Quantcast
Channel: Style & Beauty
Viewing all 18689 articles
Browse latest View live

'Fuller House' Shades The Olsen Twins, And Everything Else Twitter Is Saying About The Show

$
0
0

Twenty-nine years after "Full House" first premiered, the Tanners are back, and they still aren't over the fact that the Olsen twins are too busy running a successful business to reprise a role they landed before they were potty-trained.


"Fuller House" finally premiered on Netflix early Friday morning and people are excited about it -- or, at least, they're tweeting about it.


Here's what the people of Twitter are saying.


 


The Olsens get "shaded"


















Actually, they reference the Olsen twins a lot










Some people loved the new show


















Some people hated it










Some people got emotional














Some found it super nostalgic 














Others were just confused










And a lot of people couldn't help but mention how nicely Stephanie Tanner grew up






















-- 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.












10 Beauty Habits That Are Actually A Waste Of Time

$
0
0
2016-02-24-1456341143-543379-salazarelliotbeautystop201602162000x2400openerop2.jpg
PHOTO: BRAYDEN OLSON.

If our beauty routine had an astrological sign, it would be Gemini -- totally two-sided. We love pampering ourselves, taking care of our skin, and experimenting with new makeup and hairstyles. But sometimes, we feel like it takes soooo long and we just can't be bothered. There are mornings we'd rather have more time in bed than blowdrying and nights when we're too tired to deal with the whole washing-toning-moisturizing thing. (Hats off to you, dear cleansing wipe.)

So we've been thinking about streamlining -- rather than skimping. Today, we're cutting the beauty fat. We talked to a handful of skin, nail, hair, and makeup professionals and were surprised to find out just how many superfluous steps we have in our beauty routines (not to mention some that are even doing more harm than good).

In an effort to pare down and save time (and money!), here are 10 things that can be axed from your beauty routine.

2016-02-24-1456341192-297264-image.jpg
ILLUSTRATIONS BY: ELLIOT SALAZAR

It's time to spring clean your at-home mani kit -- buffer, be gone.

"Buffing the nail is not necessary when applying regular nail polish," says Honey Artist manicurist Alex McCormick. "Nail polish adheres to the nail best when it's a smooth, rather than an etched, surface. Also, constant buffing of the nail for every manicure will cause your nails to thin out. So file and push your cuticles, but skip the buffing."

2016-02-24-1456341256-8106674-image1.jpg

While many are still divided on this topic, all four dermatologists we interviewed had the same thing to say about toners: You don't really need 'em.

"Toners are a complete waste of time," says Austin-based dermatologist Ted Lain, MD. "Toners came into fashion when facial cleansers were not pH-balanced, leaving an acidic residue on the skin that toners then balanced. Now, however, cleansers are completely balanced, so using a toner is unnecessary."

Dermatologist Hadley King, MD, of Skinney Med Spa, adds: "[Toners] may, at times, include an active ingredient that you are seeking, like salicylic acid for acne-prone skin. But most of the time, I do not think they are adding a lot of value -- and because many of them are alcohol-based, they end up doing more harm than good, because they dry out your skin."

2016-02-24-1456341381-9207142-image2.jpg

We understand the power of a good bath -- and we'd never take that away from you. But those bubbles aren't doing you any favors.

"Bubble baths typically contain drying soap and alcohol, which strip your skin of moisture," says dermatologist David E. Bank, MD. "All the irritants in the detergents used to make bubbles can possibly dry and irritate the skin. Instead, it's best to use a product that includes skin-soothing ingredients, like honey, oatmeal, or milk."


2016-02-24-1456341467-988603-image3.jpg

One thing people should completely stop doing is picking under their nails to remove pesky dirt -- especially if you have short nail beds.

Not only is it a waste of time, but this irritates the skin under the nail and could result in even shorter nail beds, explains McCormick. "The best way to clean out dirt is with alcohol and a disposable mascara wand -- it acts like a little scrubber and works very well," she says.

For the really hard to get stuff, she suggests taking a bar of soap and gently scratching it with your nails. Then, wash your hands. The dirt will dissolve along with the soap.

2016-02-24-1456341507-7884123-image4.jpg

Do you line your eyes? Do you curl your lashes? Don't worry, we aren't telling you to stop doing either. But if you're doing them in that order, it may be a waste of your time.

Kelli Bartlett, director of makeup artistry for Glamsquad, says that if you're curling the lash after you line, you'll just end up just taking the liner off with the release of the curler. Looks like it's time to switch things up!

For the rest of our tips, visit Refinery29.

By: Megan Cahn

Also on HuffPost:

-- 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.











5 Legitimate Reasons You Should Book A Massage Right Now

$
0
0
 

Keep calm and get a massage!


If that isn't already on a T-shirt, it should be. Relaxing is easier said than done, and taking the extra step to book a massage can add even more stress. However, let's not forget all the glorious benefits of a good rub down -- like helping you get a good night's rest and quelling symptoms of depression.   





We reached out to Rachelle Richardson, founder and CEO of Lespri Spa Services -- which provides holistic massage, facials and other wellness treatments at your home or workplace -- to give us five quick reasons why we should all book a massage ASAP.  


1. To reduce stress


Stress reduction can help lower high blood pressure. Lower stress levels can also lead to the ability to cope with difficult situations.


2. To boost your immune system 


Swedish massage techniques increases blood flow and push nutrient-rich blood toward the heart. It can increase blood proteins, which help protect the body from infection.


3. To help ward off symptoms of depression


Massages help increase serotonin, the chemical responsible for maintaining mood balance. Its effect on lowering stress levels can promote a positive attitude.


4. To reduce the effects of a long commute and/or hours of sitting at a desk


Driving or sitting at a desk for an extended amount of time can cause your back muscles to become weak. Massage can alleviate the pain associated with the aches and pain that result.


5. To have a positive effect on job performance


Massages can increase mental alertness. They also lower your chance to develop stress related illnesses and decrease absenteeism. 


Do you want to be more mindful about eating healthy foods that’ll keep your mind and body at their best? Sign up for our newsletter and join our Eat Well, Feel Great challenge to learn how to fuel your body in the healthiest way possible. We’ll deliver tips, challenges and advice to your inbox every day. 





Also on HuffPost:


-- 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.











These Are The Best Sneakers To Wear With Any Suit

$
0
0
By Liz Corsillo for GQ.

2016-02-26-1456512352-8470694-whattoweartoday23.jpg

TOM SCHIRMACHER

Every day of every month at GQ, we start your morning on Instagram with visual advice on What to Wear Today. But we want to go deeper. Give you the nuts and bolts of how to get the look into your wardrobe. Today we're letting Carmelo Anthony prove you can wear sneakers with any suit, just as long as they're one of these three pair.

Any suit can be worn with sneakers--no, really. It's just that not every sneaker can be worn with a suit. When it comes to picking your kicks, we'd recommend something streamlined and simple--no complicated stitching, crazy colors, or futuristic soles. If this is your first rodeo remember, you can't go wrong with a black leather low top with contrasting white soles.

They're close in shape to a dress shoe, but 10 times more chill and way more comfortable. And if you really want to make sure you don't look like a rookie, here's our best kept sneaker secret: the fewer extraneous details your shoes have, the more expensive they'll look. Perfect for wearing (like Anthony) alongside your Patek Philippe. And remember, no matter what kind of suit you choose, be it navy wool, light brown corduroy, or double-breasted gray pin-stripe (like the one Carmelo Anthony is rocking here), the pants have got to be slim and tapered.

2016-02-26-1456512465-3084286-blackwhitesneakers.jpg

Givenchy, $495, available at fwrd.com
Michael Kors, $198, available at michaelkors.com
Cole Haan, $96, available at macys.com


More from GQ:

The Hottest Women of the 21st Century

See All the Photos from Justin Bieber's First GQ Cover Shoot

Everything Kanye West Wore in 2015

Amber Rose's Nude GQ Photo Shoot

Brad Pitt's 50 Most Stylish GQ Moments

The Best Haircuts for Men


Also on HuffPost:

-- 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.











7 Times Gigi Hadid Made It Easy (And Affordable) To Copy Her Style

$
0
0

Gigi Hadid has the best style in the game. Yeah, we said it.


The 20-year-old model has perfected the effortlessly chic thing and always wears outfits that we instantly covet. The only problem is, most of her ensembles carry four-digit price tags. 


But, there are rare occasions when Hadid steps out in something we can actually afford -- and you'd better believe we keep track of these moments.


Herewith, seven times the blonde beauty wore accessible items that you can go out and buy, RIGHT NOW: 


#1




Express Sherpa Wedge Jacket, $59


#2




Alpha Industries Women's Ma-1 Flight Nylon Reversible Bomber Jacket, $135


 

#3




Adidas Originals Superstar Cuffed Track Pants, $64


#4




UA HeatGear® Armour - Color Block, $26


 


#5




Topshop Ribbed Wool Blend Cropped Sweater, $45 


#6



Beautiful @gigihadid in the @houseofcb Romane bodysuit. Shop:houseofcb.com

A photo posted by House Of CB (@houseofcb) on





Romane Grey Vegan Suede Zip Front Bodysuit, $99 


#7




Donna Mizani Cropped Mock Top, $65


Do you want to be more mindful about eating healthy foods that’ll keep your mind and body at their best? Sign up for our newsletter and join our Eat Well, Feel Great challenge to learn how to fuel your body in the healthiest way possible. We’ll deliver tips, challenges and advice to your inbox every day. 

 

 

-- 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.











19 Things Only Women With Curly Hair Understand

$
0
0
Some call it a blessing. Others, a curse. But whichever camp you fall into, the fact remains: Curls bring people together. So, let's get it all out there and discuss the good, the bad and the frizzy.

Related: 28 Hairstyling Tricks Every Woman Should Know

2016-02-22-1456166316-4295926-curlyprincess.jpg

1. Brushes are basically the devil.

2. You could never get away with murder. (You'd shed all over the crime scene.)

3. You might find a bobby pin in your hair six days and two showers after you last remember wearing a bobby pin in your hair.

4. But you're one of the lucky ones who can get away with once-a-week shampooing.

2016-02-22-1456166370-9205167-curlyhair6.gif

5. Because, whoof, can you imagine drying that s**t every day?

6. Most of your trust issues stem from the fact that your hairdresser moved to another city.

7. You've never been able to figure our your natural part.

8. Conditioner to you is like juicing to Gwyneth.

2016-02-22-1456166401-8056268-curlyhairmonica.jpg

9. Frizzzzzzzz. Sweet Lord, the frizz.

10. Frizz in the summer.

11. Frizz in the winter.

12. Frizz at the gym.

13. Frizz on any given Tuesday afternoon when a storm front passes through.

2016-02-22-1456166450-4327564-curlyhairjlo.jpg

14. Baby hairs.

15. The constant fear of being caught without a hair tie.

16. The wholly terrifying idea of a man running his fingers through your hair.

17. The fact that you haven't had a bob since 1983.

2016-02-22-1456166623-2841648-curlysjp.jpg

18. The fact that you'll never be able to pull off bangs (and that you had to burn all pictures from 1992 when you tried).

19. But the strange freedom of allowing yourself to show up places with wet hair. (What are you supposed to do, wait six hours for it to dry before leaving the house? Let us live.)

Related:

5 Tricks for Managing Curly Hair
The Curly-Hair Trick You Can't Live Without
The One Mistake You're Making with a Flat Iron


Also on HuffPost:

-- 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.











Shea Butter Is The Beauty Product You Can Use For Just About Anything

$
0
0

I love double-duty beauty products, not only because they save me tons of money, but also because they help to cut clutter in my bathroom. And one do-it-all cream that I can't seem to get enough of is shea butter.



The buttery cream is made from nuts of the African shea tree and is generally sourced from Ghana and other West African countries. A New York City train ride to West 125th Street in Harlem connects me with street vendors who are selling ivory and yellow chunks of raw shea butter stuffed into plastic containers. The labels list its many uses, including dry skin relief, dark spot corrector, shaving cream and hair conditioner. But as my Instagram followers reveal, the beauty benefits of shea butter are endless.


And I've gathered more evidence that everyone -- from celebrities to women we've met on the street -- are slathering on the multipurpose product from head to toe.


Overnight body moisturizer



"I love this shea butter, because I put it on and I feel like, when I go home and I go to bed I take my clothes off, I feel like I’ve just put lotion on. And I only put it on once a day. I use the cream for my feet and I put socks on at night." - Taraji P. Henson, actress


Windburn treatment



"I started using African shea butter oil for the winter time because it's good for windburn and super dry skin. My cheeks have started to get red and discolored in the cold, and I've been trying to use that -- it seems to be working so far." - Lindsay Walsh, Fine Arts grad student


Instant dry skin remedy



"I use shea butter on my hands when they get really dry because I have a little left over from Ghana. The ones here are refined and have lots of other products in them. The ones in Ghana are pure shea butter. It's really hard, so I mix it up with oil, like olive oil, and then use that." - Asantewaa Prempeh, filmmaker


DIY skincare ingredient



"When you're a person who cares about the ingredients like I do, it's really exciting. [Juice Beauty] products are all natural, organic and cruelty free. They use avocado, shea butter, sesame seed, sunflower seeds, aloe and fresh juices." - Alicia Silverstone, actress and Juice Beauty skincare creator


Curly hair definer



"I think for your hair, you don't have to go to the store and buy all the expensive products. You can just get some shea butter or any natural oils, even olive oil, and they make your curl pattern come out much more defined." - Andrea Thomas, model


This feature was originally published on November 26, 2013.


Do you want to be more mindful about eating healthy foods that'll keep your mind and body at their best? Sign up for our newsletter and join our EatWell, Feel Great challenge to learn how to fuel your body in the healthiest way possible. We'll deliver tips, challenges and advice to your inbox every day. 


 




-- 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.











Jennifer Garner Breaks Silence On Split From Ben Affleck

$
0
0

If you care about the ongoings of Hollywood and celebrities at all, then you probably shed a tear or felt a little heartache over the news that Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck split after 10 years of marriage.


The couple was plagued by breakup rumors for months before they actually announced their separation in June of last year, and were hit with even more gossip as rumors of Affleck's reported dalliance with their children's nanny began to swirl. 


Now, Garner is breaking her silence on their split for the first time in an unflinchingly personal interview with Vanity Fair, and there are few things she wants to make clear. 


Their love was the real deal


“It was a real marriage,” Garner told the magazine. “It wasn’t for the cameras. And it was a huge priority for me to stay in it. And that did not work.”


Affleck was the love of her life


“I didn’t marry the big fat movie star; I married him,” the 43-year-old said. “And I would go back and remake that decision. I ran down the beach to him, and I would again. You can’t have these three babies and so much of what we had. He’s the love of my life. What am I going to do about that?"


But love is complicated


"He’s the most brilliant person in any room, the most charismatic, the most generous. He’s just a complicated guy. I always say, ‘When his sun shines on you, you feel it.’ But when the sun is shining elsewhere, it’s cold. He can cast quite a shadow.” 


You can't blame the nanny for their split


“Let me just tell you something. We had been separated for months before I ever heard about the nanny. She had nothing to do with our decision to divorce. She was not a part of the equation. Bad judgment? Yes. It’s not great for your kids for [a nanny] to disappear from their lives.”


She knows you want them to get back together 


“When Jen Aniston and Brad Pitt broke up, I was dying to see something that said they were getting back together.”


Even she laughed at Golden Globes host Ricky Gervais' joke that Matt Damon was the only person Affleck hasn't been unfaithful to.


“I laughed. People have pain -- they do regrettable things, they feel shame, and shame equals pain. No one needs to hate him for me. I don’t hate him. Certainly we don’t have to beat the guy up. Don’t worry -- my eyes were wide open during the marriage. I’m taking good care of myself.”


 


For much more with Jennifer Garner, head over to Vanity Fair


-- 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.












Caitlyn Jenner Lands First Major Makeup Campaign With MAC Cosmetics

$
0
0

Yes, yes, yes and more yes.


After last year's speculation, MAC Cosmetics announced on Friday that Caitlyn Jenner is partnering up with the company to sell a signature lipstick shade called Finally Free. In a press release, the brand stresses that Jenner's product "champions all ages, all races and all sexes." 



Unlike some celebrity makeup collaborations, Jenner's lipstick is here to make a change, and not only in beauty wardrobes. Hitting MAC's core values with their AIDS fund, 100 percent of the money from purchases will go towards the fund's Transgender Initiative, a cause that will hopefully help lead the charge in more social justice and acceptance for and of transgender lives. 



In an exclusive interview with MAC, Jenner discusses the meaning behind the lipstick's name, Finally Free, which is a common phrase she uses to refer to herself. Additionally, she explains why she chose the elegant pink color, telling MAC, "I wanted a lipstick that would be universal, suited to more people, and was an everyday lipstick, not just a high-glam, once-in-a-while kind of lipstick."






Deeper in the conversation, Jenner speaks further about the initiative and gets real about beauty and the women that inspire her. Read the full interview.


Jenner joins a long list of icons to front an ad for the brand, including Elton John, Ru Paul and Lady Gaga (to name a few.) According to its website, VIVA GLAM campaign spokespeople "are provocative, alternative and influential and reflect diverse communities. They are heroes we look up to for their personal triumphs; people who have invented themselves and people who created movements."


We'd say Jenner fits that description pretty perfectly. This marks the first (of what we're assuming will be many) major ad campaigns for her, and it's a really great one. We can't wait to see what else is to come.


Jenner's lipstick, which retails at $17, will be sold exclusively online beginning April 7. 

-- 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.











The Ultimate Last-Minute Oscar Party!

$
0
0
We're days away from Hollywood's biggest night out, but there's still time to make your Oscar night IN a huge winner! With some quick DIY décor, savory and sweet bites and creative film tie-ins to keep things lively amidst the awards, you and your guests are bound to feel like a star.

RED CARPET ROLLOUT
2016-02-26-1456461685-5776029-OpenerRollout.png

Ask guests to dress Hollywood glam and make an entryway worthy of their arrival. Roll out a red carpet, which you can purchase at any party store, and anchor with boxwood topiaries just like at the Hollywood & Highland Center in L.A.--these from Pier 1--or use potted plants you already own.

Red Carpet, 15-feet long, $6.99, partycity.com
Boxwood Topiaries from $14.99, Pier1.com

PHOTO OPP
2016-02-26-1456462201-8575457-PIC.jpg

Create your very own photo opp wall with light-up marquee letters spelling out "O-S-C-A-R-S" as the center of attraction, accented with fringed metallic tassels and fanned poms. A star cutout is easy and affordable to make out of metallic poster board, so guests can perfectly frame their faces to truly "be a star!" Capture the moment via Polaroid or Smartphone snapshots and share via social media.

Marquee Letters, $14.99 each, Michaels
PaperFoxLA Moon Shadow Tassel Garland, $29, Etsy.com
Assorted Fanned Poms, $21.99, Michaels

GAME: RATE THE RED CARPET
2016-02-26-1456468509-3321396-IMG_4003.JPG

Everyone has an opinion on red-carpet looks, so let them play fashion police! Have guests arrive in time to watch the preshow. Hand out a paddle per guest: one side happy face, one side sad face (you can do others: silly, neutral, crying, etc.). Make paddles with templates found here or have Sharpies handy for guests to decorate on the spot to add their own flair. During the preshow, decide upon a given celeb for evaluation and let the paddle swinging begin!

OSCAR TABLE
2016-02-26-1456462469-1890909-MintedTablecloth.png

2016-02-26-1456466546-5444500-GildedStraws.jpg

2016-02-26-1456462554-7700009-BearPlates.JPG

Using black and gold with accents of red for your main color scheme, top a black tablecloth with a chic, gold-dotted runner by designer Kelli Hall for Minted.com. Spell out "Oscar Party" with glittery letter stickers attached to gold-striped straws. Glass trays, sleek pedestals and gilded serving pieces create an overall ritz. A bear appetizer plate serves as a nod to The Revenant. Star lights add a sexy twinkle.

Snow Dot Gold and Kraft Foil Table Runner, from $18, Minted.com
Glass Trays from $89, WestElm.com
Straws and Stickers, craft stores
Dapper Animal Plates in Bear, $10 each, WestElm.com
White Star Glimmer Strings, $24.95, Pier1.com

GREEN FLORALS
2016-02-26-1456462842-3402878-happydrinkphoto.jpg

With only a few days to go, consider enlisting a local florist to create an all-green floral centerpiece of fresh, seasonal blooms to represent the movie Brooklyn, whose main character hails from Ireland, here by NYC's Gardenia Organic.

Prescriptive Bouquet, gardeniaorganic.com

THE DRINK: SPARKLING GINGER KOMBUCHA
How could I not include a little of my Japanese culture, which also happens to be the "it" drink of the moment? Here a sparkling ginger Kombucha mocktail refreshingly doubles as a Hollywood "cleanse" to prep guests' palates before they chow down!

THE CLASSY GLASS
2016-02-26-1456466931-8665986-ScreenShot20160226at1.07.53AM.png

These tuxedo DIY champagne flutes are easy to make with a rectangle of black felt (2.5" x 4.5"), wrapped and gathered in the center with a narrow strip of felt (.5"x 3") and secured with hot glue. Then simply glue-dot onto the glass alongside three black "button" rhinestones: use mini glue dots for the latter. (If drinking a darker-hued cocktail like a kir royal, use white buttons.) It takes only about eight minutes to make one. Dapper right? Tip: a medium-weight felt will hold form best and not leak glue; too thin, and your bow tie might be slightly floppy.

Package of Rhinestones, mixed sizes, $4.49, Joann Fabric and Craft Stores

AWARD-WINNING EATS
2016-02-26-1456464147-5289941-BeefCheese.JPG

2016-02-26-1456464477-7861910-Soup.JPG

Since this awards show is lengthy, it's nice to offer filling, savory appetizers that will sustain your guests in-between the long speeches like beef tenderloin crostinis and creamy asparagus soup shooters served with star croutons. Serving something as simple as cheese and crackers? Jazz up the presentation: star cutouts paired with a star-shaped serving bowl.

PARTY HAT POPCORN
2016-02-26-1456464685-4103593-IMG_3000.JPG

Rather than offer popcorn in self-serve bowls with scoops, which as we mommies know namely ends up on the floor, hang a sturdy string and fill black and silver party hats with individual serving-sized popcorn portions clipped with clothespins to said string at intervals. Just do yourself a favor and make sure you hang it in a space like a less trafficked wall where no one bumps into it (spoken from experience at kids' parties!).

BEST PICTURE CANDY BAR
2016-02-26-1456465041-7503475-CandyBar.JPG

What's a night celebrating the best in film without a Movie Candy Bar--as in a bar with lots of your favorite candy! Can you guess which sweet goes with which Best Picture Nominee?

  • THE REVENANT - Gummy Bears

  • THE MARTIAN - Mars Bars

  • THE BIG SHORT - Pay Day

  • MAD MAX: FURY ROAD - Rocky Road

  • BRIDGE OF SPIES - Dove Bars


For an easy-to-use Candy Bar Star template click here.

AND THE BEST OSCAR COOKIE GOES TO...
2016-02-26-1456465222-2401660-OscarCookies.JPG

Hand out a dessert treat to take home...sugar cookies made to look like Oscar statues in the following customized categories that are twists on the actual Academy Awards. Inspired by this recipe by Bakerella, our version is tweaked to include chocolate cookies, vanilla cookies and vanilla cookies baked a little more tan and brown--cookies of every color for my diverse party crowd! Decorate with edible star sprinkles for extra sparkle! Cookie Award Card template available here.
  • Best Female Costume Design

  • Best Male Costume Design

  • Best Female Hair & Makeup

  • Best Male Hairstyle

  • Best Friend in a Leading Role

  • Best Spouse in a Supporting Role

  • Best Partner in a Supporting Role

  • Best Speaker of Foreign Languages

  • Best Animated, Individual

  • Best Sound Mixing/DJ

  • Best Food Editing

  • Best Musical Abilities

  • Best Director of Photography

  • Best Guesser of Winners

  • Best Live Action


GAME: STAR BALLOTING
2016-02-26-1456465486-7594386-StarBalloting.JPG

On a wall, dot your favorite categories on big gold stars like "Best Director" and "Best Supporting Actress" up to about eight. I did the categories in a pretty marquee font and simply cut and paste: that simple! Each guest gets eight smaller stars, where they write their choices for each category. (Have a cheat sheet of nominees nearby for reference.) This is how they hedge their bets. No full-scale Oscar ballots--who keeps track after an evening of imbibing? This is more visual and fun as you check the wall to see who is right as the winners are announced.

Assorted metallic paper stars from $1.99, partycity.com

2016-02-26-1456467233-401655-Kicker.JPG

To watch these party tips in action, watch the Today show video.

*Sale prices reflect time of publication and may be subject to change.

-- 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.











6 Ways You Can Get Inspired by Red Carpet Style No Matter Your Size

$
0
0
When you watch celebs on the red carpet are you admiring the dazzling gowns and glamorous fashion... or wondering when was the last time that actress ate carbs?

The Academy Awards are this Sunday, and I for one will be kicking back with a glass of bubbly to enjoy one of the biggest fashion moments of the year. As a stylist I've seen how celebrity fashion can be an amazing source of inspiration for your personal wardrobe -- the red carpet is fabulous for spotting upcoming trends and gleaning ideas! -- but I've also found that a lot of women really struggle with this.

For many women, seeing a designer ensemble they love on a size 0 actress can trigger thoughts of "but she's so skinny, I could never wear something like that," and they end up disregarding the magical spark of inspiration they felt.

The truth is that great style transcends size. One of the biggest misconceptions people have around style is that they need to see it on someone who has the exact same body type as theirs. The key to using your inspiration is actually to take those style elements that you're attracted to and make them your own.

Topics like "body positivity" and "plus is equal" and the ways that "not so skinny" women are (mis)represented in the media are beginning to gain traction, but real change is not going to happen overnight. In the meantime let's ditch this mindset that you can't be inspired by a celeb just because they're not your size, and focus on how to translate the styles we love for our own bodies -- whatever our size, whatever our shape.

Here are six ways you can translate red carpet trends into your own personal style:

1. Colors
Notice what colors designers are using. Do you see a lot of pink, yellow, metallic? The red carpet is a good indicator of what colors are going to be popular in the spring and into the coming year. Take note of the colors that you're excited to see, and next time you're out shopping look for a statement piece in your favorite on-trend color. Remember: it's all about observing what's going on and then exploring what excites you.

2. Jewelry
How are celebs styling their jewelry? Are you seeing bold and elaborate statement necklaces? Or simple, classic pieces? You can follow these cues when accessorizing your own outfits, and when you're refreshing your jewelry collection with new pieces. One of my favorite sites, BaubleBar, is a great source for on-trend jewelry.

3. Beauty
What makeup and hair trends are you seeing? Are a lot of actresses doing bold lips? Playing up their eyes? Are you loving J-Law's eyeliner? Eva Green's lip shade? Try something new and exciting with your makeup the next time you go out! And if you're not sure how to achieve a certain look, Pinterest and YouTube are excellent resources for beauty tutorials.

4. Shapes
Take notice of the silhouettes you're seeing on the red carpet. Not everyone wears a ball gown. Maybe some non-traditional dress shapes are catching your eye. Or an interesting neckline you would love to try out. In 2014 I saw both Jennifer Lawrence and Kate Walsh wearing a peplum dress on the red carpet and absolutely loved it. I then went out and found the perfect peplum top for myself!

5. Fabrics & Textures
Are there any fabrics or textures catching your eye? Elegant gowns featuring lace? Edgy garments with sheer elements? When you're out shopping, look for garments that feature the elements that you find exciting. Remember: whatever your inspiration is, you don't have to replicate it, just make it your own!

6. Know Your Body Shape
This holds true for any time you're translating style inspiration (not just award season!). We all have unique bodies; the better you know your body type , the better you'll be able to style pieces so they look fabulous on you, or choose the styles that best suit your shape. Not sure how to determine your body type? Convinced you're an hourglass? Check out my video on "Why the Hourglass Myth is Hurting Your Style."

-- 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.











An Open Letter to Cheryl Tiegs

$
0
0
Dear Cheryl,

First, thanks for being such an icon of female beauty, sexuality, and strength over the years. Growing up, I looked up to women like you who carried themselves fearlessly through the world and encouraged women to live out loud.

You were a controversial figure in your own time. You were a young upstart that bypassed big hurdles in the fashion industry and rose to fame at a very young age. You raised eyebrows with your fishnet swimsuit, then went on to become an icon of American beauty for generations to come.

I celebrate women like you, not only for your legacy as a model, but also because of your pioneering business ventures. You were the first supermodel to produce a major retail line. In that sense, you share a lot in common with Ashley Graham, who has her own multi-million dollar retail empire and is seen as a major tastemaker in driving customer behavior.

2016-02-26-1456515908-9073927-rs_1024x7591602250809071024.AshleyGrahamCherylTeigs.jl.022516.jpg
JB Lacroix/WireImage/Laura Cavanaugh/FilmMagic

This is why I'm so incredibly disappointed in your response to Ashley's being featured on the cover of the 2016 Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition. When women like you tear down other women, whether it is intentional or not, it is not a good look.

You say you view her body type (and therefore the body types of 67 percent of American women, who represent $18 billion in purchasing power) as "unhealthy" because "that's what Dr. Oz said." I concede that those in the medical community have created a variety of guidelines for "healthy" living, among which are certain height/weight ratios and tables of overall risk associated with waist size. These guidelines are developed by studying trends and averages in control groups through research studies. Even those doctors that avidly base their practice on such claims would concede that true health is measured on an individual level, because every body is different.

Overall, wouldn't a woman like yourself who has become a voice for the aging female population agree that feeling empowered to love your body and treat it well is an important component of healthy living? If I said that it's unhealthy to feature 56-year-old Nicola Griffin in the "Swimsuit for All" ad in this very same issue of Sports Illustrated because her skin shows sign of obvious sun damage, and therefore she's supporting unhealthy behavior, you would probably call me ageist and close-minded. But melanoma is every bit as harmful to one's health as being "overweight." And for the record, I don't feel this way -- Nicola, you are HOT! -- I'd just like to make a point that we're making weight a greater taboo than other, equally important health issues.

2016-02-26-1456515653-9936351-rs_634x845160210122227634nicolegriffinswimsuitsforallgoldbikini021016.jpg
swimsuitsforall

Furthermore, if your comment is intended to drive positive behavioral change, then you're taking the wrong approach. There is absolutely no evidence that shaming women of size correlates to a change in behavior. In fact, evidence shows that shame drives harmful behavior. Why then would you participate in the continued shaming of women of size by ostracizing them from being viewed as sexy and whole-hearted beings, like Ashley Graham?

In closing, Cheryl, I'd ask that you please be more mindful of your commentary in the future. Just as so many other women stood by you and supported you when your work was viewed as controversial, and you were breaking barriers as a model and a businesswoman, you are now in a position to support women like Ashley on their rise to iconic status. I hope you choose to be on the right side of the conversation going forward.

In love and friendship,

Mel

-- 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.











Sorry Everyone, This Jacket Is The New #TheDress

$
0
0



Hey, remember #TheDress? Of course you do -- looking around, you can see the empty spaces once filled by the friends and loved ones lost over arguments of white and gold versus black and blue.


We’ve got bad news: The carnage might not be over. Friday, exactly one year after #TheDress drama, Buzzfeed drew the Internet’s attention to this Tumblr post:




The jacket, in real life, is blue and white, California teen high schooler Mariam Kabba told ABC News. After a friend disagreed, insisting that the photo looked black and brown, a third friend, Nina Penzo, posted the above image to Tumblr. (Some people online have also said it looks green and brown or green and gold.)


"I had no intention of it blowing up," Penzo told the network. “I didn’t think it would get as big as it did.”


The timing here is a little eerie, given it’s exactly one year after the great #TheDress debacle of 2015. Is it just a coincidence? Did Penzo wait to post the photo until #TheDress’ anniversary? Is this a Masonic conspiracy by the same people who some believe turned JonBenet Ramsey into Katy Perry?


We may never know for sure. And we might not much care. As the Irish Examiner aptly pointed out, people seem a lot less interested in arguing over #TheJacket than they did #TheDress. Many cite sheer exhaustion over the pointless color-based arguments.










We can sympathize. But… what color do you see?

-- 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.











Cate Blanchett On The Incredible Media Scrutiny Women Face In Hollywood

$
0
0

On Sunday, Cate Blanchett will spend her day getting ready for the 88th annual Academy Awards -- she’ll get her hair and makeup done, put on a gorgeous gown, walk the red carpet and then sit among her Hollywood peers as the Academy celebrates some of the finest films and performances of 2015.


She’s done this before, of course. The celebrated Australian star has won two Oscars (Best Supporting Actress for “The Aviator” and Best Actress for “Blue Jasmine”) and has been nominated for several more, including Best Actress for this year's “Carol.”


Still, Blanchett says, it doesn’t get old; attending the Oscars feels new nearly every time.


“I've been fortunate,” she told The Huffington Post in an interview. “Each time I’ve had the privilege of being there, it’s with work that I'm proud of … I'm talking about the films -- because you don't get there by yourself. You have to be directed well and you have to be working opposite good people and you have to be lit well and have a good script.”


All those pieces came together with “Carol.” Directed by Todd Haynes (“I’m Not There”), the film, set in the 1950s and co-starring Rooney Mara, explores the romance that develops between an aspiring photographer and a woman in the midst of a divorce. 


“Carol” wowed audiences in 2015 at the Cannes Film Festival, going on to become a critics’ favorite in the lead-up to awards season. It racked up six Oscar nominations, including Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography and Best Supporting Actress for Mara. The film had been in the works for a while, stemming back to 1997, when Phyllis Nagy wrote the first draft of the screenplay. From the start, Blanchett believed in the movie and knew that as soon as Haynes and Mara came on board it would become something special.


“I'd been with the project for a long time and through a lot of ups and downs and I knew that this story, it was incredibly compelling. I found it moving. I found it unique -- speaking to the whole kind of notion that love is love is still kind of revolutionary, which seems kind of ridiculous in 2016, but there you have it,” Blanchett said.





She describes the production of “Carol” as a labor of love for everyone involved, saying, “The experience of making it was incredibly unique and special and the film exceeded even the experience of making it.”


So it comes as no surprise that Blanchett is looking forward to celebrating the film and all of the people behind it -- from the set and costume designers, to the lighting crew -- at the Oscars. 


On Sunday, she will spend the day prepping for her red carpet appearance.


“For award shows, you have to get ready at the crack of dawn and sit in the car for four-and-a-half hours before you get on the red carpet and run the gauntlet,” she said, adding that with all the hoopla comes a certain level of media scrutiny about looks and attire.



“I can only speak for my industry, although I think a woman’s appearance is scrutinized in industries where that’s utterly irrelevant,” Blanchett, 46, told HuffPost.


That said, it’s not utterly irrelevant in Hollywood. It’s actually, oftentimes, the opposite in the midst of the paparazzi, media and critics. And Blanchett says that judgement over appearance and aging can actually affect the work itself.


“Particularly with women, there's an incredible amount of scrutiny on what you're wearing, how your skin looks, all of that stuff … Whilst you know I adore costume. I relish the chance to wear a dress that I may have no other place to wear in my life apart from a red carpet." But not, she says, when it "eclipses the reason why you're there," which is to celebrate the work itself.


"I think that there's an incredible amount of scrutiny, which can lead to pressure … It can lead to consciousness," she said. "In my industry, which I can only speak for, if you start to become self-conscious, it’s actually the enemy of the place to make work from.”



For her part, Blanchett tries not to overthink being under the entertainment microscope or get too overly conscious about looking the part. She does admit, however, that her skin gets “beaten around a bit with with the travel” -- not to mention spending some 80 hours a week on a film set. 


In order to look and feel her best, Blanchett tries to get a good night sleep whenever she can, one of her top priorities. She’ll sneak in a face mask while on the plane. Overall, she tries to keep things consistent. The mother-of-four started using SK-II products -- from the moisturizer to the serum -- about 15 years ago when she was pregnant with her first son. She still uses the same skin products today and has been a longtime spokesperson for the brand.


“I think it's important to silo that stuff,” she said about scrutiny, no matter what field you're in. "You realize that there are parts that you can take charge of. You can take charge of looking after yourself, if you have the time. You work with what you've got and you try to do the best you can."

-- 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.











Brie Larson Is Breathtaking In Blue On The Oscars Red Carpet

$
0
0

Just when we thought Brie Larson couldn't top her Versace gown at the SAG Awards, she stepped out on the Oscars red carpet looking more beautiful than ever. 


The actress' gown by Gucci perfectly flattered her silky complexion with its feminine lines and electrifying shade of blue. To add a touch of interest, Larson paired the dress with a jeweled belt and simple drop earrings. We're also loving the sleek center part and berry lip. Swoon. 



 


"The Room" actress is up against Jennifer Lawrence, Cate Blanchett, Charlotte Rampling and Saoirse Ronan for Best Actress in a Leading Role. 

-- 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.


Rooney Mara's Oscars Dress Is Her Sheerest, Sexiest Look Yet

$
0
0

The last time Rooney Mara walked the Oscars red carpet was back in 2012. Nominated for her breakout role in "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," Mara made a majestic appearance in an ivory Givenchy Haute Couture gown. And the 30-year-old actress made a return to this year's Academy Awards wearing the same designer and same color, but showing way more skin.


The Givenchy gown with its sheer lace detail and interesting cutouts accentuated Mara's figure. And her severe, triple-knotted hairstyle and burgundy lipstick made for a quite the contrast.


If this is any indication that the Best Actress in a Supporting Role Nominee will be experimenting more with revealing outfits, then we say bring it!


What do you think of Mara's sheer and sexy Oscars dress? 







-- 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.

The Best Behind-The-Scenes Celebrity Photos From The 2016 Oscars

$
0
0

The 2016 Academy Awards are in full swing!


Hollywood's biggest stars gathered at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday night, and of course, shared plenty of the action on social media. Whether getting their makeup done, grabbing a pre-show snack or posing for a backstage photo op, our favorite celebs basically gave us an all-access pass to the biggest award show of the season. 


Judging by the photos below, it's safe to say these stars had a great night. 



Highly concentrated breakfast eater. by @alexandergreenwald

A photo posted by Brie (@brielarson) on





On my way to the Oscars… It's been a most memorable year.

A photo posted by Sly Stallone (@officialslystallone) on





Diamonds are a girls best friend.. #Oscars

A photo posted by Priyanka Chopra (@priyankachopra) on





In the car! #Oscars

A photo posted by Jacob Tremblay (@jacobtremblay) on







LET'S GO @jimmynapes

A photo posted by Sam Smith (@samsmithworld) on





#Oscars2016

A photo posted by Sofia Vergara (@sofiavergara) on









Countdown... #Oscars #Prep #BeautySquad @mollyrstern @lonavigi

A photo posted by Reese Witherspoon (@reesewitherspoon) on





#Oscars belly

A photo posted by chrissy teigen (@chrissyteigen) on



-- 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.

Love It Or Hate It, Cate Blanchett's Oscars Dress Is Something To Talk About

$
0
0

We think it's about time that everyone in Hollywood start referring to Cate Blanchett as "Cate the Great." Why? Well, take one look at her Oscars dress and you'll know exactly why.


The Best Actress nominee strutted onto the red carpet wearing an Armani Privé seafoam green, cap-sleeve mermaid gown and Tiffany and Co. jewels. While many people immediately took to Twitter to voice their harsh opinions about the white feathers and hand-sewn Swarovski crystals, others raved about the over-the-top embellishments. Besides, when you possess confidence like this Australian actress, you can pull off just about anything.


Which side of the Blanchett Oscars dress debate are you on? Sound off in the comments section.









-- 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.

Chrissy Teigen And John Legend Slay Yet Another Red Carpet Appearance At The Oscars

$
0
0

Awards season's golden couple Chrissy Teigen and John Legend looked divine, as usual, on the Oscars red carpet on Sunday night. 


Teigen, who is expecting the couple's first child, was glowing in a maroon embroidered Marchesa gown with her hair in a loose braided 'do. Legend looked dapper in a black tuxedo and charmed photographers as he rubbed his wife's blossoming bump.





Teigen took to Instagram earlier in the evening to share a sneak peek at her look, captioning the pic, "#Oscars belly." 



#Oscars belly

A photo posted by chrissy teigen (@chrissyteigen) on



-- 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.

Rachel McAdams' 2016 Oscars Dress Owned The Red Carpet

$
0
0

It's been a while since we've seen Rachel McAdams on an Oscars red carpet! But she returned with bang in a look that's one to beat. 


Clad in an August Getty Atelier emerald green dress, McAdams reclaims the statement gown with a simple neckline but an amazing train and slit. The gorgeous actress pairs her dress with a slicked back updo and neutral makeup. 


McAdams is nominated for her first Academy Award this evening. She's up for Best Actress In A Supporting Role for the critically acclaimed film "Spotlight." 


Take a look at McAdams' stunning outfit below. 



-- 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.

Viewing all 18689 articles
Browse latest View live


Latest Images