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6 Men's Grooming Hacks That'll Make Mornings So Much Easier

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Men certainly aren't immune to taking an interest in their appearance, especially when it comes to grooming. Beard upkeep, eyebrow plucking, and messy man buns are just a few of today's grooming concerns. 


And just like ladies, guys deserve to have plenty of hacks at their disposal to help achieve -- and maintain -- their desired look.


To that end, The List TV tapped stylists at Keep It Cut salon in Phoenix to share a few unexpected grooming hacks to keep in mind. For example, did you know that a piece of denim can be used to revitalize a dull razor before shaping up your edges? Well, it can. And the key to an instant makeover is simply parting your hair to the opposite side. 


Need proof? Check out the video above. And let us know if there are any grooming hacks you swear by in the comments section below. 


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Trend Alert! Hair Accessories for Fall 2015

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Accessories are a big thing for any outfit, with the potential to make or break a look or ensemble. While jewelry and gloves, bags and purses and everything in between might be quite necessary, few of us ever really stop to think about hair accessories.

You may have spent a whole lot of time primping and styling your locks but you have left it lacking some extra embellishment that could completely alter your appearance. This is unfortunate considering the many ways you could add to your 'do and make it look that much more glamorous and unique.

Simple things really can make a whole world of difference, whether it is a clip or a bandana, a hat or a pin. You can get creative, fill it up to the tee or just let it be -- a simple look that appears intriguing to say the least.

Recently, designers have presented us with some of the most decadent hair ornaments for the upcoming 2015-2016 fall/winter season. These ultra glam pieces will inspire you to add a touch of sparkle and glam to your tresses during the colder months.

If the fall 2015 designer collections are any indication, when it comes to your hair next season, you are going to want to put a bow on it -- or a ribbon, or a pretty jeweled clip, or a graphic oversized barrette, or possibly even a brooch plucked from your jewelry box as the case may be.

Geometric clips (Suno), jeweled accents (Prada, Dolce & Gabbana), and slim monochromatic pieces (Rochas) offer plenty of alternatives for accessorizing even the simplest of styles and look that much better pinned into easy, imperfectly done hair.

Here, a look back at a few of our favorite fresh ideas, which we plan on putting into action, pronto.

Headbands

The stylists at Chanel dominated the fashion week runways with their chunky black satin headbands that pulled the hair back away from the face and added a dainty and feminine touch.

Although silk and satin headbands always appear chic, new textured bands such as leather or jewel-encrusted ones are also all the rage. Proenza Schouler showcased sleek leather headbands as well as some adorned with sparkles and added bands in thin strips.

Colored bands such as the orange elastic headbands worn at the Fendi show looked bright and refreshing and did a stylish job at keeping stray tendrils away from the face while bringing the focus towards the forehead region and the eyes.

Girly pink headbands from Honor were the perfect no-fuss accessories, adding to a woman's femininity. At Gucci we saw white floral headbands placed atop blonde hair with pink edges, looking oh-so-beautiful and positively unique.

Dainty Bows

While the spring and summer seasons were full of huge bows, the fall and winter seasons have seen smaller, jeweled bows instead and certainly not as often. They appeared in multiple pieces on a single model's head at Dolce & Gabbana, appearing to be a lovely combination of sweet and delicate as well as youthful with a mature outlook.

Pretty little bows were added to the ends of the braids at the Giles show as well, in soft satin and looking positively gorgeous against the platinum blonde of the hair. At Delpozo, onlookers were treated to the sight of oversized bow headbands that we just might grab in those pasty pink colors.

Jeweled Clips and Barrettes

Jewels in your hair may not be something you would normally go for, but they can appear to be quite lovely. Plus, they add bling to any 'do, sprucing up any outfit just through the presence of something sparkling on your head.

That's where the jeweled accents seen at Prada or even Dolce & Gabbana come in, from the colorful designs of the former keeping the hair looped to the side in place with those incredible barrettes to the gorgeous golden ribbon enamel and jewel encrusted roses of the latter.

The best looks, though, seemed to be the Chanel strike-through hair pins that went perfectly with the satin headbands while effectively adding retro to futuristic looks and keeping us with eyes trained on the runway, demanding more and more despite the fashion house's elaborate and long collection for the fall and winter seasons of this year.

Head Scarves

While they were certainly not a common sight, headscarves and such headwear, such as the Agnes B tulle headwear and the Dolce & Gabbana options, were extremely intriguing and looked rather sweet tied in with the ponytails and updos.

Headscarves were tied on at Delpozo as well, coming in pastel pinks and navy blues and encompassing the whole of the head in a look that appears to be chic and Gypsy like.

By: Alexia Gonzalez, Florida State University

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How To Freshen Up Your Makeup Routine In Under 5 Minutes

Nick Jonas Shows Off His Best 'Blue Steel' On Cover Of Adon Magazine

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Nick Jonas is the latest, and most unexpected, celebrity to join the candy-colored hair trend. Well, sort of. 


The 22-year-old covers the latest issue of Adon magazine sporting a cobalt blue 'do, which looks precisely painted on, and a silver jacket (we're getting major '90s boy band vibes). The singer/actor also shows off his best "blue steel," giving Zoolander a run for his money. The mag shared the image on Instragram Tuesday. 



The mag also shared an image from inside the issue, which shows Jonas looking all pensive in an all-red ensemble, complete with matching fiery hair, as he sits at a red piano.



Adon 16 hits newsstands Aug. 28. 


 


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Jennifer Lopez Slays In A Sheer Jumpsuit For Paper Magazine

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Sheer gorgeousness. 


Jennifer Lopez wears a sheer Balmain jumpsuit in a new spread for Paper magazine. The suit was designed by Olivier Rousteing, with whom she appears on the cover of Paper's September 2015 issue as designer and muse.


She shared the photo along with a handful of others from the shoot on Instagram Wednesday along with the hashtag #LuxeinFlux. 



A photo posted by Jennifer Lopez (@jlo) on



"All the muses that have inspired me are really strong and they sometimes fight against the world to show their own rules, which I think Jennifer did throughout her career and she's still doing it," Rousteing said in the accompanying interview. "You see many stars today try to look like her. She imposes her own rules. And when I think, 'What is the Balmain girl?,' it's this. It's a woman who knows what she wants and is going to express it."


"The concept of a fearless, strong woman who radiates confidence inside and out is an inspiring idea," 46-year-old Lopez added. "It's a great thing for young girls and women to see Balmain's muses illustrated by these ideas of strength and beauty. For them it's about a woman who creates her own destiny and forges her own future."



See more at Papermag.com



 


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Kanye West Looks Damn Near Joyous In This Photograph

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Kanye West, a man who has tried to explain his habit of not smiling (publicly), saying, "Not smiling makes me smile … When you see paintings in an old castle, people are not smiling 'cause it just wouldn’t look as cool," looks near ebullient in this photo posted by his sister-in-law Kylie Jenner. 



A photo posted by King Kylie (@kyliejenner) on



It's not like we've never seen Kanye smile before. And it's not like we should really make such a big deal when the man does smile, but he has such a great smile -- and a lot to smile about. 




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Lady Gaga Is The Bloodthirsty Countess For EW's 'American Horror Story' Cover

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Hello, Countess. 


Lady Gaga transforms into her "American Horror Story: Hotel" character, The Countess, for the latest cover of Entertainment Weekly. In the shot, the platinum star appears in a white ensemble with a bloody neck and black, taloned hand. 



Gaga will make her "AHS" debut in Season 5 as The Countess and owner of Hotel Cortez. She is a glamorous socialite with a hunger for love and sex, who maintains her looks by drinking human blood. 


“I’ve just been weeping while I’m here because I have returned to something I’ve believed in so much, which is the art of darkness,” she told EW. “It’s not something that everyone understands, but, for the people that do -- 'Horror Story' fans, my fans -- there is a true connection between us, and it’s a language within itself.”


The first photos of Gaga on set surfaced last week while the cast was filming outside of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.


 


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10 Fall Fashion Must-Haves For Men

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Hot off the trade-show floor! These key items are curated from exclusive trend forecasts at the recent MAGIC fashion trade show in Las Vegas, August 16-19.

These fall/winter trends for men are inspired by rugged nostalgia, with an emphasis on craftsmanship, utilitarian details, and traditional menswear.

1. The Statement Coat. Imagine Joseph's Technicolor Dreamcoat...then dial it back a notch. Fur, shearling, and tapestry-like fabrics in an array of inky colors and sumptuous textures are white hot in men's outerwear. That said, most guys can't honestly pull off purple brocade, so my suggestion is to choose a topcoat with one or two standout details (an interesting color, cool buttons, awesome lining, etc.) and let that be your staple for the season.

2. The City Coat. What the heck is a city coat? It's a topcoat that translates well from day to night, similar to a trench or peacoat in style. Look for longer lengths in outerwear this winter and next. A coat that's mid-thigh or three-quarter length has the flexibility of being both formal enough for the office but casual enough to pair with jeans.

3. The Explorer Jacket. Imagine a Cousteau-worthy parka with an update. The modern man's utility jacket is functional (with plenty of pockets) and fabulous (lined with shearling). This trend is my favorite for its utilitarian details and warm, cozy comforts. Also known as a territory coat or field jacket, the style is classic, but today's version--made for the modern explorer--is crafted from high-tech fabrics that stand up to the elements.

4. The Turtleneck. Channel your inner Ron Burgundy, and "stay classy" with this wardrobe staple. The classic sweater works well oversized or snug, plain or multicolor, and with heavily marled textures or as a lightweight knit. (Just a side note, guys: paired with Italian wool, a fine-gauge turtleneck under a suit will make any woman swoon!)

5. The Slouchy Sweater. Don't kill the messenger. Remember those extreme knits (à la Dr. Huxtable) from the 1980s? I won't go so far as to recommend them, but I will suggest spacious chunky knits in monochromatic tones with nifty details like front "glove pockets" and cool oversized buttons. I guarantee these comfy crewnecks will be your favorite for the season.

6. The Plush Pant. Skinny is out (almost). Wide is in! I'm not just talking about a wider pant leg. Wide wale corduroy will also reappear, while track pants and joggers with drawstring waistbands (in a wide range of fabrics, including velvet) will be just as popular as streetwear as they are at home and in the gym.

7. The Pleated Pant. I hate to admit it, but pleated pants are making a comeback. The good news is, these aren't your grandpa's trousers! The updated "dapper" pant has only a couple reverse pleats, which open toward the pocket so they appear less bulky. And because pleats perform in terms of function, on dress slacks they can actually look rather polished. Where they should be avoided is on denim and casual trousers (unless you want to look like A.C. Slater from Saved by the Bell).

8. The Utility Shirt. I'm a sucker for a safari shirt, so this trend, similar in style, is one of my favorites. (Ladies, this is the shirt you'll want to "borrow" from your boyfriend's closet.) A casual classic, traditionally known by its button-flap pockets at the chest, modern iterations of the utility shirt may include a zippered front, zipped pockets and vents, and additional or asymmetric pockets and patches.

9. The Laid-Back Suit. The most fashion-forward of suits for the season, the laid-back suit is meant to feel like your favorite weekend sweatshirt, so consider non-traditional fabrics for jackets (knits with some stretch) and asymmetric styling (double-breasted with a zipper). The laid-back suit works well when layered and can be paired with a slim hoodie or t-shirt underneath--and sneakers to boot!

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10. Expedition Suit. Suiting for men is certainly transforming, and the counter trend to the casual suit described above will be a (literally) more buttoned-up, late-Victorian look. Think three-piece suits and bowler hats. In addition, the expedition suit boasts more buttons and has a higher closure. High-quality fabrics, custom details (like piping and decorative stitching), and discrete but brilliant whispers of color and pattern will give every guy a taste of bespoke tailoring this season.

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This list is based on fall/winter 2016-17 trend forecasts provided by FashionSnoops and Donegar Creative Services.

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These 'Plus-Size' Disney Princesses Are Refreshingly Realistic

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Now this is the kind of body language we like to see. 


Tumblr user The Nameless Doll is responsible for creating some truly magical Disney princess artwork, reimagining beloved characters in a slew of different ways. Her most recent installment, an attempt to make the princesses look "plus-size," in her own words, is eye-opening to say the least.   


Belle:



In the series of altered photos, Belle, Rapunzel, Anastasia and Elsa are each manipulated to have fuller figures. Compared to their original shapes, they are certainly curvier, but at second glance, they just look like healthier versions of themselves.


Elsa:



The juxtaposed images serve as a reminder of how unrealistic the proportions of Disney princesses truly are. As Rapunzel's caption says, all we see here are "strong, confident, beautiful" young ladies.


Rapunzel:



Anastasia:



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The 6 Vegan Beauty Products You Need To Finish Out Your Summer

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The number of vegans in the United States is growing. Slowly, but surely, Americans are leaving animal products behind in favor of a sustainable and cruelty-free lifestyle.

Vegans now make up 2.5% of the U.S. population -- more than double the percentage in 2009. Interestingly, of the approximately one million vegans in the United States, 79 percent of them are women. Animal byproducts appear in a lot of cosmetics -- some of the common offenders include fish scales (known as "guanine" on the ingredients list), animal fat (often listed as "tallow"), and beetlejuice (commonly shows up as "carmine"). Ethics aside, that's enough to make me reconsider my former buying choices.


Perhaps then it is not surprising that there has been an upsurge in the number of vegan and cruelty-free beauty products available on the market. Many vegans live by the principle that they will not consume animal products in any form -- veganism goes beyond simply what they eat, and many vegans (myself included) take care to carefully choose all products they use with an eye to animals and the environment.

Though there are many great vegan beauty alternatives to common products, these are my top six choices, which may help you make the transition away from products made with animal products or tested on animals.

1. Hello! Hair Hydrating Mask: Island Escape Edition

For many of us, summer means long days in the sun -- and that can be a lot of damage for your hair. Significant sun exposure can cause hair to become weak and dry, leading to split ends. Personally, I spend a lot of the summer outside, be it at the beach, walking to work, or having lunch in the sun. My hair's taken quite a beating, so I jumped in the chance to revive my brittle and straggly strands. The Hello! Hair Hydrating Mask utilizes coconut oil, grape seed oil, and castor oil as its major ingredients, with the goal of repairing and revitalizing dry hair. I do this mask once a week and it always leaves my hair soft, shiny, and full.

2. Tarte Park Ave Princess Contour Palette

One of my favorite things about summer is getting a warm glow. The Park Ave Princess Contour Palette is a 3 in 1 combination which includes a blush, bronzer, and highlighter. The bronzer requires a gentle touch and is very build-able, perfect for providing a sun-kissed glow. The blush, in Posh, is a universal and fun pink, while the highlighter, in Champagne, is peachy and fresh. The combination helps my face look like I just left the beach, even on days I'm stuck inside.

3. The Wonder Seed Hand Cream

This hemp seed cream is extremely rich and moisturizing - which isn't surprising, considering hemp is packed with vitamins, like A, C and E, which promote skin health. The skin on my hands and feet gets painfully dry and cracked during the summer months, but this lotion really did the trick to give my skin elasticity and glow. It's free of parabens and artificial fragrances, but still has a delightful scent in Spring Lavender.

4. Smart Ash Teeth Whitener + Detoxifier

Nothing quenches my thirst like an iced coffee or tea, especially in the heat. Unfortunately, these beverages (along with one of my other great loves, red wine) can cause some major discoloration on my teeth. Once a week I replace my regular toothpaste with the smart ash teeth whitener to give my mouth a deep cleanse and a whitening effect. I have very sensitive teeth, so I'm really weary of most whiteners on the market, but I haven't experienced any discomfort with this one! It's fluoride free, hydrogen peroxide free, with no artificial dyes or flavors.

5. Pacifica Super Powder Eye Shadow Trio

I'm pretty conservative with eyeshadow colors, but I'm always looking to try new products. This shadow is vegan and cruelty-free, and the trio contains three sun-inspired shades: breathless, glowing, and sunset. Paired with a subtle cat eye and simple mascara, I think this eyeshadow offers the perfect subtle shimmer to keep your summer look alive.

6.The Fanciful Fox Black Magic Scrub

This stuff is amazing. Personally, I have oily skin and am prone to blackheads and clogged pores, so I went with the Black Magic scrub which is aimed at oily and problematic skin. With Dead Sea Mud, avocado oil, and Tahitian Black Sand as a few of the key ingredients, this scrub is gentle but works effectively to counteract the excess oils which clog my pores. It also leaves my skin feeling really soft and refreshed. I use it every couple of days and it only requires a tiny bit (mixed with water) so I've barely made a dent in my container.


One of my favorite ways to try new vegan beauty products is by seeking out small businesses which share my passion for veganism and plant-based living. That said, I'm lucky to live in a city where veganism isn't an alien concept. For people who aren't close to local shops but still want to explore vegan beauty and cosmetics, I really recommend trying out a subscription service, like VeganCuts, which curates and ships new products on a monthly basis. I also love scouring Etsy for new products, especially vegan candles and bath products. Recently, I've found and fallen in love with the vegan-friendly brand e.l.f., which is affordable (many of their products are only $1!) and sold at major stores like Target, Walmart and Walgreens.


You can follow Marissa Higgins on Instagram, at yourfavoritevegan, to keep up with her recipes, reviews, and insights into veganism and plant-based living.

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How To Take Your Windows From Drab To Dramatic

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Interior designer Nate Berkus has a few loose guidelines he follows when infusing a space with beauty and personality: focus on the details (like textures and shapes), add personal touches to the space and be willing to break age-old design rules. When it comes to dressing up windows, for example, Berkus believes that the best way to add some much-needed drama is to do something relatively untraditional.


"You don't have to have one treatment per window," he says. "That is not a rule."


Instead, Berkus opts for the more dramatic two-treatment look:



  1. Add a flat woven shade on the inside of the window.

  2. Add draperies to flank the window.


How you hang the draperies is key, he adds.


"Draperies on a rod... should always go from floor to ceiling," Berkus says. "It makes the ceilings feel taller."


And just like that, your windows transform from drab to dramatic.


More:Nate shares his secret to making a truly beautiful bed.


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T-Shirt Mocks Scandal-Ridden Legislators Who Suggested Intern Dress Code

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A clothing company is pointing out the absurdity of Missouri lawmakers proposing an intern dress code shortly after two of their peers resigned due to alleged inappropriate conduct toward interns.


Even though the dress code idea was quickly struck down, Raygun, a clothing company, came up with a tongue-in-cheek solution to help the lawmakers -- a shirt that works in lieu of the code.



A photo posted by RAYGUN (@raygunshirts) on



In May, Missouri House Speaker John Diehl (R) resigned after screenshots of texts between himself and a former intern were made public. Two months later, state Sen. Paul LeVota (D) also resigned after allegations arose that he made unwanted sexual advances toward an intern.


The accusations against LeVota also prompted past interns to come forward with stories of being harassed by the lawmaker. The culture in Jefferson City even led to a number of universities questioning their intern program.


State Rep. Kevin Engler (R) was asked to come up with a new policy for interns, and his colleague Bill Kidd (R) suggested a dress code.


“We need a good, modest, conservative dress code for both the males and females,” state Rep. Nick King (R) wrote in an email to colleagues in support of Kidd. He added, “removing one more distraction will help everyone keep their focus on legislative matters.”


Actual details of the proposed dress code were never revealed, as the idea was pulled from the list of possible changes to the intern program. Many panned the very idea of the dress code, including U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), who called it a form of victim blaming.


In a blog post introducing the shirt, Raygun, which bills itself as the “greatest store in the universe,” said that the shirt is the perfect solution to help clear up any confusion about the decorum of women in government.  


“If ladies working in government don't want sexual attention from elected officials, they need to really spell it out,” the company wrote.


Mike Draper, 33, started the company -- whose first store location was in Des Moines, Iowa -- after selling “Jon Stewart for President” T-shirts on the streets of New York. Draper told The Huffington Post the company has released other political shirts:




After news of Diehl’s resignation, the company first responded in a cheeky blog post about the bipartisan misconduct in the state legislature. The shirt came to life after printer Dylan Boyle saw the news about the dress code and suggested something very similar to the language used in the final version of the shirt.


Suzanne Corum-Rich, one of the managers of Raygun's Kansas City store, says the company is also looking into doing a general “not wanting sexual attention” shirt for everyday use.


Although Raygun has yet to hear from the lawmakers who proposed the intern dress code, they did get a response from another member of the assembly:





Draper said a number of current and former congressional staffers have contacted them about the shirt.


“One person said she was a former staff for LeVota and said that [Jefferson] City ‘was creepy as hell,’” said Draper.


Corum-Rich said the shirt resonates "with a lot of people, but especially women."


“The fact that not only our schools but also our state legislature is forcing women to cover themselves up instead of penalizing the men for being walking boners is speaking volumes to how huge of an issue inequality still is," Corum-Rich said.


She also spoke about another possible product idea for Raygun.


“Perhaps instead of implementing a dress code for women, they should make it mandatory for the men to wear a chastity belt to work. Maybe that’s what product we should make next,” she joked.

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7 Staples Every Woman Needs In Her Closet This Season

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My rule of thumb when I buy something (usually from Target or J.Crew) is that I have to see myself wearing it four different ways. I prefer to have a few great items I wear a lot, rather than a lot of things I hardly ever wear. If you follow me on Instagram you know this is the case! I can take one piece and find a hundred different ways to style it. Here are just a few examples:

Colored Pants
If you're like me and have hesitated to attempt the colored pant for far too long it's time to give it a whirl. Try one of my four ways to wear them and I promise you'll be hooked.
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Black Booties
I love boots and no matter the season you can guarantee you'll see me rocking them! That's why I have to get creative when it comes to styling my favorite black pair.
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Red Lipstick
If you find a lipstick you love don't be afraid to play around with ways to wear it. Try subtly applying it for work and then loading on the layers for a more dramatic effect at night!
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White Jeans
White Jeans can be a tricky purchase since apparently there are only several months in the year you're allowed to wear them. Find a few great tops and your favorite shoes to pair them with and it'll make them more than worth the purchase!
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Army Jacket
This is by far my favorite jacket I own, but since it is a print I have to find ways to incorporate it into my wardrobe. Good thing I'm not scared of mixing patterns, and neither should you!
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White Blouse
Every women should own a white blouse. Ladies, this is a staple piece! You will find a million and one ways to wear it, I promise.
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Blue Dress
A bold dress is a fun purchase! Get creative and add accessories to make it a bold look or throw on some flats for a casual ensemble.
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BONUS:
My Living Room Makeover
My Morning Routine

For more great content hop on over to The Chic Site now! You can also follow me on Facebook and Instagram!
2015-08-07-1438972160-3263575-Signature.jpg Need a good read? Buy my books HERE!

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An Interactive Look Back At Queen Elizabeth II's Most Fabulous Hats

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Queen Elizabeth II, the soon-to-be longest reigning monarch in British history, is also one of the most fashionable. That is, of course, thanks in part to her vast hat collection.


Visual Meta, a company that runs online shopping portals in Europe, Asia and South America, has further fueled our infatuation with the queen's style with its new infographic, "63 Years In 63 Hats." The interactive tool serves as a timeline of important events in the queen's reign thus far, dating back to the Commonwealth Tour of 1953 through the birth of granddaughter Princess Charlotte in 2015. Click on any given hat and the graphic gives you a glimpse back in time at her majesty wearing it, making the super stylish history lesson just plain fun to play with.


Arthur Krux, who created the graphic, explained to The Huffington Post why he chose to focus on her hats: "It is the queen's biggest fashion statement. We wanted to choose one hat for each year, so we did our research focusing on what the queen did or important dates for her kingdom in every year," he said. 


Take a look at the iconic hats below. 









 


Also on HuffPost Style:


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In Defense of Spray Tanning and Loving Yourself

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Recently, I did one thing that it seems that millennial women hate to admit: I got a spray tan.

I came into this whole process with the idea that I was going to be able to laugh at myself for getting a spray tan. I really wanted to believe that I was above it.

To put this into context, I look like a pair of khaki pants year-round. I make a slight step up from khaki to a darker beige between July and mid August, but it's only really noticeable if you look hard. I am straight out of Scotland with green eyes, the name Reilly Kathleen and glowing white skin.

I didn't always resent the way that my skin looked. I had never thought anything of my skin, which is somewhat of a symptom that I didn't have to because of the obvious white privilege, but also because my skin felt like something that I couldn't control. I seemed to focus on hating what I felt like was in my hands. It wasn't until I was much older that I realized that my pale skin was wildly unflattering in contrast to my bronze counterparts. The rise of Instagram and filtered photos have been like a pushup bra for my ever elusive tan, but I still desire the validation of being a golden brown.

The other problem with tanning and me is that I absolutely hate laying out. When all of my friends go to lay out by the pool, I sweat through two or three hours in hopes of being a few mere shades darker than before. Even with the fruity drinks and pretty sunglasses and poolside books, I still cannot stand laying out to fry in the sun.

Thus, I opted to get a fake bake. I have heard so many horror stories about getting a spray tan, which somewhat turned me off to the possibility for a long time. But alas, I felt ballsy a few weeks ago and did it anyways.

Another fun fact about the whole experience was that I got my spray tan during a tropical storm. I live in Austin which is fairly far from the coast, but we were all instructed to go home and stay indoors instead of venturing out. I powered through the storm and made it to the studio where I was going to get it. I was a little bit intimidated by the seemingly effortlessly beautiful front desk staff, but they came to me in my time of need as I expressed my hang ups about what I was about to do. They reassured me that they would make sure I didn't look orange, and I tried to trust them as much as I could.

Getting the actual spray tan itself was only semi-awkward. It's been a joke my whole life because I don't really have any problem with nudity. When you get a spray tan, you have the option to be varying states of totally naked, which is, of course, a little nerve-wracking. The woman tanning me was sympathetic to my nerves and explained it all out to me. The process is easy and quick. My tan technician and I chatted about her hometown and my school like I was not standing in front of her 90% naked. It dawned on me that she did this all day for a living and that she had seen bodies in ranging states, and that mine wasn't anything she would really think twice about it.

It's the moment right after you see yourself that makes people keep getting spray tans. It was like wearing a funny second skin that felt like my own, smelled like my own but wasn't my own. It's strange walking in and out of a building looking entirely different like that, but it makes sense why people do it.

I came to my internship the next day and received compliments of my newfound tan, but spent most of the morning secretly wondering if I looked ridiculous. For good measure, I kept a play by play diary style entry of my thoughts through the first morning of being tan:

June 17, 8:16 AM: I woke up and was a literal bronze goddess. I put so much lotion on because that's what they told me to do at the store, but I still feel like I could do more.

9:48 AM: I am sitting at work right now and pretending to do research, but in reality I'm actually researching spray tan horror stories. Oye.

10:27 AM: I have taken so many selfies this morning because my collarbones look so nice with the spray tan in them.

11: 49 AM: Okay, so my legs do look great, but they also are starting to look a touch orange. Maybe it's just how all tan legs look, or maybe I think they look orange because I look like a pair of khaki pants all summer and I'm not used to looking like this. They're super lubed up right now with both lotion and the condoms that I had to unwrap for work (don't ask).

11:52 AM: Do other people think my legs look orange? I asked another girl working with me and we all admired my bronze appendages. I both feel like I have to keep it a secret that I got a spray tan, but also I want to tell everybody just in case it looks ridiculous that I did it to write about it.

11:56 AM: I'm considering why I feel weird guilt about getting a spray tan. It seems ridiculous because it makes me feel good in my own skin, so why is that something to resent? I could see myself getting another one, and I don't think that requires validation.

11:58 AM: Holy shit, there's an orange splotch on my knuckles. What do I do?

11:59 AM: I just googled it, and it said to just scrub it off with a rag or exfoliate with a Q-tip. Stand-by for results.

12:02 PM: We're good! My tan goes back to looking banging. There's tan getting in the wrinkles on the back of my ankles, but I decide to leave them to avoid further scrubbing. My tan technician told me to avoid exfoliation unless I want my tan to fully come off.

12:10 PM: The palms of my hand are so tan, oh no. Whatever. Nobody looks at your palms, right?

12:11 PM: I take that shit back. Somebody just asked if I got mud on my hands.


Like I said, I found myself feeling somewhat guilty about getting a spray tan, like it was some sort of thing to hide. It seems that women feel the need to always play off that their look effortless. The whole experience brings me to question: Why is it that there is so much pressure on being born with some classic standard of beauty? Why is it so taboo to change something you don't like about yourself if you have the means to do it? This is in no way saying that everybody should run out and get a spray tan. I think pale skin is beautiful and elegant and the complexion that you are given is something to celebrate, but why is it such a big deal that I want to change mine? I got a fake bake because I feel good in my own skin when I'm tan, and why do we as women feel the need to resent that?

The whole process of this has brought me to a central question: Why is it that I have to validate loving myself and doing things to my body that make me feel good? I consistently felt like I had to explain to people that I wasn't "the type of person to get a spray tan", but truly, what type of person is that? Somebody who likes how they feel tan and spends the forty bucks it takes to tan on themselves?

It sounds silly that being tan could mean something larger than what's on the surface, but it really does to me. I have had to learn how to love myself the way I am, but also that there is no shame in wearing clothes or putting on makeup or doing things to my own body that make me feel good about it.

All in all, I'm sold on spray tans. It's not necessary something that I plan on doing year round, but it serves its purpose as a small way to do as Parks and Rec has told me and treat mah self.

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What Is Marshmallow Root, And Will It Give You Better Skin And Hair?

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"Beauty Glossary" is a HuffPost series that breaks down beauty product techniques, treatments and ingredients so you know exactly what you're putting onto and into your body.  



When we think of marshmallows, we think of all the yummy ways to eat and drink the sugary, spongy candy. S'mores. Root Beer Floats. Cupcakes. You get the picture. But it did not occur to us until we read the ingredients label on a few beauty products that there's a different kind of marshmallow in the world.


In fact, marshmallow, otherwise known as Althaea, is a plant. "It has a flower, leaves and a root, and is found in stores usually as a tincture, extract, capsules or tea leaves. It is sometimes added to skin and haircare products," said board-certified dermatologist Rebecca Baxt


Althaea has a long and documented tradition of use as both food and medicine dating back to ancient Egypt, according to Richard Mandelbaum, an herbalist registered with the American Herbalists Guild. It was turned into a candy confection and a sore throat remedy, among other uses.


"It has vulnerary (healing), demulcent (moisturizing) and soothing properties that make it highly effective for revitalizing both skin and hair," he told HuffPost.


There's a significant difference between extract from the plant and its root. Carl Thornfeldt, a clinical dermatologist and the creator of Epionce skincare, said the root is high in mucilages, which are used to coat and prevent irritation (think pectin from apples). The extract comes from the flowers of the plant, and while it has some mild anti-inflammatory effect, it doesn't have the skin protectant properties that the root does.


Marshmallow root also has low concentrations of ceramide precursors, a natural hydrator Thornfeldt said helps with repairing the skin barrier. For hair, mucilage binds to the proteins to make strands look thicker. Baxt added that the slippery substance can also be used as hair detangler and conditioner. 


Because of marshmallow root's cooling and moisturizing properties, Mandelbaum said herbalists like himself believe it's most appropriate for use by people who have dry, brittle or damaged hair. People with skin conditions that are irritated, red and/or inflamed might find it useful, too. 


Since marshmallow root is similar to a plant-derived form of glycerin, an emollient that softens skin and moisturizes hair, Thornfeldt believes it's safe to incorporate into beauty routines. However, Baxt recommends seeking the advice of your doctor before making any drastic changes to regularly prescribed treatments.


Interested in adding marshmallow to your beauty regimen? Shop our editors' picks below.



 


 


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Amber Rose And Blac Chyna Reality Show Reportedly In The Works At MTV

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Soon you could be watching the hijinks of Amber Rose and Blac Chyna on an MTV reality show, if TMZ's sources are to be believed. 


According to the website, a deal is close to being done, though MTV told The Huffington Post they had "no comment" when asked if the reports were true. But if the fact Rose was hanging around the MTV/Viacom building in Los Angeles on Tuesday is any indication, we'd say odds that a reality show is the works are pretty good. 


Sources close to the show's production told TMZ the series would focus on both women's lives as single mothers balancing work and taking care of their kids. 


Still, this isn't the first time we've heard reports that that Rose could be getting her own reality show. Back in March, a source told OK! Magazine that the model had been "inundated with offers from TV networks and publishers around the world, desperate to hear the dirt she has on Kanye [West] and why she’s on such a mission to destroy Kim [Kardashian].”


While Rose and Chyna both have ongoing feuds with Kardashian-Jenner members, whatever dirt they have on the reality TV family would pale in comparison to the real reason we'd tune in to their show, a chance to see more of Rose's adorable son, Sebastian.  



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Kate Moss' Delightfully Nerdy Childhood Photo Graces Magazine Cover

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Kate Moss, we hardly recognized you!


A childhood photo of the supermodel graces the cover of L'Officiel Spain's debut issue, and we are loving every bit of the young one's full fringe, soft waves and earnest grin. The issue featuring the delightfully retro photo, which is apparently from a yearbook, will hit newsstands on Tuesday, September 1.


It's an interesting look for the fashion mag, to say the least! 



Though Kate has scored many a magazine cover, the supermodel recently told The Mirror there's one thing she just won't do anymore -- pose nude. 


“I don’t think my daughter wants to see me on the toilet. Lila has seen me nude," Moss said in an interview with The Mirror. One thing's for sure -- whatever she does (or doesn't wear), Moss always looks gorgeous. 


H/T Hollywood Reporter


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This Teacher's Harry Potter-Themed Classroom Is Truly Magical

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An Oklahoma teacher hopes her new Harry Potter-themed classroom will inspire her students to immerse themselves in reading.


Stephanie Stephens teaches elective math and reading classes for sixth through eighth graders at James L. Capps Middle School in Oklahoma City. "One of the toughest things as a reading teacher is instilling a love of reading in students that do not like reading," she told The Huffington Post.


While working at a camp over the summer, Stephens came up with the idea to decorate her school classroom with Harry Potter-themed details after her enthusiasm for the series prompted a few other adults to read the books. "It got me thinking that if I can get adults to be excited about reading using Harry Potter, I can get my students excited about reading as well!" she recalled.



The teacher spent a week planning and ordering decorations related to the series' first book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. "I thought of all the magical things Harry saw and experienced and put myself in his shoes and picked the things that I could pull off in a classroom," she said. Stephens ordered signs from Etsy, stuffed animals and fabrics from a variety of websites and used a free font download to put together more quotes and classroom labels.


She also persuaded her artist sister to paint her "Mrs. Stephens' Room" board. Once she had all the items and fabrics, it took the teacher "four days or so" to pull it all together, she said. Eventually, she plans to add a broom and Mirror of Erised to the classroom.



In total, Stephens paid between $400 and $500 dollars of her own money for all the classroom decor. "I chose to go with the Harry Potter theme because if I am excited and enthusiastic, students tend to follow suit," she told HuffPost. "My goal is to help students find at least one book or genre that they can find exciting and be as enthusiastic about as I am regarding Harry Potter."


When the first day of school arrived on August 20th, some students were confused because they were unfamiliar with Harry Potter. But, Stephens added, "Most were excited and were immediately drawn into the class and the fun activities that are planned for the year!"


"Their favorite part of the entire classroom are the potions," she continued. "They love playing with them while waiting for class to start."



Stephens husband shared photos of his wife's Potterific classroom on Reddit, where they've been viewed over 22,000 times. The teacher wants people who see the photos of her classroom to feel inspired to read or do something creative.


"My hope is to bring magic back into people's hearts," she said. "The Harry Potter generation is growing up, and sometimes, returning to our younger selves can inspire us to pick up a book or share a piece of our past with others around us."


Keep scrolling for more photos of Stephens' awesome Harry Potter-themed classroom.



H/T Babble


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Taylor Swift Sings 'Smelly Cat' With Lisa Kudrow And It's Glorious

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Taylor Swift has brought some unexpected guests on stage during the course of her "1989" tour, but bringing former "Friends" star Lisa Kudrow up to sing "Smelly Cat," well, that's just genius.


For her fifth show at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Wednesday, Swift and Kudrow sang a simple, but beloved song of a smelly cat, and it was glorious:



Here's the original: 




For her final LA show, Swift didn't skimp on the special guests. In addition to Kudrow, the pop star also brought out her BFF Selena Gomez to sing "Good For You," and Justin Timberlake to sing "Mirrors."









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