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The Most Eagerly Awaited Baby Name of the Century: Charlotte Elizabeth Diana Windsor

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Well, Miss Charlotte Elizabeth Diana Windsor, welcome to the world! Her Royal Highness Charlotte of Cambridge (also known as Charlotte Elizabeth Diana Windsor) made her public debut on the steps of St. Mary's Hospital in London on Saturday, but we had to wait until Monday to learn her name. Now that we know the most eagerly awaited baby name of the century, I, co-founder of Babynames.com, will break the name down in meaning and popularity... and let's not forget heart.

Charlotte. Charlotte is the female form of Charles (an obvious nod to Prince Charles) and has the meaning "free." The name Charlotte is an extremely popular name in the United States. In 2013, it ranked #13 in the United States per the Social Security Administration but ranked #1 on BabyNames.com's most popular names of 2014. The British press has already nicknamed Her Royal Highness Charlie but other common nicknames include Lottie, Lotta, and Char. The last British monarch with the name Charlotte was Queen Charlotte, wife of George III. As you may remember, I recommended Charlotte as a first name if the royals were to choose a name based on trend in.

Elizabeth. Princess Charlie's second name, Elizabeth, is a name with Hebrew origins and means "God is my oath." Elizabeth has several connotations, the most royal being her grandmother's name, Queen Elizabeth II. It is a very common name among modern day royalty's second and third names, paying tribute to Queen Elizabeth I as well. We cannot forget that Elizabeth is also the second name of both Duchess Kate and her mother Carole. Elizabeth is a popular name in the United States, consistently ranking in the top 20 (and #10 in 2013) per the Social Security Administration. In the above-mentioned blog post, I recommended Elizabeth prior to the Princess' birth as both a first and second name based on tradition, popularity and trend.

Diana. And then there's Diana, aptly meaning "divine". Diana was not my first choice for a name for the bouncing baby princess, but I recommended it as a second or third name if it were to be chosen. In contrast, prior to the princess' birth, Jennifer Moss, my co-founder of BabyNames.com, stated, "I adored [Diana] and would love to see them use the name. However, I think it would be prudent to use Diana as a middle name so the baby doesn't feel she has to live up to Princess Diana's beloved image."

As far as name popularity, Diana currently ranks #270 in U.S. births per the Social Security Administration. We expect this name to skyrocket in rank, thanks to its status as a "reborn" royal moniker. By the time the 2015 stats are released in 2016, we predict Diana will rank as one of the fastest growing names in popularity in the United States.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge should be lauded for picking a first name that bucks recent tradition. Their name choice of Charlotte reflects their image: they selected a trending name instead of one stuffy with tradition. Although Her Royal Highness Charlotte Elizabeth Diana Windsor is fourth in line to the throne, she is first in line in our hearts, both in Britain and stateside.

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You Are What You Eat and What You Wear

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Did you do anything for Earth Day? (By the way it was last month if you missed it.) Did you notice people wearing clothes inside out with the tag showing days later? That wasn't just sloppy dressing or people getting dressed it the dark. It was an actual statement and show of solidarity in a day of remembrance for the victims of Rana Plaza, the horrific garment factory collapse in Bangladesh. Many people took pictures of it to post to social media with #fashionrevolution in an effort to create awareness and change so that such a tragedy never happens again.

To an outsider, let's be honest, fashion can seem like a frivolous self-absorbed industry where the only is goal to make people look good and make serious bank- two pretty superficial attributes. But just like where we are heading with our food, the tide is changing in this country and we as consumers want more. We are starting to pay more attention to where clothes are coming from- who is making them, what fabrics are being used and what natural resources are being sourced.

I find it funny how people are surprised when comedians, like myself give attention to a topic like this. Comics have a serious side too. But I am more than a comedian. I'm a mom, a wife, a businesswoman and someone who cares deeply about the environment especially now that I have a legacy that will be greatly affected by what we have done and how we're currently treating our planet.

As a global citizen I am doing my best to minimize my carbon footprint. I don't use chemicals in my cleaning products- I'm basically a vinegar, baking soda and essential oils kinda girl. I make my own baby food that I do my best to buy from farmers' markets as often as I can. We even use cloth diapers! My husband and I joke that we do this because we love the environment and hate ourselves. Seriously, have you ever had to clean a blow-out from a cloth diaper? It's a dirty job even Mike Rowe would pass on.

With this legitimate concern I have regarding the things that go into my family's and my body it only made sense to start paying attention to what goes ON my body too. When you think about it--our skin IS our largest organ so it was kind of a "Duh!" revelation. So began I researching earth friendly textiles and I came across a brand called Ecocouture. I immediately fell in love; not just with the clothes themselves, but with the mission of such an environmentally conscious company -- how could I not when their tag line and philosophy is: Responsible. Life. Style.

Because I am often in front of an audience or a camera I don't want to just feel good, I want to look good. It's fantastic to know that there are viable options out there. It warms my heart to know that there is a collective movement to make this mainstream. If you're in the same boat of caring about the environment, caring how our fellow human beings are treated and you also care about how you look, be proactive. Do your research too. Make a statement with your attire and make things change for the better. We need to start looking for and supporting more companies like this. Who says fashion and being away and going green can't go hand in hand?


You can read more about Rana Plaza and the fashion revolution in on Ecocouture's blog by Kevin Venkatesh.

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Lace + Leather = The Perfect Added Kink in the Bedroom

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Legendary pop star Britney Spears once dedicated a song to lace and leather, and it's no wonder - the trend of combining sweet and sexy has been popular for years, perhaps even centuries. It's not only apparent in our popular music and in fashion trends, but even in our food, with sweet and spicy mixtures in an assortment of international and local dishes.

But we're talking underwear here - what makes lace and leather perfect for men's kink underwear? The combination of the dark and sexy materials with masculine energy make the look the perfect addition to any guy's wardrobe - even if he is especially conservative. The material begs to be touched, so it is a great look to explore if you want to give your partner a special treat in the bedroom.

Shot by Jerrad Matthew, Exclusively for The Underwear Expert, the lace and leather looks for our "Kink" photoshoot are darkly erotic.

While lace underwear may seem too feminine for some, the Gregg Homme Blacklace Brief (featured in the shoot), begs to differ - it still comes across as decidedly masculine.

If you prefer a style that is absolutely, without a doubt, 100% "manly," try out the Male Power leather bodysuits for your kink experience - they come with studs and straps, and you'll feel every bit the stud in them.

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Click for more information about lace and leather underwear, and check out The Underwear Expert for all of the latest men's underwear trends.

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The Perfect Activewear For Your New Gym Look

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We all remember the days of ill-fitting underwear and self-inflicted wedgies, caused by wearing pairs that were way too small for our growing bodies. That's why, as grown men, the perfect-fitting pair of boxers, briefs, or boxer-briefs, really goes a long way. And it's not all about comfort - wearing a great-looking pair of underwear makes us look and feel our best. Confidence is incredibly sexy, whether you're at work or at the gym. That's why one of our new favorites is activewear in underwear form.

In our activewear shoot, "Warm Up," by Jerrad Matthew, Exclusively for The Underwear Expert, featured models Callum Aylott and Josh Stevenson show off activewear looks by Papi, teamm8, Emporio Armani, and Junk Underjeans.

What makes these activewear styles superior to your regular gym underoos? For one, they provide much more coverage than regular underwear, and they help you push through that tough workout while simultaneously keeping you cool. In particular, Callum models the the teamm8 Combat Hoodie - the hoodie lets your skin breathe while still keeping your core insulated. Moisture wicking fabric only helps keep you cool and comfortable. Featured long Johns, like the Emporio Armani Eagle Stretch Cotton Long John, and the Junk Underjeans Base Tangerine Extended Trunk, work well for the gym, or for lounging around in at home.

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Click for more information about activewear, and check out The Underwear Expert for all of the latest men's underwear trends.

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Sean Hayes And Scott Icenogle Lip-Sync LunchMoney Lewis' 'Mama' And Get Us Ready For Mother's Day

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Sean Hayes and husband Scott Icenogle are "proud Mama's boys" and they know just how to show it.

On Tuesday, the adorable couple posted a wonderfully charming video of themselves lip-syncing to LunchMoney Lewis' "Mama" in honor of Mother's Day, which they dedicated to their own mothers.

Our latest. #MothersDay2015 We're proud Mama's boys.

Posted by Sean Hayes on Tuesday, May 5, 2015


Hayes and Icenogle married in November 2014, and previously delighted the Internet when they shared a video of themselves lip-syncing to Iggy Azalea and Jennifer Hudson's song "Trouble."

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How I Turned a Love of Fashion Into a $25 Million a Year Business

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When I was in college I was really focused on becoming a lawyer, as I imagined that was what traditional success looked like. As I started my first day as a labor and employment attorney, I was thrilled with the intensity of having to negotiate on behalf of large companies and felt challenged with having to understand the innumerable legal issues we were working through at any given moment.

Law wasn't my first love, but I didn't know that yet. I would later learn that law was probably like that expensive shoe you keep in your closet, the one that is probably a little too high in the heels and hurts your foot every single time you wear it but too expensive to throw out.

I loved the idea of law, but little did I know, that I would have another chance at a dream career.

When I was working as a lawyer I would leave "going to the library" notes on my desk so I could sneak out for some much-needed retail therapy. This therapy seemingly worked. As I was climbing the ranks at the firm, I was also gaining the admiration of my colleagues for being the "best-dressed", who could always be counted on for some fashion advice and tips.

I always loved fashion but never really thought about a career in it. When I first started Linda's Stuff I was selling my kids' old video games on this new site called eBay. When they sold out, I immediately switched gears to selling my own designer clothes and it ignited a flame in me. It was a like a light went off and I thought, this is fun and I am good at it. My friends were also intrigued that I was making such good money selling my clothes online. They asked me to do it for them and gave me a percentage of their profit. These friends became my first consigners!

Building a business takes dedication and lots of time management. And for me in the early years of Linda's Stuff, lots of learning on the job as I went. I ran the business entirely from my home for the first five years (2001-2006) and did every job from taking the pictures, to writing the listings to packing and shipping. So now as we've grown to over 110 employees working in a 93,000 sq. ft. warehouse, I can honestly say I've done every single job in our organization at some point.

Here are some basic rules every entrepreneur should know:

1. Have a Mentor

My father is my mentor. He is a lifelong entrepreneur who started a security business for clothing, which was visionary back when he launched it. The business was a success and supported our family of five until he sold it. Watching my dad turn his idea into a successful business that allowed him to support his family and do what he loved, was my inspiration.

My advice is to find a mentor who is not afraid to point out the mistakes you are making and one who can offer you guidance on important business decisions.

2. It's All in the Details

In my business, I am trained in the art of spotting fakes. In luxury goods, I work with reputable authenticators so that my customers know and trust that the luxury items I am selling are authentic. I've built a client base that's bar none because our first job is to build trust and relationships.

3. Pick Up What Other People Put Down

Never underestimate the value of your things. While it is great to donate to charity and Goodwill, your things have much more value than you may perceive. "One man's trash is another man's treasure" may be an old adage but it is true. And honestly it has never been truer than it is today.

With people being so financially responsible and concerned with the economy, the market for gently used goods is burgeoning. Never underestimate the power of reinvention. Take if from me, I reinvented my career and created a business I could have never imagined owning.

Click here for more information on Linda Lightman or Linda's Stuff.

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How to Get Your Feet Sandal-Ready for Summer

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It's sandal season, people. But first, you'll need a pedicure.

Instead of going to the nail salon, try Baby Foot.

This cult Japanese product is like a foot version of a deep facial. It uses fruit acids to chemically loosen and slough off dead skin without any rough scraping or rubbing.

Here's how it works: You put on Baby Foot's plastic booties (the inside has been coated with the activated gel) for an hour while you're chilling around the house, then wash the stuff off and go. In three to seven days, your heels, toes and other trouble spots will magically start to molt.

Here's where to find it.

More from PureWow:

28 Hairstyling Tricks Every Woman Should Know
Magic Tape For Your Manicure
3 Ways To Make Your Lashes Look Like Falsies
How To Clean Your Makeup Brushes
3 Common Face Washing Mistakes

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36 Short Hairstyles That Are A Cut Above The Rest

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Whether it's a pixie or lob, there's something especially freeing about having short hair. Though dramatic hair transformations may take some getting used to at first, Coco Chanel said it best: "A woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life."

Below, we asked our readers to show us the short hairstyles they wear with confidence by posting photographs to Twitter and Instagram with the hashtag "shorthairdontcare."

Check out the images below, and don't be surprised if you end up in the salon chair sometime soon.

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Jonathan Cheban Slams Amber Rose And Blac Chyna As 'Ghetto, Street Bullies'

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Just when you thought it was all over, Kim Kardashian's BFF Jonathan Cheban has inserted himself right in the middle of the Kardashian-Jenner family's feud with Amber Rose and Blac Chyna.

In an interview with RadarOnline, the former CEO of a public relations firm, who now runs his own gossip website, didn't hold back.

“Kylie [Jenner]’s young, they’re not. They are bullies,” Cheban told the website of Rose and Chyna (the latter of which actually used to be friends with Kim). “Both of them are kind of street. They take it to another level and they’re always looking for a fight."

Cheban is of course referencing all the drama that has gone down in recent months since 17-year-old Jenner began dating Chyna's ex, Tyga, with whom she has a 2-year-old son.

By drama, we mean Rose's claims that the rapper left her friend for the teenage reality star on a radio show back in February, saying that Jenner is a "baby, she needs to go to bed at 7 o'clock and relax," and that 25-year-old Tyga "should be ashamed of himself." "He has a beautiful woman and a baby and left that for a 16-year-old who just turned 17," Rose said.

These comments led to a Twitter feud with Khloe Kardashian, which led to Rose's ex and Kim's husband Kanye West remarking that he had to take "30 showers" after dating Rose.

Jenner and Chyna have been trading jabs via Instagram posts for the last few months, and recently Chyna has taken aim at Jenner over her famous lips.

Last month, when teens began attempting a bizarre quest for a pumped-up pout similar to Jenner's by sucking on a shot glass -- aptly called the #KylieJennerChallenge -- Chyna shared a photo of herself with almost clown-like huge red lips.

Even though Jenner has been fighting back in her own right, Cheban clearly feels protective of the teen.

"I want to bully them back. They're really aggressive. They should at least wait till Kylie is 18," he told RadarOnline. “I want to show them what it is like. I’m not taking sides. They’re too ghetto, too street. They’re bullies.”

The 41-year-old, who runs TheDishh.com, also told the website that should any video from their pasts as strippers emerge, he'll be happy to post them on his site.

“I’ll put crazy videos of them up. People want to see them. It doesn’t get any classier with these two," he said.

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

Here's A Makeup Tutorial For Men, Because Women Aren't The Only Ones With Blemishes

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There is no shortage of makeup tutorial videos on the Internet. However, most of them are geared toward women.

That's where Ryan Potter comes in. He started posting to YouTube back in February and has since uploaded a DIY decor video, his coming out story, and his own makeup tutorial for men.

"Men wearing makeup is definitely more common now than it was before," he explains before delving into a simple, five-step routine, adding, "Men and women have the same opportunity to get the same facial blemishes, flaws and breakouts."

Addressing the possibility some viewers may balk at the idea cosmetics are also for men, Potter simply says, "If you don't like it, don't comment on it."

Wise words and a helpful tutorial? Count us in. Check out the video above.

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.

George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic Thank You Lounge

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GBK's 8th ANNUAL GEORGE LOPEZ CELEBRITY GOLF CLASSIC THANK YOU LOUNGE at Lakeside Golf Club in Burbank.

Golf took center stage at this event on Monday May 4th with Cleveland Gold giving out their TFI Smart Square putters while custom bag company Vessel Bags gifted custom bags to all the celebrities who participated in the Lopez' tournament. Additionally Curtis & Co. designed and created 200 limited edition watches from their CHALK line, which stands for Care, Happiness, Affection, Love and Kindness.

Designer Matt Conable and his William Henry luxury brand had a collection of knives, money clips, bracelets and other accessories for men that incorporate such primal material as 100 million year old dinosaur bones and 10,000 year old fossil Wooly Mammoth teeth and fossil walrus tusks.

There were iPhone and iPad cases from Pelican Gear made with shock absorbent liners and watertight seals to keep out rain and dust. LifeCell had its anti-aging skincare, while Milena's Boutique let guests choose from a variety of scented soy candles.

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George Lopez with presenting sponsor LifeCell.


Hungry golfers found sustenance in the Los Feliz-based restaurant Knuckle & Claw, which was serving up made-to-order lobster roll sandwiches. Sabra Dipping Company provided salsa and guacamole dips. Copa Di Vino (as seen on television's Shark Tank not once, but twice!) gifted wine bottled in single serve glasses.

There was also D's Naturals powerbars, billed as the world's healthiest power bar because it has the highest concentration of plant protein ever put to a bar at 21 grams per bar. D's Naturals was also handing out jars of it's Vanilla Maple almond butter, the first plant based protein infused almond butter. If that wasn't impressive enough, Ohio-based company founder and CEO D Katz is only 18 years old!

Other gifts included personal training sessions with Lalo Fuentes and a one-week VIP Club Pass to the Toluca Lake Tennis and Fitness Club.

Caribbean Living Magazine handed out gift certificates for five day stays at Ce Blue Villas & Beach Resort in Anguilla. Coincidentally, travelers who have trouble clearing their ears while up in the sky picked up Eustachi, a drug-free devices that unplugs the ears anytime, anywhere.

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Richard Karn, Anthony Anderson and Tim Allen

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The Perfect Lightweight Jackets You Need Now, When It's Not Quite Cold And Not Quite Warm

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There's no need to worry about outerwear when it's sweltering hot, and we know to grab our fleece-lined overcoat when it's freezing. But what about those inbetween days when it's not too hot and it's not too cold?

The weather can be fickle in the spring and summer, so you'll want a great lightweight jacket to fend off the chill but not make you overheated in the process.

We've rounded up a few options that will do just that. Check out the various types of lightweight jackets below that will get you through this season and beyond.

Trenches

You can't go wrong with a classic trench. They are season-less, stylish and go with practically anything in your closet. Try a sleeveless version to switch things up -- they look great with a Breton striped shirt and jeans.

Trenches



River Island sleeveless trench, $130; Zaful trench, $23; BlackFive color-block trench, $40.

Jean Jackets

Much like the trusty trench, denim jackets are a wardrobe staple. You should definitely have one on hand whether you're strolling around town or hitting the beach.

Jean jackets



Abercrombie & Fitch hoodie jean jacket, $69; Tommy Hilfiger white denim jacket, $129; Mother baseball-style jean jacket, $283.

Windbreakers

These thin nylon jackets might seem too sporty to wear beyond your morning run. But not so fast! The lightweight coverups, which can easily fit inside your purse, look great thrown over a T-shirt and denim shorts or even a casual sundress.

Windbreakers



J.Crew packable ripstop windbreaker, $98; Moony Mood "COUPE" windbreaker, $60; ATD Windbreaker, $40.

Cardigan Coat

A comfy and cozy knit coat will keep you warm when nights get cool. Plus, these oversized cardigans will get plenty of mileage once the summer is over.

Cardi-coats



Blue long cardigan coat, $84; Choies geometric poncho cardigan, $30; Sheinside hooded sweater coat, $37.

Raincoats

The main objective of a raincoat is to keep you dry and these will definitely do that. But it doesn't hurt that they're also breathable and beautiful.

Raincoats



Joules "Right as Rain" coat, $105; Trout "Sevan" cape, $545; UNIQLO waterproof coat, $70.

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Jennifer Lawrence Reportedly Nabs $20 Million Payday For ‘Passengers'

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Jennifer Lawrence has scored a $20 million payday for Sony's "Passengers" opposite Chris Pratt, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

And while Lawrence's role is "somewhat secondary" to Pratt's, THR notes that his deal nabbed him $10 million upfront with the possibility for more money, if Universal's "Jurassic World" performs well at the box office.

It seems that the Sony hack proved to be a blessing in disguise for Lawrence after it was revealed that she and co-star Amy Adams were paid less than their male co-stars in "American Hustle." Armed with that information, the star's agents were said to have stood firm on her $20 million fee.

THR also notes that Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum are each asking for $20 million to reprise their roles in the third installment of the "21 Jump Street" series, while Lawrence is getting the same payday on a film that's not part of a franchise.

The $20 million paycheck for "Passengers" would cement Lawrence among the ranks of stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Sandra Bullock, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr., Denzel Washington and Angelina Jolie, whom the publication recently claimed regularly bring home $20 million-plus salaries.

Again, $20 million-plus salaries that are usually only attached to a franchise. While Downey earned $50 million for “The Avengers," an estimated $75 million for “Iron Man 3” and is rumored to score $40 million plus backend participation for “Captain America 3,” THR explains he didn't receive salaries anywhere close to these numbers for a movie like "The Judge."

Meanwhile, Lawrence, 24, is said to have previously earned $500,000 for the first "Hunger Games" movie, later scoring a $10 million salary for "Catching Fire," after the first film brought in more than $680 million at the box office.



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How A Fluffy Tutu Helped Me Find My Magic Again

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A few years ago I started noticing this trend in fashion blogging -- tutus.
Blame it on SJP and Sex and the City if you will, but tutus were suddenly everywhere. Petite girls, plus size girls, women of all shapes and colors were donning fluffy skirts and posing for pictures on rooftops, desert roads, beaches and urban city streets. Oh look, another tutu pic...

Cut to the present. I was deep in the throes of a stream of crappy dates -- feeling blue and lackluster. I'd sought solace at the bottom of many containers of Haagen Dazs Limited Edition Peanut Butter Pie. I had exasperated all my Back Up Guys via text and watched Sleepless in Seattle for the third time when I came to the conclusion of the cold, hard truth -- if I wanted to get My Magic back, I was going to have to get it myself. And that's when the idea pinged over my head like a cartoon lightbulb: I wanted a tutu.

What would I do with one? Where would I wear it? How on earth did buying one make sense?

I threw away each of these practical questions and turned to Etsy. A quick search revealed dozens of vendors offering tutus. I flipped through page after page til I found the perfect match and squealed in delight when I saw a HUGE color card to pick from. Did I want bright pink? Vivid aqua? Shocking yellow? And then I saw My Color. Electric Coral. It spoke it me. It Dolly Parton sang to me. Before common sense could intervene, I placed an order for my very own, custom-made tutu.

It arrived on a Thursday. Packed into a small, lightweight box. And when I took it out and released its glory unto the world -- the heavens sang.

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It had magical powers. As if it was sewn from threads of whimsy and delight.

The tutu sat on the floor of my friend's apartment and gathered spectators, all coming to pay homage to it, having heard about it through the grapevine. Selfies were snapped. And every woman, no matter how old, how serious, or how jaded and "oh so, LA" became an enchanted little girl in its presence. Skinny girls. Big girls. Twenty-something girls and 40-something executives all melted into pools of giggling pleasure as she wrapped it around her waist. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Tutu.

Do you wonder what it feels like to wear a tutu?

Once you get over the silly feeling -- which lasts all of seven seconds -- you feel simply glorious.

You are transported back to your parent's living room, swirling around in oversized dress up clothes with sticky, jelly covered fingers. Before college or period cramps or micromanaging bosses. Before agonizing over each text He sent, stressing about debt, wondering when those wrinkles got there? When desire, not obligation, was your daily fuel.

You feel emotions you haven't dare been in touch with, since gravity hit your breasts and grey hair started creeping in at your crown. Whimsy. Glee. Enchantment. Freedom.

You know, the things "grown-ups" just don't allow themselves to feel.

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For just those few minutes, you are The Little Princess, Sara Crewe, reunited with her father. Mary Lennox in her Secret Garden, blooming with flowers. Eloise running free through the Plaza. Alice gazing upon Wonderland for the first time.

For that period of time, striped socks, leg warmers, glitter Mary Janes and a polka dot skirt is a totally legit fashion choice. Spoonfuls of Nutella are a perfectly suitable dinner. Making a blanket fort with your BFF is the awesomest of Saturday night activities. She who had the most Lisa Frank stationary won at life. And nobody, and I mean nobody, could tell you that that plastic lanyard friendship bracelet made safety pinned to a sock while sitting cross-legged on the bed wouldn't last forever and ever and ever.

You are Madonna. And Tiffany. And the sky isn't just blue, it's "Electric Blue" (thank you, Debbie Gibson) and you can paint the world any color you like with your brand new set of scented markers and glitter lip gloss and hair sprayed with Sun In...

But then the Galaxy beeps on the table next to you.

And the spell is broken.

Crestfallen you take your tutu off. Pack it (somewhat) neatly back into the box. And return to life. Your boss emails. And the phone clangs and dings in your hands. The Internet goes out (again) and you unplug the router for the eighth time. And your jeans are tighter than they were last week (whaat?) and you look forward to your current definition of Saturday night awesomeness activities, eating Chipotle and catching up on Scandal.

But as you stuff that box away under your bed, you touch it lovingly. You'll always have that box. Stuffed with your tutu. That fluffy, frothy, magical tutu. Sitting at rest and waiting. It's yours to cherish. To take for a whirl when you need it the most. When you need to remind yourself its ok to be young at heart, to make friends with that little girl inside you with the jelly covered fingers. To never entirely let her go. And nobody, we mean nobody, can tell you that joy won't last forever and ever and ever.

And so I urge you, from one woman to another. Find your tutu. If you're feeling frisky, get your own! But if tulle and ribbon isn't in your future, find something. Something that belongs only to you. A dress in your favorite color. The faded New Kids on the Block tee you've had since the 7th grade. Or something made of lace. Something, anything, that when you slip it over your head makes you utterly impervious. To stress and to obligation. To big, scary decisions with lots of consequences. To transport you to a more simple time when you lived in the moment, time was on your side, and anything was possible.

2015-04-14-1428974602-8936765-SPLTutuPic1.jpgPhoto by Nichole Alex






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This Sneaker Concierge Can Make Your Wildest Footwear Dreams Come True

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Manhattan is a magical island where you can have just about anything delivered at any time of the day or night. If you're lucky enough to stay at The Dream Hotel while you're there, well, that sentiment takes on an entirely new meaning.

The luxury hotel group's downtown location now offers what it calls a "concierge sneaker service." Originally offered only to guests staying in the $5,000-per-night penthouse guest house, now anyone who stays at the hotel can request that the new sneakers of their choosing -- typically pairs that are difficult to find -- be waiting for them upon arrival.

Sound kind of excessive? According to Sole Collector's interview with the Dream's director of guest services, Vaughn Davis, the service is simply an extension of what the hotel already provides: luxuries such as, ahem, catering to your vibe. "Our vibes curator will contact you to set the mood and the lighting and the sound and music and every single aspect of the room to your liking," he said.

Davis, a longtime sneaker collector himself, credits relationships he's made over the years with his ability to get his hands on the shoes. "It’s very easy. I just make one phone call to a specific individual. It just depends on the kind of sneaker and the brand. I have my high-end guys, my mid-tier guys, and my low-end guys, and my OG deadstock and rare guys," he told Sole Collector.

As with anything else, there are hiccups, like a time he recalls trying to find a sneaker for $5,000 and they wound up costing the customer $9,000 instead. (Yes, the customers do actually have to pay for their kicks.) When asked if there ever was a pair he couldn't find, however, Davis replied, "No. We're batting 1,000."

To read the whole interview, click head over to Sole Collector.

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Last Minute Mother's Day Gift Ideas for the Spa-Addicted Mama

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As a mother, I can assure you nothing says "Happy Mother's Day" better than a day at the spa. (Are you listening, handsome husband?) But also as a mother, I can assure you that most Moms can't find the time to actually go to a spa. (This doesn't include you handsome husband, because part of your gift to me will be watching our daughter) Give Mom what she really wants this Mother's Day - a little slice of indulgence (and a babysitter!)...


Patchology FlashPatch Eye Gels ($50 for 30 pairs)
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Perfect for a new Mom (or any Mom whose eyes need a good wake up call), these soothing hydrogel eye patches are packed with an army of hydrating, brightening, and soothing ingredients like Hydrolyzed Collagen, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, and Caffeine. And um, 30 pairs for $50?? Yes please. Go ahead and buy yourself a jar of these 5-minute espresso shots for the eyes because most eye masks of its ilk run on average anywhere from $5 - $20 a pair. (And for those of you who hate math, that's $1.67 per treatment) Available at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, and Patchology.

Slip Silk Pillowcase ($79.95)
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No, it's not a myth... A silk pillowcase can actually prevent new wrinkles and protect Mom's hair from frizzing up. This silk pillowcase made of natural, hypoallergenic fiber will keep Mom looking young and coiffed while channeling her inner Marilyn Monroe. Available at SLIP Silk Pillowcase.

Rituals Home and Body Cosmetics Hammam Treat Gift Set ($25)
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You may not be able to send Mom to get an actual Hammam spa treatment, but you can at least give her the at-home experience with this gift set that includes shower foam, shower paste, mud scrub and shampoo. Once Mom catches a whiff of the eucalyptus and rosemary-scented products (and perhaps maybe Dad helps out in the application process), she can close her eyes and imagine she's in the most luxurious Turkish spa receiving
the famous purifying body ritual. Ahh... Available at Rituals Home & Body Cosmetics.

Poo~Pourri Mother's Day Bundle ($24.95)
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Everyone in your family knows that the bathroom is Mom's sacred spa space, and (this is awkward) everyone in your family knows that Dad's been known to, ahem, desecrate said sacred space. Give Mom the Poo-Pourri Mother's Day Bundle so she can take preemptive actions against Dad. The set includes a Lavender Vanilla Before-You-Go Toilet Spray, an Original Before-You-Go Toilet Spray, a Glitzy Spritz Refillable Sprayer, and a "Thanks Mom, for teaching me how to potty" giftable card. Everybody wins. Available at Poo~Pourri.

Peach & Lily Sheet Mask Bundle: Hydration ($26)
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Sheet masks are definitely my biggest addiction these days and if Mom likes to spa she's going to love these soothing, skin-loving masks. She can wear them around the house (or out of the house if she wants to scare her neighbors) and the masks give skin a targeted boost of hydration and nourishment. This curated collection of Korean sheet mask bestsellers include Caolion LTE V3 Pore Care Hydrating Mask, Cremorlab T.E.N. Cremor Perfection Hydrating Mask, Mizon Ampoule Essential Sheet Mask, and Mizon Returning Starfish Bio Mask and will leave Mom relaxed and glowing. Available at Peach and Lily.

Tocca Crema da Mano in Simone ($10)
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Mom will instantly be transported to a dreamy summer day when she slathers on this watermelon and frangipani-scented hand cream, leaving behind her foul-scented reality of sour milk and smelly sneakers. Formulated with coconut oil, shea butter and aloe, this hand cream is as hydrating as it is sweet smelling, and at 2 oz. is the perfect size for travel. Available at Tocca.

L'Occibox Spring Collection by L'Occitane $20
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Mom will love sifting through this curated collection of full and sample-sized L'Occitane goodies including: Jasmin & Bergamote Eau de Toilette, Immortelle Precious Serum, Immortelle Brightening Essence Sample, Shea Butter Hand Cream, Shea Whipped Hand Cream, Bonne Mere Rose. Not only does this treasure trove come in an adorable miniature hatbox, but Mom will love the champagne flavored gummy bears from Sugarfind Candy. Available at L'Occitane.

Tatcha Limited Edition Mother's Day Set ($98)
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Mom is all about the ritual of skincare. She appreciates every step and treats it as a daily meditation. Give her this beautifully packaged set which includes, Ageless Enriching Renewal Cream, Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask, Gold Camellia Beauty Oil, and Ageless Revitalizing Eye Cream - and maybe she will be able to tune out the whining kids (at least for an hour). Available at Tatcha.

H20 Sea Salt Therapy Set ($29.50)
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Mom is going to want to scrub off her winter skin and indulge in some hydration. If she doesn't have time to hit the spa, give her the H20 Sea Salt Therapy Set that includes the Sea Salt hydrating Body Gloss, Targeted Care Hand and Nail Cream, Sea Salt Body Wash, Sea Salt Hydrating Body Butter, and Sea salt Skin Smoother. Kohl's.

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Your Skincare-Obsessed Mom Wants These Mother's Day Gifts

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Your earliest memories are of your Mom slathering exotic creams on her face and scaring you with alien-green mud masks. She has always used sunscreen and her skin shows it. Give Mom an upgrade to her skincare routine this Mother's Day and show her you've been paying attention all these years.

Amore Pacific Intensive Vitalizing Eye Essence ($95)

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Mom is going to love adding this eye essence step to her skincare ritual. Known as a vital skincare step in South Korea, essences are used to "improve skincare product penetration." Made with brightening fermented green tea, tightening oat extract, and de-puffing caffeine, this essence will give Mom's old eye cream a major kick in the pants. Available at Neiman Marcus and Amore Pacific.

Skin Inc Hydrate 'Em Custom-Blended Serum Set ($90)
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Mom is going to love channeling her inner Walter White when she combines these three potent serums into one power serum. Using Ceramides, Coenzyme Q10 and Hyaluronic Acid, Mom will craft her dream serum that will leave her skin plumped and hydrated. Available at Skin Inc.

COOLA SPF30 Makeup Setting Spray ($36)

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If Mom is obsessed with her skin then she's probably also obsessed with sunscreen (or else you need to give Mom a firm lecture on the definition of good skin). She will love this 70%+ certified organic, matte finish mist which includes Cucumber and Aloe Vera extracts to help soothe and refresh skin; and Hyaluronic Acid, known to bind moisture and help soften, tone and rehydrate skin. Available at COOLA Suncare.

Jurlique Love Notes Indulgent Face Set ($72)
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Mom loves roses as much as she adores taking care of her skin. Treat her to this kit which includes full sizes of the Rosewater Balancing Mist, Skin Balancing Face Oil, and Rose Love Balm. Tell Mom to apply the face oil at night and stash the mist and lip balm in her bag for on-the-go hydration. Available at Jurlique.

Memebox Mother's Day #LoveYoMama Box $49

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If Mom isn't afraid of a little adventure treat her to the mysterious Memebox Mother's Day Box, featuring over $120 worth of Korea's bestselling skincare products. Though the actual contents are kept a secret, Memebox carries some of the best K-beauty brands so rest assured Mom is going to love every treasure in that box. Trust me, if Mom is addicted to skincare she is going to become a devoted follower of the 10-step Korean beauty ritual-- she'll be wearing sheet masks infused with Donkey Milk and Starfish cream in no time. Available at Memebox.

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Khloe Kardashian Confirms Kylie Jenner Got Lip Injections On 'KUWTK'

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Much lip service has been paid to whether Kylie Jenner's much fuller pout is courtesy of injections or some very impressive makeup skills, as she's repeatedly claimed.

Jenner really wanted to hang on to the idea that her new lips could have been created using a lot of lip liner, but her fib gets busted by her own sister, Khloe Kardashian, on this week's episode of "Keeping Up with the Kardashians."

In a new preview clip, Jenner is shocked after reporters start asking her about her lips at an event. The camera then cuts to Khloe's confessional, in which she lays out the truth bomb we've been waiting for.

"Kylie decided to plump her lips. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. I think if you’ve done something though, it is right to cop up to it," she says.

That's not in the cards for Jenner who tells her sister, "I’m not ever going to deny or confirm anything."

Of course, the 17-year-old reality star would go on to firmly deny having plastic surgery in a recent interview with Grazia magazine. "I haven't had plastic surgery. I've never been under the knife. People flashback to pictures of me when I was 12 and say 'Kylie's so different,' but how can I look the same from 12 to 18?'" Jenner clearly chose her words carefully, considering lip injections don't require going "under the knife."

Baby

A photo posted by Kylizzle (@kyliejenner) on




Jenner also comes clean about her lips herself. During her confessional she admits, "I have temporary lip fillers, it's just an insecurity of mine and it's what I wanted to do. I'm just not ready to talk to reporters about my lips yet because everyone always picks us apart. I want to admit to the lips, but people are so quick to judge me on everything, so I might have tiptoed around the truth, but I didn't lie."

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11 Things Daughters Of Strong Women Know

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I have that kind of mom.

You know, the kind who becomes a single parent with two kids under the age of 4, and never doubts she'll be enough. The kind who can solve any problem with one phone call, and skip any restaurant line using one convincing excuse. The kind who packs up a U-Haul and drives it to New York so that her daughter can have her childhood bed in her grownup apartment. The kind who makes a massive career move into a male-dominated field in her mid-50s, only to become her company's top salesperson in just a few months' time. That kind of mom.

My sister and I have always considered our mom our best friend, which means we've seen her cry as often as we've seen her laugh, we aren't blind to her moments of weakness and we're not absent during them, either. Through it all, we've watched a badass woman set an example for the type of women we want to be: Women who define our own success, our own happiness, and never let anyone get in the way of either.

If your mom is anything like our mom, here are 11 things you know to be true:

1. It's OK to like yourself... The other day, my mom sent me a photo of her newly-cut hair with the caption, "I look amazing." I laughed, because self-loathing is expected from women, and it's rare to hear a woman genuinely praise herself. But you know what? She did look amazing -- why shouldn't she tell me that?

2. ...and not apologize for your success. My mom began a new career in home improvement last year, and outsold a large salesforce -- mostly made up of men -- six months into the gig. When she was named Top Salesperson of the Year, she didn't insist it was "luck," or offer some caveat to her accomplishments. She worked the hardest, her skills were the best and she was damn proud of it.



3. Lifting yourself up doesn't mean knocking someone else down. Putting her own accomplishments aside, my mom is the first one to highlight other people's strengths (especially if those people are her daughters).

4. Comparing yourself to other women will get you nowhere. My mom treats her friends as if they are blood, and is the first person many of them have on speed-dial. She has such special relationships with other women because she listens to her friends' problems without judgment and offers endless support; zero jealousy is involved.

5. If you can count your good friends on one hand, you're pretty lucky. This is one my mom has stressed since the playground days when some dumb brat didn't invite me to play foursquare, and I've carried the sentiment through high school, college and navigating the bullsh*t we call our 20s. My mom taught me that it's more important to foster relationships that truly matter rather than wasting emotional energy on fair-weather friends. So, thanks.



6. A relationship is not the main indicator of your happiness. I binge-watched Disney movies in the early '90s like the rest of them, but my takeaways were that glass slippers don't fit most, and that flounder fish are super friendly. I never bought into the men-always-save-women, marriage-is-the-ultimate-life-goal narrative, because I was raised by a woman who showed me otherwise.

7. You don't need permission to do what you want, when you want. My mom once turned down a job because her ex thought it was unsafe, and has told me repeatedly why she'd never do that again. Nothing to worry about here, mom! My life = my rules.

8. You can stand on your own two feet. All the ladies who truly feel me, throw your hands up at me.



9. Forgiving someone is not the same as being a doormat. In an attempt to keep some details of my mom's personal life off the Internet, let's just say: she's showed me that some people are worth forgiving and some are not.

10. Superheroes cry, too. Moms are human, people.

11. Above all, girls just wanna (and should) have fun.
Real text from my mom:
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Eco-Beauty: 5 Best Organic Skin Care Products You Should Try

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We should all take a moment to ask ourselves, "how do the products I buy and the companies I support contribute to the Earth's wellbeing?" You CAN make a difference by using organic products that are natural and socially responsible! Below are some of my favorite organic beauty picks to try:

1. Marula Oil Pure Facial Oil

Marula Pure Beauty Oil is a powerful, natural anti-aging product, that touts 60% more antioxidants than Argan Oil. The Marula tree grows wild in Africa, therefore, no pesticides or man-made irrigation are necessary. Only fallen Marula fruits are harvested by hand, consuming no electricity in the process. The extraction of the oil is also performed by hand. I adore and use this oil regularly.

Marula Oil Pure Facial Oil, $78


2. Chandanni Face Grace moisturizer

This Ayurvedic face cream is good for all skin types and best used at night to repair and heal your skin. I love the unique texture and how well it hydrates. It's also made with the highest grade essential oils--organic almond, sesame, lavender, bergamot, calendula and rosewood. Founder and creator Chandanni Miglino is a certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (the natural healing science of India) so you know this is one cream to put on your must-have list.

Chandanni Face Grace Moisterizer, $80


3. Aillea Enrich Deep Sea Hydrating Cleanser

The Enrich cleanser contains kelp (a nutrient-rich plant with detoxifying properties), marine extracts, Hawaiian deep-sea water mixed with a blend of organic coconut and avocado oils that help protect and nourish the skin. Bioactive ingredients bring age-defying benefits while pampering sensitive skin. AILLEA products are free of parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals and endocrine disrupters. This fabulous cleansing cream is very gentle and perfect for all skin types.

Aillea Enrich Deep Sea Hydrating Cleanser, $32


4. BeautyCounter Glow Sugar Scrub

This sugar scrub is from one of the best organic, chemical-free skincare and beauty lines, BeautyCounter. It exfoliates and softens skin by buffing away dull skin cells while moisturizing at the same time. Mineral-rich oils such as evening primrose, sweet almond, apricot kernel, and sunflower leave skin looking smooth. Bonus: açai berry extract delivers antioxidants, fatty acids, and natural enzymes to support healthy-looking skin. The refreshing lemongrass scent is derived from a mix of pure essential citrus oils. I like to use this product in the shower a few times a week!

BeautyCounter Glow Sugar Scrub, $38


5. Vineyard Hill hand and Body Wash, Body Butter

The body wash and moisturizer by Vineyard Hill contain vitamins A-E. They are delivered to the skin organically, using ingredients such as grape seed oil, and plant extracts from calendula, chamomile, green tea, cucumber, and arnica. These anti-aging properties neutralize free radicals that damage skin's collagen. Vineyard Hill natural products are a great value plus the lavender scent is amazing!

Vineyard Hill Naturals Rose Lavendar Hand & Body Wash, $7.99

Vineyard Hills Naturals Rose Lavendar Body Butter , $9.99

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