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Gorgeous Summer Accessories That Actually #GLAM4GOOD

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By Lindsey Coco for GLAM4GOOD

At GLAM4GOOD, we search for stylish brands that truly empower the human condition. It's now the trend for fashion companies to claim they're making a difference somehow, but when GLAM4GOOD takes a closer look, all we find is false marketing. With MADE, it's different. We've been fans of the gorgeous accessories from MADE for a while now, and we love seeing how this cool brand authentically promotes style with a social conscience.

made


MADE's Kenyan workshops produce unique, fashion-forward accessories with locally-sourced materials crafted by artisans living in the shadows of one of the world's largest slums in Africa -- Kibera. Neal Gershinson, the managing director of MADE, explains, "MADE was founded on a belief that trade, not aid, is the key to empowering a community of truly talented artisans in Kenya. We believe there is a very special kind of luxury in knowing that your purchase has empowered not just one person, but a whole community. MADE has proven that so-called ethical fashion does not have to mean a compromise in quality, design and price point."

MADE employs economically disadvantaged artisans and provides its 60 employees with meals and health care. They help their employees go to college and they allow them to move to upper management positions. Improving the lives of their employees is only a part of MADE's mission. A large portion of their profits go to fund MADE's foundation, MADE Africa, which finances the Bidii Primary School located in Kibera. Gershinson says, "It's important to us that we still extend our support to the community where MADE first began. Now the children of the slum have a place to learn and grow."

Glamorous accessories that also promote positive change with integrity are GLAM4GOOD's favorite kind of accessories to wear. Check out some of the pieces we love from MADE's stylish new collection below.


World Cup Star Kyle Beckerman And His Wife Might Be Soccer's Most Beautiful Couple

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Kyle Beckerman has been showing off his skills in the World Cup on the U.S. Men's National Team -- an incredible feat to say the least.

Even more incredible? The fact that Beckerman took some awesome engagement photos with his now-wife Kate Pappas back in October and we only just discovered them.

Pappas and Beckerman met in 2009 and the midfielder popped the question in January 2013. The super-good-looking couple then married in January 2014, right before Beckerman had to to head out for Team USA training.

As for the adorable engagement pics? They were snapped by Matt Clayton Photography at Rio Tinto Stadium, the home field for Beckerman's MLS club, Real Salt Lake. The couple also got a few shots in nature that show off Beckerman's outdoorsy side. Enjoy!





In case you're curious, here's Kyle at his January wedding with some other U.S. soccer players in tow, including Nick Rimando, who posted the pic.





#webelieve

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What 'You Did Not Eat That' Can Teach Us About Reality Weight Loss Television

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When ABC renewed “Extreme Weight Loss” for a fifth season last week, body positivity activists everywhere clenched their fists tight, shook them toward the sky, and bellowed “Why?!?!?”

It should come as no surprise that reality weight loss television is extremely destructive. Major news outlets like The New York Times and past contestants on programs like "The Biggest Loser” and “Extreme Weight Loss” have already spoken out about the shows' disastrous medical consequences.

Yet the idea that these programs are anything but bastions of inspiration still has not taken hold in the popular consciousness.

Part of this disconnect comes from the shows themselves, which cling to the narrative that their missions are to improve the health of those that appear onscreen. They enlist fat contestants under the guise that fat itself is unhealthy, and suggest that they are righteously giving these “diseased” bodies a chance at redemption. They use the same rhetoric to contextualize viewers’ experience: Those at home should, they convey, tune in to cheer on others in their quests toward vitality. They should feel inspired watching major TV networks give ordinary people the chance to improve their lives.

But the general perception of reality weight loss television as noble also stems from its existence in a society that regularly demonizes fat people, and normalizes the food-shaming heaped on its citizens of varying sizes. The newest force to take hold in such a landscape (one that also brought fist-shaking from writers on body positivity) is the recently viral Instagram "You Did Not Eat That." The account, run by an anonymous creator with ties to the fashion industry, posts picture of thin (mostly) women posing with food which, the Instagram intimates, they could not possibly have eaten due to the small sizes of their bodies. As it’s impossible to tell someone’s eating habits from the way he or she looks, the Instagram misses the mark with its “You Did Not Eat That" angle. But it does pick up on trend in American society that helps to contextualize the false justifications behind the insistence that fat people lose weight: the worship of thin women depicted eating foods that we would not traditionally consider nutritious.

The Skinny Girl Eating a Cheeseburger, as I like to refer to such portrayals, is an icon we see not only in the fashion blog images on which the Instagram focuses, but also in our TV shows, movies and commercials. Examples include Lorelai and Rory on "Gilmore Girls," Mary in “There’s Something about Mary” and Kate Upton in a Carl’s Jr. ad. Pieces have already been written about the figure's problematic implications for women. In short, it creates an environment in which women are only valued if they are both thin and making no effort toward that goal, leaving those with naturally larger bodies to either get flack for not being thin, or get flack for being thin but only with a constant vigilance. It also creates a space in which the basic process of eating is sexualized for those who do match the traditionally attractive, thin norm.

But we can also look to the Skinny Girl Eating a Cheeseburger to challenge the claims that the policing of larger bodies on shows like “Extreme Weight Loss” And “The Biggest Loser” is out of a societal desire to ensure the best health for all our citizens.

Mounting evidence suggests that lifestyle and nutrition, rather than weight itself, determines a body’s level of fitness. Healthy bodies come in sizes fat and thin, as do unhealthy ones. Therefore, a thin person who never works out and eats junk food, and a fat person who never works out and eats junk food would be of relatively comparable health statuses. If we as a society were invested above all in making sure all of our citizens were as fit as possible, we would inflict pressure upon both these bodies similarly in our quest toward that end.

But as anyone generally familiar with the different ways fat and thin bodies are treated in our society knows, we don’t. A fat person with culturally-considered poor eating habits (and even a fat person with culturally-considered great ones) is labeled “obese,” by a doctor, and enlisted by television networks to try, against nature, to shrink down her body at an incredible speed for public viewership. A thin person with culturally-considered unhealthy eating habits is praised for her carefree, nonchalant attitude toward her diet, and elevated to the status of sex-icon. If a skinny person who never works out and eats cheeseburgers is lauded, and a fat person who does the same is chastised, it’s not the practice of eating the “unhealthy” cheeseburgers that the public feels the need to police. It’s the size of the body that’s doing so.

Once we divorce reality weight loss television programs from their "improving health" narratives, we can see their actual purpose is to shrink fat bodies down to a culturally preferred size, no matter the cost. And in that process, the shows both inflict danger upon their contestants, and promote hatred toward the types of bodies featured onscreen. It is not beneficial, for example, to subject a person to a public, shirtless weigh-in in front of dozens of strangers, as “Extreme Weight Loss,” does at the beginning of each episode, or to exercise a person to the point of vomiting, and then have that person continue her workout, as “The Biggest Loser,” does on a regular basis. These practices only manage to dehumanize fat people to the viewing audience and imply that they do not deserve the basic right of control over their own bodies. Additionally, the shows further existing stereotypes by suggesting those with larger bodies are lazy, have no control over their lives, and are only fat due to pounds put on in the wake of emotional traumas. All of these measures contribute to the show's overarching misguided philosophy that thinness is both achievable and desirable for all.

Healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes. But if we as a society can’t get enough of Kate Upton munching on fast food, then we really don’t care about health in the first place. And we well shouldn't: health is a personal choice that should in no way be culturally monitored. We need to move towards an environment in which all people -- male and female, fat and thin -- can consume whatever they please, be it carrots or a cheeseburger, without sexualization, castigation, or any input at all from members of the general public. The way the media represents bodies directly influences the way we perceive them in real life. If we're ever going to move away from a place of rampant size discrimination, we need to challenge the one-note portrayals we see on reality weight loss television shows -- or better yet, get them off the air altogether.




Here's Video Of Kim Kardashian Being Accosted By Man In Blackface At The Vienna Ball

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Remember back in February when Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner were accosted by a guy in blackface at the Vienna Ball? Not cool, right? Well, they caught the entire incident on camera, and it's not pretty.

The latest episode of "Keeping Up With The Kardashians," airing on June 29, shows exactly how the reality stars reacted when "comedian" Chris Stephan, showed up in blackface makeup, mimicking Kardashian's then-fiancé, now-husband Kanye West.

Kardashian didn't comment on the incident at the time, but she told the camera, "I can't believe there's this guy in full blackface. I just am so confused. I don't get why him or anyone else would find this funny."

She added, "Is this just like a sick joke?"

Kardashian and her mother tried not to make a scene while making it clear that they wanted Stephan removed from the event. After giving a brief lesson in the history of blackface, Jenner told the camera, "To have someone so ignorant come to such a beautiful event and spoil it for everyone, is just taking a huge step backwards."

The reality stars were so upset by the incident that they left the event (which Kardashian was reportedly paid $500,000 to attend) early.

This is the first time Kardashian has commented specifically on what went down at the Vienna Ball, but she did pen a blog post this past May addressing the issue of racism as a whole.

"To be honest, before I had North, I never really gave racism or discrimination a lot of thought. It is obviously a topic that Kanye is passionate about, but I guess it was easier for me to believe that it was someone else’s battle," she wrote on May 7. "But recently, I’ve read and personally experienced some incidents that have sickened me and made me take notice. I realize that racism and discrimination are still alive, and just as hateful and deadly as they ever have been."

As for Stephan, he offered a pseudo apology after news of his so-called "joke" broke back in February.

"I was nice and gentle, Richard Lugner called me and said ‘Kim wants to see her man, Chris do something.’ I just got dressed up and got into the Opera for free because of it :-) thanks Richi," he wrote in one Facebook post. Later adding: "I'm very sorry that the whole thing went to shit and was completely misunderstood. I'm an Arab myself, born in Austria. I didn't want to be racist in any way by doing this, and I apologize again to anyone who felt offended."

This Week's Worst Dressed List Is A Doozey

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There were so many style lessons to learn from the fashion fails on this week's worst-dressed list.

Italian socialite Eleonora Carisi's "Clueless"-inspired outfit was, well, clueless. TLC singer T-Boz needs to embrace the phrase "less is more." And Rita Ora should've called Rihanna for a crash course on how to look fabulous in a see-through ensemble.

Here's a look at our top five picks for the worst-dressed celebs of the week. Do you agree?

T-Boz
tboz
Thou shall not over-accessorize is definitely the fashion commandment being ignored with this look. Had T-Boz simply ditched that body chain and those multi-strap shoes, she could have flown under our worst-dressed radar.

Eleonora Carisi
eleonora carisi
This looks like a horribly bad homage to Cher from "Clueless." #AsIf

Rita Ora
rita ora
Ora didn't get the see-through trend right. This look is far more hoochie than haute!

Li Bingbing
li bingbing
We love a great peplum, but we're completely distracted -- in a bad way-- by the bright yellow bikini-inspired top of this gown.

Natasha Bedingfield
natasha bedingfield
There is entirely too much tulle going on with this skirt. And let's reserve tutus for little girls and prima ballerinas.

Real or Fake? The Reasons Women Get Breast Implants

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Why do women get breast implants? It's the number one cosmetic surgery in the U.S., even though it carries with it the burden of judgment and dismissal. So what's driving these women? Are they young and insecure? Superficial? Desperate?

The answers might surprise you.

Of the 300,000 implant procedures in the U.S. in 2013 (up 37% since 2000 and still rising), the breakdown by age, according to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, goes like this:

2013 ASAP Breast Augmentations, by Age

13-19 -- 8,234

20-29 -- 83,638

30-39 -- 105,877

40-54 -- 85,516

55+ -- 6,934

Note the largest group: 30 to 39-year-old women. Not recent grads. Not porn stars. Not young women on the prowl.

What could be their motivation?


Most 30 to 39-year-olds are in the middle of their childbearing years. Many lose breast volume after pregnancy and aren't happy with the way their boobs hang after major weight loss. There's no way to get breast volume back, short of breast implants -- no exercises or muscles that build them back up. So these women turn to implants to restore their original, and now lost, shape and size. They're called "mommy makeovers," breast implants combined with tummy tucks and liposuction.

Of the 85,000-plus procedures among the middle-aged population, 40-54, one can assume it has to do with staving off the march of time. There were also 92,000-plus eyelid surgeries in that age bracket. Of the nearly equal number of procedures among women in their 20s, statistics demonstrate that in that age group, 69,000 surgeries had to do with nose reshaping. So yes, there may be definite body dissatisfaction in this demographic, but it's not just about breasts.

What about all the young girls getting "unnecessary" breast surgeries?

It's hard to miss the media outrage over boob jobs handed out as high school graduation gifts. But, again, let's look at the stats: board-certified plastic surgeons won't perform breast augmentations on women under 22, since breast tissue isn't considered fully developed until that time (though breasts can and do change in size and shape all the way through lactation and past menopause).

Even the FDA doesn't recommend breast implants for patients under 18. Yet sometimes such procedures are necessary for young women -- to correct severe breast asymmetry, genetic chest deformities, or extreme under-development. And to put that 8,000 number above in perspective, nearly 6,000 young men in the same 13- to 19-year-old age group had breast-reduction surgery for gynecomastia (male breast enlargement) that same year. Another 30,000 teens (not broken down by sex) also had nose jobs. It's likely that with young people these events are often more corrective and remedial than solely cosmetic.

Why do women want way bigger breasts?

What is extreme and what is "normal"? Women's bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and their breasts don't stay the same. Bra fitters and the intimate-apparel industry know the true size of women's breasts, and bodies are rarely perfectly proportional. Some tiny women inherit outsized breasts, which make a much larger statement. Turns out that deep-cup bras with smaller bands (28 to 32 backs with DD to J cups) are the fastest-growing segment of the bra industry. These new sizes aren't being marketed to young women with breast implants.

Breast implants aren't measured by cup size but by cubic centimeter. Plastic surgeons know that a 300cc implant on one woman's frame will look quite different on a taller or wider body. Look through the RealSelf.com forums and you'll find plenty of breast augmentation patients who go from a B to a C cup or a D -- hardly super-sizing, although there are always extreme cases. And there's only so much physical room to place an implant under skin or muscle. You can find plenty of examples of badly botched oversized boob jobs if you search "breast implant photos." So no; most women who get breast implants are not shooting for the moon.

Isn't it about getting male attention and approval?


Numerous studies attempting to show male preference for one size of breasts over another all seem to contradict one other. A 2013 article in Psychology Today cited a study that men who were poor and/or hungry tended to favor women with larger breasts (as did men interested in fatherhood), while men higher on the socio-economic scale, men who'd just had a meal, and men forestalling fatherhood tended to go for a smaller-breasted ideal. Another study claims sexist men prefer bigger boobs. Many larger busted women aren't thrilled with the unwanted attention paid to their breast size. The bottom line? Men like breasts. They just do.

Shouldn't women accept their breasts the way they are?


What is it about women's breasts that make their surgical alteration more shocking than all the nose jobs, eye jobs, and facelifts combined? It's hard to say. But women aren't complaining, and report higher self-esteem an self-confidence after surgeries.

Some new enhancement procedures even use a woman's own fat to build up her breast tissue (goodbye implants). Breast lifts (aka breast mastopexy) are outpacing breast implants and have jumped by over 70%, with some 90,000 choosing the procedure in 2013.*** There were also 40,000 women who had breast reductions and 24,000 who had breast implant removal surgeries the same year. It's safe to say women are choosing to control their breasts with surgery.

Isn't it a matter of personal preference (combined with disposable income to fund plastic surgery)? If a woman wants to adjust the size or shape of her boobs, who are we -- or anyone, for that matter -- to judge otherwise?

What's your opinion? What do you think of women who get breast implants or other cosmetic surgeries?

***Author's disclosure: read about my breast lift here.


This article first published at The Breast Life.

7 Things Every Woman Needs To Do For Her Skin

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Consider this your ultimate to-do list for healthier, more beautiful skin. The bad news: These are non-negotiable. The good news: They're easy!

By Corrie Pikul








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12 Couples Who Totally Defy The Annoying Couple Stereotype

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When people think engagement photos, they usually envision couples standing in an open field, sucking face and holding a bunch of baby pink balloons.

If that's your thing, power to you. But there are plenty of other couples out there who are doing some awesome things with their engagement photos that completely debunk that stereotype.

Below we present a carefully curated selection of couples who are so ridiculously cool, you'd happily agree to be their third wheel any day of the week.




Keep in touch! Check out HuffPost Weddings on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Sign up for our newsletter here.

This Week's Worst Dressed List Is A Doozey

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There were so many style lessons to learn from the fashion fails on this week's worst-dressed list.

Italian socialite Eleonora Carisi's "Clueless"-inspired outfit was, well, clueless. TLC singer T-Boz needs to embrace the phrase "less is more." And Rita Ora should've called Rihanna for a crash course on how to look fabulous in a see-through ensemble.

Here's a look at our top five picks for the worst-dressed celebs of the week. Do you agree?

T-Boz
tboz
Thou shall not over-accessorize is definitely the fashion commandment being ignored with this look. Had T-Boz simply ditched that body chain and those multi-strap shoes, she could have flown under our worst-dressed radar.

Eleonora Carisi
eleonora carisi
This looks like a horribly bad homage to Cher from "Clueless." #AsIf

Rita Ora
rita ora
Ora didn't get the see-through trend right. This look is far more hoochie than haute!

Li Bingbing
li bingbing
We love a great peplum, but we're completely distracted -- in a bad way-- by the bright yellow bikini-inspired top of this gown.

Natasha Bedingfield
natasha bedingfield
There is entirely too much tulle going on with this skirt. And let's reserve tutus for little girls and prima ballerinas.

Expert Beauty Tips For Women Over 50

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I was excited to review the new beauty book Toss the Gloss by Andrea Q. Robinson. Andrea's illustrious career spans more than forty years, with chief roles at Estee Lauder, Tom Ford Beauty, Ralph Lauren Fragrances and editorial at Seventeen, Vogue and Mademoiselle.

Since I'm trying to age gracefully I was eager to read Andrea's "beauty tips, tricks and truths" for women 50 plus. The guide is overflowing with practical information for boomer girls.

I like Andrea's friendly attitude about beauty and her book's conversational tone. At times I felt like I was chatting with an old friend who happened to be a makeup maven. According to Andrea: "The right makeup, used the right way, is the most powerful weapon in your beauty arsenal. Good makeup reclaims you. Not youth."

♥ Andrea says that "letting go of perfection and embracing your flaws makes you more beautiful, more noticeable, more accessible, more real." (I agree Andrea. I agree.)
♥ Andrea laments that "fear of change is for old ladies." She says to "look in the mirror and decide if your makeup routine is still working." (I did this a year ago when I retired from my full time job. I totally slimmed down and most days use very little eye makeup.)
♥ Andrea advises that "makeup routines for women 50 plus should be effortless -- not more than 10 minutes." (That's about the time it takes me each morning to finish my face. Well, perhaps 15 minutes. How about you?)
♥ Andrea says that "you don't need to spend a lot of money to look good. Maybe a few pricey pieces but the rest can be bought at the drugstore." (I do like my Bobbi Brown eyeshadows, blush and lipstick, and prefer Lancome Hypnose Drama mascara. As for moisturizers, I often purchase these skin care items at places like Ulta, Target or CVS.)

My Favorite Beauty Tips From Mrs. Robinson

Andrea has so many useful tips in her book. Here are a few pointers I plan to practice during my life after 50:

"Beauty comes from within a very small makeup bag." (I did exactly what Andrea said and last week I dumped every cosmetic product I've owned longer than a year into a garbage bag. I went into my cabinets and scooped up old lipsticks, eye pencils, lip liners, foundations and nail polishes. Sweep, sweep, sweep, out the door.)
"To get more longevity, keep your cosmetics in a plastic box with a tight lid and store products in a cool, dry place, removed from moisture and light." (Oh no, oh no, my cosmetics are in a plastic box with a tight lid right next to my bathroom sink. Note to self: Move makeup as soon as possible -- quickly before it all gets damaged.)
"Sharpen lip and eyeliner pencils after each use to remove moisture-causing bacteria which contaminates pencils. Periodically wipe lipstick with alcohol wipes." (Check, check. Done.)
"Use sunscreen everyday at least SPF 30. Sun damage is the #1 cause of wrinkles." (I use Skinceuticals Fusion UV Defense Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 50 year-round. I've been trying to remember to put sunscreen on my hands too. Lately there are so many more brown spots on my hands.)
"Good skin care includes sleep and exercise." Andrea notes that "our skin cells regenerate when we sleep and that increased blood flow and circulation nourishes skin cells." (Well there goes that. My menopausal skin is already drier, thinner and less elastic due to lower estrogen levels. Menopausal moments that awaken me at night or prevent a good night's sleep don't help matters. Thankfully I'm getting lots of exercise these days -- hope my yoga, bicycling and walking will help improve things. I use Skinceuticals CE Ferulic on my face to counteract all the free radicals that are in the environment -- it's really good -- very pricey. Andrea has CE on her list too, as does Martha Stewart and other mature celebrities.)
"Always wash your face before going to sleep."Andrea says that "retinoids are the only proven anti-aging compound that reduces lines and wrinkles. She says to "only use retionoid products at night." (I never go to bed without first removing my makeup. I've tried ROC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum, which is one of the products mentioned in the book. I find retinoid products to be too drying for my skin.)

Andrea shares more tips about concealers, primers, highlighters, foundation, and a whole lot more in Toss the Gloss.

No matter what makeup you choose to put on your face, remember that beauty is more than skin deep. It comes from inside you. During your life after 50, Andrea says "love your lines, you've earned them. Your lines are what make your face interesting."

Earlier on Huff/Post50:



What To Wear At These 6 Unconventional Weddings

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If you've even glanced at Pinterest in the last couple of years you'll know about the rise of the unconventional wedding. As we scroll through photo galleries of barn ceremonies occurring amidst burlap and straw, or mountain-top nuptials with breathtakingly green views, we can't help but wonder -- what would we wear to these unconventional weddings?

We've partnered with eBay Designer Collective to answer this question, creating outfits we think would be perfect for six popular, but unusual, settings. Scroll down to see some wedding-worthy outfits that go beyond the ballroom and chapel.

6 People Who Will Stress You Out On Your Wedding Day (And How To Keep Calm In Spite Of Them)

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By Kim Fusaro for Glamour

Welcome to your wedding day! With the stress of planning behind you, you might think the big day will be easy-breezy, and it should be -- as long as you can navigate these six potential stress bombs.

The "It's-All-About-Me" Mom or Mother-In-Law

Weddings come with a host of heavy emotions, especially when your son or daughter is the star of the show. Some moms might be adept at handling stress, while others might teeter closer to meltdown territory. If you know your mom or future MIL might get a little testy, plan to keep your distance. (If you'll be getting your hair and makeup done at 10am, schedule her appointment for noon.) Hang a sign that reads: "Stress-Free Zone: Bride and Bridesmaids Only Beyond This Point" on your hotel suite. If a manic mama busts in anyway, appoint a bridesmaid to run interference, steering her gently toward the door before she asks if she can quickly rearrange some tables on your seating chart.

The Badly Coiffed Bridesmaid

On a similar note, your closest friends might start acting a little funny on your wedding day too. I've seen several bridesmaids tear out their up-dos in disgust or take a wipe to a fresh face of makeup that's "All wrong! Just ALL WRONG!" If your friends tend to be picky about their hair and makeup (and even if they don't), leave plenty of room in the day's schedule for stylist do-overs. It might be worth it to book an extra appointment at the tail end of your session, so you have pros to attend to any 'maids who are feeling less than perfect.

The "Wedding Hotline" Callers

I'm always amazed by how often a bride's cell phone rings on her wedding day. Some calls are from well-wishers ("Don't forget to stop and take it all in!") and others are from guests who want to update you on their schedule ("We just got to the hotel!" or "I think the GPS is on the fritz. Where, exactly, is the wedding?") Rather than field all the calls yourself, put your phone on vibrate and turn it over to your maid of honor, who can gently let people know that you're unavailable.

The Lost (or Just Late) Wedding Vendor

A week before your wedding, email a reminder to your vendors with the date, time, and location where they're expected. If anyone's responsible for "extras" (your florist said she'd bring an extra-tall ladder or your caterer volunteered a mic stand), remind them then. Type up a quick list with two contact numbers for each vendor ahead of time and you won't have to dig through your wedding binder to track down your cake maker. Give the list to your day-of coordinator or a cool-headed family member -- your super-chill aunt, for example -- and ask her to touch base with any vendors who are running behind schedule.

The AWOL Guests and the Unexpected Plus-Ones

No matter how carefully you tallied your RSVPs, your head count will fluctuate until the very last minute, with some guests getting sick and others showing up with a surprise date. Assuming your seating plan stays mostly intact--there's not one table that's suddenly empty -- inhale, exhale, and let your caterer know to adjust the number of chicken breasts accordingly. Sure, it's not ideal that everyone at table 6 has to scootch over to make room for your college roommate's new fling, but at the end of the day, a couple of extra bodies (or a few missing ones) aren't worth stressing over.

The Long-Lost Relatives

The best thing about weddings is that they bring together far-flung friends and relatives. The worst part is, some of those guests might want to spend cocktail hour (the WHOLE hour) catching up or getting to know you better. A LOT better. Be prepared for when your mother-in-law's cousin goes into a never-ending spiel about adding your relatives to the family tree (this happened to me) by practicing a few key phrases: "I'm excited to catch up with you, but my wedding planner seems to need me right now" or "I'm sorry, I need to run to the ladies' room, but let's chat more at brunch tomorrow!"

Are you anticipating wedding-day stress? Or do you think your guests will keep their cool?

More from Glamour:
10 Beauty Tricks That Make Guys Melt
50 Wedding Dresses That Will Make Your Heart Skip a Beat
10 Things He's Thinking When You're Naked
Kate Middleton's Best Tour Outfits
10 Wardrobe Essentials Every Woman Should Own
The Ultimate A-Z Guide to Excellent Hair

Beauty 'Truths' We Now Know Are BS

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You’re a smart woman, so chances are you know a lot of beauty truths. For one, sunscreen is the best way to prevent signs of aging. And, eating chocolate? It doesn't cause acne. Most of us grew up learning certain facts about beauty, and they’ve carried us well into an adulthood of clear skin and lustrous hair. (Or, at least, something very close to it...hey, nobody’s perfect.)

The Stars On This Week's Best Dressed List Wore Black And White And Were Fab All Over

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Fabulous style moments were few and far between this week, however, we were able to find a handful of bright spots that deserved some acknowledgement.

High contrast looks in black and white ruled the red carpet and were spotted on Lea Michele, Dita Von Teese and our favorite style star of the week, Diane Kruger.

Check out our best-dressed picks below and let us know if you agree.

Diane Kruger in Roland Mouret
diane kruger
This outfit shows how much fun you can have playing with proportions. The tiny polka dots on a crop top teamed with bigger polka dots on an extra long pencil skirt play perfectly together. And a pop of color via Kruger's yellow pumps are the finishing touch.

Lea Michele in Paule Ka
lea michele
The white paneling on the bodice and hips of this stunning gown give the illusion of a smaller waist -- not that the actress-singer needs it! And we can't get enough of her glowing skin exposed by the strapless silhouette and front slit.

Keira Knightley
keira knightley
Our jaws dropped when we saw this powder blue frock on Knightley. The retro look is exactly the level of awesome we expect from the actress.

Dita Von Teese
dita von teese
No one does vintage glamour quite like Dita Von Teese. This cream and black polka dot gown is definitely a reflection of her signature style, but looks far from dated or costumey.

Megan Montaner in Dolce and Gabbana
megan montaner
Crop tops are everywhere and the red carpet is no exception. We love seeing these midriff-baring designs get a glamorous upgrade-- and Ms. Montaner's glitzy get-up is the perfect example.

13 Weekend Bags That Will Have You Traveling In Style

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'Tis the season for weekend getaways! Escaping for just 48 to 72 hours is sometimes all you need to recharge and refresh. However, packing for such a short trip can be overwhelming and ultimately cause overpacking.

The solution: Pick a roomy, durable, and of course, stylish weekender bag, while also keeping in mind the following packing tips.

  • Remember to roll your clothes: By tightly rolling softer, wrinkle-resistant items -- like T-shirts, jersey sundresses, light cardigans and jeans -- you almost double the space in your bag. It's like magic!



  • Ditch the bulky beauty products: No need to pack your entire 12-ounce bottles of shampoo and conditioner. Now is the time to break out those complementary hotel products you've collected. Or if your weekend jaunt has you staying at a hotel or inn, then you're already taken care of -- just add a toothbrush, toothpaste, a small bottle of your favorite hairstyling product and a tiny fragrance sample or two.


  • Grab a pair of all-in-one shoes: Sleek ballet flats or embellished sandals really go the distance. Either option will provide comfort during the long day and style when you hit the town at night.


  • Choose one travel outfit: The ensemble you wear while traveling to your destination should be the same one you wear on your way home. This is a surefire way to free up a lot more space in your bag.


  • Find the nooks and crannies: There are great hidden pockets of packing space lurking everywhere in your bag. For example, try tucking a pair of sunglasses into your sneakers (which will also prevent them from being crushed) or place underwear in the cups of your bras (which helps maintain the bra shape as well).


Now check out these awesome weekender bags that will send you on your way in style.


Floral Rompers, Cute Overalls And More Cheap Celeb Finds Of The Week

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Summer is finally in full swing and your top priority should be deciding which social event to attend, not lamenting over your wardrobe.

We understand that you may not have stocked up on enough wedges, shorts and dresses for the warm months ahead, but fear not -- we're here to get your closet ready without breaking the bank.

This week we saw many of our favorite A-listers out and about wearing inexpensive pieces that will inspire many of our summer outfits. Lauren Conrad rocked an adorable floral romper for only $59, while Olivia Palermo looked summertime-fine in a $49 peplum top.

Shop the best cheap celeb finds of the week and let us know which ones have been added to your wardrobe.

Extreme Piercing Taken To A W-HOLE New Level (PHOTOS)

8 Times Elle Fanning Looked Like A Disney Princess

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As the fabled Sleeping Beauty in Disney's "Maleficent," Elle Fanning dons flowing pastel frocks and embellished gowns from the 16th-century tale. For her turn on the red carpet for the film's press tour, Fanning adapted the regal aesthetic for modern times, pairing historic silhouettes and a sweet palette with loose waves and fresh-faced makeup.

The 10 Most Common Sunscreen Slip-Ups

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By Karen Borsari for Life by Daily Burn

Despite everything we know about the risks of sun exposure, skin cancer is still on the rise -- big time. In fact, in the last 35 years, rates of deadly melanoma have tripled. And those applying sunscreen are not immune. Improper application or the wrong product can render sunscreen virtually useless. Avoid these common culprits and get the most out of your SPF for risk-free fun in the sun!


Sun Safety: 10 Sunscreen Mistakes

1. OTC Interference
If you've been slathering on the SPF but still come home from a day in the sun looking like a lobster, check your medicine cabinet. Common over the counter medications like ibuprofen, Aleve, Motrin and Advil decrease the efficacy of sunscreen. Other culprits include Benadryl and other antihistamines, antibiotics such as Tetracycline and doxycycline and many acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide. If skipping a dose when headed outdoors isn't an option, be sure to wear UPF attire (the clothing version of SPF) and a wide brimmed hat. And stick to the safety of the shade!

2. It's Not Enough
Even if you're diligent about applying sunscreen you're probably not using enough. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, at least one ounce of sunscreen should be applied every two hours for adequate coverage. Unfortunately, studies show most people use just one quarter to one half the amount they should, greatly decreasing the effectiveness of their sunscreen. To give you a better idea of how much you should be using, imagine a golf ball-sized amount or fill a shot glass with sunscreen and start slathering!

3. Getting Too Hands On
You say you're using plenty of sunscreen and still getting burned? Could be the way you're putting it on. Studies show that sunscreen is most effective when applied in a thin film and decreases when it is rubbed in. Next time you're headed outdoors, leave a little greasy goodness on your skin and let your sunscreen sink in.

4. You're Late To The Party
If pulling out the sunscreen and lotioning up is the first thing you do at the beach, it may be time to rethink your order of operations. Sunscreen needs about half an hour to bind with skin so you're absorbing rays for 30 minutes if you haven’t pre-applied. Always put on your first coat of sunscreen before you leave home so it will be in full effect by the time you get outside.

5. Playing The Numbers
There's no way you can get burned using SPF 100, right? Wrong! There are several reasons your high SPF sunscreen may be to blame for sun damage. Not only does a high SPF give a false sense of UV invincibility (SPF 100 does not provide twice the protection of SPF 50), it actually has a less optimal chemical balance. SPF is based primarily on defense against UVB -- not UVA -- rays. Because UVB rays are the main cause of most burns, a higher SPF signifies more UVB protection, not UVA despite these ray's harmful effects. As SPF goes up so does the disparity between UVB and UVA protection. To safeguard yourself from both UVB and UVA rays stick to frequent applications of a sunscreen with an SPF between 15 and 50.

6. Not Watching The Clock
Many of us have made sunscreen part of the morning routine and may even reapply midday, but it's not enough — no matter the SPF. Both the FDA and the Skin Cancer Foundation recommend reapplying at least every two hours. Sunscreen simply isn't effective after that amount of time. If remembering to reapply proves difficult, try setting an alarm on your phone if you'll be in the sun for hours on end.

7. Sipping In The Sun
If you suffer from blotchy burns, it may be time to reevaluate your poolside beverage. Citrus juices and peels, most commonly lime juice -- ahem margarita -- make skin photosensitive, meaning you may be more likely to burn or blister in the sun. The good news is, the plant compound must come in contact with your skin in order for it to become sensitized. As long as you're not squeezing your own limes you should be okay. But don't start sipping and spilling, “margarita dermatitis” as doctors call it, is a common condition.

8. You Sweat It Off
Sorry sweaty friends, pit stains aren’t your only problem on a hot summer day. Just like water, sweat can wash away sunscreen making you more susceptible to burns. If you sweat heavily, even if you're just taking a summertime stroll, consider a sport or water-resistant sunscreen and be sure to reapply every time you wipe sweat from your brow -- or anywhere else!

9. It's Past Its Prime
Christmas lights and pool supplies are great things to buy at an end-of-season sale. Sunscreen is not. Buying SPF in bulk last September may have seemed like an investment in your skin's health but it may have been a poorly laid plan. Most sunscreens have an expiration date but, unlike Twinkies, are not good beyond that point. Over time, sunscreens lose strength. Even if the lotion looks good, toss it out if its past due. If the bottle doesn't have a date, toss after three years or you see any changes in color or texture.

10. You Missed The Fine Print
SPF, UVA, UVB, broad spectrum, water-resistant versus waterproof, hypoallergenic, oil-free... With all the jargon it's no wonder many consumers aren't bringing home the right stuff. And without the proper product your more susceptible to burns. According to research conducted by the Environmental Working Group, only one quarter of the sunscreens available in 2013 offer “strong and broad UV protection,” meaning 75 percent of the products out there just won't cut it. Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 50 or lower. Unless you'll be in the water or sweating profusely, avoid water-resistant sunscreens as they can be less effective. Skip the insect repellent sunscreen combo as well. DEET, the most common chemical in bug repellent can reduce the effectiveness of SPF by more than 30 percent. To find a brand that meets your needs, check out the EWG’s sunscreen guide.

More from Life by DailyBurn:
Don't Get Burned: The Truth About Tanning
5 Reasons You Need to SPF Your Eyes
7 Grilling Tips for a Healthy Summer Barbecue

Best Tweets: What Women Said On Twitter This Week

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The funny women of Twitter were more restless than usual for the weekend to arrive, but not for the reason you'd think. Saucy Kensington was one of these ladies desperately awaiting the weekend: "92% of my week is spent waiting for Friday to come so I can party hard // ~ takes nap." The dog days of summer are upon us, indeed.

Elizabeth Hackett had a similar idea when she tweeted, " Sure, I party*. // *am in more than one book club." Our kind of woman.

We completely endorse a little summertime laziness. The world beyond conditioned bedrooms can get dicey. Just take it from Akilah Hughes: "Went to the Griffith Observatory and saw the, 'Find Out Your Weight on Other Planets' exhibit. Don't accidentally stand on the Earth one..." The world is a dangerous place.

For more great tweets from women, scroll through the list below. Then visit our Funniest Tweets From Women page for our past collections.











































































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