think, that you could effectively wash your face with virgin olive oil, and be left with a healthy, clear complexion. But the folks at DHC company have the rave reviews to prove it.

In fact, the skin care company based in Japan, and popular worldwide, says DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is their number #1 best seller. And it doesn't come cheap. A 6.7 oz. bottle will cost you $25.

So, you ask, how could a facial cleanser containing of all things, virgin olive oil, make your face feel really clean and, er, not oily?

According to DHC, their Deep Cleansing Oil is made of a unique water-soluble formula. The ingredients will never leave behind a greasy residue, but are able to lift and easily dissolve dirt, excess oil, makeup—even waterproof mascara—and other pore-cloggers.

And if you have dry skin, your complexion will fall in love with this golden-colored cleanser. It leaves faces soft and moisture-balanced.

We have tried DHC's Deep Cleansing Oil at least three times, after receiving samples in their mail catalogue.

Yes...this stuff really removes several coats of mascara, liquid eyeliner, foundation, the whole nine yards, as they say. All you do is massage a little of it in, and watch grime dissolve. The only thing you have to be alert about, is not getting the cleanser into your eyes, or you will end up with a filmy glaze, which is uncomfortable.

We also followed up with our regular glycolic acid cleanser, which ultimately gave us a very clean complexion. We felt we actually needed another step in our face washing routine. The DHC cleanser is enough for removing makeup and effectively cleaning your skin. But old habits die hard for us, and because our face is very oily, it didn't feel enough for us. So we took it the extra step with our other cleanser.

But we aren't alone, we've been hunting down lots of users of the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, and many women love the product and also there are a number who, like us, add an extra step to their face washing routine. These reviewers, all 1,053 of them, have also given the product high grades---a 4.2 out of 5, and 77% say they would buy the cleanser again. To see those reviews, visit: MakeupAlley.

By the way, DHC does more than just virgin olive oil deep cleansers. There are so many beauty items to explore.....there are rose toners, makeup, mineral mask, milk lotion, mild soap, tocophero E cream, imperial green tea shower gel, after bath hair treatments, etc. And there are FREE samples with every order.

DHC skin care company has been around for quite some time now and has evolved into the #1 direct mail skin care company in Japan.
"With a legacy of over 25 years in Japan creating high-quality products based on the natural benefits of olive oil, DHC is here to help you achieve more radiant skin. We use effective ingredients that are tested and true, without adding unnecessary coloring agents or irritating fragrances. Our line achieves an ideal balance to help bring harmony to any skin type."

Jessica Simpson New SwimWear Line Rolls Into Macy's Sunday

Jessica Simpson is one sharp businesswoman. The haters can hate, but the curvy blonde singer is now hitting the beach with a new line of swimwear launching at Macy's in NYC's Herald Square tomorrow!

Jess is teaming up with swimwear pro Red Carter for an amazing collection of itsy-bitsy bikinis. We all know the Texas beauty loves her big handbags and sexy boots. But Jess also likes relaxing at the beach, and thought a new line of swimwear would be the nice warm touch to a crazy winter on the way(especially with blizzard warnings for the east coast today).

"We are delighted to have found the right partner to continue to position Jessica Simpson Collection as a lifestyle brand,” added Camuto Group president Bob Galvin. “Red Carter is known as a leader in both the design and distribution of quality women’s swimwear and we are looking forward to a long, successful partnership.”

The line will be called the Jessica Simpson Swim Collection, and will be available in Macy's department stores nationwide on December 30th.

The line will include swimwear separates and some cover-ups. There will be traditional triangle tops, cute ruffle bandeaux and tie-side and scoop bottoms, all in animal and floral prints and colorful solids. Even a 'Daisy Duke'-inspired bikini, as you can see from the photo here. Prices will range from $35 to $120. And you will also be able to buy her swimwear collection from her Jessica Simpson Collection Website.

Jessica Simpson is certainly no fool. The young, stylish woman is building a Jessica world of her own, with a vast empire of goodies she sells like travel luggage, handbags, shoes, hair extensions through Ken Paves, lingerie, accessories, clothing and jewelry. And her merchandise is smart, chic, and always affordably priced.

Who needs Tony Romo, ha!

By the way, Jess's new jewelry line will bloom this spring at Macy's, of course. It will be called the Cactus Flower Collection and sources say the jewelry will be dressed in charms and Swarovski crystals.

Many of us might be shoveling some snow tomorrow, and the temperatures sure are nasty cold, but we can look forward to warmer days ahead. And it looks like Jessica Simpson is riding the waves for us. Now, if we only had a pair of her boots!

Lil Kardashian Sis Kendall Jenner Poses For Forever21 New Twist Collection

There are a lot of Kardashian women in the spotlight these days, and now---- another young girl whose name starts with the letter 'K,' is on her way!

L'il Kardashian sis Kendall Jenner is already modeling at age 14. Is she too young? Maybe, but certainly not in the world of fashion and makeup.

The dark-haired, pretty teen is the half-sister to well-known, reality-television stars Kim, Khloe, and Kourtney.

And Kendall Jenner is appearing in a new clothing collection for Forever21's 'Twist.' The limited edition will debut in stores and online at the end of January 2010. The theme is called Rocker Babes with a Twist.

The dark-eyed, wide-eyed teen is modeling a bunch of polka-dots and animal prints in the popular red and black rockabilly style for the junior size collection. And Kendall also had a camera crew in tow when she went to the shoot. Chances are, we will be seeing the Forever21 modeling session on a future Keeping up with the Kardashians television episode.

Forever21 has branched out in many fashionable ways with a recent cosmetics line, swimwear line, clothing for plus sizes, some styles with a more modest fit, and many new items.

And we wish we could find the quote Eva Longoria Parker gave to InStyle magazine a couple of years ago, when she said that shopping at Forever 21 was a guilty pleasure. Every gal loves a bargain, and Miss Eva is no exception.

Of course, Eva Longoria Parker is petite and very tiny and can easily fit into the junior-sized fashions at Forever 21, but there are also lots of no-size, super accessories there on the cheap-cheap. Like trendy scarves and sunglasses, and of course, fun jewelry at rock bottom prices.

For more information, visit: Forever21. And be on the lookout in January for the newest 'K' girl, Kendall, on the block.

Stacy London Says Pencil Skirts Are Sexy And Classic

We adore Stacy London, everyone's favorite stylist from TV's popular What Not to Wear makeover show.

The perky, raven-haired stylist, recently told People magazine this:

"It's funny, though, because in fashion, even though the trend is skirts all the way up to your pupik, I feel sexier when I wear a pencil skirt."

And we happen to agree. Pencil skirts are flattering to all women, if the proper length, cut, and color are chosen wisely. For instance, a black pencil skirt is your best friend. It can hide several flaws and still give you a long, curvy silhouette. Buy a pencil skirt with a high waist, and your legs will look a mile long and your tummy will look flat.

Check out the photo of Marilyn Monroe. If anyone knew how to wear a pencil skirt, it was the blonde bombshell herself. The style remains a classic and it certainly is sexy.

And trust us, you can find pencil skirts just about everywhere. The traditional pencil skirt would fall around the knees or just below. But today, there are pencil skirts riding above the knee and some even several inches below the knee. We believe the most flattering length is the traditonal style, and if it can fall just a smidgen below the knee, you've got yourself a flattering skirt.

Today we are looking at two pencil skirts in two very different fabrics:

1. Newport News Lace Print Leather Pencil Skirt (on sale now for $69, at Newport News). This one comes with a lovely glazed finish with a slit in the back, and fully lined. The pattern features an elegant floral lace.

2. Banana Republic High-Waisted Lightweight Wool Pencil Skirt ($80, at Banana Republic). This beauty hits above the knee and gives you a smooth, sleek shape. It includes a vent and rear welt pocket, all in a wool stretch blend.

Pencil skirts can be paired with many different looks....with a blouse tucked in.....with a sweater set......with a bolero jacket.......or suit jacket. The possibilities are endless. If you want a slender, long look below the waist, the pencil skirt is the perfect silhouette shaper.

Making A Big Hair Color Change Like Nicole Richie Going Brunette?!

Look at lovely Nicole Richie. Do you love it or hate it? The petite beauty has been known for her trademark golden locks, and now suddenly this:

Nicole Richie has gone brunette!!

We must be honest here, we were blown away. She looks like two different women. We prefer Nicole as a blonde. However, we don't think she looks bad with darker hair. She's pretty either way.

If you're going to make a big hair color change, then please visit a professional colorist. Our favorite would be Kim Vo, who happens to be located west coast in sunny California. We have never met the celebrity stylist, but we have seen his work and the results are brilliant.

A pro like Kim Vo, would probably tell you, that the most important factor when making a dramatic color change, like blonde to brunette, or brunette to blonde, or auburn to pale blonde, and so on, is considering your skin tone. Are you in the warm category or the cool category?

We believe that any woman could make a big hair color change, as long as she remains in the sensible realm of complementing shades. Your skin tone is essential in selecting what brunette hue you can pull off, for instance. The wrong shade, and you look washed out, too olive, too ashen, too ruddy, etc.

And our favorite hair rule: Remember....it's always easier to go darker, than to go lighter.

Lighter hair generally means, more upkeep, and more chances for damage to the hair cuticle. You can hide some less than perfect locks with a darker shade of hair color.

And don't forget your eyebrows when making a big hair color change. You might need to gently tone them down a bit, especially if changing from brunette to blonde. You want to blend in the new color with your features, as naturally as possible.

Let's not forget the investment. If you're a dark brunette, and have gone drastic into a head of blonde hair (Kim Kardashian did this for about a month or so), you will get socked in the wallet. Re-touching roots and extra highlights equal lots of money over a period of time.

And what about reversing a dramatic hair color change? That's more complex than you would think. We know a light blonde woman with fair skin, who went for bold red hair a few months ago. She had quickly decided it wasn't the best move, and then went through a lengthy process to get back her trademark blonde look.

Or ask anyone who has colored their hair black. Lifting the hair even a few shades lighter equals part magic and a very good colorist. Many women have suffered through many months of too dark hair, and have had to patiently grow it all out.

Our advice: Stay within your natural hair color range, for beautiful results. And if you want to make a big hair color change, then an excellent professional colorist is your best friend.

Let's not forget, though, how important the right hair color is for women......color can do amazing things for us. Model Cindy Crawford was asked in an interview with Allure magazine last March, how she stays looking so young at 43:

CINDY CRAWFORD: Color is the most important factor. You can get any plastic surgery in the world, but hair color is what enables women to look younger longer. I've also become more aware of hair health. I stay away from razor cuts because they can make my hair look frizzy, and I give myself a hair treatment while I'm in my sauna to keep it conditioned.

Cashmere Robes For Ultimate In Wealth And Softness

Cashmere. Just the sound of the word seems to signify a sign of wealth and sense of softness.

And yes, cashmere seems to surface around the holidays, because it is a classy gift to give and receive. And this time again, cashmere is hot, especially when it comes to robes. Nothing feels cozier and softer than a cashmere robe.

So, exactly where does cashmere come from? A cashmere goat, silly. And according to some digging, we learned that these goats can be found hanging out in the high plateau regions of Asia, including India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and China. And a few still live in the Cashmere region of India where the name originated from. Make sure you are getting real Cashmere when shopping for a robe. The label will state that the item is made from 100% pure Cashmere.

As we all know, pure cashmere is expensive. A robe can cost you thousands of dollars! Often times, cashmere is blended with silk for robes and sweaters. Pricey, but cheaper than 100%. Still, a very luxurious fabric. And there are also cottons that are soft and smooth and feel like cashmere and won't break your wallet. We will call those items, cashmere-inspired. And just as pretty.

Today, we are looking at three cashmere robes, from high end to low end:

1. Loro Piana Classica Cashmere Robe ($3,495, Neiman Marcus). Absolutely gorgeous. Need we say more?! And the robe comes in pink or white. Shawl collar with tie waist. Long sleeves. Pure cashmere. Made in Italy. Take a 'zoom' look at this one.....a really stunning cashmere robe. Hey, you are definitely worth it!

2. Black Cashmere Knit Robe ($152.15,on sale now at Bluefly). This robe is a great deal, because it, too, is 100% cashmere. And it comes in black, grey, pink, or natural. It features a lightweight, soft cashmere knit style with a wrap front and self-tie. It measures 37½" from base of collar to hem.

3. Victoria's Secret Soft Sweater Robe ($58, Victoria's Secret). These cashmere-inspired robes are really lovely and warm, and come in burgundy, heather oatmeal, and heather grey. Loose, drapey shape with cashmere-like softness. Three-quarter kimono sleeves. Wrap tie. Knee-length. Imported cotton. A great budget buy!

Cashmere robes are really the ultimate in luxury. We are all looking to lounge around in something beautiful, uber-soft, and comfortable. And these three selections hit the mark on all counts.

LexLi Skin Care Line Developed By Plastic Surgeon Features Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has been around for a very long time. In fact, the plant from the lily family dates back to biblical times. People around the globe have used aloe for dozens of reasons...like treating a bad sunburn, for instance.


But this bright green plant with the thick, tapered, fleshy leaves has been shown to do so much more. At least that's what one popular plastic surgeon from North Dakota says.

Dr. Ahmed Abdullah believes so strongly in the properties of aloe vera, that he has an entire skin care line, LexLi, based on this succulent plant. And he is proud to say that his treatments are true aloe-based products. All you need to do, is look at the back of the jar for the ingredients. The first ingredient listed in the LexLi Skin Care AloeGlyC collection is ALOE.

We thought we would take a look at AloeGlyC and how these topical beauty products work.

Dr. Abdullah explains at his website, that aloe vera is featured in his skin care line, because the plant performs two key actions: 1. heals the skin. 2. repairs the skin. But to be extremely effective, aloe must be carefully blended with other ingredients to sustain its power. "When Aloe Vera gel is mixed with either propylene glycol or glycerin, it has a synergistic action as a humectant. This synergistic, augmentative ability to retain water is the basis for the use of Aloe in cosmetics as a skin moisturizer and smoothener."

The most popular beauty treatment in the LexLi line is AloeGlyC ($75, 1 oz.). And this is what Dr. Abdullah says the rejuvenator does:
"This patented aloe based exfoliant combines aloe vera, glycolic acid and L-ascorbic acid beads (Vitamin C) into one unique formula. This remarkable combination aids in the removal of dead skin cells while activating the production of collagen-the skin’s natural rejuvenation process. The result is a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, while improving the texture and clarity of the skin. As an added benefit, the tine vitamin C beads function as biological cofactors and antioxidants, protecting the skin from damage caused by the environment. After just a few weeks you will begin to see remarkable improvement in how your skin looks and feels."

There are also a cleanser and day moisturizer that go with the AloeGlyC. "At LexLi we use bio-active, pharmaceutical grade Aloe Vera as the base for our products instead of water. This Aloe Vera base makes our products much more effective than our competition's products," Dr Abdullah explains.

To learn more about the LexLi AloeGlycC skin care line, and other aloe-based products, like their shampoo, conditioner, makeup remover, toner, and more, visit aloeglyc.

New Garnier HerbaShine To Offer 'Soft Lift' To Hair In 2010

Women who at-home color hair, can thank bamboo extract and the pros at Garnier for HerbaShine. It's a new and quicker way to cover grays, add shine and depth, and lighten hair one shade!

But ladies, you will have to wait until late December/January 2010, before the boxes of HerbaShine hit store shelves.

What's so unique about the new Garnier hair color?

First of all, No ammonia. Ammonia is a chemical, and it is often used during the coloring process. It opens the cuticle of the hair to allow the color pigments to penetrate deep into the hair shaft. But ammonia can be quite damaging and cause hair to become fragile and brittle and snap off if over-used or used incorrectly.

Garnier's new HerbaShine is actually a cross between a permanent color and a semi-permanent color. The dye contains some peroxide to allow for a gentle jump to level 2+, or a 'soft lift' as the Garnier folks are calling their unique box of HerbaShine:

1. Can lift hair up to a single level.
2. Covers gray (up to 70%)
3. Provides natural results without an obvious root line.
4. Does it all in just 10 minutes, for the retail price of $7.99
5. Comes in 18 gorgeous shades.

And the bamboo extract is forumlated into the color creme formula for a good reason. It fortifies the hair cuticle for radiant, shiny color. We learned that the leaves of the bamboo plant are used for a variety of cosmetic applications, because its anti-oxidant properties protect the integrity of the skin and hair's health.

We're going to try Garnier's HerbaShine when it hits store shelves. We've been checking, but so far, no boxes here in the U.S. Across the pond in Great Britain, however, women there are already using the new HerbaShine, raving about its gentle coloring process, no-drip formula, less of a stinky dye scent, and quick results.

Match Your Nails To Your Emails With OPI And Dell

OPI Nail Lacquer and Dell. What a lovely combination! This is too cute, but it's really true. Now you can match your nails to your emails!

This would make a great holiday gift, we think:

A new Dell laptop in a shade that matches your favorite OPI nail shade. Brilliantly beautiful!! An intelligent accessory.

The brainchild of this fashion interface---a woman, of course. Suzi Weiss-Fischmann of OPI has designed a line of computers skins with Dell, by lending 26 of her most popular colors to the Dell Design Studio.

“Beautiful nails really are the ultimate accessory to any look,” Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive Vice President & Artistic Director says. “And now, with Dell laptops that coordinate with OPI Nail Lacquers, you can match your nails to your emails!”

Classic and popular shades like:

I'm Not Really a Waitress (pictured above)

Big Apple Red

Princesses Rule!

Louvre Me Louvre Me Not

Cajun Shrimp and Green-wich Village, to name a few.

The Dell/OPI color option is available for these personal computers: Mini, Inspiron and Studio laptops.

You can check out all the pretty OPI nail lacquer shades available with the Dell laptop partnership at Dell's own Flickrpage.

And to find your perfect OPI color for nails, just visit OPI, of course.

Our personal fave is OPI's Pompeii Purple. Second fave: Teal the Cows Come Home. Ha. ha. Someone buy us one of these Dell/OPI's, please!!

This holiday season, you can really make a bold and shimmering statement with beauty and technology. The only problem is choosing. We would all like more than one!

AMC's Susan Lucci Stretches Pilates Empire With Spandex And Fila

Daytime's Susan Lucci is putting a little more stretch and spandex into her appearance these days. The ever-youthful Erica Kane on All My Children, has been sported around town in some pretty, new fitness clothing.

Susan Lucci has teamed up with the Fila Apparel company and designed a new line of Pilates and fitness clothing to complement the Emmy winner's Malibu Pilates Program. The apparel is called Fila by Lucci and is selling exclusively on HSN, for $33 to $50.

What's so special about Fila by Lucci? There are some pretty feminine touches and some clever details. There's a cute racer-back floral tank, a cut-out back long bra top, and a cami tank which go perfectly with a hooded jacket, and pants with contrast piping. The tops are uniquely made with an "inside self fabric bra" and are designed to flatter the contours of a woman's neck and back. The pants feature a contrast band that can be folded down at the hip, or kept at the waist for added coverage and support. The line is made with Fila's special, peached poly-spandex fabrication. So flexibility and comfort are always maintained.

The attractive Susan Lucci is 60-something and looks amazing. And yes, she really does work out, and Pilates is her fitness strategy:

"Pilates is a huge part of my fitness program and I want to make sure I look great during my workout," Susan Lucci explains. "I fell in love with Fila's beautiful performance apparel; it makes me look and feel great during my workout. The styles in our new collection are so versatile; I could wear the styles from the gym to running errands around town!"

We think this is a super idea for women working out and on the go. These pieces look to be sophisticated and smart. And heck, you don't even have to work out if you don't want to. The line is pretty in spandex. So we say, way to go Susan Lucci!

Roy Orbison's Widow Debuts New Perfume: Pretty Woman

We like to believe that most people remember and adore Roy Orbison's huge hit song Pretty Woman.

And of course, there were Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in Pretty Woman on the big screen. How could we forget?

This time, it's all about Barbara. Barbara Orbison, the widow of the legendary Roy Orbison. And she has been working for a number of years now, to create a signature scent, appropriately called, Pretty Woman. And it's debuting now! How lovely....a fragrance inspired by her husband's beautiful song.

Pretty Woman Perfume is an exotic blend with notes of bergamot, stargazer lily, amber and patchouli.. Price is $80 for a 1.7 oz. bottle. At the moment, the fragrance can be purchased at stores such as Stanley Korshak in Dallas and Planet Blue in Malibu, Calif. And you can also buy a bottle at Barbara Orbison's website Pretty Woman Perfume.

Barbara Orbison has always had a thing for fragrance. "After all these years of mixing my own perfume (which I have been dabbling in since finding this scent when I was thirteen years old), perfecting it throughout my life and marriage to Roy - it's finally here and I can't wait for you to try it.

I feel a scent should be mysterious and draw the world into you. I'm always being asked over and over again, “what are you wearing?” Now at last I’m able to share my secret with you!"

Barbara Orbison is also adding some scented candles for the holidays. The candles come in black, white and gold, and are encased in heavy glass. She also is looking into creating a body lotion and shampoo in the future. According to one source we found, first-year sales of the Pretty Women line could be worth an estimated $1.5 million in U.S. and international markets.

Barbara explains it this way:

“Everything I add to the line has to have something special about it,” she says. “The name Pretty Woman is important to me, not just because of the song or the movie, but because I feel every woman is pretty, every woman is beautiful, and it doesn’t make a difference where they live or how old they are.”

Gisele Bundchen Baby Due December And Some Of Her Beauty Tips

Gisele Bundchen is about to give birth very soon! In fact, we believe the due date is next Monday, December 14.

The famous model has been very quiet these past 9 months, as she prepares for the Bundchen baby she is expecting with husband Tom Brady, New England Patriots quarterback. You see 29-year-old Gisele at the beach here, sporting a smallish baby bump in mid August, which would make her about 5 months pregnant according to our math.

She looks toned and healthy, and has been staying fit throughout her pregnancy. And that incredible mane of hair is still wavy and gorgeous. Women absolutely love Gisele Bundchen's hair. And the televised Victoria's Secret Fashion Show last week, copied Gisele's trademark long, wavy hairstyle on all the models walking the runway. So to get the look, you need long layered hair, either naturally or through the magic and ease of hair extensions. You will also be smart to buy a volumizing spray to spritz on and wind hair aound a large-barreled curling iron to achieve those beautiful, sexy spirals.

Everyone loves the color of Gisele's hair, too. Her colorist, Harry Josh of John Frieda, explained to talkingmakeup.com, how he acieves that beautiful blend:

"Gisele’s hair color can be achieved only if the bulk of your natural hair color or base color is showing. Only idea if you have light brown or dark blonde hair naturally. If your hair is very dark naturally, it will never work on you."

Harry Josh also raves about this product to get a smooth, shiny look:

"I use John Frieda Frizz-Ease Thermal Protection Serum on EVERY single person’s hair I’ve ever styled in my life. Especially after coloring hair John Frieda Frizz-Ease Thermal Protection Serum helps in flattening the hair cuticles."

As far as makeup goes, we learned in the October issue of Harper's Bazaar magazine, that the Brazilian native favors makeup from her celebrity makeup artist Rose-Marie Swift. The new organic cosmetics line is called RMS Beauty. And apparently, Gisele can't get enough of the lip2cheek pots ($36) that come in 6 luscious and very wearable shades.

This is good, healthy makeup by RMS Beauty. In other words....no synthetics, no petrochemcials, no parabens or other bad stuff. In fact, there is no artificial anything.
We wish Gisele and Tom all the best on the soon-to-be arrival of baby Bundchen-Brady!

How To Get Eye Candy With All-Around EyeLiner In Two Shades

Who's got eye candy?

Penelope Cruz. Rachel Bilson. Angelina Jolie.

It's not secret. Most women do wear eyeliner on a daily basis. For really big eyes, you need eyeliner. Of course, there are varying degrees of liner. And there are several different ways to wear it----top lid, bottom lid, inside lids, cat eye. You get the picture. Wearing eyeliner frames the eyes beautifully, but there are a few things to consider:

If you line the entire eye all in black, your eyes can actually look smaller.

That little beauty nugget comes from Kela Wong, Rachel Bilson's talented makeup artist.

Here's Kela's advice, and we think it works!

1. Wear black eyeliner pencil along the top lash line only.
2. Then apply a dark brown liner on the bottom.
3. "It keeps the eye open," Kela explains.



Look at the first photo above of actress Penelope Cruz. Her eyes are absolutely gorgeous and you can see the makeup artist lined Penelope's top lids in black liner. And the bottom was enhanced with a dark brown liner and shadow. It's still a strong, sexy eye, but just a bit softer, as the eye rimming is broken up in the two, very subtle colors of black and dark brown.

As you know, there are lots and lots of eyeliners....from pencils to crayons to gels to liquids. Take your pick and the liner you choose doesn't always have to be super expensive to do the job. Kela Wong suggests picking up Wet n Wild Eyeliner Pencil in BlackBlack at your local drugstore. It's only a dollar.

Or how about M.A.C. Fluidline Eyeliner Gel in DipDown(dark brown, $15, at Macy's). Or in BlackTrack(black). Most pros and makeup fanatics love M.A.C. for its superior quality.

Just try the 2-tone eyeliners, and you will see how this simple process makes a big difference in your eyes. It's a clever trick and we've become hooked on it!

Floss Your Teeth For Better Health And Gain 6 Years

We really hope, and like to assume, that you are flossing your teeth, at least once before you go to sleep at night. But the sad facts show that only 5-10% of Americans are regular flossers.

This is our beauty tip today: If your floss your teeth daily, you can add some 6 years to your life. That's what one researcher claims. Michael Roizen, MD, author of RealAge, says you can add 6.4 years, to be exact. In his book, Roizen lists flossing as one of the most important daily activities -- along with exercise and quitting smoking -- that could extend life span.

Don't believe it? Well, even if the stats aren't perfectly etched in stone, flossing teeth does a world of good for your health:

1. Flossing keeps your teeth looking bright and clean. Do you want everyone to see you had spinach lasagna for lunch? It gets rid of plaque buildup.

2. Flossing removes bacteria that can lead to inflamation.

3. Flossing maintains good gum health and avoids gingivitis and periodontis. And we all need great gums because, gum tissues are common sites for inflammation, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

4. Flossing prevents tooth decay.

5. Flossing helps guard against bad breath.

According to Fun Dental Facts, flossing is just not what people want to do.

73% of Americans would rather go grocery shopping than floss.

In 1994 a prison inmate in West Virginia braided floss into a rope, scaled the wall and escaped. We love that one!

There are so many dental flosses to choose from. Waxed. Unwaxed. Thick. Thin. Minty flavored. Unflavored. Supermarket brand. Expensive brand. There really is no excuse not to regularly floss.

Of course, there is no attractive way to do it....er, floss. But it can be done in private. The little plastic container dental floss comes in, is so convenient and small. You can tuck it away in your purse, car, pocket.

You really have no excuse. It's time to floss. Everyone notices a beautiful, clean smile.

Julia Roberts Becomes Beauty Lancome Cover Girl Early Next Year

America's cinematic sweetheart still has that dazzling mega-watt smile.

And why not? Actress Julia Roberts has just been tapped to become the newest cover girl for French makeup giant Lancome!

We love it, because the mom of three is now in her 40s, and continues to exude a wholesome and healthy appeal.

Let's face it....Julia Roberts has one of the most incredible, big, natural smiles around. Those white teeth and full lips!

And Julia Roberts has always been a big fan of Lancome lipsticks. Here's her beauty tip today:

According to StyleList.com, Julia already adores Lancome's L'Absolu Rouge in Rich Cashmere ($29). This is a creamy and moisturizing lipstick in a nude shade, the subtle kind of makeup Julia is often photographed wearing.

Lancome has often been recognized by A-list beauty editors for its amazing lipsticks. And if you're looking for a lip color that is worth the price, L'Absolu Rouge will not disappoint.

"Lancôme brings Pro-Xylane™; its complete and powerful replenishing molecule, to a lip color for visibly fuller and smoother lips."

We're not sure exactly what kind of role Julia Roberts will assume as Lancome's newest spokesperson. But the actress will promote their beauty products, and follow in the same footsteps as another Lancome cover girl, Kate Winslet.

Lancome Cosmetics told WWD.com yesterday, "By her remarkable personality and career, Julia Roberts is an emblematic woman of her time,” said Youcef Nabi, president of Lancôme International. “Her exceptional talent, her radiance and her strong commitments perfectly echo Lancôme’s values. We are convinced she will embody the brand in the most sublime way possible.”

Julia Roberts has been very busy these days filming Eat, Pray, Love with Javier Bardem. The movie has taken the popular actress all over the world to exotic locales like Bali, Rome, and Delhi. In addition, she has also made time for another movie, currently in post production, Valentine's Day.

Lancome isn't saying how long the 'Pretty Woman's' contract with them will last. But we are excited for Julia Roberts and her new role as cover girl. You can bet she will bring many new Lancome customers with her. If she didn't have staying power and huge appeal, she wouldn't be taking home $20 million per movie. Julia Roberts sells cinema and she can also sell beauty.

How To Clean Makeup Brushes The Right Way

Makeup brushes. From the blush brush to the eyeshadow brush to the mineral powder brushes, we all use some kind of makeup brush every day. It's an important, daily step in building your canvas or beauty portrait.

But if you pause for a moment, take a closer look at your collection of makeup brushes.

Are your brushes clean? We'll be honest, we have often neglected cleaning our makeup brushes on a proper schedule. And if you think about it, makeup brushes can do great things for your complexion and give your face a polished finish. But these brushes can also absorb lots of grease and grime. Yuck. And you wonder sometimes, where these breakouts come from?! And the dirt that builds up also flattens the hairs on these brushes, limiting their ability to give the coverage they were designed for.

We will show you how to clean makeup brushes the right way. You have a few options to choose from:

1. Professional Brush Cleanser. Good ones to try are MAC ($11) and Japonesque. These cleansers clean, disinfect, and condition the brush hairs or fibers, and that means a longer lasting makeup brush. The solution also cuts down drying time.

Fill a small bowl with an inch of Mac Brush Cleanser and submerge brush hairs into the solution. Let brushes soak for 15 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with warm water. And dry brushes on paper towels.

2. Shampoo. Baby shampoo is even better, because it's very gentle. This is how we clean our makeup brushes. Fill up your sink with water and enough shampoo to build a nice lather and submerge your brushes. Massage brush fibers and watch the grimey buildup wash away. Rinse throughly and dry on paper towels.

3. Liquid dishwashing soap. Some makeup artists swear by this stuff. You can try Dawn. This one is really tough on grease, and it can also get busy lifting away impurities off your makeup brushes. Just fill a small bowl of dishwashing soap. Submerge the brush hairs in and swish around. Rinse with warm water, and again, dry on paper towels.

4. Gentle Facial Cleanser. We have a friend who uses Philosophy's Purity Face Wash. Contains no dyes or perfumes. It's gentle on skin, and therefore, kind to makeup brushes. And just a little dab massaged into brushes and then rinsed, will do the job.

By the way, if you can't find the time to clean makeup brushes once a week, then every other week is fine. Just remember to clean brushes. It's the only way to extend the life of your makeup accessories and important to keep the face bacteria-free.

Are You 'Ready For Jenny?' Sara Rue Is On The Diet

Jenny Craig has a new celebrity on their famous diet plan:

Meet actress Sara Rue from television's Eastwick.

Sara hopes to shed 30 lbs. on the weight loss program, and become another Jenny Craig celebrity success story. Look at 40-something Valerie Bertinelli. She lost 40 lbs. on the 2-phase diet plan, and is proudly maintaining her slender, healthy shape.

The 31-year-old Sara Rue explains why she has become Jenny Craig's newest spokesperson:
"My weight has fluctuated my whole life, and because I've been on TV since I was 11 years old, everyone has seen it. Like so many women in this country I have a problem controlling what I eat based on my emotional health."

Most people are somewhat familiar with the Jenny Craig diet plan. According to their website, dieticians plan the menu which consists of
Jenny's Cuisine™. These pre-portioned meals serve as "the foundation of the menu and a model for balance, variety and moderation in food choices. Clients will supplement these foods with their own fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, reduced fat dairy and heart-healthy fats. When clients are halfway to their goal weight they will be transitioned to a meal plan that includes more of their own foods."

The way we understand it, the Jenny plan breaks down to 6 small meals throughout the day. And the diet includes Phase 1 and Phase 2 (half way to your goal weight), and Maintenance. Exercise is encouraged along with a healthy lifestyle. And clients get a personalized calorie level designed to promote a weekly weight loss of 1-2 lbs or 1% or current weight.

There's a big menu of foods to choose from.....pancakes, french toast, spinach tortellini, macaroni and cheese, and even snacks like Jenny's cheese curls.

Sara Rue looks curvy and pretty. Some are arguing that she doesn't even need to lose any weight. But the auburn-haired actress in already on the Jenny Craig diet plan, and hopes to follow in Valerie Bertinelli's lighter footsteps.

By the way, Sara Rue will start appearing in Jenny Craig's new advertising campaign in January 2010.

"We're very excited to have Sara join the Jenny Craig family," says Patti Larchet, CEO for Jenny Craig. "She has embraced our program wholeheartedly and is very optimistic about this new challenge in her life. Sara will relate to women and men from all walks of life that have struggled with their weight and are now looking to get healthier."

For more information, visit: Jenny Craig. Or call 1-800-JennyCare.

New Maybelline Foundation Claims Color Stay All Day

Foundation is one of those love/hate makeup products. And yet, foundation really is an essential building block to one's makeup routine.

You say you don't need foundation? Think again. Professional makeup artists use it all the time to create beautiful faces for magazine covers and television appearances.

If you can claim perfect skin, which most of us on the planet do not have, then all you need is sunscreen, a little concealer under the eyes, a swipe of blush, and off you go.

But for the rest of the vast population, ladies, you need the coverage. Foundation provides balance to skin tone. Hides imperfections like shadows, redness, and pimples. Gives a little warmth to the complexion. Provides a shield against the harsh elements, especially if it is made with an SPF. And foundation is the smooth canvas on which to layer concealer, blush, shadow, liner, powder, and so on.

Today, we are taking a closer look at a new Maybelline product: Maybelline SuperStay 24 Hour Foundation ($9.99, at drugstores).

Maybelline is trying to rival Revlon's classic and popular favorite, ColorStay Foundation. ColorStay has been around for a number of years now. Many of you might recall model Cindy Crawford doing the television ads for the liquid foundation, wearing a white shirt and bragging how Revlon ColorStay lasts and lasts and never rubs off.

ColorStay is a great liquid foundation, and Maybelline hopes you think the same about their SuperStay Foundation.

We can tell you that Maybelline's SuperStay comes in a similar formula as ColorStay:

Micro-Flex formula provides 24-hour wear and No Transfer.

Withstands heat, sweat and humidity.

Oil-free, dermatogolist tested, fragrance-free.

Suitable for all skin types.

SuperStay also comes in 5 light, 5 medium, and 2 dark shades.

And that's always the big challenge---matching foundation to your face. Not easy and never perfect. Choosing the right shade of foundation seems nearly impossible, but professional makeup artist Sandy Linter says you can get close. “I apply a swipe of color near the neck. On the face under the cheekbone. It has to blend into the skin, not exactly match it. But it should cover. Apply it on broken capillaries or something you need to tone down, like ruddy cheeks. See how the foundation sits on the skin.”

For more super tips on foundation, take a look at an interview we did with the famous celebrity makeup artist Sandy Linter.

Bravura London Has Coolest Gel Cleanser For Detoxifying Experience

We've spoken several times here at Beauty Tip Today about Glycolic Acid. And we're not done talking about this popular alpha hydroxy acid. Here we go again.

Last October, we introduced you to the Bravura London skin care company. We had stumbled across their website and found an amazing 15% Glycolic Acid Night Treatment. And sure, it might be a little slower in coming by Royal mail across our shores, but the Bravura London beauty products are worth the extended journey. And here's why:

Glycolic Acid is important for the health of your skin. You've heard of Jan Marini, a well-respected product researcher. She's been a pioneer in the beauty science of Glycolic Acid, as her own website states. "Well before the technology was available to the mass market, Jan Marini pioneered the use of Glycolic Acid to improve the skin's appearance and texture. She was also the first to market a stable topical Vitamin C technology to promote healthier skin."

And the folks at Bravura London feel the same way. Here is how they break down the value of Glycolic Acid:

"While there were many skin care breakthroughs at the end of the last century, certainly one of the greatest was the discovery and application of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). Alpha-hydroxy acids are naturally occurring acids, derived from the sugars of selected plants and fruits such as Sugar Cane, Grapes, Citrus Fruits, Apples and Bitter Almonds. These acids perform at the base of the stratum corneum, dissolving the cement that holds dead skin cells together. Because this increases cell turnover, this results in skin that is more flexible, smoother, and more even in tone."

Today we are looking at Bravura London's Detoxifying Gel Cleanser(10% Glycolic Acid) ($13.96). We have to say, it's a heady experience using this cleanser. We have seen nothing else like it! First of all, it smells like a delicious sweet/tart lemon lollipop. It's a pale yellow, jello-looking cleanser that has these tiny citrus-y beads that scrub away at dirt and impurities.

You apply the Detoxifying Cleansing Gel on to dry skin. Massage in with fingertips and then add water to fingertips, and work through again, building up a nice, creamy lather. Rinse well with lukewarm water.

This product really makes your skin feel super clean, soft, and cool. It is suitable for oily or problem skin. It effectively helps to fight bacteria and increases the rate of exfoliation.

"The 10% concentration of glycolic acid works to loosen dead skin and unblock your pores, it also contains a mixture of botanicals, essential oils and dead see minerals drawn from the mineral salts and mud of the Dead Sea. The effects are cosmetic and therapeutic, purifying, reviving, toning, and healing. Due to the natural ingredients and essential oils, this product has a very fresh but not overpowering smell, and so it stimulates your senses as well as your skin."

For more information, visit Bravura London.