Friday 31 May 2013

Easy Summer Beauty Tricks




Beach-y waves? Check. Fresh pedicure? Done. You're ready for summer fun when along comes sweat to dampen your mood {not to mention make your face shiny and your hair flat}. Then, of course, there's the annual challenge of figuring out how to look pretty poolside—if you dare bother with foundation, you know you're going to get splashed. Good thing we've got new, low-effort tricks for waterproofing your beauty routine.

jennifer lawrence

  • Summer Hair Trick: Summerize your topknot.

    The topknot is possibly the best summer hairstyle: Your hair's up and off your neck, and the high bun has a cheekbone-lifting effect. But with such a slicked hairstyle, the frizzy fine hairs around your forehead can start to show, especially in situations involving humidity or sweat. To shore up your topknot for summer fun, mist strong-hold hairspray directly onto the topknot and then set using your hair-dryer for a minute or two. The result will be beach-ready and perspiration-proof.





    antiperspirant mark

     Apply your antiperspirant at bedtime.

    It seems counterintuitive, but swiping on antiperspirant before you hit the sheets at night is actually more effective than applying in the morning, since the aluminum-based compounds that block sweat glands have more time to absorb before you start perspiring. Better yet, no white streaks when you pull on your little black sundress! But go ahead and apply another coat in the morning if you shower or just want to feel extra fresh.









    paul mitchell dry shampoo



     Finally try dry shampoo. (Or try it again!)




    Still haven't experienced what all the dry-shampoo hype is about? Now's the moment to get around to it. Brands have perfected new colorless, residue-free, and ultra-fine mists that will instantly perk up hair that's been weighed down by sweat. Bonus: You'll smell like you just showered. One formula to try: Paul Mitchell Dry Wash Express Dry Water-less Shampoo.





    normaderm total mat powder


    Switch to super-powered powder.

    Does your regular pressed powder seem defenseless in the face of hot-weather shine? It's time to get out the big guns and upgrade to a primer or powder that stands up to summer's stickiest situations. A dermatologist favorite is: Normaderm Total Mat, which acts like blotting papers in a bottle, sponging up sweat for a long-lasting matte finish {and it has salicylic acid to prevent blemishes too}. Meanwhile, red-carpet makeup artists swear by MAC Blot Powder to keep celebs looking cool and perspiration-free under pressure and hot lights.








    ashley benson


    Update your sunscreen strategy.

    When it's a gillion degrees Fahrenheit, slathering on yet another layer of sunscreen can make you feel even stickier than you already do. Instead, touch up with powder sun protection, which feels light as a feather and even helps sop up perspiration and oil. Celebrities like Ashley Benson swear by the Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Powder SPF 50 Brush. It's also a great beach essential because it makes post-swim reapplication painless.






    dermablend



     Discover waterproof body concealer.

    You show maximum skin in the summer, yet the idea of concealing your less-than-cute areas {spider veins, scars—you know, that fun stuff} seems a little cray. Wouldn't one dip in the pool just wash bronze r or concealer away? Not the notoriously invincible Dermablend, which has a new Leg & Body Cover designed for this purpose. It's made for large body areas and even contains sunscreen to save you a step.









    ashley tisdale

     Dig out your headbands.

    You definitely already own the right accessory for this look—don't you have a whole drawer full of these things that you never wear?—and any old snug headband is an excellent tool for concealing sweaty roots {or redoing your hair after a swim}. Pull your hair into a ponytail and slip on a thin black band like Ashley Tisdale did here. It'll also keep hair from frizzing and clinging to your sticky forehead, all while making you look hot in a good way.









    lily aldridge


    Target your hot spots.

    Forget damp 'pits—sweat can seep through in much more unfortunate areas. Thankfully, there are now products that address sweat in every specific zone, including Bust Dust, a super-effective antiperspirant powder that ensures your cleavage won't be pouring sweat when you're working the dance floor or chilling on your chaise. And, yes, the company does make an, uh, lady parts version as well {cutely called Fairy Dust.}




candice swanepoel

Create a distraction with hot nails.

Here's your excuse to treat yourself to a manicure pedicure ASAP: People are less likely to notice those sweat droplets on your brow when they're blinded by the awesomeness of your bright nail polish. It's scientifically proven. OK, fine, it's not, but we still say go pick the boldest possible color on the shelf. Use this photo of Victoria's Secret model Candice Swanepoel as your inspiration!








hair idea twist


Do the twist.

Twists are quicker to throw in than braids and are an instant pretty-me-up move when your strands are looking soggy and lifeless. Even better, try putting in some twists when your hair's half-dry after a salt-water swim session; your hair will have the right gritty texture to help hold them in place and make them look sexy. {Don't forget to throw bobby pins in your beach bag.}








gentle cleansing wipes


 Pack a face perk-me-up.

Stash some cooling face wipes in your bag so you can do some freshening up when you duck into the ladies' room during dinner. FAB First Aid Beauty's new Gentle Cleansing Wipes contain chamomile and aloe for an instant skin-soothing, chill-out effect.




sumita brow set

Seal brows against sweat.

Full, defined brows are in style this season, but nobody wants brow pencil or powder migrating all over the place after a swim. No need to go bare until September—smudge proof your brows before a sweat or swim session by sealing them using a clear wax pencil, like Sumita Brow Set.








karlie kloss


Consider "the Karlie."

If your long hair is leaving you hot and bothered again this summer, perhaps it's time to finally change up your cut? Model Karlie Kloss has the bob everyone wants, one that sure would feel breezy right about now. Just sayin'.







summer soles inserts


 Cool your heels.

One of the worst side effects of summer sweat? When your cute new shoes start to squeak. And let's not even discuss the unpleasant smells that ensue when you slip them off. Your savior in this situation is a simple stick-in shoe insert like Summer Soles, which are also thankfully non-grandma-looking {they come in these three bright suede patterns for this season}. The removable inserts absorb moisture and prevent bacterial growth, and they won't be visible even in your skimpiest summer sandals.








nina dobre and julianne hough


Have a beach braiding party.


Sitting on the sand with your friends and braiding each other's hair one of the most iconic beach activities {recently caught: Julianne Hough and Nina Dobrev doing it!}, but it's also one of the cutest ways to deal with sweat-related hair meltdowns. When you're wearing a braid, you somehow never look disheveled, just charmingly bohemian. Let your skin shine on.You can fight the good fight against the season's shiny skin, or you could just relax and learn to enjoy the gleam. Hey, it's summer after all—everybody's a little misty. Re-imagine glossy skin as natural radiance, and then go enjoy the sunshine!


Beauty Products




bbb-053013


{Sleek Makeup Face Contour Kit, about $9.88, sleekmakeup.com}
Are you highlighting and contouring your face just yet? If not, it's time to get on that. Pick up this kit; it features a dark matte powder that's used for sculpting and carving out your cheekbones, and an illuminating powder that's used to highlight the high points of your face.


{Thicker Fuller Hair Instantly Thick Serum, $6.99, drugstore.com}
Those of you with fine hair should definitely consider this one; it's formulated with caffeine, which helps give your roots and strands a boost of volume without weighing your hair down.


{TopShop Nail Art Pen in Fool's Gold, $6, topshop.com}
If you're still into the whole nail art craze, be sure to add this pen to your kit. It's great for creating even-size polka-dots and gorgeous gold French tips, like the manicure on Lauren Conrad back in March.

Tell me—which save will you splurge on?

Links I LOVE





LWL_5.29.13
1. Did you know there’s an art to wrapping a burrito that doesn’t fall apart? (thekitchn.com)
2. I’d throw this shark cosmetic bag into my beach tote, obviously. (shopbop.com)
3. If you sit at a desk (and slump over like me), read these tips for having better posture. (nytimes.com)
4. These watermelon soda floats sound so refreshing for summer. (bonappetit.com)
5. A great solution for ugly power cords. (fabricpaperglue.com)
6. This pink lake makes me want to visit Australia. (aluxurytravelblog.com)
7.  Zach Galifianakis is as sweet as they come. (imgur.com) 
8. These gold leaf succulent pots would be cute for a bridal shower centerpiece. (missrenaissance.com)
9. I’d bring this portable record player into our backyard for barbecues. (amazon.com)

Wednesday 22 May 2013

Accessories to Update Outfits





Take your little black dress from boring to brilliant for any occasion by incorporating bold 
handbags, cool-girl sunglasses, and red-hot shoes. Stand out but look polished with vivid pieces
 like plum heels, a green leather tote bag, and lacquered bangles. Dress down your LBD with
 stylish cat-eye sunglasses, a printed scarf, and espadrille wedges that scream “French Riviera
 chic.” Add a cross-body bag that allows you to be hands-free. For date night keep him coming 
back by pairing your dress with ultra-high heels, a major statement necklace, and a heart-shaped
clutch. Maintaining a common color theme keeps the look cohesive, and red is always sexy.


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Jazz up the most basic of pairings for brunch with the gals, a Sunday afternoon stroll, or a casual 
business meeting. Impress your most fashionable girlfriends when you add a textured clutch, dual-
patterned wedges, and layered necklaces. For running errands,lighten up when you’re off the 
clock! A bold backpack and dollar-sign earrings help show off 
your playful side. For an informal presentation Prove you mean business by putting on your 
sharpest glasses, carrying your documents in a portfolio clutch, and finishing your look with
 pointy-toe heels. 
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If your go-to answer to what to wear is always “jeans and a cute top,” here’s how to spice things 
up for both day and night.  For going out everything looks better with a side of sparkle! Find 
yours in stacks of rings, a sequined clutch, and matching strap-y sandals.For going shopping even 
your accessories need a boost sometimes. Leopard flats and brown Wayfarer sunglasses are 

new spins on classic pieces. Casual Fridays keep jeans and a tee from looking sloppy by teaming 

them with a zip-top carryall and crossover-strap pumps. 
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Whether you’re headed for a first date or an afternoon museum outing, try these look-at-me 
extras. For a first date match your accessories to your flirty mood—I'm talking tons of bangles
 and a hot pink purse.Gallery hopping achieve Audrey Hepburn’s timeless style by choosing 
updated versions of her staples. Think smoking slippers instead of ballet flats. Dinner with your in-
laws add depth to a two-note outfit by mixing snakeskin pumps with a leather tote, plus a silk 
scarf.

Links I LOVE








LWL_5.22.13
1. This takes my obsession with sharks to a completely new level (watch the entire thing).  (youtube.com)
2. Adorable poppy gift topper DIY, so cute for spring. (creaturecomfortsblog.com)
3. Fascinating – most loved regional candies. (mentalfloss.com)
4. Unfortunate sports names, which one is your favorite? (funnyordie.com)
5. A great straw tote is hard to find. This one’s ideal for farmers’ market runs. (shopbop.com)
6. How fun does this popcorn idea look for a summer movie night? (blog.hwtm.com)
7. I can get on board with this 7-minute workout routine. (blogs.well.nytimes.com)
8. This inspiring piece makes traveling alone sound so captivating. (tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com)
9. A clever gift idea for your foodie friend. (notedco.com)

Wedding Wear: 4 Ways





With wedding season in full swing, I’ve put together four ensemble ideas, whether you’ll be in the desert, at a woodsy destination, a sprawling vineyard, or a city celebration.
PALMSPRINGS
A desert (or beachside) wedding should be filled with bright pieces that mimic the shades of sunset. Bring along old Hollywood staples like an oversized hat and cat-eye sunglasses for the pool and a slinky dress for evening with strappy sandals. Let your hair dry in the sun for tousled, beachy waves and finish your look with a shimmery bronzer.
1. J.Crew Straw Hat, $34.50
2. Topshop Bikini, $50
3. Acne Dress, $356
4. Zara Sandals, $79.90
5. Zara Clutch, $35.90



BIGSUR
For an intimate wedding by a river, there’s something sweet about a romantic dress with lace accents balanced by gladiator sandals and some flowers in your hair. Rose gold jewelry won’t feel too precious and a simple scarf will help ward off brisk temperatures.
3. Topshop Dress, $96
6. Madewell Scarf, $38.50




NAPA

1. Mango Dress, $149.99
4. Zara Pumps, $89.90



CITY
For a wedding in the city, I’d stick to a black and white palette with a metallic clutch to add a bit of edge. A sleek blowout paired with a red lip will look classy and timeless.

Monday 20 May 2013

The Classic Mai Tai






The Classic Mai Tai // HonestlyYUM

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz Jamaican rum
  • 1 oz rhum agricole
  • 1/2 oz orange curacao
  • 1 oz lime juice
  • 1/2 oz orgeat
  • 1/4 oz rich simple syrup (2:1 sugar to water)
  • crushed ice
  • mint sprig for garnish
The Classic Mai Tai // HonestlyYUM
Add all the ingredients to a shaker full of crushed ice and shake for 10 seconds, until the outside of the shaker is frosted.
The Classic Mai Tai // HonestlyYUM
Pour the entire contents of the shaker {don’t strain} into a double old fashioned glass. Garnish with a mint sprig!
The Classic Mai Tai // HonestlyYUM
 {enjoy!}

Sunday 19 May 2013

Workout Videos #1,2,3 and 4 out of 10 with Jennifer Stano and trainer Lauren Kern






Jennifer Stano David



Hey guys and gals

  First off I will begin by saying I love Jennifer Stano she is so cute and lives an amazing life. Lately I have been quite obsessed with her after stumbling across her name from an internet sensations channel ChloeMorello. Whom I am also obsessed with so I thought I would share with you several workout videos out of 10 that Jennifer Stano has made with her trainer Lauren Kern to start preparing for summer.  You can do these exercises anytime, anywhere! I hope you find them easy and enjoyable yet effective. 


She happened to have film these at her house when she was 1 month pregnant but had no idea,  literally found out the next day that she was expecting :)

Check back soon for workout video #5, of 10 for more easy exercises that can be done at home, on vacation or in a gym!

xoxo Stenice


















Baby Got Back!


Building a great butt is not easy. Regardless of how much fat you store on your fanny, cardio alone is not going to provide the definition you desire.

If you want a round rump, then lets’ get a few things straight:

1) Cardio does not give you leg muscle.
  • The main purpose of cardio is to train the heart, not the glutes or legs. Sure, cardio may slim down your legs and reduce the size of your bum. BUT, If there is no muscle underneath that fat, then no matter how small your backside gets....there will always be fat and nothing more.

2) You will never build muscle and tone-up without hitting the weights.


  • Contrary to popular belief, weight-training will not make your legs bigger….unless you eat like a cow (in which case your diet is making you bigger, not the weights). However, weight-training any part of the body will cause temporary swelling of the muscle groups worked and may lead to a short-termed illusion of increased size.
  • Rest assured that this swelling is only temporary and is usually caused by an increase in blood flow to the muscles utilized during exercise. Lactic acid is an end-product of lower-body exercise and can also contribute to this illusion of increased leg size. After 24 hours of weight-training your legs, all swelling should decrease and leg size return to normal.


NUTRITION


Pre-Workout

  • On glute-training days, I recommend cutting all starch prior to weight-lifting; this means no cereal, grains, oatmeal, protein bars, rice, potatoes, etc. For example: if you plan to hit the gym before noon, then limit consumption to protein, fats, and fiber; stick with foods like eggs, meat, fat-free cottage cheese, fat-free yogurt, nuts, and veggie omelets. Have your last meal 1.5-2 hours pre-workout.

Post-Workout

  • Immediately following your glute workout, consume post-exercise recovery drink (Example-half of a 32 oz “Gatorade Perform” beverage (orange flavored) mixed and shaken well with one serving of vanilla or chocolate whey protein powder.) Your protein powder should contain very close to 25 grams of protein per serving. This recovery beverage is high in electrolytes and tastes like an orange cream-sickle! All of my clients love it.
  • Now, you may be wondering why I suggest such a drink. The answer is simple: Fast-digesting liquid carbohydrates enhance muscle recovery and decrease levels of muscle soreness. When these fast digesting liquid carbohydrates are combined with fast-absorbing liquid protein, they act synergistically to increase protein synthesis (muscle-building).

CARDIO
  • Stop all long-endurance cardiovascular exercise now! If you are currently running or fast-paced cycling, then you are literally working your butt-off! Prolonged endurance-based exercise is catabolic in nature; this means that muscle is used as an energy source and therefore muscle tissue will be used to fuel exercise activity. Think about it; have you ever seen a long-distance marathon-runner with great glutes? These athletes are usually lean. However, muscle fullness, especially in the glutes, is usually lacking.
  • My cardio prescription is to perform 30 minutes minimum to 1 hour of exercise 3-5 days per week and to use the following cardio machines at the designated intensity levels:
  1. Stair-master: 40-70 steps per minute without holding on or with minimal holding on (my fav )
  2. Treadmill: Incline of 7-10% and speed of 3 miles per hour without holding on or with minimal holding on.



So! Try these few booty enhancing workouts and let me know what you think. I too am just getting back into my workout routine. Lets do this together and get ready for summer!!!!Thank you again for checking out my blog.We can do this <3 Stenice xoxo