New Casio Camera Automatically Airbrushes Photos And Makes You Picture Perfect

Picture perfect. That's how we all like to look when a photo is snapped.....vibrant, bright-eyed, with smooth young skin and just the right amount of makeup on.

And now there is a new camera, with a built-in automatic 'makeup-mode' feature. It's called the Casio Exilim Ex-S12 ($229). And this slim,lightweight, handbag-friendly digital camera is all the rage with the Brits. There are 12 levels in the makeup-mode, so your appearance can be changed a little, or a lot.

Take a look at the 'before' photo(bottom) and the 'after' photo(top). Can you see a difference? We sure can. The top pic definitely looks better and has an airbrushed quality to it. This is what the subject in these photos says:

Jackie, 47, a radiographer: 'It made my skin smoother and it makes me look as if I’m wearing heavy eye make-up. I look like I’ve got eyeliner on in the second picture. I’m impressed, though I’m not sure I’d invest in something like this.'

Airbrushing or the trendier word of 'photoshopping' is a technique most photographers use when shooting models for ads and so forth. Air brushing is an editing technique in which an image is retouched and then smoothed over to improve picture quality.

How does the Casio Exilim EX-S12 work? The Casio people explain it better than we could:

"In addition to recognizing faces and adjusting focus and exposure accordingly, these cameras can make adjustments to smooth skin in images and soften facial shadows caused by sunlight, creating beautiful photographs of people's faces. The photographer can choose from one of twelve levels of skin beauty using different strengths of image processing, and can shoot after viewing the results in the LCD monitor."

There's even a smile-detection feature on this digitial camera. So you can be sure that everyone in the frame is happy and showing teeth when the picture is taken.

Is there something wrong with society, when we need to buy a camera that makes us, and every picture perfect? Well, maybe so, but we aren't here to judge. We think it's a pretty cool invention.

You could have a lot of fun with this new Casio. No more blurred shots. No more shots of Uncle Joe moving at the wrong time and spoiling the photo. This camera can correct the mistakes before they happen, because it recognizes individual faces and group shots and automatically applies the best of 41 different pre-settings. There is also an auto-shutter function which determines the perfect and precise moment to snap a photo, delaying the shot until the photographer's hand is still, or 'Uncle Joe' being pictured, stops moving, ha ha.

We know that some of you could really use the Casio Exilim Ex-S12 tonight at your New Year's Eve celebrations. Forget the smeared eyeliner and glazed appearance. This little camera won't tell! You will be airbrushed to perfection.

How To Hide Hangover From New Year's Eve With Quick Makeup Fixes

Too much New Year's Eve merry-making? Got to be in the public eye the next day?

Hmmm. We can help you hide a hangover with some quick makeup fixes!

Lesson number one: It's all in the eyes. That's the first place people can detect a party girl's been out all night. And then some, ha! But we've got some sensible tips below, to get you looking half awake even when you feel like death has arrived several hours ago. And the best part, you can find these at your local drugstore. So be smart, ladies, and shop ahead!

1. Eyes get very dry from too much alcohol. That's called dehydration. You need drops. We recommend Visine Tears Lubricant Eye Drops ($9.99, drugstores). Instantly get dry eye relief in a natural tears formula. These drops refresh tired eyes and provide coolness and comfort.

2. Restore dry, lackluster skin. And with a facial mask, you can brighten up your appearance in 10 short minutes. We suggest Freeman Good Stuff Organics Revitalizing Facial Mask, Pumkin Enzymes & Vitamin C 6 fl oz ($8.99, drugstores). You've heard us talk before about the wonderful skin benefits of pumpkin. This is a soothing mask in a blend of organic Pumpkin enzymes that dissolve dead skin cells, Vitamin C to smooth, restore and brighten skin tone, organic Chamomile, organic Apple Extract and Fair Trade Cocoa Butter for the ultimate brightening and restoring experience.

3. Dark circles like to migrate under the eyes frequently, and when you've been partying, the shadows look stronger. So a good underye concealer is essential. Try Almay Line Smoothing Concealer Makeup ($9.99, drugstores). It's a liquid concealer that comes in a tube with a little wand applicator. It glides on easily and will cover up any tired set of eyes. The formula is infused with replenishing hydrators and refreshing cucumber. And it's hypoallergenic. Get concealer in a shade lighter than your complexion.

4. And you know the feeling of dry lips and dry throat after having a few too many drinks. Water is the best beverage to sip after a hangover and to restore hydration. If your tummy's a bit queasy still, try a can of Coke. Some folks say it works wonders.
And to bring back your soft, kissable lips, you should moisturize! Try Burt's Bees Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil($2.99, drugstores). This one's a beauty. A hydrating lip balm infused with the antioxidant goodness of Pomegranate oil. Replenishes moisture and restores texture to reveal smooth, healthy, supple lips! 99.6% Natural. The good news....it gives lips the tiniest bit of sheer red color, too!

In advance, we wish you all a safe, happy, and healthy 2010!!

New Chili Pepper Diet Pill Burns Away Fat Fast For 2010

Burning away fat. Even celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Brad Pitt, and Britney Spears want to drop a few pounds every so often. And if you believe the rumors, these three have been popping a new chili pepper diet pill called Capsiplex.

According to our research, this new fat buster pill Capsiplex guarantees to burn up to as many calories as a 25-minute jog. This little diet pill contains extracts from pepper plants that may help to reduce appetite and increase metabolism. And don't worry about the spicyness---there will be no upset stomach while taking Capsiplex. The pill people have put a protective coating on the ingredients.

Many of you might be sitting there laughing at the idea of a red hot chili pepper pill able to perform such amazing dietary feats. But there is truth to the value of spicy foods boosting your metabolism. And we found this dietary nugget at women.web.md

"Spicy foods contain chemical compounds that kick the metabolism into high gear. Eating a tablespoon of chopped red or green chili pepper can temporarily boost your metabolic rate by 23 percent. Some studies suggest the effect only lasts about half an hour, but if you eat spicy foods often, the benefits may add up. For a quick boost, spice up pasta dishes, chili, and stews with red-pepper flakes."

And by the way, this new diet pill also contains a dose of hot cayenne pepper.

More research is being done, and the chili pepper diet pill is being put to the test. In fact trials have been done at the University of Oklahoma. And the results are significant. Capsiplex was able to burn as many calories as 80 minutes of walking or a 25-minute jog. But please note that their idea of an 80-minute walk to burn 278 calories was based on a turtle's slow pace of 30 minutes per mile (the average person walks a mile in 15 to 20 minutes).

Capsiplex is not FDA approved, but it just became available to consumers yesterday. And for most folks wanting to keep their 2010 New Year resolution of burning away fat, this little diet pill couldn't have been introduced at a better time. But as we always say, proceed with caution and tell your physician about your idea of weight loss in a pill.

Here's how Capsiplex works, according to their website:

1. You take Capsiplex once a day 30-60 minutes before excercise with a glass of water.

2. If you have more than 14 lbs. to lose, you can expect to lose up to 6 lbs. in the first week, reducing to 2-3 lbs. a week thereafter.

3. There is no need to deprive yourself of anything as long as you are sensible and eat in moderation, the less food you consume the more weight you will lose but there is no need to starve yourself. You will feel satisfied with a small portion of food.

One bottle, a 1-month supply of Capsiplex costs $47.82.

Happy New Year, and let the burn begin!!!

Tanning Salons Turn Pale Over 10% Tax And Bo-Tax Smoothed Away

Tanning tax versus Botox tax.

In the end, it shapes up like this for the Senate's sweeping health care reform bill that was passed on Christmas Eve:

Americans would continue to get cosmetic procedures like Botox and plastic surgery tax-free. Remember there was a proposed 5% Bo-Tax just a few weeks ago? Well, that was axed in the final stretch of the health care debate, but instead, tanning salons were thrown under the bus with a 10% tax on indoor tanning.

Tanning salons, all 20,000 of them located across the United States, are fuming, and rightly so. The tax would be a financial hardship on such a tiny industry. As Dan Humiston of the Indoor Tanning Association remarked, "We don't have the war chest...the medical industry has. We're somebody who won't fight back because we're too small."

And the business owner was correct, because the Allergan makers of Botox and the American Medical Association made a huge and successful $1 million lobbying effort in recent weeks, to have the Bo-Tax smoothed away, like Botox does instantly to wrinkles. And in its place, burned the tanning industry hard in the behind.

The tanning tax would start in July. And estimates show that such a tax would raise some $2.7 billion over 10 years.

Why would Botox, cosmetic and plastic surgery, and tanning salons even be considered taxable? And why include these mainly female procedures in a health care bill? The way we understand it, to help lawmakers look for ways to pay for expanding coverage.

But Allergan spokeswoman Caroline Van Hove says the Bo-Tax was discriminatory against women and that it really had zero to do with health care reform and costs:

"These are elective procedures that middle-class women are paying for out of their own pockets."

And why pick on the tiny tanning salons? Senate Democrats tried to justify the tax by claiming studies link tanning bed use to skin cancer and other health risks.

So, if you want to get your golden glow on, it looks like it will cost you a little more. Meantime, the Senate health care package now moves into the next phase of the complicated process. The legislation must be reconciled with a separate House measure approved last month. And the big difference between the two bills is funding.

Happy New Year, Botox! You just escaped a couple of hard, painful jabs right between the eyes, so to speak.

How To Get Beautiful Brush Out Curls Like Blake Lively

If you want to strike the right cord on New Year's Eve, then you need beautiful brush-out curls in 2010.

Actress Blake Lively is working the sexy, touseled trend quite nicely with perfectly shaped curls and waves. And talk about shine and volume!

Charles Baker Strahan, Celebrity Stylist for Herbal Essences explains. “I consider tousles to be the update to beachy waves– touchable and fully of body, without being crunchy or stiff. “I love to create tousled styles, as the look is meant to be customized to each woman’s hair type and mood.”

We can get you there in a few easy steps:

1. You will need to have at least shoulder-length hair. If you don't, you could always pick up some clip-on hair extensions. Stylist Ken Paves and Jessica Simpson have created some gorgeous extensions that are basically goof-proof. Just clip in and go!

2. You will want to 'build' some major hair volume. And trust us, there are tons of products out there designed to give you big hair. After washing hair, spritz on a volumizer like Herbal Essences new Tousel Me Softly Spray Gel onto damp hair. Blow-dry.

3. To achieve a rockin' set of sexy, brush-out curls and touseled waves, you will need a set of hot rollers. But not just any kind. You want rollers that give you unstoppable memory. Curls that bounce or spiral. And you've got to go to a classic: The Caruso Professional Steam Hairsetter with 36 Rollers ($46.99). Professional stylists have been using the Caruso hairsetter for years. We just saw one behind the scenes at the famous Victoria's Secret runway fashion show a few weeks ago. So that's how the models were getting those beautiful Gisele Bundchen curls! And this one is quick. The steam unit heats up quickly--20 seconds and it's pumping out steam for over 30 minutes on a full tank. Curls are formed in mere seconds. Brush-out curls that last, and you're good to go!

4. The last step comes down to this: To add even more volume and staying power with lots of shine, you will need to apply a hairspray like Bumble and Bumble Thickening Hairspray.

We found several Caruso hairsetters at Amazon.com. And the customer reviews tell the story. These hairsetters do an amazing job!

All My Children Star Greenlee Loves Lip Gloss By Ayur-Medic

We are certainly thrilled she is back on legendary soap favorite All My Children. Rebecca Budig who played the character of Greenlee Smythe, is coming back to, er, life, as many great actors do. All My Children has just moved base to Los Angeles, where Rebecca Budig resides, so the actress with the dynamite smile is ready to reprise her role.

Speaking of L.A., there is a skin care line located there, that has Rebecca boasting about a favorite lip gloss . The company is called Ayur-Medic. And one of the founders is none other than celebrated plastic surgeon Dr. Raj Kanodia of the popular “E” Entertainment T.V. series, DR.90210. He along with another well-respected dermatologist Ezra Krest created the Ayur-Medic line.

Their website describes the company's beauty philosophy:
"This revolutionary skin care line strikes the perfect balance between time-honored holistic principles and state of the art medical research to provide optimal results."

In the role of Greenlee, Rebecca Budig does a lot of kissing...heck, she's on a soap opera. And when she wants healthy, shiny lips, she reaches for Ayur-Medic Lip Enhancer ($35). It's formulated with a generous dose of Vitamin C, and it “tastes good, and gives your lips a little color,” Rebecca says.

The Ayur-Medic lip treatment has ingredients that not only moisturize lips, but also increase lip volume. The hydrating gloss enhances new cell growth for rosy, healthy lips,too.

Rebecca Budig told People magazine, that she prefers wearing lip gloss instead of lipstick, for her Greenlee kissing scenes. "I like lipgloss. But not the sticky kind. The smell good, smooth kind!”

In addition to the Ayur-Medic Lip Enhancer, Rebecca wears Kiehl's and Sephora, as her other favorites.

And if you're concerned about making lip color last, do what the actress does. Here's Greenlee's beauty tip:

She suggests using lip liner to fill in lips before applying gloss: “That way, once the gloss is gone, there is still color! And the liner tends to really stay which is why I use it all over.”

And you can tune into All My Children, weekdays, 1 PM on ABC.

Even Vogue Celebrating Return Of Curvier Model: Meet Lara Stone.

Lara Stone. She could be the new face of the modeling industry, or rather, the new body to admire and copy.

Lara Stone is a size 4. For most women around the globe, a size 4 is tiny, especially when your height is 5'10'. But in the super skinny world of modeling where the runways feature a long string of very tall size zeros, Lara is certainly a breath of fresh air. She actually has the appearance of breasts and hips.

And Vogue Magazine has taken notice, and we applaud them. We were flipping through the January issue last evening, when we saw the same photo of Lara Stone, with the caption reading: 'The Shape of the Future.'

Well, it's about time. Sure, a size 4 is still rather small, but it sure beats the emaciated look of the zeroes filing down the runways.

The Dutch model is 22, and we love how Vogue has described her striking looks: "a beguiling mixture of tough and naive---imagine Sandra Bernhard crossed with Grace Kelly."

And despite her curves, she's getting a lot of work, like ad campaigns with huge names---Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, Givenchy. And Lara, who was named by her mom, a Dr. Zhivago fan, has walked the runway for just about every big designer.

Maybe the fashion heads see her as a curious oddity of sorts. She sticks out on the runway, as the current size zeroes walk along with her. And Lara feels the sting of the bias against heavier models, as she explains to Vogue:

"When you're a model, nobody calls you fat. 'What they say is curvy, but you know they mean fat."

And she recalls a recent incident where a female stylist took out a tight corset dress and told Lara to put it one for a photo shoot. She obviously couldn't fit into the dress and found the situation to be quite rude. "It's not an easy kind of rejection, because it's very personal," Lara says. "It's you, your body. You take it to heart."

It's been a tough year, once again, for the fashion industry, who have been courting the stick skinny models. Designers would argue that long, angular bodies wear clothing better. You remember the Ralph Lauren flap last October, with a print ad heavily photoshopped to create a super-slim silhouette? The model, Filippa Hamilton, eventually lost her job modeling for Lauren. Filippa was upset about the excessive photo re-touching and spoke out. She claims she was reprimanded for being 'fat.' We have learned that Filippa wears a size 4.

We can only hope that the curvier models will become more of a presence on the runways and back in the ad campaigns in the year 2010. Photographers like the famous Mario Testino appreciate the fuller figure. "I have never thought of Lara as fat," Mario explains. "It is just a matter of different shapes. It reminds me of when I started to work with Gisele(Bundchen); everyone used to think that she was too voluptous. Look at where she is now!"

Gisele, pre-baby weight, is also a size 4.

Let's face it, the modeling world will always feature super tall and super slender, young women. And yes, clothing does look its best on that type of silhouette. But when a body is so thin that bones are sticking out and gaunt faces are ruling the runways, then maybe it's time to return to some kind of normalcy. And if that means a small size 4, that's a huge turn around.

VS Model Creates Cleavage With Lots Of Padding And So Can You

According to one Victoria's Secret model, you can create cleavage. It's called padding, and sometimes, several layers of it.

British model, 22-year-old Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, apparently, confides that what you see in the famous Victoria's Secret catalogue layouts, is a little smoke and mirrors. In other words, the VS models are not so stacked as most male admirers would have you believe.

Rosie, one of the models who recently strutted down the runway for the annually televised Victoria's Secret fashion show, started chatting with the British newspaper, The Times UK. And she admitted that there's lots of padding involved, at least for herself, to create the legendary cleavage the VS models are celebrated for. Look at the photo of Rosie in the black bra and panties. She could have fooled us.

Oh, how we love an honest and gorgeous celebrity!

“I do believe in chicken fillets,” Rosie Huntington-Whiteley says. “I’m not saying you have to use them, but if anyone knows me and sees me in a photoshoot, well, there are friends in there. I’m not a fan of that whole push-up look in the day. But, of course, you do need a lift with a sexy dress, so do what you’ve got to do, girls — shove them in there. I’ve been known to have three in at a time for shoots — plus padding."

Two of the best lingerie makers for instant cleavage: Victoria's Secret (of course) and Frederick's of Hollywood. Both companies sell tons and tons of bras, in just about every style, fabric, and color out there. From push-ups to deep plunges to water and gel-filled to padded to seamless to underwires to convertible and strapless, there's a bra with built-in cleavage waiting for you. And the prices are decent. You can get 2 for $40, 2 or more for $19.50 each, some on sale for $14.99 each. Do check both VS' and Frederick's websites.

You can shop by size:
From small sizes, like AA and A. To full figure sizes like DD and DDD.

And at Victoria's Secret, you can even shop by 'swell.' From Level 1: Subtle Lift. Level 2. Moderate Lift. Level 3: Dramatic Lift. Level 4: Extreme Lift. And Level 5: Ultimate Lift.

We're assuming that at Level 5 for the ultimate lift, they're talking dangerous curves. Pass at your own risk, ha!

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley also tells The Times UK that a tanned body makes for a sexier body:
“I won’t do a lingerie shoot unless I’m tanned,” Rosie says. “I think most women will admit that they look better when they’re brown. I fake tan — but I don’t recommend sunbeds — and at work, they’ll put body make-up on.” Indeed, her fellow VS babe Selita Ebanks confessed to wearing “about 20 layers of make-up on my butt alone” for her walk down the runway.

And when she's not modeling for VS, you'd be lucky to even catch her in a bra:
“I don’t wear bras that often. If I do, I don’t like push-up bras — though they’re fun for the bedroom, I think”.

To read the entire article, let's go across the pond here.

The Real Housewives Only Admit To Botox, Breasts, And Juvederm

We think Bravo TV's 'The Real Housewives' of Orange County, New York, New Jersey, and Atlanta, are all pretty darn honest, well, to some degree, at least.

According to what we recently learned, most of the 'housewives' admit to Botox and a couple to Juvederm, and 9 of the shapely stars admit to having breast implants. Jill Zarin says she had a breast reduction.

We think it's pretty refreshing when a celebrity admits to a few nips and tucks, although Botox and Juvederm are hardly considered an invasive procedure. Instead, these are minor cosmetic enhancements. The only housewife who would admit to any real face work, is Lynne Curtin of the Orange County housewives. The 53-year-old brunette recently had a facelift, and it was all captured on the Bravo reality show, and aired last week. We suspect there's been a little more than just one facial plastic surgery procedure within those 4 shows, but no one's talking, and that's okay, too.

We have to laugh, however, at 'The Countess,' LuAnn De Lesseps of the New York Housewives. The 44-year-old 'The Countess' told People magazine, that "yoga handstands--not Botox--keep her skin wrinkle-free." Well, she does have a nice complexion.

Here are 'The Real Housewives' who have admitted to Botox and/or Juvederm:
Bethenny Frankel (39)
Ramona Singer (53)
Jill Zarin (46)
Kelly Bensimon (41)
Jacqueline Laurita (39)
Danielle Staub (47)
Vicki Gunvalson (47)--both procedures
Tamra Barney (42)
Gretchen Rossi (32)
Lynne Curtin (53)--both procedures
Alexis Bellino (32)
Kim Zolciak (31)

Botox is widely accepted as a minor cosmetic enhancement procedure. And Botox is celebrating its anniversary: 7 years in a row, as the most popular cosmetic injectable.

Let's look at the numbers. 11 million Botox procedures and counting, thus far. Heck, someone is having the stuff injected. Both women and men alike. And the Botox routine is quick and easy. Minimal pain, and within 7 days or so, wrinkles and frown lines around the eyes and forehead are temporarily smoothed away for 3-4 months. The result is subtle and attractive when done correctly.

Those numbers indicate, that not only are The Real Housewives of Orange County, New York, New Jersey, and Atlanta, getting the sting of the Botox needle. Many women younger and older, are undergoing the quick, once every 3 months cosmetic procedure.
And by the way, Botox shots cost about $300-$500 a site. In other words, the crow's feet would be one site, or the lines in the middle of your forehead, one site, and so on.

Juvederm is considered a cosmetic filler or dermal filler injection, that can last up to a year. Juvederm is made of hyaluronic acid and is injected into facial wrinkles and folds to smooth skin and plump it up. And Juvederm can also be injected into the lips for a more plump effect. The cost per injection is typically around $300, like Botox.

Well, we suppose that yoga headstands can do a world of good, like The Countess suggests, but for most women looking to quickly erase some wrinkles and smooth out some deeper lines and folds, Botox and Juvederm hit the mark and hit it right.

Washing Face With Virgin Olive Oil Seems Wrong But DHC Works

It does seem rather bizarre to think, that you could effectively wash your face with virgin olive oil, and be left with a healthy, clear complexion. But the folks at DHC company have the rave reviews to prove it.

In fact, the skin care company based in Japan, and popular worldwide, says DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is their number #1 best seller. And it doesn't come cheap. A 6.7 oz. bottle will cost you $25.

So, you ask, how could a facial cleanser containing of all things, virgin olive oil, make your face feel really clean and, er, not oily?

According to DHC, their Deep Cleansing Oil is made of a unique water-soluble formula. The ingredients will never leave behind a greasy residue, but are able to lift and easily dissolve dirt, excess oil, makeup—even waterproof mascara—and other pore-cloggers.

And if you have dry skin, your complexion will fall in love with this golden-colored cleanser. It leaves faces soft and moisture-balanced.

We have tried DHC's Deep Cleansing Oil at least three times, after receiving samples in their mail catalogue.

Yes...this stuff really removes several coats of mascara, liquid eyeliner, foundation, the whole nine yards, as they say. All you do is massage a little of it in, and watch grime dissolve. The only thing you have to be alert about, is not getting the cleanser into your eyes, or you will end up with a filmy glaze, which is uncomfortable.

We also followed up with our regular glycolic acid cleanser, which ultimately gave us a very clean complexion. We felt we actually needed another step in our face washing routine. The DHC cleanser is enough for removing makeup and effectively cleaning your skin. But old habits die hard for us, and because our face is very oily, it didn't feel enough for us. So we took it the extra step with our other cleanser.

But we aren't alone, we've been hunting down lots of users of the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, and many women love the product and also there are a number who, like us, add an extra step to their face washing routine. These reviewers, all 1,053 of them, have also given the product high grades---a 4.2 out of 5, and 77% say they would buy the cleanser again. To see those reviews, visit: MakeupAlley.

By the way, DHC does more than just virgin olive oil deep cleansers. There are so many beauty items to explore.....there are rose toners, makeup, mineral mask, milk lotion, mild soap, tocophero E cream, imperial green tea shower gel, after bath hair treatments, etc. And there are FREE samples with every order.

DHC skin care company has been around for quite some time now and has evolved into the #1 direct mail skin care company in Japan.
"With a legacy of over 25 years in Japan creating high-quality products based on the natural benefits of olive oil, DHC is here to help you achieve more radiant skin. We use effective ingredients that are tested and true, without adding unnecessary coloring agents or irritating fragrances. Our line achieves an ideal balance to help bring harmony to any skin type."

Jessica Simpson New SwimWear Line Rolls Into Macy's Sunday

Jessica Simpson is one sharp businesswoman. The haters can hate, but the curvy blonde singer is now hitting the beach with a new line of swimwear launching at Macy's in NYC's Herald Square tomorrow!

Jess is teaming up with swimwear pro Red Carter for an amazing collection of itsy-bitsy bikinis. We all know the Texas beauty loves her big handbags and sexy boots. But Jess also likes relaxing at the beach, and thought a new line of swimwear would be the nice warm touch to a crazy winter on the way(especially with blizzard warnings for the east coast today).

"We are delighted to have found the right partner to continue to position Jessica Simpson Collection as a lifestyle brand,” added Camuto Group president Bob Galvin. “Red Carter is known as a leader in both the design and distribution of quality women’s swimwear and we are looking forward to a long, successful partnership.”

The line will be called the Jessica Simpson Swim Collection, and will be available in Macy's department stores nationwide on December 30th.

The line will include swimwear separates and some cover-ups. There will be traditional triangle tops, cute ruffle bandeaux and tie-side and scoop bottoms, all in animal and floral prints and colorful solids. Even a 'Daisy Duke'-inspired bikini, as you can see from the photo here. Prices will range from $35 to $120. And you will also be able to buy her swimwear collection from her Jessica Simpson Collection Website.

Jessica Simpson is certainly no fool. The young, stylish woman is building a Jessica world of her own, with a vast empire of goodies she sells like travel luggage, handbags, shoes, hair extensions through Ken Paves, lingerie, accessories, clothing and jewelry. And her merchandise is smart, chic, and always affordably priced.

Who needs Tony Romo, ha!

By the way, Jess's new jewelry line will bloom this spring at Macy's, of course. It will be called the Cactus Flower Collection and sources say the jewelry will be dressed in charms and Swarovski crystals.

Many of us might be shoveling some snow tomorrow, and the temperatures sure are nasty cold, but we can look forward to warmer days ahead. And it looks like Jessica Simpson is riding the waves for us. Now, if we only had a pair of her boots!

Lil Kardashian Sis Kendall Jenner Poses For Forever21 New Twist Collection

There are a lot of Kardashian women in the spotlight these days, and now---- another young girl whose name starts with the letter 'K,' is on her way!

L'il Kardashian sis Kendall Jenner is already modeling at age 14. Is she too young? Maybe, but certainly not in the world of fashion and makeup.

The dark-haired, pretty teen is the half-sister to well-known, reality-television stars Kim, Khloe, and Kourtney.

And Kendall Jenner is appearing in a new clothing collection for Forever21's 'Twist.' The limited edition will debut in stores and online at the end of January 2010. The theme is called Rocker Babes with a Twist.

The dark-eyed, wide-eyed teen is modeling a bunch of polka-dots and animal prints in the popular red and black rockabilly style for the junior size collection. And Kendall also had a camera crew in tow when she went to the shoot. Chances are, we will be seeing the Forever21 modeling session on a future Keeping up with the Kardashians television episode.

Forever21 has branched out in many fashionable ways with a recent cosmetics line, swimwear line, clothing for plus sizes, some styles with a more modest fit, and many new items.

And we wish we could find the quote Eva Longoria Parker gave to InStyle magazine a couple of years ago, when she said that shopping at Forever 21 was a guilty pleasure. Every gal loves a bargain, and Miss Eva is no exception.

Of course, Eva Longoria Parker is petite and very tiny and can easily fit into the junior-sized fashions at Forever 21, but there are also lots of no-size, super accessories there on the cheap-cheap. Like trendy scarves and sunglasses, and of course, fun jewelry at rock bottom prices.

For more information, visit: Forever21. And be on the lookout in January for the newest 'K' girl, Kendall, on the block.

Stacy London Says Pencil Skirts Are Sexy And Classic

We adore Stacy London, everyone's favorite stylist from TV's popular What Not to Wear makeover show.

The perky, raven-haired stylist, recently told People magazine this:

"It's funny, though, because in fashion, even though the trend is skirts all the way up to your pupik, I feel sexier when I wear a pencil skirt."

And we happen to agree. Pencil skirts are flattering to all women, if the proper length, cut, and color are chosen wisely. For instance, a black pencil skirt is your best friend. It can hide several flaws and still give you a long, curvy silhouette. Buy a pencil skirt with a high waist, and your legs will look a mile long and your tummy will look flat.

Check out the photo of Marilyn Monroe. If anyone knew how to wear a pencil skirt, it was the blonde bombshell herself. The style remains a classic and it certainly is sexy.

And trust us, you can find pencil skirts just about everywhere. The traditional pencil skirt would fall around the knees or just below. But today, there are pencil skirts riding above the knee and some even several inches below the knee. We believe the most flattering length is the traditonal style, and if it can fall just a smidgen below the knee, you've got yourself a flattering skirt.

Today we are looking at two pencil skirts in two very different fabrics:

1. Newport News Lace Print Leather Pencil Skirt (on sale now for $69, at Newport News). This one comes with a lovely glazed finish with a slit in the back, and fully lined. The pattern features an elegant floral lace.

2. Banana Republic High-Waisted Lightweight Wool Pencil Skirt ($80, at Banana Republic). This beauty hits above the knee and gives you a smooth, sleek shape. It includes a vent and rear welt pocket, all in a wool stretch blend.

Pencil skirts can be paired with many different looks....with a blouse tucked in.....with a sweater set......with a bolero jacket.......or suit jacket. The possibilities are endless. If you want a slender, long look below the waist, the pencil skirt is the perfect silhouette shaper.

Making A Big Hair Color Change Like Nicole Richie Going Brunette?!

Look at lovely Nicole Richie. Do you love it or hate it? The petite beauty has been known for her trademark golden locks, and now suddenly this:

Nicole Richie has gone brunette!!

We must be honest here, we were blown away. She looks like two different women. We prefer Nicole as a blonde. However, we don't think she looks bad with darker hair. She's pretty either way.

If you're going to make a big hair color change, then please visit a professional colorist. Our favorite would be Kim Vo, who happens to be located west coast in sunny California. We have never met the celebrity stylist, but we have seen his work and the results are brilliant.

A pro like Kim Vo, would probably tell you, that the most important factor when making a dramatic color change, like blonde to brunette, or brunette to blonde, or auburn to pale blonde, and so on, is considering your skin tone. Are you in the warm category or the cool category?

We believe that any woman could make a big hair color change, as long as she remains in the sensible realm of complementing shades. Your skin tone is essential in selecting what brunette hue you can pull off, for instance. The wrong shade, and you look washed out, too olive, too ashen, too ruddy, etc.

And our favorite hair rule: Remember....it's always easier to go darker, than to go lighter.

Lighter hair generally means, more upkeep, and more chances for damage to the hair cuticle. You can hide some less than perfect locks with a darker shade of hair color.

And don't forget your eyebrows when making a big hair color change. You might need to gently tone them down a bit, especially if changing from brunette to blonde. You want to blend in the new color with your features, as naturally as possible.

Let's not forget the investment. If you're a dark brunette, and have gone drastic into a head of blonde hair (Kim Kardashian did this for about a month or so), you will get socked in the wallet. Re-touching roots and extra highlights equal lots of money over a period of time.

And what about reversing a dramatic hair color change? That's more complex than you would think. We know a light blonde woman with fair skin, who went for bold red hair a few months ago. She had quickly decided it wasn't the best move, and then went through a lengthy process to get back her trademark blonde look.

Or ask anyone who has colored their hair black. Lifting the hair even a few shades lighter equals part magic and a very good colorist. Many women have suffered through many months of too dark hair, and have had to patiently grow it all out.

Our advice: Stay within your natural hair color range, for beautiful results. And if you want to make a big hair color change, then an excellent professional colorist is your best friend.

Let's not forget, though, how important the right hair color is for women......color can do amazing things for us. Model Cindy Crawford was asked in an interview with Allure magazine last March, how she stays looking so young at 43:

CINDY CRAWFORD: Color is the most important factor. You can get any plastic surgery in the world, but hair color is what enables women to look younger longer. I've also become more aware of hair health. I stay away from razor cuts because they can make my hair look frizzy, and I give myself a hair treatment while I'm in my sauna to keep it conditioned.

Cashmere Robes For Ultimate In Wealth And Softness

Cashmere. Just the sound of the word seems to signify a sign of wealth and sense of softness.

And yes, cashmere seems to surface around the holidays, because it is a classy gift to give and receive. And this time again, cashmere is hot, especially when it comes to robes. Nothing feels cozier and softer than a cashmere robe.

So, exactly where does cashmere come from? A cashmere goat, silly. And according to some digging, we learned that these goats can be found hanging out in the high plateau regions of Asia, including India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and China. And a few still live in the Cashmere region of India where the name originated from. Make sure you are getting real Cashmere when shopping for a robe. The label will state that the item is made from 100% pure Cashmere.

As we all know, pure cashmere is expensive. A robe can cost you thousands of dollars! Often times, cashmere is blended with silk for robes and sweaters. Pricey, but cheaper than 100%. Still, a very luxurious fabric. And there are also cottons that are soft and smooth and feel like cashmere and won't break your wallet. We will call those items, cashmere-inspired. And just as pretty.

Today, we are looking at three cashmere robes, from high end to low end:

1. Loro Piana Classica Cashmere Robe ($3,495, Neiman Marcus). Absolutely gorgeous. Need we say more?! And the robe comes in pink or white. Shawl collar with tie waist. Long sleeves. Pure cashmere. Made in Italy. Take a 'zoom' look at this one.....a really stunning cashmere robe. Hey, you are definitely worth it!

2. Black Cashmere Knit Robe ($152.15,on sale now at Bluefly). This robe is a great deal, because it, too, is 100% cashmere. And it comes in black, grey, pink, or natural. It features a lightweight, soft cashmere knit style with a wrap front and self-tie. It measures 37½" from base of collar to hem.

3. Victoria's Secret Soft Sweater Robe ($58, Victoria's Secret). These cashmere-inspired robes are really lovely and warm, and come in burgundy, heather oatmeal, and heather grey. Loose, drapey shape with cashmere-like softness. Three-quarter kimono sleeves. Wrap tie. Knee-length. Imported cotton. A great budget buy!

Cashmere robes are really the ultimate in luxury. We are all looking to lounge around in something beautiful, uber-soft, and comfortable. And these three selections hit the mark on all counts.

LexLi Skin Care Line Developed By Plastic Surgeon Features Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has been around for a very long time. In fact, the plant from the lily family dates back to biblical times. People around the globe have used aloe for dozens of reasons...like treating a bad sunburn, for instance.


But this bright green plant with the thick, tapered, fleshy leaves has been shown to do so much more. At least that's what one popular plastic surgeon from North Dakota says.

Dr. Ahmed Abdullah believes so strongly in the properties of aloe vera, that he has an entire skin care line, LexLi, based on this succulent plant. And he is proud to say that his treatments are true aloe-based products. All you need to do, is look at the back of the jar for the ingredients. The first ingredient listed in the LexLi Skin Care AloeGlyC collection is ALOE.

We thought we would take a look at AloeGlyC and how these topical beauty products work.

Dr. Abdullah explains at his website, that aloe vera is featured in his skin care line, because the plant performs two key actions: 1. heals the skin. 2. repairs the skin. But to be extremely effective, aloe must be carefully blended with other ingredients to sustain its power. "When Aloe Vera gel is mixed with either propylene glycol or glycerin, it has a synergistic action as a humectant. This synergistic, augmentative ability to retain water is the basis for the use of Aloe in cosmetics as a skin moisturizer and smoothener."

The most popular beauty treatment in the LexLi line is AloeGlyC ($75, 1 oz.). And this is what Dr. Abdullah says the rejuvenator does:
"This patented aloe based exfoliant combines aloe vera, glycolic acid and L-ascorbic acid beads (Vitamin C) into one unique formula. This remarkable combination aids in the removal of dead skin cells while activating the production of collagen-the skin’s natural rejuvenation process. The result is a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, while improving the texture and clarity of the skin. As an added benefit, the tine vitamin C beads function as biological cofactors and antioxidants, protecting the skin from damage caused by the environment. After just a few weeks you will begin to see remarkable improvement in how your skin looks and feels."

There are also a cleanser and day moisturizer that go with the AloeGlyC. "At LexLi we use bio-active, pharmaceutical grade Aloe Vera as the base for our products instead of water. This Aloe Vera base makes our products much more effective than our competition's products," Dr Abdullah explains.

To learn more about the LexLi AloeGlycC skin care line, and other aloe-based products, like their shampoo, conditioner, makeup remover, toner, and more, visit aloeglyc.

New Garnier HerbaShine To Offer 'Soft Lift' To Hair In 2010

Women who at-home color hair, can thank bamboo extract and the pros at Garnier for HerbaShine. It's a new and quicker way to cover grays, add shine and depth, and lighten hair one shade!

But ladies, you will have to wait until late December/January 2010, before the boxes of HerbaShine hit store shelves.

What's so unique about the new Garnier hair color?

First of all, No ammonia. Ammonia is a chemical, and it is often used during the coloring process. It opens the cuticle of the hair to allow the color pigments to penetrate deep into the hair shaft. But ammonia can be quite damaging and cause hair to become fragile and brittle and snap off if over-used or used incorrectly.

Garnier's new HerbaShine is actually a cross between a permanent color and a semi-permanent color. The dye contains some peroxide to allow for a gentle jump to level 2+, or a 'soft lift' as the Garnier folks are calling their unique box of HerbaShine:

1. Can lift hair up to a single level.
2. Covers gray (up to 70%)
3. Provides natural results without an obvious root line.
4. Does it all in just 10 minutes, for the retail price of $7.99
5. Comes in 18 gorgeous shades.

And the bamboo extract is forumlated into the color creme formula for a good reason. It fortifies the hair cuticle for radiant, shiny color. We learned that the leaves of the bamboo plant are used for a variety of cosmetic applications, because its anti-oxidant properties protect the integrity of the skin and hair's health.

We're going to try Garnier's HerbaShine when it hits store shelves. We've been checking, but so far, no boxes here in the U.S. Across the pond in Great Britain, however, women there are already using the new HerbaShine, raving about its gentle coloring process, no-drip formula, less of a stinky dye scent, and quick results.

Match Your Nails To Your Emails With OPI And Dell

OPI Nail Lacquer and Dell. What a lovely combination! This is too cute, but it's really true. Now you can match your nails to your emails!

This would make a great holiday gift, we think:

A new Dell laptop in a shade that matches your favorite OPI nail shade. Brilliantly beautiful!! An intelligent accessory.

The brainchild of this fashion interface---a woman, of course. Suzi Weiss-Fischmann of OPI has designed a line of computers skins with Dell, by lending 26 of her most popular colors to the Dell Design Studio.

“Beautiful nails really are the ultimate accessory to any look,” Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive Vice President & Artistic Director says. “And now, with Dell laptops that coordinate with OPI Nail Lacquers, you can match your nails to your emails!”

Classic and popular shades like:

I'm Not Really a Waitress (pictured above)

Big Apple Red

Princesses Rule!

Louvre Me Louvre Me Not

Cajun Shrimp and Green-wich Village, to name a few.

The Dell/OPI color option is available for these personal computers: Mini, Inspiron and Studio laptops.

You can check out all the pretty OPI nail lacquer shades available with the Dell laptop partnership at Dell's own Flickrpage.

And to find your perfect OPI color for nails, just visit OPI, of course.

Our personal fave is OPI's Pompeii Purple. Second fave: Teal the Cows Come Home. Ha. ha. Someone buy us one of these Dell/OPI's, please!!

This holiday season, you can really make a bold and shimmering statement with beauty and technology. The only problem is choosing. We would all like more than one!

AMC's Susan Lucci Stretches Pilates Empire With Spandex And Fila

Daytime's Susan Lucci is putting a little more stretch and spandex into her appearance these days. The ever-youthful Erica Kane on All My Children, has been sported around town in some pretty, new fitness clothing.

Susan Lucci has teamed up with the Fila Apparel company and designed a new line of Pilates and fitness clothing to complement the Emmy winner's Malibu Pilates Program. The apparel is called Fila by Lucci and is selling exclusively on HSN, for $33 to $50.

What's so special about Fila by Lucci? There are some pretty feminine touches and some clever details. There's a cute racer-back floral tank, a cut-out back long bra top, and a cami tank which go perfectly with a hooded jacket, and pants with contrast piping. The tops are uniquely made with an "inside self fabric bra" and are designed to flatter the contours of a woman's neck and back. The pants feature a contrast band that can be folded down at the hip, or kept at the waist for added coverage and support. The line is made with Fila's special, peached poly-spandex fabrication. So flexibility and comfort are always maintained.

The attractive Susan Lucci is 60-something and looks amazing. And yes, she really does work out, and Pilates is her fitness strategy:

"Pilates is a huge part of my fitness program and I want to make sure I look great during my workout," Susan Lucci explains. "I fell in love with Fila's beautiful performance apparel; it makes me look and feel great during my workout. The styles in our new collection are so versatile; I could wear the styles from the gym to running errands around town!"

We think this is a super idea for women working out and on the go. These pieces look to be sophisticated and smart. And heck, you don't even have to work out if you don't want to. The line is pretty in spandex. So we say, way to go Susan Lucci!

Roy Orbison's Widow Debuts New Perfume: Pretty Woman

We like to believe that most people remember and adore Roy Orbison's huge hit song Pretty Woman.

And of course, there were Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in Pretty Woman on the big screen. How could we forget?

This time, it's all about Barbara. Barbara Orbison, the widow of the legendary Roy Orbison. And she has been working for a number of years now, to create a signature scent, appropriately called, Pretty Woman. And it's debuting now! How lovely....a fragrance inspired by her husband's beautiful song.

Pretty Woman Perfume is an exotic blend with notes of bergamot, stargazer lily, amber and patchouli.. Price is $80 for a 1.7 oz. bottle. At the moment, the fragrance can be purchased at stores such as Stanley Korshak in Dallas and Planet Blue in Malibu, Calif. And you can also buy a bottle at Barbara Orbison's website Pretty Woman Perfume.

Barbara Orbison has always had a thing for fragrance. "After all these years of mixing my own perfume (which I have been dabbling in since finding this scent when I was thirteen years old), perfecting it throughout my life and marriage to Roy - it's finally here and I can't wait for you to try it.

I feel a scent should be mysterious and draw the world into you. I'm always being asked over and over again, “what are you wearing?” Now at last I’m able to share my secret with you!"

Barbara Orbison is also adding some scented candles for the holidays. The candles come in black, white and gold, and are encased in heavy glass. She also is looking into creating a body lotion and shampoo in the future. According to one source we found, first-year sales of the Pretty Women line could be worth an estimated $1.5 million in U.S. and international markets.

Barbara explains it this way:

“Everything I add to the line has to have something special about it,” she says. “The name Pretty Woman is important to me, not just because of the song or the movie, but because I feel every woman is pretty, every woman is beautiful, and it doesn’t make a difference where they live or how old they are.”

Gisele Bundchen Baby Due December And Some Of Her Beauty Tips

Gisele Bundchen is about to give birth very soon! In fact, we believe the due date is next Monday, December 14.

The famous model has been very quiet these past 9 months, as she prepares for the Bundchen baby she is expecting with husband Tom Brady, New England Patriots quarterback. You see 29-year-old Gisele at the beach here, sporting a smallish baby bump in mid August, which would make her about 5 months pregnant according to our math.

She looks toned and healthy, and has been staying fit throughout her pregnancy. And that incredible mane of hair is still wavy and gorgeous. Women absolutely love Gisele Bundchen's hair. And the televised Victoria's Secret Fashion Show last week, copied Gisele's trademark long, wavy hairstyle on all the models walking the runway. So to get the look, you need long layered hair, either naturally or through the magic and ease of hair extensions. You will also be smart to buy a volumizing spray to spritz on and wind hair aound a large-barreled curling iron to achieve those beautiful, sexy spirals.

Everyone loves the color of Gisele's hair, too. Her colorist, Harry Josh of John Frieda, explained to talkingmakeup.com, how he acieves that beautiful blend:

"Gisele’s hair color can be achieved only if the bulk of your natural hair color or base color is showing. Only idea if you have light brown or dark blonde hair naturally. If your hair is very dark naturally, it will never work on you."

Harry Josh also raves about this product to get a smooth, shiny look:

"I use John Frieda Frizz-Ease Thermal Protection Serum on EVERY single person’s hair I’ve ever styled in my life. Especially after coloring hair John Frieda Frizz-Ease Thermal Protection Serum helps in flattening the hair cuticles."

As far as makeup goes, we learned in the October issue of Harper's Bazaar magazine, that the Brazilian native favors makeup from her celebrity makeup artist Rose-Marie Swift. The new organic cosmetics line is called RMS Beauty. And apparently, Gisele can't get enough of the lip2cheek pots ($36) that come in 6 luscious and very wearable shades.

This is good, healthy makeup by RMS Beauty. In other words....no synthetics, no petrochemcials, no parabens or other bad stuff. In fact, there is no artificial anything.
We wish Gisele and Tom all the best on the soon-to-be arrival of baby Bundchen-Brady!

How To Get Eye Candy With All-Around EyeLiner In Two Shades

Who's got eye candy?

Penelope Cruz. Rachel Bilson. Angelina Jolie.

It's not secret. Most women do wear eyeliner on a daily basis. For really big eyes, you need eyeliner. Of course, there are varying degrees of liner. And there are several different ways to wear it----top lid, bottom lid, inside lids, cat eye. You get the picture. Wearing eyeliner frames the eyes beautifully, but there are a few things to consider:

If you line the entire eye all in black, your eyes can actually look smaller.

That little beauty nugget comes from Kela Wong, Rachel Bilson's talented makeup artist.

Here's Kela's advice, and we think it works!

1. Wear black eyeliner pencil along the top lash line only.
2. Then apply a dark brown liner on the bottom.
3. "It keeps the eye open," Kela explains.



Look at the first photo above of actress Penelope Cruz. Her eyes are absolutely gorgeous and you can see the makeup artist lined Penelope's top lids in black liner. And the bottom was enhanced with a dark brown liner and shadow. It's still a strong, sexy eye, but just a bit softer, as the eye rimming is broken up in the two, very subtle colors of black and dark brown.

As you know, there are lots and lots of eyeliners....from pencils to crayons to gels to liquids. Take your pick and the liner you choose doesn't always have to be super expensive to do the job. Kela Wong suggests picking up Wet n Wild Eyeliner Pencil in BlackBlack at your local drugstore. It's only a dollar.

Or how about M.A.C. Fluidline Eyeliner Gel in DipDown(dark brown, $15, at Macy's). Or in BlackTrack(black). Most pros and makeup fanatics love M.A.C. for its superior quality.

Just try the 2-tone eyeliners, and you will see how this simple process makes a big difference in your eyes. It's a clever trick and we've become hooked on it!