Yes, Arousal Can Be Awakened

The anticipation of sex or the feeling of sexual arousal you get from this anticipation can be nurtured and awakened, even from a long slumber. There are steps you can take to bring back the passion and desire for sex, and the desire for your partner, to levels greater than before.

Let's examine the common psychological causes of low libido. Lack of sexual desire can be rooted in self-consciousness about our body, performance anxiety, lack of sleep, stress from work or financial challenges, obsessing over creating the perfect environment for sex or the perfect fantasy for you or your partner. Each of these conditions can interfere with sexual arousal, squelching our lust and robbing us of the heightened sexual arousal you get from mere anticipation. Sexual trauma or getting past the fear of rejection can also be obstacles to overcome. If you are experiencing difficulty with desire, it is okay to seek professional counseling. There are many professionals who specialize in this field.

What can you do to combat the lack of sexual arousal on a daily basis? Aside from the popular physical fix of the 'little blue pill' for men and perhaps the controversial new "O" Shot for women, there are a number of things you can do to stimulate your brain which is an important sexual organ.

-- Get enough sleep.

-- Get plenty of exercise. Not only will you like yourself better and be less likely to be self-conscious about how you look, but there is evidence that any form of exercise that gets your blood pumping also increases blood flow to the genitals--this will be arousing in itself.

-- Don't bring tense discussions or disagreements into the bedroom. Leave those in a jar by the door. You can pick them up later.

-- You must be able to set time aside to fantasize. This is difficult for some people but with practice, it works. Your fantasies can be very vanilla or very exotic. They are yours and you can choose to share them or keep them for yourself. As long as they are arousing to you, they are good for this exercise.

-- You must be able to communicate your wants, needs, and desires.

-- As someone in a relationship, you must be able to listen to your partner's wants, needs, and desires. You don't have to fulfill all of them, but you do need to listen.

Be a good listener. It is tempting to say... "Yeah, me too" or to chime in with some way to "fix" the situation. Don't! Just listen. Try a hug and say, 'I am sorry you are going through this'. You'd be surprised how this affection will translate into sexual desire later.

Be Engaged. Be actively interested in your partner by making time together to do arousing activities--By arousing, I mean fun, joyful, activities that awaken your senses -- a wide variety of choices abound. Whether you are walking arm-in-arm through the forest, running on a beach, playing golf, cooking a spicy meal together that you have never tried before or watching a movie while cuddling on the couch, be in the moment and take in all the sights, scents, and sounds around you.

Stay Connected. A phone call at lunch just to say, 'I miss you.' A sexy text message can prime you both for a steamy evening; A touch on the arm while laughing at jokes or even hand-holding while walking the dog, shows that you still care. The power of touch cannot be underestimated. The temperature in your relationship should increase exponentially and carry you through to an evening of bliss. If you still find yourself with a lack of desire, try initiating sex yourself, even if you are not usually the initiator. Use it or lose it is true for sexual desire. You need to stoke the flames to keep that fire burning.

Still feeling lackluster? Try massage first. Use sensual touch rather than sexual touch. You may find that putting in the time can yield sexy results. Be sure to check in with your partner to be sure they are feeling the same way before switching to sexual touch. Don't have an agenda, just enjoy the massage.

And three final ideas...
1. Greet Your Partner with a Kiss.
Hug and smooch immediately upon entering the door. This is something couples who have been together for a long time sometimes forget. Getting that hug at the end of the day makes your partner feel wanted and adored which helps relieve stress from a long day. It also releases Oxytocin in the brain which makes us feel bonded.

2. Read Sexy Novels Aloud Together.
Suggested reading: Nancy Friday's "My Secret Garden" and "Forbidden Flowers". Read aloud to each other in segments, then, talk about what you find arousing in what was just read. Reading together and discussing how you feel helps explore desire and develops understanding how to feel good about what you want and you'll both find it stimulating.

3. Surprise Your Partner and Show Your Gratitude.
Finally, try giving a new bottle of flavored lube with a love note, that says... "Remember to save room for dessert."

Article written by: Lori S Choi

Why Most Women Want Large Breasts

For most women, breast size is an important issue because it can have a great impact in their lives. Too small can be very frustrating and too big can be a burden but most women want large breasts that is why breast augmentation is such a common procedure now or breast enhancement treatments are very much sought by most women. Although there are women who are satisfied with their small breasts, many women still want their breasts to be bigger. So why women want large breasts?

Big breasts give women more confidence. Flat chested women are usually insecure about their flat chest and they envy women who have bigger breasts. When a woman is unhappy with her breast size, her self-esteem is greatly damaged and she becomes insecure and less confident of herself. But if a woman is satisfied with her looks and breast size, she becomes more confident and this renewed confidence gives her more positive outlook and more opportunities in the dating game. Big breasted women are more confident with their appearance and feel sexier. Women want large breasts to boost their confidence.

Large breasts enhance a woman's physical appearance. Some women feel that their body is not well-proportioned because their breasts are not big enough making them feel unhappy with their physical appearance. Women want large breasts to enhance their physical appearance. Most women love to groom themselves, they are naturally fashionable and they love clothes. One thing that frustrates them is that most clothes usually look good on women with big breasts. Flat chested women usually hate wearing bathing suits and have to consider their flat chest in choosing their clothing style. Women who are well-endowed do not have problems wearing bathing suits and sexy clothing with deep neckline because they look good and attractive in any clothes.

Bigger breasts make women feel more feminine. Breasts are always associated with women and a flat chest feels like their femininity is in question. Although there are flat-chested women who are very feminine and can carry themselves well, most small breasted women are being teased about their flat chest that resembles a man's chest. Most women want large breasts to feel more feminine.

If you are considering breast augmentation to enhance your breast size because it is a very common cosmetic procedure now, you must do your homework and know the pros and cons of surgery. You should know what you are getting yourself into before putting yourself under the knife. Surgery is an invasive method and it involves risks and complications. Natural breast enhancement treatment is also an option to avoid the risks of surgery.

Article written by: Gerry Restrivera

The History of Women’s Swimwear

As the term suggests, “women’s swimsuits” are garments worn by women for any water-sports activity such as swimming, beach or sun bathing, water skiing and diving. Beautiful models showing off their well-toned bodies that cling so very deliciously to designer swimsuits; they added glamour and oomph to any fashion magazine and therefore adding popularity to women’s swimwear. Swimwear parades become one of the main events in all the beauty pageants around the world including Miss World and Miss Universe contests.

In Roman times swimming happened in the nude and historical evidence points to the fact that people swam naked. While there are murals that prove bikini-like garments which covered women’s breasts and hip areas existed, it is clearly evident from some famous paintings that water-based activities occurred with naked swimmers. Today there is a law in the United Kingdom and most other countries banning entry of both men and women into any form of public water bath or swimming pool without decent bathing suits that cover the pertinent areas.

In the 18th century, bathing suits for women consisted of petticoats and jackets and they made with brown linen or flannel. These costumes were uncomfortable beside unflattering in appearance. In an effort to help the woman’s dignity, a culture reflecting the times, there were weights stitched to the hems to prevent the rising of the gowns when in water. By the 19th century, two-piece women’s swimwear and bathing suits became common.

In the US, women’s swimwear round as part of the beauty contests began by the 1880s. However people treated it with disdain and disrespect till 1921 when beauty contests themselves took on a hue of respectability. In Australia underwater ballerinas performing synchronized swimming were not allowed to join unless they wear clothes in a respectable manner. Glamour photography from 1940s included women wearing figure-hugging bathing suits and swimwear.

Bikinis initially came on to the scene after World War II and they named after Bikini Toll, the test site for nuclear weapons because people compare them as explosive in water as was the effect of nuclear explosions!! Till the 1950s, the bikini bottom was high up to the belly button and this style was popular back in the 1940s and 1950s. From 1960 bikinis shrank from all directions to reach their modern-day state until 2012, when the high-waist cut in women’s swimwear came back. The key to this design is in its ability to flatter most female figures including plus size and this fact makes every woman happy.

Another women’s swimwear called monokini which was originally a topless swimming costume that exposed a female breast; in modern designs, the garment has large cut-outs at both side front and back. This new design has become popular among young girls.

The tankini is a two-piece swimsuit which includes a tank top or halter top and a bikini or swim shorts bottom. The design started in late 1990s. This type of swimwear is modest and it is an alternative to a one-piece suit with more convenient, as the wearer does not need to remove the entire suit when she uses a toilet. Skirtini is similar to tankini, the only difference is that the two-piece swimsuit consisting of a styled top (halter, tank top) and a short skirt instead of a bikini bottom.

Swim dress is a one-piece women’s swimwear with a flared skirt which gives the suit looks like a short dress, usually, the skirt starting under the empire waist and flared down to the hem. With the new modern designs in late 1990s, swim dresses become popular among women especially plus size women who prefer more coverage.

Article written by: Cindy Wydan

Ashamed of Being Large? Get Over It!

I talked to a friend, a fashion saleswoman in a high priced women’s clothing sore. She told me she once met a woman, size 14 or 16, trying to squeeze into a size 8. I am sure it was painful for the customer and as painful for my friend who had to advise this woman.

Both men and women, specially women, should realize that when God made us, He made us different, both inside and outside. Let us deal with outside.

Some women are born large and grow up to be… well large. There is no problem with that. People who have a problem dealing with size have a problem all of their own–usually it is bias and a misguided sense of what is proper.

Here are some tips regarding shopping if you happen to be a large woman.

1. Shop alone or with a trusted friend. This will save you lot of heartache and get you right selections because your friends will give you correct advice regarding color, size, fall, shimmer, stripes etc.

2. Do not go for franchise type stores. They have off-the-shelf product that is exactly what you do not need. You need someone who can customize your dress, bring high points to its look and suppress obvious faux pas.

3. Do a bit of homework. Read up on contours, shaping lines and visual effect of patterns and textures. Smooth fabrics look much better on a large woman than coarse, textured, rough-hewn fabric like raw silk and corduroy. Similary, “wardroby” types of outfits are drab and often accentuate largeness. Try contrasts and a bit of flash. It creates an optical illusion of sorts so people do not dwell on your size, but on the color and subtlety of the accent on your dress. And that is exactly what you want–creating a sudden fashion statement. So get some tips.

4. No need to pay a premium just because you are large. Shop around.

5. Have a friend stand by the fitting room. Looking at yourself in the mirror is not enough. You need to make sure you know how you appear to the others. So after you have tried something on, come out and let your friend look at you critically. It will help you to decide which pattern and style to go with.

6. If you are a professional woman and want to be comfortable in senior management circles, hire a fashion designer who specializes in executive wardrobes. It always pays to get some experience, specially from a person who designs or advises on a woman’s wardrobe and does this for a living.

Good luck.

Article written by: Shyam A. Sunder

Wear Your Size

As a big woman myself, we have options to buy nice stylish clothes without wearing a muumuu. I hate those things. They are ugly and look like a big tent. Burn them in a bonfire I say. Since I am a plus size woman, I like comfort in my clothes but not so comfortable that things aren’t in place. Too many women of size don’t know how to dress according to their body shape and they either wear their clothes too big or not big enough. I would like to give a few tips on how a plus size woman can cover, hide or flatter problem areas.

The stomach area is the biggest concern because I see a lot of women with large bellies and too little pants or shirts. I see women all the time wear smaller size shirts that don’t fit and their stomach is hanging out of the bottom. If you have a rotund belly your shirt should cover the entire stomach. We are not supposed to see this. If this is happening, your shirt is too small and you are in denial about what size you are actually supposed to wear.

Another problem for women is the waist of your pants is too tight. Some women actually put their belly over top of the waist of their pants. Please don’t squeeze your big belly into a smaller size pant. This will create a muffin top over your pant waist and that is visible through your shirt, blouse, sweater etc. Your pant waist should fit not constrict your waist line. This is another denial technique women use to psyche themselves into thinking they wear a size 10 when they really wear size 12 or 14. Wear your size.

Another big issue is big arms. If your arms are large, you should consider wearing sleeves. Tank tops are for women who have slender arms. If you can raise your arms and they jiggle or meaty and hang, then a sleeveless shirt shouldn’t be worn. The shirt sleeve should fit loosely on the arm enough to where you can move your arms freely without worrying if you’re going to hulk out of them.

Another bad idea for big girls is stretch pants, Lycra or spandex. No woman larger than a size 16 should wear these materials especially if you have cellulite which the ripples and dimples are highly visible. Grab you a pair of body shapers to smooth out your dents; every plus size woman should have one.

Article written by: Natasha Carmon

Why You Shouldn’t Be Ashamed Of Seeking Out Cellulite Treatment

One common reason why women and men who have cellulite refuse to seek treatment is because of the stigma that comes with admitting that they have cellulite. Cellulite, that unsightly form of nonuniform fat commonly spotted on thighs and legs, can be hard to get rid of with just regular diet and exercise techniques. In many cases, cellulite can be so persistent that it can only be removed by professional cellulite treatment methods. Seeking help for visually unappealing cellulite shouldn’t be something to be ashamed of – even if it means admitting to yourself and a doctor that you have it.

While teens may find that ignoring issues like acne may cause it to go away in time, ignoring a beauty problem like cellulite will never make it go away. Actually, cellulite that remains unchecked can actually become worse. In very rare cases, cellulite can become so stubborn and rampant that it can make fitting into pants more difficult. By looking into cellulite treatment from a professional office, you can stop the spread of cellulite in its tracks and reverse the aesthetic damage it has already done.

Of course, there is also the issue of embarrassment when talking about problems like cellulite. Women in particular believe that cellulite is a “fat girl’s issue.” Surprise, surprise – even women who are underweight can get cellulite. Cellulite is actually a genetic issue, which means that there are some cases where it just happens to happen, even if the person in question eats well and exercises regularly. Getting rid of cellulite the natural way often would take a ridiculous amount of effort for those of us who are genetically predisposed to this condition.

Admitting that they have cellulite can be especially brutal for men who have it, since 95% of all people who have cellulite are female. Men shouldn’t feel ashamed of seeking help for this, because it will help restore their self confidence. Doctors aren’t going to poke fun at a man with cellulite, because it’s not a female-only issue. If anything, most doctors will be especially understanding about the way a male patient feels when they ask about cellulite treatment options because it’s so rare that it happens.

The vast majority of women and a decent amount of men will struggle with cellulite at one point in their lives or another. Though it’s easy to let people shame you for actually wanting to do something about your cellulite, it’d make your life a lot easier to look for inexpensive cellulite treatment for you. After all, when summer comes around, you want to make sure that you look great in shorts, don’t you? By just trying one or two cellulite treatment sessions or techniques, you might be able to get your body picture perfect within a matter of months.

Article written by: David Rabia

The Biggest Hair Myths Uncovered

Switching hair care products often? Brushing your hair a million times a day for healthier hair? Maybe it’s time to rethink these hair care trends.

Rinsing your hair with cold water makes it shinier
You must have heard this misguided notion from 2 or 3 hairstylists. Their rationale: cold water makes the cuticles in your hair close so they reflect light better. However, there are no living cells in your hair; as such, your hair does not react to cold or hot water in any way. Instead, for a shiny glow, use conditioner and hair products that contain silicones and oils to make the cuticles smoother.

Frequent trimmings make your hair grow faster
Hairstylists love spreading this gospel. However, Dr. Paradi Mirmirani, MD and professor of Dermatology at the University of California, begs to differ. She says that trimming the edges of your hair has zero impact on your follicles, which determine how much and how fast your hair will grow. In addition to that, hair grows at about a quarter inch in a month regardless of whether you trim it or not. Hairstylist Matt Fugate asserts however, that trimming does make your hair look longer as it gets rid of split ends. And these split ends are what makes the hair look thinner and shorter.

Give your hair a good 100 strokes each day so it can be healthy
You probably thought that frequent brushing will redistribute the natural oils in your scalp and make your hair shinier. Or it will improve the blood circulation to your scalp and boost hair growth. But neither of these is true. Rigorous brushing creates a lot of friction in your hair, which could damage the cuticles and cause breakage. As a result, your hair looks lusterless and frizzy. Instead, brush your hair minimally and use a wide toothed comb or a ball tipped hair brush.

Less shampoo means less oil
Dermatologist Jeffery Benabio asserts that your scalp still produces the same amount of oil despite the number of times that you shampoo your hair. Shampoo has no impact on your sebaceous gland; however, genetics and hormones do.

Grey hair is a product of stress
A study, carried out by researchers from New York University School of Medicine and Baylor College of Medicine that suggest that stress is one of the factors that brings on grey. The study was conducted on mice and human scalp cells.

Article written by: Kathy Drap

Short Skirts and High Heels – How Plus Sized Women Can Pull Off the Look With Class

Magazines today gain a decent amount of readership by showing real versus photo shopped pictures. The ultra skinny, ultra tall woman is somewhat of an anomaly and yet serves as a foundation for our standard of beauty. Even these women need the tips and tricks and skills of a technician with photo shop expertise. We see these size 4 women on magazine covers wearing shorts and heels giving the illusion of sleek, slender legs that go on forever.

Reality check: The average size of an American woman is size 14. The magic number that happens to be the starting number for plus sized clothing. So let’s face it, women have curves, lots of them and curves are AWESOME. The key is really knowing how to show them off.

Being plus-sized does not draw reference to height. So if you happen to be a short woman, it may feel counter-intuitive to wear a short skirt. Let’s be honest, for so many women fat loves to deposit itself around the upper thighs. It’s the dreaded place where the cellulite “grows.” It’s the place where you might most want covered up. But a short skirt can work for you. Hear me out, keep reading. Showing a bit of leg elongates it. I’m only talking about 2 to 3 inches above the knee. It makes you, the woman appear taller and emphasizes the lower, more narrow (it’s okay to show it) part of the leg. Being “plus-sized” the temptation is to cover up, but if a woman wears a long skirt (right at or below the knees) everything is covered except for the calf muscle. It gives you a shorter and probably heavier than you really are appearance. This tip is even more appropriate for the tall or average height woman. If you got them, flaunt. There’s nothing wrong with a bit of leg.

Another misconception, tall women can’t wear heels. Anyone can wear heels. Tall and short alike. The one and only true requirement is confidence. If you decide to wear a heel, wear it well by standing tall. Slouching undermines the poise and elegance your shoes are conveying. Other than confidence and posture, be sure to be comfortable. A grimacing face is paradoxical accessory. If you can’t do a stiletto, finish off your outfit with a comfortable wedge. They look good with almost anything.

Polish off your stylish short skirt and heels with a shirt or jacket with a tapered waistline. You need to show that you actually have a waist. A boxy shirt does just that, create a boxy shape. It hides not only curvaceous breasts but bottoms as well. It hides all the bits that make you a woman and there’s nothing sexy or classy about that. Accentuate your assets by wearing styles that show off or compliment your proportions.

No matter what your size you will always look classy if you dress in styles best suited for your body type:

• Pear shape: Heavier on the lower half? Wear dresses that skims the bottom without clinging. A tea dress is trendy and flattering.
• Apple body: More weight in the middle? Avoid the cling. Stick to a loose-fit top and short skirt to make it work.
• Hourglass: Bust and hips proportionally balanced? A v-neck (not too low) cute cinched belt and a flared skirt to bring out your inner Marilyn.
• Botticelli Baby: Voluptuous body, but not as defined as the hourglass? The wrap dress flatters every curve.
• Boyish: The trendy throwback flapper dress is right for you!
• Soccer legs: Short skirts always work for you or asymmetric draped dresses that pull the eyes upward to your upper body too.
• Short torso: 5’1 or 6’1 a short torso can be a problem, but it doesn’t have to be A- line dresses work for the flirty you.
• Swimmer shoulders: You can work the blazers, but when it warms up show off that décolletage with peplum-skirt dress. The wider width in the hips adds balance to the proportions.
• Carrot legs: Show off those pretty ankles with a not-too-snug fitting midi dress

No matter what magazines may attempt to portray, the plus-sized woman is the woman of today. Do not hide the fact that you are sexy. You are vibrant and, yes, you have the confidence to show it all off. Burn the muumuu. Wear short skirts and heels with all the class and style that encompass every plus sized bit of you. You are woman. Hear her ROAR.

Article written by: Deborah Cumberbatch

How to Get the Faux Glow

Orange is NOT the New Black

Most self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a colourless sugar that interacts with the top layer of skin to darken it. Unappealing orange tints from a self tanner are often due to a saturation of DHA which can occur when you layer on too much product or when using a brand containing higher levels of DHA than your skin type can handle. To determine how a self-tanning solution will work with your skin, apply a small amount of product to a test area before covering your whole body. Some people tolerate higher levels of DHA than others based on the tone and pH of your skin. Besides avoiding the urge to slather or spray on loads of product, choosing the right formula can also help determine how your tan appears. Use a reputable brand containing less DHA and build up your colour accordingly. Bronze seekers should also go for products infused with erythrulose, a sugar sourced from raspberries to yield longer lasting results and a beautiful golden hue. Some great self tanners, like those found in the St Tropez collection, also contain green pigment to help counteract any orange.

Scrub Up

Exfoliating thoroughly is the single most important step if you want smooth, streak-free colour. The outer layer of the epidermis, which is what the self tanner interacts with, is composed of dead skin cells that only last seven to ten days before they shed. You want to make sure you have an even layer of dead skin cells so that they all tan and slough off together. Go for a scrub that is gentle (think spherical, man-made beads over granular and uneven ones) to avoid irritating the skin prior to tanning. Ideally you should be seeking out an oil-free scrub to avoid creating a barrier between your skin and the tan. Being sloppy with your scrubbing means that some of the skin will begin shedding after only a day or two, leaving you with an uneven patchy finish.

To Hydrate or Not Hydrate Your Skin?

Many experts recommend moisturising before you tan, while others believe that lotion interferes with the DHA and the skin. A good way to avoid the controversy is to use a gradual tan moisturiser prior to your usual tanning product which is formulated to work with DHA without clogging up your pores. Plus, if you miss a spot with the full-fledged self-tanner, you’ve already covered it with the gradual tanner. Skin should be dry pre-application, but you should use a light layer of oil-free moisturiser or particularly dry areas like elbows, hands, feet, ankles and knees so they don’t over absorb colour. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut or avocado oil to help compensate for any dryness. This is a clever fool-proof trick that will solve any dilemmas when it comes to the question of quenching your skin.

Start from the Bottom

Self tanning novices are best off using an easy to control mousse or gel with a wash off cosmetic tint. The advantage here is that you can see what you’re doing and you won’t miss any spots. For self-tanner veterans, using an aerosol spray is the quickest, most natural option. Start from the bottom of your body and work your way up so that you don’t crease the colour when bending.

Shady Lady

To fake cleavage worthy of a Victoria’s Secret catalogue, don your favourite push up bra thirty minutes after applying self-tanner. Next use an aerosol spray to contour the M-shaped indentation created by the bra on your decolette. This second coat will make the area appear darker and more defined. Other than this optical illusion, contouring endeavors should be left to the experts to avoid streaky, stripey outcomes. To thin thighs, use a powder body bronzer or long wearing gel to darken the sides of your legs.

VIVA’s Top Tanners

For Fair Skin

Creme de la Mer Gradual Tan -Tanning takes on a truly luxurious feeling and is light and subtle enough to compliment a celtic complexion. Tanning rookies can also take part knowing the results will be flawless and even. James Read Liquid Tan in Light – He’s the tanning expert to know, spritzing the likes of Rosie Huntington-Whitely and Poppy Delevigne. His Liquid Tan creates a natural, long lasting bronzed finish perfect for those with pale complexions.

Medium Skin Tones

St Tropez Bronzing Mousse – This super lightweight, easy to apply, velvety mousse delivers an ultra-even all-over tan. Infused with aloe vera, it dries in 60 seconds and develops naturally and evenly.

Guerlain Terracotta Sunless Tinted Self Tanning Gel – Packed with Argan oil and essential fatty acids, this light gel formula is deeply hydrating, scented with tiare flower and only takes an hour to develop.

Deep Skin Tones

St Tropez Dark Bronzing Spray – This fine, light weight spray tan is perfect for enhancing darker complexions as well as being incredibly long lasting and fragrance free.

Rodial Brazilian Tan Dark – Containing caramel for a rich chocolate hue, this Rodial product is second to none for achieving a just-back-from-Rio tan.

TOP TIPS

*Wearing latex gloves or using a tanning mitt will prevent staining your hands and give an even finish

*Use broad and uniform strokes to avoid uneven patches and streaks

*Choose the right tan for your tone and build up colour gradually. Use a gradual tanners on a pale skin whilst darker skin tones can benefit from more intense formulas|

*Don’t panic if you’re patchy! Use a little lemon juice and scrub the affected areas with a nail brush. The acid gently and naturally dissolves mistakes.

Article written by: Nishchint Yoqishwar

11 Fashion Tips on How to Look Slimmer

1. Buy clothes that fit. Don’t wear anything that makes bulges or rolls stick out.

2. Don’t be in a size illusion – if you are size 16 don’t pretend you’re a 14. Own your size! In certain makes and styles you might even be a size bigger – forget the number ensure the fit is right.

3. Try clothes while sitting down. Most of the day at work is spent sitting down – this is when all kinds of things happen that normally won’t standing up. The skirt hemline rises too high up, rolls protrude from the side, shirts bulge open.

4. Apply vertical colour dressing. Create the illusion of vertical length by dressing in a single color or shades of from head to toe. One color will help to de-emphasize problem areas by elongating your silhouette. E.g. outer vertical line colour – a solid colour jacket left open, paired with pants of the same colour or inside vertical line – a top and matching colour bottom with contrast colour jacket.

5. Beware light & bright- these colours will enlarge a particular area. If you are larger from the waist down select your dark colours to be placed at the bottom – lighter colours on top.

6. Get Vertical. Making use of vertical line & design in clothing will create the illusion of a slimmer you.

• You can visually slim down by 10 kg’s (22 lb’s) with every vertical line you make use of.

• The most effective vertical line is one that will divide an area of your body in 2 equal halves e.g. a crease down the center of a pair of pants, a row of buttons, a zipper, a seam.

• Select vertical patterns and prints

• Fluid fabrics that skim curves rather than stretch or heavy fabrics.

• To help elongate the neck, wear tops with an open neckline such as v-necks.

7. Keep it high. Wear a high eye catching accessory, hair do or collar detail. Wearing something high on the body, draws the eye upwards, this ensures the illusion of height and slimness.

8. Wear the right underwear. Buy a body sculptor- sucks everything in and makes you look kg’s slimmer. Get your bra measured – the correct fitted bra can make you look thinner.

9. Discover your personal style and display it with confidence! The key to selecting a great outfit is knowing what your style is.

10. Wear heels.

• Wearing at least a 1″ / 5cm heel helps to elongate your legs making you look slimmer.

• Stay away from thick soles and platforms if you have heavy lower leg rather go for a medium to thin sole that will create a more flattering and balanced effect.

• If you want to make your legs look slim buy a shoe with a longer length toe end. A square or round short toe end will make your leg appear shorter and chunkier. A longer rounder toe (it does not have to be pointy) will make the leg appear slimmer.

11. Carry the right bag size. A petite handbag will make your figure appear larger. For plus-size figures a larger structured or boxy bag will balance out the curves.

• Take care with the strap length. Where you end your bag will accentuate that feature, ending a bag on your hip will emphasize them. Safest bet is to nestle your bag into your waist.

Just because there is more of you it does not mean you need to hide under dull, baggy clothes! Remember BIG on BIG = BIGGER.

I encourage you to have the confidence to show off your curvy figure with new style and flair.

Article written by: Haydee Antezana

An Easy to Wear Natural Makeup Look

Although full coverage cosmetics make everyone look flawless, there are days when you should replace them with something more natural that gives you a fresh and dewy look without clogging your pores. The following make-up look is very versatile: you can wear it every day for work or going out and you can use it during hot summer days, when you want to let your skin breathe. Before starting with the make-up, don’t forget to clean and moisturise your skin and apply a primer that will help the make-up last throughout the day.

The first thing you will need is foundation. Since this is a natural make-up look, you can use the Nearly Naked liquid foundation from Revlon cosmetics, which is very light and evens out your skin tone without being cakey or greasy. For even more natural results, apply the foundation with your fingers instead of using your brush. Since this foundation is low to medium coverage, you might have to do some concealing afterwards, in case you have spots, blemishes or discoloration. You can use a more heavy coverage concealer this time, such as the NARS Creamy Concealer, but apply it only on imperfections. To cover up dark under-eye circles and get a radiant look, use a light, luminous concealer such as the L’Oreal Magic Lumi highlighter. If you have dry to normal skin, this is all you will need for the face, but if you have combination to oily skin, set everything in place with a face powder. For example, you can use the Rimmel Stay Matte powder, which gives your skin a matte look without being heavy or cakey.

Next, it’s time to do the eye make-up and since you’re aiming for a fresh and natural look, you should choose a pastel eye shadow colour, such as light pink, lavender or light blue. If you don’t have time for complex eye make-up, use one of the Maybelline Color Tattoo cream eye shadows all over the lid. If you have time, you can use a neutral palette such as the Urban Decay Naked Palette. Apply the lightest shade all over the lid, then use a darker colour in the crease for more definition. Then take a white, silver or champagne colour and apply it in the inner corner of your eyes to make your eyes look big and wide awake. Finish off the eye make-up by applying one or two coats of mascara.

To complete the look, put on some lipstick. If you want your lips to look full and sensual, but at the same time stay hydrated through the day, you can replace your conventional lipstick with a lip stain. For example, the Revlon Just Bitten Kissable crayons. These lip colours from Revlon makeup last throughout the day and make your lips soft and smooth. You can convert this daytime make-up for night time wear in just a few minutes. Create a cat flick with black eyeliner or smudge the eyeliner with a cotton swab for an easy to get smoky effect. As for the lips, you can opt for the timeless red lipstick, which will give you a glam and seductive look.

Article written by: Groshan Fabiola

Hello Beautiful! 7 Styling Tools to Enhance Your Natural Beauty

You are beautiful no matter what your size or shape. Yes, I know, society wants to dictate a particular standard of beauty and that’s what you see day in and day out in the media. It is also what you use to compare your body to see if it measures up. Perhaps you’ve already noticed that this only makes you feel frustrated and deflated. Very few women, if any, actually achieve and maintain this standard. Instead, why not embrace your natural beauty and use a few styling tools for creating balance and harmony.

Beauty is not about looking like every other woman out there – how boring is that! It’s about celebrating who you are and creating a look you love. The key is to choose clothes and accessories strategically to give your body an uninterrupted line and draw the eye where you want it to go. It’s easier than you think!

Open necklines draw focus to your face. Your face is where you want the eye to go since it’s disconcerting to talk with someone while they are staring (for whatever reason) at another part of your body. Use this to your advantage. A v-neck or scoop neckline will do that by creating a long neckline and a beautiful frame around your face. This neckline is just about the right amount of scoop (approximately one head length down) to balance her body.

Choose your shoe color wisely. Want a long lean body line? Your shoes are key. When you are wearing pants, match the color of your shoes as closely as possible. If you wear navy, black or dark brown shoes will do the trick. If you are wearing a light colored pair of jeans, wear a skin tone colored shoe. This is particularly true if you are wearing a skinny pant because pants that end at the ankle or above, shorten your leg. By matching the color all the way to your toes, you are extending your leg line.

Wear open vamp shoes with a dress. The recent trend that has gone on way too long is to wear a dress or skirt with ankle boots. It’s a hideous trend and rarely works. The only exception is if you are super tall, have very long legs and wear your skirts very short. Otherwise, especially if you wear a boot that contrasts with the color your legs, it will make your legs look shorter and thicker.

Taper your straight skirt. A straight skirt can look great, but it can also visually add pounds. It hangs straight from the hipline and so the hem creates a wider horizontal line around your knees. You do not usually have this issue with a pencil skirt, which is often stretchy and fits tighter to the body all the way down. If you like straight skirts, but sometimes feel like they make you look heavier than you are, take it to a tailor and have it tapered slightly at the sides. This follows your body line and creates a leaner look.

Pair flowy with fitted. There are lots of flowy tops out there right now. This is not surprising since there is still a trend towards skinny pants. Wearing a skinny top with a skinny bottom can feel a little revealing, but pairing it with a flowy top adds balance.

Have a professional bra fitting. If it has been more than a year since you’ve had a bra fitting, it’s time to do it again. An ill-fitting bra will totally undermine the look of a great outfit. Go somewhere where that’s their specialty, not to the local department store (with the exception of Nordstrom which usually has good bra fitting specialists). There is an art to finding the perfect bra. I can highly recommend Intimacy. They have stores around the country.

Consider shapewear. I do not usually love wearing shapewear and mostly I don’t wear it! But, I wore a dress recently that was fitted and since the temperatures outside were in the teens, in addition to the smoothing benefits, I wanted the extra layer of warmth it provided. At my last bra-fitting at Intimacy I had picked up a control brief that came all the way up under my bra! I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable it was! These days fabrics tend to be lighter and more revealing. Good and comfortable (yes, I can attest that it’s possible) shapewear can be very handy.

Use these tips to help you make great choices and feel great about how you look!

Article written by: Ginger Burr