Style, Fashion and Life

Beauty Urban Legends and Myths

 

    Don’t pull out your grey hairs or two will grow back.   Rinsing your hair with cold water will make it extra shiny.  Have you heard all of these old wives tales about your hair?  Have you ever wondered which ones were true or which ones were just urban legend?  Being a stylist, I hear these adages on a daily basis and through 20 years of experience I can pretty much tell you which ones work and which ones don’t.  And the ones I wasn’t too sure about I just did a little research to become your Hair Myth Buster!

Legends that stack up to be FALSE:

1.     If you pull out a grey hair, two will grow back.  If this were true I would constantly be pulling out my hair so that two will grow back.  I can always color the grey hair on my thick luxurious mane.

2.    Shaving makes hair grow back thicker.   Again, if this were true, we would all be shaving our heads for thicker hair right?  This myth does not take into account “tapering” that happens when a hair grows long.  Lopping it off at the root will make the hair seem coarse, but when it grows back out it will become thinner at the end.

3.    You can “repair” split ends.  No.  You cannot repair ends that have split.  Splitting is a result of dry, untrimmed or damaged hair.  Once it splits you must cut it off or it will continue to split up the shaft, causing further damage.  There are lots of products out there that act as a “cosmetic”, temporarily repairing the hair but as always, prevention is the best medicine.

4.    Come to your Haircolor Appointment with dirty hair.  Again, False.  This used to be true when chemicals were much harsher on the hair, but these days your haircolors contain buffers and conditioners that keep the hair in better condition.  If the hair is too dirty, these gentler haircolors can’t penetrate the hair completely and evenly.  Your best bet is to arrive with clean dry hair to ensure a perfect and even result. 

5.    Brushing your hair 100 strokes a day makes hair healthier. Not true.  In fact, over brushing or using the wrong tools can actually damage hair.  This myth was true many years ago when people did not wash their hair very often and were not privy to the amazing conditioners on the market now.  The brushing distributed the scalp’s natural oils to the shaft and ends to act as a conditioning agent.  But now we have great products, so a simple brush to get the tangles out is adequate. 

These myths turn out to be TRUE:

1.     Rinse with cold water to make your hair shiny. TRUE!  Cold water lays down the cuticle of the hair.  Since shine is simply a reflection of light, a smooth cuticle will allow the hair to shine to its full natural potential. But you could lose that shine if you don’t blow dry properly, so always use a shine-enhancing styling product and blow dry the hair using a directional nozzle.

2.     Cutting your hair on a full moon makes it grow faster.  After a slight chuckle- I will admit I am no astrologer but it doesn’t take an astrologer to figure out that if you trim your hair every four weeks it will remain healthy- and healthier hair appears to grow faster since it doesn’t split and break off.  If you are trying to grow your hair long, trim every 6-8 weeks.  You don’t want long hair that is stringy and dry, so get regular trims!

3.    Eating your Vitamins and Vegatables will make your hair healthy.  Also true!  Remember the other adage, “you are what you eat?”  Same thing with your hair.  If you want beautiful , healthy hair, remember to put healthy things in your body.  Everything you ingest will eventually come out in the hair whether its high blood pressure medication, anesthesia, nicotine or xanax.  So don’t’ forget to ingest the good things in life like plenty of green veggies and B vitamins for hair growth.

4.    Baby Powder at the roots absorbs oil.  Yes!  If you don’t have time to wash your hair you can gently shake a bit of baby powder at the roots to absorb scalp oil and fluff the hair.  It will also make it smell fresher.  Blondes can also use this technique to lighten the appearance of roots that need to be touched up!

Hope you have enjoyed myth busting with me.  If you have any questions or comments, or other myths you would like busted, please give me an email!

Shop Your Closet!

 

Today’s economic situation is forcing some of us to take a step back and analyze our priorities.  We are buying fewer frivolous items and honing in on what we really need.  Though fashions on the runway this season were mild, we still feel the need to feel fresh, and to not FEEL like we are holding back.  I know that at home I have heaps and heaps of clothing but yet I am always wanting something new.  So, I decided to take stock of what I have and make the effort to be creative with it.  Right now is a great time to be simple, analyze what we have and appreciate it.  Dust off those neglected items and bring them back to life! I wanted to make my closet look like a chic boutique, organized by colors and styles with an effortless warmth.  

           My closet had become in complete disarray.  It was filled to the brim with things that didn’t belong.  Sports equipment, memorabilia and an overabundance of things I didn’t want or need.  I was lost, so I called in the professionals.  Yes!  There are some wonderful souls out there devoted to giving us the push we need to get our closets beautified and accessible.  My professional told me, “Your closet is a place you enter within the first hour of starting your day.  By having this ‘secret place’ organized, it creates a huge impact on your day and in many other areas of your life.”  She helped me to see that by rearranging and streamlining my clothing, accessories and shoes I can create multitudes of new outfits and bring forgotten items to the forefront.  I had forgotten how nice some of my hand bags were and that I actually did have some beautiful scarves and sunglasses.  Together we went through everything- keeping, tossing and donating/reselling.  I got rid of things I would never wear again and was able to create space in my closet I didn’t know I had.  Before, there were shoes piled on top of each other, pairs scrambled in disharmony.  My organizer effortlessly created room for a rack and even got my husband to do his share in tossing his old t-shirts.  It was like a hurricane blew threw for a few hours but the calm after the storm brought accessibility and a renewed vigor for a place that I thought was gone forever!  Everything was color coded and neatly hung and we rearranged things so that they resembled buffet line- slip on pants, shirts next, belt or scarf if needed, slip on shoes and grab a pair of shades and a handbag on the way out!  By utilizing this system I was able to make use of accessories better and piece together outfits I had never worn.  

            Here are some tips I learned to help you get started on renewing your space.  And don’t forget, if you get overwhelmed – Call in the experts! 

1. Prioritize your outfits by work and play. 
2. Catergorize your clothes by seasons.  Store out of season clothes in bins you can slide under the bed.  Then, put like with like.
3. Edit- Toss torn clothes, donate well worn clothes and sell unworn or gently used clothes to a resale shop. 
4. Use matching hangers.  These can be stocked up on at the dollar store and really make your closet look unified.
5. Use great containers.  Your favorite shoe boxes or shopping bags make great holders for things like scarves, belts or headbands.

 Lastly- remove all things not utilized in your dressing routine.  Going through this one closet will lead to going through others.  Make a purpose for each closet and stick with it. I learned not only how to simplify my life but how to KEEP it simple.  Now I have an arsenal of tips and tricks while doing laundry and cleaning that I can use to keep my closet looking like a swanky midtown shop!

Clip In voluptuousness!

Has your hair been feeling a little thin lately?  Do you have bare spots or any exposed scalp, or is it simply not feeling as full and luxurious as you would like?  Clip-in hair extensions are a great alternative to women that have these concerns.  There are many types of hair extensions available such as strand by strand, bonded in, weaved or braided in but sometimes people who already have thin hair can be susceptible to even more breakage with these types of extensions.  Clip-in allows you to have versatility with your hair and to create fullness and thickness in a snap!  And since you can simply clip them out at night it allows your hair to breath and doesn’t cause additional stress on your tresses when you must shampoo and blow out. 

Denise Roussouw, the founder of Top Secret Haircessory, realized this type of product should be available to everyone- not just the actors, actresses, supermodels and rock stars that can’t afford to have a bad hair day.  The actual pieces are a hand-tied micro mesh base that provides a very comfortable, ventilated fit.  They are 100% human hair and sewn with a very secure four clip system.  Great clip in extensions should come in a few pieces so that they can be easily inserted, feel light, and be taken care of easily.

As far as quality of hair, the general rule applies here in that you get what you pay for.  There are many kinds of “human hair” extensions on the market.  The way the hair is prepared can destroy the cuticle on the outside.  If the cuticle layers are weak, then after just a few washes the hair will start to become dry, and brittle and will tangle very easily so analyze your reason for your extensions.  Is this something you want to do just for a fun night?  Like, a wedding or prom event?  Then it’s okay to use a cheaper extension.  If you are looking for something you can wear every day, or even just on weekends it is SO important to pay good money for the hair.  Great extensions will last 10 or more years when properly taken care of.  That is money very well spent.  You will not ever have a follow-up service or a maintenance appointment unless you decide to change the color of your weft.

Clip in hair can be applied in 5 to 10 minutes.  This is less time it takes to do anything else to the hair!  You can curl the hair on Monday and remove it each day while taking a soft brush to it and the curl will remain all week.  Excellently made hair pieces can be washed, colored, blown dry, curled, flat ironed or even cut to match the style underneath.  You can wear only the length extenders, OR the top pieces that make your hair look much thicker!  Top Secret Haircessory has been voted the Best Hair Extension company by stylists by Launchpad magazine.  Their extensions come in a variety of lengths and thicknesses making it super easy to match to the client.  The color is made up of multi-color hues for easy blending of color. 

Here are some last benefits to choosing clip on over more permanent options:

• Having a lot of hair sewn in can cause itchy scalp or headaches.  Being able to take out the extensions allows the scalp to breath.
• They are easy to remove for working out, showering or swimming.  Long extensions can normally get tangled under these conditions so it’s generally better to take them out.
• Clip-in hair is usually lighter so they don’t  pull out your hair or cause a ton of breakage throughout.  Anyone who already has fine, damaged hair should avoid strand by strand extensions.
• You don’t have to style the hair everyday- you may take the hair out, sit it on the dresser and then in the morning- VOILA- your hair is already styled!

Hair Extensions can be fun- and give you the voluptuous, girlie hair you have always wanted.  Anyone who has experienced slight hair loss on top can enjoy thick hair again.  Top Secret is a company out of Los Angeles, but you can get your hands on them right now from The Hairem Salon.  Call today for a consultation to see which length will work for you!

How To Have Salon-Perfect Hair All The Time

The number one complaint that I hear from people is, “I love my hair when I leave the salon, but I can never make it look like that at home.”  Dressing hair is an art form and I am saddened when I see a client leave with a wet head.  Every time you have your hair blown out by a professional, you not only get a great do for the next day couple of days, but you can also learn a few new tips and tricks. You can use that time to observe and ask questions.  Notice the tools the stylist uses, watch the patience as they dry and coax each section into place.

There really is no magic, no big secret, yet the biggest component is practice.  And if you are already blow drying your hair every day, or every other you are definitely getting practice!  My golden rule remains the same, no matter what style I am trying to create.  TOOLS- TECHNIQUE- PRODUCT.  Say it with me now, “TOOLS- TECHNIQUE-PRODUCT!!”  If you follow these simple guidelines you will be that much closer to styling your hair like a pro and having it look good all the time.  It also provides a great advertising tool for your stylist so he or she should be more than willing to go over their techniques with you.

TOOLS-Think of tools in a tool shed.  Every tool was invented to make a particular task easier. Every woman should invest in a great blowdryer.  You don’t have to spend $300 on one, but a $100 dryer for at home use is perfect.  Professional dryers last much longer dry hair faster and leave it shinier and typically carry a 2 year warranty if it does happen to break.  Also brushes are a huge part of the equation.  Remember, you are blow drying your hair into which ever shape you wrap it around so if you don’t want fluffy hair, don’t use too small of a round brush close to the head.  There are stainless round, boar bristle, styling, paddle, vent and smoothing brushes- so many kinds to choose from.  Using a big square paddle brush is perfect for brushing out tangles on wet hair.  You may also use it to style long straight hair.  BUT, if you DO want bounce and curl, that paddle brush won’t do it.  A flat-wrapping brush is perfect for those flat, side swept bangs that you don’t want to pop up.  Boar bristle brushes do an amazing job of smoothing the hair, and making it bouncy and mega shiny.  If you are curling your hair, you have to consider the size of the curling iron- if you don’t want lion’s mane curls, then don’t pull out that curling iron from 6^th grade.  Invest in the many new shapes and sizes of irons so that you can get a look that is more “today.”

TECHNIQUE-  Don’t work to your detriment.  Even using the right tool, but with the wrong technique can work against the progress you are trying to make.  For example, if you want to diffuse curly hair so that the curl is uniform, shiny and de-frizzed, you need to apply product in large sections and then comb through with a large tooth comb IN THE direction you would like it to dry. Often I see clients struggle while blow drying the front of the hair.  Just simple instruction on what angle to hold the brush can make a huge impact on the overall style.  If you are using a curling iron, make sure you are curling the hair in the right direction.  If you want the hair to flow towards the face, you must curl it that way.  If you hold the iron improperly you can get kinks in the hair.  When using a flat iron, avoid taking sections of hair that are deeper and wider than the size of your iron- this could also cause lines in the hair.   There are definitely methods to the madness that your stylist can share to give you a salon look everyday!

PRODUCT- While the tools are the producers of the movie, and the technique is the script the product is truly the star of the show!  Every product you use has an intended use and purpose.  Different types of looks require different products.  In the salon, every product I pick up and use on a client has a mantra:  “What am I using, Why am I using it, How do I use it?  For example:  What am I using?  Silkening Oil Treatment by Aquage.  Why am I using it: To blow out the hair soft and silky smooth while increasing the drying time by up to 44%.  How do I use it?  Apply into palm of hand in 1 ml pump increments.  Emulsify by rubbing palms together and disperse through the hair evenly from roots to ends.  If you want your hair to be full and bouncy you MUST use product!  I often hear, “I don’t like to use a lot of product in my hair….” First off, the hair will be subject to its growth pattern and texture without the use of product.  Second, today’s products protect the hair from the elements, have sunscreens and conditioning agents that keep it from getting dry and losing its luster.

AAAAHHHH! Resortwear!

 

                July and August are prime months for taking a vacation.  Kids are out of school, teachers are off, cruise ships and vacation resorts are filled to capacity.  Most cruises and resorts state that dress code is “resortwear,” but what is resortwear?  And how does it compare to casual wear or dinner formal wear?  What is defined as resortwear, which was once a genre reserved for only the most affluent, is now expanding and becoming a more cross-cultural style that spans the entire year.  More recently resortwear is being marketed as “year round” since there are so many climates that remain warm through most of the year.

                Resortwear is a style of clothing that has gained popularity of the masses because of its comfort and ease for one, but for those who desire a style other than the cargo shorts and baseball caps that are typically worn in summer months and on vacation. Resortwear allows you to keep your sense of style and taste in fashion all while serving the purpose of keeping you cool and comfortable in very warm temperatures.  It’s range and function is wide and can be worn differently for breakfast, lunch and dinners on vacation- as well as meals or meetings on business trips in warm climates.

                Resortwear influences come from places like Hawaii, with its bright colors, flowers and beach scenes;  South America- in shades of light blue,  yellow and minty green as well as the pure white from The Mediterranean and French Riviera.  Nautical themes remain navy blue, white with gold accents and lots of stripes and knotted bits. The fabrics consist of cotton and silk, microfiber, brushed denim and linen- all prints that are easy to care for, and are breathable.  Many major fashion houses have been expanding their collections to meet the needs of the vacationer that wants to celebrate life, to be glamorous and sexy while being understated, casual while being luxurious and flirty.  It represents the spirit and elegance that is no longer reserved only for the Jet Setters!

                During the day the styles to look for are walking shorts, beaded kaftans, embroidered tunics, glitzy metallic bikini's, tropical prints in serene shades of ocean life and/or floral prints. Wedges are in fashion now, and can be worn night and day. They even look great with a swimsuit and elongate the legs without giving the appearance of “clubbing.” Nude or beige sandals can be paired with anything as well.  I always like to buy a sarong with the local prints when I travel.  They are souvenirs, handy for going to lunch and cultural pieces as well.   Wide brimmed or canvas hats are in order paired with bright colorful sunglasses that might not work on the daily subway commute, but will definitely brighten all of your vacation days. 

                Evening wear includes linen pants, chinos, button down polo shirts and light dinner jackets for men and bold, sassy dresses for women.  This is my favorite part of the day!  I love to couple these great prints with gallant bracelets or earrings that I might not get away with at a business meeting but that really speak up on vacation!  Men may wear dressy sandals and for women jewel encrusted sandals dress up anything.   Wedges also work with evening attire so long as they aren’t tweed or linen.   Don’t forget your jewelry! Today’s pieces are big and chunky and can really compliment any outfit. Don’t forget a glamorous pashmina for those cool breezy nights.  Use your vacation attire to play out your dreams and duplicate the outrageous styles you see in the magazines!

                So drag out those suitcases and get ready for that next trip.  Resortwear clothing is now fun and easily accessible.  Try designers like Tommy Bahamma, Lilly Pulitzer, Chanel, Michael Kors, Anna Sui and my favorite- Blanc du Nil. We are fortunate in Houston to get to wear most of these things year round anyway.  So give yourself the gift of feeling like every day is a vacation!  Happy Vacationing!

Fall Trend Report on Hair, Make up and Accessories…

With fall approaching I always look forward to unraveling the mysteries of the changing seasons.  While Spring and Summer bring a light, fun feel, the second half of the year is usually a little darker and more romantic.  After extensive study of the fall fashions I am excited to get to my 2 part report on all the must haves of the season!  This month we will talk about how to wear your hair and make up and what accessories to begin to look for.  Next month I will be covering the fashions from the most delicious designers in all the land.  But for now use this guide to find the seasons Classics (C) which are things you should keep in your routine for several seasons, the Must Have’s (MH) which are upcoming styles you should look to purchase and the things that are TO DIE FOR (TDF) which could cost a fortune but they are super-duper fabulous and need to be placed on a lighted shelf.

    Make up this season echo’s the spirit of the vampire fascination.  Pale skin and red lips emulate the thirsty lips of the undead but with soft lines of charcoal and grey around the eyes in lieu of the stark lined eyes of recent years.  Reds are more blood-tinged (C- Heavenly Micro-Bordeaux) if you will with a bluer, or more plum base.  Coral is also bouncing down the runway as this season’s color palette includes eucalyptus, dusty rose and oyster.  Make up is soft and elegant but lips are shimmery as ever.    If you go for the red lip, just do a very light eye with soft liner, defined brows and extra volume mascara (MH- Heavenly Volume X Mascara).  If you plan to do more color on the eye just play up the lips with a super shimmery gloss (TDF- Liquid Lustre in Blossom).

    Hair in the fall is fun and flirty as curls have made a huge resurgence.  Soft, bouncy hot-rolled or heat styled hair will be in order for every fall party and the hair is set to look a little wider instead of taller (remember the 80's?).  Piecey, stringy looks are out and super-mega shiny and playful are in.  C-Aquage Uplifting Foam is perfect for almost any hair type and creates the bounce without a heavy or crunchy feel.  Curling Irons and Hot Rollers must be used with a setting spray that allows the curl to remain moveable and last throughout the evening.  Try Aquage  Beyond Body Thermal Setting Spray – MH.  To get the incredibly healthy, lustrous hair that is the finest of accessories, try the most technologically advanced shampoo on the market- BioMega (TDF!)

    Sunglasses remain of the over-sized variety but this season introduces graduated tints with black or brown frames.  Handbags continue to be big and whimsical.  Mary Forbes, Owner of The Bling Bling Shop says, "Handbags always tell a story...a fine leather handbag is classic(C).  I change daily with my outfit, a person can spot a good bag a mile off.  I love to use clutches in the evening...you can put a clutch inside your day bag and pull it out at night for your essentials.  We cram too much into a handbag anyway...scale back for fall and winter..."  The must have bags this fall are in (MH)- classic shapes, jewel toned hues and studs.  And simply T-D-F, the new Valentino Glam Zebra tote!  Definitely worth a weeks pay!!!

Stay tuned next month when we discuss the clothing trends for fall to wear with your fabulous new accessories.  And stop by The Bling Bling shop and have Mary help you pick out some really hot bling for fall!

Summer Skin

 

Summer is heating up and it’s time once again to get out to the beach or on a boat to enjoy the summer sun.  The sun can wreak havoc on your skin and if you don’t take precautions to protect it and you will look older than your years well before you should!  Most of the damage done to your skin is done in your teens and twenties, it just doesn’t start to show up until your 40’s.  Take care of your skin now, it’s never too late.  Sunscreen should be a daily chore just like brushing your teeth.  Men and women alike should apply it to the face, and the hands.  The invention of mineral cosmetics has sent trends in makeup looks and skin care in a new direction,  giving us the visibly younger, dewy complexions of the photos in the magazines.  The glow that these minerals give to the skin is unparalleled and it proves that we can wear minimal amounts of make up and still look refreshed and well rested.

    The priming of the skin should be the most important step in your skin care ritual.  No matter how much make up you are going to wear on a given day you should still prepare the skin the same way.  This will not only keep your make up in place much longer but it will give you a softer, younger and more healthy appearance.  Priming the skin each day will allow your natural glow to shine through so follow these steps each day to ensure that you have a smooth, taut canvas to work with.

1. Pluck and shape stray brows. A cleanly arched brow makes us look rested and groomed.
2. Cleanse the face using cosmetic wipes. Wipes can also double as an exfoliant due to the texture.  They also remove all traces of leftover makeup or the oils that collect on our pillows at night.
3. Rinse and tone.  Even the wipes leave traces of surfactants that can easily be removed with a quick swipe of toner.  Toner also hydrates and refreshes.
4. Smooth on a hydrating or moisturizing crème to sooth dryness and give the skin a velvety surface.
5. Take care of your lips!  Use a vitamin E stick or balm to smooth edges, infuse with vitamins and add sheen.  Finish off with a little lip plumper for full, shiny lips.

6.     Lastly, use a skin retexturizing product (like Heaven Skin Retexture) which are silicone based skin protectants that fill in lines, pores and wrinkles while the smooth as glass surface will allow make up to glide on with out tugging or blotching. 

In lieu of worshipping the sun to create that golden tan, try a spray on tan.  They are wonderfully easy to use and the color is rich and not unnatural looking.  Mystic Tan and Versa Tan both use a bronzer and DHA combined to get an instant glow that gets darker over 4-6 hours. They have minimal odor, and allow you to choose 3 different levels of color making this the perfect tool for those who want to stay out of the sun!  Many tanning salons also provide moisturizers to help extend your tan for 5-7 days.  I use California Sunless Tanning spray for in-between maintenance.

Here are my tips for making sure you get a great spray on tan that lasts!

v  Shower, shave and exfoliate the body and apply lotion the day beforehand.  The DHA in these products work on your outer layer of skin, so sloughing off old skin will help it remain longer.

v  Wear black, loose fitting clothing to your tanning session.  Bronzer can get on clothing, but it will wash out since it is not actual dye.

v  Apply barrier cream to your hands and feet and keep your palms facing away from the sprayer. Be sure to wear little slippers on your feet so your soles don’t turn brown.   Dry off your face and the back of your legs first, then rest of body.  Air dry for about 5 minutes before getting dressed.

v  Wait at least 4-6 hours before showering.  Rinse, apply a shimmery lotion and AHHHH!!!!!!  Gorgeous skin!

 

Take care of the skin you’re in, you only got one shot!  Have a safe, healthy and happy summer!

Communicating with your stylist

Want the best haircut you ever had??

 

How many times have you left the salon feeling like your hair is too short or too long, or that you got the exact opposite of what you wanted?  The most important part of a haircut is a great communication between the client and the stylist.  Stylists are not mind readers, but should be good enough at fishing out enough information to give you a great cut.  The following are some steps you can take to do your part in ensuring your haircut is perfect and most suited to you!

 

 

 

1. Before your appointment, note “Whats Bothering You…” This helps us define things more clearly.  Or, note what you like and didn’t like about your hair and your last haircut.

 

1. When indecisive  remember there are only 3 haircuts…Bangs, layers, length….

 

2. Never be afraid to bring a picture!!!!  This defines your vision more than words

 

3.  
4. If your hair acts a certain way when cut, say so!  Be leary of a stylist that doesn’t listen to how your hair responds.  You know best.

 

5. Inches are an Illusion!!!!  Where do you want it to fall?

 

6. If you are seeing a new stylist, tell them why.  That way the stylist knows what is important to you.  A good stylist will easily adapt to your needs and learn to relate on your terms!

 

7.  If you are open to suggestion, say so!  Keep in mind any “comfort zones”.  IE. “you can do anything but give me bangs!!!”

 

8. Don’t ask the stylist, “What would you do?”  This question makes no sense.  And we are dumbfounded everytime we hear it!

 

9. Don’t say, “Do whatever you want”  unless you really mean it!

 

10. Lastly, remember hair is not an exact science!  We do our best to rock your world, but people AND hair  have their limitations.  Getting to know your stylist and having an open communication with him/her will allow you to be more creative and personalized with your look J  Never trust a stylist that doesn’t listen.

 

You can have the best and most expensive stylist in the world do your hair, but if you hate it, its not worth it!

Men's Fashion Guide for 2010

Men are lucky in the respect that fashion choices remain stable and less fickle than for women.  Often that sports coat or pair of jeans can remain fashionable for up to 5 years, although there are more often small tweaks in cuts, silhouettes and accessories.  This is a fresh compilation of new statements for the year 2010 combined with a list of classic pieces every man should own.  Consider this your master guide for fashion staples, what to buy new as well as fashion faux pas’ you should ALWAYS avoid!

2010-  Here are some hot trends you will begin to see starting this year:

·     Knee length shorts- in fabrics of chino and linen with plaid prints

·     Gray or charcoal v-neck sweaters

·     2 button suits

·     Bigger shoulder bags

·     Adidas Samba sneakers with dress clothes and suits

·     Striped shirts

·     Great fitting jeans- jeans are the must have, live-in staple right now.  And with all of the jean companies coming out every week you can find great fitting jeans without the $300 price tag.

Classic Items every man should own:

·     Black button down shirt- looks great in any occasion

·     Fitted black tee shirt- again, goes great with everything

·     Sleek belt

·     Tuxedo that is a classic fit.

·     Clean brown and black shoes

Tips for updating your 2010 wardrobe- on the cheap!

·     Have your pants tailored.  Believe it or not, tailoring is very inexpensive. 

Instead of buying new pants, have them hemmed, or reseamed.

·     It’s also very inexpensive to have your shoes repaired.  A great shoe doctor

Can resole your shoes, add or repair buckles and give them a thorough cleaning.

·     Put your older clothes up for consignment in a resale shop.  Put the cash toward a classic piece.

·     Kenneth Cole shoes are a great buy for men.  They are stylish, come in many styles and colors and are also very comfortable.

·     Shop “End of Season” sales.  Typically end of season sales are held even while still in season.  Mark-downs are as much as 50-90% off.  Instead of Walmart end of season sales where everything is a dollar- try Armani end of season sales.  There you may find a $1500 suit for as little as $200.  Also try the new Nordstrom Rack- high fashion designers are ridiculous about new seasons.  They perceive things as “out” before they were ever even “in” for the rest of us.

·     Accessorize!  Even men can raise the status of their over all look with a great pair of aviator shades or a really cool watch.  No need to be expensive: knock offs are everywhere and most people can never tell the difference.

Advice that’s tough to hear- but worth it.  Please, Avoid This Stuff:

·     Tattered shoes.  No matter your shoe style, don’t wear shoes that are falling apart or dirty.  They are distracting, and the perception is: sloppy shoes- sloppy boy.

·     Baggy clothes.  They make you look bigger than you are.  You may feel a little more exposed in fitted clothes but a tiny beer gut still looks better in a nice fitting shirt as opposed to a t-shirt the size of a tent.

·     Blaring designer labels.  Designer clothes are expensive because they fit well and last long.  Wearing a shirt that screams GUCCI in giant letters is purely an advertisement- and is no proof that you have any money.

·     Wrong suit style.  (especially while working)  I have seen many a young man walk towards me trying to sell me a year’s supply of oil changes or even a new car.  A bad suit tells me you don’t care about your appearance or how others perceive you.  If you want to make a powerful impression, invest in a suit that fits.  Even if you have never sold a car before, you will look like you have and you will have my trust.  Throw out that hammer time suit and baggy pleated pant. 

·     Worrying about what your buddies think.  No need to impress your buddies, they already like you.   But you do want to make a good impression on new people, potential relationships, employers as well as customers.  If your buddies make fun of you for wearing sambas and a suit, well who cares?  Are they rich?  Famous?  The Crème de la crème?  If not, then take your appearance into your own hands!

·     Socks and sandals.  Enough said.  

2009-2010 Fashion Trends

    As designers release their 2009-2010 collections, this promises to be a very exciting year in fashion.  Experts predict that we are emerging from the global financial crises and I believe we can expect to see a new standard of fashion materialize.  New collections are almost always classically inspired but paired with exciting new pieces or made to be more edgy.  Gucci was classically futuristic in shiny, shimmering fabrics and belted tunics with leggings.  Prada, Chloe and TopShop are doing their part to make the thigh high boot a mainstream stay for winter.

 

    Items to put in your closet for this winter and early part of next year consist of the chunky accessory and anything shiny or sparkling.  We are seeing a resurgence of the defined shoulder- ala 1980’s but today’s silouhette is very form fitting and sleek but with a firm shoulder poking out.  In the 80’s shoulder pads depicted power and stature but now we want our power to remain sexy and feminine.  Massive necklaces add dimension to plain tops and dresses while belts are still wrapping the waist in every shape.  Skinny belts that wrap around the body multiple times OR one wide thick belt can adorn tunics and dresses. 

 

    We first started to notice the ripped tights trend on the runway of Alexander Wang in Fall of 08, but many designers are following in line as the 80’s era looks are peaking and waning.  Ninety’s are next which, were clearly grunge so for the next few seasons we will be sure to see grunge wear creeping back in the mainstream style.  Also, tights that are studded and bejeweled are gracing the seasons must have list.

 

    My favorite trend of the fall is going to be the thigh high boot.  Thankfully society’s hang ups about women in knee-high boots have been long since vanished.  So boots in 2010 will be anything but conservative.  Of course the long lean models look fabulous in these boots, but how do you wear them if you are 5’5?  The trick to keeping yourself appearing long and lean is to avoid “visual breaks.”  Match your tights to the boots or tuck in skinny pants that compliment the color of the boots. Cinching in the waist also streamlines the look.  You can also mimic the feel of over the knee boots by wearing chunky knee topping socks with regular boots layered over dark tights. 

 

    The high-waisted cigarette pants are great for the illusion of height and length but avoid the super flare-legged version this winter. To finish your sleek looks remember to keep the retro-aestethic flowing. For those not wishing to belt everything say hello to the Boyfriend Blazer.  Roll the sleeves up and pair with leggings for a smart take on an old classic.

 

    For men in 2010 look for double breasted suits to come back in midnight to black to grey and blue hues.  With tailored looks becoming a little tired, designers such as Armani and Burberry are deconstructing jackets and pants making them a little looser fitting and softer looking. Plaids and argyles are the patterns to have and look great layered and with chunky fabrics. 

 

    Top off your look with the season large handbags. 

Eyebrows…..Picture Frame for the Soul

 

    While the evolution of man has maintained that the eyebrow is meant to protect the eyes and direct the flow of moisture away, psychologists discern that the eyebrow is an indicator of human character, though they cannot decide whether its good or bad. The most expressive features of our face are the eyes and the brows.  The brows play a big role in balancing your features. Properly shaped brows can camouflage features or bring attention to the eyes like a picture frame.  In the beauty industry, eyebrow shapes and styles change based on fashion and new technology.

 

    So what is the ideal shape for eyebrows?  The best shape for brows is when the brow begins at the center of the nostril on that side of the face and the arch falls over the back third of the eye.  There are two methods for creating this perfection:  removing unwanted hair or filling in sparse or blonde hairs.

 

Here is a simple how-to for tweezing your eyebrows:

1. Use a lip pencil to draw on the shape you want.  You will easily be able to see the red color, and you can wash it off afterwards. 
2. Now tweeze any hairs that fall outside of the line you have created.
3. Next, take a brow brush and brush the brows straight up and trim off any excess length with small scissors.
4. Comb the hairs straight down and repeat the process.  Do not tweeze excessively long hair, but trim it.  Otherwise you will create gaps.

 

Helpful tips for tweezing:

1.   The best tweezers are made by tweezerman (www.tweezerman.com)

2.   Don’t ever shave your eyebrows.  The after five shadow is not good!

3.   Pluck your brows after a warm shower.  This opens pores and lessens pain.

4.   Don’t over tweeze the top of the brow; it creates an unnatural look.

5.   Making the eyebrows very thin does NOT make you look thinner!

 

Here are some suggestions for filling in the brow:

1.   Brow powders or eyeshadows in a shade similar to the color of your brows work great.  Use a soft liner brush and apply with short strokes.

2.   Use a dab of hairspray on your brow brush for hold and control.

3.   Brow pencils deposit much more color onto the brow, so use a light stroke and apply more pressure when defining the underside of the brow.  If penciling does not look natural, don’t do it! 

4.   Brow gels and brow tints are best for thickening or making the most of a sparse brow.  These products resemble mascara but are much lighter in pigmentation.  It takes a little practice to use these products without getting them on the skin, but once you get the hang of it you won’t be able to leave the house with out it!

5.   Remember, the idea is to have brows that are soft and shaded, not hard and drawn on.

 

Waxing the brows:

1.   I highly recommend a professional to wax your brows.  It is very hard to see your own brow, and to control the wax.

2.   Arrive make up free and without oily lotions. 

3.   Apply lotion with a sunscreen for 48 hours after a wax treatment. 

4.   Use your tweezing tips to maintain the look for 3-5 weeks. 

 

I am often asked if tweezed hairs grow back.  The answer is a bit tricky.  Yes, AND No…..The tweezed hairs can grow back, but it does not happen overnight.  It takes about 64 days before a single hair grows all the way back out.  But the length of time can be a little longer if the hair you want to grow back is in its resting phase.  There is no way to tell which hairs are in their resting phase, and which and are not.  And at any given time, 90% of the hair on your body is in this phase.  It may seem that your hair is “growing out quickly” but really, its just hair coming out of its resting phase.  Don’t forget also that if you over tweeze an area for a long period of time it may never grow back.  Eyebrow and lash follicles are very sensitive to injury.  Also, waxed hairs do not “grow back thicker”, on the contrary they usually grow much finer due to trauma to the follicle.