Fashion news Pakistani fashion models beauty tips

Fashion Designers PK: Rana Saeed Allawala is one such designer who is known for her elegant style

2008-06-20T05:52:00.000-07:00

Recently, Rana Allawala has launched her assorted collection of formal wear, bridal accessories and purses in a simple ceremony Fashion is the accepted way of dressing at a given time. It is the total outlook of an individual of today. Though fashion evolves and some styles come back, it only applies for 'now'. Right fashion means getting the value for your money. That's why the demand for designs that requires timeless appeal and a quality that goes beyond trendy has been tremendously increasing. Whether it is haute couture or pret-a-porte, it is basically the designer's distinctive style that sells.

Rana Saeed Allawala is one such designer who is known for her elegant style. Her boutique Rans at Bahadurabad, Karachi, has been catering to fashion conscious women since 1986. Rana has recently launched her latest collection along with the chicken kari collection of Vandana (Indian Designer) in a simple ceremony organised by Catwalk Productions.

The design philosophy of Rans is based on style, beauty and elegance. She has diversified her work by offering an eclectic range of shoes, purses, bridal accessories and exotic bridal bed spreads. Now, she has also ventured into arts by starting up an art gallery with paintings of Let's come back to her collection. The gorgeous and glamorous models who flaunted her outfits at the event were Iraj, Nadia Hussain and Fayeza Ansari. Her designs are timeless as she offers a wide range of variety in cuts, embellishments and colours - be it bridals, sarees, formals or evening wear. Take Iraj's light green sharara, Fayeza's brown saree or Nadia Hussain's orange evening wear. Intricately embroidered designs, complemented by the jewellery pieces speak volumes about the designer's skills. And the best part was that the collection was wearable.

Rana's collection of assorted sarees in shimmering silk was a feast to the eyes. According to her it's the world's oldest fashion statement. ''Saree is all about rhythm and fluidity, capturing the essence and sensuality of the woman. It speaks of romance or riches, of sobriety or gaiety, of sophistication or innocence. It is said that a saree rarely fails to flatter a woman, making her feel fragile and feminine,'' said Rana, who was also wearing a graceful saree on the occasion.

Her designs are not restricted to a certain kind of fabric as there is something for everyone. She claims to use only the best of fabrics and materials because she feels that ''therein lies the

essence of beautiful clothes''. From jamavaars and khadi to silks, georgettes and chiffons, there isn't much the lady hasn't experimented with. While for the colours, she mainly works on the soft colours and chalky tones. Of course it depends upon the requirement of the season and clientele as well.

Embellish-ments play a very important role in her style of designing. From traditional zaree, dapka, resham, kamdani, madoori, shadow, kantha works to the dazzling fusionist jewels, shells, beads, and diamantes embellishments she has worked with all sorts of add-ons!

Fashion News: Indus Heritage 2008 in New York featuring famous Pakistani designers and models

2008-06-20T05:45:00.000-07:00

Fashion News: Indus Heritage 2008 in New York featuring famous Pakistani designers and models
Our ethnic styles are greatly admired abroad. Recently, Indus Heritage 2008 was held in New York, featuring famous designers and models from Pakistan...

Our conventional costumes are no doubt beautiful. When the ethnic designs are blended with contemporary styles the results are phenomenal. Taking advantage of our beautiful heritage, the creations of many of our fashion designers are also a fusion of tradition and style. This is why our fashion industry is not just making waves at home but around the globe as well.

After the tremendous success of 'Colours of Pakistan' - a cultural event - in Houston last year, Asimyar Tiwana, an event manager, in collaboration with Yellow Cab Productions, brought the Pakistani touch to the Big Apple with 'Indus Heritage 2008, New York' recently. The main theme of the show was east-meets-west in which they showcased a true blend of Pakistani taste with a modern touch.
The show was hosted by model cum VJ Annie Ali Khan who introduced the five designers with their couture in different segments. Big names from our industry like HSY, Hajra Hayat, Nickie and Nina, Nabeel Aqeel and Kuki Concepts brought out the best of their collections and showed just how versatile our industry can be. They had everything from western to bridal and from casuals to formals.

The models who flaunted the traditional shararas and western outfits on the ramp were Iraj, ZQ, Mehreen Syed, Nadia Hussain, Rubya Chaudhry and Tooba. Their makeover was done by Shehzad Raza. With this, he proved that in addition to photography he has an eye for styling and makeup as well.

Coming back to the designers, HSY undoubtedly stole the show with his chic collection of clothes. His evening and bridal wear followed contemporary cuts and trendy designs. The colour combinations he used were also a mix of bright with the subtle.

Nickie and Nina brought their formal collection which focused on heavy embroidery and sequin work. Rubya Chaudhry looked stunning in their green and brown evening outfit. Besides, Kuki Concepts bridals were equally striking. They played with bold colours and light embroidery to give their models a unique look.

To further entertain the guests, they had Lollywood artists Resham and Ahsan Khan paying tribute to the melody queen Madam Noor Jahan through their performance. The lovely lady, clad in Omer Sayeed's creation, was the talk of the town after her performance on a medley of famous Noor Jahan tracks. By the end of the show most of the non-desi New Yorkers were all praises for Resham.

Famous actress from across the border Deepti Naval and our very own Shakeel graced the occasion and rendered their support to the organisers for their efforts in promoting Pakistani fashion and culture. It was thrilling to see the two seasoned artists from different countries engaged in a light chit chat discussing the commonalities of the two nations.

The Indus Heritage show not only opened new horizons for our designers through the exposure they got to the foreign market but it also helped in promoting a softer image of Pakistan and its inhabitants abroad. Keeping in mind the post 9/11 scenario in New York, now they realise that there's more to Pakistan than fanatics and extremism. With all sorts of cultural activities happening across seas, the visitors were bound to have a great time. Organising such festivals is a good idea to promote one's culture and heritage by making us even more proud of our identity.

Skin Care: 5 Rituals for Beautiful Skin

2008-04-02T17:34:00.000-07:00

Skin care doesn't need to be a complex chore: It can be simple, natural and basic. Find out how to make your skin radiant, healthy, and beautiful with these mostly-free, couldn't be simpler tried-and-true techniques.
SIMPLE SOLUTION:
1. Cleansing Routine: A beauty must! Cleanse your skin twice daily (only once if your skin is dry) using a mild, natural, inexpensive cleanser designed for your skin type. Add a couple of drops essential oil of rose, spearmint, or orange to your cleanser to boost its cleaning effect and aromatic quality. Cleansing your skin is especially important before going to bed, because your body excretes toxins through your skin as you sleep. If facial pores are clogged with makeup and dirt, breakouts can occur. If you perspire a lot in your line of work or exercise heavily, then rinse off and massage your body with a coarse cloth or loofah before retiring to remove salt and dead-skin buildup. Your skin needs to breathe while you sleep!

2. Exercise: Try to exercise outside, to help oxygenate your cells with fresh air and facilitate waste removal through your skin. Exercises such as walking, biking, in-line skating, and weight lifting improve cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance, which translates into increased energy and a rosy complexion. If you live in a city, try to find a green space-a park or a greenway-in which to exercise. If city streets, with their attendant pollution, are your only outdoor option, exercising in a gym may be a better alternative.

3. Sleep, Blissful Sleep: I don't care what else you do to your skin, if you are sleep deprived your skin will look sallow, dull, tired, and saggy with your puffy eyes, you will resemble a frog prince or princess. And of course, your energy level will be less than desirable. Sleep: It's the best-kept skin care secret there is!

4. Sunlight: Ten to 15 minutes of unprotected exposure to sunlight several times a week is essential to the health of your bones and skin. It helps your body absorb calcium, due to the skin's ability to convert the sun's rays into vitamin D. Sun exposure helps heal eczema, psoriasis, and acne, and energizes your body. Plus those warm rays just make you feel good all over. If your dermatologist advises you to avoid the sun entirely, other sources of vitamin D include egg yolks, fish liver oil, vitamin-D-supplemented soy or cow's milk, organ meats, salmon, sardines, and herring.

5. Water: What goes in must go out, and water helps move everything along. Impurities not disposed of in a timely manner via the internal organs of elimination (such as the kidneys, liver, lungs, and large intestine) will find an alternate exit, namely your skin, sometimes referred to as the ''third kidney.'' Pimples and rashes may develop as your body tries to unload its wastes through your skin. Eight to 12, 8-ounce glasses of pure water a day combined with a fibrous diet will help cleanse your body of toxins and keep your colon functioning as it should. Water also keeps your skin hydrated and moisturized, so drink up!

Natural Aids for Beautiful Skin

2008-04-02T17:33:00.000-07:00

Several natural aids have been found useful in promoting healthy and beautiful skin.

Lime JuiceLime juice is an important natural aid for healthy skin.

1. Lime Juice Formula

Squeeze lime into a bowl. Add a glass of boiled whole milk and a teaspoon of glycerin to it. Stir well and let it stay for half an hour. Apply this mixture on the face, hands and feet before going to bed at night. This treatment every night will help you to look young and beautiful. It will also help cure pimples.

2. For very oily skin

Squeeze lemon juice in a bowl of iced water. Splash this over the face, massage for five minutes and then wash off with water.

3. T o improve a dull and greasy complexion

Mix half teaspoon of lime juice with one teaspoon of cucumber juice and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck and leave on for 15 minutes. Remove with water.

4. To improve a dry and rough skin

Take an egg yolk and mix in a few drops of lime and olive oil. Spread on the face and leave it till the skin feels dry. Wash off with ordinary water and splash on cold water.

5. To relieve tired eyes

Take four tablespoons each of lime juice and iced water. Saturate cotton pads in this water and place over your closed eyelids for 10 minutes.

6. To remove freckles

Blanch and grind two almonds. Mix it with white of an egg to which half teaspoon of lime juice has been added. Spread on the face and leave it on till the skin feels dry. Then, wash off first with warm water and then with cold water.

Peach Treatment

The skin of the peach is useful in improving the complexion.

Gently massage the inside of peach peelings on the face every night for a few minutes. Don't rub off the moisture afterwards. This will cleanse the skin thoroughly and free the pores. It also has an astringent action and tightens the muscle of the face slightly, thus preventing sagging tissues.

Anti-wrinkle cream

Mix a teaspoon of olive oil with an egg. Smoothen the face and neck with it. Let it remain till the skin gets dry.

To Remove The Cream:
Add a teaspoon of soda bicarbonate to hot water. Stir. Dip a piece of cotton-wool to this mixture and use it to remove the cream.

Natural Beauty Mask

Ingredients
1 tablespoon of gram flour
1/4 teaspoon orange peel powder
1 tablespoon beaten yogurt
1 teaspoon olive oil

Mix the ingredients well and apply the paste to your face and neck. Let it remain till the skin starts feeling a little dry and then rub your face with your hands till it glows.

Wash your face first with warm water and then with cold water. This will remove all the embarrassing blemishes from the skin and make the skin soft and smooth.

To improve a dark and dull complexion

Ingredients
1 teaspoon of gram flour
pinch of turmeric powder
few drops of lime juice
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon milk

Mix the ingredients together. Apply the mixture to your skin. Leave it on for half an hour. Wash off with water.

Cleansing Lotion

To one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice stir in one teaspoon each of milk and cucumber juice. Apply on the face and neck and wash off after 14 minutes. This lotion cleanses and purifies the pores of the skin.

Cabbage Mask

Grind a couple of cabbage leaves and extract juice. Dissolve one-fourth teaspoon of yeast in it and stir in one teaspoon of honey. Mix well and apply thickly over face and neck. Keep it for 15 minutes. Remove with cotton-wool soaked in water. This mask will counteract any tendency towards wrinkles and dryness and give your skin a flower-like bloom.

Tangerine Juice Treatment

The use of orange or tangerine juice has also been found valuable for a glowing complexion.

Dip your fingers in fresh tangerine or orange juice. Apply it liberally over your face, chin, neck, and forehead. Make a paste from the powdered sun dried pips of unripe oranges. Use this paste on the pimples and acne at bed time.

Orange Tonic

Blanch and grind a couple of almonds to a paste and mix in two tablespoons of milk and one tablespoon each of carrot and orange juice. Apply thickly on face and neck and leave on for half an hour. Removes scars and blemishes from the face and makes it soft and smooth.

Watermelon Juice

The juice of water-melon is useful in the removal of blemishes on the skin.

Prepare a lotion by grating and squeezing the juice of a small slice of water-melon. Apply this lotion over the face and neck for fifteen minutes. Wash with hot water. Follow this by a splash of cold water.

Tomato

Tomato, used externally, is good for getting a good complexion.

Apply the pulp of a tomato liberally on the face. Leave this for an hour. Then wash off with warm water. Repeat this daily. You will have a good complexion. It will also remove ugly-looking pimples in a short time.

Tomato Lotion

To one tablespoon of tomato juice add a couple of drops of lime juice. Apply on face and remove after 15 minutes. It is very effective for shrinking enlarged pores.

Tomato Tonic

To two teaspoons of tomato juice add four tablespoons of buttermilk. Apply. Remove after half an hour. It is excellent for removing sunburns.

Cucumber

Grate or blend a cucumber. Apply this over the face, eyes and neck for 15 to 20 minutes. It is a great tonic for the facial skin. Regular use of cucumber prevents pimples, blackheads, wrinkles, and dryness of the face.

Whitening Lotion

To one tablespoon of cucumber juice stir in a few drops of lime juice and a dash of turmeric powder. Apply on face and neck and wash off after half an hour. Makes an excellent whitener for all types of skins.

Cucumber Lotion

Mix one tablespoon each of cucumber juice and milk and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck. Remove after 15 minutes. Makes excellent whitener for delicate skins.

Apple Tonic

Mix one tablespoon of apple juice with one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice. Leave on for 20 minutes. Makes excellent tonic for combating oily skin.

Amaranth Juice Treatment

The juice of amaranth, applied over the face with a pinch of turmeric powder, bleaches the skin, prevents it from drying and wrinkling, cures pimples and makes one look fresh.

Add to this mixture milk and lime juice. Massage the mixture delicately over the face and neck for half an hour. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this every night before going to bed. This is an effective skin tonic that increases and retains its beauty.

Mint Juice

Application of fresh mint juice over the face every night, cures pimples and prevents dryness of the skin. The juice can also be applied over eczema and contact dermatitis with beneficial results.

Almonds

Make a paste of almonds with mild cream and fresh rosebud paste. Apply it daily over the face. This softens and bleaches the skin and nourishes it with the choicest skin-food. Regular application of this mixture prevents the early appearance of wrinkles, blackheads, dryness of the skin, pimples. It also keeps the face refreshed.

To improve rough and dry complexion:
Take a teaspoon of almond oil and mix it with half a teaspoon each of milk cream and lime juice. Apply every night before going to bed both on the face and on the neck.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a very important natural beauty aid.

Apply yogurt on the face every morning. Wash it off after a few minutes with cold water. This will keep the complexion smooth, healthy and fresh. A mixture of yogurt and lemon juice is ideal for softening hands.

A paste of lentil and yogurt, applied as a mask, cleanses the skin and gives it a glow. Let it dry. When dried, remove it with fingertips and wash off with water.
Honey, olive oil and a mixture of turmeric and sandalwood paste are all very effective in rejuvenating dry , parched skin.

Beauty Tips: Natural Aids for Beautiful Skin

2008-04-02T17:32:00.000-07:00

Several natural aids have been found useful in promoting healthy and beautiful skin.

Lime JuiceLime juice is an important natural aid for healthy skin.

1. Lime Juice Formula

Squeeze lime into a bowl. Add a glass of boiled whole milk and a teaspoon of glycerin to it. Stir well and let it stay for half an hour. Apply this mixture on the face, hands and feet before going to bed at night. This treatment every night will help you to look young and beautiful. It will also help cure pimples.

2. For very oily skin

Squeeze lemon juice in a bowl of iced water. Splash this over the face, massage for five minutes and then wash off with water.

3. T o improve a dull and greasy complexion

Mix half teaspoon of lime juice with one teaspoon of cucumber juice and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck and leave on for 15 minutes. Remove with water.

4. To improve a dry and rough skin

Take an egg yolk and mix in a few drops of lime and olive oil. Spread on the face and leave it till the skin feels dry. Wash off with ordinary water and splash on cold water.

5. To relieve tired eyes

Take four tablespoons each of lime juice and iced water. Saturate cotton pads in this water and place over your closed eyelids for 10 minutes.

6. To remove freckles

Blanch and grind two almonds. Mix it with white of an egg to which half teaspoon of lime juice has been added. Spread on the face and leave it on till the skin feels dry. Then, wash off first with warm water and then with cold water.

Peach Treatment

The skin of the peach is useful in improving the complexion.

Gently massage the inside of peach peelings on the face every night for a few minutes. Don't rub off the moisture afterwards. This will cleanse the skin thoroughly and free the pores. It also has an astringent action and tightens the muscle of the face slightly, thus preventing sagging tissues.

Anti-wrinkle cream

Mix a teaspoon of olive oil with an egg. Smoothen the face and neck with it. Let it remain till the skin gets dry.

To Remove The Cream:
Add a teaspoon of soda bicarbonate to hot water. Stir. Dip a piece of cotton-wool to this mixture and use it to remove the cream.

Natural Beauty Mask

Ingredients
1 tablespoon of gram flour
1/4 teaspoon orange peel powder
1 tablespoon beaten yogurt
1 teaspoon olive oil

Mix the ingredients well and apply the paste to your face and neck. Let it remain till the skin starts feeling a little dry and then rub your face with your hands till it glows.

Wash your face first with warm water and then with cold water. This will remove all the embarrassing blemishes from the skin and make the skin soft and smooth.

To improve a dark and dull complexion

Ingredients
1 teaspoon of gram flour
pinch of turmeric powder
few drops of lime juice
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon milk

Mix the ingredients together. Apply the mixture to your skin. Leave it on for half an hour. Wash off with water.

Cleansing Lotion

To one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice stir in one teaspoon each of milk and cucumber juice. Apply on the face and neck and wash off after 14 minutes. This lotion cleanses and purifies the pores of the skin.

Cabbage Mask

Grind a couple of cabbage leaves and extract juice. Dissolve one-fourth teaspoon of yeast in it and stir in one teaspoon of honey. Mix well and apply thickly over face and neck. Keep it for 15 minutes. Remove with cotton-wool soaked in water. This mask will counteract any tendency towards wrinkles and dryness and give your skin a flower-like bloom.
Tangerine Juice Treatment

The use of orange or tangerine juice has also been found valuable for a glowing complexion.

Dip your fingers in fresh tangerine or orange juice. Apply it liberally over your face, chin, neck, and forehead. Make a paste from the powdered sun dried pips of unripe oranges. Use this paste on the pimples and acne at bed time.

Orange Tonic

Blanch and grind a couple of almonds to a paste and mix in two tablespoons of milk and one tablespoon each of carrot and orange juice. Apply thickly on face and neck and leave on for half an hour. Removes scars and blemishes from the face and makes it soft and smooth.

Watermelon Juice

The juice of water-melon is useful in the removal of blemishes on the skin.

Prepare a lotion by grating and squeezing the juice of a small slice of water-melon. Apply this lotion over the face and neck for fifteen minutes. Wash with hot water. Follow this by a splash of cold water.

Tomato

Tomato, used externally, is good for getting a good complexion.

Apply the pulp of a tomato liberally on the face. Leave this for an hour. Then wash off with warm water. Repeat this daily. You will have a good complexion. It will also remove ugly-looking pimples in a short time.

Tomato Lotion

To one tablespoon of tomato juice add a couple of drops of lime juice. Apply on face and remove after 15 minutes. It is very effective for shrinking enlarged pores.

Tomato Tonic

To two teaspoons of tomato juice add four tablespoons of buttermilk. Apply. Remove after half an hour. It is excellent for removing sunburns.

Cucumber

Grate or blend a cucumber. Apply this over the face, eyes and neck for 15 to 20 minutes. It is a great tonic for the facial skin. Regular use of cucumber prevents pimples, blackheads, wrinkles, and dryness of the face.

Whitening Lotion

To one tablespoon of cucumber juice stir in a few drops of lime juice and a dash of turmeric powder. Apply on face and neck and wash off after half an hour. Makes an excellent whitener for all types of skins.

Cucumber Lotion

Mix one tablespoon each of cucumber juice and milk and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck. Remove after 15 minutes. Makes excellent whitener for delicate skins.

Apple Tonic

Mix one tablespoon of apple juice with one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice. Leave on for 20 minutes. Makes excellent tonic for combating oily skin.

Amaranth Juice Treatment

The juice of amaranth, applied over the face with a pinch of turmeric powder, bleaches the skin, prevents it from drying and wrinkling, cures pimples and makes one look fresh.

Add to this mixture milk and lime juice. Massage the mixture delicately over the face and neck for half an hour. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this every night before going to bed. This is an effective skin tonic that increases and retains its beauty.

Mint Juice

Application of fresh mint juice over the face every night, cures pimples and prevents dryness of the skin. The juice can also be applied over eczema and contact dermatitis with beneficial results.

Almonds

Make a paste of almonds with mild cream and fresh rosebud paste. Apply it daily over the face. This softens and bleaches the skin and nourishes it with the choicest skin-food. Regular application of this mixture prevents the early appearance of wrinkles, blackheads, dryness of the skin, pimples. It also keeps the face refreshed.

To improve rough and dry complexion:
Take a teaspoon of almond oil and mix it with half a teaspoon each of milk cream and lime juice. Apply every night before going to bed both on the face and on the neck.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a very important natural beauty aid.

Apply yogurt on the face every morning. Wash it off after a few minutes with cold water. This will keep the complexion smooth, healthy and fresh. A mixture of yogurt and lemon juice is ideal for softening hands.

A paste of lentil and yogurt, applied as a mask, cleanses the skin and gives it a glow. Let it dry. When dried, remove it with fingertips and wash off with water.
Honey, olive oil and a mixture of turmeric and sandalwood paste are all very effective in rejuvenating dry , parched skin.

Body Care: Eye Treatment

2008-04-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

The skin around the eyes is much thinner than the skin on the rest of your face. This skin requires extra care to ward off signs of ageing.
Skincare recommendations
Use an eye cream or gel both at night and in the morning. Apply it only along the orbital bone. (It is the bone directly under the eye). Gently pat it on, being careful not to drag the skin.

While relaxing with a face mask on, close the eyes and cover with cotton pads soaked in rose water, or soothe with 2 slices of fresh cucumber.

Treat your eyes while you have a face mask on. Soak two cotton-wool pads in cold camomile tea and place them over your eyes.

Treat sore eyes caused by exposure to the sun, wind or chlorine with a soothing eye bath. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of rose water with 150ml distilled water. Use this solution to give a bath to your eyes.

Puffiness around your eyes is caused by a build-up of toxins or excess fluids. Press gently along the eyebrow and around the eye socket with your middle finger. This will help reduce any swelling by stimulating the lymphatic system. For a cooling and soothing effect, store an eye cream or gel in the fridge and gently pat it onto the delicate skin around your eyes.

Fashion Articles: History of Capri pants

2008-03-26T13:43:00.001-07:00

Capri Pants (''capris'') are a style of pants usually worn in warm weather. They are designed to end mid-calf or just below the calf. More recently, the length of the pants has been shortened to just below the knee in some designs. Though capri pants are most popular with women, they have become popular among men in many countries, especially Europe. Although they have recently begun to be worn by young and middle-aged men in urban areas of the United States, they remain largely unpopular there. They are still primarily worn by women in urban and non-urban areas of the U.S.
Capri pants were first designed by European fashion designer, Sonja de Lennart, in 1948 and they became popular in the US during the 1960s, largely due to the influence of the popular television series The Dick Van Dyke Show. The character of Laura Petrie, the young housewife played by Mary Tyler Moore, caused a fashion sensation - and some mild controversy - by wearing snug-fitting capri pants during the show's run. After a drop in popularity during the 1970s through the 1990s (though Uma Thurman wore them in Pulp Fiction), capri pants again became a dominant trend during the 2000s.

The pants' name originated from the Italian isle of Capri, where they were first made popular in the late fifties and early sixties.

Skin Care: Facial Rash: facial skin rash

2008-03-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

Facial rashes often cause diagnostic confusion but a close examination of the clinical signs should help differentiate the underlying cause. All facial rashes, by virtue of their visibility, can cause significant distress to the patient and this should never be underestimated. The location, appearance and color of a rash will help your doctor make the diagnosis. Skin rashes come in all forms and sizes. Some are raised bumps others are flat red blotches. Some are itchy blisters other are patches of rough skin. Most rashes are harmless and clear up on their own within a few days. A few may need medical attention. The skin is one of the first areas of the body to react when exposed to something you or your child is allergic to.

Check out the clinical features and causes of facial rashes:
Causes of facial rashes
Acne vulgaris Perioral dermatitis
Rosacea Photosensitivity
Seborrhoeic Eczema Sarcoidosis
Atopic Eczema Chronic discoid lupus erythematosus
Contact Eczema Systemic lupus erythematosus
Dermatomyositis Subacute lupus erythematosus

Skin rashes causes redness or inflammation Skin lesion Rubor Skin rash Erythema which changes the color or texture of your skin. Often, the cause of a rash can be determined from its visible characteristics and other symptoms.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a rash that appears in patches of redness and scaling around the eyebrows, eyelids, mouth, nose, the trunk, and behind the ears. If it happens on your scalp, it is called dandruff in adults and cradle cap in infants.
Self-Care Tips for Treat Heat Rash:

* Put corn starch in body creases (inside elbows, etc).
* Take a bath in cool water, without soap, every couple of hours.
* Don't use ointments and creams that can block the sweat gland pores.
* Let your skin air-dry.
* Apply calamine (not Caladryl) lotion to the very itchy spots.
* Stay in a cool, dry area.

Body Care: Monsoon Health Guide

2008-03-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

Monsoon brings with it the much-awaited relief from the long spell of sultry, scorching summer. However the cooling showers bring with them an increased susceptibility to a lot of diseases that are peculiar to the monsoon. It is time we get our safeguards ready and gear ourselves up to face monsoon in its full glory.
Diseases that are spread during monsoon are basically water borne and gastrointestinal infections. Typhoid, Diarrhea and Jaundice are also common. Accumulation of water on the roads promotes the growth of the mosquitoes causing malaria and dengue. Eye flu and infections of the foot are also observed in this season. Also diseases like dryness, spasmodic pain, high blood pressure, gas formation and gastric disturbances occur frequently. Also one comes across cases of viral attacks and coughs and colds.

Following are a few safeguards that one must follow in order to keep all diseases and infections at bay:

*During monsoon intestinal functions along with the digestive system become weak, and thus make the body highly susceptible to any kind of infection. Therefore always eat light food and avoid as far as possible too much of spicy and fried foods.
*Maximum infections during this season are water borne and hence do not drink water, which is not properly boiled and stored. Drinking water should be boiled and properly filtered. It is best advice to drink warm water with the meals for easy digestion.

*Avoid consuming food that is exposed to the surroundings for quiet a long time since food that is exposed for a long time are contaminated by the germs, which if enter the body, may cause various infections. Flies that are the most common carriers of germs mostly cause contamination. Therefore remember to cook the vegetables well and steam them properly to kill the germ content in them, if any.

*Diabetic patients need to take extra care of their feet during the monsoon season. These patients should take specific care, as not to walk barefoot since the soil on which they walk is a reservoir of all types of germs.

Asthmatic patients also need to take special care during monsoon and they should ensure that there is no accumulation and seepage of water from the vicinity of their residence since that will cause severe health problems. They should also ensure that a fungus does not grow in the wooden furniture and in other articles like shoes and leather bags.

*Prohibit mosquito breeding since they are also carriers of deadly germs. Do not let water accumulate in your surroundings. Put a few drops of Kerosene or phenyl in stagnant water to check the undesired mosquito breeding. Mosquito nets should be used wherever possible.

Apart from naturally occurring diseases described above, electrical injuries due to leakage of current, water dripping on to live electrical wiring, electrocution is also common. It would be wise to give a thorough check-up to the wirings, switches, plugs and positioning of wires around the house. Furthermore, do not forget the electrical appliances. In case they have any faults, attend to them at the earliest. A stitch in time saves nine. Never handle electricity barefoot or with wet clothes and shoes. You could get a nasty shock.

Also take care of your children who love to splash through waterlogged streets, this could be dangerous. Water logging conceals a lot of rubbish spilling over from dustbins, drains and manholes. It often contains glass pieces, stone chips, slivers of wood and other substances. These can inflict serious injuries on tender bare feet. Furthermore there is always an open manhole lurking somewhere to gobble up an unwary child.

Thus a little effort on your part coupled with care and caution can really help you enjoy this monsoon to its fullest. Be extra alert and observe these safety guidelines. Wish you a safe monsoon.

Hair Care Tips: How to achieve and maintain a healthy head of beautiful hair

2008-03-26T13:37:00.000-07:00

Three main things are needed for a good-looking head of hair - haute hair - good health, the right attention to cleanliness, and caution when using cosmetic treatments.
1. Adequate Diet

Hair growth depends on an adequate diet. A widespread diet problem which causes loss of hair is iron deficiency Anaemia. The cause is too little iron in blood, brought on by a diet containing too little meat, eggs, cereals or peas and beans. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also needed to provide vitamin C, which enables the body to absorb iron.

2. Cutting the hair

Although cutting the hair is not essential to its well-being, it is easier to keep the scalp clean if the hair is kept reasonably short. Regular cutting does not make the hair grow strong or faster.

3. How hair can be damaged

Although scalp hair is hardy, and can withstand a lot of abuse, it can be damaged by too much or inexpertly applied perming, dyeing - Blonde to Brunette, bleaching and massage. The amount of beautying the hair can take varies from person to person. Occasionally the scalp is allergic to the dye and becomes inflamed and swollen. To prevent this occuring, the dye should be tested by applying it to a small area on the arm. If a patch of inflammation has developed, the dye must not be used on the hair.

Most people who bleach their hair do so with hydrogen peroxide. If the peroxide is repeatedly applied, it may make the hair brittle. Hair SOS If this happens the hair may turn rough, develop split ends, or become thinned or shortened.

Fashion Hairstyle: Styling Secrets

2008-03-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

SHORT HAIR TIP
Use a toothbrush to tease a short strand. The tiny bristles will give you more control, and give your hair more lift.
BLOW-DRYING
1.Blow-dry bangs first, since they are first to dry. Use a round toothbrush.
2. Use fingers to separate hair until almost dry.
3.Divide hair into sections, and dry sections first.

HINT: Always brush and blow dry in same direction.

TRIM YOUR OWN BANGS
1. Comb bangs straight down across your forehead.
2. Separate into three sections.
3. Clip back the two side sections.
4. Grasp the middle section between the fingers, and looking straight ahead cut off about 1/4 inches.
5. Unclip side sections and repeat.

SLEEP ON SATIN
Keep your hair from losing its style overnight by always sleeping on a satin pillow. Carry one with you when you travel.

Make Up: How to Apply Mascara - Applying Mascara

2008-03-26T13:35:00.001-07:00

As mascaras are now loaded with proteins and waxes to condition the lashes and come in problem-solving formulations, look for one that suits your needs, Thin, sparselooking lashes will benefit from lash-building How to Apply Mascaraformulations that contain special ingredients to add volume and thickness, If you wear contact lenses, do not use lash-building mascaras, as the fibres within them can get trapped between eye and lens, causing irritation.

Choosing Best MascaraThere are several kinds of mascara to choose from. Cake mascara is popular with models, because it lasts a long time.

There is waterproof mascara, which is fine if you swim or cry a lot it stays intact on your lashes and will only come off with an eye makeup remover specifically made for this type of mascara. Regular mascara or water-soluble mascara will run if you tear and is easily removed with plain old water. Yet another kind of mascara has little fibers in it to make your lashes look thicker.

However, you should know that the fibers can get into your eyes, so be extra careful when you use it, particularly if you wear contact lenses. Mascaras also come in blue, green, even red. I truly prefer to stick to the browns and blacks for the most natural look.

Short lashes should be coated with mascaras containing plastic polymers which cling just to the tips of the lashes to create the illusion of extra length, Sporty and outdoor types should opt for a waterproof or water-resistant mascara (the former will withstand a dip in the pool, while the latter holds up only to tears or perspiration), These types of mascaras are extremely effective but can be drying on the lashes and have no ability to add volume or thickness to the lashes.
Mascara Application

However refined the formula, the shape of the mascara wand plays a significant role in lash definition, For example, crescent-shaped wands will help curve the lashes up fat wands with lots of bristles will help thicken the lashes by coating each one individually bristleless wands (they look like the tip of a metal screw) will allow you to paint lashes right to the roots and double-tapered brushes (they have small bristles at either end that get longer towards the middle of the wand) will help define very thin and sparse lashes.
How to Apply Mascara

With modern mascaras there is no need to pump the wand in and out of its container before applying, This can actually cause overload and result in clogged lashes.

You need only enough product on the wand to coat the lashes, so any excess should be wiped off with a tissue, Roll the wand through the lashes to help curl-definition, Always work on the upper lashes from underneath to avoid overloading and keep mascara on the lower lashes to a minimum, especially if you are looking tired or have a tendency to rub your eyes a lot.

Mascara Makeup Tip: Get s new mascara at least every two months. You will avoid bacteria buildup. And if it starts smelling funny before then, chuck it.

Make Up: The History of Makeup

2008-03-26T13:32:00.000-07:00

Throughout history women have been concerned about their appearances. They have gone through many, some dangerous, transformations in their quest to look beautiful.
The earliest recorded use of make up was in the 1st Dynasty of Egypt when unguent, which has been found in tombs from this era, was used extensively by both men and women to keep their skin soft and to prevent dryness. Kohl (soot) was applied to the eyelashes and to color to the lids.

References are made in the New Testament of the Bible to Jewish women and some men painting their faces.

Fashions throughout the centuries have changed drastically

In Europe in the middle ages it was fashionable to have a very pale face as this was thought to signify wealth. Eyelashes and lids were painted with kohl whilst chalk and white lead were used to whiten the skin. Henna was used and still is for coloring the hair.

During the 18th century the wearing of rouge and red lipstick became fashionable. Many men at this time also

used rouge to highlight their complexion.

It is interesting to note that women during these times continually used lead and mercury based make up in an effort to make themselves more attractive even though it was known that these products could be and often were lethal.

However, the Victorian age brought about a change of attitude towards makeup with their prim and properness although it did not stop women using home made recipes for face masks and cleansing.

In the early 20th century women began to coat their eyelashes with petroleum jelly or hot beads of wax. Mascara as we know it was first created by Maybeline, and Max Factor introduced his 'pancake' make up, a thick variation of foundation base used by models in the 60's.

As time passed the attitude to wearing make up has changed. It is now the norm to wear full facial makeup every day although there are very strict governing safety rules for the manufacturing bodies.

In todays world anything goes as far as fashion trends. Today's make up is totally brilliant. If you wake up in the morning looking like death a few dabs with a make up brush can transform you and give you the confidence to face the world knowing you look your best

There are very few natural beauties in the world so don't be afraid of resorting to make up to get that dewy look.

Even Cleopatra used make up to entice her man (actually her brother) to bed.

The following women have beautiful bone structure but they are human like the rest of us so there is no reason why you should not try to emulate them. If you aspire to a modern look created for todays celebrities you can follow these steps.

Make Up: How To Apply Eyeshadow

2008-03-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

Eyeshadow should complement your eyes and your skin tone. You should never ever apply a bright color all over the lids up to the brow. ( remind you of Barbara Cartland the novelist.) Well, she could get away with outrageous blue eyeshadow because she was an eccentric) But most people are not eccentrics and just need to enhance their natural coloring. Don't forget that during daylight hours bright colors can look garish. You want to make your eyes look bigger not smaller.
So now we've got that out of the way, let's get on with choosing the right type of shadow and the right shade.

Eyeshadow comes in powder, creme or pencil. I have tried everything but now prefer shadow, mainly because of its application speed but also it doesn't smear IF DONE CORRECTLY.
For most people brown/beige rarely goes wrong. It is the color that's always in fashion, although blues, greens (as in picture on left) and violets are very appealing and have their say in the fashion stakes.

Right, you've chosen your color which, if powder, often comes in 3 toning shades and now you're ready to begin.

Make sure that your eyelids are prepared. If using a foundation creme, apply to eyelids, then dust with either a loose or compact powder. This will provide a good base and will prevent creasing of the shadow. I use mineral powder.

Then with a good eyeshadow brush, sweep the pale shade across your lids.

I, personally, never take the shadow up to the brow because I think that unless its very pale it will show too much and I prefer a more natural look. But that's me, perhaps I'm dated.
Here is where you want definition. If you prefer, use a smaller brush, but I use one brush for the whole lot. Apply a darker shade to the crease. Blend gently with the brush into the base color. Do not use your finger or you will smudge everything.

I still make mistakes when applying eyeshadow but all you have to do is clean it off and start again.

Skin Care Advice

2008-03-25T22:33:00.000-07:00

The skin has the inbuilt capacity to protect itself from environmental stimuli. That is why most animals do not need to take care of their skin. Human beings even, in the prehistoric period, did not take any special care of their skin. But as civilisation progressed, new developments and need for skin care items began to acquire importance. There are, however, many misconceptions even among the most educated and intelligent people, which lead people to all kinds of wrong means for skin care. Further, with the advent ofbeauticians and the manufacturers of cosmetics, wrong concepts are being passed on to the public through television advertisements, apparently to promote their services and sales of their products respectively. This situation is further worsened by the pseudo-experts who ostensibly appear to be imparting information and advice to the public, but, in fact, are misguiding them.

Some people fear that soaps harm the skin, and thus avoid the use of soap during bathing or apply the soap on their body but not on their face. There is no scientific justification for such an attitude. People who do not use soap, may still remain normal because plain water has the ability to clean the skin even though not so efficiently,and the skin has the inbuilt capacity to deal with environmental onslaughts. Nevertheless, such people are at a greater risk of developing a disease as compared to those who clean their skin more efficiently with soap.

The correct procedure for bathing, therefore, is to wet the skin with water, apply an adequate quantity of soap, rub the skin with fingers to produce adequate lather ensuring that all the areas have been rubbed with soap and as the lather persists, wash it off with sufficient quantity of water.

To prevent this dryness, soap manufacturers use excess of fat or other moisturising agents in the manufacture of soaps and claim that their soaps do not produce dryness. This, however, is absurd. The action of soap is to remove the fat from the skin and not leave the fat on the skin. If a soap does not remove all the fat from the skin, it means that the cleaning process is incomplete and the skin is dirty. If it is at all necessary to counteract the dryness of the skin, then the fat or the moisturising agent should be applied after the washing, and not during the washing.

Similarly,the practice of applying an oil before bathing is equally absurd. If there is more oil on the skin, it will require more soap to remove it and if all the oil is not removed, the cleaning is going to be incomplete

Oily Skin Treatment

2008-03-25T22:32:00.002-07:00

Oily skin is shiny, plumpy and dull colored. Oily skin is because of over-active glands, which compose a substance called Asebum, a naturally healthy skin lubricant. Oily skin is differentiated by shininess, pimples and blemishes. This skin type is not certainly bad since it is less prone to wrinkling and other signs of aging than other skin types. Oily skin is something of a combined blessing. On the plus side, it is slow to have discolorations, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Oily skin normally tans beautifully, significantly than just burning and turning red. It has less of a tendency to freckle. Eat a low-fat diet emphasizing fresh fruit, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. Olive Oil is perfect, but still don’t over-use. Drink those always conveyed 8 glasses of water per day, it benefits all types of skin, even oily skin. Eliminate stimulants. Try to have everyday, daily bowel movements.

Oily skin needs special cleansing with plenty of hot water and soap to prevent the pores from being choked. Void harsh products that strip your skin of oil and countenance flakiness.

Do not drink soft drinks or alcoholic beverages. Avoid sugar, chocolate, and junk foods. Use an astringent daily to remove excess oils. Moisturizing is not necessary on a daily basis. Avoid mineral oils and cocoa butter. When selecting makeup, specially foundation and blush, buy oil-free products. Apply a sunscreen that is not oil based, mainly a gel, as it’s less greasy. Do not cook with oil. Do not eat any oils that have been mattered to heat, whether in processing or cooking. Makeup that is water based and non-comedogenic won’t clog pores.

Reduce the amount of fat in your diet. Avoid pork and fried and highly seasoned foods. Once or twice daily, mix equal parts of lemon juice and water composed. Pat mixture on your face and allow it to dry, then rinse with warm water. Follow with a cool-water rinse. Use regular salt as compared to iodized salt and watch your shrimp intake.

Oily skin usually results in enlarged pores and has a inclination to break-out with unsightly blemishes. Use of a bi-weekly mask has also been found helpful in equalizing your skin balance. Fruit acids have shown a affirmative effect in oily skin treatment. A mask of Aloe Vera, grounded strawberries and yogurt is an acerbic for oily skin. Keep it on for about 15 minutes and rinse off with warm water.

Aromatherapy oils such as lemon, rosemary and cedarwood are said to be effectual in treating oily skin. A few drops of any of these oils confederated with lanolin can be massaged into the skin. Lotions containing AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) can help oily skin become softer and delicate. Topical Vitamin derivatives with substances such as tretinoin and isotretinoin are tackle sensitive oily skins. Select cosmetic and facial care products specifically designed for oily skin. Apply oil-free moisturizers for a shine-free complexion.

Natural Caring for the Skin

2008-03-25T22:32:00.001-07:00

Healthy skin is an important part of health and natural beauty. Healthy and supple skin is not so much of a dream if you take proper circumspections and care to your diet and exercise. Natural skin care is more peppy than many synthetic formulations. Excluding water, natural skin care products have up to 95% active ingredients.

Natural skin care is the care of the skin (the largest organ of the body) using naturally-evolved ingredients (such as herbs, roots, essential oils and flowers) combined with naturally occurring carrier agents, preservatives, surfactants, humectants and emulsifiers (everything from natural soap to oils to pure water). Diet plays an essential role in maintaining the health of the skin. Natural skin care goes beyond the application of products on one’s skin.

Natural skin care is phrased to support the healthy functioning of our skin from within and without. Diet should supply all the nutrients required to build health, namely, protein, carbohydrates, fats, essential fatty acids and all the essential vitamins and minerals.

Different natural aids have been found useful in promoting healthy and beautiful skin. Lime juice is an necessary natural aid for healthy skin. Take four tablespoons each of lime juice and iced water. Saturate cotton pads in this water and place over your closed eyelids for 10 minutes. Mix a teaspoon of olive oil with an egg. Smoothen the face and neck with it. Let it linger till the skin gets dry. Tomato, used externally, is good for getting a good complexion. Honey’s natural antioxidant and anti-microbial properties and ability to absorb.

Mix one tablespoon of apple juice with one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice. Leave on for 20 minutes. Makes splendid tonic for combating oily skin. Shea butter is used in its purest, unrefined, certified organic form, it can provide healing for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, stretch marks, and dermatitis. Even today, clinical trials proclaim shea butter’s ability to deliver effective therapeutic results as well as safe and natural skincare.

Jojoba skin care is a natural. Jojoba is a natural moisturizer for the skin. The oil is similar to the natural sebum of whale. People having essential fat deficiency occassionally notice bumps on the backs of their arms. Make a paste of almonds with mild cream and fresh rosebud paste. Apply it daily over the face. Yogurt is a very important natural beauty aid.

Punk Hair Style - Emo Punk Haircut

2008-03-25T22:31:00.001-07:00

Punk hairstyles is one of the popular hairstyles present. The type of hairstyle which abides for more than 20 years are punk hairstyles. Punk Hair Styles are not for everyone but are very stylish hair styles. Punk hair styles are often for the younger crowd who are progressive and do not want the normal everyday hairstyles that most people have. Punk hairstyles are colorful and erratic.

The punk fashion is also affected from different other cultures and art movements like the skinheads, rudeboys, glam rock, greasers, art school students and moods. A Mohawk hairstyle is popluar among those people who please to look for a punk hairstyle. Punk hairstyles are normally very volumous, occassionally with different colors.

There is a little punk even in the most preservative of people. There is a growing style of other kinds of punk-like hairstyles like emo punk hairstyles and indie hairstyles that correlates with a genre of music artists similair to punk. Punk hairstyles will go with almost any face shape. This kind of hair style can be seen on famous magazines, televisions and very high profile people.

Punk hairstyles are often very furry and volumous with many variety of colors. There are different types of freakish styles in punk and it could be adopted by anyone who would love to get noticed in the society. There are many types of punk hairstyles and all these are managed by different aspects such as colour. Colour is the most necessary factor and it is known to be the most known factor delimitating the exact punk look.

All punk hairstyles would certainely have at least minimal hair colours or combinations. The more common colours are orange, blue, purple, pink, green and plenty of others. The color can be actuated to all the hair or just to divisions, highlighting tips of strands, stripes, or particular parts of hair which will be elaborately styled such as the crown or bangs. Radical hair colouring is the exclusive one for punk hairstyle.

Cut can also demarcate whether a style is punk or not. The key is for the style to be outside the mainstream sanctioned styles. Asymmetrical cuts, like hair long on one side and short on the other, are also forms of punk hair styles. Another common cut maneuver for punk looks is to shave patterns or words into the back of the head, usually with non-conformist messages.

Diet for Hair

2008-03-25T22:29:00.001-07:00

A nutritious diet is essential for our growth, well-being and long life. The same is true for the hair. Since hair is the least important of all the human organs, it gets the minimum nutrition from the blood that which is left over after the needs of the vital organs-the heart, lungs and liver. Therefore hair displays the first signs of nutritional deficiency of the body when it occurs.

Hair is an extension of your skin and is composed of cells that have risen from generative cells deeper within the body-cells which are formed, some four to six weeks earlier.

Since hair is made up of protein called keratin hair needs protein for its growth and well-being. Now here are some super protein food items apart from meat, that are good for your hair. Scientists have come up with a way of assessing which protein foods are better than others. Their frame of reference is termed “biological value” and the basic is the amount of food required to meet human needs.

Eggs : Have the largest amino acid methionine than any other complete protein. In addition, eggs contain large quantities of Vitamins A, B, D and E and many minerals including sulphur. One egg a,day can give a real boost to your hair.

Milk : Milk is not just tor kids, it’s for everyone. It is a complete protein with built-in extra vitamins and minerals. that spell lovely hair. Alladults should have one glass of milk a day-plus one serving of paneer(cottage cheese), ice cream or Dahi.

Yoghurt (Dahi) is the oldest health food. It contains lactic acid and possesses all the nutrients and proteins in a form which can be easily assimilated by most people. Dahi has large amounts of Vitamin B Complex along with bacteria which aids digestion and elmination.

It is suggested that’ those on antibiotics should have a cup of Dahi every day as antibiotics kill the useful bacteria which our hair and skin need.

Sunflower Seeds is low in calories and a good source of complete protein, high in poly-unsaturated fatty acids and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Vitamins : If you are eating well, it should not be. necessary to take vitamin or mineral supplements. Vitamins A, D, E and K can cause liver damage if taken in excess. The B group of vitamins, however, are water-soluble and the body will take up only what it requires. Vitamin B is essential for healthy skin and hair and has been considered “food for the nerves” as well as being used to relieve some forms of pre-menstrual tension. So a daily dose of yeast tablets is useful.

A diet high in snack foods, potato chips, cakes, pastries, white bread, foods with high level carbohydrates, sugar-laden soft drinks containing refined sugar or artificial sweeteners or preservative, flavouring and colour, fizzy drinks and fake orange and lemon juice. Factory farmed meats and vegetables can also be high in toxins although these are often difficult to avoid when shopping at the local super-market.

Short Hairstyles

2008-03-25T22:28:00.002-07:00

Short hairstyles for women are very popular these days, mostly because they are extremely easy to maintain, they look great and they are ready to go as quickly as you are. For today’s modern women, the most popular styles are short trendy hairstyles.

The most popular short hair style for women has got to be the ‘bob’. The traditional ‘bob’ hair cut is one length and falls to the chin. It has a perfect shape for any facial shape out there and compliments each shape in different ways which is more difficult to do with longer hairstyles, not to mention more time consuming with longer hair.

To make the ‘bob’ your own all you have to rely on is your hair’s texture. Is your hair thick and straight? Or short and wavy? If your hair is thick and straight you can go for the traditional ‘bob’, because your hair already brings its natural body and volume out when cut shorter, so it will look and feel full.

If you want to make the ‘bob’ more your own it is simple just by adding some thick bangs, and/or ask the stylist to create it without layers. This will highlight your hair’s natural ability to reflect the light and make your hair appear more shiny, glossy and simply radiant.

Now if you have fine, straight hair you should go for more of a shorter tapered ‘bob’ with layered ends. This gives your naturally limp hair the extra oomph it needs to volume up and look fuller.

The ‘bob’ is also a great cut to create short curly hairstyles. If you have naturally curly hair that is thin or fine your hair should fall between your chin and shoulders and have long layers, because curly hair tends to bounce up so you don’t want to cut the layers too short.

If your curly hair is thick, you should decide upon a ‘bob’ that is even longer. Thick curly hair seems to grow outward before growing downward, so the longer the layers the less poofy your hair will be. The ideal ‘bob’ length for thick curly hair would be just above your shoulders. Make sure that the stylist layers the ends of your ‘bob’ so that it lays down more, or else your curly hair will create a triangle appearance.

The ‘pixie cut’ is also another short trendy hairstyle women love. Even though the ‘pixie cut’ is very short, you can create different styles depending on your preference. No matter what you decide to do with your ‘pixie cut’ style wise, (add gel to create a spiky look, pomade makes a sleek look or just wash and go) because of the length of the cut you dramatically decrease the time it takes you to get your hairstyle ready. You can be good to go in less than 5 minutes with a ‘pixie cut’.

You can’t go wrong with short hairstyles if time is something that you are looking to get more of. No matter which short hair cut you choose you need to remember that when short hair styles grow out, they change in shape dramatically. To keep them looking their very best (and you of course), you need to trim them every 4 to 6 weeks.

Blonde Hairstyles - Blonde Hairstyles Tips

2008-03-25T22:28:00.001-07:00

Blonde hair is one of the most favored shades. Blonde hair can offer many great, fresh looks and has become a very popular color for everyone from teens to celebrities. There are hundreds of shades of blonde hair. The first step toward a delicate blonde hair style is selecting the right shade. If you are a natural blonde, analyze your color and see if you’d like to lighten or highlight it.

Natural blonde hair darkens over time, and many blondes choose for mild treatments to keep naturally bright shades. When opting a blonde shade, particularly if you have naturally dark hair, be sure to mate the color to your skin tone. Regard adding highlights to create depth and texture in the hair, but use a maximum of two or three highlight colors to avoid a streaked, patchwork look.

Blonde, like red hair color, requires a lot of care to keep from waning and looking dull and brassy. Lighter tones seem to require even more care than darker ones, specially if left in sunlight for longer periods or faced with excessive heat or chemical treatments. There are lots of options, including shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, glazes, and other products that can help prevent from hair dulling elements as well as refresh blonde tones.

Basic blonde hair style considerations use to any hair color, and it is must to remember them before conforming a style simply to highlight a new shade of blonde. The style should complement your face shape to neglect unbalanced emphasis of different facial features. The style must be cared for properly with adequate styling aids, trims, and products to keep it looking its best. If you take care of your hair style, it will look fabulous no matter what your hair color.

Blonde Hairstyles Tips
1. Natural blonde hair darkens over time.

2. Blonde, like red hair color, requires a lot of care to keep from waning and looking dull and brassy.

3. A blonde hair style can range from light platinum to dark golden blonde.

Hair Highlighting Tips

2008-03-25T22:27:00.004-07:00

Hair highlights can be magical and make a lovely impression. Hair highlights can make a stunning expression to your hairstyle. Highlighting, finger painting or streaking your hair is meant to add deepness to your hair and lighten up your overall look. There are four types of highlights: basic stymie highlights, hair painting, chunking and low-lighting. Hair highlights should go on the top layer for the perfect visibility.

However, if you variate your part or switch styles frequently, consider doing a layer or two below that to keep from looking unbalanced. Highlight from back to front, so you do not drag your arm direct to the colorant. Successful hair highlights also depend on your hair’s health and texture, the amount of time the chemicals retain on and the number of hair highlights you want.

There are three ways for hair highlight: Foiling, done only in salons, involves applying bleach to many fine strands of hair and personally wrapping them in foil.

Foil can be used as embracing the strands of hair being highlighted and then wrapped. Pick the color for highlight that is at least 2 shades lighter than the rest of your hair to bring it to notice but do not go for colors more than 3 shades lighter as it might actually give an odd contrast and look unnatural. The highlight shades are usually bright and have a metallic tone. If practiced well, then the highlight color looks as if the hair is lit up in those tints.

Highlighting is a common trend amongst Indian males and females, regardless of the age group. Both males and females favor blond highlights, though red highlights is another favorite. Some go for louder colors such as blue, purple, pink, etc., highlights. Colored hair needs special maintenance.

Chemicals used in hair highlighting damage the strands and can make hair dull, more likely to breakage, and frizzy. Don’t try and highlight hair around the sides and back of short hair if the hair in those parts is less than one inch long. Use a shampoo and conditioner for color treated hair. Deep condition hair once a week. Void chlorine when hair is colored — it can turn strands into shades of green.

Do not do another chemical treatment for 1-2 weeks. Over processing can cause hair to fall out or break off. Towel dry and blow dry your hair to be sure your hair highlights are just as you desired. Try strawberry blonde highlights for red hair and honey blonde highlights for sable brown base colors.

Hair Highlighting Tips
1. Take thick or small strands of hair.

2. Wash your hair consecutively for two days, before you get highlighting done on your hair.

3. Start applying the highlighting color from the back of your head to forward.

4. Get low lighting done on your hair after three times of consecutive highlighting.

5. Limit your coloring to only three or four shades darker.

6. Take a toothbrush laden with bleach and cover the separated hair.

Hair Extensions - Everything you need to know

2008-03-25T22:27:00.003-07:00

Hair extensions are a great way to adorn your lifestyle so have fun and treat yourself. They make your hair look gorgeous. Hair Extensions is quick way to get longer and fuller hair. There are many types of Hair Extensions on the market, but two main types of application methods: Individual Strands and Wefts. Most people choose to use them to lengthen or thicken their existing hair, nevertheless using them for non permanent highlights and lowlights is also becoming increasingly popular. Fake or human hair extensions can be summed to enhance the look of your hair.

Hair extension is casting hair (human or synthetic) onto your own hair by means of Weaving, Braiding, Strand By Strand, or Bonding. It is generally used by a skilled beautician in a salon, but many individuals have been practising it in the convenience of their own home.

Hair extensions can make you appear and feel younger and beautiful. Many people love man-made hair for its disposability, and some hate the thought of wearing real human hair extensions. Handmade synthetic hair can be certainly brilliant however some of it is completely appalling. Some people who sell this way to clients will swear that there is no damage to your own hair. Some women are even choosing for a few hair extensions to add instant highlights to their hair style.

Many people favour natural human hair extensions as they are wary of handmade synthetic hair or fear it may end up looking not as good as the real thing. There are several points of quality in real hair. Hair extensions have come so far today that they are really insensible. Hair extensions remains between three and six months depending on which method is used and type of hair.

Hair attaching uses glue to cleave the extensions to your existing hair, but can as well be glued to your scalp. Hair extensions and hair bonding are two another methods to increase the hair on your head by adding it to your current hair. There are four techniques in which you wear hair extensions. These are the basic terms the industry uses the individual who is performing the job ranging from braid weave, tree braids, individuals, latch hooks.

Weaving is a method in which you make tracks on the individual’s head and sew the extension on. Wrap or Geles (in Yoruba) can be gained in multiple ways. There is no wrong or right path to tie a wrap. Bonding glue is brushed or applied onto the woof of the extension hair and then it is applied at the root of the individual’s hair. Hair extensions can be extended to your own biological hair to add length, volume, and body.

Best Hair Straightening Irons

2008-03-25T22:27:00.001-07:00

Straight hair can be oleaginous and beautiful. Straightening irons, used to straighten the hair, and curling irons, used to make the hair curly. Straightening irons may also be called flat irons, but not to be befuddled with clothes flat irons. Hair straighteners work by breaking down the hair’s hydrogen bonds present in the hair’s cortex, that cause hair to bend and become curly.

Hair straighteners should only be used on dry hair, except they are especially made with vents to let the moisture out. Hair straighteners are one of the most popular techniques to achieve a sleek and chic look, and many different methods have been tried. Still, one of the perfect ways to get this look is by using Sedu hair straighteners. These are coalition of ceramic hair straighteners and ionic tourmalilne technology that make use of infra red heat.

Ceramic hair straighteners are becoming a popular option as they are lightweight, can heat up without delay and leave little damage to the part of the hair. Chi hair straighteners are another choice for women looking to remove frizz and create a flat and furbish look.

Chi hair straighteners first became popular with the Chi ceramic hairstyling iron. These hair straighteners and flat irons offer obliterable plates that also help protect the hair cuticle. Chi hair straighteners are designed in such a way which they help seal in color and moisture.

There are different methods to straighten your hair. Chemicals are also another fully used method of straightening the hair. Unlike thermal straightening, chemical straighteners or relaxers are permanent. There are three basic kinds of chemical hair relaxers.

What is Cellulite - Treatment Tips

2008-03-25T22:24:00.000-07:00

Cellulite is a combination of excess fat, water and extra-cellular waste which gets lodged in the connective tissues of our body. Once the cellulite is trapped, it pushes up against the network of skin’s restraining fibres. It appears as the unsightly unevenly distributed lumps and pads of fat on our body.

Cellulite is different from the ordinary layer of fat which lies beneath our skin. Unlike cellulite, the evenly distributed fat layer provides insulation and cushioning to the internal organs and is a source of energy, our body ordinarily calls upon.

Cellulite Treatment

Cellulite is not a medical term. It is a word coined by the Europeans to describe a common physical condition characterised by the uneven bulges that appear visibly prominent on our body.

The tendency to develop cellulite is largely hereditary. It afflicts young and old, men and women alike.

Anti Aging Cream

2008-03-25T22:23:00.002-07:00

Anti-aging creams are cosmetic products reatiled with the promise of making the consumer look younger and removing visible wrinkles on the skin. The many advantages of a good anti aging cream can help keep you looking great and feeling good for years.

The perfect anti aging skin care therapy will have both preventative and reparative benefits, as it is never too soon to start taking care of your skin. There are a range of cosmetic treatments for the emergence of wrinkles on the skin such as plastic surgery and botox injections.

Usually, anti-aging creams have been peddled towards women, but products particularly targeting men are increasingly common. Dermacia is a break-through skin treatment that includes cleansing, toning, moisturizing and a breathable foundation and assures lasting coverage, nourishment and protection. Botanicals and vitamins should be biased in face creams for it to be even somewhat persuasive.

There are assorted different philosophies and credence behind the science of anti aging. Few people believe there is a lot of hype on the skin care creams frontier, when it comes to affirming the ability to reverse aging. An anti aging cream with non-greasy moisturizers can give you effect in a short amount of time, and should give you better results over a period of persistent use.

Many anti-wrinkle creams have some form of retinol which in differing formulations has been shown to give a “rejuvenating” appearance to the skin, in that it provokes the renewal of skin cells and reduces dark spots. Protecting the skin from the damage the sun can dish out is the first step to forestalling further loss.

Eating Tips for Busy Women

2008-03-25T22:23:00.001-07:00

Today, more than ever, people are finding it important to try to stratagem around busy schedules, while still maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Healthy eating will help you feel great, look great, carry out every-day activities better and authorize you to keep it up for many years to come. Poor health for most women is the boost up of poor life-long nutrition choices and the lack of exercise, both cardiovascular and weight practice. If you make good options now and exercise on a continous basis, you’re less likely to become a strain on the health system years later.

Supplements are meant to supplement healthy eating, not reimburse for poor eating habits. Exercise is not an choice. Cardiovascular exercise and more significantly resistance exercise (weight lifting) is essential for good long-term health. Muscles will increase your metabolism making it possible to lose fat, and resistance exercise has fantastic benefits for your heart and other organs. A daily vitamin E may help protect against heart disease and cancer.

Eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Women need over 40 different nutrients for good health, and no single food will supply them all. Use small amounts of residues for the next day’s meal. Use leftover chicken in a salad for lunch. Apply extra chili on a baked potato for dinner. Eat plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. There is a wide variety out there from which to choose, so you should have no problem finding some you like.

Eat meals on a regular basis. When you are on the go, it is simple to skip meals, or substitute eating healthy foods for fast food. Eat food in moderate portions. If you keep portion sizes to this level, you will be capable to maintain a good weight. Lower certain foods instead of eliminating them altogether.

Busy women need in breakfast eat in small portion and leave something on the plate. One cup all bran flakes with yogurt clutches and skim milk with a hard boiled egg. Bran cereal is usually gross, but this cereal tastes great and it provides 15g fiber. Add the boiled egg for some protein. Have snacks with less than 30g Carbs, less than 125 calories and less than 3g fat. Pick breads and cereals with more than 3g fiber per serving. Choose foods with less than 600mg sodium per serving. Eat foods rich in complex carbohydrates.

The body needs glucose to feed the brain, and the easiest way to get it is through complex carbs, like whole-grain bread. Drinking water is very important. It can help you retrieve from a cold more quickly (though it doesn’t “cure” it), replenish lost fluids after exercise, and assist in weight loss. Cooked oatmeal with applesauce whirled in; topped with raisins and chopped almonds; 8 ounces low-fat yogurt.

Beauty Masks

2008-03-25T22:22:00.000-07:00

Facial mask is a creamy mask applied to the face for hygiene effects to clean or smooth the face. Masks (homemade or otherwise) should remain on for 10-15 minutes, should follow with a cleansing and a thin layer of moisturizer. During face-lifts, the surgeon provides you a younger face, but it is a fairly expensive process and one can obtain the same benefit of a finer textured skin and better skin tone with face masks.

Honey face mask for sensuous skin warm a small pot of honey in a double boiler, then test a small amount on your hand to make sure it’s not too hot. When warm, apply the honey magnanimously over your entire face. Leave the mask on for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm, then cool water. Banana mask is useful when your skin oily. Mix the banana and honey altogether.

Add a few drops of juice from an orange or a lemon. Apply to face for 15 minutes prior to rinsing with a cool washcloth or a autoclave warm washcloth. Tomato pulp mask is make your skin beautiful and better look. If you want a better look your skin crush some tomatoes, drink up the juice and spread the pulp all over your face. It tightens up your skin, and closes the pores. The tomato juice is for refining your skin from inside.

Coconut Mask-For this you need enough coconut oil to spread upon your face. Rose water for rinsing. Massage the coconut oil in gently. Next take a towel, dip it into hot water, wring it out and spread it over your face.

If you lie down, the circulation will absorb the oil. Repeat this process 4-5 times and then rinse your face with warm water. The rose water is to remove all vestiges of oil. A protein mask — Soak a teaspoon of urad dal and 5-6 almonds overnight. Grind this to a fine paste applies this protein mask on face and washes it off after half an hour. This mask nurtures the facial skin and also enhances the complexion.

Milk Mask made ingredients is 1 tsp powdered milk, 1 tbsp runny honey, 1 tsp aloe vera gel and 2 drops essential oil. This is a classic milk mask for the face. Potato face pack you will need 1 teaspoon of potato juice and 1 teaspoon of multani mitti. Blend both the ingredients together and apply on the face. Leave it until it dries and wash off with lukewarm water.

Autumn apple facial mask is great to get your skin glowing anew but take it easy if your skin is already dry. A gel mask however is spread on a clean skin and allowed to dry. In about 10-20 minutes, you can roll it off like a second skin. These masks are peeled off starting from the chin and lifted upwards. With these masks you lift out dead cells and even facial hairs and blackheads.

Apple and Honey Mask. Grate the apple, mix in the honey and apply to your face. It is a benefitial for oil skin. Take tomato juice, cucumber juice and lemon juice; add a little calamine powder or gram flour to it. Make a paste and apply it on the skin. Wash off with lukewarm water when dries. One thing you always reminisce choose a facial which hat will soften the upper derma layers and improve its color, clean and contract.

Aromatherapy Diffuser

2008-03-25T22:21:00.000-07:00

Aromatherapy is basically a natural treatment where plant and flower extracts are used for their healing properties and applied to the patient in order to provide him/her instant relief. This is an ancient practice that was often used even in ancient Egyptian civilization. It is a method where oils and fragrances help in the easing pain. It is a comforting and relaxing treatment that helps the body in rejuvenating and strengthening itself. Aromatherapy is conducted using an amalgamation of various oils that come as supercritical fluids, compounds and distillates that help a patient through their healing properties.

Some of the basic aromatherapy ingredients include basil, clove, jasmine, ginger, grapefruit, rose, ylang ylang, chamomile, peppermint, eucalyptus and bergamot. These aromatherapy oils, when diffused, spread their healing property that can be inhaled or applied directly on the skin. Diffusion is a basic principle that is used in aromatherapy that helps medication. There are various types of diffusers, from the purse size aromatherapy diffuser, to a spa diffuser. This can be done using an aromatherapy diffuser that can help create a synergy of sorts in the atmosphere. The fragrance and the healing properties of the oils that are spread in the air will help in providing relaxation.

All of them have one purpose, to disperse the essential oil into the room or space desired. The aromatherapy diffuser can be found in specialty stores and sometimes in department stores.There are many types of aromatherapy diffusers. Some diffusers include Lamp rings. Lamp Rings are terracotta rings that go around the bulb; it has a grooved lip that goes all the way around. In these rings you pour the essential oil and the heat of the bulb will disperse the scent into the air and fill the room. Other type of diffuser fan diffuse. Fan is used to disperse the essential oil scent desired into the room.

This is achieved by placing the oil on to an expendable absorbent pad, spot the same into the unit and so begin the lover. Fan diffusers go in a kind of sizes. Electric warmth diffuser consumption warmth along with a really tiny. Electric warmth diffuser lover to lightly scatter the vital oil smell into the place desired. Nebulizer is a good apparatus, it takes the vital oil and breaks it into distinct molecules before dispersing them therefore making the concentration of the gist quicker and best. This method is said to get high curative value. An aromatherapy diffuser is a good and cheap device to de-stress and love your moment at house or in the agency.

Fashion faces

2007-10-08T05:43:00.001-07:00

London club night BoomBox and New York originated dance night Misshapes present their picture books of the club scene changing the face of fashion.Over a period of six years, photographers Karl Lagerfeld and Ryan McGinley captured the portraits of the fashionable visitors of the New York club night Misshapes. A selection of 3000 images is compiled in one book and represent the fashion of the NYC club scene.
Legendary London club night BoomBox teamed up with M.A.C. Cosmetics and presented the BoomBox Book during London Fashion Week. Richard Mortimer organised the first edition of BoomBox in June 2006 and soon it became the fashion dance night of London. Friends and regulars of BoomBox contributed to the publication and namely resident photographer Alistair Allan made its fabulous dressed visitors look even more strong and striking.

Demand for Kate Moss campaign wanes

2007-10-08T05:42:00.001-07:00

According to the Daily Mail, Kate Moss will be seen in 8 campaigns less this season than last. Brands such as Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton, which she has fronted in the past, are all using younger models or well-known actresses. Kate was the face of 18 brands last year, which are down to 11 this year.

The Daily Mail has uncovered that three are her own-label, such as TopShop and her new fragrance that launched this month. She entered last year's autumn season with a record 18 major contracts, earning her tens of millions of pounds.

Last October's Vogue carried six campaigns fronted by Moss from the world’s most luxurious brands, yet next month's edition features none, even by those brands that still employ her. For example, Burberry uses model Agyness Deyn, 20, and Louis Vuitton's face is actress Scarlett Johansson.

Experts believe 33-year-old Moss is not the force she was, but is far from finished. Her range with TopShop has seen massive profits and was the fastest selling collection to date. Francesca Newland, deputy editor of Campaign magazine, told the Mail: "I see her slightly waning now - but from a very great height. She is still going to be everywhere."

A senior industry source said:” You could say she's past her peak but her peak is not determined by her, it's determined by her ability to sell clothes.

Top change at Dior

2007-10-08T05:40:00.000-07:00

From October 1st, the current role of president of Christian Dior Inc. by Patricia Malone, will be taken over by Pamela Baxter, President of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton's Perfume and Cosmetics Group. Within 17 months, this is the second top change of the U.S. division of Christian Dior Couture.

Dior stated, "The move reflects Dior's appreciation of Pamela Baxter's success in managing the North American perfumes and cosmetics business and it looks forward to her leadership in these expanded responsibilities." Less then two years ago, Malone replaced Marla Sabo when Dior’s U.S. sales were going down. Malone will pursue other opportunities and Dior thanked her for her contributions to its North American activities, aldus Dior’s statement.

Baxter has already been working with Dior, being the U.S. head of LVMH's perfume and cosmetics division, which include Christian Dior Perfumes, Guerlain and Parfums Givenchy. She came on board in 2003, when she was the president of Lauder's Specialty Brands Group. Dior’s North American beauty business needed fresh input and by working closely with Dior’s distribution and focussing on the brand’s heritage, she managed to revive Dior’s market place.
According to Baxter, “Dior is a fashion house, it has many facets with categories such as accessories, shoes, jewellery, cosmetics and perfume. It's a whole image-driven business that appeals to a woman and she buys into the whole Dior look," Baxter said. "This gives us an opportunity to align the brand and image from top to bottom."

In the first half of this year, Christian Dior Couture’s sales went up with 12% to 368 million Euros and operating gains ascended to 28 million Euros compared to 8 million Euros in 2006. This season and previous season, Dior already tried to work on its U.S. profile. The brand hosted catwalk shows in New York to present it’s new collections to press and buyers.

Suitsupply expands

2007-10-08T05:39:00.001-07:00

Dutch suit shop Suitsupply, is planning to expand its brand accross Europe. This month Suitsupply will open its first foreign branch in Antwerp and later this year a store will be launched in London. Director Fokke de Jong is aiming to open hundred stores in the upcoming ten years spread over Europe. According to De Jong, the company is ready to expand in foreign countries especially now the Netherlands counts twenty branches.

The collection on offer in foreign countries will differ from the Dutch range, where it’s styling is more orientate on the Italian market. This style is very appealing to the European market, but doesn’t suit the British consumer. In the United Kingdom the suit developed differently and has its own cut and etiquette. In order to offer the right style, a special design team will focus onto the British market. Research learnt that the detailing on trousers vary and British designers prefer to use plain fabrics compared to striped. For the London shop De Jong set up a back up plan and also have the regular collection on display. In Belgium compared to the United Kingdom, less adjustments will be necessary. In Antwerp, Suitsupply will launch the brand with the opening of a flagship store of 650m2.

London and Antwerp are the first cities Suitsupply is going to expand, after which the suit company will focus on to the rest of Europe. Suitsupply will invest own money, as De Jong is the company owner for two third. The other third is owned by the McGregor Fashion Group.

News from Copenhagen Fashion Week:

2007-10-08T05:38:00.001-07:00

Gallery int. fashion fair in expands with 2000 m2 and a number of new exciting brands during Copenhagen Fashion Week 7.-10. February 2008. This means that buyers for the first time can see all the leading 85 Scandinavian designers in one

Among the new designers are Velour, Ida Sjöstedt, Hope, by Malene Birger, Rützou, Bruuns Bazar, Baum & Pferdgarten, Ivan Grundahl, Stine Goya and Wood Wood. Gallery also presents 80 very interesting non-Scandinavian brands like Costume National, See by Cloe, Margiela 6, Raf by Raf Simons, Calvin Klein, McQ, Betsey Johnson, Westwood Anglomania, Kishimoto.....

Copenhagen Fashion Week is before Paris, Milan, London which means that buyers will se these all of these SS08 collection for the first time at Gallery.

Gallery has 8000 m2 of exibition area at Forum in central Copenhagen.

Stella McCartney returns to profit

2007-10-08T05:37:00.001-07:00

Stella McCartney reported its first profit last week of 180,678 pounds compared with losses of 1.2 million pounds in the previous year. Gucci Group CEO Robert Polet set a deadline of the end of 2007 for Gucci's smaller companies

— including McCartney, Alexander McQueen and Balenciaga — to turn a profit.

On Tuesday, Polet told WWD: "This achievement is an important pillar for the brand and for our group as a whole, and it has been reached one year ahead of schedule.

"It is a signal that the company strategy is sound, and that once again we are exceeding the expectations of our parent company, PPR, and its shareholders. In six years, Stella McCartney has significantly developed worldwide, becoming an acknowledged brand with a strong identity and a healthy business with a brilliant future ahead," Polet said.

On Thursday McCartney showed her spring/summer 2008 collection to rave reviews. The collection was shown against a floral backdrop resembling a flower garden, designed by French botanist Patric Blanc.

McCartney went back to her Central Saint Martins roots and showed floral prints and corset detailing on separates for her spring summer 2008 collection. For evening, fluid chiffon dresses were juxtaposed with tuxedo jackets and flared, tailored trousers.

McCartney, who doesn’t use leather or fur, showed wooden clogs with multi-glass beads and matching bags for accessories.

Paris Fashion Week round-up

2007-10-08T05:34:00.000-07:00

If Chanel and Balenciaga are the French fashion houses to follow, American Sportswear will be a key trend next season. Karl Lagerfeld , who on the runway showed denim swimming suits,

tennis-inspired knits and even tweed stripey sweaters, told the Herald Tribune: “Sportswear is what we wear every day," he claimed. "And America because the dollar is low! And without America, we would all be terrorists - or Communists!" Meanwhile, at Balenciaga, Nicolas Ghesquire took sportswear to the next level showing baseball-like lacing traced on curvaceous seam lines, body conscious dresses, and innovative fabric compositions. Think sportswear mixed with couture.

At Yves Saint Laurent, Stefano Pilato brought back the jacket for spring, this time giving it a fresh cut and roomy volume. Fitted, drapey dresses in navy and washed mauve added to the modernist feel of the show.

The much-lauded Giambatista Valli showed full skirts of soft white dresses, billowing kaftans, and voluminous, couture-esque pieces. The designer told WGSN: "As always I start with a muse - this time it's Verushka. I love these strong independent women. And I love the psychedelic touch too.”

Elsewhere, at Dries van Noten, the designer focused on colour and contrasting moods. Mixed prints, set against white, were juxtaposed with yellow-tones, acqua, apple greens and peach. All the rules were broken as pattern was mixed with shift dresses, sarong skirts and halter tops, 50s-style shorts and soft wrap-front pants - casual blousons or soft throw-on jackets added to the relaxed vibe.

Valentino showed his last ready-to-wear show before his final couture presentation in January. The designer sent an array of colourful dresses down the runway, including the house signature red. Polka dot prints, ruffles on hems and corded lace added an extra dimensions. The finale of show stopping gowns were evidence of the designer’s master of elegance and cut.

How body con is shaping up as the look of the season

2007-10-08T05:33:00.001-07:00

I have to say, I do like fashion trends to have names. If I'm going to make the effort to wear it, I want someone to have taken the time to name it. So this season is shaping up pretty well for me. I was particularly excited about a trend one magazine dubbed "nu grave", which is perfect for that large demographic of pun-loving goths. Sadly, black lipstick just does nothing for my complexion.
Happily, there's something else called "body con", which is proving surprisingly popular at the moment. Short for "body conscious", this refers to skintight mini-dresses, tight high-waisted trousers and basically any other garment that makes you, as the name suggests, very conscious of your body - conscious in the sense that you can't eat lunch without busting a seam. Versace, Alexander McQueen and Christopher Kane have gone body con and the high street is following suit, churning out tight and teeny dresses that, unless you're a Wag, are best worn with small heels instead of stilettos.

If the phrase that comes to mind is, "I thought we'd seen the last of this nonsense after Sinitta disappeared from the charts," you are thinking along the right lines, but underestimating fashion's ability to recycle itself. No less a fashion authority than the Sun claimed that a body-con garment "holds in wobbly bits". However, this results in a problem familiar to fans of control-top knickers: any fat you squeeze away in one area will pop up somewhere else. Maybe your waist-cinching dress gives you the circumference of a pencil, but it's hard to concentrate when a roll of fat moves north and bulges out of your collar. Might be useful as a travel pillow, mind.

Moreover, to paraphrase Ferris Bueller, fashion moves pretty fast and if you don't stop and look around, you could get it very wrong. Which brings us to Victoria Beckham, who turned up to Marc Jacobs' show last month wearing what looked like a couple of Band-Aids wrapped around her tiny form. Juxtaposed with the models on the runway, all wearing looser fare, VB didn't look so much fashionable as uncomfortable and she was duly slaughtered in the papers the next day. VB, you should have gone nu grave.

2007-10-08T05:31:00.000-07:00

When I was six I used to wear this cowgirl outfit all the time. It was cowboy boots, a fringed skirt, vest and some guns. I loved it. My mum thought it suited me. My family's not fashioney at all though. Last year I went up to a family affair in Queens, New York, and looked at some pictures of us in the past. And everybody's kind of... grey, apart from me. I'm like, 'Pow'!

How I get dressed: Patricia Field

The stylist who invented Sex and the City style is now at work on the movie

Eva Wiseman
Sunday October 7, 2007
The Observer

When I was six I used to wear this cowgirl outfit all the time. It was cowboy boots, a fringed skirt, vest and some guns. I loved it. My mum thought it suited me. My family's not fashioney at all though. Last year I went up to a family affair in Queens, New York, and looked at some pictures of us in the past. And everybody's kind of... grey, apart from me. I'm like, 'Pow'!

Article continues
I see fashion as an artistic expression of how you adorn yourself. There's no lie in it. Costume is separate. Fashion is a self-expression and costume is an application. I have brought a certain consciousness of female power to film through costume, by dressing my characters in a descriptive way that shows their assets. The first step in the process comes from the script. Carrie in Sex and the City could have been played by any other actress, so first I abstract the character. When you know both the real person and the fictitious one you have to sort of make a bridge and join them together. It's like an equilateral triangle - character, actress, wardrobe. I find the parallels then put them together. I have to find a map before I reach the destination.

I started dyeing my hair in my thirties when it started losing its colour. I began experimenting with different colours, then eventually settled on red about 15 years ago. I think of it as a pure red, not a natural red. It's a good colour for my skin. I could be a 65-year-old woman sitting here with grey hair, looking every day in the mirror, getting dressed, and knowing that it wasn't how I felt. Colour is extremely important to me. Colour is part of our real existence. I don't understand when people don't respond to colour. It's like not responding to music. Like when people surround themselves with 'neutrals', and make their houses beige. I find that unnatural. And that love of neutrals? It's definitely about something not good - I don't know whether it's fear, or what, but to me colour is organic, so to deny colour is not natural. Everyone loves a red rose, but for many people that's the end of red. And to me that makes no sense.

The reason my style is individual is because I was brought up to think for myself. My mother was busy and didn't have time to sit and Hoover over me, so I grew up very free. I never asked permission to do anything, I made my decisions very young. I wasn't aware that I was different to anybody else, but now I see I was kind of unique. So this upbringing is where my style starts. But then, I don't see myself as having a style - I just put clothes on.

In my early teens I wore jeans every day. I always dressed simply, I never wore ruffles or fluffles, or pastels - I never dressed 'girly'. My hair is my only wildness. If I was wild anywhere else I'd look like a clown. I'm not a precious dresser. I still wear T-shirts and jeans and let my hair carry it. And when I want to make a statement I just wear a colour that goes with the red hair.

When I got into the fashion business, fashion itself wasn't my motivator. When I got out of college I just wanted a career. I didn't want to work for anybody. So for me, the motivation was to be independent, and fashion was the vehicle for me to do that. It was easy. After three years in fashion retail I opened my own business. Fashion was just a tool really. And it never really changed. It's grown to encompass film and TV, and I've found that people like to hear what I have to say too.

People like me because I'm honest and intelligent, and quite fun to look at. I'm down to earth, so celebrities like me too. I express what I feel honestly, because it takes too much energy to bullshit. I never lie to make people feel good. I'm told I'm brutally honest, but I never think honesty is brutal. Though I suppose the fashion industry may be about hiding the truth.

There is a little cowgirl in me still. I got cowboy boots, and I'm going to get a revolver next. It's easier to get one in America - gun-toting is part of our constitution.

Paris fashion week comes to a close in a blaze of rainbow hues

2007-10-08T05:30:00.001-07:00

From Alexander McQueen's rainbow-style plumes to Antonio Marras' exotic Amazonian jungle motif, the Paris catwalks couldn't have provided a more colourful and bold finale to the prêt-a-porter season.

The startling display of feathered dresses in rainbow shades at British designer's McQueen's extravaganza conjured up birds of paradise, while his chiffon frocks ran the gamut of colours from orange through to fuchsia and turquoise – confirming colour as the unifying theme for next spring/summer.

On the Kenzo catwalk the fantastical flora-and-fauna-inspired collection offered lush hues in beautiful hibiscus- and orchid-print maxi-dresses. While the Kenzo collection reflected the colours of the rainforest, Jean Paul Gaultier had gleaned his inspiration for Hermes from India. Top model Lily Donaldson sashayed down the runway in a luxurious canary yellow sari topped with a matching leather turban, while her catwalk colleagues donned vibrant purples, oranges and blues which conjured visions of an Asian market-stall.

Bold jewel colours played a key part at Lebanese designer Elie Saab's show, too, appearing on long, floaty numbers ans short, full-skirted 1950s dresses. Bias-cut silk, satin and chiffon gowns in ruby-red, sapphire and emerald looked destined to turn up at a movie premiere and will no doubt find their way into the wardrobes of Elie’s top clients such as Halle Berry and Diane Kruger.

Elite Model Management

2007-10-05T06:30:00.000-07:00

In the world of modeling, few agencies have the recognition, respect and reputation of Elite Model Management . Without a doubt, Elite is at the forefront of the industry not only in name and press, but also in bookings and management. The Elite Group, with affiliated agencies in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Miami, Toronto, Paris, Milan, Barcelona, Munich, Hamburg, Athens, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Fribourg, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Sao Paolo, Porto Allegre, Rio de Janeiro, and Santiago, bills over US$100 million in modeling fees anually and represents approximately 1'000 models on five continents.

And with good reason ...

Elite, more than ever, has positioned itself as an agency built on a solid foundation of history and experience, a foundation that allows its talented staff to innovate, create, and manage in an ever changing industry. Teamwork, systems, and communication are the basis of the company's mission statement.

Elite's strategy is pure and simple:

Carefully selected, quality models coupled with the highest level of management and service. The result being long-term balanced careers uncompromised by short-term goals.

Some of the most recognizable names and faces to ever grace the modeling industry began their careers in the Elite family. From current cover girls Maggie Rizer, Karen Elson, Oluchi, Adriana Lima, Elsa Benitez, Missy Rayder, Angie Schmidt and Josie Maran, to industry icons Paulina Porizkova, Iman, Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, Tyra Banks and a never-ending list of others, Elite has launched the careers of more industry superstars than any other agency in the world.

Elite Celebrities, headed by industry legend, Monique Pillard, represents such top talent as Ashley Judd, Brooke Shields, Isabella Rossellini, Monica Bellucci, Iman, Ahn Duong and Drew Barrymore.

Click Model Management, Inc

2007-10-05T06:29:00.000-07:00

Click Model Management, Inc. was founded in 1980 by Frances Grill, Joey Grill and Allan Mindel. The name "Click" is in homage to the sound a camera makes and to the photographers who make magic with them. Prior to founding the agency, Ms. Grill was an agent for fashion photographers and had been representing such talents as Oliviero Toscani, Steven Meisel, Fabrizio Ferri, and Lillian Bassman. The switch to models was a natural move, and so with Joey and a friend Allan, who joined the company soon after, Click Models was born.

Over the past 20+ years Click has grown from one office in New York City to having offices in Paris, France; Sao Paolo, Brazil; Los Angeles; Atlanta; Miami; Boston and Philadelphia. Click Models presently represent over 600 models with divisions in women and men's print fashion, television commercials, plus size, runway, showroom, FIT and kids.

Many of the world's most famous faces such as Isabella Rossellini, Uma Thurman, Whitney Houston, Elle MacPherson, Phoebe Cates, Talisa Soto, Tanga and Grace Jones have been represented by Click Models. Since 1986, Flick Talents based in Los Angeles was formed in order to provide a broader range and greater service to our models in the fields of acting and television commercials. In 1995, Framework Entertainment, a bi-coastal theatrical management company was formed in order to handle the personal management needs of other talents in the television and theatrical industry. Some of the talents represented by Framework are Lucy Lui, Camryn Manheim, Marcia Gay Harden, Debi Mazar, Talisa Soto, Stephanie Seymour, Karen Duffy and Aida Turturro.

In 2001, Click through its acquisition of the venerable modeling agency, Zoli Models, has also acquired a full service Hair, Makeup and Styling division called Illusions.

Click Models remains committed to its successful strategy of growth through new ideas, new industries, new acquisitions and the continual superior service provided to their talent and clients throughout the world

Model agencies and skinny & teenage models debate

2007-10-05T06:19:00.000-07:00

"My feeling is that the agency is the mother of the model, or the father of the model, or the guide of the model. We're taking this on as CFDA and the designers, but they are only given to us by the agency themselves," says UK-based designer Donna Karan stepping into discussions on skinny models. Other are concerned about the problem of young models. "The social problems we have in Brazil mean that many families are willing to let their 13-year-old daughters move and live with people they've never met. But this is why there are more top models now from Brazil and Russia than anywhere. It would be very unusual for a mother in a country like France to do something like that," said Anderson Meyer, marketing director of Daphne agency in Brazil.

Another major figure of the fashion world that entered the skinny model debate is designer Donna Karan. Donna Karan has weighed into the skinny model debate by saying eating disorders shouldn't be a problem for designers to address. The designer added that it should be down to models' families and agencies to sort out the problem.

"I think that we're all conscious and aware of health and wellbeing, but it appears that it starts from the beginning and that's the family and the agencies," she said at the Council Of Fashion Designers Of America (CFDA) panel discussion on combating eating disorders in the modelling industry.

And she queried why an agency would find it acceptable to send her any girl with an eating disorder.

"My feeling is that the agency is the mother of the model, or the father of the model, or the guide of the model. We're taking this on as CFDA and the designers, but they are only given to us by the agency themselves."

She added: "This is not a blame, it's an order of priority of how one can handle this. It's a suggestion to start there... yes with the parent, but definitely with the agency."

Top model Natalia Vodianova, who herself admitted to overcoming an eating disorder, said that as long as the information was being made available to girls with existing or potential problems, she believes: "It doesn't matter who does it."

The other tendency which becomes a rule for agencies is the age limitation. Usually, models must be 16 (or 17) years old to be able to be engaged in some form of modeling job.
For instance, in Brazil, intensive search for ever-younger models has sparked soul-searching within the fashion industry, resulting in some self-policing on the catwalks. The country's biggest annual industry event, Sao Paulo Fashion Week, this year instituted its first age limit, declaring its runways off-limits to models younger than 16, Washington Post reported.

Such restrictions are already enforced in Paris and Milan.

Washington Post (washingtonpost.com) has been reporting about this trend. "As soon as (Sao Paulo) Fashion Week announced it was doing that, it started a trend that will now be followed everywhere in Brazil," said Anderson Meyer, marketing director for Daphne, which has 900 models under contract. "It's going to have a very big impact on the industry."
"The social problems we have in Brazil mean that many families are willing to let their 13-year-old daughters move to Sao Paulo and live with people they've never met," said Meyer. "But this is why there are more top models now from Brazil and Russia than anywhere. It would be very unusual for a mother in a country like France to do something like that. We see it every single day here."

Bundchen, who returned to Brazil last month to attend a fashion show in Rio de Janeiro, was quoted by Brazil's O Globo newspaper as faulting a lack of support from families for the health problems among the country's young models. "I never had this problem, because I had a strong family base," said Bundchen, 26. "Parents are responsible, not the fashion industry."

Dieting

2007-10-05T06:13:00.001-07:00

Such contradiction between the number of diets and the ever growing percent of over-weight people gives us the reason to suspect that there is something wrong with the very principle behind those plans and programs. Many of them are based on the exclusion of some or other types of food and/or on the decrease of its calorific value. Sadly, none of those methods bring long lasting results. It is indeed devastating, after so many sacrifices, to watch your pounds creep back again.

Each diet guru proclaims his/her creation to be “revolutionary” and “magical”, although most of them have no scientific value. Even programs, proven scientifically, can make mistakes. Science evolves constantly and new discoveries often contradict old ones.

We dutifully follow scientific suggestions, forgetting that Mother Nature provided us with everything we need for a long and healthy life. Take the Bible for example. In it we find references to people like Sara, who lived to be 197 years old, or Abraham, who died at the age of 275. If those people don’t seem real to you there are many current examples of longevity.

Our body is a self-restoring organism. All of our cells reproduce over certain periods of time. Our liver, under favorable conditions, is able to function for, at least, 200 years. However, we manage to destroy it in 40-50 years.
The condition of our health depends on many factors. Some of them, like environment or genes, are out of our reach. But, there still is something we can do for ourselves. And the best place to start is to look closely at the food we eat. Let’s call it “the right diet.” What is “the right diet”? It is a diet, created specifically for you and by you. Don’t be surprised. Everyone can become his/her own dietitian. After all, who knows your body better then you do? Use common sense, listen to your inner voice and no diet will be necessary for you. Do you want an example? Here it is:
Some programs suggest taking small amounts of food throughout the day as often as possible, starting from the morning. How many people do you know who wake up hungry? If you are one of them and really need a morning meal to get you going, by all means-have breakfast. But if you are like me and can’t even comprehend the thought of food in the morning-why stuff yourself just because someone said that it is right? You will get much more positive effect if you just have a glass of juice.

Or, where is the logic behind the idea of eating all day long? The digestive system, forced to constantly process even small amounts of food, has no time to rest and rejuvenate. So it starts breaking down much sooner. An organism, overloaded with food, concentrates all its power on digestion, partially shutting down some other processes. That is the reason why we are sleepy after a heavy meal. But digesting food is not the body’s only obligation. It’s not even the most important one. It’s also supposed to keep us healthy, maintaining an inner order and fighting illnesses. We lose appetite when we are sick. The energy, which was used for breaking down food, now is used for a fight. So, consuming needless amounts of food, we voluntarily deprive ourselves of protection, which our organism is supposed to give us.

Food keeps us alive, providing energy for our everyday activities. That is true. But how much food do we really need? Not as much as one could think. Take Tibetan monks, for example. They feel wonderful on less amounts of food per day than some of us take just for one meal. Many parents know how difficult it can be–to make children eat, even once or twice a day. And, at the same time, they are healthy and energetic. Why? Because young bodies are relatively clean and even the smallest amounts of food digests, fully releasing all nutrients, without losing them in the process. What does it tell us? It’s not the quantity of food that matters, but the quality. As well as the condition of all our vital organs and systems.

Now, what do we get when we reduce calorific value of our meals? Nothing, except the constant feeling of being hungry. However, a hungry person can think of nothing else but food. That kind of brain stimulation can lead to such side-effects as irritability, offence that nature did not bless you with good metabolism, and annoyance toward those who can eat everything without counting calories. Only very strong people can pass through all those barriers and still achieve some results. The majority of us usually stop in the middle, or even at the beginning of the process. After 2-3 attempts at dieting a person loses self-confidence, accepting problems, that come with excess weight, as something inevitable. But it should not be that way.

Our health, as well as weight maintenance, is in our hands. And it starts not from that moment when we buy any diet plan and not even when we make a New Year's resolution to get slimmer. It starts from clear realization that weight loss is not a plan or program-it is a way of life. People, who consciously, once and for all, choose a healthy lifestyle, can not only lose weight, but keep it from coming back as well.

We love food, we idolize food and many of us just can’t bear the thoughts of giving it up. However, healthy eating does not mean a necessity to deprive yourself of your favorite dishes, but it does mean clear understanding of how different types of food affect not only our bodies but our mind as well. And, with that understanding, the right decision comes easily.

When you choose health as your way of life, please be patient and do not expect quick results. A body needs time to adjust all of its systems to a new life. The full transition can take as long as 3 years. This is especially true for a change of taste in food. Many dieting attempts failed just because this feature was not taken into consideration. For example: you love sweets and baked goods, but, to regain your former harmoniousness, you have to eat vegetables, which you are not a big fan of.
In such situation result will be negative. The diet will be dropped before long. Not many people can stick with food they don’t like. However, when new foods are introduced gradually, an organism, and especially the digestive tract, has enough time to adjust to it. In 3 years a change in taste is so significant that people don’t remember and never miss their old ways. This method is not only correct physiologically, but also is much easier mentally. Why is such an adjustment important?

Our stomach produces specific juices to digest various types of food. When a big amount of new and unfamiliar food is introduced, a stomach might not be able to cope with it. Food, that was not properly digested, starts to decay, producing toxins and poisoning an organism. If such a situation lasts for a considerable length of time, it might become dangerous, causing serious damage to one’s health. So, to be sure not to harm yourself, first consult licensed nutritionist you trust. Also, educate yourself. Read books-they contain all of the wisdom of mankind.

Don’t trust those who promise “quick and easy” results. There is nothing “quick and easy” about turning one’s life around. It is a long way, which requires time and patience, but it brings the greatest reward that no money can buy-long lasting physical and mental health, as well as realization that good health is a wonderful gift, which can be enjoyed for many years to come.

Dieting

2007-10-05T06:13:00.000-07:00

Internal Body Cleansing

2007-10-05T06:12:00.000-07:00

Our organism is very smart and perfectly organized. By nature it has purification ability and can maintain a healthy metabolism, assimilate all nutrients and remove all the waste. But,unfortunately, modern eating habits are a far cry from the ideal. We overeat or we don’t eat enough of what is good for us. As a result, our body cannot process all food received because there is not enough gastric juices and enzymes necessary for normal digestion. Food that is not digested properly starts to decay, releasing large amount of toxins. Those toxins then travel to all the organs and systems of the body through the blood and poison it. The decayed food that was left in the digestive system prevents it from working normally. In that case practically all new food that goes in turns to waste and the body suffers from malnutrition even if it receives enough of good quality foods.
Food that was left undigested and not removed from the body is gradually distributed among all the organs and systems of the body in the form of waste. Food is the main factor in the formation of waste in the body, but certainly is not the only one.
There are many purification techniques that can help with the problem of our body’s internal trash. Of course it is impossible to cleanse the whole body all at once; it should be done gradually. Start with the digestive system and then proceed to cleanse liver and gall bladder, stomach and pancreas, kidneys, blood, veins and vessels, joints and the respiratory system.
Interestingly enough, not every body requires purification. Would you like to know if you are amongst the lucky ones? Then ask yourself a few questions:
How do you feel in general-cheerful or sluggish?
Do you have a good night sleep or do you turn and toss all night and don’t feel rested in the morning?
Do you enjoy physical activity or do you get tired easily?
Do you enjoy life or do you suffer from minor depression?
Chronic fatigue, insomnia, persistent moodiness, and apathy-those are the first signs of the body in urgent need of cleansing. There are also external signs of the cleanliness of a body. Take a close look at your skin, hair and nails. If your skin is smooth, your hair is dense and shiny and your nails are strong and even, then you are in good shape. However, if your hair is dull and prone to split ends, your skin is very dry or too oily and covered with pimples and wrinkles, and your nails are soft and break faster than they grow-then cleansing is a must.
If the food you eat does not bring you satisfaction, if you can’t enjoy simple foods anymore, if you suffer from constipation and bloating-it’s time to get serious about your health.
If your joints remind you about themselves with every move you make-start cleansing.
The process of purification is long and somewhat difficult and it is not for everyone. Pregnant women, people with stomach and/or duodenal ulcers, diabetics, oncology patients, those suffering from hepatitis, meningitis and tuberculosis and also patients, recovering from illness, should refrain from this process.

Night cream

2007-10-05T06:10:00.004-07:00

add juice of ½ lemon to 1 cup of plain yogurt and mix well. Apply to a face and keep overnight.

Crowfeet

2007-10-05T06:10:00.003-07:00

Take 2 pieces of stale white bread and soak them in warm milk or cream for a few seconds. Place bread over closed eyelids for 10-15 min. Best result is reached when procedure repeated every day for at least 1 month. Finely shred white or red cabbage. Mix it with 1 tsp of crushed oats. Apply on clean face for 20 min. Wash off with warm water and apply moisturizing cream.
Combine 2 tbsp of oat or corn flour with 1 raw egg yolk. Whip mix until foamy. Apply on clean face with cotton swab. Keep mask on for 20 min and carefully remove with wet napkin. Wash face first with hot then cold water, pat it dry and apply your favorite cream.

Crowfeet

2007-10-05T06:10:00.001-07:00

Eyelids

2007-10-05T06:09:00.003-07:00

Peel and grate small raw potato, squeeze out excess juice and cover 2 small pieces of cheesecloth with the mash. Place it on eyelids for 10-15 min.

Eye cream

2007-10-05T06:09:00.001-07:00

10 g of crushed fresh parsley combine well with 20 g of unsalted butter.

Facial scrubs and cleansers

2007-10-05T06:08:00.002-07:00

Combine 1 tbsp of sugar with 6 drops of olive oil. Carefully massage the mixture over damp face and rinse with warm water.
Combine equal parts of salt and olive oil and gently massage your face and throat for few minutes. Wash off with warm water and pat dry.
In 1 cup of boiling water put 1 tbsp of lightly crushed fennel seeds and steep for 30 min, filter and add 1 tsp of honey and 2 tbsp of buttermilk to the infusion. Keep cleanser in a fridge in a glass container. Use to cleanse face in the evening.

Facial mask for Sensitive skin

2007-10-05T06:08:00.001-07:00

Put 1 tbsp of dry rose petals or sage in 2 cups of boiling water and steep till liquid cools down a little and becomes comfortably warm. Keep compress on your face for 2-5 min.

Winter facial mask

2007-10-05T06:07:00.002-07:00

Peel 1 lemon, pick out seeds and mash it with fork. Apply rich cream to your face and cover it with thin layer of cotton (or cotton swabs).Distribute mashed lemon evenly over cotton. Apply new portions as old one dries up. Keep on for 10-15 min,remove and again apply any facial cream.

Anti-aging facial masks

2007-10-05T06:07:00.001-07:00

Mix together 1 tsp of honey, 1 whipped egg white and 2 tbsp of flour. Apply to a clean face and keep for 10 min. Wash off with lukewarm water.
Mix 1 tsp of honey, 1 whipped egg white and 2 tbsp of flour. Apply to a clean face and keep for 10 min. Wash off with lukewarm water.

Facial masks that whiten skin, soothe and smooth wrinkles

2007-10-05T06:06:00.004-07:00

Combine 1 raw egg yolk with 1 tsp of honey and 1 tsp of glycerin. Apply to the face and keep for about 2 hours. Wash off with lukewarm water. Keep the rest of the mix in fridge for no more than few days. This facial mask can be repeated 2-3 times a week.
Mix together 100 g of sour cream, 100 g of vodka, juice of 1 lemon and 1 raw egg yolk. Whip and keep in the fridge under tight lid. Apply on a clean face, neck and hands before bed. Wash off in the morning with warm water.
Carefully combine 1 whipped raw egg white, 1tsp of lemon juice, 1 tsp of grated lemon peel and 2 tsp of oats. Mix well and apply to the face. Keep for 10 min. To remove this facial mask soften it with wet cloth and splash your face with cool water afterwards.
Mix together 100 g of honey and juice of 1 lemon. Apply thin layer to the face and keep on for 15 min. Wash off with warm water (no soap).
2, 5 g of gelatin place in 30 ml of water. When gelatin is ready add 60 ml of glycerin and 10 g of honey. Dissolve everything over the steam from boiling water. Cover face and neck using brush or cotton swab. Keep for 10-15 min, wash off with warm water.
Mix together 2 tsp of oat flour, 1 raw egg yolk and 2 grated carrots. Leave on your face for 20 min; wash off first with warm then cold water. Add 20 drops of lemon juice and use this facial mask as whitening.
Put 2 tbsp of yarrow grass and 2 tbsp of chamomile flowers in 750 g of boiling water, cover tightly and steep for 45 min. Wash your face twice a week, every time preparing fresh extract.
Mix together 1 tbsp of linden flowers, 1 tbsp of crushed fennel or parsley and 1 tsp of crushed sage or oak bark. Add 2-3 cups of boiling water and divide everything in half. One half of liquid should be 35-36° C and the other half-24-25° C. Use both halves in rotation to wash your face. Start with hot liquid and end with the cool one. Do it 2-3 times. Repeat the procedure twice a week.

Fast short-term solutions for fresher skin

2007-10-05T06:06:00.003-07:00

Combine whipped egg white and fresh yeast till thick like facial cream. Keep on face for 30 min then wash off.
Whipped egg white mix with oat or corn flour till it reaches consistency of facial cream. Add 1 tbsp of lemon or 2 tbsp of tomato juices. Apply to a clean face and keep for 20 min. Wash off with lukewarm water.

Facial masks that bring color to pale skin

2007-10-05T06:06:00.001-07:00

Combine 1 tbsp of honey, 1 tsp of lemon juice and 1 tsp of orange juice. Mix very well and apply to clean face. Keep the mask on for as long as possible, but no less than 30 min. Wash off with warm water.

Honey water: feeds skin, softens it and smoothes wrinkles to some degree

2007-10-05T06:05:00.002-07:00

Dissolve 1 tbsp of honey in 2 cups of warm water. Wash the face for 5-7 min before bed. Rinse with warm water with no soap..

Cleans and rejuvenates face and neck

2007-10-05T06:05:00.001-07:00

20 g of laurel leaves bring to a boil in 100 g of water, let stand till cools down and wipe your face in the morning.

Cleanser for oil-clogged pores

2007-10-05T06:04:00.004-07:00

Mix together 1 tsp of milk, 1 tsp of honey and 1 tbsp of ground almonds. Apply mixture to your face and scrub lightly for couple of minutes. Rinse with cool water.

Facial masks that clean and revitalize skin and tighten pores

2007-10-05T06:04:00.003-07:00

Add 3-5 drops of lemon juice to a beaten egg white and spread it over the face and upper part of the neck. When first layer dries up apply second one. Keep for 15-20 min and wash off with lukewarm water.
Beat 1 egg white to thick foam and add ½ tsp of honey, ½ tsp of fresh milk and ½ tsp of lemon juice. Mix well and add a little bit of flour to make it thicker. Apply to the face and keep on for 20 min. Wash off facial mask with cool water without soap.
Combine 2 tbsp of water, 2 tbsp of alcohol and 100 g of warmed up honey. Keep the mask on for 10-12 min. Wash off with lukewarm water.
Combine 1 tbsp of honey, 1 egg, 1 tsp of dried and crashed chamomile flowers and 1 tsp of finely chopped fresh mint. Apply to the face and neck, keep for 15-20 min and wash off with warm water.
In a blender mix 1 tbsp of instant nonfat dry milk, 1/2 of peeled cucumber and 1 tsp of plain yogurt. Apply to the face and keep for 20 min, rinse off with lukewarm water.
Combine mashed banana, 1 tbsp of honey and small amount of orange juice. Apply the mix to clean face and keep on for 15 min. Rinse off with warm water.
Mix together 1/2 tsp of honey and ½ cup of pureed cucumber. Apply to your face and leave for 30 min, rinse with lukewarm water.

Cold cream-moisturizer

2007-10-05T06:04:00.001-07:00

Combine 1 beaten egg yolk and 2 tbsp of lemon juice. Stirring constantly, slowly add ½ cup of olive oil and ½ cup of vegetable oil until the mixture thickens like paste. If too thick add more lemon juice. Spread over your face for 10-15 min and wash off with warm water.

Moisturizer and makeup remover

2007-10-05T06:03:00.003-07:00

Combine 1 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tbsp of coconut oil, 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and 2 tbsp of mashed strawberries, and 1-2 drops of vitamin E. Keep in a fridge in a covered jar.

Facial mask for busy woman

2007-10-05T06:03:00.001-07:00

Cut open 2-3 grapes and smear their juice over the face, neck and eyelids. Wash off in 15-20 min with cold water.

Facial masks for beautiful skin

2007-10-05T06:02:00.001-07:00

Skin care is a part of our everyday life and facial masks can help us with that. Let's face it-our skin shows signs of aging first. Aging is individual for everyone and depends on many factors such as: genetics, lifestyle, general health and work conditions, and climate. All of those factors take their toll on our skin. Do not wait for the first signs of aging to appear; start caring for your skin as early as possible. This applies to both women and men alike.
Home made facial masks are good because it takes just minutes to prepare them,they are cheap and they give wonderful results. Facial masks should be used regularly, at least once a week, for the best results.
Some people choose just few skin care products and stick to them; some people like trying new and different ones. It does not matter as long as it makes you happy. However, remember that some ingredients may cause allergic reactions. Consult your doctor or do a skin test before using any new beauty product.

Herbal Remedies and Beauty Tips

2007-10-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered why more and more people turn their attention to alternative medicine, to herbal supplements, and home remedies?
In our modern world it is getting more and more difficult to meet an absolutely healthy person. Many of us exist in some kind of middle stage. We are not sick but we are not healthy either. Fatigue, tiredness, irritability, to name just a few-those are the symptoms of that stage. Where we go from there-up to health or down to sickness-is, in most cases, up to us.
This site provides you with simple, easy to follow home and herbal health remedies and beauty tips, which anyone can prepare in their own kitchen in a short period of time.
It is a common knowledge that preventing disease is much easier than treating it. However, for those who already suffer from any health problem, this knowledge doesn’t do any good. And, let’s face it, traditional medicine, however progressive, doesn’t have answers to everything. When this happens to you, don’t lose the hope. Instead reach for the wisdom of our ancestors. Conventional medicine, as we know it, is much younger than the use of herbal treatments and home remedies. There were times not long ago, when healers were laughed at and even persecuted for their beliefs. Now we are coming back to our roots and realize that nature is not called Mother for nothing. Like a loving and caring parent it provides us with everything we need to survive, including healing herbs-a greenery around us that we usually take for granted. Herbs can help you improve and restore your health and vitality safely and for the fraction of the cost of prescription drugs.
There are many advantages in using herbal remedies: they are cheap and easy to prepare, they have no side effects and (with some exception) are absolutely safe even for prolonged use, and they can bring long lasting results and even complete healing. The only disadvantage is that some treatments may take months, even years, depending on the problem, for the complete healing. However, the first results usually show after 10-14 days, which gives sufferers a reason to continue with the treatment.
For the convenience of those who are not particularly excited to prepare the remedies we provide themselves, we placed links to alternative medicine sites that offer ready-to use herbal products for different health conditions.
You have to remember that everyone is different and what is good for some people may not be as good for others. This is why you must always contact your doctor before trying any new products. Combining conventional medicine with unconventional ones, we can achieve better results in maintaining good health. We owe it to ourselves and to our loved ones.

Acne

2007-10-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

Carb. V. 6,30, 6h. Simple and recent in young persons.
Bella. 3, 30, 4h. Simple and recent in young persons if plethoric.
Puls. 3,30, 4h. Simple and recent in young persons if pale.
Kali Brom 3x,30, 4h. If chronic.
Ant Rad. Bro. 30, once a week.
Arct. L. 3x, 4th. From cold drinks,
Bellis 3x, 4h. [Sulph. 6,30. 8h. may be given intercurrently with any of the other medicines, and it is often useful to apply at the same time a lotion of Sulph. q (a teaspoonful to the ounce) with a camel-hair brush to the spots.)
Thuja 30, 3 doses in one day , then wait , is often a useful remedy.
Berb Aquifolium. Q mins 10 in a little water 3 times daily after meals. This may be given in conjunction with the homeopathically indicated remedy.

Acidity

2007-10-05T05:58:00.000-07:00

Acid. Sulph. 3, 4h.
Arg. Nit. 6, 4h. With gastralgia and eructation of wind.
Calc. Carb. 6, 4h. After food, everything taken (especially fat, oils, and suger) “rises acid” the kind of dyspepsia that precedes tubercle.
Sulph. 6, 4h. Regurgitation of food tasting acid, a, hour after eating; sinking sensation at epigastrium.
Lyco. 6, 4h. With distended feeling after the least food, constipation, thick urine with red deposit.
Robinia. 3, 4h. Constant eructation and vomiting of intensely sour fluid, principally at night.
Carb. V. 6, 4h. With much stomach flatulence. See also Dyspepsia.

Health & Disease

2007-10-05T05:57:00.000-07:00

Man's brain vitalizes his body. If he is in good health he has the feeling of ease. If he is not feeling well there is disease. When bodily health is weakened or destroyed it is obligatory that we should be familiar with the ways and means at our disposal to regain it. The human organs are always striving to reject harmful influences and to cure themselves. We must therefore be careful to avoid everything which may hamper this "aspiration" of the body . Which may be called the "Vital Force" or the 'Nature's Healing Power' . For instance it is inadvisable be expose the inflamed eye to strong light , to sing or shout with diseased lungs, to suppress fever with strong drugs , or to try to get rid of skin eruptions and rashes by violent external remedies. In many cases , however , Nature is not able to effect a cure unaided - the harmful influences from without may be too strong , as for instance in epidemics, or the body may be weakened by privations or a wrong mode of life . In such cases it is necessary to help Nature in her fight against disease by suitable regulations and remedies. Here Medical Science come in, which, if properly understood, is a boon to the suffering mankind.

Beachvolleyball-News: ANA PAULA FINDS ANOTHER LEGENDARY BRAZILIAN PARTNER

2007-10-04T15:39:00.000-07:00

Fortaleza, Brazil, September 24, 2007 - With regular partner Leila Barros sidelined with injuries, Brazilian Ana Paula Connelly has been searching for Beach Volleyball partners the past six week to compete in SWATCH-FIVB World Tour events.After playing with two-time Olympic silver medal winner Adriana Behar in Finland and Russia with fourth- and fifth-places, respectively, Ana Paula was again looking for a partner for this week’s US$400,000 Banco do Brasil Open starting here Monday with the Brazilian country quota playoff matches.

With Shelda Bede returning to competition with Adriana Behar after missing the two European stops with her long-time partner due to injuries, Ana Paula found another legendary Brazilian to play with this week as two-time Olympic medal winner Sandra Pires accepted the invitation to compete with her Athens 2004 Summer Games partner.

Playing in their 17th SWATCH-FIVB World Tour event together, but their first since September 2004, Ana Paula and Sandra scored a 26-24 and 21-14 win in 44 minutes over Izabel Bezerra and Taiana Lima to advance to Tuesday‘s Qualification Tournament where the final eight berths for the women’s 32-team will be decided on the Praia de Iracema.

“It was fun,” said the 35-year old Ana Paula, who teamed with Sandra to place fifth in the Athens Games before ending their partnership a month later on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro by capturing the gold medal at the 2004 SWATCH-FIVB World Tour season finale.

“Leila is still a long way from recovering from her left hamstring problems,” Ana Paula added. “I was hoping she would be ready to play this week, but her injury is really serious. I talked with my coach about reuniting with Sandra for this event. We gave her a call and the next thing we were training together. It will be tough since we still have to qualify for the Main Draw, but we like our chances.”

Sandra, who won her 1,000th career Beach Volleyball match Monday, including domestic and international competition, won an Olympic gold medal with Jackie Silva at the Atlanta 1996 Games in an All-Brazilian finale against Monica Rodrigues and Adriana Samuel.

Four years later, Sandra and Adriana Samuel captured the bronze medal at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games after losing to eventual gold medal winners Natalie Cook and Kerri Pottharst of Australia in the semi-finals. At the Athens 2004 Summer Games Sandra and Ana Paula were eliminated in three sets by Adriana Behar and Shelda in the quarter-finals.

“I am still playing,” said the 34-year old Sandra, “but more domestically now. Ana Paula and I had some very good results together, and hopefully, we can duplicate our last start together three years ago in Rio. We both have played a lot of matches. As for 1,000 career wins, I am glad to achieve the mark here in Brazil.”

Tuesday’s first qualifying match for Ana Paula and Sandra will be No. 100 together internationally as the pair has now posted 82-17 FIVB match mark. In their previous 16 events together during the 2003 and 2004 seasons, Ana Paula and Sandra competed in nine gold medal matches with five titles and $294,500 in earnings to rank 25th on the all-time SWATCH list.

Also winning Brazilian country quota matches Monday were the Salgado sisters (Carolina and Maria Clara) and Shaylyn Bede/Agatha Bednarczuk. Brazil has already placed four teams in the women’s Main Draw, including Juliana Felisberta Silva/Larissa Franca, Talita Antunes/Renata Ribeiro, Adriana Behar/Shelda Bede and Maria Antonelli/Leão Vanilda.

The last of 13 double gender events on the 2007 SWATCH-FIVB World Tour calendar, the Banco do Brasil Open will have the men’s country quota playoffs Tuesday followed by the qualifier Wednesday. Play continues through the weekend as teams from 34 countries will be seeking the $32,000 first-place prizes. Following the women’s first- and third-place matches Saturday, the medal matches Sunday will conclude the men’s 2007 SWATCH-FIVB World Tour schedule. The women’s season-ending event will be played Oct. 31-November 5 in Phuket, Thailand.

Meteorite causes a stir in Peru

2007-10-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

The explosion near Carancas frightened and awed residents and (they say) made them sick.

By Liubomir Fernandez and Patrick J. McDonnell, Special to The Times
September 21, 2007

CARANCAS, PERU -- When she heard the explosion, Isabel Junquilla said, she was sure that war had broken out.

"We thought the Chileans were attacking," Junquilla, 53, recalled Thursday, referring to Peru's historical rival, Chile. "That's what everyone was saying. It was very loud."
Townsfolk in this desolate, high-plains hamlet not far from Lake Tititaca and the Bolivian border received the shock of their lives -- a meteorite that struck nearby with a thunderous bang just before noon Saturday, leaving a deep crater, an acrid smell and terrified villagers and livestock.

The meteorite strike cast a spotlight on this hardscrabble outpost of perhaps 3,000 Indian peasants who live in mud-brick homes and make a living by growing potatoes, herding llamas and raising scraggly cattle.

The incident took on a magical realism feel like something out of a Gabriel García Márquez tale as residents reported strange illnesses and revolting odors, while rumors swirled of a military attack, radiation leak or a celestial rain of gold.

"The day after it fell, we heard this might be worth some money, so we went to pick up everything that was out there," said Eugenio Vilalla, 30. "But there was this terrible smell, really strong, and it gave everyone a headache.

"So the people picked up a few little stones and went home to rest and take a matecito," Villala said, referring to coca-leaf tea, a common cure-all here.

Since then, hundreds have reported maladies, including headaches and nausea. But experts said the reactions probably were imagined. There is no evidence of radiation at the site, officials said.

"Those who say they are affected are the product of a collective psychosis," said Jorge Lopez Tejada, health department chief in Puno, the nearest city.

Authorities took soil and water samples near the crater for analysis.

After days of doubt, they confirmed Thursday that the object was indeed a meteorite -- not volcanic pumice, space junk, or some other Earthly or extraterrestrial phenomenon.

"We're now convinced this was a meteor," said Ronald Woodman, director of the Peruvian Geophysical Institute, which sent a team to the isolated site, about 600 miles southeast of Lima, the capital. "This kind of phenomenon can be dangerous, if it falls on a town, or on a house or person. Fortunately, this wasn't the case."

The object, metallic in nature, created a crater 41 feet in diameter and produced a seismic shock equivalent to a 1.5-magnitude earthquake, Woodman said.

Authorities say the crater was about 16 feet deep.

Experts from Peru's nuclear energy institute estimated that the meteorite was no more than 3 feet in diameter when it smashed into Earth at an extremely high speed.

That piece may have been all that remained of a much larger object that burned up while streaking through Earth's atmosphere, experts said.

The event has drawn worldwide interest, since few objects from outer space make it all the way to Earth's surface.

And it has caused a sensation in this drowsy corner of the Andean altiplano.

"Even before it fell, there was a strong sound, like an airplane," said Marina Llanqui Mamani, 53. "And when it hit, it felt like an earthquake. Everyone was terrified. Even my animals were running all around in fear. Then there was a loud noise and a lot of smoke."

The pungent odor, experts say, could have been caused when the crashing object fused with such elements as sulfur in the soil.

With the danger seemingly past, some here are thinking big: Why not make the whole deal a tourist site, a small museum and side trip for the many visitors headed to Lake Titicaca and Bolivia?

"Now that various experts from Japan and other countries have assured us there is nothing bad, we have decided this belongs to us," said Benito Mosaja Pari, 56, who called himself the village lieutenant governor.

"We're going to dig it out. The scientists tell us this was part of a world that fell apart. It has some value.

"And now it's ours."

Pop Tarts: Gisele Bundchen Caught Kissing 'Australian

2007-10-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

OS ANGELES — Gisele Bundchen has been known as the "Boobs From Brazil" her entire catwalk career, but now she's revealed how she keeps her strut looking hot.

The sexy supermodel arrived in Australia this week and on Tuesday night launched her Ipanema Collection, which features a fresh, environmentally friendly range of flip-flops and summery sandals.

"As a model, footwear is very important," the supermodel told Pop Tarts. "We have to wear the most uncomfortable shoes, so when I’m not working I need flats that keep my feet in good shape."

And now that Bundchen has parted ways with "Victoria’s Secret," she has also canned her "Angel" wings — going as far as to be caught getting cozy and even kissing someone a little furrier than football beau Tom Brady. Gisele fell for the native Australian koala while whirling through Melbourne Zoo.

But Pop Tarts since has learned that boyfriend Brady stayed true to his "Patriot" persona and forgave his fashionista for her "infidelity."

"Gisele was on her cell a lot of time talking and cooing with him," her spy said. "She still seems so smitten and anxious to get back."

And despite being the world’s highest-paid doll for designers, this glam girl disses any "diet."

"She ate anything and everything," our snitch said. "Bundchen even made a call to room-service for a late-night fix of fries."

Meanwhile, rumors are rumbling that Gisele could be an official "Brady Bunch" star soon.

According to our insider, the runway royal has been slowly reducing her traditional model duties and is "ready to move into a new phase of life both professionally and personally."

'Grrr Baby Grrr': Casey Affleck Angers Movie Reviewers

Note to Casey Affleck: Peeving the press while interviewing for your big brother’s directorial debut probably wasn’t the wisest thing to do.

Despite contributing his fresh face for the film, the younger Affleck (who stars as a private investigator in search of a missing child in Ben Affleck's heart-racing thriller "Gone Baby Gone") doesn’t have the off-camera connection, concentration or common sense of his big bro.

FOX was flabbergasted by Affleck Jr.'s one-word answers, whistling, fidgeting and his focus on the interviewer’s fancy footwear rather than his own film during press day.

The 32-year-old father even continued to interrupt the interview with comments like "Aren’t you sweet" when asked about the serious storyline.

Hello — this is your brother’s breakthrough big picture!

But FOX wasn’t alone. A number of other media outlets made reference to his rudeness — with one network telling us that "he forgets that nobody knows him as Casey Affleck, just as Ben Affleck’s baby bro" and another saying "and to think I thought he was disrespectful at 'Ocean’s Thirteen' — never again."

Oscar-winning Ben, on the other hand, seems to work much more brutally for his buck by actually positively promoting his first (and fabulous) feature as director.

"I’ve been around a lot of sets, but I never anticipated just how much directing would fill me with the combination of both fear and exhilaration," Ben said. "I didn’t know how big a job this would be."

Click here to watch Ben talk about being boss

And while the Boston-born bros may both have homes in Hollywood, Ben and Casey never will be comfortable in California — and that’s probably the only thing these two have in common.

"I do find it difficult to put myself out there enough to really trust anyone in the biz," Casey finally said in agreement with his senior sibling.

And it appears as though Ben is more than happy to have made the move from diva to director. The screen sensation told the upcoming issue of Details magazine that his 2002 romantic relationship with Jennifer Lopez was "probably bad" for his career.

'Legally Bound': What Wasn't Witherspoon Allowed to Answer?

Reese Witherspoon will always be the sweetest of starlets, but probe anything other than her professional life and her lips will become "Legally Bound."

The Academy Award-winning actress and her on-again/off-again romantic interest, Jake Gyllenhaal, star together in the upcoming thriller "Rendition," but even asking how she handles the hot-headed press probing into her personal life is like "Walking the Line" in Witherspoon’s world.

The almost-always articulate actress seemed strangely scared by the standard query. She screwed up her face and shook her head, prompting a publicist to stage a sudden intervention.

Click here to watch

Why so overprotective?

According to an actress close to Reese, her approach for all interviews is to steer completely clear of "anything outside work" because her words too often are warped and she doesn’t want to be "burned."

Gyllenhaal, however, had a much more open opinion on the media and its meddling ways.

"I don’t hold it against people for wanting to know about our personal lives and reading all those magazines and what not," he said.

"Our world is in a very bad place at the moment, so I think it is only appropriate that people look to other things and have an interest in all the drama and happenings of celebrity lives, and I hope that at some point I can help the public sedate and escape what’s really happening in the outside world."

Meanwhile, Aussie actress Abbie Cornish (who has been blamed by the press as the "other woman" in the break-up between Reese and Ryan Phillippe) handles her headlines simply by retreating Down Under.

"I am lucky I don’t live in L.A. so I can go back to Sydney and kind of escape it all," she told FOX. "I’m serious about my craft, and people have to understand that most of what is said about celebrities is made up by the media. I just have to stay away."

Star-Spotting: Spears Goes 'Seasonal' and L.C.'s Pound-Popping Plot Exposed

After bumming from one end of Tinseltown to the other on Wednesday, Britney Spears and Cousin It (otherwise known as Spears' cousin Alli Sims) finally decided the prime place for publicity would be none other than the Beverly Wilshire hotel in Beverly Hills.

A Pop Tarts spy happened to be leaving a film's press day when Alli and Brit bumped up in Spears' maimed Mercedes, causing a sudden surge of fierce photogs.

Fearing for their life, our inside source was forced up against a wall to escape the paps trying to get snaps of the two checking in. (Who knows why Brit needs a hotel room when she has two residences in L.A. already?)

After posing for pics, Spears finally said "Gimme Less" and retreated to an upstairs room for privacy.

However, something that looks likely to deepen the diva's depression (aside from the fact that the court refused to reverse an order giving Kevin Federline full custody of her sons) is news that Alli, the only person who seems to have been able to stay close to Spears, has broken away from the Britster.

"Extra" reported on Thursday that the aspiring singer stormed out of Spears' home and had her belongings transported to a condo in Marina Del Ray. Ironically, Britney's mom, Lynne Spears, apparently also owns a condo in the very same complex, although Sims insists this was no influencing factor.

But Alli has been trying to break free from the Britster for some time.

"I've been planning this for six months; I've just been doing it slowly," she told "Extra." "I've had an apartment all along."

Meanwhile, we’ve also discovered how to become hot as "The Hills" by losing loads of lard like Lauren Conrad. For the second time in the last few days, Pop Tarts spotted L.C. and her pals Whitney and Audrina in their high-heels at Whole Foods. The glammed-up gals glided anonymously through the Park Le Brea branch with their small salads in snack packs — a cashier confirming that they like getting greens before going out.

'Unemployable' Lindsay Lohan Cruising From Coke to College?

Unlike Tinseltown troublemaker Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan seems to be striving toward a successful graduation from rehabilitation.

The "Bobby" beauty celebrates 60 days in her Utah lockdown on Wednesday, and according to insiders she has no immediate intentions of leaving the lodge.

But while everything is looking lush in Lindsay’s personal life, it seems she may have to "Li-Lo" for a while or search for a new skill if she wants to further boost her bountiful bank balance.

"It will most likely take years of perfect behavior before Lindsay will work again," a very high-profile Paramount producer told Pop Tarts. "It will literally cost a network millions to insure her for a movie and as talented as she is, it is highly unlikely that studios will be quick to get (her) back on the set."

So even if Lohan really is reformed, it appears time is her only ticket back into the business.

But according to a friend of the "Freaky Friday" femme fatale, Lohan hates Hollywood and intends to boost her brain instead.

"Despite what so many people think, Lindsay is an incredibly smart girl and always wanted to have that college experience," our source said. "She’s looked into a few institutions on the east coast and will most likely major in something like psychology. At this stage, NYU is a hot favorite."

Pop Tarts also has learned that her father, Michael Lohan, arrived at the Cirque Lodge facility on Monday night to spend five days with his daughter, and apparently the two are preparing applications for Linds to start studying in the spring.

Calls to Li-Lo’s rep were not immediately returned.

Spears' Supplier: Is Someone Giving Britney Drugs?

While no official confirmation has been made, it is largely speculated that the Britney Spears saga has been sparked by a drug habit. In fact, one of the reasons she lost her kids is she failed to show up for a court-mandated drug and alcohol test.

While no pap snaps have captured the depressed diva doing any dirty deeds, inside sources have told Pop Tarts that Brit’s expressionless face and bizarre behavior is due to a "Crazy" cocaine addiction.

"What people don’t realize is that an addiction is an addiction — you lose touch with reality; it’s like being on the outside of yourself looking in," a recovering coke addict (who wished to remain anonymous) admitted. "You aren’t always aware of what you are doing, and unfortunately in Britney’s case she has two children and there's so much more at stake when you’re a parent."

But the question remains: Who, if anyone, is secretly supplying Spears with her stimulants?

Inside speculation suggests it may come via her protection posse or driver. So the pop princess may not be terribly talented at keeping her kids, but if Brit really does have a drug dilemma, she is certainly savvy at keeping her supplier out of the spotlight.

And while a number of media outlets are saying that Spears successfully sat for her California driver's license on Monday, Tony Potts (host of MyNetworkTV’s new Monday night series "Celebrity Expose") has told Pop Tarts that Spears was requested to return to the DMV on Tuesday as she failed to fill out the application correctly.

"This once again could serve as an example of Spears and her addiction, a short attention span and difficulty retaining information," our source said.

So amid this Spears saga, is her "real" family still trying to reach out?

"Both Britney’s brother and sister Jamie tried to stage an intervention on Monday after news broke loose that she lost the kids," Potts said. "But typically, Britney pushed them both away. And what’s so sad is that she has now lost the only two people in the world who can love her unconditionally just for who she is — her sons."

Cate's Claim: 'Sex and the City' Concept Is Nothing New

Approaching middle age and still being single is something we associate with Carrie Bradshaw and her fashionable friends on "Sex and the City." But according to Cate Blanchett, this prospect was prominent in the 1500s.

The "Babel" beauty brings back "Elizabeth" in Shekhar Kapur’s sequel "Elizabeth: The Golden Age," and it seems the character is just as frightened of falling for someone as Samantha Jones is.

• Video: Cate Says Falling in Love Can Be Scary

"This isn’t the first time Elizabeth falls in love — she has a lot of male courtiers and incestuous relationships," Blanchett told FOX. "But she’s a middle-aged woman and finding 'the one' is terrifying … a lot of us find the concept of falling in love just terrifying."

And how did the Australian A-lister prepare for her sex change as the star of "I’m Not There," in which she plays lyrical legend Bob Dylan?

"Well, the first thing I did was learn to play the guitar," Blanchett said.

Britney Tans, Goes to DMV After Releasing Boys

Kevin Federline successfully swindled his sons from Britney Spears on Monday (at least temporarily), and while the former backup dancer was doing Daddy duty, his ex-wife seemed to be celebrating with some self-indulgence.

With the boys off her hands, the Britster boogied her way to a Bel-Air tanning salon, and according to an eyewitness she was "smiling sweetly and almost seemed relieved" — but only after she (finally) made a guest appearance at the DMV in Van Nuys to sit for her written California license exam. That’s our girl!

And after such a big day, Brit obviously felt like she deserved a beverage, and apparently hightailed it to the Peninsula Hotel, where she was seen sipping something (it was unclear whether it was a soft drink or something stronger.)

According to an inside source, Britney was totally emotionless and continued with her day-to-day duties after being informed that her sons would be residents of Fed-Ex's home.

X17 Online snapped the songstress taking her boys, Sean Preston, 2, and Jayden James, 1, going through the Carl’s Jr. drive-thru for a fast-food fix Monday afternoon before handing them over to K-Fed’s bodyguard at a designated meeting point.

An eyewitness said Spears was smiling, seemingly unaffected by the incident, and once again it appeared as though Brit Brit was driving (without a valid California license?!)

Another custody hearing was scheduled for Wednesday.

• Missed Drug and Alcohol Test, License Problems Led to Britney's Custody Loss

And despite all the speculation that the almost-unemployed Fed-Ex went after the kids simply because he wanted a big bite of Brit’s bursting bank balance, could it be possible he just wants the best for his baby boys?

"Everybody needs to back off and give him (Kevin) a break; he is doing what any normal, loving father would do and that is strive for the best for his sons," a Federline friend told Pop Tarts. "It’s not a money thing at all; he could definitely make enough to live a comfortable life. There is no hidden agenda behind any of this."

So why isn’t he pushing to be the sole parent of his first two children with Shar Jackson?

"Shar is an amazing mother and the two work very amicably," our insider answered. "There would be no need for him to try and change the arrangement with Shar. Remember, Kevin knows a lot more of what goes on with Britney behind closed doors, and he knows it isn’t appropriate to expose his children to that."

Sore Stiller: Ben Has 'Bending' Blues in the Bedroom

Ben Stiller may be a mega movie star, but it seems he still has a few sagas when it comes to his screen sex life.

"I found a lot of the bedroom scenes got painful, stretching wise — I am not as flexible as I would like to be," Stiller told FOX while discussing his new film, "The Heartbreak Kid."

"Since the movie, I’ve been doing Pilates, which has helped open me up. But after those sex scenes, I was very sore later."

And it also is comforting to know that like the rest of us, another sore spot for Stiller was his dating days.

"A lot of my dates were bad, but I think that is what dating is," he said. "You go out with a person hoping they’ll be everything you want them to be and every time you go out you find out something else you don’t like about that person."

Video: Stiller talks sex, spouses and soul mates

However, now that Ben is happily hitched to actress Christine Taylor, he "dates a lot less" and finds playing the dating game much "more fun because he knows the person really well."

But despair not, ladies — Ben doesn’t necessarily believe we only have one true love.

"I think it’s pretty limiting to say we only have one soul mate in life," he said.

Meanwhile, the Farrelly Brothers (who directed the film and are also responsible for the racy romps in "There’s Something About Mary" and "Dumb and Dumber") admitted they would like their next film to be based around some married guys whose wives give them one week off from marriage.

And it seems the slapstick siblings have a "Cinderella Man" crush.

"We think Russell Crowe is much better looking than Brad Pitt, much hotter," they said.

Busted: Why Was Meg Ryan’s BMW in Russell Crowe’s Garage?

Speaking of Russell Crowe, it seems when a romance with him is ruptured, love isn’t the only thing lost.

Crowe may have been happily hitched to Danielle Spencer for over four years, but Pop Tarts has learned that the legacy of his love affair with Meg Ryan still was "beaming" bright long-after the breakup.

The dramatic duo met on the set of "The Proof of Life" in 2000 amid Meg’s divorce from Dennis Quaid, and a relationship quickly resulted.

And according to our inside sources, the "City of Angels" star bought a brand new BMW convertible to drive around in every time she went to Russell’s residence Down Under.

But once the fondness fizzled out (just a few months after it began), Ryan left her costly car at Crowe’s home where it simply "sat unused" up until recently when it was finally sold.

Letterman Peeves Paris

Paris Hilton is trying desperately to move on from her stint in the slammer by releasing a fragrance, starring in the rock opera "Repo!" and announcing a charity trip to Rwanda — but it appears as though everyone still just wants to discuss her dramatic detainment in the dungeon.

The hotel heiress appeared on the "Late Show With David Letterman" last week to plug and promote her upcoming projects, but Letterman continued to crush Paris with his jail-related queries.

"I really don’t want to talk about it anymore," the "Simple Life" star finally said.

But the host refused to be beaten by the blond beauty, announcing that that was all he "wanted to talk about" and pressed on with his prison prattle.

Paris soon started to pout, telling Letterman that he "was making her sad to be here."

Click here to watch

Miley Cyrus Is No Sex Siren

Disney diva Miley Cyrus may recently have told FOX that her biggest worry was "suffering a wardrobe malfunction" in public, but the 14-year-old 'tween idol seems to be ensuring that nobody puts her in the same sentence as disgraced Disney star Vanessa Hudgens.

Cyrus made it extra clear on "Extra" that she was by no means pregnant, as falsely reported by various publications last week, even going so far as to make the inspiring proclamation that she wouldn’t go all the way until her wedding day.

But it seems daddy Billy Ray is getting ready for his "Hannah Montana" to enter some troubled Tinseltown teen years.

"It is a tough business, and I understand and accept that as Miley grows up and wants to experiment in different things, she will make some bad decisions," the country crooner told FOXNews.com.

Britney Spears Surrenders Her Sons

Kevin Federline's master plan to gain full custody of his kids was successful Monday afternoon, and it seems Britney Spears was either sedated or just very self-controlled when she heard the news.

According to an inside source, Britney was totally emotionless and continued with her day-to-day duties after being informed that her sons would be residents of Fed-Ex's home.

Spears had until 12 p.m. Wednesday to hand over her baby boys, but apparently the "Crazy" crooner has done so already.

X17 Online snapped the songstress taking her boys, Sean Preston, 2, and Jayden James, 1, going through the Carl’s Jr. drive-thru for a fast-food fix Monday afternoon before handing them over to K-Fed’s bodyguard at a designated meeting point.

An eyewitness said Spears was smiling, seemingly unaffected by the incident — and once again, it appeared as though Brit Brit was driving (without a valid California license?!)

However, many fear that the devastating news could be detrimental for the depressed diva once she comes to terms with what has happened.

"This bodes very badly for Britney, who is already very fragile emotionally. The potential complete loss of custody for Britney could shatter her fragile world," said celebrity life coach and human behavior expert Patrick Wanis.

"The danger is that given that she has been living in denial of her problem and refusing to fully embrace help and therapy, this latest development in her tragic story may simply result in her turning even more to drugs and alcohol to help her deaden her pain and hide her real issues."

But don’t expect Britney to back down, y’all. Pop Tarts has learned that another custody hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday. A rep for the pop princess recently told us that the allegations against Spears were unfounded and that she was an "excellent mother who always puts her children first."

Pop Tarts also spoke briefly to Britney’s former long-time manager, Larry Rudolph, who couldn’t "bring himself to discuss Britney" and her bad news but made it clear that his thoughts are with his pop prodigy.

A Playboy Bed for Britney?

Just as it seems Britney Spears is without support from family or fans, the pop princess has been offered plenty of brand-new beds to bunny-hop on.

Pop Tarts caught up with “Girls Next Door” glamour-girl Kendra Wilkinson at Saturday’s “Strike Force at the Mansion” party, and the bubbly blonde was happy to send some sheets Spears' way.

“Oh yeah, she can stay with me," Kendra said. "I’ll make sure she doesn’t misbehave."

But this isn’t the first time the “Crazy” crooner has been offered a pillow at a pad belonging to a high-profile person.

Former *NSYNC singer Joey Fatone is headed for the sunny skies of Australia this week to host the reality show “The Singing Bee,” so he kindly offered Britney the opportunity to escape the limelight inside his Florida abode.

But who else wants to be bedroom buddies with the Britster?

“American Idol” judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul recently told FOX that they were happy to house Britney and bring her back as a success story, and late last year, Rosie O’Donnell urged the songstress to turn away from her panty-free party pals and reside with her, her partner Kelli and their kids.

So with all this star-studded love, Spears should certainly be feeling like a “Lucky” girl. Let's hope she soon realizes she can overcome any obstacles — but only when the door of denial is destroyed

Where Brit is less lucky is in the driving department. Amid rumors that Spears has been driving without a license for some time, star gazers at TMZ.com reported Monday that they'd shot video of Britney driving "here and there" around Los Angeles over the weekend, but the California Department of Motor Vehicles said she doesn't have a license.

"At this point, Britney Spears does not have a valid California driver's license," the DMV told TMZ. "She has an application pending that she never completed."

Click here for pics

Natalie Goes Nude

The world is about to get much “Closer” to one of the world’s most tantalizing and talented actresses — Natalie Portman.

The “Stars Wars” sensation gets sensual (and stark naked) in “Hotel Chevalier” — the 13-minute prequel to Wes Anderson’s “The Darjeeling Limited."

Click here for pics (Warning: contains nudity)

Stripping down to nothing but socks, pics of Portman show her parading through the bedroom followed by her first-ever screen sex scene, which is set in a hotel room in India.

But here’s a memo to the millions of men anticipating a flick with a filthy flavor — according to a Portman pal, she “has far too much integrity to do anything that isn’t artistically inspired.”

More Than One Night in Pamela: Anderson to Marry Sex-Tape Salomon

It looks like Pamela Anderson is prepping to parade down the aisle (again) with her latest lover, Rick Salomon (who was made famous as Paris Hilton’s co-star in the homemade "1 Night in Paris").

Anderson, who told Ellen DeGeneres earlier this month that she was already sporting a new "rock" of engagement, and Salomon applied for and were granted a wedding license on Saturday, and we hear they are set to make it official any day now in the oh-so-classy "Little White Chapel."

Click Here to View the Marriage License

The famous little service center on the strip also has hosted the ceremonies for the likes of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, Britney Spears and Jason Alexander, and Mickey Rooney (twice).

So judging from the alumni, it looks like the "Baywatch" babe and her Salomon are set for a very long-lasting life together. …

Insiders also are speculating that the two will establish a permanent pad in Sin City. But will this put a pebble through Kid Rock’s heart?

A close friend of Rock (who was getting ready to release a new album, "Rock & Roll Jesus," next week) says this will seriously devastate Kid, who was married to the Playmate for three months in 2006.

"He still has very strong feelings for Pamela," the source said. "I think he always will. Her getting re-married will take a long time for him to get over."

Nick Cannon’s 'Secret'

Nick Cannon may be engaged to one of Victoria’s Secret’s sexiest supermodels, Selita Ebanks, but the actor and top DJ certainly won’t be scratching or spinning any of the millions of men who have looked at his leggy lady in her lingerie.

“I don’t mind that so many guys have seen Selita in her underwear — in fact, to tell you the truth, I kind of like it," he told FOX at the “Declare Yourself Celebrates 18” party in Beverly Hills last week while encouraging all young adults to register to vote.

Video: Click here to watch our chat with Nick

So when it comes to plugging politics, Cannon’s clever campaign is to simultaneously have the first female president and the first African-American president.

“I wish Oprah would have run — then we could have had both of those,” he said.

And while Cannon claims that so few youngsters vote because “we have become part of a generation that is extremely lazy,” the official spokeswoman for the campaign, barely legal Hayden “Heroes” Panettiere, says it is because “when they think about turning 18 they only think of being able to buy cigarettes.”

We’re pretty sure the bouncy blonde is speaking from experience, judging from her recent birthday appearance on the "Late Show With David Letterman," in which she said that turning 18 meant “being able to buy porn and cigarettes” while the late night host had to coax a more inspirational answer from her.

Meanwhile, the political partier has found a new pal in the suddenly skinny Rumer Willis (daughter of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore).

Panettiere was obsessed with Rumer’s new blond crop, and the two girls gossiped the night away while joined at the hip.

And while her star-studded parents may have helped her understand style, the pending star of the Playboy film “I Know What Boys Like” admits she doesn’t know much about the woes of the world.

“I wish I followed the news more,” Willis said. “I feel like the scariest thing to me is that a lot of young people don’t take action and try to make the world a better place. Young people don’t really tend to think about the future — it’s all kind of 'in the moment.'”

Justin Timberlake also showed off his “SexyBack” body for 20 minutes at the star-studded event, proving he is “Love Stoned” for Jessica Biel by high-tailing it from “The Hills” hotties.

"Whitney Port and Heidi Montag were walking toward Timberlake, but he looked and quickly walked the other way,” our spy said.

But the snub did nothing to pop their party personas, as these two glamour girls were the last to leave after the lights came on.

Victoria's Virgin: Supermodel Inspires Celibacy

Six of the world’s sexiest supermodels — Adriana Lima , Karolina Kurkova, Selita Ebanks, Izabel Goulart, Alessandra Ambrosio and the “New Gisele” Australian Miranda Kerr — have found some new “wings."

World-famous lingerie label Victoria’s Secret and airline Virgin America officially announced their alliance this week, with the new “Airline of the Angels” set to transport 27 of the leggy ladies from New York to Los Angeles for their annual stage show on Nov. 15.

Click here for a pic of Victoria's 'Virgins'

Pop Tarts has also learned that the boarding passes will be better than heaven as the girls (and a lucky few) will be partying in their “Pink” pajamas during the cross-country flight.

And while the sex lives of five of the six supermodels remains “Secret," self-confessed virgin Adriana Lima seems to be among the celebs inspiring an emerging movement toward celibacy.

“Thanks to Adriana, all my friends and I are advocating chastity,” UCLA student Kate Jones, 20, told FOXNews.com. “We believe a lot of young girls have forgotten how to respect themselves, and it’s about time we went back to some old-fashioned values."

The abstaining young women spend time blogging and voicing their views on various Internet sites, using the Victoria's Secret and Maybelline model as their inspiration.

“There is definitely is an upcoming trend to wait until marriage even if it doesn’t have a religious motivation,” a Hollywood-based psychologist added. “It’s a positive way for young women to hold on to some power and independence."

Last year, Lima confessed to men’s mag GQ that she planned to stay away from bedroom buddies until her wedding night, despite the fact that millions of men have already seen her in next to nothing.

"They have to respect that this is my choice," the 26-year-old Brazilian babe said. "If there's no respect, that means they don't want me."

Five-Finger Drug Discount? 'Jackass' Claims Lohan Stole His Coke

Jovial "Jackass" Steve-O says there is more to Lindsay Lohan’s troubles than just a drug addiction — he says the “Bobby” beauty steals the stuff, too.

The crackpot comic appeared on "The Howard Stern Show" Wednesday morning, revealing to the world that Li-Lo once went into his bathroom and bagged a bag of his “Boog Suge” (aka cocaine).

Meanwhile, it seems he isn’t much of a fan of Luke Wilson, either.

Jackass recently hired a bleeper plane to soar through the skies of Malibu with “The Family Stone” star’s cell number attached to the sign on the back.

When Pop Tarts (and the thousands of others basking on the beach) tried to call Wilson, we got as far as the voice mail service. Needless to say, his digits were disconnected within an hour.

More Racy Vanessa Hudgens Photos Emerge

Just as "High School Musical" star Vanessa Hudgens thought she was over the worst of the uproar surrounding her naked photo scandal, the teen idol has been slapped with a fresh stack of sexy snaps.

The new photos, purportedly of Hudgens, show the starlet flaunting her figure in her underwear with friends.

Click here for pics (Warning: photos may be offensive to some viewers.)

FOXNews.com has learned that the pics were apparently taken at a party with pals some years ago, before Hudgens was swept into the fame game.

“How many teens haven’t done something like this? It’s normal at that adolescent age to do something a little risqué and experimental,” a source close to the screen star said. “What’s happening to Vanessa is classic exploitation. Like many others before her, she is the victim of so-called ‘friends’ leaking pictures to scam a buck or two. It’s disgusting.”

But is there something to be said about the fact that the most troubled in Tinseltown are Disney alumni?

After all, Britney Spears got her big break as a Mouseketeer and Lindsay Lohan launched her career in Disney’s “The Parent Trap.” Now Hudgens is the latest Disney bad girl.

"I’m not surprised,” an entertainment psychologist told Pop Tarts. “Often when celebrities are catering to this younger demographic, they experience a type of subconscious rebellion. It’s usually not directly related, but it does affect some individuals in the sense that they try to break out of their wholesome persona in their personal life because they can’t do it in their professional life."

Sexiest Superhero: Jessica Biel Becoming 'Wonder Woman'?

She’s already lived in “7th Heaven” — but is Jessica Biel, the woman with every man’s fantasy figure, now poised to play the crème de la crème of comic-book females?

While Warner Bros. has declined to confirm the claims, rumors are running rampant that Biel will star as Wonder Woman in the upcoming “Justice League of America” flick, which will feature a feast of superheroes from Batman and Superman to Aquaman and the Flash — all working together to fight the forces of evil.

Director George Miller is said to be in talks with Biel, who dates Justin Timberlake; however, Pop Tarts has been told that “Buffy” gal Sarah Michelle Gellar is also a contender for the role.

How To Be A Supermodel

2007-10-04T15:32:00.001-07:00

magine: One day, you're a gangly 14-year-old girl scarfing a Big Mac at McDonald's. The next, you are the highest-paid model in the world, stalking the runways of New York, Paris and Milan, Italy; yours is the face of everything from Dolce and Gabbana to Victoria's Secret to Apple computers; you're dating mega-hunks like actor Leonardo DiCaprio and quarterback Tom Brady. It happened to supermodel Gisele Bundchen.

Didn't it?

Yes and no. There were many, many steps in between burger and hunks. And even for the most beautiful, the most outgoing, perfect young woman, the odds are far better at the lottery counter. But still, every year, some women do make it. It isn't impossible. So how does a pretty teen girl go from nobody to supermodel?
In Pictures: A Day In The Life Of A Young Model
In Pictures: Top Ten Tips To Becoming A Supermodel
In Pictures: The Five Most Important People In Modeling

A handful, like Kate Moss, take the express route. She was a 14-year-old in JFK Airport when she was first spied by an agent for London's Storm Model Management. Others, like Victoria's Secret angel Adriana Lima and Australian sensation Gemma Ward, accompanied a friend to a modeling contest, only to end up being the discovery.

"It's the girl who never thought she could who gets discovered. The prettiest girl in school doesn't always make the best model," says Ivan Bart, a top agent with IMG Models, which reps Bundchen, Heidi Klum and Kate Moss.

But for most others, the slog up the ladder follows a routine path. Girls send photos into a local or national modeling agency (only a Polaroid is needed) or show up for an open casting call. Agencies generally hold them once a week. Victoria's Secret's Alessandra Ambrosio took a modeling class in her hometown of Erechim, Brazil, then urged her mother to move with her to São Paolo, where she was scouted by a local agency. Soon she won a modeling contest sponsored by Elite, one of New York's biggest agencies.

Modeling conventions, where local agencies can introduce promising models to bigger agents, are another possibility. Model Amy Wesson, Maybelline face Jessica White and former male model Ashton Kutcher were discovered at the International Modeling and Talent Association convention, held twice a year in New York and Los Angeles.

Once a girl is signed with a big agency (in New York, where the biggest are located, this would include IMG, Elite, Next, Women and DNA), she is sent on what is called "go-sees"--castings for photographers, editorials and runway shows.

During Fashion Weeks in New York, Paris and Milan (held in spring and fall), a model can be sent on as many as a dozen go-sees a day for six weeks. It's this grueling and low-paying internship process that determines whether a model can burst out of the anonymous pack.

Getting cast in an important designer's show, like that of Marc Jacobs or Prada, can instantly launch a career. Not getting cast at all can mean a one-way ticket back home. Depending on her experience, a model is usually paid $250 to $1,200 an hour for runway work. But a beginner model takes home little or nothing. Everything from cabs to airfare to the agency's 10% fees (20% if the girl is still signed with a local agency) is deducted from her salary, and many designers don't pay at all.

"I have no idea how much I make," says newcomer Edythe Hughes, 17, a teen scouted in a Columbus, Ohio, mall two years ago. (Forbes followed Hughes around for a day. See "A Day In The Life of A Young Model.") This season, she strutted the runways in New York for Vera Wang, Rebecca Taylor and Jill Stuart.

Hughes is advanced $150 a week for expenses and probably won't see much more than that. But she doesn't mind: "Before this, I was working as a librarian, making $8 an hour." Last season, Hughes worked as an "exclusive" model for Calvin Klein and banked $9,500 for one show (and 15 hours' prep time). Of that, she thinks she netted about $5,000, but she isn't sure. With luck, Hughes will get a better grip on her finances this year. She's hired an accountant.

Runway may not pay, but it can pay off. It's here that a model can be scouted by the star makers of the industry--editors, photographers, cosmetic company executives. It's here that front-row fixture Anna Wintour might take notice of a girl and put her in the pages of Vogue. The new face of Estée Lauder, Hilary Rhoda, was spotted at a New York fashion show by Balenciaga's lead designer, Nicolas Guesquiere, who then brought the unknown catwalker to the attention of his friend Aerin Lauder, Estée's granddaughter and the company's creative director.

Rhoda, a 20-year-old from Chevy Chase, Md., joins a long line of faces who became ubiquitous on billboards, commercials and beauty counters the world over, thanks to the cosmetic giant. Karen Graham was its first contract model, and she lasted 15 years (this before retouching). In the 1990s, the brand made Paulina Porizkova one of the most famous faces on the planet. It also launched the modeling career of Elizabeth Hurley, who, at the time, was known primarily for being Hugh Grant's girlfriend. Next came supermodels Carolyn Murphy and Liya Kibede (who is being phased out this year).

Contract models for larger cosmetic brands are generally paid $300,000 to $2 million a year, depending on exclusivity and the amount of days the model is expected to work. Murphy, who models for other brands, earned an estimated $5 million last year. Rhoda raked in $2 million.

Estée Lauder's models are chosen by its top four executives, including Aerin Lauder. Candidates are brought in for a photo shoot and put in mock-up ads. They interview with the executives, who want to make sure the girls are well spoken and can handle store and media appearances. Group President John Dempsey claims that, when it comes to making a final decision, there's never dissension in the ranks: "Everybody's eyes go to one girl."

Rhoda, says Dempsey, was chosen for her healthy all-American look and her maturity: "She has the presence of someone five or six years older." The models are required to be a "positive role model" and have a "morals clause" in their contracts. No wonder the brand tends to eschew Hollywood starlets. The face of its new fragrance, Private Collection, is 37-year-old Aerin Lauder herself.

At Victoria's Secret, which has made superstars out of dozens of models, including Gisele Bundchen, Adriana Lima, Heidi Klum, Tyra Banks and Alessandra Ambrosio, executives don't have to rely on personal preference to pick their next faces. They can measure a girl's potential in cold hard cash.

"Some girls sell incredibly well," says Chief Marketing Officer Edward Razek. Computers track each photograph in every catalog. Not surprisingly, girls who move merchandise end up moving up the corporate ladder to supermodeldom.

As for girls like Edythe Hughes, only time will tell if she'll end up a supermodel or back in Ohio. Keeping her hopes high, but not too high, she says her goal would be to work with a photographer like Steven Meisel or become a popular editorial model like Gemma Ward. "There's not too many Tyra's anymore," she says.
In Pictures: A Day In The Life Of A Young Model
In Pictures: Top Ten Tips To Becoming A Supermodel
In Pictures: The Five Most Important People In Modeling

2007-10-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

Date of Birth: June 12, 1981

Place of Birth: Salvadore da Bahia, Brazil

Height: 5' 10"

Agency: Elite Model Management

Fan Address:
Adriana Lima
c/o Elite Model Management
111 East 22nd Street
New York, NY 10010
Adriana Francesca Lima was born June 12, 1981 in Salvador da Bahia, Brazil. Ethnicity is French, Portuguese, Native-American, Japanese and Caribbean.

Adriana Lima began her career as a model when she won the Ford Supermodel of the Brazil contest in 1996 and went on to finish second in the Ford Supermodel of the World contest. She got a contract with Elite Model Agency and moved to New York. After this, she has appeared on the covers of the major fashion magazines, in ads and TV commercials for numerous big brands and on runways around the world. In the general public she is probably best known as one of the Victoria’s Secrets models in catalogues, ads and in the popular TV transmitted lingerie shows. If the internet popularity can be taken as a guideline, Adriana’s popularity is almost up there with names like Laetitia Casta, Heidi Klum and Gisele Bündchen?. The world of high fashion may have it’s own, different, hierarchy, but who cares about that? Adriana’s popularity is no doubt due to the sensuality that runs through everything she does. In most of her pictures you’ll see that naughty spark in her beautiful eyes, and on the catwalk her turns are simply sexier than the rest. In her spare time, Adriana dedicates her services to help orphans in her native Brazil.

Adriana Lima inspires celibacy in young women October 3, 2007

Victoria’s Secret girls are once again in the news after the lingerie company and the airline Virgin America officially announced their alliance this week. Six of the world’s sexiest supermodels -- Adriana Lima , Karolina Kurkova, Selita Ebanks, Izabel Goulart, Alessandra Ambrosio and Australian Miranda Kerr – will be carried by Virgin’s exclusive plane from New York to Los Angeles for the annual Victoria’s Secret show on November 15.

Adriana Lima is famous not just for being a VS Angel but also for her statement to GQ last year that she planned to be celibate until her wedding night, despite that millions of men have already seen her almost naked. She shared, “They have to respect that this is my choice. If there's no respect, that means they don't want me.” And because of her statement, Adriana has inspired other young women to be celibate. UCLA student Kate Jones told FOXNews.com, “Thanks to Adriana Lima, all my friends and I are advocating chastity. We believe a lot of young girls have forgotten how to respect themselves, and it’s about time we went back to some old-fashioned values.” Go girls! And go Adriana!=)

Background:"Modeling is a tough job, your co-workers are your rivals. It really puts a damper on your perspective of other girls." Adriana Lima

Brazilian model Adriana Lima is probably best recognized as a spokesmodel for Guess?, Victoria's Secret and Armani Jeans. Becoming one of the world's top fashion models, Adriana later branched out to acting, playing a role in the 2001 short film The Hire: The Follow.

The blue/gray-eyed Brazilian beauty, whose trademark is a mole on her chin, stands at 5' 10" tall and has the measurements of 33-23-33. She was listed as one of Maxim's Hot 100 in 2003. As for her private life, Adriana was engaged to Lenny Kravitz (she appeared in his music video "Yesterday Is Gone") in the spring of 2002.

Lima Bean

Childhood and Family:

In Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, Adriana Francesca Lima, nicknamed Lima Bean, was born on June 12, 1981. Adriana speaks English, Spanish and Portuguese, and is a blend of French, Portuguese, Native-American, Japanese and Caribbean heritage. While not busy walking on runways, Adriana dedicates her time helping with an orphanage called "Caminos da Luz" (Ways of Light) in her homeland Brazil. She also helps the unfortunate children in El Salvador de Bahia by buying clothes for them.

Good Energy And Feelings

Career:

"Fashion is about good energy. It's about feelings. That's what I have to give the people, good energy and good feelings." Adriana Lima

Hax: Make sure you're not being overly demanding of 'self-absorbed' friends

2007-10-04T15:18:00.000-07:00

DEAR CAROLYN: My father recently had fairly major surgery for the treatment of cancer. I was very anxious about it, and beforehand, I told a few of my friends about his upcoming surgery, and that I was very nervous. The good news is that it seems to have gone well (of course, only time will tell). But not a single one of my friends called me afterward to find out how he was doing. One of them even called me to chat, but never once thought to ask about my father.

Some of these friends have a history of being self-absorbed. I can usually tolerate it, but this situation really upset me more than usual.

Given that I already know these friends have a tendency toward self-absorption, am I being too sensitive? Or should I confront them about their lack of support during this critical time?

Sensitive After Surgery

DEAR SENSITIVE: Depends. Would you confront them for failing to note the date of your father's surgery on their calendars?

From here, at least, that appears to be what happened - they knew about the surgery because you told them, but it wasn't on their minds when the big day came and went. I'm trying to feel the outrage, I am, but not having much luck.

You are their friend but it's your father; I don't think you can expect his peril to loom anywhere near as large in their minds as it does in yours. Had you simply mentioned the surgery to that "self-absorbed" friend when she called you to chat, you probably would have gotten the friendly support you feel you were denied.

In fact, it was such a simple thing to do - such a natural thing, between friends, to offer a "Remember, my dad had that surgery . . . ?"-type nudge - that it sounds like you consciously chose not to. Was this a test? Were you looking to bust these friends for not caring enough about you? That would bring self-absorption into the conversation in a way you didn't intend.

I realize that may be unfair; maybe you do in fact have a legitimate grievance with these friends, and simply chose a poor way to express it. If that's the case, though, then please just say so; don't create the conditions for hurt feelings and then wail when your feelings get hurt.

DEAR CAROLYN: My ex-boyfriend had genital herpes, which unfortunately he passed on to me. I'm responsible and I take medication to reduce viral shedding. I've been dating a guy for a few months and he, understandably, wants a more physical relationship. But when I told him about the herpes, he completely lost it and dumped me. He's afraid of catching herpes and he's especially angry because I didn't tell him when we first started dating. Maybe he wasted his time, but I'm not particularly happy about my condition and I would be very uncomfortable telling someone I barely know about it. OK, this guy is a lost cause. But what, and when, do I tell the next boyfriend? Providing I ever work up the nerve to date again.

To Tell or Not to Tell?

DEAR TO TELL : You say the same thing at the same crossroads in your next relationship. You don't need to share sooner, you need to date kinder men.

The Bottom Line: When it comes to your kisser, it's time to plump it up

2007-10-04T15:16:00.000-07:00

This fall, it's all about the lips. Red lipstick is back, and that requires pouty, full - dare we say Angelina Jolie? - pucker power. With so many lip plumpers touting instant inflation, we put one tester up to the challenge. Did she come away elated or deflated at the results?

Products	Pout Perfect	Pucker Power	Plump Fiction?
Erno Laszlo TranspHuse Lip pHixative for fuller, plumper lips, $48 for 0.12 ounces, Neiman Marcus.	"I once knew a girl who had the most perfect bee-stung lips. I was envious, but also a little frightened of any beauty product that, you know, causes swelling."	"The medicinal smell is powerful, and the greasy liquid doesn't dry very well. It was nearly impossible to wear lipstick after applying this plumper."	"The price and the, uh, "pHancy" name had me expecting quite a lot from this little tube. But plumping was minimal, at best."
Benefit Lip Plump, primer for full sexy lips, $20 for 0.25 ounces, benefitcosmetics.com and Sephora stores.	"I know I'll never have 'Angelina' lips, but is it too much to hope for ever-so-slightly pouty?"	"A very different approach. It works not with a tingle, but with a smudge, filling in fine lines on your lips. In this case, smooth equals plump."	"This one is a keeper. It gave my lips an elegant, made-up look, but didn't get in the way of my regular lipstick."
Peter Thomas Roth Lips to Die For, lip plumper $25 for 0.3 ounces, amazon.com.	"I never experimented with lip plumpers before. I'm more of a lip-stain gloss-and-go kind of gal - the less I have to think about it, the better."	"Definitely the tingliest of the three products, and I even saw a little bit of plumpage! Has a pleasant minty scent and works OK with lipstick."	"The label boasts about the 'triple massaging applicator,' but it's nothing to brag about. After two weeks, the complicated rubber pump quit working entirely."

Armani goes to the sea for inspiration for spring

2007-10-04T15:11:00.000-07:00

MILAN, Italy - Showing Giorgio Armani on the first day of Milan fashion week is like serving dessert before the main course. After such a treat, is there room for more?

In years past, Armani would close the collections, summing up the message Italian design was sending out for next season. But recently the 73-year-old maestro of Italian ready-to-wear has become increasingly his own man, prone to throwing fashion darts at his colleagues and above all interested in keeping his multibillion dollar industry in the limelight.

So why not get his fashion view in ahead of the pack?

The latest Armani look for spring-summer 2008 points south to Sicily, where the designer has a summer home on the exclusive isle of Panarea. Head scarves, netted shawls, flared skirts and knickerbockers gathered at the knee like a beachcomber's rolled-up pants are underlined by a palette of sandy beige, shrub green and sea blue. Together, they evoke Mediterranean lore.

The plunging necklines of Armani's eveningwear, however, tell a more contemporary tale. Although now a dying breed, many women in Sicily up until a few years ago were still shrouded in black.

The new Armani jacket dubbed "petite," which is closer to a bolero than a spencer, barely covers the demurely flared blouse underneath, and is worn with a softly pleated skirt or the flared knickers. There is not a man-tailored pantsuit - the designer's trademark - in sight.

To underline the sea theme of his collection, Armani accessorizes with fish-shaped brooches and boxy handbags in the shape of a miniature treasure chest.

D&G shifts to demure

Dolce & Gabbana presented a fun-loving second line D&G collection.

The summer look of the duo with their "molto sexy" trademark is surprisingly demure. Flouncy frocks in dainty floral and patchwork prints, preppie oxford shirts and bell-bottom pants share a clean-cut runway, underlined by crew-neck cashmere pullovers.

The spring/summer 2008 preview showings of the best in Italian ready to wear included the latest collections of such fashion icons as Prada, Gucci, Missoni, Cavalli, Fendi and Versace before ending Friday.

Fashion designer indicted on 59 sexual assault charges

2007-10-04T15:10:00.001-07:00

LOS ANGELES—Celebrity fashion designer Anand Jon Alexander was indicted on 59 counts of sexual assault in a move prosecutors said Thursday would keep his accusers from having to testify at a preliminary hearing.

Prosecutors previously charged Alexander with more than 40 felony and misdemeanor counts involving 18 victims that included rape, sexual battery and committing a lewd act on a child. He pleaded not guilty to the earlier charges.

The initial criminal complaint will be dismissed and replaced by the indictment unsealed Thursday.

It added two more victims to the original case, bringing the total number of victims to 20, and said the crimes targeted women and girls from 15 to 27 between November 2002 and March 2007.

Seven of the alleged victims in the indictment are from California, while the rest are from eight states and two countries, prosecutors said.

Alexander, 33, faces 54 felonies and five misdemeanors. The charges include forcible rape, sodomy, lewd act upon a child and false imprisonment by violence. If convicted of all counts, Alexander faces up to life in prison.

As a designer, Alexander made the rounds of parties and fashion events, sometimes working with such celebrities as Paris Hilton, Michelle Rodriguez and Mary J. Blige.

He also was a profiled designer on "America's Next Top Model" in 2003 and was among 20 people profiled by Newsweek as up-and-coming players in various industries.
Alexander is suspected of meeting women on the Internet then assaulting them when they visited with him about modeling opportunities.

His defense has claimed some of the women made the allegations to seek fame.

Alexander's lawyer, Anthony Brooklier, said in some of the cases, the victims either kept in contact or met with the fashion designer after the alleged crimes occurred.

"We think this is made up of whole cloth, the entire case," Brooklier said Thursday outside of court.

Alexander was arrested in March after a woman claimed she was sexually assaulted by the designer at his Beverly Hills apartment. Bail was previously set at $1.3 million but Alexander has remained in custody.

He was in court Thursday when Superior Court Judge David Wesley ordered him held without bail pending an Oct. 25 arraignment hearing. Prosecutors had asked for bail to be set at $5.1 million.

"One of the reasons in seeking the indictment is that it speeds up the process and avoids a preliminary hearing," said Jane Robison, a spokeswoman for the district attorney's office. "The nature of the charges allows victims not to testify twice."

Alexander's accusers will likely only have to testify at his trial.

The indictment was unsealed after being returned by a grand jury on Sept. 27. The panel met for nine days and heard testimony from 23 witnesses, said Deputy District Attorney Mara McIlvain.

A Harris County, Texas, grand jury returned an indictment July 30 charging Alexander with felony sexual assault of a child between ages 14 and 16, assistant district attorney Brian Rose said. Houston police have an open warrant for his arrest.

Three arrest warrants also have been issued for Alexander in Dallas County, Texas, where authorities said they plan to seek indictments for sexual assault and extradite Alexander after his California case concludes.

A phone message left at the Dallas County district attorney's office was not immediately returned Thursday.

Criminal investigations are also under way in New York and Massachusetts.

Alexander came to the United States from India as a teen with his sister and mother. He graduated from the Parsons School of Design in New York in 1998 and began designing jewelry and clothing.

Introduction of the World's Top 10 Male Models

2007-10-02T06:47:00.001-07:00

Modeling is usually related with women, their appearance, looks and attitude. But remember eve’s beauty could have never been admired if Adam was not there to do it. Fashion industry is hollow without men, these hep hulks sweeps girls and women off their feet when they walk down the ramp with a smile on their face. They are admired if not so desired in glamour world. For male models a fit body, flat abs, strong muscles and height are amongst the most required criterion. Our countdown of top male models is created by their achievements and demand in the industry.

1. Mathia’s

The man acquires great looks and blends in all kinds of modeling events. He is in profession for more than three years and is listed amongst top men with multiple campaigns and ads in his hands.

2. Sean O

Handsome dude with chiseled face of a Greek god, this male model has won hearts in glamour world. Titled man of the season by GQ and in contract with Calvin Kline for main campaign, his career displays his success in the industry.

3. Andrew Cooper

The male model has consistently performed at several fashion events and definitely plans to root his existence in modeling. He has done runaways for Vogue, Elle and DKNY.

4. Chad White

Born and bought up in Portland the male model has an extensively attractive physique. The baseball player justifies his hobby with athletic fitness, and at 21 has few key campaigns to his credit.

5. James Neat

A native from Canada this male model has stunning looks and sophisticated stature. Already titled model of the week he has some major contracts like Kenneth Cole, Replay Jeans and more. Hold on! Here I come to take over the world.

6. Evandro

Native to Brazil he has an edge over other male models due to his distinctive features. He had the opportunity to work with best names in the industry; his stylish walk made him popular and bagged good contracts with vogue and Armani.

7. Ambrose

The male model with ever changing ability to transcend his look has already worked with major brands such as D&G and Hugo Boss. He is sure to go places with campaigns like Dior skin care, Puma and Armani. If looks could speak, then Ambrose says hundreds with his single glance.

8. Iars Matinee

A famous male model already counted in top league, repeated season after season he is sure to race amongst supermodels. Recently he is busy with an ad campaign for Hugo boss and Aqua Di Gio.

9. Eager Bauer

The German hunk bagged 8 campaigns in6 months, that too with major players of the industry. A hunk from all angles, he does not leave any doubts about his forthcoming stardom.

10. Jamie burke

The young male model represents chic and cool attitude, and is true to his image in CK jeans campaign. The British model has several ads to his credit and is usually amid top models league for being his natural self.

Top Supermodels

2007-10-02T06:46:00.001-07:00

Too sexy for the party, it hurts! All right, these models are perhaps too sexy to be handled on one single stage. With their gorgeous personality more than perfect curves, swan necks and flamboyant approach they make men drool all over. These sexy bombshells know the right moves to generate heat with out fire. They have established their niche in the field gradually and have now become icons and idols associated with glamour industry. Take a plunge in waves of their heat!

1. Cindy Crawford

One look at this sexy lady and you will fall down at her feet. One picture leaves you craving for more as she is the ultimate sexiest model Cindy Crawford. Her credits include more than 500 magazines and several esteemed campaigns, events, shows she featured in all of them. She is a perfect blend of beauty with brains.

2. Gisele Bundchen

Oh my! My! That shimmering skin, cascading hair and impossible body with effervescent personality make her the ultimate Sexy Diva of the season. She has incredible projects associated with Victoria’s secret and right Hollywood calling looks to add on her credits. She is indeed the sexiest craze in modeling industry.

3. Heidi Klum

One of the sexiest women in the industry, her cover page picture on GQ created rave amongst men luring for more of her in consecutive editions. This sexy goddess knows her assets and makes their full use to up grade her wealth.

4. Yamila Diaz Rahi

This sexy green eyed babe from Argentina was found on a beach and didn’t have to wait long for good proposals coming her way. With her flat abs and firm butt she has graced cover pages of few magazines like vogue, Elle, sports illustrated and Marie Clair.

5. Kate Moss

Could there be any top list that completes without Kate? This sexy model gave all together a new meaning to sexy with comfort ability and ease with one self.

6. Naomi Campbell

The ultimate seductress, this sexy model has a way ahead of a desirable figure with perfect brains and attitude to match. It seems like god made a wholesome package in this production.

7. Natalie Vodianova

Oomph! This sexy model is gifted with a perfect figure, satin skin, chiseled features, full lips and lustrous hair all these make her an amalgamation of sexy induces merged in one damsel. She is a natural beauty in league as she has astonished everyone with her charms.

8. Anna Beatriz Barros

The 22 years old Brazilian beauty has a twinkle in her eye that conveys more substance to her than just a sultry body. She has done some esteemed projects with sports illustrated, Vogue and Victoria’s secret.

9. Brenda Costa

An elite cover girl who appears freshly as the sexiest babe with right turn –on is sure to go places.

10. Veronica Verekova

The sexy seductress with sultry locks has yet to achieve her best. She has featured in sports illustrated, cosmopolitan and Marie Clair. Guess, Channel and Pantene are some of her famous ad campaigns.

Introduction of the World's Top 10 Swimsuit Models

2007-10-02T06:45:00.001-07:00

Modeling is an aggressive field where one strives to prove oneself better than the other. The glamour of the field magnetize all, scores of females decide to take a plunge, but few come out as winners and some to the extent of being called fashion Divas. These girls are endorsed by industry’s high profile brands to embody their product resting on their look aptness for their merchandise. Swim suit models are usually mistaken for fitness models as both entail firm toned up bodies and flat abs. The only variation crops up when the fitness model is a little muscular, we would certainly not prefer our swimsuit babes with muscles oozing out of their body parts. Let’s check out some of the hottest swimsuit beauties around. The list is most appropriately selected from cover girls adorning Sports Illustrated swim suit issues.

1. Veronica Verekova

What a great bodice! She could wear anything or nothing her curves speak for her. She has blazoned on Sports Illustrated cover for over five times and has many other esteemed high-profile contracts and campaigns with her. She is a graduate in Psychology and speaks three languages fluently. This intellectual brunette definitely fails a heart or two on the road!

2. Karolina Kurkova

Karolina Kurkova has created a strong forte for her in the industry as a mere mention of her initials would make her presence felt. This swim suit model took everybody’s breadth away with her Topless bare back picture in GQ swim wear special.

She swims through millions of dreams every night that way.

3. Alessandra Ambrosia

Brazilian beauty with high aspirations launched her major career move with Guess. She has several covers to her credit and a million dollar Victoria’s Secret contract that sold around 10,000 copies in first month and encouraged her position in the industry too.

4, Carolyn Murphy

Sexy mermaid appeared like a red cherry pie with yummy toppings on the cover page of sports illustrated, and from then been rated amongst hot and sexy swim suit models in the industry. She has accomplished few major projects with PRADA, Chameleon and ESTEE Lauder.

5. Marisa miller

Marisa miller is an incredibly stunning swimsuit model who was discovered on the beach itself. She has starred in advertisements of some renowned departmental stores and featured on covers of Elle and shape magazine. She is a star volleyball player and basketball player and a passionate surfer. A true beach beauty indeed!

6. Petra Nemcova

Petra Nemcova started her career as an ordinary girl in a swim suit issue but soon made a huge leap to the cover page of illustrated weekly and bagged prestigious contracts with Elle, Cartier and Madame Figaro.

7. Molly Sims

Molly Sims is simply amazing; she launched her career as a swim suit model in London and later within a short span feature on cover pages of Elle, Nautical and Sports Illustrated. She is a passionate swimmer and extends her career span to hosting several shows.

8. Daniela Pestova

Most stunning long legged swim suit model with killing looks and boring glance made a rapid jump from casual assignments to high profile products with top supermodels. She has worked with elite fashion magazines and featured in high profile advertisements. She is fluent in 4 languages and has her private swim suit calendar.

9. Elsa Benitez

Mexican born six foot beauty is often compared to Sophia Loren. She has graced covers of sports Illustrated, Elle, Vogue Italy in addition to GQ. She has starred in ad campaigns for Ann Taylor and Ferragamo. She has also modeled for Victoria’s secret lingerie line in gold. Her cover on illustrated weekly swim suit issue claimed a niche amongst top swim suit models.

10, Anna Kournikova

Russian origin blonde, basically athletic a tennis professional turned model captured male attention and soon geared a great push to her modeling career. Her cover on sports Illustrated swim suit issue made her very popular and the magazine also made a remarkable high selling record in a month. Titled most beautiful and sexiest women of the year, Anna is a passionate doll collector and sports a stunning look with a sexy tattoo on her lower back. Apart from few magazines she has also featured in Hollywood movies.

Find Out Who's the Next America’s Top Model

2007-10-02T06:44:00.001-07:00

Susan and Roxanne often argue about who is going to be America’s next top model? It is perhaps a very intriguing question. They are not on the judge panel of any model contest but common people like you and me who pick there guesses from contestants of Tyra banks renowned TV show. Is this show the actual deciding factor that elates everyday models from their pauper status to highly celebrated eminence of America’s next top model?

With dreams in their eyes and poise in their attitude you would perceive every second teenager longing for fame and success in America. Is it just that easy to be successful in the world of glamour? The answer can probably be obtained referring to dreams better dreamt than being realized. If you observe models on the ramp, their catwalk and looks with trendy clothes makes way in our heart for the designer wear and accessories adorned by them. Their perfect looks, figures and stature make one wishes to be surrounded by them presiding over the stage. So what it is exactly that crowns one amongst many as America’s next top model?

They are all young confident achievers with great vital stats. It is really difficult to select one golden fish amid a pond full of them. Starting from thirteen to fourteen contestants judges eliminate them one by one resting on their performances and skills. The final decision is taken by judges considering varied factors including age appropriation and intelligence of the aspiring contestant. Like in Eighth cycle of America’s next top model Jaslene won over her fellow contestants Natasha and Renee, she herself couldn’t believe it and broke down in tears. It was not just her looks but her intelligence as well that took her far apart from Natasha.

Well the new cycle has altogether new faces and challenges for contenders. The gossip and rumors are directing success for Janet the aesthetician with flawless skin from Georgia, who seems the brightest spot amongst all contenders. The contestants have to go through photo shoots and moods for ultimate tag of America’s next top model and win contract with elite model management, a huge spread seventeen magazine and an approximate hundred thousand dollar contract with cover girl cosmetics. It is indeed a dream come true for any young girl to handle without exuberant fervor and thrill. The judges will spell the magic words *soon around 15th of September.

With every new fashion week and magazines cover up, you will observe new models forming the chain with established models. This chain of America top models refreshes itself providing space to next and stepping a ladder for the established one. Without Naomi Campbell there would be no Tyra banks and vice versa. America’s next top model would probably be the one that is bold and intelligent like America, who is willing to move on and give way to America’s next top model.

Carmen Kass

2007-10-02T06:41:00.002-07:00

This slim and sleek fashion model with chiseled cheeks and classic looks started her career at 14. She has graced covers of high profile fashion magazines and is best recognized in gap jeans advertisement. At tender age of 18 she is walking ramp for haute couture top designers looking forward to be top amongst them.

Angela Lindvall

2007-10-02T06:41:00.001-07:00

This famous American fashion model originates from city of Kansas. This voluptuous beauty had heads turning since she was fourteen. She has worked with top brands such as Gucci, Versace, Prada and valentine. Graced covers of fashion magazines like Italian Elle, vogue etc. and is making way to stardom.

Adriana Lima

2007-10-02T06:40:00.002-07:00

The green eyed Brazilian beauty has worked for high end fashion brands and designers. She has innumerous esteemed projects in her career and is presently brand associated with Victoria’s secret and Maybelline, rated among top models and paid highly for her rapid fire stardom.

Karolina kurkova

2007-10-02T06:40:00.001-07:00

This tall green eyed blonde fashion model has become a hot favorite with designers and photographers. She has gained popularity within a short span of 4years and has graced cover page of almost all fashion magazines. Amongst the highly paid models in the industry this ultimate sexy goddess is on her way to being a supermodel.

Gisele Bundchen

2007-10-02T06:39:00.003-07:00

As a young Brazilian fashion model she has more projects to her credit than her age. With her tall frame and voluptuous stats she has featured in most fashion magazines and worked as a brand ambassador for many fashion products. She has been added in Guinness world records for being world’s richest fashion model.

Tyra Banks

2007-10-02T06:39:00.001-07:00

A successful model is a smart one too. Tyra Banks is a perfect idol for aspiring fashion models; this African American model initiated her career at tender age of 17 and graced cover of many fashion magazines. She is presently recognized as hostess of popular TV show America’s next top model.

Heidi Klum

2007-10-02T06:38:00.001-07:00

This German fashion model has worked with prestigious sports magazine and has gained ranking amid top fashion models with her curvaceous figure and friendly attitude.

Noami Campbell

2007-10-02T06:37:00.003-07:00

An established British fashion model that sparkled amid the very first black models to feature in high fashion magazines such as Vogue and Time magazine. She possesses an extremely poised body with intricate features to match her attitude. She justifies her status and is indulged in quite a few social activities to encourage her race.

Linda Evangelista

2007-10-02T06:37:00.001-07:00

A tall Canadian fashion model that lives up to her image. She has featured in almost all major fashion events and magazines. She is amongst the highest paid fashion models and has been constantly making news with her extraordinary hairstyle and striking features in the industry.

Kate moss

2007-10-02T06:36:00.001-07:00

The name itself reminds one of most acknowledged fashion brands such as Versace, vogue, Gucci, channel just a few to mention. This fashion model has worked with Calvin Klein and did assist the brand to get more recognition. With average frame and exotic camera presence she has made millions in the fashion industry.

Prada's women trip down the garden

2007-10-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

MILAN (Reuters) - Miuccia Prada took her models down to the enchanted part of the garden where the fairies live, introducing them to a dreamworld that verged on nightmare and put dark circles round their eyes.

Prada: Virtual Vixens

2007-10-01T12:35:00.002-07:00

Milan - The great poets, Shelley, Yeats or Goethe, would have loved Tuesday night's Prada collection, which used fashion as a vehicle to comment on our generation's obsession with the virtual, and not real, world.

Sack dress makes a comeback in Milan

2007-10-01T12:35:00.001-07:00

MILAN, Italy - "No chemise please," pleaded the refrain of a pop tune, referring to the sack dress which thrilled women and dismayed men in the 1950s.

Bottega Veneta: The Initials Were Not Enough

2007-10-01T12:34:00.001-07:00

Milan - You can't argue with success is the old adage, but you can, at the very least, quibble about it, which is the very least one can do after attending Tuesday's show by Bottega Veneta, the fastest growing luxury brand in Italy.

Feeling the "Love"

2007-10-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

Beverly Hills - There was affection all around at the "Feast of Love" premiere Tuesday night at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills as two-time Oscar winning director Robert Benton ("Kramer vs. Kramer," "Places in the Heart") presented his look at how love affects the lives of a group of diverse characters.

Dolce & Gabbana show a gallery of gowns

2007-10-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

MILAN (Reuters) - Italian designers Dolce & Gabbana turned out artists' paint-spattered canvases as gorgeous gowns on Thursday in a finale to their spring and summer womenswear show.

Emporio Armani; Beyonce not Beyond Trends

2007-10-01T12:30:00.002-07:00

Milan - Giorgio Armani called his Emporio spring summer 2008 collection Beyond Trends, but it's real title should have been Beyond Beyonce, seeing the designer's latest perfume ad opened the show with the sultry singer crooning out Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend.

Kempner auction offers timeless fashions

2007-10-01T12:30:00.001-07:00

NEW YORK - The late socialite Nan Kempner was a smart shopper. Many items from her wardrobe will be up for auction next week at Christie's to benefit The Society of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.