A Diet That Can Actually Work - A Two Day Diet!

Hello all of my fashionistas and nisters,

I apologize that I haven't posted in a while but to make it up to all of you, I have a great tip for you today.

It is called the two-day diet.  Yuck! The word diet just spurns some heated emotions from most people when they hear that word. According, to a research study done in England, there may be an easier solution. The group of women volunteers were split up into two groups; one group was assigned a daily...

• 1,500-calorie Mediterranean-style diet

and the other group was assigned a strict diet, twice weekly...

• either 650 calories, or 50 grams of carbohydrates with unlimited protein per day, but no more than 2,000 calories on the other 5 days.

In as little as four months, the women on the 2-day diet lost nine pounds of body fat as opposed to the other women on the daily diet that only averaged 5 pounds lost. The ladies on the 2-day diet were also more committed to the program and fewer of them dropped out of the study. This suggests that this approach was less-restricted and easier to stick with long-term. Additionally, these women weren't prone to overeating on non-restricted days.

The study is not proven, but I think there is something to be said about this approach to dieting. Scientists are still researching and studying this phenomenom.


Give it a try and send me your comments about whether this diet works for you...or not.


Best XOXO,

Jessica J.




Some content provided courtesy of Allure Magazine, May 2012

What is the difference between Primer, Foundation and Concealer?

Hello all my Fashionistas and Nisters out there,

There is such an endless selection of beauty products to choose from, that it can be overwhelming.
Which brand is better? What color is right for me? Which ingredients are best for my skin?
Well I can at least clear up one thing for you, and that is: What is the difference between Primer, Foundation and Concealer?

These are makeup items that are often mistaken with each other interchangeably, and the process itself can be confusing. However, there is a difference between them and I will break it down for you.

Step 1.)  Primer - This is a product that most women skip. It is not needed, but it will make a huge difference in the way your over all makeup looks and how long it will last/stay on your face. It is like a thin layer of base coat. Think about when you paint your walls at home. You use a primer first to cover up the old paint and blemishes and to help the new paint stick better. That's basically the same concept for wearing it on your face. Primer is usually transparent but can be tinted. The transparent primers will disappear into your face and regulate the tone and color of your skin. It will also allow you to use your foundation longer because you will have to use less of it.
Tip:

• Peach and Red will neutralize Blue. This works well if your skin is pale and you have blue veins that show through.
• Yellow will neutralize Red. This works well if your skin is blotchy or red.

Step 2.)  Foundation - This product comes in so many different varieties, colors and consistencies. You will apply this over the primer and smooth it out.

• If it takes you more than a minute to blend into your face then you are using the wrong shade. 
• If it looks and feels really cakey or heavy then it is the wrong consistency. 

To see if the foundation is the right shade for your face, put a dab on your cheek or inner wrist and it should disappear. The tint of these areas are the closest to your true color. Another way to test for the right shade is to put two different shades side-by-side and see which one blends in better. If you are still having difficulty deciding which the right color is for you, do not be afraid to ask a store clerk for help. That is what they're there for. They can help you with all your makeup options.
Tip: If the foundation is still too thick, applying it with a damp sponge will dilute the formula to give it a sheerer, clean finish.  (Sonia Kashuk, a makeup artist in New York City)



Step 3.) Concealer - This product is a little different from foundation because it is supposed to have a thick and creamy consistency. It can be in a stick, liquid, or creamy form. You will apply this over your foundation but only on certain areas that need more coverage. Blemishes and under the eyes are notorious for combating with foundation.
Apply with your fingertip or a small brush and then lightly tap it into these problem areas to get the best coverage, rather than blending. Do not apply to scabbed over blemishes because it can irritate them, make them more noticeable and it won't blend properly anyway.
Tip:

• Applying concealer with your finger will warm it up and allow it to blend easier.
• If your skin is dry or flaky, use a little dab of moisturizer, let it dry and then apply concealer. It will smooth the skin for easier application.

Step 4.) Pressed Powder - This is the product that comes in a compact with a mirror. It can come in pressed, loose, or creamy form. Finish your look with the powder, by dusting all over your face to set the makeup.


Presto! You're all done! It sounds like a long process but once you get used to it, it will become second-nature and your skin will look glowing and FABULOUS!


Jessica J.

Marie Claire's 2012 International Perfume Winners and U.S. Beauty Stand-Outs

Hello All My Wonderful Fashionistas' and Nisters'.

Previously, I posted the winners of Marie Claire's 2012 Beauty (Skin Treatment) Awards. The following list is the continuation of those awards including the International Perfume Winners and The "Runner Up" U.S. Beauty Winners. Let's Get Started...

The award for the Best Fragrance goes to...

Chanel No. 19 Poudre Eau De Parfum - This replica of the classic scent is an updated version of the fresh rose, iris and green blend that was created in 1971.  $115

 

The award for the Best Concept Perfume goes to...

Prada Candy Eau De Parfum - This scent is abundantly sweet, but it works due to the subtle coolness of a smooth caramel twist. The opposing musky aroma has just the right combination to dull the sweetness down a bit.  $108

The award for the Best Bottle Display goes to...

Burberry Body Eau De Parfum Intense - This bottle is an elegant and sophisticated display of originality. The designer was going for a classic flute with an iconic look. Job well done.  $115

The award for the Best In Skin goes to...

Super by Dr. Nicholas Perricone Activators - This is a quenching drink for your skin. Described like a conditioner, it updates harsh toners by mixing exfoliating acids with ultra-hydrators and antioxidants.  $38

The award for the Best In Eco goes to...

Rodin by Recine Luxury Hair Oil - This luxurious oil is a rich and chemical-free moisturizer for your hair. It has a fruity-fresh scent composed of oranges, apricots, almonds, and other defining oils.  $65

The award for the Best In Makeup goes to...

 

Chanel Illusion D'Ombre Long Wear Luminous Eyeshadow - This eyeshadow goes on smooth and silky due to its' gel texture. Complete with a variety of bright beautiful colors this is a must-have for the makeup chameleon.  $36

Well there you have it. Your list to the most fantastic beauty products of 2012 chosen and tested by the fashion experts of the world. Test them out and see for yourself. Submit your experiences and comments about these or any of your favorite beauty products and they could be posted on my blog.

Stay Beautiful.

Jessica J.

Some of the content was contributed by Marie Claire Magazine, May 2012

Marie Claire's 2012 Beauty Award Winners

Hello All My Fashionistas and Nisters,

Here is the coveted product list that Marie Claire chose for their 2012 Beauty Award winners. There is a panel of 15 judges that is comprised of expert beauty editors from around the world and every year they put these products to the test. The products adhere to very strict rules and are put through a rigorous voting process. There are only 6 international winners, as well as 3 national awards per country and 3 perfume stand-outs. Here are the Best Skin Remedies. Let's get started...

1. Clarins Paris UV Plus HP SPF 40 Day Screen - It is now available in 3 tints. Made with organic cantaloupe from Provence, it has added sun protection with its' mineral filter. This product also fights elements and free radicals responsible for pollution and DNA damage. $40

     

    2.  Este`e Lauder Idealist Even Skintone Illuminator - It has optical light-reflecting pigments that fight fine lines and red spots while illuminating skin. This product is claimed to work in as little as 2 weeks. $85

 

3. Vichy Liftactive Serum 10 -  It has a magical combination of hyaluronic acid; ceramides; thermal water from Vichy France and rhamnose. These ingredients work together to de-puff, reduce fine-lines, and stimulate cell renewal. With just two drops a night, it is claimed to work in less than 1 month. $52

 

   4. Clarins Paris Extra-Firming Body Cream and Lotion -  Make sure to get both the cream and lotion which work together to fight anti-aging by firming, tightening and rebuilding the skin's collagen. The miraculous mixture of shea butter, hazelnut oil and lemon thyme claim to make this product work within 4 weeks. $60 (each)

5. Lanco`me Visionnaire Advanced Skin Corrector - It is a facial serum that does it ALL! This magic formula nukes wrinkles, shrinks pores, and plumps skin. All because of a rare plant-extract called LR 2412. It works like retinol but goes deeper to illuminate and diminish blemishes and spots. $84

6. Garnier BB Cream Skin Renew Miracle Reflector - It is a cream that performs multiple tasks. It hydrates and nourishes while giving your skin a soft glow. This product can be used as a light foundation itself because it employs a tint with built in sun protection. $13

7. Guerlain Lingerie De Peau Compact Foundation/Concealer - It is an amazing soft pressed duo that shrinks pores, smooths wrinkles, softens skin and provides subtle coverage. The added bonus is a concealer that is composed of a hyaluronic-acid that  erases dark circles and redness. $70

Look for the perfume and stand-out winners on my next post. All of these products are moderately priced but well worth the money!

Jessica J.


Some content provided by Marie Claire Magazine, May 2012.

Be a Hottie with a Body... when following these swimsuit tips

Today we're going to focus on looking good in that dreaded swimsuit. So, let's get down to the nitty-gritty.
Every woman has their own, unique body shape/size so this makes it all the more difficult to find the right swimwear. Here are some of the most common complaints, with tips for wearing it well and camoflauging what you don't want to be noticed. There are ways to wear a bikini and still feel good about your body.
If your problem area is your stomach...

• Black is always your friend! This is a must have staple for everyone. It is flattering and slimming to any body type.
• If you want to wear a bikini, try a high waist line to cover your abs. This will also direct the focus down to your beautiful legs.
• If you want that sex appeal and have love handles, try a folded-over bottom. (Ever notice why yoga pants look so good?)
• Another sexy alternative is wearing a "tankini". The top is a tank/halter top and the bottom is an average bikini bottom. I like this look because I can pair the top with some jeans or shorts in public and be ready to swim without having to change.
• A Corset or belted one-piece is not only stylish but creates a "cinching" effect and provides an hour-glass figure.
• Stick to diagonal and vertical striped prints to conceal your tummy. Stay away from horizontal stripes which will have the opposite effect.
• A new trend in swimwear is ruching. This is when the fabric looks puckered. Wear this in a one-piece with the "puckering" covering your stomach. It tends to blend in with the little extra you're carrying in front.

If your problem area is your bottom....

• Try attracting the attention to your voluptuous cleavage by dawning a daring, plunging neckline or ruffles.
• Any cute top (halter, strapless, etc.) with boy shorts is a good way to give your booty full coverage and also disguise the wonderful lumps from cellulite.
• Remember, black is always your friend!
• Show off your hot core with low rise bottoms, which will make your bum look smaller.
• Find suits with accents such as jewels, beads, metal, etc. This will show off your flash instead of your a**!
• Follow the same guidelines as before when going with any kind of a striped pattern.
• Ruching on the sides or directly over your bottom will blend in and give you a stylish appeal.

Show no fear with these tips and you'll be a hottie with a body this summer.

Jessica J.




Some content is courtesy of Cosmopolitan Magazine, May 2012 issue.

What is Sexier, According to Men?

Hello all my fashionistas and nisters'. Today we're going to get a little sexy! While reading my Cosmopolitan today, I found a great article titled:  The Clothes He Can't Resist.  It is a survey taken by 600 men, who decide between two clothing item(s) and determine which one is sexier. So let's get into it...

Pointy-Toe Heels   Or   Round-Toe Heels......Winner is:  Round-Toe Heels. Cosmo Suggestion:  Wear them with short-shorts. My Suggestion: capri leggings, or a micro-mini.

A Plunging V-Neck   Or   A Bralet.......Winner is:  A Plunging V-Neck. Cosmo Suggestion:  Wear it with an eye-catching necklace. My Suggestion: Try any necklace that's bright, shiny or bejeweled. Or, go for the bad-girl vibe with a choker.

Cotton Lace   Or   Sheer Chiffon........Winner is: Cotton lace.  Cosmo Suggestion:  Show some leg.  My Suggestion:  Leg is always good in my book. Why not mix it up with both? This technique will give your look texture. Obviously, there is something intriguing about the good-girl vibe with a bit of an edge.

A Snug Minidress   Or   A Dress that is Soft and Flowy.......Winner is: A Snug Minidress. (Big Surprise!)Cosmo Suggestion: Go Red and Very Clingy.  My Suggestion:  Black is always a good choice too, because of it's slimming effect. There is nothing better than a little black dress, and every girl has, or should have, at least one.

A Chic Blazer  Or  A Badass Leather Jacket........Winner is:  A Badass Leather Jacket. Cosmo Suggestion: Be a Rockstar, he will be the groupie. My Suggestion:  Pair it with tight pants, killer heels, and a studded belt.

Bare Shoulders   Or   A Bare Midriff.......Winner is:  Bare Shoulders. (This one actually is a surprise to me!)  Cosmo Suggestion:  He will beg to touch you there and everywhere.  My Suggestion:  Accomplish this look with a Tube Top Dress or a Top with sleeves that hang down around your shoulders. Amp the sexiness up with lace.

Supershort Shorts   Or  A Micromini Skirt.......Winner is:  A Micromini Skirt.  Cosmo Suggestion: Add a Slouchy Top.  My Suggestion: Any top that is "low-key". The Micromini will make a big enough statement.

Skinny Jeans   Or    Boot-Cut Jeans.......Winner is:  Skinny Jeans. Cosmo Suggestion:  Wear them in all white.  My Suggestion:  Neon and Bright Colors are in right now, so pair them with a plain black or white top.

Well ladies and gents, here you go. Show off that sexiness and always be F-I-E-R-C-E!


Some content is courtesy of Cosmopolitan Magazine, April 2012 issue.

Building Women Up Through Fashion

Hello Fashionistas' and nisters. I try my hardest to be upbeat and optimistic every day, but it is very difficult when I feel like I'm constantly being judged. As I have proclaimed before...I bleed fashion. However, I have also become my own enemy with it. Though, I don't think that I will ever stop trying to make my own mark, I do get discouraged from time-to-time. I believe that our looks define us and tell our stories to the people who surround us. With that being said, I know that I am looked at in a certain way when I am wearing dresses and 5+ inch heels. But, I want to know...Why are people so uncomfortable with it? Why, as a society, haven't we got past this? With celebrities like Madonna and Lady Gaga paving the way, why are we still so sensitive to pieces of material on our bodies?

I have noticed that women are the most judgemental of all. As women, we should understand the need to express ourselves through our looks. Especially since it is ingrained in us, practically from birth. Unfortunately, that is the hard truth and it is not going to change, so we need to embrace it and stop judging. This is proven through the astounding revenue that the fashion industry pulls in every year. I think that it all boils down to self-esteem. Women who are intimidated by other women usually don't feel comfortable in their own skin so they take it out on others who do. I admit that I don't have the highest self-esteem myself, but I can testify that I have always gone to the mat for people that dare to self-express through their style and their bodies.

So, come on ladies...and gents. Let's start building women up and STOP tearing them down. Let's be proud of what we have. Let's all band together and start a new revolution!
TO BE PROUD, ACCENTUATE  and FLAUNT it, no matter what you got.

Jessica J.